In the upcoming Viva Films production “Men are from QC, Women are from Alabang,” Heaven Peralejo and Marco Gallo tackle the complexities of maintaining a romantic relationship amidst the pressures of their careers. Directed by Gino Santos and based on Stanley Chi’s best-selling book, the film delves into the life of a couple who, despite working together, face challenges due to the geographical distance between their homes in Quezon City and Alabang.
The film humorously labels their situation as a long-distance relationship (LDR) “Manila-style,” attributing the emotional distance to the city’s notorious traffic problems. This setup explores whether physical absence can indeed make the heart grow fonder, or if it leads to further estrangement.
Heaven Peralejo, portraying one half of the central couple, emphasizes the importance of personal space in relationships. “I value my ‘me time,’ so I don’t mind being apart from someone I care for,” she explained, highlighting how giving each other space can be healthy for a relationship.
Marco Gallo, on the other hand, views the distance differently: “Distance does not matter when you love someone. No matter how far away she lives, you will go the extra mile for her, literally and figuratively speaking.” This perspective reflects his commitment to bridging the physical and emotional gap between them.
Director Gino Santos praised the actors’ dedication to their roles, noting, “I love how collaborative Marco and Heaven are. They give their 100 percent to make the characters they portray real and interesting.”
Despite the light-hearted tone suggested by the trailer, the film addresses serious themes. Peralejo described it as “not a cutesy love story” but one that “tackles the ambitions of a couple as individuals and how that could clash.” It also touches on the nuances of living together yet feeling distant.
Marco Gallo finds a personal connection with the film, stating, “Among all the projects I’ve done, this movie is the most real. Many couples will be able to relate to the story.”
The movie also poses a larger question about the conflict between love and career, a balancing act that many couples face. “Not everyone is lucky to have the best of both worlds,” Santos remarked, underscoring the central conflict of the film.
As “Men are from QC, Women are from Alabang” prepares to hit theaters on May 1, audiences are invited to reflect on their own relationships and the spaces between love, work, and personal growth.