- 2 years ago
She is a multi-talented artist of Sparkle: from acting, singing, dancing, hindi rin siya nagpahuli sa pagiging matinik na contestant ng Running Man Philippines!
Muli ring pinapatunayan ni Lexi Gonzales that she is more than a pretty face! Isa siya ngayon sa courtside reporters ng NCAA Season 99 na napapanood sa GTV. Kilalanin pa natin si Lexi sa masaya at nakakakilig na episode na ito ng Surprise Guest with Pia Arcangel.
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3RUcWsR
Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3LXR8J8
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3RUdTkV
Muli ring pinapatunayan ni Lexi Gonzales that she is more than a pretty face! Isa siya ngayon sa courtside reporters ng NCAA Season 99 na napapanood sa GTV. Kilalanin pa natin si Lexi sa masaya at nakakakilig na episode na ito ng Surprise Guest with Pia Arcangel.
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3RUcWsR
Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3LXR8J8
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3RUdTkV
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NewsTranscript
00:00 Surprise! And welcome to a new episode of Surprise Guest with Pia Arcangel where every conversation is unexpected and hopefully super enjoyable not just for me but also for you and of course our guest.
00:14 So today we have another special guest to watch. We'll find out who she is through a set of clues that I'll receive.
00:24 The goal is, I'll guess it right away. That's why sometimes we're forced to do it. First clue, she's a self-confessed introvert and couch potato. She loves watching TV.
00:37 Loves K-pop superstars, BTS. Smooth like butter. Hailed as most promising young artist in 2019. Who are the promising artists of 2019?
00:58 Let's think about it. Who are the young artists of 2019? She joined Starstruck and became the first princess of Starstruck. One of the court-side reporters of NCAA Season 99.
01:13 I think I know who this is because I met the court-side reporters of NCAA Season 99. And if I'm not mistaken, she also wants to be a news reporter one day.
01:24 Surprise guest, is that you Lexi Gonzalez?
01:28 Hi, I'm Lexia!
01:30 Hi Lexi! How are you?
01:33 I'm good. I'll report later.
01:36 Oh, you're going straight for this day. Tell me how many minutes we have so you won't be late for the game.
01:43 I'll just be last.
01:44 Direk might scold us.
01:45 That's for later.
01:46 It's so nice that you're joining us this morning. I was so happy to meet you when you had your court-side workshop.
01:53 You know what, Lexi? I was a bit derailed by our clues because I didn't realize that you're the first princess of Starstruck.
02:02 Because the only thing I remember about Starstruck is Starstruck Kids. It's been a while. And the first ever Starstruck by Jeneline.
02:09 And I didn't know that you're the most promising young artist of 2019. That just goes to show that you're doing a lot of things.
02:16 Right? Aside from doing court-side now, which is actually just your latest foray or latest challenge, adventure here in the industry.
02:25 Tell us the things that you are busy with right now, aside from doing NCAA.
02:30 I'm preparing also for the Season 2 of Running Man. So workout, workout. More on strengthening my body.
02:37 Also, being a court-side reporter is not easy. So I really have to invest time and knowledge.
02:44 Of course, I have to report right. I can't make mistakes. So it's a new world for me. So I'm still adjusting myself up until now.
02:53 How are you? Are you enjoying the atmosphere in basketball games? Because it's different when it's live, right?
02:58 It's intense. And it's loud. NCAA is loud. It's not like UAA or PBA. Sometimes it's quiet.
03:05 But in NCAA, it's intense. The drums are constantly playing. Sorry, I can't hear anything.
03:11 But you have to push through. Sometimes I report and I can't hear myself. Sorry, I just need you guys. Just fight.
03:18 But Alexei, you really like basketball. I mean, there are a lot of people who watch basketball.
03:25 But the levels of appreciation of basketball as a sport are different, right? So where are you at?
03:30 Well, before, I wasn't really into basketball. I was a super fan. But just recently, when I started working, I became interested in watching.
03:40 Of course, there are always tickets available for NCAA. So I get tickets. My boyfriend, Gil, watches us.
03:48 And then just recently, the FIBA World Cup. So I said, "I'll enjoy this." And then he became a premonition for sports casting, court-side reporter.
03:58 And for you, what was the biggest challenge when you took on the job as court-side reporter?
04:05 Because some people think it's just as simple as standing on the sidelines and telling everybody what you see. But it's not that simple.
04:12 It's hard because you have to be quick on your feet. You have to know what's happening.
04:19 If someone is injured, you have to know immediately who got injured, what injury, where it was injured.
04:24 Left knee, right knee, I got a bruise. The coach is getting mad. You should know that.
04:28 So it's not really an easy job. It's hard.
04:32 At first, I really thought that I could do this court-side reporting because I've been hosting already.
04:38 But no, being a court-side reporter is different because other than we write our own reports, you know that, Ms. Pia, you also need to know everything.
