KC Concepcion sends food to frontliners

MANILA — KC Concepcion is among the local celebrities who are helping frontliners amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. 

In an Instagram post on Tuesday, Concepcion shared photos of the food she sent to a hospital in Quezon City.

“Done delivering 200 jars of ready-to-eat chicken and pork adobo to our frontliners at the Veterans Memorial Medical Center. Perpetual Help Medical Center - Las Piñas, you're next,” Concepcion wrote.

source: news.abs-cbn.com

Paulo Avelino confirms Fil-Aussie model is his girlfriend

MANILA -- Rumors have been swirling for some time that Paulo Avelino has found love anew.

And on Tuesday, the Kapamilya heartthrob broke the hearts of his legion of female fans as he confirmed that he is dating Filipino-Australian model Jodie Elizabeth Tarasek. 

The "Promise of Forever" star happily addressed the romantic buzz surrounding him and Tarasek in an interview with Pep, saying: "Hindi ko na sasabihin kung kailan, pero kami na." 

He added that he met Tarasek through a common friend, and that he likes her for her simplicity. 

Rumors about the two started in July when a photo of them together went around on social media. There was also a video in which Avelino could be seen teaching Tarasek some Tagalog words. 

This is Tarasek's first high-profile relationship. According to her Instagram page, she is a Manila-based model who has starred in catalogue shoots and commercials. 

Prior to Tarasek, Avelino dated KC Concepcion. 

source: news.abs-cbn.com

KC Concepcion to host Binibining Pilipinas 2017

MANILA – KC Concepcion may have not been visible on television lately, but there’s something her fans could look forward to next month.

In an interview on Wednesday, Concepcion revealed that she has been handpicked to return as a host for the Binibining Pilipinas 2017 pageant.

Concepcion also had the same role last year along with actor Xian Lim.

“Sobrang naging busy ako this March and this April, but I will be hosting Binibining Pilipinas so that’s going to be fun,” she said.

She, however, refused to disclose whether she has future acting projects coming up.

“We are keeping it under wraps first habang wala pang confirmed. But I am very thankful. ABS-CBN is really my home pagdating sa TV talaga,” she said.

Concepcion said she has more hosting stints coming up and she is happy about it because “yun naman talaga ang first love ko.”

Concepcion’s last acting project was in 2014 when she starred in the daytime drama anthology series “Give Love on Christmas” opposite Paulo Avelino.

source: news.abs-cbn.com

LOOK: Sharon reconciles with Piolo

MANILA - All's well that ends well.

Sharon Cuneta on Thursday night took to Facebook to share her feelings about her reconciliation with Piolo Pascual, whom she had a shaky relationship after the actor broke up with her daughter KC Concepcion.

"I was in my wheelchair amongst friends and I didn't see him (Pascual) coming," wrote Cuneta. "He hugged me tight and when I looked at his face, I hugged him back so tight."

The 49-year-old Cuneta, who has admitted to have said words against Pascual, went on to describe him as someone she had hurt and a "son" that she will continue to love.

"I know your apology was sincere. Please know that mine was, too. I think of your mama and feel very badly about how she must have felt, because she too, is a mother like me," she continued.

"I am sorry that you and my baby had to end your relationship, and I am sorry for how very publicly I made my emotions known."

"For what it's worth, I was not that kind of person. Was not, am not, and hopefully never will be. I believe you know that in your heart," she added.

Cuneta concluded the note by uploading a photo of her and Pascual -- one wherein the two shared an embrace and another where she gave the actor a kiss on his cheek.

"Thank you, Lord Jesus for forgiveness, restored friendships, and love. Most of all, thank you that my Kristina (Concepcion) is fine now and happy. And thank you, dear Piolo, that I can still call you my son no matter what. God bless you. Love you!"

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

15 celebrities who studied abroad

MANILA – While many celebrities are proud alumni of some of the Philippines’ top schools, other stars took the extra step and pursued education abroad.

Some left the country to get a college degree, while others opted to take short courses to hone their skills, both on- and off-camera.

Here’s a look at 15 celebrities who have experienced being a student in another part of the world.

Mobile users can view the desktop version of the slideshow here.

