Barbie Forteza proud of David Licauco for 'Samahan ng mga Makasalanan': 'Pinaghirapan niya 'to'

Barbie Forteza expressed her pride for David Licauco during the premiere night of his new movie, "Samahan ng mga Makasalanan," on Thursday.

In Lhar Santiago's report on "24 Oras" Friday the Kapuso Primetime Princess said it was David who invited her to attend the premiere night and she was "very, very happy" to go.

"I'm so excited for him, I'm so proud of him, at alam ko na pinaghirapan niya 'to," she shared.

"Lagi niyang sinasabi sa 'kin na this is something new for him, 'yung storya, 'yung script, 'yung character niya so nung una medyo nangangapa pa siya pero he was just so excited to work with everyone," she added.

David, on the other hand, is grateful for Barbie's support.

"For her to come here, to support me, [make] time for me, says a lot about her character. Nothing but gratitude," the Pambansang Ginoo said.

Other cast members attended the premiere night, such as Liezel Lopez, Buboy Villar, Chanty Videla, Jade Tecson, Jay Ortega, Joel Torre, and Soliman Cruz.

Also present at the event were GMA Pictures Executive Vice President and GMA Public Affairs Senior Vice President Nessa Valdellon, Sparkle GMA Artist Center First Vice President Joy Marcelo, Sparkle Senior Talent Manager Tracy Garcia, and Sparkle Consultant Lawrence Tan

In the movie, which also stars Sanya Lopez, David plays the role of Deacon Sam who gets assigned to Santo Kristo, a place that keeps running off its priests.

Shot in Vigan, "Samahan ng mga Makasalanan" turns Calle Crisologo into a street resembling a red light district where all kinds evildoers gather, such as pimps, gossipmongers, thieves, gamblers, and gangsters.

To redeem the sinners, Sam gets the idea to form a church group: the Samahan ng mga Makasalanan. He tells them that he will guide them to change their ways.

"Samahan ng mga Makasalanan" is directed by Benedict Mique. It will open in cinemas on April 19.

—CDC, GMA Integrated News