Janine Gutierrez Named Esquire PH's 'Sexiest Woman Alive' — Dedicates It to Late Lola Pilita Corrales

Actress Janine Gutierrez has officially been crowned Esquire Philippines' 'Sexiest Woman Alive' for 2026 — and she's making the moment about more than just the title. The 33-year-old star is the first woman in seven years to receive the honor from the men's magazine, with the last recipient being Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray.

But for Janine, the recognition carries a deeply personal weight. In an intimate media gathering, she emotionally dedicated the title to her late grandmother, the legendary Pilita Corrales, whose first death anniversary is coming up next month. 'Mamita would have loved it,' Janine shared, revealing that Pilita was the first person to ever call her a 'knockout' — a word she'd later discover meant 'sexy.'

Janine fondly remembered her grandmother's own brand of sexiness. She recalled how 'Asia's Queen of Songs' would surprise concert audiences by taking off her skirt mid-performance — only to reveal a shorter skirt underneath. Ang lakas ng dating talaga ni Pilita kahit noon pa.

As for her current love life, Janine confirmed that boyfriend Jericho Rosales is super proud of the three Esquire layouts. Echo even reposted one on social media — though Janine quipped it was the 'most wholesome one' of the bunch. 'I'm so happy to have someone who is so supportive, sweet, and affectionate sa lahat ng mga ginagawa ko especially with work,' she said.

Jericho previously called himself the 'luckiest boy alive' in a caption celebrating his girlfriend's cover. And honestly? Hard to argue with that. 'Happy ako kasi nagagandahan siya,' Janine said with a smile.

Source: Philstar.com