 1. KC Concepcion

This actress graduated at the American University of Paris with a degree in International Corporate Communications with a minor in Theater Arts. Photo from KC Concepcion’s Instagram page (@thisiskcconcepcion)

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

KC Concepcion admits dating foreigner

MANILA – Months after her much-publicized breakup with Paulo Avelino, KC Concepcion admitted that she is back in the dating scene.

Speaking on “Kris TV” which she co-hosted on Monday morning, Concepcion revealed that she is now seeing a non-showbiz guy but refused to disclose details about him.

The actress, however, revealed that the guy is not a Filipino.

“Yes, I’m dating. Quietly lang. European. Ayaw kong maudlot. Next [guesting na lang],” she said. “He’s European. He lives in the Middle East, pero [back and forth siya].”

After her very public relationships in the past, Concepcion explained that she now prefers a non-showbiz guy.

“Tumingin sa akin si Erich (Gonzales) kanina, sabi niya, ‘Non-showbiz na lang, maganda no?’ Sabi ko oo, for me. Kasi I’ve dated na my leading men, I’ve done that whole thing na. Tinutuluy-tuloy ko, after ng shoot na nagiging kami. So sabi ko na-experience ko na 'yung dating leading men, so maganda 'yung [non-showbiz],” she said.

Asked if they are exclusively dating, she said: “I’m dating but not exclusively kasi bago pa lang. Ayaw ko pangunahan.”

Concepcion also revealed that the guy is more than five years older than her.

“He’s hard-working and older… Pero wala din naman sa age. It’s yung pagkatao talaga. Kaya nga I don’t want na porke’t may dine-date, kami na agad. You never know. You have to really give it time. Sabi nila, eight months to one year tapos saka mo pa lang makikita ang totoong kulay ng tao,” she said.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

Why KC is happy after breaking up with Paulo

MANILA - Actress-host KC Concepcion has proudly declared that she is happier after her much publicized break-up with Paulo Avelino.

Part of Concepcion's new life is her all-out support for sexually abused children, an issue which she passionately discussed at the launch today of "Lukso! Cirque La Vie," a circus therapy campaign for girl survivors of child abuse.

The campaign will culminate in a big circus show featuring French luminaries at Resorts World Manila in May.

Speaking with ABS-CBN News on Thursday, Concepcion that this is her way of keeping her foot on the ground amid all the showbiz hoopla and her privileged life.

The Kapamilya star was joined by her long-time friend and French Legion of Honor awardee Laurence Ligier, known for her advocacy for marginalized and abused children in the Philippines and other countries.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

Paulo finally admits relationship with KC

MANILA – For the first time, Paulo Avelino admitted that he had a relationship with KC Concepcion.

The “Bridges of Love” actor made the revelation during his appearance on “The Buzz” on Sunday.

During the show’s killer question segment, host Boy Abunda put Avelino on the hot seat and asked him directly if he was ever in a relationship with Concepcion.

Avelino initially hesitated to answer the question and became evasive. “KC and I are friends and I’ll always be there for her whenever she needs me,” he said.

Host Kris Aquino, however, noted that Avelino did not directly answer Abunda’s question, urging him to just reply with a “yes” or “no.”

Cornered, Avelino then responded: “Yes.”

However, the actor did not provide further details, especially on reports that he and Concepcion have broken up.

In one of his recent interviews, Avelino was quoted as saying he and Concepcion did not break up because “hindi naman siguro nagbi-break ang magkaibigan.”

Avelino also said he and Concepcion have different priorities as of the moment.

Meanwhile, Avelino shrugged off rumors linking him to actress Jasmine Curtis-Smith.

Last week, a photo of them in what seems to be a dinner date was sent to “The Buzz.” This triggered rumors romantically linking the two of them.

On “The Buzz” on Sunday, Avelino emphasized that she and Curtis-Smith are just friends.

“Jasmine and I are friends. We have a film coming out with Isabelle Daza. I just casually have dinner with friends, with co-workers. That’s it,” he said.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

Sharon to play Napoles in comeback film?

MANILA - Megastar Sharon Cuneta denied Saturday that her comeback film will be based around the life of alleged pork barrel scam mastermind Janet Lim Napoles.

