MANILA, Philippines — For four years, Drew Arellano has traveled the Philippines and featured exciting destinations in his TV show, “Biyahe ni Drew.”
His viewers, who are mostly travelers in search of their next travel goals, have seen him jump from the highest cliffs, eat the most exotic dishes and explore secluded islands.
But all those are nothing compared to his latest and inarguably happiest "biyahe," fatherhood.
As we very well know, Drew is hubby to fellow celebrity Iya Villania, and daddy to firstborn Antonio Primo, whom the couple lovingly welcomed in August 2016. Since then, we have seen the softer side of the TV host as a doting dad.
For example, Drew tracks Primo’s many firsts as a baby like smiling, talking, standing and walking. He then proudly shares these moments on social media for thousands of fans.
One memorable moment was Primo’s first smile. “His first smile was caught on video dated November 2, 2016. It made me feel like the whole world smiled too,” Drew tells Philstar.com.
Smiling has become Primo’s most endearing expression.“He sets the mood in the Arellano residence every single morning when he steps outside of his room—of course, we carry him out. He has a very sunny disposition and it’s contagious,” Drew explains.
Knowing this, he and Iya make sure that every bonding moment with Primo is fun—be it play time, feeding time, cooking time or bath time.
The first-time dad also has tricks up his sleeves. He pretends to drop Primo before catching him, plays peek-a-boo and takes him in short walks outside. All these bring delight to the little one.
But just like any baby, Primo can immediately turn from happy to grumpy when his needs—or wants!—are not addressed.
Asked how he addresses this, Drew answers, “We try to divert his attention or try to figure out what he wants. But in general, giving him affection usually works.”
This is true because affection is a love response between parents and children especially during infancy. Love responses exchanged between Drew and Primo are sure to affirm and strengthen their bond.
“All this made me realize that giving attention to him is far more important than other stuff that I was doing before,” Drew says.
Once, the “Biyahe ni Drew” host even posted a photo of him and Primo on Instagram captioned: “Looking for a replacement host for #biyahenidrew for a few years. Need to spend more time with my boy. Anyone interested?”
In conclusion, Drew is “absolutely loving everything” about being Primo’s father.
“From the change of priorities to change of diapers, he is the reason for my being,” he says.
Babyflo® supports Drew Arellano in his journey to fatherhood through its Soap-Free Bath and Oatmeal Bath. As co-endorsers of the Babyflo® products, Drew, Iya and Primo spend fun-filled moments together as a family. Let love flow with Babyflo®. For more information and updates, visit www.facebook.com/BabyfloPH.
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3 intimate love languages of mom Iya and son Primo