The world of Philippine show business is currently captivated by a dramatic public feud, centered on Kapamilya actress Chie Filomeno, her recent breakup with actor Jake Cuenca, and the swift emergence of her new romance with a scion of a prominent, multi-millionaire family. The controversy intensified after Filomeno took to social media to lash out at the actor’s “sad boy” narrative, defending herself against persistent accusations of infidelity and finding support from her rumored new beau, Matthew Lhuillier.

The ‘Ghosting’ Accusation and Public Backlash

The public fallout began shortly after the rumored split between Chie Filomeno and Jake Cuenca was confirmed. The situation escalated when Cuenca spoke out, not confirming a traditional “breakup,” but implying he had been effectively “ghosted.” His public statement suggested that the end of their relationship was sudden, unplanned, and left him deeply affected.

Cuenca’s emotional, albeit cryptic, revelation—where he stated he “loved that person deeply” and had to accept that the “chapter is over now”—was interpreted by many fans and netizens as evidence of Filomeno’s callousness. The backlash against the actress was immediate and severe, with online users inundating her with criticism and “cheating” accusations, fueled by the speed at which she was rumored to be dating someone new.

This intense public shaming pushed Filomeno to take a stance, moving from defensive appeals for privacy to an aggressive, direct confrontation of the narrative being built around her.

Filomeno Fires Back: Entering the ‘Healing Era’

In a decisive move, Chie Filomeno utilized her Instagram account to dismantle the perception that she was solely responsible for the relationship’s painful conclusion. Alongside a series of OOTD (Outfit of the Day) photos, she posted a pointed caption, complete with a trending song that was interpreted as a clear reference to Cuenca’s public statements.

“It’s a trend to use songs, since that’s what you have been doing. So might as well,” she wrote, before dropping the undeniable challenge: “It’s your sad boy era. I’m in my healing era.”

The caption was accompanied by a powerful, albeit unnamed, message suggesting the actor was engaging in a “pity party” (paawa) and using a victim narrative. Her message was a clear declaration of self-worth, pushing back against the narrative that painted her as the villain in the split. She subtly indicated that her decision was rooted in self-respect: “I wish him all the best, I truly do, but what stings more is that a so-called friend, who knew exactly how I was treated during the relationship, still chose betrayal…” This latter part hinted at further drama, suggesting the betrayal extended beyond the ex-partner to a supposed mutual friend who allegedly attacked her character online.

Matthew Lhuillier’s Public Endorsement

Perhaps the most significant development, and one that appeared to confirm her new romantic status, came in the comments section of the post. Multi-millionaire businessman Matthew Lhuillier, the individual she is widely rumored to be dating, left a conspicuous reaction: the American flag emoji. Filomeno’s response—an airplane emoji—was interpreted by many as a confirmation of their connection, hinting at travel or future plans together, and solidifying the narrative that she had indeed moved on.

Lhuillier’s public show of support—a rare move for the usually private scion of the prominent Cebu-based Lhuillier family—was immediately seized upon by showbiz observers as proof that their relationship is real and progressing, offering a compelling juxtaposition to the public breakup drama.

Reports have also circulated that the actress has already secured a residence in Cebu, the Lhuillier family’s base of operations, further linking her life to the businessman. Filomeno’s recent decision to step back from the entertainment industry, citing a need for rest, has also been connected by some to her new life chapter.

The Lhuillier Family Complication: The Sofia Andres Feud

The controversy is complicated by an alleged, separate feud that brings the Lhuillier family into the showbiz spotlight. Filomeno has reportedly clashed with fellow Kapamilya actress Sofia Andres, who is the partner of Daniel Miranda—a known relative of the Lhuillier clan.

The conflict reportedly stems from the widespread speculation that Andres, potentially acting on behalf of the Lhuillier family, disapproved of Filomeno entering their established social circle. Rumors circulating suggested that Andres was one of the vocal opponents of Filomeno due to the public cheating allegations surrounding her split from Jake Cuenca.

Filomeno has publicly addressed this perceived interference, directly calling out “Sofia” on social media for allegedly spreading hate and even suggesting that the “friend” she referenced in her earlier post was Andres. Filomeno later claimed that Andres had blocked her on social media, further fueling the speculative drama and the narrative of a hostile reception into Cebu’s prominent high society. Filomeno’s pointed remarks about not using a “mom card” and asserting her right to defend herself indicate the intensity and deeply personal nature of this side conflict.

The End of a Chapter and the Beginning of a Scrutinized Future

Chie Filomeno’s powerful social media offensive serves as a multi-layered clapback: it defends her character against the “sad boy” victim narrative, confirms her new connection with Matthew Lhuillier, and exposes a dramatic complication within her rumored new social circle.

While her former partner, Jake Cuenca, maintained a dignified stance by closing the chapter and wishing her happiness, the public’s judgment remains divided. Filomeno’s assertive push for her “healing era” has redefined the relationship’s end, transforming her from a ghosting villain into a woman choosing self-worth.

The actress has appealed to the public to respect the privacy of the Lhuillier family and to focus on more pressing matters, yet the confluence of celebrity breakups, a prominent society family, and an alleged feud among actresses ensures that this showbiz saga will continue to dominate headlines, solidifying Filomeno’s place at the center of the current entertainment discourse.