Zanjoe Marudo says girlfriend Mariel Rodriguez is his "lucky charm"

Nagkaroon ng launching ang Dyosa Komiks sa Trinomal Mall noong July 28, Monday. Kung titingnan ay iisipin na totoong event nga yun in connection with the upcoming fantaserye of ABS-CBN, Dyosa. Pero ang totoo ay taping ang naturang event para sa ilang mga eksena na mapapanood sa Dyosa, na pagbibidahan ni Anne Curtis.

Isa sa leading men ni Anne sa Dyosa ay si Zanjoe Marudo; ang dalawa pa ay sina Sam Milby at Luis Manzano. Si Zanjoe ay gaganap bilang isang illustrator ng Dyosa Komiks, kung saan naido-drawing niya kung ano ang mangyayari kay Dyosa Cielo, isa sa tatlong katauhan ni Anne sa naturang fantaserye.

"Sobrang happy ako sa role ko rito dahil hindi ito kagaya ng mga past roles ko na parang cute lang. Although, mai-inlove ako rito at para kaming aso't pusa rito [ni Anne]. Pero maganda kasi illustrator ako rito, so maganda," kuwento ni Zanjoe sa PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal).

Supposedly, may una na sana silang pagsasamahan na teleserye ni Anne, ang The Wedding. Yun nga lang, natigil ang taping nito.

Paliwanag ni Zanjoe, "Na-stop lang ang taping. Noong time na yun kasi, kailangan nang gawin ni Anne yung movie niya with Aga Muhlach [When Love Begins] at kailangan na rin niyang mag-taping for Maging Sino Ka Man, so na-stop lang ang taping. And then, inuna muna itong Dyosa.

"I think, after ng Dyosa, yun naman ang susunod naming gagawin. I guess, matutuloy pa rin yun kasi kung hindi nila itutuloy ‘yon, para na rin silang nagtapon ng pera."

Hindi naman daw na-disappoint si Zanjoe na ang ipinalit sa The Wedding, kung saan siya lang ang male lead, ay ang Dyosa na tatlo na silang nagse-share as leading men ni Anne.

"Hindi naman sa na-disappoint, kasi ganoon naman talaga sa trabaho namin. Hangga't hindi pa ipinapalabas, kahit na sabihin mong nagawa mo na or nai-tape mo na, hangga't hindi naipapalabas, walang kasiguraduhan. Naniniwala lang ako kapag nandiyan na talaga," saad ng hunky model turned actor.

THREE LEADING MEN. Sa kanilang tatlong leading men ni Anne sa Dyosa, kapansin-pansin na siya lang ang walang masasabing personal link kay Anne. Si Sam kasi ay nababalitang boyfriend na ni Anne samantalang si Luis naman ay very close sa young actress. Sa palagay kaya ni Zanjoe ay may chemistry sila ni Anne?

"Kung sa chemistry naman, parang ano, parang may tiwala naman ang management [ABS-CBN]. Parang binigyan na nga kami ng soap dati. Nag-MMK [Maalaala Mo Kaya] kami dati. At saka magkaibigan kami dati ni Anne bago pa man ako maging artista dahil parehas kami ng barkada. So, hindi naman siguro mapag-iiwanan at sinisigurado naman ni Direk Wenn [Deramas] na walang madedehado sa aming tatlo."

Nag-taping na raw sila na nagkasama-sama silang tatlong leading men ni Anne at naging maayos naman daw ito.

"Nasa personality ko naman na hindi ako masyadong ma-chika, palahirit lang paminsan-minsan. Si Luis yung makulit, ‘tapos si Sam yung parang close kay Anne. Hindi naman nangyayari yung magkakasama kami, ‘tapos parang off yung ibang artista. Enjoy naman lahat," kuwento ni Zanjoe.

BLACKOUT. Kahit bihasa na sa pagrampa, ayon kay Zanjoe ay pinaghandaan din daw niya ang nakaraang Blackout: The Bench Denim and Underwear Fashion Show na ginanap sa Araneta Coliseum noong July 25.

"Siyempre, naghanda rin ako before the show. Siguro mga one week akong nag-workout para naman hindi nakakahiya kapag lumabas na ako ro'n. Third time ko na actually. Yung first time ko, model pa lang ako noon. Second time ko noong pagkalabas ko ng PBB [Pinoy Big Brother] at ngayon nga," lahad ni Zanjoe.

Kung si Zanjoe ang tatanungin, satisfied daw siya sa nakaraang Bench event. Hindi rin siya naniniwala sa sinasabing mas maganda ang exposure ng mga Kapuso stars kumpara sa Kapamilya stars.

"Siguro ano naman yun, kahit pa may mga ganoong isyu, malalaman at malalaman mo naman yun doon mismo sa show kung ano ba talaga at kung sino ba talaga. Kahit pa bigyan mo ng napakagandang entrance or bigyan mo ng napakagandang segment ang isang tao, nasa audience pa rin yun kung sino ba talaga ang gusto nila. Kung sino talaga ang pinunta nila ro'n."

ZANJOE'S LUCKY CHARM. Bukod sa Dyosa, kasama rin si Zanjoe sa Varga, na magpa-pilot na sa August 2 at back-to-back sa finale ng Kapitan Boom. Sa Varga, silang dalawa ng real-life sweetheart niyang si Mariel Rodriguez ang magkapareha.

Kung ituring ni Zanjoe si Mariel ay "lucky charm" daw niya ang TV host-actress dahil marami raw siyang naging projects simula nang maging sila.

Samantala, totoong na-surprise naman daw siya sa naging birthday gift sa kanya ni Mariel last July 23.

"Binigyan niya ko ng camera, ‘eto ang ibinigay niya," sabay pakita sa amin ng Canon 450D na nakasabit sa kanyang leeg at tila pinag-aaralan pa ang pagkuha ng picture habang break niya sa taping.

Hindi naman daw siya nag-request ng camera kaya na-surprise pa raw siya nang ibigay ito sa kanya ni Mariel.

"Hindi talaga, siguro nabalitaan niya or narinig niyang plano kong bumili ng ganito bago ako pumunta ng States. Kasi gusto kong kuhanan yung mga lugar na magso-show kami dahil first time ko sa States," kuwento ni Zanjoe.

Ngayong araw, July 30, ang alis ng grupo nilang Coverboys papuntang Amerika.

"Actually, balak ko sanang bumili ro'n or kaya rito [ng camera] bago ko umalis. Kaso yun nga, noong birthday ko, niregaluhan na niya ako. So, wala na akong problema."

Masasabi ba ni Zanjoe na mas serious na ang relasyon nila ni Mariel ngayon?

"Siguro mas open, mas mature yung relationship. Mas nagkaka-give and take, at mas napag-uusapan ang lahat ng bagay," sagot niya.

Si Mariel na ba talaga ang babae para sa kanya?

"Kung puwede sana yung ganoong pananaw na siya na talaga... Ang daling sabihin, e, pero hindi mo masasabi," maingat na tugon ni Zanjoe.

Ano ang mga katangian ni Mariel na mas lalong napapamahal sa kanya?

"Sobrang sweet, sobrang maalaga. Hindi lang naman sa akin, kung makikita mo kahit sa ibang tao, ganoon siya. Parang nakakatuwang makakita ng ganoong klase ng tao na sobrang lambot ng puso kahit na kanino. Lalo na siguro kung mas close sa kanya. Paano pa kaya yun, di ba?" pagtatapos ni Zanjoe.

Source: PEP

Mariel Rodriguez says playing superhero will not change the way people saw her in "PBBCE2"

Mapapanood na nga si Mariel Rodriguez bilang superhero na si Varga sa Sabado, August 2, kunsaan, sa pilot episode nito ay back-to-back sila ng Kapitan Boom na magpe-farewell episode naman. Ang eksena raw ay tila magkakaroon ng pagsasalin ng tungkulin sa dalawang superhero para si Varga naman ang magpatuloy ng pagliligtas sa mundo.

PRESSURED WITH VARGA. Aminado si Mariel na may pressure siyang nararamdaman now that ABS-CBN is launching her as an actress at sa isang superhero role pa.

"Siyempre may pressure kasi, Kapitan Boom did so well. So, I want it also to do well. And I'm so grateful sa trust na ibinigay ng ABS-CBN, si Sir Deo [Endrinal]...so, I don't want to let them down. And also sina Direk Trina Dayrit, Direk Dondon Santos, they've been working so hard talaga and they've been so nice. So, masaya talaga kami kapag nagte-taping," ani Mariel nang makausap na ng PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal).

May plano raw yatang "Kapitan Boom meets Varga"?

"Thats what they should watch sa August 2, kung paano yung pagkikita nila," excited niyang sabi.

Hindi naman daw siya nahihirapan sa mga fight scenes niya dahil prior to their taping, nag-aral daw siya ng martial arts at nakatulong din daw ang naging experience niya ng six months doing the drama series na Rouge sa Singapore, way back 2004 noong nasa MTV pa siya.

Bagama't mas naunang ginawa ni Mars Ravelo ang character na Varga sa Darna, hindi maitatangging ang huli ang mas popular among his female superhero. Pero, sey nga ni Mariel, sana nga raw ay maka-level din ang Varga sa Darna.

Sana...sana, di ba? Pero hindi naman natin maaano si Darna, kasi, matagal na naman siyang na-establish. Matagal na siyang legend na si Darna, di ba?

IT'S STILL MARIEL. Hindi lingid sa lahat na during her stint as guest housemate sa Pinoy Big Brother Celebrity Edition 2, nagkaroon siya ng negative image sa publiko. By doing a superhero role now, hindi naman daw niya iniisip na rason ito para tuluyan na ngang mabura sa isipan ng mga manonood ang anumang nangyari sa loob ng Bahay ni Kuya.

"I dont know, e, and I think, yung mga nangyari dun, honestly, I don't think that my image changed. It's still me. So, kung mabubura...okey lang kahit hindi. Kasi, pinagdaanan yun ng career ko, e. Pinagdaanan yun ng lahat ng tao, so, bakit ko yun iibahin?"

NO CONFLICT WITH WOWOWEE. Nagkakaroon ng impression na kapag co-host ng Wowowee, since it's a daily noontime show, tila nagkakaroon ng limitasyon ang mga co-host dito na tumanggap ng ibang shows, especially if it's a series. Hindi raw ba talaga nagkaroon ng conflict sa Wowowee na may Varga na siya?

"E, kasi, every time po na nagte-tape ako, katulad kanina, natapos po ako ng 5 a.m., nasa Wowowee pa rin ako. It's never an excuse. And when I'm there, sa stage, I never showed na parang lutang ako, na parang kung anu-ano na lang ang sinasabi ko sa show.

"I think, it depends on how you handle it. Yung wala silang masasabi sa ‘yo. Yung wala silang maipipintas. Na, ‘E, kasi puyat, e, kaya lutang!' So, kailangan mapanindigan niya yun."

