In the Philippines, the national pastime isn’t just basketball; it’s also obsessing over celebrity splits. 

From the legendary KathNiel to the seemingly immortal Xian and Kim; from Sarah and Richard to Bea and Dominic, it’s a carousel of heartbreak that spins faster than a Filipino telenovela plot. And now . . . Catriona and Sam.

It’s as if the nation collectively holds its breath every time a famous couple posts a cryptic Instagram story or is spotted without their significant other. 

But why this fascination? Perhaps it’s because Filipinos see celebrities as demigods, their love lives a mirror to the mortal masses’ desires and insecurities. When KathNiel breaks up, it’s not just a breakup; it’s a national tragedy, complete with memes and think pieces. As ordinary folks navigate their own tumultuous love lives, they look to celebrities for guidance, projecting their hopes and fears onto the glossy pages of showbiz magazines. 

So next time a celebrity couple calls it quits, just remember: it’s not just gossip; it’s a reflection of our collective romantic turmoil.