Eugene: I’m not ‘humble’ all the time but I’m not conceited, either

“I have no control over play dates,” said award-winning actress Eugene “Uge” Domingo on her two movies showing at the same time in cinemas.

Eugene is in Jose Javier Reyes’ “Wedding Tayo Wedding Hindi,” a coproduction of Star Cinema and OctoArts Films, and also in Jade Castro’s “Zombadings 1: Patayin sa Shokot si Remington,” which both opened on August 31.

“I just hope the investments make their way back to the producers, so they can make more movies,” Eugene told entertainment writers during the thanksgiving party for “Wedding Tayo” last week. “It thrills me that people will get to see me kahit saan silang sinehan pumasok.”

“Wedding Tayo” is about two cousins, portrayed by Eugene and Toni Gonzaga. Belay (Toni) is an excited bride; Precy (Eugene) is an exhausted wife. The movie also stars Zanjoe Marudo and Wendell Ramos.

Asked which one she thought made more money on the first day, Uge said, “I would guess ‘Wedding Tayo,’ because it is showing in more theaters.”

You’re so busy; do you find time to rest?

Right after every project, I have a weekend or three days off — I go out of town. Every year, I have a 15-day vacation. A person should have quality time for herself. (Veteran actor/director/playwright) Tony Mabesa told me, “My God, Eugene, even Shirley Temple at the peak of her career wasn’t this busy.” So si Shirley Temple pala ay ka-batch ko?

How many relationships have you been in?

A few, but nothing serious. That’s why I’m so jealous when I see how Paul (Soriano, TV and film director) takes care of Toni. If I ever commit to someone, I’d like him to be somebody like Paul, o kaya si Paul na mismo (laughs).

Would you have kids even without a husband?

I dream of becoming a mother — I know I’d be a good one — but still hope to raise my children with the help of their father.

What’s the advantage of being your own manager?

I used to have a manager, Ricky Gallardo, who is also a very good friend. Not having a manager works for me in the sense that I am able to talk to producers directly. I’m able to communicate my requests to them. I do have a team that helps me with my schedule. I find this setup more effective right now, although in two or three years, I may need a manager again.

How do you feel about the rumor that success has gone to your head?

I don’t see any reason for anyone to become conceited. [But] I admit that I’m not “humble” all the time — may konti rin akong demands at times.

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