Mariel was asked, kung may basbas daw ba ni Willie yung pagsusuot niya ng sexy costume?

Oh, no... I don't think so. I don't think he was actually, parang.... Hindi ko naman po manager si Papi, di ba? Si Tito Boy [Abunda, her manager], may blessing po niya."

ZANJOE MARUDO. When it comes to her relationship with Zanjoe, wala raw silang sine-celebrate na mga "monthsary." Kasi hindi raw nila alam kung kailan nila masasabing one year na pala silang mag-sweetheart.

"No, we don't have that! Kami na...kasi, wala naman siyang iba, wala naman akong iba. So, ano pa ba? I have a time naman, its timeless, Ha-ha-ha! Kasi, walang ganunan. And every day is anniversary," natatawa niyang sabi.

Sinagot din ni Mariel ang usap-usapang nagli-live-in na raw silang dalawa ni Zanjoe.

Aniya, "I dont know! Maybe kasi, I also had an issue that I had an abortion, so, maybe, that's the next best thing, pero no, thats not true."

Sey pa ni Mariel, siya raw ay sa Wack-Wack, Mandaluyong City, pa rin umuuwi at si Zanjoe naman ay sa Valle Verde, Pasig City. But if ever, pabor ba siya sa live-in arrangement?

"I dont know...I never really thought about it. Whatever floats your boat. Kung gagawin mo yun, dapat you're comfortable with it. Kailangan yung family mo, comfortable sila sa ganoon or whatever at saka... Mahirap kasi, we're in showbiz. So, people will judge. People will speculate, di ba?"

But would she say na si Zanjoe na nga talaga ang man for her?

"I think, it's too early to tell. I'm only 24 pa lang," very Mariel pa niyang sabi.

Source: PEP

Charlie Green won’t give up school for his budding music career

Despite all the adulation he now enjoys after his Britain's Got Talent stint, 11-year-old Charlie Green remains unaffected, according to his Filipino mother, Cecile Sumargo Green.

Last Friday, July 25, PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal) had the chance to chat with Charlie's mother over lunch at the Conway's Bar of the Shangri-La Hotel in Makati City. Mrs. Green and her husband, Roger Philip Green, arrived in Manila last July 24 together with their son through the invitation of ABS-CBN.

The Greens will stay in the Philippines for about three weeks. Charlie's itinerary includes TV appearances in Boy & Kris, ASAP '08, The Buzz, Pinoy Dream Academy's Uberture, Wowowee and Sharon.

SAME OLD KID. Charlie became a household name in the United Kingdom after he joined the reality talent search show Britain's Got Talent early this year. The program was inspired by the popular American Idol series, which introduced Filipino talents Jasmine Trias and Ramiele Malubay.

Charlie wowed the British audience with his rendition of Frank Sinatra's "Summer Wind." Touching the subject of a fleeting romance, the song written by Henry Mayer and Johnny Mercer in 1965, was made more poignant with its use of outdoors imagery mirroring childlike innocence.

Given his young age, Charlie's stirring take fittingly complimented the mood of the number. The judges, including the unpredictable Simon Cowell, were impressed and endorsed Charlie's ascent to the semi-finals. The Filipino-British singer however failed to make an impression in the semi-finals, resulting in his elimination.

Charlie's ouster from the show proved to be irrelevant as his performance of "Summer Wind" found its way to YouTube, exposing Charlie's talent to a global audience. The cyberspace exposure heightened Charlie's popularity to his kababayan's back home.

Charlie, for his part, is still adjusting to all the attention he is now receiving both here and abroad.

Despite growing up in a foreign land and being exposed to Western culture, the bubbly performer remains a true Filipino at heart.

"We always told him that whenever somebody will approach you, you have to be very good to them and he knows that. You have to be very good because they're the ones who put you there," said Charlie's mother.

Mommy Cecile shared that Charlie's favorite Pinoy dish are ginisang monggo, pancit canton, and fried lumpia.

"Tapos mahilig siya sa kahit walang kanin basta ‘yong noodles, pot noodles mas lalo ‘pag binibigay ko bulalo, kasi masarap ang bulalo, di ba? Kumakain ‘yan si Charlie. Kaya mabubuhay din ‘yan dito."

One distinct trait that Charlie exhibited during the luncheon meet-and-greet was his fondness for saying "po" and "opo"; although he only mentioned those words occasionally since he's not fluent in speaking the Filipino language.

It is Charlie's fourth time to visit the Philippines and since school vacation is currently being observed in the United Kingdom, the Greens excitedly accepted ABS-CBN's invitation. Cecile is a native of Cebu and Charlie has visited his mother's hometown thrice already.

"The other year pumunta kami sa Cebu, sa Dumanhog kasi taga-Dumanhog talaga ako. Tapos sa Cebu City nag-stay doon. Tapos pumunta ng Bohol, tapos Leyte. Kaya nakapunta na rin siya sa ibang lugar kasi dinadala ko siya pati sa mga beaches dito sa atin," shared Cecile, who was praised by her husband Roger for being a "good cook."

The Greens are also a tight family unit. Before going to bed, his parents usually tuck him safely in bed and kiss him good night.

"Before he goes to bed until now, we always go up to his room, he always said ‘I'm ready' we have to go there and say good night to him and kiss him. Before, his dad would sing for him before he goes to bed."

TOP PRIORITY. Charlie and his parents are also looking into the possibility of cutting a record here. With the support being shown by ABS-CBN, many won't be surprised if a television offer suddenly comes up.

"We cannot say anything yet," confessed Cecile. Both Cecile and Roger are one in saying that inasmuch as they would love to see their son's young career heat up this early, their main priority remains Charlie's schooling.

Unlike here in the Philippines where a young celebrity can just drop out to concentrate on his or her career, the British government is stern in requiring kids to finish their education.

"He has to go to school really," enthused Mommy Cecile, "whatever happens at least meron siyang pinag-aralan. Pero ‘yon lang talaga para kung ano mang mangyari sa iyo meron kang back-up."

Source: PEP

TV Ratings (July 25-28) of AGB Neilsen (A GMA Survey?!?!?!)

Here are the comparative TV ratings of ABS-CBN and GMA-7 shows from July 25 to 28, based on the overnight ratings conducted by AGB Nielsen Philippines among Mega Manila households:

July 25 (Friday)
Non-Primetime:
SiS (GMA-7) 11%; Boy & Kris (ABS-CBN) 10%
Marimar (GMA-7) 14.6%; Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) 14.8%
Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) 19.6%; Wowowee (ABS-CBN) 15.8%
Daisy Siete (GMA-7) 17.7%; Magdusa Ka (GMA-7) 19.8%; Ligaw Na Bulaklak (ABS-CBN) 13.4%
Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan (GMA-7) 18.3%; El Cuerpo del Deseo (ABS-CBN) 17.3%; Las Tontas (ABS-CBN) 13.3%

Primetime:
Gobingo (GMA-7) 12.8%; Wheel of Fortune (ABS-CBN) 16.3%
24 Oras (GMA-7) 26.4%; TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) 22.5%
Codename: Asero (GMA-7) 35.1%; The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) 22.9%
Dyesebel (GMA-7) 39.1%; Iisa Pa Lamang(ABS-CBN) 22%
Ako Si Kim Samsoon (GMA-7) 31.6%; My Girl (ABS-CBN) 21.9%
Dalja's Spring (GMA-7) 20.2%; Pinoy Dream Academy (ABS-CBN) 19%; Pinoy Idol Extra (GMA-7) 16.9%
Daboy Sa ABS-CBN (ABS-CBN) 10.8%; Bubble Gang (GMA-7) 15.8%
Saksi (GMA-7) 9.9%; Bandila (ABS-CBN) 5.2%

July 26 (Saturday)
Non-Primetime:
Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) 12.6%; Takeshi's Castle (GMA-7) 9.1%
Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) 21.6%; Wowowee (ABS-CBN) 16.6%
StarTalk (GMA-7) 11.1%; Entertainment Live (ABS-CBN) 11.2%
Wish Ko Lang (GMA-7) 17.6%; Cinema FPJ (ABS-CBN) 14.9%
Pinoy Records (GMA-7) 19.7%; That's My Doc (ABS-CBN) 14.3%

Primetime:
Pinoy Idol (GMA-7) 23.4%; Kapitan Boom (ABS-CBN) 18.7%
Bitoy's Funniest Videos (GMA-7) 26.1%; Pinoy Dream Academy (ABS-CBN) 23.9%
Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (GMA-7) 25.5%; Maalaala Mo Kaya (ABS-CBN) 21.4%
Imbestigador (GMA-7) 19.4%; XXX (ABS-CBN) 15.9%
Songbird (GMA-7) 8.1%; TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) 10.1%
Sine Totoo (GMA-7) 6.9%; Sports Unlimited (ABS-CBN) 3.6%; Walang Tulugan With Master Showman (GMA-7) 3.6%

July 27 (Sunday)
Non-Primetime:
Bakbakan (ABS-CBN) 9.3%; Takeshi's Castle (GMA-7) 12.6%
SOP (GMA-7) 16.2%; ASAP ‘08 (ABS-CBN) 14.1%
Pinoy Idol Extra (GMA-7) 12.4%; Dear Friend (gma-7) 13.9%; Your Song (ABS-CBN) 14%
Showbiz Central (GMA-7) 14.1%; The Buzz (ABS-CBN) 12.1%

Primetime:
Kap's Amazing Stories (GMA-7) 24.5%; Rated K (ABS-CBN) 19%
Pinoy Idol (GMA-7) 24.1%; Goin' Bulilit (ABS-CBN) 23.8%
Mel & Joey (GMA-7) 23.9%; Pinoy Dream Academy: Little Dreamers (ABS-CBN) 22.1%
All Star K (GMA-7) 21.7%; Sharon (ABS-CBN) 16.4%
Ful Haus (GMA-7) 12.9%; TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) 17.7%
SNBO (GMA-7) 11.9%; Sunday's Best (ABS-CBN) 10.3%

July 28 (Monday)
Non-Primetime:
SiS (GMA-7) 9.2%; Boy & Kris (ABS-CBN) 9.4%
Marimar (GMA-7) 14.7%; Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) 14.6%
Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) 19.9%; Wowowee (ABS-CBN) 17.9%
Daisy Siete (GMA-7) 21.7%; Ligaw Na Bulaklak (ABS-CBN) 13.7%
Breaking News: SONA (GMA-7) 18.3%; News Patrol: SONA (ABS-CBN) 13.9%
Magdusa Ka (GMA-7) 17.8%; Pinoy Dream Academy Uberture (ABS-CBN) 11.2%

Primetime:
Gobingo (GMA-7) 16.8%; Kapamilya, Deal Or No Deal (ABS-CBN) 18.5%
24 Oras (GMA-7) 30.1%; TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) 23.5%
Codename: Asero (GMA-7) 37.3%; The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) 24.7%
Dyesebel (GMA-7) 42.5%; Iisa Pa Lamang(ABS-CBN) 25.1%; My Girl (ABS-CBN) 21.4%
Ako Si Kim Samsoon (GMA-7) 31.9%; Pinoy Dream Academy (ABS-CBN) 21%
Dalja's Spring (GMA-7) 19.6%; Artificial Beauty (ABS-CBN) 11.4%
Kung Ako Ikaw (GMA-7) 13.5%; Saksi (GMA-7) 10.3%; Bandila (ABS-CBN) 8%

Source: PEP

‘A Very Special Love’- showing today in all cinemas Receives Grade ‘A’ by the Cinema Evaluation Board

“A Very Special Love” starring Sarah Geronimo and John Lloyd Cruz was graded “A” by the Cinema Evaluation Board in time for its premiere night at the SM Megamall.

