Meet Barbie Imperial’s Parents: Marilyn “Bing” Imperial and Nelson Imperial

Barbie Concina Imperial, born on August 1, 1998, in Daraga, Albay, Philippines, is a well-known Filipino actress and model celebrated for her standout roles in Araw Gabi and Fernando Poe Jr.’s Batang Quiapo.

Of Filipino ethnicity and a Christian by faith, Barbie’s early life was shaped by both hardship and determination. She was raised in a modest home near the railway tracks of the Philippine National Railway in Daraga, primarily by her mother, Marilyn “Bing” Imperial, as her father, Nelson Imperial, was mostly absent.

Growing up in a broken family and facing financial struggles, Barbie developed a deep sense of resilience—something that would later resonate with fans and followers. Her humble beginnings earned her the nickname “The Doll along the Riles of Albay” during her appearance on Pinoy Big Brother: 737 in 2015, a tribute to her delicate features and tough upbringing.

She has two half-siblings: an older half-brother, Bryce Imperial, and a half-sister named Cherry Imperial. Behind Barbie’s rise to stardom is a compelling story of perseverance, influenced by her family dynamics and her mother’s unwavering support.

This article delves deeper into the lives of her parents and how their presence—or absence—played a role in shaping her path to success.

Marilyn “Bing” Imperial

Marilyn “Bing” Imperial is the heart and foundation of Barbie Imperial’s life. As a devoted single mother, Bing raised Barbie and her older half-brother, Bryce Imperial, in a modest home nestled near the railway tracks of the Philippine National Railway in Daraga, Albay.

Their upbringing was filled with financial hardships, a reality Barbie brought to life in her 2016 Maalaala Mo Kaya episode, “Riles,” in which she portrayed her own story. Despite Barbie’s father’s absence, Bing worked tirelessly to provide for her children, ensuring they had a safe and loving home.

Bing’s strength and selflessness left an enduring mark on Barbie. In a 2018 interview with PEP.ph, Barbie described her mother as her “kakampi sa buhay” (life’s ally), expressing deep admiration and gratitude. She shared how witnessing her mother’s sacrifices shaped her values and instilled in her a deep respect for family.

Barbie’s greatest motivation has always been to give her loved ones a better life—a dream she began fulfilling in 2019 when she purchased her own home, calling it a “dream come true” for herself, Bing, and Bryce.

Bing continues to be a constant and cherished presence in Barbie’s life. She frequently appears in Barbie’s social media posts, showing fans their close-knit bond. In a 2023 vlog for ABS-CBN Entertainment, Barbie shared candid moments from their daily life, filled with laughter and love.

Whether celebrating special occasions together in Manila or cheering Barbie on from Albay, Bing remains her daughter’s greatest source of strength and inspiration.

Nelson Imperial

In contrast, Nelson Imperial—Barbie’s father—has played only a minimal role in her life. Barbie grew up in a broken family, with Nelson leaving when she was still very young.

His absence left an emotional void deeply affecting her, a theme she openly explored in her Maalaala Mo Kaya episode. In the dramatization of her story, Barbie expressed the pain of longing for a father figure and the strain it sometimes placed on her relationship with her mother.

Despite the emotional challenges, Barbie gradually understood her family’s reality. She found strength in acceptance and focused on the love and support she received from her mother, Bing.

Very little is known about Nelson’s personal or professional background, as Barbie rarely speaks about him publicly, and no verified information is available. Instead of dwelling on his absence, her story centers on resilience—highlighting how Bing’s strength as a single parent became the foundation of her life.

That missing connection with her father became a quiet motivator, pushing Barbie to rise above her circumstances and channel her experiences into personal growth and a thriving acting career.