MTRCB awards on Sept. 4

The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) will honor excellence and achievements in the TV industry with the First MTRCB Awards for TV on Sept. 4, 7 p.m. at Gateway Cinema 5, Araneta Center, Cubao, Quezon City.

The First MTRCB Awards for TV is in line with MTRCB’s mission of supporting TV programs reflective of contemporary Filipino cultural values that are not only entertaining but artistic as well.

It is one of the pet projects of chairperson Ma. Consoliza Laguardia and is complemented by the review and classification board’s Film Education and Appreciation Program, which spreads awareness to the public, especially the youth, on how the MTRCB rates and classifies motion pictures and television programs and raise the level of cinema appreciation.

The First MTRCB Metro Manila Students Screenplay Awards which helps discover new talents in scriptwriting will also be presented.

The finalists are :

News: ABS-CBN 2, TV Patrol, April 26 episode; Q-11, Balitanghali, Hagupit ni Bagyong Frank; Studio 23, News Central, Dec. 3, 2008;

Public Affairs Show: ABS-CBN 2, Rated K, Pamilya;

GMA 7, I-Witness, Ambulansyang De Paa; Q-11, Reunions; Studio 23, Y Speak, Estudyanteng 3rd World;

Educational Show: ABS-CBN 2, Sineskwela, Global Warming episode; GMA 7, Ka-Blog, Feb. 7 episode; Q-11, Go Negosyo, Kaya Mo;

Children’s Show: GMA 7, Art Angel, Mother’s Day Special; Q-11, Kids on Q, Missy, Mistress of the Sea;

Net 25, MOMents; TV5, Mustard TV;

Reality Show: Q-11, Dare Duo, Episode 4 Volunteerism; ABS-CBN 2, I Survived, episode aired last March 26, GMA 7, Pinoy Records, episode last May 10;

Comedy Show: TV5 5, Wow Mali; GMA 7, Bubble Gang, Dec. 5, 2008 episode;

Talent Show: TV5, Talentadong Pinoy; TV5 Shall We Dance?;

Drama Special: GMA 7, Obra, Butch episode; ABS-CBN 2, Maalaala Mo Kaya, Transistor episode

Teleserye: ABS-CBN 2, Kahit Isang Saglit, whole season; GMA 7: Dyesebel, whole season.

MTRCB will also give away the Lifetime-Achievement Award, Special Awards for Promoting Nation Building, Family Values and Solidarity, Moral Values and Education for the Marginalized, Best Male and Female Host awards and Best Actor and Best Actress awards.

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Erik Santos & Jim Brickman - Songbook

Erik Santos & Jim Brickman - Songbook -- Album would be out on 7/8/2009 in Singapore, Malaysia,Hong Kong, Taiwan,Thailand and Indonesia.

Erik Santos & Jim Brickman - My Love Is Here

Another music video after the jump.

Erik Santos - If I Just Believed

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Luis Manzano, kay John Lloyd lang magpapahalik

May isang very memorable scene si Luis Manzano sa trailer ng In My Life na ipinapakita at ito ay ang eksena niya with his mom, Vilma Santos kung saan ay umiiyak niyang ipinagtatapat ang kanyang sakit na cancer.

Naitawid ni Luis nang mahusay ang eksenang iyon kaya naman natanong siya sa presscon recently kung ano ang preparasyong ginawa niya before the scene at kung hindi ba siya nakaramdam ng takot na makakaeksena niya ang kanyang ina.

“Nu’ng first day na kukunan namin dapat ’yun, iba ’yung kaba ko, wala akong kinakausap sa set, naka-Ipod lang ako. Pero hindi gumanda ang panahon nu’n, nagtuluy-tuloy ang ulan, so na-pack-up yung eksena na ‘yun.

“I really prayed for that scene, kasi alam kong it would be one of the highlights para sa akin ng karakter ko, so I really, really prayed for that scene, halos lahat ng adoration chapel, napuntahan ko.

“Tapos, nung kukunan na, of course, Direk Olive (Lamasan) had to explain ’yung pinanggalingan, kinausap pa niya ako before the actual scene, kaya pinapunta ako ng mas maaga sa set.

“Pero throughout that scene, bawat galaw du’n, bawat luha, nag-base ako sa nararamdaman talaga ni Mark para sa mommy niya,” mahabang kuwento ni Luis.

Para sa aktor, never daw niyang na-imagine na makakatrabaho niya ang mommy niya sa isang pelikula komo nga nalinya siya sa hosting agad.

“It's surreal, because noong magkasama kami sa iisang bahay, hindi sa pag-aano, wala po kayong idea kung gaano karami ang trophies ang nasa bahay.

“Sa sala, merong at least 12 trophies, sa baba, marami pa. And you know, each day never passes na wala akong nakikita or I go to work at sinasabi na talagang hanga sila sa Mommy ko.

"So, the fact na makakasama ko na siya as an actor, it was surreal. I have to turn on the switch na kailangan kong kalimutan at one point na ako yung anak and that I have a character to portray, a role to portray. But after a while, of course pag sinabing cut ni Direk, kahit papaano bumabalik na ako sa pagiging Luis.

"But then I realize na, 'Wow, I'm working with my Mom, slash, the Vilma Santos!' Everyone has been raving about it for me. Of course, not just for me, but pretty much every one else around na she's one of the greatest in front of the camera,” say pa ni Luis.

Aside from his acting, talk of the town din ang kissing scene nina Luis at John Lloyd Cruz. Ang nakakatuwang punchline ni Lucky, “I wouldn’t do any other kissing scene with any actor except John Lloyd Cruz!”

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Sam Milby, Maricar Reyes madalas mahuling magka-date

NakaGUgulat ang pagkakadawit din ni Sam Milby sa hiwalayang Luis Manzano at Angel Locsin.

Totoong close si Sam kay Angel dahil sa naging sama-han nila sa katatapos na teleseryeng pinagsamahan nila, ang Only You, pero hindi basehan ito para ma-link na sila o lagyan na ng malisya ang kung anumang closeness na namagitan sa kanila. Nabalitaan naming maging si Sam ay nagulat at sinabing nalulungkot din siya dahil pati siya’y nada-damay sa nasabing hiwalayan.

Alam ni Sam na nagmamahalan sina Luis at Angel. At hindi siya gagawa ng anumang ikasisira ng relas-yon ng dalawang taong nagmamahalan.

Sa isang panayam, sinabi ni Sam na kung ano man ang pinagdaraanan ngayon nina Luis at Angel, umaasa siyang maaayos din ang lahat sa pagitan ng dalawa.

Kapansin-pansin kasi ang pagiging malapit at kumportable nina Angel at Sam sa isa’t isa lalo na nu’ng patapos na ang Only You. Hayun, hindi tuloy naiwasang isipin ng ilan na may ‘something special’ na na-develop sa dalawa, lalo pa’t walang girlfriend si Sam.

Hindi naman si Sam ang tipo na papasok sa relasyon na alam niyang may boyfriend pa ang babae, lalo pa’t kaibigan niya sina Angel at Luis.

Eh, how true naman na may idini-date ngayon si Sam, sa katauhan ni Maricar Reyes? Ayon pa sa malapit sa aktor, may lihim na paghanga na si Sam sa kontrobersyal na baguhan noong una pa lang niyang makita ang mukha nito sa isang giant billboard sa tapat ng PBB house. Nagandahan na raw si Sam kay Maricar.

Ang latest, nagdi-date na sina Sam at Maricar. Kung saan hahantong ang kanilang pagdi-date? Tanging tadhana lang ang nakaaalam.

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Nikki Gil walang pakialam kung natsitsismis na buntis

Mukhang nakakita si Billy Crawford ng isang maipagkakapuring nobya sa katauhan ni Nikki Gil.

Hindi ito napipikon kahit naiintrigang buntis at malaki ang ulo, tinatawanan na lang niya ito at uma­asang lalabas din ang totoo sa katagalan, na siya na­mang nangyayari ngayon.

Enjoy pareho sina Billy at Nikki sa kanilang relasyon. Sa halip na maging problema ang limang taong pagitan sa edad nila, naniniwala si Nikki na nakakatulong pa nga ito, dahil binibigyan nito ang kanyang boyfriend ng maturity para maintindihan siya at mapakibagayan ang kanyang kabataan.

Bagama’t ipinagmamalaki niya na highly rated ang unang pagsasama nila sa Maalaala Mo Kaya, natutuwa siya na wala silang teleserye na magbabawas ng kanilang time together. Sa halip nakakapag-dinner pa sila sa bahay ng isa’t isa, kasama ang kani-kanilang mga magulang.

“Okay kami sa aming relasyon. Ayaw na namin itong pabigatin. Tama na kung nagkakasama kami sa trabaho, best friends din kami,” sabi ni Nikki who will be starring with Coco Martin sa isang episode ng Komiks Presents Agimat at Nagsimula sa Puso.

Twenty two years old na si Nikki nung Aug. 23. Nag-dinner lamang sila ng kanyang pamilya kasama si Billy. Wish niyang makapag-travel sa Europe, kung saan naging sikat ang kanyang nobyo.

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Dramatic showdown in Dahil May Isang Ikaw

Under the direction of Jerry Lopez Sineneng and Rechie del Carmen, ABS-CBN’s Dahil May Isang Ikaw boasts of a powerhouse cast which will ignite our screens with dramatic showdown day after day. It is topbilled by Lorna Tolentino and Gabby Concepcion. The show also stars John Estrada, Chin Chin Gutierrez, Karylle and Sid Lucero. The project also marks the reunion of Jericho Rosales and Kristine Hermosa.

Dahil May Isang Ikaw is a compelling story of two families and how their lives are intertwined by love, tangled by envy, and twisted by sacrifice.

Karylle steps once again in the Primetime Bida block as she portrays a challenging role in the series. She is Danica, the third wheel to the love story of Miguel (Jericho) and Angel/Ella (Kristine).

Sid is Miggy who easily attracts girls. He may have the capacity to collect women as many as he can. However, he considers Angel/Ella as his true love. John plays the role of Bernardo who eagerly does whatever it takes for the love of his life.

Chin Chin is the socialite Patricia. She will complete the complex love triangle affair with the other two respected actors, Gabby and Lorna.

Dahil May Isang Ikaw airs weeknights after Tayong Dalawa.

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Judy Ann Santos, Sarah Geronimo movie, soon

Confirmed na ang Nov. 7 concert sa Araneta Colesium ni Sarah Geronimo. Yup, balik-Araneta ang box-office queen.

Matagal-tagal na rin ang huling concert ni Sarah sa Araneta Coliseum.

Wala pang guest ayon kay Mr. Vic del Rosario. Pero definite na raw ito sa Nov. 7.

Bukod sa nasabing concert, sinusulat na ang script na pagsasamahan nina Sarah at Judy Ann Santos na pelikula under Viva Films. Comedy daw ang pelikula at gaganap na magkapatid ang dalawa.

May sisimulan na rin daw si Sarah na weekly continuing show sa ABS-CBN.

Kuwento pa ni Mr. del Rosario, ang dating walong provincial concert nito ay umabot na sa 15 na on-going hanggang ngayon. “Grabe, ma-amaze ka sa rami ng tao sa lahat ng puntahan ni Sarah,” sabi ni big boss ng Viva Group of companies.

Malakas din daw ang benta ng latest album ni Sarah na kasama ang kanyang bagong hit song na Dahil Minahal Mo Ako.

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Willie Revillame extends leave

Nagbigay na ng opisyal na pahayag ang ABS-CBN para sa kalagayan ng TV host na si Willie Revillame.

Narito:

Nagkasundo ang Kapamilya network at ang TV host na si Willie na i-extend ang leave ng huli sa Wowowee hanggang Sept. 20. Ito ay pagtugon ng TV station at ni Willie sa mga kaso na isinampa ng Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) laban sa kanya at sa noontime show na Wowowee.

