Janine Gutierrez on living independently, taking a break from romance

EVEN

though there's no special someone in her life now, Janine Gutierrez said she is still at her happiest and will be celebrating Valentine's Day with a smile.

In a recent interview with the television actress, she proudly shared that she finally got a place for herself.

The 27-year-old recently moved to her own condominium unit in San Juan City, which she paid for and personally overseen its construction.

Gutierrez said it is fulfilling to finally see the fruits of her labor.

"I always wanted my own place. Kasi buong buhay ko hindi ako nagkaroon ng sarili kong kwarto and gusto ko din ng place for me and my siblings," she said.

The actress shared it took more than a year to finish the constructions and she was very hands-on in her new home. She even picked the faucet, tiles and curtains for the pad.

Her mother, seasoned actress Lotlot de Leon, father Ramon Christopher and her siblings celebrated Christmas in her new condo a few months ago.

Gutierrez said it feels nice to finally have a place she can call her own and a space she could also share with her whole family.

"It's really the best time to grow up, to be more independent and to be responsible," she said. "I don't have any help with me. I do everything, from cooking, cleaning, to laundry."

Aside from living independently, Gutierrez is also keen to focus on work this 2017 and take a break from relationships.

She clarified that she was not traumatized by her last relationship, but said she wants to focus on different things.

"I just feel so light this year. I think na very positive 2017. Sana mas maging busy yung career. I was able to get a place for myself and ang gusto ko naman is to fix our house in Fairview. I'm also very happy na nabibigyan ko ng time yung mga kapatid at family ko ngayon."

Work-wise, Gutierrez and Kapuso actor Ken Chan are teaming up as new hosts of reality program "Day Off."

The actress said she's not only looking forward to bringing new flavor to the show, but also meeting most-deserving and hardworking Filipinos here and abroad.

"I expect it to be challenging and fun. I know I’m in for different adventures and trials but I'm sure I will learn a lot together with the viewers of Day Off. Together, we’ll laugh and be amazed at our fellow Filipinos’ dedication to work," she said.

Gutierrez added that she's a fan of the show and even appeared in its past episodes.

"I've always been a fan of the show and I got excited every time they used to ask me to guest. Each episode is a new and exciting experience. In the few episodes I've done, I've met so many amazing, hardworking Filipinos and I learned so much from them."

"Day Off" airs every week starting Saturday, February 18, at 6:15 p.m. on GMA News TV.