ABS-CBN Held a Mass for Kapitan's 82nd Birthday

November 4, 2010 is the 82nd birth anniversary of Eugenio Lopez Jr., the late chairman of local multimedia giant ABS-CBN.

The company, now led by his son and namesake, Eugenio Lopez III, offered a eucharistic celebration in his honor at the ABS-CBN compound's Church of the Annunciation on Thursday morning.

It was a solemn tribute to Lopez, more popularly known to his employees as ELJ or Kapitan. The mass, presided by Bishop Honesto Ongtioco of the Diocese of Cubao and 4 others, revolved around the late chairman's commitment to serve the Filipino people worldwide.

Fr. Carmelo "Tito" Caluag, who gave the homily to ABS-CBN executives, talents and employees, said, "Light is not about drawing attention to yourself...it's about letting others shine and serving others

Kapamilya Snapshots: Kapamilya Stars on the Philippine Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2011

The Philippine Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2011 has just concluded. The said event ran from October 26 to 31, featuring the creations of top Filipino designers and leading fashion brands in the Philippines.

Here are some of the pictures of the Kapamilya stars who joined the ramp on the said event.

Maja Salvador on Indie Film "Thelma"

Isang runner ang gagampanan ni Maja Salvador sa kanyang pagbibidahang indie film na may pamagat na “Thelma.”

Makakasama ni Maja sa nasabing pelikula si Tetchie Agbayani at ang Survivor celebrity castaway at national athlete na si Elma Muros. Si Elma rin ang ang nag-train kay Maja sa pag-ganap niya bilang runner.

Ang boyfriend ni Toni Gonzaga na si Paul Soriano ang direktor ng nasabing pelikula. Ito ang ikalawang feature film ni Paul.

ABS-CBN Christmas Station ID 2010

The new Christmas station ID of ABS-CBN was shown right after TV Patrol which showcases more than hundreds of its brightest talents. The themesong "Ngayong Pasko, Magniningning ang Pilipino!" was sung by Gary Valenciano and Toni Gonzaga featuring the UST Chorale.

Check out the video!!!

Cornerstone's New Talents With Star Magic

ABS-CBN’s “Idol” may have ended but for these promising and talented young artists, the windows of opportunities are just beginning to open.

Star Magic together with Cornerstone Talent Management Center launched last week eight up and coming young artists who broke ground in the primetime musical drama as “Kapamilya” artists. These include The Lamars (DJ and Micah), Youtube sensation Krissy and Ericka, 3AM (Mica Caldito, James Torres and Kyle Amor), and Emmanuel Vera.

The Lamars (DJ and Micah)

The Lamars, composed of the brothers DJ and Micah, can easily turn heads with their boy-next-door appeal. They’re musical style is quite similar to Disney Channel’s Jonas Brothers. Born to Christian missionaries – an Italian-German mother and a Filipino father from Marinduque, DJ and Micah are often mistaken as “balikbayans” who are trying their luck in the world of show business. But really, these heartthrobs are homegrown talents from Lucena where their family runs “The Faith Hope Love Orphanage” – a shelter for 40 orphans they fondly call their “family ranch.”

The brothers grew up protected from the influence of modern media. Though homeschooled, DJ and Micah are not naïve to the problems of the outside world. Since coming to the city both have noticed how some people tend to ‘give less despite having more.’

The brothers also talked about their acting stint in “Idol.” “It was fun, a really good experience. We learned a lot and it improved our confidence,” DJ said.

The brothers are sharing not just their interest in music; both have a huge crush on “Idol” star, Sarah Geronimo. “Ang ganda po talaga nya sa personal,” Micah blushed. When teased by the press on who will give way to court Sarah, Micah playfully responded, “May the best man win.”

The sibling tandem has already composed 30 original songs about faith, love and life. They are set to release their own album under MCA Music by the first quarter of next year.