In a Facebook post, Cuneta dismissed rumors suggesting that she will portray the Napoles in an upcoming biopic. She also denied that her daughter, KC Concepcion, will be playing the role of Jeane Napoles.

"Why is there a rumor going around that my comeback movie will be based on the Janet Lim Napoles story, and with KC playing the role of her daughter?" she wrote.

Napoles is currently detained for allegedly diverting millions in pork barrel funds to bogus non-government organizations.

"No one has spoken to me about this, and so it is totally untrue," Cuneta added. "I already have a comeback project waiting, and with a company that has my full trust and respect."

The veteran actress earlier made headlines after she announced her departure from TV5.

"I am going to drop clues every now and then as to the things I will be working on which will start sooner than you think!" she said at the time.

In 2012, Sharon signed a reported record-breaking P1-billion contract with the Manny V. Pangilinan-owned network.

She hosted her own talk show entitled "Kasama Mo, Kapatid," and became a co-host of a musical variety show "The Mega and the Songwriter" alongside Ogie Alcasid.

She also starred in the comedy series "Madam Chairman," which premiered on 2013. It was her first TV series in 35 years. The show was cancelled by the network.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

What did KC Concepcion give Paulo Avelino for Christmas?

MANILA - Actress KC Concepcion revealed what gift she gave rumored boyfriend Paulo Avelino for Christmas.


"Binigyan ko siya ng box of 5 senses. May laman na for touch, for taste, for sight, for smell and sound," Concepcion said on "KrisTV" aired on Wednesday.

"Para sa sight binigyan ko siya ng three real books... Yung sound ang typical, music pero sabi ko, corny kung obvious, so sa sound binigyan ko siya, may nahanap ako na whisky glass na may imprint na skull, he likes kasi whisky. So parang the sound of your drink poured in your glass."

"Taste, pinadalhan ko ang family niya ng turkey. Touch, may nahanap ako (pillow) for relaxation yung parang hot and cold yung may scent sa loob at parang may beads na naiinit, pwedeng cold. Tapos sa scent, candle na malaki na bay leaf (scent), very fresh," Concepcion said.

Concepcion said she wanted to give a personalized gift so Avelino would know she is really thinking of him.

What did Avelino give her for Christmas? Concepcion said he gave her an espresso machine.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

Sharon's mother, KC's grandma dies at 79

MANILA - Former beauty queen and actress Elaine Cuneta, the mother of veteran actress Sharon Cuneta, passed away on Wednesday. She was 79.

Granddaughter KC Concepcion broke the news on her Twitter account. She wrote: "Hi. I just lost the love of my life today. My Mita [Elaine] will forever be the BEST GRANDMA EVER. She will forever be with me. I love you, my Mita."

According to Concepcion, her grandmother has been hospitalized for nearly two months and was set to undergo surgery today, November 6. The actress revealed that her grandmother had to be confined at the hospital's intensive care unit.

"My grandma will forever be my inspiration. She loved life, gave us all beautiful adventures. She knew me more than I knew myself. #SuperLola," Concepcion wrote shortly after her initial post.

Concepcion, who has been very vocal about her closeness to her grandmother, also shared a photo of her grandmother on her Instagram account with the caption: "I will miss you laughing this much, this way. I shared so many fun times with you that I will recreate forever. You are my sunshine, Mita."



Concepcion credited the elder Cuneta as the reason she joined show business, knowing how she loves seeing her granddaughter perform, whether on stage or on TV.

Concepcion also shared that when she was still a young girl, her grandmother would always remind her to take care of her when she gets old.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

KC reveals Paulo looked after her in hospital

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MANILA – KC Concepcion revealed that it was Paulo Avelino who looked after her day in and day out while she was confined in the hospital due to dengue.

In an interview with “The Buzz” on Sunday, Concepcion shared how much she appreciates Avelino’s efforts, noting that the Kapamilya actor has been very consistent in showing that he truly cares for her.