Tinanggap naman ng MTRCB ang hakbang ng ABS-CBN at ni Willie na sapat na tugon upang maresolba na ang mga isyung hinaharap ni Willie at ng Wowowee.

Narito ang kabuuan ng official statement:

In the interest of self-regulation, ABS-CBN has availed of the conciliation process under Section 6, Rule 7, of the MTRCB Rules of Procedures, regarding the incidents involving Mr. Willie Revillame in the Program Wowowee. After having considered the facts, issues and terms of self-regulation to be imposed in the pertinent cases, the MTRCB has approved the same.

WHEREOF, the ABS-CBN shall undertake to perform the following:

1. Extend Mr. Revillame’s leave until 20 September 2009, and

2. Remove the present dance segment of Luningning and Saicy.

FURTHER, ABS-CBN reiterates that it is fully aware of its legal and moral responsibilities as a broadcaster and shall undertake to continue to uphold the values and customs of the Filipino viewing public.

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The Philippine Madrigal Singers at CCP tonight

What started in 1963 as a group of students, alumni and faculty from the University of the Philippines-Diliman by National Artist for Music Andrea Veneracion turned out to be one of the most successful choirs in the world, The Philippine Madrigal Singers, also known as Madz.

Madz first earned critical acclaim during its performance in the First Choruses of the World Festival at the Lincoln Center in New York in 1969. The concert welcomed the group to the international choral community, eventually paving the way to joining the most distinguished international choral competitions and winning all the top prizes.

The group also emerged as the winner in the European Grand Prix in Choral Singing in Arezzo, Italy. Madz recently brought honor to the country again with Unesco designating them as Artist for Peace. Unesco Artists for Peace are world-famous personalities who use their influence, charisma and prestige to help promote the organization’s message and programs. Previous assignees to this honor in music are Celine Dion and Shirley Bassey.

With all its achievements, the Philippine Madrigal Singers is indeed a cut above the rest. The group will have a concert titled Madz About Love, Madz About Peace at the Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo, CCP Main Theater, tonight at 8. It will also come out a new album titled Madz In Love Continues under Sony Music.

The event is presented by Sony Music in cooperation with Unilever Philippines, PLDT MyDSL, Sony Philippines, The Philippine STAR, Manila Bulletin, Mellow 94.7, 96.3 Easy Rock, Magic 89.9 and 103.5 Max FM. Tickets are priced at P2,000, P1,500, P1,000, P700, P500 and P300 and available at all Ticket World outlets (tel. no. 891-9999), CCP box office (832-1125) and Sony Music office (636-3725).

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KC Concepcion wins Us Girls Icon Award

KC Concepcion (second from left) was the biggest winner at the first Us Girls August Awards last week at the New Eastwood Mall Open Park in Libis, Quezon City. With KC were (from left) hosts Iya Villania, Angel Aquino and Megan Young.

She took home the Us Girls Icon Award for exemplifying the qualities the program Us Girls is all about — smart, updated with the latest trends, independent, adventurous, and a role model to everyone. KC said the award will empower her more as she continues to carry on her career and advocacies.

Kapamilya stars Kim Chiu and Anne Curtis were also recognized for their style and beauty.

Kim, who shared some of her beauty secrets through a recorded video message, was named Face of the Year with Tweetie de Leon and Isabelle Daza. Anne, on the other hand was one of the Most Fashionable Women of the Year together with models Bea Soriano, Divine Lee, Bianca Valerio and entertainment reporter Marie Lozano.

Also awarded were Make-up Artists of the Year Jigs Mayuga, Barbi Chan, Bobby Carlos and Krist Bansuelo and Stylists of the Year Rey Ilagan, Bianca Santiago, Liz Uy and Pam Quinones.

Winners were determined based on poll votes at usgirls23.multiply.com and thorough deliberation of the program’s staff.

The night was highlighted with performances from Ballet Philippines, La Sallian Orchestra, acoustic performer Princess, Ronnie Liang and a fashion show featuring the designs of young Filipino designers Reian Mata, Charina Sarte and Tippi Ocampo. Watch the telecast of Us Girls August Awards tomorrow night at 7 on Studio 23.

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Anne Curtis consistent, si Sam Milby pa rin ang gusto

Obvious na tinamaan ng husto si Anne Curtis kay Sam Milby. Naka-move on na ang aktor sa kanilang break-up pero si Anne hindi pa. Ito ay sa kabila ng pangyayaring napakaraming umaaligid at gustong ligawan siya.

Nang tanungin siya kung sino kina Derek Ramsay, Luis Manzano, at Sam ang gugustuhin niyang makasama sa kanyang wedding, sinabi niyang si Sam. Ang pagpapareha nila sa isang pelikula ay inaasahan ng kanilang mga fans na gumawa ng magic para sa kanilang pagbabalikan.

Ganun ba si Anne?

Ngiti lamang ang sagot ng aktres pero, sinabi nito na halos 100 % na siyang healed from her broken heart.

“But I am very excited to be working with him. And I appreciate the fans’ effort to see us reunited pero, sana maka-move on na rin sila. Maging masaya na lang sila na we’re still friends and can work together in a movie. Tama na yun,” sabi niya sa isang interview.

Sa kabila ng pangyayaring wala pang nakakapalit si Sam sa kanyang puso at she’s nursing, gaano man kaliit na porsiyento, a broken heart, Anne has turned more beautiful and a better actress. Lahat ay nagkakaisa na napaka-galing niya as Candice sa kanyang teleseryeng The Wedding. Wish nila na sana, isa si Sam sa dalawang kapareha niya, baka may maganda pang resulta na lumabas bagaman at both Derek and Zanjoe Marudo are playing their roles so well, tumaas na ang level ng kanilang pagiging artista, aktor na silang maituturing.

“Talagang eight weeks lang ang series, mabuti nga nadagdagan pa ito ng dalawang linggo for a total of 10 weeks. Gustuhin man itong i-extend, di na puwede, masisira na ang istorya. Di rin posible na gawan ito ng Book 2 dahil hanggang sa end na lang ang story nina Candice, Marlon at Warren, di na exciting kung sa book 2 ay married na sila. Might as well, create new characters or an entirely new series,” paliwanag ni Anne na kahit more than two years nang na-tape ang series ay di nagbago ang looks nilang lahat, lalo na siya, at pinasasalamatan niya ang FernSlim para rito.

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Nikki Gil tambak ang trabaho sa Dos

NAGDIWANG ng 22nd birthday ang Star Magic talent na si Nikki Gil noong August 23.

Maliban sa isang espesyal na song and dance number kasama ang boyfriend na si Billy Crawford sa ASAP ’09, nagdiwang din si Nikki kasama ang kanyang pamilya at malalapit na kaibigan sa showbiz.

Isa sa birthday wishes ni Nikki ay ang makapag-tour sa Europe at magkaroon ng marami pang shows. Puwede siguro niyang yayain si Billy na samahan siya, tutal naman, bihasang-bihasa na siya sa parteng iyon ng daigdig.

After all, aminado at hindi na itinatanggi ng dalaga na masaya siya sa kanyang buhay pamilya at pag-ibig.

Pagdating sa career, masasabing malayo na nga ang narating ng dating softdrink commercial model. Isa na siya ngayon sa mga hinahangaang artista at mang-aawit sa industriya.

Hindi lamang sa ’Pinas nakikilala ang galing ni Nikki dahil maging sa abroad, napansin na ang kanyang galing bilang singer.

Regular nga pala siyang napapanood sa ASAP ’09 at sa MYX channel.

Bukod sa pag-awit, isa si Nikki sa mga leading lady ng ABS-CBN shows. Gumanap siya bilang Guia sa Pieta kapareha ni Ryan Agoncillo.

Ang kanyang first MMK episode kasama ang real-life sweetheart na si Billy, nagtala ng isa sa mataas na ratings ng programa.

Sa kabila ng usap-usapang siya ay lilipat sa kabilang network, lalo pang patutunayan ng mga susunod na proyekto ni Nikki na walang katotohanan ang lahat ng tsikang ito.

Abangan ang Komiks Presents: Agimat kasama si Coco Martin at Nagsimula sa Puso kasama sina Coco, Maja Salvador at Jason Abalos.

Kaga-graduate lang ni Nikki ng kursong English Literature sa Ateneo de Manila University, kaya full blast na ang kanyang oras sa showbiz career.

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Direk Olive, natulala kay Luis

Inamin ni Direk Olive Lamasan na talagang natulala siya nang unang tanggihan ni Luis Manzano ang In My Life.

Naisip daw niya ang aktor na i-cast sa pelikula hindi dahil sa anak ito ni Vilma Santos kundi talagang nakita niyang bagay ito para sa role na Mark.

“I really see something in him for the role. ’Yung vulnerability, ’yung sensitivity na kailangan ko rito sa karakter na ito, nakikita ko sa kanya.

“So, when I pitched it to him, I was really confident that he would accept it because you know, it’s an opportunity for him to work with his mother, it’s an opportunity for him to work in a drama.

“But I got the shock of my life, when he said ‘no’ outright. He said ‘no, I will not do it.’ At natulala talaga ako, natulala kami nina Malou (Santos of Star Cinema) at saka ni June (Rufino, manager ni Luis).

“Sabi ko, ‘Ha?,’ sabi naman niya ‘yeah, no, no, no.’ So, I have to accept that, I have to respect that, and as Ate Vi nga was saying, talagang sinabi niya na hindi niya pakikialaman (kung anuman ang desisyon ni Luis).

“So, sabi ko, ‘wow, nagkaroon ako ng problema, sino ika-cast ko after?’ Sabi ni ano, ‘hindi, pakiusapan natin,’ so, sabi ko kay Luis, ‘read the script first, pagmuni-munihan mo, then, magbalik tayo kung gusto mo ’yung role, kung gagawin mo o hindi. ’Pag sinabi mong hindi, I will accept that.’

“So, natuwa naman ako na the next meeting, after having read the script, he said ‘yes’ to me,” mahabang kuwento ni Direk Olive.

Nang tanungin naman si Luis kung ano ang nakapagpabago ng kanyang desisyon, pagbibiro niya ay nagpataas lang siya ng presyo.

“Hindi, kasi, siguro at first, when it was presented to me, of course, it’s not that wala akong tiwala kay Direk Olive, it’s not that. Kasi siyempre, iba ’yung ine-explain sa ’yo, iba ’yung nakikita mong may hard copy ka kung ano ang gagawin mo.

“And of course, it’s not everyday na natatapunan ako ng ganitong mabigat na role, gay role pa. Tapos, of course, I knew, kahit paano, na there had to be some intimacy between John Lloyd and I. It’s not everyday na nangyayari sa ’yo ’yon, so, it came as a shocker.

“Pero kagaya nga ng sinabi ni Direk Olive, after reading the script, understanding my character, na kung may intimate scenes, it’s definitely kailangan na kailangan sa istorya para mas believable dahil alam naming napakatalino ng audience, mas na-appreciate ko ang istorya, ang bawat karakter, and para sa akin, it was a ‘yes or yes’ answer,” sabi ni Luis.

True enough, tama ang foresight ni Direk Olive na babagay kay Luis ang role dahil sa trailer pa lang, kinakitaan na ang anak ni Vilma ng sensitivity as an actor.

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Charice on Rhap Salazar

Charice on issue pitting her against best friend, Rhap Salazar.

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KC Concepcion isn’t ready for a relationship for now

Handa na si KC Concepcion sa nalalapit na 2010 election. Kamakailan ay na-headline ang kanyang pagpapa-register bilang isang voter. “Nag-regsiter ako para next election boboto ako. Actually, trinansfer ko lang ‘yung absentee voter ko sa abroad,” bungad ni KC nu’ng makausap namin siya sa third quarter trade launch ng mga bagong programa ng ABS-CBN sa NBC Tent, The Fort.

