Richard Yap stays humble despite fame

RICHARD Yap still considers himself unpopular despite his appearances in "My Binondo Girl" and "Walang Hanggan," two of ABS-CBN's hit primetime series.

During the grand press launch of "Be Careful With My Heart," Richard's first lead role on television with Jodi Sta. Maria, the happy husband and father of two was received warmly by the entertainment press.

The Cebuano actor, who became popular in his role as "Papa Chen" to Kim Chui's character in "My Binondo Girl," said he was surprised by the big breaks he is getting and support he receives from the fans.

"It is a bit surprising for someone who just started acting last year. It is a very big break and it is a very big responsibility that has been given to me by ABS-CBN and I am very thankful for the trust. I want to show them I'm responsible enough to bring the show together and give the audience a good program," he said.

In "Be Careful With My Heart," Yap will play the role of Richard Lim, the owner and president of the company that bears his family name.

In the series, if his character could close big business deals in the boardroom, it is the total opposite with his kids. He's yet to pave a good father-son/daughter relationship after losing his wife, Vina.

At some point, Maya (Jodi's character) will enter the picture and the new nanny will help him get closer to his children and eventually fall in love again.

Richard said he hopes to deliver and surpass what is expected of him in the new series.

"It is very flattering for people to consider me (good or a heartthrob). As I've said before, I don't let it go to my head, it is just a title," he said.

Although a lot of people adores him, idolizes him and keen to have at least one photograph with him, Richard said he is still a normal guy.

He still works as a manager in a furniture company and do business on the side.

"I don't think of myself as popular. In fact, I still do the same things I do. I still go to work from taping and I still go wherever I want to go. I don't think I'm someone different from what I was before," he said.

"My family? They are all very supportive but sometimes they make fun of me, especially my kids," he added.

Richard said it helps in the business that he's seen on television regularly.

"People want to meet you. People want to take pictures with you. Those who didn't want to see you before, they want to see you now. Those who weren't your relatives, they want to be your relatives now," he jokingly said.

"Be Careful with My Heart" premiers this Monday, before "It's Showtime" on ABS-CBN. (Sunnex)