Ara Mina puts baby plans on hold to focus on politics

Actress Ara Mina tries her luck in politics anew. TMT PHOTOS

One reason is their commitment to showbiz projects and businesses. Another is their contentment with their blended family, which includes their respective children: Kirsten, Klane and Mandy.

Mina with Sarah Discaya, who is running for Pasig City mayor.

Kirsten is Almarinez's daughter with his ex-wife Erish, who currently resides in the United States. Klane, whom Almarinez treats as his own, is Erish's child from a previous relationship. Meanwhile, Mandy is Mina's daughter with her former boyfriend, Bulakan, Bulacan Vice Mayor Patrick Meneses.

While having children together remains in their plans, Mina recently revealed that it has taken a backseat. She made this announcement during a media event where she also declared her candidacy for councilor in Pasig City's second district.

The 45-year-old shared that her husband was surprised by her decision, as he had not expected her to run in the 2025 elections. However, he fully supports her pursuit of public service.

"I can still have a baby in the middle of my political career if I win," Mina pointed out, adding that she believes public service is her calling and destiny. She noted that it runs in her blood, as her biological grandfather and father, Mel and Chuck Mathay, were both involved in politics.

Mina also clarified her ties to Pasig City, saying she grew up in Barangay Santolan and currently resides in her family's ancestral home there.

"I am a true Pasigueña. My father, Romy Reyes, and my mother have an ancestral house in Barangay Santolan, where I live now. So, to be clear, I am a legitimate resident and have every right to run as a councilor for District 2," she explained.

Mina returned to her ancestral home to continue her advocacy work, particularly on women's empowerment and providing assistance to persons with disabilities (PWDs).

When asked if she would leave showbiz if elected, Mina said she would prioritize her duties as a councilor.

"I won't completely leave showbiz, but if I win, I will focus on Pasig first. Maybe I'll do some projects once in a while — just like my idol, Ate Vi (Vilma Santos), who managed to make films even while serving in politics," she said.

During the event, Mina introduced her close friend and now running mate, Sarah Discaya, whom she refers to as her "ate." Discaya is the owner of St. Gerrard Construction and is known in Pasig for her philanthropic work.

The two met during a medical mission organized by the St. Gerrard Construction Charity Foundation. According to Mina, it was Discaya who encouraged her to enter politics.

Discaya is running against incumbent Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto. Despite acknowledging the tough battle ahead, she remains steadfast in her decision.

"It's a long shot — we're up against a powerhouse. But we believe in democracy, and that qualified candidates also have the right to seek public service. I believe I am qualified," Discaya noted.

Discaya, who grew up in the UK before returning to the Philippines and venturing into business, shared that public service has also been a part of her life, as her father held a position as a barangay (village) official.

Mina expressed her admiration for Discaya, saying, "It's an honor to run alongside someone with a good heart, a proven track record of helping people selflessly, and a mother's heart that prioritizes family and community. Ate Sarah can do this."

Discaya, in turn, praised Mina, "It's a great honor to share this platform with Ara — a proud Pasigueña who has long been an advocate for women's rights, youth welfare, and the protection of disadvantaged sectors. These are important issues for me as well. That's why when I decided to enter this race, I knew I wanted to fight side by side with Ara."

Both candidates are hopeful for the future as they embark on their political journey together.