Sarah is reigning Box-Office Queen of ABS-CBN/Star Cinema
With the tremendous (unexpected?) box-office success of her first-starring movie, Star Cinema's A Very Special Love (with John Lloyd Cruz), Sarah Geronimo has handily dislodged (as in "wiped out") her colleagues at ABS-CBN/Star Cinema as the twin company's Newest Box-Office Queen. She could be the New Millennium's Nora Aunor, somebody the masa can identify with, not very beautiful but pretty just the same.
Even in the US, according to Funfare's Big Apple correspondent Edmund Silvestre (of The Filipino Reporter), Sarah is hailed as the new "superstar," with dozens lining up to reserve tickets ($15 per) to the East Coast showing of the movie on Sept. 6 (at the AMC Loews Kips Bay 15 Theater at Second Ave., Manhattan) and Sept. 7 (at AMC Loews Jersey Garden 20 at 651 Kappowski Road, Elizabeth, New Jersey).
"Mabilis ang bentahan ng ticket," said Edmund. "The US-based SCAT Productions, led by Satrick Uy, Cathy Uy and Rolando Abaquin said they are overwhelmed by the response. Last year, Sarah gave SCAT a blockbuster concert, Sarah Geronimo in Motion, at the Manhattan Center." "We want to be part of Sarah's successful crossover as a silver screen superstar," Edmund quoted Satrick as saying.
"Sarah has a big following in the US East Coast," said Rolando. "The interest and enthusiasm to see Sarah in her first major movie was amplified after they heard about the movie surpassing P130-M on its third week of showing in the Philippines."
A Very Special Love is directed by Cathy Garcia-Molina who also megged the hit romance-drama One More Chance starring John Lloyd and Bea Alonzo.
There's no word yet if any of the cast members will be present during the screenings, but Cathy Uy said they are hopeful Star Cinema will send a special guest to add excitement to the event. "We love her because she's so down-to-earth and so simple, and she always gives her all in every performance. Like Lea Salonga, she's a perfect role model for other young artists."
The Good Boy Behind the Bad Boy
There are two sides to a coin: The “right side” and the “other side.” There’s no “wrong side,” is there?
Like a coin, Baron Geisler has also two sides: The “Bad Boy” side which is what some people see because of the mischiefs he has found himself in; and the “Good Boy” side which many people perhaps don’t know and don’t see, and which will be explored in the following “Who, What, Where, When, How” truth game.
Discovered when he was 12 by the ABS-CBN kiddie show Ang TV, Baron has metamorphosed into one of today’s finest young actors, honed more by the downs than by the ups in his checkered life, recently named Best Actor by the 2008 Cinemalaya for his absorbing performance as a gay TV producer in the indie film Jay. It’s his second acting award; the first was from the Philippine Movie Press Club (PMPC’s) 2006 Star Awards for Television for his portrayal of a doting brother who carries his younger sibling (played by John Prats) in the Trolley episode of Charo Santos-Concio’s Maalaala Mo Kaya.
The award for Jay (directed by Francis Xavier Pasion) couldn’t have come in a better time, just what Baron badly needed to prop up his career which suffered a slump two years ago due to personal problems. It focused on Baron’s thespic talent which, surprisingly, seemed to have been overlooked by producers and directors. Baron is now starring in Viva Films’ Torotot, directed by Maryo J. delos Reyes, as the cuckolded husband of Maui Taylor who seeks pleasure in the arms of Yul Servo. He will soon be seen in another indie film, Manila, with Alessandra de Rossi and Piolo Pascual (who’s producing the movie written by Adolf Alix Jr. and Ryan Martin) and in an ABS-CBN teleserye.
“I have hit rock bottom,” said Baron whose house was gutted by fire twice in a row in a span of barely three years. He lost his father before that. Three tragedies that dealt him a big blow, that drove him to the bottle. “Now, I’m on the right path, thanks to the people who have faith in me.”
WHO
•Who are the person(s) that you admire the most?
“Direk Maryo J. delos Reyes. When I was down, nobody would touch me with a 10-foot pole. Only direk Maryo. He fought for me to be included in his teleserye (for ABS-CBN) Calla Lily. He told me, ‘Someday, I want you to be a superstar.’ Never niya akong pinabayaan; he really believes in me and I’m trying my best to live up to his expectations. He’s a genius. The other person I truly admire is Francis Xavier Pasion who gave me an award for Jay. He’s brilliant, very ‘
•Who do you turn to when you are feeling low?
“My mom, Gracia Bayoneto Geisler. I realize that when the chips are down, pamilya pa rin talaga ang susuporta sa’yo.”
•Who are the friends that you keep?
“I cherish those who were with me in Tabing-Ilog, the ABS-CBN teleserye I did a few years ago, such as Lloydie (John Lloyd Cruz), Leandro (Muñoz), Jodi (Santamaria), Kaye (Abad), Paolo (Contis) and Desiree (del Valle, his former girlfriend). My
•Who is the true-life person that you want to portray in a movie?
“Yes, Heath Ledger! It’s far-fetched, but given a chance, I would love to play The Joker; itutuloy ko ‘yung role ni Heath Ledger. Actually, I might play a true-life criminal, medyo glamorous na character, in a movie. But it’s still under wraps.”
•Who is the Baron Geisler that many people don’t know?
“The Baron Geisler that many people don’t know is really sweet, secretly nga lang...hehehehe!...and secretly religious. I am passionate about my craft...and I guess everybody knows that by now.”
WHAT
•What personal experience do you draw from when you play a role?
“I don’t usually draw from my personal experience. It’s really the material, it’s the script. My roles are usually different from what I am.”
•What makes you mad?
“If somebody steals anything from me...ahhh, that makes me mad.
Actually, mahaba ang pasensya ko. What pisses me off is, for example, I place my sunglasses or my celfon in a place and somebody removes it, ahhh, doon ako nagagalit.”
•What role would you not do?
“None. I’m willing to play any role. But I don’t think I will play another gay role in the next five years; baka ma-typecast ako, eh. Frontal nudity? No problem. In fact, I did it in a scene for Jay, in long shot.”
•What do you usually pray for (since you said that you are ‘secretly religious’)?
“I pray for the universe to give me more abundance in life, and same for my family and loved ones.”
•What do you like and don’t you like most about Baron Geisler?
“My being a genuine person; totoo akong tao. Believe it or not, but I’m humble. What I don’t like most about myself? Let me see...Right now, I love everything about myself, but the negative intrigues surrounding me and the negative light in which some people see me. I try to be positive; I don’t want to entertain anything negative.”
WHERE
•Where are you most comfortable?
“Anywhere I am with friends, the ones that I mentioned earlier. What do we do? Wala lang. We just talk, we just laugh a lot, we’re just being happy. I am most comfortable at home.”
•Where do you want to go when you want to get away from it all?
“Pampanga. Don’t ask me why. I also go to the beach.”
•Where is your Achilles’ Heel?
“My heart. I’m very emotional. I am sensitive and, come to think of it, that’s what I hate about myself. But I’m trying to get over it; I’m getting immune to (negative) criticisms.”
•Where do you want to stay, if not in the
“I want to go to
•Where do you have tattoos?
“I have several. One on my leg, isang eye na parang binubuksan para mamulat; one on my arm, a ‘5’ which stands for us five siblings, my name which has five letters and...doesn’t Jesus’ name also have five letters?; one on my nape, ‘BVG,’ Baron Von Geisler; and another one below my right beltline, a clover. I’m thinking of having another one tattooed on my wrist or maybe on my back.”
WHEN
•When did you have your last drink?
“Last night (Saturday, Aug. 2). I drank five bottles of beer during the post-party for Torotot. I stopped at five and then I decided to go home. Before, I could finish one case of beer or a bottle of long-neck Matador.”
•When did you have your ‘first time’?
“Sex? I think I was about 12 or 13. My brother brought me to a disco house in Pampanga; he picked up a girl and I threatened to squeal on him, ‘I’m gonna tell Mom if you don’t pick one for me.’ So he did. The girl was 20. It was a sweet, sweet moment. She smelled like popcorn; that’s what I’ve never forgotten.”
•When are you most ‘high’ (naturally, huh, not ‘induced’)?
“I get high every after I do a difficult scene right. That’s why I love acting, why I’m in love with my craft. I’ve realized more than ever that I love acting, that I can’t live without it.”
•When did you realize that you wanted to be an actor?
“When I was jobless, when I was down. That was in 2004 and 2005; down na down ako noong time na ‘yon. I started in the business when I was 12, on Ang TV, but at that time it felt like play, not work. Then, I started thinking of the fame and the money. And then, nawala ako sa showbiz and that’s when I woke up, when I realized that acting is really my life. It was the PBB (Pinoy Big Brother) that helped revive my career. Because of PBB, nakilala uli ako ng mga tao; nakita nila kung ano ang tunay at totoong Baron Geisler.”
