“May pa-statement.”
Such were the comments of Filipinos after talent agencies issued statements about the relationship of actors Gerald Anderson and Julia Barretto.
The respective managements handling the careers of the actors separately confirmed that their talents are no longer in a relationship after dating each other for years.
The couple confirmed their relationship in 2021, two years after denying Julia’s involvement in Gerald’s split with his then-girlfriend, Bea Alonzo.
Now, both Star Magic and Viva Artists Agency (VAA) have released statements confirming Julia and Gerald’s breakup, following weeks of speculation about their status.
Star Magic handles Gerald, while VAA handles Julia.
Star Magic has the following statement:
Star Magic confirms that Gerald Anderson and Julia Barretto have mutually decided to end their relationship.
We request the public to respect their decision and refrain from spreading false narratives.
Gerald and Julia are grateful to their fans and friends for the love and support.
Meanwhile, VVA has this to say:
On behalf of our artist, Viva Artists Agency confirms that Julia Barretto and Gerald Anderson have mutually and amicably parted ways for some time now.
The circulating speculations in recent weeks regarding the reason for their breakup are unfounded and baseless.
We emphasize that only information coming directly from Julia or Gerald should be regarded as accurate, as they are the primary parties involved. Any other claims are merely attempts to ride on the issue or to spread false information.
‘K-pop vibes’
The statements sparked comparisons with the way South Korean entertainment agencies handle their artists’ personal lives.
“Taray, lakas maka-Korean agency. [Sige] nga, @starmagicphils,
mag-release nga din [kayo] ng statement pag mag-co-confirm kayo ng relationship,” an online user commented.
“Korean yarn? Hehe, parang sa mga Korean actors and K-pop na talaga galawan ng ABS,” another user wrote.
“May ganito na eme now, parang South Korea lang,” said a different Pinoy.
“Ang K-pop ng pa-statement ah,” commented a different user.
Star Magic rarely issues statements about the personal lives of its artists, except in major cases such as the KathNiel split.
Korean agencies, meanwhile, are known to regularly confirm relationships or breakups on behalf of their talents.
In the Philippines, artists typically address relationship matters themselves, either on social media or in interviews.
