Pacquiao in a Contract Violation

The news about Manny Pacquiao's transfer to ABS-CBN disappointed both Solar Sports and GMA-7. Although GMA-7 notes that the contract for the airing of Pacquiao's fights is between the boxer and Solar Sports, they would still like to enforce their contract with the People's Champ.

In a letter acquired by PEP, GMA-7 states that Manny Pacquiao still has an existing contract with the network where it is cited that Pacquiao "shall not appear on any television program, show, promotion or event of any broadcast media entity other than GMA and its subsidiaries and affiliates without the written consent of GMA."

Oh well, he just did a couple of nights ago by announcing on TV Patrol World that he's transferring networks!

Perhaps the rumors that ABS-CBN promised Pacquiao to help him in the 2010 polls is true. I don't know about that, but if it is true, would we vote for someone who can't fulfill his contract obligations?

Just my opinion, though.

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American Idol 8 Says Goodbye To Alexis Grace

Bottom two of American Idol 8's Country Week are Michael Sarver and Alexis Grace. Too bad, though, because one of our favorites, Alexis Grace, is the one going home.

Even before the final verdict is announced, the judges say that they would like to use "Judges Save" on one of the bottom two. When Alexis is announced as the one going home, the judges say it's her they consider saving. She performed her song once again but it isn't good enough for the judges. Alexis has to go home.

This just proves that the Top 4 rumor is not true.

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Survivor Philippines Season 2

The last leg of Survivor Philippines 2 audition is now being held in SM Davao. PEP reports that Paolo Bediones, who turned 35 last March 17, personally went there to be present especially in the press conference given by GMA-7.

The first season of Survivor Philippines was so successful they had to follow it up with season 2 so as not to lose momentum. Paolo says, "The franchise was so impressed that we were able to do the preparation in just four months. Normally, they're doing it in other countries in nine months. Kaya when we presented our plan for the second season, in-approve nila.

"Most of the challenges for the second season are all original na kasi, proudly Filipino made, so to speak. Dumaan ito sa butas ng karayom when we presented it. This one might work, this one you have to rethink."

The Survivor Philippines team is also said to be doing more precautions where confidentiality is concerned. It can be noted that even before season one ends, rumors had it that JC will win.

They don't want that to happen again. "Kaya sa GA [general assembly], pag-uusapan ulit namin ang confidentiality agreement. We need to point out the importance of keeping a secret, not just sa castaways but also sa production" the reality show host further said.

As to where the location of season 2 is, the goodlooking host keeps his mum about it.

Photo Credit: SurvivorPhilippines.tv

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Charice Pempengco in a Hollywood Movie

OMG! Charice Pempengco in an international movie produced by Fox? Now that's something. Good things are really lined up for the young diva. Her first album, though yet to be released, is now followed by an acting job.

ABS-CBN News reports that Charice flew back to Los Angeles after a two-week stay here to finish her album and to start shooting her first Hollywood film. The singer (and actress), careful not to divulge so much about the film, says "’Yong story niya umiikot sa tatlong animated characters."

Wow. It's something for us to so look forward to.

Photo Credit: sutenm.com

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Manny Pacquiao Transfers To ABS-CBN

Manny Pacquiao transfers to ABS-CBN. That's what he said via TV Patrol World a while ago. This is in time for Pacquiao's fight with Hatton happening on May 2, 2009. And I believe that it is done so that Charice Pempengco could sing the national anthem before the fight. Charice had been heard talking about her "dream" to do it in DJ Mo's Good Times with Mo in radio's DWTM.

After being in GMA-7 for quite sometime, the boxing champ goes back to ABS-CBN. I wonder what would happen to Pinoy Records. Will Chris Tiu continue with it alone? He'd been doing the hosting alone for quite some time now, anyway.

The question is, would the "transfer" bring Manny more luck?

Photo Credit: rafaelmartel.com

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PDA Little Dreamers on its 2nd Season

Pinoy Dream Academy Little Dreamers, won by Philip Nolasco, was so successful that the show is going to have a second season.

For those interested to join, here are the audition schedules:

March 1 - Lipa City Colleges, Batangas 9AM-3PM
March 3 and 4 - Porta Vaga Mall, Baguio City 9AM-3PM
March 8 - Holy Angels University, Angeles City, Pampanga 9AM-3PM

Qualifications:
5-9 years old
No need to bring any requirement

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A New Sitcom for Juday and Ryan

Real life sweethearts Judy Ann Santos and Ryan Agoncillo will play husband and wife in the upcoming sitcom from ABS-CBN, Rocky George and Cecil. Juday here is a policewoman named Rocky George while Ryan is named Cecil (short for Cecilio) who is a teacher.

Rocky George and Cecil also stars Tessie Tomas and Dino Imperial. Jose Javier Reyes directs.

Photo Credit: PEP.ph

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Charice Pempengco - "Fingerprint"

Charice Pempengco is really being prepared for the big scene. This is the whole "Fingerprint" song, the one that had "technical problems" during the Oscars after party at Mr. Chow.



Watching her perform gives us goosebumps.