Hinala ng iba may kinalaman ang pagpapa-register ni KC sa Pilipinas sa nababalitang pagtakbo ng kanyang stepfather na si Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan sa darating na halalan bilang Bise-Presidente. “Hindi ako makakampanya ngayon kasi bawal for now. Pero next [year] pwede,” lahad ni KC.

Tinanong namin si KC kung nagkausap ba sila ng kaniyang amang si Gabby Concepcion during the trade launch dahil magkatabi lang ang dressing room na naka-assign sa kanila “Ay, kanina. Sobra kaming nagtsikahan. Tuwing magkikita kami tinitingnan namin ang mga daliri namin kung ano ‘yung parehas, ‘yung mata namin at ‘yung buhok namin parehong-pareho. Parang every time na magkikita kami, parang first time naming magkikita.”

Mas okay ba sa kanya na sinasabing mas kamukha niya ang kanyang ama kesa kanyang inang si Sharon Cuneta? “E, kung mukha pa rin akong babae, opo naman. Kaya laging mahaba ang buhok ko. Siguro ‘pag nagpagupit ako malamang mukha akong lalaki, tisoy na lalaki,” sabay tawa ni KC.

Marami naman ang nakapansin na tila nawala sa eksena ang unang leading man ni KC na si Richard Gutierrez lalo pa’t nababalitang nanliligaw sa kanya ngayon ang leading man niya na si Piolo Pascual sa kanyang first ever teleserye na Lovers in Paris. “Hindi ko nga alam na nililigawan niya ako if totoong nililigawan niya ako since For The First Time days bumibista siya, nagdadala siya ng cake. Well, kasi kaibigan din niya ‘yung cinematographer namin. Then, si Direk Joyce (Bernal). ‘Yun ‘yung excuse niya na pinupuntahan niya [nun].”

Ibig sabihin ba nito ay hindi pa nagsasabi sa kanya si Piolo na gusto siya ng binata? “Uhm, well, inanounce naman niya sa buong Pilipinas, so, I guess. Ang importante sa akin ang makita lang na sincere siya. Walang kamera, ganu’n,” ngiti ni KC.

Hindi din masagot ng dalaga kung kakailanganin ba ng matagal na panahon upang masagot niya ang kanyang leading man. “I don’t know. I mean, depende rin kung ano ang importante sa akin, ano ang importante sa kanya.”

At para kay KC, ang kanyang career ang kanyang priority sa ngayon. “‘Yun nga po, ‘yung teleserye talaga. Career for now. Kasi I’m in my 20s, sana in my late 20s kapag medyo maganda na ang work ko, doon ako makaka-settle down.”

Kahit man nasasabing boto ang kanyang ina kay Piolo ay hindi pa rin nagmamadali si KC. “Kaya nga lagi ko siyang nire-remind na, ‘Ma, hindi na ganu’n na bata kinakasal ‘yung mga tao. We have to wait.’ Parang marami pa kaming gustong gawin, ganu’n. But I know kasi when I get in a relationship sobra kong priority ‘yung lalaki. So, gusto ko ganu’n din. So, sana magkatugma ‘yung priorities naming dalawa. ‘Yun ang ibig ko’ng sabihin. Pero ‘yun ay pang serious relationship na. Nanliligaw pa lang siya.”

Sa ngayon ay excited na siya para sa premiere ng Lovers in Paris sa susunod na buwan. “Ninenerbyos din po kasi parang sana ma-accept ng tao. Sana ma-accept nila ang version namin. ‘Yung version namin ng mga characters, ‘yung version namin ng mga istorya, lahat. Kasi ang laki ng pressure na naging isa siyang major hit. Pero ‘yung sa amin naman mas emotional ‘yung sa atin. ‘Di ba kasi minsan luka-lukahan si Vivian (ang kanyang character)? So, mas maganda, mas makapal ang istorya natin dito. Kasi ang mga Pinoy mahilig sa drama,” tapos ni KC.

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Ruffa Gutierrez, not pregnant

“Me...PREGNANT??? Hahahahaha! That’s the silliest thing I’ve ever heard!” react ni Ruffa Gutierrez sa mga nagmalisya sa kanyang paiba-ibang mood.

Say ng mga nagmamalisya, baka raw naglilihi si Ruffa : “I feel like throwing up...so pale and sick. Gotta go now. Pls pray I feel better and make it on the BUZZ! I’ve never ever missed work,” sabi nito noong Linggo.

“Having mangustin and seedless grapes while catching up with Mom, Dad & Chard.”

“Last week I was on the phone and I cried :(( Today I got a call and smiled! :)) Ganyan talaga ang buhay...minsan masaya, minsan hindi.”

Dahil d’yan, nag-conclude agad ang mga malisyoso.

[via]

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The scent of John Lloyd Cruz

John Lloyd Cruz continues to captivate viewers on national television and on the big screen. This must be one of the reasons why Joel Cruz, the man behind Joel Cruz Signatures, recently signed up John Lloyd for the company’s new fragrance.

“John Lloyd was personally involved in the formulation up to the final branding. For the first time, an endorser shall have two opposite gender fragrances in a single endorsement. The two eau de toilettes are: Like Him, a male scent that highlights all of John Lloyd’s positive and admirable masculine qualities and Like Her, a female scent that awakens John Lloyd’s interest in a woman,” Joel says during the recent launch at SM City North Edsa’s Sky Dome.

Family members, business associates, politicians, showbiz personalities, company employees and other guests graced the launch.

Amy Perez was host of the evening while The Primos, Ronnie Liang, Lovi Poe, Pauleen Luna, Ejay Falcon, Alfred Vargas and Dennis Trillo provided entertainment at the event called There’s a New Man in Town.

In the same event, Joel announced his participation in the third season of GMA 7’s reality-based singing competition Celebrity Duets.

[source]

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Pagbabalik ni Willie Revillame, na-tape na

Sa August 29 na raw mapapanood ang pagbabalik ni Willie Revillame sa Wowowee, ang sabi sa balita. Pero wala raw choice si Willie kundi ang sumulpot kahit daw ayaw pa niya, sey pa.

Ganu’n? Bakit daw?

Ang sabi, nai-tape na ang naturang episode bago pa nangyari ’yung kay Tita Cory. Actually, nag-taping na rin kami roon at guest kami sa Willie of Fortune na sa September 5 ipalalabas.

Kaya malamang, wala ngang choice si Willie. Unless, may umawat ng airing.

[via]

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‘Dahil May Isang Ikaw’ Debuts at No. 5 Nationwide

TOP 10 DAYTIME AND PRIMETIME TV PROGRAMS NATIONWIDE
(August 18 to 24, 2009; Taylor Nelson Sofres)

August 18, Tuesday

Daytime:

1. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 23.5%
2. Kambal Sa Uma (ABS-CBN) - 22.3%
3. Precious Hearts Romances Presents Bud Brothers (ABS-CBN) - 18.9%
4. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 16.8%
5. Kung Aagawin Mo ang Lahat Sa Akin (GMA-7) - 16.3%
6. Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) - 15.2%
7. Maria de Jesus: Ang Anghel sa Lansangan (ABS-CBN) - 15.1%
8. Miss No Good (ABS-CBN) - 14.6%
9. Daisy Siete: Chacha Muchacha (GMA-7) / Ngayon at Kailanman (GMA-7) - 14.3%
10. Mr. Bean Live! (ABS-CBN) - 13.3%

Primetime:

1. Darna (GMA-7) - 36.5%
2. Only You (ABS-CBN) - 36%
3. May Bukas Pa (ABS-CBN) - 35.2%
4. Tayong Dalawa (ABS-CBN) - 34.8%
5. TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) - 34.4%
6. Boys Over Flowers (ABS-CBN) - 27.1%
7. Rosalinda (GMA-7) - 25.5%
8. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 24.9%
9. Adik Sa ‘Yo (GMA-7) / The Wedding (ABS-CBN) - 20.6%
10. Survivor Philippines: Palau (GMA-7) - 19.7%

August 19, Wednesday

Daytime:

1. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 23.3%
2. Kambal Sa Uma (ABS-CBN) - 22%
3. Precious Hearts Romances Presents Bud Brothers (ABS-CBN) - 19%
4. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 18.4%
5. Kung Aagawin Mo ang Lahat Sa Akin (GMA-7) - 16.9%
6. Daisy Siete: Chacha Muchacha (GMA-7) - 15.5%
7. Maria de Jesus: Ang Anghel sa Lansangan (ABS-CBN) - 15.3%
8. Ngayon at Kailanman (GMA-7) - 14.5%
9. Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) - 14.2%
10. Miss No Good (ABS-CBN) - 12.9%

Primetime:

1. Only You (ABS-CBN) - 35.6%
2. Tayong Dalawa (ABS-CBN) - 34.9%
3. Darna (GMA-7) - 34.8%
4. May Bukas Pa (ABS-CBN) - 34.4%
5. TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) - 33.6%
6. Boys Over Flowers (ABS-CBN) - 26.3%
7. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 23.8%
8. Rosalinda (GMA-7) - 23.3%
9. The Wedding (ABS-CBN) - 20.9%
10. Adik Sa ‘Yo (GMA-7) - 19.6%

August 20, Thursday

Daytime:

1. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 21.6%
2. Kambal Sa Uma (ABS-CBN) - 20.2%
3. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 18.5%
4. Precious Hearts Romances Presents Bud Brothers (ABS-CBN) - 17.3%
5. Kung Aagawin Mo ang Lahat Sa Akin (GMA-7) - 16.4%
6. Daisy Siete: ChaCha Muchacha (GMA-7) - 15.3%
7. Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) - 14.5%
8. Ngayon at Kailanman (GMA-7) - 14.2%
9. Miss No Good (ABS-CBN) - 13.9%
10. Maria de Jesus: Ang Anghel sa Lansangan (ABS-CBN) - 13.6%

Primetime:

1. Tayong Dalawa (ABS-CBN) - 37.4%
2. May Bukas Pa (ABS-CBN) - 37%
3. Only You (ABS-CBN) - 36.7%
4. TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) - 36.4%
5. Darna (GMA-7) - 35%
6. Boys Over Flowers (ABS-CBN) - 28.5%
7. Rosalinda (GMA-7) - 26%
8. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 23.7%
9. Adik Sa ‘Yo (GMA-7) - 21.5%
10. The Wedding (ABS-CBN) - 21.2%

August 21, Friday

Daytime:
1. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 24.1%
2. Kambal Sa Uma (ABS-CBN) - 23.7%
3. Precious Hearts Romances Presents Bud Brothers (ABS-CBN) - 20.7%
4. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 18.4%
5. Maria de Jesus: Ang Anghel sa Lansangan (ABS-CBN) - 15.7%
6. Kung Aagawin Mo ang Lahat Sa Akin (GMA-7) - 15.1%
7. Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) / Daisy Siete: Chacha Muchacha (GMA-7) - 14.2%
8. Miss No Good (ABS-CBN) - 13.6%
9. Ngayon at Kailanman (GMA-7) - 12.7%
10. Hunter X Hunter (GMA-7) / Mr. Bean Live! (ABS-CBN) - 11.4%

Primetime:

1. Only You (ABS-CBN) - 39.8%
2. Tayong Dalawa (ABS-CBN) - 37.3%
3. May Bukas Pa (ABS-CBN) - 34.9%
4. TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) - 33.7%
5. Darna (GMA-7) - 32.7%
6. Boys Over Flowers (ABS-CBN) - 28.8%
7. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 24%
8. Rosalinda (GMA-7) - 21.9%
9. The Wedding (ABS-CBN) - 21.6%
10. Adik Sa ‘Yo (GMA-7) - 19.7%

