2020 MARCH BANNED FROM THE USA Duterte Bans cabinet members from travelling to the USA

Duterte’s latest pronouncement “No Cabinet member should be allowed he said the VFA was not made on a whim, add- comes days after he ordered the to go to the indefinitely, Asked if he is lessening the country’s ing that it stemmed from the attempt of termination of the Visiting Forces so that we limit our contact in whatever engagement with the US, Duterte said, US senators to ban the entry of Filipino Agreement between the Philip- aspect of international relations [that] “I’m slowly toning it down.” BANNED FROM THE USA pines and US. would be discussed or subject to talks,” Duterte said his decision to abrogate continued on page 26

“You will never reach your destination if you stop and throw stones at every dog that barks.” Winston S. Churchill

Nostalgia DID CIA PLAN -MATTEO WEDDING? Jones Bridge, 1960’s Boracay to close again due to Virus? Tourism hurt by Philippine, China & Korea Travel ban Over the weekend, when the normally busy have about 4,000 passengers per day,” during island would be packed with peak-season this time of year, he explained. “Now, maybe visitors, many establishments were empty 2,000. So, kalahati lang (only half ).” or were closed entirely. Tour and transport Travel restrictions imposed by the Philip- EROTIC TV showing on ABS IWant operators struggled to attract customers from pines to and from China and South Korea, the relatively thin crowd. as well as those countries’ own restrictions on Duterte warns Japan, Australia on VFA issue “Walang Koryano, walang Chinese (No travel due to the Covid-19 epidemic, have pre- Koreans, no Chinese).” Electric tricycle op- vented virtually all Korean and Chinese tourists erator Noli Solidum lamented, pointing out from visiting Boracay. Solidum estimated that GOOD NEWS-Phl Traffic is only World’s 2nd Worse closed restaurants, tour operators and other Korean and Chinese visitors ordinarily account businesses along Boracay’s main road. “Nor- Birit does not mean good - mally, we (Solidum’s transport cooperative) ABS continued page 25 , click kung iba Producer Business Worry about Duterte Government, NOT CORONA VIRUS 1 1 An Iconic Woman behind the bag

GABRIELLE “COCO” CHANEL Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel’s designs constantly challenged the established ideals of women’s clothing during the early 20th century. Chanel was tired with the handbags of her era, saying that delicate hand-held bags simply weren’t adaptable with a women’s lifestyles. She sought to create the Never Asked to Carry Her Bag first fashion shoulder bag, debuting the iconic 2.55 bag in 1929 with the finalized version launching in It’s the one fashion thing you shouldn’t ask your boyfriend to do for you! 1955. The bag was named 2.55, after the date it was bore into fashion: February, 1955. The burgun- Nadine Lustre Explains styles whenever they’re photographed dy color lining the bag was inspired by the uniforms together. So what’s their secret? choice of young Chanel wore at the Aubazine Convent, Why She Never Asks arm candy where she lived after losing her parents. he chain James Reid to Carry Her We caught up with the couple a few completes detail strap, seen on several of Chanel designs, was months back during a press conference, your outfit additionally borrowed from the keychains used by Bag when they were still and James revealed that their secret to or if it’s a caretakers at the convent where Chanel grew up. together. always looking good together is—you’ll designer never guess!—not actually talking bag you’ve CHANEL 2.55 REISSUE about twinning or wearing coordinated saved up for. When Karl Lagerfeld assumed the house of Chanel in 1983, the production of the ames Reid and Nadine Lustre, outfits intentionally! “[Our thoughts] Knowing that 2.55 was halted for a period of time while 2.55’s sister, the classic flap bag with or JaDine as their fans like are just synchronized,” he quips. “And it’s a hard- interlocking CC closure (rather than 2.55’s modest “mademoiselle” rectangular to collectively call them, have for some reason, we’re just thinking earned purchase, closure) gained popularity. The bag was revived in 2005 in celebration of its 50th you should birthday and was named Reissue 2.55. Lagerfeld modernized the bag, giving it a always been local show biz’s about the same color and we’ll just Jcool millennial couple. Their realize that we’re matching!” be proud distressed look in various leathers complete with tarnished hardware. Chanel once said “simplicity is the keynote of all true elegance,” holding true especially for her Instagram feeds are proof of their to flaunt beloved 2.55. devil-may-care aesthetic that’s a Speaking of looking good as a couple, it. That bit different from the cookie-cutter Nadine advises that girls should never said, an sweet love team images we’ve grown let their boyfriends carry their bag. She accessory up seeing. Having said that, the pair explains, “I understand that the guy can make still manages to look coordinated and is just being a gentleman, but it looks or break your in-tune with each other’s personal weird!” look—and you True enough, boyfriends offering to wouldn’t want carry their S.O.’s purses are a common your bag to ruin practice here in the —some your boyfriend’s would even call it sweet. But Nadine ensemble now, would does have a point, especially if your you?

Forget everything you think you know about seeds to a simmer in a small saucepan over grilled chicken. This recipe shatters expectations medium heat. Reduce heat and simmer gently, stirring very occasionally, until oil is brick-red by packing in tons of flavor from lemongrass, and fragrant, 30–45 minutes. seasoned rice vinegar, achiote seeds, and even Sprite. Try the marinade on chicken wings, thighs, Do Ahead: Achiote oil can be made 1 week or drumsticks, too. ahead. Let cool; cover and chill. Chicken and Assembly INGREDIENTS Achiote Oil Combine lemongrass, garlic, shallot, ginger, vin- 2 lemongrass stalks, trimmed, tough outer layers egar, Sprite, and 1 Tbsp. salt in a large resealable removed, thinly sliced plastic bag. Whisk to dissolve salt. Set chicken 6 garlic cloves, crushed legs, skin side down, on a cutting board. Work- 1 2” piece ginger, peeled, thinly sliced ing one at a time, cut a ½”-deep slash along both 1¼ cups vegetable oil sides of thigh bone with a paring knife (this lets 1/3 cup achiote (annatto) seeds the marinade penetrate and helps the meat cook more quickly). Add chicken to bag and close, Chicken and Assembly pressing out as much air as possible; turn to coat. 3 lemongrass stalks, tough outer layers removed, Marinate at least 6 hours and up to 12 hours. thinly sliced 1 head of garlic, cloves separated, chopped Prepare a grill for medium-high indirect heat 1 small shallot, chopped (for a charcoal grill, bank coals on one side; for a 1 2” piece ginger, peeled, chopped gas grill, leave one or two burners off). Remove ¾ cup seasoned rice vinegar ½ cup Sprite or 7UP chicken from marinade and secure each piece 1 Tbsp. kosher salt, plus more with 2 skewers if desired (the skewers will help 4 chicken legs (thigh and drumstick) you maneuver chicken on the grill without tear- ing the skin). Season lightly with salt. Discard marinade. Special Equipment Eight 8” metal skewers or soaked wooden chopsticks or bamboo skewers (optional) Grill chicken over hottest side of grill, turning occasionally, until deeply browned and charred in spots, about 5 minutes. Move to cooler side of RECIPE PREPARATION grill and cover. Continue grilling (covered), bast- Achiote Oil ing with achiote oil and turning every 5 minutes Bring lemongrass, garlic, ginger, oil, and achiote or so, until skin is burnished and meat is cooked through, 30–40 minutes longer.

2 2 Honey Shot Alexa Rigonan

An IPEN model, 14-year old Alexa’s favourites dish is pancit and lumpiang Shanghai. She plays badminton. She also kes skating. Someday, she wants to be an Architect. She is the daughter of Hilda and Ricarte Rigonan. We wish her all the luck in her endeavours.

Nathalie Hart, threatened ba kay Ivana Alawi sa pagpapa-sexy?

hindi raw ito isyu kay Nath- alie. Kani- Ahtisa Manalo withdraws from Miss Universe Philippines 2020 pageant kanyang pana- hon naman , Philippines – Binibining Pilipinas perform the duties of a candidate as this surely daw iyan. International 2018 Ahtisa Manalo an- involves physically draining tasks.” Saad ni nounced she will no longer push through Ahtisa said that for now, she will work 100% to Nathalie, “It’s with her application as a Miss Universe get herself ready when she decides to compete and Philippines candidate this year. be a Miss Universe Philippines candidate. not a threat, On her Instagram on Saturday, Another batchmate of Ahtisa, Bb kasi at the end February 1, Ahtisa, who was Miss Inter- Pilipinas Globe 2018 Michele Gumabao of the day, she national 2018 1st runner-up, said she applied to be a candidate in the Nathalie Hart (left) on Ivana Alawi (right) being a threat to has her own decided to withdraw her application so competition and Binibining her: “It’s not a threat, kasi at the end of the day, she has her own market, may market din ako.” market, may market din ako. she could focus on taking care of herself. Pilipinas 2018 finalist Sandra “Kumbaga siguro, naku-compare “I need to take care of my health and Lemonon. lang kami, sina Ellen [Adarna] and I hope everyone will be understanding Ahtisa represented Quezon in everything. of it,” Ahtisa said. Binibining Pilipinas 2018, whose batch Ayaw isipin ni Natalie Hart na si “Kasi, lahat kami, nagpapa-sexy. “I was hoping that I’ll be able to produced two queens – Miss Universe 2018 Ivana Alawi ang threat sa kanyang Pero in terms of kung threat… baha- join this year; but after considering Catriona Gray and Miss Intercontinental 2018 career pagdating sa pagpapa-sexy. the opinion of everyone important in Karen Gallman. la na. Tanggap ng 27-year-old sexy ac- my life, we decided it’d be best for She competed in Japan in the Miss Interna- “I think, every time naman, may tress na naudlot ang pamamayagpag me not to push through. tional pageant in Japan, where she emerged as bagong pumapasok. ng kanyang career, lalo na sa pagpa- “Believe me that I want to give you 1st runner-up to Venezuela’s Mariam Velazco. “So, after two years, may bago na pa-sexy, dahil sa pagbuntis niya. the fight you want to see, but I honestly Official candidates for Miss Universe Philip- namang pumapasok. So, it’s under- Pero wala siyang pagsisisi dahil iba don’t think I can manage to physically pines will be announced soon. standable.” raw pala talaga kapag isa ka nang ina. Ayaw na raw ni Nathalie na ma- “Nung una, noong buntis pa ako, tawag na sexy star dahil mas gusto na naisip ko pa iyon. niyang malinya sa matinding aktin- “Pero ngayong nandito na ang gan, at hindi sa paghuhubad lang. movie niyang Sunday Night Fever dahil pareho silang single mother. anak ko, hindi ko na naiisip. Wala raw kaso sa kanya kung hindi kasama sina at Ricky Si Kim Molina ang tinaguriang ba- “I think, nakita naman nila ang na siya ang babansagang “pantasya Davao. gong pantasya ng bayan, ngunit iwinaksi anak ko sa pictures, naintindihan ng bayan.” niya iyon. Kaya walang kaagaw si Ivana naman nila. “Sa akin, it’s not about being on JERRY OLEA sa kanyang trono. “I’m a happier person now na may the top. It’s about having a job. Nakachikahan ko si Nathalie sa 3rd anak ako,” nakangiting pahayag ni “As long as I exist and I still have a Diamond Golden Awards noong NOEL FERRER Natalie. job, that’s important to me,” diretso Nobyembre 10, 2019 sa Marco Polo Si Ivana ang Flavor of the Season sa Ngayong nakabalik na siya, naiba- niyang pahayag. Hotel-Ortigas, Pasig City. mga batang sexy stars. lik din ang kapayatan at kaseksihan. Lumipad sa Japan si Natalie para At the time ay hindi pa niya inaaming She reminds of the Maui Taylor and OK lang daw siyang magpa-sexy sa sa shooting ng Viva movie na Steal. hiwalay na sila ng ama ng kanyang anak, Aubrey Miles of the previous era. mga pelikulang ginagawa niya, pero Ginagawa pa rin niya ang peli- pero pursigido siyang maging aktibo Si Nathalie Hart, parang Abby Vi- may limitations na at tinitingnan kulang Kunyari Mahal Kita kasama muli sa pag-aartista. duya/Priscilla Almeda noon. muna niya kung kailangan ba talaga sina at , at Aniya, limang taon pa ang kontrata Si Ellen Adarna, puwedeng Kring sa pelikula. ang Pakboys kasama sina Andrew E niya sa kanyang manager, at siyam na Kring Gonzales dati. Kung pumasok man ngayon si Iva- at Janno Gibbs. pelikula ang pinirmahan niyang gagaw- Sana, galingan nila, hindi lang ang na sa limelight at ito na ang bagong Nasa iWant TV na ang digital in sa Viva Films. pagpapa-sexy para mapansin sila sa ka- pinagpapantasyahan ng kalalakihan, Mas ka-level ni Nathalie si Ellen husayan nila bilang mga legit na aktres! 3 3 Traffic is Officially The Second Worst in The World

The 2019 edition of TomTom’s Traffic Index, which ranks the world’s most Suffering for the Rock? congested cities, has all of the answers. Asia has most of the biggest scores. The “Rock” is Senator Ronald that much they will be willing to he wants the ABS franchise At the top of the list, Bangalore, India “Bato” Dela Rosa and is a close suffer for him? What if none of renewed and yet, congress will ? has the most distressing conditions for political associate of Duterte and them like him, even hate hime just extend the franchise until motorists, who spend up to 71 percent a former police chief. E, kung si Duterte lang ang may 2022 instead of just renewing more time in their cars than they might congestion around the globe in 2019 Then, US cancels Bato’s visa. gusto sa kanya, why make all it now. Why? I guess, theruling on a normal journey. Manila in the was 29 percent. B President Rodrigo Duterte suffer? Charot lang po. PDP-laban wants to make sure Philippines is just as bad. In total, the traffic index estimates that their candidates in 2022 responded by unilaterally ending May saving face naman siya. The Colombian capital Bogota, which that in Metro Manila waste 257 will get favorable coverage. Or the Philippines-US Visiting “I will not allow any Cabinet had the dubious privilege of finishing hours or 10 days and 17 hours every maybe they do not want to look Forces Agreement. Maybe, not member to go there (US) at this first in the 2018 table, comes in third in year because of intense traffic conges- like they were just waiting for happy that his threat does not time,” Duterte said January 29. the latest ranking. It should be noted tion. To put that into perspective, that’s look serious or he is getting Iyong “at this time” niya, it Duterte to ok it. They want to make it look like they are that India has four of the 10 most the same amount of time it takes to opposition from the PHL means, temporary. So, if a cabinet an independent body. Dios congested cities in the world. TomTom watch 227 episodes of Game of Thrones military, he now bans cabinet member needs to go to the US Mio santisima. Ano ba naman also reports that the average level of or 129 basketball games. members from travelling to the for an important meeting, he will iyan? If Duterte is not their US. lift it. I’m sure he will say, “it’s for leader, e sino? Si Cayetano? Which begs the question, the good of the country.” Kung tutuusin, hindi naman why cabinet members? Why Charot. kailaangan ng debate iyan. Other not his fellow senators? Or even ABS Renewal Delayed franchises have been renewed ‘Ang bastos naman’: extend it to congress members? withou anyone knowing. refutes Julia Barretto’s statement on having closure Wouldn’t you get pissed off if President Duterte accepted the Sus Guinoo naman talaga ni you were a cabinet member? apology and first daughter and Roxanne. Magkano ba iyan? doon maiintindihan ng isa’t isa na ‘yon Davao Mayor Sara already said Do all of them even like “Bato” Ehe, I mean, ano ba iyan? na ‘yon, do’n na ‘yung end,” Joshua said. “Dapat may malinaw na usapan para pagdating ng panahon, walang sisihan na mangyari. Halimbawa, kunyari Yam, Legit or Lie nagkabiruan, kasi normal naman ‘yon Former celebrity couple Julia Barretto and sa magbabarkada, pagsamasama na ust because we watch “Legit. It’s true that horror film Nightshift. Joshua Garcia parang ‘ito nang-iwan e,’ ‘yung mga our favorite stars on I was a schoolteach- Another wrong per- gano’n. Alam namin sa isat-isa na MANILA, Philippines — Kapamilya actor screen doesn’t mean er — art teacher — ception about Yam has walang may kasalanan, gano’n,” he Joshua Garcia does not agree with we know the kind of for three months,” something to do with added. ex-girlfriend Julia Barretto’s opinion that lives they lead or what she confirmed and her working rela- Joshua said he finds it rude to not “not having a closure is a closure.” theyJ are exactly like in real shared that it tionship with her give closure to the person you once In “Tonight With ,” the life. But nowadays, many ce- was also during co-stars in Love loved. veteran host asked Joshua if he agreed lebrities give us a sneak peek that time when Thy Woman. “Tsaka parang ang bastos naman with Julia’s statement. of their “normal” way of liv- she was discov- “We’re okay. no’n sa karelasyon mo na hindi mo “Hindi, hindi closure yon. Importante ing and even take us to house ered for the Actually, lum- ibigay ‘yung closure eh minahal mo din sa relasyon ‘yung closure kasi kumbaga tours through vlogs. Photos of music video of alabas kami ‘pag naman ‘yon, ‘di ba?” he pointed out. their travels, workouts/train- Mayonnaise. walang taping. ings, OOTD’s, among others And Kim would also also make the cyberworld who would invite us to go Lolit Solis reacts to Mocha Uson: irrelevant. colorful. have ever out and bond. I The columnist and talent manager thought that love Kim, she’s a ’Don’t use me Mocha’ also pointed out that Padilla is “punch- Yam could sweet girl.” ing blindly” for dragging others into the Celebrity Yam Concepcion who actually play On the rumor that she During the last episode of Take it per issue and sticking his nose into other has 2M followers on Instagram the drums? In is already engaged to Minute, host and columnist Lolit Solis people’s issues. alone. Yet, there’s certainly a lot fact, she once her long-time boyfriend reacted to Mocha Uson’s tirades against However, Solis earned tirades from more to her than meets the eye. became part of Miguel Cuunjieng, Yam her. Uson who supports Padilla’s beliefs. On Twitter, the former Communica- And true enough, the Legit or a music band as drummer “but promised that once it becomes The columnist said, “Don’t use me Mo- Lie portion of Tonight with Boy cha,” pertaining to the Deputy Executive tions Assistant Secretary now Deputy I’m a ouido (read: lacks formal real or “Legit,” she will make it Executive Director of the Overseas Abunda (TWBA) had led the training).” What’s good, Yam has a point to return to the show to Director of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration’s Twitter post calling out Workers Welfare Administration called actress to bare more truths about the technical skills. personally make the announce- Solis. out Solis and told her that she’ll never her. “It’s a ‘Legit’ that I love horror ment. The two have been going It all happened when Solis reacted understand Padilla’s point for all she In the segment, Yam denied movies but it’s a ‘Lie’ that I could steady for five years already. to Robin Padilla’s post regarding the thinks about is the career of her talents that it’s her habit to drink alcohol watch (them) solo. I need a com- Asked if she would say yes franchise renewal of ABS-CBN and the under ABS-CBN Network. while at work. “FYI (For Your panion to finish until the end.” when Miguel pops the question, allegations surrounding the network. Some netizens agreed with Uson, Information), I am not alcoholic If you’ve been reading the news, Yam broke into a smile and an- On Facebook, the Mistah star posted while some were irked as they believe so I don’t drink while working,” then you’ll know that Yam starred swered, “Yes.” several statements wherein he strongly that the issue is irrelevant to her duties she declared. in the Yam Laranas-directed believe that ABS-CBN had violated laws. with OWWA. He even called out the celebrities who On Instagram, Solis clarified that she supported the renewal of the franchise has no bad feelings for Padilla and she and challenged them to publicize their admires him for his concern for people. Ang civil wedding nina naman ang engaged couple na Charee weds Shalani’s cousin contracts and even bank books to show However, the columnist believes that Charee at Martell ay sina at Sarah the world how unfair the network is to its Coco Martin’s issues are not his issues Last February 28, ikinasal sa pama- ginanap sa Valenzuela Lahbati. Clueless pa rin ang pub- employees who are working behind the and if his statements were true, let the magitan ng civil wedding ang Kapuso City Hall nung nakaraang liko kung kelan at saan maga- camera. He even called out Coco Martin victims speak for themselves. actress-turned politician na si Charee Sabado, February 28 na di- ganap ang wedding nina Angel for alleged misbehavior on the set of Lolit Solis is a known columnist, Pineda sa kanyang longtime boyfriend at naluhan ng Kapuso actress Locsina at Neil Arce gayundin FPJ’s . host, entertainment news writer, and dati ring konsehal na si Martell Soledad, at kaibigan ni Charee na si Yasmien Kurdi sina Alex Gonzaga at Mikee Morada, KZ However, Solis lambasted the actor for talent manager. Mocha Uson is a known pinsan ni Shalani Soledad-Romulo na misis at mister nitong piloto na si Rey Soldevilla. Tandingan at TJ Monterde at iba pa. allegedly confusing people as to what die-hard Duterte supporter and has been naman ni Pasig Rep. Roman Romulo. Sa darating na March 14 ay ikakasal he really is fighting for, and for being tagged the Queen of Fake News. Tom opens informative new channel