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GMA-7's "Rosalinda" Adaptation

It has been formally announced that Carla Abellana will play the lead role in the Filipino adaptation of Rosalinda, a Mexican television series. Rosalinda originally starred Thalia who also did the original Marimar.

Many thought that it would be Marian Rivera for Rosalinda since she was the one who starred in the Filipino adaptation of Marimar, but GMA has eyes fixed on the pretty Carla Abellana.

Carla is the daughter of the 80s heartthrob Rey 'PJ' Abellana. She has done various commercials in the past before auditioning for the role of Zorro's leading lady. She didn't get to be in Zorro, though, but she got Rosalinda instead.

GMA must have seen such great potentials in her to be entrusted with this big a project, not to mention the lead, for her very first acting job.

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Eugene Domingo and Anjo Yllana Host "Cool Center"

Eugene Domingo and Anjo Yllana will host a new show in GMA-7 which starts tomorrow at 11 pm to 12 mn right before Walang Tulugan with the Master Showman. Titled Cool Center, the show has a number of segments which mostly include live phone callers.

Eugene admits she's a fan of radio's Mo Twister, and says she can now do what her favorite DJ does on the radio because Cool Center is very much like a radio show, though, aired on television. And much like radio shows, they will also be giving away prizes to the lucky numbers they will randomly pick.

Knowing how fun Eugene and Anjo are, we're sure Cool Center will be a blast.

Photo Credit: iGMA.tv

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Ai ai delas Alas Stays Longer in the Hospital

Ai ai delas Alas will stay in the hospital longer than she thought she would. She said Tuesday that her doctors said she might be able to go back to Ruffa and Ai Thursday. But that was before they found out that she's suffering from acute pyelonephritis and acute gastritis (acute kidney infection and inflammation of the stomach).

The comedienne will have to be confined longer at the Far Eastern University-Nicanor Reyes Medical Foundation Hospital (FEU-NRMF) for the proper administration of medicines.

Ai ai was seen on Ruffa and Ai this morning via remote broadcast where she danced that opening dance number while she was still on the hospital bed. Nurses and other hospital staff beside the bed danced with her.

The beautiful and refined Charlene Gonzales is still temporarily taking Ai ai's place in the said morning show.

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Geoff Eigenmann Signs Contract With GMA

Geoff Eigenmann signed a contract with GMA 7 yesterday, March 11, 2009. No more a Kapamilya, Geoff says he left ABS-CBN peacefully, not burning any bridges. He doesn't have any existing contract with ABS-CBN, anyway, so he's free to sign with GMA. With regards to Star Magic, he says he was co-managed by the said management arm of ABS-CBN, but he never signed any contract regarding that.

Present in the contract signing were his mother, actress Gina Alajar, his manager Perry Lansingan, GMA execs Atty. Felipe Gozon, Mr. Jimmy Duavit, and Ms. Wilma Galvante.

Geoff says he feels very good to be coming back to the Kapuso network, where he actually started his career. He also says that he didn't transfer because of lack of projects because ABS-CBN offered him an acting job even before the talks of his transfer to GMA came about. But as his manager says, they accepted the Obra role instead.

Speaking of Obra, Geoff says he doesn't mind if he wasn't the first choice for the role. It can be noted that it was first given to JC de Vera, but his manager had to pull him out of the project. It landed on his lap, according to Geoff, and he will do whatever he can to give justice to the role.

He's talking like he really loves his craft. A role is a role and an actor will shine in whatever role he's in if he gives it his all. He's a son of two serious actors, anyway. What can we expect?

And is Geoff worried about getting enough projects now that he's with GMA? The answer is no. He is sure GMA will take a very good care of him.

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American Idol 8 Says Goodbye To Jasmine and Jorge

So now we know what that much talked about change that will alter the entire show is - the Judges Save. The judges will have a chance to save one eliminated contestant, though, just once until the Top 5. Quite thrilling, but that is, until the week following the "save" where two contestants will be eliminated.

Much ado with that, because the judges didn't use the Judges Save this week where two had to go. And we're so sad that one of our favorites was one of them. Jasmine Murray and Jorge Nuñez were eliminated in tonight's show. We love Jasmine but yeah, she's one of the weakest singers among the Top 13. But Jorge Nuñez? I think he's more deserving of the spot than Anoop Desai.

But, oh well, America voted. And after 33 million votes, Jasmine and Jorge had to go.

Kanye West and Kelly Clarkson were the guests in tonight's show. Kanye sang Heartless. He was okay. One blogger called the performance robotic. And yeah it was quite robotic. Kelly, on the other hand, gave a great performance with My Life Would Suck Without You.

Anyway, below are Jasmine Murray and Jorge Nuñez's Top 13 performances:
Jasmine Murray's I'll Be There


Jorge Nuñez's Never Can Say Goodbye

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American Idol 8: Top 13's "Michael Jackson" Night

It was a fairly good night for the contestants, with more shining moments than boo boos. We personally like Adam Lambert, Megan Joy, Allison Iraheta, Alexis Grace and Jasmine Murray's performances to that order.

Adam Lambert is such a performer. Those years in theater really honed his confidence onstage. With his rendition of Black and White Paula Abdul even said that in all the seven seasons of that show, they had never seen any other contestant as confident onstage as Adam. And she's kinda sure they'll see Adam right to the end. Love the girl.

