MANILA, Philippines — Actor John Estrada denied rumors linking him romantically to ‘Batang Quiapo’ co-star Barbie Imperial.

On his Instagram account, John posted a screenshot of the report, calling it fake news.

“I don’t know Barbie Imperial, I know her as an actress but not on a personal level. In my biography, I only saw her once during ABS-CBN’s Xmas special in 2021 or 2022, and that was the last time we met as far as I remember,” John wrote.

“It’s true that we were together in ‘Batang Quiapo’ but we NEVER met because the group, unit, and director are different. Whoever started this, you can be a comedian,” he added.

John also had a message to members of the press and showbiz news sites.

“And to online newspapers, or tabloids or gossip sites, before you publish something, please do some research if there is even 0.1 percent truth, that’s all and thank you very much,” the actor said.

“Happy new year to all of you again,” he added.

ABS-CBN recently denied that Barbie was no longer part of “Batang Quiapo.”

“There is no truth to the rumors that Barbie Imperial is no longer part of ‘FPJ’s Batang Quiapo’. Barbie, Coco Martin, and the production team openly communicate with each other, and she remains committed to the series,” the statement read.