TV host and veteran broadcaster Kim Atienza poured out his love and longing for his late daughter Emman as he marked what could have been her 20th birthday on February 8. His children, Jose and Eliana, also shared their messages of love for their youngest sister.
In an Instagram post, Kuya Kim looked back on Emman’s past birthdays, sharing clips from those moments when she was blowing out her birthday cake while being cheered by her loved ones. In one of the videos, Emman could be heard sharing a wish that had become a tradition for her – one rooted in kindness and selflessness.
“These are clips from Emman's 18th and 19th birthdays. Emman's birthday wish every year was the same. ‘TO MAKE PEOPLE HAPPY SO I CAN BE HAPPY,’” Kim wrote.
For Kim, that wish did not go unanswered. He reflected on how Emman was able to touch countless people during her time.
“Emmansky your time with us was brief but you made millions happy. I love you and miss you so much. Happy 20th birthday up there dearest Emmansky!” he added.
READ: Remembering Emman Atienza: her search for authenticity and making a connection
On late January, Kuya Kim also celebrated his 59th birthday which he describes as his “toughest birthday,” as it was the first time he marked the occasion without his late daughter.
Emman’s siblings, Jose and Eliana, also paid tribute to her on social media, sharing photos from their childhood and teenage years together.
In his post, Jose opened about the everyday moments that still remind him of his younger sister and the ache of missing her presence.
“There isn’t a day that passes where I don’t think about your smile, laughter, and energy,” he wrote.
READ: Kim Atienza responds to online criticism over daughter Emman's death
“When I see the chair where you used to sit for dinner, go through our old pictures, explore our COVID Minecraft world, or reread at the last text you sent me about our 23&Me results the day before you passed away, I’m always left wishing I had said ‘I love you’ more than I did.”
“Emman, I love you more than you’ll ever know, and I miss you everyday. Please take care of our dogs - and incase you’re still wondering, we’re 39.4% Filipino and 32.4% Taiwanese ❤️❤️,” he ended.
READ: Atienza family pays tribute to Emman
Eliana, meanwhile, marked her sister’s birthday with a quiet but loving gesture. She lit candles on a cake for Emman and shared a short message that carried deep longing.
“Happy 20th birthday, Emman. I can’t wait for the day I get to see you again,” she said.
Emman passed away at the age of 19 in October 2025 in Los Angeles, California. Her urn was later brought home to the Philippines, where she was welcomed with love by her family and remembered fondly by those whose lives she touched.