Mark Leviste reacts to Kris Aquino's new romance

Batangas Vice Gov. Mark Leviste said he's happy for Kris Aquino after she announced that she has a new boyfriend.

In a statement sent to The Philippine STAR, Leviste said he and Aquino are on good terms, even as he doesn't harbor hurt feelings toward her.

“As Kris said we’re still ‘friendly,'" he said. "Sa totoo lang, wala naman nagbago sa akin, at wala din naman akong sama ng loob at hihinakit sa kanya."

Leviste noted that he's in the United States, while Aquino's son Bimby is "back home" in the Philippines.

“I assured Kris, Bimb, Kris’s sisters, and their household help in Orange County that if there’s anything I can do for them, I’ll be there," Leviste said. "If I am needed in any way, I will make myself available for them immediately.”

While their breakup is saddening, Leviste said what makes Aquino happy makes him "very happy."

“Nalulungkot man ako sa sinapit ng aming relasyon, maligaya narin ako para sa kanya," he said. "I have always put her happiness before my own."

Leviste said he's "extremely fortunate" to have been given the chance to take care of Aquino, love her, and be loved by her. Likewise, he said his children are fortunate to have met with Aquino and her sons.

“The reality in this world is that things change, and I guess that’s okay," he said. "My heart will always treasure the memories we shared, and I will forever be grateful for our time together."

Leviste said his family will continue to pray for Aquino's health, peace, and joy.

"As for me, I will channel this love and energy into nurturing my children and serving the people of Batangas," he said.

Last June 29, Aquino told showbiz insider Ogie Diaz that she has a new boyfriend, a doctor based in Makati.

"I think that's part of the reason why it was easy. Kasi alam niya kung anong painagdadaanan ko," she said, adding that her new boyfriend is "part of the reason" why she's confident she can go back to the Philippines. She's been in the US since 2022 due to her autoimmune diseases.

Aquino said she and Leviste were together in July 2023 but eventually broke up due to her health concerns.

Bimby also confirmed that Aquino and Leviste were done since her birthday on Feb. 14.

Aquino said she has no plans of reuniting with Leviste, though they are still on "friendly" terms.