MANILA -- Janine Gutierrez may have downplayed their dates as nothing more than just friends hanging out. But Rayver Cruz appears to see them a bit differently.

Speaking with Pep, the Kapamilya actor decided to let the cat out of the bag and admitted to courting the young actress.

He was asked about the rumors after they were spotted watching the new "Wonder Woman" movie together last week. He also reportedly attended the birthday party of Gutierrez's grandfather, Christopher de Leon.

Prodded for confirmation over speculations about them already being a couple, Cruz said, "Hindi pa. Ligaw-ligaw pa lang, labas-labas," before adding that he doesn't want to rush things.

The "Doble Kara" star then soft-pedaled his appearance at De Leon's party, saying that he he has always known the showbiz veteran through his uncle, Tirso Cruz III. "Wala naman. Bumati lang ako."

In an earlier interview, Gutierrez denied that she and Cruz are dating. She also said that her work remains her priority over having a relationship.

Rumors about the two began when Cruz posted a photo of them together at a party on Instagram, which led to speculations about Gutierrez moving on from Elmo Magalona. Her relationship with Magalona ended last year.