James Reid, founder of talent management company Careless, finally addressed the controversies surrounding the arrest of its CEO, Jeffrey Oh, for violating work permit regulations.
Read: Careless CEO Jeffrey Oh allegedly arrested, facing deportation
In an exclusive interview with MJ Felipe for TV Patrol on September 1, 2023, James affirmed that although their business is running as usual, the recent issues have been "rough."
He elaborated, "This year has been one of the biggest challenges so far.
"But we are learning a lot and, honestly, we just keep getting stronger."
It can be recalled that Bureau of Immigration (BI) spokesperson Dana Sandoval confirmed on August 8, 2023 that the American businessman was arrested and is facing deportation.
There were rumors saying that it was James's father, Malcolm, who reported Jeffrey's alleged illegal activities to the authorities.
Read: Ama ni James Reid, pinaghihinalaang nagsuplong sa Careless CEO na si Jeffrey Oh
James, for his part, clarified that his dad had nothing to do with the incident.
"I was shocked. Me, my family, especially my dad," James related.
"We were shocked about some of the rumors that were coming out.
"When it came out, he [Malcolm] said, 'James, what did I do?'
"So yeah, he was shocked."
Still talking about his father, the 30-year-old singer vouched, "The most simplest way to say it is that he had nothing to do with it.
"It was surprising and we can joke about it but he [Malcolm] was upset at everything that was happening and this misunderstanding.
"He was upset on my behalf."
ON LIZA SOBERANO'S FUTURE
James also touched upon concerns regarding Careless talent Liza Soberano's career.
Read: Meet Careless Music's diverse roster of talents
To this, he assured, "When it comes to Liza, I would say she has some of the most amazing projects coming up. I think stuff that no one has seen before.
"And I just want to let all her fans know not to worry. There's nothing to worry about."
James continued, "She's preparing something very special for them so they have something to look forward to.
"We are a very small company, but we're very hardworking so it takes us time, so please be patient with us."
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