The producers will get a 100 percent amusement-tax exemption by getting the highest grade of “A”.

Looks like the joint project of Viva Films and Star Cinema is all set to become a monster hit as it also received a GP or General Patronage rating from the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB).

The last local film to receive an “A” grade was the animated movie “Urduja“. The last Star Cinema movie to receive an “A” grade was Sharon Cuneta’s Caregiver which is also a box office hit.

A Very Special Love will have its grand opening tomorrow in more than 100 movie theaters nationwide.

The romantic comedy also stars Joross Gamboa, Matet de Leon, Gio Alvarez, Marianna del Rio, Al Tantay, Irma Adlawan, and Miles Ocampo. A Very Special Love is directed by box office director Cathy Garcia-Molina.

WATCH "A VERY SPECIAL LOVE", starring the Box Office King John Lloyd Cruz and the Pop Star Princess Sarah Geronimo, IN ALL MAJOR CINEMAS NATIONWIDE!!!

Source: Pepcster

John Lloyd is Sarah Geronimo's first kiss

Young actor John Lloyd Cruz is singer Sarah Geronimo's first big screen kiss.

Geronimo refused to give details of their kissing scene, and just encouraged the viewing public to watch their first movie together entitled "A Very Special Love" which premieres Wednesday, July 30th."

Abangan niyo na lang po 'yun (first kiss) sa movie," Geronimo said.When asked if Cruz was her first kiss in real life, Geronimo just smiled and refused to comment.

After three months of working together, Cruz and Geronimo developed a friendship that they said they will definitely miss.

"Si Sarah kasi ang pinaka-genuine na taong nakilala ko sa business hindi natatakot ipakita kung sino siya. Walang front, walang pretensions sobrang totoo lang ang makikita mo at saka 'yung appetite niya," Cruz said.

"Pareho din si John Lloyd napaka-genuine na tao. Napasaya niya ako, 'yun lang," Geronimo added.

Geronimo, who turned 20 on Friday, July 25th admitted that she received a Louie Vuitton makeup kit from her leading man.

The birthday celebrator before blowing her cake's candle wished only for the success of their film.

"God please, success of the movie," Geronimo wished.

Source: Pepcsters

They Kiss Again in ABS-CBN

Asianovela fans have witnessed Jeannie’s (Ariel Lin) comical love chase with Michael (Joe Cheng) in the hit TV series It Started With A Kiss. But for those who wondered whatever came after their one of a kind wedding, the couple is back in They Kiss Again for an afternoon Asianovela treat.

Jeanie and Michael’s love story continues with more of their romantic misadventures starting with their honeymoon and the early days of married life. Reality soon sets in for the love-struck couple who try to juggle marriage and career. Making their adjustment period doubly harder is the return of Michael’s scheming ex-girlfriend and Jeanie’s persistent suitor. How will they deal with the obstacles that keep coming their way? Will Jeanie’s wish to have a blissful married life with the man of her dreamsever come true?

They Kiss Again airs weekdays, right after Las Tontas on ABS-CBN hapontastic.

Source: Kapamilya Central

Phoemela Baranda is Maxim's August cover girl

Phoemela Baranda is the lucky August cover girl. ABS-CBN's Star news queen is strutting her stuff and showing us why she's one of the sexiest ladies in the country.

Source: Kapamilya Central

Rafael Rosell bares "soul"

During the Bench underwear and denim fashion show, everyone expected that most of the applause would be for the big guns like Dingdong Dantes, Jake Cuenca, Zanjoe Marudo, and Richard Gutierrez. But the showstopper proved to be Rafael Rosell who appeared on stage totally naked.

Halfway through the show, a man in silhoutte slowly revealed his body bit by bit. No one knew who it was until he stood up and showed his naked body. Screams and applause erupted from the audience when the man in question was revealed to be Rafael.

ABS-CBN.com caught up with Rafael after the show and asked him how he prepared for this surprise stunt which totally topped his butt exposure performance two years ago. "I was walking around naked sa condo, para masanay lang. Para sa akin kasi I never doubted the human being being naked kasi that’s how we were born e. So why be so shameful and hide it?" the actor explained.

Even his girlfriend Malaya Lewandowski, a member of the girl group Koolchx, was unaware that he was going to go all out at the show, "No she didn't know. Work is work. Relationship is relationship." But he further revealed that even his handler and his manager, Star Magic Boss Johnny Manahan, were clueless about what was going to happen.

"Direk Ariel approached me, he said, ‘I'm going to ask you something, just hear me out. I know what you did last time sa Bench fashion show, [that] you showed your butt. Let's do it artistic this time. So you won’t have to do the same thing again,’” he recalled.

Rafael has been very vocal about having no reservations about nudity, like his rape scene with Claudine Barretto in Maligno. He said, "You just have to be confident about it. Whether you’re fat or thin."

Source: Kapamilya Central

Two Thumbs up for Sam Milby in Bench's "Blackout"

Sam Milby was one of the mostly-applauded celebrities at the Bench underwear and denim fashion show last July 25 at the Araneta Coliseum. Girlfriend Anne Curtis was in the audience seated next to Georgina Wilson (Richard Gutierrez’s ex), Liz Uy (John Lloyd Cruz's GF), and another friend. When it was time for Sam to walk the runway, Anne and her girlfriends stood up and cheered for him--and so did the rest of the Araneta crowd. Anne also revealed how she's amazed by Sam's toned physique, which has been shown on billboards along Edsa.

ABS-CBN.com got an exclusive pass backstage to talk to Sam about his well-applauded appearance. The heartthrob said he had a great time and added, "[It was] Nerve-wracking, but exciting at the same time. I'm the nervous type. Sa harap ng maraming tao, kinakabahan ako. [But tonight] I felt confident. I've been trying to work hard to be in shape. It was fun and exciting at the same time." Sam said he also saw Anne and her friends cheering for him. "I saw her at the sidelines kanina. They were crazy. But it's nice to see them there."

Sam revealed that he didn't have that much time to prepare for the show. "Just this week lang, I've been trying to work out a little bit." But that little bit was enough to get powerhouse couple Kris Aquino and James Yap’s approval. When asked who she thought had the best body on stage and Kris said, "Pareho kami ni James, we both agreed na it's Sam. He had a great body talaga." Sam was speechless upon learning about Kris’s compliment, but was happy that people were pleased with walk down the ramp.

Source: Kapamilya Central

Rift between Claudine and Angel finally settled

The alleged "misunderstanding" that involved actresses Angel Locsin and Claudine Barretto has been finally settled. This is the summary of the official statement that ABS-CBN management released and was translated and read by The Buzz host Boy Abunda on the talk show yesterday, July 27.

The statement confirmed the chance meeting between Claudine and Angel in a salon last July 4 and the two indeed had a talk about "certain issues, which have been magnified and grossly exaggerated and ultimately blown out of proportion by certain camps."

"There have been clarifications made by the two camps, recognized, acknowledged and validated the feelings of each other…" the statement went. All in all the meeting ended on a positive note with both the actresses agreeing to put everything behind them.

Meanwhile both Claudine and Angel released their respective statements in connection to the closed-door meeting, which was also attended by ABS-CBN executives. Claudine wants everything to be forgiven and forgotten. "Ipinagdasal ko na maayos na ang gusot na ito namin ni Angel. Matagal akong nanahimik pagkatapos ng pagkikita noon sa salon dahil ayokong lumaki ang issue. Aaminin ko na naging masakit para sa akin ang mga nabasa ko sa diyaryo na hinusgahan na ako. Noong isa-isa na naming nailatag ni Angel ang mga isyu at saloobin namin ditto, nabigyan na ng linaw ang lahat. At sa pagkakataong iyon, naging madali sa amin ang pagpapatawad anuman ang mangyari."

On the other hand, Angel wants to thank everyone who helped fix things between her and the Iisa Pa Lamang star. "Masaya ako at nagkausap at nagkaayos na kami. Sana matapos na po ang lahat ng ito. Gusto ko pong pasalamatan ang ABS (Channel 2) management sa pakikinig at pagtulong sa aming pag-aayos. Maraming salamat po sa inyong pang-unawa. Masaya po ako na sa puntong ito ay maayos na po akong makapagpapatuloy sa aking trabaho."

Source: Kapamilya Central

Judy Ann Santos reveals three major decisions in her life

Upon Judy Ann Santos’s return to the country from her European trip with fiancé Ryan Agoncillo, she confessed that she’s making three big decisions in her life before she finally marches down the aisle.

First, Judai said that she and Ryan are not in a hurry to get married and are even considering a long engagement because both of them have a lot of things to settle first. "Hindi naman ibig sabihin ‘pag na-engage ang couple magpapakasal na kaagad. We just have to settle everything, bahay, negosyo, ganyan, para pagkinasal na kami tapos na."

Second, the actress revealed that she still wants her dad to walk her to the altar on her wedding day. Despite her parents’ separation years ago, Judai apparently has maintained a good relationship with her father. "Ayaw naman naming bastusin ang Daddy. Willing and able naman siya. Whatever relationship I have with my dad, okay naman si Mommy. Yung issue nila ni Daddy, issue nila ‘yon. I respect them with that kind of relationship. Si Mommy also respects our (referring to siblings Jeffrey and Jackie) relationship with our dad." Judai shared.

Third, on the issue of switching TV networks, Judai divulged that the misunderstanding between her and her home station, ABS-CBN are now ironed out. "It was a very formal talk and naklaro lahat ng issues and whatsoever (about) what happened. Ano lang naman yon, test of patience and everything and nabanggit ko rin naman na kung ano naman ang maging desisyon ko, maintindihan naman sana ng tao, dahil nagtatrabaho din lang naman ako."

The soap opera star is due to start shooting her newest teleserye Humiling Ka Lang Sa Langit this week. Under the direction of Andoy Ranay, Judai will star opposite Derek Ramsay and Will Devaughn.

