Philippine Pop Culture — Love Teams Pt. 1
Love Teams and Society in the Philippine Industry
By: Pamela Columna, 4P5
Love teams, a long-standing pillar of Philippine cinema, have revolutionized the way audiences experience on-screen romance. These are pairs of actors whose partnership is marked by compelling chemistry that has enthralled viewers across generations. Sometimes, they add another role to be a third character, forming a love triangle. Love teams are instrumental in a network’s success, boosting viewership, stimulating creativity in content production, and facilitating lucrative endorsements that support an organization and its programs. They perpetuate the belief that what is seen on camera is a reflection of real-life relationships, thereby maintaining their pivotal role in the ever-evolving Philippine showbiz industry, adapting to the changing tastes of their fan base.
Only some love teams have become successful, although many were paired up in the last few years. Some pairs fail to click, leading to actors breaking up partnerships. In contrast, some specific love teams have managed to create exceptionally good partnerships that attract tons of attention, putting them in the limelight. One of these may happen depending on how they capture the audience’s attention. This will provide them an opportunity that helps them gain popularity, which may fail from the obvious lack of connection. It is worth noting that the majority of these actors who form love teams started as mere acquaintances or friends. However, a common misconception is that on-screen chemistry implies true off-screen romance. In reality, they are just professional actors with incredible chemistry while playing their roles. Therefore, audiences are increasingly being informed of this, recognizing the difference between showbiz and reality. Consequently, viewers now notice more about the acting within a movie rather than trying to distinguish between reel and real.
Given all these, love teams are still relevant because of society’s increasing awareness of the real relationship that may develop behind the camera. How does a person’s perception of a love team affect his or her views about relationships? For example, some actors do not have their particular partners, but they have been matched with other actors in forming different love teams, and they continue receiving public support. This indicates that there has been a significant change in people’s mindsets regarding acting as a profession, which now concentrates on on-screen chemistry rather than off-screen relationships between performers.
Viewers also immensely enjoy watching love teams develop on screen–especially when it involves their favorite stars–as it provides an escape from reality or an outlet for idealism. In line with this, Eosty (2023) noted that such escapism is evident when watching love teams with great chemistry on screen, which enables viewers to completely engage themselves in narratives of romance and fantasy that offer much-needed temporary relief from the trials and tribulations associated with daily existence. Hence, feelings such as joy, excitement, and kilig experienced due to these on-screen pairs highly contribute to why they remain popular.
Filipinos’ profound and indelible fondness for love teams is deeply ingrained in our showbiz entertainment industry and social preferences. This bond between fans and love teams is not merely temporary. It has become threaded into our cultural fabric of entertainment and lasts through the ages, even after generations come and go. However, among ever-changing tastes in societal trends, love teams have shown themselves to be highly adaptive, meeting the ever-evolving taste of societal trends; love teams exhibit a remarkable capacity to evolve and adapt to meet the shifting likings of their audiences. This adaptability underscores their continuing relevance and ensures their continued reputation in the dynamic world of entertainment.
In addition, it should be noted that love teams through teleserye or movies can also greatly influence some people’s communication styles and relationship dynamics. Inevitably, what an individual believes about love influences their expectations and engagements with their relationships. Hence, it is understandable that individuals are influenced by those who have a platform, like celebrities. However, it is essential to note that this issue has pros and cons, especially when politics comes in. For example, some personalities were split during the last presidential election on whom to support for the presidency. It may be understandable that people associate themselves with public figures with similar views. However, such divisions could lead to adverse effects, including losing fans or followers who disagree with them.
