MANILA -- Romnick Sarmenta and Harlene Bautista have decided to part ways after 19 years of marriage.

The two celebrities announced their separation in a joint statement sent to the entertainment site PEP.ph on Friday.

Sarmenta and Bautista did not give details about their decision.

"An appeal for privacy. Romnick and I have five beautiful children, whom we love and treasure very much -- we have spent many years together as best friends and partners in everything that we have done. Even more so in raising our family. We will always be great friends, if not the best of friends.

"With the greatest respect and mutual love, wanting nothing but happiness for each other, we have decided to part ways. We would like to appeal for privacy, for our children and for each other as well. Being public figures, we know that this will not go unnoticed—and we didn’t want speculations, rumors, and gossips to destroy the wonderful memories we share, the peace that we continue to have as best friends.

"We both decided that it would be best to issue a statement, in an intention to let this be the first and last time that we talk about it. Neither he nor I wish to speak at length about the matter, seeing as to how we had been able to keep the fact for as long as we have. We request that our individual supporters, friends, and family refrain from making comments or issuing statements that may hurt or offend not only ourselves, but most importantly our beloved children. We thank you, for the prayers and support— and most of all for respecting our wishes. God bless you."

Sarmenta and Bautista were married thrice -- in a civil ceremony in 1990, in a church wedding in 2000, and in their renewal of vows in 2002.

The two met on the set of "That's Entertainment."