Krissy and Ericka

Krissy and Ericka’s rise to stardom is off to a good start. These petite girls have poked the attention of no less than international singing sensation, Justin Bieber and eight million others who made their Youtube videos (krissy_sings) instant hits. Paramount Pictures had requested to use the duo’s version of “Baby” for Justin Bieber’s upcoming movie. They may share similarities with Norwegian pop duo M2M but the sisters put their own twists to their music to make it more unique. Krissy actually joined Little Big Star and was a wild card entry together with international singing sensation, Charice.

Krissy and Ericka also won as Best Performance by a New Group in the 23rd Awit Awards for their original composition ‘Surf’s Up.’ The group’s self titled album sold like hotcakes in Thailand and Indonesia. Their first single Up Up, Down Down, composed by Richard Poon, gained air time as it dominated MYX hit charts for eight consecutive weeks.

Aside from being passionate artists in their own field, Krissy and Ericka are actively engaging in public service. They are currently ambassadors for World Vision.

Krissy and Ericka told Yahoo! Southeast Asia that aside from writing songs about the experiences of being young they also write songs about the environment and that’s what sets them apart from the rest in the industry.

3 AM

The all male acoustic group composed of equally handsome young men got their name through Yeng Constantino’s Music Uplate Live via ABS-CBN. Mica Caldito, James Torres and Kyle Amor received massive following from the show despite its late airing. Mica and James were originally a duo before Kyle joined the group. Their first acting experience was in “Idol” where they portrayed the roles as Sam Milby’s band mates.

Their message to fans who also aspire to become musicians someday: “Don’t give up. It’s very easy if you have the talent and the passion. “

3 AM will soon release their own album under Star Records.

Emmanuel Vera

Known as Diana, the villain in the musical teleserye “Idol”, Emmanuel Vera is proving her versatility not just as an actress but as a total performer. At 15, Emmanuel belts out Beyonce’s “Halo” with such ease and confidence. Blessed with a beautiful face and voice that can go as high as Mount Everest, this Filipino American singer is on her way to the top.

Emmanuel credits her success from the unending support of her family. Amidst common notion that she together with the other talents were born with silver spoons in their mouths, Emmanuel told the press that her family had undergone financial problems in the past like any other average families. When asked about her message to the youth who are looking up to her, she said: “Always keep the faith. I learned this the hard way. Hold Strong to your values.”

Emmanuel did not escape the press when asked about her celebrity crush. With conviction, she said, “Without a doubt, Coco Martin and Sam Concepcion.”

The eight new artists are planning to have a nationwide tour to showcase their new talents and promote their albums.

Angelica Panganiban Turns 24

Today, Star Magic's gem Angelica Panganiban turns 24. She was last seen as the Bida-Kontrabida of Primetime Bida, Rubi. If plans pursue, she will star alongside Gretchen Barretto in a teleserye.

Dimples Romana on Cinema One Originals

Actress Dimples Romana feels privileged that she is chosen to play a role inspired by ABS-CBN News anchor Ces Drilon in an indie film.

An entry to the 6th Cinema One Originals Film Festival, Romana said “Tsardyer” stems from the experience of Drilon's abduction by the Abu Sayaff bandits in 2008.

“Tsardyer is inspired by the story of Ma’am Ces Drilon when she was abducted. Let’s have an awareness kung ano talagang nangyayari doon sa kanila sa Sulu,” Romana told “Showbiz News Ngayon.”

“I feel very honored to be, at least kung hindi man base sa kanya (Drilon), pero a story inspired by her, I feel very honored to be casted as a very strong woman,” she added.

Another entry to the festival is the film titled “Dagim” which is topbilled by Marc Abaya, Luis Alandi, Martin del Rosario, Samual Quintana and Bembol Roco.

Cinema One Originals is known as one of the major film festivals in the movie landscape. It started in 2005 and produced a number of films that have won awards locally and internationally.

Being instrumental in helping close the gap between commercial filmmaking and the more indie approach, Cinema One initiates this festival annually to give new writers and filmmakers the freedom in creating new films.

Cinema One Originals Film Festival will be running from November 10-16 at the Shangri La Plaza Mall.

Charice Will Perform on NBC Christmas Special

The country's pride and joy, Charice, is scheduled to sing at the NBC's 13th annual "Christmas in Rockefeller Center" special that will be held on November 30.

