Actor and host Paolo Contis took to social media to extend a heartfelt birthday message to John Cabahug, the fiancé of his former partner, Lian Paz.
In an Instagram post, Paolo expressed his gratitude to John for allowing him to reconnect with his daughters, Xonia and Xalene, and with Lian.
“Happy Birthday John! @johncabahug87. I want to take this opportunity to thank you for allowing Lian and my kids nung araw na 'to. Oo, hinintay ko talaga ang birthday mo to publicly express my gratitude to you,” Paolo wrote.
The Tabing Ilog star further appreciated John for taking care of his children and vowed to maintain communication and nurture their newfound friendship.
“John, I cannot thank you enough for this chance. I promise to have a constant communication sa inyong lahat. I will not waste this chance. Thank you for taking care of the kids. Please know that I am always here para sa inyong lahat. To more precious days like this. 😊🙏 Happy Birthday John! Thank you for the friendship!” Paolo added.
Image Credit: paolo_contis IG
Paolo also took a moment to thank Lian for her kindness and understanding, calling her someone who is “always been kind and forgiving.”
“@liankatrina , you have always been kind and forgiving. This is why hindi kayo pinabayaan ni Lord. I appreciate all your efforts in talking to John about that day. Thank you for being strong and for how you nurtured the kids to have beautiful hearts. ❤️,” Paolo said.
Alongside his message, Paolo shared a carousel of photos that appeared to be taken during a beach vacation with Lian, John, and their family.
The photos showed the group enjoying a meal together and sharing lighthearted moments, including a candid shot of Paolo and John laughing over something on a phone. Paolo also posted pictures spending quality time with his daughters.
Image Credit: paolo_contis IG
Paolo and Lian were in a relationship from 2008 until their separation in 2013. In a 2023 interview with Boy Abunda, Paolo admitted that he had not seen his daughters with Lian for six years and had not been providing financial support, though he shared that he had been saving for them and hoped to give them his savings one day.
Despite past shortcomings, Paolo openly praised both Lian and John for their parenting.
"Yung sa dalawa, yun, medyo malalim-lalim na yung pagkukulang ko so hindi ko sila masisisi. And I would like to take this opportunity to tell Lian and John, thank you for doing a great job sa mga bata. Dun, suwerte ako kasi mabait yung John, e," Paolo said.
In 2024, Lian revealed in an interview with PEP that she had withdrawn the annulment case she filed against Paolo, citing lack of evidence and the emotional and legal difficulties involved. She initially filed for annulment in 2021 at the Regional Trial Court of Marikina.
Meanwhile, Lian and John, who have been together for eight years, got engaged in 2021. They have one daughter together, and John also has a child from a previous relationship.
On her own social media post, Lian shared a touching birthday message for John, celebrating his character and faith.
“Happy 38th Birthday, My Love! Today, I celebrate you—not just your life, but the man who perseveres through his walk with God. Your practice of quiet obedience, integrity in the little things everyday will surely reveal the beauty of a man who puts God first. May this new chapter bring even more wisdom, peace, and joy as you continue to grow in Him,” she stated.
Lian added, “I pray that whatever life brings, You will be anchored in faith, love with purpose, and trust God through every season. I love you leonhardt. I’ll always be here for you! ♥️”