2017 FEBRUARY

Free Prescription Is Bato a scapegoat?

MANILA - Senator Leila de Lima said the admin- Drugs For Poor STORY INSIDE istration of President Rodrigo Duterte may be using Philippine National Police chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa as a scapegoat amid the issue of “tokhang for ransom.” “With House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez’s call for the resignation of the PNP Chief, it appears the administration is in need of a scapegoat for the scandal of a PNP force gone rogue,” De Lima said in a state- ment. The senator noted, however, that a major responsi- bility for the spate of “tokhang for ransom” incidents of course, lies with dela Rosa. The PNP chief admitted that Jee, an alleged vitim of “tokhang for ransom,” was killed inside Camp Crame, the PNP’s national headquarters. Following Dela Rosa’s admission, Alvarez, a Duterte-ally, called on the PNP chief ’s resignation to “save President Rodrigo Duterte from further embar- rassment and restore respect to the Office of the PNP Chief.” De Lima condemns the drug war policy that has produced human rights violators and criminals out of the men and women of the PNP.” She argued that a police force that is given license to be judge, jury and executioner is not expected anymore SCAPEGOAT continued on page 19 Achievement

PC Candidate for MPP Mississauga-Centre Angely Pacis poses Ontario PC leader Patrick Brown. garcia STORY INSIDE GABBI & RURU madrid Happiness Chemistry in Encantandia

Charity Altruism Dr. Solon Guzman poses with IPEN Most Beautiful Person awardee Albert Frias for his contribution to society.

Philippine Canadian Charitable Foundation (PCCF) Ms. Teen Canada Chiara Silo cuts the ceremonial ribbon at the turnover of 7 houses by PCCF to Tala Vilalge in Caloocan. Happiness is FV Foods President Mel Galeon livestreaming his birthday celebration with family and friends. 1 2017 1 2 2017 2 The Smart Kid A second grade teacher was hav- ing trouble with one of her students. One day, she asked Jimmy what his problem was. He replied, “I’m too Honey Shot smart for the second grade, my sister is in the fourth grade, and I’m smarter than her too.” The teacher took him to the prin- cipal’s office and explained the situ- ation to the principal. The principal told her that he would give Jimmy a test. If he failed to answer one ques- tion, then he would have to go back to the second grade and be quiet. Duterte The teacher and Jimmy both agreed. Principal: “What is 3 x 3?” apologizes for Jimmy: “9.” Korean’s killing Principal: “6 x 6?” Ayesha plays Jimmy: “36.” Finally, after about an hour, he MANILA (UPDATE) – President the piano told the teacher “I see no reason Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday issued an and guitar. apology for the abduction and killing of why Jimmy can’t go to the fourth a South Korean man allegedly by rogue She also has grade, he answered all of my ques- cops, warning those involved in the a talent for tions right.” gruesome crime will pay big. The teacher asked if she could “I apologize for the death of your drawing. She ask him some questions. The principal compatriot. We are very sorry that it had plays basketball and Jimmy agree. to happen, but I can assure you those Teacher: “What does a cow have responsible are known to us already and also goes 4 of that I only have 2 of?” and they will go to prison and I will Jimmy: “Legs” see to it that they are sentenced to the running to maximum,” Duterte told several South stay in shape. Teacher: “What do you have in Koreans during his speech at a switch-on your pants that I don’t have?” ceremony of a coal plant in Sarangani. Someday, she The principal gasps but before he Duterte also warned those involved in wants to be a can stop him from answerin gJimmy the crime that they will suffer for their says, “Pockets.” acts. dentist oran Teacher: “What does a dog do “I’m very sorry for that sordid incident, orthodontist. that a man steps into?” but I can assure you, I will see to it. Better Jimmy: “Pants.” if they escape [from] prison. T*** i** We wish her all Teacher: “What starts with F and kayong mga pulis. Bantay kayo. Hindi ko the luck in her kayo papalusutin. You will suffer,”he said. ends with K and means a lot of “Maybe I can send your heads to South endeavour. excitement?” Korea.” Jimmy: “Firetruck.” This is the President’s first public The principal breaths a big sigh of reaction to the scandal that has gripped relief and says “Put Jimmy in the fourth APOLOGY Ayesha de Guzman grade. I got the last 4 questions continued on page 13 wrong myself.”

3 2017 3 Is MMFF 2016 a big ACT Wat Da F ? success? BY JOSE BAKING Killing a Dog for Art is Despicable

