After ‘You’re the One’, Pop R&B artist Garth Garcia’s first song collaboration with rapper Blanktape; he is now set to release self-titled album ‘Garth Garcia’ with ‘Subukan Natin Muli’ as his carrier single on Thursday, June 4 at The Crowd Bar located on the 2/F, Madison Square, Pioneer St., Mandaluyong City and will have a solo concert on June 20.

Also, ‘Subukan Natin Muli’ showcases Garcia’s vocal range that is ‘soulful’ and reminiscent of Brian McKnight, Boys 2 Men, and Gary Valenciano musical styles.

The song talks about second chances or love is sweeter the second time around. Garcia collaborated with Gino Aldeguer with the music and lyrics, while the soon-to- be-released music video is directed by Aldeguer, shot in the island of Mindoro.

In March, Garcia’s song ’Masaya na Akong Iniwan Mo’, also his composition was once fielded in as a special feature song in the 2015 hit drama series on ABS-CBN Kapamilya network—‘Two Wives’. The song stayed in the MOR Top 10 Countdown for 19 weeks.

At this point, Garcia is extending is cordially inviting you to be one of the selected few media people to take part on this momentous event.

The album launch is presented by Ivory Music & Video, My Skin Origins, eRAse Placenta, and the Crowd Bar and Resto.

The famous lines that Cherie Gil was once known for as Lavinia Arguelles in the 1985 film titled ‘Bituing Walang Ningning’ that said: “You’ll never make it. You’re nothing but a second-rate, trying hard, copycat”–will  be relived not via a TV or film remake, but an onstage musical of the same title and will set to open on June 17 at Newport Performing Arts Theater of Resorts World Manila.

This the official poster of ‘Bituing Walang Ningning’. Image courtesy by Resorts World Manila.

The antagonist role that gave Gil, the image to be the total biatch and diva that others had to be compared or to compete with; will be assumed by Cris Villonco as a different Lavinia this time around. While the role that Christopher de Leon as Nico Escobar will now be portrayed by West End alumnus Mark Bautista. Dorina Pineda which made Sharon Cuneta as one of the biggest stars in the 80s and catapulted and dubbed as the Megastar and Sarah Geronimo who also assumed the role on its TV remake; the stage presentation will be spotlighting a newcomer, but a product of amateur singing tilts–Monica Cuenco.

‘Bituing Walang Ningning’ will run for a month until July 18. It will be directed by premier concert and theater director Direk Freddie Santos, and with musical numbers supported by the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of Maestro Rodel Colmenar.

Also, the said musical is lifted from Nerissa Cabral’s comic novel.

For more information, and ticket reservations, purchase online via  RWManila’s Box Office or contact telephone number (632) 908-8000 loc. 7700; TicketWorld or contact its hotline (602) 891-9999.

Now on its second year, the City Government of Calamba, who spearheads the now annual event called ‘Buhayani Festival’ is set to have its awards night or ‘gabi ng paggawad ng parangal’ on Wednesday, June 17 at SM City Cinema 1, Crossing, Barangay 1, Calamba, Laguna. This year’s festival will feature three full-length indie films directed and written by talented Calambanos; with renowned and multi-awarded international film and television director, Maryo J. Delos Reyes heading the festival’s subcommittee.

The event, which the city mayor, Justin Marc ‘Timmy’ Chipeco has urged the Sangguniang Panglungsod headed by its vice mayor Roseller H. Rizal to pass an ordinance institutionalizing the said project as the official festival of the City of Calamba, will kick off on June 12 to 19. A grand parade is also set to be this year’s main attraction and will be known as the first-ever Buhayani Film Festival with a theme: ‘Rizal and His Advocacy for Peace’.

Along with Delos Reyes, homegrown actors and actresses also take part in the said effort that celebrates the national hero’s birthday and as the last Renaissance Man and the Greatest Malay who has ever been revered so far in history.

The First-Ever Buhayani Independent Film Festival allows local talents to showcase what they have and popularize the ideals and works of Gat. Dr. Jose Rizal through modern technology and new strategies. The three films are ‘Ama Namin’, ‘Talumpati’, and ‘Nasaan si Crispin’. Mainstream artists from the Philippine mainstream cinema, the likes of Ana Capri who will be featured in ‘Ama Namin’ and tourism consultant for Laguna province, Leandro Baldemor is also starring in ‘Talumpati’.

The schedule of activities is available on the City Government of Calamba’s official website – http://calambacity.gov.ph/ and its facebook page.

Related Link

• Buhayani Independent Film Festival Mechanics and Application Form

Coming from last year’s film festival, which was once focused in creating shorts, this year along with the head of the subcommittee of the said event—multi-awarded international TV and film director—Maryo J. Delos Reyes; it has been elevated to be the first-ever Buhayani Independent Film Festival and revealed recently three films to be featured as written and directed by talented Calambenos.

This year, the festival’s theme is ‘Rizal and His Advocacy for Peace’.

According to Mayor Justin Marc ‘Timmy’ Chapeco, “The festival is an opportunity for Calambenos to showcase their talents and at the same time popularize the ideals and works of our National Hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal.”

