IN her acting debut in the romantic film, “The Loved One,” 2018 Miss Universe Catriona Gray didn’t have qualms paying lip service to Jericho Rosales, the lead actor in the film that also topbills Anne Curtis.
“The Loved One” marks Jericho and Anne’s screen reunion after being paired in Mark Meily’s romantic the war drama, “Baler,” that was a Metro Manila Film Festival entry in 2008.
Catriona is a talent of Cornerstone Entertainment, one of the producers of “The Loved One,” with Viva Films. It was not a tall order to make her accept a role in the film, directed by Irene Emma Villamor. “Actress era siya ngayon,” said direk Irene.
“First time that I said yes to a film,” said Catriona. “I really admire direk Irene. We had run-in occasionally in the office, but this time we were working together. I really love her energy. I had this feeling that she would really walk me through the film and she really did.
“When I learned who the other cast members were, I was very flattered to be considered even if I was a very newbie. It was an incredible experience for me. Everyone was so kind and accommodating. They really didn’t have to be. But I think it’s just a testament of who they are as people and who they are as actors.
“I’m very proud to be part of this as my first acting stint. It is a really beautiful story. I think that was the biggest reason I said yes to this project. It was great.
Admittedly, Catriona was nervous going through her role as Nicole, the officemate of Eric (Jericho) who had a fling with him but only once. She is someone who sees potential in a relationship. “I was really nervous going into it,” Catriona said. “I really respect both Anne and Jericho equally in their craft. They have so many years of experience under their belt.
“Coming on to the scene or coming in to the set with not a day of experience, that was very intimidating, but I feel that they both went out of their way not to make me feel that way. It was such an enjoyable experience.
“I was really observing how everything goes. I was so amazed with both of them. I see them on the scene, but when the camera gets ready, they would act right away. Wow, that was cool.”
Direk Irene cannot be any happier when Catriona accepted the project. “She was very instinctive,” direk Irene commented. “She was hesitant to accept the project. She kept on asking paano ba umarte. Sabi niya ‘Direk, I only know how to be excited and be happy.’ That was her usual reaction as a host.
“She even underwent Meister acting workshop with Angeli (Bayani). So she was really serious and I was so happy.”
Catriona accepted her role as a “lover” in “The Loved One,” because even in person, she is really very affectionate.
After watching the film, Catriona wishes the viewers will have a take-away of something connected to them or the story. “Everyone experienced being in love, but it will look different for everyone.
The encapsulation of the relationship of Ellie and Eric, so many facets will show and that’s really interesting.
“Also, I hope we can appreciate the capability of what we can do in Philippine cinema. Even more so with a love story like this.”
“The Loved One” is a Valentine’s season release. Catriona credited the story for hitting her hard.
“Ang ganda talaga ng writing. It’s such a beautiful love story,” she said.
While Catriona did not comment on her performance, she extended her gratitude to her supporters and the production for giving her a chance at acting.
“First time ko trying and acting so I really appreciate any comments. I’m also open to feedback naman. Sobrang grateful ako sa experience,” the beauty queen said.
She also had a clear message for critics, acknowledging she’s new to acting. “Okay lang, hindi naman ako artista,” she said.
“I really wanted to do my role justice and if it’s detracted from the experience of the kwento, the rest of the cast and the story is beautiful as it is,” Catriona added.
Also starring in “The Loved One” are Jackielou Blanco, Ara Davao, Joyce Ann Burton, Luis Alandy, Mari Kaimo and Max Eigenmann.
The love story used the songs of Kyle Raphael Borbon (“Libo Libong Pangarap”) and Cup of Joe (“Tingin” and “Multo”).
Remembering Emman
AS Kuya Kim Atienza marked what could have been his late daughter Emman’s 20th birthday last February 8, he poured out his love and longing for Emman. His children, Jose and Eliana, also shared their messages of love for their youngest sister.
In an Instagram post, Kuya Kim looked back on Emman’s past birthdays, sharing clips from those moments when she was blowing out her birthday cake while being cheered by her loved ones. In one of the videos, Emman could be heard sharing a wish that had become a tradition for her – one rooted in kindness and selflessness.
“These are clips from Emman’s 18th and 19th birthdays. Emman’s birthday wish every year was the same. “To make people happy so I can be happy,” Kuya Kim wrote.
For Kuya Kim, that wish did not go unanswered. He reflected on how Emman was able to touch countless people during her time.
“Emmansky your time with us was brief but you made millions happy. I love you and miss you so much. Happy 20th birthday up there dearest Emmansky!” he added.
On late January, Kuya Kim also celebrated his 59th birthday which he describes as his “toughest birthday,” as it was the first time he marked the occasion without his late daughter.
Emman’s siblings, Jose and Eliana, also paid tribute to her on social media, sharing photos from their childhood and teenage years together.
In his post, Jose opened about the everyday moments that still remind him of his younger sister and the ache of missing her presence.
“There isn’t a day that passes where I don’t think about your smile, laughter, and energy,” Jose wrote.
“When I see the chair where you used to sit for dinner, go through our old pictures, explore our COVID Minecraft world or reread at the last text you sent me about our 23&Me results the day before you passed away, I’m always left wishing I had said ‘I love you’ more than I did.”
“Emman, I love you more than you’ll ever know, and I miss you everyday. Please take care of our dogs – and in case you’re still wondering, we’re 39.4 percent Filipino and 32.4 percent Taiwanese,” he ended.
Eliana, meanwhile, marked her sister’s birthday with a quiet but loving gesture. She lit candles on a cake for Emman and shared a short message that carried deep longing.
“Happy 20th birthday, Emman. I can’t wait for the day I get to see you again,” she said.
Emman passed away at the age of 19 in October 2025 in Los Angeles, California. Her urn was later brought home to the Philippines, where she was welcomed with love by her family and remembered fondly by those whose lives she touched.
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