MANILA, Philippines — Raymond Gutierrez defended his twin brother, Richard Gutierrez, following remarks by the actor’s estranged wife, Sarah Lahbati, about whether she felt the need to ask for financial assistance for their two children.
In a comment posted on TikTok on a video featuring Lahbati’s recent interview, Raymond said Richard continues to fulfill his responsibilities as a father.
“My brother provides for his kids. Period. School, hobbies, travel, clothing, staff and everything else they need. The kids split their time equally between both parents. I can’t sit here and watch this and not state facts,” he wrote.
Raymond added that Lahbati should have clarified the matter during the interview.
Clips circulating online showed Lahbati speaking with Kylie Verzosa on the “Almost Honest” podcast, where she was asked if she had ever felt the need to ask for help in providing for their children.
“No! I’ll be honest, I struggle asking for help but in this specific scenario and question of yours, no, I don’t feel the need to. I can do it so I don’t see why I should ask period,” Lahbati said.
When asked if there was any agreement regarding financial support, Lahbati said such matters should be an “automatic” understanding.
“I don’t think there was even any discussion in terms of that stuff. It is my decision as well. It is my decision that I’m okay not getting help. I’m never gonna beg. I’m never gonna ask. It should be an automatic thing, actually. If it’s not, why am I gonna beg or ask, if I can do it myself,” she said.
During the interview, Lahbati also spoke about wanting to be cared for and said she remains open to love, although her focus is on her children and her work.
Lahbati and Richard Gutierrez share two sons, Zion and Kai. The couple married in civil ceremonies in 2020 and separated in 2024.
Richard Gutierrez is now in a relationship with actress Barbie Imperial, who recently said in an interview that “all is well” between her and Lahbati.