AIKO Melendez confirmed that she and Zambales 1st District’s Rep. Jay Khonghun have ended their relationship after almost eight years together.
In a statement posted on her Facebook page on Oct. 3, Melendez said the decision was reached “after four months of reflection and careful consideration.”
“Congressman Jay Khonghun and I, Councilor Aiko Melendez, have mutually decided to part ways and go our separate directions. This decision was not made lightly but comes from a place of respect and understanding of what is best for both of us at this time,” she wrote.
Melendez, who serves as Quezon City 5th district councilor, clarified that no third party was involved in the breakup.
“We want to make it clear that no third party was involved in this decision. We remain grateful for the memories we shared and for the support many of you have shown throughout our journey together,” she said.
The actress, stressing that their priority is to focus on their public service roles, noted that the separation was mutual.
“He in his continued public service, and I in mine, always guided by the values of respect, kindness, and dedication to the people we serve,” she continued.
“We ask for your understanding and privacy as we go through this transition. Thank you for your support and prayers,” Melendez concluded.
The couple first went public with their relationship in 2018. Melendez had previously described Khonghun as her “answered prayer.”
Melendez was previously married to actor Jomari Yllana in 2000, but they separated after a year. They have a son named Andrei. Their marriage was annulled in 2005.
The same year, Melendez married Martin Jickain, with whom she has a daughter named Marthena. (Jessica Ann Evangelista © Philippine Daily Inquirer)