“Alam mo 'yang si Paulo, kahit kapag nakikita mo siyang rumarampa na ang lakas ng dating, he’s very sweet, he’s very thoughtful. Nung nasa hospital ako, siya talaga 'yung nag-alaga every night and day. 'Yun ang sincerity na hindi mo talaga mafe-fake,” she said.

Last week, Concepcion shared a video clip where she is could be seen singing Beyonce’s “Single Ladies” while Avelino was playing the guitar.


According to the “Ikaw Lamang” actress, she shared the video because he wanted the people to know how sweet Avelino is.

“Kasi when you’re sick, kapag naospital ka, parang ang lungkot. Parang lahat ng tao hindi alam kung bibisitahin ka or hindi. Siya, no questions asked. Talagang nandun siya,” she said.

“Ayaw ko na mag-deny. Pero hindi naman pag-amin ito. Ang sa akin, artista so kapag ganun, celebrity or nakikita ka sa TV, hindi ka pwedeng humingi ng privacy lagi. Nag-decide akong i-share kasi napaka-sweet ni Pau,” she added.

But what is it that’s stopping the two of them to be together?

“Honestly, we have our ups and downs. We are very, very, very close. I can really say isa siya sa mga best friends ko. Not to say na hanggang doon lang pero maganda 'yung friendship namin. It’s very real, genuine. Wala naman kaming project together. We are very, very good friends,” she said.

Despite this, Concepcion said she wants to make sure that her next relationship would already be the one for keeps.

“Pero siguro nandun din 'yung siyempre may anak na siya. Siyempre ako ayaw ko din mag-commit sa isang tao na—kasi dapat tuluy-tuloy na 'yun. Hindi pa namin napag-uusapan exactly kung ano 'yung meron kami pero you’re right, whatever we have now, we are happy that way,” she said.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

KC confirms dating Paulo Avelino again

MANILA - Actress KC Concepcion admitted that she is again dating Paulo Avelino amid speculations about the real score between the two.

In an interview with Push during her contract signing with ABS-CBN, the 29-year-old said that she is willing to try again with Avelino, but added that her tight schedule may play a part.

"Medyo nagmamakaawa ako na sana intindihin din ako kung may times na parang mag-aadjust pa ako sa schedule," she said.

"Sana naman mahanapan ng way na parang makapag-date pa din or makapag-spend ng time with you know, kung sinong makakapagpa-happy sa iyo," she added.

Last month, the two were spotted in Baguio together after Concepcion returned to the country from New York. Avelino earlier cited that the distance was one of the factors affecting their "relationship."

"Yun naman yung maganda when you’re able to spend time para makilala mo din yung tao 'di ba?" Concepcion asked, referring to the actor.

"Para makilala namin yung isa't isa. 'Yun ang pinaka-importante sa lahat, 'yung malaman mo kung paano ba talaga ang isang tao. Basta we're okay. 'Yun lang ang masasabi ko siguro. Okay kami," she said.

Concepcion also revealed that the Baguio trip was planned by Avelino, and said that she appreciates the "efforts" being made by the actor.

"Gusto kong maramdaman lang na normal ako ganun. Na hindi ako natatakot na maglakad sa streets of Manila. And napag-usapan lang namin one time na nagplano siya na parampahin ako sa Session Road," she said.

"Kinabahan ako actually kasi first time ko actually na wala talagang maraming kasama. Pero 'yun lang, we're okay. Sa time namin ngayon in our lives important yung work," she reiterated.

Concepcion is set to feature in the ongoing television series "Ikaw Lamang," while Avelino is currently cast as one of the major characters in ABS-CBN's newest primetime soap "Sana Bukas Pa Ang Kahapon."

"Passion niya 'yung work. Passion ko rin 'yung work. Kaya rin kami magkasundo. We're happy for each other and we're okay," she explained.

Earlier in the year, Avelino said on national television that his special relationship with Concepcion hasn't taken off but is definitely not yet over.

Avelino first admitted to dating Concepcion in November last year, weeks after he confirmed his separation from former girlfriend, actress LJ Reyes, with whom he has a son.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

KC, Paulo spotted together in Baguio

MANILA – Actress KC Concepcion continued to be evasive about the real score between her and Paulo Avelino even after a picture of them together in Baguio City last week made the rounds online.

