A simple birthday bash for PBA superstar James Yap

MICHELA Cazzola and James Yap

PBA superstar James Yap opted for a quiet celebration of his 34th birthday on Feb. 15. The simple, mild-mannered Ilonggo in him always prefers to keep things low-key. No milestone in James’ life would ever be complete without his fab Italian girlfriend, Michela “Mic” Cazzola, by his side.

They look like Barbie and Ken dolls that have come to life. I have seen the cool couple in their unguarded moments when we hang out. They are well-suited for each other.

It’s been three and a half years since Mic and James’ romance blossomed. Yet, they still got more and more amor.

Here’s my tête-à-tête with Mic:

What was your birthday gift to James?

Cakes! I have started to learn baking.

How did James celebrate his birthday?

We had a simple dinner at Mamou in Serendra with his family. We will have another dinner with our closest friends soon when his games’ schedule permits. We decided not to throw a big party this year as James is focusing on the ongoing conference.

How’s your relationship with Bimby these days?

It’s been a long time since I last saw him. I guess he’s busy in school. I sent him some special crinkles for New Year.

In terms of basketball, what quarter is your relationship with James in?

Second quarter. We have the whole road ahead.

What are your dreams as a couple?

To discover new things together. We want to travel whenever we can. We plan to go to Japan next winter.

How has your relationship evolved after three and a half years?

We have become more understanding toward each other. He has become part of my family.

What were your Valentine gifts to each other?

He gave me flowers. I treated him to dinner.

In what ways are you Italian, and in what ways have you become Filipino?

I am Italian when it comes to being very independent, while I am turning into a Filipino with the way I speak English. I will be forever Italian when it comes to food and fashion, [and] Filipino when it comes to taking care of my family, even though Italians are also very caring.

What’s your dream marriage proposal and wedding?

Not thinking of it yet. I want it to be a surprise.

Clau is back

Claudine Barretto is back in fighting form via the teledrama, “Bakit Manipis ang Ulap” (weeknights on TV5 at 9 p.m.). Joel Lamangan, the director of the series, says: “Claudine has matured as an actress. She has become more dedicated and responsible, more considerate of workers’ welfare on the set. She has a deep reservoir of emotions embellishing her characterization.”

Twinkle, twinkle, Miss “Optimum Star!”

Julia’s face

Julia Montes has always been dissatisfied with her round face. She has found the solution in Belo Medical Group’s latest noninvasive treatment, Face Out Fat.

Goodbye “Siopao Face!” Hello to “the face that will launch a thousand shrieks!”