Richard Gutierrez and his mother, Annabelle Rama, were among the attendees at Barbie Imperial’s 26th birthday party, fueling further dating rumors between Gutierrez and Imperial.
Actress Vina Morales shared videos and photos from the celebration on Instagram on Friday, August 2. One video shows Imperial giving a speech on stage with Gutierrez seated in front of Morales. Another clip features singer Joey G performing “Don’t Know What to Say (Don’t Know What to Do)” while Imperial and Gutierrez sit beside each other. Morales also captured Rama smiling for the camera.
Speculation about Gutierrez and Imperial’s relationship began in January when they were seen together at a gastropub in Alabang, followed by a sighting in South Korea in May. Imperial’s Instagram post featuring a gym photo with a mystery man resembling Gutierrez further fueled the rumors.
Showbiz insider Ogie Diaz confirmed in May that Gutierrez and Imperial were “exclusively dating,” based on a reliable source. Additionally, a photo of Imperial attending the wake of Gutierrez’s sister-in-law, Alexa, who passed away from leukemia on July 27, has been circulating on social media.
Gutierrez’s estranged wife, Sarah Lahbati, confirmed their separation in March, stating she was “single.” Lahbati, who shares two sons with Gutierrez, mentioned in April that she had “no reaction” to the dating rumors.
Gutierrez has not yet commented on his separation from Lahbati or his rumored relationship with Imperial.