Julia Montes: ‘Coco is my inspiration’

“If God wills it, it will happen. Let’s all just wait and see,” says actress Julia Montes on the real score between her and rumored boyfriend Coco Martin.

While the “Doble Kara” lead star admits that Martin is “the guy closest” to her these days, she insists they are merely good friends. “Coco is my

inspiration to work hard. I know about his journey from indie actor to ABS-CBN star. He persevered to achieve what he has now. I’m happy for him. I also like it that he’s family-oriented.”

When will Montes be ready for love? “It’s hard to tell,” says the 20-year-old actress. “I have other priorities. If love comes, I will accept it. Coco always gives me sound advice, which I know I should follow.”

Montes says her priority is “to improve the lives of my loved ones. I want to secure my siblings’ future. I don’t want them to feel that they need to work to finish school. I’m grateful to have experienced hardships early in life. I don’t want them to suffer, too.”

Montes portrays two characters in ABS-CBN’s latest afternoon series “Doble Kara,” which premieres Monday.

How did you prepare for the dual role?

I attended workshops for several weeks. During the sessions, I got to discuss both characters with the writers. We talked about Kara and Sarah’s differences and similarities. On the actual taping day, there was no confusion. Shifting from one character to another can be difficult, though.

“DOBLE Kara” lead star Julia Montes

Compared to Kara, Sarah is loud and colorful. She gamely joins talent shows and beauty contests. She’s confident. Kara is also self-assured but she’s more reserved. She consistently gets high grades in school and she’s into drawing and painting. She is more patient and understanding.

But I enjoy playing Sarah more because I’ve never portrayed anyone like her. I usually play the meek and sweet martyr. While she and Kara are both kind-hearted, Sarah’s personality is more interesting.

What can you say to people who keep comparing you to your batchmate Kathryn Bernardo?

We first worked in “Mara Clara” where our characters often clashed. I’m proud of her. There’s no rivalry between us. We’re like sisters.

You’ve been paired with Coco Martin in several projects. How do you feel about your new onscreen partners?

It took me a while before I became comfortable with Coco. It’s the same thing with EA (Edgar Allan Guzman) and Anjo (Damiles). Good thing that they reached out to me.

I’m happy to work with new people. I know I will learn a lot from them. They help me not to feel complacent, to always be on my toes. Anjo is a natural actor. I can see that he is really passionate about the craft. We all know that EA is talented. I hope to develop friendships with them as well.

Do you prefer not to have a specific screen partner, unlike Kathryn?

Aside from Coco, I was also paired with Enrique Gil. I think it’s better that way. I feel less pressured and stressed because I don’t have to worry about another person. I’m lucky that I’m being given all these really challenging projects even though there are a lot of gifted actors out there.

“Doble Kara” also features Carmina Villaroel, Mylene Dizon, Ariel Rivera, Allen Dizon, John Lapus, Patricia Javier, Gloria Sevilla and Alora Samsam. Produced by Dreamscape Entertainment, it is codirected by Emmanuel Palo and Jon Villarin.

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