Source: Kapamilya Cental

ABS-CBN names one of its studios after Dolphy

Kahapon, July 28, opisyal nang pinangalanan ng ABS-CBN ang Studio 1 nila bilang "Dolphy Theater."

Maliban kay Mang Dolphy, lahat ng dumalo kahapon ay aware sa magaganap na pagpapangalan ng Studio 1 sa Comedy King bilang pagbibigay-pugay sa kanya ng Kapamilya network, kabilang na ang halos lahat ng ABS-CBN executives headed by Mr. Gabby Lopez at maging ang mga anak ni Mang Dolphy gaya nina Epi Quizon, Sally Quizon, Vandolph, at Dolphy Jr.

Nang ina-announce ni Edu Manzano, na nagsilbing host ng gabing yun, na ang Studio 1 ay opisyal nang magiging Dolphy Theater lang nalaman ni Mang Dolphy ang talagang event na ipinunta niya sa ABS-CBN. Buong akala raw niya ay may isu-shoot lang siya.

Kitang-kita ang pagkagulat at talagang umiyak si Mang Dolphy nang mag-sink in na sa kanya kung ano ang kaganapan, lalo na nang makita niya sa audience ng Studio 1 ang lahat ng executives ng Kapamilya network na naka-formal attire talaga, gayundin ang presence ng ilan sa kanyang mga anak.

Sa Studio 1 ay naka-display rin ang mga larawan ni Mang Dolphy na kinunan ng ace photographer na si Jun de Leon.

Bilang tribute din kay Mang Dolphy, ipinalabas sa Dolphy Theater kahapon ang isa sa mga luma niyang pelikula na iprinodyus ng kanyang RVQ Productions, ang Facifica Falayfay. Posibleng maging regular nang kaganapan sa loob ng Dolphy Theater ang pagpapalabas ng mga lumang pelikula ng Comedy King.

Pinalad naman ang PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal) na makausap si Mang Dolphy after ng maikling programa ng pagsasalin sa kanyang pangalan ng naturang studio. Ayon sa Comedy King, talagang nasorpresa raw siya nang husto sa lahat ng nangyayari sa kanya lately.

"Na-shock ako!" hindi pa rin niya makapaniwalang sabi. "Sobrang tuwa talaga. Naluha nga ako at hindi ako makapagsalita. Pero, siyempre, ikaw ba naman yung binigyan ka ng pangalan dito sa ABS-CBN, panghabambuhay na yun!"

Kuwento pa ng Comedy King, "Ang sabi nila, emergency taping lang daw, e, hindi pala. Tinatanong ko, ‘Basta, bihis ka.' E, naka-rugged lang ako kanina dahil umuulan pa. Nagulat din ako na nandoon ang mga anak ko."

Para kay Mang Dolphy, napaka-espesyal ng 80th birthday niya dahil kailan lang ay ni-launch ang kanyang autobiographical book, Hindi Ko Ito Narating Mag-isa. Ngayon naman ay ang pagpapangalan ng isang studio sa kanya. At sa July 31 ay bibigyan din siya ng ABS-CBN ng tribute na gaganapin sa Meralco Theater.

"Well, sa tingin ko, pinaka-espesyal na 'to. May libro ng buhay ko, may foundation na binuksan. At ito, ‘tapos meron pa sa 31. Puwera pa yung birthday ko noong Biyernes [July 25], so talagang nagkasunud-sunod, e," masayang sabi ni Mang Dolphy.

Abot-abot naman pasasalamat ng Comedy King sa ABS-CBN.

"Well, ang mensahe ko talaga ay tumagal pa ito ng maraming-maraming taon pa... Isandaan, dalawang daan taon. Mag-takeover na kung sino pa sa generation ng Lopez, magtuloy-tuloy sila. Sapagkat maraming matutulungan ito, hindi lang mga artista kundi maging mga mamamayan. Nalalaman kung ano ang nangyayari sa mundo. Kung sino ang agrabyado, kung sino mga nagnanakaw, nalalaman lahat dito, lalo na sa media. Kaya ang dalangin ko talaga, magpatuloy. More power and God bless this station, magpatuloy pa."

At saka nga niya isinunod na, "At kung maaari pa, magkasundo na ang mga network. Gusto ko magkasundo pa sila. May chance pa, naniniwala ako. Kailangan lang siguro na tama lang ang padrino na gagawa noon."

On his 80th birthday, may mahihiling pa ba siya?

"Wala na sa akin, sa sarili ko, wala na. Sa pamilya ko na lang, sa mga anak ko, sa amin ni Zsa Zsa [Padilla, his life partner]."

Sayang nga lang daw at hindi na-witness ni Zsa Zsa ang lahat ng mga surprises sa kanya simula pa ng book launch dahil sa natanguan na nitong commitment abroad.

"Wala, e, may contract kasi yun. Hindi rin naman niya alam ang mga surprises na ito. Kahit yung book launch, hindi rin niya alam na sa petsang yun na pala, lahat talaga surprise. Yung anak nga namin, sumunod na rin sa kanya ro'n," paliwanag ni Mang Dolphy.

Sa huli, dahil sa pagsasalin sa pangalan niya ng Studio 1 ng ABS-CBN, posible kayang mabura nito ang mga nababalitang plano niyang paglipat sa kabilang network?

"Hindi siguro, sinelyuhan na ako. Nakaselyo na, e!" masayang pahayag niya.

Source: PEP

Anne Curtis went all-out screaming for Sam Milby during the Bench show

Nakakatuwa itong si Anne Curtis dahil kahit napakahirap ng pinapagawa sa kanya sa regular tapings ng Dyosa, kinakaya niya ito at sa ilang ulit naming pagdalaw sa set nito, lagi itong nakangiti, maaliwalas ang mukha kapag kinakausap. Very positive ang pakikipag-usap ng PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal) sa kanya nang dalawin namin siya sa taping ng nabanggit na fantaserye ng Dos na magpi-premiere na sa August 11.

"Kinakabahan pa rin ako, pero hindi naman pressured," very confident na pahayag ni Anne nang madatnan namin sa Trinoma kahapon kung saan isang malaki at mahalagang eksena ang kinunan para sa Dyosa. Nasa cast din ang ibang mga artista like Zanjoe Marudo, Rubirubi, Mickey Ferriols, Maricar de Mesa, Jojit Lorenzo, at marami pang iba.

Patuloy niya, "Mas excited ako habang papalapit na yung pilot namin. Pinapanood na sa amin ang pilot episode at masaya kami sa resulta ng effects. Feeling ko, tatangkilikin naman ito, at sana nga, ma-appreciate ang pinaghihirapan namin."

Naitanong nga namin kay Anne kung ano ang bagong maikukuwento niya sa tatlong leading men niya ritong sina Sam Milby, Luis Manzano, at Zanjoe.

"Wala naman," sabi ni Anne. "Kasi, halos araw-araw ay nagkakasama na kami. Imagine, three times a week, nagkikita-kita kami sa taping ng Dyosa. Then, tuwing Sunday, sa live telecast ng A.S.A.P.

"Ang maganda talaga ay yung working relationship namin, dahil sanay na kami sa bawat isa. Walang nag-iinarte sa set. Walang nagbabago. Ganoon pa rin ang enthusiasm."

ALL-OUT FOR SAM. Kapansin-pansin ang presence sa audience ni Anne sa Araneta Coliseum nang idaos doon ang Blackout fashion show ng Bench noong Biyernes, July 25. All-out ang support niya kay Sam na napapabalitang boyfriend na niya.

"Ay, super-tili talaga ako!" natatawang sabi pa ni Anne. "Wala akong pakialam. Supportive din ako sa iba ko pang Kapamilya stars doon, pero ni-reserve ko ang all-out hysteria ko kay Sam.

"Definitely, Sam was the hottest one that night!"

Sa dinami-rami ng guys doon, why did she say so?

"Because I said so!" mabilis na sagot ni Anne sa tanong namin.

Agree rin kami kay Anne dahil nga bonggang-bongga ang body ni Sam sa fashion event na yun.

"He really worked hard for it," nasabi na lang ni Anne. "Pinaghandaan niya ang event na yun, and it paid off. Natatawa nga ako, kasi, kahit super na ang body niya, parang conscious pa rin siya sa pagrampa niya."

Para kay Sam kaya nagpunta si Anne sa Bench event kahit nga ini-endorse niya ang Freeway, another clothing brand?

"Nagpaalam naman ako sa Freeway kung okey lang. Okey naman daw, kaya naroroon ako," sabi ni Anne.

WHAT'S NEW? So, ano ang bago sa relasyon nila ni Sam?

"Wala. Ganoon na lang. Basta, ang masasabi ko lang, happy kami when we're together. We don't have problems."

Pero, naroroon din pala ang controversial ex-boyfriend niyang si Richard Gutierrez. Na-curious tuloy kami kung paano ang reaction niya sa paghantad sa rampa ng ex at present niya.

"Wala lang. Kapag si Richard ang nasa stage, wala na. Kasi, past na siya, di ba? Five years ago pa yun. As in, ano pa ba ang mararamdaman ko?

"Lahat ng nararamdaman ko ay nasa present na, kay Sam. I'm just happy with the present," deretsahang sabi pa ni Anne.

Source: PEP

Gretchen Barretto: "Tapos na ‘yang Bong at Gretchen na ‘yan. It's so over!"

May matitinding patutsada sa mga bagong intriga na kinasasangkutan niya ang kontobersiyal na aktres na si Gretchen Barretto sa The Buzz last Sunday, July 27.

Unang isyu kay Gretchen ay ang balitang natensiyon siya nang makita niya ang mag-asawang Bong Revilla at Lani Mercado sa party ni Cristy Fermin last July 22 sa Metro Bar.

"Bakit naman ako matetensiyon, hindi naman kami magkaaway?" sabi ni Gretchen.

Nababalita rin na may offer daw na pelikula kay Gretchen kung saan ang magiging leading man niya ay walang iba kundi si Bong, na kumpirmado ring may napirmahang kontrata para sa Star Cinema.

"You know what, kasi parating nagiging isyu kapag kami ni Bong. Parang ayoko na yata ng isyu. Gusto kong magbagong-buhay. Tapos na ‘yan. Tapos na ‘yang Bong at Gretchen na ‘yan. It's so over! Fifteen years over na kami," diin ni La Greta.

Pero sinabi rin ni Gretchen na kung papipiliin siya kung sino ang leading man na gusto niyang makasama sa pelikulang nakatakda niyang gawin sa Star Cinema.

"Parang baka si Piolo [Pascual]. Kasi magaling din siya," ngiti ni Gretchen.

Nagbigay rin ng pahayag si Gretchen sa pagkakaugnay ng pangalan ni Ara Mina sa isang negosyanteng iniuugnay ang pangalan sa kanya—si Dody Puno.

