Benjamin, Julie Anne ‘exclusively dating’

Benjamin Alves (left) and Julie Anne San Jose

While Benjamin Alves and Julie Anne San Jose have been “exclusively dating” since last year, the two actors insisted that they are not yet officially a couple. They are still in the “getting-to-know-each-other” stage, which for Benjamin, is the most fun part of building a relationship—no need to rush things.

“What matters is that Julie knows that I am focused on her,” Benjamin told reporters at a recent press conference for the coming GMA 7 afternoon drama series “Pinulot Ka Lang sa Lupa,” which he will headline with Julie. “We aren’t itching to put a label on whatever it is we have right now.”

Working on a teleserye with the young singer-actress, Benjamin pointed out, will only be beneficial to their growing romance, especially since they see each other almost every day during tapings.

“I get to appreciate her more because of that. I see what she is like when she’s exhausted and has no sleep. I see how she studies and prepares for her scenes. I get to discover what her kiliti is. I see how she takes care of me,” said the 27-year-old model-turned-actor.

Asked what sort of sweet things they usually do for each other, Benjamin said it’s all about the simple and thoughtful gestures, like making breakfast.

“There was a time when I barely had a chance to go home because I was working, taping for a couple of days straight. And she whipped up something for me, an omelet,” related Benjamin, who returned the favor by frying Spam slices for his rumored girlfriend.

“They were slightly burned,” Julie butted in, drawing laughter from the press.

Benjamin is not exactly the first guy Julie has dated. He is the first one, however, whom the 22-year-old music artist introduced to her parents.

“That is another thing I like about Julie—her closeness to her family. It’s great that she listens to her father’s or mother’s opinions,” he pointed out. “She cares whether or not her parents will like me.”