Ria Atayde has fully embraced a new chapter in her life: motherhood.
In an exclusive interview with PEP.ph (Philippine Entertainment Portal) on March 10, 2026, the Kapamilya actress opened up about her journey as a first-time mom, sharing both the joys and lessons she continues to discover while raising her child with husband Zanjoe Marudo.
Asked how she feels about becoming a mother for the first time, Ria replied, “I love it! It’s the best role that’s ever been given to me."
Read: Zanjoe Marudo "happy" for ex-GF Bea Alonzo’s upcoming wedding
Admittedly, she said parenting comes with challenges, but the biggest adjustment lies in rediscovering herself amid her new responsibilities.
“You know what, I think it’s finding your own groove again and figuring out your new persona."

Ria also credited her strong support system for helping her navigate motherhood smoothly.
She said: “You know, I'm very blessed to have a lot of moms—like a mom tribe around me.
"My aunts, my mom [Sylvia Sanchez], you know, and then my friends who are also moms. That really helps a lot.
"Like I have a full and proper village that's helping me navigate this new world of mine."
Read: Sylvia Sanchez ayaw pakialaman ang pagpapalaki sa apo
Ria on mental and physical well-being
When it comes to self-care, Ria emphasized that motherhood goes beyond maintaining physical appearance.
According to her, mental and physical wellness should go hand in hand.
Even brief moments carved out for oneself—whether a quick workout or a bit of personal downtime—can help mothers stay grounded.
"I think that has a lot to do with finding time for yourself, even if it's a quick 30-minute, 15-minute workout, whatever time is permitted for you.
"And, yeah, I think things like that really help in kind of reminding you that you're still your own person in the midst of every role that you have."
Read: Maine Mendoza joins Atayde family gathering amid breakup rumors
As a follow-up, she was asked about her workout routine.
Ria said that she has continued doing Pilates and has recently returned to playing tennis.
Add to this, she has taken interest in pickleball.
Ria chooses privacy for family life
As public figures, Ria and Zanjoe remain intentional about protecting their family provacy.
For Ria, setting boundaries is key to shielding her family from outside noise while allowing them to grow together away from constant scrutiny.
Read: Zanjoe Marudo, itinangging hiwalay na sila ni Ria Atayde
“I find peace in privacy,” Ria said.
“You can be a public figure and still have a private life. Not every detail of your life has to be shared.”
When asked what kind of mom she is, Ria laughed, admitting that she and Zanjoe are still figuring things out.
“Our baby’s only 17 months, so wala pa kami doon sa discipline.
“But I’d like to think we’re both very hands-on.
"We’re both very present," she concluded.
Ria and Zanjoe welcomed their firstborn baby boy on September 23, 2024, months after tying the knot in a civil wedding on March 23, 2024.
