Kapuso star Ruru Madrid has lauded his girlfriend, Bianca Umali, for her graceful and professional response to the recent billing controversy surrounding her upcoming film, ‘Mananambal’, where she stars alongside National Artist Nora Aunor.
During an interview with ’24 Oras’, Ruru expressed admiration for how Bianca addressed the issue, noting that she set an example for other actors on how to handle challenging questions from the media.
“Parang nag-set siya ng standard sa lahat ng mga aktors na natatakot sumagot sa mga ganung klaseng tanong.”
He also emphasized that as long as someone is telling the truth, there is no reason to be afraid.
“Basta naman totoo ang sinasabi mo, at hindi ka nagsisinungaling, bakit ka naman matatakot, ‘di ba? Yes, [she handled it very well], and very respectful as well.”
“‘Yun ‘yung sobrang napa-proud ako sa kanya.”
The issue arose during the press conference for ‘Mananambal’, when entertainment editor Jun Lalin asked director Adolf Alix Jr. whether Bianca’s team had requested a higher billing placement on the film’s promotional materials.
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Before Direk Adolf could respond, Bianca respectfully asked if she could answer the question herself.
“I am shocked by the question po, ‘no? But I would like to handle it as professionally as possible. I believe po that the question is inappropriate for the event.”
She clarified that billing was never an issue for her, as she was honored just to work alongside the Superstar.
“Never po naging issue sa akin ang billing ng pelikula dahil malaking oportunidad na sa akin ang makatrabaho ang National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts na si Nora Aunor.”
Bianca also emphasized how much she valued the experience of acting alongside Nora, calling it an unexpected dream come true in her career.
“The opportunity to work with the Superstar, with our National Artist, is already a blessing. And it is an opportunity that I already knew na hindi ko palalagpasin.”
“Being with her on the set was a masterclass for me. It was a dream that I never thought I would achieve this early in my career. Kaya po, ‘yung makasama si Nora, that’s already enough.”
Directed by Adolf Alix Jr., ‘Mananambal’ is a mystical drama featuring a powerful ensemble cast led by Bianca Umali and Nora Aunor.
The film is set to hit cinemas nationwide on February 19, 2025.
