Bea Alonzo shared some snaps with her celebrity friends at the birthday celebration of Mr. M on Instagram. Spotted were Maja Salvador, Kathryn Bernardo, John Lloyd Cruz, Piolo Pascual, and Jericho Rosales.

“Grace, Gratitude, and a Love That Endures: Korina Sanchez Turns 61 with a Special Birthday Wish for Mar Roxas”

Published: October 6, 2025

Introduction

Turning 61 is no ordinary milestone. For veteran journalist and media icon Korina Sanchez, it’s not just a celebration of age, but of resilience, purpose, and enduring love. On her birthday this year, Korina shared more than just photos of cakes, flowers, and family — she shared a heartfelt wish addressed to her husband, former senator and presidential candidate Mar Roxas.

In an industry often marked by fleeting fame and fickle loyalties, Korina and Mar’s relationship has become something of a rare gem — enduring through political storms, personal trials, and the unforgiving spotlight of public life.

1. The Birthday That Melted Hearts

On the morning of October 5, 2025, Korina Sanchez celebrated her 61st birthday surrounded by friends, family, colleagues, and of course, her beloved children, Pepe and Pilar. The intimate celebration was held in their family home in Quezon City and was later followed by a more glamorous dinner event with media personalities and former political allies.

But what truly captured the attention of the public wasn’t the event itself — it was a simple post on Instagram:

“All I want for my birthday is for you to always be safe, happy, and healthy. You’ve given so much to the country. Now, please choose yourself more often. I’ll be here, always.”

– Korina, to Mar

The caption was paired with a candid photo of Mar Roxas smiling over breakfast, unshaven, relaxed, and far from his political persona.

2. A Look Back: Korina Sanchez at 61

With a career spanning more than three decades, Korina Sanchez has long been one of the most recognizable faces in Philippine media. From her early days on TV Patrol to hosting her own show Rated K, Korina has built a reputation for bold journalism, sharp interviews, and her signature mix of empathy and authority.

Now at 61, she balances being a mother of twins, a media producer, a health and lifestyle advocate, and an influential voice on social media.

Her longevity in the spotlight isn’t just a product of her credibility — it’s also about reinvention and relevance.

3. A Love Story in Public View

Korina and Mar’s relationship began in the early 2000s, and their marriage in 2009 was one of the most high-profile weddings of the decade. Over the years, their bond has been tested by career transitions, political campaigns, and personal loss — including Mar’s defeat in the 2016 presidential elections, and their private struggles with IVF before the birth of their twins in 2019.

Still, through the highs and lows, they’ve remained each other’s constant.

“We’re opposites in many ways,” Korina once said. “But we agree on the things that matter — love, family, and country.”

4. The Birthday Message That Got Everyone Talking

Korina’s birthday wish wasn’t just sweet — it was revealing. In a world where public figures often keep emotions guarded, her message gave the audience a glimpse into their private lives:

Acknowledging Mar’s sacrifices as a public servant.
Encouraging him to now focus on self-care and rest.
Reaffirming her presence as a life partner, not just a wife.

The post struck a chord with many Filipinos who’ve watched the couple’s journey unfold in front of the cameras. For some, it was a reminder that true love matures with age and hardship.

5. Mar Roxas: Out of Politics, Still in the Spotlight

After his last Senate run in 2019, Mar Roxas stepped away from active politics. While many expected him to return to government, he instead chose a quieter life—focusing on family, business ventures, and mental health advocacy.

He’s since made limited media appearances, often only during Korina’s special features or charitable projects.

But despite his low profile, Mar remains one of the most respected names in Philippine public service — a legacy built on years of reform-oriented leadership, particularly during his time as DTI Secretary and Interior Secretary.

6. What Korina’s Wish Reveals About Their Bond

Beyond the romantic gesture, Korina’s wish highlights an evolving kind of love — one that values healing, personal space, and mutual support after decades of public duty.

Her tone was protective yet empowering, a rare depiction of a strong woman not asking for more from her husband, but instead encouraging him to prioritize himself.

It also reflects a generational shift — where women like Korina show that love in later years isn’t about drama or grand gestures, but about quiet devotion, shared healing, and mature companionship.

7. Fans and Celebrities React

The message went viral within hours. Celebrities, journalists, and politicians shared their reactions:

Karen Davila commented: “Real love. And real respect. Happy Birthday, Ate K!”
Vice President Leni Robredo reposted the message on her story, writing: “Always inspired by your strength and heart.”
Bea Alonzo added: “Love this kind of love. Goals. ❤️”

Meanwhile, fans flooded the comment section with messages like:

“You both inspire us to believe in love that lasts.”
“Korina, you’re the blueprint of grace.”
“Thank you for being real — we see you, Ate.”

8. The Legacy of “Rated K” and Beyond

Even after ABS-CBN’s franchise loss in 2020, Korina reinvented her show into “Rated Korina”, aired through TV5 and digital platforms. The program continues to highlight everyday Filipino stories, from acts of kindness to social issues.

Her storytelling has also expanded into podcasts, YouTube vlogs, and branded content — often integrating her advocacy for health, education, and family life.

In doing so, Korina has managed to stay culturally and politically relevant — even without holding a government position.

9. Reinvention, Relevance, and Resilience

Few public figures age as well as Korina — not just in appearance, but in purpose. At 61, she’s proven that women in media don’t need to fade away quietly.

Instead, she’s:

Reclaiming her narrative through self-produced content.
Mentoring younger journalists behind the scenes.
Championing issues close to her heart, including women’s health and responsible parenting.

In many ways, her birthday wish to Mar was also a declaration of her own values: partnership, presence, and peace.

10. What’s Next for Korina and Mar?

Korina has hinted at a new documentary series set to launch in early 2026, focusing on unsung Filipino heroes. Meanwhile, Mar has remained out of the political rumor mill, despite some groups pushing for his return in 2028.

As for family life, the couple continues to share glimpses of their parenting journey with Pepe and Pilar — both now in their early school years.

Whatever comes next, one thing is certain: their love story, far from being over, continues to inspire — quietly, gracefully, and powerfully.

Conclusion

In an age where love is often reduced to viral proposals and curated photos, Korina Sanchez’s simple birthday wish to Mar Roxas offered something rare: authenticity.

It wasn’t grandiose, dramatic, or scripted. It was honest, intimate, and full of the quiet strength that only decades of love — and life — can build. At 61, Korina doesn’t just represent longevity; she represents a love that grows deeper with age, not louder.

And perhaps that’s the most beautiful birthday gift she could ever give — or receive.

“Korina Sanchez: The Making of a Modern Filipina Icon”
“Mar Roxas: Why He Chose to Step Away from Politics”
“Pepe and Pilar: Growing Up with Korina and Mar”
“Rated K to Rated Korina: Reinventing Legacy Media”
“Aging in the Spotlight: Celebrities Who Are Winning the Long Game”