TOM Rodriguez opens entertaining videos about internet is flood- tive. So I want to Well, we commend Tom a new educational channel history, science, mathematics ed so many use- provide them with for this project and I hope online where he aims to and other subjects that will less videos that alternative content he succeeds because the in- impart lots of information broaden their horizons and don’t really help na makakatulong ternet is really flooded now about a variety of subjects cultivate their minds,” says shape the minds para mas tumalas with so much “kababawan” to today’s young people. “I Tom who’s really one of our of our youth to at lumawak ang and nonsense shows and will post enlightening but smartest actors today. “The be more produc- pag-iisip nila.” videos. 4 4 Jennylyn admits being inspired: Happy and positive

JENNYLYN Mercado is blooming at hit Koreanovela, “Descendants of the Sun”, bawat episode ng aming show.” nagmamahal sa’yo at kay Mat- teo, the launch of “Descendants of the Sun” that where she plays Maxine or Doc Beauty, the Jen plays a doctor in the story and one binabati ka namin ng best wishes and will replace “The Gift” starting February love interest of Dingdong as Capt. Lucas or of her nurses is Nicole Donesa, the current congratulations. Asahan mo na sa 10. Everyone who sees her is saying “ang Big Boss. So how is it working with Dong? girlfriend of her first BF, Mark Herras. Was lahat ng panahon, maaasahan mo ganda ni Jen ngayon. Magaling talaga “We’ve worked na before as co-hosts sa there any awkward women between them? kami ni Ate,” Ogie said. mag-alaga si .” Starstruck but this is the first time talaga “Naku, wala. We’re all okay sa taping. , for his part, said he When someone asked her if Dennis were na magkapareha kami. I have so much Walang problema,” says Jen. and the “champions” are happy for the secret to her stunning beauty, Jen just respect for him and I consider it an honor And Nicole herself attests to this at the Sarah and Matteo. laughed. “Wala naman pong sikreto. Mas- na makatrabaho ang Primetime King ng presscon. “Marami kaming scenes together “Kaming mga kaibigan niya aya lang kasi ako talaga ngayon sa GMA who is really a good role model in ni Jen kasi I’m the nurse who assists her. I sa Champions, sobra kaming mas- aya buhay ko. Lahat, positive. Bawal terms of professionalism and even as a thought noong una, maiilang ako, but she’s para sa’yo Sarah. Sobrang saya ng puso namin dahil ang nega. Kapag masaya ka at very responsible family man. really so nice to work with. Never naman alam namin yung mga pinagdaanan ni Sarah. Ngayon positive, lalabas ‘yun sa physical “Mahihirap ang eksena namin, lalo naming napag-usapan si Mark. Basta ma- na sobrang happy mo na, happy kami para inyo ni outlook po. Promise, happy lang na those that involve some action and saya lang kami sa set and I really enjoyed Matt,” he said. po talaga ako these days. And stunts, but he’s very helpful, aalalayan ka working with her,” adds Nicole. Meanwhile, joked that he hopes that yes, may kinalaman si Dennis niya talaga. Nag-uusap kami lagi kung Sarah and Matteo will name their first born Piolo Luis diyan kasi happy kami ngayon paano namin mapapaganda ang Ogie Reg Martin Zsa Erik Geronimo Guidicelli. sa relasyon namin. bawat eksena namin and I’m re- Sarah Geronimo finally “Isang lambing lang ang hihingiin namin sa’yo. And why won’t she be ally enjoying working with him. speaks up on ‘secret’ wedding Kung saka-sakali man na dumating na ang tamang happy? Both her love life with Pinagpe-pray ko ngayong sana oras na kayo ni Matt ay magkakapanganay na, ang Dennis and her career are ay suportahang mabuti ng with Matteo Guidicelli hinihingi namin na sana ipangalan mo sa magiging bata ay Piolo Luis Ogie Reg Martin Zsa Erik Geronimo truly doing very well. She’s viewers itong unang tambal- Sarah Geronimo’s co-hosts in the ABS-CBN Sunday Guidicelli,” he said. so fortunate that right after an namin sa ‘Descendants variety show “ASAP” have congratulated the “Popstar For her part, Sarah thanked her co-stars and she did “Love You Two” with Gabby of the Sun’ at hindi naman Royalty” and her husband Matteo Guidicelli. supporters for their best wishes. Concepcion, she was quickly given kami mapapahiya dahil lahat wished the newlyweds all the best and “Abot-abot lang po ang pagpapasalamat sa lahat a follow-up project that pairs her kaming involved, along with said that he and wife will be there po ng sumusuporta, for your best wishes. Maraming for the first time with Dingdong Direk Dominic Zapata, we really for them always. salamat po!” she said. Dantes, the local adaptation of the did our best para mapaganda ang “Gusto ka namin batiin. Gaya ng milyong milyong

5 5 Bill aims to make mishaps fair to law-abiding drivers Could this be a game-changer?

Law-abiding motorists may soon have Driving and Accountability Act, the 8. The driver was suffering a medical emer- something to fall back on in the event driver of a vehicle will be presumed not gency, like a heart attack or stroke, at the time they figure in a road incident with a reck- initially culpable or at fault for an inci- of the accident less motorcycle rider, pedestrian, or driver dent if any of the following applies to the 9. The driver of the other vehicle has of a motorized vehicle. situation: non-functional headlights, taillights, or other House Bill No. 1987, also known as 1. The victim is intoxicated or under the warning devices the Philippine Responsible Driving influence of drugs Reasons that the driver may be held and Accountability Act, has been filed 2. The victim was not crossing the street at a initially culpable are if he or she flees the in Congress with the aim of protecting pedestrian lane or road intersection scene, was driving at high speed, commit- drivers who are in the right in the event of 3. The victim crossed a street or highway ted at least one traffic violation, was oper- accidents involving pedestrians, bicyclists, instead of using a footbridge ating the vehicle with an expired license, and other motorists. 4. The victim is a bike rider not wearing or was under the influence. “Under current laws and procedures, protective gear or wearing dark clothing The initial presumption of culpability drivers or motorists involved in road 5. The victim is operating a motorcycle, will be determined by authorities first at safety incidents and traffic violations are tricycle, or bicycle traveling on a national the scene of an incident and investigators presumed at fault even when pedestrians highway under the minimum speed limit or who will secure sworn statements from and/or other motorists are at fault or also not on the rightmost lane those involved and witnesses. share fault,” the bill reads. “This bill seeks 6. The victim is a driver who did not have If this passes into law, it could turn out to make our laws also fair to the drivers right of way to be a game-changer for drivers who who were not at fault.” 7. The driver did not flee the scene of the figure into accidents with reckless pedes- Under the Philippine Responsible incident trians, riders, or drivers.

Soulstice, gustong si Ivana Alawi ang magbida sa official music video ABS-CBN shutdown a blow to ng “Ivana” economic diversity, investor Ivana,” paliwanag ng Soulstice tungkol sa kanilang confidence monster hit song. Ang “Ivana” ay nanguna sa Viral 50 Charts ng MANILA, Philippines — The non-re- Spotify ilang linggo matapos i-release, at kasama rin newal of the franchise of local media ito sa Global Viral 50 Charts ng Spotify. giant ABS-CBN may get in the way Mayroon na ito ngayong 9.2 million views sa of pursuing diversity in the economy YouTube Channel ng Peso Productions. and affect investor confidence in the Big fan ni Ivana ang Soulstice, na masaya dahil country, said Socioeconomic Planning Soulstice members on Ivana Alawi being the inspiration for nagkaroon sila ng oportunidad na makaharap ang their hit song “Ivana”: “Siya po ang inspirasyon namin sa Secretary Ernesto Pernia. kanta. Kumbaga, idinikit naming yung ibang tao. Yun ang social media star na hinahangaan nila. naisip namin na angle, iba na, then Ivana.” PHOTO/S: Sought for comment on threats to “Masarap po sa feeling,” sabi ng Soulstice nang SOULSTICE TWITTER the renewal of the legislative franchise makilala nila nang personal si Ivana. of the Lopez-led network, Pernia cited “Nung ginagawa namin yung kanta, parang nasa Ang pumayag ang sexy star na si Ivana Alawi na the wide-reaching public benefit from harap namin siya. magbida sa official music video nila ang pangarap the operations of the network. “Nagpasalamat si Ivana sa amin dahil napak- ng mga miyembro ng Soulstice. “A lot of people are benefitting. Con- inggan daw niya ang kanta namin. Dun pa lang, Ang Soulstice ang flash rap trio na nasa likod ng gressmen and senators are benefiting thankful na kami. tagumpay ng kanilang breakout debut single na from it, and even the masses,” Pernia “Siya po ang inspirasyon namin sa kanta. “Ivana.” told reporters, referring to the thou- “Kumbaga, idinikit naming yung ibang tao. Yun “Sana makasama namin si Ivana sa music sands of jobs created by the network ang naisip namin na angle, iba na, then Ivana. video,” hiling ng Soulstice. as well as the role it plays in public “Yun ang pinaka-angle na nasilip namin na alam Ayon kay Paolo Mercado, founder ng Peso discourse. namin na magiging catchy sa mga tao.” Productions na namamahala sa career ng Soulstice, “So, yes, it’s a difficult thing. But it’s a Postscript: Hindi lamang ang Soulstice ang talent ipinapadaan nila kay Boss Verb del Rosario ng Viva political issue,” he added. ng Peso Productions. Records ang posibilidad na maimbitahan nila si From an economic point of view, Ito rin ang in charge sa singing career ng Allmo$t, Ivana bilang feature star sa official music video ng Pernia said that stopping the opera- ang grupong nagpasikat sa “Dalaga” na nakapagta- “Ivana.” tions of the network by not renewing la na ng 100 million streams. Dedicated nina Mscript (Rome Lagarde), Rowmee its franchise would get in the way of Ang Allmo$t din ang kumanta ng equally com- G (Jerome De Leon), at Seth (Ronald Abasta) sa promoting diversity in the economy pelling singles na “Bagay Tayo,” “Miracle Night,” rising star ang “Ivana.” and fostering competition. “Dulo,” at “Heart React.” “Yung kanta po, puwede nating kantahin kahit “The economist will always favor kanino kasi puwede mong sabihin na ‘Ivana’ yung more diversity, more openness, progres- nararamdaman mo sa isang babae. sive ideas,” said Pernia. “Puwede siyang kantahin kahit hindi nila kilala si This will also have a negative effect on investor confidence as it is a direct government interference on a company that produces services desired by the public. “I guess so (that it will affect investor confidence). Because investors realize CORRESPONDENTS that it’s very popular, it’s wanted by so many people,” he said. As of last week, the House Commit- tee on Legislative Franchises has still not scheduled hearings on the bills for Noli Gumapac Froilan Baking Fe Taduran Raymond Santos the renewal of the network’s franchise. CONTRIBUTORS: Ed Tubale • Nena Gumapac Labor groups have called on Con- gress to renew the network’s franchise WWW.LMCONFIDENTIAL.COM to save 11,000 jobs. EMAIL: [email protected] Media organizations, meanwhile, Jose “Joey” Baking PUBLISHED BY: Match International Group have denounced the threat of non-re- newal as an attack on press freedom. 6 6 Julia Barretto: All by herself and loving it

Julia Barretto is treading a new path in that marami na akong nakakatrabaho, free na ako sa The day after we interviewed her last needs to be done,” she said. Many observers attribute she’s building a career without being part of pagpili ng project. Thursday, she flew to Japan with Meg Vico’s work ethic and character to Coney’s upbringing. a love team. “Hindi na ako parang nasa ibang box, I can Imperial and Ella Cruz to shoot a film But she refuses to take all the credit. After her pairing with Joshua Garcia now explore as an actress, do different genre in Fukuoka. “The title is ‘Kunwari Mahal “It’s a blessing to have been entrusted with a son ended, Julia feels it’s time for projects and act with different leading men.” Kita’. Then I’m also doing a comedy with like him. He says that much of who he is right now is that won’t require her to make people Janno Gibbs and Jerald Napoles, ‘Pakboys’, because of me. And I thank him for giving me credit. “kilig.” Nathalie Hart splits with husband, cast directed by Al Tantay. And there’s another But our family and friends from Church have been a “Graduate na ako doon. Graduate movie with Ryza Cenon and Joseph Marco big help, as well,” Coney said. “I believe that if you na din ako being permanent part in 3 movies na wala pang title. So I’m happy that I’m guide a child toward of a love team. I can. still enjoy busy again.” the way he should go doing rom-coms but, hopefully, FOR the first time, Nath- Doesn’t her husband send child in life, he will never I can also do rom-drama. ‘Yung alie Hart talks at length support for their baby? “He does. depart from it.”She more classic love story naman, about how she and her Mahal niya “yung anak niya, saka used to be more more drama, even edgier boyfriend and father friends na kami. He was just here of a disciplinarian, roles.” of her daughter, an last week kasi nami-miss niya especially when Vico Well, she’s got a taste of it Indian national, ang daughter namin. Nag-uu- was a child. But now, on her iWant original series separated. sap naman kami, e.” confident in how she “I Am U.” She plays Elise, a “Ready na Does she still love him? raised her son, she girl who has everything and lahat for the “Siyempre, may nararam- just lets him do his Rose, doppelganger. wedding,” daman pa rin ako. After own thing. “I am grateful that I’ve been entrusted with projects she says. “May gown na ako at all, father siya ng anak “I know God will give him everything he needs to that are not the usual. I’m glad na nakakapaglaro lahat, but I changed my mind ko, e. But no romance na. accomplish his work. He’s now 30—a grown-up. So I na ako (sa aking mga creative choices). I can take kasi I felt the relationship I’m still in the process of don’t have to follow him around. I don’t really meddle. more risks, make that jump. I can do a variety of roles wasn’t really working. Ang usa- healing.” If he asks me for my opinion or suggestions, which fearlessly. I can be the actress I want to be.” pan talaga, the wedding is after What if he woos her is seldom, I would probably ask him for his opinion, Playing dual roles has Julia reminiscing. I gave birth sa Australia. After again? “Well, let’s see. instead,” she said of her son with . “It is funny kasi na-realize ko noong pinapanood that, lumipat kami sa kanila sa But definitely, if ever, it All she could do, she said, is to remind Vico to ko ang trailer, tawang-tawa ako kasi parang dalawang New Delhi and all our individual has to be on my terms always “trust and look to the Lord.” “We pray together. projects ko na pinagsama. Kasi nakagawa na ako ng and cultural differences came kasi I’m not the type who’ll I pray for him on my own. I ask Him to grant my son role katulad ni Elisse which is Trixie on ‘And I Love You between us.” just be a very obedient wife. wisdom and discernment. I pray for his constituents in So.’ Si Rose naman, nagawa ko as Eva on ‘Ngayon at Didn’t she see this when they Mahal ko rin ang career ko at Pasig. I pray for the entire country. I hope He guards Kailanman.’” were on? “I made it clear to him na this is di ko basta maiiwan ito.” our hearts from greed, complacency and apathy,” she She likes both characters as each has her own kind my upbringing, you should understand our related. of “edge.” culture, sabi niya, okay raw. And noong una Coney on Vico running for President: And the same goes when it comes to her son’s love “May kulo silang dalawa. Meron silang tinatago nga, okay naman, I thought it’s gonna be a One day at a time life; Coney doesn’t pry about whom or if he’s dating sa loob na gusto nilang ilabas or something like that. compromise. But I was shocked when we’re someone. “Hindi ako tsismosa, eh!” she quipped, I like that they’re both edgy. Wala nang nagpapaapi living na in India, na hindi pala. Dapat, Only seven months in office, Pasig City Mayor Vico laughing. “If there’s someone [special], my son would ngayon. Ano na ngayon, laban sa laban.” sumunod ako lagi sa family nila. Nothing Sotto has already been earning praises for his brand tell me. Kung wala, eh ‘di wala … I know that God is To whom can she relate more? in the middle. I just have to follow them of governance and leadership, even from people preparing him and somebody … I want someone God “Let’s not put na lang relate kasi dark silang totally. I have to be submissive to their from other cities. And his mother, ve­teran actress and wants for him. ’Yung swak talaga.”What about her dalawa. Na-enjoy ko sila pareho, eh. Si Rose kasi, whole family.” television host Coney Reyes, couldn’t be any prouder love life? “It’s not in my heart’s desire. I have so many siya ‘yung tao na makikilala mo at akala mo na She says she tried her best to feel happy of her son. things to do,” she said. “And I’m content with where I kilalang-kilala mo na. Kampante ka sa pinapakita niya in India. “I really tried living there, I even “I’m grateful to the Lord for what He has done for am right now. I feel so blessed.” sa iyo, confident ka sa pagkatao niya pero hindi mo gave up showbiz, but I cannot cope with Vico and what He’s doing through him now. I just pray “Love of My Life,” which airs weeknights beginning alam kung ano pa ang ipapakita niya. Ang bait niya, it. At dumadalas ang away namin, siga- that he fulfills his calling in life, the destiny God has Feb. 3 and stars , Mikael Daez and eh, pero tingnan natin.” wan, hindi naman nauwi at all sa physical, called him to do. I pray that he always looks after the , will have Coney pla­ying Isabella—a With her new projects, expectations can be very just exchange of hurting words. May post needs of others and that he remains a humble man,” character who shares her fierce love for her children. high. But Julia is not pressured as she’s more focused. partum depression pa ako, so hindi na ako she told reporters at a recent press conference­ for the “We both love, fight for them,” Coney said, adding that “I just want to do my best,” she declared. “To push happy with my life, kaya bumalik ako dito upcoming GMA drama series, “Love of My Life.”Be- she decided to take on the project, after a much-needed myself to deliver, to perform. Siguro tumanda na rin sa Pinas.” cause of Vico’s po­pularity, not a few people, especially break after the campaign season. “I really wanted ako.” She’s thankful that her manager, Leo those on social media, are already urging him this to rest after that. And when I was finally ready, it so So, she will be working with different leading men Dominguez, helped her get back on her early to run for President in the future. But her son happened that GMA 7 came up with this offer,” said from here? feet. “Siyempre, I have to work, kasi may isn’t one to look too far ahead. Coney, who has no plans of retiring from show biz. “Yes!” she exclaimed. “Excited ako. It’s a new daughter ako, e. And also na-miss ko rin “As my son would always say, ‘One day at a time.’ “I do pace myself. But I love my career, and I think I chapter.” ang acting. I’m so glad to get new assign- There’s a lot of work to do as a mayor. He’s not even will continue acting till my dying day. Learning is a She added: “I am very happy to be in the phase in ments. Right now, I’m doing three new qualified yet, age-wise. He’s the type who focuses on continuous process.” my career na mas mature na ang nagagawa ko, mas movies for Viva.” the tasks and problems at hand, and finishes what

