Bea Speaks Up for Katrina

Dream Wedding (continuation)
StarStudio Magazine, June 2003

Is Yuri your first crush when you were still young and he was your prom date?

Crush ko siya kasi may paghanga ako sa kanya dahil ang alam ko hindi niya kayang saktan ang Ate Halaena ko. Prom date ko siya pero plain paghanga lang.

After your first meeting have you decided to do a revenge for your sister?

First time ko siyang nakita sobrang inunsulto ko siya sa harap ng classmates ko. Nagkasagutan kami dahil pumasok ako ng late pero sa totoo lang na-insulto ako dahil lawyer na siya. Sa pagtatalo pala namin hindi ko alam na nagustuhan niya ako at binalik-balikan niya ako sa University after ng lecture niya. Sobrang nainis ako sa kanya kasi ang kulit niya. Kaya doon ako nakakuha ng idea na pwede ko siyang paghigantihan at paglaruan.

So when Yuri left your sister you believed that it was Kyla's fault and you blamed Yuri for all the pain that your sister has gone through?

Yes, naniwala ako si Kyla ang dahilan. Galit ako talaga kay Kayla at Yuri.

Did it ever cross your mind that you might fall for Yuri?

No, pure revenge lang magpapanggap ako ng Summer at hindi si Katrina Argos.

But you fell in love with him? What happened to your revenge?

I felt there's so much to know about Yuri and I've realized na marami pa akong hindi alam tungkol sa break up nila ni Ate. Mabuti pa rin siyang tao pero takot siyang ipakita dahil feeling niya hangga't pinapakita mo na mabuti ka maraming problemang darating.

How was your first date?

First date may halong galit at wala pang kilig. Sa fishball cart kami nag-date gusto kong ipamukha sa kanya na dito siya nanggaling.

Tiningnan ko kung hindi lumaki ang ulo niya kasi popular na siya, Pero dito ko naramdaman na may feelings ako for him but in denial pa rin dahil naisip ko ginagawa ko 'to para kay Ate. Noong natuluan siya ng fishball sauce tapos nahawakan niya 'yung kamay ko na-feel ko na gusto ko siya.

So your first date was okay, nasundan pa ba 'yun?

Ya, second date naming, nagpaganda at pinaghandaan ko. This time pumunta kami sa isang resto ng mga rich and powerful. Akala ko mayabang siya hindi pala. May batang namalimos hindi ko binigyan pero binigyan niya ng tinapay kasi pala may nakatanggong pagkain sa kotse niya imbes bigyan niya ng pera yung mga streetchildren pagkain na lang. Natunaw 'yung puso ko noon.

When did you finally admitted that you fell fo rhim and there's no more denial?

There is still denial because he is my sister's ex-lover. Sobrang memorable 'yung second date dahil naramdaman ko kung gaano niya kamahal si Tatay Mierdo. He is ready to give up everything for Tatay Mierdo even his fame.

So the anger changed into love? But how about your Ate Heleana?

Yes, napalitan at siya pa rin si Yuri na nakilala ko. Second date ko naisip na kailangan ko na itigil ang pagkikita namin baka lalo pa akong ma-in love sa kanya na hindi talaga pwede. Pero ang kulit niya talaga dahil pinupuntahan niya ako sa University pinipilit niya na pwede kahit sa akin hindi talaga. Siya 'yung tipong taong hindi titigil hangga't hindi nakukuhan ang gusto niya.

Did you ever feel na hind totoo ang mga sinabi ni Yuri noong nag-date kayo?

Nakita ko kasi siya na may kasamang ibang babae. Hindi ko alam ang gagawin ko pero nasaktan ako. Hurt talaga. Tapos naisip ko hindi totoo lahat ng mga sinabi niya sa akin plus the fact alam kong playboy siya. But umaasa pa rin ako na totoo kasi nararamdaman ko na totoo lahat ng sinabi niya.

How did you reconcile? Who made the first move?

Assistant niya ako that time sa firm and may kaso ng mag-asawang naghiwalay pero love pa rin nila ang isa't isa. Tapos nagbati 'yung mag-asawa sa harapn namin at naisip namin paran ganito kami. After noon lumapit siya sa akin tapos nag-sorry sa mga nangyari. Pero inamin niya sa akin hindi niya sinasadya lahat ng nangyari. So nagkabati kami pero may denial pa rin sa mga sarili namin na hindi talaga pwedeng maging kami.

If you denied that you love Yuri, what provoked you to admit that you love Yuri?

Sila Sugar at Dave yung kasama namin sa firm ang naging tulay namin. Pero pinipigilan namin 'yung sarili namin ma-in love. Pagdating ni Kyla na-feel ko dapat sinagot ko si Yuri. Natakot ako kasi first love niya si Kyla. Nagseselos ako at nagsisisi ako.

You still hate Kyla and felt that she's a threat in your life?

Ya, what I didn't know gagwa pala siya ng way para maging kami ni Yuri. Tinapot niya ako sa firm kung mahal ko si Yuri sabi ko Oo mahal ko si Yuri e andun pala si Yuri sa likod namin. Pagkasabi ko umiwas ako kasi natauhan ako na hindi pwede kahit maging kami walang patutunguhan.

What are your kilig moments with Yuri?

Sa University doon ko lang napatunayan na siya pa rin ang dating Yuri na kilala ko at walang nagbago. Tapos sa firm 'nung first time niyang sinabi sa akin na mahal niya ako. "Mahat kita Katrina Argos at wala akong pakialam sa Ate mo at ipaglalaban kita." Hindi ko talaga makalimutan nung nakatulog ako sa shoulder niya tapos paggising ko nakatulog na rin siya. Ang ginawa ko tinitigan ko yung mukha niya gusto ko tandaan bawat part baka hindi na maulit. Hang hinahawakan ko 'yung mukha niya bigla siyang nagising sabay nasabi ko, "Mahal kita Yuri, mahal na mahal kita."

E napaiyak pa ko kaya sabi niya, "Hiuwag ka umiyak at bakit kapag sinasabi mo na mahal mo ako umiiyak ka? Bakit hindi ba ako masayang mahalin?"

What gift from Yuri that you treasure most?

Binigyan niya ako ng stone bago umalis ng beach. Sabi niya wedding ring namin 'yun. Pagbigay ng stone sabi niya, "Take this stone as a sign of my love." Tinago ko 'yun at baka 'yun ang magbigay ng luck sa amin.

Do you regret anything you did for Yuri?

No, mahal ko siya. I feel secure when I'm with him and I know with all the trials that will come our way kaya na namin dahil mahal namin ang isa't isa.

The Dream Wedding

StarStudio Magazine, June 2003

by: Jerome Gomez

We just couldn't wait to see the end. So StarStudio's Jerome Gomez give you what you've all been clamoring for - Yuri and Katrina finally exchange "I do's."

It's 7 in the eveing. With beer within easy reach and beside it, chips on a bowl, I rest my legs on the coffee table in front of the television. It is dreamtime.

Despite the drama that is "Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay" playing on the telly, my mind wanders to bouquets of white roses, a bride barefoot on the sand, a groom in a black tux. The snippets keep flashing in my mind, as if to say Yuri and Katrina cannot go on living like this, endlessly being taken away from each other. I decide to give in to the flashes and create my own dream- ending to their saga.

The scene: A wedding. At dusk. On a beach. Yuri and Katrina.

After all the partner-swapping, the bursts of tears and bombings, the tragedies and joys, my friends, Yuri Orbida, 24, perhaps the most admired of his generation's batch of lawyers, and Katrina Argos, 21, one of the most promising law graduates this year, inks their lifetime contract at dusk in a most intimate and solemn wedding ritual in an exclusive island in Zambales.

Only the closest members of their family - led by the groom's long lost mother Lorea Orbida and stepfather Dimitri Mijares - and select friends are present. And the lovely young couple say their "I dos" amidst the lapping of waves, white rose petals (roses are Yuri's favorite flowers) littered on the sand, with the sunset as backdrop. It is so romantic. And unusual.

While the two did send invitations- in the form of a very simple handwrittern notecard- three days before the wedding itself, there was no information as to where the ceremony will take place, "just to make sure there will be no bombings or kidnaps or some soap opera-type sabotage," says the groom who, despite the "crazy" last-minute preparations remembered to bring a black tux. Black, he once told me, is his favorite (non)color; although this evening, he might as well change his preference to the color of blush. "I am so overwhelmed with happiness," he will tell me after the ceremony. The bride, clutching a bouquet of white roses, wears a beautiful white chiffon dress that dances with the wind. Bride and groom are barefoot.

