A big birthday bash hosted by the amiable Boy Abunda unraveled last Tuesday (Feb. 11) at the Maynila Ballroom of the Manila Hotel where Heart’s family, work associates and close circle of friends came in full force. Resplendent in gowns by Inno Sotto and Rhett Eala, Heart, who was tailed by her escort and rumored paramour John Prats throughout the evening, entertained all her guests in high spirits.
The Star had a brief heart-to-heart with Heart a few days before her much-anticipated day. She shared her thoughts for this momentous occasion. Excerpts:
How do you feel about turning 18?
Excited. Nervous. Very happy.
You’re very lucky, ABS-CBN is spending for everything, and your debut will be made into a TV special to be billed Heart at 18!
I know and I’m very thankful. At first, I didn’t want a big celebration; family and close friends lang. I was even planning on asking for a trip from my family. The next thing was, I learned that they were planning something really big na pala. I really feel so honored.
Let’s say your dad still gives you the trip, do you think you’ll have time to go out of the country considering your hectic work schedule at present?
I’ll try to ask for a vacation pero I’m sure it won’t be easy. I’ve so much work.
(At present, Heart is a VJ for MYX, stars in Berks and Arriba, Arriba, and co-hosts A.S.A.P. She’s signing up with Star Records for an album and plans are in the offing for a young romantic movie with John Prats.)
Don’t you feel you’re spreading yourself too thinly by accepting so many projects? Don’t you feel you’re missing out on being a teenager?
That’s what many people tell me, but honestly, I don’t. In fact, I feel so lucky that I’ve lots of projects and good projects continue to come my way. Not everyone is given the same opportunities.
Yeah, but it’s not that you need to work, if you know what I mean.
It’s not that, but I really love what I’m doing.
Is John Prats a personal choice for your escort, or is he part of the grand scheme of ABS-CBN since he’s the other half of your loveteam?
I guess both. He’s very close to me. In fact, I think that aside from my dad, John is the closest guy I know. And even if they insist choosing somebody as my escort, kung ayaw ko, I’ll tell them kasi it’s my debut naman and I have the right to pick my escort, di ba?
Since we are on the subject of John, does it mean that he can start courting you since you’re turning 18?
Well, yes, pwede na daw akong magpaligaw, pero may usapan with my dad, hindi ko pa pwedeng sagutin.
Isn’t that kinda funny and illogical? Kaya nga manliligaw para sagutin at maging girlfriend, di ba?
I don’t know (breaks into laughter). Basta, that’s my agreement with my dad.
What traits must your suitors have for you to get close to them?
They should be understanding, and accept my work. They shouldn’t be too possessive. Dapat mabait, sweet and mapagmahal. Dapat gentleman, someone who respects girls and not so full of himself.
How close are you to John now?
Very close.
All the best, Heart. Have a great 18th year!
(Heart at 18 will be aired tonight at 9:30 on ABS-CBN Channel 2)