7 7 Sheryn Regis on birit queens: “Di porke’t birit, maganda na ang kanta mo.” Congress urged to heed Sara advice on ABS-CBN Nag-trending sa social media si Morissette Amon dahil sa tila di niya naabot na nota up to May 4, 2021 in order to let ABS- But he earlier said that while the Presi- nang bumirit sa pinasikat na awitin ni Basil Valdez, ang “Sometime, Somewhere,” CBN continue its operations and also give dent’s acceptance of the network’s apology noong nakaraang January 19, sa ASAP time for the House to deliberate on the 11 was a positive development, it would not Natin ‘To. bills extending the franchise for another 25 affect the House’s position on the matter. Kasama ng singer sa naturang “Birit years,” he said. In supporting the network’s franchise Wars” production number ang mga kapwa Rodriguez was referring to House Joint renewal, Mayor Duterte cited its significant niya biriterang sina , Resolution 29 that seeks the extension of help to the city and the rest of the country Elaine Duran, Elha Nym- the franchise to May 2021 until Congress through the years. She hopes that the issue pha, , at is able to resolve the matter and decide on would be resolved in a positive way as she Sheryn Regis. Rufus Rodriguez standing in front of a crowd: Congress urged the bills seeking to renew the network’s recalled that the President used to host a Sa presscon ni Sheryn to heed Sara advice on ABS-CBN© Facebook/Rufus B. Rodri- guez Congress urged to heed Sara advice on ABS-CBN franchise set to expire on May 4. weekly talk show over the local ABS-CBN para sa upcoming concert Another resolution was filed earlier by station in Davao City. niyang Back To Love, hindi namin napigilang hingan ng reaksyon si MANILA, Philippines — With Davao Rep. Raul del Mar, which sought a Cayetano said the franchise renewal is Sheryn tungkol kay Morisette. City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio support- franchise extension to June 2022 or until not hinged on the personal issues of Duter- Tinaguriang Crystal Voice of Asia, si ing the franchise renewal of broadcast giant the end of the 18th Congress. te. Sheryn ay kasama ni Morissette sa nasa- ABS-CBN, the House leadership was Rodriguez shared the opinion of retired “It’s never been about the President. The bing production number. urged yesterday to extend the validity of chief justice Reynato Puno that the Na- President never dictated the direction we Lahad ni Sheryn, “Ako, bilang singer, the franchise until a new one is approved. tional Telecommunications Commission are taking on this ABS-CBN franchise naiintindihan ko. Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriguez, (NTC) has no power to grant provisional issue. This issue is a big gateway for us to “Baka di niya kinaya, or baka nataasan authority to allow ABS-CBN to continue balance democracy, press freedom, role of lang niya masyado. Nasobrahan lang niya, among proponents of 11 bills seeking to renew the network’s 25-year franchise, said operating with expired franchise. the media and role of big businesses and na-challenge siguro, na-motivate siguro. “Only Congress can extend the franchise political actors in our country,” he stressed. “Maybe impromptu niya ginawa yun na the mayor’s statement, which was given and ABS-CBN cannot legally operate The Speaker explained that there are still di pala siya ready. Minsan kasi pag hindi after her father President Duterte accepted ready, may mangyayari talaga. Baka hindi ABS-CBN’s apology over issues involving without a valid franchise,” he stressed. issues that the network needs to address siya ready nung time na yun na ibirit o baka campaign commercials in the 2016 polls, This is contrary to the position taken by for its franchise renewal application as may sakit siya.” should guide the House leadership on the Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano who ordered he stressed that the Senate cannot as yet Bilang isa sa datihan na ring singer, administration’s position. the NTC to issue a provisional authority to intervene on the issue. ano ang payong maibibigay ni Sheryn kay “Since President Duterte has already ac- the network to operate from May 4, 2020 “Senate should not be in the picture as of Morisette? cepted the apology, and with the statement until such time that Congress has made a now because, as you know, if we deny the Sabi ni Sheryn, “She has to take care of of Mayor Sara Duterte supporting the decision on its application for renewal of franchise it does not go to the Senate any- her voice kasi. Like ako, ang tagal ko na rin franchise. more... Let’s respect the Constitution,” he sa showbiz pero ako name-maintain ko. franchise, I appeal to the House leader- ship to set the hearing of our resolution Cayetano has yet to comment on Mayor said. – Edu Punay, Paolo Romero, Evelyn “One, di ko inaabuso ang aking boses, Duterte’s pronouncements on the matter. Macairan pinapahinga ko siya. Kung may shows na extending the franchise for at least a year puwede kong tanggihan just to rest, why not? “Saka di porke’t birit, maganda na ang muli ang pagsasama ng kanilang paboritong love For those who don’t appreciate the way kasi sa start pa lang ng taping namin, nag-out of kanta mo. team. and his show make people town locations na kami sa Tacloban in Leyte and later “Tamang pagkanta at respeto din sa sa Ilocos region,” she says. “Papunta pa lang doon, kanta. Ginawa ng composer iyan—galing laugh, the comedian could only shrug his shoulders. nag-bonding na kami and siyempre, while we’re taping sa puso, sa utak ng composer. Melody itself, Super Tekla on those criticiz- there, kuwentuhan kaya mas nakikita. He simply said, “Wala,” when asked for naging close kami agad.” “Puwede mong ibahin, pero wag mong ing his brand of comedy: “You his reaction to negative comments. ibahin nang sobra, wag baliin masyado kasi cannot please every- “Tinitingnan ko na lang kung sino yung So how would she mawawala yung ganda ng music.” may gusto,” he pointed out. “Siguro naman compare Kate to Mika? “Ay, body.” mas marami yung nakaka-appre- unfair namang mag-com- Kathryn Bernardo at , ciate sa ’yo kesa sa hindi. pare. When it comes to Simple lang, natural” is how sasabak sa action movie? “But I love them both. Ganun people, I never want to Super Tekla describes his lang talaga, you cannot please compare. Kasi ako mismo, brand of comedy. ayoko nung feeling na Posibleng mapanood ulit ang sikat na love team ng everybody.” “Siyempre kailangan yung Needless to say, Super Tekla ikino-compare ako sa iba. So bakit ko naman gagawin KathNiel sa pelikula o sa telebisyon sa mga susunod timing, atake, natural lang,” yun sa kanila? Bawat isa sa atin, may kanya-kanyang na buwan. would rather focus on his work, as he said at the recent press blessings continue to pour in. katangian at personality, magkakaiba tayo ng ugali at Halos dalawang taon ding namahinga ang tambal- conference for The Sweet- goals sa buhay, so it’s useless to make comparisons. an nina Kathryn Bernardo at Daniel Padilla na huling heart and The Balladeer Basta ang importante, friends ko sila pareho. Both of napanood sa pelikulang The Hows of Us, na ipinalabas (Fun Night Only), the Julie Anne San Barbie finds new best friend them, nagkaka-sunod kami, on and off camera.” noong August 2018. Jose- concert that the in Kate: No comparison They’re just happy now that their show is getting Tila sumabak sina Daniel Padilla at Kathryn comedian will be guesting in. very good feedback from the viewers. “Nagte-trending Bernardo sa action scenes sa isang shoot kamakailan, “Be yourself,” he added. “Hindi kailan- declared when she did “Kara Mia” kami, ang gaganda ng comments sa social media, so tila naganap ang shoot sa isang tiangge. gang maging OA para magpatawa.” with Mika de la Cruz, who played her sister, that they we are encouraged na mas pagandahin ang trabaho Isa pang clue tungkol sa bagong project ng KathNiel But some people have contrary obser- have formed a beautiful friendship while doing the namin. Even our senior co-stars, si Tita ay ang presence ng batikang action star na si Rez Cor- vations regarding Super Tekla’s weekly show. How about now that she and Kate Valdez play as my mother and si Tita as Kate’s tez, na kilala sa kanyang kontrabida roles sa pelikula comedy show with fellow GMA-7 talent sisters in “Anak ni Waray vs. Anak ni Biday”, which is mom, kasundo namin. On screen, magkaaway sila kasi at telebisyon. . now on a new time slot shown after “Descendants of nag-agawan sila noon sa naging father namin ni Kate, Kung sakali, ito ang kauna-unahang pagkakataon The two gender-bending comedians host the Sun” and before “Love of My Life”, how would she played by Mr. , but sa set, masaya kami na bibida ang KathNiel sa isang action project. The Boobay and Tekla Show (TBATS) call their relationship now? lagi. Happy set kami.” We’re sure excited na ang mga fans na mapanood that airs on GMA-7 every Sunday night. “Nagkaroon din kami agad ng connection ni Kate

8 8 Beauty Gonzalez gets emotional as she Mississauga, Ont. man takes giant pearl on the road recalls battle with anorexia at Toronto’s auto show A Mississauga, Ont. man has of preserving the world’s oceans. taken his giant pearl on the road Pearls do not only come from ABS-CBN actress Beauty Gonzalez got for the first time and he’s showing oysters and they are not only the emotional as she recalled her battle with it off at the Canadian International small round ones, he said. anorexia during the first few months of the AutoShow in Toronto this week. “Any kind of mollusk can afternoon drama series Kadenang Ginto The huge pearl, which the Guin- produce a pearl,” he added. where she plays the role of Romina. ness Book of World Records calls The pearl was given to Reyes’s Tearing up, Beauty told the press last the “largest natural non-nacreous great aunt by his grandfather who January 29, “When I started the show, I pearl” in the world, is on display came to visit her in Manila and was anorexic. I was [a] hundred pounds. I’m in a glass case in the show’s Auto brought a giant clam as a gift or the healthiest I’ve been now in my life. Exotica section. pasalubong, a custom in Filipino “Pero sa totoo lang, this is the best who I Clutching the pearl is a large Ava Santos gets to touch the giant pearl. culture. The pearl was inside. His am right now.” ing insults from other people. But the octopus, specially made out of aunt was 94 when she gave it to Beauty later said, “It’s a blessing to be actress learned to turn these negative com- 22-karat gold leaf to hold the valuable gem. Insur- Reyes in 2016. She believed it was a pearl, but no alive right now and to be healthy. I’m happy ments into something positive. ance appraisers have said the pearl may be worth one else in the family did. to be here and healthy.” Beauty said, “Wala akong magawa ‘cause between $60 million and $90 million. It weighs The pearl was still attached to half of the clam. Asked how much she weighs now, Beau- it’s true naman, e.“Why will I feel sad 27.65 kilograms. Reyes said she gave it to him because of his passion ty quipped, “Wag na lang!” about it? Lalo akong malulungkot and I’ll Abraham Reyes, the pearl’s owner, says he for collecting art. Kadenang Ginto started airing in Octo- eat the world. “I’d rather, like, accept it and wanted to give members of the public a glimpse Reyes’s grandfather bought the clam from a ber 2018. know that it’s true, then I have to work on of the pearl, which he considers to be one of the fisherman in Camiguin, a small island southeast of It was around the same time Beauty it.” natural wonders of the sea. Manila. The pearl has been in Reyes’s family since flaunted a slimmer body. Beauty is among It seems the pressure of maintaining a “We don’t know when Mother Nature will give us 1959. the celebrities who walked the runway of slimmer figure eventually took its toll on a gift like this again,” Reyes told CBC Radio’s Here “It’s culturally important to me,” he said. Bench Fashion Week Holiday 2018 on Beauty, resulting in her more recent strug- and Now. Called a Giga Pearl, it is white and cream-co- Saturday, September 1, 2018. gle with an eating disorder. “It was so important to me to really showcase it. loured and looks like a huge tooth. It is classified as After the fashion show, the 28-year-old But Beauty learned to overcome her I really want people to learn about it,” he added. a natural blister pearl. actress said she lost weight through “jump- inner struggles by developing a positive “It’s physically out in public for the first time. According to the British Pearl Association, a ing ropes and boxing, and a lot of prayers!” outlook and focusing more on herself. The people are so curious. They see all of these non-nacreaous pearl is made of calcite, a rock-form- Asked what inspired her to lose the extra In an Instagram post last January 27, exotic cars, almost like a gallery, and then they ing mineral. pounds, Beauty said she wanted to prove she wrote, “Happiness is not having what see a pearl in the middle. So they wonder: ‘What “The nacre is the combination of calcium car- that moms like her can achieve a fit body you want, It’s actually wanting what you is that?’ Then they approach us and we are able to bonate (aragonite) and conchiolin. Secreted from even if she’s busy juggling time for work have. [emoji] Wise words right? But easier educate them. For me, it’s a privilege that I am able a mollusc and layered together to form the nacre,” and her family. said than done. Why are we our own worst to showcase it at the auto show.” the association says on its website. She said, “I’ve been fat for almost all my critic? Why are we never satisfied? Reyes said he chose the auto show, the largest “Some pearls do not have this nacre and are life and then I got pregnant. For me to “Maybe the answers are outside our- consumer event in Canada, for the pearl’s debut made of calcite and not aragonite. Technically have this body right now, I worked my best selves. Maybe we should view ourselves the because more than 350,000 people are expected to speaking, these non-nacreous pearls are not talaga. ‘Cause I wanna show to everyone way the people who love us do. Focus on attend and Reyes said the sheer volume of people actually pearls. They are classified as calcareous na kaya nila rin, na even if you’re a mom the good then run with it. means the pearl will receive much exposure. concretions and do still produce stunning gems and already, you can still walk on a Bench “The opinion of one person who truly He said the presence of pearl at the auto show are very rare and highly expensive.” runway.” cares for you is surely worth more than gives him a chance to talk about where the pearl is Beauty admitted that she had always those of a million strangers. [heart emoji] from, which is the Philippines, and the importance PEARL struggled with her weight and body-sham- Baby steps, baby steps. We’ll get there.” continued on page 13

9 9 TORONTO Taste of Lawrence Businesses worry about Duterte gov’t, not virus

MANILA, Philippines – The novel corona- “When China sneezes, the Philippines 25% of Ayala’s Manila Water. After the virus has caused most stock markets in Asia, catches a cold and picks up a cough given announcement, euphoric investors pushed including the Philippines’ to bleed. recent developments in economic ties,” stock prices back in the green. While the stock market is not totally in- Mapa said. “Yes, it somewhat calmed down the dicative of the economy’s health, it does tell China is currently the Philippines’ top market. But it is still bad for the business quite a lot about business sentiment. trading partner. Mapa estimated losses environment overall. Does this mean that Analysts and even the government’s to hit as high as $600 million due to the the whole contract review is all over? It does economic team have all been somewhat slowdown in tourist arrivals, effectively not feel right,” said an analyst. unanimous in saying that the economy, so hitting overall consumption from retail The business community is also awaiting far, can take the hit. sales, restaurants to hotels. “Another possible the fate of the Lopez’s ABS-CBN, as well The Philippines is also a domestic con- hit would be the restricted movement of as keeping a close eye on the economic im- sumption-driven economy, which means Chinese to and from the mainland, with pact of Taal Volcano, and the reported cases that the economy is not very reliant on trade POGO [Philippine offshore gambling of African swine fever outside Luzon. to grow. Trade-driven economies like China operators] workers not able to return or Prior to these negative developments, the FV Foods owner Mel galeon poses with Michael Thompson, Deputy Mayor of Scarborough. have taken a direct hit on both the lingering incomes curtailed by the slowdown in busi- Duterte administration has already started trade war and the spread of the coronavirus. ness,” Mapa said. to show signs of having difficulty attracting So why are investors still fleeing the While economists have estimated the investors. Mel Galeon of FV Foods is Philippines? impact to be minimal so far, the novel Foreign direct investments (FDIs) fom proud to announce Taste of It seems that more than the virus, busi- coronavirus scare is fueling the business January to September 2019 posted $5.1 Lawrence at Scarborough nesses are getting more worried over the community’s jitters. billion only, down nearly 37% compared to on July 4-6, 2020 this year. political climate under the Duterte admin- the $8.1 billion recorded in the same period istration. Uncertainty in 2018. The Philippines is the fea- With no clear gameplan and a credible, The presence of the novel coronavirus in the How soon can we see the impact of all ture country. assuring tone in containing the virus, the Philippines comes at a time where Duterte these uncertainties? “We help to organize business community is more jittery. has weaponized contract reviews, seen by University of Asia and the Pacific econ- looking for Filipino per- some as a move to favor allied businessmen. omist Victor Abola said that “Real effect Business as usual? The elite, not used to attacks by a strong- can be felt after a year or so. For the current formers, dancer and Strictly looking at the numbers and some- man, were quite unsure about how to handle year, plans are there already and people will bands. Contestants for what excluding all other factors, the Philip- such a scenario they never saw coming. not stop executing plans because of certain Scarborough idol must be a pine economy is perceived to be surviving Duterte’s rants against Ayala-led Manila negative actions,” Abola said. resident of Scarborough,” the novel coronavirus. Water and Manny V. Pangilinan’s Maynilad After missing its growth targets and Meanwhile, ING Bank Manila chief has sent stock prices so low, the market has struggling to attract more investors, the says Mel. economist Nicholas Mapa noted that the not seen such prices in over a decade. government now has the additional task of Interested parties, pls pm warm ties between the Philippines and Chi- This February, investors were somewhat stemming the domino effect that the new Mel or contact FV Foods at na mean that Duterte also inherits Beijing’s given a boost when Enrique Razon, a virus has triggered. problems. perceived ally of Duterte, took a slice or 416-751-7555.

Alden Richards gets approval of for a movie team-up

Pararangalan ng Box Office Entertainment Awards “Game rin daw siya, gusto niya. and wala pa rin siyang boses,” she said. matatapos na sa April. sina Alden Richards at Kathryn Bernardo bilang “So, mabait kasi na tao, walang arte sa katawan. She thanked a doctor from Cebu who Although napakabata pa ni Andrea, siya ang Phenomenal Stars of Philippine did the surgery. tumatayong breadwinner sa pamilya. Cinema. “Pinatugtog nila ‘yung (hit version ko Since palipat-lipat umano sila ng inuupahang tira- Ito ay dahil sa tagumpay Sheryn Regis happy to be nang) ‘Come In Out Of The Rain’ while han, itinanim ni Andrea sa kanyang ng pelikula nilang Hello, Love, singing again after winning nag-surgery sa akin para daw makonsen- isipan na gusto niyang magkaroon Goodbye, na may hawak sila ng sariling bahay. battle with thyroid cancer siya sila na ‘wag matamaan ‘yung laryngeal ngayon ng record bilang nerve ko,” Sheryn recalled. After “Kadenang Ginto,” umaasa highest-grossing Filipino film of ang teen-age star na sana’y magka- Singer Sheryn Regis may be Though she was advised to not use her all-time. roon siya ng follow-up project kaagad cancer-free for four years singing voice for six months, Sheryn ad- Pahyag ni Alden tungkol dahil kakailanganin naman niyang now but she still turns mitted she did not strictly followed doctor’s dito, “Siguro po, ang una kong naisip, hindi po sa akin makapamili ng mga gamit para sa bagong bahay. solemn when talking about order as music has been a passion all her yun, para po iyon sa pelikula, sa Hello, Love, Goodbye. “Dalangin ko po sa Diyos na sana’y tuluy-tuloy po her battle with thy- roid life. Less than a month after surgery, she “Of course, I owe it so much kay Direk Cathy [Gar- ang trabaho ko para sa pamilya ko po,” pahayag niya. cancer that began sang at an event for Santo Niño de Cebú. cia]. Kung hindi po dahil sa kanya, sa paghulma niya Sa “Kadenang Ginto” naman nabuo ang tambalan in 2016. “I told myself, it’s because of my faith sa character, hindi naman po ganoon ang kalalabasan. nila ng ex-PBB housemate na si Seth Fedelin at nagka- In a recent kaya kakanta ako at gagaling ako,” she re- “Siyempre po, I’m very thankful to GMA and Star roon umano siya ng new set of friends kina Francine episode of lated. “And now I am cancer-free pero may Cinema. Hindi po namin isinasara ang pintuan namin Diaz at Kyle Echarri. “Tonight check up pa rin all the time because I need for the part 2 of Hello, Love, Goodbye dahil napamahal Tulad nina Kathryn Bernardo at Julia Montes, si An- With Boy to be careful.” na po sa amin yung project. drea ay produkto rin ng now-defunct kiddie gag show Abunda,” “Lahat ng cast, crew and people involved. Pero, sa na “Goin’ Bulilit” kung saan siya nagsimula nung 2010 the 40-year- ngayon po, naghihintay lang po kami ng go signal.” Andrea nagkaroon ng sariling bahay when she was barely 7 years old. old artist said Kabaliktaran sa kanyang role in “Annaliza” noon, it reached the dahil sa ‘KG’ MOVIE WITH BEA ALONZO? si Andrea na gumanap sa papel na Margaret `Marga” point when she was already resigned to Pero may mga naglu-look forward na rin sa kanila HINDI ikinakaila ng 16-year-old Kapamilya young- Mondragon Bartolome ay naging kontrabida sa charac- not being able to sing after she undergoes ni Bea Alonzo, simula nang makita silang magkasama star na si Andrea Brillantes na malaki ang naitulong ter ni Cassandra `Cassie’ Mondragon na ginampanan surgery. sa Suvarnabhumi Airport ng Thailand. sa kanyang pamilya ang mahigit isang taon niyang naman ni Francine. “Kasi nga ang surgery for sure ma-affect “Looking forward po ako na, sana, magkaroon pamamalagi sa top-rating afternoon TV series na “But I’m glad na nagampanan ko po nang tama ‘yung voice ko after. Nakita ko ‘yung isang kami ng movie ni Bea. “Kadenang Ginto.”Dahil dito, naisakatuparan niya ang ang role ko,” aniya. patient nga what happened is wala siyang Ano ang sagot ni Bea sa sinabi niya? pangarap na makapagpatayo ng sariling bahay na boses, tinanong ko siya after six months

