Kin defend Krista over her rumored affair with Pacquiao

Hurt by detractors assailing Kristel Anne “Krista" Ranillo over her alleged affair with boxing champ Manny Pacquiao, veteran actress Gloria Sevilla decided to break her silence and take the cudgels for her 23-year-old granddaughter.

“I am deeply saddened that some people are condemning my dear Krista...please, sana alamin n’yo muna ang facts bago kayo maghusga," said Sevilla in a statement she sent to GMA News on Saturday.

Sevilla, known in her time as the queen of Visayan movies said that “unfortunately" she was not in a position to speak on behalf of Krista.

“Apo ko siya at mahal ko siya but she’s of age and she’s a smart lady. I’d like to give her the right to speak for herself."

The mother of actor and Krista’s dad, Mat Ranillo III, also appealed to Krista’s critics to wait for her granddaughters’ explanation about the rumor. “You will hear from her soon. You will hear from her father…too."

Sevilla added that her family is now focusing on Trixie, Krista's sister, who underwent a major surgery in the US. "We almost lost her before. We cannot afford to lose her again. I'm asking for your prayers, too."


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In a separate statement, Krista’s’ aunt, Suzette Ranilo, advised her niece to remain strong amid the controversy. "That's showbiz! Live with it or leave it."

Suzette said Krista should "stay resilient in spite of all the hurtful words said about her, and to focus on improving her craft, and be particular in selecting good projects."

She described her niece as a “dynamic, smart, loving, and God-fearing lady."

"I'm very proud of her and unconditionally love her. Her image is not based on rumors... God is our judge not man," Suzette said.

She also urged people not directly involved in the controversy to stay out of the issue and spare her niece, and brother, Mat.

Asked for her message to those spreading the rumors against Krista. Suzette said: "Thank you for the publicity. Good or bad publicity is still publicity. And please watch Wapakman."

Wapakman, an entry to December’s Metro Manila Film Festival, stars Pacquiao and Krista, among others. - FIDEL JIMENEZ, GMANews.TV