August 22, Saturday

Daytime:

1. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 22.4%
2. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 20.3%
3. Cinema FPJ: Da King on ABS-CBN (ABS-CBN) - 18.8%
4. Joey’s Quirky World (GMA-7) - 13.5%
5. Entertainment Live (ABS-CBN) - 11.8%
6. Wish Ko Lang (GMA-7) - 11.7%
7. Maynila (GMA-7) - 10.6%
8. Black Jack (GMA-7) - 10.4%
9. Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) - 10.2%
10. Startalk (GMA-7) - 10.1%

Primetime:

1. Maalaala Mo Kaya (ABS-CBN) - 31%
2. The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) - 28.6%
3. Agimat: Ang Mga Alamat Ni Ramon Revilla - Tiagong Akyat (ABS-CBN) - 26.1%
4. Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (GMA-7) - 23.6%
5. Imbestigador (GMA-7) - 19.3%
6. Vilma: A Woman For All Seasons (ABS-CBN) - 17.4%
7. XXX (ABS-CBN) - 16.9%
8. Bitoy’s Funniest Videos
(GMA-7) - 16.5%
9. Are You The Next Big Star? (GMA-7) -15.8%
10. Pinoy Records (GMA-7) - 14.1%

August 23, Sunday

Daytime:

1. ASAP ‘09 (GMA-7) - 19.1%
2. Your Song Presents: Gaano Kita Kamahal (ABS-CBN) - 14.2%
3. Matanglawin (ABS-CBN) - 13.8%
4. Pokemon Master Quest (GMA-7) - 12.7%
5. The Buzz (ABS-CBN) - 12%
6. SOP (GMA-7) - 11.8%
7. Joey’s Quirky World (GMA-7) - 10.9%
8. Dear Friend Presents “Kambal” (GMA-7) - 10.2%
9. Kay Susan Tayo (GMA-7) - 9.2%
10. Hana Kim Crazy In Love
(ABS-CBN) - 8.4%

Primetime:

1. The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) - 31.4%
2. Rated K (ABS-CBN) - 30.7%
3. Sharon (ABS-CBN) - 22.2%
4. Goin’ Bulilit (ABS-CBN) - 22.1%
5. Show Me Da Manny (GMA-7) - 18.2%
6. Mel & Joey (GMA-7) - 17.9%
7. All Star K (GMA-7) - 17.4%
8. George and Cecil (ABS-CBN) - 16.8%
9. Power of 10 (GMA-7) - 16.1%
10. Kap’s Amazing Stories
(GMA-7) - 15.4%

August 24, Wednesday

Daytime:

1. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 23.2%
2. Miss Universe 2009 (ABS-CBN) - 22%
3. Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) - 21.7%
4. Kambal Sa Uma (ABS-CBN) - 20.7%
5. Precious Hearts Romances Presents Bud Brothers (ABS-CBN) - 18.6%
6. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 18.2%
7. Kung Aagawin Mo ang Lahat Sa Akin (GMA-7) - 15.8%
8. Maria de Jesus: Ang Anghel sa Lansangan (ABS-CBN) - 15.1%
9. Daisy Siete: Chacha Muchacha (GMA-7) - 14.4%
10. Ngayon at Kailanman (GMA-7) / Mr. Bean Live! (ABS-CBN) - 13.7%

Primetime:

1. Tayong Dalawa (ABS-CBN) - 40.2%
2. May Bukas Pa (ABS-CBN) - 38%
3. TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) - 36.7%
4. Darna (GMA-7) - 34.5%
5. Dahil May Isang Ikaw (ABS-CBN) - 33.3%
6. Katorse (ABS-CBN) - 27.5%
7. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 25.2%
8. Rosalinda (GMA-7) - 22.6%
9. The Wedding (ABS-CBN) - 20.7%
10. Adik Sa ‘Yo (GMA-7) - 20.2%

Source: TNS, Starmometer

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Kimmy Dora ni Piolo mapapanood na sa SM Cinemas

HINDI na pala Star Cinema ang magdi-distribute ng pelikulang produced nina Piolo Pascual, Joyce Bernal at Erik Raymundo ng Spring Films na Kimmy Dora: Kambal sa Kiyeme, kundi ang Solar Films na.

Ang naturang desisyon ay ini-announce ng grupo ni Piolo kamakailan dahil nababahala ang mga ito na baka hindi maipalabas sa SM Cinemas ang kanilang pelikula dahil sa isyung namamagitan sa SM Cinemas at ng Star Cinema.

“Through the help of Tita Malou Santos of Star Cinema, sa kagandahang-loob din niya na huwag na kaming madamay sa conflict between them (Star Cinema and SM Cinemas). Hindi naman po kasi kami produced ng Star Cinema, it’s Spring Films and we need more exposure. Si Ma’m Malou Santos na rin po ang may sabi na lumapit na lang kami sa iba para maipalabas sa SM,” say ni Piolo.

Aminado naman ang actor na maraming naitulong ang Star Cinema para sa Kimmy Dora kung publicities ang pag-uusapan.

“Nagpapasalamat po ako dahil sobrang dami ang naitulong nila sa amin. Lalo na sa akin not as an actor at bilang producer. Malaki ang utang na loob ko dahil hindi nila ako binibigo kapag lumalapit ako,” ani Piolo.

Showing na ang Kimmy Dora sa September 2 in theaters nationwide.

[via]

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Angel Locsin dedma sa hiwalayan nila ni Luis Manzano

Hanggang ngayon ay wala pa ring pahayag sina Angel Locsin at Luis Manzano sa balitang hiwalay na sila. Dinededma nila pareho ang issue at talagang nakakabingi ang katahimikan nila.

Marami nga ang nag-hintay na baka magsalita si Luis last Saturday sa Entertainment Live pero natapos at natapos ang show na wala tayong narinig mula sa young actor. In fact, parang okay naman siya dahil tumatawa pa rin siya and the usual Luis na mapagbiro.

Si Angel naman, ang huling narinig namin mula sa kampo niya ay ang hindi niya pagkakatuloy sa Florida para sa show sa ating mga TFC subscribers dahil hindi na-release ang kanyang working visa at dinedma rin ang issue ng hiwalayan.

Maraming speculations tuloy ang lumalabas at isa na nga rito ay ang hinalang may third party sa splitup sa parte ni Luis.

Anyway, bukas ay may presscon na ang In My Life movie nina Luis, John Lloyd Cruz at Gov. Vilma Santos. Magsalita na kaya si Lucky tungkol sa break-up issue?

Siyempre, tiyak ding pagsasalitain ng press si Ate Vi tungkol dito kaya kaabang-abang ang nasabing presscon.

[via]

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Governor Vilma Santos nagba-bus papasok

NGAYON lang namin nalaman na nagba-bus pala ang multi-awarded aktres and now Batangas Governor Vilma Santos kapag pumapasok siya sa kanyang opisina.

We learned this thru Vilma: A Woman for All Seasons, isang TV special ng ABS-CBN na napanood namin last Saturday night.

On it’s fourth episode (meron pang last episode sa Sabado) ay ipinakita ang pagiging public servant ng aktres.

Sa isang bus o “mobile office” pala siya sumasakay tuwing pupunta ng opisina at kapag umuuwi ng bahay. Ginagawa niya raw ito para hindi masayang ang kanyang oras. Sa bus niya ginagawa ang importanteng paper work at business calls.

On that same episode, napanood din namin ang trailer ng latest movie ni Vilma under Star Cinema, ang In My Life, na pinagbibidahan din nina John Lloyd Cruz at Luis Manzano.

Ang ganda ng trailer, huh! Ibang Vilma ang nakita namin, not the usual actress na napapanood namin noon. Bongga rin ang mga kilig moments nina John Lloyd at Luis at tiyak magiging curious dito ang manonood.

[via]

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Watch 'And I Love You So' free online?

Nakakadalawang linggo na sa mga sinehan ang kauna-unahang pelikula ni Bea Alonzo na hindi niya kasama si John Lloyd Cruz. Sa halip, itinalaga ng Star Cinema sina Sam Milby at Derek Ramsay. Obviously, kumikita ang movie dahil kung hindi, after a week pulled out na ito.

Katunayan, nagsanib puwersa pa ang ABS CBN Interactive at Star Cinema para sa kauna-unahang online screening ng isang pelikulang lokal. Buong isang linggong mapapanood ang And I Love You So, August 28 hanggang September 4, sa internet.

[via]

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Vina Morales ready to return to work

Welcome to the Christian world Ceana! Last Sunday, Vina Morales and Cedric Lee’s first born Ceana was baptized at the Sanctuario de San Antonio in Forbes Park, Makati. Father Fritz Malinao who officiated the baptism flew all the way from Cebu. “I am thankful because it was Father Fritz who discovered me. And he flew all the way from Cebu,” said Vina. Ceana who is now four months old loves to listen to music. “I told Cedric, naku baka yong anak natin mag-si-singer din.”

Among the godparents were Sharon Cuneta, Ruffa Gutierrez, Rufa Mae Quinto, Pops Fernandez, Shaina Magdayao, Gary Valenciano, German Moreno, Gov. Chavit Singson and Manny Pacquiao.

Thanksgiving dinner was held at Le Soufflé in Makati. Vina said she is raring to go back to work. “I miss work. And I am ready to go back to work.”

There’s always space in the industry for someone as talented and dedicated as Vina Morales. (And babies are always lucky!).

[via]

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Why was Ruffa Gutierez crying?

Followers of the ABS-CBN late-morning show Ruffa & Ai probably didn’t notice it but for two days last week, co-host Ruffa Gutierez (with Ai-Ai delas Alas) was red-eyed... from crying? According to Funfare’s Bohol Avenue DPA, last Wednesday Ruffa was on the phone while all the guests were in, including Lea Salonga. When she came out of her dressing room, “Her eyes were red, obviously from crying,” said the DPA. Same thing happened the next day: Ruffa was again on the phone, crying while talking to somebody “mysterious.”

The question is: Who was she talking to and why was she crying?

Wild guess: John Lloyd Cruz?

The same DPA said that it’s not true that John Lloyd and Liz Uy have reconciled. While John Lloyd claims to be “loveless” (even if, according to other sources, his “special friendship” with Ruffa is as strong as ever, secret nga lang), Liz seems to have found “new happiness” in the person of Francis Ricafort, LJ Moreno’s brother who was once linked to, among other girls, Camille Prats and KC Concepcion.

“On Aug. 5, Francis’ birthday,” added the DPA, “Liz hosted a ‘surprise’ party for him at her condo unit and then they hied off to Boracay where they were seen holding hands while walking in the sand. Sweet na sweet sila.”

Back to Ruffa and John Lloyd...Did somebody “order” them to, well, “lie low” while the promo for Star Cinema’s In My Life (John Lloyd’s movie with Vilma Santos and Luis Manzano who plays John Lloyd’s lover) is in full blast?

Asked what the matter what, Ruffa texted Funfare thrice.

First text: “I cried over something but not to the point of letting it affect my work.”

Second text: “Over JLC? No. Secret! One day you will find out what.”

Third text: “I was just feeling sick. Have a cold and cough, and have been sneezing. I guess it’s allergies so I had to see a doctor yesterday morning before reporting to the studio. Baka naman people thought I was crying cuz my eyes were red from the allergies. Grabe!!!”

[via]

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Sandara Park says she will come back to Manila with 2NE1

Sandara Park could not believe the warm welcome she received during her three-day vacation in Manila last week. Not only did fans from her Star Circle Quest days know of her stint as a member 2NE1, one of Korea’s fastest-rising girl groups, but also people on the street as well. She was surprised to hear even men singing their second single, “I Don’t Care” on the street when they saw her. “Nakakagulat talaga. Hindi ko akalain na kilala na pala kami talaga dito,” she said with a shy smile.