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How Ian revived his career

IAN Veneracion was one of our most “Dito ko kasi na-realize na hindi lang pala sought-after young action stars in the 90s. sa drama magaling si Ian kundi also in His career dimmed when action flicks comedy. Magaling din ang comic timing lost their attraction to local viewers, niya. We really had fun doing ‘My SIngle but he was able to revive his career Lady’.” through the soaps he did with Playing Jodi’s other leading man is ABS-CBN, like “Pangako Sa’yo” as BG, an electrician and “A Love to Last”. He who becomes the new also did several mov- ies, guy in Jodi’s life as like “Achy Breaky Hearts” Chona. In the story, Ian and “Unbreakable”. wants to come back to Last week, he showed Jodi’s life after learning James Reid Speaks Up About Nadine is the only reason. There are too up in three consecutive they had a son, Red many to point out, but that’s all I’m able to presscons at ABS-CBN. (Ynigo Delen), but Jodi Nadine Lustre: ‘I still love her’ share without going into depth.” Thursday, he was in “Make becomes conflicted as “I still love her. It’s just my perspective it With You”, Friday in she’s also chummy to Aww. on love has broadened,” he said. “My SIngle Lady”, and Zanjoe who says he In a separate interview with Mega mag- Saturday in the movie enjoyed his role as Jodi’s James Reid has finally spoken up about azine, Nadine confessed how she considers “Block Z” where he plays other man. Nadine Lustre after their confirmed James her security blanket. the dad of Julia Barretto. “Marami na akong breakup in January. “He’s the first person to come and It’s in “My Single Lady” where he plays his nagawang light roles, comedy ang treat- In an interview with rescue…” Nadine shared. “I’ve learned so biggest role as the dad of Jodi Sta. Maria’s ment, but kakaiba itong ‘My Single Lady’, fashion magazine Mega much from him. I’m always going to be love child. He says he didn’t have any sec- kasi nga, as Ian said, hindi kami basta good Man, James revealed thankful that that guy came into my life, ond thoughts doing “My Single Lady”. or bad dito kundi flawed lahat ng charac- that he’s still trying to no matter what happens.” “Even after the past projects we did, Jodi ters namin, parang sa totoong buhay na find himself after they James is set to start filming in Febru- and I have maintained our friendship,” may kanya-kanyang strengths and weak- went their separate ary for his upcoming teleserye Soul- says Ian. “When she told me na siya ang nesses ang bawat tao. I’ve worked with Jodi ways. mate Project with Nancy McDonie of producer nitong ‘My Single Lady’, auto- before sa horror movie na ‘Maria Leonora “We’ve been in K-pop group MOMOLAND. matic na yes agad ako kasi, as a friend, I Teresa’, but it’s our first time to work on a love team for so In January, Nadine released a state- want to be there to support her. And when TV na romantic comedy naman, so I really long,” James shared. “And that’s been my ment indicating that she has terminated I read the script, kakaiba siya. I like my role welcomed the chance of doing ‘My Single whole life. I can’t even begin to think of her contract with her VIVA Artists Agency. as Chester. Iba ang dynamics ng characters, Lady’ with her.” who I am or what I’m supposed to be out- VIVA responded by saying that Nadine lahat sila flawed, mga totoong tao, so okay So which one does Jodi choose in the side of that love team, which is scary. And remains their exclusive talent and that their talaga. And in fairness to Jodi, kahit friends end, Ian or Zanjoe? “Naku, that you have to that’s why I said I got a lot of figuring out contract remains valid. Nadine has been kami, hindi naman niya ako binarat sa find out for yourself when ‘My Single Lady’ to do,” he said. under VIVA since 2009. James, who was talent fee ko rito. Ha ha ha!” starts streaming on iWant starting January “People might say I’m a bit heartless,” also with VIVA, left the agency in Septem- Jodi says it’s nice to work with Ian in a 22,” says Jodi. James added. “I don’t want it to seem like ber 2019. romantic comedy like “My Single Lady”. me wanting to know who I am without

11 11 Shooting ni Jane para sa ‘,’ natuloy na

IT was in 2013 nang unang lumabas ang balita na si ang gaganap na bagong Darna sa pelikula which was officially announced by in 2014. But a year later, nag-back out sa role si Angel dahil sa by Ricky Lo kanyang back injury. The Face of 2020 In 2017, it was announced na si Liza Soberano na ang papalit kay That “fresh face” is The Face of 2020, made more brought her to Eat, Bulaga but she missed the audition. Angel sa role bagay na ikinatuwa ng Ding, ang bato! refreshing by Dr. Vicki Belo who put her on giant While auditioning for a show of Edgar Mortiz, Jane was kanyang mga tagahanga. billboards around the metropolis, prompting motorists spotted by Mr. M who asked her to join a Just when Liza was already starting Jane de Leon had to learn how to deliver that iconic and pedestrians to wonder who she is. workshop.” her training for “Darna” ay nagkaroon three-word line with urgency as part of her training as Until she was revealed as the new Darna, Jane had From then on, Jane became a member of GirlTrends, naman siya ng finger injury habang the newest Darna in yet another remake of the well- actually been around except that perhaps she remained a girl group featured in It’s Showtime, and auditioned ginagawa nito ang “Bagani” loved movie about the superwoman created by Mars “unnoticed” in the company of many other newcomers. abroad for , a group being groomed by TV series with boy- friend Ravelo, originated by Rosa del Rosario and replayed “From the start,” recalled Tyrone Escalante, Jane’s Simon Fuller, along with three other aspirants including . Liza had her through the decades by, among others, Eva Montes, discoverer/manager who heads T.E.A.M. (Tyrone who got Fuller’s nod. finger operated in the US. Liza Moreno, , Nanette Medved, Anjanette Escalante Artists Management), “I knew that Jane was “She was patient,” continued Tyrone, “happy to be Halos kasabay ng pag-at- Abayari, Angel Locsin (on TV) and (also headed for something big. She was just waiting for the doing bit parts…as ’s sister in the movie ras ni Liza sa “Dar- na” ay on TV). right time, sa tamang panahon.” Ex With Benefits and in a flashback in the hit TV series nag-back out din This time around, the task of “reviving” Darna is in Jane told Conversations that she couldn’t believe she . I brought her to Mother Lily ang original the hands of Jerrold Tarog (Heneral Luna, Goyo ang was “it,” asking herself, “Totoo ba ang narinig ko?” who cast her in the films The Debutantes and Walwal. director ng Batang Heneral, etc.), taking over from who It took several weeks before things sank in. “Part of It was when she appeared in Halik that she began to proyekto na si quit halfway through the long-drawn preparation for my growing up was watching Darna on TV, the series be noticed.” Erik Matti at the reportedly “big-budgeted” Star Cinema project… with Angel Locsin and then with Marian Rivera. I never For months now, Jane has been training, starting siya’y pinal- to the tune of a hundred-plus million? It’s interesting thought I would be following in their with conditioning and then stunt itan ng writ- to see how Jerrold will “update/upgrade” Darna in footsteps.” routines under martial-arts experts er-director this era of superhero flicks churned out by Hollywood Jane Florence Benitez de Leon from abroad. Anytime now, she will na si Jerrold with heady regularity, sometimes bringing together was born on Nov. 22, 1998, in San be fitted for the Darna costume and Tarrog. superheroes and, one time, casting former Miss Israel Pedro, Laguna. Her mom, Maricor the start of the shoot is tentatively And after Gal Gadot solo in the revival of Wonder Woman (a Benitez, hails from Bohol. Her set for next month. months huge hit). dad, Ruel Florencio de Leon, was a Incidentally, Jane is a Tiger. of preparations for the project ay tuloy Like Jerrold, Jane is not the original choice. The first salesman who died when Jane and According to the Chinese astrology, na rin finally ang paglipad ni Darna was Liza Soberano who begged off due to a damaged her only sibling were young. Tigers (born in the years 1962, 1974, dahil nagsimula na ang shooting ng The last Darna on TV Marian Rivera meeets finger incurred during a shoot for the Kapamilya series “I would say that my childhood the new Darna Jane de Leon. 1986, 1998, 2010 and 2022) are “ bagong Darna movie. Bagani, requiring surgery in New York. The search was happy even if we went through brave, competitive, forceful, have a When the role was offered to Jane, for the new Darna ended when Olive Lamasan, Star tough times,” confessed Jane. tendency to be selfish but overall are agad siyang sumailalim ng iba’t ibang Cinema’s managing director for film, and Kapamilya ”Marami kaming pinag-daanang mabibigat na crises. extremely generous, very intelligent, always on alert, training including stunts and fight resident director Lauren Dyogi, saw “something” in After my dad passed away, my mom lost her job so I very charming and well-liked by others.” (Other Tigers: scenes at regular siyang nagdyi-gym Jane when they saw her in the TV series Halik (playing became the breadwinner at an early age. My journey in Joaquin Phoenix, Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Cruise, Mari- for her fitness program. ’ sister). Eureka! showbiz was hard kasi kahit walang-wala kami, mom lyn Monroe, Robert Pattinson, Jim Carey, Karl Marx and Si Jane ang pang-14 na actress to “Jane was the unanimous choice,” Olive told The would find ways for us to show up in our appointments. Ludwig van Beethoven.) portray the role of “Darna” which STAR in July last year when the “precious find” was Para makauwi, we had to borrow money for trans- (Postscript: As this story was being written, Jane was created by the late novelist Mars revealed. Actually, Jane was among the 13 “probables” portation…nakikipag-habulan ng bus at nalilipasan texted this message: I wasn’t really able to celebrate Ravelo and artist Nestor Redondo. presented to Olive and Lauren two years earlier by Star ng gutom kasi nagtitipid talaga kami, o kaya walang Christmas because I was bedridden. My family was with Ang nasabing nobela was serialized Magic head Johnny “Mr. M” Manahan, but it was only pangkain. But I never lost faith in God.” me in my room all the while. Good thing, I was well sa Pilipino Komiks in May 1950 at when she spotted Jane in Halik did Olive take a closer Fate brought Jane in the path of talent manager enough to spend New Year with my family in Singa- makailang beses nang ginawang peli- look. Tyrone. pore. It was our first time to go abroad. My Christmas kula maging sa telebisyon. Even Erik, who was eyeing Nadine Lustre as his “Jane was referred to me by another aspiring wish? Good health so that I can achieve my goals. And, Ang mga female star na gumanap Darna, conceded that Jane is a good choice. “She has a talent,” related Tyrone who counts many other talents of course, sana maging successful ang Darna project.) ng “Darna” include Rosa del Rosario, fresh face…” (among them Vance Larena and Kelvin Miranda). “I Liza Moreno, Eva Mones, Gina Pare- no, Vilma Santos (thrice), Lorna To- lentino, Rio Locsin, , Nanette Medved, Anjanette Abayari, Marco uncomfortable doing hot hours to shoot. I’m curious day, but it turned out everything Regine Velasquez, Angel Locsin at to see how they edited it is light and easy on his set. Basta Marian Rivera. love scenes with Lovi and how it will come out gawin mo lang nang tama ang Si Jane ay inaasahang magiging ma- on the big screen.” trabaho at on time ka laging du- jor star sa taong ito dahil sa kanyang MARCO Gumabao admits he is initially He has done love scenes mating sa set. So I’m always early pagganap na “Darna”. Beast.” uncomfortable doing the hot love scenes with before in kasi ayoko rin namang maging he did with in Viva’s sizzling love “Just a Stranger”. So how cause of delay.” Albie Casino, Vance Larena in erotic triangle flick, “Hindi Tayo Pwede”. is it now working with Lovi Poe? He’s now so happy to be given the “I guess it’s but natural kasi, even if Lovi “It’s not fair to compare them with each chance to be helmed by Direk Joel. “It’s drama anthology and I have known each other for quite other but they’re both nice, magaan katra- really a great experience to work with a some time since we’ve worked together in baho at parehong napakagaling umarte sa seasoned director like him. He motivates Indulge in secrets and desires insen- some fashion shows, this is our first movie dramatic scenes namin. I feel privileged to you to give your 100 percent in every scene sual teamup in Sunday Night Fever together at ngayon pa lang kami aarte nang be given the chance to work with both of kaya alert ako lagi to focus on my acting. I and new episodes of the erotic drama magkasama sa harap ng camera,” he ex- them at this point in my career and I want now have the highest respect for him. And Hush as they are now streaming on plains. “So, pareho kaming uneasy at first in to thank Viva na kinuha akong maging of course, it helps na ang galing-galing din iWant. doing the love scenes. It’s good our director, leading man nila.” lagi ng kaeksena mo, si Lovi. Sa story, I Hush beefs Joel Lamangan, was there to assure us he’ll How about working with Direk Joel play Dennis, ka-office mate niya na matagal up its lineup of support us every step of the way, basta gaw- Lamangan? “It’s also my first time with nang secretly in love sa kanya, pero hindi stories about in namin lahat ng instructions niya para him and siyempre, andami kong narinig na ako makaporma kasi nga alam kong sila na self-discovery hindi na paulit-ulit ang take ng eksena. But sobrang higpit niya, so I was intimidated ni Tony Labrusca. and intimacy still, the love scene took more than two at first. Very nervous ako sa first shooting with new, excit- ing episodes. Live your fantasies through Hush, streaming from 11 pm to 6 am and catch Sunday Night Fever for free on the iWant app (iOs and Android) or iwant.ph. For updates, like www. facebook.com/iWant, and follow @ iwant on Twitter and @iwantofficial on Instagram, and subscribe to www. youtube.com/iWantPH.

Guests, the Octave Band and JDL dancers perform at the Ivory Keys dinner fundraising concert for ANCOP. 12 12 CREATING PRESERVING YOUR WEALTH

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Heart promotes body 1 2 positivity with daring photo 4 “The ownership of exotic vehicles is all about a 1. Dr. Solon PEARL has uploaded online a somewhat revealing photo Guzman poses continued from page 9 particular lifestyle and nothing exudes a luxury lifestyle with the world’s with the aim of promoting body positivity to her followers. largest pearl like pearls,” McClean said. and it’s owner The photo shot by Filipino photographer Charisma Lico shows the Nothing exudes a luxury lifestyle “Of course, the first question people ask when they Abraham Reyes actress exposing her back and some sideboob. at the Metro like pearls’ come down here is: ‘How much is that car worth or how Toronto Auto “Treasure yourself every single day,” she wrote as caption. Show. 2. Mitzi much is this exotic car worth?’ So the alignment of this Faigal of Mitzify Heart’s photo surprised her fans used to seeing her in stylish The pearl at the auto show is drawing crowds, even a particular pearl, worth $90 million U.S., it was just a Fashion poses outfits than baring skin. with the pearl. 3 handful of Ontario Provincial Police officers, and they perfect fit with our event.” & 4. JDL Cupid While she got several praise for the photo, one follower asked Arch and Josie were very interested in learning about the gem. And the next public stop for the pearl? “Potentially de Leon perfrom what her husband, Francis “Chiz” Escudero, thinks of it. David McClean, director of marketing for the Cana- TIFF,” Reyes said. at the Ivory Keys “He told me to post it (and) he said I should be proud, ” dinner concert. dian International AutoShow, said the pearl is a perfect ALL PHOTOS Heart replied. BY RAYMOND addition to the event. SANTOS

13 13 Was Sarah-Matteo wedding a CIA Operation?wRy

THE MUCH-AWAITED BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT IS COMING SOON

Joey Albert & The Company pose with Belinda Reyes and family after the concert. PHOTO BY BING MARIANO

By now, everyone who Well, how it happened could follows Philippine show- have been straight from an biz would know about the espionage novel or a movie. wedding of Matteo Guidi- And just like a spy mov- celli and Philippine Popstar THE SOCIALLIST RoyaltyB Sarah Geronimo. continued next page

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1. and The Company takes a selfie with the audience. 2. Dr. Solon Guzman opens a new dental office at Seafood City in Mis- sissauga. 3. Arielle Kayleen Perez will be holding a concert at Republika on 22nd of Marc. 4. Celine Grey was one of the opening act at the Joey Albert & The Company concert. 5. JDL Divas perfrom at the Joey Albert & The Company concert. CONCERT PHOTOS BY BING MARIANO

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1. Mitzify handbags, one of the sponsors of Joey Albert and The Company (JATC) concert makes a classy appearance at the meet and greet in front of Joey Albert. 2. Mitzify model Arielle Abrazaldo will be appearing at the Unveiled fashion show on May 9 (PHOTO BY NEIL GARCIA). 3. Sammy and KC pose before shopping at the Fashion Outlet in Buffalo. 4. Singer Keana Cerezo dances with Kathryn Reyes Gong Xi Fa Cai ! Happy New Year ! and Chollo Lagdameo. 5. Giancarlo Bobila performs one of the old Dr. Vicky Santiago-Liu and Associates, staff and families celebrate the Year of the rRt @ Pan Pacific songs at the JATC concert. (formerly Westin Prince Hotel) Toronto. 4 5 ie, details of the wedding are not Jimenez, asked Joey which of her hits is forthcoming. Only a few guests are close to her heart. V Joey: Tell Me...Because of its endur- Sabi ko nga, ‘Sobra talking . Even the pastor was not 6 ance and longevity (three decades now LORNA T CLEARS COCO naman yatang talking . Nasa witness protec- and young people still sing it) and more puno ito. tion na yata karamihan ng guests. importantly because of how deeply I have Paano ko ito touched and remained in people’s heart. MARTIN Or they signed a non-disclosure bubuhatin? Ang She also asked Moy of The Company bigat,’” she agreement. You’d think Divine and (you know that their concerts in Manila are Asked about the alleged “pangbubuhos ng tubig” issue involving Coco, the actress looked puzzled. narrated. Delfin Geronimo are powerful always SROs) about their favorites. Lorna attested Coco seems to be unbothered by the Moy: We love the legendary Manhattan “Buhusan ng tubig? May nangyari ba sa totoong political clan na mato-tokhang lahat buhay na ganoon?,” she said. controversy. In fact, he’s busy conceptualizing every ng magsalita. People, they are just Transfer. We’ve performed with them three episode of the show. times already in Manila. Their versatility It was Robin Padilla — who happens to be Lorna’s parents of Sarah na sumikat at nag- cousin — who gave birth to the controversy. He accused “Talagang ang daming trabaho ang ginagawa ni Coco M and staying power inspires us to no end. para sa produksiyon para mapaganda ang ‘Probinsya- payaman sa kanila. Start talking. We also love the purity and simplicity of Coco of waking up some members of the crew by pouring R water on them. no.’ Minsan nga, nakikita ko na talagang sobra ’yung We want the juicy details . The Carpenters. No theatrics. No gim- stress niya na parang, ‘Eto na naman, ginawa na natin micks. Just pure and earnest beautiful Lorna said she has not seen any incident of that Anyway, they are now Mr & Mrs. nature on set. ’to. Kailangan mag-isip naman tayo ng bago,’” she said. music. “Naririnig ko lang, ha, kasi medyo malapit-lapit ang Guidicelli. Let us hope there is Anyway, the concert was a treat of mass “Hindi ko alam, hindi ako informed diyan,” she said. N “Wala akong experience na ganoon. Medyo nagka- distansiya namin, na tuloy kung minsan, meron mga ek- Forever, and it’s them. appeal and high class. Friends I don’t see sena na kailangan niyang isipin. Basta makikita mo na in concerts suddenly appeared. puyatan din kami before dahil kailangan ’yung mga pulitiko na tatakbo ay mawala na sa show. Wala akong siya mismo ang gagawa ng blocking ng lahat ng buong Last February 22, we were treated to a “You’re a fan,” I asked Alain Canizares. na-experience or nakita na may buhusan ng tubig.” eksena. Siya ang nag-iisip para sa buong eksena. I feel packed house at the Korean Cultural Cen- “Yeah. Long time,” he said. As far as she knows, she’s the one who poured water na parang, siguro, ’yung sobra niya talagang pagmama- tre. It was a concert by Filipino singer, now “The Company,” I half guessed. on a co-actor in one of the scenes. hal sa ‘Ang Probinsyano’ sa four years na iyon, ayaw Vancoucer resident but Toronto favourite He said yes. Joey Albert is a regular per- “Pitsel ng tubig, pinabawasan ko nga dahil punungpu- niyang basta na lang mawala o basta na lang mawalan Joey Albert with The Company. THE SOCIALLIST no. Pinabawasan ko nga, sabi ko, ‘Ano bang gusto niyo?’ ng saysay ’yung paghihirap nila sa apat na taon.” Toronto transplant columnist BK continued on page 23