•When was the last time you told a lie?
“I actually never do, I never tell a lie. I’m a bad liar. You can easily see in my eyes if I’m telling a lie. But like everybody else, I tell white lies so as not to hurt people.”
HOW
•How do you deal with a crisis?
“I used to make little cuts on my arm, not naman big or deep enough to kill me. Small cuts lang. I didn’t cut to kill myself. Am I a masochist? No, I’m not. Or I would drink. Now, I go shopping...buy a new pair of shoes or anything not so expensive.”
•How was your childhood like?
“Good and bad. Corporal punishment was part of it. Basta, if we committed a mistake, our mom would give us a whack on our behind with a belt but never in other parts of the body. Our dad was very gentle; hindi niya kayang paluin kami. Honestly, we really lived the life when we were young. Mas malaki pa nga ang bahay namin noong hindi pa ako artista, eh. We were well-off; we would host parties every week. It was a great childhood. In our family album, you can see that we wore clothes na talagang pang-rich.”
•How do you measure success?
“In terms of happiness, not in material terms. You are successful if you are happy. Nawalan na ako ng bahay, twice, and I lost my dad, and all these tragedies in my life have made me what I am today. I am the sum total of my past. I like to think that I’m happy now, in spite of... When your family is happy, when people around you are happy, when you are happy, then you are successful.”
•How do you deal with the demons in your life?
“Very well. I can handle them pretty well now. Like yesterday during the premiere of Torotot, I was so nervous that I wanted a little drink. But something at the back of my mind was telling me, ‘Baron, don’t. Relax ka lang.’ And then I wasn’t nervous anymore.”
•How do you solve a ‘problem’ like Baron Geisler?
“Baron Geisler is not a problem anymore. I wouldn’t have been able to solve a ‘problem’ like Baron Geisler without the help of my mom. She’s my security blanket, she’s always there for me. I can’t imagine life without her behind me, beside me, standing all the way for me.”
How Kid made a good last impression
Everybody knows Pinoy Idol is a talent search solely based on text votes. But it still pains you when one winnable contestant goes home bereft of the title and the fame that comes with it. Many who rooted for Kid Camaya were not spared from that reality recently.
"It all boils down to text voting," replies Kid when asked to explain the results of the show's last elimination night. "That's the difference. In the end, it is no longer about Idol. It's about after Idol - what will happen to us (our careers)."
Kid's unexpected exit from Pinoy Idol was one for the books. He came on strong during "the greatest performance night" and received rave reviews from judges Ogie Alcasid, Jolina Magdangal and Wyngard Tracy.
Before the elimination started, judges singled out Kid along with Jayann Bautista and Ram Chaves as the Final 3 who will battle it out tonight after GMA 7's Pinoy Records at the SM Mall of Asia's SMX. The announcement of the winner is tomorrow, Aug. 17, after GMA 7's Kap's Amazing Stories.
What surprised everyone was when host Raymond Gutierrez called Kid as the first member of the Top 5 to leave the Idol stage. Many wished Kid was the last to be eliminated since he came up with a better performance the night before the results show. The other casualty of SMS voting was another favorite, Daryl Celis.
"I was numb," says Kid. "I never felt anything. What I could think of that moment was to finish my song and make a good last impression."
Kid did just that. He performed Careless Whisper on the Idol stage and remained unperturbed until the last note.
"It was a memorable experience," shares Kid on his Pinoy Idol stint. "I grew us a performer and as a person. Your performance is a minute and a half only, but the reality happens behind the camera. It is when you meet people (and make friends) with the staff and my fellow contestants. In a short span of time, I have learned something not only about myself but also about everything. That it is scary out there."
"I was flattered when I heard the comments of the judges," adds Kid. "It was like Cloud 9 because I received them from people I look up to, not from my family."
When did he realize that his shot at becoming the Pinoy Idol was over?
"When my colleagues embraced and comforted me backstage," replies Kid. "As for my plans, I prepare for whatever surprises the network has in store for me. I think they are cooking up something for the rest of the Idol finalists. We don't have the freedom yet to do what we wish because we are under contract with GMA Artist Center."
So, who will most likely win the Idol title? "It's a mixed prediction," says Kid. "If it is talent, it's going to be a battle between Jayann and Ram. If it is text votes, it's between Gretchen and Jayann."
We will see if Kid's guess is as intelligent as those who share the same hunch.
Before the big night, Jayann, Ram and Gretchen Espina will deliver the best performance of their lives. They will vie for the judges' nod of approval and televiewers' sympathy. Expect vocal calisthenics and intense stage performances only the Top Three can offer.
Also gracing the Pinoy Idol stage in the final performance night are Basil Valdez, Hajji Alejandro, Vernie Varga, Regine Velasquez, Luke Mejares, Jett Pangan, Duncan Ramos, Southborder, Freestyle, Cueshé, Pupil, Itchyworms, Callalily and the UP Concert Chorus.
The first Pinoy Idol will bring home P1-M courtesy of SM Supermalls, an Avida Tower condominium and a brand-new car. He will have management and recording contracts with GMA Artist Center and Sony BMGBunny Malunda expelled from the academy - PDA 2 Expulsion Night
Dubbed as “The Teacher Wife,” 22-year-old Jovannie “Bunny” Malunda has been expelled from ABS-CBN’s reality, Pinoy Dream Academy Season 2.
Sen Nichols got 60.35% of the total votes, while Bunny got 39.65
Mega Manila TV Ratings (August 12 to 14) ABS-CBN versus GMA
Here are the top 10 shows for daytime and primetime programming of GMA 7 and ABS-CBN according to the recent survey conducted by AGB Nielsen Philippines among Mega Manila households from August 12 to 14.
August 12 (Tuesday)
Daytime:
1. Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan (GMA-7) - 22.5%
2. Magdusa Ka (GMA-7) - 21.4%
3. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 20.2%
4. Marimar (GMA-7) - 18.4%
5. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) / Daisy Siete (GMA-7) - 17.5%
6. El Cuerpo del Deseo (ABS-CBN) - 16.4%
7. Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) - 15.5%
8. Ligaw Na Bulaklak (ABS-CBN) - 14.4%
9. SiS (GMA-7) - 11.2%
10. Boy & Kris (ABS-CBN) - 10%
Primetime:
1. Dyesebel (GMA-7) - 40.2%
2. Codename: Asero (GMA-7) - 35.3%
3. Ako Si Kim Samsoon (GMA-7) - 28.9%
4. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 28.3%
5. Iisa Pa Lamang (ABS-CBN) - 27.7%
6. My Girl (ABS-CBN) - 26%
7. Dyosa (ABS-CBN) - 25.3%
8. The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) - 23.5%
9. TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) - 22.1%
10. Pinoy Dream Academy (ABS-CBN) - 18.8%
August 13 (Wednesday)
Daytime:
1. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) / Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan (GMA-7) - 21.6%
2. Magdusa Ka (GMA-7) - 20%
3. Marimar (GMA-7) - 17%
4. El Cuerpo del Deseo (ABS-CBN) - 16.6%
5. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 16.4%
6. Daisy Siete (GMA-7) - 15.4%
7. Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) - 14.6%
8. Ligaw Na Bulaklak (ABS-CBN) - 14%
9. SiS GMA-7) - 10.9%
10. Boy & Kris (ABS-CBN) - 9.4%
Primetime:
1. Dyesebel (GMA-7) - 38.3%
2. Codename: Asero (GMA-7) - 34.4%
3. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 28.4%
4. Ako Si Kim Samsoon (GMA-7) - 27.7%
5. The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) - 24.5%
6. My Girl (ABS-CBN) - 24.1%
7. Iisa Pa Lamang (ABS-CBN) - 23.7%
8. Dyosa (ABS-CBN) - 23.6%
9. TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) - 21.6%
10. Pinoy Dream Academy (ABS-CBN) - 18.9%
August 14 (Thursday)
Daytime:
1. Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan (GMA-7) - 22%
2. Magdusa Ka (GMA-7) - 21.3%
3. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 21.1%
4. Marimar (GMA-7) - 19.4%
5. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 17.1%
6. Daisy Siete (GMA-7) - 15.4%
7. Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) - 15.2%
8. El Cuerpo del Deseo (ABS-CBN) - 15.1%
9. Ligaw Na Bulaklak (ABS-CBN) - 14.2%
10. SiS (GMA-7) - 11.3%
Primetime:
1. Dyesebel (GMA-7) - 41.5%
2. Codename: Asero (GMA-7) - 35.9%
3. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 31.6%
4. The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) - 27.9%
5. Ako Si Kim Samsoon (GMA-7) - 25.7%
6. Dyosa (ABS-CBN) - 25.5%
7. TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) - 23.6%
8. Iisa Pa Lamang (ABS-CBN) - 23.4%
9. My Girl (ABS-CBN) - 22.2%
10. Pinoy Dream Academy (ABS-CBN) - 17.5%
Earth Day Jam 2008: Save the Earth, Enjoy Music for Free!
