Kathryn Bernardo cares for Daniel Padilla but…

KATHRYN Bernardo wants to try bungee jumping.

Young star Kathryn Bernardo, a member of Iglesia ni Cristo, said she would date only a guy who shares her religious beliefs. This means suitor/screen partner Daniel Padilla, a Catholic, should consider converting.

“That is a long process. I’ve told him, but I’m not about to force him. I know DJ (Daniel’s nickname) believes in the existence of a higher being—that’s what’s important,” Kathryn said in a media gathering to discuss preparations for her 18th birthday celebration on March 29 at Blue Leaf Filipinas in Parañaque City.

The actress earlier admitted that she cared for Daniel, but would not commit to him. “Religion is one of the factors, but it’s mainly because we don’t want our love life to interfere with our careers right now,” she pointed out.

Kathryn said she once invited Daniel to attend an INC service but that it never happened again because the actor had his own Sunday activities. “We sometimes talk about differences in teachings between INC and the Catholic church. Nakikiramdam ako,” she said. “If one wills [to convert], madaling gawan ng paraan. My dad, a Catholic, converted to be with my mom.”

Kathryn and Daniel were last seen in the drama series “Got to Believe.” In April, they start work on the movie “She’s Dating a Gangster,” with director Cathy Garcia-Molina.

What will your debut be like?

Truth is, I didn’t want a party; I thought planning would be too stressful and time-consuming. I’d have been more than happy to tour Europe with family and friends, but I was told that turning 18 is a milestone. My birthday is really March 26. The party on the 29th will be for my fans. I hope it will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for them and for me.

The theme, “modern vintage,” fits my personality. I never wanted a princess- or circus-theme party. I personally picked my ball gown, by Francis Libiran, and my after-party dress, Vania Romoff. The program will be short. DJ has volunteered to be my escort. He will be my last dance. Papa (Teodoro) will be my first; my brother (Kevin Carlo), second.

Why did you get upset when your debut photos were released prematurely?

The photos were supposed to be a surprise for fans. There was a miscommunication. Those who posted them online wanted to promote my party. I cried over that. We worked so hard during the pictorial—an entire day.

What’s your gift to yourself?

The European vacation with my family. I’ve also arranged a trip to Korea with some friends in the business—my “thank you” treat. DJ will also be in Europe for a concert tour with Yeng (Constantino). After that, his family will join him there. Ayaw ko naman makisabay sa kanila. It’s also good for us to take a break from each other.

Will you be accepting more mature roles, now that you’re 18?

It’s hard to say goodbye to characters like Chichay (“Got to Believe”), but I can’t stick to teenybopper roles. I won’t rush into things, either—baka magmukhang pilit. One thing is for sure: no kissing scenes.

I’d like to be more adventurous—go bungee jumping, tick off some items on my bucket list… I’d also like to learn how to drive.

(“#Kathryn18 My 18th Birthday Vlog,” a TV special featuring highlights of Kathryn’s party, airs April 6 in the Sundays Best timeslot.)