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“We have to use allies,” he said. Lovi, Tony, and Marco do Earlier this month, the Philippine gov- ernment sent the notice of termination of love scenes to different the two-decade old pact which governs the DINE•WINE•UNWIND conduct of visiting US personnel holding beats military exercises in the Philippines. It shall 288 WILSON AVE •416-633-1288 take within 180 days. Seasoned director Joel Lamangan has nothing but www.republikarestobar.com According to Article 9 of the VFA, the praise agreement “shall remain in force until the for Lovi expiration of 180 days from the date on Poe, Tony which either party gives the other party Labrusca, notice in writing that it desires to terminate and Marco the agreement.” The retired associate justice reiterated Gumabao that the end of the VFA will pave the way all starring for China’s construction of air and naval in his bases in the Scarborough Shoal. upcoming Carpio said that a treaty is a law and opus “Hin- terminating the VFA would need Senate di Tayo concurrence. Pwede.” The Senate plans to seek clarification “Ang from the Supreme Court on its role in the dami ko ng abrogation of the VFA. nagawang pelikula, ito (‘Hindi Tayo Pwede’) ang isa sa may calls out pol- napakalakas na chemistry ng mga bida,” he said at a press conference. iticians who get offended if The sizzling love scenes that helped push the not addressed by their former number of views of the trailer to seven digits so fast titles happened without a hitch, he added. “Ngayon lang ako gumawa ng pelikula na hindi May patama si Edu Manzano, 64, sa dat- ako nahirapan sa love scenes. Pinakamahirap sa ing government officials na gusto pa ring director gumawa ng love scene (na gaya dito) na hindi matawag sa dating hinawakang tungkulin nakakasuka, na hindi naiinsulto ang sensibility ng mga sa gobyerno. manunuod.” Nitong February 29, ikinuwento ng aktor For Joel, it boils down to the actors being coopera- sa Twitter ang ins- tive. identeng nangyari sa isang dinner “Sinusunod nila gusto ko. Mahirap gumawa ng love kung saan na-offend scenes na ’yung artist ayaw gawin, napakahirap ng daw sa kanya ang ganu’n. Dito, willing sila, cooperative sila. Naiintindi- ilang pulitiko nang han nila ’yung vision na meron ako du’n sa love scene tawagin niya ang na ginawa nila…” mga ito sa kanilang The Viva Films offering is about Gab (Lovi) who falls “first names.” for Gabby (Tony). Sadly, a car accident took Gabby’s Wala raw siyang life before their wedding day. Their friend Dennis (Mar- nakikitang mali rito, nga hindi namin ine-expect na ganito ’yung nararam- co) keeps Gab company in her time of grief. Eventually, whether we can war on our won against pero nakarating sa daman namin sa isa’t-isa.” Gab and Dennis enter into an intimate relationship. China, no way because China is a nuclear kanyang hindi ito Joel revealed the stars actually followed the rhythm state. Without allies we will lose the West Yet Gabby is still present in Gab’s life. nagustuhan ng mga tinutukoy niyang tao. of certain songs while doing their love scenes. For Tony, Philippine Sea. That’s for sure,” he added. Tweet ng aktor (published as is): “Just Rhythm method that was “Never Ever Say Goodbye” while Marco’s was President Rodrigo Duterte, after sending came from a dinner… Was it hard doing the love scenes? “Hindi Tayo Pwede.” notice of termination of the Visiting Forces “Why should I call an ex-Mayor.. May- Lovi said she just delivered what the role required. Agreement with the US, said the state forc- or? “’Pag sa movie ni Direk talaga, kailangan realistic es assured that the “Why should I call an ex-Cong.. Con- ’yung eksena. For me naman, when it comes to acting, Carpio: We will lose West Philippines can gressman? holding back is not an option. If you’re willing to give develop its own “What is wrong with people calling each your heart and soul sa isang eksena, sa isang pelikula, Philippine Sea without mili- defense capabili- other by their first names? then why not do it? tary allies ties even without “Then you find out out they were hurt! “Kasi kung mag-hold back ka, mag-hold back din the help of the “Have you forgotten I pay taxes and your ’yung partner mo. So parang we don’t want that kind Filipinos stand to lose the West Phil- long-term ally. salaries?” “Kasi ‘pag hindi of feeling.” ippine Sea if President Rodrigo Duterte Sinagot ni Edu ang ilang netizens na would continue to assert that the country natin kaya, we nag-react sa kanyang post. Joel said he told the lead actors they must strive does not need the military aid of the Unit- have no business Tweet ng isang netizen, ang public to do it all correctly unless they shoot the scenes ed States, according to retired Supreme being a Repub- officials sa ibang bansa ay tinatawag sa repeatedly. Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio on lic. You might kanilang first name. “Natakot siguro sila so they did it correctly sa first Thursday. as well choose. We can be a territory of Sabi pa ng netizen: “Ang Pinoy matakaw take. Lahat ’yun first take,” he said. “The President said over and over again, the Americans or we can be a province of sa recognition they DON’T deserved. The actress likened their scenes to two types of song ‘We cannot go to war against China China. Kung hindi natin kaya, ganun lang,” Some of them were elected thru fraudulent tempo. because we will be massacred. Our sol- Duterte had said. means, lies, and vote buying.. we know “When it comes sa music, sa amin ni Tony very slow diers will be massacred, we dont stand a Meanwhile, Carpio pointed out that even them!” and romantic kasi nga it was just like we knew that chance.’ He has said that. And of course, developed countries such as Japan, South Pagsang-ayon dito ni Edu: “And to think we were in love parang right there and then nu’ng we know that’s why we need allies,” Carpio Korea, Australia and other member states elected officials tout themselves during of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization nag-meet kami,” she said. “Tapos ’yung sa amin ni said during a forum in Ateneo De Manila campaigns as being one with the people. University. (NATO) are maintaining their military ties Marco, siguro the rhythm was a bit more upbeat. Kasi “You ask any military analyst or strategist with the US. 17 17 Kiana collaborates with Fil-Aussie producer Billy Davis

KIANA Valenciano has dropped her No Wedding talk yet for Xian and Kim latest single titled “No Rush,” a funky R&B track that she recorded with Filipino-Aus- tralian namin ng Viva contract actor na si ni Xian na masaya sila ni na R&B/hip-hop artist and Xian Lim that he made the right kanyang karelasyon since 2011. Pero producer, Billy decision nang lumipat siya sa ba- kahit matagal na sila, hindi pa Davis. kuran ng Viva dahil nakagagawa umano sumasagi sa kanilang Produced under Iumano siya ng mga proyekto na usapan ang salitang kasal. ABS-CBN Music’s Tarsi- hindi boxed type. “We’re still young at er Records, the song “It’s for my own growth marami pa kaming gustong boasts of sensual as an artist ang naging ma-achieve individually,” guitars and Billy’s reason why I moved to pahayag ni Xian who also pulsating beats, complementing Kiana’s voice. It talks Viva,” pag-amin ng tried writing, directing Carlo Aquino says about trusting the natural course of a relationship. nobyo ni Kim Chiu. and producing an indie “Often times couples get into arguments because of First movie niya with movie for Cinemalaya, compass points to insecurities and pressure and I wrote this thinking about Viva ang local adapta- ang “Tabon”. how sometimes you just have to reassure your partner that tion ng Korean movie Sumailalim si Xian ng Trina Candaza you’re on the same page and there’s no need to rush the na “Miss Granny “ screenwriting workshop natural flow of the relationship,” Kiana explained. At 34 years old, actor Carlo na pinangunahan ng sa award-winning Billy, on the other hand, says the song is one of his Aquino is thinking of settling Pop Superstar na si Sarah writer and screenplay favorite creations. “I’m half-Filipino so I’ve always had a down more seriously than before Geronimo at kung saan din writer na si Ricky big interest in everything going on back home, especially although he won’t let number tampok sina James Reid at in Lee music created… The bass line [of “No Rush”] especially pressure him into making a 2018. He also did one movie last year, ang Bukod sa kanyang pelikulang “Untrue” is one of my favorite things. I see the tune banging out in decision just yet. “Hanggang Kailan” na pinagtambalan nila kung saan niya kasama si Cristine Reyes, Asia, Australia and really pumping in UK/Europe.” “Nasa tamang edad na ako ni Louise de los Reyes at dinirek ni Bona may bago rin siyang teleserye sa Kapam- Kiana’s newest record follows the success of her single pero tingnan natin sa mga Fajardo. And he has three or four movies ilya network, ang reunion TV series nila “Hide My Love,” which landed her on the top spot of susunod na buwan, taon,” he said lined up for this year at una nang ipapal- ng kanyang girlfriend na si Kim Chiu, ang Spotify last December. about marriage. abas ang first team-up nila ni Cristine “Love Thy Woman” kung saan din niya She will soon release another bop, as she just finished It’s only a question of time, Reyes, ang “Untrue”on February 19. kasama ang kanyang kapwa co-Viva actor recording with another top-notch producer HARV from Los though. In his mind, Carlo is sure Samantala, as to his lovelife, inamin na si Yam Concepcion. Angeles, California. forever for him points to only one “No Rush” is another exciting addition to Kiana’s yet- person and that is his girlfriend to-be-named EP, in continuation of ABS-CBN’s commitment Trina Candaza. to introduce the unique artistry of Filipino talents to the Oh, how’s that? global music stage. “Nag-iba ’yung outlook (ko) sa Saving for the wedding buhay (dahil sa kanya),” he said. ’s ongoing romance with How is it working with Jasmine? “It’s “Mas magaan, mas happy.” Jasmine Curtis Smith in “Descendants of so easy to relate with her. Three weeks The two have been a couple for the Sun” has gained a lot of loyal fans pa lang ang show on the air but actually, one year and two months now. who are rooting for their romance as seven months na naming tine-taping ito Asked if he has set a marrying Moira and Diego. so we’ve become very good friends. We age for himself, Carlo shook his CAMILINEOS “We were honestly surprised with the engage in a lot of small talk sa taping head. very warm reception that the viewers and friend ko rin yung boyfriend niya, si “Wala eh. Parang sa pakiram- gave us,” says Rocco in a special lunch Jeff Ortega, na una ko pang nakilala sa dam ’yun ng isang tao eh. Wala namang tamang edad unless Association presscon hosted by GMA-7 for him and kanya because I met him when we shot Jasmine. “Kami mismo nagulat pati sa a movie ni Solenn Heussaff sa province sa tamang tao at sa tamang reactions sa social media. Marami talag- nila, in La Union.” pakiramdam. Natagpuan (ko) na ang nanonood ng show who sympathize How is his real life GF, athlete Melissa ’yung tamang tao ang wala pa of Canada with the forbidden love of the characters Gohing, reacting to his love team with lang ’yung pakiramdan.” we play and are cheering us not to lose hope and to Jasmine? When the time comes, the fight for our love.” “She’s very supportive. Nagpo-post pa nga siya ng actor dreams of getting wed on The love story of Rocco as Sgt. Diego and Jasmine picture namin ni Jasmine from screen shots. Actually, a mountain top as “mahilig kasi as Capt. Moira is really very engaging as it’s a for- noong mapanood pa lang niya ang original ‘Descen- ako sa nature.” 25th bidden romance. Moira has a higher rank and is also dants’, naging fan na siya at siya pang nagsabi sa At length, we asked Carlo how a doctor, so her dad, who’s a general, is against her akin na, watch this, kamukha mo yung aktor dito. Trina has taken to his celebrity. Anniversary love affair with Diego, who was told to avoid Moira And little did I know na ako pala ang gaganap as him Does she understand the nature because he belongs to a lesser social status. But Moira dito sa local adaptation.” of his job? How did she come won’t accept it and continues to earnestly pursue How’s the new house that he is having constructed to terms with it — especially as Diego even if he’s doing his best to resist her. in Antipolo? “Matatapos na. Finishing touches na she now has her own share of “Talagang sinusubaybayan ng mga tao ang love lang. Labor of love talaga ‘yun for me. Hopefully, bashers? May 23, 2020 story namin kasi kahit dun sa recent episode involving makalipat ako roon in time for my birthday next Well, the boyfriend always hopia and a handkerchief, grabe ang reaction nila,” month on March 21.” tells the girlfriend this: “Hindi adds Rocco. “Nag-click sa kanila nang husto.” So does that mean wedding bells will ring soon importante ’yung sasabihin ng JC’s Banquet Hall So, will he as Diego eventually relent and defy Moi- after he has moved to his own house? “Naku, after ibang tao tungkol sa atin. Ang ra’s dad to reciprocate her love for him? “Of course, the expenses sa house, ‘yan naman ang susunod na importante, mahal natin ang we cannot reveal that. Basta abangan nyo na lang.” pag-iipunan ko, so matagal pa ‘yan. isa’t-isa at masaya tayo.”

18 18 UNITED STATES RK naubusan ng FBI raids Quiboloy’s gas bago natang- ROCK-RA-KAN FOR A CAUSE • Free gap sa ABS-CBN church in Los Ange- on MARCH 21, 2020 SATURDAY 7PM. HINDI ginamit ni RK Bagatsing ang impluensya ng magag- les in human traf- aling na artista niyang kapatid (GENERAL na sina Raymond Bagatsing at ADMISSION). ficking probe Monina Bagatsing para mag GUESTS ARE A smashed in door is seen at the entrance of the Kingdom tagumpay sa showbiz. REQUESTED TO BRING NON- “I wanted to make it on my own,” aniya sa isang interview. PERISHABLE “One day, naka- FOOD tanggap ako ng offer to audition at ABS. DONATIONS Punta ako agad at FOR FOOD sinubukan ko ang BANKS. (You role, lalo’t mukhang of Jesus Christ Church in the Van Nuys section of Los Angeles. promising. Sa pag- may drop your mamadali ko, nakali- donations as well LOS ANGELES — Federal agents mutan ko ang wallet ko. Parating raided a Philippines-based church na ako sa ABS nang maramdaman at time of event.) in Los Angeles early Wednesday in kong ubos na ang gas. Binilisan ko ang takbo ng sasakyan para This is a FREE Concert Event a human trafficking investigation brought to you by United Filipinos of that led to arrests of two church maabot sa loob ng gate. Binuksan GTA, Prestige by Night, & LYV Canada. leaders in what prosecutors said ko ang sasakyan habang sumisigaw Donors of any amount will have re- was a decades-long scheme to trick ako na babalikan ko nalang ang served seats, or, General Admission/ sasakyan ko. followers into becoming fundraisers First-come-first served or SRO. All “Iyon, nakuha ako dahil bagay sa guests are asked to bring non-perish- and arrange sham marriages to keep akin ang role! able food donations! To be collected them in the U.S. “It was a good start at upon entry @ event. Suggested The local leader of the Kingdom nagsunud-sunod ang breaks ko. donations (sealed/unopened): rice, of Jesus Christ church was arrested This time, hindi lamang itinutur- pasta, oatmeal, baby formula, baby on immigration fraud charges in ing na napakaga-ling ding artista food, pasta sauce, peanut butter, the early morning bust along with a si RK tulad ng kanyang kuya. canned (fish, fruit, vegetables, soup, stew, chili, dried beans, etc.) Proceeds worker who confiscated passports of Considered na siyang isa sa mga goes to Food Banks. (You may also/ the victims of the scheme, the U.S. handsome star at kinakikiligang just drop-off your donations during attorney’s office said. actor ngayon. the time of event.) Its founder, Pastor Apollo Qui- Mapapanood si RK sa peli- boloy, was briefly held by US cus- kulang “Us Again.” Napuna rin ng toms officials in February 2018 after mga nanonood ang napaka ganda $350,000 in cash and gun parts ngayong si Jane Oineza na leading lady ni RK. Wala siyang ginawa were found in his Philippine-bound kundi tumawa nang tumawa sa private plane. interview. Sabi tuloy ng matatan- Pastor Quiboloy is being crowned da, matindi daw ang pagkagusto Patron by the Royal Institution ni Jane kay RK dahil ganoon daw Singapore ang babae kapag tawa nang tawa Fundraisers who managed to kapag kaharap ang isang lalake. escape from the church told the Hindi nga ba? FBI that they had been sent across the U.S. to solicit donations for the KATHRYN’S BUSINESS TIP: Kahit church’s charity, The Children’s Joy Piso, importante Foundation, and were beaten if they didn’t make daily quotas, according When talking about finances, Daniel admits his to affidavit filed in support of the girlfriend Kathryn and her mom Min know more charges. Some described having to about this aspect than he does. live in cars at truck stops. “Nagtatanong lang din ako sa kanya,” the An FBI agent investigating the ABS-CBN idol says. case documented 82 sham marriages Kathryn then reiterates that over a 20-year period and tracked her mom is the force behind $20 million raised between 2014 and her family’s businesses. the middle of last year that was sent The young Kapamilya actress says, “Siya nag- back to the church in the Philip- ga-guide sa amin. Totoo, grabe siya. Kung pines. paano mag-handle ng money, mga tao. Lahat “Most of these funds appear to ng stress, grabe, si Mama iyon. derive from street-level solicitation,” “Ang hirap kapag company. It’s a whole new according to the affidavit by FBI world for us kasi iba iyong artista, ‘tapos iba Special Agent Anne Wetzel. “Lit- pag pinasok mo iyong mundong ito.” tle to no money solicited appears What financial tips have Kathryn learned so to benefit impoverished or in-need far? children.” The Star Magic talent says, “Keep track sa In addition to raiding the church’s mga gastos mo. Kung ano mga income mo na Van Nuys compound, agents were pumapasok, ano iyong lumalabas. conducting searches at other Los “Kasi with business, lahat iyan, e. Kahit piso Angeles locations and at two places iyan, ten pesos, lahat iyan nagma-matter kasi in Hawaii linked to the church. hindi lang iniisip mo dito kayo lang. Meron Calls to the church for comment mga empleyado ka na may mga pamilya, so kailangan mo rin sila isipin.” were not immediately answered. “It’s very important may record ka of President Rodrigo Duterte has everything.” been known to have close ties with She adds that it works to have a budget plan Quiboloy, the self-proclaimed ap- as well. pointed “Son of God.” Quiboloy was “Kunwari for a month, I’ll say, budget ko for reportedly among those who sup- shopping, ito. Budget for food, budget for tao… ported Duterte’s 2016 presidential Budgeting. It’s very important.” campaign. 19 19 Ngayon at Kailanman has taken on a deeper meaning to me

