Behind the Bench campaign photo shoot, David Licauco’s actions shocked Kathryn Bernardo

Kathryn Bernardo and David Licauco's chemistry gains netizen reactions |  GMA Entertainment

The fashion world buzzed with excitement after Bench released its latest campaign featuring two of the Philippines’ most admired celebrities—Kathryn Bernardo and David Licauco. The campaign, hailed for its modern yet classic aesthetic, was already making waves. But beyond the stunning visuals, something unexpected happened behind the scenes that not only sparked online conversations but also left Kathryn Bernardo visibly surprised.

Netizens quickly caught on to the undeniable chemistry between the two stars during the photoshoot. As clips and behind-the-scenes footage began circulating online, fans started “shipping” Kathryn and David—a term used by social media users when they root for two people to become a couple. But what really stirred the public’s curiosity was Kathryn’s genuine reaction to a surprising gesture made by David Licauco.

A Fresh Pairing That Took Fans by Surprise

Kathryn Bernardo, long recognized for her strong on-screen partnerships, particularly with her former reel and real-life partner Daniel Padilla, has often been careful with the projects and personalities she associates with. On the other hand, David Licauco, known for his calm, charming demeanor and roles in hit shows like Maria Clara at Ibarra, has been steadily rising in popularity.

Their collaboration in the Bench campaign was unexpected but welcomed. The pairing was refreshing, and many fans appreciated seeing Kathryn with someone new. The brand, known for pushing creative boundaries, tapped into the current public interest in seeing fresh faces together, and this shoot was no exception.

The Photoshoot That Got Everyone Talking

The campaign was shot in a minimalist indoor studio, with both stars clad in signature Bench apparel—classic jeans, basic tees, and some experimental streetwear. From the very start of the shoot, the chemistry between Kathryn and David was palpable. Directed by a creative team eager to bring out authentic interactions, the two were encouraged to be playful and natural.

David, ever the gentleman, seemed to be going with the flow. But during one particular moment—caught candidly on camera—he did something that not only caught Kathryn off guard but also won the hearts of netizens.

In the middle of a shoot where Kathryn was adjusting her pose, David leaned in and whispered something into her ear. What he said is still a mystery, but it immediately made Kathryn blush and break into laughter. That rare, unguarded reaction—half shock, half delight—was captured perfectly by the camera crew and quickly went viral.

Kathryn’s Reaction: Genuine Surprise

It’s not often that fans see Kathryn visibly taken aback. Known for her professionalism and composed nature, her surprised response made the interaction all the more endearing. Netizens speculated wildly about what David might have said, but it was clear from Kathryn’s expression that it was something unexpected, yet respectful and lighthearted.

In an interview shortly after the campaign launch, Kathryn was asked about that moment. She smiled and said, “I didn’t expect David to be so spontaneous. He’s usually so calm, but he really made the shoot more fun. That moment? It was just… surprising, but in a good way.”

Her reaction added fuel to the fire of rumors and speculations. Social media platforms lit up with fans sharing memes, clips, and edits of the two stars, with hashtags like #KathVid and #KathDavid trending for days.

David Licauco: A Gentleman with a Quiet Charisma

David has always been known for his quiet charm and respectful demeanor. During a separate interview, he was asked about working with Kathryn. He responded with a mix of admiration and professionalism: “Kathryn is very easy to work with. She’s warm, kind, and incredibly talented. I was just trying to lighten the mood and make her laugh.”

When asked directly about the whispered moment, David laughed and replied, “I think I’ll keep that a secret. Some things are better left a mystery.”

Fans loved this cryptic yet respectful answer. It further elevated David’s image as a gentleman, earning him even more fans, especially among supporters of Kathryn who are happy to see her having light-hearted moments post-breakup with Daniel Padilla.

The Rise of the “KathVid” Ship

With Kathryn now seemingly single and David unattached, fans naturally began to speculate. While both actors have maintained that their interaction was purely professional, the public has already started creating fan pages and shipping content around the pair.

Some fans believe that Kathryn deserves to explore new on-screen partnerships and personal friendships, especially after her long-term relationship with Daniel. Others believe David’s calm demeanor perfectly complements Kathryn’s dynamic personality.

Regardless of what the future holds for them off-camera, it’s clear that the Bench campaign succeeded in more than just promoting fashion—it sparked a cultural moment.

What This Means for Kathryn and David’s Careers

For Kathryn, this campaign represents a new chapter. She’s stepping into a more mature and independent phase in her life and career. Collaborating with someone new like David Licauco shows that she’s open to exploring fresh creative directions.

For David, working with someone as established as Kathryn is a major milestone. His ability to match her charisma and connect with her, even momentarily, showcases his range and appeal. It wouldn’t be surprising if directors and producers are now considering pairing them for future projects.

In Conclusion: A Moment that Captivated the Public

While it’s still unclear whether anything more than a great working relationship exists between Kathryn Bernardo and David Licauco, one thing is certain—their Bench campaign gave the public a delightful and unexpected surprise. David’s spontaneous gesture and Kathryn’s shocked, yet amused reaction reminded fans of the magic that can happen when two people simply connect—even if just for a moment.

Whether or not this leads to more collaborations or even just a great friendship, fans are watching eagerly. For now, the memory of that candid moment lives on, adding a spark of excitement to the world of Filipino showbiz.