Philippus was a member of a senatorial family. The ‘Marcii’ have been in Roman Politics since its monarchy.

In 59BC, he had married Atia Balba Caesonia, niece of the Roman Dictator Julius Caesar. Philippus had a son from a previous marriage, who his wife died. Atia’s husband had died on his return to Rome, leaving her 2 children. They were Octavia Minor and Gaius Octavius (future Emperor Caesar Augustus). Julia Caesaris and her husband, the praetor and commissioner Marcus Atius Balbus had 3 daughters. ... Gaius Julius Caesar (Latin: IMP·C·IVLIVS·CAESAR·DIVVS¹) (July 13, 100 BC – March 15, 44 BC) was a Roman military and political leader. ... Octavia was the name of three women of the Julio-Claudian Dynasty of ancient Rome: two were sisters of Augustus Caesar, and the younger was the daughter of Claudius and wife of Nero. ... Bust of Augustus Caesar Caesar Augustus (Latin: IMP·CAESAR·DIVI·F·AVGVSTVS)¹ (23 September 63 BC – 19 August AD 14), known earlier in his life as Gaius Octavius or Gaius Julius Caesar Octavianus, was the first Roman Emperor and is traditionally considered the greatest. ...

Philippus had cherished them as if they were his own. He was consul of 56BC and became Caesar’s supporter. When Octavius became Caesar’s heir, he had serious doubts over this.

Atia had died during August/September 43BC. Later Augustus rewarded him for his loyalty from spoils from foreign victories. With his reward, he restored the temple ‘Hercules of the Muses’.