In 2017, Basil noticed that he was experiencing oc- casional ”impaired vision,” he couldn’t focus for several seconds, and his cardiologist Matteo Guidicelli on found “something wrong” with him. secret wedding to Sarah Geronimo: “That An ECG (Electrocardiogram) and an evening was almost angiogram revealed that there The Sound of Music perfect until some unexpected events was blockage in his heart, so he took place, but don’t underwent an angioplasty. worry I never ‘punched’ Getting married should not be like this. This is like plan- anyone. I will forever “I was shocked,” Basil confessed.The night stand up and protect before the procedure, Basil recalled that he ning an invasion complete with secrecy, intrigue and bad my wife just as how my father would protect my we are husband and wife! Let’s always heard his neighbor playing his song Ngayon at whole family.” guys. But this was not an ordinary wedding. Some say, celebrate life and love! Nothing will ever Kailanman. this can only happen in the movies. Well, it happened in defeat pure honest LOVE. God bless “I guess that when George was writing that song,” continued Basil, “hindi niya naisip ‘yung real life for Matteo Guidicelli and Sarah Geronimo, now everyone for your love and support!” mas malalim na meaning ng song. Like his other He signed the post off with “Mr and Mrs Mr & Mrs. Guidicelli. part of our love journey and we want song, the Bible-verse-inspired Lift Up Your Hands, Guidicelli.” to say, Thank you. Friends, family,and Ngayon at Kailanman makes not only Basil but Matteo and Sarah have been a couple since 2014. many other people cry as well. In the 1965 movie “The Sound of Music,” everyone on “social media” have been a While they’ve managed to keep their relationship While his songs have a healing effect, Basil source of inspiration, strength, and most the Von Trapp family had to excape Nazi- very private, it’s become no secret to the public that actually did pranic healing (a no-touch ener- importantly, of LOVE,” he added. occupied Austria. The climactic scene had Sarah’s mother, Divine, disapproves of the pairing. gy-based therapy) for several years (1990 to Matteo then addressed the elephant them singing in front of with German officers Divine was apparently not informed of nor 2001) and stopped because, according to him, in the audience. They were all on stage and in the room – Sarah’s bodyguard’s it was spiritually draining since each session invited to the February 20 they all had a solo number. One by one, they allegations that the actor punched him rendered him “washed out” by the symptoms of wedding, despite a leak would exit the stage until all of them have in an alternation that followed when his patients. “We are from ’s left the stage. The audience will be clapping Sarah’s mother Divine Geronimo “I’ve been praying The Rosary daily, without Ricky Lo. After the pair waiting for them to all come back and take gatecrashed the wedding reception. happy, we are fail, since 2009,” shared Basil.Kung kailan ako wed via Christian rites their bow. That’s when somebody would run None of Sarah’s family members were tumanda saka naman dumami ang shows ko.” blessed, and we at the Victory Church in onstage and shout, “they’re gone.” invited to the wedding or the dinner (He has done more than 50 church concerts.) Taguig City, they held But his enduring voice sounds as young as it is that followed. are husband a reception at a nearby in the early ’70s when he started in the business. MANILA, Philippines – After days of “That evening was almost perfect until and wife! hotel. It’s there that Divine “Mas lumalim,” was how Basil put it. “Maybe rumors, reports, and rumblings, Matteo some unexpected events took place, but Let’s always allegedly gatecrashed it has something to do with my lifestyle now. No Guidicelli posted on Wednesday, February don’t worry I never ‘punched’ anyone. the wedding, and hurled problems, no stress. Ayoko mamroblema. My 26, the first photo of himself and wife Sarah I will forever stand up and protect my celebrate life voice is a gift from God. Until I can, I will keep on invectives at the couple and Geronimo. The pair got married in a secret wife just as how my father would protect singing. Sa Diyos nanggaling ang boses ko and I and love! the Guidicellis. ceremony on February 20. my whole family,” he said. leave it up to Him kung kelan niya babawiin sa Viva boss Vic del Rosario “A day full of pure love, honesty and Matteo then thanked his family “for Nothing will akin.” was among those who genuine emotions. Yes, we got married. loving Sarah like a daughter.” “Our ever defeat pure intervened. While the Mr and Mrs Guidicelli,” wrote Matteo as family is growing and we are blessed. honest LOVE. Guidicellis, including Sarah, Jak Roberto says sister Sanya Lopez is a caption to a photo of herself and Sarah, Papa and mama, thank you for deeply tried to slip out through the toasting with their hands intertwined – with loving and welcoming Sarah into our God bless ready for love but… fire exit, Sarah’s bodyguard wide smiles to boot. family,” he said. everyone for allegedly tried to stop them The internet may be shipping Alden Richards Matteo said they kept the ceremonies “as Without mentioning the Geronimos upon Divine’s instructions. and Sanya Lopez because of a viral video that intimate as possible because of private matters” explicitly, Matteo expressed confidene your love and It was then that Matteo shows them laughing together ending in embrace as he expressed “the overwhelming joy, love that “in time, with God’s grace and support!” supposedly punched the but her brother advises the fans to not make and excitement we have in beginning our life Love, everything will heal and fall into much of it. bodyguard – a claim several together.” place.” “Wala naman parties, including Matteo, “Each and everyone of you have been “We are happy, we are blessed, and siyang kwinekwento had denied. pa if she’s dating, and wala namang um-e-effort umakyat ng ligaw sa bahay,” LizQuen shares couple bucket list tries to pair off the down-and-out Enrique with a rich Liza enumerated, “Go to another country that we’ve her brother, Jak Roberto, said in an interview Croatian socialite but as the age-old saying goes, never been to and do a dream project together that at the grand opening of Metro Dental’s flagship MANILA, Philippines — Enrique Gil and Liza “the bridge is the owner,” right? we’ve never done. We dream of doing a docu clinic in Ortigas where he and girlfriend Barbie Forteza came as guests. “So, malamang ang fo- Soberano are oozing with maturity in their new All we want is for our audience to be happy film and a horror film, and maybe a business cus pa din niya sa ngayon ay work and her dogs.” series Make It With You or at least that’s what the and be satisfied with the show. together.” Sanya has never had a boyfriend that’s why teaser trailer is promising viewers as their reel Filming in another country presented Ending up with each other in the future Jak is extra protective of her. Still, it doesn’t and real pairing returns to ABS-CBN primetime logistical difficulties, Enrique related, is also part of the wishlist. Enrique told mean he is against the sister having a love life. bida tonight. revealing that in some parts of Croa- reporters that he believes Liza is the one for “It’s about time na din naman na she finds And the maturity has obviously extended off tia, it was hard to secure permits, that him. “Yes, I really believe so, 100 percent happiness,” he said “Basta kung sino man ang screen, with the two having grown much since they resorted to “guerilla shooting.” in my heart, yes,” he said. pipiliin niya ay andito lang ako to guide her so their last series in 2018, Bagani, going by how Language barrier posed another chal- “I’m happy because he makes me feel she won’t be led astray.” they talked about their new roles, new challenges lenge to the work experience between secure,” Liza responded. “He’s always assur- Are they close with each other? and all. the Filipino production and the local crew. “But I think ing me and I think that’s what any girl in a relationship “Mas close siya sa treadmill niya,” the actor “We always say this, but expect a new LizQuen that was a small obstacle for us,” said Liza. is looking for.” joked. Straightening up, Jak said he always advises because each time we try to be better and better The actress also shared that Croatia has the least They’re still young Enrique is 27 and Liza is 22 but Sanya to not look for love “as kusa lang ’yang at our craft, and all we want is for our audience number of Filipino OFWs, just a little over a hundred, they and their fans certainly hope they make it. dumarating.” to be happy and satisfied with the show, and of and some 15 of them helped them during the shoot. Also starring in Make It With You are Ian Venera- Well, Sanya had better listen to as course, we want them to learn something from it. Much as they wanted to, unfortunately, they didn’t cion, Katya Santos, Fumiya Sankai, Eddie Gutierrez, he speaks from experience. Recall that romance That’s what we’re looking forward to,” said Liza get to explore Croatia that much because dayoffs were , Vangie Labalan and Herbert Bautista, with between Jak and Barbie developed unexpectedly during the show’s presscon. spent traveling to the next place they were going to up-and-coming actors Jeremiah Lisbo, Anthony Jennings on the set of their defunct TV starrer “Meant To The trailer introduces Enrique as Gabo, a drift- shoot. and Daniela Stranner. Be” in 2017. er who leaves home and wanders off to a foreign Asked about other things they hope to do as a couple, Make It With You airs weeknights after FPJ’s Ang Asked how they keep the romance alive, Barbie land that’s Croatia and meets Liza’s character they’ve added a few more to their bucket list. Probinsyano. said she appreciates it that Jak makes time for Billy, an OFW who sidelines as a matchmaker. She her and that he exerts effort to make her feel special. Just recently, he sprang a surprise yet again on her by arranging a lavish dinner for Valentine’s Day. Jak said it’s not easy pulling off surprises Daytrip to Buffalo for Barbie. The first step is throwing her off the scent. The actor prepares in advance especially as she has a hectic schedule so he has to know her every move unless she discovers what he is up to. Usually, he has “reliable sources” telling him what Barbie wants and where she is so he can do his thing on the side. “But it’s all worth it,” he said, smiling at Barbie. “Hindi kasi pwedeng pabayaan ’yung mga ganitong occasion to just slip by—” “—kasi baka last mo na ’yon!” she finished for him in mock indignation.

LEFT, Daytrippers pose befor shopping in Buffalo. RIGHT, Gina Baterna, Els Mariquit and Annabella Mohan pose at the Shrine at Lewiston. 20 20 myself from them. But that’s my wish after Maganda ang intensyon pero show, I was anorexic, I was 100 this show. I hope to be able to have pounds. I’m the healthiest I’ve bonding with them. That’s pinupuna been now in my life. This is the why I’m saying this is not best of who I am now.” the ending, it’s only the ANG relationship counsellor nina Sarah Geronimo For her performance in the beginning of a beautiful series, Beauty repeatedly gave friendship.” at Matteo Guidicelli na si Letty Fuent- es ang KG credit to Dimples. “I’m so Dimples readily nagkuwento sa TV Patrol ng ABS- CBN thankful to have worked with agreed, saying, “I really ng mga detalye tungkol sa Stars look back on KG’s her. I once said in (a Magandang make it a point for people to kaguluhan na naganap dahil Buhay guesting) that I want to know that in this industry, sa surprise arrival ni ‘golden’ moments be Dimples Romana because it’s not hard to find a Divine sa wedding lahat ng shows andun siya,” friend. People reception ng bagong Beauty added. always kasal na ginanap sa Kadenang Ginto ended. For its lead Dimples, on the say that in stars Beauty Gonzalez and Dimples other hand, is flattered isang restaurant sa showbiz, it’s hard Bonifacio Global City Romana, it’s been an emotional ride by Beauty’s comments. to find a friend. noong February 20, 2020. for characters who have experienced “Whatever my bida That’s not true needs, I will give.” Nanggaling kay Fuentes ang kuwento na major ups and downs, and delivering Beauty was candid because natumba at gumulong sila ni Sarah sa sahig ng some of the biggest dramatic enough to admit that she was I have a restaurant dahil naitulak ang singer-actress ng moments Philippine TV has ever seen. so busy becoming Romina lot of friends.” kanyang ina. that she somehow neglected Meanwhile, asked about their “golden Nang lumantad si Fuentes, marami ang to deepen relationships off he series that “launched a thousand moments” from the show, Beauty said nag-akala na may permiso nina Sarah at Matteo screen, so memes,” many thanks to the warring it was when she won for the first ang pagsasalita niya sa primetime news program T much so time a Best Actress award from antics of Romina and Daniela. ng ABS-CBN. her only Off-screen, tears have been shed as well I’ve EdukCircle. wish after Pero lumitaw ang katotohanan na kusang-loob by Dimples and Beauty — tears from For her part, Dimples Kadenang ang pagpapainterbyu ni Fuentes sa TV Patrol ovewhelming gratitude for being part of the distanced considered her family’s reaction to Ginto is to showbiz reporter na si MJ Felipe. long-running Kapamilya Gold series. her performance in the series as make friends Maganda ang motibo ni Fuentes, ang lumabas Both became emotional and thanked myself from the most important moment. with her ang katotohanan para mahinto na ang mga maling everyone who made it possible. “The most personal, golden co-stars. BEAUTY GONZALES kuwento tungkol sa mga nangyari noong fateful Dimples said, “Kadenang Ginto is the big them moment, for me, was when my “Pagdating answer to my prayers. I remember before husband started sharing articles night ng February 20. sa set, mukha Kadenang Ginto was offered to me, my prayer about my character. Hindi showbiz ang Pinabulaanan din ni Fuentes ang paulit-ulit na akong tanga at ang sungit- was wherever You will lead me, Lord, I will asawa ko, ang hirap niyang i-please kasi noong pahayag ni Jerry Tamara na sinuntok ito ni Matteo. sungit. Kasi sa totoo lang, follow. Ganun pala yun, kapag nagsabi ka, iayon kinasal kami, artista na ako. I told myself, look at Si Tamara ang bodyguard ni Sarah na naging susi hirap ako sa Tagalog ko (her niya.” my husband, after 23 years in showbiz, he finally para malaman ni Divine ang lugar na kinaro- native tongue is Cebuano) Beauty was equally thankful. “I don’t say gets on board.” kaya dapat concentrate ako, roonan ng bagong kasal. thank you to God, I believe in God, but thank The show ended on a high note. After kasi siempre, ‘pag sampalan Unfortunately, sa kabila ng magandang you, Lord, because to be honest, Kadenang consistently topping its timeslot in terms of na (magkamali ka) uulitin intensyon ni Fuentes, may mga nagsasabi na hindi Ginto was my make-it-or-break-it teleserye. I nationwide TV ratings and producing memes yung sampal, masakit din. na siya dapat nagsalita, lalo na kung walang almost transferred (to another network).” online, it has gone international as it is currently “No (I don’t talk to people pahintulot nina Sarah at Matteo dahil bilang On a more serious note, Beauty revealed that airing in Myanmar and has been acquired for an that much on the set), relationship counsellor ng dalawa, alam niya dapat she wasn’t in a good place when she started Indonesian adaptation. everyone knows this and I doing Kadenang Ginto. “When I started the ang kanyang mga limitasyon. won’t deny it. I’ve distanced Is Nadine Lustre in danger to become a ‘frozen delight’ ?

It seems Nadine Lustre is bent on fight- project outside Viva without the company’s supposed to do seven more movies for her nice to be a frozen delight. ing till the end. consent. Any entity that violates this will home studio. No matter how many times Nadine Nadine issued a statement from her face a lawsuit. It seems Nadine was ill-advised. What would assert that she had herself released lawyers, saying she is terminating her It is only Nadine who is adamant in she should have done instead was to talk to from her contract, it is still Viva that has the contract with Viva and will manage her saying that she is out of Viva but as far as Viva and explain to them the provisions in last say if the contract is binding, which she career on her own. But Viva answered back Viva is concerned, Nadine is their property, her contract she is not amenable to. herself signed in the with a press statement saying that Nadine’s having signed an exclusive contract with It is hard to lock horns if when tied down presence of witnesses. contract is still binding and cannot be re- them. by a valid contract. Nadine should realize scinded. As such, the actress cannot do any In fact, based on her contract, she is that Viva can freeze her career. And it is not

21 21 NADINE LUSTRE WITH VIVA UNTIL 2029 ‘This matter is about respect – respect for the law and contractual commitments, and good faith in professional relationships,’ says Viva clears

Nadine Lustre may have out a Goliath that has taken advantage that would advance her mom’s name over announced that she has of young artists in the industry for the career; among others,” it terminated her contract with longest time,” she said,. added. alleged quote about Viva Artists Agency, but Viva Viva responded to Lorna, saying: The agency reiterated, “This is not a David versus Goliath “Nadine cannot simply said that she is their exclusive scenario as portrayed by Atty Kapunan. turn her back on her Geronimos issue artist for the next 9 years. Neither is this a situation where artists contractual commit- Singer-actress Toni Gonzaga has slammed a certain are taken advantage of by a talent man- ments after she news portal for spreading “fake news” about her mom, agement company.” received benefits Pinty, who allegedly commented about the parenting Viva Artists Agency also threatens as a Viva talent.” n a January 31 statement, Viva style of Divine Geronimo to singer-actress Sarah legal action against Nadine or third It also said said that Nadine first signed an Geronimo. parties that strike deals directly with the that contrary to claims agreement with Viva in 2009, with “Please stop quoting our mom,” Toni wrote along with actress of Nadine’s camp, Viva does the assistance of her parents. Af- a collage picture of the post of the website which shows “Rather, this matter is about respect not take advantage of young terwards, she “executed subsequent her mom along with the quote she supposedly said. – respect for the law, respect for con- artists. Icontracts with Viva to extend their The 36-year-old artist also advised the writer to tractual commitments, and good faith in “This accusation is Exclusive Agency and Management practice “responsible journalism.” professional relationships,” it added. malicious and unjus- Agreement until June 2029.” “Please don’t involve her. She was never interviewed Viva said that their contract with tified,” Vica said. On January 27, Nadine through a nor she gave an official statement. Please stop spreading Nadine was mutually beneficial. The Nadine rose to statement from her lawyers said that she lies,” the text read. contract “required Viva to invest their fame in 2014, after starring is now “self-managed” and has decided She reiterated in another post that the quotes circulat- time, resources, and good will to hone in films like Diary ng Panget and to terminate her contract with Viva. ing online never came from Pinty. Nadine’s talent and build her reputa- Talk Back You’re Dead with James. Viva responded hours after Nadine’s “Let us practice responsible journalism and be careful tion.” The pair then starred in the hit series statement, saying she is still their con- on what we share to the public. Stop aggravating the “As a result of Viva’s efforts, Nadine is On The Wings of Love, catapulting tract artist and threatening legal action issue by fabricating lies,” Toni reminded. against her or anyone who deals directly one of the most sought-after actresses in them to superstar status, and turning with her. her generation,” Viva said. them into one of the country’s most be- Nadine’s legal counsel Lorna Kapunan “On the other hand, Nadine as Viva’s loved love teams. They became a real-life welcomed the threats of legal action exclusive talent is obligated to abide by couple in 2016, but announced their Sen. Bong all set for comeback “so [Viva’s] unconscionable, oppressive the terms of her agreement. This requires breakup in January 2020. and illegal contract with Nadine (and Nadine to appear in tapings, shows, and James, who was also a Viva talent, left SEN. Bong Revilla is all set to start taping his new GMA-7 their other artists) can be litigated in the events; to perform roles in movies which the agency in late 2019 without much show, “Agimat ng Agila”, on February 8, with airing in proper forum.” she agreed to do; to coordinate with controversy, saying that he is focusing either late March or early April. It will be directed by Rico “It’s about time that a David strikes VIVA on projects and endorsements more on his music label, Careless. Gutierrez, who has directed him several times before. “We polished the script muna to make sure it will be a good show for the whole family at puwede maski sa mga bata,” he says. “Ibang-iba ang attack at treatment nito, pati special ef- fects, binusisi. Very fresh What makes rom-coms Successful and the viewers will surely be de- lighted and pleased.” Direk Joey Reyes on why rom-com movies become box-office hits He has also met with Star Cine- ma for a movie with them, a father and daughter story where Director Jose Javier “Joey” Reyes says “When you enter it’s very smart, it was very he’ll co-star with Kathryn that romantic-comedy or rom-com a dark moviehouse well-acted, the attack was movies are considered “comfort food” by and immerse yourself very new. Bernardo. He also Filipinos. for 90 minutes to 120 “It did not depend has a prospective The filmmaker talked about rom-com minutes of people on hugot lines. It made entry in the next movies during his interview with Movie falling in love, you go you fall in love and at MMFF with his Television Review and Classification out feeling better. the same time, maybe popular Budots Board (MTRCB) chairperson Rachel “And Filipinos are because I’m a writer that dance as the peg. Arenas, for an episode of MTRCB addicted to that.” I can relate to how things that happened “Sabi nila, Uncut. Reyes himself has directed a number in my real life are translated to things na- katulong daw According to Reyes, the rom-com of hit rom-com movies like Radio Ro- I write about in the characters in my ‘yun nang malaki genre has been exisiting in the Philip- mance (1996), Narinig Mo Na Ba Ang stories. kaya nakabalik ako sa Senado, so sige, gawin nating pines as early as the ‘60s, with the pop- L8test (2001), Kung Ako Na Lang Sana “It did not make as much money as movie,” he adds. ularity of the love team of (2003), Can This Be Love (2005), Kasal, the usual romcoms which were shown and Nestor de Villa. Kasali, Kasalo (2006), and My Bebe by mainstream studios.” Is he sore at for her “oh God” He explains, “It’s not only the past Love: #KiligPaMore (2015). Although there could be a famil- comment when it was reported that he’s doing a show years that rom-coms have become hits as iar formula for rom-coms in terms of on GMA? “No, I respect everyone’s opinion. Right nila far as the Pinoy moviegoer is concerned. ROM-COMS ARE CAST-ORI- plotting, Reyes believes that there is one ‘yun, so hindi problema sa’kin. Mahal ko lahat ng “Remember, during the time of sina ENTED factor that really sells for the masses: the nasa industriya at gusto ko, magturingan tayo bilang Nida Blanca, Nestor de Villa, there Arenas asks if there is a perfect for- movie’s cast. magkakapatid. Maliit lang ang industry natin so, let’s were already rom-coms, hindi lang siya mula for the hit rom-com movie. He continues, “I realized that despite just move on, magtulung-tulong na lang tayo.” branded as rom-coms. Reyes answers, “No, there is none.” the credibility and the quality of acting What if Janine would be a guest in “Agimat ng Agi- “So, in other words, Filipino comfort The prolific director of rom-com mov- of the actors in Write About Love, la”? “It’s all up to GMA-7, ipaubaya na natin sa kanila food na ang rom-coms. Merong mga ies cites one example, which is Write they did not have the popularity of kung sino ang gusto nilang i-guest sa show. Okay lang nagsabi na when you want to spend About Love. love teams of, let’s say, the Star Cinema naman sa’kin, no problem. Sa ngayon, I’m just thankful more than 200 bucks to enjoy yourself Write About Love is an entry at the movies. for 120 minutes or so, you want to go 2019 Metro Manila Film Festival which “Sa rom-com, importante ang casting to GMA that they welcomed me back pagkatapos ng somewhere where you want to feel won Best Screenplay. kaysa sa kwento sometimes. pinagdanaan ko. Nandiyan pa rin sila at hindi nila ako good.” It is top-billed by Miles Ocampo, “Dahil kung minsan, kahit bugbog na pinabayaan.” This behavior, according to Reyes, Rocco Nacino, , and yung kuwento pero ang daming fans na Sen. Bong and his wife, Bacoor Mayor Lani Mercado, stems from the fact that Filipinos are Joem Bascon. manunuod, dudumugin yun sa pelikula.” were together in hosting a special lunch for the press “die-hard romantics,” which is why they Yeng and Joem were both recognized Reyes says that rom-com movies are who showed them support all these years. Bong is very love watching stories that bring “kilig.” by MMFF when they won the Best more cast-oriented than horror films. proud of Mayor Lani for immediately helping the victims “Filipinos are such die-hard roman- Supporting Actress and Actor awards His points out, “If it is so scary, dudu- of Taal eruption in Cavite and also in Batangas. tics. Love is our placebo and falling in during the awards night. mugin yan ng tao. “Unang araw pa lang ng pagputok ng Taal, ni hindi love and being young and in love has Reyes explains, “I was telling the “Rom-coms are very fan-based ori- nagsabi sa’kin, sumugod na siya roon on her own,” says always provided comfort and even hope writer-director, Crisanto Aquino, he did ented in order to generate money out of Bong. “May sarili siyang initiative.” for Filipinos. a very original and beautiful romcom, that romance.” 22 22 Loisa Andalio Andalioopens up about a controversy in tears, in 2019 thatas caused she her breaks to nearly turn hersilence back on showbiz. on ABS-CBN 2019 ordeal