I am not sure if there is a criminal charge in Philippine law for killing a dog. But to kill a dog in making a movie is despicable. Whether it is criminal or not is irrelevant. You don’t have to kill a dog. I can imagine any number of scenes but I still do not see how killing a dog is necessary. I have not watched the movie “Oro,” one of the entries at the 2015 Metro Manila Film festival where a dog or 2 dogs were killed. MMFF Best Supporting Actress Phoebe Walker in a scene from Erik What for? Matti’s “Seklusyon” (left photo), and festival Best Film “” (right), which follows a group of expatriate domestic When I was still in the Philippines, I was watching a TV show and the cast was workers in Hong Kong bragging that the bullets used in the movie were real. Then, they showed the villains shooting at a pond. Well, there’s nothing special about that. As long as they don’t In November, after 7 Beauty Queen, and Oro shone in failed to make it to the list of of- the eyes of film critics and mov- do it in a scene shooting people, that’s fine. But killing a dog is not integral in a ficial entries (Magic 8) to the 2016 iegoers, the same thing cannot be movie. A character can just say “we killed our dog to serve you this,” would do. End Metro Manila Film Festival, Regal said of the rest of the entries. of Story. Did they do it to attract more viewers who are curious? They say that in Entertainment matriarch Mother First, we have to acknowledge Lily Monteverde said that Christ- the fact that the audience always Hollywood movies, an Oscar win can add to a box-office receipt, specially for a mas is no time for indie films. views film as a means of entertain- boring movie that nobody is watching. People start watching it out of curiosity. But Christmas day came and the ment and not a business. in this case, to kill a dog, for whatever reason in making a movie is unnecessary and 42nd edition of MMFF com- The public is well educated that inhumane. menced. According to our reliable success of a movie does not solely source, the Magic 8 only managed depend upon how much profit to gross around P48.25 million. It’s it made but also in its ability to just a fraction of what the MMFF amplify, through good storytelling, entries earned last year. In the 41st some of its key messages, whether Fake news is Bad? jsut because they put out only their MMFF, the eight entries already it’s a drama, horror or comedy, to side? If a person reads the newspaper raked in a total of P150 million be one of the most memorable and on its first day and breached the entertaining movies they’ve seen. Maybe social media like Facebook, or watches the newscast and the person P1 billion mark by the end of its Perhaps we should adapt what’s Twitter, Google and others should spreads only the aprts that he wants to two-week run. being done by Telefilm in Canada. remove fake news. But who decides what spread to his friends and soical media, Film Development Council Telefilm, a federal cultural agency of the Philippines’ (FDCP) Liza devoted to the development and is fake news? If you make government does it make that fake news? Diño was concerned about the low promotion of audiovisual docu- decide what is fake news, the only audience turnout in the first two ments produced by the Canadian news you will see is pro-government? Citizen Journalism? days of the MMFF. Yet, the actress private sector, came up with a was still optimistic the audience success index in 2001 (revised in Remember when everybody who is would have a change of heart after 2011) to measure the success of “intellectual” ignored those supermarket While supermarket tabloids may have the Gabi ng Parangal. their films. The measurement takes tabloids becasue they had headlines like scooped the Washington post and Before the Gabi ng Parangal, a 60 percent of a film’s score based number of netizens took to social on sales figures domestically and ‘Woman from Outer Space Make Love NY Times, it does not mean that the media to raise a concern about internationally (commercial), 30 to Elvis’ ? Then, they started getting so-called citizen journalism is more the move of some cinema owners. percent on awards and film-festival the scoop on Bill Clinton and his believable. Those 2 newspapers stil ahve Some people were disappointed appearances (cultural), and 10 that some entries were already not percent on how much of a film’s shenanigans. The Washington post and a battery of fact-chjeckers and a huge being shown. funding was private as opposed to the New York Times were caught off- legal department to make sure that what There were cinema owners that public (industrial). guard. So, what then is fake news? Is the they report are true and factual. Do replaced some entries with main- This is very applicable in the stream movies Philippines since some movies news fake because the result you wanted citizen journalists have fact-checkers? 10, Mano Po 7, and Super Parental make money while the others just did not come true? That’s one-sided. They do not. They do it themselves. If Guardians. Moreover, the Hol- win awards. It gives productions it is not fact-checked by anyone, does it lywood film Rogue One: A Star equal footing without sacrificing Propaganda is Fake News? Wars Story was luring the public the real intention of movie produc- mean that the CJ is motivated by truth. away from the MMFF entries. ers and cinema owners. In this Well, CJ’s are motivated by what they The readiness of local cinemago- way, we could easily say shut up to believe is truth, not necessarily the whole ers to these kinds of films is not those people who think that they Isn’t that what fake news used to be the issue. The quality of the films are the last word in the world of called? It was called propaganda. Pr truth. I still believe in the newspapers being exhibited is. While Die big screen entertainment. was it advertising? Or was it called that I hold in my hand and the newscast Beautiful, Seklusyon, Sunday advertorial? Or was it called press on TV. release. So, if you censor “fake news,” will practitioners of advertising and Duterte has an army of online public relations be charged with a felony trolls’ - US JOURNALIST

SAN FRANCISCO – An American journalist has reported on President Rodrigo Duterte’s use of a social media army of trolls to generate fake news and adulatory propaganda and attack his critics. Sean Williams details his finding in an article titled, “Rodrigo Duterte’s Army of Online Trolls,” published in January issue of The New Republic. When Williams was reporting on the violence in the Philippines and EDITOR: Jose Baking EMAIL: [email protected] in September tweeted about Duterte’s war on drugs, a woman named TEL: PUBLISHED BY: Match International Group Madelyn replied to him writing him off as a “troll,” and a “foreigner who 416-945-2336 knows nothing bout my country.” CORRESPONDENTS: Williams noticed that Madelyn’s Twitter stream was filled with adula- tion for President Duterte, and she seemed to tweet about him constantly throughout the day, according to a story about his experience told by Public Radio International. He had stumbled on President Duterte’s “keyboard army” of paid and unpaid online trolls. Anyone speaking critically of Duterte gets attacked by them. Duterte’s social media strategy takes advantage of the Philippines’ young population–the average age is 23; nearly half of its 103 million residents use social media. From Facebook trolls, they get a steady diet of Noli Gumapac Froilan Baking Jermie San Pedro Raymond Santos Jojo Taduran pro-Duterte propaganda. Some people are paid to promote Duterte online, and often they create fake social media accounts. NOTICE CORRESPONDENTS He notes that in the Philippines Twitter, Facebook and other social The advertiser has purchased the right of reproduction in LM Ed Tubale media platforms, once seen as belonging to the masses, have been co- Confidential only & not for use for other publications. The exception opted by bigger players. applies if the advertising material was supplied by the advertiser. “They’re kind of being used by the people with the most money and www.FilipinoGoodLife.com the bigger means to get that message across, and that’s kind of a worrying www.LMConfidential.com development,” Williams told PRI. 4 2017 4 ‘In fairness, hindi Bela Padilla and ex-bf Announcement! na ako trip ng mga To all Bicolanos and DOM ngayon’ agree to compromise Bela Padilla said she has ended her four-year romantic relationship with businessman Bicolanas Umamin ang aktres na si na may Neil Arce, but not their “artistic/creative partnership.” mga nagpaparamdam sa kanya ngayon. “I would like to think that I’m quite mature for my age,” the 25-year-old actress said Pero hindi muna raw niya ito masyadong The 2nd month Novena De- during the press conference of “My Dear Heart,” ABS-CBN’s newest drama program pinagtutuunan ng pansin. to premiere on Jan. 25. “That’s why Neil and I were able to come up with a compromise. votions to the Virgin of Penaf- Natatawang sabi We’ve agreed to still work together.” ni Ara, “May mga rancia will be on “We jive where new and interesting concepts are concerned. In fact, we are currently nagpaparamdam, all working on a movie,” Bela pointed out. February 19, 2017, Sunday. ages... She was referring to ’ “Hindi naman DOM “Luck at First Sight,” starring Jericho Feast Day Celebrations will be on the 3rd Sat- [dirty old man], in fairness, Rosales. She cowrote the script with urday of September, September 16, 2017. hindi na ako trip ng Neil. The ex-couple also conceptualized mga DOM ngayon. May mga siguro five Irene Villamor’s comedy flick, “Camp This month’s Novena Devotions: years younger, may mga 10 years younger. Sawi.” Date : February 19, 2017, Sunday May celebrity, may hindi. Open naman ako She insisted that there was no bad Place : Our Lady of Assumption Church ( sa dating, kaso, as of now, hindi ko pa sila blood between them. She said: “I can OLA ) 2565 Bathurst St. Toronto mabigyan ng time, kasi medyo may ginagawa see us being friends for a long time. Time : 2:00 pm Devotion starts akong soap.” We will work on more concepts in the Rosary Ang tinutukoy na soap ni Ara ay ang future. When it comes to these things, Novena to the Virgin of Pnafrancia upcoming Kapuso afternoon drama series na I still value his opinion more than Holy Mass Pinulot Ka Lang Sa Lupa. anybody else’s.” Refreshments, Kumustahan at the Dalawang taon na ang nakalilipas mula Church Hall nang maghiwalay sila ng dating nobyong si Mutual decision Sponsors for this month - Devotees of the Mayor Patrick Meneses, kung saan mayroon Bela refused to reveal the reason for the split, but insisted that it was “a mutual deci- Virgin of Penafrancia from Catanduanes, hosted siyang isang anak na babae. sion.” by Felix and Mayette Reyes, the Felaire family Ayon kay Ara, naka-move on siya sa She then pleaded with show biz reporters to “please be nice to him. You can criticize and the Bilon family. ginawang pag-iwan sa kanya ng alkalde ng me all you want, just spare him. I don’t want him to read writeups that could make him Bulacan, Bulacan. feel bad. He has no control over this. I’m the only one present at this press con, and it We encourage all bicolanos from Catanduanes “Dalawang taon na si Mandy and single was just my side of the story that you heard.” to attend and participate in the sponsorship of pa rin ako. Pero we’re friends, magkaibigan She claimed that the break-up was still so fresh that “it hasn’t sunk in yet. I guess it’s this novena to the Virgin, for abundant bless- naman kami.” because I’m busy with work. I tape for our teleserye every Monday, Wednesday and Fri- ings for the province of Catanduanes and the Paano nila napapanatili ang kanilang day; study (scriptwriting under Ricky Lee) every Sunday; and work on the film during Bicol Region. maayos na pakikitungo sa isa’t isa? Saad ng the remaining days. Besides, I’m here to talk about the show and not about my personal aktres, “I think mabait ako. issues.” Our Lady of the Virgin of Penafrancia is the “Hindi ko ipinagdadamot ang anak ko, In “My Dear Heart,” Bela plays Clara de Jesus, the mother of child heroine Heart Patroness of the BICOL region. SHE listens kaya kung mapapansin niyo yung anak ko, (Nayomi Ramos), and wife to Jude (). and Loves us all ! very jolly, very full sa pagmamahal. “Kasi Bela said she doesn’t mind portraying mother roles. This was her second since she kapag ipinagkait mo, bitter-bitter-an ka pa… transferred to ABS-CBN. The first was in “FPJ’s .” “Oo, masakit yung nangyari na hindi kami Viva la Virgen ! “First and foremost, I’m an actress. My character’s personality and status in life are nagkatuluyan o iniwan niya ako, pero I think not always similar to mine. That’s what actually makes it challenging,” she pointed out, we need to move on. Naka-move on na ako. adding that she fell in love with Nayomi on Day One of taping. For more information please “Anytime na gusto niyang kunin, nahihiram “I’m very patient with kids. On the set, I treat Nayomi as my little sister. I don’t see niya. call : myself having my own kid just yet. I don’t think I’m ready to take on that responsibility “Basta every Sunday, nasa kanya, nasa Felix and Mayette Reyes 905 896-4958 at this point.” lola niya, tsaka pag may mga special Jenny Amaranto 647 502-2990 “My Dear Heart” also features , Rio Locsin, , Susan Africa, occasions. Ria Atayde, , Mark Oblea, Hyubs Azarcon, Sandino Martin and Robert Paeng Nebres 416 618-1362 “Maganda kasi yung may nagigisnan Arevalo.— siyang tatay.”

