Derek on Kris: No romance

When Derek Ramsay told the movie press yesterday that he and Kris Aquino are “just friends,” he wasn’t just mouthing a cliché, at the same time dismissing rumors that he’s one of the increasing number of Kris’ suitors.

“Yes,” confirmed Kris when Funfare texted her for confirmation right after the presscon in which Derek signed a three-picture non-exclusive contract with Regal Films. “We are good friends.”

As Kris has admitted on national television, she and Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista (who has kept mum on the matter) are exclusively dating while trying to weigh the pros and cons of their joint “work in progress.”

After breaking up with Angelica Panganiban and Cristine Reyes (after a brief romance; they remain friends), Derek said he’s “seeing someone” (girl’s identity a “mystery”) but he refused to go into details. “I promised myself that when it comes to my private life, I better keep it to myself,” he begged off.

Kris and Derek’s enduring friendship dates back to the time they starred together in a San Miguel TV commercial when Derek was new in showbiz.

It’s true that they’ve been seen together in some occasions (not dating), including the time Derek and his father visited Kris’ new house to check on the security system. Derek’s father’s business involves security.

For his first movie with Regal, Derek will have Kris as leading lady. According to Regal Matriarch Mother Lily Monteverde, who was at the presscon/contract-signing with daughter Roselle Monteverde and Derek’s manager Joji Dingcong, next in line as Derek’s co-star is Marian Rivera and, why not, Derek’s former girlfriend Solenn Heussaff (who is under contract with Regal).

“Getting Derek is a dream come true,” said Mother Lily after the contract signing, adding in jest, “If I were 40 years younger, I would marry Derek.” Derek reacted with a big blush.

Mr. Sexy 2009 is a sireno in Dyesebel

One of the macho sirenos (mermen) in the ABS-CBN fantasy series Dyesebel is Jay Gonzaga who won Mr. Sexy 2009 in the Eat, Bulaga! contest.

“May potential,” said Nap Gutierrez who is rallying behind Jay.

Starting as a commercial model, Jay got his first billboard in 2008 as endorser of Coffeemix. His other endorsements are those for Skyflakes, PS Bank Auto Loan, Ponstan and Jollibee Cheesy (the latest).

Then he ventured into theater, debuting as the lead actor of Dulaang UP’s Orosman At Zafira, a musical play directed by Dexter Santos (“My mentor in acting,” said Jay). His other play appearances were in Haring Lear (PETA), Ibong Adarna (Gantimpala Theater) and Ang Pagdadalaga ni Maximo Oliveros The Musicale (Bit By Bit Company).

In the indie film Ang Mga Anino, directed by Alvin Yapan for the Metro Filmfest (Indie Films Section) last year, Jay played the love interest of Agot Isidro.

“He has a body-to-die for,” gushed Nap. “Obvious na obvious sa Dyesebel.”

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