What's we like about Megan Joy is her refreshing appeal and distinct vocals. It looked like she really enjoyed singing Rockin' Robin. She has that style that you'd like to listen to coupled with the little dance she does onstage. She's so adorable.

The rocker Allison Iraheta rocked the house with her version of Give In To Me. Randy even commented that she can sing any song (of any genre). Kara also liked her high notes, she almost felt the walls closing in when Allison hit them.

Alexis Grace sang Dirty Diana. A lot of rocker in this season and compared to Allison, Alexis' voice has a different texture. But we're almost sure her problem would mostly be her song choice.

The last of our favorites is Jasmine Murray who did her own version of I'll Be There. Her notes was quite good. Steady is more like it, and the judges liked her performance - that's the important thing.

Here's the complete song list of the Top 13:

Lil Rounds - The Way You Make Me Feel
Scott MacIntyre - Keep the Faith
Danny Gokey - Pretty Young Thing
Michael Sarver - You Are Not Alone
Jasmine Murray - I'll Be There
Kris Allen - Do You Remember The Time
Allison Iraheta - Give In To Me
Anoop Desai - Beat It
Jorge Nuñez - Never Can Say Goodbye
Megan Joy - Rockin' Robin
Adam Lambert - Black and White
Matt Giraud - Human Nature
Alexis Grace - Dirty Diana

Who goes tomorrow? We can only guess. And what is it that they will announce tomorrow that Ryan Seacrest said will alter the entire show? Simon hinted, though, that it has something to do with the judges.

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Yet Another "Laida and Miggy" Chapter

The cast and crew of the blockbuster movie You Changed My Life had a victory party last Monday, March 9, 2009. It was in the said event when Star Cinema Managing Director, Malou Santos, announced that the story of Laida and Miggy will have a three-quel next year.

Sarah Geronimo was quite nervous about it for she knew that greater expectations would be bestowed upon her this time, noting the fact that You Changed My Life even surpassed the success of the first movie, A Very Special Love.

On the other hand, John Lloyd Cruz felt a little sad because it would still be a long wait until he could work with the movie's cast and crew again.

But hey, a year is not that long!

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Francis Magalona's Remains Cremated

Francis Magalona's remains were cremated Wednesday dawn at the Funeraria Paz in Quezon City. His ashes will be laid to rest after a 9 a.m. mass.

The Master Rapper of the Philippines was diagnosed with ACL (Acute Myeloid Leukemia) last year and battled with the disease for almost eight months. He died of multiple organ failure 12:20 p.m. on March 6, 2009 at the age of 44.

It was announced a few days ago that he would be posthumously awarded a Presidential Medal of Merit by the Malacañang Palace for promoting nationalism in his works.

There are also talks that he would have a National Artist nomination but it has to wait because nominations for this year's National Artist is already closed. Nominations are done every 3 years.

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Charlene Gonzales Replaces Ai-Ai delas Alas on "Ruffa and Ai"

Singer/comedienne Ai ai delas Alas was rushed to the Far Eastern University Hospital in Quezon City after feeling stomach pains. She says she also had a fever and felt stressed out, factors that she could have gotten from her trip to Japan.

Ai ai says she used to have stomach problems, and the Japanese foods - which are raw in majority - might have triggered it back.

The blockbuster star of "Tanging Ina N'yong Lahat" is being temporarily replaced by Charlene Gonzales in the daily morning show "Ruffa and Ai."

Ai ai delas Alas hopes to be back on the show on Thursday.

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JC de Vera Still a Kapuso

JC de Vera remains a Kapuso as his manager, Annabelle Rama, talked out her issues with GMA 7's bigwigs, Atty. Felipe Gozon and Annette Gozon Abrogar. PEP reports that Atty Gozon explained to the manager that the option to renew JC de Vera's contract was with GMA and not on the artist/manager's part. It's stated in his contract that GMA has the option to extend his contract a year more after it has expired.

"Atty. Gozon explained to Annabelle Rama that in the issue of casting talents, if there are any concerns from the talents themselves or their managers, they can always reason out with the Network and the Network will listen to what they have to say. The final decision, however, shall always rest with the Network."

On the other hand, regarding the word war between Rama and Ms. Wilma Galvante, SVP of GMA Network, Atty. Gozon says he could not stop Ms. Galvante if she would want to file a case against Rama.

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6th Golden Screen Awards Nominees

Ploning and Boses dominate nominations of the 6th Golden Screen Awards which will happen on April 30 at the Metro Bar in West Avenue, Quezon City.

Both Ploning and Boses got 12 nominations each, including the Best Motion Picture (Drama) award. Other movies competing for the category are Brutus, Concerto, Jay, 100 at Yanggaw.