"I don't know anything about that," saad ni Gretchen. "So, mahirap naman akong mag-commet, di ba? And it's really naman not my problem, di ba? Hindi ko naman business ‘yon. Ganun ang showbiz, di ba? You're linked to anyone and everyone, so okey lang."

Samantala, sa Christian dedication ng anak nina Claudine Barretto at Raymart Santiago na si Santino, muling nagsalita si Gretchen sa isyung kinasangkutan ng nakababatang kapatid na si Claudine at ni Angel Locsin.

"'Yan ang wish ko, magkaayos na sila. Because alam mo itong business natin, parang we all have room naman for new talent, for whatever. Lahat naman basta may talento, welcome naman sa show business, di ba?" pagtatapos noon ni Gretchen.

Source: PEP

Claudine Barretto and Angel Locsin settle miscommunication issue

Pagkatapos maglabas ng official statement ang ABS-CBN at Star Cinema Productions tungkol sa isyu sa pagitan nina Claudine Barretto at Angel Locsin, kinuha ng The Buzz ang panig ng dalawang Kapamilya stars.

Ayon sa report ng The Buzz, pagkatapos ng ilang oras na pag-uusap sa harap ng ABS-CBN executives ng mga Kapamilya at malalapit na kaibigan noong July 23, inilatag nina Claudine at Angel ang kani-kanilang panig at damdamin. Ito ay upang malinawan ang lahat sa mga kaganapan nang magkita ang dalawang aktres sa isang salon sa Quezon City noong July 4.

Hindi man direktang sinabi kung ano ang talagang nangyari sa pagitan nina Claudine at Angel sa loob ngs alon, pinabulaanan ng parehong kampo ang mga lumabas na balita. Wala raw sigawang nangyari. Wala raw nanipa ng kahit anumang gamit. Wala raw nagtaas ng boses. Nagkaroon man daw ng kaunting tensiyon, naging seryoso naman daw ang pag-uusap ng magkabilang panig.

Sa naturang meeting, isa-isang inilatag ni Claudine ang kanyang mga saloobin at ganun din si Angel. Dahil dito, napatunayang parehong walang kasalanan ang dalawa. Nagkaroon lamang daw ng miscommunication at napalaki pa ng mga intriga.

Pagkatapos ng pag-uusap, natuwa raw ang mga kasama sa pagkakasundo ng dalawa at pagnanais na magsimula ulit bilang mag-Kapamilya.

Narito ang mga mensahe na ipinadala nina Claudine at Angel sa The Buzz:

Claudine: "Ipinagdasal ko ito na maaayos na ang gusot sa pagitan namin ni Angel. Matagal akong nanahimik pagkatapos ng pagkikita noon sa salon dahil ayokong lumaki ang isyu. Aaminin ko na naging masakit sa akin ang mga nabasa ko sa diyaryo na hinusgahan na ako. Noong isa-isa naming inilatag ni Angel ang mga isyu at saloobin namin, dito na nabigyang linaw ang lahat. At sa pagkakataong ‘yon, naging madali sa amin ang magpatawad anuman ang nangyari."

Angel: "Masaya ako at nagkausap at nagkaayos na kami. Sana matapos na po ang lahat na ito. Gusto ko pong pasalamatan ang ABS-CBN management sa pakikinig at pagtulong sa aming pag-aayos. Maraming salamat po sa inyong pang-unawa. Masaya po ako na sa puntong ito ay maayos na akong makakapagpatuloy sa aking pagtatrabaho."

Source: PEP

Mariel Rodriguez plays a superhero in "Varga"

It's a double blessing for TV host-actress Mariel Rodriguez as she gets the opportunity to work on ABS-CBN's newest fantasy series Komiks Presents: Mars Ravelo's Varga. She will not only play the lead role, but she will also have the chance to work with boyfriend Zanjoe Marudo.

"I'm so happy. I love it!" exclaimed Mariel during the press conference of Varga last night, July 28, at the 9501 restaurant of ABS-CBN.

The young TV host-actress said she's grateful to have Varga because she never thought of playing the role of a superhero.

"Actually, we never thought it's possible so it was too high to even dream of. Parang ganun, never kong naisip na magiging superhero ako. So when they told me about it, we're so grateful talaga. When they told me about it, I wanted to do it na kaagad and talagang na-excite ako," said Mariel

For this role, the 24-year-old TV host-actress underwent several trainings to give justice to her character. "We had training for martial arts," said Mariel "'Tapos nag-go through kami ni Angel [Sy, playing the role of young Olga] ng workshop."

She also said, "Sa costume, parang nagpapayat ako ng konti kasi ayaw ko naman na lait-laitin ninyo ako, kung anu-ano ang sabihin ninyo, di ba? Honestly, 'yon ang totoo.

"Noong ginagawa ko na siya, naiisip ko na agad, ‘Ay, It's hard.' It's not easy ha, being a superhero. Really, kasi minsan naiisip mo, ‘Wow, superhero!' Hindi, a, kasi sa costume pa lang naiisip mo, ‘My gosh, bakit hindi na lang ako naging tindera? Kasi kung tindera ako, normal lang naman.' Pero iba, e, worth it siya."

WORKING WITH HER "INSPIRATION." Another reason for Mariel to be happy is her boyfriend Zanjoe Marudo, who is her leading man in Varga. Mariel said that this is a bonus for her.

She said, "I think, masaya na ako originally. I really wanna do the project, 'tapos naging plus na nandiyan pa si Zanjoe. So masaya 'yong kapag nandiyan sa taping, masaya."

The host-actress also admitted that Zanjoe is her inspiration during their tapings.

"It's true pala, parang you can really use it as an inspiration. Kasi siyempre ayaw mong mapahiya sa isang eksena, so gagalingan mo. 'Yong mga lines, ime-memorize mo kasi ayaw mong mapahiya."

During the press conference, a small birthday surprise was given to Zanjoe, who turned 26 last July 23. Mariel told the media that an intimate surprise dinner in Shangri-La was also organized for Zanjoe on his actual birthday.

On that day, Mariel gave her boyfriend a Canon 450D as a birthday present. She got the idea when Zanjoe once told her that he was planning to buy a camera in time for the concert of his group Cover Boys in the U.S.

"Nagulat siya," narrated Mariel. "Sabi niya, ‘Kailangan kong bumili ng camera sa States. Hindi, dapat dito pa lang bumili na ako para mag-picture ako sa airport pa lang.' So, nagkaroon ako ng ideya."

Aside from her gift, The Entertainment Live host also promised Zanjoe: "Siguro dapat tumahimik ako ng konti. Ang daldal ko kasi, e. Kuwento ako nang kuwento, so dapat manahimik ako minsan."

Source: PEP

Dolphy’s tell-all book sheds light on his puzzling romantic liaisons

"Ang mga talagang minahal ko, mabibilang sa daliri ng kamay. Huwag na nating bilangin ang naka-fling, at masisira ang abacus ng Intsik."

Those words officially introduced Chapter 12 of Comedy King Dolphy's authorized biography titled Dolphy: Hindi Ko Ito Narating Mag-isa. The said chapter might as well be the most intriguing part of the entire tell-all as it touches the ace comedian's renowned yet still obscure romantic liaisons.

Aside from his storied career as an actor, Dolphy—who had just turned 80 last July 25—is also legendary for being a certified ladies' man; this despite his lanky frame and not-so-stunning Chinese-Filipino features.

"Hindi ko pine-presume na magugustuhan ako palagi," Dolphy confided to author Bibeth Orteza, who sat down with the iconic comedian for five months documenting his life's journey, "Iniisip ko nga kung ano'ng mayro'n ako at malapit sa akin ang babae."

The early chapters revealed the name Aida Javier as Dolphy's first love. He also confessed how he fell deeply in love with a Kapampangan named Engracita Dominguez during his juvenile years. It was a serious romance which unfortunately ended in 1963 due to certain circumstances. Engracita, or Grace, died in 2007. Dolphy visited her at the hospital and even volunteered to shoulder her bills.

"ANG TYPE KO, MESTISAHIN." Aptly titled "To All the Girls I've Loved Before," the section found the Comedy King at his most revealing as far as addressing his puzzling love affairs, which consequently produced 18 children all in all.

Dolphy shared his penchant for mestiza girls. "Hahagod ka no'n. Titingnan mo ang mga kamay, kung malinis; kung nakayapak, titingnan mo ang kuko. Wala akong foot fetish, pero kung may karumihan ang kuko, kita mo agad kung balahura. Maganda nga, pero balahura, bakit pa?"

But like everyone else caught in a flirting game, physical features take a backseat once initial attraction was established. "Siyempre, pagkatapos no'ng physical na paghanga, inaalaala mo muna iyong ugali, dahil ‘yon ang nagiging importante sa lahat."

He also shared in the book his courting style, which as his track record with women would suggest, never failed to deliver the best results.

Charismatic, thoughtful, oozing with humor, and naturally kind—short-lived affairs were abundant in Dolphy's life as a youngster. Although he told stories of his various brief involvements, which consists of homegrown to foreign women, these were mentioned only in passing since most of the relationships failed to progress seriously.

Dolphy was generous enough though in recalling the times he shared with some of the women who figured prominently in his life: Vangie Evangeline Tagulao, Pilar Pilapil, Lotis Key, and Alma Moreno.

Pilar and Lotis agreed to forward their testimonies to give an insight on the man they once loved.

Pilar Pilapil wrote: "Dolphy's funny onscreen, but in person, he's very quiet. A gentleman. Thoughtful. Attentive. Without knowing it, at that time I had a need for a father image. He was loving, and so very focused on taking care of me. I was like a little girl, so happy."

Lotis Key, on the other hand, theorized that being exact opposites perhaps triggered the attraction. "I think we were attracted to how very different we were from one another. We traveled together, made movies together and had a lot of crazy, laughing times," she said.

The Comedy King's life with Alma can be described as erratic. While being complete opposites sparked, and for a time sustained, his affair with Lotis, it was the total opposite with Alma.

Dolphy shared in detail how Alma's outgoing nature went against his desire for tranquility and doomed their relationship.

"Ang nahirapan ako, do'n sa lifestyle niya," he wistfully looked back. "Hindi ko type ang palaging may tao sa bahay, mula umaga hanggang madaling-araw. Ibig kong sabihin, ok ang magkabisita, ang dalawin ka ng mga kaibigan mong reporter, pero naging araw-araw na ‘yon, at hindi lang dito sa Manila."

ZSA ZSA SPEAKS. Of all the testimonies included in the book, it was current partner Zsa Zsa Padilla who gave a lengthy account of her life and times with the well-respected comedian.

Zsa Zsa perfectly captured in vivid details the traits that made Dolphy irresistible with women. "It started with the usual gift food items from Hizon's; the special attention," she recalled. The two worked together in the movies Mga Anak Ni Facifica Falayfay and Black Magic.