In a press statement, NBC announced that Charice will perform in the star-studded event alongside Josh Groban, Sheryl Crow, Jessica Simpson, Susan Boyle, Mariah Carey, Jackie Evancho, Katherine Jenkins, Annie Lennox, Kylie Minogue, and The Radio City Rockettes.

The artists will sing a mix of current hits and holiday classics.

The main highlight of the event is the lighting of the world's most famous Christmas tree. The Christmas tree is 74 feet high, 40 feet in diameter and weighs 12 tons, the press statement added.

According to the press statement, the tradition of the Rockefeller Christmas tree dates back to the Great Depression. First erected in 1933, the tree was decked with 700 lights and placed in front of the then eight-month-old RCA Building, now the GE Building.

“The Christmas tree gathering was enhanced in 1936 with the opening of the Rockefeller Plaza outdoor ice-skating pond. NBC-TV televised the first tree lighting in 1951 on ‘The Kate Smith Show’ and as part of the nationwide ‘Howdy Doody’ television show from 1953-55,” the press statement read.

The holiday event this year will be hosted by Natalie Morales and Al Roker. It will be aired live from the Rockefeller Center in New York.

Currently, Charice is in the country to take a short break. She will fly back to the US next week to fulfill her other commitments there, including shooting for hit television series "Glee" where she plays Filipino exchange student Sunshine Corazon.

Miss Philippines-Earth Psyche Resus All Set for Miss Earth 2010

Emosyonal na nagpaalam ngayon si Miss Philippines-Earth Psyche Resus sa kanyang despedida sa Intramuros para sa laban niya sa 2010 Miss Earth beauty pageant sa Vietnam.

Napaluha ang University of the Philippines associate in arts student sa madamdaming pamamaalam sa kanya ng kanyang ina na tinawag siyang mabuting anak.

Ani Resus, na tubong Infanta, Quezon, gagawin niya ang lahat ng kanyang makakaya para magwagi sa pageant na sa unang pagkakataon ay idaraos sa labas ng Pilipinas.

Tinuturing ngayon bilang ikatlo sa pinamalaking international beauty competition, ang Miss Earth ay sinimulan nina Lorraine Schuck at iba pang Filipino beauty queens para isulong ang proteksyon ng kalikasan noong taong 2000.

Makakalaban ni Resus sa pageant ang 89 na dilag mula sa iba’t ibang bansa.

Ipapalabas ng ABS-CBN ng ekslusibo ang Miss Earth coronation night sa Disyembre 4

3 Star Cinema Entries on MMFF 2010!

Mga box office kings and queens ang magsho-showdown sa Metro Manila Film Festival ngayong Disyembre.

Pero hindi lang heavyweight ang casting ng walong napiling film fest entries. Mabibigat din ang kanilang mga tema at istorya.

Nangunguna sina Ai-Ai de las Alas at Eugene Domingo sa "Ang Tanging Ina Mo Rin, Huli na 'To" kung saan lola na si delas Alas.

Tampok din dito ang karamihan ng mga bituin sa unang movie installment ng matagumpay na “Tanging Ina” series.

Sa Tanay, Rizal, ipinagmalaki naman ni Sen. Ramon "Bong" Revilla Jr. ang dambuhalang set nila ni Vic Sotto para sa "Agimat ni Enteng." Multi-milyon ang kolaborasyon ng dalawa para sa action fantasy-comedy movie.

Horror thriller naman ang handog ni Kris Aquino at Diether Ocampo sa inaabangang "Dalaw." Maninindak naman sina Andi Eigenmann, Shaina Magdayao, Rayver Cruz at Carla Abellana sa “Shake Rattle Roll 12,” ang pinakamatagal na movie series sa film fest.

Ibang putahe naman ang hatid nila Jake Cuenca, Marian Rivera, Pokwang at John Lapuz sa revival ng Maricel Soriano classic na “Super Inday at ang Magic Bibe.”