Here's the complete list of nominees:

Best Motion Picture—Drama
100 (Martinez-Rivera Films)
Boses (Erasteo Films Production)
Brutus (Bonfire Productions)
Concerto (Digital Spirit Films)
Jay (Pasion Para Pelicula Productions)
Ploning (Panoramanila Pictures)
Yanggaw (Strawdogs Studio Production Films)

Best Motion Picture—Musical or Comedy
A Very Special Love (Star Cinema)
Fuchsia (APT Entertainment)
My BestFriend's Girlfriend (GMA Films/ Regal Films)

Best Motion Picture—Animation
Dayo (Cutting Edge Production)
Urduja (APT Entertainment )

Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role—Drama
Sharon Cuneta (Caregiver)
Mylene Dizon (100)
Anita Linda (Adela)
Judy Ann Santos (Ploning)
Jodi Sta. Maria (Sisa)
Dawn Zulueta (Magkaibigan)

Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role—Drama
Carlo Aquino (Carnivore)
Jay Aquitania (Concerto)
Christopher de Leon (Magkaibigan)
Baron Geisler (Jay)
Ronnie Lazaro (Yanggaw)
Jericho Rosales (Baler)
Yul Servo (Torotot)

Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role—Musical or Comedy
Ai-Ai delas Alas (Ang Tanging Ina N'yong Lahat)
Sarah Geronimo (A Very Special Love)
Toni Gonzaga (My Only U)
Ruffa Gutierrez (My Monster Mom)
Marian Rivera (My Best Friend's Girlfriend)
Boots Anson Roa (Love Birds)
Gloria Romero (Fuchsia)

Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role—Musical or Comedy
Robert Arevalo (Fuchsia)
John Lloyd Cruz (A Very Special Love)
Eddie Garcia (Fuchsia)
Sam Milby (My Big Love)

Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role—Drama, Musical or Comedy
Tetchie Agbayani (Yanggaw)
Mylene Dizon (Ploning)
Eugene Domingo (100)
Cherry Pie Picache (Boses)
Flor Salanga (Jay)
Tessie Tomas (100)

Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role—Drama, Musical or Comedy
Ricky Davao (Boses)
John Estrada (Caregiver)
Emilio Garcia (Walang Kawala)
Coco Martin (Jay)
Yul Servo (Brutus)

Breakthrough Performance by ang Actress
Yna Asistio (Concerto)
KC Concepcion (For The First Time)
Rhea Medina (Brutus)
Chariz Solomon (My Best Friend's Girlfriend)

Breakthrough Performance by ang Actor
Cedric Amit (Ploning)
Coke Bolipata (Boses)
Fritz Arvhie Chavez (Dose)
Julian Duque (Boses)
Bojong Fernandez (Ploning)
Kenjie Garcia (Ang Lihim Ni Antonio)
Timothy Mabalot (Brutus)

Best Direction
Dante Nico Garcia (Ploning)
Tara Illenberger (Brutus)
Ellen Ongkeko Marfil (Boses)
Chris Martinez (100)
Cathy Garcia Molina (A Very Special Love)
Francis Pasion (Jay)
Richard Somes (Yanggaw)

Best Original Screenplay
Chris Martinez (100)
Froilan Medina, Rody Vera (Boses)
Ricky Lee (Fuchsia)
Francis Pasion (Jay)
Dante NicoGarcia, Benjamin Lingan (Ploning)
Richard Somes, Dwight Gaston (Yanggaw)

Best Screenplay Adaptation
Roy Iglesias (Baler)
Paul Alexander Morales (Concerto)
Frank Rivera (Sisa)
Ramon Entienza (Urduja)

Best Cinematography
Charlie Peralta (Ploning)
Joey Abello (Brutus)
Regiben Romana (Concerto)
Hermann Claravall, Lyle Sacris (Yanggaw)
Carlo Mendoza (Jay)
Nap Jamir II (Boses)
Larry Manda (100)

Best Editing
Danny Añonuevo (Ploning)
Fiona Borres, Tara Illenberger (Brutus)
Ike Veneracion (100)
Laz Andre/ Arthmael (Concerto)
Orlean Joseph Tan (Boses)
Francis Pasion, Kats Serraon, Chuck Gutierrez (Jay)
Borgy Torre (Yanggaw)

Best Production Design
Raymund George Fernandez (Ploning)
Michael Espanol, Donald Camon, Rashim Gumacal (Yanggaw)
Fritz Silorio (Brutus)
Gerry Santos (Concerto)
Aby Jamnague-Rivera (100)
Bianca Gonzales (Boses)

Best Sound
Mike Lim (Brutus)
Allan Marcelo Hidalgo, Orlean Joseph Tan (Boses)
Jethro Joquin, Ronald de Asis (Concerto)
Mac Vasquez (100)
Mike Idioma (Ploning)
Joey Santos (Yanggaw)

Best Musical Score
Jed Balsamo (Concerto)
Jessie Lasaten (Ploning)
Mon Faustino, Noel Zarate (Urduja)
Jourdann Petalver (Boses)
Von de Guzman (Yanggaw)
Joey Ayala (Brutus)

Best Visual Effects
Roadrunner Network, Inc. (Kulam)
Ramon Entienza, Amelia Fortes (Urduja)
Robert Quilao (Dayo)

Best Original Song
"Babae Ako" from the movie Urduja; written and composed by Joey de Leon and Ogie Alcasid, and performed by Regine Velasquez
"Lipad" from the movie Dayo; music by Jessie Lasaten, lyrics by Temi Abad, Jr., and performed by Lea Salonga
"Ngayon, Bukas at Kailanman" from the movie Baler; music by Louie Ocampo, lyrics by Edith Gallardo, and performed by Sarah Geronimo
"Hardest Part" from the movie 100; composed and interpreted by Ricci Chan
"Naroon Ka" from the movie Fuchsia; words and music by Von de Guzman and performed by Springfield.

