MANILA – Jessy Mendiola’s onscreen partner JC De Vera admitted that he was “a little bit surprised” when he first heard the news that his leading lady is being romantically linked to TV host Luis Manzano.

A photo posted by Jessy Mendiola (@senorita_jessy) on Apr 21, 2016 at 12:49am PDT

De Vera, however, quickly clarified that he has nothing against Mendiola and Manzano, who, in separate interviews, admitted to be dating but are not yet in a relationship.

“Kung magiging happy siya (Mendiola) sa kung ano man ang decisions niya, ako pa 'yung magiging sobrang saya basta maging masaya siya,” de Vera said, adding that he never asks Mendiola about her personal life.

“Hindi ko alam 'yung story [nila ni Luis], hindi ko rin inaalam. Very positive thinker ako. Kapag anything may negative, that’s the time na magtatanong ako ng personal stuff kay Jessy,” he explained.

A photo posted by Jessy Mendiola (@senorita_jessy) on May 3, 2016 at 9:28pm PDT

As Mendiola’s leading man, De Vera said what’s more important is that deliver what is required of them in their projects.

“Work will go on. Ako, basta maayos ang trabaho, maayos ang relationship with everyone pagdating sa work, wala akong problema talaga,” he said.

De Vera said he values his friendship with Mendiola that he did not think of courting the actress even before the news broke that Manzano is pursuing her.

“That’s one thing na ina-avoid ko. Kapag umabot sa point na 'yun, madisira 'yung samahan naming dalawa. 'Yun ang nakikita natin sa halos lahat ng celebrities and artists na nagwo-work together,” he said.

“At some point kasi, hindi na kami magkasama na sa work, mayroon na kaming separate life. For me, to enter in a relationship na parehong busy 'yung dalawa, para sa akin, ang hirap lang. Mas lalong mahirap 'yung if totally nawala. 'Yung naging kayo, tapos nawala,” he added.

Aside from “Banana Sundae,” De Vera and Mendiola are gearing up for their first movie together which is slated to be released this year.