MANILA – Despite his efforts, Coco Martin was unable to avoid questions about his personal life, particularly about being linked with actress Julia Montes.

In an interview on the sidelines of his RiteMed press conference on Monday, Martin expressed his appreciation for the ongoing support of those who continue to hope for him and Montes, despite the fact that they are no longer working together on a project.

“Thank you. Siyempre mahaba ang pinagdaanan namin ni Julia. Marami kaming magagandang proyektong ginawa at natutuwa ako na hanggang ngayon, nandiyan pa rin ang mga taong nagmamahal pa rin sa atin,” he said.

When asked if he would share to the public when the time comes that he’s about to get married, he answered, “Hindi,” before erupting into laughter.

Martin believes it is crucial to keep his personal life private, as it is one of the most valuable things for him, along with peace of mind.

“‘Yun ang pinakamahirap makuha lalo na ngayon, lahat tayo may social media. ‘Yun na ‘yung reward ko sa sarili ko, sa family ko. Napapanatili kong protektado sila,” he said.

“Sabi ko nga kanina, hindi ako perpektong tao. Ang sakit kapag may naririnig kang hindi maganda sa ‘yo. Mas masakit kapag may naririnig kang hindi maganda sa pamilya mo. Hangga’t maaari, bakit ko hahayaan na masaktan ako or pamilya ko? Kaya mas gusto ko na tahimik na lang. Hindi naman magiging kabawasan yun eh,” the actor added.

But is he ready to take the next step and settle down?

“Oo naman, dati pa. Sabi ko naman sa sarili ko, mas private lang ako. Sabi ko nga, may mga bagay na ito naman ‘yung dahilan kung bakit ka nagpapakahirap, kung bakit ka araw-araw gumigising para paghandaan ang future mo,” he said.