5 2017 5 Philippines

Duterte signs EO backing family planning President hopes SC will act ‘Fast’ on Impediments to implementaion of RH Law

MANILA - President said in a Palace briefing. President Benigno Aquino III on December Rodrigo Duterte has signed “This Order aims to 21. an executive order intensify- intensify and accelerate the In 2014, the high court ruled that the ing access to modern family implementation of critical RPRH law was constitutional although it planning amid a Supreme actions necessary and sus- struck out certain provisions of the law. Court temporary restraining tain ‘zero unmet need for The high court also issued a TRO in con- Maja ready order (TRO) on some pro- modern family planning’ for nection with the government’s procurement, visions of the Responsible all poor households by 2018, selling, distributing and promoting contra- Parenthood and Reproduc- and all of thereaf- ceptive implants. for Paulo tive Health Act (RPRH ter, within the context of the “But with this EO from the President, we Law). [RH] Law and its imple- hope that the Supreme Court will act expedi- Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto menting rules,” the executive order read. tiously in terms of lifting the TRO,” he said. romance Pernia told reporters on Wednesday that Pernia said the EO was “really for modern “In fact, with the EO, some, you know, Duterte signed executive order no. 12 on family planning services, modern contracep- there might be some municipalities or local rumors Monday, January 9. tives to be adopted by women of reproductive governments that can, you know, get around “It’s Executive Order No. 12 and the full age.” the TRO by letting NGOs implement or, you She is certain she’ll get title of the EO is Attaining and Sustaining The Cabinet official said the implementa- know, yeah implement the RPRH Law be- Zero Unmet Need for Modern Family Plan- tion of the RPRH law “got stymied” due to cause the private sector is not covered by the linked to her ‘favorite’ lead- ning Services through the Strict Implemen- the petition filed by pro-life groups before TRO. It’s just the government agencies. So, ing man as they team up in tation of the Responsible Parenthood and the SC. in fact, there are some implementation of the new rom-com Reproductive Health Act, Providing Funds In December 2012, RPRH Law was ap- RPRH Law but it’s very limited,” he added. Therefore and for Other Purposes,” Pernia proved by Congress and was signed by former Pardon actress if the question has lost all sense of urgency by now. It’s certainly not the first time she is being linked to her leading man, so she’s used to the Duterte on killing criminals: prying queries—this time, involving , her partner in the coming romantic- Those who believe me are ‘stupid’ comedy, “I’m Drunk, I Love You.” “That cannot be avoided,” she conceded, in an interview with the Inquirer. “It’s part of MANILA -President Rodrigo Duterte on be “happy to slaughter” three million drug “Basta ako, mahal ko ang bayan ko. ‘Wag our industry. You can’t hide anything in show Thursday said people who believe that he addicts. mo sirain. T****** yayariin kita.” biz.” killed criminals when he was still Davao City “Ang masama nito, mga g*** na ito, sabi (I just love my country. Don’t destroy it, She asserted that she is totally comfortable mayor are “stupid”. killing suspects. I was fighting criminals,” otherwise I’ll destroy you.) working with Paulo, who was her costar on “I’m facing stupid people so, I cannot really Duterte added. Asked in a separate interview with GMA both the big (“Status: It’s Complicated”) and do anything for them,” Duterte said. (The bad thing about it was these people News on whether he has killed people who small (“Bridges of Love”) screens. “If you do not find out, spend time to kept on saying I killed suspects. I was fighting did not fight back, Duterte said, “You can “With Paulo, what you see is what you validate and verify, it’s your problem,” Duterte criminals.) never get a validation from me or if it hap- get,” she quipped. “I always enjoy hanging said when asked to clarify about his previ- When asked to further clarify his confus- pened or it didn’t happen.” out with him. I can say that he is my favorite ous statements that he killed and would ing rhetoric, Duterte said, leading man. He’s really special and easy to work with.” Maja recounted that she always looked forward to reporting to work—primarily, Youth groups hit Duterte on ‘false promise’ because of the good vibes and breezy rapport among the cast and crew, led by debuting director JP Habac. of free education “It was JP’s first time to direct, but that was actually more of an advantage [than a liabil- MANILA - Student groups criticized privileged students who wished to pursue national budget,” Zaira Baniaga of Kaisa-UP ity],” she pointed out. “Each artist is different. President Rodrigo Duterte for his false their tertiary education in SUCs because they said. But I am happy I got to work with someone promise of free education following his recent would still have to prove they were “poor The SixWillFix is a legislation that aims so young and inspired. It was refreshing.” statements which reversed previous pro- enough” to be eligible for free tuition. to ensure the automatic appropriation of six She explained that the film was a “passion nouncements warranting free tuition in state “What is being flaunted as a progressive percent of the country’s gross national prod- project” for the youthful filmmaker. universities and colleges (SUCs). step in ensuring tertiary education as a right uct to the budget for education. The bill aims “Limiting free tuition for ‘poor and quali- to be accessed by those who choose to is re- to ensure free education in all levels without Engrossed for years fied’ students puts undue burden on the part ally just a deceptive mechanism in justifying having its quality and accessibility suffer, of students in exercising their right to educa- the increase of tuition and other fees, as those and it also targets fair wages for teachers and “He knows the script inside and out,” she tion,” Rara Ada of Sanlakas Youth said in a who were considered unqualified for free workers and quality facilities for students. volunteered. “He knows every line, every statement. tuition are deemed rich enough to cope with The said bill has been lobbied in both character… the continuity. This script is his “Distorting the recently passed law ensur- higher fees,” she said. houses of the Congress. baby. He has been so engrossed by this story ing free tuition in SUCs through its imple- “If the President is serious in his promise “The right to education in all levels by all for years.” menting rules betrays the promise of free of delivering change, he must do so by priori- citizens is not up for debate,” Baniaga said. The romantic musical-comedy tells the tertiary education flaunted by the Duterte tizing the SixWillFix Bill as urgent, ensuring “If the President believes in investing in story of college buddies as they embark on administration and its allies in the Congress,” that free quality education will not suffer