But what makes this wedding more unusual is the choice of participants for the entourage. Katrina's brother, Nikos Argos, will walk the bride down the aisle. Helaena Argos, the bride's older sister, Orbida's former girlfriend, is the maid-of-honor. And while the groomsmen are indeed me, Dave Imperial and Anilov Mijares, the best man is a woman: Kayla Reneza, another ex-girlfriend who has since become the groom's closest confidante. Bridesmaids are Katrina's clostest friends Gwen Martinez and Lilibeth dela Cruz. There are no principal sponsors to speak of. "We wanted Saddam and Bush for ninongs buth they are not available," the groom joked on the phone a day before.

Flashback: Eight years ago.

The couple first me when Orbida was going out with Kat's elder sister. While there was no attraction on Yuri's end, Katrina already had a bit of crush on the young man. They would meet again at a special lecture that Orbida would deliver in the university she was studying in and Katrina would eventually be an intern at his law firm. He would profess his love during a company outing and, finding nothing close to a ring to symbolize his feelings, he gave her a stone he found on the beach.

"Yuri is creative, a closet romantic," says a friend. "Ang history ng journey ni Yuri as a man, napakalawak. When I first ment him, he was almost too perfect: he's a loving son, ang pangarap lang niya matupad lahat ng pangarap ng tatay niyia para sa kanya. Pero matalino siya so nagpursigi siya." And then tragedy struck. His father was shot to death and thought he almost lost his mother until they got reunited recently. Naging matigas siya. Ayaw niya na maging involved ulit emotionally to anyone kase takot na siyang maranasan ulit yung nangyari sa kanya before so he became a womanizer, Until dumating si Katrina, na-open 'yung heart niya ulit."

"Kat is intelligent," offers a member of the bride's family. "She dreamt of so many things when she was a kid. She was interested in so many things. She's strong, very articulate, very smart, persevering. Over and above everything, very protective of her family, and she's a very loving sister. She's feisty, she's a fighter." This is perhaps why Orbida got enchanted, and finally gave the big proposal last month.

Final Scene: Happily Ever After.

And here they are now. While a yacht was what Orbida wanted originally as the setting of the reception, he yielded last minute to the request of his bride: little huts floating on the water. On the shore, there are ice cream and fishball carts, the sorbeteros and fishball vendors all wearing a tux. The party will last to the wee hours, champagne will flow, there will be lots of dancing, and everyone will have a grand time. It will be an affair to be remembered forever. And my long wait will be over.

Theme song fades in.

The Real Score

John Lloyd & Bea - the Real Score

S Magazine, June 2004

If there's one strong selling factor that a loveteam ought to have, it's chemistry. When two stars don't have it, it's more likely that they won't make it. Chemistry on screen is essential to stir the curiousity or tickle the fancy of the viewers. It's something that can't be forced or developed on the concerned artists. Chemistry flows naturally, weaving magic on the silver screen, connecting the reel to the real. Because the stars complement each other very well, fans create an illusion that what's actually happening is an extension of their characters on screen.

Bankable Loveteam

In the history of local cinema, many well-loved screen tandem did extend their cinematic romance in real life. Worth mentioning are Pancho Magalona-Tita Duran, Romeo Vasquez-Amalia Fuentes, Fenando Poe Jr.-Susan Roces, Tirso Cruz III-Nora Aunor, Edgar Mortiz-vilma Santos, Albert Martinez-Snooky Serna, William Martinez-Maricel Soriano, Gabby Concepction-Sharon Cuneta, Martin Nievera-Pops Fernandez, and the late Rico Yan-Claudine Barretto.

At present there's one loveteam whose popularity dominates the scene. Whether it's the boobtube or the movies, John Lloyd Cruz & Bea Alonzo are a hit among the viewers. Perfectly complementing each other, their team-up is one of mother studio ABS-CBN's most bankable. They're launching vehicle titled Because of You is about to be shown.

But it's a fact that success wasn't given to them in a silver platter. John lloyd has already made a name for himself way before Bea. Originally part of the Koolits (w/ Marc Solis & Baron Geisler), the handsome hearththrob got identified first with Kaye Abad. Their teen drama Tabing-Ilog (where John Lloyd clinched his maiden acting trophy) was a consistent toprater for five years.

Meanwhile, Bea was a member of Star Circle Batch 10 and wasn't quite successful when her first major TV program, K2BU, was short-lived.

However, when ABS-CBN gambled on the freshness of their screen partnership through the grand soap Kay Taga Kang Hinintay, gradually they developed a huge following which didn't escape the eyes of ABS honchos.

After the show ended, the two were given their own soap to headline: It Might Be You which is a certified toprater. As Lawrence and Cielo, they light up the screen daily like florid storm. Their twinbiller, My First Romance (together with John Prats & Heart Evangelista) shown during the last quarter of 2003, was a modest hit and became Bea's showcase to win the Most Promising New Actress trophy in the recent Star Awards for Movies. Obviously, they're lucky for each other. What can they say about their present success as a loveteam?

Avers Bea, "Siyempre, happy. Hindi naman lahat ng young stars nabibigyan ng breaks na katulad namin ni John Lloyd ngayon. It's just flattering. Considering that at first, hindi ganu'n kaganda 'yung reception ng fans. kaya naman iniingatan namin ito."

"That's true," adds John Lloyd. "We're very much aware that this is not forever. Hindi namin alam kung hanggang kailan kami susuportahan ng fans. This is the reason why as much as possible, we want to give them A-1 entertainment. Utang namin sa kanila ang success namin."

"Hangga't may mga taong naniniwala sa tandem namin, gagawin namin ang best namin para mas magustuhan nila kami. Ipapakita namin na hindi lang kami concerned sa popularity kundi sa pagpapabuti rin ng craft namin. Personally, gusto kong makagawa ng mas challenging roles especially after kong manalo ng award," stresses Bea.

What do you think is the secret formula of their current fame?

"Siguro, it's the rawness of our team-up. Wala kasing conscious effort sa part namin para lumabas na sweet kami sa public. Hindi kami gumagawa ng gimik para bumenta ang loveteam namin. Sa amin, what you see is what you get. Ginagawa lang namin ang trabaho namin. Blessed lang siguro kami with good chemistry from the looks, acting, timing, etc. Siguro 'yun ang dahilan kung bakit kami nagki-click," observes John Lloyd.

True Romance

Many opined that they'll make a gorgeous pair off-screen. Are there really chances of true romance between them specially since the 20-year-old matinee idol has just recovered from a failed relationship with Ciara Sotto?

"Actually, inaamin ko na mas kumportable kami ngayon kase nu'ng una. We don't feel awkward na. Wala nang ilangan masyado," says the beautiful lass.

For John Lloyd:

"Bea's a pretty and nice gal. Huwang muna nating pangunahan. Naniniwala kasi ako na para maging successful talaga ang isang loveteam, there shouldn't be string attached. Mas healthier kung 'yung relationship n'yo nagbu-border lang sa professional level. Ayokong paghaluin 'yung lovelife sa career. As of now, ang focus ko talaga ay 'yung career ko. Isa pa, you'll be able to keep the mystery and keep people guessing if you're on or not. Kapag gano'n, intact pa rin ang interest ng fans. Pero hindi ko naman sinasara ang pinto, who knows?"

"Tama siya. Bata pa naman kami, eh. We still have a long way to go," seconds Bea.
What are John Lloyd's traits that appeal to Bea the most?

"Actually, talagang boyfriend material si John Lloyd. He's sweet & responsible. I like the way he treats his family and values his privacy. Kung gusto mo siyang patawanin, drop your showbiz side. He's truly a nice person, down-to-earth. Mapapakain mo nga 'yan ng tawilis, tuyo at fried rice. Walang reklamo," she says.

He's 20 and Bea's 16. Is he the one adjusting to her or vice versa specially that he's known for being serious?

"Pareho," quips John Lloyd. "Kahit na matured ako in my way of thinking. I still have my funny side naman. 'Pag kulitan, kulitan talaga. Sinasakyan niya madalas ang mga joke ko. Ganu'n din ako."

