Sparkle backs Bianca Manalo amid rumors of Celeste Cortesi, partner split
MANILA, Philippines — Sparkle GMA Artist Center came to the defense of beauty queen-turned-actress Bianca Manalo following rumors she was involved in a couple's break-up.
Earlier this week it was reported that Miss Universe Philippines 2022 and another Sparkle artist Celeste Cortesi split with her British partner Jonathan Sterling, whose child she is carrying.
Rumors then emerged that Manalo, herself a Miss Universe Philippines titleholder in 2009, was supposedly the cause of the separation.
The talent arm of GMA Network issued a statement last June 12, Friday, clarifying that there was no truth to talks that Manalo was involved with another couple.
"[Bianca] is single and not in any relationship. We hope this settles the matter and that we all continue to spread and click kindess instead," the agency said.
Sparkle reiterated the words in a post accompanying the statement, which Manalo reposted on her accounts.
Cortesi later debunked the rumors by saying she and Sterling "are good" and their "focus remains on caring for their child," which they will name Sergio.
"I believe some situations call for greater consideration and respect, especially when a child and family are already involved," said Cortesi. "Our priority is our family, and that is where our time, energy, and attention will remain. With that, people can now relax and focus on their own lives instead. Thank you."
The advisory from Sparkle is further confirmation that Manalo is indeed no longer with Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, whom she started seeing in 2018.
Gatchalian and Manalo appeared to have ended their relationship between late 2024 and early 2025 as they separately celebrated Christmas 2024 and last year had no photos together.
Last January, Gatchalian then revealed that his love life was "non-existent," confirming he and Manalo were not an item anymore.
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