Just a few hours after PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal) posted an article about the reported near-fight between Kapuso stars Richard Gutierrez and Aljur Abrenica at the Fiamma bar last October 17, Richard's camp sent PEP a statement refuting the report. (CLICK here to read related article.)
Richard does not deny that there was some hostility between him and Aljur. In fact, he admits telling Aljur to "leave the table," although Richard says he did this "politely."
Richard denies, however, that he hit Aljur, even if he says he found Aljur distinctly lacking in "social graces." Richard alleges that Aljur "barged in" on him and his friends, sat down, and drank with them when he was clearly "uninvited."
The following is the complete official statement of Richard Gutierrez sent to PEP through a text message at 6 p.m.:
"Time management is what stars whose schedules are busy need to master, for it is during these moments of privacy that a star can unwind, relax, and de-stress.
"Unfortunately, however, a star like Mr. Aljur Abrenica, an acquaintance, does not seem to understand that stars need space too, and barging in on our table unexpectedly, sitting down uninvited, and partaking of the drinks freely, does not speak well of a person's social graces.
"I politely asked him, after a decent time, to leave. That was what the incident was all about.
"Ms. Jewel Mische, if I may correct the PEP report, was not at the Fiamma bar at all. And alas, neither was Ms. Mische the cause of the INVENTED rift." [capitalization provided]
At press time, PEP was investigating the incident again, and talking to more sources. Our investigation has unearthed more unexpected details. Keep posted on PEP for updates.