‘Ama Namin’, ‘Talumpati’, and ‘Nasaan si Crispin?’ are the three featured films. Homegrown Laguna actors and actresses star in the said films.

In the film ‘Ama Namin’, actress Ana Capri plays the mother of a young Rizalista named Buboy. Its story revolves around the confusion of the young boy who was born and raised in a home where Rizal is revered as ‘Amang Doktor’ and ‘Inang Kalikasan’ was their god. Amidst that, with the help of his mother, he will find out why he is ‘different’ not because of his physical deformity but because of their family’s faith.

Meanwhile, ‘Talumpati’ is about a Manila-based journalist portrayed by Lagunese actor and currently the tourism consultant for Laguna province—Leandro Baldemor, who comes back to Calamba as an invited guest speaker to his alma mater on the occasion of Rizal’s birthday. Going home to the place that raised and educated him will also bring him back to deal with his traumatic past—hen being abused by his drunkard father and was abandoned by his OFW mother.

Lastly, a modern-day retelling of the timeless character named Crispin created by Rizal in the novel ‘Noli Me Tangere’ and the folklore of Laguna are the ones tackled in the film ‘Nasaan si Crispin?’ While hanging between life and death, has an out-of-body experience and allowed him to meet Maria Makiling, the devil, a young Pepe, and an all-powerful aswang as well as his mother and brother. Despite the challenges he encountered, he still found hope as he got reunited with his family.

Chipeco hopes to make this festival as the traditional festival of the said city and will not change it even with a change of administration; as he urged the Sangguniang Panglungsod headed by Vice Mayor Roseller H. Rizal to pass an Ordinance institutionalizing the initiative.

The awards night or ‘Gabi ng Paggawad ng Parangal’ is set next week, on Wednesday, June 17 at SM City Cinema 1, Crossing, Barangay 1, Calamba, Laguna.

Most heroes’ stories in our history books that have been told in films were dominated by men.  But, this year, based on the screenplay of Rody Vera, the one that won first prize un the 2014 Palanca Awards—it is a heroine’s turn to be spotlighted and it is no less than Gregoria de Jesus a.k.a, ‘Lakambini’.

Gina Pareño assumes the role of the old Oryang in her 60s while Lovi Poe is the young Gregoria. The film is directed by Jeffrey Jeturian and Ellen Ongkeko-Marfil, It is scheduled for release mid or late this year.

Watch the teaser of ‘Lakambini’.

Given the thrust of BUM as it seeks to provide the most appealing collection for its intended audience—the Filipino teenagers of today, during the opening of classes; the leading apparel company that has earned its following for years now, is undoubtedly came up with three reasons for all Bummerz to be excited about—its #BUMBLACK2SCHOOL collection.

On a certain Chad Joyce’s pinterest page, features some of the most exciting fashion stuff in black, which BUM probably did imbibe the ‘vibe’ as well.

BUM takes pride in garbing the #BUMMERZ in comfortable style with charm and character combined. Items include easy-to-wear jeans coupled with tees and long-sleeved tops in eye-catching prints and patterns (think of ribcages with skulls and bones) and jeans that are distressed and in different washes.

The Youth Brand Ambassadors of BUM (L-R): Miguel Tanfelix. Bianca Umali, Ella Cruz, Jane Oineza, Alexa Ilacad, and Nash Aguas. Image lifted from BUM’s official facebook page.

First, the company consistently creates the ‘psyche’ for the young individuals to have the capacity of making a historical action by simply being able to express themselves freely. The collection guarantees all Bummerz to be ahead of the pack and be the coolest in the bunch in any school scene.

#BUMBLACK2SCHOOL collection includes a palette of black variations with shades of gray and white to signify a timeless and unique fashion sense with that needed ‘swag’. Such style is complemented with tops that carry youthful feel diffusing a more serious tone of gothic designs.

Most prominent items are the couple tees and the BFF teas.

Next is another surprise for Bummerz—the #BUMBLACKBOOK as their fashion guide to OOTDs for selfies.

#BUMBLACKBOOK is Bummerz’s fashion guide to OOTDs for selfies.

Inside the pages of #BUMBLACKBOOK, Bummerz can find campus-appropriate fashion styles, ideal for teenage girls and guys with an ultra-stylish and comfy selection of casual tops such as tees, pullovers and hoodies. There are also pairs of joggers or denim pants created to add more excitement with details like rips, patches and stitching.

The unique collectible style book comes in both handy-style and hard-bound. #BUMBLACKBOOK can be availed for a single or regular purchase worth Php1200 in all #BUMboutiques nationwide.

Hurry, this item is for a limited offer only, it is avaialble while supplies last. Shop and get a copy of the #BUMBLACKBOOK today!

Lastly, its biggest leap is to bring together #NashAguas’s partner in his recently concluded youth-oriented hit series on Kapamilya network—no other than, Alexa Ilacad as the newest addition to BUM’s youth ambassadors.

Ilacad was formally welcomed as the latest acquired endorser at a formal announcement held on at the Oak Ballroom of Sequoia Hotel, 91-93 Mother Ignacia Avenue corner Timog Avenue, Quezon City, on May 28.