Last Friday, “The Buzz” caught up with the actress, who just came from a meeting of her upcoming show which will soon be aired on ABS-CBN.

Still excited about her new project, Concepcion generously granted “The Buzz” an interview where she talked about her upcoming show.

“I am proud to say that yes, malapit niyo na akong makita sa ABS-CBN and meron akong future show na tinatrabaho ngayon,” she said.

Concepcion, however, was not able to escape questions about her love life when asked if her new project is the sole reason why she returned to the Philippines.

“For now kasi work ang priority ko. Work hard, play hard,” she said.

Concepcion has been staying in New York City where she is taking up an acting course. The long distance was one of the factors cited by Avelino in a past interview affecting their “relationship.”

“Kasi excited ako sa bago kong show. Parang kailangan huminahon muna siya (her love life) and magfo-focus muna ako ulit sa show na gagawin ko,” she said.

Two weeks ago, Avelino said on national television that his special relationship with Concepcion hasn’t taken off but is definitely not yet over.

Avelino first admitted dating Concepcion in November last year, weeks after he confirmed his separation from former girlfriend, actress LJ Reyes, with whom he has a son.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

KC, Paulo spend time together in New York

MANILA – Paulo Avelino and KC Concepcion recently spent some quality time together in New York.

On Instagram, Concepcion shared a photo of her and Avelino posing in the kitchen.

The actress said she was happy that she got to cook for Avelino that day.

"Safe flight home. It made my heart happy to cook for you that day & to see you enjoying the little things, even just for a while. Thank you. For everything,” she wrote as the photo's accompanying caption.

Last November, Avelino admitted on national television that he and Concepcion are dating. He has been a determined suitor of the actress since then.

Concepcion, who is in New York for a short course on acting, said she admires Avelino for continuously exerting effort to win her heart even if they are miles apart.

"Paulo and I are very, very good friends, isa talaga siya sa mga best friends na meron ako. But I'm not leaving it at best friend. Siyempre at this point, tinitignan ko rin kung baka naman okay siya maging boyfriend. Ayaw ko na ng heartbreak," she said.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

KC admits 'crush' on suitor Paulo

MANILA -- KC Concepcion drew "kilig" among her online followers on Tuesday when she confessed having a crush on actor Paulo Avelino, who has admitted courting the actress-host.

In a post on Instagram, the 28-year-old Concepcion shared a photo of Avelino on a 2012 cover of women's lifestyle magazine Cosmpolitan, where he appears shirtless.

"San man ako makarating basta crush ko parin sya sa cover na to. CRUSH lang naman!! Bawal ang nega. LOL #thatsall #sorrynotsorry #justagirl" Concepcion said in the photo's caption.

Several comments on Concepcion's posts approved of her candid confession, with others urging the actress to say "yes" to Avelino.





Early this week, the 25-year-old actor, who first admitted pursuing Concepcion in November last year, said he continues to exert effort to woo the "Boy Golden" actress.

"Now sobrang busy namin pareho," Avelino said, citing his ongoing series and Concepcion's studies in the United States. "[But] we still communicate. Siguro ang masasabi ko lang ngayon, I am inspired."

"May effort. Kumbaga, she's studying, winter doon," he added. "Sometimes you just want to inspire someone, ganoon din siya. She has been inspiring me also, giving me advice."

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

Paulo exerting extra effort in wooing KC

MANILA - Actor Paulo Avelino said he has been exerting extra effort in wooing actress KC Concepcion, who is currently studying abroad.

Avelino said that despite their busy schedules, he and Concepcion still make it a point to get in touch with each other.

"Now sobrang busy namin pareho. Now I'm doing a soap here and she's in the US taking different classes. [But] we still communicate. Siguro ang masasabi ko lang ngayon, I am inspired," Avelino said.

"May effort. Kung baga, she's studying, winter doon. Sometimes you just want to inspire someone, ganoon din siya. She has been inspiring me also, giving me advice," he added.

It was November last year when Avelino confirmed that he is dating Concepcion.

The actor said he is impressed by Concepcion's beauty and brains.

