Why Lola Vicky Is Bianca Umali’s Ultimate Superhero as She Turns 90
The Sang’gre actress reflects on how her grandmother’s strength and unconditional love built a home for their blended family
Reaching the milestone of 90 years is a rare, beautiful gift. For Sang’gre star Bianca Umali, it’s a celebration anchored in deep gratitude, as her grandmother, Mama Vicky, recently marked her 90th birthday surrounded by the family she built and held together.
On Sunday, September 6, Bianca shared some photos from the birthday party she helped organize for her Lola Vicky, declaring her a superhero.
“Happy 90th birthday, Mama!” the actress wrote. “Ninety years of your life, and we are so blessed to have been part of so many of those years. You have given our family so much love, strength, wisdom, and so many beautiful memories. You’ve been there through so much, and somehow, you’ve always managed to make our family feel like home.”
For Bianca, seeing how her lola celebrated was special. “Seeing you surrounded by your family and the people whose lives you’ve touched reminded us just how much you are loved.”
She wants her Mama Vicky to know how grateful the family is for the lessons, love, laughter, and being she has been to them.
“Ninety years of you is definitely something worth celebrating,” Bianca adds, joking that they’re already planning her next debut.
Real-life superhero
In a previous interview with Kara David, Bianca reflected on the complexities of growing up in a blended family after losing her parents, admitting how challenging it was to process such profound grief as a child. Yet through every transition, Lola Vicky remained an unwavering anchor—not just for Bianca, but for several of her cousins whom Mama Vicky also took under her wing.
“Palagi kong sinasabi na ang lola ko ang tunay na sang’gre,” Bianca shared, referencing the iconic royal warrior bloodline from her hit fantasy series. “Iba po ang lakas niya… It is as if she really brought upon herself the responsibility of taking care of all of us.”
For Bianca, her lola’s choice to lead with unconditional love defined her childhood. “Kaya ko sinasabi na superhero namin siya. She could have chosen not to, but she still chose to take all of us in wholeheartedly, without asking for anything in return.”
Bianca’s story is a touching reminder of the invaluable role grandparents play in modern parenting. When life unravels, grandmothers like Mama Vicky step up, offering non-judgmental stability, rich values, and a sanctuary of love.
To all the lolos and lolas anchoring families everywhere: we honor your strength, your wisdom, and your quiet heroism.
Frequently Asked Questions
Bianca Umali was primarily raised by her maternal grandmother, Vicky (affectionately known as Lola Vicky or Mama Vicky), who took full guardianship of Bianca and several of her cousins after both of Bianca’s parents died during her childhood.
Bianca Umali lost both of her parents at a young age. Her mother passed away from breast cancer, and her father died due to a heart attack.
Lola Vicky celebrated her 90th birthday, surrounded by her family, including Bianca Umali and actor Ruru Madrid.
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