Derek Ramsay with girlfriend Joanne Villablanca
Countless women would give an arm and a leg to trade places with Joanne Villablanca, the fab girlfriend of Derek Ramsay.
The cliché, “How to be you,” is so apt for her. The 29-year-old commercial model/fitness enthusiast and Derek have been together for five years. Despite the 13-year age gap, the gorgeous couple clicks in all aspects.
It isn’t easy to be the girlfriend of a “crush ng bayan,” but Joanne makes it seem so.
I’d like to thank Joanne for granting me her first lengthy interview about Derek. She has that certain je ne sais quoi (I do not know what) quality.
What a confidently simple beauty with Derek’s heart.
In a world full of Kardashians, Joanne is a Lady Diana.
Here’s my chat with Joanne:
What makes your relationship with Derek work? We have similar and different interests and personalities. It’s a perfect balance. We get to do things together but, at the same time, we still have our “me time,” which I think is just as important.
How do you avoid getting jealous of Derek’s leading ladies? I don’t. I honestly get “kilig” watching some of his scenes. So weird, ’no (laughs)? Even before I met him, his roles were already like that, so it makes no difference to me.
How would you handle it if a girl flirts with Derek? When we started dating, I was super selosa. How can you not be, right? But over the years, I’ve learned how to put my trust in Derek, that he can handle these things on his own. It’s up to your partner how he or she should deal with the opposite sex—leave it to them, and you’ll see what kind of person they are.
What was the sweetest thing that Derek has done for you? It’s so mababaw, but I love waking up to hugs and kisses—and when he makes me a great cup of coffee.
What don’t people know about Derek? That he can blow bubbles with his saliva (laughs).
Derek Ramsay with girlfriend Joanne Villablanca
What’s the craziest thing that you and Derek have done together? We booked a spontaneous trip to Eastern Europe with no plans … and drove around with no license!
How is Derek’s relationship with your daughter, and your relationship with his son? It’s great! Derek would always tease my 11-year-old daughter Sophie, which is his way of lambing. I love how he always makes an effort. Minsan, siya pa ang nangungulit sa akin about Sophie. When it comes to me and Austin, we’re more like barkada. He’s actually very talkative and easy to get along with. If my daughter is very shy, Austin is the total opposite.
How has Derek redefined love for you? That love is all about giving. No selfishness equals love.
Are you willing to join show biz? No. I cannot imagine myself crying, doing drama… I cringe just thinking about it. Hanggang pa-cute commercials na lang ako.
What’s the best and toughest part of being the girlfriend of Derek? Best? That I get to wake up next to Derek Ramsay. Kidding aside, even if he’s one of the biggest stars in the country, he’s very humble and down-to-earth. He doesn’t let show biz dictate his personal life. Tough? Time … and those flirty girls (laughs)! But I’m glad to say they aren’t a problem anymore.
Do you and Derek have wedding plans already? Yes, we’ve talked about it, but no plans on when yet.
What’s your dream wedding? A super simple one by the beach or a garden, with only the closest friends and family in attendance. Nothing extravagant, even my dress would be simple. No programs, no formal anything, no photo shoots. We want everything candid. We just want to celebrate our love with the people who matter to us. Fifty guests, max.