the country’s future, he must not be among life’s biggest adventure, venturing into the she added. from arbitrary changes, nor be subjected to those who stand in the way of free educa- grown-up world post-graduation. Ada also said this burdened only under- annual competition with other parts of the tion,” she added. Although she never had the chance to at- tend college, she insisted she could relate with her character’s travails and tribulations. “At least, I was able to experience college life through this film,” she noted. “I was able Martin del Rosario teresting to “Very challenging,” he admits. “Because to see what students go through.” tackles new role in new see someone my role is yung medyo bugoy na makulit. I And yes, she got to survive getting soused else adding rarely play that character.That’s why I really for the flick. Kapuso reboot tension to put a lot of effort and detail in my role here.” “Here, lasengga ako (I’m a drunk),” she that equa- The Kapuso actor was also intrigued by admitted. “I got to undergo that, too, in this Count on Martin del Rosario’s acting tion. That’s the original story, which he reviewed out of movie.” brilliance to breathe life to a new role in me.” curiosity. Even though she had already read the GMA-7’s remake of the 1987 flick, Pinulot Martin “Yes, I got to read the plot of the original script, she still got “goosies” on the set. Ka Lang Sa Lupa, which originally starred del Rosario story. But then again, the remake is an en- “I already knew what would happen next, Lorna Tolentino, Gabby Concepcion, and adds tension tirely new story altogether. Not at all faithful but I was still caught by surprise by the . in the new to the original,” he clarifies. movie,” she admitted. For this year’s reboot, the new Kapuso Kapuso Being a perfectionist, Martin actually She hopes the audience will be pleasantly TV drama finds Martin sharing top billing series, watches most of their outtakes to nitpick and surprised by the film, as well—particularly with Benjamin Alves, , “Pinulot Ka find areas for improvement. by her solo song, “Huling Gabi,” composed LJ Reyes, and Jean Garcia. He plays Arthur Lang Sa Lupa” He says, “I watch the actual takes, and if by poet and spoken word artist Juan Miguel “Kiko” Villaraza. Since he will be playing a totally new role, I have time, I also do watch the episodes on Severo. “I think they wanted to give the plot a dif- Martin finds it liberating not to be pressured TV, just to see if I need to improve my execu- “It’s my first time to sing in a movie,” she ferent twist,” Martin reveals. into referencing the original story. tion.” enthused. “Kasi in the original plot, it’s the usual And just how challenging is this new role Martin also feels thankful for Direk Gina “I’m Drunk, I Love You” opens in theaters triangle. They thought it would be more in- for him? Alajar’s professionalism. on Feb. 15. 6 2017 6 Birthdays made more meaningful by Jillian not worried Kapuso stars about ‘Awkward

As the Yuletide season brought in the games and Stage’ merriment of gift giving, GMA Artist prizes, like Center stars celebrated their birthdays in any10-year JILLIAN Ward was a super cute 4-year December and old kid. The old girl when she was discovered in the Little spread joy to pre-school Miss Philippines contest of “Eat Bulaga” in other people kids of his 2009. GMA7 got her as a child actress and through their chosen char- she appeared in several chosen chari- ity enjoyed soaps like “The Last ties. playing with Prince”, “Ilumina”, For Pinulot him and the “Jillian: Namamasko Po”, Ka Lang Sa Kapuso child star felt overwhelmed with the “Daldalita”, “Captain on Lupa star warmth he received from the community. At Barbell”, “Biritera”, “Andres LJ Reyes, a young age, he is learning to commit him- de Saya” and many more. his upcoming she spent a self in reflecting and sharing his blessings to She’s just turning 12 this day with the other people as a way of giving back. February 23 but she’s what album: ‘Almost students of Lastly, Migo Adecer decided to gather his you call “malaking bulas”, Papaya Acad- loyal supporters in a restaurant in Quezon so she already looks like all the songs emy Inc., with City to fulfill the promise of an intimate a teenager. As one writer fun, games, and food. This way of giving back afternoon of music and laughter. They all comments: “Dalaga na o!” These little girls really are for Nadine’ reminded her of Aki, her only son, whom shared different conversations, helping the grow up so fast! she offers her birthday wish to. “I pray that fans get a little bit more personal with him. Isn’t she afraid that as a tween, she’d now On Bandila, “amazing” was how God can give me more time with him, kasi It’s been a year since he won the Ultimate be in what they call the awkward stage and she Nadine Lustre described 2016 he’s getting more serious with school and Starstruck Survivor title and Migo feels might have no more assignments coming up? for her and boyfriend James Reid, sometimes I can feel the separation anxiety.” grateful for these “Hindi naman po,” says Jillian. “Kasi heto nga, while James called 2016 “the best Ika-6 Na Utos star Mike Tan paid it fans that stood ang ganda-ganda ng role ko as Katherine in ‘Sa year” for them. forward by celebrating his birthday with by him from the Piling ni Nanay’. Ako ‘yung anak na pinag- For 2017, Nadine revealed the elderly of Infinite Blessed Home Care beginning. He will aagawan nina Ate Yasmien Kurdi and Ate Center. He serenaded the entire community, be focusing on his Katrina Halili. I’m really happy to be a part of James’s new project. “Si James… shared a meal with them, and took time in music career and this show kasi very successful siya at more than he has his album coming up next listening to their different stories. He only his fans were the six months na kami sa ere.” year.” wishes to tour around the Philippines and first ones to get a Jillian’s edge is that she’s also a good singer, James added, “I’m very excited. spend quality time with his family. glimpse of what so we won’t be surprised if GMA Records would I composed all the music and Meanwhile, David Remo celebrated his he has to offer this also get her and sign her up to a recording helped produced all the music.” special day with the kids of Kaisahang Bu- year. contract. Meantime, as Katherine in “Sa Piling ni He revealed the genre of his hay Foundation in an afternoon filled with Nanay”, she has already discovered the truth that album will be “still R&B Hip-Hop, Yasmien as Ysabel is her real biological mother like I’ve said before music was my and not Katrina as Scarlet, but Katrina will not give her up that easily and will do everything in first love.” He also said, “almost all her power to get Jillian back. She even resorts the songs are for Nadine. There’s Knights of 2017 to violence with the help of new cohorts like one song where she’s featured.” Antonio Aquitania as Rod, Banjo Romero as Nadine, for her part, will focus Budong and Diva Montelaba as Rose to take on the expansion of her business 21st International General away Jillian from Yasmien. in the coming year. Assembly & Conference

