Actor Dennis Padilla said he accepts Julia and Claudia Barretto’s choice to no longer carry his last name, noting that they are old enough to decide for themselves.

“All of them are adults. They can decide [on their own]. Sabi ko nga, sa magulang, kung ano man ang desisyon na iyon, kapag masaya ang anak, automatic, masaya ang magulang,” Padilla told reporters at the Maddox Iconic Runway: Diamond Jewelry Fashion Show on Thursday, July 30, in Mandaluyong City.

It can be recalled that Claudia filed a petition to remove “Baldivia” (Dennis’ real surname) from her name, years after Julia filed a similar petition in 2015. Both sisters opted to retain Barretto, the surname of their mother, actress Marjorie Barretto.

Padilla admitted it was easier for him to accept their decision now that they are no longer minors.

“Kaya mas madali ko matanggap kasi alam ko na dati kasi underage, 2017 o 2018. Siyempre mga underage pa sila eh. Pero ngayon dahil adults na sila mas madali na sila makapag-decide so with that happy ako for them,” he said.

Padilla also declined to comment on whether he and his former wife, Marjorie, could eventually discuss their long-standing family issues, noting that they have not spoken to each other for years.

Despite this, the celebrity father expressed hope that he could reconcile with his children.

“I’m still hoping na sana before September magka-usap man lang kami. I hope one day makapag-dinner tayo or lunch. Kahit 1 or 2 hours na makapagkwentuhan lang tayo,” he said.