Kris’ wish: For Aljur to remain a Kapuso

KRIS Bernal (right) asks detractors to give Aljur Abrenica a break.

Aljur Abrenica’s sudden decision to ask for the  termination of his contract with GMA 7 was an unpleasant surprise for his home studio.

The Kapuso network opened doors for him. Now, he’s slamming the door on his old studio and wants out. Every actor reaches a point in his career when he feels like he needs a change of scenery.

I have interacted with Aljur several times and found him a mild-mannered guy. I never thought he’d be gutsy enough to defy network rules.

Aljur is getting a lot of flak  for his move. Loyalty and utang na loob (debt of gratitude) are tricky matters. Until when must celebrities remain loyal to their network?

This reminds me of what my late mom (Inday Badiday) once said when asked about the many stars she helped. Her reply: “I just paved the way for them. The rest was due to their talent and determination.”

Aljur’s erstwhile screen partner, Kris Bernal, shares her sentiments on the raging issue.

What was your reaction when you heard about Aljur’s decision?

I was surprised because, in my opinion,  he was  given importance  by GMA 7. I’m also sad  because we may never get to work together again. I know that he’s having a tough time now.

What’s your unsolicited advice to Aljur?

In my opinion, he should finish his contract with GMA 7. Maybe our views and priorities are different. I consider my career a blessing.

What’s your message to Aljur’s detractors?

Please give him a break. It was not an easy decision to make. We have no idea what he’s going through now.

Will you also leave GMA 7 someday or stay put?

I do not know what’s in store for me. I’ll cross the bridge when I get there. But for now, I’ll give priority to GMA 7 because this company persevered in building me up.

Thrilla at Shangri-La

It was such a thrill to meet NBA players (Kawhi Leonard, Tyson Chandler, James Harden, Terrence Ross, Damian Lillard, DeMar DeRozan and Kyle Lowry) at the grand press con that PLDT hosted at the Edsa Shangri-La Hotel.

I was lucky enough to have a photo op with the cagers even if I felt like a dwarf posing beside them. My endless thanks to PLDT’s bright boy, Gary Dujali, for the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Too bad, the basketball fans who flocked to the Big Dome to watch the the NBA All-Stars and Gilas Pilipinas were not as thrilled as I was.

The much-awaited game did not materialize. But PLDT had nothing but good intentions. It spent a fortune to bring the NBA players to Manila and it was able to raise funds for Super Typhoon “Yolanda” survivors in the auction of NBA cagers’ jerseys and basketballs at the press con.

PLDT is  making sure that all ticket holders  will get a full refund (for info, 09196140865).

The company won’t let the unfortunate incident dampen its spirit of giving.

Papa P’s back

Piolo Pascual is back on TV via  ABS-CBN’s “Hawak Kamay” (week nights after “TV Patrol”). He portrays a drunkard/failed musician who becomes the guardian of three orphans.

Playing the roles of Piolo’s “kids” are Zaijan Jaranilla, Andrea Brillantes and Xyriel Manabat. Also in the series is “Grand i-Shiner” Yesha Camile.

Their bond grows stronger as Gin (Piolo’s character)  and the orphans  encounter all sorts of trials.

Papa P. makes quite a charming daddy. The father role could not have come at a better time, now that Piolo’s son Iñigo has started his own career.