Batangas Vice Governor Mark Leviste has extended his well wishes to Kris Aquino following her revelation of her dating someone new.

The politico, in a statement to The Philippine STAR, clarified that they remain on good terms despite parting ways.

“As Kris said, we’re still ‘friendly.’ Sa totoo lang, wala naman nagbago sa akin, at wala din naman akong sama ng loob at hinanakit sa kanya. As a matter of fact, I am in the States now, while Bimb is back home,” he said.

This follows Kris Aquino’s confirmation that her on-and-off relationship with Leviste is officially over, stating, “wala nang balikan.”

In an interview with veteran columnist Ogie Diaz, Kris clarified that she and Leviste have not been together since February this year. She explained that they had been growing apart since November last year. They attempted to reconcile but ultimately ended their relationship in February.

“Para malaman lang ng tao, nagkalabuan na magmula November and then sinubukang ayusin pero may mga nalaman ako na hindi ko gusto,” Kris shared.

Kris revealed another reason for their breakup involved a realization from her son, Bimby. She values her sons’ opinions, and when Bimby told her, “Mama, I don’t think you really love him, I just think you’re sad,” Kris admitted, “Yeah, it’s true.”

Kris also noted that the politician and Bimby didn’t have a great relationship: “Hindi sila nagkasundo,” she stated.

Despite this, Leviste included Bimby in his statement, saying, “I admire how Bimb carries himself — I’m proud of him, and I am confident that he has a bright and promising future ahead.”

Leviste also mentioned that before parting ways, he assured Kris and her family that he is one call away.

“I assured Kris, Bimb, Kris’s sisters, and their household help in Orange County that if there’s anything I can do for them, I’ll be there. If I am needed in any way, I will make myself available for them immediately.”

This contradicts Kris’ statement that she would not entertain Leviste if he tried to pursue her again, saying, “Kung sumusubok man, sarado na yung pinto, [..] literally and figuratively.”

Leviste further stated that they are still friends and he has no ill feelings towards Kris. He expressed his gratitude for being Kris’ ex-lover: “I consider myself extremely fortunate to have been given the chance to take care of Kris, love her, and be loved by her.”

He added, “My family and I will continue to pray for her health, peace, and joy. As for me, I will channel this love and energy into nurturing my children and serving the people of Batangas.”

Meanwhile, in the same interview with Ogie Diaz, Kris Aquino confirmed that she has a new non-showbiz boyfriend, a doctor based in Makati. She made it clear that her new relationship wasn’t the cause of her breakup with Leviste, emphasizing the gap between their separation and when she met the doctor.

Rumors of a romantic relationship between Aquino and Leviste began circulating in January 2023 after the politician visited her in the US during the New Year.