"And then we'd go to the set and notice we were wearing the same color clothes, like we were in sync, and he'd make a big deal out of it. Tingin lang din siya ng tingin, gano'n. I didn't get kilig at once. But it was perfect timing. He was the only man na nangungulit sa akin during that period. And charming, too. Who wouldn't fall in love with a Dolphy?"

It is common knowledge that Dolphy gravitated towards Zsa Zsa's orbit while he was still publicly committed to Alma. When Dolphy and Alma's relationship finally caved in, Dolphy and Zsa Zsa could no longer keep their bond a secret. The public, prodded even more by the media and the Catholic Church, condemned the couple for their alleged immoral union.

Zsa Zsa wrote the difficult times they shared together during the trying period which soon ended after Dolphy made a successful comeback via ABS-CBN's primetime comedy sitcom, Home Along Da Riles in 1992.

HONEST AND UPFRONT. According to Bibeth Orteza, Dolphy made it clear right from the start that he won't drag the names of most of the women he got involved with; particularly those who are leading private lives.

"Nananahimik naman na daw mostly kaya ayaw na niyang banggitin," admitted Bibeth to PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal) in a phone interview yesterday afternoon, July 28.

Like a true gentleman, Dolphy—out of respect and owing to his sincere intentions—refused to divulge the names of those whom he helped financially.

But Dolphy, shared Bibeth, was very honest throughout their conversations which would often start at mid-afternoon and last until midnight. "He's not guarded at all," she enthused. "Nagkukuwento lang siya and he's very candid and relaxed while talking about his past."

It also wasn't hard for Bibeth to convince Pilar, Lotis, and Zsa Zsa to share their points of view, which was very crucial in painting a more balanced portrait of Dolphy. In the case of Lotis, who is now based in the U.S., communication and information were exchanged through e-mail. As expected, all of them asked to see first the edited draft of their self-written piece to assess whether they missed out on something.

The feisty author, of course, would love to have Alma's participation in the project. "I wouldn't say I was disappointed," said Bibeth. "I mean, it would have been nice if she wrote a testimonial like the others. But I understand and respect her decision to decline."

The image of being a "babaero" in Filipino culture—much as it is still being revered by those still rooted in the so-called macho mentality—is being frowned at by modern thinkers. For Dolphy, the image of being a ladies' man is a double-edged sword he constantly struggled with throughout his lifetime.

"I've always seen the gentle side of him...very compassionate," said Bibeth whose first encounter with the Comedy King took place in 1987. "I'm not saying that I'm condoning his shortcomings but he's naturally a kind-hearted man."

Even Dolphy, according to Bibeth, was not proud of his past conquests. "Hindi niya ipinagmamalaki," she yelped. "Actually he's very sincere and consistent in saying na humihingi siya ng tawad kung may mga nasaktan man siya. Lagi niyang sinasabi na kung may nasaktan man siya, hindi niya talaga sinasadya."

Hindi Ko Ito Narating Mag-isa consists of 229 pages, complete with never before seen photos of the Comedy King together with friends, colleagues, and family.

Source: PEP

Melissa Ricks does not believe "sex video" and "gay-sex" rumor about Matt Evans

Itinanggi ng young star na si Melissa Ricks na may non-showbiz boyfriend siya nang makausap ng PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal) pagkatapos ng ASAP 08, kahapon, Linggo, July 27.

Sabi ni Melissa, "Paano akong magkakaroon ng boyfriend? E, wala ngangnanliligaw sa akin."

Baka naman kaya siya nagdi-deny ay para protektahan ang kanyang love team with Matt Evans?

"Hindi ako nagdi-deny lang. Kung halimbawang may boyfriend na nga ako, aaminin ko naman yun. Kaso wala talaga. Promise," pangungumbinsi pa ni Melissa sa PEP.

Hiwalay na si Matt kay Olyn Membian. Hindi ba nagpaparamdam sa kanya si Matt na gusto siya nito?

"Hindi siya nagpaparamdaman. Walang ganoon."

Paano kung one of these days ay ligawan siya ni Matt, may maaasahan ba ito sa kanya?

"What if? Hindi ko pa masasagot ang tanong na yan, e. Hindi ko pa alam kung ano'ng magiging reaction ko kung halimbawang manligaw nga siya sa akin."

Kung sakali bang makikipagrelasyon na siya, ano ang mas gusto niyang maging boyfriend, taga-showbiz or non-showbiz?

"Sa akin naman kahit sino. Ke taga-showbiz siya or non-showbiz, bastamabait, funny, at may paggalang sa parents ko," sagot ng ABS-CBN talent.

May usap-usapang may sex video si Matt, nakita na ba niya ito?

"Hindi ako aware na may sex video siya. At hindi ako naniniwala. Tsismis lang siguro yun!"

May tsismis din na noong hindi pa raw artista si Matt ay nagpatikim diumano ito sa isang bading. Naniniwala ba rito si Melissa?

"Lahat naman ng mga artistang lalaki na nagsisimula pa lang sa showbiz ay may ganyang tsismis, di ba? Basta hindi rin ako naniniwala na pumatol sa isang gay si Matt."

Paano kung totoo, pandidirihan niya ba si Matt?

"Kung halimbawang totoo, siguro ang masasabi ko na lang, past ispast."

Kasama si Melissa sa seryeng Iisa Pa Lamang. Gumaganap siya rito bilang nakababatang kapatid ni Diether Ocampo. Sa nasabing serye ay nag-two piece si Melissa. Kaya niya na rin bang mag-pose ng sexy sa isang men's magazine?

"Ay, ayoko! Hindi kaya ng powers ko yung ganoon. Hanggang sa TV langako magsusuot ng two-piece."

Source: PEP

Author Bibeth Orteza discovers Dolphy's greatness while writing his book

Sa mga panayam ng King of Comedy na si Dolphy, paulit-ulit niyang sinasabi ang pangalan ng anak na si Eric Quizon at ni Bibeth Orteza na siya raw naghirap para maging posible ang libro niya, Dolphy, Hindi Ko Ito Mararating Mag-isa.

Sa nakaraang book launching at 80th birthday celebration ng ace comedian na ginawa sa NBC Tent, dumating ang mga kilala at malalapit na tao kay Dolphy.

Sa panayam ng PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal) kay Bibeth, na may-akda ng libro, sinabi niyang ang presence ni Mang Dolphy sa industriya ang isa sa dahilan kung bakit sa kabila ng mga problema at mga pinagdadaanan ng ating bansa ay ipinagmamalaki pa rin niya ang pagiging isang Pilipino.

"Sana sa pamamamgitan ng librong ito, malaman ng sambayanang Pilipino kung sino talaga si Dolphy at kung ano talaga ang nagawa niya sa Pilipinas. Para sa akin, isa siya sa mga dahilan kung bakit patuloy kong ikinararangal na isa akong Pilipino despite of the ups and downs ng ating lahi," pahayag ni Bibeth.

Sa mga papuring tinanggap ng isinulat niyang libro, nagbiro pa sa amin si Bibeth na sa sobrang saya niya sa mainit na pagtanggap dito, pakiramdam niya ay tinubuan siya uli ng panibagong boobs pagkatapos itong alisin sa isang operasyon. (Si Bibeth ay isang breast cancer survivor.)

"Sa dami ng mga pumunta at nakisaya sa amin ngayong gabi, natutuwa ako dahil ibig sabihin nito na maraming bibili ng libro, marami ang makakaalam ng kuwento ng buhay ni Tito Dolphy. Ang kuwento ng buhay niya ay kuwento rin ng buhay ng Maynila, nakaktuwa na maraming makakabasa."

Sa pagsusulat niya sa autobiography ng Comedy King, marami raw nadiskubre si Bibeth na higit na nagpataas ng respeto at pagtingin niya sa hinahangaang komedyante.

"May mga bagay na talagang consistent siya tulad ng huwag manakit ng kapwa, ayaw niyang sabihin kung sino particular ang mga natulungan niya. Ayaw niya ring sabihin kung sinu-sino ang mga nakaniig niya kasi di siya kiss and tell, gentleman siya all throughout," pahayag ni Bibeth.

Source: PEP

Claudine and Angel Face Off on The Buzz

The Buzz aired a report regarding the rift between Angel and Claudine entitled “Intriga Uncensored.”

According to the report, Angel and Claudine settled their misunderstanding face to face together with some ABS-CBN executives. It was confirmed that Claudine and Angel met at the certain salon on July 4, 2008. The Buzz clarified that contrary to the rumors, “Walang sigawang nangyari. Walang nanipa ng kahit na anong gamit. Walang nagtaas ng boses.”

ABS-CBN also issued an official statement declaring that the two stars already settled their miscommunication.

Ironic to the segment title “Intriga Uncensored,” the Buzz opted not to go to the specifics. Some questions were left either unanswered or undisclosed like “Did Angel really told Claudine not to get insecure with her?” and “Did Claudine really told Angel that she’s not the princess of ABS-CBN, but Bea is.” Perhaps tackling these issues will only provoke more controversies.

Source: Starmometer

Ratings!!! TV Ratings (July 21-24) of AGB Neilsen (A GMA SURVEY?!?!?!?!)

Here are the comparative TV ratings of ABS-CBN and GMA-7 shows from July 21 to 24, based on the overnight ratings conducted by AGB Nielsen Philippines among Mega Manila households:

July 21 (Monday)

Non-Primetime:
SiS (GMA-7) 10.3%; Boy & Kris (ABS-CBN) 7.5%
Marimar (GMA-7) 16.5%; Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) 15.6%
Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) 20.7%; Wowowee (ABS-CBN) 17.5%
Daisy Siete (GMA-7) 19.3%; Magdusa Ka (GMA-7) 21.9%; Ligaw Na Bulaklak (ABS-CBN) 13.8%
Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan (GMA-7) 22.9%; El Cuerpo del Deseo (ABS-CBN) 17.9%; Las Tontas (ABS-CBN) 11.9%
Primetime:
Gobingo (GMA-7) 12.8%; Wheel of Fortune (ABS-CBN) 13.4%
24 Oras (GMA-7) 25.5%; TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) 22.2%
Codename: Asero (GMA-7) 35.4%; The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) 24%
Dyesebel (GMA-7) 38.2%; Iisa Pa Lamang (ABS-CBN) 24.2%
Ako Si Kim Samsoon (GMA-7) 28.6%; My Girl (ABS-CBN) 23.2%
Dalja’s Spring (GMA-7) 19.4%; Pinoy Dream Academy (ABS-CBN) 20.4%
Pinoy Idol Extra (GMA-7) 13.9%; Artificial Beauty (ABS-CBN) 14.3%
Kung Ako Ikaw (GMA-7) 11.1%; Bandila (ABS-CBN) 10.5%; Saksi (GMA-7) 10.3%

July 22 (Tuesday)

