Real-life sweethearts Jason Abalos and Vickie Rushton, both talents of ABS-CBN, may not be busy with soap or reality shows like they were last year, but they were quite immersed for six months in Jason’s first ever restaurant venture, Golden King Buffet, on Macapagal Avenue. Based on social media posts and photos, both Jason and Vicky were hands on in running the business. And being the nice guy that Jason is, he encouraged his followers to patronize the restaurant even if he already sold it.
While Jason has always been regarded as a very good actor who won major acting awards along the way, the Filipino-British model Vickie won the Mutya ng Pilipinas 2011 title as well as 4th place in the Pinoy Big Brother last year which Daniel Matsunaga won.
We cornered them in a recent photo shoot for some questions. Amid all the teasing and laughter, you can see the deep friendship that binds them together:
THE PHILIPPINE STAR: How do you inspire other people to live a healthier life, an active life?
JASON ABALOS: Well, it goes with the job. We are public figures, millions of people see us on television or the movie screen. We cannot afford not to look good. It’s part of what we need to do for our career, take care of our health and our physique. Beyond the looks, we need the stamina and energy to last the marathon shoots that leave us sleep-deprived at times.
VICKIE RUSHTON: He already answered for me (laughs). Seriously, as Jason said, we need to take care of ourselves. Whatever we project to the public, how we take care of our health, hopefully inspires them to take care of themselves. Plus we won’t be able to work well if we are not healthy.
How did working out change your life?
JASON: I’m from Nueva Ecija where I just lift pail after pail of water (laughs). Here in Manila, I go to the gym. I became more energetic after I started working out regularly. Due to my regular trainings, I get to withstand 24 hours of continuous shoot.
VICKIE: I’m not as regular as Jason, but we do run together. When I just started working out, I got tired easily at first. But as I continue, my energy and strength builds up. Of course, I need Jason’s help to stick to a routine (laughs).
As a couple, how do you help each other reach your fitness or career goals?
JASON: Support! I support whatever endeavor she wants to pursue. I’m not the type to restrict her. I’m happy to support her in doing whatever gives her joy.
VICKIE: Even before I joined PBB, Jason was already set in his career. He has long made his career choice and I’m just here to support him.
How do you exercise together?
JASON: We frequent the beach where I go kayaking while she just sits down (laughs). We also swim and surf.
VICKIE: We also jog regularly. And do water sports.
Do you follow a particular diet?
JASON: When I am working out regularly, I don’t need to go on a diet as long as I do not overeat. Or if ever, I just go slow on rice especially for dinner. But basically, I eat anything.
VICKIE: I do not have any diet. I eat whatever I want. I just say no to extra rice serving.
What are the benefits of having a fit body for you?
JASON: We look better. Television makes you look bigger. So even if I look thin in person, I look bigger on TV. At the same time, the actresses paired with me are thin. So if I become too muscular, I might look like I’m their father, not the love interest (laughs). Seriously, we need to be fit because we are in front of the public. Plus, of course, the fans like you not only because you can act but also because of your looks. A complete package.
VICKIE: The public notices even the slightest gain in weight, that’s why we need to maintain our figure.
Talking about being public figures, how do you handle bashers?
JASON: Bashers? I just don’t mind them.
VICKIE: If you know what really is true, you should just ignore them.
How do you want the public to remember you?
JASON: I really just want to be known as an actor who gives his best to every acting job. I want to be able to always portray roles that people remember. Come to think of it, most of the jobs given to me ask that I remove my shirt so there you go, that’s the reason why I have to work out regularly (laughs).
VICKIE: I would like to keep on doing things that will inspire people.
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Post me a note at mylene@goldsgym.com.ph or mylenedayrit@gmail.com.