Thursday, 16 July 2026

Rinoa, Audrey Share Honest Takes on 'Sex in Public'; Nico Locco Talks Wake-Up Call

From L-R (Audrey Avila, Rinoa Halili, Director Pongs Leonardo, Denise Esteban, Nico Locco)

VMX held a back-to-back media conference for its upcoming releases, "Sex in Public" and "Booking," with both events delivering candid conversations, surprising confessions, and insights into the stories behind the platform's newest offerings.

Leading the press conference for "Sex in Public" were VMX stars Audrey Avila and Rinoa Halili, who gamely reacted to some of the memorable scenes featured in Sex in Public. The two didn't shy away from answering the media's questions, even when asked whether they could relate to some of the clips shown in their film.

Rinoa admitted that she is the more conservative between the two, saying she personally prefers intimate moments to remain private. Audrey, on the other hand, openly shared that she is more adventurous, revealing that she has experienced romantic moments in public places such as the beach, a rooftop, and even a balcony. Despite their contrasting personalities, both agreed that people's comfort levels differ, with some scenes surprising them while others felt completely normal.



Streaming exclusively on VMX beginning July 21, "Sex in Public" is a new Special Interest feature hosted by Audrey Avila and Rinoa Halili. The presentation revisits some of VMX's most unforgettable romantic encounters, compiling memorable scenes from hit titles including 69, Tahong, Kalakal, Barurot 2, Ligaw, Maryang Palad, and Package Deal. Designed as a bold and entertaining look back at the platform's most talked-about moments, the feature also serves as an introduction for viewers discovering these films for the first time.

The conversation shifted to the upcoming VMX original film "Booking," where the cast and director tackled both personal and professional topics.

One of the most emotional moments came when Nico Locco was asked about the recent controversy and car accident that involved him. The actor shared that he chooses to focus on the blessings that continue to come his way, describing the accident as a major wake-up call. Nico revealed that he had fallen asleep while driving and said the experience reminded him of the importance of slowing down, taking proper rest, and prioritizing his well-being.


Meanwhile, Denise Esteban made an honest confession when asked if she would ever accept a "booking" if pushed by difficult circumstances. The actress admitted that if it were truly necessary for her family's survival, she would consider it, explaining that she was raised to always put family first.

Director Pongs Leonardo also spoke passionately about the film and his approach to the genre. Fresh from directing Pagdaong—one of the 2025 Sine Silip entries that earned Angela Morena the Best Actress award—Leonardo shared that while Pagdaong took a more restrained approach to erotic storytelling, "Booking" goes much further in its sensuality. He emphasized, however, that erotica is simply another genre of filmmaking that deserves to be taken seriously rather than dismissed or underestimated.

Streaming on VMX starting July 24, "Booking" stars Margaret Diaz, Denise Esteban, Nico Locco, and Gboy Pablo. The urban drama follows Donna (Margaret Diaz), a hardworking TNVS driver trapped in financial abuse under her operator Ruben (Nico Locco). Desperate to escape mounting debt, Donna begins offering "extra services" to passengers inside her vehicle. Her life changes when she meets Jane, a bisexual passenger whose repeated bookings eventually develop into a genuine emotional connection. As Donna and Jane attempt to break free from exploitation, they are forced to confront life-changing choices that could redefine their futures.

With "Sex in Public" offering a daring retrospective of VMX's most memorable scenes and "Booking" presenting an emotionally driven story of survival, sacrifice, and human connection, VMX continues to expand its slate with projects that aim to blend bold storytelling with compelling drama.

Watch the press conference  below as the cast and director talk more about Sex in Public and Booking

 


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