Dalawa naman ang entries ni Comedy King Dolphy. Una, ang “Rosario,” na balik tanaw ni director Albert Martinez sa true story ng isang adultery case noong 1920s. Tampok din sa pelikula sina Jennylyn Mercado at Sid Lucero.

Parte din si Dolphy ng komeding “Father Jejemon” kasama si Maja Salvador.

Tiyak namang aabangan ng mga bata ang pulidong animation na “RPG (Metanoia),” tampok ang mga boses nina Aga Muhlach, Zaijan Jaranilla, Vhong Navarro at iba pang bituin. Tungkol ito sa paghahanap ng isang bata ng mga bayani sa kanyang buhay. Ipapakita din dito sa RPG ang kahusayan ng mga Filipino sa latest 3D animation technology.

Sa tindi ng hirap at gastos sa produksyon at special effects, hangad ng lahat ng mga taga pelikulang Filipino ang tagumpay sa takilya ng walong film fest entries

Sam Concepcion Proud for Charice's International Career

Sam Concepcion said that he does not mind always being compared to former Little Big Star batch-mate and now international star Charice. Back in 2005, Sam was declared the winner of the said singing contest while Charice was just a runner-up. Sam explained that he admires Charice for being a good example to aspiring singers.

“Still very proud of her, of what she has done [for the country],” Sam began at the special photo exhibit where he was launched as one of inspiring youths introduced as Yumbassadors of Jollibee. “‘Yung binigay niya sa ating inspirasyon, lalo na sa mga kabataang katulad naming mga artists, alam kong sobrang daming kabataan d’yan who are also proud of her. Sa kanya rin tayo humuhugot to reach for our dreams and accomplish what you want to accomplish. She is destined for this.”

Recently, Charice also held a concert in the country together with some popular American singers and mentor David Foster, who said that he is on the lookout for talented Filipino singers who have the potential to be international performers. When Sam was asked if he was interested in trying out his luck, he replied, “Hindi ko alam. Kung paano po ako nag-audition sa Little Big Star hindi ko rin inaasahan. Parang pumunta lang ako dun nag-audition ako at nangyari ang mga nangyari. So alam mo ‘yon [I just go with the flow]. Kung ano’ng ibigay sa akin ni Lord, ‘dun ako. I won’t push myself naman to be somewhere where I won’t flourish or I won’t shine.”

Asked if he is still interested to achieve the same kind of recognition that Charice has attained, Sam said, “Oo naman. Of course I’ve dreams din someday of being able to share my music or my talent to the world or even outside of the Philippines. Siyempre kasama ‘yan sa mga dreams [that] I have for myself and in time siguro ‘pag sinabi kong kasama sa pagma-mature, when I’m ready for it and when I’ve prepared myself.”

As for being a role model to the youth, Sam said that he makes a conscious effort to watch what he does, something that he is proud to do. “’Yung pinakaimportante, what I love all about it is I’m able to use my influence in a positive manner,” he pointed out. He continued that he feels privileged to make a good impact on the kids today. “I don’t brush it off as just another ambassadorship. I’m really honored to be in a position to inspire, to be of some help, to encourage lalo na ‘yung mga kabataan na katulad ko.”

He stressed that rather than seeing his being a role model as a big responsibility, he sees it as an opportunity to inspire his generation to become productive. “Hindi lahat nabibigyan kami ng opportunity na maging parte ng ganitong klaseng project. Mas may fulfillment din for me ‘yung nakakatulong ka sa iba. Hindi lang ‘yung puro sarili mo kung ano ang naa-achieve mo. It keeps your feet on the ground and it makes you feel that you truly made something relevant because it’s not for you, it’s for others.”

Empress Schuck Will Join Robin Padilla-Bea Alonzo Teleserye!

After her successful lead role in the afternoon series Rosalka, Empress is about to get another big break as she is set to join the Robin Padilla-Bea Alonzo teleserye currently in pre-production. Empress is just thankful that ABS-CBN already has a follow-up project after Rosalka so she will be relaxing before production starts. “Wala pang storyline so hindi pa ako ganun nakakapag ready. Right now gusto ko lang magpatuloy ‘yung growth ko as an actress, makagawa ng iba sa ginawa ko sa Rosalka. Baka may time ako na makapag-work out at mag-diet.”