Lino Brocka Lifetime Achievement Award — Anita Linda

Source: PEP.ph

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"All About Eve"

All About Eve is a Filipino adaptation of the Korean television series of the same title. The story centers on four strong women played by Eula Valdez, Jean Garcia, Sunshine Dizon, and Iza Calzado.

These four women will do anything for fame, success, and to get the man they desire.

The series also stars Richard Gomez, Kempee de Leon, Ina Raymundo, Alfred Vargas, and many more.

Directed by Gil Tejada Jr., All About Eve will air Mondays to Fridays starting tonight (March 9), right after Ang Babaeng Hinugot sa Aking Tadyang.

Photo Credit: iGMA.tv

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American Idol 8: Top 13 Will Sing Michael Jackson

American Idol 8 Top 13 contestants will sing Michael Jackson songs on Tuesday for their first showdown. And it has been customary that when contestants "pay tribute" to a certain artist, that artist will be mentoring and thus, appear on the show. Will Michael Jackson be guesting? American Idol says no. But who knows? Season 8, after all, is full of surprises!

The scheduled guests on Wednesday's elimination are Kanye West and American Idol Season 1 winner Kelly Clarkson.

Photo Credit: msnbc.com

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"Sundo" - In Theaters March 18th

As earlier announced in GMA's lineup of new shows, Sundo is one of GMA Films upcoming movies. Top billed by Robin Padilla and Sunshine Dizon, Sundo is a horror movie originally scheduled for release last October 22, 2008. It was rescheduled on a later date to give way for the screening of One True Love, a Dingdong Dantes-Marian Rivera starrer. Sundo can now be seen on March 18, 2009.

The movie is about a military operative who has a third eye and someone dies everytime he sees a ghost.

Rhian Ramos, Katrina Halili, Hero Angeles, Mark Bautista, and Glydel Mercado are also in the cast.

Watch the trailer of Sundo below.

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Maricel Soriano in a New Horror Movie

Maricel Soriano is back with a new horror flick, T2, which is Star Cinema's 3rd movie for 2009. Chito Roño, director of horror blockbusters Sukob and Feng Shui, directs this yet another sure hit. According to Roño, this is his most expensive horror movie to date as it has a lot of scenes involving computer graphic imagery.

The film also stars Derek Ramsay as Maricel Soriano's husband, Tetchie Agbayani, Camille Prats, Eric Fructuoso, and Mika dela Cruz as the kid who lost her parents and met Maricel Soriano's character Claire who is a volunteer worker in an organization for orphans.

T2 will be released April 11, 2009.

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Marian Rivera in the New Natasha Beauty TVC

Marian Rivera is so hot in the new Natasha Beauty television commercial. Sponsor of the Binibining Pilipinas pageant, the tv ad debuted during the said pageant's telecast in GMA 7.

The pageant's special award, Ms. Natasha Beauty, was won by Richell Angalot (Rich Asuncion).

Watch the television commercial below.

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Binibining Pilipinas 2009 Winners

Bb. Pilipinas-International, Universe, and World

The Binibining Pilipinas Coronation Night, held last night at the Araneta Coliseum, was again a successful event. It crowned three new beauty queens which will be the Philippine representative for the coming international pageants. 22-year-old Pamela Bianca Manalo was crowned Bb. Pilipinas-Universe, 23-year-old Melody Gersbach as Bb. Pilipinas-International and 22-year-old Marie-Ann Umali as Bb. Pilipinas-World. Richell Angalot (GMA 7's Rich Asuncion), 20, was first runner-up while Regina Hahn, 26, was second runner-up.

Other celebrity candidates which include Priscilla Navida (PBB Teen Edition Plus), Cheryl Oliveros (of Wowowee's ASF Dancers), and Abby Cruz (2007 runner-up and girlfriend of host Paolo Bediones) did not make it even to the Top 10.

Special awardees:
Miss Natasha: Pamela Bianca Manalo
Miss Natasha Beauty: Richell Angalot
Miss Salsa Jeans: Priscilla Mae Honorio
Miss Photogenic: Marie-Ann Umali
Best in Swimsuit: Pamela Bianca Manalo
Best in Long Gown: Marie-Ann Umali
Best in Talent: Richell Angalot
Miss Friendship: Gizelle Jasmin Rivamonte
Miss Philippine Airlines: Pamela Bianca Manalo
Manila Bulletin's Readers' Choice Award: Pamela Bianca Manalo
Araneta Center's Shoppers' Choice Award: Richell Angalot

The pageant was hosted by Paolo Bediones, Iza Calzado, and Carlene Aguilar.

