Actress Claudine Barretto drew attention online after sharing photos from her dinner with Veronica “Kitty” Duterte, the youngest daughter of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Barretto posted a short video featuring photos of herself with Kitty and several companions on her Instagram and Facebook accounts. In one of the photos, the actress could be seen embracing Duterte.
“With my pretty little baby sister @veronicaduterte thank u for dinner my love,” Barretto wrote.
The two reportedly met for dinner in Davao City on Saturday, August 22.
The post quickly generated reactions from Barretto’s followers and supporters of the Duterte family, with some expressing delight over their apparent closeness.
Others, however, criticized Barretto over her association with the Dutertes, resulting in mixed reactions across social media.
Among the comments were: “Loyal duterte talaga yan same sila ni gretchen,” and “Thank you Claudine Barretto for visiting Mindanao Davao and Samal Island come back soon.”
Other netizens posted critical remarks, including “super disappointing” and “Yuck DDS.”
Barretto’s meeting with Kitty also revived speculation among some Duterte supporters that the actress could portray Vice President Sara Duterte in a future project.
“Bagay kay clau maging bilang Vp sara duterte kung nagkataon gaganap man sya,” one netizen commented.
The speculation comes amid talk surrounding a planned project by director Darryl Yap involving the Duterte family.
However, no official announcement has been made confirming that Barretto will portray Vice President Duterte. The actress’ dinner with Kitty, by itself, does not establish her involvement in any such project.
Aside from meeting Kitty, Barretto reportedly discussed plans involving a property and Airbnb venture in Samal Island during her visit to the Davao region.