Empress knows that after her acclaimed performance in Rosalka, she needs to keep up with the much higher expectations from viewers. If ever her new teleserye requires her to be more mature and daring, how far is she willing to go? “Kung napanood niyo ‘yung Rosalka, medyo bata pa ‘yung character ko dun so may pagka playful pa. Ngayon siguro kailangan kakaiba na ‘yung atake. Dapat medyo matured na rin, parang ako sa tunay na buhay. Inaamin ko na kahit 17 pa lang ako madami na rin akong alam na bagay na hindi alam ng ibang ordinaryong ka edad ko. Dapat mag-mature na rin ‘yung pananalita at ‘yung galaw ko. Depende pa rin sa bagong character na ibibigay sa akin,” she answered.

But she the former child star quickly clarified that she is not yet ready to bare more skin, like wearing a two-piece bikini for a role. But should the character and the story require, Empress is willing to do kissing scenes. “Siguro kailangan na rin. Ang selfish ko naman kung ako ‘yung nagiisang artistang ayaw gumawa nun. Minsan naman kasi kailangan din sa story at nakakapagsaya ng mga fans. Para sa akin hindi na dapat sabihang ang artista na, ‘Kailangan mo nang mag kissing scenes!’ Dapat sa sarili mo alam mo na ‘yun darating ‘yung panahon na kailangan ‘yun.”

Is there any particular actor with whom she wants to have her very first kissing scene? “Kahit sino talaga. Hindi ko naman pwedeng sabihin na, ‘Ayoko sa kanya!’ Kung si Zac Efron, go na go talaga ako!” she joked.

When asked with whom she feels very comfortable doing intimate scenes, Empress named her friend Enchong Dee. “Matagal na kaming magkaibigan and naging love team na rin kami dati. Si Enchong talaga ‘yung guy na pinakamalapit sa akin. Wala namang malisya kasi friends kami.” Enchong is now in a love team with Erich Gonzales who happens to be one of Empress’s best friends in showbiz.

'Perfect Match' Premieres on Primetime Bida!

“Boys Over Flowers” star Lee Min Ho is back!

Asian Heartthrob 2009–Lee Min Ho–proved to be one of the most promising and most versatile Korean actors of his generation as he recently portrayed the role of a guy pretending to be a homosexual in the romantic comedy “Perfect Match” premiering this Monday (Nov. 8 on ABS-CBN).

The Asianovela superstar, popularly known in the country as Gu Jun Pyo in thep henomenal idol drama “Boys Over Flowers,” is back on primetime alongside Korea’s Queen of Drama Son Ye Jin to bring you a different kinds of love story every weekday nights.

Follow the story of Gino, a perfectionist architect who pretends to be a gay in order to become the housemate of Julienne Park, the owner of the house which Gino is studying to serve as an inspiration for a design competition.

He is about to face a lot of dilemma as he live with the laid back, disorganized, and unhygienic Julienne, who is coping from a heart break after his fiancée left her for her friend of ten years

As Gino and Julienne share various adventures and misadventures, their friendship gets even deeper and the roommates start to become best of friend. Will the two take it to the next level? How will Gino break to Julienne the news that he is not gay? Can perfect friends become perfect lovers?

Don’t miss “Perfect Match” beginning this Monday (Nov. 8 after “Martha Cecilia’s Kristine” on ABS-CBN’s Primetime Bida.

Janelle Jamer Releases International Album!

Pilipinas Win na Win co-host, Janelle Jamer, has an international RnB album!

Tahasang inilahad kamaikailan ng singer at Pilipinas Win Na Win (PWNW) co-host na si Janelle Jamer na siya’y masayang-masaya sa kasalukuyang noontime show, hindi lamang on-screen kung hindi maging sa likod ng camera. Inamin din niya na lubos siyang natutuwa sa malalim na friendship na namumuo sa pagitan ng patok na patok na Hitmakers at nilang mga female co-host.

