MANILA — With a close friendship dating back to 2003 — and 8 acting projects together since — Ian Veneracion and Iza Calzado now find it “so easy” to fall in love with each other onscreen.

Veneracion, 46, and Calzado, 38, are cast opposite each other anew in the WeTV Philippines original series “B&B: The Story of the Battle of Brody & Brandy,” about lovers who become rivals in business.

While it counts as their ninth co-starring stint, it marks a career milestone — and a dream come true — for Calzado, as “B&B” is her first-ever romantic-comedy role since she entered showbiz in 2001.

That’s why, for the acclaimed actress, her leading man in the limited series “had to be Ian.”

Speaking with ABS-CBN News, Calzado and Veneracion explained why their tandem works, from their “organic” chemistry in doing scenes — owing to their frequent collaborations — to their deep friendship that contributes to their portrayals of romance.

“We are good friends, and we love each other,” Calzado said.

Veneracion agreed, telling Calzado: “It’s so easy to fall in love with you in a romantic sense when doing a movie or doing a role, kasi I already love you to begin with.”

“It’s easy to change the shade into a romantic thing, na I don’t even have to pretend or act anymore,” he said.

Watch Veneracion and Calzado, in conversation, about their being long-time friends and co-stars, portraying Brody and Brandy, and the timing of their achievements in love and career.

Watch more in iWantv or TFC.tv