During the grand press conference for their upcoming movie Ex Ex Lovers, the showbiz press revisited the long-standing rumors of a romantic connection between Marvin Agustin and Jolina Magdangal. They were asked directly if they had ever been in a relationship in the past.
Marvin and Jolina’s love team was one of the most popular pairings of the 1990s. Much like today’s onscreen couples, fans assumed there was something romantic between the two.
“The magic and chemistry of our love team worked because, back then, MU (mutual understanding) was a thing. I think you can call us as MU,” Marvin set the record straight.
“The reason we’re still here is that we never officially became a couple. That’s why we can still do a comeback film together. Unlike other love teams who became real-life couples and had intense breakups—making it difficult for them to work on a project again—we kept our relationship professional. We also stayed in touch despite living separate lives, and that allowed us to make this film.”
Jolina agreed, saying, “You cannot call us ex-lovers because we did not become a couple. I was vocal about my feelings, but that’s all in the past. My children know him as my best friend back then.”
When asked how they managed to maintain their connection despite having their own families, Jolina said, “We were out of touch for a while, but we still text occasionally. It’s not something we plan.”
Marvin added, “Our friendship has evolved over the years. Since we never became strangers to each other, it’s easy for us to reach out anytime. That’s how we’ve kept the connection alive.”
Shot partially in Malta, Ex Ex Lovers explores the question: Can old love find a second chance? The story begins with SC (Loisa Andalio) asking her mother, Joy (Jolina), to bring her estranged father, Ced (Marvin), back from Europe for her wedding.
Putting aside years of anger and unresolved emotions, Joy travels to Malta, delaying the wedding and reconnecting with Ced. As they rekindle their bond, Joy unexpectedly finds herself rediscovering feelings for Ced—all while devising plans to intervene in SC and her fiancé Joey’s (JK Labajo) relationship. The film delves into themes of forgiveness, rekindled romance, and the complexities of family ties.
Director JP Habac, known for the Valentine’s Day hit I’m Drunk, I Love You, shares his enthusiasm about revisiting the rom-com genre on a love-filled release date.
“As a fan of the MarJo love team, it feels surreal to see them laugh and cry in a film I directed,” Habac said.
Originally planned for streaming, the film transitioned to a theatrical release after heartfelt discussions among Marvin, Jolina, and the producers.
“This reunion is a once-in-a-lifetime event that deserves to be experienced on the big screen,” said the production team led by Antoinette Jadaone.
Marvin and Jolina expressed their gratitude to Project 8 Projects for entrusting them with such a meaningful project. Despite years apart, the duo found that the magic of their love team remained intact.
During the shoot in Malta, Filipinos abroad celebrated their presence with a flash mob. Back in the Philippines, their first mall show for the film attracted massive crowds, reminiscent of their glory days. A recent event in Cebu left both stars emotional as they witnessed the overwhelming support of fans, both old and new.
Ex Ex Lovers promises to bring back the charm of Filipino romantic comedies, delivering heartfelt entertainment rooted in Filipino values and the timeless appeal of love stories. The film is set to premiere nationwide this Valentine’s season, produced by Project 8 Projects in collaboration with Cornerstone Entertainment and distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures.
