Mark Herras and Nicole Donesa are celebrating a meaningful family milestone after both of their children officially became dual citizens of the Philippines and the United States.
Nicole recently shared the news on Instagram on May 29, revealing that their youngest child, Mija, successfully obtained her US passport and dual citizenship coinciding with the former’s birthday.
“Been MIA for the past few days for a lot of surprises to share with you guys soon but I’m excited to share with pride one surprise that became official on my Bday! Who would have thought our Bunso Mija would successfully get her Blue Passport and Dual Citizenship on my Birthday? 🥹👏🎂”
“Hard work paid off, and my birthday wishes came true,” she added.
She also proudly acknowledged Mark as she reflected on the journey they took to secure the status of their children.
“@herrasmarkangeloofficial , both of our babies @mark_and_mina_ are Dual Citizens na 🥳🇺🇸🇵🇭 Good job to us 🙏”
Their eldest child, Corky, had already secured dual citizenship in 2022, making Mija’s approval another significant milestone for the family.
With both children now officially recognized as citizens of the two countries, Nicole described the occasion as “one of the best birthdays” she has experienced.
“Many more blessings & surprises I’m so excited to share with you guys soon, but for now, cheers to 32 yrs of this wild & crazy life 🥂🎂,” she ended.
Corky and Mija qualified for dual citizenship through Nicole, who is a Filipino-American citizen. Born and raised in the United States, she moved to the Philippines during her teenage years.
The update also sparked curiosity among followers, particularly regarding whether Mark would eventually pursue dual citizenship himself. When asked in the comments section, Nicole replied, “save the best for last.”
The family milestone comes months after Mark opened about their long-term plans as a family.
Last April, the actor shared in an interview with Boy Abunda that Nicole had enrolled in nursing school as she works toward fulfilling a longtime dream.
“She's gonna study again, si Nicole. Sa Pinas muna, nursing. That's her dream, to be a nurse. Okay na, nakapasa na po siya sa Trinity," he said. "I'm really happy for her, kasi ito 'yung dream niya talaga."
According to Mark, Nicole hopes to eventually work in the United States.
"Sakto dual citizen naman si misis, and then 'yung panganay ko naka-dual na rin, and then inaayos na rin 'yung bunso ko and then after like four, five years, sabi niya gusto niya sa States mag [work], siyempre sa sweldo rin. Sabi niya, ipe-petisyon daw niya ako. Sabi ko, 'Whatever you want.' Kung nasaan 'yung mga bata, nandun ako, sabi ko," he relayed.
Despite the possibility of relocating in the coming years, Mark admitted he still finds it difficult to picture himself leaving behind the entertainment industry that has been part of his life for decades.
"Sa ngayon hindi ko pa ma-imagine 'yung self na I'm gonna leave showbiz. Wala nga akong ibang parang magandang kuwento sa buhay ko before my family kundi itong showbiz life ko lang, kumbaga ito 'yung mga na-experience ko sa industriyang ito,” he stated.
He added: “So 'pag iniisip ko, four years from now, I'm gonna go to the States na, parang 'Paano ako magtatrabaho dun?'"
Mark also took the opportunity to dismiss rumors surrounding his marriage, stressing that keeping their family intact remains a priority for him and Nicole.
"Malaking factor sa amin ni Nicole 'yung buo ang pamilya para sa mga bata. And having those kids... wala akong laban diyan," he said. "So, kung nasaan sila, nandun ako."