Trekking the road to junior superstardom, John Lloyd and Bea wish to entertain the fans for a long period of time.

"Thankful kami na kahit hindi kami talagang mag-on, sinusuportahan pa rin kami ng publiko. OUr screen chemistry is great and we'd like to use it to full advantage. Only time will tell kung magiging kami eventually. But as of now, kumportable kami sa present state namin. Sana lang, susuportahan nila kami hanggang sa dulo," the two optimistically sums up.

Falling for Bea & John Lloyd

Woman's Journal, February 2004

Great chemistry. Complimentary good looks. Today’s hottest loveteam in showbiz, Bea Alonzo and John Lloyd Cruz leaves their fans breathless as they give life to a romantic ideal simply by being together.

They were first seen as a couple of young lawyers in the ABS-CBN 2 soap opera Kay Tagl Kang Hinintay. The fact that Bea and John Lloyd were filling supportive roles did not detract from their star power. Projecting great chemistry as a twosome further turned up the wattage even as John was publicly known to be romancing young actress Ciara Sotto.

It is surprised no one, then. When they eventually starred in their own soap. And predictably. It Might Be You hit an all-time high in the TV ratings game. Televiewers see in Bea and John Lloyd the same age-old appeal of successful love teams the likes of Guy and Pip, Robin Padilla and Vina Morales, Jericho Rosales and Kristine Hermosa.

In local teen parlance, it’s called kilig factor. Whatever it is, it is what revs up their motors. Read on and bask in the feeling of romance with Bea and John Lloyd.”

Bea Be Good

This enthereally lovely 16-year old actress has definitely gone a long way since she first popped up in Tinseltown two years ago. From minar roles and guest appearances in TV programs, she’s become the next promising act to watch. Televiewers first saw her in Kaytagal, convincingly essaying the role of a mature lawyer. It was inevitable that she would soon cull her huge share of fans. Now, Bea can be seen regularly on the variety show ASAP Mania and playing her very first starring role in It Might Be You. Indeed behind the sweet façade is a girl who is eyeing the Big Time – and making sure she gets there, too.

1. What is about you that not many people know about? I’ve always been the quiet type, except when I’m around friends kasi may pagkamakulit ako when I’m with them.

2 How do you feel about the success of your love team with John Lloyd? I’m so happy kasi I wasn’t expecting it to work. Sobra yung blessings na nabigay sa amin.

3 What do you like to do on your spare time? I’ve started playing badminton with my brother and my cousins. When I’m not doing that, I’m at my computer surfing the net for articles on currents events.

4 How would you describe yourself as an actress? Hardworking and determined to achieve my goals.

5 How similar are you to your character Cielo in It Might Be You? In a way makulit din ako. And siguro yung closeness that she has with her family.

6 Do you have beauty/diet regimen? Does starving qualify as a diet regimen? Hindi, joke lang. As for my beauty regimen, wala naman. I just make it a point to remove my makeup on every break in my tapings. Minsan. I put ice on my face para lang ma-relax.

7 What type of music do you go for? R&B and love songs, especially the acoustic type.

8 Who were your crushes when you were a kid? Classmate ko sa grade school! May tuksuhan pa nga eh.

9 Who’s your biggest international celebrity crush now? Tom Cruise

10 How do you know if you really like someone? When he’s always on my mind. And when magtatampo ako pag hindi niya ako i-text palagi.

11 What should a man have in order to sweep you off your feet? I don’t really look at a man’s physical attributes. I’d like someone who’s responsible, and who will love me for who I am and love my family as well. He has to be sweet. At saka gusto ko yung lagi akong ite-text, kasi that’s how I’ll feel that I’m special.

12 At what age do you think you’ll marry? Hindi ako nagse-set ng age. I’ll marry when I’m responsible enough to have a family of my own, and if I realize that he’s a right guy.

13 What do you like best about John Lloyd? Walang pretensions. And he’s responsible, especially when it comes to his obligations for his family. He’s also very professional.

14 How do you deal with the bad stuff in showbiz? I try not to mind the intrigues. In fact, I take all bad comments as a challenge. When I entered showbiz, alam ko naman what I was getting into.

15 Do you see yourself staying long in the showbiz?I hope, pero I don’t see myself sa show business forever na. Gusto ko rin mag-explore ng ibang field. I’m only 16, I still want to do other things para I don’t get stuck and become bored by what I do.

The Truth About John Lloyd Cruz

Since he was first sighted by a talent scout at a mall seven years ago, John Lloyd’s life has taken a truly fortunate turn. But it wasn’t until he took on the dark role of vengeful Yuri in Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay that he would gain a strong recall among televiewers. Going tandem with Bea in this soap propelled the young couple straight to stardom, and there has been no looking back since. Although he obviously loves his work, a closer look at the 20-year old John Lloyd reveals a simple man who’s real stickler for dishing out the truth. That, for sure, is one un-showbiz trait that makes him stand out among his contemporaries.

1 What is it about you that that not many people know about? When you read in the newspapers and see on TV, halus ganun na ako. Sinasabi ng iba masyado akong seryoso pero that’s the only other side of me na nakikita nila. I could be lighthearted naman eh, especially when I’m enjoying time with my friends.

2 Who was your biggest crush when you are a kid? Kaye Abad, in the defunct Ang TV. Hindi pa ako artista at that time.

3 Who’s your biggest international celebrity crush now? Keira Knightly, the actress in Pirates of the Carribean. And Jennifer Connelly, sobrang wow.

4 How do you feel about the success of your loveteam with Bea? I would define it as a “mysterious success”. Kasi the trend in the Philippines is that when you’re part of a love team, dapat sweet kayo, dapat kayo talaga, or at least nililigawan mo yung girl. But with this team-up, hindi namin kinailangan yon. No pretensions. Kaya rin siguro nag-click, kasi hindi manufactured.
Yung blessing ng chemistry, that’s important in a love team. Lagi ko nga sinasabi, chemistry is not something that you can create. It’s something that naturally comes out.

5 So what’s the score between you and Bea? Are you just friends? It’s hard to define eh. You can say that she’s my friend pero ganun lang ba yon?

6 Can you see yourself doing comedy? Off-cam, yes. Sabi nila pwede daw. Kaya lang I lose my beat when I’m in front of the camera. Ang comedy pa naman is 50 percent timing.

7 How similar are you to your character in Lawrence in It Might Be You? Actually, at this point, Lawrence’s personality is not yet fully defined. Magulo pa siya. But the rebellious attitude that he is showing now, medyo malayo ako dun.

8 What do you consider your best physical asset? I don’tpknow (laughs). Kung manggagaling sa akin, mahirap magsalita. But some people say that girls get attracted to me kasi may pagka-shy type daw ako – yung sheepish ba.

9 What’s the most outrageous thing you’ve done to attract to someone’s attention? Hindi ako ganun eh. If I see someone I like,I would just sit in a place where I can better watch her.

10 How do you know when you really like someone? Kapag gusto ko siya, lagi kong kausap or ka-text. You can’t deny it when you start wanting to feel her prescence, to read her text messages, and to hear her voice.

11 What’s your method of wooing a girl? I like sending gifts and flowers. Ang sarap ng feeling when I see her using what I give, because it means na-appreciate niya yung binigay ko.

12 What do you like to do on your spare time? I love watching movies. My favorite place is Podium. Kung walang magandang movies, I’m with my friends and my cousin. We go window shopping in malls or hang out at a friend’s house.

13 What is the one dish you would ask for at the drop of a hat? Isa lang? Favorite meal ko kasi breakfast, especially the native Pinoy breakfast – sinangag, tuyo at saka scrambled egg with mustasa, tomatoes and onions. Masarap yun.

14 When you’re blue, what type of music gives you a lift? When I’m sad, I’m sad eh. I dwell on that sadness. Walang magagawa sa akin yung, “Let’s go out, huwag ka magmukmok dyan.” That won’t work, definitely. I want to stay quiet, I want to be alone, and I want to think. Although sabi nila it’s not healthy, brooding can cause illness. Ewan ko, ganun ako eh. So naturally pag dating sa music, medyo puno ng angst yung mga pinakinggan ko.

15 What do you love/hate about being a celebrity? Like any normal person, sometimes you’ll love and appreciate attention. But sometimes, darating ka din sa point na you’ll hate it. Kasi you also need your quiet moments. Kaya gusto ko mabura sa isip ng tao yung thinking na pag artista ka, you have to appear like you’re happy all the time when, deep inside, hindi naman talaga. Niloloko mo yung sarili mo at ang ibang tao.

