Meet Sunshine Cruz’s Kids: Angelina Cruz, Angel Francheska Manhilot, and Sam Cruz

Sunshine Cruz, born on July 18, 1977, in Pasig City, Philippines, is a celebrated Filipina actress and singer who has remained a prominent figure in Philippine entertainment since her teenage years.

Of Filipino ethnicity and raised in a devout Catholic household, she is the daughter of Danny Cruz and Nena Cruz and grew up with three siblings—an older brother, Michael Cruz, and two older sisters, Maricel Cruz and Maritess Cruz Allary. Her love for performing arts began during her high school years in Metro Manila.

She entered the entertainment industry at the age of 15 and quickly rose to fame through her film and television roles, which showcased her versatility and charm.

In 2000, Sunshine married actor Cesar Montano, with whom she has three daughters: Angelina Isabelle Cruz (born 2001), Angel Francheska Manhilot, and Samantha Angeline “Sam” Cruz (born 2004). The couple’s marriage ended in 2018 following a widely publicized separation and annulment.

After her marriage, Sunshine was in a long-term relationship with businessman Macky Mathay from 2016 to 2022. In 2024, she began dating businessman Atong Ang, and they remain together as of 2025. Standing around 5 feet 3 inches tall, Sunshine continues to balance her entertainment career with motherhood.

Her daughters—Angelina, Angel Francheska, and Sam—are also stepping into the public spotlight, each developing their own identity and talents while carrying forward the Cruz legacy in Philippine media and entertainment.

Angelina Isabelle Cruz

Angelina Isabelle Cruz, the eldest of the three sisters, has emerged as a multifaceted talent in the Philippine entertainment scene. Born on September 24, 2001, Angelina has followed in her mother’s footsteps, blending her passions for music, acting, and modelling.

At just 20 years old, she gained recognition as the face of Careline Cosmetics in 2016, a testament to her growing influence as a model. Her striking beauty and vibrant presence have earned her over 1 million Instagram followers, solidifying her status as a social media star.

Angelina’s talents extend beyond modelling. As an aspiring actress, she has been winning hearts with her performances in films and television, showcasing her ability to connect with audiences. Her musical endeavours also reflect her creative spirit, as she shares her melodic voice with fans, much like her mother, who is known for her singing career.

Angelina’s journey is one of ambition and grace as she balances her career aspirations with her close-knit family ties. She has spoken fondly of her mother’s evolving parenting style, noting that Sunshine has become more lenient with her as the eldest daughter.

Angel Francheska Manhilot

Angel Francheska Manhilot, the middle child, is making her mark with her academic pursuits and budding acting career. Born to Sunshine Cruz and Cesar Montano, Francheska is currently studying Business Administration at the University of the Philippines, demonstrating her commitment to education alongside her creative endeavours.

Her passion for acting has led her to appear in several films and television shows, where she showcases her natural talent and dedication to her craft.

One of Francheska’s most notable achievements came in 2017 when she was chosen as an ambassador for the Philippine Red Cross. This role highlighted her commitment to helping others and making a positive impact on the world, earning her recognition for her humanitarian efforts.

As an Aries, Francheska embodies a fiery determination and a compassionate spirit, qualities that resonate in both her personal and professional life. Her Filipino heritage and strong family values continue to guide her as she navigates her journey in the spotlight.

Samantha Angeline “Sam” Cruz

Samantha Angeline Cruz, affectionately known as Sam, is the youngest of the trio and a vibrant presence in the digital space. Born on August 24, 2004, Sam celebrated her 18th birthday in 2022 with a colourful and festive party surrounded by family, reflecting her lively personality.

She has carved out her own niche as a content creator, running a self-titled YouTube channel where she shares vlogs and glimpses into her daily life, connecting with fans through her authentic and relatable content.

Sam’s creativity extends to her social media presence, where she showcases her style and charisma, often sharing moments from family vacations and personal milestones. Her beachside photos from a 2019 getaway in Nasugbu, Batangas, highlighted her confidence and inherited charm as she stunned in a maroon bikini alongside her sisters.

Like her sisters, Sam is deeply connected to her mother, who has been a guiding force in her life, encouraging her to pursue her passions while staying grounded.