Japanese star Maria Ozawa has opened up about the reasons for her breakup with Filipino chef Jose Sarasola, shedding light on their relationship and its challenges.

Speaking on a recent episode of ‘Fast Talk With Boy Abunda,’ Maria shared insights into their journey as a couple, which began in the Philippines, and the factors that led to their split.

Maria explained that their relationship was a learning experience for both of them, particularly in understanding each other’s cultures. “I think he understood more about Japanese culture. I understand more about his culture, which is Filipino culture. Which is good but which was hard also because everything is different, in relationship-wise or business-wise,” she said.

The actress, who is currently featured in the Kapuso series ‘Pulang Araw,’ emphasized that their breakup was amicable, with no third party involved. Maria cited the COVID-19 pandemic as a significant factor in their decision to part ways. “Actually it wasn’t anything bad at all because I went back to Japan because of the pandemic. And when I went back that time I didn’t know when I could come back to the Philippines and there’s no way any foreigners would be able to come to Japan,” Maria explained.

The couple mutually agreed to end their relationship, realizing that they couldn’t see a clear future together amid the uncertainties brought by the pandemic. “So it was just like a mutual decision and we talked about it and we decided to break up ’cause we didn’t see any future, I mean like we didn’t know what to do about it,” Maria added.

In a previous interview, Jose Sarasola also mentioned that the long-distance aspect of their relationship during the pandemic posed significant challenges. The couple had been together for five years before ending their relationship in 2022.

Jose recalled their first meeting when Maria visited his bar, which marked the beginning of their love story. Despite the breakup, both Maria and Jose have spoken of their relationship with respect and fondness, acknowledging it as a meaningful chapter in their lives.