Currently, Avelino is busy taping for the finale of ABS-CBN's hit series "Honesto," which will air its last episode on March 14.

"Honesto," which stars child actor Raikko Mateo, airs weeknights after "TV Patrol."

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

Sharon, Gabby have nothing against Paulo Avelino

MANILA – Sharon Cuneta and Gabby Concepcion have nothing against Paulo Avelino after the actor admitted that he is currently dating their daughter, actress KC Concepcion.

In two separate interviews with “Buzz ng Bayan” aired on Sunday, both said they are not going to intervene with their daughter’s love life as long as KC is happy.

“Ay ayoko makialam! Pero okay lang sa akin basta masaya si KC. 'Yun lang,” Cuneta said.

As for Gabby, he said: “Basta kung sino ang mamahalin mo, at mahal mo okay sa akin yun. Basta ang importante doon, naipapakita nila ang concern nila sa isa’t isa.”

Gabby added that he likes people who are respectful and kind.

“Binati niya ako. It doesn’t matter [kung nagpapalakas], ang importante magalang siyang tao. Gusto ko 'yung mga taong ganun, mabait, magalang and marunong rumespeto,” he said.

Following Avelino’s admission on national television two weeks ago, KC clarified on her Twitter account that she is not exclusively dating the actor.

“Hi. So... I am not dating anyone EXCLUSIVELY. At least not yet! Just wanted to clear the air! Goodnight, Philippines,” she said.

KC then posted another tweet after several minutes confirming that she is seeing the “Honesto” actor but is still single as of the moment.

“To those asking: Yes @mepauloavelino & I enjoy each others company, yes we spend time, but nothing serious right now! I am still single,” she said.

Avelino, on the other hand, said he did not intend to make it appear that he and KC are already serious with each other.

“Like what I’ve said in the interview, we’re dating. Dating with me is having dinner, talking -- nothing more than that,” he said.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

Paulo Avelino confirms dating KC Concepcion

MANILA – Actor Paulo Avelino took viewers of "Buzz ng Bayan" by surprise when he revealed that he is currently dating actress KC Concepcion.

Although he was initially hesitant to open up about his private life, Avelino nonetheless confirmed on national television that he and Concepcion are friends and that he likes the actress.

“Yes [we are friends]. Yes [I like her], we are dating. I just want to keep things private,” he said in a sit-down interview with “Buzz ng Bayan” on Sunday.

Asked how long have they known each other, Avelino said: “Matagal na kaming magkakilala. First work ko here sa ABS, ‘MMK’ with her. That was two years ago.”

Because of his admission, Avelino topped the local trending topics of Twitter as netizens expressed their surprise with the actor's revelation.

The “Honesto” actor added that he did not get jealous when Concepcion went out on a group date with NBA cager Chandler Parsons.

“Me as a person, hindi rin talaga ako seloso. I try to think about things first before I really say anything or just bring it out,” he said.

Furthermore, Avelino noted that it was Concepcion herself who said that she and the American athlete are just friends.

“Nasabi naman niya yung totoo, [na they are friends] so wala naman siguro problema,” he said.

Son with LJ

Meanwhile, Avelino opened up about his son with former girlfriend, actress LJ Reyes.

It was only recently when Avelino confirmed in a press conference that he and Reyes have already ended up their relationship although they continue to remain friends for their son.

“I want to protect the privacy of my son. I want him to have a simple life, a normal life. Kapag may sarili na siyang isip and sabihin niya na gusto niyang mag-showbiz or magtanong siya, choice niya na rin iyon,” he said.

Avelino said he treasures being a father and that he spends all his free time with his son.

“Kapag wala po akong trabaho, I don’t really think of it as my responsibilities as a dad. Siyempre kapag mahal mo ang anak mo, ginagawa mo na lang iyon kasi gusto mo makita anak mo, gusto mo siya makitang masaya, gusto mo siyang turuan ng values,” he explained.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

The story behind KC and Chandler's 'dinner date'

MANILA - KC Concepcion and American cager Chandler Parsons made headlines early this month when they confirmed having dinner prior to the NBA Global Games, triggering speculation of a brewing relationship between the two.