16 What is it you like best about Bea? Ever since we starred in Kay Tagal, nakita ko na sa kanya yung determination. Talagang kahit hirap na yan, hindi siya sumusuko. And she’s very eager to learn, she’s very hardworking. For a girl her age, that’s pretty nice.

Romance According to Bea and John Lloyd

1 Where will you be on Valentine’s Day? And who will be with you?

B: I’ll be with my family. Siguro we’ll have dinner out lang. Besides, I don’t think my mom will allow me to go on a date on Valentine’s day.

J: I’ll be with my single friends.

2 If money were no object, what would give your loved one’s on Valentine’s Day?

B: Gusto ko simple lang, yung parang more on the thought. So, I’d probably give my lola a plant, kasi she loves taking care of plants.

J: May special someone ba? Wala eh. I’d give my love kasi hindi ako materialistic.

3 If you could fly to another place for Valentine’s Day, where will you be – and why?

B: I’d want to go to the beach, siguro Boracay. Gusto ko yung peace na nahahanap sa beach, yung parang when you’re with you’re loved one, the only thing you’ll hear is the sound of the waves. Sobrang peaceful, I’d also want us to watch the sunset together.

J: Gusto ko marating yung Amampulo in Palawan. Ang ganda eh. Saka ang feeling ko it’s well-preserved. It’s nice to talk kung may kasama ako. Malayo siya sa Manila at sa lahat ng gulo.

4 What song makes you feel romantic?

B: “Because of You,” “Before I Let You Go” ng Freestyle, and “When I Kiss Your Mouth”.

J: Siguro yung kanta nila Lea Salonga sa Broadway show na ginawa dito. I can’t remember the title.

5 What’s your favorite all-time romance flick?

B: Notting Hill

J: It may be corny to you, but it’s Notting Hill. Ilang beses ko na yun napanuod.

6 Do you believe you have a soul mate waiting for you somewhere?

B: I believe in destiny, that every person is fated to meet someone who’s meant for her/him. I know there’s someone out there waiting for me, whom I’ll truly love and who will love me in return.

J: Naniniwala akong merong somebody na para sa ‘yo talaga. I also believe na pag dumating yon, hindi mo alam. Siya yung tipo na mahaba ang pinagdaanan n’yo para malaman mo na siya talaga para sa iyo. Hindi yung masyadong serendipity.

7 How do you know it’s love?

B: When you always think about him, and when you’re prepared to sacrifice everything for that person.

J: It’s love when…yung tipong wala ka nang pakialam sa lahat. Ready ka to give up anything and everything para dun sa love n’yo.

8 How would you know it’s over?

B: Siguro pag hindi mo na siya maintindihan, that means that you don’t love him anymore.

J: When you stop fighting for it. That’s a big sign that it’s over.

9 What’s the most romantic thing a girl/boy has ever done for you?

B: Meron na ba? Siguro when this guy gave me a rose in front of everyone. Secret kung sino. Pero I think it would have been romantic kung binigay niya sa akin in private.

J: Wala pa, although I wish someone would give me flowers. I find that romantic sa babae.

10 What’s the silliest thing you’ll ever do for love?

B: I’d give up everything. Siguro when I love someone, I would love him more than I love myself, which is probably wrong.

J: I’ll just give a scenario: I’m with a girl and we’re walking down the street of London. Di ba sa London maraming flowers na binebenta sa parang bangketa? Then I realize I only have Philippine pesos in my wallet. So just to please the girl, kaya ko magnakaw ng flowers. Kahit mahuli ako at makulong sa London.

Bea and John Lloyd Talk About Each Other

1 Describe Bea/John Lloyd in one word.

B: Mysterious.

J: Beautiful.

2 What’s the physical feature you find most attractive in Bea/John Lloyd? The personality trait?

B: Eyes. As for personality…hindi ko pa masyado kilala si John Lloyd! Serious kasi siya, at secretive. Sobrang extreme ang mood swings niya. It’s either sobrang seryoso or sobrang kulit. Wala siya dun sa middle.

J: Her eyes. Her eagerness to learn.

3 What’s the funniest thing Bea/John Lloyd has ever done since you become friends?

B: He always teases me about my weight! Nakakatawa kasi I have to sit on his lap during one taping for Kay Tagal. Then, pagkatapos ng sequence, kunwari hindi na siya makatayo.

J: She does this thing pag may eksena kami. Kasi when are faces are too close, duling siya, tapos she makes a face. Drama pa naman yung scene so nakakatawa.

4 What makes Bea/John Lloyd happy?

B: One thing siguro na nagpapasaya kay John Lloyd is when people stopped meddling with his private life.

J: Cell phone. Yun lang ang buhay niya eh. Dalawa nga ang cellphone nyan eh.

5 What makes Bea/John Lloyd sad?

B: Pag may nanghihimasok sa buhay niya.

J: Pag walang signal.

6 What is your fondest hope for each other?

B: Sana magtagal pa yung love team, and sana more projects.

J: I wish her true happiness, the kind that people have when they realize their true purpose in life.

7 Choose a song that would describe your friendship right now?

B: “Don’t Know Why” by Norah Jones.

J: This song my Sarah Mclachlan, “Building a Mystery”.

8 If you (Bea/John Lloyd) could star in a remake of a Hollywood romance flick, what would it be?

B: The movie of all-time kasi for me is Notting Hill. I also like How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days.

J: Wala akong maisip, sorry.

9 What is you Valentine message for each other?

B: Sana maging happy siya, because I think he deserves happiness.

J: If she wants to date somebody else, it’s okay (laughs). Feel free!

It Might Be Them

John Lloyd Cruz and Bea Alonzo - It Might Be Them

People Asia, February 2004

Who would have thought that something so talked-about could start from well, almost nothing? When the think tanks over at ABS-CBN first considered pairing between JLC and Bea Alonzo, they never anticipated the incredible hype and hysteria over the couple.

Best known as the stars of the runaway success telenovela KTKH, John Lloyd and Bea saw their careers take a turn for the better after their first on-screen union, which “all started as a simple experiment.” Originally intended to team up with two other young stars, John Lloyd and Bea never imagined being asked to act side by side each other, especially as a love team. At first Bea admits, they had a lot going against them. Of course there was the clear issue of age difference. When they were first introduced to each other, John Lloyd was already 19 and Bea was only 15. Then there was the fact that John Lloyd was then in another relationship widely known to the public. They admitted that they would often think to themselves, “This would never work.”

But lo and behold, it did work and they have the ABS-CBN execs, their management and of course, their ever so loyal fans to thank for their resounding success. When asked about their first impressions of each other, they both answered that the other was “very quiet” which mutually had them thinking that the other was snobbish. This was actually very apparent even during the interview. Apparently, these two prefer to have time to themselves. But this didn’t stop them from enjoying their work together. John Lloyd said that what he admired most about Bea was her drive to succeed and excel in her craft and in the business. Being an actor for almost five years, John Lloyd acknowledged that there were times when the job became monotonous and seeing Bea’s fresh and vibrant approach to it certainly perked him up and urged him to do better. On the other hand, Bea found John Lloyd to be very professional. She told us that she was inspired by his preparedness on the set. “He would come to work on time and have his script perfectly memorized,” she recalls.

When asked about where their chemistry onscreen comes from, the two were genuinely clueless. Stressing that there were no pretensions or gimmicks to their love tandem, John Lloyd and Bea maintained that what the viewers see is what really is. As it turns out, there was never a need to build up the chemistry even before the camera started rolling. They rehearsed individually and memorized their lines in their own separate corners. But when it was time to come together for a take, the sparks would just fly. “It’s a mystery,” Bea admits. “I don’t know, it’s almost like … magic.” Well, it would have to be, since whenever the couple is seen, people just can’t help but get sentimental. And it just gets better and better. The fan base is increasing and more and more are convinced that they are the It couple thus far. Suprisingly, even with all the publicity and clamor from their admirers and supporters, John Lloyd says that there’s “no pressure”. He claims that separating their professional from personal lives has never been an issue and it has been smooth sailing ever since.

Bea’s idea of a perfect Valentine’s date is a candlelit dinner for two by the beach and under and stars while John Lloyd fantasizes of a romantic dinner for two on a big yacht and also under the moonlight.