2NE1 has been getting a lot of attention in the country because of people’s renewed interest in the Pambansang Krung-krung ng Pilipinas’ career abroad. Their song “Fire” has climbed to the top of local hit charts on music channels and various radio stations. Sandara was pleased to say that she and her group will be returning to the country soon to do some shows. “Hopefully, makabalik ako agad dito kasama sila. Sana matupad ko na ang dream kong makapag-concert sa Araneta (Coliseum)!” she said with a laugh.

Although Sandara mentioned that they also have plans to conquer Japan like Big Bang, their group’s male counterpart in Korea, she has big hopes that they would also be doing rounds of other Asian countries. She also said that fans have a lot to look forward to from 2NE1 including clothing endorsements, concerts, and their full album. Sandara also said that she’s also open to doing acting again, like her stint on Return of Iljimae but right now, her priority is her group 2NE1. “Pero who knows ‘di ba? Basta abangan na lang nila,” Sandara added.

When asked about the three other members of 2NE1—CL, Minzy, and Bom—Sandara has only praises for them. Living with the three girls in one apartment for more than a month now, Dara (as she is now called in Korea) said that they give each other encouragement, something that is really important during this period in their careers. She describes CL as a true friend and their leader who sometimes acts more mature than her even though she’s older. Bom, on the other hand, is really serious about singing and healthy stuff. As for Minzy, Sandara described her as the best dancer in the group. And as the youngest member, Minzy often emphasizes that she doesn’t want to be treated like a kid but wants to be on equal footing with the rest of 2NE1.

Before the end of her brief chat with ABS-CBN.com, Sandara admitted that she really misses the Philippines and hopes she has more time to spend with her friends the next time she comes for a visit. She also thanked everyone who gave her and 2NE1 gifts (Dara brought home three additional suitcases filled with presents and pasalubong). She emphasized that she will never ever forget Manila and will always treat the country as her home.

[via]

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Star Cinema sa SM: Hating kapatid

NAGPADALA na kahapon ng opisyal na pahayag ang corporate PR head ng ABS-CBN na si Bong Osorio kaugnay ng isyu sa pagitan ng film arm ng Kapamilya channel na Star Cinema at mall giant na SM.

Pirmado ng managing director na si Malou Santos ang in-e-mail na statement, na nagsasabing: “Ang Star Cinema ay mayroong collection and computation issue sa SM.

“Ang nais lang naman ng Star Cinema ay maayos na komputasyon, pantay na hatian at maayos na partnership. Sa madaling sabi — hating kapatid.

“Umaasa kami na maaayos ang sitwasyong ito sa lalong madaling panahon.

“Aming nilalayon ang isang win-win situation na magbibigay ng karampatang benipisyo sa Star Cinema at sa aming mga partner tulad ng SM.”

Matatandaang sumingaw ang problemang ito nang idaos ng Star Cinema ang premiere showing ng And I Love You So nina Sam Milby, Bea Alonzo at Derek Ramsay sa Trinoma at hindi naipalabas ang pelikulang produced by Star Cinema sa SM theaters nationwide.

[via]

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Cristine Reyes makes peace with Angelica Panganiban

SI Cristine Reyes na ang gumawa ng paraan para sila ay magkabati ni Angelica Panganiban.

Pumunta mismo si Cristine sa bahay ni Angelica kamakailan kasama ang common friend nilang si Ketchup Eusebio. Sa masinsinang pag-uusap ng dalawang sexy at magandang actresses ay nagkasundo na sila. Kaya alls well that ends na sa dalawang dalaga.

Ani Cristine: “Pumunta ako sa house niya (Angelica). Nang duma-ting na ako ru’n, nag-hug kami at sabi ko, ‘Nakakainis ka sobrang emotional ako. Nakaka-inis ka, sobra akong nag-tampo sa ‘yo.”

Natutuwa ang dalawa dahil nagkaayos na sila. Sabi nga ni Angelica: “’Yon naman ang sina-sabi namin noon pa eh, sobrang nagka-misunderstanding lang kaming dalawa. Maganda rin na pinalipas muna namin ‘yong init ng issue. May magandang opportunity naman para makapag-usap kami. Hinarap namin ‘yong isa’t isa na parang walang nangyari.”

Ang tanong ngayon, kelan naman kaya magkakaayos sina Cristine, RR Enriquez at Pokwang na kasamahan din dati ng una sa Banana Split. Si Cristine din kaya ang ga-gawa ng move para sila’y magkaayos na tatlo?

[via]

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Aiza Seguerra doesn't want to rock the boat

Being called lucky and feeling it to the bone are two different things. The first is something people think of you. The second is something you believe in with all your heart because you feel light and easy the minute you wake up.

Aiza Seguerra now knows how it feels to be both.

“I can’t ask for anything more,” she says.

Aiza is happy with her long-time partner, Chen Sarte, whom her parents approve of. For her, Aiza tearfully composed the love song Tanging Ikaw, a cut from her latest album, Aiza Seguerra Live! (Star Records).

“I wrote it one evening while she was sleeping,” recalls Aiza. So inspired is she these days Aiza can’t help but share, “I can’t ask for anything more. I won’t do anything to destroy the happiness I feel.”

Chen is not only her sweetheart, she’s also Aiza’s number one critic.

“She has a good ear,” Aiza states with pride. “She tells me things straight. She’s objective.”

For sure, Aiza consulted Chen about the 15 tracks in her latest album, which has five bonus videos of her live performances when it was recorded at Teatrino Mall, Greenhills.

The album is very Aiza — sentimental, romantic, with one exception: A remake of Michael Jackson’s Man in the Mirror. The track stands out not just because it’s the only non-love song in the pack. It also has Sandwich’s Raimund Marasigan pounding on the drums (the way he does in Aiza’s take on Eraserheads hits Huling El Bimbo and Magasin).

Like all artists with an album to promote (she’ll be at SM North EDSA on Aug. 22), Aiza looks forward to plugging her new CD in all TV shows — ABS-CBN and GMA, except for one: Those that clash headlong with Eat, Bulaga!

“I’m a freelancer alright,” relates Aiza. “But I can’t guest in Wowowee and other shows with the same timeslot as Eat, Bulaga! That’s how much I respect the show (she was only that high when she appeared in the noontime show, remember?). The show has always been there for me. My loyalty will always be there.”

Speaking of Wowowee, what does Aiza think of host Willie Revillame’s sudden outburst when ABS-CBN inserted a footage of the late Pres. Cory Aquino’s funeral?

“I get his point,” replies Aiza. “But the way he did it was wrong. The issue about Tita Cory is a sensitive one.”

Aiza shifts to neutral gear when asked about Joey de Leon’s tirades against Willie.

“That’s Joey. He’s very vocal,” she observes.

Aiza herself added her personal touch at the beloved president’s wake where she sang the stirring Ugoy ng Duyan. National artist Levi Celerio’s soothing lullaby was Aiza’s take on President Cory’s life.

“She was a leader and a mom,” Aiza explains. “It’s so hard to be both at the same time.”

This is also why a touched Aiza wrote Lullaby as a birthday gift to Kris Aquino.

“I saw how Kris is as a mom to Baby James. Thus, the song, which I rendered when Kris marked her birthday in Boy & Kris,” explains Aiza.

Expect her to sing more songs in the next several weeks, not just because she’s pushing a new album, but also because “I miss singing.”

Her guest stint in ABS-CBN’s now-defunct Ysabella made her push singing aside in favor of acting for a while. Now, she’s back to her first love. And Aiza is bent on making up for lost time.

“Acting is not my priority these days,” she reveals.

In fact, she’s raring to release a yet-to-be-titled album in Singapore, where her songs have been a hit, infecting music lovers in neighboring countries like Hong Kong, Taiwan, Malaysia and Indonesia.

It’s about time you stayed put, Aiza, now that you’re finally back in the music scene. This much, you owe yourself.

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Gabby kay Piolo: Don’t call me Pops, call me Kuya!

Cool lang dating ni Gabby Concepcion sa ideyang magkaroon ng relasyon ang anak na si KC Concepcion kay Piolo Pascual.

Isang solo presscon ang ibinigay ng Dos para sa aktor para sa teleseryeng Dahil May Isang Ikaw at doon ay sinabi ni Gabby na wala siyang tutol kung sakaling si Piolo ang lalaking mapa-lad na iibigin ng anak.

Wala rin siyang nakikitang masama kung nanliligaw man si Piolo kay KC.

“Nagkita na nga kami recently, eh, (sa isang event sa The Fort). Nagbiruan pa nga kami. Sabi ko pa sa kanya, just don’t call me Pops, Just call me Kuya. Ha!ha!ha!” natatawang kuwento ni Gabby.

Tinanong din si Gabby, kung may namamagitan na ba sa anak niya at kay Piolo?

“Hindi ko alam,eh. Hindi ko siya pinakikialaman ‘pag dating sa mga ganyang bagay. Saka ako, wala naman akong tutol kay Piolo. He’s a nice guy, a good boy and he goes to church,” sagit ni Gabby.

Hindi rin maitago ni Gabby ang excitement sa muli nilang pagtatambal ni Lorna Tolentino sa telebisyon.

Reunion project daw nila ito pagkatapos ng mara-ming taon.

In the past, marami silang pinagtambalan ni LT na pelikula at karamihan ay award-winning films pa.

Tinanong namin si Gabby kung kamusta ang pagta-trabaho nilang muli ni LT?

“Thrilling, exciting, exhilarating. Lahat ng magaganda at magaan sa pakiramdam, ‘yun ang nara-ramdaman ko sa muli na-ming pagsasama ni Lorna,” sabi ng aktor.

Hindi lang sa Dahil May Isang Ikaw bahagi si Gabby.

He’s now part of Star Magic, pero aniya, unofficial pa naman daw ang lahat.

Nu’ng tanungin si Gabby tungkol sa bagay na ito, idinepensa ng aktor na tinutulungan daw siya ng Star Magic since wala ngang nagha-handle sa kanyang career.

Mahihirapan nga naman siyang ayusin ang kanyang scehdule lalo pa’t may teleserye siya ngayon.

Naikuwento pa ni Gabby na matagal nang kaibigan ng pamilya nila si Johnny Manahan, at nalaman daw ni Mr. M na kailangan niya ng tulong.

Muli, iginiit ni Gabby na everything is unofficial.

Tinanong din si Gabby tungkol sa relasyon niya sa dating manager.

Aniya, sa ngayon ay ayaw na niyang pag-usapan ang tungkol dito pero ang alam niyang maayos din ang lahat.

In his heart, wala na umano silang professional relationship ni Mommy Rose Flaminiano, na dati niyang manager.

Abangan ang pagbabalik ng original na heart throb sa Dahil May Isang Ikaw, mapapanood na sa Agosto 24, sa Primetime Bida ng ABS-CBN.

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Luis Manzano at Angel Locsin, hiwalay na?

Hiwalay na ang mag-syotang sina Luis Manzano at Angel Locsin, ayon sa isang super reliable source.

Wala pang masyadong detalye ang kuwento, pero confirmed na ang hiwalayan ng dalawa ayon sa source.

Walang nag-akala na sa hiwalayan matatapos ang relasyon ng dalawa dahil very vocal si Luis sa pagsasabing si Angel na ang nakikita niyang maka­kasama sa habang-buhay (wife-material) bagama’t sinabi niya noon na hindi fairy tale ang buhay.

Alam din ng lahat na gustung-gusto ni Governor Vilma Santos si Angel bilang daughter in law.

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Dahil May Isang Ikaw, malapit na

Ang pinakahihintay na pagbabalik sa telebisyon nina Lorna Tolentino at Gabby Concepcion ay malapit nang masilayan sa kanilang primetime series na Dahil May Isang Ikaw simula sa Agosto 24 sa ABS-CBN. Tinitiyak itong magmamarka sa kasaysayan ng Philippine TV dahil sa parehong galing ng dalawang aktor sa drama.

