Singer and TV host Darren Espanto spoke candidly about his best friend, AC Bonifacio, a Pinoy Big Brother (PBB) Celebrity Collab Edition contestant.
 
Recently, AC has received many mixed reactions due to her outspoken nature. Many netizens couldn't help but amplify her statements made inside the PBB House, turning them into a significant topic of conversation.

During the launch of 7-Eleven's City Cafe, where Darren was introduced as the newest endorser, the It's Showtime host asked if he was affected by the online bashing against AC during the interview.

"I feel like we all get affected, even when it’s not just her family being bashed. And I’m not saying, like, we all tolerate everything we do, even if we’re best friends pero siyempre, may mga limitations din. And at the end of the day, we still support her," Darren said.

In addition, Darren mentioned that they maintain constant communication with AC's mother and Niana Guerrero.

"Ayun nga, kami ni Niana nagte-text also, we’re checking up on AC’s mom. May mga group calls kaming ginagawa to talk about everything that’s happening inside the [PBB] house. (Me and I are texting; we're also checking up on AC's mom. We have group calls to talk about everything that's happening inside the [PBB] house.)"

"Siyempre, ako, eight years ko nang best friend si AC, so I know her inside and out. So I know the backstory of what she’s doing inside the house. (Of course, AC has been my best friend for eight years, so I know her inside and out. So I know the backstory to what she's doing inside the house.)"

Darren was asked what message he wanted to convey to the public since AC cannot defend herself inside the PBB house.

"The views and opinions of the housemates do not reflect the views and opinions of the best friends—joke lang. I hope people understand AC better. (The views and opinions of the housemates do not reflect the views and opinions of the best friends. Just a joke. I hope people get to understand AC more.)

"Tsaka they give her a chance, kasi feeling ko malakas din ang laban ng best friend ko. Before going in talaga, all of us knew what she was going to be going into. All of us are rooting for her. (They also give her a chance because I feel like my best friend got into an intense fight. Before going in, all of us knew what she would be going into. All of us are rooting for her)," they added.

Darren also mentioned that he hoped the people would allow AC to showcase her talent inside the house.

"Tsaka sana mabigyan din siya ng chance to showcase her talent inside the house, her personality, and how good of a person she is. Ngayon, kasama siya sa mga nominees for eviction, so let’s see what happens. Either way, ayun, proud naman kami sa kanya. (I also hope she will be given a chance to showcase her talent inside the house, her personality, and how good of a person she is. Now, she is among the nominees for eviction, so let’s see what happens. Either way, we are proud of her)," 

Darren's plan for Star Magic Ball

Regarding the fans, they can expect preparations for the upcoming Star Magic Ball on April 4.

"Since spring formal po ang theme this year, iba siya sa mga past balls na black and white and theme, this year it's mostly pastel colors. I'm excited for everyone to see what Sir Francis [Libiran] and I created. (Since the theme this year is spring formal, it's different from past balls, where the theme is black and white; this year, it's mostly pastel colors. I'm excited for everyone to see what Sir Francis [Libiran] and I created.) 

Darren revealed that he and his showtime besties, Kim Chui and Bella Padilla, will wear Francis Libiran. 

From Recording Studio to Coffee Counter: Darren’s Newest Role

Beyond the stage and studio, Darren is now stepping into an exciting new role—as the ambassador of 7-Eleven City Cafe. The collaboration was a natural fit, given his dynamic personality and strong connection with young audiences. The brand’s campaign highlights his journey, from behind-the-scenes moments in the recording studio to grabbing his go-to cup of coffee at 7-Eleven.

With 7-Eleven’s extensive network of over 4,000 stores nationwide, City Cafe ensures that students, young professionals, and travelers and those on the go have access to freshly brewed, high-quality coffee 24/7. Unlike traditional cafés, City Cafe delivers a bean-to-cup experience without the premium price tag, making it a go-to option for those who need a quick yet satisfying caffeine fix.

Darren’s partnership with 7-Eleven City Cafe marks an exciting chapter for the brand, reinforcing its mission to bring great coffee closer to every Filipino. As the campaign rolls out, fans can expect more engaging content featuring Darren and his City Cafe experience, proving that great coffee doesn’t have to be complicated—it just has to be within reach.