“Nakakatuwa kasi sobrang nagbibigayan kami. Lahat pantay-pantay ang moment. All of us are given the chance to showcase our talents,” ani Janelle.

Hindi maipagkakailang malaki ang naging moment ni Janelle sa PWNW nang siya’y mabigyan ng pagkakataong mag-perform at i-promote ang kanyang international album na Jel Believer noong nakaraang Linggo. Tulad ng carrier single niya na Believer, lalo pang tumibay ang paniniwala ni Janelle na marami pa siyang kayang gawin upang mas ma-entertain ang kanyang mga tagahanga.

“I’m really thankful for the chance that Pilipinas Win na Win has given to show the other side of me. At yung kasama kong hosts, mararamdaman mong masaya sila para sa mga achievements mo. Na-touch talaga ako sa pag-congatrulate sakin nina Tito Rico J, Marco at Nonoy backstage. Siyempre mga Hitmakers ‘yun,” masayang pahayag ni Janelle.

Kinuwento din ng dalaga kung paano niyang maswerteng nasungkit ang pinapangarap na international RnB album. Lubos daw kasing humanga ang isang African-American producer sa talent ng Pinay.

“An American producer discovered me while I was jamming in a bar in Greenhills. He invited me to go to Atlanta. I stayed there for six months. Nag-training ako ng sexy hiphop and belly,” kwento ni Janelle.

Bagaman ayaw ikumpara ni Janelle ang PWNW sa nakaraang noontime show na kanyang kinabilangan, iginiit niyang ibang klaseng fulfillment sa kanyang career ang dulot sa kanya ng bagong noontime show. “Masarap magtrabaho dahil masaya kasama yung mga tao sa paligid mo”

Ayaw na din balikan ni Janelle yung mga intrigang hanggang ngayo’y ipinupukol sa kanya. “Dapat siguro iwanan na natin nang tuluyan yung mga lumang issue. Naka-get over naman na tayo dun. What we have now is more important.”

Samantala, abangan din ang Hitmen concert ni Nonoy Zuñiga kasama si Marco Sison at ang bantog na impersonator na si Willie Nepomuceno sa Nobyembre 13 sa Music Museum.

Diba nga’t milyung-milyong tuwa ang hatid ng Pilipinas Win na Win ngayon at magpakailanman kaya’t tutok na’t makisaya dahil ikaw ang bida dito Lunes hanggang Sabado, 12:30 pm, pagkatapos ng Showtime sa ABS-CBN.

Kim Chiu on Cosmopolitan November 2010 Issue

Kim Chiu is Cosmopolitan Philippines covergirl for this month.

Kim Chiu shares with Cosmopolitan Philippines how she kept her cool in the heat of intrigue.

Other features inside the “Kim Chiu” issue include “Major, Major: Manual for Luck, Success and Confidence”, “Fashion for Fab Chicks”, “100 Love Questions”, “250+ Style Deals”, “Mr. Right vs Mr. Maybe” and more.

Plus this month’s Man on Fire is “Kristine” star Zanjoe Marudo.

Kim Chiu and Gerald Anderson on Star Studio November 2010 Issue

The hottest loveteam face nasty breakup rumors in StarStudio magazine’s November 2010 issue.

Kim Chiu and Gerald Anderson portrayed roles similar to their real life in their latest film “Till My Heartaches End.” Could it be the last team-up of the country’s hottest loveteam?

Plus, the PBB Teen Clash housemates are featured this month due to insistent public demand.

Aside from the “Kimerald” issue, also featured were the coverage of the StarStudio Celebrity Style Awards and the Star Magic Games.

'Till My Heartaches End' Earned PhP33 Million for First 5 Days!

Till My Heartaches End”, the romantic drama starring Gerald Anderson and Kim Chiu, topped Philippine box office for the opening weekend of October 27 to 31, 2010!

Based from the latest figures of third party tabulator Box Office Mojo, Till My Heartaches End opened last October 27 to 31 with a respectable amount of P33 million. This is based on the box office receipts taken from 76 major cinemas in the country which means the actual figure could be higher.