It’s almost like a fairytale, how everything is unfolding for their careers – with another possible movie in the works and of course, their once again hit telenovela It Might Be You raking it in the ratings. Well, love may not be “in the air” for John Lloyd and Bea as of yet, but who knows? For now, these two will continue to relish the success they have found in each other’s company.

My First Romance, Special Issue

Starstudio Magazine, October 2003


John Lloyd

What was your …

Cell phone? Nokia 5110

Ring tone? Low

Memorable day in school? Kindergarten. I couldn’t draw an elisi so I cried.

TV blooper? Sa mga dance productions noon sa mga variety shows. Walang palya yun, lagi akong may mali.

How was your first …

Date? 12 years old ako. Sa mall. Wala lang.

TV appearance? Companero Y Companera. I was an abused kid. Mahirap.

What did you first …

Do with your paycheck? Gave it to my mom

As a kid you first imagined yourself to be a … soldier.

Who was your first …

Kiss? Mom

Idol or the artist who made an impression on you? Diether Ocampo

What’s the first …

Song that comes to mind when you hear the word love? Cruisin

The first thing that got you attracted to your first crush? Her looks

Bea

What was your first …Cell phone? Nokia 3310

Ring tone? Love is all that matters

Memorable day in school? First year HS. Was a transferee and I was late! I had to sing in front of everyone.

TV blooper? Star Studio episode with Marvin (Agustin). I kept calling him by his real name and not his character’s name. Nakakahiya dahil naka-ilang take kami.

How as your first …

Date? Wala pa in real life. Sa Kay Tagal with John Lloyd sa fishball stand.

TV appearance? ASAP. Launching of Star Circle 10. Di ako nakakain ng breakfast and lunch dahil hanging ang outfit namin.

What did you first …

Do with your paycheck? Bought clothes para sa taping

As a kid you first imagined yourself to be a … doctor.

Who was your first …Kiss? John Lloyd

Idol or the artist who made an impression on you? Maricel Soriano, versatile kasi, pwede sa drama or comedy

What’s the first …

Song that comes to mind when you hear the word love? Because of You

The first thing that got you attracted to your first crush? His eyes

John Lloyd and Bea

He says: “Medyo awkward”

She says: “He was suplado”

The Scenario:

Auditions for new Talent Center loveteams, Studio 3

His version:

"Yeah, we met at the audition. Medyo awkward actually kasi bago lang si Bea then. I thought, parang bata pa. But through the Kay Tagal workshops, I got to know her and she’s really a nice girl. Okey kausap.”

Her version:

"That was the first time I personnaly met John Lloyd. (I was first paired with Paolo Contis.) I thought he was suplado! Sobrang tahimik eh and mukhang seryoso. Pero later on, when we eventually adjusted in Kay Tagal, super kulit pala nya lalo na pag nasa mood!”

A Pseudo Loveteam that Works

YES! Magazine, October 2003

They are being billed as the next Guy and Pip, Sharon and Gabby, Kristine and Jericho. Like these previous loveteams, they have the chemistry that makes them number one. Unlike those previous love teams, they are not in love at all, nor do they pretend to be.

He’s heartthrob who has been in show business for more than five years. Starting as a fun-loving teenager in ABS-CBN’s “Kaybol” he gradually moved up to the rank of dramatic young star via the youth-oriented drama series “Tabing Ilog,” also on ABS-CBN. In the latter, he was paired off with Kaye Abad — a teamup that established his credibility as a leading man.

She’s an actress whose youthful innocence is hidden underneath mature physical features. She was discovered in a local beauty contest in Pasig when she was 13, and went to join ABS-CBN’s Star Circle Batch 10. She was first seen in that studio’s now defunct “K2BU” Who would have thought that, together, 20-year-old John Lloyd Cruz and 15-year-old Bea Alonzo would be the hottest love team on primetime television? Certainly not John and Bea.

“Hindi, hindi ko pa rin maisip,” says John Lloyd , still ambivalent about their loveteam’s growing popularity.

“Actually, it’s a mystery,” Bea says. “Hanggang ngayon, hindi nga naming alam ni John kung ano ang meron. Pinag-iisipan talaga naming. Ginagawa lang naman talaga ng lahat ito. Pero pag kami gumagawa, sabi nila kilig daw. Bakit? Ano’ng meron?”

The tandem started in Book2 of ABS-CBN’s soap opera “Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay.” When they were cast, neither John Lloyd nor Bea was aware that they were the ones who would be paired up. Truth to be told, it was their home studio that played Cupid to their onscreen love affair.

“Naka-peg talaga na sina Bea and John Lloyd will be a love team,” says Don Cuaresma, one of the show’s directors. ‘Pero noong una talaga, reluctant kami kasi parang hindi magwo-work. Eventually, tiningnan na naming. Nagkaroon ng VTR (video tape recording) test. Pwede naman pala talaga actually. So, ‘yon. Hanggang sa nag-succeed siya at maraming naging following.

“Talagang ano lang ‘yan e, gut feel and risk,” explained Lauren Dyogi [the third of “Kay Tagal’s directing trio] who was very confident na magwo-work yung loveteam. Sa tipo naman, kung titingnan mo silang dalawa, they look good together. So physically, may laban na yong tandem.”

Their hunch was right on the money. The John Lloyd-Bea now has soap fans glued to their television sets every weekday evening. Plus, there’s a whole new heap of commercials, endorsements , magazine covers , and newspaper features with either John Lloyd or Bea in them.

The amazing thing about all this is that there is no romance between John Lloyd and Bea at all.

John Lloyd has admitted to YES (September 2003 issue) that he is very happy with Ciara Sotto, his girlfriend of two years.

Bea now tells YES! that, at 15, she is too young to think about a serious relationship.

“Attached akong masyado sa work ko, with my family and friends,”says. “so, I don’t think I can manage another attachment in my life, like having a boyfriend and everything. Gusto ko, ‘yong first boyfriend ko, buong-buo na ‘yong time ko para sa kanya. Pag matured enough na ako. Alam mo, ‘yong long-term relationship. Hindi ‘yong curious ka lang kaya gusto mong magka-boyfriend.”

The relationship of John Lloyd and Bea is therefore limited to the confines of work..pure work. So the question is:what makes the tandem tick?

The Romance that Isn't

As professional actors, the two definitely belong to a mutual-admiration society.

“Si John Lloyd, sobrang galing niyang actor, e” says Bea. “ So feeling ko, malaking tulong siya doon sa development ng acting ko. Ang dami niya ring tips na nabigay sa akin.”

Bea also says that John Lloyd takes good care of her – on screen, that is. “May concern siya sa katrabaho niya. Hindi niya pinababayaan. Like, siguro pag pawis ‘yong ilong [ko] , pupunasan niya or something like that.”

She particularly remembers the time when John Lloyd gave her tips on how to make eye contact. “Kasi pag sobrang lapit ng mukha, naduduling ka na!” she says. “Sinasabi niya sa akin kung paano hindi maduling. Kailangan sa isang mata ka lang titingin para hindi ka maduling.”

Bea admits that her first impression of her onscreen partner wasn’t so great. “Noong una kasi, akala ko suplado ‘yon e. Lagi mo siyang aakalain na suplado kasi ang tahimik niyang tao. Sobrang lalim niyang tao. “Tsaka, sobrang aasarin ka niya! Sutil! ‘Kala mo tahimik , pero sutil!”

How sutil? We ask.

“Kasi di ba, may mga eksena na uupo ako sa lap niya. Tapos, sasabihin niya “Ang bigat mo, Bea! O, sira na ‘yong upuan! Oww!” Gumaganon’n siya!”

In another incident during taping Bea had to drive a car on a road that zigzagged down a steep hill. The problem was, Bea didn’t know how to drive!

Throughout the entire ordeal, John Lloyd was as sutil as ever.

“Tara, balik na tayo! Mahal ko pa ‘yong buhay ko!” he said to Bea inside the car.

“Ako naman, “Bea recalls, “tense na tense na hindi ko alam ang gagawin ko. Malay mo, baka mahulog nga kami doon sa bangin, ano?”

For his part, John Lloys says Bea is one good actress. Since “K2BU”—a very light teenybopper show — was Bea’s only show before “Kay Tagl,” he really hadn’t expected much.

