Financial Blog

“I don’t think I’m too young to start investing in the things that really matter—the permanent things,” says Janine Gutierrez. The Preview cover girl has gone from budding actress to young star in a succinct yet definitive speed. Not one to rest on her laurels, she reaps the benefits of her achievements with investments that will last—all with the help of Security Bank.

“I think it has always been my dream to become an actress—I just didn’t want to admit it,” says Janine Gutierrez says, with a laugh. “My original goal was to become a diplomat! That’s why I chose to take European Studies back in college.” Funnily enough, Janine’s turning point only came once she was right in the thick of showbiz life—it was the tapings, the shoots and the late nights facing the camera that made her realize becoming an actress was, deep down, exactly what she wanted to pursue.

And the dream keeps getting better and better. “I don’t think I’m too young to start investing in the things that really matter— the permanent things,” Janine shares, becoming animated at the mention of her brand new home. “That’s why I decided to apply for a Security Bank Home Loan.” Growing up, the actress shared a room with her two sisters, instilling within her a yearning for her own space. “I never had my own room as a kid. The way I see it, this investment isn’t only for myself, but for my sisters as well—with me finally out of the way, they’ve got a lot more space for themselves,” she quips cheerfully. It’s easy to dream big, but what made her do it?

“At first I was scared. I’m the type of person who gets nervous about big, big purchases. If I need to write a check, my hands start shaking. I get so nervous, really, complete with cold sweat!” she laughs. “But with Security Bank, it was so easy. I assumed it would be a difficult process, that they’d require so much from me. I was wrong though—Security Bank made the process so smooth.” With a Fantastic Elastic payment scheme that makes it possible to pay on your own terms, Security Bank provides home loan applicants with maximum flexibility at no extra cost: pay more when you have extra, and you can pay less when your budget is tight.

Asked about how hands-on she was in the design of her new condo, Janine waxes enthusiastic. “I was involved in everything, from picking out a faucet for the sink to choosing wallpaper and paint colors. The look is very simple and Scandinavian, with lots of wooden furniture, but I’m planning to add in more plants so it has a more tropical feel.” Her favorite part? “The white brick wall and the marble accents!”

Only in her 20s and already comfortably settled into her own home, Janine sets the standard for youthful independence done the right way. “Know what you want and what you’re working hard for,” she offers when asked for advice on actively pursuing one’s dreams. “When you know your goal, it motivates you to be professional and enthusiastic. Always have a clear vision of what you’re aiming for, so that you know that everything you do will be worth it.”

Photos and Words by Summit Media Philippines