Tomas Morato street will be filled once again by party-goers and music enthusiasts as your favorite bands and musicians perform for Earth Day Jam 2008, a free concert which will take place along Tomas Morato Avenue in Quezon City this April 25.
In celebration of International Earth day, over 20 of your favorite bands, artists and musicians will bring audience a musical feast. Coming to this big event are: Barbie Almalbis, Brownman Revival, Callalily, Guarana, Imago, Juan Pablo Dream, KJwan, Lou Bonnevie, Moonstar ‘88 , Noel Cabangon, Pinikpikan, Radioactive Sago Project, Reggae Mistress, Rivermaya, Sandwich, Sinosikat, South Border, The Company, The Philippine Latin-Jazz Orchestra, True Faith, Up Dharma Down, Zelle, and a lot more.
Tables and chairs will be provided to the audience as they watch the concert and while enjoying thier food. The audience can enjoy “Earthday Discounts” from the establishments around the performance area.
Earthday Jam 2008 will happen this April 25 and this is absolutely for free.
FrancisM: Kakayanin ko ito!
It's heartening to note that despite the daunting battle he's waging, Francis Magalona has remained upbeat and optimistic, determined to beat the Big C with the help of The Great Healer.
Francis, 43 (born on Oct. 4, 1964), was diagnosed to have leukemia (cancer of the blood) and is confined at the ICU of Medical City in Pasig City. The symptoms, manifesting late, came in the form of persistent fever in the afternoon and dizzy spells, making Francis look alarmingly pale, and unexplained loss of weight. He has been at the ICU for more than two weeks now.
In yesterday's edition on the GMA noontime show Eat, Bulaga! from which Francis as co-host has been absent for weeks, Vic Sotto read Francis' official statement:
Sa lahat ng dabarkads ko dito sa EB, miss ko na kayong lahat. Araw-araw magkasama tayo at kayo'y naging second family ko na. Pati na rin lahat ng viewers sa mga bahay at sa studio.
Ngayon, meron akong isang pagsubok na dapat daanan at ang hiling ko lang ay ang inyong pang-unawa at suporta. I have been diagnosed with leukemia and I am preparing for my treatment. Sa tulong ng Panginoon, kakayanin ko ito.
Abangan ang aking pagbabalik. Di ko lang kayo miss, love ko kayong lahat.
As I was saying, besides your prayers, Francis needs blood, lots and lots of blood, and you are invited to donate some. Francis is Type O but any type is welcome to replenish the amount Francis is getting from the hospital's supply.
"Those willing to donate may do so at the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) office in Intramuros (just across from The STAR offices)," said Rosa Rosal, in-charge of the PNRC "blood" department, who this year is celebrating her 60th year with the PNRC. (Her daughter, Toni Rose Gayda, is Francis' Bulaga! co-host.) "We will take care of the blood that Francis needs."
Sen. Richard Gordon, PNRC chairman, has also assured Francis of continued support.
Francis is one of the nine children of popular '50s Sampaguita loveteam Pancho Magalona and Tita Duran. He and his wife Pia Arroyo have eight children, one of them actress Maxene Magalona.
Nationwide Urban TV Audience Measurement (NUTAM) Ratings for July 2008
AGB Nielsen’s ratings in Nationwide Urban TV Audience Measurement (NUTAM) based on sample homes all over the country for the month of July 2008.
Here are the Top 10 weekday and weekend programs for the month of July:
Top Weekday Programs (Daytime)
1. El Cuerpo Del Deseo (ABS-CBN) - 23.7 %
2. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 22.8 %
3. Ms. Universe 2008 Vietnam** (ABS-CBN) - 19.9 %
4. Ligaw na Bulaklak (ABS-CBN) - 18.5 %
5. Magdusa Ka (GMA-7) - 18.5 %
6. Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) - 18.1 %
7. Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan (GMA-7) - 17.9 %
8. SONA 2008 ABS-CBN Special Coverage (ABS-CBN)** (ABS-CBN) - 17.9 %
9. Daisy Siete (GMA-7) - 16.7 %
10. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 16.3 %
Top Weekday Programs (Primetime)
1. Lobo (ABS-CBN) - 33.4 %
2. The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) - 33.4 %
3. Dyesebel (GMA-7) - 33.2 %
4. Iisa Pa Lamang (ABS-CBN) - 31.8 %
5. Codename: Asero (GMA-7) - 31.5 %
6. Joaquin Bordado (GMA-7) - 31.4 %
7. TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) - 31.0 %
8. My Girl (ABS-CBN) - 28.0 %
9. 24 Oras (GMA-7 ) - 23.9 %
10. Kapamilya, Deal or No Deal (ABS-CBN) - 23.9 %
Top Weekend Programs (Daytime)
1. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 22.5 %
2. ASAP ‘08 (ABS-CBN) - 20.1 %
3. Cinema FPJ Da King on ABS-CBN (ABS-CBN) - 19.5 %
4. Your Song (ABS-CBN) - 18.1 %
5. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 17.2 %
6. Dragon Ball Z (GMA-7) - 15.5 %
7. The Buzz (ABS-CBN) - 14.1 %
8. Entertainment Live! (ABS-CBN) - 13.9 %
9. Wish Ko Lang (GMA-7) - 13.4 %
10. SOP (GMA-7) - 13.0 %
Top Weekend Programs (Primetime)
1. Pinoy Dream Academy Live Gala Night (ABS-CBN) - 30.2 %
2. Pinoy Dream Academy Little Dreamers (ABS-CBN) - 28.5 %
3. Goin’ Bulilit (ABS-CBN) - 27.1 %
4. Komiks (ABS-CBN) - 27.0 %
5. Bitoy’s Funniest Videos Yari Ka! (GMA-7) - 24.6 %
6. Maalaala Mo Kaya (ABS-CBN) - 24.4 %
7. Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (GMA-7) - 23.7 %
8. Rated K (ABS-CBN) - 22.1 %
9. Pinoy Idol (GMA-7) - 20.4 %
10. Mel & Joey (GMA-7) - 20.2 %
Legend: ** Special
Source: AGB Nielsen Media Research, PhilippinesFrancisM battling the Big C
It started as blind items in the tabs, referring to "a singer-actor TV host confined at the ICU" of an unnamed hospital.
Yes, the "singer-actor TV host" being referred to is Francis Magalona who has been conspicuously absent from Eat, Bulaga! for several days now.
Yesterday on 24 Oras in a phone-patch with Chika Minute host Pia Guanio, Francis' wife Pia Arroyo confirmed that Francis has been diagnosed to have leukemia and is confined at the ICU of a hospital in Pasig City.
But he's not unconscious, contrary to rumors.
"He's in high spirits," said Malou Choa-Fagar, vice president of TAPE, Inc., producer of Eat, Bulaga!, "and he's raring to go back to Eat, Bulaga!"
Francis is suffering from a treatable type of leukemia, the same one Hollywood actor Ryan O'Neal is a survivor of.
A few months ago when the Eat, Bulaga! guys mounted a show in Las Vegas, Francis reportedly suffered from fever in the afternoons (a bad symptom, according to doctors) coupled with "dizzy spells," turning pale in the process.
"Rudy (Fernandez) experienced the same afternoon-fever symptoms, so you better see a doctor," somebody advised Francis.
So Francis did. His and wife Pia's worst fears were confirmed. (The couple has eight children.) Francis is the son of '50s showbiz royal couple Pancho Magalona (who died from complications of emphysema) and Tita Duran (who died from complications of a kidney ailment).
Yes, what's in the blog is true: Francis needs Type O blood (paging Tita Rosa Rosal, head of the Philippine National Red Cross!). Donors are welcome.
Funfare is requesting its readers to pray for Francis' speedy recovery. Remember, as the poet said, more things are wrought by prayers than this world dreams of. Prayer can move mountains.
Meanwhile, stay tuned to Eat, Bulaga! today. Host Vic Sotto will make an "important announcement."
