Beloved Kapuso stars and real-life fan favorites Barbie Forteza and David Licauco—fondly dubbed BarDa by their growing fandom—recently melted hearts as they opened up about their love languages during a brand event in Makati on May 17.

The two, who have been captivating viewers both on- and off-screen, were asked how they express affection for one another. With signature wit and charm, Barbie kicked things off by joking, “My love language is… Barbie dolls!”—drawing laughter from the crowd. But the moment quickly turned tender as she shared what truly means the most to her.

“He loves to check on me,” Barbie revealed. “If he notices I’m a little down, he’ll say things like, ‘You look beautiful today!’ It really makes a difference.”

Her comment prompted playful teasing from David, who admitted he tends to shower her with compliments—something fans were delighted to hear.

Aside from words of affirmation, Barbie highlighted that acts of service and gift-giving are also part of David’s expressive toolkit. “When I’m tired, he’ll bring me coffee,” she shared. But the most anticipated part came when she laughed and admitted, “But what I’m really waiting for… is physical touch,” sparking cheers and kilig reactions from the crowd.

David, ever the gentleman, chimed in with his own take. He described Barbie as someone who truly understands him, saying her love language is clearly acts of service—especially when they check on each other’s well-being regularly.

“And physical touch—of course! In the form of hugs and support,” he said with a grin. “Also, you tell me I’m cute and amazing, so that counts as words of affirmation, right?”

From Screen Chemistry to Real-Life Magic

BarDa first teamed up on the feel-good series Heartful Café, but it was their breakout roles in the hit historical fantasy drama Maria Clara at Ibarra that solidified their chemistry and nationwide appeal. Since then, they’ve worked together on numerous projects:

• Maging Sino Ka Man (2023 remake)

• That Kind of Love (2024 romantic comedy film debut)

• Pulang Araw (Netflix historical drama, 2024)

• Multiple brand endorsements and public appearances

Their growing success as both individual talents and a love team continues to inspire fans and ignite excitement for what’s next.

Meet the Stars Behind the Chemistry

Barbie Forteza
Dubbed the Kapuso Primetime Princess, Barbie was born on July 31, 1997, in Biñan, Laguna. She rose to fame through iconic GMA roles such as The Half Sisters, Anak ni Waray vs. Anak ni Biday, and the award-winning Maria Clara at Ibarra. With accolades from Cinemalaya and Fantasporto, Barbie has cemented her status as a leading actress in Philippine entertainment.

David Licauco
Born on June 15, 1994, in Quezon City, David gained national attention as Fidel in Maria Clara at Ibarra, earning the title Pambansang Ginoo. He has starred in Mulawin vs. Ravena, Maging Sino Ka Man, and Pulang Araw, and recently shared the big screen with Barbie in That Kind of Love. Beyond acting, David is also an entrepreneur and an award-winning performer.

Whether it’s through sweet words, morning coffees, or playful teasing, BarDa continues to prove that their connection goes far beyond fiction. And if their love languages are anything to go by, fans can expect even more kilig-worthy moments from this dynamic duo—both on-screen and in real life.