Ruru Madrid admits cheating on Bianca Umali, says mistake changed him for the better

MANILA, Philippines — Kapuso actor Ruru Madrid candidly admitted that he once cheated on longtime girlfriend Bianca Umali, saying the experience became a turning point that ultimately changed him for the better.

During his recent guest appearance on "Fast Talk with Boy Abunda," Ruru was asked about a previous statement he made on Heart Evangelista's game show "The People Have Spoken," where he said that people who cheat are still capable of changing.

Host Boy Abunda then asked him if he had personally proven that belief.

“Napatunayan mo na ba?” Boy asked.

“Yeah, napatunayan ko na,” Ruru replied.

The actor went on to reveal that he had made a mistake early in his relationship with Bianca, but said he remains grateful that she eventually gave him another chance.

“Siguro 'yon 'yong pinagpapasalamat ko kay Bianca na kahit po nagkamali ako during that time. I was 20 years old at hindi ko naman po sinasabing dahilan 'yong pagkabata sa ginawa kong pagkakamali, pero siguro itinuturing ko rin siyang blessing in disguise somehow,” he said.

According to Ruru, their temporary breakup made him realize just how important Bianca is in his life.

“Dahil from there, nakita ko po talaga ang kahalagahan ni Bianca. Nag-break kami ng 8 months but now 8 years na po kami. Tinanggap niya ako ulit,” he shared.

Ruru said the experience strengthened his belief that people are capable of genuine change, regardless of the mistakes they have made.

“Kasi, ang Diyos nga natin marunong magpatawad. At siguro, para sa akin kasi 'yong cheating choice talaga siya,” he said.

“Madali pong magkamali. Pero nasa sa 'yo na 'yon kung gusto mong magkamali,” he added.

Ruru and Bianca began dating in 2018, although they only publicly confirmed their relationship in 2022.

In a July 2024 interview, Bianca expressed confidence that her relationship with Ruru was headed toward marriage, saying she believes he is the man she wants to spend the rest of her life with.

RELATED: Ruru, Bianca tie up loose ends in The Write One finale