In recent buzzworthy news, Filipino basketball player Ricci Rivero finds himself at the center of speculation regarding his alleged relationship with beauty queen and Los Baños councilor Leren Bautista, as well as rumors surrounding a gay boyfriend.
Rivero has come forward to clarify these claims and shed light on the truth.
During an episode of GMA’s ‘Fast Talk with Boy Abunda’ on June 26, Rivero adamantly denied any romantic involvement with Councilor Leren Bautista, amid ongoing rumors and questions surrounding their relationship.
TV host Boy Abunda posed the inquiry during a discussion on Rivero’s breakup with Filipino actress and model Andrea Brillantes.
“Nanliligaw ka ba kay Councilor Leren Bautista? May relasyon ka ba kay Councilor Leren Bautista?” asked Boy Abunda.
Rivero responded, “Wala po.”
Tito Boy also asked about the persistent rumor regarding Rivero’s alleged gay boyfriend.
“Puntahan natin itong mga usap-usapan pero this is not the first time na mayroon kang gay boyfriend, matagal na ito, what will you say to this?” Boy Abunda asked.
Rivero clarified that while he has many friends who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, he holds great respect for them. He asserted, though, that he does not engage in romantic relationships with them.
“Tito Boy sobrang laki po kasi ng respeto ko sa LGBTQ+ community, sobrang napapaligiran po ako ng part ng community na ‘yan kasi simula po noon nu’ng napasok din po ako sa [showbiz] industry, even sa basketball naman marami po talaga akong nilu-look up in a way na ‘yung personality nila, the way they carry themselves na alam ko po mataas ‘yung respeto namin sa isa’t isa sa kanilang lahat na hindi naman po aabot sa romantic relationship,” Rivero explained.
On June 9, Rivero confirmed his breakup with Andrea Brillantes after his alleged infidelity surfaced.
Regarding his sexual orientation, Rivero straightforwardly stated that he is straight. Despite his clarifications regarding Bautista and the rumored gay boyfriend, some netizens remain upset with Rivero for the alleged cheating on Brillantes.
Another episode of the interview with Rivero will be available for viewing soon.