In relation to the extensive reach of love teams and various aspects of our perception, I believe their influence is most pronounced in shaping gender roles, expressions, and communication between individuals. This carries a lot of weight, especially in challenging traditional norms and promoting a wider acceptance of love beyond heterosexual partnerships (Kilat, 2023). In such a context, the BL (Boy’s Love) films coming out today could be an outstanding exemplification of this shift in society. The fact that these films are continuously winning increasing popularity reveals an elevated urge to see unique stories other than conventional romantic films. This new kind of attraction implies a shared willingness to delve deep into all types of love and interpersonal relationships within art. In today’s media world, where BL movies are becoming known, a curious and accepting environment seems to exist for most of the audience. A blast of love signifies the ongoing passion in society to indulge in more inclusive stories, such as gender norms, and view love as an entity free of such restrictions. Snam (2022) noted that BL films often explore themes related to the LGBTQIA+ community, such as self-acceptance, discrimination, and coming out to family. More importantly, the growing fan base of BL movies has significant societal effects that go beyond personal preferences. As promoters of love that transcends all limitations, these movies are empowering for people who struggle to find themselves and their desires in a world where others impose societal norms. In essence, the fast-rising popularity of BL films symbolizes a cultural change pattern wherein people demonstrate more acceptance and empathy. These narratives contribute by fighting against stereotypes and highlighting different voices to have a deeper understanding of love, making society more caring and accepting.
Lastly, Filipinos have an intense fondness for love teams, which has an unbreakable connection to our showbiz entertainment and societal preferences. This connection will stand the test of time as it has become an essential element of our societal entertainment. However, as society trends modify, love teams adapt to meet the changing tastes of their audiences, proving their adaptability and ability to remain relevant over time. Furthermore, keeping awareness of specific issues is necessary, as they have the potential to not only tarnish one’s public image but also impact the reputation of their on-screen partner, given the perception of love teams as unified individuals.
Guy and Pip: Love Teams in the Philippine Show Business
By: Reianne Nartea, 4P5
Love teams have long been part of the local entertainment industry in the Philippines — starting with the pairing of Gregorio Fernandez and Mary Walter in the 1920s (PEP.ph, 2013). After the introduction of the love team concept in the country, more pairings emerged and became representatives of the different eras of Philippine show business. Among them are Nora Aunor and Tirso Cruz III, Sharon Cuneta and Gabby Concepcion, the very iconic pairings of Jolina Magdangal and Marvin Agustin and Claudine Baretto and Rico Yan who starred in the film, “FLAMES: The Movie.” In the 2000s, John Lloyd Cruz and Bea Alonzo rose to popularity, and in the 2010s KathNiel (Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla) JaDine (James Reid and Nadine Lustre), and LizQuen (Liza Soberano and Enrique Gil) were the favorite love teams. These are only a few of the many successful pairings formed by television networks in the country. More recent examples include Belle Mariano and Donny Pangilinan, and Francine Diaz and Seth Fedelin.
Pairings are the formula utilized to debut starlets or novice actors and actresses. It can be observed that contestants from reality shows and competitions like Pinoy Big Brother or Star Circle Quest are paired together and debuted as love teams such as Kim Chiu and Gerald Anderson, and Sandara Park and Hero Angeles to name a few. These love teams are always given projects together, rarely on their own. It’s a strategy that tests their chemistry, tickles the kilig of the general audience, and establishes a solid fan base. They are means of profit for their management, from teleseryes to commercials. How strong their fan base is and their effectiveness in making people feel kilig determine the faith of the love team.
Often, these actors go from ‘reel to real,’ where their on-screen romance turns into reality. This proves that they are human, and it’s natural to develop feelings towards your partner, with whom you do projects with romantic themes. For a love team to sail, it is not a requirement to have romantic interests toward each other contrary to what fans believe. Because they want to keep the fans thirsty for more, there is coercion by the management to provide fan service even when the cameras stop rolling. This blurs the lines between their career and private lives. Moreover, individuals in love teams experience hindrances in their growth as individual actors and actresses because they are expected to be with only one person in their career.
