Actress Iza Calzado recently took to social media to express her appreciation for fellow actress Jodi Sta. Maria, whom she considers one of her closest friends in the industry.
On Instagram, Iza shared how deeply she admires Jodi, not only for her beauty, but also for her kindness and grace.
“Jodi Sta. Maria is truly one of the most beautiful human beings I’ve ever met. I’ve loved her since her Tabing Ilog days, but getting to know her through the years made me admire her even more, not just for her beauty, but for her heart, her mind, and the way she moves through life with so much grace,” she wrote.
Iza also recalled a promise they made to each other while filming their Kapamilya series Ang Sa Iyo Ay Akin.
“I still remember one of our first filming days for Ang Sa Iyo Ay Akin. We talked about how some friendships in this industry get ruined by competition or jealousy, and we promised each other, 'Hindi mangyayari sa atin ’yan ha.' And true enough, it never did. 🤍,” she added.
Despite their busy schedules and not seeing each other often, the two actresses have maintained their strong friendship over the years.
“Life gets busy, so I really treasure moments like these when our schedules align and we get to spend time together, now with Deia joining us too,” Iza said.
She went on: “How lucky am I to love and be loved by a friend like this. Watching her continue to evolve and shine in everything she does is such a gift.”
Iza also took the opportunity to show support for Jodi’s latest film, Midnight Girls.
“She stars in Midnight Girls and she is, as always, brilliant in it. Please go watch and support this beautiful woman and her work. 💖,” she continued.
Courtesy: missizacalzado Instgram
“And yes, I know this is early for a birthday post 😅 Consider this just me celebrating you and our friendship, my love. I love you dearly @jodistamaria 🥰”
Jodi later responded in the comments section with an equally heartfelt message for Iza.
“OMG 😍 my love 🥹 THANK YOU! For the kindness, understanding, laughter, and the quiet support. I appreciate you, my love, more than words can express. You make life better just by being in it ❤️ Love you! #JoZa.”
In the carousel of photos and videos, Iza also shared some moments the two friends had along with Iza’s daughter, Deia. She also shared a cute photo of them together playing on a swing.
The two actresses previously starred as onscreen rivals in Ang Sa Iyo Ay Akin, portraying Marissa and Ellice, respectively. Despite their characters’ intense clashes in the series, a genuine friendship blossomed behind the scenes.
In an earlier post, Iza expressed gratitude for the bond they formed during the project.
“My love, thank you for trusting me, for letting me into your heart. Thank you for believing in me and making me believe in myself,” she said.
She also shared how grateful she was for Jodi’s generosity and support throughout their time working together.
“On screen we were rivals but off screen, a beautiful friendship bloomed,” she said.” “ I will forever be grateful that you generously allowed me to shine beside you. You are a gem and I am so privileged to call you a friend. Maraming Salamat, @jodistamaria 💖 #JozaForever.”