Maine Mendoza set the record straight on her viral revelation about falling in love with her then-love team partner and co-host, Alden Richards, in a recent podcast.
In a post on social networking site X, the other half of AlDub clarified that she meant no harm by what she shared.
“Okay, so about the last podcast episode.. Una sa lahat, I didn’t think the part about my story with Alden would spark controversy, let alone be a big deal, considering that everyone had already moved on from Kalyeserye and AlDub. From the start, I hoped the clashes between fans on both sides would end, at least, even though the hate train aimed at me was nonstop then and apparently still remains so,” Maine wrote.
Maine also clarified that they only meant to look back on their viral noontime show segment since it has already been a decade, and assured fans that all is well between her and Alden.
“The point of our podcast is to look back on Kalyeserye and to discuss and share behind-the-scenes stories—the untold ones—and that can include personal experiences, narratives, and sentiments. I believe it’s acceptable to reflect and openly discuss them for this podcast, especially now that it’s been a decade and all is well between the individuals involved, particularly me and Alden,” she explained.
Maine reiterated that Alden will always be part of their journey, even if they are no longer together on the show. She also stressed that she never intended to spark criticisms.
“There is no reason to exclude him from the story/our stories, despite his absence, because he was a big part of Kalyeserye—and it would have felt strange to leave him out. That said, there was no intention to provoke criticism or negativity towards him or anyone else. I was asked, I answered, and I shared a short anecdote,” she said.
The actress-host also emphasized that the story she shared was based on facts: “I believe it’s not a bad thing to share a personal story related to the question and topic, as long that it’s based on facts. There was no malice or ill intent behind my sharing that story about myself, him, and us. There are countless other stories I’ve kept to myself and chosen not to share. You know how podcasts work; they can be really personal, but ours didn’t even go that far. All stories shared were surface-level.”
Maine also did not shy away from addressing the hate she has been receiving from netizens, especially those who continue to pit her against Alden despite them not being together for years.
“But the biggest question will always be: why do we get criticized for saying our truth and the truth? And why is it when we do, some people resort to personal attacks meant to demean and harm? I get that we have supporters who aren’t really fans of the other, but why the hostility? Why pit a woman against a man, as if there’s a competition for who’s more 'successful'? Success, in this sense, is ridiculously measured and defined by career 'achievements' as if our lives revolve solely around our jobs. In the grand scheme of things, what is really there to prove? All the hatred and comparisons—what for, really?” she expressed.
She also clarified that there is no bad blood between her and Alden, nor with their fellow co-hosts.
“All is well among the dabarkads. We’ve all moved on, and the past remains there. We can revisit and reflect on the good and the bad with a peaceful heart. Ten years on, we are all living the lives we chose, and I hope we can keep moving forward without nurturing hate—because what’s the point? What do we gain from hostility? Again, in the grand scheme of things, what truly needs proving? Find your own answer. Let’s live for what makes us happy and make life less complicated and chaotic,” she explained.
Maine reminded her critics that there’s more to life than spreading hate.
“Life is short. When our time comes and memories flash before our eyes, don’t let yours be filled the moments you spewed negativity online. Don’t let it be your only contribution in this life. Ang dami pang pwedeng gawin sa buhay bukod sa pagiging tambay sa internet at pagiging hater. There’s another world of better things to do. Leave a better trace,” she wrote.
In the end, Maine urged fans not to attack Alden over things he may have said unclearly in the past.
“P.S. Please don’t throw hate on Alden. Regardless of what he meant by his words, it was really for the best for both of us and our situation at that time. Don’t read much into it,” Maine said.