On another note, pairs who went from reel to real are more inspired to work as they are with their real-life partners. It’s like hitting two birds with one stone: earning by working while spending time and creating memories with your significant other. Despite this, they face the challenge of separating their professional and private lives. Most of the time, when these couples experience ‘love quarrels’ or arguments, it is picked up by the media and becomes the talk of the town and subjects of tabloids. Being watched and talked on and off cameras can significantly impact the relationship between two people. Unlike teleseryes, some of these relationships do not have happy endings. Many popular love teams have cut ties with one another. Some of these love teams are KimErald (Kim Chiu and Gerald Anderson), JaDine (James Reid and Nadine Lustre), and JoshLia (Joshua Garcia and Julia Barreto). Upon breaking up, these celebrities accept project offers together once in a blue moon. However, their management pairs them up with another celebrity for profit. Love teams remain relevant for its tried and tested formula. This is true for Kim Chiu. After her breakup with Gerald Anderson, she was paired with Xian Lim, who became her longtime boyfriend of nearly 12 years, but they have recently broken up. Kim Chiu is now starring in projects with actor Paulo Avelino, earning the ship name KimPau. This proves that love teams are still at the forefront of Philippine show business.
However, changes are bound to happen. Sometimes, management companies become experimental by pairing them with different celebrities. An example would be John Lloyd Cruz’s successful movies with his love teams with Bea Alonzo, Toni Gonzaga, and Sarah Geronimo. Toni Gonzaga also worked on projects with Sam Milby, Piolo Pascual, John Lloyd Cruz, and Vhong Navarro. This trend is common practice among artists who have made their mark in the industry. These talented actors and actresses can also rekindle the kilig from the audience for reunion projects even after years of not being paired together. This is the case for John Lloyd Cruz and Sarah Geronimo starring in the movie titled “Finally Found Someone.” Their most recent movie “It Takes a Man and a Woman” was a box office success. What can be taken from this is that seasoned actors from the industry no longer need a love team to succeed.
Overall, the concept of love teams is still relevant and marketable today and is expected to flourish in years to come. The show business industry will always find a way to insert the theme of love and romance into any soap opera or movie genre because, as they say, Filipinos are obsessed with the idea of love, and love conquers all.
The House of Us: The Philippines as the Home of Love Team Culture
By: Allycel De Leon, 4P5
The 1920s were known as the First Golden Age of Philippine Movies. We trace back our steps when silent movies were prominent, and the Philippines’ inaugural love team was starred by Mary Walter and Gregorio Fernandez (Philippine Entertainment Portal (PEP), 2009). Ever since the time of Walter and Fernandez, there has never been a generation that has gone without at least one prominent love team of their era (Martinez, 2020). Given the nature of silent films where dialogue was not considered a part of the cinematic language, it is truly fascinating how these love teams managed to thrive and remain relevant to this day.
Palibhasa kasi alam mo kung paano ako kunin eh. Isang ngiti, isang kanta, isang akap, isang sorry, wala umiikot na ulit ang mundo ko. — George, The Hows of Us (2018). How did these love teams capture the hearts of many?
Love teams, starring young and attractive actors, are strategically paired onscreen to boost their careers by taking on character portrayals involving romantic narratives in teleseryes and films. They often gain more popularity through further exposure in different noon-time shows, performances, and endorsements. The notion of love teams has deeply seeped into the hearts and culture of the Filipino people, entwined with the idea of “kilig” to convey its essence. When we are asked to define the concept of “kilig,” especially to our foreign friends, we pause for a brief moment, attempting to describe the physical manifestations of this enigmatic feeling — butterflies in our stomachs, racing hearts, and blushing cheeks. More often than not, we find it hard to put the exact feeling into words, as we recognize that “kilig” is an experience that transcends words and a sensation that travels and tingles our romantic souls. Surprisingly, “kilig” made a spot in the Oxford Dictionary in 2016 and has been defined as “exhilarated by an exciting or romantic experience.”
Looking back, it is astonishing how love teams endured relevance for over a century, from 1920s silent films to this day where technological advances are evident. Love teams have gained immense popularity due to their undeniable chemistry, and they are better noticed when they are cast in media featuring relatable storylines, dialogues, and characters. Teleseryes, with their balance of both true-to-life scenarios and fantasy, allow viewers to momentarily escape from reality while offering a chance to appeal and confront the viewers’ experiences and challenges in their everyday lives. Given our country’s collectivist culture, Filipinos are innately caring and nurturing; they give value to their relationships.