04:48 You need to know everything about the court. All the players, all the coaches, physical therapists.
04:54 So it's hard. It's hard to work. And you have to be witty. You have to be smart.
05:00 You're right. You mentioned everything, even the physical therapist. You need to be friends with everyone so that everyone is willing to interview you.
05:08 Yes, that's true. And you need to maintain their trust, the coach's trust.
05:14 And it's harder now because you're not assigned to just one team, right? You need to cover all the teams.
05:20 Yes, we're all different. Last time, I was assigned to four teams. Now, I'm assigned to four teams.
05:26 So how did your journey into court-side begin? Was it something that you really wanted to do? Is it something that you were asked to do? How did it happen for you?
05:36 It's really something I wanted to do because usually, they get students, top students from their schools in the arts and letters part of the college.
05:47 But they don't let the artists audition in the gym.
05:52 It just so happened that I sang for the pep rally of Mapua and Ms. Missy was there.
06:00 She just told me that they had an audition. The court-side reporters were having auditions. So I said, "Why am I not included in that?"
06:08 "Why don't they have auditions in SPARK?"
06:10 They said, "No, you're the one who gets students from different schools."
06:16 "But I'm also a student."
06:18 So I told my handler, "Let's have an audition. Let's go to the auditions."
06:22 So I really forced my handler until she got me in the audition.
06:29 After I got in, I thought I was just doing a semi-automated audition because I was on the spot.
06:35 But then I got in, I was like, "Shucks, I need to do well."
06:38 Because I really forced myself to do well.
06:42 From then on, I was really reviewed by NCAA.
06:46 That's amazing, Lexie. You really asked for an audition spot.
06:50 You didn't even ask, "Can I get a spot?"
06:53 What you asked for was an audition spot.
06:55 Yes. That's why I didn't want to audition.
06:59 I wanted to know if I'm really fit to not audition.
07:03 Yes. But it seems like your training was intense once you got in.
07:07 It wasn't just, "These are the best of the best. Go, go for it."
07:11 They gave you an intensive training workshop.
07:15 Yes. It's a three-part workshop.
07:17 Actually, the first one, I wasn't able to attend because I had all-out Sundays.
07:22 Which kind of held me back from attending the other workshops.
07:27 Because my fellow actors know what they're going to do.
07:30 I was still nervous.
07:32 But yes, thanks to NCAA because they're really thoughtful.
07:36 They invited you, Miss Pia, to also teach us and give us tips.
07:42 So it was a big deal.
07:44 From then on, I gathered a lot of information from you and from the others who attended the workshops.
07:51 I was really happy.
07:53 And it's not just that I'll be using it as a courtside reporter.
07:57 I'll also use it as a host, as an actor, everything.
08:02 So I said, "This is great."
08:04 It really made my heart beat and it was really inspiring at the same time.
08:07 I remember, Lexie, when we met and saw each other during the training for courtside reporters,
08:12 you were saying that you were really interested in the news.
08:15 Until now, you're still interested in being a news person, I mean a news anchor or a news reporter.
08:20 Yes, very much.
08:22 Because when I was young, I really watched all the news shows of the GMA.
08:28 From Investigator to Saksi, to the latest show of the night, 24 Hours definitely.
08:36 I think I was watching 24 Hours while I was cooking.
08:41 And of course, Art Angel.
08:43 There were a lot of shows that I was really looking forward to.
08:47 And then I said, "What's your feeling when your job is like this?"
08:53 Aside from that, you raise an entire generation.
08:57 Like me, I was raised by really great newscasters.
09:01 Information, everything.
09:04 I was able to absorb it because of you guys.
09:07 So I said, "This job is really inspiring."
09:10 Someday, I want to be a person who can make a difference in our society.
09:17 Until now, I want to be a newscaster someday.
09:21 But of course, I will study first and really go through a lot of challenges and training first.
09:28 It's so nice to see.
09:30 It's fun.
09:31 I mean, for us who have been in the news for such a long time,
09:34 it's fun to meet young people who really want to be a part of the news industry, the broadcast industry.
09:41 So, Lexie, I look forward to working with you in the news.
09:45 Yes, yes. I really hope so.
09:48 Wait, you mentioned earlier that when you were auditioning, you said, "I'm also a student."
09:54 Are you still enrolled or still studying or you're done? You just graduated?
09:58 Actually, I just started studying.
10:01 Because of the pandemic, after the starstruck, I wasn't able to continue my studies for college.
10:06 Now, I'm back. I'm studying at the University of Makati.
10:10 And I'm taking up multimedia arts.
10:12 So, I'm really immersed in the broadcast industry.
10:18 That's exciting.
10:19 Do you go to class physically, I mean, on-site or just online?
10:24 I'm mostly modular.
10:26 But sometimes, I go to school to submit papers.
10:30 So, I get to see the campus.