“It’s an honor to direct two of the best artists in the industry. Ibang klase talaga. We learn from each other kasi. Their meaningful experience in their fields emanate through their acting,” sabi ni direk Jerry Lopez Sineneng sa de kalibreng artista niya.

Masaya naman si LT na makikipagtrabahong muli kay Gabby.

“Matagal-tagal rin kami na hindi nagkasama sa isang project. Kaya naman noong malaman ko na I will be paired up with Gabo again, natuwa talaga ako,” sabi ng grand slam actress na gaganap na matapang at agresibong abogadong si Jessa.

Sagot naman ni Gabby sa co-star, “It’s always a pleasure working with Lorna. Magaan kasing katrabaho si LT ever since eh.”

Gagampanan ng aktor ang papel ni Daniel, ang unang nagpatibok ng puso ni Jessa.

Bukod sa dalawang pangunahing artista, sinuri ring mabuti ang iba pa sa cast ng Dahil May Isang Ikaw. Kasama dito sina Jericho Rosales, Kristine Hermosa, Chin Chin Gutierrez, John Estrada, Karylle, at Sid Lucero.

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Is Willie Revillame really saying goodbye to ABS-CBN?

Could it be true that Willie Revillame has decided to leave ABS-CBN — that is, as soon as he is released from his contract?

Funfare’s Bohol Avenue DPA said that last Friday Willie sent a letter to the ABS-CBN management requesting that his contract, which is good until 2011, be rescinded.

Apparently, Willie was disappointed that the company didn’t even come to his defense, or at least issue an official statement, while he was caught in “a firestorm” generated by his on-the-air tantrum on Wowowee two weeks ago when clips of former Pres. Cory Aquino’s casket while being moved from La Salle to the Manila Cathedral was inserted on the show.

Linggit Tan, head of the ABS-CBN TV Entertainment, has remained intriguingly quiet when she is said to know the whole story that’s reportedly “self-incriminating” (whatever that means) — you know, who really was behind that controversial “insert” that made Willie blow his top on-cam?

It was only Johnny “Mr. M.” Manahan, head of the ABS-CBN Star Magic and Wowowee director, who has come to Willie’s defense, not really exonerating Willie of what the public perceived to be a “disrespectful” behavior but giving a logical explanation of what led to it.

ABS-CBN is usually fast on the draw when defending its contract stars, such as when Piolo Pascual and Sam Milby got involved in a “gender” issue, but in the case of Willie the company seems to be keeping a no-comment stance.

Funfare tried to call Willie to comment on whether he’s “resigning” from Wowowee or asking to be released from his contract but he ”cannot be reached.”

Willie has been “missing” from Wowowee for more than a week now and the show is simply not the same without him. I understand it was Willie himself who requested to go on leave...indefinitely?

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Watch out for Erich Gon­­zales!

Sa wakas ay na­big­yan na rin ng ma­laking break ang ba­gu­hang si Erich Gon­­zales sa pama­magitan ng sarili niyang teleserye, ang TV remake ng pe­­li­­kulang pinag­bi­da­han noon ni Dina Bon­ne­vie, ang Kator­se.

Tat­long ba­gitong aktor ang leading men ni Erich, ang Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition Plus winner na si Ejay Falcon, ang model-athlete na si Xian Lim, at ang cham­pion swimmer-actor na si Enchong Dee mula sa direksiyon ni Malu Sevilla.

Since may pagka-daring ang role ni Erich sa Katorse bilang si Nene na na-in love at nabuntis sa edad na katorse, hindi siya nagpakiyeme sa hinihingi ng istorya at ng kanyang direktor.

“Napakaganda ng istorya ng Katorse at tiyak na kapupulutan ng aral lalo na ng mga kabataan,” pangako ni Erich na sa pagkakaalam namin ay sentro ng attention ngayon ni Xian.

And speaking of Erich, isa kami sa mga naniniwala, Salve A., na siya na ang next important star sa bakuran ng ABS-CBN. Bago ang Katorse ay isinalang si Erich sa isang napakagandang episode ng 18th anniversary ng Maalaala Mo Kaya presentation na na-kabituin niya pa ang comedy concert queen, si AiAi delas Alas.

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Sam Concepcion joins the cast of N.O.A.H.

Sam Concepcion joins the cast of Trumpets’ major family musical N.O.A.H. (No Ordinary Aquatic Habitat) as the Narrator. He will share the role with theater newcomer Fred Lo beginning Sept. 4 until 27, at Meralco Theater.

Sam is not a stranger to Trumpets. At 9, he took on the demanding role of Edmund in Trumpets’ The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe. Sam’s performances were even then highly-acclaimed and no one was surprised when he won the grand prize in ABS-CBN’s Little Big Star. Since then, he has graced kids and teen magazine covers (KZone, Candy), teen TV (MYX, Boystown), teen dance group Gigger Boys, various print and TV endorsements (Bench, Smart My Sandbox), the cast of Disney’s High School Musical On Stage, the soundtrack of Dreamworks’ hit animated movie Kung Fu Panda, among others. He was also awarded hottest Candy Cutie for three consecutive years (2006-2008), Nickelodeon Kids Choice Awards’ Pinoy Wannabe Awardee, and more recently United Nations Association of the Philippines (UNAP) Young Achiever Awardee for Entertainment.

But despite all this success in showbiz, Sam’s heart has never left the theater. In 2004, he recorded the voice of Japeth for the puppet version of N.O.A.H., which featured Gary Valenciano and Bituin Escalante. Sam deemed the experience enjoyable but not the same as performing on stage. Now he goes live onstage in the full-scale production of N.O.A.H. directed by Jaime del Mundo.

In N.O.A.H., Trumpets retells the classic story of the Biblical patriarch and his famous ark with wit and humor, heart and compassion, hope and joy, and of course, fun.

For details, call 635-4478 or e-mail at trumpetsinc@gmail.com. Tickets are available at Ticketworld (891-9999)

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Mar Roxas and Korina Sanchez wedding, confirmed

It’s confirmed: Sen. Mar Roxas and Korina Sanchez will (finally, finally!) get married in what they call a “People’s Wedding” on Oct. 23.

“It will be an afternoon wedding,” Korina said in an interview with Funfare.

The venue is a toss-up between Sto. Domingo Church and the Manila Cathedral. But the reception will definitely be held at Bahay na Puti (in Cubao, Quezon City), the home of Mar’s lolo and lola and the venue of the reception for the wedding of Mar’s parents, former Sen. Gerry Roxas and Judy Araneta, and his aunt Baby Araneta and Dr. Raul Fores.

“So,” said Korina, “in a big way, we are following tradition. There may be more than a thousand guests although we have yet to finalize the list. Mar has relatives in Negros, Iloilo, Capiz and Bulacan; while mine are from Pampanga. Some of my relatives will come from New York.”

There are not too many details as yet.

“Mar and I want to hold it at the Sto. Domingo Church which has a long walk and a beautiful entrance with beautiful stained glass all over it. There are wonderful, wide corridors and a garden in the middle,” added Korina. “The Manila Cathedral is also an old church which has beautifully gilded cornices and a beautiful ceiling and is very regal aside from it already being air-conditioned. There may be another church we are looking at, like San Sebastian Church and Quiapo Church. We will decide which one this week.”

What about the entourage?

“I think I will have 12 bridesmaids. I have called my best friends from my childhood until today. I’ve lost touch with some of them so I had to look them up and call them. They were all thrilled and so am I. These bridesmaids make this special event very real for me as these are women who had been there to share my lowest moments and my highest throughout my life so far. I will have six flower girls one of whom is my niece Saila. Of course, Baby James is our ring bearer, Dyan Castillejo’s son Matthew is the Bible bearer and I am hoping I can make my nephew Miguel walk as the coin bearer. My two nieces, Tyra and Maya, will be junior bridesmaids along with Mercedes, Mar’s niece.”

She and Mar have yet to finalize the list of ninongs and ninangs and secondary sponsors.

Kris Aquino will anchor the ABS-CBN coverage of the Filipino wedding. Korina’s gown will be designed by Pepito Albert and those of the entourage by Patrice Ramos-Diaz and Randy Ortiz. Mar’s cousin Margarita Fores has drawn up the menu and, in fact, they have set up a mock of the reception dinner tables.

“Ang ganda!,” exclaimed Korina. “ It’s exactly how I would want a wedding dinner table to be. Beautiful! Mar keeps reminding me, ‘Not too much,’ so it’s great that my contacts all gave me discounts and friends lent me old things to use for the decor. It is turning out so well.”

Korina calls it a “People’s Wedding” because she and Mar are not keeping anything secret. Every detail will be documented and shown as a two-hour special on Channel 2.

“So, makikita ng tao ang lahat ng detalye ng kasal. We are thinking of a way to acommodate people who would like to be at the church and be part of this special moment between myself and Mar. Mar has helped so many people and everywhere I go, people ask, ‘Kailan ang kasal? Imbitado ba kami?’ They want to go. It is very heartwarming and I wish we could invite the whole country. Hahahaha! So I guess television is the best way to make them part of it.”

And what about the honeymoon?

Korina didn’t say where.

Hmmmm. Are we going to see that, too, in the TV coverage?

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Megan Young joins "Us Girls"

MEGAN Young is, at 19, the youngest host of Studio 23's "Us Girls". She joined it five months ago to replace Cheska Garcia who gave birth. She used to be "anything goes" in her getups but, as the host of a lifestyle show like "Us Girls," she's now more of fashionista who needs to be more stylish with the way she looks. "I'm also learning a lot from my co-hosts, Angel Aquino and Iya Villania," she says. "I get tips from them not only about fashion but also about good grooming, like having better skin." They're now busy with the 1st Us Girls August Awards, set on Thursday, Aug. 20, 7 p.m. at the New Eastwood Mall Open Park (cocktails precede the event at 6 p.m.).

There are four categories: Stylist of the Year, Make-up Artist of the Year, Most Fashionable and Face of the Year. The judges are Angel, Iya and Megan themselves with the Us Girls staff. They'll also give the Us Girls Icon Award for a trendsetting celebrity who embodies the real modern woman: independent, smart, adventurous and current.

Some of the nominees are Claudine Barretto, Kim Chiu, Anne Curtis, Carla Abellana, Isabelle Daza, Nikki Gil, Kristine Hermosa, Angel Locsin, Cristine Reyes, and Maja Salvador for “Face of the Year.” Anne and Isabelle vie again for the “Most Fashionable” award against fellow head turners - models Nicole Anderson, Pauline Juan, Divine Lee, Bea Soriano, Bianca Valerio, Georgina Wilson and celebrities Denise Laurel, Marie Lozano, and Camille Villar.

See the rest of the nominees at http://usgirls23.multiply.com and have a say on this year’s winners by voting in the poll section. You can also support your fashion idols by writing their names on the “Us Girls August Awards Ballot” inside the August issue of Chalk Magazine and mail it to (address). Catch the premier telecast of “Us Girls August Awards” on August 30, Sunday at 7p.m. on Studio 23.

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Blogger natuwa nang mag-alsa balutan si Willie Revillame

Maraming natuwa sa balitang nag-evacuate na sa ABS-CBN si Willie Revillame as in hinakot na niya ang mga gamit niya sa kanyang dressing room. Ayon sa mga bloggers, tama ang desisyon ni Revillame na magkusang hakutin ang kanyang mga gamit bago tuluyang lumala ang galit sa kanya ng sambayanan dahil sa ginawa niyang pambabastos sa libing ni dating Pangulong Cory Aquino.