MANILA — For the first time, actress Loisa Andalio and real-life boyfriend, as one of the sources of her mang-tama kasi ang Guitar, ang similarity nga namin Ready na ba siya mag-settle down with Rambo? spoke in detail about a controversy in 2019 that strength to grapple with the situation at the time. parehas na basic, simple lang,” pahayag ni Maja. “Hindi ko kasi pwedeng…ang precious kasi ng mga ta- admittedly marked a dark phase in her life, and nearly “Siya po ‘yung isa sa dahilan kung bakit naging Last year, Maja joined the league of the other nong na ‘yan, so, pag sinagot ko kayo diretso, parang made her mas matapang ako lumaban… Sinabihan niya ako na, accomplished and diverse artists representing Guitar mawawalan na yung moment na yun if ever, sakaling “give up.” ‘Ako bahala sa ‘yo, taas-noo tayong lalabas, hindi kita namely Gloc 9, and . magustuhang itanong ni Rambo. Kaya sini-save ko po The pababayaan,’” she recalled. Inilunsad ang nasabing brand noong 1960 by the late yun.” “James Andalio said she hopes her experience, and how she Mr. Choa Bengtong. Pero promise ni Maja, isi-share niya raw yun sa & Pat & has managed to overcome it, will help inspire others Ang launch ni Maja as celebrity endorser marked the public, “Yeah, ipatatawag ko ang madlang pipol. Dave” star who may be similarly going through a dark episode to birth of Guitar’s first ever denim series collection. Ha-hahaha! “ was asked keep counting on better days. And speaking of The Killer Bride, si Maja ang “itinu- Tinanong naman namin si Maja sa reaksyon niya sa about the turo” bilang promotor ng pagkaka-link sa co-stars niya nalalapit na wedding ni Sarah Geronimo at ex-boy- incident Maja tatanggi sa proyekto kung kasa- sa serye na sina Janella Salvador at Joshua Garcia. friend niyang si Matteo Guidicelli. in her Binansagan din si Maja bilang matchmaker ng “Super happy ako, for ate Sarah lalo kasi, katulad interview ma sina Gerald at Kim dalawa. Pero sabi ng dalaga nagsaya lang daw sila na naman niyan, ang tagal na nating prinsesa. Hina- on “Tonight nu’ng thanksgiving party ng The Killer Bride. hangad na natin na maging masayang-masaya siya, with Boy APAW pa rin ang saya ni sa tuwing “So, kung may lumabas na mga video ng ano, and finally, heto na,” sagot ng Dance Royalty. Abunda” binabati siya sa success ng huling teleserye niya sa syempre mauunahan ng malisya. At lahat naman Kung iimbitahan, pupunta kaya si Maja sa wedding that aired ABS-CBN, ang The Killer Bride. friends. Alam mo naman yung dalawa, fan ako nu’ng nina Sarah at Matteo? “Hindi pa kami nagkikita ni on Tuesday. At hindi pa man nakaka-get over ang publiko sa dalawa. Kasi, in fairness ang lalim talaga ng friendship ate Sarah ulit. Pero siyempre naman, doon na tayo sa “Ngayon, masasabi ko na natuto ako. Bumabangon TKB, may bagong proyekto na kahit ano’ng tukso mo, talagang wala. Yung party katotohanan.” ako, nakabangon ako. Dahil po iyon sa mga taong agad na inalok sa kanya namin, siguro alam nilang maghihiwalay na, so, may Anyway, we also asked her if open ba siya to work nagmamahal sa akin sa paligid ko. Hindi po ako per- ang Kapamilya network. extra sweetness,” depensa niya. with na naging boyfriend din niya pektong tao. Nagkakamali din po ako. Ang mahalaga “May pinitch sa akin Pero dahil daw sa extra sweetness nina Joshua at noon, wala naman daw problema sa kanya. sa akin, natuto ako, bumangon ako, lumaban ako. na movie the other day. Janella kaya sila in-unfollow sila ni Julia Barretto sa Sila pala ang original choice na magbida sa pelikula Tuloy ang buhay,” she said. Hopefully, kapag tinanggap Instagram, “Hindi ko alam,” sabay iling ni Maja. nina Maine Mendoza at Carlo Aquino na “Isa Pa With Andalio, 20, turned emotional when prompted to ng aking makakasama Personally, boto ba siya kay Joshua para kay Feelings” pero nagkaroon nga ng problema kaya hindi give a message to herself during the height of the e, magtuluy-tuloy, yes. Janella? “Oo naman,” mabilis na sagot ni Maja. “(As) na natuloy. controversy. Pero hindi siya guy (ang loveteam, oo. Dahil, parehas may chemistry.” Once pa lang daw sila nagkatrabaho ni Gerald “Masasabi ko sa kaniya na proud ako sa kaniya, makakasama niya). Hindi ako magbibigay ng hint Sa nalalapit na celebration ng Valentine’s Day, sa isang Christmas special. Pero sa posibilidad na dahil kinaya niya ‘yung sakit, kinaya niya ‘yung kasi nga syempre, wala pa,” kwento ni Maja after ng inalam namin kay Maja kung ano ang plano nila ng gumawa siya ng project with Gerald kasama si Kim panghuhusga. Gusto kong sabihin na, ‘Proud ako, kasi fashion show ng Guitar Apparel kung saan siya ang boyfriend niyang si Rambo Nuñez. Chui, pumalag na si Maja. hindi ka sumuko, kinaya mo,’” she said. solo female celebrity endorser. “Mag-iibigan pa lalo,” ngiti ni Maja. “Ang date “Hindi ko po ilalaggay ang sarili ko sa isang po- “Sa totoo, ang daming pumasok sa isip ko na, Kaya grateful si Maja sa magandang pasok sa namin ay sa kasal ng best friend niya. Sa Feb 14, sisyon na pagpipiyestahan ninyong lahat. Ha-hahaha! ‘Ayoko na, pagod na ako.’ Hindi ko na kaya ‘yung kanya ng 2020. meron kaming wedding na pupuntahan,” aniya. Parang, bilang ikaw, alam mo kung paano alagaan masasakit na binibigay sa akin ng mga tao, lalo’t hindi Umpisa pa lang ng taon, grabe na ang blessing na Tiniyak ni Maja na hindi nila wedding ‘yun ni Ram- ang sarili mo. So, isa-isa lang!” lahad pa niya. naman nila alam,” Andalio explained. bumuhos sa kanya, “Like, itong renewal ng Guitar. So, bo, “Hindi ko wedding yun. Hayaan mo, kung totoong Ganern. Andalio credited Ronnie Alonte, her onscreen partner magdadalawang taon na ako sa kanila. Sabi ko, ta- wedding ko yun, kung sakali man, invited ka.”

THE SOCIALLIST they held a fundraising concert at JC’s palce a day trip to Buffalo. I joined the day trip. continued from page 15 Another talented girl is holding her for the benefit of ANCOP. It featured the We went to the Fatima Shrine. We went first concert at Republika. She is a talent Octave band. They had the JDL uber-di- to pray to win the lottery so we will have fomer here in Toronto and I have not seen of Marky Hugh Productions. Her name va (a compliment people before you got money to pay the bills when it arrives after him once watch her concert. is Arielle Kayleen Perez. She used to be a berserk) and JDL Performing school owner we shop ‘til we drop at the Fashion Outlet The concert was another successful one Little Miss Philippines 2014 winner. Now, Josie de Leon, the JDL group Cupid Arch Mall at Niagara Falls. It was a fundraising of Belinda Reyes’ Black Diamond produc- she’s grown up to be a beautiful, talented and a group fo dancers. Photos are in the for a friend who had a successful medical tions. For as long as I have been publishing girl. The concert is on March 22. other pages on this issue. operation here. Afterwards, the person this newspaper since December 1999, Be- went home, got sick and cannot fly back linda Reyes has been the longest and most I do not know how long it’s been since I M&M Travel and Tours, with Ellen Ga- THE SOCIALLIST consistent of all the producers I have met. heard the name Ivory Keys. Last February, lorport Galorport and Mila Tolentino had continued on page 27

Why Lorna T is also nearly fed up with stomach the kind of character Lily Cortez is. ganyan.’” mo sa TV sa sobrang close up’ or ‘Parang siopao mukha mo, “Wala siyang galang sa matatanda, wala siyang Still, she has neither asked her director and co-actor magpa-thermage (a type of reduction procedure) ka!’” Lily sini-sino,” she said of Lily. “Sobrang intense ng Coco Martin nor the scriptwriters to tone down the evil To Lily’s credit, Lorna pointed out the character has not pagmamahal niya sa kapangyarihan at pera.” in Lily. The only thing Lorna has done is to suggest a committed murder in the story. “Hanggang September 2019 lang kasi talaga ang contract The character is so sinister that Lorna sometimes revision in a line or two to make them more “realistic.” “Never pa siyang pumatay — pinapapatay niya!” ko,” she said in an interview. “Pero since then ay sinasabi would remind her co-actors in a scene that what “Sometimes I put it (her suggestion) in the dubbing The actress revealed just how challenging playing Lily nila sa akin, ‘Oh, etong December ay mawawala na si Lily they are about to do — what they are about to then I leave it up to them kung isasama nila o hindi,” is. She said that many times, the script is revised on set so sa storya.’ Tapos pagdating naman ng December, magte-text hear from Lily — is “just work, nothing person- al.” she said. she has to memorize the new lines on the fly. Fortunately, sila, ‘End of February na lang.’ Ngayon naman, hanggang “Nakaka-drain siya (Lily) talaga. Minsan, sa ginagawa She’s so good at playing Lily that the bashing Lorna gets Coco is collaborative so he listens to suggestions and would end of March na lang daw. So pausog ng pausog, pahaba ng ko, naiiyak ako. Kahit nanlilisik ’yung mata ko, teary-eyed online sometimes turn personal. sometimes use them. pahaba. Ako naman, okay lang ako ng okay.” pa rin ako. Kasi, parang sa puso mo, alam mo na minsan “’Yung iba sasabihin, ‘Ang sama-sama mo, hindi na Would she take on another kontrabida role after “Ang It’s a happy “problem” in an industry where many actors parang, ‘Meron pa bang ganito? Meron bang ganitong tao?’ namin panonoodin ang show!’” she said. “Minsan din, Probinsyano?” would kill to be a regular on that show. Grateful as she is “Pero napa-pacify naman ako ng mga katrabaho ko rin umaabot sa point na sa sobrang inis nila, pati laki ng mukha “Hindi muna siguro,” she said. “Pahinga na muna, for the villainous role, there are times Lorna herself can’t na kapwa ko artista. Sinasabi nila sa akin, ‘Marami silang ko ay pinupuna nila. ‘Kulang na lang lumabas ang mukha kumbaga magpagpag (na muna).”

$40 & $60 April 18, 2020 R Banquet Hall 10 Milner Business Court (SE Progress & Milner)