Filipinos love the idea of love. And so, when two actors portray a story of love and how it conquers the challenges and obstacles thrown at them, it sparks a sense of hope and excitement, strengthening the belief in real-life happy endings. These love teams’ successes are impossible without their exposure and promotions through endorsements, and consistent collaboration in numerous projects. Most importantly, media viewers are, whether as fans or as critics, contributing to the success of these love teams as they play a role in their popularity and recognition.
In the 21st century, some of the most notable love teams of our generation include LizQuen, featuring Liza Soberano and Enrique Gil, known for their undeniable chemistry and strong attractiveness; JaDine, starring Nadine Lustre and James Reid, whose popularity sparked after their first onscreen appearance in the novel series turn film called “Diary ng Panget”; and Kathniel, with Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla, earning the titles “Teen King” and “Teen Queen” and was eventually hailed as this generation’s box office loveteam after producing several award-winning films and teleseryes. In line with Athena Dizon’s “Nagiging totoo na! Totoong nagugustuhan na kita!” in She’s Dating The Gangster (2017), all three love teams eventually confessed that they had fallen in love and transitioned from reel to real relationships. Unfortunately, JaDine broke up after four years of being a real-life couple. More recently, KathNiel announced that they had gone in separate ways last November 30, 2023, after their 12-year love team partnership and 11-year real-life relationship. These announcements were truly heart-wrenching, and it has deeply affected many Filipinos.
I recall hearing about the news while waiting in line to watch the UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe’s practice run for the upcoming UAAP Cheerdance competition in the Quadricentennial Pavilion. It was evident how Kathryn Bernardo’s post sparked different reactions and conversations among those who were in line to watch the said performance. Admittedly, as a fan of the said love team, I immediately received tons of messages and calls asking if I had seen the post. The reaction of the people in line to watch the practice run really highlighted the impact of this generation’s phenomenal love team, both to their die-hard fans and to the general public.
While not all on screen partners end up dating in real life, many love teams have transitioned to real relationships. It is evident that as celebrity couples, these people experience countless controversies and rumors during the whole course of their relationships — with viewers feeling entitled to be involved in their personal lives. The year 2023 proved to be a challenging year for Philippine ShowBiz Loveteams, being dubbed “Annus Horribilis” or “a year of disaster.” KathNiel’s breakup announcement was not an isolated case; this phenomenal split has been part of a larger trend where several entertainment couples also confirmed their splits, including Andrea Brillantes and Ricci Rivero, Miles Ocampo and Elijah Canlas, Sarah Lahbati and Richard Gutierrez, and Kim Chiu and Xian Lim (Alcantara, 2024). Not all started as on screen love teams, but the fact that both partners were celebrities sparked controversies among people.
However, the relevance and essence of these love teams are now under scrutiny following the Annus Horribilis controversy last year. This is further supported by Liza Soberano, the other half of the LizQuen love team when she decided to embark on her own journey away from the love team culture of our country. Her departure gained both respect and criticism, especially after her interview, where she revealed the drawbacks of being in a love team. Her sentiments truly have opened our eyes to the possibility of people venturing into their careers without the need to be paired with someone else, just like how we are expected to bloom despite not being in a relationship. I acknowledge Liza’s sentiments that being caged in a love team does limit our growth as an individual, but we cannot also deny the fact that it has been easy to boost an actor’s career and popularity through love teams. While some love teams flourish, others may not achieve the same level of fame due to different factors like chemistry, project selections, and individual talents. Ultimately, the ability of a love team to deliver refreshing and compelling performances despite numerous similar exposures in media platforms is a pivotal factor that determines their success.
