Chynna on parenthood: Kean and I are still figuring it out

Chynna Ortaleza

Having a second baby is not in the immediate plans of Chynna Ortaleza and Kean Cipriano, who have a 1-year-old daughter.

“We’re still in the process of figuring things out. We want to focus on [our firstborn] Stellar for now. We’re not actively trying for another child. But if it comes, it comes—rock and roll na lang!” she told reporters at a press conference announcing her as Chef Boy Logro’s new cohost in GMA News TV’s Sunday cooking show, “Idol sa Kusina.”

The saying, “You will never know how hard it is to be a mother until you become one,” is something that Chynna only used to hear. Now she can attest to it.

“It’s a tough job. Sometimes, you feel like you need to take a break and catch your breath. But of course, the experience is rewarding at the same time,” said Chynna.

She’s fortunate that Stellar’s grandmothers are always there to do babysitting duties when she and Kean are at work.

Aside from her hosting stint, Chynna is part of the prime-time fantaserye “Mulawin vs. Ravena,” which takes up most of her time these days.

Being tapped to be part of “Idol” was a surprise for Chynna because her culinary skills are practically nil. But that’s exactly the point.
“I will represent mothers out there who aren’t well-versed in the kitchen—they will be learning with me,” said Chynna, who described Chef Boy as a “very giving” mentor.

Outside acting and hosting, Chynna dabbles in music. She has a band called Lara Serena—her real name—which she plays with from time to time. She’s not about to make a career out of music, however. For Chynna, it’s simply another form of self-expression.

“I have been putting my thoughts in writing for the longest time. And I’m thankful that Kean and my friend Glaiza de Castro helped and talked me into turning them into songs. Hearing them come to life with music is amazing,” said the 34-year-old Kapuso talent, who used to book female bands or acts for shows by Babae Power, a community for creative women.