Newly Released OPM Albums
Gabby Concepcion - Gabby Concepcion
Ruben Tagalog - Kumpisal (Hari Ng Kundiman) (Heritage Series)Armida Siguion-Reyna - Aawitan Kita (Reyna Ng Kundiman) (Heritage Series)Sitti Navarro - My Bossanova Live! (Special Limited Editon)Various Artists - Senti 18 Pinoy Love HitsVarious Artists - No. 1 Signature Hits OPM's Best
Nora Aunor - Greatest Hits Vol. 1Yoyoy Villame - The Best Of Yoyoy VillameBasil Valdez - Basil Valdez (Silver Series)Nina - Nina Sings The Hits Of Diane WarrenMarco Sison - Marco Sison (Silver Series)Sarah Geronimo - Taking Flight (Repackaged)
Anne, ipit kina Richard at Marian
SADYANG inabangan namin ang initial telecast ng “Dyosa” kahit na naguluhan kami sa lahing pinagmulan ng mga kabayo, ni Bernardo Carpio, Dyesebel at matanglawin.
Sana nga ay makaalagwa man lang ito kahit konti sa ratings kahit na nakaipit pa ito sa dalawang higanteng teleserye ng GMA-7.
Nauna ang Singing Bee ng ABS-CBN, tapos pasok ang “Codename:
Asero”, pasok ang “Dyosa” na inabot ng “Dyesebel”, na inabutan naman ng “Iisa Pa Lamang”.
Paano ngayon ‘yan, na-sandwich ang “Dyosa” sa dalawang higanteng topraters ng GMA-7 nina Richard at Marian Rivera?
Mag-rate kaya ang “Dyosa”?
Katapat na nga ng “Asero” ni Richard Gutierrez ang “Dyosa” ni Anne Curtis, ‘yung head and shoulder commercial ni Richard ay naka-load sa “Dyosa”.
Hindi ba si Anne ay ex ni Richard at kahalikan pa sa parking lot sa Baclaran when they were both not this sikat yet?
Hindi talaga mahiwalay si Richard sa mga chicks, ha! May KC na siya, may Heart pa raw, may Anne pang nakaraan. Gosh, mana sa ama?
‘Dobol Trobol’, ‘B’ sa CEB!
RATED ‘B’ ang ibinigay na grade ng Cinema Evaluation Board sa pelikulang Dobol Trobol, Let’s Get Redi 2 Rambol, na pinagbibidahan nina Vic Sotto at Dolphy, at prodyus ng RVQ Films, M-Zet Films at APT Inc..
Hindi nga ikinaila nina Dolphy at Vic na tumulong sila sa pagbuo ng kuwento at pag-atake sa mga eksena para sa Dobol Trobol. Sabi nga nina Dolphy at Vic, ngayon lang sila nagsama sa pelikula, kaya dapat lang nilang siguraduhin na matino, maganda, at nakatatawa ang pelikula.
Palabas na sa mga sinehan ang Dobol Trobol, at kasama rin sa pelikula sina Riza Santos, Carmi Martin, Wally Bayola at Jose Manalo.
THE EARTH,WIND AND FIRE
Earth, Wind & Fire
Earth Wind & Fire - has touched the hearts of two generations with their incredible music. Al McKay had been an instrumental force behind the music of Earth Wind & Fire from the beginning (after his departure - Earth Wind & Fire landed only one more hit)Mega Manila TV Ratings (August 8 to 11) ABS-CBN versus GMA
Here are the top 10 shows for daytime and primetime programming of GMA 7 and ABS-CBN according to the recent survey conducted by AGB Nielsen Philippines among Mega Manila households from August 8 to 11.
August 8 (Friday)
Daytime:
1. Magdusa Ka (GMA-7) - 21.8%
2. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 21.2%
3. Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan (GMA-7) - 21.1%
4. Daisy Siete (GMA-7) - 18.5%
5. Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) - 17.2%
6. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 16.9%
7. El Cuerpo del Deseo (ABS-CBN) - 15.7%
8. Marimar (GMA-7) - 15.6%
9. Ligaw Na Bulaklak (ABS-CBN) - 13.5%
10. Boy & Kris (ABS-CBN) - 9.3%
Primetime:
1. Dyesebel (GMA-7) - 36.2%
2. Codename: Asero (GMA-7) - 31.8%
3. Ako Si Kim Samsoon (GMA-7) - 28.4%
4. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 23.6%
5. Dalja’s Spring (GMA-7) - 22.9%
6. The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) - 22.6%
7. My Girl (ABS-CBN) - 20.5%
8. Iisa Pa Lamang (ABS-CBN) - 20.1%
9. TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) - 19.2%
10. Pinoy Dream Academy (ABS-CBN) - 18.9%
August 9 (Saturday)
Daytime
1. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 20.7%
2. Wish Ko Lang (GMA-7) - 17.1%
3. Pinoy Records (GMA-7) - 16.8%
4. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) 15.7%
5. StarTalk (GMA-7) - 15%
6. Takeshi’s Castle (GMA-7) - 12.1%
7. That’s My Doc (ABS-CBN) - 11.3%
8. Cinema FPJ: Da King on ABS-CBN (ABS-CBN) - 10.5%
9. Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) / Entertainment Live (ABS-CBN) - 9.7%
Primetime:
1. Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (GMA-7) - 26.8%
2. Bitoy’s Funniest Videos (GMA-7) - 26.7%
3. Pinoy Dream Academy (ABS-CBN) - 25.9%
4. Pinoy Idol (GMA-7) - 24%
5. Maalaala Mo Kaya (ABS-CBN) - 22.5%
6. Imbestigador (GMA-7) - 20.5%
7. Varga (ABS-CBN) - 19.2%
8. XXX (ABS-CBN) - 15.2%
9. TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) - 8.8%
10. Songbird (GMA-7) - 8.4%
August 10 (Sunday)
Daytime
1. ASAP ‘08 (ABS-CBN) 15%
2. SOP (GMA-7) - 13.4%
3. Matanglawin (ABS-CBN) - 12.6%
4. Your Song (ABS-CBN) - 10.7%
5. The Buzz (ABS-CBN) - 10.2%
6. Takeshi’s Castle (GMA-7) - 10%
7. Dear Friend (GMA-7) - 9.9%
8. Showbiz Central (GMA-7) - 8.9%
Primetime:
1. Pinoy Idol (GMA-7) - 20.8%
2. Pinoy Dream Academy: Little Dreamers (ABS-CBN) - 20.4%
3. Mel & Joey (GMA-7) - 19.9%
4. All Star K (GMA-7) - 19.8%
5. Goin’ Bulilit (ABS-CBN) - 18.2%
6. Ful Haus (GMA-7) - 17.3%
7. Sharon (ABS-CBN) - 17%
8. Kap’s Amazing Stories (GMA-7) - 16.2%
9. Rated K (ABS-CBN) - 13.9%
10. TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) - 13.2%
August 11 (Monday)
Daytime:
1. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 21.3%
2. Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan (GMA-7) - 19.4%
3. Magdusa Ka (GMA-7) - 18.3%
4. Marimar (GMA-7) - 18%
5. Breaking News: ARMM Eleksyon (GMA-7) - 16.9%
6. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 16.3%
7. Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) - 15.8%
8. El Cuerpo del Deseo (ABS-CBN) - 15.6%
9. Daisy Siete (GMA-7) - 15.5%
10. Ligaw Na Bulaklak (ABS-CBN) - 15.1%
Primetime:
1. Dyesebel (GMA-7) - 37.4%
2. Codename: Asero (GMA-7) - 32.1%
3. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 28.8%
4. The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) - 26.6%
5. Dyosa (ABS-CBN) - 25.7%
6. Ako Si Kim Samsoon (GMA-7) - 24.9%
7. My Girl (ABS-CBN) - 24%
8. TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) - 23.6%
9. Iisa Pa Lamang (ABS-CBN) - 23.2%
10. Pinoy Dream Academy (ABS-CBN) - 19.2%
music events
4th Backdoor Ventures Arts & Music Festival
The much anticipated annual event is bound to astonish the crowd once again with a stellar showcase of performances and activities.
Avril Lavigne - The Best Damn Tour 2008
After three years, Avril Lavigne surprises her fans as she comes back to Manila for another concert, titled "Avril Lavigne
Bounce Live: The College Concert
Get ready for the biggest college event this semester as Bounce Magazine brings you a night of music and live performances
Chemistry Presents BeXta
The most "having it" night in Manila is bringing you a major international DJ - Direct from Australia - Her first and only Philippines
Ders Somethin Bout Retro
Featuring: Spirits of `67 w/ Faith Cuneta & Richard Poon.
Harana, A Cultural Journey
Eight of the country's most awarded classical singers will come together in one show to outdo each other in a rare display of vocal power
Kuh Ledesma Present...Bo Cerrudo: Love Around the World
Renowned balladeer Bo Cerrudo serenades lovers everywhere.
Kyla @ Pavillion Mall
Catch the R&B princess, Kyla, as she serenades us with her hit songs from her album under EMI records.
Kyla @ SM Clark Pampanga
Catch the R&B princess, Kyla, as she serenades us with her hit songs from her album under EMI records.
