Judy Ann Santos’ promise

JUDY Ann Santos

Actress Judy Ann “Juday” Santos has vowed not to accept any more television projects that would go head-to-head with programs hosted by her husband, Ryan Agoncillo.

Santos’ defunct program on ABS-CBN, “Bet on your Baby,” aired in the same time slot as Ryan’s “Picture! Picture!” on GMA 7.

“That was just a coincidence,” Juday told the Inquirer. “Plus, we found it fun to say hi and good-bye to each other on our shows. If we allow that to happen again, it may seem like we’re competing.” (Her new Sunday show, “I Do,” started airing on Aug. 30.)

Staying grounded

Like any couple, Juday said, she and Ryan have petty fights. “It’s almost always my fault—like, I’m not able to get to a certain place on time, or I forget to do something.”

They keep regular date nights and travel together, she said. “It keeps us grounded. It’s nice to just be with each other sometimes, without thinking of our responsibilities at home. However, we can go without the kids for just a maximum of five days. If a trip takes longer than that, we get cranky because we miss them.”

She revealed that they have started discussing having another child. “I’m 36,” Juday said. “Postponing pregnancy will only make it difficult and dangerous for me. But … no pressure!” They have two kids—Lucho, 3, and their adopted daughter Yohan, 9.

She was challenged when her ABS-CBN bosses asked her to host “I Do,” Juday admitted. “It looked exciting to me. I said yes without knowing exactly what I was getting into. I just know I will learn a lot from this.”

Drawing the line

Although mindful that ABS-CBN takes good care of her career, she draws the line at live hosting. “That’s Ryan’s expertise,” she said, stressing that he gives her valuable TV hosting pointers.

In “I Do,” nine couples take on challenges that test their relationships, with Juday, life coach Pia Acevedo and psychologist/marriage counselor Julian Montano, guiding them.

The contestants live in three houses inside the “I Do” Village—with the men and women sleeping separately. Each week, a couple will be eliminated. Winners will be determined by public votes. At stake are P1 million in cash, a house and lot, and a grand wedding.