Rapper and actor Smugglaz, whose real name is Bryan Lao, has come forward to defend Ivana Alawi against rumors suggesting that she was removed from ‘FPJ’s Batang Quiapo’ due to an “attitude issue.”

Recent reports claimed that Coco Martin and the production team of the hit Kapamilya series decided to cut Alawi’s character, Bubble, from the show because of alleged behavioral problems.

However, in an interview with ABS-CBN, Smugglaz, who plays Kidlat in the series, refuted these claims, emphasizing that there was no truth to the gossip. He described Alawi as a respectful and amiable co-star.

“Sa amin kasi kapag may lumulutang na ganyan, si Direk Coco, kasi lahat ng pinupuwesto niya, lahat iyan naka-tono. Kumabaga, naka-tono para blend tayo,” Smugglaz explained. “Sa tingin ko sa pagtatagal ni Ivana, ‘di mo masasabing nag-attitude kasi si Ivana, kapag kasama namin sa set sobrang bait niya e, kalog rin siya. So, kung paano mo siya nakikita hindi naman siya pa-istar.”

Smugglaz, who previously worked with Alawi on ‘FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano,’ noted that their professional relationship was well-established before ‘FPJ’s Batang Quiapo.’ He suggested that any perceived tension might stem from the heightened attention surrounding Alawi’s current role.

He added, “Pero ramdam naman niya ang respeto sa amin sa set at nakikita niya ‘yun at sinusuklian niya kaya maayos kami sa set.”

The rapper-actor also praised Coco Martin for his straightforward and honest approach, stating, “Si Direk Coco kasi hindi naman plastik na tao ‘yan e, hindi ‘yun showbiz na tao. Black and white siya sobrang black and white niya.”

In addition to defending his co-star, Smugglaz expressed his gratitude to Martin for his continued support. Smugglaz recently released a new song, ‘Piging,’ dedicated to his younger brother, who was tragically killed in a shooting.