Theater actress Carla Guevara Laforteza, mother of KATSEYE member Sophia Laforteza, has expressed her gratitude to fans and supporters who have been sending prayers and messages of concern for her daughter following the latter's hiatus from the global girl group.
On August 8, Carla took to social media to thank everyone who reached out after HYBE and Geffen Records announced that the Filipina singer would be taking a hiatus from KATSEYE’s upcoming activities to prioritize her mental health and overall well-being.
“Thank you for your kind messages of concern and offer of prayers for fifi (Sophia). The girls work so hard that they forget they're [humans] who need rest. So, rest and recover she shall, and we are ever so grateful to their management that they are looking after them very well and prioritizing the girl's health and well-being above all!”
“We love and appreciate you all!!! God bless🙏🏻❤️,” Carla added in the caption.
The theater actress likewise reminded fans that KATSEYE’s upcoming documentary film, KATSEYE: WILD HEARTS, is set to arrive in theaters on August 12.
Her post was met with more messages of support from fans and friends in the entertainment industry, who echoed Carla’s sentiment that Sophia’s health should come first.
“Health is indeed wealth. Your daughter knows what matters! She is a star that will keep on shining! @carlaguevaraofficial,” one wrote.
Another shared her hopes for Sophia’s recovery, writing, “Wishing @sophia_laforteza all the rest and time she needs to fully recover.❤️ So glad she’s surrounded by people who understand that her well-being comes first. Sending love to you both @carlaguevaraofficial.”
Celebrity vocal coach and singer Jade Riccio also sent her prayers, commenting, “Bombarding heavens with prayers ✨fast recovery!!! Amen!”
The support comes after HYBE and Geffen Records announced on August 7 through Weverse that Sophia would be temporarily stepping away from KATSEYE’s upcoming activities to focus on her health.
“We understand how much EYEKONS were looking forward to seeing Sophia on stage, but it is imperative that her mental health and wellness are prioritized,” the announcement said.
According to the label, Sophia has been receiving “the utmost support” and has been consulting medical professionals. She was advised to dedicate time to “extended rest and ongoing care to ensure a full recovery.”
“While Sophia herself is eager to perform alongside her members, the health, safety, and long-term well-being of our artists will always remain our highest priority,” the statement continued.
The label also said that Sophia’s condition will be reassessed in September.
Sophia personally addressed EYEKONS through her Instagram Stories, writing: “Making this decision wasn't easy, but I'm learning that health has to come first. I'm realizing that if I don't take care of my mind and body now, I won't be able to keep doing what I love the most for so long.”
She also assured fans that their continued support means a lot to her as she takes time to recover.
“It means more to me than I could ever say. I promise I'm going to work as hard as I can to get through this, heal properly, and come back stronger," she maintained.