Cities of Davao & Tagum of Davao del Sur & Davao del Norte Ready for Attendees BY JOAQUIN ( JOJO) T. TADURAN, JR

All systems go in conjunction with the forthcoming international Knights of Rizal 2017 21st general assembly and conference which will be held at the SMX Con- vention Center , at Lanang, Davao City, Davao del Sur on Thursday and Friday, February 23 - 24, 2017 and on February 25, 2017 The Knights of Rizal Supreme Council is headed by retired Chief Justice of the Supreme Sir Reynato S. Puno, Sr., KGCR, as Supreme Commander. Sir Justo P. Torres, Jr., KGCR, is the Supreme Commander Emeritus. Other officers of the Knights of Rizal Supreme Council include Sir Diosdado D. Santos, KGOR, deputy suprem commander; Sir Avelino V. Torres, KGOR, supreme chancellor; Sir Maximo S. Salazar KGOR, Supreme Pursuivantsir Renato B. Malig, KGOR, Supreme KGOR, supreme pursuivant; Sir Enrie II A. Mendoza, KGOR, supreme exchequer; Sir Reynaldo B. Malig, KGOR, supreme auditor; Sir Frisco S. San Juan, Jr. KGOR, supreme\archivist; Sir Rene Elias C. Lopez, KGOR, deputy supreme pursuivant;and Sir Jaime T. Marasigan, KGOR, deputy exchequer, overseas repre- sentative who is a former commander of the Knights of Rizal Canada Region. The council of elders include Sir Lamberto C. Nanquil, KGCR, chairman; Sir Rogelio M. Quiambao, KGCR; Sir Carmelo Gempesaw, KGCR; Sir Carmelo T. Gempesaw,KGCR; Sir Jesus B. David, KGCR; Sir Jose B. Lina, Jr. KGCR; Sir Hilario Davide, Jr., KGCR; Sir Virgilio R. Esguerra, KGCR; Sir Pablo R. Trillana, KGCR; Sir Reghis M. Romero II, KGCR; and Sir Jeremias C. Singson, KGCR. Sir Reynato S. Puno, Sr., KGCR, supreme commander of the Knights of Rizal, announced that President Rodrigo Roa Duterte will be the keynote speaker. Also gracing the Knights of Rizal 2017 21st international and conference in Davao City on February 23-24, 2017 include Senate President Aquilino (Koko) Martin L> Pimentel II, Cabinet Secretary Leoncio R. Evasco, Jr., House of Representatives Speaker Pantaleon D. Alvarez, Regional Governor MuJV Sabbihi Hataman of ARRM, Rep. Karlo B. Nograles (1st Legislative Dis- trict, Davao City). Davao City Mayor Sarah Duterte Carpio will welcome the officers and members of the Knights of Rizal through out the world. In Tagum City, Davao del Norte, on Saturday, February 25, 2017, there will be the unveiling ceremony of the Rizal monument. Tagum City Mayor Allan L. Rellon will wel- come the participants. The Knights of Rizal Canada headed by Sir Ed Prillo, KGOR, Regional Com- mander and Sir Romy Sinajon will be heading the Rizal Canada Region with 49 deleegates. (St. Jamestown News Service)

7 2017 7 Philippines

President wants to set up ‘Iglesia ni Duterte’

