ERICH Gonzales (left) and Enchong Dee in “Once a Princess”
Actor Enchong Dee, who recently admitted he had a non-show biz girlfriend, feels bad that his decision to reveal her identity has earned her numerous online bashers.
“When reporters first asked about her, I felt it was unfair to deny her existence. I had to acknowledge that we were a couple. I would think that she felt good about that,” Enchong said during a media gathering for his latest film, “Once a Princess.”
Fake Twitter accounts
“But, we both agreed not to publicize her name. It’s not that I’m not proud of her; I just didn’t want to give details,” he said. “As it is, people have been researching on her. Some sent her messages on Twitter. Others created fake accounts just to bash her. I never thought it would be this big a deal. She is not used to this.”
The actor pleaded with reporters not to ask too many questions about his girlfriend. “I’ve always been honest, but I want to protect her from all this. This is by far my happiest and most private relationship.”
Enchong relented only as far as to say they met at an event he attended while filming “Once a Princess.” He related, “I introduced myself to her and asked for her number. The courtship didn’t take very long, but we’re still getting to know each other.” He described her as “a very pretty Filipino woman.”
Dating an actor has several disadvantages, Enchong said. “We go out, but choose places that are not very crowded. We can meet only at night because of my work. Merely exchanging text messages is not enough for me. I make sure we spend time together. Despite the very limited time, I try my best to treat her like a princess.”
Pioneering
“Once a Princess” is a pioneering project of Skylight Films and Regal Entertainment. Award-winning director Laurice Guillen is at the helm. It is inspired by the Precious Hearts Romances bestseller of the same title written by Angel Bautista.
The film is the first big-screen collaboration between Enchong and Erich Gonzales. Their team-up was first seen on television, via “Katorse” (2009) and “Maria la del Barrio” (2011).
Very nervous
Enchong described his “Princess” role: “I play Leonard, who loves Erin (portrayed by Erich) but feels rejected by her. He eventually seeks to get even. Doing this was really challenging because Leonard and I are very different. He’s very serious and quiet, while I’m always bubbly. Leonard rarely smiles. He is a character that I had to work hard on.” The plot, he said, is an “adult” love story. “It’s a first for someone like me, who is used to doing romantic comedy films. I hope people will like the movie. I’m very nervous about it.”
“Once a Princess” also features JC de Vera as Damian. It opens in cinemas nationwide starting today.
(mcruz@inquirer.com.ph)