In the new GMA historical portal fantasy series Maria Clara at Ibarra, David Licauco plays the role of Felix, something which posed a huge challenge for him.
“During the first few days of taping, I found it difficult to deliver my lines because it is deep and pure Tagalog. I also have to utter Spanish lines. It’s good that eventually, as days went by, I got used to it already. It was far easier after that,” the 28-year-old David admits.
Even off-cam, the actor is proud that he is well-versed in Filipino now.
“When I speak, there’s a big difference now. In fact, when I’m at home and I’m conversing with my friends, they notice that my Tagalog has changed.”
When it comes to his portrayal of Fidel, he gives credit to his co-stars who are kind enough to guide him on set.
“Acting-wise, I can say it is okay. All of my co-stars in the project are kind, supportive, and cooperative. The writers also did a good job when it comes to the development of my character. So, generally, it is fine.”
Does he see some shades of himself in Fidel?
“Well, perhaps, our common denominator is that we’re both businessmen. That’s Fidel’s character description. In real life, I also have a couple of businesses. So, we’re similar in that aspect,” he shares.
“Fidel is also a good friend to Ibarra in the story so I would like to think that I’m also a good friend to my chums,” he adds.
David is proud to be part of a talented cast that includes Dennis Trillo, Andrea Torres, Barbie Forteza, Julie Ann San Jose, and Rocco Nacino, with Tirso Cruz III, Juancho Triviño, Manilyn Reynes, Ces Quesada, Juan Rodrigo, Lou Veloso, Gilleth Sandico, and Dennis Padilla.
“I really hope that the viewers will enjoy and support our offering,” he ends.
• • •
Jasmine Curtis-Smith nixes rumors that she and her boyfriend of seven years Jeff Ortega have already parted ways. In fact, they both attended an industry function together recently.
“It’s not true that we broke up,” she starts. “Actually, I got surprised where it came from. I’m not saying that we don’t have problems. We’re just like any other normal couple. Perhaps, people insinuated during the time when I was promoting The World between Us when I would say I wasn’t in a good head space. I couldn’t share that I was undergoing something then. I was afraid that if I would share it, people would have different interpretations. So, I opted to just keep quiet.”
Considering the number of years that they’re together, do we hear wedding bells in the offing?
“Well, we talk about it but we haven’t set a definite date yet. But as I see it, we will end up there. Considering all the emotional investment you’ve given to the relationship, I think it’s nice to feel that you’re leading somewhere. You can see the reward for everything that you’ve been working for together in all these times, right?”
Interestingly, what’s her dream wedding?
“Before, I like the beach, sand, and sunset. But now, I guess, it can be anywhere, as long as he will be happy. And our respective families would be there,” states Jasmine.