DAVAO CITY – President Duterte told Filipinos show you its history. There were popes who sired a not to believe Catholic priests and urged them to join child and even had sex with his child, that was Pope the “Iglesia ni Duterte,” a religion he would establish Leo,” the President claimed. where there is no prohibition and men are allowed to “Why? Is there a God who is evil who makes hell?” have five wives. he further asked. A Tax for The Catholic Church has been critical of Duterte’s He also urged Filipinos not to believe in the priests drug war, which is marked by summary killings and blessing the dead with holy water. He noted that the human rights violations. faithful even pay for the rites as well as for the holy having too Duterte blasted the Catholic Church anew after the water. Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines and “Basbas basbas kayo diyan. Eh, galing lang naman other churches, including the Redemptorist Church yang tubig niyo sa Davao City Water District (You many gad- in Baclaran, launched exhibits of photos of summary keep on blessing. Yet the water you use is from Davao killings under Duterte’s bloody drug war. City Water District),” he added. In response, Duterte threw insults at the Church gets? during the Christmas party of 2,000 barangay captains Duterte: No blessing, no and councilors in his hometown Davao City yesterday. , “You say Duterte killer. You priests, you blame me hero’s burial for me for the death of thousands of drug addicts, even those MANILA - Following the on being dubbed who died in hospitals, you still blame me. But you are Duterte also said that he does not want his remains the ones who killed Christ,” Duterte said. to be blessed by a priest. He wants his body to be controversial measure seeking to The President also claimed that the Catholic Church cremated within 24 hours after his death just like impose taxes on vanity products, as ‘The Next John has been so hypocritical of his drug war and yet it has what was done to the remains of his mother Soledad a lawmaker is planning to push not lifted a finger to help the more than four million in 2012. “Cremate me within 24 hours. And there for a bill imposing additional Lloyd Cruz’ drug addicts in the country despite collecting large should be no blessing of holy water. I do not hold on to amounts of money during mass. anything. If I go, I go,” he said. taxes on excessive purchases of MANILA -- Following his performance on the “They always shout in protest and yet they did not “Spare me the drama of all those ceremonies. I do electronic gadgets as well as ap- Metro Manila Film Festival 2016 blockbuster do anything against illegal drugs. They never bothered not like it, nakokornihan ako (I find it corny),” he pliances. “Vince & Kath & James,” young actor Joshua to help,” he said. “There is something new these days. added. And despite being president, Duterte said he PBA Party-list Rep. Mark Garcia received praises from both fans and (Iglesia ni Duterte, where there is no prohibition, does not want to be buried at the Libingan ng mga non-fans. you can even have five wives. But make sure you are Bayani, where Duterte allowed dictator Ferdinand Aeron Sambar will propose the But perhaps, the biggest praise of them responsible for your problems). “The Church is not Marcos to be buried despite public outrage over the bill. giving anything even if they collect so much. My hero’s burial for one whose regime committed plunder “We need cellphones but we all is that he is now being dubbed as the statement is full of sarcasm because they (priests) have and atrocities. don’t need five or six cellphones next of Philippine showbiz. This, after netizens noticed his strong similar- been criticizing me. They are hypocrites,” he added. “Do not bury me there at the Libingan ng mga or 10 cellphones. That’s the aim Duterte also said that he believes there is a God and Bayani, sa kanila na lang ’yan (give it to them),” ity with the award-winning actor. he believes in Allah, but he does not believe in religion, Duterte said. of this bill, it’s just to prevent In an interview on “Tonight With Boy particularly the Catholic Church because it is sowing people from buying too much on Abunda,” the 19-year-old Garcia admitted fear among its faithful about the existence of heaven Millions in illegal drugs a certain product and at the same that he feels overwhelmed with the title “The and hell. “Do not believe it. That is what that religion Next John Lloyd Cruz.” But he added that he is all about, they are instilling fear that you will go to seized time generating income for the hell if you are a sinner. But you will only know if there government,” Sambar said. also wants to be recognized as himself. is indeed a hell if you die,” the President said. As Duterte continues to defend the drug war, the The report noted that the “Kinikilig ako,” he quipped. “Honored Duterte told barangay officials to wait for him to die police seized millions worth of illegal drugs. framework for the measure is still ako, masaya ako, at darating naman ‘yong because he would come back and tell them if there is In Bukidnon, police seized P20 million worth in the works in order to iden- time na mare-recognize naman nila ako as really heaven or hell. of suspected shabu loaded in a car intercepted at a Joshua Garcia.” Duterte also likened the Catholic Church to the checkpoint. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), on tify and provide clarity on what The self-professed JL fan, however, said United States under President Barack Obama, the the other hand, intercepted 11 kilos of marijuana at the electronic gadgets are needed to that he will not change anything just to build United Nations and the Commission on Human Port of Dumangas in Iloilo on Dec. 23. be taxed in case of excessive buy- his own brand. Rights that have all called his attention to the rising A report to the PCG headquarters showed that number of summary killings in the drug war. the contraband was discovered after the two suspects ing, what gadgets are exempted, “America did not do anything for the four million identified as Tonichi Ami and Abdullah Ishaq refused and how to monitor the buying Filipino addicts. And they even scold me,” he added. to submit their backpacks for inspection before behavior of a consumer. The President claimed he knows the Catholic boarding the ship. “The two suspects ran away outside According to Sambar, the tax Joshua Garcia Church so well since he studied at Cor Jesu College in the port area and were later intercepted hiding in Digos City, Davao del Sur and at the Ateneo de Davao nearby houses,” the PCG said. identification number could be University, where he was taught about mortal sin and The seized marijuana was turned over to the local presented to a cashier for moni- planning to court venial sin. police for proper disposition, the PCG added. toring of the number of gadgets “Catholic is a sordid religion. It is about time to purchased. Julia Barretto? This will be reflected in the MANILA – Joshua Garcia was at a loss for records of a tax payer. words when asked if he plans to court Julia If the number of items bought Barretto, his leading lady in the Metro Manila hospital soon to be HIV did not exceed the limit stated in Manila Film Festival movie “Vince & Kath & the bill, the customer could show James.” receipts to the Bureau of Internal After a few seconds of being speechless, treatment hub Revenue to avail of a tax rebate. he said: “Wala pa [akong balak ligawan siya]. Sa ngayon, trabaho muna po. Magfo- Sambar wants to impose a focus muna kami.” MANILA - The Santa Ana Hospital in just have to submit some other documentary five-percent tax, wherein part Nonetheless, Garcia went on to enumer- Manila will soon be turned into a human requirements,” Sison said, adding that Health of the proceeds collected will be ate the qualities of Barretto which he only immunodeficiency virus (HIV) treatment center. officials inspected the hospital early this month. allocated for Electronic Waste discovered after they worked together in Mayor said the hospital will “This facility will cater to Manilans as well as Disposal and Management Pro- the movie. serve Manila residents and also HIV patients non-Manilans,” he stressed. gram for old gadgets. “Mabait siya at napaka-down to from other cities or municipalities. Based on the HIV/AIDS Registry of the People interviewed by GMA earth na tao. Wala siyang kaarte-arte sa “This will be a modest contribution of the city DOH, 841 new HIV cases were reported in June News expressed mixed reactions katawan. Inglisera lang talaga siya kasi government to measures implemented by national 2016 and 103 of these cases developed into full- to the proposed measure. lumaki siya sa [well-off na family] pero kapag government as well as international agencies and blown AIDS. This number was the highest ever nakita mo ang personality niya, mama- organizations to curb the spread of HIV, which, recorded in a single month since 1984, when HIV The Department of Finance mangha ka. Jologs talaga siya. Isipin mo ang if left untreated, can lead to acquired immune was first detected in the country. said it would look into the bill ganda-ganda nya tapos mas lalaki pa sa deficiency syndrome or AIDS,” the mayor said. Of the 841 cases, 92 percent were acquired but it took note that there are ‘yo,” he said. The hospital, one of the six public hospitals in through sexual transmissions, mainly through already other forms of taxes such According to Barretto, finding love was the city underwent a P500-million renovation, MSM (men having sex with men). as value added tax and importa- not their first priority going into this project. and is classified as a “level II” medical facility. Last month, Estrada offered free HIV testing tion dues imposed on gadgets “Our first priority was to portray the roles Dr. Jesus Sison, Jr., the hospital director, and treatment to bona fide manila residents. The and appliances. well that were given to us. Ang second pri- said the medical personnel have completed free HIV tests and treatment are being conducted “We have to review first kasi ority is to build a good friendship kasi doon their training on how to handle HIV cases in at the Manila Social Hygiene Clinic in Sta. Cruz. unang-una sa lahat kailangan magsisimula ‘yun,” she said. partnership with the Department of Health As chairperson of the City Peace and Order Asked if Garcia stands a chance in case (DOH). He added that they have complied with Council (CPOC), the mayor earlier directed the natin malaman ano ba yung he decides to pursue her, Barretto said: “I the basic requirements of the DOH such as a inter-department body to intensify its HIV/AIDS target na income na kailangang think time will tell naman. Ang hirap sagutin laboratory for treatment and analysis of HIV- information and awareness drive in the city’s 896 ma-generate at kung paano nila niyan lalo na kung you’re not in that situa- infected blood, trained personnel for counseling barangays. ito ita-tax. Kung ano bang kind tion yet. I don’t know. Iba-iba ang priorities of patients, obstetricians and surgeons, highly- While the rate of HIV infections in Manila of tax, ‘yung specifics para makita naming tatlo as we speak. Love will come. trained nurses and the upgrade and procurement remained “manageable,” the increasing number of natin kung magagamit natin We don’t when that will come.” of facilities. people infected by the deadly virus is a cause of siya or kung is it legal?,” DOF Aside from Garcia and Barretto, “Vince & “We expect DOH to approve our accreditation alarm and has become a major public health issue spokesperson Paola Alvarez said. Kath and James” also stars . as an HIV treatment center by January. We among the local government units, Estrada said. 8 2017 8 Fil-Can children entertain World Vision audience at fundraising program Filipino Leaders Active in World Vision Goals