Nash Aguas surprised Alexa Ilacad with a bouquet of flowers during the latter’s official revelation as the newest addition to the roster of #BUMYouthBrandAmbassadors. Photograph courtesy of Ted Claudio of Wazzup.PH.

Aguas surprised Ilacad by appearing in the middle of the function with bouquet of flowers to greet and formally welcome his onscreen partner to the #BUMFamily.

Ilacad is among the youth ambassadors of the brand, along with Ella Cruz, Jane Oineza, Nash Aguas of Kapamilya network as well as Bianca Umali and Miguel Tanfelix of Kapuso network.

For more updates, visit its website and its social media accounts—twitter, Instagram, and facebook.

The annual festival called ‘Sandugo’, a blood compact treaty between Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi and Bohol chieftain Datu Sikatuna, as they drink drops of the each other’s blood; will welcome the longest-running all-male sing-and-dance group named #TheMasculados to be part of the island’s week-long celebration from July 19 to 26, 2015.

#TheMasculados appeared in ‘Medyo Late Night Show with Jojo A.’ on #TV5.

The 13-year-old group of six hunks is among the main attractions of the historical event that occurs every July. Masculados is composed of Enrico Mofar, Robin Robel, Ozu Ong, Orlando Sol, Nico Cordova, and the latest Filipino-Austrian—David Karell. Together, they popularized novelty songs, ‘Lagot Ka’, ‘Sana Mama’, and ‘Macho Papa’ in 2003. They had popular hit songs in 2004 via sensational ‘Jumbo Hotdog’. In 2010, they released songs ‘Ganda, Ganda! Seksi, Seksi!’ and a tribute Christmas song for the late Bella Tan, the mother of ‘Masculados’ titled ‘La Bella Pascua’. In 2012, they also released hit songs: ‘Di Ko Mapigil’, ‘Hawakan Mo Na’, and the ‘Masculados Mashup’.

Manila-based film and television celebrities Ash Ortega, Divine Tetay, Janna Trias, teen idol Ruru Madrid and voted as FHM Philippines’ sexiest woman for 2006 and 2007 – Katrina Halili will be guest with them. Watch out for the four major dates that the muscled men will be performing nightly – starting on July 19 at the Cockpit Theater in Baclayon; on July 22 at the TBTK Welcome Dinner Party, Bohol Cultural Center; on July 24 at the Fiesta in Alicia, Direk Maryo J’s hometown; and on July 25 the Cockpit Theater in Baclayon with special guests Katrina Halili and RuruMadrid, respectively.

The Blood Compact celebration commemorates the ties of friendship between Sikatuna and López de Legazpi, who were once different in religion, nationality, culture and civilization. Back in history, the Tagbilaran native chieftain Sikatuna swore by his ancestral Anito and Bathala, and the Spanish courageous explorer and colonizer López de Legazpi who sought ‘New World’ with the sword and the cross, signifies the first international treaty of friendship and civility between the Filipinos and Spaniards.

Tickets will soon be on sale at Cockpit Theater in Baclayon. Reservations may be made at numbers +639159109015; +639166430848; +639173668906 and look for Gerry Lugod. You may also visit its official site and social media accounts – facebook, twitter, and Instagram.

The singer who claim to fame via the ‘Star Power: Sharon Search for the Next Female Superstar’ named Monica Cuenco is going to assume the iconic role of Dorina Pineda in the stage musical ‘Bituing Walang Ningning’, which opens today, July 17 at Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resorts World Manila. She will be pitting acting and singing talents with theater icon Cris Villonco, who will be taking on the other iconic character in the story as Lavinia Arguelles and Mark Bautista as Nico Escobar.

Monica Cuenco is Dorina Pineda. Photograph courtesy of Ms. Nimfa Chua.

Cuenco, dubbed as the ‘The Charming Biritera from Cebu’ was chosen from hundreds of auditionees for the most coveted role of Dorina Pineda. After placing second runner-up to Angeline Quinto, this break via the stage adaptation of a Filipino classic comic story that invaded both the film and the television is considered to be her biggest so far.

Senator Panfilo M. Lacson . Image courtesy of Senate official website.

Among the many politicians in the country that have created such stir and abuzz, Senator Panfilo M. Lacson is perhaps the most natural and showbiz people could easily gravitate with; thus his views on the entertainment industry is something to admire for. He is willing to collaborate with showbiz to further enhance the image of Philippine National Police (PNP).

After all the good-natured, but strict politician has won the hearts of the Filipinos for his sterling and ‘no non-sense’ leadership as Chief of the PNP from 1999 to 2001.

“Nung maging PNP chief ako, ang showbiz ang isa sa mga unang media partners ko para tulungan akong ma-improve ang image ng mga pulis sa mga mata ng mga tao,” he once said.

In fact, he summoned and had a dialogue with his showbiz folks in order to work on the image of the policemen in films and on television shows, like the proper dressing up of the officers’ uniforms and the way they conduct themselves in public.

With these efforts, his life stories have been filmed twice. The first one was in 2000 via ‘Super Cop’ where he was portrayed by the late action star Rudy Fernandez and was directed by Toto Natividad. In 2013, he was portrayed by Robin Padilla as a senator forced to go on the run via ’10,000 Hours’ and was directed by Bb. Joyce Bernal.

