After the Bench campaign photoshoot, Kathryn Bernardo and David Licauco were shipped by netizens, Kathryn Bernardo’s reaction surprised everyone.

In the world of Philippine showbiz, collaborations between celebrities often stir waves of excitement and speculation. This was exactly the case when popular actress Kathryn Bernardo and rising heartthrob David Licauco appeared together in a recent Bench campaign photoshoot. While fans expected stunning visuals and stylish fashion, they didn’t expect the whirlwind of rumors and “shipping” that followed shortly after the campaign was released.

The shoot, which featured Kathryn and David in a series of romantic, fashion-forward poses, quickly went viral on social media. Admirers of both stars, along with casual observers, began speculating whether there was more than just professional chemistry between the two. The hashtag #KathVid began trending, a portmanteau of their names coined by netizens who were already dreaming of a real-life love team.

But what caught even more attention was Kathryn Bernardo’s reaction to the shipping — and it wasn’t what people expected.

The Photoshoot That Sparked It All

The Bench photoshoot was part of the brand’s latest campaign, aiming to showcase modern Filipino youth style and confidence. Kathryn Bernardo, already a long-time Bench endorser, was paired with David Licauco, a rising actor and model who gained fame for his roles in teleseryes and his charming personality.

In the campaign photos, the two stars were seen posing intimately, donning casual yet stylish outfits, and sharing warm glances that fans described as “electric.” Some of the behind-the-scenes clips even featured candid moments between them, such as laughing between takes or adjusting each other’s outfits.

While the brand had likely intended to create a visually appealing fashion narrative, it didn’t take long for fans to read between the lines. The internet erupted with comments ranging from, “They look good together!” to “Bagong love team alert!”

Netizens React: A New Love Team in the Making?

Kathryn Bernardo has been one-half of the hugely popular love team “KathNiel” with actor Daniel Padilla for over a decade. Their on-screen chemistry and real-life relationship have earned them a loyal fan base. However, since their public breakup in 2023, Kathryn has been more open to solo projects and working with new co-stars.

David Licauco, on the other hand, has been steadily gaining popularity and has recently starred in several successful projects. He has a clean-cut image, often described by fans as “prince charming material,” and his calm, respectful demeanor has earned him admiration across age groups.

So, when fans saw them together in such a magnetic shoot, the idea of a new love team quickly caught fire. Social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and TikTok were flooded with fan edits, photo collages, and fantasy casting suggestions for TV dramas and movies featuring the pair.

Even non-fans joined the conversation, saying that the pairing felt “fresh” and “natural,” with many praising their visual compatibility.

Kathryn Bernardo Breaks Her Silence

Amid all the buzz, people waited eagerly to hear what Kathryn Bernardo thought about all the shipping. Would she dismiss it? Would she hint at a possible collaboration? Or would she be uncomfortable with the sudden pairing?

During a media interview for another brand launch, a reporter finally asked Kathryn about the trending topic. Her response took many by surprise — and quickly became headline news.

Kathryn laughed gently before saying, “I saw the posts. I think it’s cute. People really love imagining stories, and that’s part of the fun in showbiz. David is a great guy — very professional, very respectful, and we had a lot of fun during the shoot. But right now, I’m just focused on my projects and healing.”

Her answer struck a balance between being appreciative and grounded. She didn’t shut down the possibility of future collaborations, nor did she fuel the romantic rumors. Her calm and mature response earned praise from netizens, many of whom admired her for addressing the buzz gracefully.

David Licauco Responds as Well

A few days later, David Licauco also addressed the growing attention. During a guest appearance on a morning show, he was asked about the Kathryn Bernardo shipping and the viral photoshoot.

He smiled and responded, “Working with Kathryn was an honor. She’s such a professional and a genuinely kind person. I understand why people are reacting that way — she brings out a certain magic on camera. But for me, I’m just happy that people appreciated the campaign.”

David’s response was equally respectful, and his humility earned even more admiration from fans. He didn’t capitalize on the attention but instead used the opportunity to thank supporters and highlight the creative success of the project.

Why Fans are So Invested

The intense interest in Kathryn and David’s pairing highlights something deeper within Filipino pop culture. Love teams have always played a significant role in local entertainment, sometimes blurring the lines between reel and real relationships. After Kathryn and Daniel’s breakup, fans have been emotionally invested in how Kathryn would move forward, both personally and professionally.

David Licauco represents a new chapter — someone outside the usual circle, bringing a refreshing dynamic to Kathryn’s career. Their Bench campaign served as a symbol of reinvention, independence, and possibilities.

More importantly, Kathryn’s composed yet open-hearted response showed growth, resilience, and a woman who’s navigating fame on her own terms.

What’s Next?

While there’s no confirmation of a film or TV project together — yet — fans are already pushing for a collaboration. The Bench campaign, whether intentionally or not, has opened a door to what could be a surprising and exciting love team in the making.

Industry insiders speculate that producers might already be taking notes. With the immense social media engagement and positive feedback from fans, it wouldn’t be surprising if a Kathryn-David project is greenlit in the near future.

Until then, both stars continue to focus on their individual careers. Kathryn is reportedly working on a new drama film, while David is involved in a period series expected to premiere later this year.

Final Thoughts

The Kathryn Bernardo and David Licauco Bench campaign has proven just how powerful visuals, chemistry, and timing can be in the world of showbiz. It reminded fans of the thrill of unexpected pairings and the excitement of new beginnings.

But perhaps the biggest takeaway from the buzz is Kathryn’s poised reaction — a blend of warmth, clarity, and empowerment. It’s not just about who she’s being shipped with, but how she continues to rise and move forward in her own radiant way.

As for the fans, the dream of a #KathVid love team lives on — at least for now, in the realm of social media fantasies and hopes for the next big screen sensation.