Chie Filomeno
Actress Chie Filomeno has admitted to dating fellow Kapamilya artist Jake Cuenca, but said she is taking her time before agreeing to be his girlfriend to make sure they are both “ready and fully committed” to be in a romantic relationship.
“It’s also good to have inspiration apart from your family and friends. This person gives you the drive to do more. It’s good that someone other than your parents is there to guide you, to give you advice, to push you to move further when you are doubting yourself,” Chie told Inquirer Entertainment during a media gathering to promote her film, Petersen Vargas’ dark comedy “A Very Good Girl.”
Jake revealed to Inquirer Entertainment he and Chie were dating during a recent interview for his action series “The Iron Heart.” He had said that he “didn’t want to pull the trigger too early” by discussing details about his relationship with Chie, lest he be preempting things.
“I’ve learned about what he said probably the same time my parents saw it. I appreciated him more because not a lot of men are vocal about their feelings, especially in this industry. It’s so brave of him to express his admiration. I’m just really happy with what he said. Nakakakilig. I admire him, too,” Chie declared.
However, she quickly added that they are “just talking” and are “taking our time.” She continued: “You can say we’re dating, but what’s good about Jake is that he knows where my heart is. He understands that I have priorities and he doesn’t rush me. He respects my decision and is willing to wait for me. I think that in any kind of relationship, it’s important that you have an understanding and that you stick to it.”
Misunderstood
Chie revealed that she already introduced Jake to her parents in May, when they attended the special screening of the digital series “Cattleya Killer,” in which Jake was a cast member. “My Mommy and Daddy just told me that I’m already 27 and old enough to make my own decisions. They said they’re just around to guide me,” Chie added.
As to what makes her and the 35-year-old actor click, Chie said: “We’re both misunderstood by the people around us in this industry. But I really think that, in the end, you will shine if your intentions are pure. I know how good-hearted Jake really is, and how passionate he is about what he does as an actor.”
Jake’s last public romantic relationship was with beauty queen-turned-actress Kylie Verzosa. The two confirmed their breakup in April 2022. Is Chie not afraid that she could merely be in a “rebound” relationship?
“Jake is already mature enough to know that he should not get into any kind of romantic relationship while he is still not ready and fully committed,” she pointed out. “That’s the reason we are taking our time. I’ve always been private with my relationships before. This is the first time ever that I’m dating a guy and it’s been made public,” said Chie.
Chie admitted that she has known Jake for a while now. She also confirmed having dated him in the past. “We went out a couple of times before but discontinued. That was understandable because he was at a phase in his life when a lot of things were happening to him at the same time. Also, I was young back then. I think it’s destiny that we reconnected when we saw each other at the recent Christmas Ball of ABS-CBN,” she recalled.
“This time around, he is more persistent and patient. I felt uncomfortable being around him at first, so I didn’t reply when he sent me messages,” she said. “What I like about Jake is that he is really passionate about his craft. Also, like me, he loves his family dearly.”
Strong personality
Chie added that she has always had a strong personality and would, therefore, be able to handle men like Jake, who is eight years her senior. “I think people are too quick to conclude that Jake is like this or that, even though they don’t know him at all. He is such a kind and thoughtful guy,” she began. “We jive. I learned a lot from him. He gives me advice. He is very generous with a lot of things.”
When asked how she’d react if Jake asks her to be his girlfriend now, Chie replied: “Of course, I would say ‘yes,’ but he knows my priorities and how much I love my family. I don’t want any distractions now and he is aware of that, too.”
Chie renewed her contract with ABS-CBN recently. She will be seen on the big screen starting Sept. 27 via the film “A Very Good Girl,” which also features Kathryn Bernardo and Dolly de Leon.
“To give up on something I’ve worked hard for is not my personality. What if you’re only an inch close to making it and you quit? You’ll regret it. I’d feel like I just wasted not just my own effort, but the effort of my parents, my handlers, and Star Magic. I’m just really happy that I waited patiently. As I worked hard, I also cheered on people around me who achieved personal successes. Now that my time is here, I will not let down the people who supported me.” INQ