Camps of James Yap, Kris Aquino clash on visitation rights anew

MANILA, Philippines – The issue on the visitation rights of James Yap to his son James “Bimby” Yap Jr., his child with Kris Aquino, arises again.

This was after James’ lawyer Atty. Lorna Kapunan confirmed in an interview on “Good Morning Club” and published in Philippine Entertainment Portal that the conditions agreed upon in court about her client’s visitation rights are not being followed.

“It’s very sad, but it’s very true,” Kapunan affirmed on Monday, Nov. 4.

Kapunan, however, didn’t give much specifics on the court order since there’s a gag order issued to both parties.

Nevertheless, she said that the interview is her way to “appeal” to Kris’ side “na sana sundin naman niya [Kris] yung visitation orders.

“Ginawa ngang easy for the son, for both parties and the son to see the father. E, hanggang ngayon, hindi pa rin sinusunod,” Kapunan added.

Kapunan said the agreed visitation schedule was based on “the studies of the psychologist. This is also with the recommendation of the social worker. And with the agreement of both parties and the little boy himself.”

She also admitted that they could file contempt charges if James’ visitation rights are not fulfilled, adding she hopes they could settle the issue without filing another case since the two parties had already moved on with their lives.

In the end, the lawyer was asked for a message to Kris’ camp and she said: “Ang sabi ng court is, ‘It is good for a child to have the mother and father, but they may be not husband and wife anymore. But the child always needs a mother and father growing up.’ Yun ang order ng court. So, I think… we’re praying that both parties will see it… what is to the best interest of the child and set aside their personal differences.”

Meanwhile, in a statement given by Kris’ lawyer Atty. Sigfrid Fortun published in Philippine Entertainment Portal Tuesday, Nov. 5, he insisted that his client is “compliant” with the court order regarding James’ visitation rights.

In a text message to TV5 reporter MJ Marfori, Fortun said, “The court order on visitation requires James to fetch Bimby in his residence. Kris has been waiting for James to tell her what time he is fetching their son. She has received no messages from James to this effect. Kris is compliant with all court orders relating to visitation and she has no intention of violating those or depriving James of his right to be with his son.”