“Nagulat ako, kasi, unexpectedly, magaling siya talaga e. Noong Makita ko siya [in “Kay Tagal”],may edge e. Iba talaga. Nagustuhan ko ‘yon, kasi, aminin na natin, kung hindi ka impressed doon sa partner mo, how will it work? Di ba? Mas mahihirapan kayo. And she’s very hardworking, very patient , and she’s very eager to learn. And wala kang makikita sa kanyang, parang, walang tantrum sa set. Wala siyang ganoon. Parang she’s willing to accept kung anuman ‘yong criticism or good comments. And gusto ko ‘yon, magandang trait ‘yon sa isang baguhang artista kagaya niya.”

Although John is all praise for his screen partner, he admits that he didn’t want to be in a love team at first. ‘In a way, it limits you, e, from doing roles na gusto mong gawin and mga projects na gusto mong gawin tanggapin, ‘cause you have a loveteam.”

45 Things You Don't Know About Idan

Star Studio Magazine, September 2003

1. He was born June 24, the feast day of St. John the Baptist, and that's where his parents Aida and Luisito got his name.

2. As a toddler, John Lloyd has his favorite unan. 'Pinipirut-pirot niya ang dulo ng unan habang dumedede para makatulog," reveals his mom.

3. When he was eight months old, John Lloyd was hospitalized due to measles and diarrhea which nearly took his life.

4. While some people call him "Lloydy," his real nick is "Idan." Don't ask us why.

5. John Lloyd was always in the "star" section and on the top ten students' list when he was a grade schooler.

6. His favorite subjects were Science and Pilipino.

7. He played a saint in a street parade when he was in Grade 6.

8. As a young boy, John Lloyd was always prone to indigestion, "Mahina ang pantunaw," says his mom Aida.

9. There was a time when he lost so much weight and got so thin that his mom reprimanded him for playing roller blades in the streets everyday.

10. He was never bullied by his two older brothers even though he is the bunso.

11. He still plans to go back to school and fulfill his dreams of becoming a pilot.

12. Igoy, or Rodrigo, is his favorite cousin because they went to the same school. Igoy is his "gimmick" partner until now.

13. John Lloyd nearly drowned when he was seven years old during a family outing in Olongapo. "Tumaob ang salbabida niya," his mom recalls.

14. The songs "Cruisin" and "Just Once" are enough to set him in a romantic mood.

15. He loves rock music as well.

16. He has this wooden box that turns into a drum which he likes to play with during his free time to de-stress himself.

17. John Lloyd has a guitar and has just started getting the hang of strumming it.

18. You can't force him to eat okra because he hates its slimy texture.

19. He pigs out on seafoods, especially crabs.

20. Everytime he eats out with friends or family, expect to see him bringing out some of the food and giving them to street children.

21. He loves Chippy, the original barbeque flavor in red pack.

22. "Dilis na sinawsaw sa suka na may sili," according to Kay Taga co-star Bea Alonzo, is his favorite snack during taping lulls.

23. John Lloyd needs utmost concentration when he's eating. He doesn't like people talking to him when he's having a meal.

24. John Lloyd is not a coffee drinker, instead he goes for juice as a morning pick-upper, and only occasionally drinks milk.

25. His favorite sawsawan that goes well with his pritong isda is dinurog na sampalok with patis.

26. His favorite breakfast fare is tinapa and (some text missing)

27. He spends an average of 10 minutes in the bathroom.

28. He always has trouble deciding what to wear. "Nakakasampung palit muna ng damit 'yan, bago makapag-decide kung ano ang isusuot," says his dad Luis.

29. He loves his shoes. When SSM shot him for the John Lloyd-Bea June 2003 cover, his shoes were still inside the original box.

30. According to Bea, John Lloyd always arrives on the set of Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay in shorts and white shirt.

31. He always has a strawberry-flavored lip balm on hand. That explains why Yuri's lips look so kissable on- and off- screen.

32. "'Pag nag-internalize sya as Yuri, he walks to and fro biting his lips," according to Bea.

33. He always forgets his shades and that's why he ends up borrowing that of his road manager's.

34. Not too long ago, during a provincial show in Bicol, the hotel they were billetted in caught fire, John Lloyd got really sad because he wasn't able to save his favorite white K-Swiss rubber shoes. He didn't know that Grace, his road manager that time, was able to save the shoes because she was the last to run out from the hotel.

35. His handler in ABS-CBN's Talent Center, Neneth Roxas, says John Lloyd loves being with kids, especially his mga pamangkin.

36. John Lloyd would make an effective secret agent because he loves to scrutinize details of anything he comes across with, especially during on-location trips. "Pagpasok sa hotel, expect mo na kukutingtingin niya 'yung ilaw. Bubuksan ang mga drawer, ang ref at kung anu-ano pa," says Tess Gubi of Talent Center.

37. He gives his earnings to his mom until now, "humihingi lang siya ng panggastos," says Mommy Aida.

38. He has a hair whorl (puyo) on his forehead.

39. Because of his puyo sa noo, John Lloyd is forbidden to travel by water because it is believed this will lead him to end up in an accident.

40. He never misses good films but he hates watching movies during premiere nights.

41. Before he was discovered, his favorite local TV show was Gimik. Little did he know that he'd be on of the stars of the youth-oriented program.

42. He is allergic to pain relievers which cause his eyes to swell.

43. "Three times siyang nabagok nuong bata. Isa po sa isang jeep. Kaya po siya ganu'n," says Bea.

44. Wonder why he always look fresh and rested despite the puyatan during tapings? John Lloyd takes naps during lulls. Sleeping is one of his "talents," because according to his current road manager, Danilyn, "madali siyang makatulog."

45. Don't be led to think that he's as reserved and quiet as we see him on TV. When he's in a playful mood, he likes to tickle his close friends--to death. His favorite attack are? "Sa may bilbil," says on friend.

So Near and Yet So Far

Woman Today, September 2003

Could the romance turn from reel to real?

No doubt about it. The combination of Bea Alonzo and John Lloyd Cruz is perhaps the hottest thing on primetime today. The tele-series Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay, which gave birth to their ‘make-believe’ romance, is a consistent top rater among ABS-CBN’s programs. And with the clamor of viewers, the show’s plot has been extended to several more months.

Their loveteam hasn’t even reached it’s first year, and yet they are already shooting their first big movie together in Star Cinema’s twin-bill project, Please Be Careful With My Heart (along with Heart Evangelista and John Prats.). After that, a John Lloyd-Bea tandem movie will also be released before 2003 ends.

Despite the screaming and swooning of fans, Bea and John Lloyd try to keep things in perspective - they are aware that the soap can only go on for so long, and that the romance is only confined to ‘Yuri and Katrina.’ At the end of the shooting day, they must go their separate ways.

But as some rumormongers would put it, ‘How long can John Lloyd and Bea hide their true feelings?’

On the wings

Born to a British dad and a Pinay mom, Bea (turning 16 on the 17th of October) thinks that the success of her and John Lloyd’s loveteam is the result of perfect timing and a perfect project.

Before the loveteam was born, explains the pretty endorser of Johnson and Johnson Essential, “the soap has already gained its following. It was perfect timing, kasi pinag-uusapan na ang show at nagustuhan na ng mga tao ‘yung characters naming dalawa. Siguro talagang s’werte lang kami kasi kahit alam ng mga tao na he has a girlfriend and has (a screen partner) in another show, tinanggap pa rin nila kami.”

John Lloyd has a different view of Yuri-Katrina romance rollercoaster. “I find it mysterious,” says the 20-year-old leading man. “Why would people accept this loveteam, alam naman nila I have a girlfriend and I’m also identified with another hit show. Ano ‘yung nagustuhan ng mga tao?…na until now ay hindi ko alam ang sagot.”

He continues, “To be very honest about it, I didn’t expect things would happen this way because I was initially paired with Rica (Paralejo). And when we started this project, it was explained to me na wala akong ka-loveteam. We only discussed the depth of my character.” He adds that “the loveteam was established shortly before we entered Kay Tagal…Book Two.”

Bea admits she didn’t expect to end up with john Lloyd’s character in the soap. “From the start, nobody told us na magiging partners kami,” she recalls. “Ang alam namig ay magkakaroon ng involvement ang aming characters just to establish a conflict between the two sisters (Katrina and Halena), pero dapat matatapos din agad ‘yun. We never expected that our romance in Kay Tagal…would develop into something this huge. Siguro nagustuhan lang talaga ng mga viewers ang chemistry.”