Non-Primetime:
SiS (GMA-7) 11.1%; Boy & Kris (ABS-CBN) 7.3%
Marimar (GMA-7) 12.6%; Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) 14.4%
Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) 21%; Wowowee (ABS-CBN) 17%
Daisy Siete (GMA-7) 20.8%; Magdusa Ka (GMA-7) 22.2%; Ligaw Na Bulaklak (ABS-CBN) 11.7%
Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan (GMA-7) 23.6%; El Cuerpo del Deseo (ABS-CBN) 17.4%; Las Tontas (ABS-CBN) 11.9%
Primetime:
Gobingo (GMA-7) 15.2%; Wheel of Fortune (ABS-CBN) 15.5%
24 Oras (GMA-7) 28.4%; TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) 24%
Codename: Asero (GMA-7) 35.4%; The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) 26.1%
Dyesebel (GMA-7) 38.2%; Iisa Pa Lamang (ABS-CBN) 27.1%
Ako Si Kim Samsoon (GMA-7) 28.3%; My Girl (ABS-CBN) 22.8%
Dalja’s Spring (GMA-7) 19.2%; Pinoy Dream Academy (ABS-CBN) 21%
Pinoy Idol Extra (GMA-7) 10.9%; Artificial Beauty (ABS-CBN) 13.7%
Kung Ako Ikaw (GMA-7) 11.4%; Bandila (ABS-CBN) 8.9%; Saksi (GMA-7) 8.3%

July 23 (Wednesday)

Non-Primetime:
SiS (GMA-7) 9.5%; Boy & Kris (ABS-CBN) 7.2%
Marimar (GMA-7) 14.9%; Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) 14.1%
Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) 19.6%; Wowowee (ABS-CBN) 15.1%
Daisy Siete (GMA-7) 19%; Magdusa Ka (GMA-7) 20.2%; Ligaw Na Bulaklak (ABS-CBN) 10.3%
Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan (GMA-7) 20.6%; El Cuerpo del Deseo (ABS-CBN) 14.4%; Las Tontas (ABS-CBN) 11.6%
Primetime:
Gobingo (GMA-7) 13.2%; Wheel of Fortune (ABS-CBN) 14%
24 Oras (GMA-7) 28%; TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) 20.3%
Codename: Asero (GMA-7) 34.4%; The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) 23.9%
Dyesebel (GMA-7) 37.7%; Iisa Pa Lamang (ABS-CBN) 23.9%
Ako Si Kim Samsoon (GMA-7) 29.4%; My Girl (ABS-CBN) 22%
Dalja’s Spring (GMA-7) 18.3%; Pinoy Dream Academy (ABS-CBN) 19.3%
Pinoy Idol Extra (GMA-7) 12.2%; Artificial Beauty (ABS-CBN) 13.1%
Kung Ako Ikaw (GMA-7) 10.9%; Bandila (ABS-CBN) 8.9%; Saksi (GMA-7) 7.6%

July 24 (Thursday)

Non-Primetime:
SiS (GMA-7) 7.6%; Boy & Kris (ABS-CBN) 8.6%
Marimar (GMA-7) 14.7%; Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) 15.9%
Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) 20.6%; Wowowee (ABS-CBN) 18.4%
Daisy Siete (GMA-7) 18.4%; Magdusa Ka (GMA-7) 21.3%; Ligaw Na Bulaklak (ABS-CBN) 14.4%
Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan (GMA-7) 19.1%; El Cuerpo del Deseo (ABS-CBN) 18%; Las Tontas (ABS-CBN) 12.9%
Primetime:
Gobingo (GMA-7) 16.6%; Wheel of Fortune (ABS-CBN) 17.8%
24 Oras (GMA-7) 29.3%; TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) 24.9%
Codename: Asero (GMA-7) 33.3%; The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) 24.1%
Dyesebel (GMA-7) 34.8%; Iisa Pa Lamang (ABS-CBN) 25.9%
Ako Si Kim Samsoon (GMA-7) 26.4%; My Girl (ABS-CBN) 23.7%
Dalja’s Spring (GMA-7) 18.7%; Pinoy Dream Academy (ABS-CBN) 22%

Here are the Top 10 daytime and primetime programs from July 21 to 24 based on the overnight ratings conducted by AGB Nielsen Philippines among Mega Manila households:

July 21 (Monday)
Daytime:
1. Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan (GMA-7) - 22.9%2. Magdusa Ka (GMA-7) - 21.9%3. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 20.7%4. Daisy Siete (GMA-7) - 19.3%5. El Cuerpo del Deseo (ABS-CBN) - 17.9%6. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 17.5%7. Marimar (GMA-7) - 16.5%8. Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) - 15.6%9. Ligaw Na Bulaklak (ABS-CBN) - 13.8%10. Las Tontas (ABS-CBN) - 11.9%
Primetime:
1. Dyesebel (GMA-7) - 38.2%2. Codename: Asero (GMA-7) - 35.4%3. Ako Si Kim Samsoon (GMA-7) - 28.6%4. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 25.5%5. Iisa Pa Lamang (ABS-CBN) - 24.2%6. The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) - 24%7. My Girl (ABS-CBN) - 23.2%8. TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) - 22.2%9. Pinoy Dream Academy (ABS-CBN) - 20.4%10. Dalja’s Spring (GMA-7) - 19.4%

July 22 (Tuesday)
Daytime:
1. Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan (GMA-7) - 23.6%2. Magdusa Ka (GMA-7) - 22.2%3. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 21%4. Daisy Siete (GMA-7) - 20.8%5. El Cuerpo del Deseo (ABS-CBN) - 17.4%6. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 17%7. Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) - 14.4%8. Marimar (GMA-7) - 12.6%9. Las Tontas (ABS-CBN) - 11.9%10. Ligaw Na Bulaklak (ABS-CBN) - 11.7%
Primetime:
1. Dyesebel (GMA-7) - 38.2%2. Codename: Asero (GMA-7) - 35.4%3. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 28.4%4. Ako Si Kim Samsoon (GMA-7) - 28.3%5. Iisa Pa Lamang (ABS-CBN) - 27.1%6. The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) - 26.1%7. TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) - 24%8. My Girl (ABS-CBN) - 22.8%9. Pinoy Dream Academy (ABS-CBN) - 21%10. Dalja’s Spring (GMA-7) - 19.2%

July 23 (Wednesday)
Daytime:
1. Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan (GMA-7) - 20.6%2. Magdusa Ka (GMA-7) - 20.2%3. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 19.6%4. Daisy Siete (GMA-7) - 19%5. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 15.1%6. Marimar (GMA-7) - 14.9%7. El Cuerpo del Deseo (ABS-CBN) - 14.4%8. Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) - 14.1%9. Las Tontas (ABS-CBN) - 11.6%10. Ligaw Na Bulaklak (ABS-CBN) - 10.3%
Primetime:
1. Dyesebel (GMA-7) - 37.7%2. Codename: Asero (GMA-7) - 34.4%3. Ako Si Kim Samsoon (GMA-7) - 29.4%4. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 28%5. The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) / Iisa Pa Lamang (ABS-CBN) - 23.9%6. My Girl (ABS-CBN) - 22%7. TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) - 20.3%8. Pinoy Dream Academy (ABS-CBN) - 19.3%9. Dalja’s Spring (GMA-7) - 18.3%10. Wheel of Fortune (ABS-CBN) - 14%

July 24 (Thursday)
Daytime:
Daytime:
1. Magdusa Ka (GMA-7) - 21.3%2. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 20.6%3. Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan (GMA-7) - 19.1%4. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) / Daisy Siete (GMA-7) - 18.4%5. El Cuerpo del Deseo (ABS-CBN) - 18%6. Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) - 15.9%7. Marimar (GMA-7) - 14.7%8. Ligaw Na Bulaklak (ABS-CBN) - 14.4%9. Las Tontas (ABS-CBN) - 12.9%10. Boy & Kris (ABS-CBN) - 8.6%
Primetime:
1. Dyesebel (GMA-7) - 34.8%2. Codename: Asero (GMA-7) - 33.3%3. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 29.3%4. Ako Si Kim Samsoon (GMA-7) - 26.4%5. Iisa Pa Lamang (ABS-CBN) - 25.9%6. TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) - 24.9%7. The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) - 24.1%8. My Girl (ABS-CBN) - 23.7%9. Pinoy Dream Academy (ABS-CBN) - 22%10. Dalja’s Spring (GMA-7) - 18.7%

Source: Starmometer

"PDA" expelled scholar Bea Muñoz ready "to let go" of boyfriend Miguel Mendoza

Nilinaw ng Pinoy Dream Academy (PDA) ex-scholar na si Bea Muñoz ang balitang tatapusin na niya ang kanyang relasyon sa naiwang boyfriend sa loob ng Academy na si Miguel Mendoza sa panayam sa kanya ng The Buzz noong Linggo, July 20.

Parehong nominado for expulsion ang magkarelasyong Bea at Miguel last week, pero si Bea ang na-expel. Bago nangyari ang nominasyon, madalas na ang tampuhan nina Bea at Miguel sa loob ng Academy. Minsan na rin pinagselosan ni Bea ang isa sa mga scholar na si Apple.

Hindi rin nagustuhan ng iba ang pag-uugali ni Bea sa loob ng Academy at nang minsang nakasagutan niya ang isa pang scholar na si Laarni, kinampihan pa ni Miguel si Laarni. Hanggang sa Gala Night ng PDA noong Sabado, July 19, kitang-kita sa video ang pagiging mailap nina Bea at Miguel sa isa't isa.

Unang tanong ng The Buzz host na si Cristy Fermin kay Bea ay ang tungkol sa pagiging "brat" daw niya sa loob ng Academy dahil lumaki siya sa isang nakaririwasang pamilya.

"Hindi po. They commonly judge me on the way I look and the way I act po. Hindi po talaga ako brat. It's just pagka-unang kita mo sa akin, akala mo brat ako dahil po sa kung saan ako galing," pagtatanggol ni Bea sa sarili.

Nagpaliwanag din si Bea sa obserbasyon ng iba na tiningnan niya nang masama si Miguel pagktapos i-announce ang kanyang pangalan na siyang mae-expel sa loob ng Academy.

"Sa totoo po, bago pa lang nung na-probation kaming dalawa, naging cold na po kami sa isa't isa for the reason na kung ilapit namin ang aming sarili sa isa't isa, mahirap pong mag-let go," saad ng aspiring singer.

Hindi naman daw ibig sabihin ng "let go" niya ay may plano na siyang makipaghiwalay nang tuluyan kay Miguel na karelasyon na niya since first year high school pa lang sila.

"Hindi po," mabilis na sagot ni Bea. "Just to let go kasi eventually one of us have to go [out of the academy] and one of us have to let go."

Ngayong wala na siya sa loob ng Academy, posible na makuha ng ibanng female scholars ang atensyon ni Miguel. Ano ang masasabi ni Bea rito?