10:33 That's exciting.
10:35 And then, eventually, when you have your thesis, you have groupmates, they might get starstruck by you, Lexie.
10:41 But I hope they can help me because sometimes, it's really hard.
10:47 Yes, indeed.
10:48 So, how many units are your courses now? I mean, your load now?
10:52 It should be full load but I dropped a few units.
10:55 So, I think I'm left with just 11.
10:58 That's quite heavy if you're working at the same time, right?
11:01 Yes.
11:02 You mentioned earlier that you're already preparing for Running Man Season 2.
11:07 Yes.
11:08 Tell us about Season 1.
11:10 Because you said you're trying to get fit, working out.
11:13 I realized that the physical aspect of the show is not a joke.
11:17 It's not just an obstacle course where you just run a little.
11:23 It's a real run.
11:24 And I remember, who told us that it's really…
11:28 Sometimes, it's really embarrassing.
11:30 Ruru told us that it's really physical and that all the contestants are serious and competitive.
11:37 I don't know. When we got there, when we started the challenges and the games,
11:44 we suddenly became beast mode.
11:47 We wanted to win.
11:49 We said, "When we're done and we're going back to the hotel, what are we fighting for?
11:55 Is there a 1 million pesos cash prize? Why are we just competing?"
12:02 But it's really like that.
12:03 We're already in an adrenaline rush, I think.
12:06 And it's bragging rights.
12:08 So, you know, when you win, you're in good shape.
12:12 Yes. And there's a camera, right?
12:14 Everyone can see.
12:15 Yes.
12:16 So, sometimes, even if I'm really tired, I'll still look at the camera.
12:20 Because they'll remember that I have a camera.
12:22 So, it's like that. It's funny.
12:25 Who is the most competitive in the Running Man crew or the Running Man cast?
12:31 There's a lot.
12:32 Actually, Ruru, speaking of her, and Glyza.
12:37 Glyza is really, very competitive.
12:39 Super.
12:40 Really?
12:41 Because Glyza, when you see her on camera, you're like, "Oh, sweet."
12:45 Yes, she's just very calm.
12:47 And if you meet her in person, she's just calm and chill.
12:50 But in Running Man, she suddenly transforms.
12:52 She changes.
12:54 Because she's also super competitive.
12:56 What do you guys eat in Running Man?
12:59 I don't know.
13:00 All spicy food.
13:02 So, that's what makes you competitive.
13:06 When is the next season starting?
13:08 Is there a date yet?
13:10 Not yet, but we'll be starting our taping in January.
13:15 We'll be going to Korea again to shoot for a whole month.
13:20 And then when we come back, I guess we'll air it there.
13:23 That's so cold in January.
13:25 Was that summer when you shot last time?
13:27 Summer.
13:28 So, when we came back, we were all shining in the sun.
13:32 There were sunburns.
13:33 But it's true. We ran in the sun.
13:37 But it was fun, right?
13:39 It's like you were really living in another country.
13:41 Because it's not just a shoot that's one week, two weeks, or a whole month.
13:46 Or more than?
13:47 Last season, we did more than.
13:49 But this time, it's less than a month.
13:51 Because you're all so good.
13:53 Maybe.
13:54 Maybe when you come back, everybody will be...
13:57 Maybe your level is more competitive.
13:59 Because who won last time?
14:01 Was it Angel?
14:02 Angel.
14:03 I said, "Shucks, I might win."
14:07 Because it was just the two of us who were at the end.
14:10 But Angel was really good.
14:12 She's really strong.
14:14 Physically.
14:15 That's why I was getting ready.
14:17 Because at the time, I wasn't prepared.
14:19 I wasn't doing any knee workouts or jogging.
14:21 So, I was really left behind.
14:24 But this time, I was ready.
14:27 Oh, you better watch out.
14:29 My favorite was actually...
14:32 Your hands were at the back.
14:34 Were those apples that you had to eat?
14:38 Yes, like persimmon.
14:40 Oh, persimmon.
14:41 Sorry, that's too much.
14:43 Like apples.
14:45 Or persimmon.
14:47 Yeah, because it was the first time I saw persimmon.
14:51 I was like, "Darling, they have persimmon in Korea."
14:53 That's so hard.
14:56 It was so sour.
14:57 I didn't know it was that sour.
14:59 When you bite it, you really have to go through it.
15:02 You might have gotten a bad batch.
15:04 Because when I bite persimmon, I refuse.
15:07 Because I don't like the smell.
15:12 Maybe.
15:13 Maybe.
15:15 Let's see what you'll be doing this time.
15:20 Exciting.
15:21 Yes, actually, I'm excited too.
15:23 But I hope I don't have to throw it in the air.
15:26 It's fun because you finish taping before it airs.
15:31 So you'll be watching it together.
15:33 Yes, even the pilot episode, we watched it together.
