Iza gets Judy Ann’s ‘blessing’ to do ‘Maria, Leonora, Teresa’

MANILA, Philippines - Being the second choice for the film “Maria, Leonora, Teresa” is not an issue for Iza Calzado.

Her role as Faith was first offered to Judy Ann Santos, but due to some circumstances, could not proceed with the project.

“Yes, ako naman ay originally hindi kasama sa line up,” Iza said in an interview on Thursday, September 4.

“Isang araw ako’y nakatanggap ng tawag kay Direk Wenn [Deramas], sabi niya, "Iza, may gagawin akong pelikula, isasama kita," and sabi ko, "Direk, gagawa ako ng serye, baka ‘di ko kayanin. Sabi niya, ‘hindi, gagawin mo ‘yan,'" she said

During the press conference proper, Director Wenn Deramas has clarified that “Wala po akong alam kung bakit hindi natuloy si Juday. It’s a matter between her and Star Cinema.”

“Choosy pa ba 'ko?” Iza said, laughing, when asked if she minds being the alternative choice for a role. “Buti nga may binibigay, e. It doesn’t matter if you’re first, second, third or whatever choice. I mean, these things happen. Kung lagi mong iisipin ang ego, kung lagi mo siyang pagaganahin, saan ka dadalhin nyan sa buhay mo? Hindi puwedeng ‘yon ang laging paiiralin.”

She also received Judy Ann’s blessing, which was relayed by her manager Noel Ferrer. The film will be in cinemas starting September 17.

Meanwhile, since the year started, the Iza has been busy with a series of projects.

Before doing Maria, Leonora, Teresa, she’s part of the films “Starting Over Again,” “Somebody to Love,” and “Barber’s Tales.” She’s also part of the TV primetime series “Hawak Kamay” where he stars with Piolo Pascual.

“Medyo nakakapagod po and it is overwhelming, nabigla na biglang dumagsa ang trabaho,” she said about career. “Pero wala, e, at the end of the day ang sasabihin mo lang, ‘Lord, salamat po.’”

Aside from a blooming career, Iza’s personal life is in bloom with her boyfriend Ben Wintle.

Although Iza did bring him as her date in the recent 8th Star Magic Ball, and was instead accompanied by leading man Piolo Pascual, she said her beau does not mind.

“Alam mo actually, never pa,” she replied when asked if her partner ever gets jealous with her leading man. “He’s just really an understanding guy, and I guess he’s secure of our relationship.”

Although they have a “secured relationship” and at the right age, Iza says settling down is “not yet in our priorities.”