Claudine Barretto proud ‘stage tita’ to newbie Alfy Yan

Claudine Barretto with Alfy Yan, Rico Yan’s nephew. Image: screengrab from Facebook/Viva Artists Agency

Claudine Barretto was present at the contract signing of Alfy Yan — the nephew of her deceased ex-boyfriend Rico Yan — with Viva Artists Agency, regarding herself as a “stage tita.”

The seasoned actress, who helped Alfy to connect with the talent management company, spoke about how it was “divine intervention” that convinced the latter to enter show business.

“[Kahit nung] hindi pa lumalabas si Alfy or nagpa-public ng social media niya, marami na siyang followers. One, because of Rico, pero I believe it’s because of his own person,” Barretto said at the press conference for Alfy on Tuesday, Dec. 10.

(Even before he [joined showbiz] or went public on social media, he already had many followers. One, because of Rico, but I believe it’s because of his own person.)

Barretto recalled having goosebumps after meeting Alfy for the first time because of his resemblance to his late uncle, who was also the actress’ former love-team partner.

During their meeting, Barretto asked Alfy if he wanted to join showbiz and the latter showed interest, which surprised her and his family. She then called Boss Vic Del Rosario, Viva’s Chairman and CEO, who gladly entertained her over the matter.

The actress also clarified that she is not Alfy’s manager. “Stage tita [lang],” she said. (Just a stage aunt.)

Alfy, meanwhile, noted that Barretto’s support was among the factors that influenced his decision to venture into showbiz. He further shared how the actress advised him to just be himself.

Talking about being Rico’s nephew, Alfy continued, “At first, it’s shocking because I didn’t realize until later on how big his impact was. I guess there’s also a bit of pressure there, but then again it’s really a nice feeling to see all the people supporting [me].”