15:37 We said, "Yes, I hope people will like it."
15:40 And then, thankfully, they did.
15:43 So we're going to season 2 now.
15:45 Exciting.
15:47 Enjoy the winter adventure that you will face.
15:51 Tell us, Lexie, about your journey into showbiz.
15:56 Were you a kid when you wanted to be an artist, a singer, or go on TV?
16:01 When I was little, I really wanted to be a newscaster and then singer on the side.
16:09 Because I was also singing when I was a kid.
16:11 They always made me sing in school.
16:13 But I never thought that I'd be an artist, an actor.
16:17 It just suddenly came into my life.
16:21 I moved to Manila.
16:23 I remember we were in May Araneta.
16:26 A talent scout gave me their contact number.
16:30 She talked to my mom and all.
16:33 So from then on, I started auditioning.
16:37 I really wanted to get into GMA.
16:39 But I didn't get in right away.
16:42 I went through a lot of trials.
16:44 But then in 2019, thank God, I was able to get in through Starstruck.
16:49 Then in 2020, I was able to sign a contract with Sparkle and GMA.
16:55 How old were you when you started your auditions?
16:58 17.
16:59 Ah, okay. So you were a teenager. You were already in high school.
17:03 Yes. I was already in my senior high.
17:06 You said you really wanted to join GMA.
17:09 Did you have a particular show that you wanted to join GMA?
17:14 Or were you watching GMA at that time?
17:17 I was already familiar with Starstruck.
17:20 I was the first batch before us.
17:22 At that time, I was only 16.
17:25 So they didn't let me join the auditions.
17:29 They locked me in the gate.
17:30 I felt sorry for them.
17:32 I was like, "Why did they do that?"
17:35 And then when I was scouted,
17:37 I was sent to other auditions.
17:39 But it's not with GMA.
17:41 So I still have a little frustration.
17:43 I've been a fan of GMA's shows ever since Marie Mark in 2007.
17:50 And the news team of course of GMA.
17:54 I was really different before.
17:57 I really wanted to get in because of a lot of factors within GMA.
18:02 But no, they didn't let me in at first.
18:05 But then eventually, I was able to get in when they locked me in.
18:08 Persistence is key.
18:10 You mentioned earlier, Lexie, that when you came to Manila,
18:16 where did you grow up?
18:18 I grew up in Cavite.
18:19 But I was born in Manila.
18:22 When my parents separated,
18:24 my mom brought us to Cavite.
18:26 Raised us there along with my grandma.
18:30 My grandma is very into academics.
18:32 So that's why I was so into reporting and information knowledge and news.
18:41 Because that's how she was.
18:43 She was the one who raised me.
18:45 Then when I moved to Manila,
18:48 she was gone.
18:49 She no longer guides me.
18:50 So my hobbies were different.
18:52 I forgot that dream for a while.
18:55 Until I was scouted to be an artist.
18:58 Then I realized again that these are the things I like.
19:02 I dreamt to be this and to be that.
19:05 That's great.
19:06 And you're still on that path to fulfilling all those dreams.
19:09 You said it was very interesting that it was because of your exposure to what your grandma would watch before.
19:15 That's why you said you were cooking while watching the news.
19:18 You were with your grandma.
19:21 Yes.
19:22 But for me, it was the same.
19:24 When I was being taken to school, we were on an AM radio.
19:29 So all the time, you know, when you wake up and go to school,
19:33 you just want to listen to music or just be quiet because you want to sleep in the car.
19:37 But she was not listening to the news.
19:39 Then when she goes home for dinner, she's still watching the news.
19:43 So it's a big thing what you're exposed to growing up.
19:48 And it's so nice to see that you're still pursuing those dreams right now.
19:52 I didn't think.
19:54 Maybe God also brought me back to where I was.
19:58 This is what I wanted, right?
20:00 This is what you wanted.
20:02 I lost track for a while.
20:04 Maybe because of the new environment, Manila environment.
20:07 But now, I feel like this is what I want.
20:12 This is my roots.
20:14 So why don't I continue?
20:16 I'm still in the industry.
20:19 So it's a good way to get in.
20:22 And you'll never know until you try, right?
20:24 If it's really for you or not.
20:26 Yes.
20:27 Do you have siblings, Lexie?
20:29 Or are you the only artist in the family?
20:31 Yes, I'm the only artist in the family.
20:34 But I have siblings.
20:36 I have a younger brother with my mom.
20:38 I have siblings also, with my dad on his side.
20:43 But none of them decided to enter the industry?
20:47 No.
20:49 None.
20:51 I think I'm the only one.
20:53 So your parents are not fond of singing?
20:57 Where did it come from?
20:58 Maybe from my grandmother.
21:00 My grandmother was a singer.
21:02 Both of my parents, they're not.
21:04 My dad's into politics.
21:06 My mom is into marketing.
21:09 But my grandmother, she used to be a choral.