Two to tango

There is a four-year age difference between the two actors. Did it help them to portray their roles effectively?

“I think it did,” Bea quickly replies, “’coz he’s already mature and I learn many things from him. At habang lagi ko s’yang kasama sa set, na bi-build up na ‘yung emotions ko na parang I have to be that character in the soap, who’s a 21-year law student.”

John Lloyd: “You can say I”ve been in showbiz longer. I guess I’m the more experienced one. At kahit papa’no, in my own way, natulungan ko si Bea about acting technique and other lessons I’ve learned in the business.”

Concerning the reel character who’s more mature than her real self, Bea admits that she initially had the hard time preparing for the part. (She’s only a third year high school student under the home study program.) “It was hard at first, from a 14-year-old nerdy-nerdy in Book One, I suddenly shifted into being a law student in Book Two. Ang ginawa ko, I just watched the movies na may mga law students, and I also observed the lawyers in the cast and how would they act and react. Of course sa tulong din ng aming mga directors, writers and co-stars. We also had a two-day workshop, primarily for the loveteam para hindi kami awkward tignan sa screen.”

Cupid aiming

Since they practically see each other everyday for almost a year now, what are some of the traits they like in each other?

“First time ko pa lang sya nakatrabaho, nakita ko agad na she’s hardworking and eager to learn things. She’s very much willing to accept criticism. At her young age, she shows professionalism,” he says.

“He’s funny at totoong tao, walang pretension. Kaya lang may pagka-moody kaya napagkakamalan s’yang suplado,” she says.

And since everybody knows that John Lloyd is very much involved with Ciarra Sotto, Yuri and Katrina, rather John and Bea admit that they haven’t encountered any problem with the fans. They both believe that today’s TV viewers are more understanding and more mature in accepting that they have lives outside show business.

The question you’ve been waiting for

Is there a chance that the partnership might develop into a more serious relationship in the future?

“We really don’t know,” she responds. “Ang sinasabi ko lang palagi sa kanila…hindi kami nangangako na magkakatotoo ‘yung nakikita nila sa TV. And we always tell them na sa ngayon, magkahiwalay ang professional life namin sa personal life. Although hindi kami nagsasalita ng tapos. Siguro may possibility in the future. But for now, wala kasi he has a girlfriend eh.”

“Right now, okey kami ni Bea magkatrabaho,” defends John Lloyd. “If it will lead into something serious, I really don’t know.” Then he muses a bit, “If…in case…I don’t have a girlfriend right now…I wouldn’t know.”

We ask Bea if John Lloyd is the kind of guy she would want to have for a boyfriend? “He’s the perfect guy, I must say, because he’s a gentleman, he’s responsible, mature and loyal to the girl he loves,” she chirps.

Arrows everywhere

And how long they forsee the onscreen romance?

Bea: “Hanggang masaya kami sa ginagawa namin at nagugustuhan kami ng mga tao, okey lang. Actually it’s our mother studio who’ll decide on the fate of the tandem, not us. I also want to work with other leading men in the future. Pero sa ngayon, gusto ko s’ya muna ang ka-partner ko kasi I’m comfortable working with him. Gamay ko na kung paano ako aarte with him. Kasi kung bago na naman ang partner ko, baka mailang na naman ako tulad noong una…especially sa mga sweet scenes.”

Among the soap operas that John Lloyd has done, he confesses that Kay Tagal…is the biggest break for him so far, and the most challenging. This project, he adds, is very important to him because it’s something that was given specifically to them; and not everyone is fortunate to be given the opportunity to show their talents in such a hot primetime project.

Both, by the way, are the members of the ABS-CBN’s Talent Center. Bea (Batch 10) sees herself as a fulfilled thespian ten years from now. Then there’s the matter of career outside acting. “I have to save for the future. If I have enough money, I want to put up my own school – for pre-schoolers. And hopefully earn a degree in education management. I just love to teach children,” she shares.

John Lloyd (Batch 5) still wishes to be active in show business ten, fifteen years from now. “Sana mas maraming challenging roles ang magawa ko, kahit hindi lead role, it doesn’t matter, basta gusto kong gawin. As an actor, it’s important that I can show my versatility!”

the Cruz Control

By: Jerome Gomez

Star Studio Magazine, September 2003

As Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay closes its final chapter this month, John Lloyd Cruz, the hot young actor of the moment, reflects on his party-hardy past, his never wanting to be an actor, and finally learning to love his craft.

For a guy who used to party like there was no tomorrow, John Lloyd Cruz doesn't look so bad. True, the dark circles under his puppy dog eyes need a retouch of concealer every so often for the cameras. But the circles are not anymore products of those all-nighter gimiks that often went on until early morning.

It's an afternoon at the Talent Center's lounge area and the soap star, clad in slim black shirt, arrow-straight denim jeans and sleek square-toed shoes, fresh from a full eight-hour sleep and a new haircut, is being asked to take us back to those party-hardy days.

He replies with that famous sheepish grin. He was around 16-17 then, he says, when he and his friends didn't see the need to call it a night because, hey, all of them were still up and there was always another bar to close. He misses those days. He sits back on the gray sofa and smiles at the memory. "That was the time na, 'Sarap nito! Baka wala nang ganito. Let's seize the day!' "

Last June, he turned 20 and, for now, all that's in the past - the party-hardy days, not the "seize-the-day" part, John Lloyd, if you haven't noticed, is the hot young actor of the hour. He headlines the highest-rater of all the teleseryes, Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay, Tabing Ilog, the Sunday drama he shares with other stars from this Star Circle batch, is still going strong on its fifth year; the love story that involves his character and that of Kaye Abad's remains the program's main focal point.

And then there are the product endorsements. He's the new image model for the clothing line Blue Soda and footwear brand Outland. There's that little sanitary napkin and that whitening soap, too - both targeted for female consumers but curiously relying on the association with this male celebrity endorser. Come October, just after Kay Tagal's final book comes to a close, his first feature film, My First Romance, where he stars with her small-screen partner Bea Alonzo, is due for the movie houses. Talk about seizing the day.

"I never wanted to be an artista," says the boy who still dreams of becoming a pilot. "When I was growing up, every Sunday we had a family gathering, so we always watched mga Sunday noontime shows. My cousins, nababaduyan sila, 'Yuck, artista.' " And then a talent agent spotted him. "napilit nu'ng discoverer 'yung parents ko. Sabi nila dapat lang huwag ma-affect 'yung studies, so sinbukan ko."

His dad's business of selling marble wasn't doing as well as it used to. The family, which includes his mother Aida and two brothers, was struggling financially and the 14-year-old wanted to help. He was launched as part of Koolits, the trio of boys that included Baron Geisler and Marc Solis. Even with a regular stint at ASAP, the group never took off. He became the family's breadwinner when Tabing Ilong came.

"I learned to love the job lang after a year or so (in show biz), but not the craft," he says. "A year ago, du'n ko lang na-realize na 'Ay, ganito pala, ito pala 'yung craft na gusto ko.' " This was the time Kay Tagal arrived. It was also the break that would make him a star. That his name is now in the same privileged ranks as Piolo Pascual and Jericho Rosales is not surprising. He has that Piolo air of mystery, and Jericho's easy, approachable charm. He is Piolo but cooler and Jericho but more laidback. Like the two, he is steadfast in becoming a serious actor. The only difference, perhaps, is that their passion doesn't seem to occupy their minds the way it does John Lloyd's.

Whoever said it's easy to be an actor should have a session with the guy. And it's best to take him seriously because, after all he's already got notices. In 2001, Jericho lost in the Best Actor category of Star Awards for TV. He talks about getting into further, losing John Lloyd and embracing other personalities totally different from his. Like that of Rovic, the young father in Tabing Ilog, or Yuri, the vengeful son and lawyer in Kay Tagal (some text missing)

"I'll tell you what," he says, "Kapag mas bata ka, mas sensitive ka, madaling umarte, mas madaling umiyak. hindi mo pa alam yung craft so hindi mo ma-meet 'yung dalawa. Andun yung lines pero hindi mo alam kung paano mo i-deliver. As you grow old, you learn the craft but your emotions nagfe-fade out. If I'd been playing a role for a long time, mas pwedeng mag-endure sa isang pain for so long kase tatagal, matatanggap mo na 'yan, lilipas na 'yan, mawawala na 'yan, so du'n pumapasok yung craft. You get into the character, you learn techniques."

