The Internet is abuzz with curiosity about actress Andrea Billantes being spotted with Sam Fernandez, now rumored as her new beau.
On Thursday, February 20, 2025, a video shared by an eagled-eyed netizen has gone viral on social media, featuring Andrea seemingly on a Valentine's Day date.
In the clip, Andrea stands out in a striking red halter polka-dot mini dress and matching red shoes.
She is seen casually chatting with a restaurant staff member.
Standing behind her is a man holding a bouquet of pink roses, later identified by fans as Samuel "Sam" Fernandez.
Read more: Is Andrea Brillantes dating basketball player Sam Fernandez?
Since then, many have been curious about their relationship and want to know more about Sam.
Here's what PEP.ph (Philippine Entertainment Portal) has found out about him.
SAM FERNANDEZ: BACKGROUND
Samuel Fernandez Abu Hijleh, now known simply as Sam Fernandez, is a Filipino-Jordanian student-athlete.
He was born on October 1, 1998.
He hails from Calamba City in Laguna.
According to available data on the web, he is reportedly 6'3" tall.
PERSONAL LIFE AND EDUCATION
Sam has kept a low profile, with most of his social-media accounts set to private.
Mainly, his posts showcase his love for his dog, Storm, and some travel photos with his family.
However, his Facebook account reveals he is currently completing his college degree at the San Beda University's College of Arts and Sciences.
ATHLETIC CAREER
Before choosing a more private life, Sam had already built a reputation among basketball fans owing to his stellar high school basketball career.
Previously a football athlete, the 26-year-old athlete excelled in basketball, playing power forward and center at the San Beda College–Rizal.
In 2016, he and his team clinched the championship title in the NCAA Season 92's Juniors division in the Philippines.
That season, Sam averaged 13.1 points and 10.4 rebounds for the Red Cubs and was the runner-up to La Salle Greenhills' Troy Mallillin for the MVP award.
Sam also led his Calabarzon team to victory in the Palarong Pambansa’s secondary basketball tournament that same year.
Read: San Beda stretches unbeaten slate with rout of Emilio Aguinaldo in NCAA juniors
Following his remarkable high school basketball achievements, many anticipated his college basketball career, curious if he would remain with San Beda or explore new opportunities.
In 2018, Sam told Rappler that he would be joining the University of Sto. Tomas' men's basketball team.
He cited his positive experience training with the team and Coach Aldin Ayo's impressive career program as key factors in his decision.
Sam said, "Nung kinausap niya ako, sinabihan niya na may program na sila sa akin and plan na. So unlike sa iba, alam kong gaganda and magiging maayos yung career ko kasi pina feel din nila sa akin na special ako."
However, Sam had to pause his basketball journey in 2019 after sustaining torn ACL and meniscus injuries in his right knee during a practice.
The plan for him to join UST's Growling Tigers also did not materialize, as he eventually decided to stay at San Beda.
Furthermore, the pandemic disrupted his college basketball career plans when the NCAA season was canceled in 2020.
Currently, Sam continues to lead an active lifestyle and has developed a new interest in playing frisbee.
ANDREA BRILLANTES
Sam and Andrea haven't commented on the rumors about their relationship.
What is clear is that frisbee has brought them together.
As early as September 2024, the actress was seen playing the non-contact team sport.
@kdverse10 Blythe's Playing Frisbee ???? Enjoy B @Username0234561189 #andreabrillantes #blythe #kyledrea #fyp #fyp? ? So Fine - SHORNY
In a January 2025 interview, Andrea described it as a way to balance her work and personal life.
She said, "Frisbee naman, bago kong inaaral na sport, bago lang siya. Pero meron akong ballet... Masaya siyang sports, guys!"
As of now, no photos or videos of Andrea and Sam playing frisbee together have surfaced, except for a clip of them spotted on what appears to be a date.
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