“Sinasabi nga namin, pinatawad nga siya ng pamilya Aquino, pero pinatawad na ba siya ng sam­bayanan. Hindi pa. Marami na siyang kasalanan na hindi napapansin. Pero ito, pikon na ang tao lagi na lang siyang pinagbibigyan. Saka tama na ang pananamantala niya sa mahihirap. Hindi naman sa kanya ang pinamimigay niyang pera sa show niya,” sabi ng isang beterano na sa showbiz.

“Hindi rin ako naniniwala na may mga nagra-rally. Gimik lang ‘yan. Hahaha,” sabay tawa ng isa pang showbiz observer.

Inaasahan din nila na may mangyayari sa reklamo ni Arlene De Guzman Ronquillo sa lantarang pagsasabi ng TV host ng personal sa isang dancer ng Wowowee at sa asawa ni Arlene.

Actually, buti nga at nagreklamo siya dahil walang nakakapansin sa mga dialogue niya on air na personal na palang pang-aatake.

Nagagamit ang programa at ang buong ABS-CBN.

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ABS-CBN bids Cory world-class farewell

It could have been just another day at work, but for the ABS-CBN crew behind the regal and stately coverage of former president Corazon “Cory” Aquino’s funeral at the Manila Cathedral two weeks ago, it was the last chance to serve a president they so dearly love.

The Manila Cathedral team, led by premier director Bobet Vidanes and business unit head for game shows Marilou “Alou” Almaden, was composed of people who were no strangers to Kris, President Cory’s famous daughter and ABS-CBN’s queen of game shows.

For many years, their unit worked with Kris in mounting the most exciting programs on television. But last week, they offered Kris and her family the most touching and beautifully-captured televised farewell in Philippine history.

According to Alou, putting up the coverage was as hard physically as it was emotionally. Upon Sen. Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III’s announcement of Pres. Cory’s passing last Aug. 1, her lean team immediately proceeded to the Manila Cathedral, where they would spend sleepless nights until Aug. 5.

“We had to face many challenges, including setting up 70 moving lights, two OB vans, an audio Van, around 5,000 feet of cable wires, 12 cameras inside the Cathedral and five outside, without disrupting the normal routine of the Church,” the accomplished TV executive said.

Bobet, on the other hand, recounted how they would pray in the church for the rain to stop, as it was making the set-up more complicated. However, despite all the production and logistic setbacks, they never lost focus on why they were there.

“Our only intention was to give Madame Cory the moment she deserves. Like I told Kris when she asked me to do the coverage, no matter what happens, I will drop everything and do my best for her, and for my president.

By best, he meant coming up with amazing lighting, cinematic angles, and perfectly-timed montage of shots during the arrival of Pres. Cory’s body at the Cathedral and the necrological and liturgical services two days after.

He made sure the solemnity of the event would not be lost, even during the performances of top singers like Lea Salonga, Regine Velasquez, Martin Nievera, Sarah Geronimo, Dulce, Ogie Alcasid, Eric Santos, Jed Madela, Zsa Zsa Padilla, APO Hiking Society, Ivy Violan, Kuh Ledesma, Aiza Seguerra, Rachel Ann Go, Christian Bautista, Jose Mari Chan who were chosen by the Aquino family to take part in the memorial.

It was, after all, a very personal task for him. “Madame Cory was already special to me even before I got to work with Kris. I was able to serve her as a trainee of Radio-Television Malacañang back in 1987 and she was very gracious to me as she was to everybody,” he explained.

Bobet said it wasn’t hard to make his team feel as involved in the task as he was, even those who weren’t alive yet during Pres. Cory’s term. “I just told them this is our last chance to say thank you and goodbye to the woman who brought freedom and democracy back to the country.”

Alou added it was also a chance to be part of history. “Our work will be seen by generations and generations after. It wasn’t just any funeral that we took part in, it was the funeral of one of the most beloved Filipinos and one of the most admired people in the world.”

With both experience and passion, this ABS-CBN team pulled off a coverage which revealed not only the raw emotions of the people who went to pay their final respects to Pres. Cory but also the beauty of the famous church. Most importantly, they were able to keep the ceremony solemn and meaningful for the viewers and the Aquino family.

“This is the greatest work I have done so far,” Bobet, the visionary behind many hit programs, said.

The work of Bobet and Alou’s team at the Manila Cathedral is part of ABS-CBN’s full scale coverage dubbed Salamat, President Cory, spearheaded by the ABS-CBN News and Current Affairs division.

Under the leadership and overseeing of ABS-CBN president Charo Santos-Concio and Channel 2 head Cory Vidanes, all platforms of the multimedia conglomerate participated in covering the late Pres. Cory’s wake, funeral, and burial, as well as the revival of the legendary “Cory magic.” All suspended their regular programming too, so that every Filipino can experience the activities as if they were there in person.

Those who stayed at home saw the coverage on ABS-CBN Channel 2 and Studio 23. Those with cable tuned to ABS-CBN News Channel (ANC) and DZMM TeleRadyo. Those driving listened to DZMM Radyo Patrol 630, while those in the office relied on the live streaming at abs-cbnnews.com. Global Pinoys overseas, on the other hand, watched it from TFC and TFCNow.

The coverage meant different things to different people. For the public, it was a heartfelt viewing experience, for the reporters and anchors, it was hard work and passion, for ABS-CBN, it was a chance to showcase its extensive reach and gratitude to the late President.

For Bobet, simply being a part of it was a big honor. “The coverage didn’t only bring the ABS-CBN slogan ‘In the Service of the Filipino Worldwide’ to life, it also gave it a deeper meaning for me. I was ‘in the service of a true Filipino,’ and that true Filipino is Madame Cory.”

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Pinay beauties in competition abroad

From Funfare’s New York-based “beauty expert” Felix Manuel, this update on two Pinay beauties now competing abroad, 2009 Bb. Pilipinas-Universe Pamela Bianca Ramos Manalo at the 2009 Miss Universe Pageant in the Bahamas (grand finals slated for next Monday, Aug. 24, covered live by ABS-CBN starting at 8:30 a.m.) and Marie Razel Triff Eguia at the 2009 Miss Tourism Queen International Pageant in China:

2009 Bb. Pilipinas-Universe Pamela Bianca Ramos Manalo is making waves in the Bahamas. After the initial Swimsuit Presentation and the National Costume Show, Bianca is currently among the top favorites to make it to the finals. Bianca is now regarded as the top Asian contender among pageant websites and pageant aficionados.

A friend who is in the Bahamas reported that Bianca always draws the loudest applause among the Asian ladies. The Latin girls have the biggest contingent of supporters. Early favorites this year aside from Bianca are Misses Venezuela, Dominican Republic, Netherlands, Spain, USA, Mexico, Belgium, Czeck Republic and Australia. Filipino pageant fans are hoping that Bianca will end our 10-year drought in the pageant. Miriam Quiambao was the last Filipina to get past the semi-finals in 1999, eventually placing second to Botswana’s Mpule Kwelagobe.

Meanwhile, Carousel Productions recently appointed Marie Razel Triff Eguia, 22, as this year’s representative to the 2009 Miss Tourism Queen International Pageant to be held in Zhengzhou, China, on Aug. 30. She was 2008 Miss Philippines-Air (representing Dipolog). Her vital statistics are: 5’7.5" and 34-26-34. A graduate of Accountancy from St. Vincent’s College, she has several campus titles tucked under her belt prior to joining 2008 Miss Philippines-Earth. Our very own Justine Vinluan Gabionza was crowned Miss Tourism Queen International in 2006.

Miss Tourism Queen International was founded by Charlie See. Since 1949, there have been more than 80 countries occasionally holding this competition for their Miss Tourism National Queen. In 1993, the Miss Tourism Queen International Organization held the first world final competition in Sri Lanka, and later in USA, Russia, Brazil, Germany, Japan, Singapore, and many other countries as well. Miss Tourism Queen International contests have been held in China for six years, from 2004 to 2009.

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Willie Revillame hinakot na ang mga gamit sa ABS-CBN

Tumataas daw ang rating ng Wowowee kahit naka-leave si Willie Revillame.

Base raw sa national rating ng TNS, umabot sa almost 27 percent ang rating ng noontime show ng ABS-CBN.

Base kasi sa regular TNS rating na ipinadadala ng ABS-CBN, steady at hindi apektado ang rating ng programa sa pagkawala ng main host na balitang hinakot na lahat ng gamit niya – damit at kung anik-anik pa sa kanyang dressing room sa ABS-CBN kaya may effort daw sanang kausapin ang TV host ng ABS-CBN management pero ayaw daw nitong makipag-usap.

Ayon kasi sa isang source, natanggap na ng management ang formal complaint ng asawa (Arlene de Guzman-Ronquillo) ng nagngangalang Raymond Ronquillo na nagbebenta ng kotse at girlfriend ng isang dancer sa kanyang programa sa Wowowee na nagreklamo sa Movie and Television Review and Classification Board matapos umanong masira ang kanyang pamilya at maapektuhan ang kanyang mga anak na hindi na ngayon naka­kapasok sa eskuwelahan dahil sa lantaran nitong (Revillame) pagsasalita ng personal sa harap ng camera laban sa kanyang asawa.

(Basahin n’yo ang bahagi ng reklamo ni Ms. Arlene de Guzman-Ronquillo sa MTRCB para mas maintindihan natin ang kuwento).

2. Defendant ABS-CBN is a corporation, organized under the laws of the Philippines; Defendant Willie Revillame is the Host, Production Manager of the noon-time show program Wowowee;

3. All the Defendants can be served with summons and other court processes of this Honorable Office at: Mother Ignacia Street, Quezon City;

4. Herein complaint is married to Raymond Ronquillo, and their union was blessed with three (3) minor beautiful children.

5. Complainant and her children, aged 3, 11 and 12, are constant viewers of the noon-time show Wowowee;

6. Sometime in October 2008, complainant and her children were watching the noon-time show and in the segment Search for Miss Fitrum, respondent host made a remark to one of the contestants to quote:

“May kaibigan ako gustong makipagkilala sa iyo. Mabait ito at binata daw siya. Siya si Raymond Ronquillo, may-ari ng R33 Car Exchange.”

7. Stunned, complainant quickly remedied the situation by telling her children that what they saw and heard were mere jokes;

8. Sometime in March 2009, friends of the complainant told her that respondent-host made the same remark in his noon-time show Wowowee. Concerned with the pernicious effect these hurtful remarks can cause to her children, complainant texted her husband requesting him to tell respondent-host to refrain from making such remakrs on air;

9. Thereafter, on March 25, 2009, respondent-hosted greeted complainant and her children on air during his show. Complainant thought that no similar incident will happen again;

10. However, and to complainant’s dismay, on July 18, 2009, respondent-host in the same program again made a remark by saying:

“Nandito yung mga kaibigan ko na iniwan ang kani-kanilang asawa dahil sa babae!” and the video inten­tionally focused on Mr. Raymond Ronquillo and two other male friends.

11. Just recently, on July 28, 2009, respon­dent-host in his program made a similar remark by saying:

“Yan si Raymond,” simultaneously focusing the camera on his face and “Yan si Aiko”, referring to one of the ASF dancers and simultaneously fo­cus­ing the camera on her face, “Yan ang ex-girlfriend ni Raymond!” “Di bale, kumita ka naman”, referring to Aiko. After that statement, respondent-host made a pestering laugh.)

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The houses that Vilma built

Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos had the first-hand experience of waking up one day only to realize she had lost everything — as in everything: Money, vehicles and even her home.

Ever persevering she worked triply hard — to the point of sacrificing her marriage (she had no choice) — in order to be able to bounce back financially. She did — and recovered her Magallanes home from getting foreclosed by the bank.

Vilma is one of those intelligent and sensible people who know that having your own home is an excellent form of investment. She has wisely invested on real estate through the decades and that has made life a lot more comfortable for her (she could live off the rentals).