21:13 She used to sing kundiman.
21:16 So she's a classical singer?
21:18 She's a classical singer.
21:19 I think that's why I started singing when I was little.
21:23 Because she was also a classical singer.
21:25 I think my grandmother's influence on my life was really big.
21:30 With performing, with singing, and with news.
21:33 Your grandmother must be so proud of everything that you've accomplished.
21:36 Yes.
21:37 She's in heaven now.
21:39 She told me that she found out that I was inside showbiz, the broadcast world.
21:47 But she told me she was proud of me.
21:50 That I pursued what I'm doing.
21:53 And of course, they always say, "Never forget where you came from."
21:59 That's how you remember who you are.
22:02 Would you say that you were a "Lola's Girl" growing up?
22:05 Yes.
22:06 Yes, definitely.
22:08 I was so close with my mom, but more so with my grandmother.
22:13 She was really...
22:14 Because the "Lolo" or "Grandmother" is different.
22:18 You're more of a giver.
22:20 Yes.
22:21 And they have wisdom.
22:23 What I gather or what I receive as teachings from her is different.
22:28 It's on a different level.
22:30 And she went through a lot in life.
22:33 She traveled a lot.
22:34 She went to a lot of places.
22:36 She experienced the martial law.
22:39 She experienced everything.
22:40 The Japanese War.
22:42 She even reached when she was little.
22:45 So I said, "This type of knowledge is different."
22:50 That's why our bond became deeper.
22:53 Because she taught me a lot.
22:55 Not just in life lessons, but life experiences also.
23:01 One of my favorite memories growing up.
23:03 After school, we would just have a snack at my grandmother's house.
23:06 And she would tell us a lot of stories.
23:08 And the stories would be about you.
23:11 It's true.
23:12 She even told me a story about the Japanese War.
23:16 They would hide in bunkers.
23:20 I was like, "Wow, I did not know that."
23:22 It's different.
23:23 I said, "Her experience is different."
23:26 And the point of beer in Germany is that my head is big.
23:31 So I would tell her those stories.
23:34 It's like a story of a witch.
23:36 Her stories are so varied.
23:38 The Japanese War, and the beer in Germany.
23:42 She has a lot of information.
23:47 It's funny.
23:49 She would tie my hair before I go to school.
23:52 And then she would tell me stories.
23:54 It's funny.
23:56 And how nice that she saw that you were already in the broadcast industry.
24:00 She saw that you were already in the industry.
24:03 Yes.
24:05 So now, Lexie, at this point, what are the other things you want to try in your career?
24:10 Because you've done singing, you've done acting, now you're doing hosting.
24:14 Is there anything else that you want to try and pursue?
24:17 So far, nothing.
24:20 Because I'm really so invested in reporting and hosting.
24:26 And I don't think I've gotten the template yet.
24:30 Because with acting, somehow, I've gotten the template on how to do it.
24:36 But with reporting and hosting, not yet.
24:40 So I think I have to focus more on that.
24:43 And to somehow master it.
24:45 When I do it, I know what I'm going to do.
24:48 Even if I'm not on that track for a while, when I get back, I still know how to do it.
24:53 It's so nice to see that you're really dedicated.
24:56 It's not like you just want to do it half-baked.
24:58 You have to be good at it.
25:00 Yes, yes, yes.
25:02 You can't just lose because you can't win.
25:05 That's the running man mentality.
25:08 Yes.
25:10 Just run, run, just chase, chase.
25:13 Earlier, Lexie, you mentioned that when you're watching games, Gil is with you.
25:17 So you mean Gil.
25:20 Of course, I picked up on that. I just didn't notice earlier.
25:24 [laughs]
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26:02 Earlier, Lexie, you mentioned that when you're watching games, Gil is with you.
26:07 So you mean Gil.
26:09 Of course, I picked up on that. I just didn't notice earlier.
26:12 [laughs]
26:14 Oh yeah, because he really loves basketball.
26:17 Actually, if I have a term study, I'll ask him and he would know.
26:21 That's what I was going to ask. Did he coach you before you became a court side reporter?
26:28 Yes, he did. He taught me a lot.
26:30 Because sometimes when we watch, we're like, "What's that? What's a "kinol"? Why is it foul? What happened?"
26:35 It's like that.
26:36 Or maybe, "There's no foul. There's no question. It's just a different "kinol."
26:40 So I said, "He's a big part of my life."
26:43 Because he knows a lot about the sport.
26:46 And other sports also. He's very into sports. More than I do.
26:50 It's good that he's very patient to explain to you.
26:52 Because other guys get annoyed when they're asked while playing games.
26:56 My husband is like that.
26:58 True, true.
26:59 He's like, "You have a lot of questions. Save the questions for after."
27:01 And I'm like, "What if I forget what my question is?"
27:04 Yes, because a lot of things happen.