in close coordination with outstanding singer, music teacher and entrepreneur Josie Nadine, kinuyog de Leon, who owns and manages the JDL School of Performing Arts planned with ng bashers! World Vision executive Edgar Gonzales, to present an evening of Philippine Christmas GRABE ang pamba-bash sa social program. More than fifty children of vary- media na tinatanggap ni Nadine ing ages presented numerous Filipino and Lustre sa ilang netizens who claim na western Christmas songs to the delight of dati silang tagahanga ng other half the audience, and to the pride of their fami- of the JaDine loveteam. lies. A representative “tindahan “ of Philip- Isnabera daw siya, they say. pine food and delicacies provided victuals And even cited na may mga Rise Up Daughters of – Edgar Gonzales, Joe Daniel, Manuel Arnaldo, Iqbal Ali, Che- and beverages at reasonable cost. For several pagkakataon na diumano’y rian Thomas, Dr. Doaa Mohsen, Harry Dhaliwal, Rose Tijam, Lara Dewar, Jamie McCintosh, hours, a large portion of the World Vision binalewala sila ni Nadine. Which Abu Becker, Leo Liu, Tommy Tam, Richard P. hall was transformed into a bright Philip- could be true din, someone close pine “barrio” aglow in Christmas lights and to Nadine said. Sa sobrang busy TORONTO - Three Filipino Canadian community engagements, and launch fun- spirit. Proceeds from the fundraiser goes nga naman ng dalaga, obvious community leaders, active in their respective draising campaigns to help support identi- to “Pinoy Para sa Pinoy” program, which na naiisnab nga naman niya ang professions and leadership in community fied World Vision projects. supports various developmental activities in kanyang fans. work, were tapped by the prestigious inter- The first project , hosted by the rural Philippines. Sana nga lang daw, said the same national World Vision Canada as Multicul- South Asian Multicultural Ambassa- Edgar Gonzales, Multicultural friend ni Nadine, intindihin na lang tural Council Ambassadors. They were ap- dors in November 2016, launched “ Rise Development Advisor at World Vision nila ang aktres. pointed last spring, after undergoing a rigid Up Daughters of India,” a fundraiser for Canada expressed appreciation to Josie de Recently nga naman, ultra busy screening and interview. Since then, they building toilets for girl students in India. Leon of JDL School of Performing Arts ang dalaga dahil ang tandem nila had been attending World Vision meetings Without toilets, the girl students were and “her children,” who displayed a lot of ni James (Reid) ang isa sa busiest and related activities, representing the Fili- compelled to relieve themselves in open air, talent, joy, and eagerness in singing their among a few loveteams, na ang pino Canadian community. They are Rose and fearfully place themselves in danger musical numbers. The school , now five (5) bilang ay wala pa sa sampu. They Tijam ( this writer), Manuel Arnaldo, and to sexual predators and abusers, thus they years old, have branches in Scarborough and have not only a trending teleserye, Rafael Nebres. Nine other Multicultural were afraid of going to school. Going to Mississauga, and aims to build character, Till I Met You, kahit pa magtatapos Council Ambassadors also holding respon- school means having education which lead confidence, and make their students shine. na ito sa linggong ito, the most sible professional and leadership positions to equality, respect and financial indepen- Tijam, Arnaldo and Nebres plan number of endorsements and offers in their respective communities , represent dence – without it, illiteracy, ignorance, and to develop with World Vision Canada more to make personal appearance ’di their countries of origin like Egypt, Japan, poverty. The fundraiser program provided fundraising events for various developmen- lang dito sa Pilipinas kung hindi China, India, and Armenia. an eye-opening information and under- tal programs in the Philippines. Conscious imaging sa ibang bansa. Their mandate as World Vision standing of the importance of giving aid that the home country sits on a typhoon May movie kaagad silang gagawin Canada’s Multicultural Ambassadors is to seemingly simple yet crucial needs in path, there is a need for contingency funds right after Till I Met You. to help establish connections and cultivate society. throughout the year. As well , the trio is Happily, according nga pala kay relationships with multicultural communi- In December 10, Filipino Ca- cognizant of the need of developing the Nadine, solid ang romance niya with ties in Canada. Two of their major roles nadian Multicultural Ambassadors Rose earning capacity of the village folks at James. is to identify opportunities for long-term Tijam, Manuel Arnaldo and Rafael Nebres, home.

