Kris gives birth ahead of schedule

Kris Aquino gave birth to hers and husband James Yap’s first baby by Caesarian section yesterday, 5 p.m. at Makati Medical Center.

The baby, James Jr., born two weeks ahead of schedule, weighs four pounds.

The baby’s birth caught everyone by surprise. Kris, who went to the hospital for a routine check-up at 1 p.m. did not expect she will give birth a few hours after.

Doctors, who saw via ultrasound that the amount of amniotic fluid in her womb had decreased, decided to operate on her at once.

Kris’ mom, former President Cory Aquino, who was at her daughter’s side when she gave birth, said, "We’re all very happy that Kris had her baby and it’s a good thing the baby is okay. Kris is fine. The baby seems to be okay because he cries very loudly."

James Jr. is now in the incubator where he is being supplied with oxygen.

Cory was joined by James, who came from a PBA game in Dubai, and Kris’ sisters.

Asked from whom the baby got his looks, Cory says her eighth grandchild is a cross between Kris and James.

"But he’s so small so it’s not easy to tell," she adds.

James says, "I was in the delivery room. I was nervous. But I’m happy she safely gave birth to our son."

The new father adds that he hopes the baby will bring peace and more blessings to the family.

Kris was originally scheduled to give birth during election week, but she decided to move the delivery date earlier so the family can focus on the election campaign of Kris’ brother Noynoy, who is running for senator in next month’s elections.

Kris had to rest completely two weeks after her birthday last Feb. 14, after James was linked to Hope Centeno.

Kris followed her doctor’s advice and took a leave from her ABS-CBN TV shows. — With Jose Rodel Clapano