Raised in the Sta. Cruz district of Manila, Vilma didn’t really have to work as a child star because both her parents were employed and could very well afford to feed the brood. But what do you do with a precocious daughter loaded with talent and itching to act in the movies? Vilma has never stopped working since she was cast in the title role of Trudis Liit at age nine.

When she was a teen star, she got a house for her and her family in one of those subdivisions (was it Arfel Homes?) off Visayas Avenue. When her residence was featured in one of the fan magazines that time, the readers gushed over her choice of a round bed — as opposed to the conventional rectangular bed of rival Nora Aunor whose own bedroom was featured in the opposite page.

Vilma eventually moved to Magallanes Village where son Luis was eventually born. When he was a kid, Luis decided to raise a pair of pigeons and Vilma was just too happy to see her then only son learning how to be responsible. From two, however, the pigeons multiplied to about 40 and they were all nesting on the roof of the Magallanes home. Some found their way inside the ceiling where they continued to grow in number.

In a scene that could have come straight from Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds, the residents, Vilma included, were eventually terrorized by the avian creatures because these started pecking on the ceiling of the bedrooms and only heaven knew when the entire roof would collapse (and endanger the lives of the people below) from all that weight. Vilma was left with no choice but to ask Luis to give up this hobby.

In the early ‘90s, Vilma felt that it was time to move to another residence and found one in Green Meadows, then a relatively new subdivision. She didn’t sell the Magallanes home, however (she worked hard to recover that, remember?) and used it as storage for pieces of furniture and appliances that couldn’t be accommodated in her new house. The trophies she won for having been proclaimed Box-Office Queen many times over, for instance, had to be left behind in the old residence because compared to the small glass citations being given away now those were huge and bulky back then — some even measuring three feet in height. But in time, Vilma decided to have the Magallanes residence rented out for additional income. Recently, it was torn down and rebuilt and is now being rented out again.

I never saw that Magallanes home, but I’ve been to the one in Green Meadows. In fact, I was there during the blessing where a dinner reception followed. The house on Green Meadows has four rooms, but one had to be turned into Vilma’s dressing room and closet (a star of her stature needs a huge closet space). The other two were divided between sister Emelyn and Luis.

According to the other Green Meadows celebrity residents, they had no problem with Vilma as a neighbor. Joey de Leon would even tell me that whenever he and wife Eileen Macapagal would host parties at their home, they would sometimes call Vilma to join them and if she was home and wasn’t doing anything, she’d drive over and join in the celebration until the wee hours of the morning. Vilma, however, is no longer a Green Meadows resident. The house had actually been turned over to Luis, who is now enjoying his independence (he is a responsible kid and I know he can take care of himself).

For the past couple of years now, Vilma, her husband, former Sen. Ralph Recto (now very much in the news), and their son Ryan Christian had been staying in Alabang. No, I haven’t been there. Neither had it been shown to the public in the past.

Tonight, we will be given the chance to finally have a peek at this very private residence because it will be featured — along with Vilma as wife and mother — in Vilma: A Woman for All Seasons after Charo Santos’ Maalaala Mo Kaya on ABS-CBN. (Ai-Ai de las Alas is the guest co-host for this episode.)

The house is said to be tastefully designed by Budji Layug. It’s mostly wood and done in minimalist style. Yes, it is Vilma’s dream house and so don’t miss it for the world. After all, it’s an invitation from no less than the star for all seasons herself. Best of all, you don’t have to travel to far Alabang.

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Luis Manzano, happy sa "Vilma: A Woman For All Season" special

Natutuwa si Luis Manzano sa ginawang TV spe­cial ng ABS-CBN, ang Vilma: A Woman For All Seasons para sa kanyang inang si Vilma San­tos. Lahat nang aspeto ng buhay ng kanyang ina ang ipinakita rito. Talaga raw sumasayaw araw-araw sa kanilang bahay ang ina kaya hindi na siya na­gulat nang mapanood niya ang episode last week.

Sa katunayan, niregaluhan niya ito ng isang iPod na naka-save ang mga paborito nitong ’80s dan­ce tunes para sa kanyang dancing sessions sa bahay.

“She’s an unbelievable mother. She’s the epi­tome of kulit. ’Pag tinanong niya ako if naka­kakain na ako and I say okay na ako, babalik siya after five minutes then sasabihin ko busog na ako. Tapos ba­lik na naman siya after 10 minutes. She just wants me to be okay. She’s very, very loving which I think nakuha ko sa kanya but she knows na makulit siya,” sabi ni Luis.

Ngayong Sabado, sa third episode ng kanyang TV special, bubuksan ni Vilma ang kanyang ba­hay sa Alabang upang makita ng mga mano­nood at fans kung sino ta­la­ga si Vilma Santos bi­lang isang family woman.

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Martin Nievera Live! The King Honors Quezon! -- concert

Martin Nievera honors former President Manuel Luis Quezon in his concert Martin Nievera Live! The King Honors Quezon! tonight at 7 at Quezon Convention Center, Lucena City.

The concert marks Martin’s return to the province after more than two decades. He was personally chosen by Lucena and nearby town residents to grace the historical event.

Martin promises an evening of non-stop music, entertainment, wit and humor. He will sing hits like Pain, Holiday, Each Day With You, Be My Lady, Kahit Isang Saglit, Your Song and cover versions of What Matters Most, Forever, Wildflower, among others.

The concert is for the benefit of the Community and Outreach Programs of Masonic District R-IVC Quezon Kalilaya Lodge No. 37. It is sponsored by Andaman Group of Companies, FRC Grand Riviera Hotel, Rogelio’s Grill and Buddy’s and in part by Licup Oil Mills, King Shaggy Animal Hauz and Feeds Supply, Ramloid Corp., Catalino’s at Villa Javierto, Prior Shots, Informatics, Paganap by Charry Charm, Lexign, Reyes Barbecue, Magallanes cor. Bonifacio Sts. Lucena branch, Mayor Bong Maliwanag and the people of Candelaria, Quezon and Eduvigis Coffee, Bar & Restaurant.

For details, call Soundtrack Productions at 0915-7176555, 0928-6625553, 0922-8559235 or (042) 7169235.

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Johnny Manahan in defense of Willie Revillame

The critics have spoken and uploaded their comments/reactions on the Internet on the Wowowee incident and Willie Revillame himself, the man in the eye of what Philippine Entertainment Portal (PEP)’s editor Jo-Ann Q. Maglipon called “a firestorm,” has apologized for what happened. We know what it was. Willie’s intention was good and it, in fact, showed his great respect for former Pres. Cory Aquino but many televiewers found the way he expressed it “disrespectful.”

Jo-Ann gave STAR permission to print excerpts of her exclusive PEP interview with Johnny “Mr. M” Manahan, head of the ABS-CBN Star Magic who recalled what really happened.

“Early Saturday morning [August 1], Joyce Liquicia, Business Unit Head of ASAP, informed us of Cory’s passing. Kailangan raw ma-bump off three portions of ASAP to give way sa isang tribute na naihanda nila for over a week.

“Tinawagan ko agad si Willie and asked, ‘Alam mo na ba?’ Willie answered, ‘Ang ano?’ I replied, ‘Namatay na si Cory. Ano ang gagawin natin para sa show mamaya?’ Nagulat si Willie. Pagkatapos ng ilang sandali, Willie said, ‘Wala muna ang opening na sayahan, Direk. Lalabas ako at hihingi ako ng one minute of silence bilang respeto kay Cory. Pagkatapos kakanta ako ng ‘Munting Hiling.’ Makabagbag-damdamin ‘yon at tama lang para sa isang parangal kay Cory.’

“Sanay naman kami sa live show at marunong naman kami mag-improvise. Maganda ang kinalabasan at nakakaiyak ang ginawa naming five minutes tribute para kay Cory. Willie spoke, in-ad lib lang niya ang isang munting eulogy in plain words and in his own inimitable way, then kumanta siya. Nilapat namin ang ilang video materials ni Cory at pagkatapos ng kanta balik kami sa regular show.

“Sabado ito at sinalaysay ko ito para malaman ng lahat na ramdam ni Willie ang paglisan ni Pangulong Cory.

“Willie had a very deep respect not only for Kris Aquino na kasama niya sa industriya but also for President Cory. When she was alive, ilang beses na ipinaabot ni Pangulong Cory ang pasasalamat niya kay Willie for mentioning her name in the show and for always being gallant in praising her.

“Willie has been respectful about major personages. I never heard him disparage any personality in public or private. And among the artists I have known in 35 years, there is none more gracious than Willie in his treatment of guest performers or personalities on his show.

“Once in a while, because of snafus created by the staff and crew, he blows up on air. Because he is perfectionist, he rehearses more than anyone I know. He expects everyone to know the plan because he goes into a trance doing the show and any slight divergence from the plan breaks his trance and affects the performance.

“Monday morning [August 3], I arrived at the studio after following the live telecast of the wake in Greenhills. They were about to move Pres. Cory’s remains to Manila Cathedral and I was closely monitoring events at about 11:30 a.m. We were advised that the show was going to be late that morning. We were told we could be on air by 1 p.m or 1:30 p.m. However, I doubted this and suggested that we go ahead and TAPE the show and air it at whatever time they turn it over to us.

“We had an audience waiting for us and couldn’t let them wait forever. Willie went even further. He suggested PRE-EMPTING the whole show for Monday to give way to the President’s wake. He suggested this to Linggit Tan, ABS-CBN Head of TV Production, who was in Willie’s dressing room. Linggit made a phone call and said, ‘Go ahead, we are pre-empting the show. Go ahead, tape the show to be aired the next day, Tuesday.’

“We went ahead and started taping the show. Thirty minutes into recording, we were advised that higher management decided to air us live again. So we stopped taping and waited until we could go on live. Meanwhile, the station was already airing what we had taped. Willie was in his dressing room watching the portion of the show that we had taped which was now being played back on air.

“He noticed at this time that master control was inserting on one side of the screen the live video events at the Cathedral. Willie reacted to this and called Linggit Tan and asked the insert window be removed. He said it was not appropriate for News to insert video of the wake while we had ‘Giling Giling’ with the studio audience. This, he said, would be disrespecting the solemn event.

“After a while, the insert window areas were taken off the air and the airing of the taped portion proceeded without further inserts. After a few minutes, we now had to go on air live, as we were through airing the taped portion.

“A few minutes into the portion of ’Willie of Fortune,’ I heard my technical director say, ‘Switcher, bakit ganyan ang audio namin, humiwalay?’ I looked up on the on-air monitor and noticed that the audio was off synch with the live video. I asked what was happening and he said that TV News and Current Affairs had inserted once again a video window of events at the Manila Cathedral, and by doing this, they had screwed up our live audio-video synch.

“It was only then that I noticed that they had indeed inserted the videos of the wake at the Cathedral. At that point, I said, ‘Bakit ganyan, dapat nag-permiso muna sila sa atin? Walang abiso ‘yan. Patanggal mo sa switcher.’ While we were trying to get it off the air, Willie noticed what was happening from the floor and blew up on air.”

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Maricar Reyes after the storm

After having suffered through the Hayden Kho sex video scandals, Maricar Reyes is trying to refocus her life to get back on track. On the cover of this month’s Metro Magazine, Maricar opens up on the things that continue to keep her grounded during these difficult times.

Also featured are 20 former celebrities — from Keno and Chuckie Dreyfus to Tina Paner and Tony Lambino — who have found success outside local showbiz.

In Talk, three people, each of whom used to date celebrities, share the perks and pitfalls of having their love life publicly scrutinized. The Get Gorgeous pages teach you how to get that celebrity chic look, and give the lowdown on the favorite products of the stars. In Metro Wear, the magazine presents knockout pieces that are red-carpet ready in a fashion spread set in BellaRocca in Marinduque.

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