Getting along swimmingly

CEBU, Philippines - There’s no end to Filipino viewers’ fascination for mermaids, and GMA-7 has just served up a new version of these otherworldly fantastical sea creatures via the primetime series “Kambal Sirena,” which premiered yesterday night. Then again, this could be the network’s strategic move to counter rival station ABS-CBN’s upcoming “Dyesebel” starring Anne Curtis. Summer 2014 is shaping up to be a battle of the mermaids, so to speak.

Kapuso teaser plugs have been touting a “younger, fresher, talented” sirena in fair-skinned beauty Louise Delos Reyes, whose previous small screen tandem with golden boy Alden Richards rated well. This time, the Foreign Service major is paired with hunk Aljur Abrenica, himself having a solid fan base due to his pairing with Kris Bernal. Is the Louise-Aljur team-up ready to ride the waves?

Louise,

 new mermaid in town

How is ‘Kambal Sirena’ different from your past projects?

I’m portraying twins here: one human, and the other a mermaid. So far, this has been the most physically and emotionally challenging role for me. Alona, the mermaid, is the firm and strong twin; Perlas, the one with legs, is quiet, shy, weak and lacks self-confidence. I think this is a project to be proud of because it’s an original concept from the capable writers of GMA-7 headed by Dode Cruz and directed by Dondon Santos, the latter of which did very well with “Indio.” The story has many good angles, aside from the twins, there’s the love story – how two different creatures can develop a close bond. One of the messages is, we can use our differences to bring us closer to one another.

Did you undergo any makeover for this breakthrough role?

Nothing really. They just put glitters and crystals all over my body, and my tresses are made to appear thicker to cover my upper body.

How is it working with Aljur for the first time?

Aljur is very kind and thoughtful. As an actor, he is dedicated to his job and very energetic. It was a surprise to find out that he’s a very jolly person.

You reportedly almost drowned while shooting the teaser plug?

That time, the waves were really strong, because these were surfing waves. It was unfortunate we were there shooting when a strong wave hit. I just clung to this huge rock so I won’t be taken with the current.

Thankfully, everyone on set was quick to rescue me.

How did your reconciliation with boyfriend Enzo Pineda happen?

I can say na our relationship now is better. I’m also not sure how we reconciled; maybe our stars just aligned (laughs). It just happened!

One day, we realized there really was something between us, and that we would rather be together through worst times, rather than be miserable apart.

What do you like best about Enzo?

Enzo inspires me a lot. He is always there for me. He’s a very hands-on boyfriend, brother, father, handler – all of those, rolled into one. I’m very much comfortable with him, to the point that sometimes, I can’t imagine that Enzo Pineda is not beside me. That’s how attached we are to one another. And we’re really supporting each other.

Who gets jealous often, you or Enzo?

Before, I would say I would get jealous more often. But not anymore. I can feel our relationship is much more balanced now. We have respect and understanding, and we feel responsible for one another.

ALJUR,

dapper leading man

Did you audition for ‘Kambal Sirena’?

No, I didn’t audition. I just received a call, and I remember my reaction was, “Weh? Totoo ba yan?” At first, I really couldn’t believe that I’m part of the series as Louise’ leading man. I’m very thankful to be entrusted with another show immediately after “Prinsesa ng Buhay Ko.”

How did you prepare?

Aside from workshops with Louise, I needed to work out and train with the dolphins. I familiarized myself  with the life of dolphin trainers. Up until now, the learning process is ongoing.

What’s your dream role?

I want to do action.

What keeps you busy apart from ‘Kambal Sirena’?

I’m part of the variety show “Sunday All Stars,” my recording career is on-going, and there are numerous mall shows. I’m also doing Muay Thai as part of my work out. But the favorite thing I’m focusing on right now is training with the dolphins.

How do you handle making time for girlfriend Kylie Padilla, now that you’re busy with a TV series?

We just see to it that our lives are balanced. The secret to a strong relationship is also making sure to include the Lord in your relationship.

How do you separate your professional life from your personal life?

I just learn through experience. We all eventually learn, since we weren’t born to automatically know how to handle these things. We all go through experiences, and because of these, I have slowly learned how to separate my work from my personal life. (VAB) (FREEMAN)