Laffamania
From the pioneers of Point-of-view Standup comedy, the Comedy Cartel brings you Big Laughs and Big jokes. With Tim Tayag and Mike Unson...
Lorna Cifra is ... Jazz Irresistible
Lorna, the singing sweetheart who warmed the hearts of her audience in the Legion of Mary's "Rally to Jesus Through Mary"
Panic At The Disco in Manila
Hyperventilating, screaming and moshing - once these three elements are happening simultaneously, it is needless to say that Panic At T...
Panorama Jam Fest
Watch and Support tugtugan Pinoy and helptyphoon Franck Victims.... Jam with: Joey Ayala at ang Bagong, Lumad, Pinikpikan, Kadangyan,
Petula Clark Live in Manila
The most successful British solo artist and Grammy Hall of Fame singer Petula Clark is set to perform live at a concert on September
Songs For A New World
Songs For A New World (An Off-Broadway Musical) By Jason Robert Brown and Directed by Robbie Guevara. ... (Sprint Productions) Peachy
Sonicflood Live in Manila
Sonicflood (sometimes stylized as Sonicflood) is a U.S. group of Contemporary Christian music, based in Nashville, Tennessee.
The Earth Wind & Fire Featuring The Al Mckay All Stars
Earth Wind & Fire - has touched the hearts of two generations with their incredible music. Al McKay had been an instrumental force behind
The Retrospect Rebirth
After 10 successful years of great musicality and camaraderie, experience the rebirth of this exceptional group as they step-up
KC Concepcion, hindi galit kay John Lloyd!
MATAGAL na ring usap-usapan ang diumano ay pagtanggi ni KC Concepcion na makasama sa isang project si John Lloyd Cruz. Bago pa kasi gumawa ng pelikula si KC, si John Lloyd na ang itinuturo na magiging kapareha niya, pero hindi nga natuloy ang project.
At `yun na nga, nagsimula na ring kumalat ang tsismis na inayawan talaga ni KC si John Lloyd, bilang pakikisimpatiya sa Ate niya na si Ciara Sotto.
Nagkaroon ng relasyon sina Ciara at John Lloyd noon, at diumano ay hindi naging maganda ang samahan ng dalawa. At doon daw nagsimula ang galit ni KC kay John Lloyd?
Pero sabi nga ni KC, gustung-gusto niyang makasama si John Lloyd, at hindi raw totoo na tinanggihan niya ito noon. Wala rin daw dahilan para magalit siya kay John Lloyd.
“Wala po akong alam tungkol sa sinasabi nilang project na tinanggihan ko raw with John Lloyd. Wala po akong idea tungkol doon,” sabi ni KC.
So, siguro naman ay hindi na magagalit ang mga fans ni John Lloyd kay KC, dahil ang mismong anak nina Sharon Cuneta at Gabby Concepcion na ang naglinaw na okey sa kanya na magsama sila ni John Lloyd.
Pero sa ngayon, ang project muna nila ni Richard Gutierrez na For The First Time, mula sa Star Cinema ang dapat tutukan ng mga fans.
Kapansin-pansin nga na habang tumatagal ay mas nagiging sweet sina KC at Richard.
Sabi pa, ang pendant na ibinigay nila sa isa’t isa na mula sa lava ay simbolo ng kanilang pagmamahalan.
“Hindi naman po. First time naming nagsama ng matagal ni Chard, at nakilala ko siya nang husto. Pero, friends lang talaga kami,” say ni KC.
Pag-amin pa ni KC, hindi siya kumportable na pinipilit silang magkaroon ng relasyon ni Richard. Para sa kanya, hayaan na lang daw muna na magsimula sila ni Richard bilang magkaibigan.
“Ayoko munang isipin ‘yung mga bagay-bagay na nagli-lead sa
relationship. Kumportable ako sa ganito na magkaibigan kami,” sabi pa ni KC/
Siyanga pala, ang next project nina Richard at KC ay sa GMA Films nila gagawin. Aminado si KC, excited siya na makipagtrabaho sa GMA.
“Excited na po ako. Natutuwa po ako,” say na lang ni KC.
Kris, ‘pirated copy’ ni Marian
SI Mother Lily ang unang nakapansin sa unang presscon ng Loving You na kahawig ni Marian Rivera si Kris Bernal. Inintriga nga namin noon si Kris, na mukhang kinukopya talaga niya si Marian, na agad naman niyang itinanggi.
Pero, aminado siyang idol niya si Marian, at gandang-ganda siya rito. Pero, hindi raw dahilan `yon para gayahin niya ito.
Sa birthday party ni Dingdong sa NBC Tent kamakailan, nagulat kami sa parehong itsura nina Marian at Kris. Base sa mga litrato na kuha ni Boy Borja sa birthday ni Dingdong,
tila parehung-pareho ang itsura nina Marian at Kris, mula sa kulay ng damit, at sa bag na bitbit nila.
Hindi ako sigurado kung sino sa kanilang dalawa ang naunang dumating sa party ni Dingdong. Pero, kung ang larawan na nakikita niyo sa pahinang ito ang pagbabasehan niyo, puwede niyong sabihin na parang pirated copy ni Marian si Kris.
Nagkakataon lang kaya na sa mga okasyon na pinupuntahan nila ay halos pareho ang itsura nila? Hindi naman siguro sinasadya ni Kris na maging kapareha ng itsura niya ang itsura ni Marian?
PDA
Sen and Bunny are this week’s probationary scholars in the recently concluded Pinoy Dream Academy Season 2 - Probation Night.
![](http://tagpuan.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/hansen-sen-nichols.jpg "Hansen \\"Sen\\" Nichols")
Bunny was automatically placed on probation for getting the lowest grade in the overall scholar’s midterm grades. Laarni was saved by the mentors while Miguel has been saved by the other scholars.
Avril Lavigne Live in Manila: “Best Damn Tour 2008″ »
After three years, Avril Lavigne surprises her fans as she comes back to Manila for another concert, titled “Avril Lavigne…The Best Damn Tour” happening at the Araneta Coliseum this coming September.
PHILIPPHINE RADIOS DAILY COUNTDOWN
mMOR 101.5 FOR LIFE BACOLOD
MOST OFTEN REQUESTED COUNTDOWN
August 11, 2008
1. Avril Lavigne- Best damn thing
2. Secondhand Serenade-Fall for You
3. Sarah Geronimo- A very special love
4. Boys like girls- Thunder
5. Jesse Mccartney- Leavin
6. Mariah Carrey- Bye-bye
7. Oj Marano- Sanay malaman mo
8. jason mraz- Im yours
9. Akon- Dangerous
10. Bea alonzo- Officailly missing you
MYX Daily Top Ten August 6, 2008
YES | TOD | ARTIST | TITLE | PP | DC |
2 | 1 | Sarah Geronimo | A Very Special Love | 18@1 | 28 |
1 | 2 | 6cyclemind | Saludo | 2@1 | 17 |
3 | 3 | Christian Bautista | The One Who Won My Heart | 2 | 3 |
4 | 4 | Pedicab | Ang Pusa Mo | 8@1 | 35 |
8 | 5 | Mariah Carey | Bye Bye | 5@1 | 44 |
5 | 6 | Rivermaya | Sleep | 3 | 23 |
- | 7 | Pussycat Dolls | When I Grow Up | 7 | 4 |
6 | 8 | Jordin Sparks | One Step at a Time | 5 | 9 |
- | 9 | Rihanna | Take A Bow | 6 | 33 |
9 | 10 | Itchyworms | Penge Naman Ako N'yan | 6 | 3 |
Top 20 Worst Songs Ever by spinner.com
20'The Final Countdown'
--Europe (1986)
19'What's Up'
--4 Non Blondes (199
18'Gettin' Jiggy Wit It'
--Will Smith (1998)
17'Achy Breaky Heart'
--Billy Ray Cyrus (1992)
16'Thong Song'
--Sisqo (2000)
15'Hollaback Girl'
--Gwen Stefani (2005)
14'Rico Suave'
--Gerardo (1991)
13'Convoy'
--C.W. McCall (1975)
12'With Arms Wide Open'
--Creed (2000)
11'Wannabe'
--Spice Girls (1996)
10My Heart Will Go On'
--Celine Dion (1997)
9'Macarena'
--Los Del Rio (1995)
8'Ebony and Ivory'
--Paul McCartney & Stevie Wonder (1982)
7'I'm Too Sexy'
--Right Said Fred (1991)
6'I Am Woman'
--Helen Reddy (1972)
5'U Can't Touch This'
--MC Hammer (1990
4'Barbie Girl'
--Aqua (1997)
3'She Bangs'
--Ricky Martin (2000)
2'Ice, Ice Baby'
--Vanilla Ice (1990)
1'Who Let the Dogs Out?'