"Kaya as an artist, minsan gusto ko ng sakit eh, I'd love to welcome pain because I know it will help me in a way with my craft. So, parang, 'Come on, give it to me!' "

This is, the pain outside of the scripts come in trickles, if they come at all. The last time he was in major news was not even about him; it was about his girlfriend Ciara Sotto's rumored attempted suicide. Before that, the two had a sort of falling out and the gossip mills were citing this temporary break-up as cause for Ciara's being rushed to St. Luke's Hospital. The Sunday that followed, the young singer-actress celebrated her birthday in ASAP and she would tell her guest, cousin Mico Sotto, "Sana ikaw na lang boyfriend ko kase pinaglalaban mo girlfriends mo." John Lloyd chose to be quiet about all this, and now he and Ciara are a couple again.

Are there things about being an actor, one with the kind of popularity he now possesses, that keep him from living a more interesting personal life? "An actor's life is very interesting," he says. "Dami mo nakikilala, dami mong nagagawa. Feeling ko being an actor is a journey, portraying different roles. Parang ang sarap kase. Parang may nabubuksan kang isang side sa buhay mo. Hindi naman siya talaga nangyayari sa buhay mo pero parang, 'Ganito pala dito, dami mong nae-explore, kung saan-saan ka nakakarating. Actually it won't stop you from being someone or something. Siyempre merong downside, unang una, being an artista, nag-suffer studies ko, (and) time for my family (which) I'm trying to regain now."

The studies part is what he really wants to come back to, except that his schedule won't permit him yet (he was a sophomore under the Distance Learning Center when he stopped). For the teleserye alone, he tapes two to three times a week, from sun up to sun down. So he's trying to make the most of this moment. And getting as much life lessons as he can. "I find it more interesting kung nasaan ako ngayon. Alam ko importante pag-aaral pero mas masarap na teacher yung experience eh."

Indeed, where else would he rather be? In a club partying? He smiles again. It's part of group up, he says, taking this path that chooses to be more focused on this career, and this craft he's learned to love. After all, before he decided to meet Ciara's mom Helen Gamboa for the first time to ask for permission to court her daughter, he promised to himself that he would leave the party-hardy days behind.

"Alam ko, 'yung having fun, hindi mo mababayaran 'yan," he says. Never mind that he still doesn't get as much sleep as he wants, or that sometimes he still misses those non-stop all-nighters. Never mind the concealer retouches. For now, those things under his eyes are like badges of honor that say this boy's grown up, working hard and with the dark circles to prove it.

Being Bea

By: Trina Gomez

Star Studio Magazine, September 2003

How much of Bea Alonzo is living inside Katrina Argos, her popular alter ego in the TV soap Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay? Let’s just say the only difference between them are names and age. The young actress is 15; the character she plays, that of a strong-willed neophyte lawyer, is 21. The real name of Bea is Phylbert Angellie Ranollo but to her friends she is “Tisay”.

Now the similarities. In Kay Tagal, Katrina lost her parents when she was just a child; it was the challenges of being an orphan with siblings that performed her into the feisty young attorney she is in the soap.

In reality, Bea has had her share of growing pains. Her parents separated when she was only four years old, and she hasn’t heard from her British father ever since. There was a time, she reveals, when she couldn’t help asking herself why it had to happen to her.

“May pain sa loob na hindi ko mailabas,” she says about that chapter of her life. “Nandu’n talaga ako sa age na nagkukwestyon na bakit ako (product of a broken family) ganito eh hindi naman kailangan. Bakit hindi ninyo ginawan ng paraan for me?”

In Kay Tagal, Katrina is a devoted sister to Helaena (Rica Peralejo) and Nikos (Alwyn Uytingco). In real life, Bea is very close to a younger half-brother, James Armel, whose studies she finances from her show biz earnings. She spends most breaks from her busy schedule bonding with 11-yar-old James.

Katrina, as a lawyer, is always determined to fight for what she believes in and will do anything to get her man (the Yuri Orbida character played by John Lloyd Cruz).

The young actress Bea also had to fight for her strongest passion: performing. As far back as her grade school days, Bea always loved to join school plays and personality contests—even without her mother’s knowledge. Her mom, Mary Anne Escalante, never really condoned such extra-curricular activities. “Nalaman niya na lang nanalo ako kasi ipapakita ko sa kanya ‘yung medal or trophy,” Bea shares.

When she was 14, Bea even dared to compete with 20-year-old women for the “Mutya ng Pasig” title. She was only a runner-up, but it was there that she was spotted by a fashion designer who introduced Bea to her current talent manager.

Mommy Mary Ann didn’t even have a clue that her daughter had auditioned—and passed—as one of ABS-CBN’s Star Circle Batch 10; that is, until Bea asked her to sign a letter of consent.

“Sila ng lola niya ang lagging magkasama, kaya wala akong kaalam-alam. Alam niya din na ayaw kong pumasok siya sa show biz. Dadalawa lang kasi ang anak ko at ayoko silang masasaktan,” says Bea’s mom.

She refused to sign the letter. Bea staged a hunger strike. “Pumapasok ako sa school pero hindi ako kumakain, hanggang sa naawa siya sa akin,” relates Bea. Her mom had no choice but to give her blessings.

Drama is one of the thing that define the real Bea. “Very emotional ako na tao. Konting problema lang, nag-o-OA ako. At saka kapag galit ako, hindi ako nagsasalita. Papasok na lang ako sa kwarto at doon ako iiyak. Iyakin talaga ko”. No wonder it’s so easy for her to shed buckets of tears in her daily soap. “Yung mga sobrang dark memories ko noon, yun ang mga nagagamit ko ngayon sa acting.”

The only problem now is that the real-life experience and emotions that help her internalize Katrina’s character are stuff she’d rather not draw out anymore. “Minsan matutulog na lang ako, nage-echo pa lahat ng memories sa akin. Kasi imbis na sobrang lalim na siya before, andyan na naman.”

But it is the portrayal of the role as Yuri’s girlfriend in Kay Tagal that earns her the highest degree of respect from viewers and co-stars. The on-cam romance that sparked between Katrina and Yuri is said to be the reason Kay Tagal was extended for three months from it’s original farewell schedule last July.

In fact, Bea convincingly portays her lovestruck character in the soap despite the fact that she has zero experience to draw from. Her first real-and reel-life kiss was the much-talked-about kissing scene she shared with John Lloyd/Yuri in one of the soap’s recent episodes.

Bea has been linked with her leading man and blamed for the supposed temporary “break-up” of John Lloyd and girlfriend Ciara Sotto. “ I can’t even say we’re close, kasi hindi pa naman kami nagsasabihan ng mga bagay na sobrang personal,” Bea claims. “I believe that there’s a certain situation that will really make us close pero hindi pa lang nangyayari.’

At her young age, Bea is already allowed to have a boyfriend. But despite her mom’s prodding, she refuses to get into a romantic relationship. “Hindi ko kayang mag-handle ng isa pang attachment sa buhay ko. Ni hindi ko nga kayang pagsabayin ang trabaho koang studies ko.

For now,Bea’s foremost priorities are still her family, her work and her studies. She is now in third year high school under the DECS Home Study Program. She’d like to go back to a normal school when she enters college and if her show biz schedule would allow it.

Meanwhile, her showbiz career is at its prime and more promising projects are in the pipeline. By the time Kay Tagal wraps up in October, Bea will be busy promoting her first film, where she also stars opposite John Lloyd. My First Romance, under Star Cenima, is twinbill movie that also features John Prats and Heart Evangelista.

The John Lloyd-Bea part is being directed by Don Cuaresma and, in it, John Lloyd plays a heart recipient whose path stumbles into Bea two years after her boyfriend, an organ donor, passes away. Bea is unaware heart but that doesn’t stop her from falling in love with him.

Away from the cameras, however, Bea is still trying to see how all her real-and reel-life experiences will shape her as an adult-to-be. “Naniniwala ako that everything in this world has its reasons,” she says. “kaya wala akong gustong itapon sa buhay ko. Lahat ‘yun binigay sa akin ni God para marating ko ‘yung kinalalagyan ko ngayon.