In the films that were based on his life stories, he was even consulted by the producers, which the public have perceived him as one of the producers, but he was not. He was just being asked or consulted out of courtesy and respect.

Lacson as a politician is no trying hard when he becomes an actor when it comes to election times. He understands very well the industry since he is a grandfather of two of showbiz personalities’ kids—Thirdy of Jodi Sta. Maria and Mimi of Iwa Moto.

Part of his initiative in shaping up the image of the policemen in the country is to require the said officers to maintain at least a 34” waistline. It is one way of projecting the officers’ image as someone healthy and fit.

Apart from the achievements he has shown in the past, Philippines President Benigno Aquino III appointed him as Presidential Assistant for Rehabilitation and Recovery in December 2013. He was to lead the management and rehabilitation efforts of the central provinces in the Philippines affected by Typhoon Haiyan. He also secured the approval from President of the phased implementation of the rehabilitation plan of six areas in the Yolanda corridor including that of Tacloban, Leyte, Samar and Cebu eight months later.

To know more about, the senator, you may visit his official website.

Also, check his page on the Senate Official site. Read through his resume online.

After having been able to direct the ‘Breakout Loveteam’ of Liza Soberano and Enriqu Gil, Ted Boborol again directs the two in the romantic comedy and the first-ever film ‘Just The Way You Are’ after the success of the series titled ‘Forevermore’.

Ted Boborol, the director of ‘Just The Way You Are’. Photograph courtesy of Boborol’s facebook.

The film is an adaptation from the from the best-selling Pop Fiction book ‘The Bet’ which was originally published on Wattpad by Kimberly Joy Villanueva. For the film version, Maan Dimaculangan-Fampulme and Ceres Helga Barrios wrote the screenplay.

Boborol describes his debut film as, “It was fun doing my first film because the energy of the young cast was infectious. While there was pressure for the film to duplicate the soap’s success, I didn’t let it in my head. We were more focused on just doing a good romantic comedy.”

In the said film, Direk shares one key element that makes the LizQuen tandem a success it’s because the two are versatile actors apart from having that natural chemistry.

The film revolves around a popular guy named Drake Sison (Gil), who makes a bet with his best friend Andrei (Yves Flores) to make the nerdy transferee, Sophia Taylor (Soberano), fall in love with him in 30 days. After she would say ‘yes’, he must confess that it was all a bet.

Also, Boborol is able to identify with Sofia’s character because he reveals, “I was not a popular jock in college so I identified more with working student and ‘plain’ Sophia Taylor whose main goal is to finish school and earn for her family.

Other actors in the film are Yayo Aguila, Alexander Diaz, Jon Lucas, Chienna Filomeno, Marco Gumabao, Myrtle Sarrosa, Yves Flores, Sue Ramirez, Erin Ocampo, Miguel Vergara, Kyra Custodio, Anjo Damiles and with the special participation of Tonton Gutierrez and Sunshine Cruz.

‘Just The Way You Are’ is still running on its second week in theaters nationwide.

Productions56 talent named Mannix Mannix is part of the much-talked-of-the-town musical written by Nicolas B. Pichay’s titled ‘Macho Dancer: A Musical’.

Manniix Mannix in a scene from ‘Macho Dancer: A Musical’. Photograph courtesy of the said production.

The 25-year-old Mannix was chosen to be part of the ensemble of macho dancers.

The production revolves around macho dancers who are already past their prime and try to prevent the imminent closure of the rundown club. They enlist an ex-dancer to help choreograph a postmodern ballet extravaganza set for the ‘Big Night’. This is their last efforts to recapture both their glory days and the club’s.

Previous projects of Mannix were in ‘Kambal Sirena’, an episode in ‘Magpakailanman’, ‘Magkano ba ang Pag-ibig?’, and a film titled ‘Bamboo Flowers’ that was first exhibited at Sineng Pambansa National Film Festival All-Masters Edition in 2013. He also went through PETA’s basic acting and theater acting 1. This Virgin Labfest entry is his first professional theater appearance.

‘Macho Dancer: A Musical’ still has two more runs slated on Friday and Saturday, July 10 and 11 at 8pm and 3pm, respectively, at Tanghalang Huseng Batute, Cultural Center of the Philippines.

For tickets, contact TicketWorld at telephone number (632) 8919999.

One of the hunk members of the longest-running all-male sing-and-dance group called the ‘Masculados’—Orlando Sol is featured in 2015 Virgin Labfest’s Set B play titled ‘Huling Huli’, which is written by Herlyn Alegre and directed by filmmaker Lawrence Fajardo.

Sol in one of hos latest shoots initiated by Productions56 in Batangas.

The play is about a middle-aged widow torn between keeping her principles and becoming like the women in her village who have no other means of supporting themselves but offering sexual favors to fishermen in exchange for the chance to buy the fish they caught and resell in the market. Sol is paired with theater veteran and award-winning actress Angeline Kanapi.

Orlando is no stranger to stage as he has appeared in productions from Dulaang UP’s ‘Shock Value’ and PETA’s ‘Care Divas’, respectively.

‘Huling Huli’ still has two more runs slated on Friday and Saturday, July 10 and 11 at 8pm and 3pm, respectively, at Tanghalang Huseng Batute, Cultural Center of the Philippines.

‘Huling Huli’ official poster. Image courtesy of the production.

For tickets, contact TicketWorld at telephone number (632) 8919999.

Related Link

• Virgin Labfest’s HULING HÚLI Discussion (a Jellicle Podcast)

The Sarah Geronimo-Piolo Pascual starrer is a long-overdue team-up and has finally come to pass via ‘The Breakup Playlist’; it is making waves in the box-office as it earned 100 million mark as of yesterday since it opened on July 1 in theaters nationwide. Also, it boasts of the performances of both Geronimo and Pascual. Apart from the popularity of the stars that made the film a huge success, the tandem of Antoinette Jadaone and Dan Villegas as screenwriter and director is to be credited for it as well.

Geronimo is Trixie David is an aspiring professional singer who is pursuing law at the same time and falls in love with Gino Avila. Photograph courtesy of Star Cinema.

Pascual plays Gino Avila, the rock singer who discovered and mentored Trixie; and eventually develops feelings toward the young singer. Photograph courtesy of Star Cinema.

The film’s theme is reminiscent to the 2013 American musical movie ‘Begin Again’ which was written and directed by John Carney and starred Keira Knightley and Mark Ruffalo as lead stars. Another film that others find the local film is similar to is the 2007 American romantic comedy movie ‘Music and Lyrics’ with Hugh Grant and Drew Barrymore as Alex Fletcher and Sophie Fisher, respectively. Then there’s the musical play turned into a film in 2014 of the same title ‘The Last Five Years’ with Anna Kendrick and Jeremy Jordan as stars and Richard LaGravenese as director, and as well the classic comics novel of Nerissa Cabral adapted into film of the same title ‘Bituing Walang Ningning’ and was directed by Emmanuel Borlaza with Sharon Cuneta as the lead star back in 1985.

However, what made ‘The Breakup Playlist’ a standout is its identifiable characters for the Filipino audience. The conflict between Trixie David and Gino Avila portrayed by Geronimo and Pascual, respectively was written by Jadaone (of ‘English Only Please’ and ‘That Thing Called Tadhana’) in a way that would hook the moviegoers and see themselves in the characters’ shoes. Despite the many perceptions that this film is patterned after the Knightley-Ruffalo film, I strongly disagree. The only semblance to it is the characters common interest—who are both musicians; while the ‘Music and Lyrics’ of Grant and Barrymore is also closer, but not quite enough. The Geronimo-Pascual film explores more on the rivalry of the musician-lovers and how they struggle to support each other’s dreams and fight their love against the people around them especially the parents of Trixie who oppose the relationship. Villegas as the director shines anew as he took a different route of focusing on how ex-lovers should deal with heartaches and how they should tackle the stage of moving on; weigh things if they should be giving themselves another chance by reconciling and becoming lovers the second time around.

Though Jadaone is known for themes on love stories that aren’t the usual route that most romantic comedy flicks have taken in its previous outings, this film is perhaps one that she has catapulted herself as someone who dared to tackle a braver journey for lovers after a ‘breakup’—by accepting and forgiving the strengths and weaknesses of each one. Another notable part of the film is its production design particularly the wall papers utilized in the scenes. Sarah for me, though slightly younger than Keira, the local star suit well with the kind of styling that the Hollywood star donned with in ‘Begin Again’. The off-shoulder tops were pretty much evident that parallels with Knightley’s character as Gretta James, a songwriter. Piolo’s styling can be compared to David Kohl, Greta’s ex-boyfriend character played by Adam Levine and it also suits him excellently as a rock singer, in fact, he didn’t have any difficulty with the role since he once assumed a closer character way back in his last TV series titled ‘Hawak Kamay’ as Gin Agustin.

There may have been violent reactions on Pascual being too senior to be paired with a much younger Geronimo. The way I see it was NOT OFF at all. Yes, ‘chemistry’ in a pair for a film may be a good factor for its success, but not necessary. In reality, anyone can fall in love regardless of age. Both, Sarah and Piolo were sensitive enough in bringing life to their characters as imagined for them by Jadaone. Pascual’s character is a combination of Dave Kohl and Alex Fletcher in a Filipino kind of ‘angas’ or arrogance, but still lovable.

Apart from the stars, the songs included in the film have made the film a must-see and something that moviegoers would want to watch again and again since these songs are endearing enough that touch the hearts of Filipino audiences. These are songs: ‘With a Smile’ by Eraserheads, ‘Wag na Wag Mong Sasabihin’ by Kitchie Nadal, ‘Paano ba ang Magmahal’ by the two actors, ‘Bida’ by Sarah G., ‘Akin Ka na lang’ by Itchyworms, ‘Nagsimula sa Puso’ by Sarah G., and ‘Patawarin’ by Yeng Constantino. Both ‘Paano ba ang Magmahal’ and ‘Patawarin’ were popularly attached in the film due to the emotions that go with the songs so as the scenes that required the two characters to be emotionally- charged.

‘The Breakup Playlist’ is now on its second blockbuster week. It will have its international premiere in Caritas Community Centre, Kowloon in Hong Kong on July 12. All Kapamilyas in Hong Kong can catch the movie that day in the following screening times: 10am-12 nn, 1pm-3pm, and 3:30pm-5:30pm. Tickets to the screenings can be obtained at the following outlets:

JVP Marketing, Shop 367, 3/F, World Wide Plaza, Central – 2537 5806
Rainbow, Shop C13, 1/F, Planet Square, Hung Hom
Phone reservation – Contact 9743 7174

Watch the official trailer of the film here.

Senator Panfilo M. Lacson is known to be a good-natured, but strict politician. Despite that, he has won the hearts of the Filipinos for his sterling and ‘no non-sense’ leadership as Chief of the PNP from 1999 to 2001. Little did the public know about him is that he is one soft-hearted grandfather to two of his grandchildren.

The senator admits that his spending quality time with his grandchildren is one of the moments he treasures, “I consider them as my priceless blessings.”

Grandfatherhood has turned him to be more understanding to children. His grandchildren ‘Thirdy’ of Jodi Sta. Maria and ‘Mimi’ of Iwa Moto has further made him more closer to children and this was evident with his work as the ‘Rehabilitation Czar’ of areas hit by Super Typhoon ‘Haiyan’ with a local name ‘Yolanda’, the strongest storm under the category 5 in recorded history. It has a total number of 6340 fatalities.

In fact he said, “This is the hardest of all my jobs.”

He is one tough individual that probably this nation needs. There is a clamor for him being the #NaisNgBayan.

In fact, the image he has projected in public has also attracted the entertainment industry to film his life stories twice. The first one was in 2000 via ‘Super Cop’ where he was portrayed by the late action star Rudy Fernandez and was directed by Toto Natividad. In 2013, he was portrayed by Robin Padilla as a senator forced to go on the run via ’10,000 Hours’ and was directed by Bb. Joyce Bernal.

Recently, one of the two political ads that were aired is the one titled–‘Let’s Go Ping’ where the jingle was based on the popular song ‘Pan Pen de Sarapen’. It featured kids marching and forming a letter ‘P’.

Both a disciplinarian but a loving grandfather to his grandchildren is one winning combination for a great leader. Lacson was born to parents who instilled basic family values, which he also instilled to his children and grandchildren. It is the same kind of legacy he wants to pass on the younger Filipino generation.

Such vision sets the Senator apart from other politicians gunning for the highest office in the land.

To know more about the Senator, visit his official website.

Since same-sex marriage have triumphantly been legalized nationwide in the United States of America in June 2015, the musical that tackles about two gay men and their struggles of being accepted in society is relevant to what could be considered a breakthrough. BroadwayWorld.com Philippines interviewed Silva about his thoughts on gay marriage, gays in general, as well as his views about gay people.

Below is the excerpt of the article published July 20 on BroadwayWorld.com Philippines.

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Silva as Jean-Michel in 9 Works Theatrical re-run of ‘La Cage aux Folles’.
Photograph courtesy of 9 Works.

BWW Interviews: Steven Silva Talks LA CAGE, Theater Adventures & More

Manila, Philippines–9 Works Theatrical’s production of LA CAGE AUX FOLLES, based on the 1973 French play by Jean Poiret, also the inspiration behind the film “Birdcage,” will have a return engagement at Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium (RCBC Plaza in Makati City) from August 15 to September 6 with TV star Steven Silva as Jean-Michel, the son of gay couple, Georges (Michael De Mesa) and Albin (Audie Gemora).

Thoughts About Jean-Michel

In an interview with BroadwayWorld.com, Steven shares what he learned from his character, Jean-Michel, Georges and Albin, and the people around them.

“I’ve learned or relearned that love is love. I found myself watching the scenes between Georges and Albin and forgot the mere fact that they’re two men.

“It’s their portrayal and the truth they give to their respective roles that reminded me that pure and unadulterated love is the main and only prerequisite for a relationship, and I think people will also see that when they watch this show. Another thing I’ve learned is that one needs to be true to himself whether people approve of it or not. It’s one way to instantly make life more happy and fulfilling.”

And like Jean-Michel, Steven is just as comfortable in the presence of gay men. “I am. I think it’s admirable how they can almost carry the qualities of both sexes in a single package.”

Silva plays the son of Michael De Mesa who assumes the role of Georges.
Photograph courtesy of Erickson Dela Cruz.

Experiencing, Exploring and Experimenting More

As an actor, Steven has no qualms about taking any roles.

“I think I always have to be open to tackle new and different roles. I read the script and see if the role would give me the chance to grow as an actor and if I could give the role justice.”

Winner of reality TV competition “StarStruck” aired on GMA, Steven admits it has been tough since GMA “let him go” recently; but he also embraces the fact that it’s also the nature of this business. He’s coping.

To read more of the article, click here!

In any relationship, nothing is perfect. Hugh Mackay describes it as complex. And the outcomes are uncertain. People are irrational. Indeed, indeed. On Saturday, August 1, an episode of StarTalk that featured the real reason behind the breakup of the once-engaged Arnell Ignacio and Ken El Psalmer.

Arnell is 51 and Ken is 34.

It was just in June that Ignacio announced his engagement with the rising singer Psalmer and just close to two months, the relationship ended, just that. Based on the interview clip on Star Talk, Ignacio already got to the point of ‘that’s it’. He couldn’t take having someone in his life and who will continue to cheat on him. In fact, according to sources (that I refuse to reveal) Psalmer had been cheating on him, which he also did in his previous relationships that were also from the entertainment circle.

Ken, is one classic example that any gay person who receives intense love that does not measure anything, which Arnell has allowed himself to be used just to advance the career of his object of affection. It was clear to Ignacio that he is going to be hurt in any relationship, but I guess, Psalmer isn’t just worth suffering for.

It is but sad to note that for someone who truly loves like Ignacio, still ends up heart-broken and hurt by the one he has given not just his heart, also his resources, his time, and his connections or network. It seemed Psalmer, is not even grateful to it, contrary to the statement he made in a video clip from the StarTalk’s segment.

Arnell is distraught, who wouldn’t be? He wants to make clear, he broke his silence not because he is going after the former gay partner but to put an end to what he has been doing to other prospective gay partners.

QUEZON CITY. Philippines—The third placer of The Voice Kids 2014, the Filipino-German Juan Karlos Labajo, now part of ABS-CBN’s Star Magic roster of talents and MCA Records artists recently launched its self-titled debut album—‘JK’ at Jollibee on E. Rodriguez Avenue, New Manila, on Tuesday, August 4.

The 13-year-old native from Cebu City was the protégé of Coach Bamboo during the competition and is dubbed as a ball of energy that possesses the kind of charm accompanied with his smooth voice, with and full of positivity as reflected in his playful poses in the album cover. It contains six songs such as ‘This Gravity’, ‘Maybe Love’, ‘Para Sa ‘Yo’, ‘This Song is For You’, ‘Summer Time Love’, and ‘’Di Ka Man Lang Nagpaalam’ (which he dedicates to his late mother).

Since the lad is growing fast to be an endearing teenager, he is but like any normal guy who has crushes and he is very vocal about his admiration to Sofia Andres, who is three years senior to him. Despite that, it is clear to him that whatever it is happening to him right now, he feels ‘blessed’ and has no time for love just yet. He would rather focus on his career.

JK or Juan Karlos meets JC (that’s me). The photograph was taken by Richard Paglicawan, right after the press launch for the young artist’s album.

‘JK’ is now out in CDs at Astroplus and Astrovision outlets nationwide and through digital; downloads via Spinnr and iTunes, respectively. It can also be streamed on Spinnr, Apple Music, VEVO, Spotify, Deezer, Guvera and Rdio.

The album launch was presented in cooperation with Hawk Backpack and Jollibee.

(Note: This is a late post and a Review on the Play ‘No Filter’)

The original production from The Sandbox Collective titled, ‘No Filter’ is not referring to as one of the most popular hashtags on Instagram, but it speaks about the characters who belonged to the Generation Y; those who reached young adulthood around the year 2000 or the ‘Millennials’. The stage presentation highlights series of monologues and multi-media performances that explore and examine the millennial experience by giving voice to a generation that has been both praised and criticized.

Cai Cortez, Lauren Young and Jasmine Curtis-Smith were young talents who brought life to the characters sketched by the writers that represented the ‘Millennials’. Photograph by Erickson Dela Cruz.

Brave Thoughts.

Ever since the young theater company headed by Toff De Venecia, it has mounted productions that are brave and perhaps unconventional staging, too. With ‘No Filter’ it takes a look into the personal lives of Generation ‘Why’— the generation that’s been said to save the world. Why is it so?

Maybe because they are the generation that knows no restrictions or do not know the meaning of limitations? Episodes in the play such as ‘Letters Across Space and Time’ with Cai Cortez and Jasmine Curtis-Smith, ‘Confession’ with Mikael Daez, and ‘Moving Out’ with Lauren Young—were particularly moving for me.

Both Cortez and Curtis-Smith were impressive in their scene together. They were perfect for the two characters they portrayed; as if conversing with each other at the same space and moment. While Daez’s surprised me with his sensible interpretation of a young man having a telephone conversation; trying to make a confession about his issues on his religion. Young, on the other hand, effectively told how it was difficult for her to live in the city like New York.

The monologue series featured anything and everything millennial—from the humble beginnings and evolution of social networks, life after college, the woes of work, pursuing one’s passions, dating (on and offline), finding love and happiness, among other concerns or issues, in particular or in general.

Gathering of Bright Young Talents.

Mikael Daez proved that he’s not just another pretty face, but he truly can act even onstage. Photograph by Erickson Dela Cruz.

Frankly speaking, I was only like banking on the theater veterans to impress me in this original theater piece. I am referring to Cai Cortez, Khalil Kaimo, and Micah Muñoz. Though I have seen both Curtis-Smith and Young in films and have been impressed with their potentials in acting; I still had reservations for them at first since this is their stage debut.

I was pleasantly surprised that both seemed to have mastered not just acting in films and on television series. They were even more sensitive in their character portrayals. Also, I salute Daez; he made me realize that he’s got the chops for acting, too. Perhaps, if he was just given the right character assignments on television—then he could have impressed me earlier on.

But among the cast members, Cortez was really a sell-out and a standout at the same time. All the characters assigned to her—she just eased it out with sterling performances. This is one theater project that I can say she nailed every bit of her scenes. No doubt.

The Sandbox Collective team chose the young bright talents of today and they delivered, very well.

Deserves Not Just an Extension, But a Tour.

The show has created a lot of buzz maybe because of its radical way of presenting issues or concerns about the Millennials, which I really think has bridged the gap between the Generation Y to other generations.

Despite the absence of gimmickry onstage, the multi-media inclusion in the play provided more meat and substance. The geometrical set design even helped in defining how the Generation Y-ers are as complex as the lives of the other generations before them.

The monologues were not just intimate, but it surely speaks to the heart and pierces the soul. Every word, every idea, every character resonates well with the audience, which I suspected to be very effective in making those who watched the shows, hooked and went out with a revived inspiration and motivation, too.

These types of presentations do not just deserve any extension. It should be toured around the country to help other generations listen to the Millennials.

In a press conference the upcoming musical treat that is based on musical composed by Richard Rodgers, with lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II and book by Hammerstein and Joshua Logan, titled ‘South Pacific in Concert’ with Joanna Ampil, Jon Meer Vera Perez, and Mark Bautista, as the lead stars—was launched on Monday, August 17 at the Passion Cantonese Restaurant.

(From L-R): Jon Meer Vera Perez as Emile de Becque, Joanna Ampil as the American nurse—Nellie Forbush, Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo, Ana Andres as Liat, and Mark Bautista as Lieutenant Joseph Cable. Photograph courtesy of Erickson Dela Cruz.

Ampil, Vera Perez, Bautista, and Ima Castro will play Nellie Forbush, Emile de Becque, Lieutenant Joseph Cablem and Bloody Mary, respectively.

The mounting of this show marks the first time that a concert adaptation of a major musical will be done in the Philippines. Combining the state-of-the-art technical features of the NPAT with the cast’s impressive musical talents, the production offers a new approach to watching stage musicals.

The concert version is exactly the same script that of 1949 Broadway musical, the 1958 film as well as the 2010 revival on Broadway, but it’s abridged because it’s a concert—no set with orchestra on stage. It is presented like a concert with lines so audience can follow the story. It’s exactly like the ‘Les Miz in Concert’. It will be directed by Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo, Full House Company‘s artistic director.

Its plot centers on an American nurse (Forbush) stationed on a South Pacific island during World War II who falls in love with a middle-aged expatriate French plantation owner (de Becque) but struggles to accept his mixed-race children. A secondary romance, between a U.S. lieutenant (Cable) and a young Tonkinese woman (Liat), explores his fears of the social consequences should he marry his Asian sweetheart.

Tickets are now available at all TicketWorld outlets and at the RWM Box Office. Visit www.rwmanila.com or call (632) 908-8833 for more details.

Despite the controversial call to boycott the film ‘Ex with Benefits’ by the medical representative sector, who got offended by the characters portrayed by Coleen Garcia, as Arkisha, a medical representative who once was involved with a doctor played by the hunk actor Derek Ramsay as Adam–it still proves as a movie worth watching for its story. Both earned mixed reactions from those who saw its trailer where Garcia’s character was trying to persuade Derek’s character; that the product, a painkiller she is pushing is worth it and showed some naughty sexy scenes between the two actors.

Though the title may sound like the 2011 American romantic comedy flick that featured Justin Timberlake and Mila Kunis in ‘Friends with Benefits’—it has a totally different slant. It is about two ex-partners who parted ways 10 years ago, but the other couldn’t totally move on after the breakup even if the woman is just doing everything to win the guy; just to get the endorsement and name as the ‘Med Rep of the Year’. Unknown to Adam, it is all just a game.

It is quite funny for the writer of the Wattpad version of this movie named Ruth Mendoza a.k.a. youramnesiagirl, who played ‘Pontius Pilate’ when her story was totally revised by Star Cinema and was accused to project a ‘bad image for medical representatives; according to a certain Nikki Quisumbing, who posted an open letter to the Movie and Television Review Classification Board (MTRCB), asking to review its trailer and the film as a whole.

Frankly, it takes an intelligent and mature individual to separate personal issues from a fictitious work. Personally, I do not see anything ‘offensive’ about the character portrayed by Garcia. People should learn not to generalize things. The profession attached to a particular character in any story is not necessarily who they really are, and it doesn’t necessarily apply that medical representatives are ‘desperate’ and are willing to ‘prostitute’ themselves just for a particular promotion whatsoever.

Opening on September 2 in theaters nationwide, this Gino Santos-film will definitely be another hit for it tackles issues that many people may find it ‘shocking’, but little did most people know about—there really are some ‘shady’ stories behind. The film reunites Garcia and Santos after doing a movie together in 2014. ‘Ex with Benefits’ is Garcia’s launching film and teams up with Ramsay for the first time.

Related Article[s]

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