JANINE Gutierrez photo by John Paul Autor
For Janine Gutierrez, the decision of her boyfriend Elmo Magalona to transfer to a rival channel is “a learning experience on independence.”
Janine used to work with Elmo on Kapuso shows “Villa Quintana” and “More Than Words,” before she teamed up with Aljur Abrenica in “Dangwa” and “Once Again,” which aired its finale in June.
“I had to learn to adjust to the changes. In a way, it is related to the story I read for the kids—you should embrace new experiences, always be friendly and respectful of others,” she said.
Janine was referring to the story written by Ines Bautista Yao, titled “A Place Called Home,” that she read to 120 schoolchildren ages 7 to 12 at the recent Inquirer Read-Along session held at the newspaper’s Makati office.
The story, about a young child’s quest to make friends in his new home, is part of DMCI Homes’ “Bata, tara na!” project to promote the love for reading. Also with Janine were 2016 Metrobank Outstanding Filipinos Rujealyn Cancino, Col. Jocelyn Turla and Chief Insp. Ryan Manongdo, as well as Sophia School principal Ann Abacan.
“I was thrilled to read for the kids. In the beginning, I was nervous that they might get bored, but they were so energetic and cooperative. They had ready answers to my questions,” the 26-year-old actress recalled. The recent Inquirer Read-Along session was already her second. Along with Elmo, Janine was a celebrity storyteller in April 2014.
Janine is also involved in the National Youth Commission’s campaign for environmental awareness and conservation. “We go around encouraging everybody to recycle. It’s important, especially for a country like the Philippines, which is small but is rich in natural resources,” the NYC ambassador pointed out.
Janine is one of a few local artists who prioritized getting a college degree—European studies at the Ateneo de Manila University—before pursuing show business. For the actress, “this is important because, in school, you learn not just about academics, but also about yourself. The challenges you encounter help shape you as a person.”
To her young supporters, Janine has this advice: “Always stay curious and keep on reading.”
E-mail mcruz@inquirer.com.ph