Did James Yap, Italian girlfriend call it quits?

James Yap —JAMES YAP/ INSTAGRAM

Since I’m a close friend of James Yap and his Italian girlfriend, Mic Cazzola, I hope that their split-up is just fake news. I reached out to both of them, but as of press time, they have not replied.

Like any other couple, James and Mic had to make adjustments. In their case, it’s even tougher since they have cultural differences, and James is a famous cager. When they had misunderstandings in the past, James would confide in me. But out of respect for our friendship, I am not at liberty to divulge anything.

In my previous interview with Mic, she said that it was no big deal that she and James were not married. “I see married people who are happy, while many others are not. Marriage isn’t always necessary,” she pointed out.

Being the mom of their kids, MJ and Francine, is more than enough to make Mic happy. During James’ birthday last February, I noticed that Mic did not post a birthday greeting for him on social media, so I checked on them. James said that they were OK.

Mic has a positive effect on James. She taught him how to enjoy the finer things in life. As for the PBA superstar, he “Filipinized” Mic. For whatever they’ve shared is worth, may they realize that their love is a terrible thing to waste.

Diego Loyzaga (left) and dad Cesar Montano with baby Hailey —NICE PRINT

When Kath Angeles met Teresa Loyzaga

I had such a blast at the birthday celebration of my fab kumare, Kath Angeles, the live-in partner of BFF Buboy (Cesar Montano) and mother of their three kids (who are all my godchildren).

BFF’s grownup children (from three previous relationships) Diego, Angela, Buching, Sam and Cheska were present at the party held in his home. That only goes to show how loved Kath is. “I treat Buboy’s kids like barkada,” she said. “I don’t meddle in their relationship with their Dad.”

I asked BFF how he felt when Kath met his ex, Teresa Loyzaga (mom of Diego), at the birthday party of his fourth grandchild, Hailey (daughter of Diego).

“They embraced each other tighter than Tong (nickname of Teresa) and I did,” Buboy quipped. “But there’s no more malice between us (laughs).”

Happiness is written all over Diego’s face. Fatherhood has tamed him. “Everything I do now is for my baby and her mom Alexis,” Diego said.

As I watched BFF jam with his kids while he played the guitar, it made my heart smile. Since I’m privy to his fatherhood struggles through the years, which were blown out of proportion in media, it felt good to see that all is well in Buboy’s world.

Jeri Violago —CONTRIBUTED photo

Jeri Violago wants to be judged on his own merits

Jeri Violago was born with a silver spoon in his mouth and a golden voice, as well. But even if he’s a rich kid, he’s no spoiled brat. The 22-year-old charmer, who has a striking resemblance to Matteo Guidicelli, is working hard to carve his name in the music biz.

Composer Vehnee Saturno is all-praises for the newbie singer. He composed Jeri’s first two singles, “Gusto Kita” and “‘Di Ka Mag-iisa.” At the music video launch of his second single, Jeri showed why he deserves the Aliw Award for best new male artist, which he bagged last year. “Kering-keri” ni Jeri.

Here are quotes from Jeri:

I don’t mind when people tell me I look like Matteo G, but I’d rather be known on my own merits.

“‘Di Ka Mag-iisa” is my anthem for people who feel lost and alone. It serves as a reminder that when somebody cares, our world changes.

I am open to acting gigs. I want to be a well-rounded artist.

I look up to Zack Tabudlo. We have the same range. I want to do a collaboration with Moira dela Torre.

Although I sing covers, nothing beats the joy of hearing your original song played on the radio.