James Yap says concerned over criticisms toward son
MANILA -- Set to make his big-screen debut on Christmas Day, James Yap, Jr., his father fears, may start getting his share of "haters" as he slowly enters the world of showbiz.
The 6-year-old boy, nicknamed "Bimby," will star in his first-ever movie via the Metro Manila Film Festival entry "Torky and My Little Bossing." He will co-star with his mother, actress-host Kris Aquino, "Eat Bulaga" star Vic Sotto, and child wonder Ryzza Mae Dizon.
Yap, who lives apart from Aquino and Bimby, expressed concern over his son's acting debut. While he feels proud as a father, the star cager said the move might attract "bashers" targeting his son.
Speaking at the sidelines of a press conference held early this week by a sports store he endorses, the 31-year-old basketball player appeared to be at a loss for words when the topic of his son's movie was brought up.
"Well, bilang tatay, proud. Pero... paano ba sasabihin...
"Well, kumbaga... Paano ba? Kumbaga, ano eh, once na pumasok ka sa gano'n, hindi mo maiiwasan na meron kang mga... kumbaga haters, 'di ba, mga bad comments. Pag pumasok ka sa gano'n, dapat handa ka talaga. I'm sure... Sana huwag mangyari sa kanya," he said.
Acknowledging that having critics is a "reality" in showbiz, Yap continued, "Meron talagang bad comments against him, 'di ba, sa anak ko. Well, natural 'yan sa pagpasok sa ganoong [industriya]."
As a father, he said he can only assure Bimby has his full support and guidance in dealing with any criticism directed at him.
"Basta nandito lang ako lagi para sa anak ko, dahil mahal ko ang anak ko. Kahit anong mangyari, nandito ako," he said.
Early this year, Yap was embroiled in a controversy involving the custody of Bimby and his alleged spat with Aquino. The former couple met in court numerous times, but eventually settled on a compromise which both parties referred to as beneficial to their son.