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Francis M's New Singles

Francis Magalona did not leave his fans sad for his passing away. The Master Rapper was reported to have released two new singles off of his upcoming album, "F-Word." The two songs are packaged in two different CD's. "Sino Magsasabi" is packaged in a blue-cover CD while "Thou Shall Not Blink" is in a red one. Both covers show part of Francis M's head that putting them together will show the top of his head. It also symbolizes the Philippine flag's blue and red colors. Francis M's patriotism shows much in the packaging, and his head in the picture is much like saying that the country is ever present in his works. It can also mean that he wants to tell his countrymen to be wise and put the country's welfare in mind.

Francis Magalona is such an optimist that his illness didn't stop him from working and doing what he loved best. Perhaps he was thinking and hoping against hope, just like everyone else around him, that he'd be well after the series of chemotherapy and the scheduled bone marrow transplant.

He is such an inspiration to many, and even those who haven't looked up to him before has begun to be touched with his story. His family is even continuing to touch others as they tell people who thinks of bringing flowers to the wake to just donate the money to Red Cross.

"Sino Magsasabi" and "Thou Shall Not Blink" are two of Francis M's last compositions. Each CD has ringtones, remixes, pics, rare tracks, videos, documents, and easter eggs. The two songs are part of the eight-track album, "F-Word" which will be out soon.

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Sandra Seifert Finds Number 13 Unlucky

Sandra Inez Seifert was Binibining Pilipinas candidate number thirteen. And thirteen proved to be an unlucky number for her as she has just been disqualified from the pageant which happens tonight at the Araneta Coliseum.

Strict about the candidates' background and morality, the Binibining Pilipinas organizers don't allow candidates who has posed sexy in any medium prior to or during the said pageant. Sandra was disqualified for having posed in the October 2007 issue of the men's magazine, FHM.

Sandra has good points to become a beauty titlist, and could have even brought us an international crown had she not been disqualified. Born in Taiwan of Filipino and German parents, Sandra is a registered nurse and has already appeared in various television commercials. She stands 5'8" and is a multilingual beauty speaking English, German, Tagalog, French, and Ilonggo fluently.

Binibining Pilipinas will be aired tonight at 9:30, via GMA 7.

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Piolo Pascual Renews Contract with ABS-CBN

Piolo Pascual signed another two-year contract with ABS-CBN. Aside from ASAP 09, where he can be seen regularly every Sunday, he is also set to do a Filipino adaptation of the Korean television series "Lovers in Paris."

The Korean version of the series was shown here in the Philippines via ABS-CBN and its international arm, The Filipino Channel, two years ago, with remarkable ratings.

Piolo is set to do the Tagalog version with no less than KC Concepcion. It is a well-known fact that KC spent five years of her life living alone in Paris where she had her college education. Quite perfect for the role with regards to being in Paris is concerned.

And since Piolo and KC are doing a television series together, news about their alleged dating before KC went to Paris, surfaced. It's been reported that this "dating" was only cut short when KC flew to Paris.

So when was this? KC's high school days?

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Francis Magalona Will Be Missed

The King of Pinoy Rap, Francis Magalona, died yesterday - Friday, March 6, 2009. The singer who started his career as a breakdancer, then later on ventured into acting, music, and hosting, is best known for his songs "Kaleidoscope World" and "Mga Kababayan" the latter of which is still very popular among the young.

Francis is a son of veteran actors Pancho Magalona and Tita Duran, both of whom have passed away years ago. He is married to Pia Arroyo and has eight lovely children.

The 44-year-old singer-actor-host was diagnosed with leukemia late last year and had undergone chemotherapy. Just when his fans thought he was doing okay, he was rushed to the hospital Thursday night and was admitted at the ICU early Friday morning.

Francis Magalona died Friday noon due to multiple organ failure secondary to sever sepsis and secondary to pneumonia.

The wake is open to the public starting today, March 7, from 6 am to 6 pm. Public viewing will only be until Tuesday, March 10.

Francis' "Eat Bulaga" family is grieving for the loss of their co-host and friend. Watch this news clip where Vic Sotto announced Francis Magalona's death and asked everyone for a moment of silence.

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Rachel Alejandro Reunites with Dingdong Avanzado

Rachel Alejandro and Dingdong Avanzado are back together again in a concert at the Metro Bar this coming March 7 called "Music and Lyrics." Sounds more like a Drew Barrymore movie, but the former lovers of three years say that the one-night concert will be a look-back at the times they had together through music.

This is the first time they are working together since they parted ways fourteen years ago. Alejandro is still single, while Avanzado is already married to Jessa Zaragoza and with a kid. He says, though, that his wife is being very open-minded about the project and supports him all the way.

Alejandro, best known for the song "Paalam Na," which was composed as a farewell poem to her by Avanzado, says they will be singing mostly their original songs that people well-remember them for.

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Lucy Torres-Gomez - "Preview" Summer Edition

Lucy Torres-Gomez poses in a Louis Vuitton swimwear for the cover of Preview magazine's summer issue. The dance diva has never posed in a swimsuit before, and she admits that she's still hesitant at first. But there's always a first for everything. Another first is her short hairdo. Gone are the Lux days, she seems to say. But she looks so chic in the Rihanna-inspired hairstyle.

