Crazy things Winwyn Marquez and Enzo Pineda did for love

Winwyn Marquez and Enzo Pineda

We, at the Cinema Evaluation Board (CEB), gave Regal Films’ “Time & Again” a grade of B. The charming movie reminds us to always seize the day, because our time can cease any moment.

Lead stars Winwyn Marquez and Enzo Pineda are from rival networks. So it’s a refreshing change to see the Kapuso beauty and Kapamilya hunk together. The story of their characters, Apol and Ozzi, tells us that when it comes to love, some things are not better left unsaid, and some questions are not better left unanswered.

Here’s my chat with Wyn and Enzo:

If you could travel back in time, what part of your life would you want to relive?

Enzo (E): I’d go back to the time when my lolo was still alive, so I could thank him for all the lessons he taught me. I wouldn’t be the person I am if it wasn’t for him.

Which of your mom’s (Alma Moreno) films would you want to do a remake of?

Winwyn (W): To be honest, I haven’t really seen a full movie of my mom. I’ve only seen snippets, but she told me that “City After Dark” is one of the most memorable movies she made, and the cast and story were amazing. I hope I get to work with a similar ensemble.

What’s the craziest thing that you did for love?

E: I went to the province to profess my love for someone, and I ended up being denied. So I had to travel back to Manila brokenhearted.

W: When my ex-bf and I were together for already a year, yet I kept it a secret from my dad.

Would you fall for an older woman?

E: Yes. The heart is unstoppable. Love knows no age, gender and boundaries.

What did your movie make you realize?

E: Life is a gift, so live your life holistically. To give less than your best is a waste of that gift. Only a few get to have that second chance at love, so you better go for it the first time around.

W: Leave no room for what ifs and regrets. When you truly care for someone, don’t let your doubts or fears stop you from telling him or her.

PBA reunion to remember

The Return of the Rivals (ROTR) benefit game last Sunday was a rousing success. It ought to have a repeat. The ultimate throwback basketball event brought back together PBA (Philippine Basketball Association) legends such as Alvin Patrimonio, Benjie Paras, Noli Locsin, Allan Caidic, Vince Hizon, etc. to compete once again, all in the spirit of fun. They were able to raise P3 million for charity.

Fans of former Ginebra, Purefoods, Alaska and San Miguel players came in full force. The Big Dome was jampacked. As always, when living legend Robert Jaworski entered the court, the crowd went wild.

Among PBA icons, he’s the only one who grants every request for photo-op and autograph signing no matter how many. That endears him to the fans all the more. As he puts it, “I always remind players to treat everyone equally, especially the fans. Without them, we are nothing. We owe them a good game because they pay good money to watch us play.”

Coach Robert Jaworski (center) with Ginebra Legends

After the ROTR match, Jawo was the last one to leave the court because he accommodated all the fans’ requests. Even at 70, that Jawo charisma has not waned at all.

I had a ball with the former Ginebra ballers at our fave chill-out place, Chivz Lounge Bar. It was a celebration of the team’s victory in ROTR and a despedida for their former teammate, Joey Loyzaga, who’s long been based in Australia.

I chided Joey, “I remember my mom (Inday Badiday) used to interview you back in the day when you were still with Gretchen Barretto at the height of your PBA career.” He shot back, “Inuunahan ko na ang mom mo in saying her famous line, ‘Careful, careful,’ before our interviews (laughs). I wish Gretch well. No regrets and bitterness. I always greet her on her birthday, but not directly. I send my greeting through my sister.”

Enjoyed also chatting with Dodot Jaworski. He pointed out the difference between the PBA in the ’80s, ’90s and today. “In those days, there was no social media and live streaming, so the PBA had undivided attention. Players became part of Filipino households because families watch the game on TV while having dinner at home. The cagers were like demigods back then.”

That epic night, we lived up to Ginebra’s team spirit: NSD (with a twist). Never Say Drunk, este Die.

Personal: Damo guid nga salamat to cool couple, Noli and Maita Locsin, for always making me feel so welcome in Chivz.