David Licauco owns past tardiness, reacts to Barbie Forteza’s ‘ideal man’ remark

His statement also arrives amid renewed online buzz surrounding Barbie, who recently described actor Khalil Ramos as her “ideal leading man.”

“Khalil is the ideal leading man… Finally, nagkaroon na ako ng leading man na maayos,” Barbie said, praising Khalil as an “actor’s actor” and a gentleman.

Rather than react defensively, David met the comment with humility and appreciation.

“I’m just really grateful for four years na magkasama kami. Marami kaming pinagsamahan, marami kaming shows na nagawa. We hang out together, we work together, so I’m just really grateful sa partnership namin,” he said. “I’m all praise for her kasi napakagaling niyang actor, and I wish her well.”

He also agreed with Barbie’s assessment of Khalil, describing him as kind and easy to get along with.

“Totoo naman si Khalil, napakabait naman talaga niyang tao. Kahit ako, gusto ko siya. Kapag nakikita ko siya sa GMA, we talk for 15 to 20 minutes. He’s really a nice person, and for sure iyon din ang naging perception ni Barbie.”

For David, Barbie’s statement ultimately comes down to perspective.

“It’s okay. That’s her opinion,” he said.

Despite speculation from fans, the actor maintained that there is no bad blood between him and his former loveteam partner.

“Okay naman. I think we’re okay.”

As for the possibility of a reunion, David acknowledged that both of them are currently focused on their individual paths.

“I’m not so sure. As you can see, we’re doing solo. Kaya ako nandito ngayon sa Viva Films, while she’s also doing a lot of things. Ang dami niyang projects ngayon. I’m proud of her, and iyon talaga ang gusto niyang gawin.”

Before becoming a household name, David started out as a commercial model, appearing in advertising campaigns, fashion shows, and magazine covers before transitioning into acting.

He made his big-screen debut with a supporting role in “The Amazing Praybeyt Benjamin” (2014), before taking on television projects including “FlordeLiza,” “Ipaglaban Mo!,” “Magpakailanman,” and “Karelasyon.”

His breakthrough came in 2017 when he portrayed Malik in “Mulawin vs. Ravena,” paving the way for bigger roles both on television and in film.

He later landed his first lead film role opposite Shaira Diaz in “Because I Love You” (2019), followed by “Without You” (2023), “G! LU” (2024), “That Kind of Love” (2024), and “Samahan ng mga Makasalanan” (2025), where he played Reverend Sam.

On television, David starred in “Heartful Café,” “Maging Sino Ka Man,” and “Pulang Araw,” but it was his portrayal of Fidel in the blockbuster historical fantasy series “Maria Clara at Ibarra” that became the defining role of his career.

The hit series earned widespread acclaim locally and internationally, with David receiving several acting awards for his performance, including Best Supporting Actor honors from the Platinum Stallion National Media Awards, the Northwest Samar State University Students’ Choice Awards, and the VP Choice Awards.

Beyond acting, David also ventured into music with the release of his debut single, “I Think I Love You,” in 2025.

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