--Baha Men (2000)
Apple Abarquez expelled from the academy - PDA 2 Expulsion Night
Dubbed as “The Different Couple’s Daughter,” 18-year-old Apple Abarquez has been expelled from ABS-CBN’s reality show, Pinoy Dream academy Season 2.
Laarni got 72.74% of the total votes, Miguel got 13.96% while Apple got 13.30%.
Kid Camaya and Daryl Celis - Eliminated from Pinoy Idol
24-year-old Kid Camaya and 21-year-old Daryl Celis have been eliminated from GMA-7’s interactive reality-based singing competition, Pinoy Idol.
The 3 remaining idol hopefuls will then battle it out on the Finals Night, which will be held on August 17, 2008 for the title of the first Pinoy Idol
Pinoy Idol Top 3
Finally, the Pinoy Idol Top Three (3) has now been announced. The final 3 consists of:
Jayann Bautista
Age: 22
Pampanga
Gretchen Espina
Age: 20
Quezon City
Ram Chaves
Age: 26
Makati City
Find out who will be declared the first Pinoy Idol. Watch out for the Finals Night on August 17, 2008 at the SMX of SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City.
The singer not so much the song
All he wanted to do was visit ailing dad Rolly Concepcion and make a comeback movie. But what Gabby Concepcion got instead was more than he asked for and dreamt of.
All of us know he got an ABS-CBN teleserye, Iisa Pa Lamang. And surprise, surprise! The '80s Regal Baby got an offer to record an album - his first - from Warner Music Philippines. Gabby himself was caught flat-footed when recording company executives first broached the idea to him.
"I never imagined I would enter the recording industry someday," admits Gabby. "The first time I sang (in public) was when I was 16 or 17, via Come What May. But I was not serious about it."
But now that he finally has a self-titled CD, Gabby promises to give singing a hundred percent, the way he gives his all in everything he does: Whether it be on TV, the movies, endorsements, etc.
Trying everything, "as long as I don't step on anybody's toes" has become a way of life for Gabby these days. It's a sign that he has matured, grown more self-assured.
Back in the US, he listened to everything former singer Jam Morales advised him about the proper breathing technique while singing. He'd go with Jam all the way to her recording studio in New Mexico and practice his songs any chance he got.
And like Come What May, the first song he sang publicly, Gabby will seize the moment, and wait in bated breath for the outcome.
He will agree to do a concert with daughter KC, herself a new recording artist, and enjoy the moment while it lasts. So proud is Gabby of his eldest daughter, he talks about her "one liners that make me laugh" in the CD's liner notes.
He sings Come What May again, but this time, with all his heart and soul, sans the half-serious attitude he had the first time he rendered it. Gabby, in fact, teams up with the more seasoned Nina in the syrupy song about love willing to defy the odds.
The all-love song album spawns the usual question: Who is he offering those lyrical declarations of devotion to? Gabby is no veteran of controversies for nothing. He can spot the makings of a sticky situation a mile away. He flashes that good old Close-up smile and replies, "I'm dedicating those love songs to the Philippines and the Filipinos. How I miss them!"
He singles out the track, Ako Pa Ba?, which relates, Kay tagal na ng panahon/Nang ikaw ay makapiling ko/Hinahanap-hanap ang ligayang bawat sandali/At nananabik sa yong pagbalik.
Gabby explains those lyrics reflect exactly how he feels about returning to the Philippines after years of being away. Questions hound him.
"I wonder, do people still remember me? They might have forgotten after all these years," admits Gabby. He claims to have gotten the answer one time he was performing before a crowd of US-based Pinoys.
"They were shouting, 'Gary, Gary (Valenciano)!" Gabby points out with a self-deprecating laugh.
The story, of course, is a tall tale. And Gabby knows deep in his heart that no producer in his right mind will mount a show for him. Not one, but two producers are giving him a vote in confidence in this regard.
Roldan Castro is mounting the show called Faces, Voices and Bodies topbilling Gabby, with guests Toni Gonzaga, Valerie Concepcion, Joross Gamboa, the Baywalk Bodies on Aug. 14 at Zirkoh, Timog. Gabby's other show, Gabby Concepcion on a Different Note, is set at Music Museum on Aug. 15 and 16, with special guests Claudine Barretto, Ai-Ai de las Alas, Pops Fernandez, Maja Salvador, Iya Villania and Lovi Poe.
That, the album and the MTV that goes with it show a Gabby willing to stick his neck out and explore uncharted territory, no matter what the cost.
He doesn't have to stick his neck out that far though, where his wish of reviving '80s music is concerned. Gabby joins the ranks of other artists in bringing back the good old days when the cellphone was still unheard-of, when the computer was still a sight to see. Thus he revives such hits as Kung Kailangan Mo Ako (originally by Rey Valera), Iisa Pa Lamang (Joey Albert), Give Me a Chance (Ric Segreto), Nakapagtataka (Hajji Alejandro), Just Once (James Ingram) and others in his album.
In going back, not only to the music of the past, but also to his roots, Gabby is discovering things he never thought possible in himself. He is unearthing new abilities, taking a road he has never taken. Along the way, he is stumbling upon exciting possibilities, finding hidden fountains of pleasure.
In going back, Gabby is actually taking many steps forward. And all because he wants to be a good son and give back what his father has so generously bestowed on him all these years. -Miriam Quiambao on posing for Playboy: No regrets
MANILA, Philippines - Former Miss Philippines and Miss Universe runner-up Miriam Quiambao took a bold to step in advancing her career by gracing the cover of Playboy magazine's August issue.
"I consulted some friends and my manager and I spoke about it. And then we finally agreed we're going to do this really well and it has to be an art work," Quiambao told Raymond Gutierrez of GMA Network’s Showbiz Central during an interview Sunday.
Quiambao said she prayed the night before the photo shoot and asked God for guidance.
"Well I went [to Baclaran Church] with my friends and I lit a number of candles praying not just for this cover but also for other things and to give me the strength to go on with this project…," she said.
She said she was nervous at the beginning of the photo shoot, but later got the hang of it.
"Actually kinakabahan ako kasi pag pasok ko palang sa Imperial Suites Hotel I feel like I’m walking to the valley of death but probably it's just on my mind."
"Naging comfortable eventually magaling kasi si Jun de Leon (Eventually I became comfortable because Jun de Leon is a good photographer)," she added.
Quiambao also said that the GMA News and Public Affairs executives did not reprimand her for posing for Playboy.
She said she sent soft copies to her bosses and added: “They don't have violent reactions and I explained to them the reasons why I did it."
Quiambao said posing for the magazine was a "celebration of her femininity," disputing reports that her decision to do it was out of "rebellion."
"I am happy. Tama na yung iyak iyak sa mga nakaraan, ‘di ba?" she said.
"Parang, I'm just so happy with myself and I'm celebrating it (It's like I'm so happy with myself and I am celebrating it)," said Quiambao.Susan: Forever movie queen, always a role model
Forever Movie Queen Susan Roces turned a year wiser last July 28. Susan is one of the most-liked, most-loved and most-respected actresses in the industry. Last Sunday, we on The Buzz paid tribute to her via a special video essay.
Susan was a movie fan who adored Gloria Romero. While vacationing in Manila, she visited Sampaguita Studios to see her idol. Her beauty and presence caught the attention of Dr. Jose "Doc" Perez, the patriarch of Sampaguita Pictures who asked her to audition. Susan passed the test with flying colors and the rest they say is history.
Susan is back on television in Iisa Pa Lamang which casts her with the country's most popular actors, Gabby Concepcion, Diether Ocampo, Angelica Panganiban, Cherie Pie Picache, Laurice Guillen and Claudine Barretto.
Susan was 10 years old when she was first seen on screen in the movie Mga Bituin ng Kinabukasan. She was launched in the movie Boksingera. As an actress she was paired with Juancho Gutierrez, Jose Mari Gonzalez, Romeo Vasquez, Eddie Gutierrez and Fernando Poe Jr. Her love team with Fernando Poe Jr. was the most bankable. It was also a pairing that led to the altar. When FPJ passed away, Susan was the epitome of grace and courage.
Here's what friends and co-actors say about Susan:
* Gabby Concepcion: Tita Susan is my idol. Napaka-galing niya mag-suggest ng ideas. Because of her suggestions, we were able to shoot several scenes in record time.
* Angelica Panganiban: Tita Susan is respected both as a person and as an actress. She is one of a kind. People look up to her. Pag ka-eksena mo na, matatakot ka. Pero pag nagkikita kayo off-cam, hindi. She's very sweet.
* Diether Ocampo: We call her Nanay Susan dahil para siya 'yung tumatayong ilaw ng aming tahanan padating dito sa set ng Iisa Pa Lamang. She is highly respected. It is a big honor to work with her.
