ON BENDED knee, JC Intal asks for Bianca Gonzalez’s hand in marriage at the terminal. Instagram photo
I’m such a romantic fool that stories about marriage proposals always give me a vicarious thrill—which is what happened when I heard about PBA cager JC Intal’s popping the question to his girlfriend of three years, TV host Bianca Gonzalez.
It happened at the Naia Terminal 2, when he saw her off to London last Thursday. The Barako Bull Energy Cola forward planned the surprise with Bianca’s friends and the airline staff.
Bianca was greeted at the check-in counter with roses and a banner that read, “Bianca, please say ‘Yes.’” JC knelt as he proposed, while Prince Valencia serenaded them.
After Bianca said “Yes,” little did she know that, en route to London, romantic handwritten notes from her fiancé would be handed to her with every in-flight meal.
Of all places, why the airport? “Since Bianca and I both love to travel,” JC exclaimed, “I felt it was perfect to propose a few hours before her departure. We took the time to get to know each other well. We were not in a rush. One day, I felt it was time. I want to see her every single day for the rest of my life. We plan to have a simple wedding in December.”
What does he love most about his wife-to-be? “She has the biggest heart,” he said. “And she helped me become a better man.”
JC and Bianca are a welcome addition to show biz stars-PBA players partnerships. With their intense love, it will never be “Pack Up” or “Game Over” for the cute and cool couple.
Winning streak
What a blast I had bonding with my Ilonggo bud James Yap and his tres belle girlfriend Mic last Saturday after his team (San Mig Coffee Mixers) beat Rain or Shine. It’s their third straight victory. After bagging the PBA championship last season, the Mixers’ winning streak continues.
We had buffet dinner at Circles of Makati Shangri-La. After a grueling game, James rewarded himself by savoring sumptuous dishes and mouth-watering desserts. For a nightcap, we “vodkanized” at the Long Bar of Raffles Hotel. The lovely couple are looking forward to again visiting Mic’s homeland, Italy, in August, when James finally takes a well-deserved vacation.
Mic told me that James tried to teach her how to play basketball but that it was not the sport for her. When it came to swimming, James said, Mic was the better one.
In the love department, they are an equal match. The sweet Ilonggo and the passionate Italian are so well-suited to each other.
Damo guid na salamat/Grazie, James and Mic! The more I know you, the luckier I feel!
Rustic romance
I so love the rustic charm and the 1970s vibe of ABS-CBN’s “Ikaw Lamang.” The prime-time drama marks the first team-up of Coco Martin and Kim Chiu, and also stars Jake Cuenca and Julia Montes. In true teleserye fashion, it revolves around the love story of a poor farm worker (Coco) and a rich haciendera (Kim).
Playing able support to the star-crossed lovers are top-caliber actors Ronaldo Valdez, Tirso Cruz III, Cherry Pie Picache, Cherie Gil and John Estrada.
What’s the most challenging part in doing the series for John? “I’m playing a bad guy and since he’s my total opposite in real life, it’s tough,” he quipped. “I have to be at my best always because I’m working with brilliant actors. I must be able to keep up with them.”
His love for acting has been imbibed by one of his daughters, Inah. “She will soon be in a show, also on ABS-CBN,” he related. “I advised her not to change, to be kind to everybody, especially the fans. And to keep her feet on the ground.”
Spoken like a true “Ulirang Daddy,” who remains as “Papable” as ever.
Object of desire
JC de Vera is all revved up for his most daring role to date in ABS-CBN’s “Moon of Desire” (premieres on Monday, March 31, after “It’s Showtime”). After shifting from one network to another, JC is ready to give his all as a Kapamilya.
He’s done with warming up. Now, JC is hot and ready to sizzle.