David Licauco was asked recently about Barbie Forteza’s praise for Khalil Ramos, whom she described as her “ideal leading man.”

His response was brief.

“That’s her opinion, it’s okay,” Licauco said.

Forteza made the remark while talking about her experience working with Ramos in her latest film "Saving Cherry."

“Si Khalil is the ideal leading man. Finally, nagkaroon na ako ng leading man na maayos,” she said, describing him as a brilliant actor, professional and gentlemanly.

The statement drew attention because of Forteza’s long partnership with Licauco.

The two became one of GMA’s most popular love teams after playing Fidel and Klay in “Maria Clara at Ibarra.” They later worked together in “Maging Sino Ka Man,” “Pulang Araw” and the movie “That Kind of Love.”

Licauco was given a chance to respond to Forteza’s assessment, but did not appear interested in making an issue out of it.

“Masyado nang marami nangyayari sa mundo, dapat magmahalan at magsuportahan na lang tayo,” he said.

As if eager to prove his claim, he went on to laud Forteza.

“I am grateful sa partnership namin. I have nothing but praise for her. Napakagaling niyang actress. I wish her well,” he said.

“Maybe not perfect. There were times na I was late sa taping. But habang tumatagal yung love team at pinagsamahan namin, hindi naman ako naging late. In terms of acting, okay naman, I guess. May awards naman ako.”

Licauco recently signed a series contract with Viva Films in partnership with ALV Talent Circuit.