CEBU, Philippines - “To Senator Noynoy Aquino, on behalf of my mom and the entire Gutierrez family, we sincerely apologize kung nasali po kayo sa isang babaeng usapin.”
Note: We’re printing in full the official and “last” statement of Ruffa Gutierrez regarding the issue between her and Kris Aquino as emailed to the media yesterday.
“I am reluctant to make a statement regarding the incident last Sunday to avoid being accused of ‘gumigimik’ but since I feel the need to defend myself, lest I be judged unfairly, and ayoko na pong palakihin ito so I will say my piece.
“First of all I hold Tito Boy and Kris in such high regard as professional mentors and personal friends.
“Secondly, I wasn’t reacting to just the video clip shown wherein Kris remarked ‘Ruffa, aminin mo, ibang level ang saya dito.’ Hindi naman po ako mababaw at pikon na tao.
“I always conduct myself as a professional to let a supposedly small matter such as this bother me.
“That being said, the reason why I reacted that way, seemingly OA or not, is because aside from being understandably emotional that Sunday (it was my last 2 episodes as co-host of The Buzz), the series of condescending remarks noticed by viewers through the years which I’ve constantly brushed off in the spirit of ‘pakikisama’ also took a toll on me.
“I invite you to view replays of past episodes online and you’ll understand exactly where I’m coming from. Off-camera, sometimes Kris acknowledges my presence and other times (like that Sunday, March 7) she would not.
“To clarify, I did not ‘walk out.’ After what I thought was a commercial break, I felt tears were starting to well up. I went back to my dressing room to compose myself. But the tears wouldn’t stop.
“Third, my mom [Annabelle Rama] has nothing personal against Senator Noynoy and the Aquino family. She never attacked the good Senator’s character. She just expressed what she was feeling at that moment. Just like you and I, my mom has her own perspective and we should respect that. After all, we do live in a democracy.
“Lastly, in the spirit of unity and our long tenure on the Buzz I appreciate and accept Kris’ public apology. I will always remember my 3 yrs on the Buzz with great fondness. I will miss everyone dearly.
“To Miss Kris Aquino’s family, loved ones and fans worldwide, I would also like to apologize kung nasaktan ang damdamin niyo. Misunderstandings happen among the closest of friends. Ang importante po, nagkakaintindihan na kami.
“To Senator Noynoy Aquino, on behalf of my mom and the entire Gutierrez family, we sincerely apologize kung nasali po kayo sa isang babaeng usapin.
“Being the gentleman that you are, you will most probably just brush this off and laugh at our crazy showbiz life. Let us put this episode to rest so you can focus on your campaign and everyone else can peacefully go back to work.
“Thank you to my family, friends & fans all across the globe for your unwavering support.
“To my haters and those that unfairly judge me, I thank you for you make me stronger. I promise to behave myself & continue to try to be a better mother, daughter, sister and lady. After all...no one’s perfect!
“Let us now move forward with dignity and honor. Love, Love, Love and Peace, Peace, Peace! God bless us all!
“Sincerely, Sharmaine Ruffa Gutierrez.”