27:07 I ask him what I'm asking.
27:09 But not super. Sometimes I feel like he's shy.
27:15 He answers with all his power.
27:17 But was Gil also an athlete? Did he used to play or something?
27:22 I think he was in high school. But when he was in college, he became an artist.
27:27 Yes, he didn't pursue it. But it doesn't matter.
27:29 At least now, he's imparting his knowledge through you.
27:32 Yes, I'm using it.
27:35 Yes. Does he watch your games? Has he seen any of your games?
27:40 You thought you were the one playing.
27:42 What I mean is the games that you're reporting.
27:44 He's just watching the replay.
27:47 But he hasn't joined me in court yet.
27:50 But last season, we really watched it.
27:53 Because he played in the Benild that time.
27:58 So we really watched the game.
28:01 It was fun.
28:03 It was fun. Because last year, Benild reached the finals.
28:07 First time after 20 years or something like that?
28:10 Yes, 20 years.
28:11 We really thought that it was like a Cinderella story that Benild won last year.
28:17 Like wow!
28:18 But we're not sure. Maybe this season, right?
28:21 Oh, okay.
28:23 But do you like to ask Gil about your performance?
28:26 Do you ask him for critiques?
28:27 Because I know there are couples who like to do that.
28:29 Because they know that when they ask their partner,
28:31 that's the most honest opinion that they will get.
28:35 Is it the same for you guys?
28:37 Yes, it's the same.
28:39 And sometimes, my report is repetitive.
28:44 So he tells me.
28:45 And there are terms like, "Why are you like that?"
28:48 "No, you should use it like this."
28:50 So I learn from that.
28:53 Was he excited when he found out that you'd be doing Courtside?
28:56 Yes, because he wanted to do it too.
29:00 But he went to another hosting.
29:03 Maybe because he didn't get to meet Mathy.
29:06 Like me, I cornered him.
29:09 He said, "I'll audition too."
29:10 He didn't get to corner me.
29:12 So maybe he did not know for the longest time that you can.
29:15 Yes.
29:16 But he's very happy for me now.
29:18 That's why he's helping me.
29:20 Because he said, "It's okay. You're good at it."
29:22 "It's not a joke. You have to be really good."
29:25 That's so nice.
29:27 It's nice to see that you're inspiring each other.
29:30 Yes.
29:31 In a way.
29:33 Because I don't want to hold him back, he doesn't want to hold me back.
29:36 We just support each other.
29:38 That's very sweet.
29:39 And it's nice that you're able to talk about it without any inhibitions or anything like that.
29:44 It's cute that you just mentioned it very casually.
29:47 Yeah.
29:49 We've been together for more than a year.
29:53 So I'm used to it.
29:56 The way you say it, you've been together for a long time.
29:59 I'm thinking about it, "Oh, it's only been a year."
30:01 Our perspective is different.
30:03 For me, it's like a whole new year.
30:05 Yes, yes, yes.
30:08 But with a year, I'm already used to having him in my life and by my side also.
30:14 That's so cute.
30:16 Did you meet at GMA?
30:18 Yes. He had a show before.
30:20 He was hosting a show with Solen titled "Taste Buddies."
30:24 It's a food/travel show.
30:27 And they were guesting me a couple of times.
30:30 The first time, we didn't really talk about it because he was heartbroken.
30:35 For me, I was talking to a different guy at the time.
30:39 And then later on, after the pandemic, I was suddenly guested again on "Taste Buddies."
30:46 And then, we suddenly had a cheesy spark.
30:51 But there was something.
30:53 There was a connection.
30:55 So we talked and talked.
30:56 And from then on, we went out.
30:58 It's so cute. It's not cheesy.
31:00 It's not cheesy to have a spark.
31:01 Maybe more than a spark, it's to have a sparkle.
31:04 Yes. Thanks to GMA.
31:07 Yes, thanks to GMA.
31:09 You started going out and then normal.
31:12 How is it going now?
31:14 Do you still have "Can you be my girlfriend?"
31:19 Is it still like that?
31:20 No?
31:21 We still have that.
31:23 We still have that moment where he was like, "Can we be together now?"
31:29 Because it's our first date.
31:32 We've been going out for three months.
31:34 So cute.
31:35 And then, that's it.
31:38 So I was like, "Okay, what's the date now?"
31:40 So there's a date now.
31:42 Let's mark that on our calendar.
31:46 I was like, "Okay."
31:48 Oh, that's cute.
31:50 So now, it's been a little over a year.
31:52 Yes.
31:53 I didn't even notice.
31:54 I was like, "It's been a year."
31:56 And then, after a few months, I was like, "It's been a while. It's been a few months."
32:01 I didn't even notice.
32:03 I'm used to texting because nothing really happens.
32:08 I'm just texting cutely.
32:11 It's my first time having a boyfriend.
32:14 Gil is your first real boyfriend.
