Alden Richards: What I do for Maine is out of free will

MANILA, Philippines — Eight months into their wildly popular Kalyeserye segment for "Eat Bulaga," Alden Richards said he still getting to know Maine Mendoza.

The GMA-7 actor added that he considers the 21-year-old actress "special."

"Mahirap po kasi magpadalos-dalos sa mga desisyon to get into a commitment," Alden said when asked about the real score between him and Maine during his launch as the newest endorser for medicine Neozep on Wednesday.

The two young stars, who have catapulted to love team fame thanks to their onscreen partnership on "Eat Bulaga," have been constantly questioned by fans and the press if their relationship has turned from friendly to romantic the past few months.

This is especially after Alden surprised Maine during her birthday earlier this month by renting a private plane and going to Boracay, where the young actress was staying at the time. Many see this as a sign that Alden and Maine may been becoming more than friends, just like their "Eat Bulaga" onscreen alter egos.

Alden said Maine, too, is also trying to enjoy what they have right now since she's new in showbiz.

But he said: "Masaya po kami ni Maine kapag magkasama. I'm very happy kapag kasama ko siya, on and off cam. 'Yun ang maganda ngayon kasi nabibigyan kami ng chance off cam, without cameras, without anyone following us.

Alden added, perhaps in reference to those who doubt that his gestures for Maine are scripted and "showbiz" and not genuine: "Kung ano naman po ang ginagawa for Maine, I'm doing that out of free will, hindi pilit, walang nag-plant, walang nagsabi."

"At this point po, we're still having fun. We're still getting to know each other kasi it's been, what, eight months pa lang."

Nonetheless, the Pambansang Bae said Maine is one of the most special women in his life right now.

"I'm very happy whenever I am with her," he said.

Alden spoke to members of the press to promote the cold medicine, which tagged Alden's family members, such as Alden's grandmother and siblings, for its new commercial.

What's next for Alden and Maine after their movie last December and their ongoing Kalyeserye? Alden said there's a movie in the works, although he can't divulge the details yet. They will also be part of the annual "Eat Bulaga" Lenten Special, to be aired next week.