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Mommy Dearest star Katrina Halili couldn't hold back her emotions as she opened up about the challenges of raising her daughter Katie Lawrence.

In Ivana Alawi's latest vlog, Katrina teared up while talking about how much it means to care for her child.

"Nae-enjoy ko talaga. 'Pag wala si Katie, kulang," she said. "Hindi ko masasabi paano ko na-handle basta kailangan ko siya."

The Kapuso actress recalled the moment she first learned about Katie's condition, who is on the autism spectrum.

"Noong two years old mahigit, 'yung doctor niya (nagsabi) kung pwede namin ipa-check sa developmental doctor. Kasi wala siyang eye-contact," she shared.

As a devoted mother, Katrina never hesitated to do what was best for Katie. She immediately sought therapy and has continued to support her daughter's needs.

"Kung ano 'yung makakatulong, bakit hindi? Wala ako'ng inisip na masama," she said.

Although Katie is doing better now, Katrina admitted that their journey hasn't been easy.

"Swerte ako kay Katie. Akala nila ganyan na si Katie. Marami din pong paghihirap," she said emotionally. Ngayon lang talaga halos na parang okay na okay. Pati kausap, pati 'pag meron siyang gusto na hindi mo binigay, dati nagwawala siya."

It wasn't until last year that Katrina noticed a shift in Katie's behavior. Before that, her daughter often had tantrums and high energy, which made things difficult.

Wanting to prioritize her daughter, Katrina stepped back from showbiz and chose not to sign new contracts so she could have more flexible time with her.

Up to now, Katrina continues to focus on being a loving and supportive mom.

"Hindi ako sweet sa mama ko. Tapos gusto ko man maging sweet, hindi kasi ako'ng lumaking sweet kaya nahihiya ako. Dahil ayokong lumaking kagaya ko (si Katie), na nahihiya magpakita ng affection," she admitted.

Katrina expressed how much Ivana's kindness meant to her and Katie. In the vlog, Ivana also treated Katie to a “Can't Say No” challenge. She gamely bought her toys, a new cell phone, and let the child enjoy fun activities at the mall.

Ivana shared that the surprise was her way of honoring Katrina's strength and selflessness as a mom. In addition, she's also grateful for the warmth the actress showed to Ivana's sister Mona during their time together on Munting Heredera.

Meanwhile, meet Katrina Halili's daughter Katie Lawrence in this gallery: