Sarah Geronimo and Matteo Guidicelli sing ‘All of Me’–and we all swoon (Tessa! by Tessa Prieto-Valdes)

Gold is the new black! Gold is also the color of summer heat. And “Gold” is the title of the top hit song of the ’80s band Spandau Ballet.

For my summer sizzling look, I chose gold and turned to sexy designer Charina Sarte for her figure-hugging and flattering creations that are truly head-turners. She made me a metallic-gold dress that I wore to the recent Spandau Ballet concert at Solaire Resort and Casino.

Being an ’80s girl, I can recall having a high school crush on lead singer Tony Hadley. Spandau was one of the leaders of the “new romantic” movement in the early ’80s, and a bunch of my friends joined me to watch the concert, including Tatler editor Anton San Diego and eventologist Tim Yap.

A big thanks to Solaire’s Joy Wassmer, who got us great seats and a backstage visit with Tony himself.

Exciting Italian dishes

Before the concert, we dined at Finestra, the fine-dining Italian restaurant that serves wonderful pasta and pizza. The delicious and exquisite dishes are created with the highest quality ingredients flown in from Italy. Chef Salvatore de Vincentis, who has won many awards, is the main boss in the kitchen and comes up with exciting Italian dishes all the time.

Solaire Resort & Casino is now a year old. Time flies and it is hard to believe it’s been a year since it opened its doors with the ribbon-cutting led by President Aquino himself.

After the concert, I went straight to Matteo Guidicelli’s birthday bash, hosted by Swatch, at Tipsy Pig Gastrobar in Pasig. Matteo is Swatch’s youngest and longest-serving ambassador. He has been with Swatch for 10 years. Swatch has thrown parties for Matteo since he was 14, and now for his 24th birthday, the bash was awesome and memorable.

Little princess

His ladylove, Sarah Geronimo, was also there and was treated like a little princess by Virgie Ramos. She looked so pretty and chic in a Victoria Beckham dress from Tita Virgie. Thanks also to Jappy Gonzalez of Univers and Homme et Femme.

People were drinking, dancing, singing and partying the night away. There were free-flowing drinks from the bar, a buffet spread of Tipsy Pig specialties and special birthday cakes for Matteo.

Rico Puno was one of the guests, singing “Just Once,” and showing that no one does karaoke better. Also hyping up the crowd were Randy Santiago singing “Tuloy Pa Rin Ako” and Christian Bautista and Vice Ganda doing a duet, “Please Be Careful with My Heart,” assisted by Richard “Sir Chief” Yap.

At midnight, it was back to a Happy Birthday song, but this time, it was for birthday celebrant and musical director Marvin Querido, who was also playing keyboards that night. Matteo, together with all the singers in the house, surprised Marvin with a yummy Costa Brava cake decked out in musical notes.

Christian Bautista and Cris Villonco also sang “Unchained Melody,” perfectly timed for their roles in “Ghost The Musical,” which opens April 25 and runs until May 11 at the RCBC Plaza.

Of course, the highlight of the night was Matteo and Sarah singing “All of Me,” delighting the entire crowd.

At the party, I chatted with Matteo’s father Gianluca Guidicelli, who recently finished his first full Ironman race in Melbourne together with lots of Filipinos and fellow Cebuanos like Jane-Jane Ong. The stories of the finishers are amazing.

My running buddy Raeanna Cranbourne told me that she had to intensely train and intently watch her nutrition intake. Good thing I recently discovered the Samsung Smart oven for my healthy eating lifestyle.

Digital appliances

Technology is ever evolving, but it has always been aimed at aiding everyday tasks. Samsung has taken on the higher pursuit of offering people a better lifestyle. Thus, armed with state-of-the-art electronics and a passion for innovation, the brand recently launched its new lineup of digital household appliances that will ensure we all have a happy home.

The Samsung Smart Oven includes features such as auto-cook for preprogrammed recipes like yogurt-making, dough proofing, and “Slim Fry” function. “Slim Fry” is what differentiates this from the typical microwave oven. Preparing meals no longer has to be an unhealthy experience, since this function cooks food to a crisp without any oil.

The Smart Oven also has other smart features like premium sensors that allow it to identify a food’s surface temperature. Thus, whether food is frozen, chilled or fresh, the Smart Oven can adjust its heat accordingly and food is never over- or undercooked.

Other new Samsung smart appliances include the new Smart Air-Conditioner, the new Food Showcase Refrigerator, and the Front Load Washing Machine with Eco-Bubble Technology. All Samsung appliances are outfitted with the Digital Inverter Technology, guaranteeing efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

On a final note, let me wish my fellow columnist and travel buddy Pepper Teehankee a happy birthday tomorrow, April 14 and .

Follow @tessavaldes on Twitter or visit www.tessaprietovaldes.com.

Alma Concepcion graduating from second college course

If you’ve been wondering why former beauty queen-turned-actress Alma Concepcion hasn’t been very active in showbiz of late, it’s because she has been busy with her studies.

Alma, who was Binibining Pilipinas-International in 1994, is graduating on April 25 (and a strong candidate for cum laude, we heard) with a Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design from the University of the Philippines.

ALMA CONCEPCION

Actually, this is Alma’s second degree, having already finished International Business at Southville International School in Parañaque City prior.

As to why she has been so academically engrossed these past years, Alma said, “Ang showbiz kasi walang katatagan, pabugso-bugso. So when my son Cobie went to full day school sa Ateneo, I decided to go back to school as well. Nag-enroll ako sa UP to take up Interior Design.”

Alma belongs to the Carvajal clan — the late Florence Carvajal a.k.a. Dabiana was the sister of her mom Evangeline Carvajal, who was also an actress, like her grandparents. She has an upcoming indie movie with Joem Bascon titled “Ang Bagong Dugo.” She was last seen two years ago via ABS-CBN’s “Pintada” together with Denise Laurel, among others.

After her reign as Bb. Pilipinas-International, Alma became a Regal Baby. “Naka-four years din ako sa Regal. I made more than 30 movies for Regal. I also did some movies under Star Cinema.”

Alma considers her second movie under Regal Films “Sa Ngalan ng Pag-ibig” with Christopher de Leon and Lorna Tolentino, as her most significant. “Kasi from this movie, I got acting nominations. Dito ko na-confirm na marunong din pala ako umarte. I was also nominated for my performance in ‘Goodbye America.’”

Her acting career suffered a setback when Alma became a mom at 22. “I was fat for five years, I weighed 200 lbs. Thankfully, I’m now back to my old figure.”

Alma feels she’s ready to resume her showbiz career, but before she goes full-blast, she first has to take the board exam. “Bachelor Degree kasi ang Interior Design so may board exam,” she said.

• • •

Marian Rivera, A Sought-After Endorser

MARIAN RIVERA

Kapuso Primetime Queen Marian Rivera is one of todays’ most sought-after celebrity product endorsers — and with good reason. She has continued to prove herself quite bankable with her TV shows, including “Carmela: Ang Pinakamagandang Babae sa Mundong Ibabaw,” being consistent top raters. She has also been named FHM’s “Sexiest Woman in the Philippines” twice.

Just recently, Marian signed up with Diamond Laboratories, Inc. (DLI) to lend an exciting, fresh new look to the country’s leading slimming tea brand, Biofitea.

Present at the launch were Edrich P. Cabrera, president of DLI and his father, Roberto V. Cabrera, Jr., founder of DLI.

DLI believes that Marian’s looks, as with her enviable figure and unwavering confidence, personify the core essence of a Biofitea woman. DLI also believes that with Marian as the face of Biofitea, she will inspire the modern Filipina. Biofitea’s latest campaign is “Tiyan na Flat (Flat Tummy).”



• • •

Beauty Queen, PAF Major Exchange ‘I Dos’

Beauty queen Hemilyn Escudero and Richard Antonio Tamayo, the father of her son, tied the knot recently at the Shrine of St. Therese of Child Jesus in Newport City. The wedding ceremony was partly military in motif, as Richard is a major in the Philippine Air Force.


Aside from being a beauty queen, Hemilyn is also a philanthropist, model, TV host, image consultant and beauty pageant trainer. She was Mutya ng Pilipinas 2005 finalist. She was also Ms. Globe International and competed in Eastern Europe where she won the Ms. All Nations award.


In the 2006 Ms. Petite International beauty pageant held in Houston, Texas, Hemilyn was a finalist and won the Best in National Costume award. And in the Ms. Global City World in 2009 held in Taipei, she won the Ms. Global City Asia award.


Hemilyn studied Financial Management in Texas, USA and is a product of Charleston School of Protocol and Etiquette in San Francisco. She is the founder of Total Image, Inc. and the franchise owner and national director of Mrs. Universe-Philippines.


Richard, on the other hand, graduated from the UP School of Economics (cum laude) and completed his Master in Business Administration from the Ateneo Graduate School of Business.


Last Friday, Richard finished the Owner/President Management Program at Harvard Business School. He is currently serving as corporate secretary and board member of most of the family-owned business endeavors such as the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA.


Among the principal sponsors were Sen. Cynthia Villar, Chavit Singson, Sec. Butch Abad, Rep. Henedina Abad, Johnny Litton, Cong. Bellaflor Angara-Castillo, Felix Ang, Roberto De Venecia, Manny Reyes, Victorio Valledor Claire dela Fuente and this writer. Reception was held at the Makati Shangri-La.






• • •

Tidbits: Happy birthday greetings today, April 13, go to Rep. Lani Mercado, Josephine delos Reyes, painter Ernis R. Tagle, Canada-based Marisoc Nueno, Sandra Jane Graham, US-based Lita V. Parlan and Betty Valdez, Neng Torres-Yabut, Ish Torgman, Maggie Garcia Abilgos of EAMC’s Tahan-Tahanan, Sarah Banga, Juana Garrido, Clarissa Abobo, Gilda Tanjutco, Gerry Perez, Lily Rose Martillo, and MB’s Superwoman Annie “Awesome” Alejo… Happy wedding anniversary to Rep. Mat Defensor and wife Florence… April 14 celebrants: Sen. Rodolfo Biazon, Naida Angpin, Chito Bertol, Jerome John hughs, Gloria Garcia Ramirez, Jason Ricketts, Agnes B. Mohamad, Linda A. Carera, Francis Lumunsad, Vicky Divina, Amante Galang, Nanette Manebo, Ms. Mitzi Piad, journalist Cito Beltran, Leane Medina Cruz, Michael Kevin Buan, Maxi Teves, Frances Ejercito, Perci Intalan, Rep. Charlie Cojuangco, Manolet Cruz, and Kristina Snell of Star Magic… Belated birthday greetings to Joem Hernandez (April 10), Bumbay and Ma. Vienna Reyes (April 12) and Angelica Fullantes (April 8)…

Snooky Serna bounces back

We’re glad to know that actress Snooky Serna is once again quite busy with her showbiz career. She is a good actress and it would be a waste if her talent is not used properly.

We caught up with Snooky during her 48th birthday bash held at the business center of Pan Pacific Manila recently, where she announced that she’s now doing an indie movie.

“It’s entitled ‘Homeless,’ and it’s an exposé of sorts related to typhoon ‘Yolanda’,” she said.

Snooky added, “Maganda ang pelikula, directed by Neal Tan. Kasama ko dito sina Ejay Falcon who plays my son, Dimples Romana, and others.”

She related that the movie is based on true accounts involving typhoon survivors some of whom became either “prostitutes or beggars” following the devastation.

“It’s a story of how syndicates manipulated and took advantage of the victims of ‘Yolanda.’ ’Yung iba dinala dito sa Manila at dito ine-exploit. Totoo ang istorya, but iniba lang namin siyempre ang mga pangalan ng characters for obvious reason. I play a mother here. Namamalimos ako,” Snooky said.

She has no problems doing mother roles at this point in her career. “I’m a mother in real life so it’s okay. My eldest is Sam who is in his senior year taking up European Studies at De La Salle University. Si Sachi naman, 17, taking up Literature, sa La Salle din,” she shared.

Snooky has another movie project in the making, which she describes as “98% political.” She said, “Hindi siya indie, more on mainstream naman ito, but also directed by Neal Tan. Wala pang working title.”

Snooky, who is now managed by Mio Manansala, also has a new show “Medical HD,” that will air starting May 23 on Net 25.

She assured fans that she will be more focused on work this time around. “Yes po, member ako ng Iglesia ni Cristo (for) three years na. Nagbago na ang buhay ko for the better since then,” she said.

At her birthday party, Snooky also introduced us to her German business partner, Mark Munchmeyer. Their first project together is the distribution of a Korean product called Magic Patch Power Strip, a multi-purpose invention that Mark said, “has a lot of functions aside from being an effective pain-reliever.”


• • •


Family Values In TV Ad

A brand new TV commercial was launched recently by PLDT Home DSL on “Eat Bulaga” and it features a bright, handsome and precocious young boy named Diego Ledesma.

Seven-year-old Diego has tens of thousand of followers and this is due to the popularity of his online advice column “Ask Diego.”

Many would frown upon the thought of a child being on Facebook but they should know that values are paramount in the Ledesma household.

Diego’s parents, Paolo and Lara, monitor his Facebook page constantly, going on to delete offensive content sent by his followers. They help their son answer the more difficult questions about love, studies and bullying. They also help Diego type out the answers. Sometimes, Diego would also ask advice from his sister Trisha.

The Ledesmas are perfect for the commercial because they are the ideal example of a young, urban family that is tight-knit. They do things together even online, this, using multiple gadgets simultaneously.

That’s where PLDT Home DSL’s limitless and reliable family-sized connection really comes in handy.

“The ad revolves around how family members helps and support each other. The story is like a classic film. Hopefully, over the years, we would be remembered by the story. A story that is real, relatable and of course memorable,” said Gary Dujali, PLDT vice president and head for broadband.

To sign up for your own limitless and reliable family-sized connection, visit www.pldthome.com.



• • •

HBO Asia Launches HBO GO

HBO Asia launched recently its broadband streaming service, HBO GO, in the Philippines exclusively on SKYCable.

Carlo L. Katigbak, CEO and president of SKY Cable Corp., said “It is with pride and excitement that SKY welcomes HBO GO’s debut in the Philippines. We at SKY feel honored and privileged to be the exclusive partner of HBO for this service which we predict will be the new wave of watching movies and entertainment content…”

Through this service, users can enjoy over 1,000 hours of uncut award-winning HBO and Cinemax original content on multiple devices including computers, tablets, and smartphones (iOS and Android), anywhere, anytime.

Likewise, HBO GO enables subscribers unlimited access to an extensive library of original movies, concerts, documentaries, and series.

The launch, held at Fairmont Makati, was graced by Pia Magalona and daughters Maxene and Saab.

Pia enjoys the award-winning content that HBO GO offers. Maxene likes the convenience and flexibility of the service, and Saab looks forward to being the first to watch the new season of “Games of Thrones” uncut and immediately within 12 hours of its US premiere.

• • •

Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, April 12, go to beauty guru Ricky Reyes, Chichi Laperal, Gina Santos, Vicia David Pascual, Mercy Santos, Carol Rigor, Chito Siopongco, Norie Sayo, Cynthia Gapasin, Milagros Liquete, Marichelle M. Torres, John Carlos M. Jaime, Robert Abdallah King, Philip Cu-unjieng, Christine Margaret G. Martinez, MB’s Irene Fernando and my New York-based daught er-in-law Brenda Silan-Belen…

Senate hearing: New rules for UAAP, student athletes sought

 MANILA, Philippines – Alleged unethical practices that had gone unchecked in school athletics for years came up during a Senate hearing Thursday, April 10, on a bill that seeks to protect the rights of student athletes.

Most of the malpractices and the restricting effects of the residency rule cited were from various fields in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines, leading the a University of the Philippines professor to propose new rules to govern the UAAP.

"We are branded as the 'tulisans' in the UAAP but we want to propose a new set of rules," Ronualdo Dizer of the UP College of Human Kinetics told the committee on education, arts, and culture that was hearing for the first time Senator Pia Cayetano's Senate Bill 2166 or "An Act Providing for the Magna Carta of Student-Athletes."

Dizer said malpractices had gone on in the UAAP because there are no laws yet to regulate the practices that universities resort to just to keep good atheletes.

Among the many rules Dizer wants to get institutionalized are:

• banning foreign players from participating in the UAAP
• setting an allowance cap for athletes
• allowing students to transfer from one school to another if they have not been elevated to Team A status after a year

"There are no limits for financial packages or benefits. There should be an allowance cap. Students should also be allowed to transfer from one school to another without financial obligations if they were not promoted to Team A after a year," he said.

Cayetano: There should be no commercialization

Cayetano also called out athletic associations on the practice by some schools of offering excessive benefits just to lure athletes into transferring to or staying with them – as if the league is about money.

While Cayetano recognizes the right of student-athletes to enroll in the school of his or her choice, she believes there are some instances where student athletes transfer because of "scholarship with benefits."

"I have nothing against people earning money from sports, but not when you're a student athlete," said Cayetano. "We have to self-regulate. My challenge is to call it a student athletic association, not a commercial league."

She added the problem persists because parents allow their children to be treated as a commercial commodity and because there are benefits given without the amounts being disclosed.

"Lumilipat ang mga bata because of piracy, dahil sa scholarship with benefits. Some receive house and lots or cars. Ayaw natin mangyari 'yun," she added. (Some transfer because of piracy, because they're given scholarship with benefits. Some receive house and lots or cars. We don't want that to happen.)

Section 7.21 of Cayetano's proposed law wants to limit student-athlete benefits to tuition, board and lodging, uniforms, and reasonable living allowance.

"The student athlete is first and foremost a student and secondly an athlete; to this end, his or her rights as student shall be paramount at all times," said Cayetano, who also chairs the committee.

Among the many rights Cayetano wants to give student-athletes should the bill be legislated into a law are: the right to have their education needs prioritized by their school or organization (Section 5.1), the right to be provided with safe and healthy environment for practice (Section 5.2), choose his/her own school (Section 5.3).

Shorten residency rule

In the highly-tackled part of the bill (Section 5.3b) Cayetano wants to shorten to one year the current two-year residency requirement before college student athletes are allowed to transfer schools, and to remove the residency requirement for high school students wishing to transfer to another high school, college, or university.

The bill states: "It is the right of a student-athlete to be free from any act of restriction or punishment from his old and/or new school due to his transfer from the former to the latter, Provided, that a one-year residency shall be respected by the school and athletic association in case of a transfer from one college or university to another. In no case shall this residency rule apply to a high school student who transferring to another school or to a college or university."

In 2013, Cayetano lambasted the UAAP board for implementing a new rule for Season 76, popularly called the "Jerie Pingoy rule" as it was named after the former Far Eastern University (FEU) junior star Jerie Pingoy who decided to transfer to Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) for college.

Under the new UAAP rule, a player who shall transfer from one member school to another is required to sit it out for two seasons or get a release from their previous school; since Pingoy was not granted a release by FEU, he won't be eligible to play for the Blue Eagles until Season 78.

Cayetano deemed this rule as 'unconstitutional.' READ: UAAP residency rule: a huge setback

Swimmer Mikee Bartolome of the University of the Philippines (UP) - who transferred from University of Santo Tomas (UST) - also faced the same controversy as she faced a two-year residency rule.

But with the help of Cayetano, a staunch supporter of student-athletes, the issue was taken to the Supreme Court, leading to a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) that allowed Bartolome to participate in the UAAP Season 76 swimming competitions.

Boycotts marred the swimming tournament last September 2013 with two member schools – UST and La Salle – refusing to join if Bartolome swims. Only Ateneo and UP went toe to toe in the competitions with the tankers from UP emerging as overall champions. READ: Bartolome wins, but boycotts mar UAAP swimming

Bartolome's father shared in the hearing on Thursday that their family had to go through hardships days before the swimming competition just to get a TRO. He added Mikee still has to serve a one-year residency.

"There is a directive that the UAAP shall bar my daughter from playing because she has not yet served a one-year residency."

Senator Cynthia Villar, who was present at the hearing, also expressed her disgust over the two-year residency rule.

"I don't understand this two-year residency rule. Students change schools. They go to different schools for better opportunities or education," she said.

Equal opportunities

Cayetano also exchanged ideas with representatives from athletic associations like the NAASCU, WNCAA, and SCUAA.

She wants to explore the possibility of giving a venue for differently-abled athletes to excel, and also giving equal opportunites to men and women.

"My perception is that a huge chunk of the benefit is going to men's basketball," Cayetano said during the public hearing.

Once passed, the bill will oblige schools to back their student athletes (Section 7), providing them with the proper support like shouldering their tuition fees, allowances, and providing them with medical care, proper equipment or facilities that shall help them in fulfilling their responsibilities as stipulated in Section 5. At the same time, Cayetano wants to limit the benefits as to not 'commercialize' the student-athletes.

Cayetano also challenged school officials to look at student-athletes' academic performances in such way there shall be no special treatment, like the fabrication of grades.

The student-athletes meanwhile (Section 6) shall be tasked to observe a set of responsibilities, like conducting themselves in a good manner, voluntarily joining trainings or workshops prioritize their academic performance, and refraining from using Performance-enhancing Drugs (PEDs). – Rappler.com 

Hot new band Iktus releases debut album

Iktus, the winner of the 2013 Sun Broadband Quest, is a four-piece Christian pop-rock band composed of siblings Andrei, CJ and Andrew Panaligan and Augusto Mendoza.

They have recently released their eponymous EP under MCA Music, Inc., an eight-track album that features the carrier single “IMY” along with “Hiling,” “Mahal Kita (I Love You), “Eto,” “Wag Na,” “Paalam,” and “Alaala;” and includes an acoustic version of “IMY.” The band describes their sound as alternative pop rock. As the band’s primary songwriter, Andre write songs that predominantly deal with love, hope and positivity.  “Ang gusto namin kahit hindi ka broken-hearted, ma-broken-hearted ’yung pakiramdam mo,” he said.

Iktus (the name comes from the Greek word “Ichthys,” meaning fish that alludes to Jesus Christ) was formed in 2005 while twin brothers Andrei and Andrew were still in high school. Their sister CJ joined them as vocalist in 2006. Augusto joined the following year. They honed their skills by joining band competitions. The lineup changed in 2007 and the band’s repertoire shifted from jazz to pop rock.

Aside from winning the Sun Broadband Quest contest, Iktus also joined and won recognition from other competitions 

such as the UP Fair Battle of the Bands (third place), UP Rockbakan (second place), radio station DJV’s Battle of the Bands (first place and Best Vocalist award), and Nescafé Soundskool, among others.

Iktus’ debut EP is now available via iTunes, Astroplus and Odyssey outlets.

The band will be at Odyssey Greenbelt 1 on May 2, Odyssey Festival Mall on May 10, and Odyssey SM Megamall on May 18.



• • •

‘America In 3D’ At MOA

As part of its recent “America In 3D” festivities, the US Embassy Manila highlighted American music in a series of concerts at the SM Mall of Asia.

Some of the country’s top artists participated, rendering well-loved American hits in different genres: Charice and Jed Madela (pop), Luke Mejares (R&B), Razorback (rock), Flippin Soul Stompers (jazz and blues), Prasia (gospel), and The Crew (hip-hop).

The US Navy’s 7th Fleet Band, The Orient Express, also performed at the shows; while representatives from the World Championship of Performing Arts sang the Philippine and US National Anthems.

“America in 3D” is a unique road show showcasing the US Embassy and it’s programs, services, and people throughout the Philippines. The three “Ds” – Development, Diplomacy and Defense – were highlighted through colorful interaction points, displays and special informational sessions.

The US Ambassador to the Philippines, H.E. Philip Goldberg was present in all events and was welcomed by SM officials led by SM Store President Jorge Mendiola.

 Backroom Artists In ‘Moon Of Desire’

Backroom artists Benj Bolivar, Carlo Sawit, PJ Go and Maui Lumba are cast in ABS-CBN’s newest series “Moon of Desire.”

These young actors prepared well for their respective roles. Benj exclaimed, “I’m super excited! It’s a dream-come-true. Dati, nanonood lang ako ng mga soaps together with my family. Now, here I am, kasama na sa bagong Kapamilya show. It’s my turn na panoorin ng pamilya ko sa TV.  I promise na mas lalo ko pang pagbubutihin ang aking pag-arte para mapatunayan ko na may kakayahan ako bilang isang aktor.”

Carlo shared, “Promise, pagbubutihin ko ang aking trabaho. Sana magtuluy-tuloy na. Masayang-masaya ako.”

PJ and Maui who are also seen in the new MyPhone ad are elated to be part of the show. “Desirable din naman kami, ’di ba?” PJ joked. “Basta masaya kami,” Maui added.

They are also making their presence felt at various Pagcor Casino branches via “Not Your Ordinary Variety Show,” which also features NYOBG members Avery Paraiso, Kaye Chua, Bon Jovi Osorio, Junnel Manansala, Jennica Ollero, and Culver Padilla.

NYOBG takes centerstage on April 9 (CF Hyatt), April 12 (CF Airport), April 23 (CF Angeles), and April 26 (CF Pavilion). Joining them onstage as special guests are Krazy Chikz and other Pagcor talents.

• • •

Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, April 8, go to Louie Mamengo, Ysabel Genator, Dr. Stephanie Pili of PGH, Emma Guevara, Jenny Edlagan, Ma. Regeena Uba, Atty. Hershelyn David-Francisco, Kristine April Suarez Gahol, Estrella Luz Cabebe and Kyle Balili of Star Magic and Ernie Reyes of Phil. Consulate Gen. in Chicago, USA…

 

  

#WhiteShirtLove, a dance class to empower women

G-Force’s artistic director Georcelle Dapat-Sy, known to most as Teacher Georcelle or TG, is offering a new dance class this summer billed as #WhiteShirtLove. It is a dance fitness class designed for females of all ages.

TG admitted that she originally conceptualized it as a class for mothers. “Originally, the title of the class was ‘Foxy Moms.’ But I realized that it is beneficial for women of all ages so I decided to introduce this class as a fitness program for all women, to make them feel empowered. It is actually a good workout – a program that could help enhance one’s body sculpture. This class could help trim bellies, tone legs, arms, buttocks and other areas that they want to improve on. A perfect program that would definitely boost their confidence,” she said.

TG, who is behind the fabulous production numbers we see on “ASAP” every Sunday, will handle the class herself, making it doubly special for participants.

G-Force started offering dance workshops via the G-Force Project in 2008. They offer classes for participant ages three and up, as spearheaded by homegrown choreographers.

TG said, “I would always go back to the group’s core, on why we are doing the G-Force Project. Our students look up to us. They don’t only want to become G-Force but to build their individualities as aspiring dancers and choreographers as well. We want the G-Force in-house teachers to personally guide them, we want to share the gift of dance.”

Another special class for this year’s G-Force Project is “Me and My Little Force” aimed towards kiddies three to five years olds and their parents, guardians, older relatives or even yayas, to foster bonding.

Asked who she thinks are the Top 3 dancers among the Kapamilya stars, TG cited Sarah Geronimo (“her grooves come from the heart she’s a natural dance”), Anne Curtis (“she’s sexy, naughty and has her own flavor to give”) and KC Concepcion (“for being equipped and skilled because she has a background in dance”).

She added, “During my younger years, sina Gary Valenciano, Vina Morales and Rachel Alejandro ang Top 3 ko. When I was 18, I handled all of Rachel’s concerts. She was part of my journey…”

The G-Force studio is located along Mother Ignacia St. in Quezon City.

Their grand recital, considered as the biggest and most lavish hereabouts, is slated on May 29 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

• • •

Kuh Ledesma Mounts Second Art Exhibit

Kuh Ledesma’s reason to paint has always been clear – to promote the power of healing and to spread the good message as based on the Bible.

This year, she hopes her second exhibit – on April 8 at Whitespace, Pasong Tamo in Makati City – will raise enough funds to produce an independent film entitled “Hilom,” which will be based on true stories and real accounts.

“It is my hope that this film will expose the perils of believing in albularyos (folk healers) and to believe in the power of the word of God and the power of prayer,” the acclaimed singer-actress said.

The cellos in her painting represent Psalm 95:2 that reads, “Let us come before Him with thanksgiving and extol Him with music and song.” While her imposing artworks of vines and branches were inspired by John 15:5 that says, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”

“Becoming a Bible believer and follower of Jesus has made me realize that we are to give God glory in all we do and so how wonderful the beauty of purpose,” she said.

Ledesma started painting in high school but when she went to Bacolod for college her focus shifted. After college, her singing career took off and she thought she was content with that.

“Over the years I found out that it is not good for us to bury our talents. He has a purpose for what he gives us. God gives some people more talents and gifts and it is important to him that we use it to give him glory,” Ledesma said.

• • •

Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings, April 7, go to Richard Gomez, KC Concepcion, Nadia Montenegro, US-based singer Yolly dela Torre, Mrs. Puring, Asuncion, PR man Donnie Ramirez, entertainment editor Isah Red, Zaida Rawarai, Marites Igacio, April Teosico, Evelyn de Boda, Ana Mary Landingin, Manola Villacorta, Jaime Constantion Flores, Anne Katherine Medina Isip of Fairfield, California, Blackfairy Hernando II, Miguel Balsell, Carmencita Genato and Rep. Satur Ocampo… Happy 26th wedding anniversary to Gov. ER Ejercito and Mayor Gerlie Maita Ejercito…

Vhong Navarro makes movie comeback

Vhong Navarro still wants to make people smile, despite the psychological trauma resulting from the events that overtook him a few months back.

He said, “Ang lagi kong iniisip, kahit anong pagsubok ang dumating sa akin, ang importante ay makapagpasaya ako ng tao. Hindi ko po iniisip ngayon ang nangyari sa buhay ko, dumating ito eh, alam ko binigay ng Diyos ito. At alam ko pong malalampasan ko ito, sa tulong ng madlang people.”

Vhong now makes his film comeback via “Da Possessed,” co-produced by Star Cinema and Regal Films, marking a reunion with Bb. Joyce Bernal who directed him prior in “Mr. Suave” (2003), “D’Anothers” (2005), and “Agent X44” (2007).

Joyce, who won the Best Director award in last year’s MMFF for “10,000 Hours,” also directed the record-breaking 2011 MMFF entry “Segunda Mano,” and “Bakit Hindi Ka Crush ng Crush Mo?” last year.

In “Da Possessed,” Vhong plays the role of the simpleton Ramon, who attempts to venture into landscape art, going on to fall for his sexy boss (Solenn Heussaff). Conflict starts when spirits from another world possess his body.

Joyce shared, “Vhong is very, very effective in portraying his patented zero to hero characters. This, for me, is the reason why the entire nation loves and adores him. Vhong elevates the so-called normal guy in his movies. ‘Da Possessed’ is basically a story of a regular guy who will unwittingly embark in an amazing adventure and hopefully save the day at the end of the movie.”

On his part, Vhong said, “It has always been my philosophy to always be happy and I want to spread all happiness that I can through my work not just as an actor but as a dancer and TV host as well. I am both overjoyed and overwhelmed with the solid support of ABS-CBN, Star Cinema and my fans. We worked very hard to make sure that everyone would enjoy ‘Da Possessed.’“

Vhong was very excited to work with Solenn who expressed the same about the actor-host, known to be among the most accomplished and most talented comedians of his generation. Solenn didn’t mind that she was not the original choice to play Vhong’s leading lady. She just liked the project and the chance to be working with Vhong.

The others in the cast of “Da Possessed,” which is part of Star Cinema’s ongoing 20th anniversary celebration, are John Lapus, Smokey Manaloto, Empoy, Joy Viado, Beverly Salviejo, Lito Pimentel, Aaliyah Belmoro, Matet de Leon and Joey Marquez.

“Da Possessed” opens in cinemas nationwide on April 19.



• • •

Mowelfund Marks 40th Anniversary

Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada founded the Movie Workers Welfare Foundation (Mowelfund) on March 29, 1974, with the aim of providing help for marginalized film workers.

Mayor Erap was assisted by competent lawyers and experts in institutionalizing Mowelfund. Film luminaries like the late Fernando Poe Jr., Susan Roces, Dolphy, Marichu Vera Perez-Maceda, the late Atty. Espiridion Laxa and National Artist Eddie Romero, Cabinet member Guillermo de Vega and first Executive Director Rolfie Velasco, also lent him much needed support.

March had been declared Mowelfund Month by then Quezon City Mayor and now House Speaker Sonny Belmonte in 2003.

The Manila mayor was the special guest at Mowelfund’s 40th anniversary held March 29, which was highlighted by free medical, dental and optical services, a special children’s program, raffles for beneficiaries and dependents, and a recognition ceremony for Mowelfund employees and service providers.

A holy mass led the commemoration, highlighted by Fr. Larry Faraon’s pre-Nuptial blessings for Mowelfund Executive Director/President Boots Anson- Roa and fiancé Atty. King Rodrigo, who will wed on June 14 with Cardinal Chito Tagle officiating.

Mowelfund’s Board of Trustees includes Vera Perez-Maceda as the chairman, Fr. Larry Faraon, Rez Cortez, Director Edgardo “Boy” Vinarao, Composer Josefino Cenizal, Anson-Roa, Corporate Secretary and Legal Counsel Atty. Roderick Vera, and Vice President and Comptroller Julius Topacio.

• • •

Despedida Party For ‘Annaliza’ Cast

A farewell party for the cast of ABS-CBN’s “Annaliza” was tendered recently by former beauty queen-model turned actress Jean Saburit. The venue was the Corinthian Gardens Clubhouse, courtesy of Jean’s good friend, former Ilocos Sur Governor Chavit Singson. Jean had the food catered, and Zanjoe Marudo brought the drinks.

“Nakaka-miss at nakakalungkot kasi matagal din ang pagsasama namin, imagine, naka-isang taon ang ‘Annaliza’ so you can just imagine ang naging bonding namin lahat,” Jean said. “We all feel sad na nagwakas na, but mas masaya kami na till the end top rating ang ‘Annaliza.’ It was another very successful Kapamilya show, otherwise hindi nagtagal ng ganito.”

Jean was very effective in her role as a kontrabida. “Bad ako dito. Mother ako ni Patrick (Garcia) na tunay na ama ni Annaliza portrayed by Andrea Brillantes. But in the end,naging mabait naman ako. I redeemed myself,” Jean said.

Jean’s previous project with the Kapamilya Network was “Eva Fonda” in 2008.



• • •

Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, April 6, go to former Caloocan Mayor Boy Asistio, QC Councilor Roderick Paulate, Vicky Hechanova, Gen. Guillermo Pecache, Col. Gerry Cunanan, US-based Rosemarie de Vera, Emer Rojas, Marcuz Enrick Gajuda Belardo, Eva Hamaybay, Catherine Resumadero, Pauline Angela Domingo, Lollie Cruz, Jimmy Regala, US-based Recelyn M. Delmonte, and Justin Marc S.B. Chipeco…

Lifestyle Network Schedule (April 6-12, 2014)

Sunday, April 6

• 06:00AM - Japan Documentary
• 06:30AM - NBC Nightly News
• 07:00AM - Sunday TV Mass
• 08:00AM - Art Square Sunday [RTHK]
• 08:30AM - Good Time Old Buddies (SAGE presents :)
• 09:00AM - Cultural Square
• 09:30AM - Tokumei Sentai Go-Busters
• 10:00AM - Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
• 11:00AM - The Hanawa Sisters
• 11:55AM - TV Easy
• 12:05PM - City Forum [RTHK]
• 01:00PM - 
• 02:00PM - Downton Abbey (II) 
• 03:00PM - Sunday Sport 
• 03:30PM - The Little Paris Kitchen Cooking with Rachel Khoo 
• 03:55PM - Sid the Science Kid (II) 
• 04:20PM - Disney Jake and the Never Land Pirates 
• 04:45PM - Disney Kick Buttowski: Suburban Daredevil 
• 05:10PM - Star Wars The Clone Wars (IV) 
• 05:35PM - Good Luck Charlie (III) 
• 06:00PM - Power Tracks
• 06:15PM - Road To Brazil
• 06:45PM - Money Magazine 
• 07:15PM - Hong Kong Connection (RTHK)
• 08:00PM - The Michael J. Fox Show: "Christmas"
• 08:25PM - Crazy World Stories
• 08:30PM - Face Off (II): "Water World"
• 09:30PM - FANCL 18 Mask Expert Presents: Movie of the Month: "X-Men First Class"
• 12:20AM - Road To Brazil: Episode 9 - "Argentina"
• 12:50AM - News Roundup and Weather Report
• 01:10AM - Money Magazine
• 01:40AM - America's Got Talent (VI)
• 02:25AM - MasterChef (II) 

Monday, April 7

• 05:30AM - Panahon.TV
• 06:00AM - Jewelpet Twinkle
• 06:30AM - NBC Nightly News Weekeend
• 07:00AM - Good Morning Hong Kong
• 07:50AM - Finance File
• 07:55AM - Good Morning Hong Kong
• 09:00AM - Inside the Stock Exchange
• 09:45AM - JSG Song Video Corner
• 09:50AM - Happy Old Buddies
• 10:00AM - The Flying Fox of Snowy Mountain
• 10:30AM - Plain Love
• 11:30AM - TV Easy
• 11:35AM - News Headlines
• 11:40AM - The Last Steep Ascent
• 12:40PM - TV Easy
• 12:45PM - Inside the Stock Exchange
• 01:00PM - Saksi
• 01:15PM - Financial File
• 01:20PM - Pentaprism II
• 01:25PM - Pleasure & Leisure
• 02:10PM - TV Easy
• 02:15PM - The Green Room
• 02:40PM - Inside the Stock Exchange
• 02:45PM - Welcome To The House
• 03:50PM - Bakugan Battle Brawlers: Gundalian Invaders
• 04:15PM - Inside the Stock Exchange
• 04:20PM - The Amazing World of Gumball
• 04:50PM - Putonghua News / Putonghua Financial Report / Putonghua Weather Report
• 05:30PM - Financial Report 
• 05:35PM - World of Football
• 06:00PM - America's Funniest Home Videos (XXIII) 
• 06:30PM - TV Patrol
• 07:00PM - The Pearl Report 
• 07:30PM - Scoop
• 08:00PM - Great Continental Railway Journeys: "Switzerland"
• 09:00PM - Ape Man: "The Alpha Male"
• 10:00PM - BLANCPAIN Presents:Marketplace 
• 10:05PM - House (VIII)
• 11:00PM - News plus
• 11:30PM - Bet Your Remember
• 11:50PM - EXTRA
• 12:00AM - Today's Finance
• 12:10AM - Pipol
• 01:00AM - Entertainment This Week
• 02:00AM - Fringe (IV)
• 03:00AM - Alcatraz
• 04:00AM - Power Tracks
• 04:15AM - Station Close

Tuesday, April 8

• 05:30AM - Panahon.TV
• 06:00AM - Jewelpet Twinkle
• 06:30AM - NBC Nightly News
• 07:00AM - Good Morning Hong Kong
• 07:50AM - Finance File
• 07:55AM - Good Morning Hong Kong
• 09:00AM - Inside the Stock Exchange
• 09:45AM - JSG Song Video Corner
• 09:50AM - Happy Old Buddies
• 10:00AM - The Flying Fox of Snowy Mountain
• 10:30AM - Plain Love
• 11:30AM - TV Easy
• 11:35AM - News Headlines
• 11:40AM - The Last Steep Ascent
• 12:40PM - TV Easy
• 12:45PM - Inside the Stock Exchange
• 01:00PM - Saksi
• 01:15PM - Financial File
• 01:20PM - Pentaprism II
• 01:25PM - Pleasure & Leisure
• 02:10PM - TV Easy
• 02:15PM - The Green Room
• 02:40PM - Inside the Stock Exchange
• 02:45PM - Welcome To The House
• 03:50PM - Bakugan Battle Brawlers: Gundalian Invaders
• 04:15PM - Inside the Stock Exchange
• 04:20PM - Eco Company (III)
• 04:50PM - Putonghua News / Putonghua Financial Report / Putonghua Weather Report
• 05:30PM - Financial Report 
• 05:35PM - Football Asia
• 06:00PM - The Works [RTHK] 
• 06:30PM - TV Patrol
• 07:00PM - Delia School of Canada Presents: Fierce Earth
• 07:30PM - Scoop
• 08:00PM - Too Cute (II)
• 09:00PM - Pearl Spectacular: "Great Bear Stakeout"
• 10:00PM - BLANCPAIN Presents: Marketplace 
• 10:05PM - The Tomorrow People
• 11:00PM - Bet Your Remember 
• 11:30PM - News plus
• 11:50AM - EXTRA
• 12:00AM - Today's Finance
• 12:10AM - The Correspondents
• 01:10AM - Entertainment Tonight
• 01:40AM - Fringe (IV)
• 02:40AM - The Pearl Report
• 03:10AM - World of Football
• 03:40AM - Power Tracks

Wednesday, April 9

• 05:30AM - Panahon.TV
• 06:00AM - Jewelpet Twinkle
• 06:30AM - NBC Nightly News
• 07:00AM - Good Morning Hong Kong
• 07:50AM - Finance File
• 07:55AM - Good Morning Hong Kong
• 09:00AM - Inside the Stock Exchange
• 09:45AM - JSG Song Video Corner
• 09:50AM - Happy Old Buddies
• 10:00AM - The Flying Fox of Snowy Mountain
• 10:30AM - The Last Steep Ascent
• 12:35PM - TV Easy
• 12:45PM - Inside the Stock Exchange
• 01:00PM - Saksi
• 01:15PM - Financial File
• 01:20PM - Pentaprism II
• 01:25PM - Pleasure & Leisure
• 02:10PM - TV Easy
• 02:15PM - The Green Room
• 02:40PM - Inside the Stock Exchange
• 02:45PM - Welcome To The House
• 03:50PM - Bakugan Battle Brawlers: Gundalian Invaders
• 04:15PM - Inside the Stock Exchange
• 04:20PM - Real Life 101
• 04:50PM - Putonghua News / Putonghua Financial Report / Putonghua Weather Report
• 05:30PM - Financial Report
• 05:35PM - The Hairy Bikers' Best of British
• 06:30PM - TV Patrol
• 07:00PM - James Martin's Food Map of Britain
• 07:30PM - Scoop
• 08:00PM - Unique Hotels and Restaurants 
• 09:00PM - Scam City
• 10:00PM - Market Place
• 10:05PM - Chicago Fire: "Under the Knife"
• 11:00PM - Bet Your Remember
• 11:30PM - News plus
• 11:50AM - EXTRA
• 12:00AM - Today's Finance
• 12:10AM - 
• 01:00AM - Entertainment Tonight
• 01:30AM - Fringe (IV)
• 02:30AM - 60 Minutes 
• 03:30AM - Power Tracks
• 03:45AM - Station Close

Thursday, April 10

• 05:30AM - Panahon.TV
• 06:00AM - Jewelpet Twinkle
• 06:30AM - NBC Nightly News
• 07:00AM - Good Morning Hong Kong
• 07:50AM - Finance File
• 07:55AM - Good Morning Hong Kong
• 09:00AM - Inside the Stock Exchange
• 09:45AM - JSG Song Video Corner
• 09:50AM - Happy Old Buddies
• 10:00AM - The Flying Fox of Snowy Mountain
• 10:30AM - Plain Love
• 12:35PM - TV Easy
• 12:45PM - Inside the Stock Exchange
• 01:00PM - Saksi
• 01:15PM - Financial File
• 01:20PM - Pentaprism II
• 01:25PM - Pleasure & Leisure
• 02:10PM - TV Easy
• 02:15PM - The Green Room
• 02:40PM - Inside the Stock Exchange
• 02:45PM - Welcome To The House
• 03:50PM - Bakugan Battle Brawlers: Gundalian Invaders
• 04:15PM - Inside the Stock Exchange
• 04:20PM - The Looney Tunes Show
• 04:50PM - Putonghua News / Putonghua Financial Report / Putonghua Weather Report
• 05:30PM - Financial Report
• 05:35PM - FIFA Football World
• 06:00PM - Fishy Business[RTHK]
• 06:30PM - TV Patrol
• 07:00PM - The Spirit of Yachting: Fight to the Finish
• 07:30PM - Scoop
• 08:00PM - America's Got Talent (7): Episode 40 - LIVE Semifinals Results
• 08:50PM - Crazy World Stories
• 09:00PM - World's Weirdest Restaurants (II): Episode 14 - A DATE WITH LOVE
• 09:30PM - Dolce Vita
• 10:00PM - Market Place
• 10:05PM - Castle (V): Episode 7 - Swan Song
• 11:00PM - Bet Your Remember
• 11:30PM - News plus
• 11:50AM - EXTRA
• 12:00AM - Today's Finance
• 12:10AM - 
• 01:00AM - Entertainment Tonight
• 01:30AM - Fringe (IV)
• 02:30AM - House (VII)
• 03:30AM - Power Tracks
• 03:45AM - Station Close

Friday, April 11

• 05:30AM - Panahon.TV
• 06:00AM - Jewelpet Twinkle
• 06:30AM - NBC Nightly News
• 07:00AM - Good Morning Hong Kong
• 07:50AM - Finance File
• 07:55AM - Good Morning Hong Kong
• 09:00AM - Inside the Stock Exchange
• 09:45AM - JSG Song Video Corner
• 09:50AM - Happy Old Buddies
• 10:00AM - The Flying Fox of Snowy Mountain
• 10:30AM - Plain Love
• 12:35PM - TV Easy
• 12:45PM - Inside the Stock Exchange
• 01:00PM - Saksi
• 01:15PM - Financial File
• 01:20PM - Pentaprism II
• 01:25PM - Pleasure & Leisure
• 02:10PM - TV Easy
• 02:15PM - The Green Room
• 02:40PM - Inside the Stock Exchange
• 02:45PM - Welcome To The House
• 03:50PM - Bakugan Battle Brawlers: Gundalian Invaders
• 04:15PM - Inside the Stock Exchange
• 04:20PM - Max Steel
• 04:50PM - Putonghua News / Putonghua Financial Report / Putonghua Weather Report
• 05:30PM - Financial Report
• 05:35PM - FIFA Football World
• 06:00PM - Fishy Business[RTHK]
• 06:30PM - TV Patrol
• 07:00PM - Home By Novogratz: Episode 13 - Busy Bachelors in Hoboken Get a Grown-Up Home
• 07:30PM - Scoop
• 08:00PM - America's Got Talent (7): Episode 40 - Finals
• 08:50PM - Crazy World Stories
• 09:00PM - Oriental Watch Company Presents: Friday Hall of Fame: A Separation
• 11:45PM - Bet Your Remember
• 12:15AM - News plus
• 12:45AM - EXTRA
• 12:55AM - Today's Finance
• 01:05AM - Entertainment Tonight
• 01:35AM - Dolce Vita
• 02:05AM - Breaking the Magician's Code Magic's Biggest Secrets Finally Revealed
• 03:05AM - Brazil with Michael Palin
• 04:05AM - Station Close

Saturday, April 12

• 05:30AM - Panahon.TV
• 06:00AM - Jewelpet Twinkle
• 06:30AM - NBC Nightly News
• 07:00AM - Good Morning Hong Kong
• 08:30AM - The Pulse [RTHK]
• 08:55AM - Ben & Holly's Little Kingdom
• 09:25AM - Bananas in Pyjamas
• 09:50AM - Mandarin MOD Top 10 [PTH] 
• 10:40AM - Marvel Wolverine 
• 11:10AM - Dolce Vita 
• 11:35AM - The Pearl Report 
• 12:00PM - Transworld Sport 
• 01:00PM - World's Weirdest (II) 
• 02:00PM - How to Grow a Planet: Episode 1 - Life From Light
• 03:00PM - Man vs Wild (VI)          
• 03:50PM - Power Tracks
• 04:00PM - Mike The Knight  
• 04:30PM - Green Lantern The Animated Series  
• 05:00PM - Design Squad Nation  
• 05:30PM - Hero Squad
• 06:00PM - Power Tracks
• 06:15PM - 60 Minutes      
• 07:15PM - Police Report [RTHK]
• 07:30PM - Headliner [RTHK]
• 08:00PM - America's Funniest Home Videos (XXIV)      
• 08:25PM - Crazy World Stories      
• 08:30PM - Wipeout (V)
• 09:30PM - Weekend Blockbuster: "National Treasure Book of Secrets"
• 12:20AM - Food Source 2
• 12:50AM - The Weekend News
• 01:15AM - Entertainment Tonight
• 01:45AM - Jade Solid Gold
• 02:50AM - TV Easy
• 02:55AM - Late, Late Show: "Becoming Jane"

US: "We stand by our allies"

China cautioned as tensions rise between Manila and Beijing

WASHINGTON—“There should be no doubt about resolve of the United States. We stand by our allies and we stand by our commitments,” Assistant Secretary of State Daniel Russel, the top US diplomat for East Asia, told a Senate panel that oversees policy in the region.

The United States on Thursday cautioned China that it will meet its defense commitments to allies as tensions mount between Manila and Beijing over their territorial dispute in the South China Sea.

Russel told a congressional hearing that some Asian countries fear that Russia’s annexation of Crimea could serve as a precedent for Beijing.

In China’s most recent assertive display, its Coast Guard ships attempted to interdict a Philippine vessel resupplying a small offshore garrison on the BRP Sierra Madre at Ayungin Shoal (Second Thomas Shoal) on the Philippine side of the Spratly archipelago in the South China Sea on March 29.

The Philippines is a US treaty ally and one of several nations with conflicting territorial claims with China over small islands and reefs in the South China Sea, most of which China claims for itself.

Russel said China’s “intimidating steps” toward the Philippines appeared to reflect its “anger and discontent” over the Philippines filing a case at the United Nations arbitral tribunal in The Hague, the Netherlands, on Sunday challenging China’s claims.

“It is incumbent of all the claimants to foreswear intimidation, coercion and other nondiplomatic or extralegal means,” Russel said.

He urged China to clarify its claims in the South China Sea and reiterated US support for a diplomatic solution.

Brunei, Malaysia, Vietnam and Taiwan also have territorial claims in the 3.5-square-kilometer South China Sea, 90 percent of which China insists is part of its territory.

China says its claims in the South China Sea have a solid historic and legal basis although they extend into the 370-km exclusive economic zones of other nations.

It has rejected the Philippine attempt to seek international arbitration, saying they should hold bilateral negotiations instead.

In recent days, China has accused the Philippines of seriously damaging their relations, abusing process and violating international law by filing a case in the UN arbitral tribunal.

Peaceful settlement

The Philippines responded on Friday, reiterating that “arbitration is a peaceful, friendly and a durable settlement mechanism under international law.”

“By going to arbitration, the Philippines has signaled its fidelity to international law,” Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario said in a statement released a day after the Chinese embassy in Manila issued a nearly 5,000-word statement denouncing the Philippines for proceeding with the arbitration case in the United Nations.

“To recall, we have done so (going for arbitration) primarily to seek clarification of China’s claim of indisputable sovereignty over nearly the entire South China Sea,” Del Rosario said, describing China’s claim as “excessive and expansive.”

“This is in gross violation of international law,” he added.

“With the submission of the Philippine memorial (memorandum) and with the support of the Filipino people, we are defending what is legitimately and rightfully ours,” he said.

Del Rosario said, however, that he could not go into details of the arbitration case, as “the matter is sub judice,” or pending litigation in the UN tribunal.



More robust US tone

The Obama administration has struck a more robust tone in recent weeks about China’s behavior, accusing it of incremental steps to change the status quo in disputed areas, also in the East China Sea, where US ally Japan and China are at loggerheads over sovereignty of Japanese-held islands.

Later this month, US President Barack Obama will visit the Philippines on a four-nation trip to revive his administration’s foreign policy shift toward Asia that was partly conceived to counter China’s rise in a region where the United States has long been the predominant military power. Obama will also visit Japan, South Korea and Malaysia.

Russel said Russia’s annexation of Crimea has heightened concern, particularly among some Southeast Asian nations, about the possibility of China “threatening force or other forms of coercion to advance their territorial interests.”

Commitment to peace

China needs to demonstrate its commitment to peacefully resolving its territorial disputes, he said.

Russel added that China is economically interdependent with the United States and Asian neighbors, and the prospect of the kind of sanctions that have been imposed against Russian banks and government cronies should have a “chilling effect on anyone in China who might contemplate the Crimea annexation as a model.” With a report from Associated Press



Read more: http://globalnation.inquirer.net/101672/us-we-stand-by-our-allies#ixzz2y0E4VTEm
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Editorial: Happy Birthday to Former President, now Congresswoman Gloria Macapagal Arroyo

Former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, the 14th President of the Republic of the Philippines, is celebrating her 67th Birth Anniversary on April 5, 2014. Her Presidency (January 20, 2001-June 30, 2010) was marked by sustained socio-economic progress in the country, for which she was largely credited. She laid the foundations for the country’s sustained growth amid the 2007 Asian global recession.

Former President and now Congresswoman Arroyo was an economics professor at Ateneo de Manila University and University of the Philippines and Chairperson of Department of Economics of Assumption College before she entered the government service in 1987 in the administration of then President Corazon C. Aquino, as Undersecretary of Department of Trade and Industry, serving concurrently as Executive Director of Garments and Textile Board. She worked to attain a robust growth for the garments industry.

She won election as Senator in 1992, and then topped the 1995 senatorial race.  In the Senate, she crafted measures on trade and commerce, the economy, protection of women, children, the vulnerable sector, and overseas Filipino workers. She filed over 400 bills and authored 55 laws of wide-ranging significance, such as liberalizing foreign investments, export development, and promoting high-value crops. After serving as Senator from 1992 to 1998, she was elected the country’s 12th Vice President, and concurrently headed the Department of Social Welfare and Development during the Estrada Administration. She was installed into the presidency on January 20, 2001, after EDSA 2 and was elected to a full six-year term in the May 10, 2004 polls. She was elected to the House of Representatives on May 10, 2010, representing the 2nd district of Pampanga.

Born in San Juan City to former President Diosdado P. Macapagal, the 9th President of the Philippines, and Dr. Evangelina Macaraeg Macapagal, Congresswoman Arroyo studied at the Assumption Convent, graduating valedictorian in 1964. She went on to Georgetown University’s Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service in Washington, DC, in the United States of America. She finished her Bachelor of Arts in Economics at Assumption Convent, graduating Magna Cum Laude in 1968.  She obtained her Master’s Degree in Economics from Ateneo de Manila University in 1978 and Doctorate in Economics from the University of the Philippines in 1985.

The Manila Bulletin, led by its Chairman of the Board of Directors Dr. Emilio T. Yap, President and Publisher Atty. Hermogenes P. Pobre, Executive Vice President Dr. Emilio C. Yap III, Editor-in-Chief Dr. Cris J. Icban Jr., Business Editor Loreto D. Cabañes, Directors, Officers and Employees, greet Former President now Congresswoman of the Second District of Pampanga Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on her 67th Birth Anniversary. We wish her the best, good health, and success in all endeavors. Happy Birthday, Congresswoman Arroyo! MABUHAY!   

Pinoy rock legends come together for ‘SenyorROCK’

The country’s rock legends will team up in a concert dubbed “SenyorROCK,” to be held at the Hard Rock Café Makati on April 8.

Participating are Joey “Pepe” Smith and Wally Gonzales of the legendary Juan dela Cruz Band, Sampaguita, Resty Fabunan of Maria Cafra, and Lolita Carbon of Asin.

Pepe is synonymous to Pinoy rock, having written some of the genre’s biggest hits including “Himig Natin,” “Balong Malalim,” “Beep Beep,” “Rock N Roll Sa Ulan,” and “Titser’s Enemi No. 1.”

Wally is a respected guitarist that many of those in the current music scene look up to.

Sampaguita, on the other hand, is recognized as the one and only Queen of Pinoy Rock. The former dancer-fashion model’s long line of hits includes classics such as “Bonggahan,” “Tao,” “Sa Diyos Lamang” and, of course, “Nosi Balasi.”

Resty is considered one of the country’s lead guitar greats. Among his contributions in the Pinoy Rock tapestry are “Kamusta Mga Kaibigan” and “Estranghero.”

Lolita is revered as local folk rock goddess. Some of her hits are “Masdan Mo Ang Kapaligiran,” “Usok” and “Biyaheng Langit.”

“SenyorROCK” is produced by Grace Apolinario and Bing Pala-Apolinario, and presented by Gerry’s Grill in cooperation with First Option Events and Entertainment.



• • •

Local Celebs Grace ‘Hataw Sa Tag-Araw’

Casino Filipino (CF) will launch “Hataw sa Tag-Araw” in various branches nationwide today.

Among celebrities feature for the launch are Blakdyak (CF Cebu), Teri Onor (CF Davao), Ate Shawie and friends (Madison Satellite), Ate Glow (Ronquillo Satellite), and Eva Eugenio (CF Tagaytay).

Other artists performing in CF satellites this April are Rico Blanco (April 9, CF Olongapo and April 16, CF Parañaque); Aicelle Santos (April 11, Madison Satellite and April 12, Ronquillo Satellite); Kaye and Cris Pastor (April 11, CF Tagaytay and April 12, CF Cebu); Jaya (April 16 , CF Pavilion; April 25, CF Bacolod; and April 26, Malabon satellite); Jimmy Bondoc (April 25, 365 Plaza satellite in Laoag); and Moonstar88 (April 29, Malabon Satellite).

PAGCOR Asst. VP for Entertainment Bong Quintana said Casino Filipino’s wide variety of entertainment offerings will give guests an exciting summer.

“PAGCOR believes that Filipinos are among the best performers in the world. We take so much pride that Casino Filipino features our very own artists, from young stars to music legends,” he said.

Also featured in CF branches and satellites as part of Casino Filipino Game Shows are, Markki Stroem (April 4 in Airport CF); Liezel Garcia (April 5, CF Davao); Brod Pete and Long Mejia (April 10, CF Hyatt); Carlos Agassi (April 11, CF Pavilion); Jessa Zaragoza (April 12, CF Angeles); Hansen Nichols (April 12, CF Cebu); Bugoy Drilon (April 24, CF Tagaytay); Frenchie Dy (April 25, CF Olongapo); and Carmen Soriano (April 26, CF Bacolod).



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Globe Extends Free Facebook Offer

Want more Facebook? Globe has good news for you.

“Due to the overwhelming response from our subscribers, we are happy to extend Globe Free Facebook until April 24, just in time for the summer season, to allow more users to enjoy an innovative, seamless, and worry-free Free Facebook experience. As the country’s leading digital brand and preferred partner of technology leaders around the world, we hope to get more Filipinos online on their mobile devices and be part of a wonderful, connected world,” shared Jenny Granada-Echevarria, Vice President for Mobile Data Services at Globe Telecom.

The promo was recently showcased at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain by Facebook founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg in his keynote speech. Zuckerberg cited the partnership with Globe in connecting more Filipinos to the Internet, as he shared his vision of a connected world through his pioneering project Internet.org launched last year.

Customers are also guaranteed that there will no “bill shock” or “nakaw load” as they will be notified if they will incur data charges once a link that leads out of Facebook is clicked.

For a seamless experience, subscribers can also enjoy a one-click registration to the data plan of choice to continue browsing sites or links outside Facebook without having to leave the site.

Finally, customers can also “loan” a 10MB data plan for only R10 which will be deducted on their succeeding top-up so they can fully explore content outside Facebook.

Subscribers can dial *143# and select FREE FB or text FREEFB to 8888 to get more. Subscribers may also go to m.facebook.com/free on the phone’s web browser.


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Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, April 4, go to awarded actress Snooky Serna, Irene Martel Santiago, Dr. Carlez C. Lasaga, Josefina “Pining” Guizon, Vicente Jimenez, UK-based Nelly Teves Marshall, Ma. Teresa dela Paz, Rosalyn Go, Jemuel C. Salterio, Dr. Adolfo Ferrer, Vidal de Guzman, Oliver Gonzalez and Bearwin Meily… Belated b-day greetings to Pagsanjan Mayor Maita Ejercito (April 2)…

Ely Buendia debuts as filmmaker via ‘Bang Bang Alley’

Rock icon Ely Buendia, who formed The Eraserheads back when he was about to finish a degree in filmmaking, makes his directorial debut via “Bang Bang Alley.” Produced by Curve Entertainment, Inc. and Nimbus Film Production, it is a trilogy that serves as a social commentary on corruption, violence, amorality and betrayal. It will be distributed nationwide by Solar Entertainment.

Ely directed “Pusakal” while playwright Yan Yuson wrote and megged “Aso’t Pusa’t Daga.” The third episode, “Makina,” was helmed by award-winning director King Palisoc, whose body of work ranges from music videos and TV/film projects to corporate AVPs and TV commercials.


King is a graduate of BA Communications from Ateneo de Manila University who went straight to directing music videos for Pupil, Rico Blanco, Sponge Cola, Kjwan and Itchyworms, among others. He also worked as director and writer for the TV show “Rakista” and co-wrote “Babe, I Love You.”

Asked which episode he deems best, Ely said, “Each of the episodes has its own merit. ’Yung episode ni Yan, in a nutshell, I would call it a Shakespearean tragedy with the political arena as backdrop. ’Yung kay King naman, a psychological drama. Mine, I would describe as Neo-Western. We did our best in each of the episodes. ’Yung audience na ang bahalang mag-judge. I think we all did a good job.”

Yan added, “It would really depend on the audience which of the episodes speaks to them the most. I guess they would perceive the best episode kung saan sila naantig, kung saan sila naka-relate, kung saan sila naapektuhan…”

Yan stressed that they are all first-timers in narrative filmmaking although they all have directed music videos in the past.

In the cast of “Pusakal” are Perla Bautista, Megan Young and Ely himself, along with Christian Bables, Krish Atchico, Darius Abueg, Jamie Wilson, Miko Abueg, Henry Yutuc and Vino Martinez. The story revolves around Abbey (Megan), an addict who finds herself exiled from the only world she knows when she accidentally kills her sister’s boyfriend. Fleeing from the authorities, the victim’s family, and maybe her own self, she finds sanctuary in an abandoned lodge in Benguet. There, she befriends the 70-year-old Manang (Perla) who has secrets of her own.

“Aso’t Pusa’t Daga” features Bela Padilla, Joel Torre, Art Acuña, Angel Yosilva, Shawn Yao, Capucine Medard, Cyrille Soenen, Jhun Petallo, Dante Rubia, Richard Pareño, Alvin Borja, Marcelino Mistica, Reynard Sumo, Jerim Villa, Rasbel Bayani, Arpee Josilva, and Kobe as the Search and Rescue dog. Director Yan also appears in a special role. The story is about Jing Ricafort, a young TV journalist who survives a political massacre and prepares to testify against its alleged mastermind. Her ill-guarded government safehouse becomes the stage for a reckoning of deceit, betrayal, horror and death.

The cast of “Makina” consists of Gabe Mercado, Kalila Aguilos, Bombi Plata, Althea Vega, Mely Soriano, Alex Medina, Acey Aguilar, Kakki Teodoro, Geraldin Villami and Dencio Gagarin.

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Kim Chiu, James Yap ‘Newsmakers of the Year’


Kapamilya star Kim Chiu and popular basketball star James Yap were named “2013 Newsmakers of the Year” by PEP readers.

This was announced by PEP editor-in-chief Jo-Ann Maglipon in a recent press conference hosted by Ai Ai delas Alas. Jo-Ann said, “Our year-long goal is to come up with a LIST, which we hope will become the reliable showbiz meter.”

The PEP List will include the Editors’ Choice, the PEPsters’ Choice, and the Audited – with the last two components tabulated and verified by PEP’s official independent auditing partner firm, Punongbayan & Araullo Associates.

About 18 million votes were cast by fans between May 17 last year to Feb. 28. The tally yielded the following results: “Celebrity Pair of the Year,” Kapuso hunks Dennis Trillo and Tom Rodriguez who were lead stars of the GMA-7 phenomenal hit “My Husband’s Lover;” Vic Sotto and Kim Chiu, “TV Male and Female Star of the Year,” respectively; Joey de Leon and Nora Aunor, “Showbiz Treasures of the Year.”

Other winners include: Elmo Magalona and Julie Anne San Jose, “Teen Stars of the Year;” Ryzza Mae Dizon and Renz Valerio, “Female and Male Child Stars of the Year;” FAB Award winners are Xian Lim and Lovi Poe; “Breakout Star of the Year” is Tom Rodriguez, while “OPM Artist of the Year” is Daniel Padilla.

All the winners will be honored at the Awards Night to be held on May 20. The event will be co-presented by SM Parisian, at the Solaire Resort & Casino.


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Tidbits: Happy birthday greetings today, April 3, go to Patty Leung, Dr. Meliza Galang of New York, Gloria Desiderio, Rina Go-Thorpe, Clara Ann Maniquis, Nina Sales, Atty. Mirma Saruca, Ana Maria Concepcion J. Abano, Joshua D. Lim, Dr. Mark Bunag, Joshua Soriano, Finance Sec. Cesar Purisima, Merzi Perez, Kath Oracion, Christian Dione Rivera, Jhordane Ejercito, Benito E. Molino, Noel Namuco, Babi Malulu, Rey Pumaloy, Amay Bisaya and Nico Ibaviosa of Star Magic…

Nadine, Denny’s choice for ‘Diary ng Panget’ lead

Viva Film’s latest presentation “Diary Ng Panget,” which opens today in local theaters, is based on best-selling wattpad.com book of the same title.

The writer, Denny, a 19-year-old based in Italy, chose Nadine Lustre to play the female lead character in the movie after meeting her at the Viva offices.

This is Nadine’s first major starrer. Her biggest role prior was that of Vice Ganda’s secretary in “Petrang Kabayo.” Nadine has also appeared on some TV5 shows like “Bagets” and “P.S. I Love You.” She was a member of the Pop Girls. She signed up with Viva Artists Agency in 2009.

She is, of course, very excited about being chosen to play the role of Eya in the teen romance comedy directed by Andoy Ranay from a script by Mel del Rosario.

Hardworking Eya is a scholar in fictional Willford Academy, a school for beautiful, smart but mostly snobbish students. She works part-time in her aunt’s karinderya. To boost her income, she applied as a personal maid to Cross Sandford (James Reid), the only son of a multi-millionaire businessman, who turned out to be most popular student at the Academy.

Cross is arrogant and disrespectful, and even named his personal maid “Panget.” He gave her endless tasks to do and he enjoyed humiliating Eya in public.

Eya was befriended by Lori (Yassi Pressman), who is secretly in love with Cross since childhood. She also met Chad (Andre Paras), who soon becomes her crush. But Chad is in love with Lori and this he confided to Eya.

Nadine told us she wrote a diary back in Grade 2 but after that “hindi na.” About the movie, she said, “This is make or break for me but may tiwala ako sa Viva. I believe kaya naming itawid ito kahit mga baguhan lang kami sa cast.”

As to future plans, Nadine said, “Madami silang plano sa akin but I don’t know what I will do next. Bahala na si Boss Vic. Sabi niya huwag muna ako mag-boyfriend kasi sayang ang pagkakataon…”

“Diary Ng Panget” is also James’ first movie and, like Nadine, he is very excited about it. He was the “PBB Teen Edition” winner.

James was supposed to enter college after finishing high school in Australia but “nag-PBB ako so I never got the chance to enter college.” James, who is turning 21 on May 11, appeared on “Pintada” and “Good Vibes” among others. He has also recorded an album. He would like to write a Tagalog song someday, saying, “That would be my next challenge.”

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When In Rome Band Concert Dance Party

When in Rome will be featured in an “80’s Throwback Concert” Dance Party to be held on April 4 at 8 p.m. at the Grand Ballroom of Solaire Resort & Casino and on April 5, 7 p.m. at the University of Baguio.

When in Rome is an English New Wave group, which originally consisted of vocalists Clive Farrington, Andrew Mann and Michael Floreale. They are best known for their 1988 single “The Promise.”

The group was signed by Virgin UK subsidiary 10 Records as “The Promise,” issued first as a 12” dance disc, hit the top of Billboard’s Dance Club Play chart.

A remixed version of “The Promise” was the first single from their eponymous album. It was an instant success, landing at No. 11 on the US charts. The trio reached Billboard’s pop charts for the last time with “Heaven Knows” only months later. Since then, the group has toured North and South America with various other 80’s groups.

The “80’s Throwback Concert” is presented by Solaire Resort & Casino together with Mossimo, PAL, DMC Phils., FOX, Starworld, Novu Hair and Honda Cars Kalookan Inc. Supported by 10 Inch Lights Sounds, X Factor Prod., Manila Concert Scene, Jills, Ultra Pro Active, R&A Events Specialists, Azalea Hotel & Residences Baguio, “The Medyo Late Nite with Jojo A.,” SFCO Catering, NamNam Comfort Filipino, Manam Comfort Filipino, Wheninmamila.com, SM Cinema, Digi Post, Snack Time, E-Plus, Media Partners are MYX, Monster Radio RX 93.1, Yes FM 101.1, 96.3 Easy Rock, Crossover 105.1, Focalcast Network, 90.7 Love Radio, 97.9 and Home Radio, GVFM 99.1.

Tickets are available at SM Tickets or visit www.smtickets.com and www.ticketnet.com.ph.

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Celebrity Kalokalikes, Media In Eating Challenge

Look-alikes of famous local and international celebrities battled it out with members of the media during the Yoshinoya Gyudon Eating Contest – Media Edition, held recently at Yoshinoya SM North EDSA in Quezon City.

Cameramen, producers, and other personnel from different TV networks did their best to qualify for the much-awaited finale of the contest, now on its 4th year, coming this June at the Glorietta Activity Center in Makati City.

Romelyn Balbin from UNTV emerged victorious among competitors, flipping four bowls empty, and with 124 grams remaining in his fifth bowl.

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Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, April 2, go to Geneva Cruz, Ms. Vilma Valera, Tina Leeman, Ma. Victoria Sanchez, Mary Jane Cabanizas, Jorge Marcos, Francisco Diga, Dr. Jonathan F. Reyes, David and Carmie Romula, Leah Mathieson of Melbourne, Australia, Cristina Mercy Galang Macapagal-Ibarra, Katz Salao, Vicente Romano III, Edwin Silan and singer-actress Danita Paner…

School Year 2014-2015 Update

mas prefer ko pa sa DepEd na June to March ang school: Kinder, Nursery, Grade School, High School and College only

"Eat, Bulaga!" at 35: Magbayanihan Tayo!

"Mula Batanes hanggang Jolo, Saan ka man ay halina kayo, buong bansa, magbayanihan tayo... EAT BULAGA!"

Sa pagdiriwang ng ika-35 taong anibersaryo ng programang ito, balik-tanaw tayo sa makulay na kasaysayan ng longest-running noontime show sa bansa.

Former UAAP stars lead Superliga draftees

The Philippine Superliga will hold its first draft lottery today at the NBA Café in SM Aura in Pasig at 2 p.m.

The draft is being held for the PSL All-Filipino Conference, supported by Mikasa, Asics, Jinling Sports and Healthway Medical Services, which opens on May 10 at the Ultra also in Pasig.

PSL and organizing Sportscore President Ramon “Tats” Suzara will report on the gains made the by the one-year-old as the premier destination for blue chip men’s and women’s professional volleyball players.

“The PSL has given our blue chip players a competition to aspire playing on after they have retired from the collegiate ranks,” Suzara said.

The Petron Blaze Spikers, who will pick first, are said to be interested in National University stalwart Dindin Santiago, the UAAP Season 76 Best Spiker, while new team AirAsia Zest may take former UAAP MVP Abigail Marano.

RC Cola will select third followed by Cagayan Valley, PLDT myDSL, Cignal and Philippine Army.