Manila, Philippines – A new storm is brewing in Philippine showbiz as actor Richard Gutierrez reportedly reclaimed several expensive gifts he previously gave to actress Barbie Imperial, fueling even more rumors that a third party was involved in his recent breakup with longtime partner Sarah Lahbati.

According to an exclusive source, Richard did not hesitate to retrieve the luxury items after feeling “completely betrayed.” These include:

A designer handbag worth over ₱400,000

High-end shoes and accessories

A brand-new iPhone 15 Pro Max

And the most talked-about item: a diamond bracelet once spotted on Barbie’s Instagram story

“He felt used. He never expected things to blow up like this,” the source revealed.

IS THERE REALLY A THIRD PARTY?

Speculation of a brewing romance between Richard and Barbie has been circulating for weeks, especially after fans noticed their growing closeness on- and off-camera. Rumors intensified when they were spotted together in several locations and working on “private” projects.

Adding fuel to the fire, netizens pointed out a blind item in a recent vlog about a married actor who allegedly “fell in love while still committed.” Many believe the clues point to Richard.

BARBIE IMPERIAL’S MYSTERIOUS SILENCE

Barbie has yet to release an official statement, but her cryptic posts have left fans guessing. Two particular quotes caught the public’s attention:

“Not everything you give, you get back. But karma has receipts.”

“Silence is better than explaining yourself to people who are committed to misunderstanding you.”

These were seen as subtle reactions to the situation—and instead of calming the fire, it only made the controversy spread faster. Her social media comment sections are now flooded with messages like:
“Why did Richard take back the gifts?”
“Was there really something going on between them?”

SARAH LAHBATI: CHOOSING PEACE?

Meanwhile, Richard’s former partner Sarah Lahbati remains calm but active on social media. In one recent post featuring her children, she captioned it:
“I choose peace. Always.”

Though she has not publicly addressed the third-party rumors or the gift scandal, insiders say the emotional toll is visible.

THE INDUSTRY REACTS: DIVIDED OPINIONS

The entertainment industry is divided on the issue. Some argue that Richard had every right to retrieve the gifts if they were tied to a failed romantic entanglement. Others, however, question the underlying motive:

“If he took back the gifts, does that confirm there was more than just friendship between them?”

REAL-LIFE DRAMA BIGGER THAN ANY TELESERYE

As the saga unfolds like a live soap opera, fans are left wondering who’s telling the truth—and who’s playing the game. With legal action, social media shade, and emotional betrayal now on the table, it’s clear that this story is far from over.

WHAT TO WATCH OUT FOR:

Will Barbie break her silence in a tell-all interview?

Will Sarah take legal action against Richard?

Will Richard finally address the allegations directly?

Whatever happens next, one thing is certain: this scandal has rocked the foundations of celebrity relationships and exposed the cost of fame, pride, and hidden affairs.