The controversy surrounding Anthony Jennings and Maris Racal, collectively known as MaThon, has ignited comparisons with the fan-favorite love team Barbie Forteza and David Licauco, or BarDa.
Netizens have drawn parallels between the two pairings, highlighting their similar dynamic: both feature undeniable on-screen chemistry despite having off-screen partners. However, fans were quick to emphasize one glaring difference — BarDa has managed to maintain a scandal-free image, while MaThon finds itself at the center of a cheating controversy.
Fans credit the success of BarDa to Barbie Forteza’s professionalism and clear boundaries between her work and personal life. Despite her intense chemistry with David Licauco in their projects, Barbie ensures that their interactions are limited to their on-screen personas.
Barbie’s real-life relationship with long-time boyfriend Jak Roberto further solidifies this perception. Recently, the couple celebrated Jak’s birthday, sharing sweet photos that displayed their strong connection. Fans noted how their love remains unaffected by the immense popularity of BarDa.
One fan commented, “BarDa proves you can have a successful love team without personal drama, as long as both parties stay professional and respectful.”
In contrast, MaThon is under fire following leaked conversations between Anthony Jennings and Maris Racal, allegedly suggesting infidelity. The controversy has sparked criticism from fans, who argue that the duo’s off-screen issues have overshadowed their work.
The fallout has led to calls for a reevaluation of how love teams handle their public and private lives. Some believe MaThon’s current predicament could have been avoided with a clearer distinction between their personal and professional relationships.
As the comparison between the two love teams gains traction, many fans are urging others to look to BarDa as a model for balancing fame and personal integrity.
“BarDa sets the standard for how love teams should be managed — no drama, just pure professionalism,” said another supporter online.
mathon couldve been the next barda… what a waste, galing pa naman both sa comedy. ang urges kasi dapat pinipigilan opo
— kimmy (@lemonjyew) December 5, 2024
kahit gustong gusto ng mga BarDa fans na mang cheat si barbie, gusto nila maging real ang BarDa nagagalit at binabash pa si barbie pag pini flex si jack, pero mas pinili parin ni barbie Yung sigaw ng puso niya at gusto niya kesa gumawa ng mali o cheating…#BarDa #MaThon https://t.co/1FpEBp2sdC
— Fangirl_Loveteam (@ShipperLove143) December 5, 2024
Sa nangyare sa mathon, mas lalong tumaas ung respect ko sa BARDA as a fan, super gentleman and educated ni @davidlicauco and si @dealwithBARBIE is very professional, AS A FAN WE ARE ROOTING FOR MORE PROJECTS SA INYO
@gmanetwork @Sparkle_GMA please!!!
— haileyah (@Haileyah24) December 4, 2024
Ano daw masasabi ng mga delulung barda fans sa issue ng Mathon??? Ay nako sa sobrang loyal ni barbie kay nyak di mangyayare yan at malaki respeto ni David kay Barbie… Pwede pa c nyak ung magloko at maexpose….
— NIKNIK MO!
(@SimpleLhady1927) December 4, 2024
bwahahaha nasaan na yung mga kapamilya fans ni Maris Racal at Anthony na nagsasabi na buti pa yang dalawa ay professional as loveteam pero si barbie at david ay hindi??? kesyo malandi daw si barbie whabahahahahahaha Maris Racal niyo Malibog bahahah #BarDa #MaThon
— akihiro banto (@Gabby18992) December 3, 2024
The MaThon-BarDa debate continues to trend on social media, reflecting the growing scrutiny faced by love teams in showbiz. Whether MaThon can recover from this setback and regain public favor remains to be seen, but for now, BarDa’s drama-free success stands as an example for others to follow.
