From Eman to Kobie: Who is Jillian Ward’s mystery man?

Is it real or just fan theory? Jillian Ward keeps things private as Kobie Brown speculation grows.

After previously being linked to Eman Bacosa Pacquiao, is Kobie Brown now the “mystery man” who has been making Jillian Ward smile lately?

The two have continued to attract attention after they were spotted attending Jessica Sanchez’s concert at the Araneta Coliseum on May 16.

Fans and eagle-eyed netizens were also quick to notice that Jillian and Kobie follow each other on Instagram, further fueling speculation about a possible romance.

The rumors gained even more momentum following Jillian’s recent appearance on “Fast Talk with Boy Abunda,” where she appeared visibly surprised when asked to choose between “Robbie or Kobie.”

Although she did not directly answer the question, the actress reacted with a shocked, “What?!”

Before the now-viral moment, Jillian admitted that someone is currently making her happy.

For months, Kobie Brown, the 22-year-old Filipino-British actor and former “Pinoy Big Brother Connect” housemate, has been rumored to be the actress’ alleged mystery boyfriend.

When asked whether she had already chosen a suitor, Jillian simply replied, “Maybe.”

As for whether someone already holds a special place in her heart, the actress explained why she has decided to keep that aspect of her life private.

“Recently, I realized po na I want to keep this part of my life private. Kasi gusto ko rin pong maprotektahan ‘yong mga tao sa paligid ko, whether family ko ‘yon or friends ko or loved ones. Gusto ko nang maging private siya para ma-cherish ko yung mga connections, relationships ko with people. I want to protect their privacy.”

Speculation intensified after Kobie officially joined Sparkle GMA Artist Center, the same talent management agency that handles Jillian’s career. While neither Jillian nor Kobie has confirmed the real score between them, fans continue to speculate about the nature of their relationship.

And it can be recalled that Eman and Jillian’s closeness previously became a hot topic on social media after Eman admitted that Jillian was among his showbiz crushes who became his close friend.

Eman was also asked about rumors linking him romantically to Jillian, particularly whether he felt jealous about her closeness with Jilian’s “Never Say Die” co-star then Raheel Bhyria.

“Nag-usap naman po kami,” Eman said during his recent appearance on “Unang Hirit.” When further asked if he had told Raheel to stay away from Jillian, Eman clarified: “They’re really good friends, they’re friends… Tsaka, guys, hindi kami magka-away ha. Friends kami.”

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