Hunky actor Joem Bascon’s romantic relationship with actress Meryll Soriano has the approval of her father, “Wowowee” host Willie Revillame.

In a recent interview on “Entertainment Live,” Willie lauded Joem, saying he finds him to be “mabait” and “simple.”

“(At) kahit naman kanino basta masaya siya (Meryll), masaya na rin ako," said Willie.

Joem, upon hearing this information at the recent “A Journey Home” press conference, took the cue to reiterate that choice, and not circumstance, is the reason for their low-profile love life.

“We really (just) want to keep it (the relationship) private. Kung anuman ang nakikita ninyo kapag magkasama kami, ‘yun na ‘yun.”

He added that he has always been mum about his personal affairs “because doing so keeps me grounded.”

“Kumbaga at the end of the day, ‘yun ‘yung alam ‘kong akin,” he quipped.

The actor would not comment on rumors that Willie will run for public office next year.

“Kahit hindi ako involved kay Meryll (ay) hindi ako magsasalita tungkol dyan. It’s something na siya (Willie) lang ang makakasagot,” Joem said.

In “A Journey Home,” Joem plays Raffy, a man who has grown bitter over his past. The film also stars Toni Gonzaga and Soliman Cruz, and it is the directorial debut of Paul Soriano. It will premiere in theaters on Oct. 3.

“A Journey Home” adds to Joem’s resume which includes the indie films “Sanglaan,” “Karera,” “Walang Hanggang Paalam,” “Panahon,” and “Adela.”

He will soon be seen in two other films and in the forthcoming Judy Ann Santos teleserye, “Habang May Buhay.”  

What other roles does Joem want to portray?

“A schizophrenic character ala-Johnny Depp. Medyo nag-iiba yung character niya from time to time—it’s very challenging.”