Reportedly Against Kathryn Bernardo’s Engagement to Mayor Mark Alcala — Close Sources Say “He’s Still Hoping”

Just as the world is celebrating Kathryn Bernardo’s surprise engagement to Mayor Mark Alcala, a different story is quietly unfolding behind the scenes — this time involving Alden Richards, her former on-screen partner and the other half of the massively successful “KathDen” tandem.

According to close insiders in the industry, Alden is allegedly “not in favor” of the engagement and was “caught off guard” by the sudden announcement.

“He congratulated her — but behind that smile, may kirot pa rin,” one source claimed.

💔 A Silent Hope That Never Faded?

Although Kathryn and Alden were never officially in a relationship, their chemistry both on-screen and off-screen left millions of fans convinced there was something deeper brewing — especially after their 2019 blockbuster Hello, Love, Goodbye.

The two remained close after filming, with Alden even defending Kathryn publicly during the height of her breakup with Daniel Padilla. Many fans speculated that he had always harbored quiet feelings — but chose to stay in the friendzone out of respect.

“Everyone saw it. Everyone felt it. But no one admitted it,” said one veteran stylist.

Now, with Kathryn’s sudden engagement to another man, some believe Alden is left dealing with what could’ve been.

🤐 Alden’s Camp: “No Comment… But He’s Focused on Work”

When asked for an official statement, Alden’s camp declined to comment, saying only:

“Alden wishes Kathryn all the best and is focusing on his upcoming projects.”

However, sources close to the actor say he was “visibly shocked” when the news broke and immediately went silent during taping.

“He kept scrolling on his phone for hours. Tahimik lang siya. You could tell something shifted.”

😢 Social Media Catches the Vibes: “He’s Hurt, Even If He Won’t Say It”

Fans who closely follow Alden’s activity quickly noticed his unusual silence online following the viral news of Kathryn’s engagement.

His last Instagram story — a cryptic black-and-white photo of a rainy window — sent fans into a frenzy of interpretation.

“Is this his way of mourning his ‘what if’?”
“He’s the one who loved her quietly. That kind of pain runs deep.”

💬 Netizens React: Mixed Emotions from #KathDen Fans

The once-loyal KathDen fandom has now resurfaced — this time, not with excitement, but with conflicted heartbreak.

“I was really rooting for Alden and Kath. He was the calm after the storm.”
“Maybe he waited too long. She found someone who didn’t.”
“Respect to Alden. He never tried to ruin her peace.”

Despite the sadness, many fans still praise Alden for always being a gentleman — never speaking out of turn, and always choosing quiet support over drama.

🧠 Psychologists Weigh In: “Emotional Timing is Everything”

According to relationship expert Dr. Mia Loyola:

“Alden may have truly loved Kathryn — but love without expression often gets left behind. Timing matters, and in her moment of healing, someone else stepped in.”

Dr. Loyola also noted that public figures like Alden often suppress emotions to protect their brand — even when their silence costs them something personal.

🕊️ Kathryn’s Side: “She’s at Peace Now”

As for Kathryn, sources say she had no intention of hurting anyone and simply chose to follow her heart. She remains grateful to Alden for everything they shared — but her focus now is on her future with Mark.

“She’s at peace. That’s all that matters now,” a close friend said.

📅 What’s Next for Alden?

Alden is set to star in a new film this year and has signed multiple endorsement deals — signaling that he’s staying busy, perhaps to stay distracted.

Still, some insiders believe he’s choosing to bury himself in work rather than confront the heartbreak.

“It’s the classic Alden move. Smile in front of the camera, but cry behind the scenes.”

🥀 Final Thoughts: The Man Who Loved in Silence

While Kathryn moves toward a new chapter with Mark Alcala, Alden Richards may quietly be closing a chapter he never got to write.

And though he may never say it, the pain of losing something he never truly had… might just be the most painful kind of heartbreak.

Because not all love stories end in “I do.”
Some end in “Maybe if I said something sooner…”
And sometimes, the loudest heartbreak…
is the one that never speaks.