* Jodi Sta. Maria: I miss her words of wisdom.
* Maja Salvador: She treats me like a daughter. I love her.
* Kris Aquino: Super special sa akin si Tita Susan. She takes time to make you feel special. I have learned a lot from her about life, stardom and about being a wife. She handles herself with so much dignity. She is a very generous and loving person. The way she carries herself is an inspiration to me.
Kris & James enjoying vacation
Kris Aquino and husband James Yap left for the US a few days ago for a much-needed vacation. The trip is their gift for each other on their third wedding anniversary. They must now be sight-seeing in New York, watching some plays and visiting the NBA store.
"We'll be in New York for nine days and then in Las Vegas for five days," Kris told me before they left. "We have been planning for this trip for two months. We time this trip with James' break from the games. I had to do advance tapings for my shows."
Before leaving, Kris and James had dinner with her mom, former Pres. Cory Aquino.
"She told us, 'Have a safe trip; enjoy and see you'," Kris recalled. "We heard Mass at 6 p.m. and then we had dinner. James and I will be back on Aug. 18 in time for my dad (Ninoy Aquino's) 25th death anniversary."
Kris also revealed their US itinerary.
"We'll go on a tour of New York City and then the Sex and The City tour. The plays we are watching are Little Mermaid, Legally Blonde, and Wicked. In Las Vegas, we will watch the show of Cher and the Cirque de Soliel."
Juday & Ryan apart 'for a while'
Judy Ann Santos and Ryan Agoncillo have agreed to separate for a while. No, they are not breaking up. They just decided to work separately for a change, after all they have been working together on several projects, the last of which was the teleserye Ysabella which lasted for more than a year. Add to that their movies together, Kasal, Kasali, Kasalo and Sakal, Sakali, Saklolo.
"Its about time na maghiwalay muna kami ng projects," said Juday. "Ryan wants to focus hosting and I, on drama."
Juday thinks it is healthy when partners take a breather, once in a while. In her newest TV show, Humiling Ka Sa Langit, she will be paired with Derek Ramsay.
"I've always been comfortable working with Derek," added Juday.
On the other hand, Ryan should be in South Africa by this time, shooting episodes for the new show Fear Factor which he is hosting. Ryan went through a thorough medical check-up that included flu vaccination. He will be in South America for almost a month. - Boy Abunda (Philstar News Service,`Dark Knight' stays on top with $26M
Batman was higher than Hollywood's newest pot heads.
"The Dark Knight" took in $26 million to finish as the No. 1 movie for the fourth straight weekend, beating the stoner comedy "Pineapple Express," which opened in second place with $22.4 million, according to studio estimates Sunday.
The weekend haul lifted the Warner Bros. Batman sequel to No. 3 on the all-time domestic box-office charts with $441.5 million, behind only "Titanic" ($600.8 million) and the original "Star Wars" ($461 million).
The last movie to remain No. 1 for four consecutive weekends was "The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King" in late 2003 and 2004, according to box-office tracker Media By Numbers. That movie did it during a much slower time of year, with nowhere near the competition "The Dark Knight" has faced during Hollywood's busy summer season.
"It's almost unheard of. Summer doesn't usually afford films that much of a wide-open playing field," said Paul Dergarabedian, president of Media By Numbers.
"The Dark Knight" should surpass "Star Wars" to become No. 2 on the revenue chart by this coming weekend.
However, the numbers reflect today's higher admission prices, and "The Dark Knight" will not approach "Star Wars" or "Titanic" in terms of actual number of tickets sold. Taking inflation into account, "The Dark Knight" would need to pull in about $900 million to match the number of tickets sold for "Titanic" and about $1.2 billion to equal "Star Wars."
Even so, "The Dark Knight" has far outdone even its studio's expectations. Dan Fellman, head of distribution for Warner Bros., said he would have been happy if the movie simply exceeded the $205 million domestic total of its predecessor, "Batman Begins."
It should top out at $510 million to $520 million, Fellman said.
"It has taken on a life of its own, and in doing so got so much positive press and word of mouth that older audiences who normally don't rush out to see movies or maybe only see two, three movies a year are coming out in large numbers," Fellman said. "It's a question of `We've been reading about this for three, four weeks now. Let's go see what it's all about.'"
Since opening Wednesday, Sony's "Pineapple Express" had taken in $40.5 million. The action comedy stars Seth Rogen as a pot smoker on the run from crooks after he witnesses a murder, with his lovably clueless dealer (James Franco) in tow.
While "Pineapple Express" was unable to dislodge "The Dark Knight," Sony executives were happy with a strong No. 2 finish given the juggernaut the Batman flick has become.
"Quite frankly, it's nice to know that everything else is still kind of doing some business," said Rory Bruer, Sony head of distribution. "We're so very satisfied to be at $40 million-plus after five days. You couldn't ask for more."
The weekend's other wide release, the Warner Bros. sequel "The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2," opened at No. 4 with $10.8 million, raising its total to $19.7 million since debuting Wednesday.
The movie reunites gal pals America Ferrera, Amber Tamblyn, Alexis Bledel and Blake Lively as the foursome whose friendship is reinforced by the worn pair of pants they share.
Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Media By Numbers LLC. Final figures will be released Monday.
1. "The Dark Knight," $26 million.
2. "Pineapple Express," $22.4 million.
3. "The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor" $16.1 million.
4. "The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2," $10.8 million.
5. "Step Brothers," $8.9 million.
6. "Mamma Mia!", $8.1 million.
7. "Journey to the Center of the Earth," $4.9 million.
8. "Hancock," $3.3 million.
9. "Swing Vote," $3.1 million.
10. "WALL-E," $3 million.
TV RATINGS
Mega Manila TV Ratings (August 4 to 7) ABS-CBN versus GMA
August 4 (Monday)
Daytime:
1. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 21.1%
2. Magdusa Ka (GMA-7) - 20.9%
3. Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan (GMA-7) - 20.4%
4. El Cuerpo del Deseo (ABS-CBN) - 17.2%
5. Daisy Siete (GMA-7) - 17%
6. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 16.8%
7. Ligaw Na Bulaklak (ABS-CBN) - 14.8%
8. Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) - 14.2%
9. Marimar (GMA-7) - 13%
10. Las Tontas (ABS-CBN) - 12.1%
Primetime:
1. Dyesebel (GMA-7) - 40.3%
2. Codename: Asero (GMA-7) - 36.6%
3. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 34.4%
4. Ako Si Kim Samsoon (GMA-7) - 29.8%
5. TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) - 28.8%
6. The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) - 26.7%
7. Iisa Pa Lamang (ABS-CBN) - 24.1%
8. My Girl (ABS-CBN) - 23.3%
9. Gobingo (GMA-7) - 21.6%
10. Pinoy Dream Academy (ABS-CBN) - 19.7%
August 5 (Tuesday)
Daytime:
1. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 23.5%
2. Magdusa Ka (GMA-7) / Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan (GMA-7) - 22.1%
3. Daisy Siete (GMA-7) - 19.7%
4. Marimar (GMA-7) - 17.6%
5. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 16.4%
6. El Cuerpo del Deseo (ABS-CBN) - 15.9%
7. Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) - 14.1%
8. Ligaw Na Bulaklak (ABS-CBN) - 11.9%
9. SiS (GMA-7) - 11.6%
10. Boy & Kris (ABS-CBN) - 9.2%
Primetime:
1. Dyesebel (GMA-7) - 41.4%