"Sa totoo po, ini-entertain ko yung decision ni Miguel kasi, di ba po, naging isyu yung open relationship? Sa tagal po namin ni Miguel, pinag-isipan namin na maging open dahil pareho kaming nangangarap pumasok sa showbiz. So, mahirap po na maging seryoso kayo sa isa't isa ‘tapos masaktan lang kami sa mga issues."

Naging vocal din ang ina ni Bea na si Mrs. Trinidad Muñoz na hindi niya papayagan ang anak na pasukin ang showbiz. Aasikasuhin daw muna nilang mag-ina ang bumalik sa eskuwela si Bea.

"Hindi naman po sa ayaw nila. Pero gusto po nila na tapusin ko ang pag-aaral ko. Papasok po ako next semester," sabi ni Bea.

Nagbigay rin ng kanyang saloobin si Bea kung sino para sa kanya ang dapat manalo sa PDA.

"Sa akin po si Bugoy po. Very humble po talaga. Kasi wala siyang training. Alam po niya ang dapat niyang gawin and madali po siyang maka-pick-up. Yung personality niya, very kind among all other scholars sa loob ng Academy. So I think Bugoy should win," pagtatapos ni Bea.

Source: PEP

Claudine Barretto says she can't ask for more with the arrival of Santino

Masayang-masaya si Claudine Barretto sa ginanap na dedication at first birthday celebration ng bunsong anak nila ni Raymart Santiago na si Santino. Ginanap ito sa Blue Leaf sa The Fort, Taguig City noong Linggo, July 20.

Sa dedication ni Santino, kabilang sa kanyang mga ninong at ninang sina Kris Aquino, Edu Manzano, Robin Padilla, Diether Ocampo, at Piolo Pascual. Mula simula hanggang matapos ang dedication ay pinaligiran si Santino ng mga mahal sa buhay nina Claudine at Raymart, kasama ng mga anak nila sa pinakamahalagang araw sa buhay ng kanilang pamilya.

"He's such a blessing given unto us. Akala namin yung kay Sabina, okey na okey na. Pero siyempre nung dumating si Santino, parang sobrang masaya. I can't ask for more. Wala na akong mahihiling pang iba," pahayag ni Claudine.

Wish naman ni Raymart para sa anak, "Maging mabait siya katulad ko. Hahaha!"

Sinang-ayunan naman ito ni Claudine.

"Hindi, sana. Sana rin talaga you grow up like your dad. At sinasabi ko rin kay Sabina na, ‘Sana makahanap ka ng asawa balang araw na kagaya ng tatay mo.'"

Dumating din sa okasyon ang nakatatandang kapatid ni Claudine na si Gretchen Barretto. Pero imbes na si Gretchen ang kinuhang ninang para kay Santino nina Claudine at Raymart, ang anak ng controversial actress na si Dominique ang kanilang napili.

Samantala, kung walang uurong at hindi magkakaproblema, nakatakda ngayong araw, July 22, ang pakikipagharap ni Claudine at Angel Locsin sa isang undisclosed meeting na inayos ng kampo ng dalawang aktres.

Matatandaang nagkaroon ng sigalot sa pagitan nina Claudine at Angel nang minsang magkita sila sa isang salon.

Ayon sa aming source, naunang nagpahayag ng pakikipag-ayos si Claudine kay Angel. Very much welcome naman daw ang bagay na ito para kay Angel.

Source: PEP

Riza Santos talks about working with Dolphy and Vic Sotto

During the weekend, it was reported that dethroned FHM back-to-back Sexiest Woman winner Katrina Halili was snubbed by this year's new entry and Pinoy Big Brother alumna Riza Santos while they were at the backstage of the FHM Sexiest Women of the World victory party. The annual special event was held at the World Trade Center in Pasay City last Thursday, July 17.

"Nagbibihis po ako doon sa CR, tapos nakita ko siya [Riza] at nginitian ko siya," recalled Katrina to StarTalk's Butch Francisco last Saturday, July 19. According to Katrina, Riza simply stared at her without uttering a single word.

"Ang sama ng tingin niya," Katrina lamented, "nagulat ako. Sabi ko ‘Ano ba ‘yan?"

Riza allegedly gave Alyssa Alano and LJ Reyes the same cold treatment. "Ay nagulat nga po ako na siya din pala!" yelped Katrina. "Sabi din ni LJ na siya din, sinungitan daw."

BAPTISM OF FIRE. Riza already gave her side of the story. She said that she had no intention of snubbing Katrina and the other Kapuso stars. She was just busy at that moment and she had no time to greet the other celebrities present.

In this year's FHM final tally, Riza entered the list at No. 18 while Alyssa notched the 88th spot. Katrina, on the other hand, fell short of No. 1 which went to Marian Rivera.

Before the talked-about incident, PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal) had the chance to chat with Riza during the special press conference tendered by the popular men's magazine a few hours before the actual program.

Being a new entry, and at No. 18 at that was very flattering, according to Riza. The Fil-Canadian stunner posed for FHM in its October 2007 issue. As an initiation of sorts, Riza was asked by the production team to render a dance number at the party, together with neophyte cover girls Precious Adona, Nina Jose and Hazel Ann Mendoza.

Talking about the production number, Riza shared, "Merong lifts and hindi ako masyadong experienced sa lifting kasi ‘yong dance background ko nasa hip-hop dance."

The rehearsal was a one-day affair with Riza and company having to learn the dance number in two hours as allotted by the production staff.

It was Riza's first time to attend the annual event although she mentioned that she heard some stories in the past particularly, "Noong No. 1 si Katrina Halili," she quipped, completely unaware that they would figure in a controversy later that evening.

"Pero I haven't been in the Philippines for a year now. It's coming two years on August so ngayon nakita ko ‘yong mga events para sa FHM."

POLISHING HER TAGALOG. If FHM was Riza's biggest break in terms of print exposure, there is no doubt that her biggest break when it comes to acting is her soon to be shown movie with two local comedian titans, Vic Sotto and Dolphy, titled Dobol Trobol.

"Actually tapos na ‘yong shooting. Pero masaya sa set kasi di ba kasama ko si Tito Dolphy, kasama ko si Bossing Vic, who are the greatest comedians of all time here in the Philippines. Ever day going to work sa set, nakakatuwa, nakakatawa sila. Very entertaining sila and their comedy is very wholesome pero sobrang nakakatawa," beamed Riza.

The former Ms. Earth Canada 2006 continues to struggle with her Tagalog. Curiously, Riza's dialogue in the movie was predominantly in Tagalog, "Pero medyo may Taglish pa rin," she smiled.

Riza added, "Noon medyo nahihirapan ako sa Tagalog pero ngayon nasasanay na ko. She candidly confessed that the time she usually allots on her Tagalog language lessons suffered because of her work schedule and other commitments.

"Kapag wala akong trabaho nagli-lessons ako," revealed Riza, "maybe once a week [or] once every two weeks so medyo bihira."

Source: PEP

Ratings!!! TV Ratings (July 18-20) from AGB Neilsen (A GMA Survey?!?!?!)

Here are the comparative TV ratings of ABS-CBN and GMA-7 shows from July 18 to 20 based on the overnight ratings conducted by AGB Nielsen Philippines among Mega Manila households:

July 18 (Friday)
Non-Primetime:
SiS (GMA-7) 9.5%; Boy & Kris (ABS-CBN) 8.9%
Marimar (GMA-7) 16.8%; Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) 15.3%
Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) 20.6%; Wowowee (ABS-CBN) 16%
Daisy Siete (GMA-7) 20.6%; Magdusa Ka (GMA-7) 22.9%; Ligaw Na Bulaklak (ABS-CBN) 13.5%
Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan (GMA-7) 21.5%; El Cuerpo del Deseo (ABS-CBN) 19%

Primetime:
Gobingo (GMA-7) 15.2%; Wheel of Fortune (ABS-CBN) 14%
24 Oras (GMA-7) 29.3%; TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) 21.9%
Codename: Asero (GMA-7) 36.1%; The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) 25.1%; Iisa Pa Lamang(ABS-CBN) 22.7%
Dyesebel (GMA-7) 38.3%; My Girl (ABS-CBN) 22.5%
Ako Si Kim Samsoon (GMA-7) 28.6%; Pinoy Dream Academy (ABS-CBN) 23.3%
Dalja's Spring (GMA-7) 22.9%; Daboy Sa ABS-CBN (ABS-CBN) 14.1%; Pinoy Idol Extra (GMA-7) 19%
Bubble Gang (GMA-7) 16.6%; Bandila (ABS-CBN) 6.2%; Saksi (GMA-7) 9.2%

July 19 (Saturday)
Non-Primetime:
Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) 10.9%; Takeshi's Castle (GMA-7) 12.6%
Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) 23.4%; Wowowee (ABS-CBN) 17.1%
StarTalk (GMA-7) 13.8%; Entertainment Live (ABS-CBN) 12.2%
Wish Ko Lang (GMA-7) 14.2%; Cinema FPJ (ABS-CBN) 13.7%
Pinoy Records (GMA-7) 15.5%; That's My Doc (ABS-CBN) 11.3%

Primetime:
Pinoy Idol (GMA-7) 21.9%; Kapitan Boom (ABS-CBN) 20.2%
Bitoy's Funniest Videos (GMA-7) 24.3%; Pinoy Dream Academy (ABS-CBN) 25.4%
Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (GMA-7) 27.5%; Maalaala Mo Kaya (ABS-CBN) 19.4%
Imbestigador (GMA-7) 23.9%; XXX (ABS-CBN) 16.2%
Songbird (GMA-7) 20.2%; TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) 10.2%
Sine Totoo (ABS-CBN) 11.8%; Sports Unlimited (ABS-CBN) 4.3%; Walang Tulugan With Master Showman (GMA-7) 3.1%

July 20 (Sunday)
Non-Primetime:
Bakbakan (ABS-CBN) 9.3%; Takeshi's Castle (GMA-7) 13.2%
SOP (GMA-7) 15.5%; ASAP ‘08 (ABS-CBN) 16%
Pinoy Idol Extra (GMA-7) 12.4%; Your Song (ABS-CBN) 12%; Dear Friend (gma-7) 13%
Showbiz Central (GMA-7) 12.2%; The Buzz (ABS-CBN) 9.7%

Primetime:
Kap's Amazing Stories (GMA-7) 18.3%; Rated K (ABS-CBN) 15.5%
Pinoy Idol (GMA-7) 22.4%; Goin' Bulilit (ABS-CBN) 17.2%
Mel & Joey (GMA-7) 24%; Pinoy Dream Academy: Little Dreamers (ABS-CBN) 21.2%
All Star K (GMA-7) 20.1%; Sharon (ABS-CBN) 16.4%
Ful Haus (GMA-7) 15.9%; TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) 13.2%
SNBO (GMA-7) 12.9%; Sunday's Best (ABS-CBN) 8.8%

Source: PEP