32:18 Yes.
32:19 Before, we just talked.
32:22 But now, I've experienced dating, going out, road trips.
32:29 That's so fun.
32:30 You said you met before the pandemic.
32:34 You were already guesting before the pandemic.
32:36 And then, you started talking again after the shoot.
32:40 So, timing is important.
32:42 If you did well right before the pandemic,
32:45 you might have to stop because you might not be able to meet because it's hard.
32:49 So, timing is important.
32:51 Actually, it's also important.
32:53 That's so cute.
32:56 You mentioned you like going on road trips.
32:58 What are the other things you like to do, Lexie?
33:00 On your own, when it's your downtime or in between shoots?
33:04 I like playing games.
33:06 I have a Switch.
33:07 Video games?
33:08 Yes, video games.
33:09 And I have a computer.
33:11 And I also have a mobile phone.
33:12 So, when I'm outside, I play mobile games.
33:15 But when I'm at home, I'm immersed in my computer.
33:18 I'm just playing games the whole day.
33:20 If I don't have a job, I would.
33:22 What kind of games?
33:24 When you say you like playing video games or mobile games,
33:27 are those mobile legends?
33:29 Yes.
33:30 So, mobile legends.
33:32 On my Switch, I would play Pokemon, Animal Crossing,
33:37 and other puzzle games.
33:40 I also have Inside.
33:42 Actually, there are a lot of games.
33:43 Are there war games?
33:46 Is that what you call it?
33:47 The ones where you fight?
33:49 Yes, the ones with guns.
33:51 During the pandemic, I was addicted to Valorant.
33:54 I didn't do anything.
33:55 I would just stream.
33:57 And when I stream, I play Valorant.
34:00 Aside from that, if there's a GMA that's held,
34:04 I would back on streaming during the pandemic.
34:09 I would stream gaming, just playing games.
34:12 So, would you do the ones with annotations?
34:16 There are those where they have annotations
34:20 or comments about what they're playing or doing.
34:23 Not really.
34:24 Just casual gaming.
34:26 Okay.
34:27 I think it's all professional.
34:29 Do you know anyone through your games?
34:32 Yes, I have a lot of friends
34:36 because of live streaming also.
34:39 From various places.
34:40 There's one from Davao, in Labani.
34:42 Hi!
34:43 Shout out to you guys.
34:44 Wow!
34:45 Did you meet in person?
34:47 Yes, just recently.
34:50 Because it's really relaxed.
34:52 I also saved up money.
34:54 So, I went to Davao to go on a vacation.
34:58 They were there for me.
35:00 We went to the beach and stuff.
35:02 That's fun!
35:03 It's like you're a whole community.
35:06 Yes, we had that.
35:09 But then, when live streaming became a thing,
35:13 and the pandemic was over,
35:14 people got busy,
35:15 so we got really lazy.
35:17 So, we just became a group of friends.
35:19 That's fun!
35:20 You know, that's one thing that I really wanted to try doing.
35:25 Do other games.
35:26 That's why I'm a candy crush.
35:29 Candy crush is addictive.
35:31 Yes, that's true.
35:33 That's true.
35:34 Thank you, Lexie, actually, for being with us today,
35:37 even on a game day.
35:39 Thank you for joining us on a game day
35:42 before you went to the venue.
35:44 Thank you for being with us.
35:45 But before we wrap things up,
35:47 we have a game for you.
35:49 It's your game day, right?
35:51 Yes.
35:52 We have a game for you.
35:54 Let's see what the mechanics of this game are.
35:57 Wow!
35:58 The title of the game is
35:59 "The Lexie Lover Type."
36:01 What does this mean?
36:02 Ah, okay. Don't worry.
36:04 This is a very easy game.
36:06 Okay.
36:07 Okay.
36:08 You just tell me which one you love more.
36:10 Okay.
36:11 So, is Lexie a coffee lover or a milk tea lover?
36:15 That's how simple it is, Lexie.
36:16 Don't worry.
36:17 I feel like your heart rate increased
36:19 because of the title of this game.
36:21 That's true.
36:22 Coffee.
36:25 Ah, you're a coffee drinker.
36:27 Okay.
36:28 That's perfect for a game, right?
36:30 Yes.
36:31 It's like a game to get you up.
36:32 Yes.
36:33 Okay.
36:34 Ulam lover or dessert lover?
36:37 It depends on the type of food.
36:39 Yes.
36:40 But I think I'm a ulam lover.
36:42 I like rice.
36:43 Ah, you don't have a sweet tooth?
36:46 I do.
36:47 I look for something to eat for breakfast.
36:49 For example, I need to eat curry for my ulam.
36:53 But most of the time,
36:55 I can't live without rice and ulam.
36:58 I have dessert next to me
37:00 that I can pray for when I need something to eat for breakfast.
