Straight from their enthusiastic conversation about returning as the “KarJon” love team in the new multi-genre iWant original film “The Last Resort,” Karina Bautista and Aljon Mendoza delved into the gripping murder mystery enveloping their characters, as well as their journey as rising Kapamilya talents.
The two previously had undeniable chemistry during their time as housemates in “PBB Otso” and later teamed up for several projects, including “Hoy, Love You!” “Ampalaya Chronicles: Labyu Hehe,” “MMK: Lalabs Ko ‘To,” “Viral Scandal,” and “Hex Boyfriend.”
With their heart-pounding history together, fans couldn’t help but get giddy during the pair’s “The Last Message Challenge” in the December 2 episode of Kapamilya Chat. The host read the incomplete questions that Karina and Aljon would fill in with their answers.
For the first question, they were asked which moment they would want to return to if given the chance. Without hesitation, Aljon chose their “PBB Otso” days, noting that every interaction they had was genuine. Even now, he treasures the memory for the friendship they built and for simply being themselves inside Big Brother’s house.
Agreeing with Aljon that “PBB” was an unforgettable milestone for both of them, she also recalled their time as Bea and Pogs in the drama-mystery series “Viral Scandal.” After thanking RCD Narratives for the opportunity, Karina emphasized that she wanted to savor that period more, despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Parang ang daming nangyayari noong time na ‘yun. So, sana mas na-enjoy natin. I would like to do that more with you,” she expressed.
Slowly inching toward the tear-inducing parts of the interview, the second question wondered what last message the duo would want to say to each other. A proud acting partner and friend, Aljon expressed his heartfelt pride in Karina’s growth as an actress, prompting fans to comment excitedly on the stream.
“Sobrang proud ako… Nagro-root pa rin ako sa’yo hanggang sa lahat ng magiging achievements mo in the future,” he added.
Showing their full support for each other, Karina proceeded to thank Aljon for the memories they shared, affirming the significant role he has played in her life. “You’ve matured so much. I feel like you have so much potential and I just can’t wait to see more… and sana happy ka lagi,” she said.
Surprising fans even more with their touching responses, the third question sought Karina and Aljon to recall the moment they realized they had become such solid friends.
Another mention of their era as “PBB” housemates came up, particularly highlighting how Karina nearly had a meltdown over Aljon’s eviction, since she desperately wanted him to stay. “I think if given the chance, I would’ve given up my spot for him… I feel like mas pangarap mo kasi ‘yung ‘PBB’ back then,” she recalled.
Aljon realized Karina was a true friend even more once they were back in the outside world. “Kasi mahiyain ako… Talagang gina-guide niya ako sa pakikipag-socialize,” he revealed.
Delighting fans even more with the last question, they quickly shared the one thing they couldn’t say directly but chose to disclose in Kapamilya Chat.
Nodding to their rollercoaster journey together, Karina stated: “We had a lot of struggles and challenges [together]. Sayang, hindi natin naharap nang mas maayos since we were young… It’s still a beautiful story to tell.”
Having said everything he wanted to earlier, Aljon kept it simple but impactful: “Na-enjoy ko lahat and I forgive us kasi we were young.”
Catch KarJon in “The Last Resort,” streaming on iWant this December 8 (Monday) at 8 PM.