Former University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons forward Ricci Rivero has broken his silence and firmly refuted allegations of cheating on Kapamilya actress Andrea Brillantes.
During an interview on GMA-7’s Fast Talk With Boy Abunda on Monday afternoon, Rivero shared the details of his recent separation from Brillantes after being in a relationship for over a year.
“It was April 2023 when we took a break off from each other, tapos ‘yung breakup was first week of May talaga. Marami na rin po kaming sinusubukang ayusin na problema,” Rivero said.
“Ang cause ng breakup, ‘yung speculations na kumakalat sa social media na may nakita siyang girl dun sa place ko. Pero ilang beses po naman naming pinag-usapan ito. Sobrang daming beses,” he added.
“Sinabi ko sa kanya with all the evidences I have, na hindi sa akin ‘yung girl. May papuntang friend akong midnight tapos hindi ko naman alam na may kasama siya. ‘Yun ang inabutan niya [Andrea],” the basketball player continued.
Rivero also mentioned that he and Brillantes are currently on good terms and maintain open communication, as she has come to the realization that her doubts were unfounded.
Rivero revealed that his initial intention was to remain silent on the issue and let netizens criticize him, but he felt compelled to speak up due to the unfortunate situation of some individuals heckling his parents in public places.
“Umabot na po sa point na ‘yung parents ko po, nasisigawan na sa mall o sa public areas, ‘Yung anak niyo cheater!'” Rivero said. “Kung ako kaya kong tanggapin kasi alam ko naman na hindi totoo.”
“Pero kapag sa family ko, siguro it’s time to step up and kailangan ko silang protektahan sa mga issues na meron. Ako, okay lang, pero huwag ‘yung pamilya ko,” he added.