Parsons, who plays for the Houston Rockets, said that he enjoyed spending time with the 28-year-old actress and referred to her as a "great girl" in an interview.

Concepcion, likewise, confirmed the meeting when she posted a collage of the night on her Instagram page. The photos showed her with Parsons, along with her celebrity half-sisters and his group of friends.




"Mabuhay!" the caption read. "So much to see, so little time! Fun night with my ladiez & the big boys."

But how did the two meet? And how did it lead to the what write-ups have referred to as a "dinner date"?

Concepcion, in a recent interview with entertainment news site Philippine Entertainment Portal, recalled that it was Parsons who first followed her on the micro-blogging site Twitter, where the two were seen exchanging messages back in 2012.

"Siya ang unang nag-follow sa akin sa Twitter. Unang nag-contact sa akin," said Concepcion.

But Concepcion said this wasn't their first interaction. The actress, who drew attention to the relationship when TV host Kris Aquino teased her about an unnamed basketball player during a televised interview, said that she met Parsons through his Rockets teammate Jeremy Lin.

“Common friend. Very good friend siya nina Tim, Jeremy Lin na gumagawa ng mga charity works dito. So, nag-start 'yun dun," she said.

Parsons, with his candid admission of the "dinner date" with Concepcion, unwittingly triggered speculation about his ties with the actress.

The "Huwag Ka Lang Mawawala" star, however, dismissed talks of romantic links with the player, labeling the meeting as a "welcome dinner." She emphasized that they were not alone that night.

“That was a private dinner, sa isang function room. We were fifteen. And closed-doors siya. Hindi siya yung tipong nasa restaurant ka na kita ng lahat. Very private.

“Kaya nga nagulat ako nung sinabi niyang nag-dinner kami. Siya pa yung nagkuwento sa akin na, 'Oh, during training, the press asked me about you and I ended up talking about [it].'

"Reaction ko, 'What?!" she said.

Concepcion added she was surprised they managed to meet, considering Parsons' strict schedule. She recalled being invited to dinner by the star athlete, and leaving it to him to arrange the get-together.

“Kasi medyo istrikto sila sa NBA. Ewan ko kung ano ang nangyari. Basta ang alam ko lang, gusto nilang mag-dinner. Hindi ko na alam kung ano yung arrangement na nangyari nung mga time na 'yun,” said the actress.

Media frenzy

With the "dinner date" becoming public knowledge, rumors of a romantic relationship between Parsons and Concepcion surfaced. Her attendance to the NBA game in Pasay City -- she later thanked Parsons for the tickets -- also became the subject of online buzz.

Addressing this, Concepcion said, "Nagulat ako na romance agad yung anggulo [sa mga balita]. Hindi rin naman kasi nila alam na magkakilala na kami, matagal na."

Asked why she went public with the collage of photos of her with Parsons, the actress said, "Nung malaman nga ng mga tao, sila rin ang nagsabi na, 'Ang daya mo. Bakit ikaw, walang pinu-post? May itinatago?'"

“Nung private 'yung mga bagay sa akin, nagtatampo kayo dahil wala akong isini-share... Pero nung katiting na maliit na maliit na shinare ko, after na niyang magsalita, biglang ayun, lumabas na yung mga kung anu-ano nang mga sinasabi nila," she said, referring to the negative comments she received on her account.

"Parang sabi ko nga sa Twitter recently, 'Damn if you do, damn if you don’t," she added.

Concepcion was also quick to say "no" when asked if she felt "kilig" when she met Parsons that night. “Hindi. Ayokong kiligin. Ayokong kiligin sa isang taong may girlfriend na. So, hindi talaga," she said.

Parsons reportedly has a girlfriend named Robyn Crowley.

“I’d like to just want focus on the friendship angle lang. For me, to be friend to people like that, na hindi naman ako yung lumapit sa kanya, at wala naman akong kaalam-alam sa basketball, parang, you wanna give them a good time. You want to show them na may maganda dito sa Pilipinas," she said.

Now that Parsons is off jet-setting as part of the NBA, Concepcion happily shared they still manage to keep in touch. On whether he regularly calls her, the actress quipped, “A, basta! Parang normal friends lang kami!”

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com