He’s a celebrated actor, director, and national icon—but Cesar Montano’s off-screen life is just as colorful and dramatic as any role he’s ever played. Beyond the limelight, he is the father of ten children with five different women—some relationships played out under public scrutiny, others hidden until recent revelations. But now, the full picture of his complicated yet fascinating family life is finally coming to light.

The story begins with Marilyn Polinga, Cesar’s first wife and a gospel singer. They had two children: Angela Manhilot, who leads a private life, and Christian Angelo Manhilot. Tragically, Christian took his own life in 2010 at the age of 23, a heartbreak that left a deep scar in Cesar’s soul. “He was a gentle soul,” Cesar once said. “I will always carry that pain with me.”

Next came Teresa Loyzaga, a known singer and actress. With her, Cesar fathered Diego Loyzaga—arguably the most recognizable of his children. Diego followed in his father’s footsteps, stepping into showbiz and earning praise for both his looks and acting prowess. However, their father-son relationship hasn’t always been smooth. In 2017, Diego admitted that they had a falling out. But in time, reconciliation came. On Father’s Day, Diego posted a heartfelt message: “No matter what happened, you will always be my father.”

Perhaps the most public of all Cesar’s relationships was with actress Sunshine Cruz. Their whirlwind romance led to marriage in 2000 and three beautiful daughters: Angelina, Samantha, and Francheska. Dubbed “Tres Marias” by fans, these three girls grew up under the public eye. Angelina has since pursued a singing career and even signed with a major label. Despite their annulment in 2018, Sunshine and Cesar have found a way to co-parent, at least publicly. In 2023, Cesar was seen attending Angelina’s graduation and even bonding with his daughters during family events.

But Cesar’s story didn’t stop there.

In a revelation that shocked many, it was confirmed in 2023 that beauty queen Sandra Seifert had a child with Cesar—a boy named Coco. For years, Sandra kept the identity of her son’s father private. But when photos surfaced of Coco attending Cesar’s 60th birthday, the truth was impossible to deny. Sandra later confirmed the paternity, saying: “I didn’t want the drama. I just wanted my son to know his father, and that’s what matters.”

Then there’s Kath Angeles, Cesar’s current partner. With her, he has three young children: Liam, Samuel, and Kristen. During his milestone birthday celebration, all three were seen running around the garden with joy, playing beside their half-siblings and unaware of the complex web that connects them all.

From this vast and diverse family, one thing becomes clear: Cesar may not have always been a conventional father, but he’s never turned his back on any of his children. He has embraced them all, even if at different times and in different ways.

Photos from his recent family gatherings show a wide spectrum of personalities—teenagers, toddlers, introverts, artists, and dreamers. What unites them is not just blood but a man whose life has touched each of theirs in distinct ways.

However, the journey hasn’t been without turbulence. Rumors of infidelity, legal disputes, and emotional fallout have surrounded Cesar for years. Sunshine Cruz has spoken in the past about the pain of betrayal, while Diego once hinted at emotional neglect. These cracks, though painful, reveal the human side of a man too often portrayed as either hero or villain in the tabloids.

Still, Cesar Montano appears to be evolving. The once fiery actor known for his intensity on- and off-camera is now a father seeking peace, redemption, and connection. In interviews, he often mentions his children as the “real trophies” of his life. “At the end of the day,” he said in a recent podcast, “it’s not the awards or the applause—it’s whether your children can look you in the eye and say, ‘You showed up.’”

Not all of his children live in the spotlight. Angela has remained low-key, opting for a private life outside of showbiz. Samantha and Francheska focus on school and personal passions. Coco, Sandra’s son, is still very young but already resembles his father in both charm and confidence. And the youngest three—Liam, Samuel, and Kristen—are too little to understand the gravity of their lineage but seem to enjoy the love and unity present in their father’s renewed approach to parenting.

This is the story of a man who has made mistakes, found love multiple times, and discovered that fatherhood—despite its messiness—is the one role that endures. Cesar Montano’s ten children are not just a reflection of his legacy but a symbol of resilience, forgiveness, and hope.

They are the reason he continues to stand tall. And perhaps, they are also his greatest script yet—unwritten, unpredictable, but deeply, profoundly human.