Lovi Poe was in town, and her week-long visit to Manila was filled with significant and emotional events.
The actress rushed back to Manila upon hearing that her pet, Phoebe, a 17-year-old Shih Tzu, was battling cancer and needed her presence.
“Phoebe had been with me through every stage of my life. She was fine when I left, but her condition worsened upon my return. That’s why I came back—to spend precious time with her before saying goodbye,” Lovi told the showbiz press during an intimate junket held a day before she flew back to the States.
While in the country, Lovi also managed to squeeze in several engagements, including meetings and commitments. However, her heart remained heavy with the loss of her cherished pet.
“She already had a tumor before I left, and the veterinarian told me she was given six months to live. But I was grateful she gave us two more years. For people who have pets, they know they’re not just animals,” she said.
Lovi shared that Phoebe was the puppy of her parents’ dogs, whom she bought with her first paycheck when she started working in GMA.
During the junket, Lovi also discussed her upcoming projects, including her involvement with the Hollywood movie Bad Man. In addition to her acting career, Lovi, alongside her husband Monty Blencowe, officially talked about the launch of C’est Lovi Productions, aiming to follow in her late father’s footsteps by producing quality films.
“I’m so proud of my dad that he was able to accomplish that and make a lot of movies. Now, here I am trying to do the same thing, and it’s wonderful because it’s something I’m most passionate about, which is acting,” she told Manila Standard Entertainment.
“Now, I’m also venturing into producing to create good stories. I’ve been in the industry for quite some time, and we have many talented actors, directors, and writers. I think it would be great to see these talents excel globally,” she added.
Lovi expressed her admiration for her father’s legacy, stating that she now understands why he ventured into film production. She emphasized the opportunities filmmaking provides for both on-screen talent and behind-the-scenes professionals.
With C’est Lovi Productions, Lovi aims to showcase Filipino talents. She’s collaborating with Jerrold Tarog for The Sacrifice, which will be co-produced with international partners.
“Jerrold is writing and directing the movie,” she said. “We are in the middle of the casting process, and with C’est Lovi Productions, we are not just showcasing Filipino talents, we want to introduce more of the Philippines. So, our first project is about Philippine Mythology,” she said.
Recognizing Filipino talents making a name in Hollywood, Lovi said it’s about time to support and capitalize on the buzz surrounding them.
“It’s great. We have to commend people who always pursue their dreams. It takes a lot of courage and hard work. That’s why, at C’est Lovi Production our main thrust is to support local artists in gaining international recognition. It’s wonderful to see some people shine and make it abroad like Liza Soberano, Inigo Pascual, and Ms. Dolly de Leon. The possibilities are endless, and we want to see more,” she stated.
Additionally, during her visit, Lovi participated in the Panagbenga Festival in Baguio, representing SCD Skin products, which she endorses. She also took time to reunite with colleagues from Ready Set Glow Cosmetics.
Lovi promised to return soon as she is about to finish two projects with Regal, one of which is the action film titled The Untamed.