Also, inside the magazine is the spring/summer 2009 collection of Louis Vuitton, modeled by Torres-Gomez.

Preview, the best-selling fashion magazine, is available at all leading magazine stores nationwide.

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Mcoy Fundales Tries Out Acting

Mcoy Fundales, known for being the frontman of the defunct band, "Orange and Lemons," and for his stint in "Pinoy Big Brother Celebrity Edition 2," is now getting his hands on acting via the independent film, "Padyak."

Fundales says he hasn't dreamed of acting in the movies but the opportunity came and he can't say no to it.

Now the lead vocalist of a new band called "Kenyo," he says his character has a vital role in the twist that will happen in the main character of Jay Aquitania.

"Padyak" is currently showing at Robinsons Galeria IndieSine.

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A New Cast for "High School Musical 4"

High School Musical 4 is in the works! Disney has just announced that they're bringing HSM back to television with a new cast.

JustJill reports the the new Wildcats — Jemma McKenzie Brown, Justin Martin and Matt Prokop — introduced in the big screen High School Musical 3 are all set to return to East High’s halls.

The new movie involves a love triangle set against the crosstown school rivalry between the East High Wildcats and West High Knights.

I'm sure that HSM fans (us included) are all excited about this.

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American Idol 8: Round 3 Results and Wild Card Announcement

American Idol 8 Top 36 Round 3 has just finished and results have just been revealed. Round 3 was an exciting one for there were more great singers than not-so-great ones. But only three have to go through and they are Scott MacIntyre, Lil Rounds, and Jorge Nuñez.

The nine (of twelve) finalists are:
1. Danny Gokey
2. Michael Sarver
3. Alexis Grace
4. Allison Iraheta
5. Adam Lambert
6. Kris Allen
7. Scott MacIntyre
8. Lil Rounds
9. Jorge Nunez

And to complete the Top 12, three more will be chosen from the wild card competition. Those included in the wild card are:
1. Von Smith
2. Jasmine Murray
3. Ricky Braddy
4. Megan Corkrey
5. Tatiana Del Toro
6. Matt Giraud
7. Jesse Langseth
8. Anoop Desai

They're all great but my personal choices are Jasmine Murray, Megan Corkrey, and Jesse Langseth. But whatever the outcome would be, please no Tatiana Del Toro.

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Jomari Yllana Says It's Not About Money

Primetime television's showbiz-oriented show "Showbiz News Ngayon" confirmed reports that Jomari Yllana and Pops Fernandez are indeed separated.

Three weeks after staging the concert "Missing You" which featured Pops Fernandez and ex-husband Martin Nieverra and which was produced by Jomari Yllana himself, speculations of the break-up hit the tabloids most of them saying that money was the alleged cause of the separation. Some even say that there was a third party involved.

In a report by SNN, though, Jomari cleared some points in the issue. Jomari says it's been two weeks since he and Pops last talked.

Jomari was also quoted as saying:
"Never kaming nag-away ni Pops. Nagtatalo kami, pero pagkatapos nun, ok na ulit. Yung pagtatalo namin, mga mababaw lang. Pero ito, iba eh. Nag-usap na kami na hiwalay muna. Hindi ko alam kung saan patutungo ito."

The two, having come from broken marriages, allegedly haven't talked about marriage.

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Marian Rivera - Cosmopolitan Philippines March 09

Marian Rivera covers Cosmopolitan Philippines March 2009 issue, and she's so sexy as she poses in a bikini for the first time. It can be recalled that FHM wanted her to pose for their mag last year, in time for her being hailed as the country's sexiest in the said magazine's poll. But she did not give in, saying she wasn't ready at that time.

But she's now oh-so-ready as she glows in that blue two-piece swimsuit. We guess she's being packaged for a more mature image - first the television series that requires her to go sexy ("Ang Babaing Hinugot sa Aking Tadyang), and now this magazine cover).

Get to know more about Marian as she speaks her mind in Cosmopolitan, available nationwide.

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Mark Bautista Promotes "Mark Bautista: I'll Be The One"

Mark Bautista is busy promoting his latest album "Mark Bautista: I'll Be The One." With it comes his latest single, "Sana'y Dinggin Mo," a song composed by the well-acclaimed, Jimmy Borja.

Bautista says his own composition is included in the album, and he even has a duet with Sarah Geronimo.

"Mark Bautista: I'll Be The One" has thirteen original songs. Aside from "Sana'y Dinggin Mo," the other twelve songs are:
Eternally
Too Slow
Don't Tell Me About Heartaches
Stuck In My Heart Now
Take A Chance
Everything I Close My Eyes
Love And Affection
Why Can't We
I'll Be The One
Just Look At Me
I Don't Wanna Say Goodbye
Somehow I Knew

photo via www.markbautista.com

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Angel Locsin Has Royal Blood

Angel Locsin is a part of the Muslim royalty in Marawi City. She says all she knows is that her mother was adopted by a Muslim princess.

Although a Christian, she is very much accepted by her Muslim cousins, whom she gets to see on occasions. Her grandfather is said to be one of the 15 sultanates in Marawi.

At least she doesn't brag about her "royal" lineage.

