MANILA, Philippines?Ten pounds lost due to depression. This is how a recent controversy is reportedly taking its toll on Sunshine Cruz.
On Tuesday the actress filed two counts of libel against Maria Mercedez ?Ched? Manhilot Cantu, sister of her husband Cesar Montano. Sunshine claims that Cantu has been attacking her with nasty rumors on the social networking website Friendster, saying the actress does not deserve to be Cesar?s wife.
?This is not a fight against Cesar,? Sunshine told a group of writers on Tuesday night at the wake of actor Rudy Fernandez. ?I also don?t intend to quarrel with the entire Montano clan. I just want the attacks to stop.?
Open book
Sunshine added: ?She continues to spread rumors that have become too damaging to me and my kids. I challenge her to show proof that all the things she?s saying are true. I?ve been in show biz since I was 14. My life is an open book.?
She continued, ?I?m okay. The case has been filed. I cannot talk about it anymore. I?ve been quiet for nine years. Now, I just want to fight for what I think is right.?
The case has marked a new twist in the ongoing spat between the couple that started in January this year. Cesar has turned down all interviews in connection with the Sunshine-Ched issue.
?I understand Cesar?s silence. This involves his sister. Gusto lang n?ya magpalamig,? explained Sunshine. She hastened to add, however, that she hoped Cesar would ?show some support.?
?I need him right now. I draw strength from him and our three daughters,? said the actress.
Sunshine and Cesar have three daughters?Angeline Isabelle, 5, Samantha Angeline, 3, and Angel Francesca, 1.
?I?m fortunate that my mother and siblings have been very supportive,? she said. ?My mom, who has been sick for days now, accompanied me when I filed the case in court. My three siblings, although all are overseas, have been constantly sending me text messages.?
She has to ?try to focus on things that are far more important,? Sunshine said. ?I have to be strong for the girls.?
E-mail mcruz@inquirer.com.ph
