How come they are not yet on? Toni was asked this question during the media launch of her new CD titled 'Falling in Love.' And her answer: "We both think we just have to know each other very well." But they now often go out on dates. Usually they go to the mall. Their favourite is either Shangri-la Plaza or Rockwell in Makati City, Metro Manila.

Toni says her parents have met Direk Paul, but she has yet to see his mom and dad. Direk Paul's dad, director Jeric Soriano, is a pastor who also directs TV commercials like his son. He has directed one movie, Viva Films‚ 'Hot Shots,' starring Aga Muhlach and Gary Valenciano.

Direk Jeric's dad is the former screen heartthrob Nestor de Villa. Direk Paul is good-looking, like his father and Lolo Nestor. He could give current popular actors his age (he's 25) a run for their money.

Direk Paul directed the video of the carrier single, 'Falling in Love', in Toni's second album with the same title for Star Records. Although they've known each other before they worked on the video, it was during its shoot that they became closer. "He is actually very nice and every inch a gentleman," says Toni, with sparks in her eyes, hinting that whatever they have this early might evolve into something deeper and more serious.

It's been a long journey for Toni since she took runner-up honours in a singing search of GMA-7, the same contest that also discovered the many potentials of Melanie Calumpad who is now better known as Kyla. Toni has proven her worth as a co-host and as a bankable leading lady in romantic-comedy projects but it is her love for singing that makes her truly excited. And listening to her new CD, it is rather evident that Toni has improved much as a singer — she has achieved clarity in the delivery of her lyrics and there is already texture in her voice.

Two years ago, we had a peek at Toni's emotions through her songs in her 'You Complete Me' album, but this CD is much better in terms of choice of songs and production values.