Actor Mark Herras and singer Jojo Mendrez have denied rumors of a romantic relationship after photos and videos of them at a hotel casino sparked gossip on social media.
Netizens speculated about the nature of their meeting, leading to assumptions about the two celebrities’ personal lives.
The photos, reportedly taken on the night of February 5 at a hotel in Parañaque, quickly circulated online. Some users claimed the two were in a romantic relationship, with comments suggesting Herras had entered into a same-sex relationship.
In response, Mendrez’s management, Aqueous Entertainment, issued an official statement addressing the controversy.
“The post showing the photos of our artist Jojo Mendrez and Mr. Mark Herras together is purely malicious content. Jojo and Mark are good friends. Nothing more. Nothing less,” the statement read.
A source close to the situation clarified that Herras and Mendrez met for a professional collaboration. Herras was filming a reaction video to Mendrez’s cover of ‘Somewhere in My Past’, a hit song originally performed by the late Julie Vega.
The viral photos come on the heels of another controversy involving Herras. The actor recently performed at a gay bar in Parañaque City, which led to further speculation about his personal life. Herras addressed the issue, confirming that he did not strip or engage in inappropriate behavior during his performance.
“Hindi naman ako naghubad doon, at hindi rin totoo na nagpa-table ako,” Herras said, expressing surprise over the backlash.
The actor emphasized that his main priority is his family, particularly his child with his wife, Nicole Donesa.
“Kesa isipin ko ‘yung mga problema or stress sa buhay ko, kailangan kong mag-provide. Ang nasa mindset ko, trabaho, trabaho, kailangan kong magtrabaho,” he explained.
The viral post generated mixed reactions from netizens. While some speculated about Herras and Mendrez’s relationship, others came to their defense, calling out the spread of misinformation and unfounded assumptions.