2. Codename: Asero (GMA-7) - 35.8%
3. Ako Si Kim Samsoon (GMA-7) - 30.3%
4. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 28.5%
5. Iisa Pa Lamang (ABS-CBN) - 24.1%
6. My Girl (ABS-CBN) - 23.6%
7. The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) - 23.4%
8. TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) - 22%
9. Pinoy Dream Academy (ABS-CBN) - 21.5%
10. Dalja’s Spring (GMA-7) - 18.2%
August 6 (Wednesday)
Daytime:
1. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 21.9%
2. Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan (GMA-7) - 19.8%
3. Magdusa Ka (GMA-7) - 19%
4. Daisy Siete (GMA-7) - 17.7%
5. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 16.6%
6. Marimar (GMA-7) - 14.8%
7. Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) - 13.5%
8. El Cuerpo del Deseo (ABS-CBN) - 12.7%
9. Ligaw Na Bulaklak (ABS-CBN) - 11.7%
10. Boy & Kris (ABS-CBN) - 8.6%
Primetime:
1. Dyesebel (GMA-7) - 41.5%
2. Codename: Asero (GMA-7) - 35.1%
3. Ako Si Kim Samsoon (GMA-7) - 30.3%
4. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 28.1%
5. Iisa Pa Lamang (ABS-CBN) - 23.6%
6. The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) - 23.1%
7. My Girl (ABS-CBN) - 22.2%
8. TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) - 20%
9. Dalja’s Spring (GMA-7) - 19.7%
10. Pinoy Dream Academy (ABS-CBN) - 19.6%
August 7 (Thursday)
Daytime:
1. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) / Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan (GMA-7) - 22.6%
2. Magdusa Ka (GMA-7) - 21.9%
3. Daisy Siete (GMA-7) - 20.6%
4. Marimar (GMA-7) - 16.6%
5. El Cuerpo del Deseo (ABS-CBN) - 15.7%
6. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 15.4%
7. Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) - 13.7%
8. SiS (GMA-7) - 12.4%
9. Ligaw Na Bulaklak (ABS-CBN) - 12.3%
10. Las Tontas (ABS-CBN) - 8.9%
Primetime:
1. Dyesebel (GMA-7) - 41.8%
2. Codename: Asero (GMA-7) - 36.8%
3. Ako Si Kim Samsoon (GMA-7) - 28%
4. The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) - 27.3%
5. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 27.2%
6. Iisa Pa Lamang (ABS-CBN) - 25.3%
7. My Girl (ABS-CBN) - 25.2%
8. TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) - 20.6%
9. Pinoy Dream Academy (ABS-CBN) - 20%
10. Dalja’s Spring (GMA-7) - 19.5%
Source: AGB Nielsen Philippines via Erwin Santiago of PEP
MYX HITCHART AUGUST 3 2008
TW | ARTIST | TITLE | PP | WC | ||
1 | 1 | 1 | Sarah Geronimo | A Very Special Love | 4@1 | 5 |
7 | 2 | 2 | 6cyclemind | Saludo | 2 | 3 |
5 | 3 | 3 | Pedicab | Ang Pusa Mo | 1@1 | 7 |
3 | 6 | 4 | Rivermaya | Sleep | 3 | 5 |
2 | 4 | 5 | Mariah Carey | Bye Bye | 1@1 | 9 |
13 | 7 | 6 | Madonna | Give It 2 Me | 6 | 5 |
9 | 10 | 7 | Rihanna | Take a Bow | 7 | 9 |
8 | 8 | 8 | Paramore | That's What You Get | 6 | 9 |
18 | 14 | 9 | Jordin Sparks | One Step at a Time | 9 | 3 |
12 | 12 | 10 | Linkin Park | Leave Out All the Rest | 10 | 5 |
19 | 15 | 11 | Pussycat Dolls | When I Grow Up | 11 | 3 |
- | - | 12 | Itchyworms | Penge Naman Ako N'yan | 12 | 1 |
4 | 5 | 13 | Hale | Pitong Araw | 2@1 | 13 |
- | 20 | 14 | Delara | Gumising | 14 | 2 |
6 | 9 | 15 | Sandwich | Betamax | 2@1 | 12 |
14 | 13 | 16 | Chris Brown | Forever | 11 | 7 |
- | 19 | 17 | Panic at the Disco | That Green Gentleman | 17 | 2 |
16 | 18 | 18 | Coldplay | Violet Hill | 15 | 5 |
15 | - | 19 | Maroon 5 feat. Rihanna | If I Never See Your Face Again | 14 | 5 |
- | - | 20 | Miley Cyrus | 7 Things |
PHILIPPINE RADIOS WEEKLY COUNTDOWN
Magic 89.9’s Magic 30 Countdown as of August 2, 2008
1. Viva La Vida – Coldplay
2. Akala - Parokya ni Edgar
3. That’s Not My Name - The Ting Tings
4. Bust It Baby - Plies ft Ne-Yo
5. Superhuman - Chris Brown ft Keri Hilson
6. In the Ayer - Flo Rida ft Will.i.am
7. I Kissed a Girl - Katy Perry
8. I’ll Be Lovin’ U Long Time - Mariah Carey
9. That’s What You Get - Paramore
10. The Best Damn Thing - Avril Lavigne
11. When I Grow Up - Pussycat Dolls
12. Burnin’ Up - Jonas Brothers
13. One Step at a Time - Jordin Sparks
14. Energy - Keri Hilson
15. Filipina Girl - Markus Davis
16. Disturbia - Rihanna
17. Booty Music - Git Fresh
18. Practice Makes Perfect - Cute is What We Aim For
19. Sleep - Rivermaya
20. This is Me - Demi Lovato ft Joe Jonas
21. Make Me Over - Lifehouse
22. Come On Get Higher - Matt Nathanson
23. Superwoman - Alicia Keys
24. Shining Star - Get Far
25. Tu Amor - RBD
26. On the Side of Me - Corrinne May
27. Green Light - John Legend ft Andre 3000
28. Free Fallin’ - John Mayer
29. I Will Possess Your Heart - Death Cab for Cutie
30. The Time of My Life - David Cook
93.1 Countdown Top 7 and Wannabees as of August 1, 2008
1. Broken - Lifehouse
2. Superhuman - Chris Brown ft Keri Hilson
3. Viva La Vida - Coldplay
4. Booty Music - Git Fresh
5. Radar - Britney Spears
6. Akala - Parokya ni Edgar
7. Disturbia - Rihanna
8. That’s Not My Name - The Ting Tings
9. Bust It Baby Part II - Plies ft Ne-Yo
10. I’ll Be Loving U A Long Time - Mariah Carey
11. I Kissed A Girl - Katy Perry
12. Energy - Keri Hilson
13. Spotlight - Jennifer Hudson
14. Dangerous - Kardinal Offshall ft Akon
15. B-Boy Baby- Mutya Buena ft Amy Winehouse
16. Heaven Sent - Keyshia Cole
17. When I Grow Up - Pussycat Dolls
18. One Step At A Time - Jordin Sparks
19. Leap of Faith - Hale
20. Forever - Chris Brow
103.5 MAX FM Final Countdown as of August 2, 2008
1. Viva La Vida - Coldplay
2. Leave Out All the Rest - Linkin Park
3. That’s Not My Name - The Ting Tings
4. Everyone Nose - N*E*R*D
5. The Beginning of the Twist - The Futureheads
6. Make Me Over - Lifehouse
7. Do the Panic - Phantom Planet
8. Cheap and Cheerful - The Kills
9. Akala - Parokya ni Edgar
10. I Kissed a Girl - Katy Perry
11. Officially Yours - Craig David
12. Pork and Beans - Weezer
13. Forever - Chris Brown
14. Handa - Miguel Escueta
15. Love Remains the Same - Gavin Rossdale
16. Damn Regret - The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus
17. Energy - Keri Hilson
18. Thunder - Boys Like Girls
19. Give It 2 Me - Madonna ft Pharell Williams
20. Mercy - Duffy
21. Sweet and Low - Augustana
22. Underneath - Alanis Morissette
23. Superhuman - Chris Brown ft Keri Hilson
24. If I Never See Your Face Again - Maroon 5 ft Rihanna
25. Booty Music - Git Fresh
26. Disturbia - Rihanna
27. The Call - Regina Spektor
28. Bust It Baby Part II - Plies ft Ne-Yo
29. Betamax - Sandwich
30. Sleep - Rivermaya
Campus 99.5 Weekend Top 20 as of August 1, 2008
1. The Best Damn Thing - Avril Lavigne
2. That’s What You Get - Paramore
3. Viva La Vida - Coldplay
4. Dear Maria, Count Me In - All Time Low
5. Check Yes Juliet - We The Kings
6. Feels Like Tonight - Daughtry
7. That’s Not My Name-The Ting Tings
8. One Step At A Time - Jordin Sparks
9. Let Go - Boys Like Girls
10. Thunder - Boys Like Girls
11. Wish I Never - Sopiz
12. Time After Time - Quietdrive
13. Leap Of Faith - Hale
14. Wow - Kylie Minogue
15. Handlebar - Flobots
16. Forever - Chris Brown
17. I Kissed A Girl - Katy Perry
18. Penge Naman Ako Nyan - Itchyworms
19. Umbrella - All Time Low
20. The Fight is Over - Urbandub
David Cook Live Concert in Manila According to US Radio Interview
David Cook’s rendition of many hits most especially Mariah Carey’s “Always Be My Baby” made him be loved by many Filipinos. In fact, few days after performing that particular song over the seventh season of American Idol, it made it’s way to the top spots of Philippine music charts. With his great popularity in the Philippines, if he’s gonna do a concert here, for sure it will be another event that everybody shouldn’t miss.
In a recent interview with a US-based radio station, Chum FM, David Cook will be doing a concert in the Philippines some time in January 2009.
“We actually just booked my first show, post-idol, January 27 from the Philippines,” said Cook.
Cook, together with other American Idol contestants, is touring the rest of the U.S. for a series of shows.