37:04 If you don't have anything to eat for breakfast,
37:05 just wait for the next meal so you can have ulam again.
37:08 Yes.
37:09 Right?
37:10 That's the style.
37:12 Next, K-drama or K-pop lover?
37:15 Hmm.
37:16 Can I choose both?
37:18 It's hard.
37:19 Because in the intro,
37:20 we said you're a super BTS fan.
37:23 That's why.
37:25 Okay, let's go with this one.
37:26 What's the K-drama that you love the most?
37:28 What's your favorite K-drama ever?
37:30 Wow.
37:31 Now, I'm addicted to Penthouse.
37:36 Is this the one with the mommies?
37:38 Yes.
37:39 Like Tiger Mom?
37:40 Yes.
37:41 The story is super intense.
37:45 And the events are unexpected.
37:47 At first, I expected it to be a K-drama
37:51 that's about fighting.
37:53 But it's not.
37:54 The story is so complex.
37:56 I really appreciate it.
37:57 I finished it already.
37:59 It's one of my favorites.
38:00 That's why it's hard for you to answer now.
38:03 Yes.
38:04 Because I'm a bit lost.
38:05 You're immersed.
38:06 I'm lost.
38:07 Yes, they're lost.
38:08 But there's a solo album with Jungkook
38:10 that we talked about the other night.
38:12 Yes.
38:13 That's why I know.
38:15 Okay.
38:16 Outdoor lover or indoor bonding lover?
38:19 Outdoor.
38:20 That's a very running man answer.
38:22 Outdoor, maybe.
38:25 To experience new stuff.
38:27 Because we always go home.
38:29 That's right.
38:30 And we've been indoors for a few years.
38:33 So, we're outdoors.
38:35 Oh, no. This is probably the hardest question.
38:37 I had a hard time for you.
38:38 Courtside reporter or game show contestant?
38:42 That's hard.
38:44 My gosh.
38:45 This is harder than K-drama and K-pop.
38:48 Yes, this is hard.
38:49 Yes.
38:50 Because it's different.
38:51 Draw.
38:52 Can I answer both?
38:54 Okay, both.
38:55 Both.
38:56 But now, I would say more on being a courtside reporter.
39:01 Because this is what I'm doing now.
39:03 So, focus on the goal.
39:05 That's what you're focusing on.
39:07 You're a very good courtside reporter.
39:08 Look at you.
39:09 You're so cute.
39:10 Oh, my.
39:11 Not just cute, but so pretty.
39:12 Okay, next.
39:13 Physical shopping or online shopping?
39:18 Maybe physical shopping.
39:20 When it comes to online shopping, I don't know why, but I feel guilty.
39:23 Because you're just lying down and you've already chosen something.
39:27 Yes.
39:28 And when I'm outside, I feel like I'm doing something with my life.
39:32 At least, you're working on your shopping.
39:37 Okay, next.
39:38 Sunny day or rainy day?
39:40 Rainy day.
39:41 I don't like rainy day.
39:43 But it's just gloomy.
39:45 That's it.
39:47 So, for you, it's cozy.
39:49 Oh, cute.
39:51 You know, when I was young, I liked rainy days.
39:53 But now that I'm a little older, maybe because of the cover, I'm getting tense when it rains.
40:02 I can't relax anymore.
40:04 My perspective has changed.
40:05 So, you're right.
40:06 It should be gloomy.
40:07 Last one.
40:10 Must lover or must fighter?
40:12 Must lover.
40:16 Even though I'm a fighter, I still love being a fighter.
40:20 I love the things I'm doing.
40:22 So, I'm a lover more than a fighter.
40:24 I feel like your being a fighter just manifests in MOBA legends.
40:30 Yes.
40:31 You're a harsh fighter.
40:32 Yes, yes, yes.
40:34 Lexie, thank you so much for spending time with us.
40:39 Thank you.
40:40 But before we let you go, would you like to invite everyone to catch you on your shows,
40:44 to catch you on the NCAA games as well?
40:47 Yes, Kapuso.
40:49 First of all, I want to thank everyone who supported the Battle of the Judges.
40:53 Now, please watch our games at the NCAA.
40:56 I hope you'll watch the next shows I'll be doing.
41:00 And of course, up until the finals of the NCAA games, I hope you'll watch it.
41:04 I hope you'll go and buy tickets because I would like to see you guys there.
41:08 Thank you.
41:09 Yay! Thank you, Lexie.
41:10 Thank you so much for being with us and have a great game today.
41:13 Thank you, thank you, thank you, Miss Pia.
41:15 Thank you so much.
41:16 This surprise was planned by the team of Ronald Ramido and Aubrey de los Reyes,
41:22 edited by Shirley Paghiligan with the amazing people of GMA Integrated News.
41:27 Don't forget to like and subscribe.
41:29 Till the next surprise!
41:30 [Music]
41:35 [BLANK_AUDIO]
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