Angel Locsin is set to do "Only You" which is going to be shot in Korea. It's actually a Korean television series being locally made by ABS-CBN. Rory Quintos directs.

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Claudine Barretto Joins "May Bukas Pa"

Claudine Barretto is joining the cast of the hit television series, "May Bukas Pa." After quite some time of being absent on primetime television, Claudine is making a comeback by playing the role of Julia, a person with so much hatred whose life changes after she meets Santino.

A self-confessed "May Bukas Pa" fan, Claudine says she immediately accepted the role when it was offered. She begins taping this week.

Why wouldn't Claudine be a fan, anyway? Her own son is named Santino, after all.

"May Bukas Pa" airs weekdays after "TV Patrol World."

photo credit

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Karylle on Dingdong Dantes-Antoinette Taus Video

Karylle won't say a word regarding the Dingdong-Antoinette video that's one of the most talked-about at the moment. The video surfaced when Dingdong Dantes reportedly had his cellphone repaired in Greenhills. The video was taken with the said cellphone and was still in it when it was repaired.

Erstwhile lovers, Dingdong and Antoinette Taus, both say that the video was taken a long time ago when they were still together. But rumor has it that the video was allegedly taken while Dingdong and Karylle were already together.

Karylle, on the other hand, just shrugs it off, saying that it's no longer her concern now. What's important, says the young singer, is that she's enjoying with her work.

Karylle has just recently launched an album, entitled "Time For Letting Go."

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"You Changed My Life" US Premiere

John Lloyd Cruz flew to California to personally attend the premiere of his movie "You Changed My Life." Four thousand people went to see the movie in Glendale, California. It was also a sold-out event at the Fox Theater in Redwood City.

Screaming, excited fans were all gaga to see the boyish actor who is paired for the second time with Sarah Geronimo in this movie.

John Lloyd thanks those who watched the movie and says he will never get tired of doing quality films for his fans.

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Journey in Manila

The American band Journey arrived in the Philippines last Sunday to prepare for their March 14 concert. According to Arnel Pineda, lead vocalist of the band who was discovered via the video-sharing site YouTube, his bandmates were surprised when they saw him at the airport to personally welcome them. Pineda was in the country ahead of the other members.

After the scheduled practice, the band will fly to Japan, perform in Tokyo, Nagoya and Osaka from March 9-11, then fly back to the Philippines for their March 14 performance at the Mall of Asia Field.

For a complete schedule of their tour, visit the band's website, www.journeymusic.com.

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Pops Fernandez and Jomari Yllana Call It Quits?

Are Pops Fernandez and Jomari Yllana over for real? The Buzz reports that the reason behind the break-up is "money" and it allegedly started after the "Missing You" concert of estranged couples Pops and Martin Nievera. The concert was produced by no other than Jomari Yllana.

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GMA 7's Lineup of New Shows

GMA 7 recently announced a lineup of new television shows for this month of March, as follows:

GMA Telebabad
All About Eve - March 9
Zorro - March 23

Dramarama sa Hapon
Dapat Ka Bang Mahalin - March 2
Chil Princesses - March 16
Gokusen 3 - March 23

Weeknights
SRO Cinemaserye - March 12
OFW Diaries - March 13
Wow Hayop - March 18

Saturday/Sunday
Joey's Quirky World - March 1
Binibining Pilipinas Coronation Night - March 7
Cool Center - March 14

Sunday Night Box Office
World View Presents "Si Barack at Si Juan" - March 1
Missing You - March 8
Walang Pera - March 22

From GMA Films
Sundo - March 18 (in cinemas nationwide)

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Nyoy Volante Won't Talk About It

Nyoy Volante refused to give a message to Nina when The Buzz talked to him at the recently concluded MYX Awards in Meralco Theater last February 27. When asked about his reaction to the statements Nina gave to Showbiz News Ngayon regarding the alleged money he owes the soul siren, neither would he talk about it - just that it has affected his family negatively.

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Karylle's New Album - "Time For Letting Go"

Karylle's star seems to be starting to shine since her move to ABS-CBN. Aside from being more visible on television and being an item of many a tabloid news, Karylle has just recently launched her new album, "Time For Letting Go" under Polyeast Records. The carrier single is a revival of Dianne Warren original "I'll Never Get Over You (Getting Over Me)."

The album has ten cuts. The other nine songs are:

Almost Over You
Wala Na Ba Ang Lahat
The Best Of Me
Minamahal Kita
Hulog Ng Langit
Touch Me In the Morning
You've Made Me Stronger
Something New In My Life
Live For Your Love

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Krista Ranillo on "Maxim" March 09 Cover

Krista Ranillo covers March 2009. The Pieta star also begins writing for a column called "The Princess' Diaries" which debuts on this issue.

"The Princess' Diaries" is much like Asia Agcaoili's FHM column where she talks about sex, dating, and relationships.

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Binibining Pilipinas 2009 Fashion Show

The 24 Binibining Pilipinas 2009 candidates recently had a fashion show. Below are photos of Richell Angalot (Rich Asuncion), Priscilla Navidad, and Abby Cruz (via opmbworldwide). Visit the link for more photos.

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