Call Philip: 647-267-9649 23 23 James & Nancy have Perfect Chemistry

fter the “look test,” those behind fare. “It will air in the Philippines and we a member of the South Korean girl group Athe anticipated The Soulmate are looking at the possibility of airing it in Momoland. Nancy was born on April 13, Pastor Paolo mum about ‘Ash- Project were convinced (beyond Korea as well.” 2000, to an American father and a Ko- reasonable doubt) that there is “per- According to Cory, The rean mother, and grew up in the US. She Matt’s’ after-nuptials drama fect chemistry” and “magic” between Soulmate Project is an uncon- competed in the Korean music survival James Reid and Nancy McDonie, ventional love story set in a program Finding Momoland and debuted Days since the “secret wedding” of Sarah Geronimo the new loveteam calculated dystopian near-future Phil- in late 2016 as one of the seven members and Matteo Guidicelli, it’s still a hot topic because of the to take TV land by storm as ippines where, instead to make the cut. Her Korean name is Lee colorful subplots. soon as the TV series starts of the usual arduous Seung Ri. In 2017, Nancy became a host Sarah’s bodyguard, Jerry Tamara, claims that Matteo airing. Shooting will start way of looking for of the popular music program Pops in punched him for squealing about the wedding to Sarah’s anytime this month in both your Soulmate, the Seoul. Mommy Divine. In show biz circles, it’s an open secret Manila and Seoul. Government assigns Momoland and its maknae (youngest) that she’s not too keen on Sarah’s relationship with Following the storycon, the Soulmate for you ­— member Nancy have been in the social Matteo. She ought to do a version of her daughter’s hit James and Nancy are undergoing work- whether you like it or not. An unlikely media buzz lately, not only because of their “Tala” and call it “Hala.” shops with Antoinette Jadaone who is couple gets assigned as Soulmates. They successful comebacks mainly attributed On the other hand, the spiritual counselor of the new- directing the series. It was also Antoinette despise each other at first but later on they to the girl group’s single Bboom Bboom lyweds, Letty Fuentes, clarified that it was Mommy Divine who directed James and his former partner fall in love like real Soulmates do. and BAAM, and the stunning visuals of who caused a commotion when she gatecrashed the re- in the hit Kapamilya series On The Wings Meanwhile, let’s get to know more members, including Nancy which captured ception. In her “TV Patrol” interview, Letty said, “Matteo Of Love (OTWOL). about Nancy through a backgrounder from each and every human-turned-Nancy-stan did not hurt the bodyguard. Mommy Divine wanted to “The series will be in Tagalog, English www.hallyulife.com and www.viki.com): (a fan of Nancy). slap Matteo and called him, “Traydor.” and Korean with subtitles,” Cory Vidanes, Nancy is the stage name of Nancy Her motto is: “If you get the chance, Sarah intervened, but her mom pushed her away, so ABS-CBN COO of Broadcast, told Fun- Jewel McDonie, a singer and MC who is don’t miss out on it.” all she could do was cry. If I were to coin a hashtag for the “after-nuptials drama,” it would be “#AshMatt didn’t AskMa.” I am more inclined to believe the story of Letty. Born- Super Tekla, sobrang thankful sa again Christians like her shy away from controversy. Catriona supports Bb. Pilipinas That’s why I understand why Pastor Paolo Punzalan (who showbiz blessings officiated the controversial wedding) refused to comment on the issue when I asked his sis, Princess, to relay my ALL eyes are on Catriona Gray and re- ally epitomizes the organiza- Super Tekla remains humble and thankful amid request for an interview. But Letty took it upon herself to the many blessings he has reaped as one of the Ka- Stella Marquez-Araneta these days. tion’s battlecry - “a binibini come to Matteo’s defense. puso network’s prime comedians. Nakaw-eksena ang naganap na meet- is always a binibini.” Her Jerry was just doing his job. But for him to insist that “Asawa” ang trato ng comedian na si Super Tekla ing ng dalawa kamakailan. Kaya support helps boost the sa brand new car na naipundar niya dahil silang da- he got punched by the groom is a desperate attempt to lalong umiinit ang usapin hinggil sa morale of Madam Stel- lawa ang araw-araw na magkasama. put Matteo in a bad light. The Kapamilya star is such a local pageantry. Lalo na’t may sar- la and the organization. Natatawang ikinuwento ng isang malapit kay Tek- mild-mannered guy. It’s unthinkable that he would flare la na hindi ito umaalis ng bahay na hindi dala ang ili nang pageant sa pagpili ng of- Patunay lamang na up on the happiest day of his life. kanyang sasakyan, kahit malapit na malapit lang na ficial candidate sa Miss Universe may utang na loob Sarah has been working like a horse as the breadwin- lugar ang pupuntahan niya. simula ngayong taong 2020. Sa itong si Cath. In- “Nakakapagpundar na si Tekla, kahit papaano. ner of her family all these years. No wonder she broke Facebook post ng Sash Factor, deed, she is beautiful “Nakabili na nga siya ng kotse na alagang-alaga down during one of her shows abroad due to “burnout.” iba-iba ang naging reaksyon inside and out. niya. She’s no robot, après tout. I told her during our interview “Parang yun ang asawa niya dahil sila ang araw- ng mga pageant afficionado. Samantala, nilinaw na ni last July, “You should spoil yourself on your birthday.” araw na magkasama,” sabi ng confidante ni Tekla Isa sa kanilang ispekulasyon ay si Catri- Shamcey Supsup, National Director The idea seemed alien to her. She has always put her na sa lahat ng mga pagsubok na pinagdaanan ona na raw ang magiging National Di- ng Miss Universe-Philippines, na wala ng komedyante bago ito nakaranas ng maayos na family first. So, now at 31, the Pop Princess more than rector ‘pag nag-retire si Madam Stella. dapat kompetisyon sa dalawang organ- pamumuhay. deserves to make her “happily ever after” with Matteo Pero mas malapit sa katotohanan ang isasyon. Pero sa pagsasanib puwersa nina Maraming ipinagpapasalamat sa Diyos si Tekla a priority. It’s high time the dutiful daughter turns into dahil dalawa na ang regular shows niya sa GMA- usap-usapan na si Cath ang magiging Cath at Madam Stella, mukhang lalong a devoted wife. 7—ang The Boobay and Tekla Show at ang All-Out host sa coronation night. titindi ang kompetisyon sa pagitan ng When news about their engagement broke out, I asked Sundays. Nakakatuwa na makita ang Miss Uni- BPCI at MUP. So, who will win in the Maligayang-maligaya si Tekla sa mataas na rat- Matteo’s mom Glenna for her sentiments about it. She verse 2018 na suportado ang Binibining ratings game come coronation night? ings ng comedy talk show nila ni Boobay, at masaya said that it would be better if I ask Matteo, instead. It only Pilipinas Charities, Inc. (BPCI). She Just asking... siya dahil nadagdagan ang kanyang mga kaibigan goes to show that Glenna doesn’t meddle in her son’s life, mula nang maging mainstay siya ng All-Out Sun- days, ang Sunday noontime musical variety show ng but supports his decisions. Matteo’s happiness is hers, as Kapuso Network. well. “Happy si Tekla sa All-Out Sundays. Nag-e-enjoy Alden, box-office star sa iba? nakapagpatikim sa kanya kung paano maging box Hopefully in due time, Mommy Divine will do the same. siya sa “Tapsikret” segment ng show. office star. Naitala ang pelikula nila ni Kathryn Ber- She should not worry who her daughter loves more, her “Sobrang kulitan kaya nagpapasalamat siya sa nardo na “Hello, Love, Goodbye” bilang “highest or Matteo, because Sarah has loved her and their family kanyang mga kasamahan, like Paolo Contis,” dag- ALDEN Richards is undoubtedly GMA’s prized talent. longer. At this point of their lives, Divine should not be dag na kuwento ng taong malapit kay Tekla. Kaya naman alagang-alaga siya ng network. grossing local film of all time.” Dahil dito, mas tu- too much of a mother to be a friend to Sarah. Ipinagpapasalamat din ni Tekla na kasama siya Pero hindi mismoang home network nito maas ang kaniyang premium bilang celebri- The lyrics of Sarah’s hit song “Tala” is so apt for their sa The Sweetheart and The Balladeer (Fun Night ang nagbigay ng phenomenal hits sa ty. Kaya naman lalong dumami ngayon ang Only), ang concert series nina Christian Bautista at “against-all-odds” love story. Let the honeymoon begin kanyang showbiz career. Let’s give credit to brand endorsements ni Alden. Patunay lang . ito kung gaano siya kasikat. as AshMatt does the famous “Tala” dance (but with a Dahil sa concert series ng GMA Entertainment where credit is due. Thanks to Eat Bulaga, “Tara” twist): Group, GMA Pinoy TV, at GMA Regional TV, narating a blocktime-produced show, for partnering Alden is not only Asia’s Multimedia Star Parang nakatingin ang buong daigdig ni Tekla ang mga probinsiyang hindi pa niya napu- him with Maine Mendoza resulting in their but also a certified box office star. Pero ‘pag ako ay yakap-yakap mo/ At kung hanggang dito puntahan. phenomenal tandem called AlDub. kapag gumawa siya ng pelikula na prodyus ng lang talaga tayo/ Hindi pababayaan ang daang ti- Maging sa pelikula, tanging Star Cinema ang kanyang home network, magiging blockbuster din nahak na kapiling ka/ At kung umabot tayo hang- kaya ito? Just asking... gang dulo/ Kapit lang ng mahigpit/ Aabutin natin ang mga tala/ Tala, tala, tala/ Ang ningning ng mga tala’y nakikita ko sa ‘yong mga mata/ Tala, tala, tala/ Ang ningning ng ‘yong mga mata’y nahanap Dr. Solon Guzman Opens Dental Office at Seafood City ko sa mga tala… Viva Entertainment executive Vincent del Rosario said he and his family were just as surprised as the fans, when they discovered that two of their biggest contract stars, Sarah Geronimo and Matteo Guidicelli, had already gotten married. “None of us were there at the wedding. We had no idea,” he recently told reporters at the Viva offices. “We thought it was going to be in March.” Even his father, Viva’s top executive, Vic del Rosario, didn’t know about the couple’s marriage plans, he said, until Matteo called him up to pacify Sarah’s mother, Divine, who made a scene at the wedding reception. “I believe he was in a meeting at The Podium when he was asked to come over,” Vincent related. Dr. Solon Guzman’s dentistry practice is already open at Seafood City in Mississauga. 24 24 her teasing Joshua and Janella, who were Maja Salvador reveals seen sweet that night. Joshua even dedi- cated a song for Janella. real score between “Nagsaya lang kami nang gabing ‘yon, Joshua Garcia, Janella so kung meron mang lumabas na videos, Hunk siyempre mauunahan Salvador ng malisya, but lahat kami friends. Alam MANILA, Philippines naman ng dalawa na — Kapamilya actress fan ako no’ng dalawa. Maja Salvador clarified Bilang siyempre si Shot that she’s not Joshua Camila,” Maja said. Garcia and Janella Sal- Maja clarified that vador’s matchmaker. Joshua and Janella were Keiffe In an interview with just friends. the media after she performed at the “In fairness do’n sa dalawa, malalim Randa recent Guitar Apparel event in which she talaga ‘yung friendship na kahit anong was launched as endorser, Maja said they pagtutukso mo, wala. Then siguro no’ng were just having fun in the party of the re- party namin, maghihiwalay na, wala na Manzano cently concluded series “The Killer Bride.” kaming taping, so may extra sweetness. An IPEN model, “Kung ano man ang lumabas no’ng time Pero hanggang do’n lang,” Maja said. na ‘yon, we’re just having fun. Siyempre Maja performed a song and dance num- 22-year old Keiffe is masaya kami dahil ang daming nagsupor- ber in front of a crowd in Robinsons Place currently a Mr. IPEN ta sa show namin,” Maja said. Manila. Together with Maja were fellow Ambassador of Hope. Maja was talking about the videos from endorsers Gloc 9 and Carlos Agassi. Along with 4 other the party that circulated online, showing IPEN ambassadors, they will go to the Philippines. His favourite food is ABS fort for local businesses and entrepreneurs sushi. He plays continued from page 1 struggling to make ends meet in what should be their most profitable season. basketball and for more than half of Boracay’s tourism “There is almost no business now,” tour ultimate frisbee. business. coordinator Jerrick Arellano said. “A lot of Someday, he wants to Solidum’s estimate was the most opti- places have just closed and a lot of people work in finance. We mistic of any of the several local business; have lost their jobs,” most of them season- wish him all the luck the consensus was that business on Bo- al or contractual workers. racay is down about 80 percent since the in his endeavours. Several vendors said 700 to 800 people beginning of February for lack of visitors. had been put out of work by the downturn “We just got over Typhoon “Ursula” in visitors, but The Manila Times was (international name: “Phanfone”) [in De- unable to independently confirm those cember], and now this,” one of Solidum’s figures with local government officials or colleagues chimed in. “A lot of people are the Department of Labor and Employ- worried they will close Boracay again.” ment. In April 2018, Boracay was ordered Arellano did confirm, however, that closed for six months by the government he and the several other employees of in order to carry out a large-scale rehabili- the tour company he works for had been tation of the popular tourist destination. informed that they would be reduced to A number of other vendors and local half-salary as of March 1 “indefinitely.” workers also confirmed that “people are “Before, P20,000 [per month] — now talking about the island closing again.” P10,000,” he said. “They said until further notice. We don’t know when it will get Safe to travel better. And almost everybody has the Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo same problem.” Puyat, however, said there were no plans “I don’t know what we’re going to do,” to close Boracay because of the Covid-19 he added, visibly worried at the thought. epidemic. Puyat clarified, “No closure of Boracay.” Silver lining “Also, there is no local transmission [of Not everyone is unhappy with the Covid-19] in the country,” the Tourism virtual collapse of business on the island, chief added. “So, it’s safe [to travel] in the however. country.” “It’s okay for us,” a group of police offi- News reports over the weekend claimed cers casually observing the passers-by told that 11 South Korean visitors in Boracay The Manila Times. “Not too many people, from South Korea’s North Gyeongsang not much trouble.” were suspected of being infected with the The visitors who did make it to Bora- coronavirus. cay were apparently enjoying the quieter They were allowed to depart on Feb- surroundings. ruary 28 and 29 after they exhibited no “It’s fantastic, isn’t it?” Mark Wells, an symptoms of Covid-19. Australian visiting Boracay with his wife The Philippines banned the entry of vis- Terri said as he waited in line for coffee on itors from North Gyeongsang on February Sunday morning. “It’s beautiful weather, 26. The city of Daegu, where the largest the beach isn’t crowded at all, you don’t number of Covid-19 cases in South Korea have to wait to get a table for dinner. I were recorded, is located in the province. know the people are having problems because there’s not as much business, but Small comfort it’s been lovely for us. If you ask me, this is Puyat’s reassurance that Boracay will a great time to come here.” not be closed likely comes as small com-

Photographer Bing Mariano and wife pose with Joey Albert and The Company 25 25 This former “better half” is no “bitter half”

My dearest “sis” Princess “Cess” Punzalan-Field was in town recently for the Christian wedding of

her nephew, Princess Punzalan-Field Nathan and (right) with brothers Paolo and Ben Myrtle Sarrosa begins new chapter in her career Pauline. “I Cosplayer, host, singer, songwriter, and actress Myr- ment. I›ve really wanted to work with GMA because of Santiago-Lara cried at the tle Sarrosa is now officially a Kapuso after she inked a the shows they have, these are the kinds of shows that I revealed that ceremony management contract with GMA Network. want to be a part of. I can feel that GMA believes in me Kapuso view- because Myrtle Sarrosa begins new chapter in her career and I›m so happy to find people who believe in me,” ers should their love is After weeks of speculation, Myrtle Sarrosa has finally she said. watch out so pure, just inked a management contract with GMA Network. With all smiles, Myrtle promised to work harder for Myrtle in the way love should be,” gushed Cess. “Believe Present in the contract signing were Senior Assistant and to stay focused on learning more about her craft various GMA it or not, when Nathan kissed his bride, it was Vice President for Alternative Productions Gigi Santia- in GMA. She is looking forward to working with GMA’s shows, “GMA Artist the first time they really had a torrid kiss.” Take go-Lara and GMA Artist Center Senior Talent Manager brightest stars including Alden Richards, Julie Anne San Center is very happy note, millennials. Daryl Zamora. Jose, and Ruru Madrid. to welcome Myrtle Speaking of marriage, Cess dropped by the A cum laude graduate with a degree in Broadcast «I really want to reinvent myself and to experience in our roster of taping of her ex-husband, , just Communication at the University of the Philippines new things. Life is about making new memories and talents. She’s a versatile to see how he was doing. “I asked if his resthouse Diliman, Myrtle is ready for the opportunities and creating new experiences. I›m so excited for what›s yet artist so we’re glad that in Tagaytay is OK after the Taal eruption,” shared experiences that will be given to her as she embarks on to come,» she related. she chose to join us here in Cess. “Even if we separated, I wish him well. her journey in the Kapuso Network. Myrtle with GMA’s Senior Assistant Vice President the Kapuso Net- work. We’re Exes must not lose respect for each other because «I›m so excited to be a Kapuso. Everyone is so nice for Alternative Productions Gigi Santiago-Lara and GMA also very excited because we once upon a time, you were part of each other’s and they›re so warm. I’m happy to be in a new environ- Artist Center Senior Talent Manager Daryl Zamora will see her soon back on television.” journey.” Cess and Willie are living proof that an ex-“better half” must not turn into a “bitter half.” Now that Cess is back in Los Angeles (where BANNED FROM THE USA the VFA, which Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela she’s a member of the Screen Actors Guild), she’s continued from page 1 governs the presence Rosa’s visa. ecstatic because an agent has signed her up. It’s of American troops Dela Rosa is the former officials linked to the arrest of opposition pilot season, so Cess is hoping to get auditions for in the Philippines chief implementer of the Senator Leila De Lima. TV shows or web series. for military ex- Philippines’ war on drugs Even if she is already an accomplished actress, “I am terminating the VFA. I was not ercises, if the US having served as Duterte’s Cess does not sit on her laurels. She still attends joking. The day I said it was the day that I would not correct first Philippine National acting workshops and keeps evolving. She’s decided it should be terminated,” he said. the revocation of Police head. raring to go global. The President last week warned to end

Have you tried the Tita Challenge? Palace warns Japan, Australia not to meddle, rules out new US pact Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo to become a self-reliant state capable of in the game. After all, she is the youngest among us. said that while the defense agreements crushing its own enemies. To my surprise, she brought out a bag highly with Australia and Japan remain in force “It does not have the go-signal of the identified with titas, Givenchy. She had the same as of now, President Duterte is also keen President. Maybe that’s the initiative of items found in both my and Candy’s bag and—-even on scrapping those pacts if the two coun- Ambassador Romualdez’s counterpart. Of for higher points than a reading glass—Kim had tries interfere with the sovereignty of the course, they are affected. So they will initi- medicated balm! That’s easily 80 points. Philippines. ate a good suggestion,” Panelo said. Really, what’s a millennial doing with medicated He also maintained that President Dute- Romualdez added that contrary to US rte remains firm in his decision to abrogate President Donald Trump’s earlier remark balm? Only titas with arthritis and aching backs and the country’s VFA with the United States that he does not mind the termination of legs do that! But Kim says it soothes her headaches. (From left): The author Giselle Sanchez, Candy Pangilinan, amid reports that the envoys of Manila the VFA, Pentagon officials are “extreme- and Kim Molina What a tita! and Washington are working for another ly concerned” about the implications of Our next challenge was called Try Not To Dance. military deal to replace it. scrapping the deal amid Beijing’s rise in the There’s a series of tests to determine if you are mem- They played ‘80s, ‘90s and 2000 music to see which Ambassador to the United States Jose West Philippine Sea. ber of the Titas of Manila and my colleagues Candy songs would literally move us (remember, hips don’t Manuel Romualdez said his counterpart, The VFA is the foundation of military Pangilinan, Kim Molina and I took it recently. lie). US Ambassador Sung Kim, was in Wash- exercises between the two countries such The first part of the test is a bag raid wherein you Kim, was unable to keep still once Beyoncé’s ington exploring the possibility of a new as the Mutual Defense Treaty and the En- bring out every item inside your bag. Judges will “Single Ladies” came on. I lost the game as well when agreement with Manila. hanced Defense Cooperation Agreement. decide if these are “tita-ble” or not. they played Madonna’s “Like A Virgin” (hey, I was Romualdez said the country’s military The MDT states that Manila and Wash- To be honest, I really don’t like being called tita. virgin back then and that was my song except for the deals with Australia and Japan were among ington would come to each other’s defense the agreements “recommended for study” in case of an attack by a foreign state, while Among us, I am the tita in denial. That’s why I was so line “touched for the very first time,” hihi). happy that I forgot to put my reading glasses inside as a model for a new accord. The proposal the EDCA allows the US military to main- Later, I realized it is not so bad being a tita if it would be presented to President Duterte, tain barracks and weapons storage struc- my bag because that would have been 50 points! I means enjoying music from those eras. I dont mind he added. tures inside five Philippine military camps. would’ve won instantly—I would have been bona fide being one if titas are required to have wine night with In 2007, the country entered into a Panelo said scrapping the VFA also tita! pairing (if you don’t know what pairing means, you visiting forces deal with Australia that weakens MDT and EDCA. Anyway, they found alcohol, tissue and pens and are not a tita). took effect in 2012. The Philippines also On February 26, Wednesday, President those earned me five points. It’s not so bad to be a tita if it means you have has a military pact with Japan signed in Duterte said the military and police assured Then it was Candy’s turn. Apparently, having a membership and credit cards as you can afford to buy 2016, which provides a framework for joint him that the Philippines could boost its red lipstick in your bag makes you a tita, and so with anything you want. In fact, in that case, it feels great research and development projects between defense capabilities without US assistance. receipts, membership cards, perfume (apparently to be a tita! the two countries, as well as Tokyo’s supply He added that the Philippines should because millennials use cologne). It’s also good to be a tita when it means people of defense equipment to Manila. choose to become a “territory” of the Unit- Panelo said the initiative to work out ed States or a “province” of China if it is Those items along with alcohol and tissue—she also ask you for advice on how to be successful. It means had those— gave Candy seven points. She’s more tita a new deal does not have the go-signal incapable of defending itself from terrorism we are made: we have got the four B’s namely of President Duterte, insisting that the and extremist groups. than me, ha! beauty, body, brain and bank account. commander-in-chief wants the Philippines We both expected millennial tita Kim Molina to lose Many millennials don’t have the last b, haha…

(Pop-ups are not supposed to Happy sa GMA-7 si Coney Reyes Candid SPOOF be taken seriously - EDITOR) Coney Reyes is happy with the continued trust given but she is glad she agreed to do “Love of My Life.” her by GMA Network. She is playing an important She hopes to meet the expectations of the network, role in the upcoming drama, “Love of My Life,” her co-stars and the audience when it comes to her which focuses on family, relationships, love performance. No more pictures. and forgiveness. With Coney around, you can’t help but ask about We want to go She added that there are no her son, Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto. shopping already. We he- roes or villains in the story but the As a mother, she is proud of the accomplishments only have 2 hours. show mirrors what happens in of Vico as chief executive of the city. She said Mayor our everyday life. Vico seldom asks her opinion with regards to his work “This is about reality, in the City Hall but she believes her son is doing his truth. We all have best on his job. problems in life that we When it comes to girls allegedly being linked to cannot resolve. Sometimes we are happy. Sometimes the good-looking mayor, she doesn’t ask him about it. we are sad. There is conflict but what is important is “If he opens up about it, I am willing to listen and into what direction does life take us?” I will give him advice if he asks me. But I am always She admits being choosy in accepting roles on TV here to support him,” the actress said. Samantha and KC poses for pictures before shopping at the Fashion Outlet Mall in Buffalo. 26 26 “Legal Wives”. She will play one of Den- they will someday have their own baby “I can feel it!” TV commercial and Regal How Alice puts younger nis Trillo’s three wives. The other two are through surrogacy. would later launch her in their blockbuster former Miss World and At 50, Alice remains very fit and remake of “Dyesebel” in 1989. colleagues to shame HBO’s star in “Half Worlds”, Bianca young looking through a healthy Alice says she’s looking forward to work- Umali. lifestyle of eating right and ing with her co-stars in “Legal Wives”. ALICE Dixson left ABS-CBN after doing Alice is now together with the exercising diligently. She can put “They’re all young and talented so I’m sure the soap “Ngayon at Kailanman” and start- top executive of the 5-star Crimson some of her younger colleagues we’re all gonna have lots of fun taping our ed guesting on the show’s like “Beautiful Resort and spa in beachfront Station to shame with the youthful show,” she says. “We also have a very young Justice”, “” and “Magpakailan- Zero of Boracay. She won’t reveal good looks she’s able to main- director who I heard is one of the most man”. She now gets a regular role as one of his full name except for his initial, tain since she won in the Bb. competent in the business today so I’m re- the lead stars in the newest drama series, GS. They’ve been on for Pilipinas in 1988. She became ally looking forward to be directed by him.” seven years and she’s hoping so popular then because of her

Star Circle Mix’d Up Band Concert THE SOCIALLIST Rodricks, Samantha Espo- continued from page 23 ras, Shermaine, Crizia, and because the doctor will not Gennelyn. Before I forget, give the clearance for the the food was delicious. We person who is too weak to fly. were taken cared of by Ating Bahay manager Jam Lazaro Last February, Star Circle and her family and the staff. Entertainment led by Ellen Jam also doanted some raffle Galorport, again, had a prizes. Star circle will be hav- day-after Valentine show at ing a repeat perfromance of Kusina ng Ating Bahay at the Lip-Sync bBattle at the Ajax. It featured the Mix’d Dragon Centre on March Up Band composed of Kate 14. It is located at the corner Mohan, Lizzy Trovato, of Brimley and Shepaprd in Aidan Rodricks, Sean and Scarborough. Jestin. Other performers were Kathryn 1. Ellen Galorport with Ating Bahay’s Jam Lazaro 2. The daytrippers pose before shopping. 3. Photographer Noli Gumapac of 4ENS Photo 1 poses with IPEN model Melissa Saldua Ventocil- la in between sessions.

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