Tom Rodriguez, Carla Abellana 'divorced' in US, to formalize separation in PH

AFTER sharing cryptic messages on his social media account, Tom Rodriguez directly addressed his separation from Carla Abellana, revealing that in US law, they are now divorced.

In a statement released through his talent manager Popoy Caritativo, the actor — who is now in the US with his family — said "the divorce decree is final ".

Rodriguez — Bartolome Alberto Mott in real life — is an American citizen, which made it possible for him to file for divorce. However, the couple will remain married in the Philippines until they file for and get the approval of Recognition of Foreign Divorce from a Philippine court.

His statement continued, "A lot has been said against me but in the end, Carla and I are the two people who know the truth. I refuse to allow anyone who only wants to use us, our brokenness for news."

Rodriguez defended himself from 'lies' that emerged about him, saying that many of them are "completely untrue and utterly unfair."

He admitted committing mistakes as a partner, saying that he was once scammed and lost all his money. However, he pointed out that he never laid a hand on Abellana.

The 34-year-old actor then said that he has accepted Abellana's decision to part ways, and while it was hard to move on, he has a strong support system with his family in the US.

He then said he hopes that "Carla's birthday wishes will be granted and that she finds the happiness she is searching for."

Rodriguez noted that it will be the last time he will release a statement regarding the matter, as he is subjected to a gag order.

He ended his statement by thanking GMA network, his manager, and his friend, lawyer-producer Joji Villanueva Alonso for never giving up on him.

Meanwhile, GMA Network has also issued a statement regarding the matter

"We are saddened by the recent turn of events involving GMA artists Carla Abellana and Tom Rodriguez. It is our prayer that they will be able to resolve their issues at the soonest possible time and in the most amicable manner.

"We also request their fans, supporters, and the public to refrain from spreading various speculations about them."

Source: TheManila Times