MANILA—Julia Barretto preferred to focus on a coming “ASAP” show in California that she’s a part of, as she faced the media for the first time since the controversy involving her and fellow Star Magic talents Gerald Anderson and Bea Alonzo made headlines.

Barretto was interviewed by ABS-CBN News’ MJ Felipe as the actress, along with fellow Kapamilya stars, departed for San Francisco for an upcoming “ASAP” show for Filipinos based there.

The 22-year-old actress was all smiles as she expressed excitement for the Bay Area event, which is scheduled on Saturday, August 3, at SAP Center in San Jose.

When asked directly how she is amid the intrigues, Barretto said: “I’m excited. I’m excited for ‘ASAP’ in San Francisco. It’s actually my first time in San Francisco. I’m excited that I’m going to be with other artists also.”

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Barretto only repeated the answer when pressed for her reaction, and whether she is OK or is moving on.

Barretto arrived at Ninoy Aquino International Airport just minutes after Joshua Garcia, her onscreen partner and former boyfriend who has only expressed support for her amid allegations romantically linking her with Anderson.

“Siyempre, naging karelasyon ko rin si Julia. Nasasaktan ako for her, sa nangyayari, pero I think makakabangon naman siya,” he told ABS-CBN News prior to Barretto’s arrival.

Barretto’s first public appearance on Thursday came amid continued speculation surrounding her relationship with Anderson, who, according to Alonzo, had not accorded her a formal breakup and just stopped talking to her after three years together.

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Alonzo’s earlier post hinting at infidelity in her relationship notably came in quick succession with her visible Instagram activities: liking posts and comments alleging an affair between Anderson and Barretto.

Those posts, particularly photos of the “Between Maybes” co-stars meeting at the birthday party of actor Rayver Cruz, became the latest catalyst of rumors that the two have supposedly taken their romance off-screen.

Barretto’s family members — her sister Dani, and mother Marjorie — have come the actress’ defense, saying the photos of Anderson and Barretto together were “harmless” and do not prove an affair. Marjorie has also said she plans to take legal action against the uploader of the photos.