In a recent interview on the talk show ‘Fast Talk with Boy Abunda,’ Rabiya Mateo, alongside her co-star Elle Villanueva from the series ‘Makiling,’ opened up about the struggles she faced in her relationship with actor Jeric Gonzales.
Mateo candidly shared her experience of grappling with public scrutiny and rumors surrounding Gonzales, her boyfriend. Admitting that dating a celebrity brought unforeseen challenges, she revealed feeling initially unsettled by the opinions circulating about Gonzales.
“First time kong mag-date ng celebrity and minsan kapag celebrity din ‘yung dine-date mo ang daming opinyon, ang daming sinasabi about him and at first, I was shaken about it. Parang hindi ko alam kung paniniwalaan ko ba ‘yung sinasabi ni Jeric o ‘yung sinasabi ng mga tao about him kasi ibang-iba e,” Mateo disclosed during the interview.
Navigating through the noise of public speculation, Mateo recounted the internal conflict she faced in deciding whose perspective to trust – Gonzales’ or the public’s.
Despite the external pressures, Mateo ultimately chose to place her trust in Gonzales, emphasizing the sincerity and seriousness he demonstrated towards their relationship.
“Kasi nakita ko kung gaano siya kaseryoso sa akin Tito Boy at pinaramdam niya ‘yun sa’kin,” she asserted.
Mateo also acknowledged the reciprocal nature of public scrutiny, acknowledging that Gonzales likely faced similar challenges regarding their relationship.
Expressing gratitude for Gonzales’ efforts in nurturing their bond, Mateo emphasized the importance of mutual appreciation and understanding in fostering a healthy relationship.
“Ako, aside from communication, siguro Tito Boy, kailangan mo rin… ako bilang babae I need to be appreciative ng efforts, kasi minsan ‘yung mga lalaki marami na silang ginagawang effort, hindi lang natin napapakita na na-a-appreciate natin sila,” she remarked.
Mateo and Gonzales confirmed their relationship in March 2022. While rumors of a breakup circulated after Mateo deleted their photos on social media, Mateo clarified in a subsequent interview in June 2023 that any rift was short-lived and quickly resolved.
As of present, Mateo and Gonzales continue to maintain a strong and supportive relationship. Notably, Mateo celebrated her birthday alongside Gonzales during a trip to Hong Kong and Macau in November 2023.
