Aiko Melendez is on target

AIKO Melendez (right) is deglamorized as the mother of a mentally-challenged boy (played by Miggs Cuaderno) in “Asintado.”

Aiko Melendez shines in her big-screen comeback, Louie Ignacio’s “Asintado,” as the distraught mother of two sons, played by Jake Vargas and Miggs Cuaderno.

Aiko could not have chosen a better vehicle than a Cinemalaya film to herald her return. As the movie’s title suggests, Aiko is right on target, career-wise.

Here’s my one-on-one with her:

What made you accept a role that would deglamorize you?

It’s a Cinemalaya entry (Directors’ Showcase section). I know how prestigious this festival is. Plus, the story touched my heart, and Direk Louie said I was his only choice to play Julia.

How did this mother role enhance your being a real mom?

It intensified my love for my children. It made me realize that there are mothers like Julia, who can barely make ends meet, and yet [do right by] their children. It makes me feel blessed that I have the means to support my own son and daughter. Like Julia, there’s nothing I wouldn’t do for my kids.

You and your ex, Jomari Yllana, are closer these days. Are you open to the possibility of a reconciliation?

Jom and I are good where we are. Only God knows if, in the future, it will still be us. [But] the first move will definitely not come from me.

How has your concept of love changed?

Nothing can truly complete anyone except the unconditional love of God.

When your kids are old enough, what will you tell them about love and marriage?

Not to rush, let God find partners for them, and to go for someone who has the same Christian values that I instilled in them.

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JC on top

JC DE Vera

In Laurice Guillen’s “Once a Princess,” JC de Vera lords it over Enchong Dee in the acting department. The two heartthrobs portray schoolmates obsessed with the same girl, the campus sweetheart played by Erich Gonzales. JC, once a Kapuso, then a Kapatid, is now a Kapamilya. Network-hopping has served him well. It honed his acting skills.

JC told me that he felt a bit pressured while shooting the film and was wary about the feedback—but that pressure ultimately worked wonders.

Here’s my tête-à-tête with JC:

Based on your character (in the movie, a guy who marries someone who doesn’t love him back), would you rather be the one who loves or the one who is loved?

I’ll choose happiness. So I will go for being the one who loves. Even if you are not loved, what’s important is that you’re happy. Martir lang ang peg.

For dramatic scenes, what personal experiences do you draw from?

I’ve had ups and downs; I’ve been hurt a couple of times. I never throw away sad experiences. Pain is useful in acting.

How’s your love life?

Lonely at the moment. When I have loads of work, it automatically follows that my love life sucks. But I’m really enjoying all my projects right now, so I don’t mind being loveless.

Everyone has someone who got away. If an ex returns, will you take her back?

No. People leave for many reasons. I believe that, when someone leaves, there’s a better person for you.

Personal

Happy fourth anniversary to one of my fave restos in the metro, Cerchio Grill & Lounge (Scout Limbaga cor. Tomas Morato, Quezon City). Kudos to its über-cool owners, Yong Nieva, Ivy Almario, Enzo and Sandie Squillantini and Alvin Fortuna for redefining fabulous when it comes to dining out in QC.