A new controversy is shaking the entertainment industry in the Philippines as actress and TV personality Ruffa Gutierrez, along with former Quezon City Mayor and actor Herbert Bautista, faces a lawsuit filed by Ruffa’s ex-husband.

According to recently released court documents, the former husband of Ruffa Gutierrez has accused the actress and Herbert Bautista of causing him “emotional damages.” The reason, as stated in the complaint, is reportedly due to the pair’s increasingly close relationship, which has been highly visible in recent public appearances and online posts.

Public Displays Spark Legal Trouble

The legal complaint, filed just a few weeks after Ruffa and Herbert were seen attending several events together, claims that their apparent closeness in public has caused “mental and emotional distress” to Ruffa’s former spouse. The court documents suggest that the ex-husband views their open companionship as disrespectful, especially considering that the annulment process between him and Ruffa has not been fully finalized.

An excerpt from the complaint reads:

“The respondents have displayed an inappropriate level of closeness in various public functions and media appearances, causing unnecessary emotional turmoil to the petitioner.”

The nature of the emotional distress cited remains vague, but the ex-husband’s camp insists that the visibility of Ruffa and Herbert’s relationship has made him suffer psychological stress, humiliation, and a feeling of public betrayal.

Speculations on Ruffa and Herbert’s Relationship

Although neither Ruffa nor Herbert has publicly confirmed a romantic relationship, their increasing closeness has become the subject of speculation among fans and the entertainment press. They’ve been spotted side by side at private gatherings, charity events, and were seen exchanging sweet gestures in behind-the-scenes footage from a recent project.

While many fans celebrate their on-screen and off-screen chemistry, some netizens have expressed concern that the timing of their closeness may be “too soon” or “inappropriate,” given Ruffa’s unresolved legal matters with her ex-husband.

No Official Statement Yet

As of this writing, Ruffa Gutierrez has not issued an official statement regarding the lawsuit. Herbert Bautista, likewise, has remained silent. However, sources close to both celebrities claim that they were surprised by the legal action and see it as “unnecessary and baseless.”

A legal expert who reviewed the case briefly noted:

“It’s unusual for someone to file for emotional damages solely based on public appearances. The burden of proof will be difficult unless there is clear evidence of intentional harm.”

Despite this, the lawsuit is expected to proceed to preliminary hearings in the coming weeks.

Public Divided on the Issue

The public reaction has been mixed. Supporters of Ruffa argue that she has every right to move on with her life, especially if she’s no longer in a committed relationship. Some comments on social media include:

“She’s a grown woman. If Herbert makes her happy, then that’s her choice.”

Others, however, sympathize with the ex-husband, saying he may feel disrespected if he’s still emotionally invested or if their separation remains legally unresolved.

What Happens Next?

Legal analysts expect the case to take months before any resolution is reached. In the meantime, fans are keeping a close eye on the developments, with some calling for privacy and respect for all parties involved.

Whether this is just a legal stunt or a legitimate emotional plea, the situation once again places celebrity relationships—and the scrutiny they face—under the harsh spotlight of public judgment.