With all these in mind, we go back to the question: Are love teams still thriving and relevant today? In my opinion, yes and because you deserve an explanation and an acceptable reason, here are several factors to prove my point. First, love teams will remain relevant as long as there are new artists introduced and stories waiting to be told. As viewers who are emotionally invested in these stories, we always aspire for something new and refreshing. Even if it is unintentional, we usually end up rooting for two characters to be paired even before they are acknowledged by the management as an official love team. Similarly, as long as there are viewers, whether fans or critics, the concept of love team will continue to make sense, because these spark rumors and gossip (“Feeling ko sila na talaga!” or “Nagbreak na yata sila!) and instigates conversations of hope (“Please! Sana magkatuluyan sila sa totoong buhay!”). As humans, it is in our nature to love and to be loved, and even young kids are able to feel these emotions and dream about love because of these love teams and stories they take part in.
As a hopeless romantic retired fan of KathNiel and a Psychology student, I strongly believe that love teams will continue to thrive and be relevant in the coming years despite the Annus Horribilis controversy — why? Because it simply proves to us that these actors are humans, too, making them more relatable to viewers like us. We have finally entered an era where happy endings are hoped for, but tragic ones are accepted as part of reality. Despite these breakups, many fans express their gratitude for the unforgettable memories — mall shows, fan meets, and concerts — where they rooted for these love teams and were part of their fan bases.
Love teams, paired with amazing storylines, entertain and enlighten their viewers through their narrative (“Huwag mo akong mahalin dahil mahal kita, mahalin mo ako dahil mahal mo ko, because that is what I deserve! — Mia, Barcelona: A love untold [2016]), while storylines and viewers are pivotal factors that influence the success of a love team. More importantly, love teams give justice to these stories as viewers influence the direction and outcome of the story.
References (Love Teams and Society in the Philippine Industry):
Eosty. (2023, January 12). How movies can be used as a form of escapism — Eosty — medium. Medium. https://eosty.medium.com/how-movies-can-be-used-as-a-form-of-escapism-a5e219ca6b0f
Kilat, V. (2023, June 1). POPULAR LOVE TEAMS IN THE PHILIPPINES — Cranraz. Cranraz. https://www.cranraz.com/celebrity/popular-love-teams-in-the-philippines
Snam, D. (2022, November 27). WHY THE WORLD LOVES TO WATCH ASIAN BL DRAMAS — David Snam — Medium. Medium. https://medium.com/@davidsnam777/asian-bl-content-for-dummies-d9f947c6075e#:~:text=Asian%20BL%20movies%20often%20deal,media%20that%20represent%20their%20experience.
References (Guy and Pip: Love Teams in the Philippine Show Business):
GMA Integrated News. (2023, April 30). Liza Soberano gets real about love teams in showbiz: “We’re supposed to be a real couple on and off cam.” GMA News Online. https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/showbiz/chikaminute/868553/liza-soberano-gets-real-about-love-teams-in-showbiz-we-re-supposed-to-be-a-real-couple-on-and-off-cam/story/
Godinez, B. (2023, May 7). Joshua Garcia on being once part of a love team: “Sasabayan ko lang yung agos ng karera ko.” PEP.ph. https://www.pep.ph/news/local/173111/joshua-garcia-looks-back-on-his-past-as-part-of-a-successful-love-team-a755-20230507
Love teams through the ages. (2013, March 25). PEP.ph. https://www.pep.ph/lifestyle/18148/love-teams-through-the-ages
References (The House of Us: The Philippines as the Home of Love Team Culture):
Alcantara, C. (2024, January 01). IN PICTURES: Stars who broke up in 2023. Manila Bulletin. https://mb.com.ph/2023/12/31/in-pictures-pinoy-celebrity-breakups-that-left-2023-shocked
Martinez, A. (2020, June 20). National Obsession: The Dark Side of Filipino Love Teams. Reclamation Magazine. https://reclamationmagazine.com/2020/06/22/national-obsession-the-dark-side-of-filipino-love-teams/
Philippine Entertainment Portal (PEP). (2009, February 19) . Love Teams Through the Ages. PEP.ph. https://www.pep.ph/lifestyle/18148/love-teams-through-the-ages