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9 2017 9 Philippines

200,000 teen moms expected

PHL population is 112.6M by 2022 MANILA - The Commission on Population POPCOM executive director Juan Antonio shares plan to do (POPCOM) revealed that the Philippine Perez III. population to reach 105,758,850 by December The data gathered by POCOM will be used online series 31, 2017. in planning the delivery of services to the POPCOM sees an increase of women public. MANILA -- “Ang Probinsyano” star Coco of reproductive age (15 to 49 years old) to Women’s life expectancy is higher than Martin shared his plan to do an online 27,293,422. These women are usually the men’s which is 72 and 67 respectively. series. beneficiaries of Reproductive Health services “Ang mga kalalakihan tend not to pay much Topping the most populated region is “By 2017, hindi man ako ‘yung artista under the Responsible Parenthood and Re- attention sa kanilang kalusugan,” Perez said. CALABARZON with almost 15 million this ay gagawa ako ng isang series, bubuo productive Health Law. year, followed by the National Capital Region (Males usually tend not to pay much atten- ako ng isang series. Honestly, ‘yun yung The Philippine population is expected to (NCR) with more than 13 million, and third tion to their health.) reach 112.6 million within the 6-year term of is Central Luzon with 11.4 million. Even if the life expectancy of women is way ko para mas marami tayong taong President Rodrigo Duterte. “Alam natin na ‘yung (we know that) greater, they have more disabilities. matulungan,” Martin said in a press POPCOM projected the figure by estimat- minimum wage sa (in) NCR at (and) Region The Philippine’s working population now conference on Thursday. ing that around 1.8 million is added every year 4 ay mas malaki, ay mas mataas kaysa ano- is 62% with ages ranging from 15-64. But (By 2017, even if I will not star in it, to the country’s population. mang region sa Pilipinas ( is higher than any POPCOM said it will only be wasted if they I will do a series. I will create a series. In 2017, the country’s population is seen to region in the Philippines). So, they tend to go will not be accommodated for jobs or will not Honestly, it’s my way to help more reach 105.75 million. be provided with a quality health care. there looking for better opportunities,” said people.) “Online po. Kasi pwede naman na ako ang magpo-produce at the same time ay saka natin siya ipapalabas,” the NO TO NO-CAROLING actor added. (It will be online. It is possible that I will produce then we will show it at a Marcos-era mendicancy law to be scrapped? later time.) Martin said he could seek help from MANILA - President Duterte enjoys caroling services department or any duly licensed child his friends, directors and people from in the streets during Christmas season despite placement agency or individual. the movie industry, both mainstream and claims that the practice places children at risk. The same decree penalizes mendicants with He wants the law banning it repealed. a maximum fine of P500 or by imprisonment indie. “One of the things I really hate is the pro- for a period of up to two years or both. “Ang ikinaganda nito, hindi sa hibition of caroling, I tell you,” the President A habitual mendicant shall be slapped with pino-promote ko, pero madali siyang said. a fine of up to P1,000 or by imprisonment makapasok international kasi through The President was apparently referring to for a period of up to four years or both. Any internet siya eh kumbaga madami ang a Marcos- era law prohibiting mendicancy person who abets mendicancy by giving alms makakapanood di lang sa Pilipinas,” he enacted in 1978. to mendicants, exploited infants and minors added. “I could not even see the rationale (behind on public roads, sidewalks, parks and bridges (What is good in this venture is that, the measure against) mendicants,” Duterte of infants and children through mendicancy shall be fined up to P20. not that I am promoting it already, said. and provide rehabilitative services for those Social welfare officials during previous ad- “There are many laws that I do not like already exploited or in immediate danger of ministrations have asked local governments to it would be easier to penetrate the that I want repealed. But anyway, that would exploitation.” stop children from caroling on busy streets to international market because this will be come,” he added. Under the decree, individuals who are 15 avoid accidents. They also discouraged motor- shown through the internet. This can be Presidential Decree 1563 or the Anti-Men- and below found begging or are being used as ists from giving money to carolers, saying the watched from outside the Philippines.) dicancy Law was signed by former president a mendicant to beg shall be apprehended and practice endangers the lives of street children. Aside from doing an online soap, Ferdinand Marcos to “prevent the exploitation placed under the custody and care of the social Martin also expressed his hope to do a new FPJ film. Asked if he would do FPJ’s “Batang Quiapo,” Martin said: “Narinig ko po Casino tycoon wants to make Philippines ‘next Hawaii’ siya pero never napag-usapan ng management ‘yung about sa ‘Batang Quiapo.’ Pero kung mabibigyan ng MANILA - Japanese gambling tycoon beaches here,” he told ABS-CBN. The country is targeting revenues of $7 bil- pagkakataon kahit di soap opera sana Kazuo Okada, who is opening a new $2.4 bil- “China, Beijing, the air is polluted and I lion, roughly the levels of Singapore and Las magawa ko siya. Kung basbasan ako ni lion casino resort in Manila, said he hoped to feel there are people (there) who would want Vegas, by 2020, as part of its bid to become Tita Susan sana po kahit sa pelikula ay make the Philippines “the next Hawaii” as he to get away, go to a fresh place and I think the one of the world’s top gambling destinations, magawa ko po siya.” looks to expand his business there. Philippines would be one of the best tour- after the Chinese enclave of Macau, the gam- In addition to Manila, Okada said he was ist spots for everybody,” he said through a ing industry’s capital. (I heard about it but management also exploring the possibility of operating translator. Okada’s project -- now set to open during and I haven’t talked about “Batang resorts on the Philippine islands of Palawan Okada’s new property in the capital will ini- the first quarter of 2017 -- has been dogged Quiapo” yet. If given the opportunity, I and Boracay, both major tourist attractions, in tially employ around 10,000 people and is one by delays that saw the Philippines’ gambling would love to do it. If Tita Susan (Roces) a bid to tap the lucrative Chinese market. of four mega-casinos planned on a glittering regulator threaten to suspend the company’s will give her blessing, I am looking for- “I would like to make the Philippines the strip fronting Manila Bay dubbed Entertain- license last year. ward to doing it.) next Hawaii, given that there are a lot of great ment City.

10 2017 10 First Filipino-Canadian Attorney Angely Pacis Wins Mississauga-Centre MPP Nomination

TORONTO - On December 10, 2016, Social media recognized the historic Filipino-Canadian immigration and occasion of a Pinoy being nominated to constitutional law lawyer Angely Pacis represent Mississauga at Queen’s Park. won the nomination election and be- Ontario PC party leader and Premier can- came the official Ontario PC candidate didate Patrick Brown announced that “A for Mississauga-Centre in the upcoming proud Canadian of Filipino origin, Angely 2018 Ontario elections. She is the first brings a wealth of experience and a unique Filipino-Canadian in Ontario’s history to perspective to our modern, inclusive and win the nomination to become a Member pragmatic Ontario PC team.” of Provincial Parliament (MPP). Patrick Brown also joined the Team Pacis, who was born in North York and Pacis volunteers for a celebratory reception grew up in Mississauga, was at the lead at Berto’s Cuisine restaurant on Dundas of four highly-qualified candidates in an in Mississauga on January 6, 2017, where election race with record voter turnout. Ontario PC supporters new and old, of all Free feeding Getting up on stage with her three-year- ethnic and national origins, joined together old daughter to celebrate her victory, she for Halo Halo. thanked her dedicated volunteers and Congratulations to Attorney Angely M. program urged the hundreds of Ontario PC sup- Q. Pacis on her victory, and we hope for porters in attendance to join forces to win more to come! in public the election in 2018. schools pushed

MANILA - Sen. Grace Poe is optimistic her colleagues will support a measure institutionalizing a free feeding program in all public schools. Poe, co-sponsor of Senate Bill 1297 (an Act Creating a National School Feeding Program to Combat Hunger and Under- nutrition for all Basic Education Stu- dents), said proper support and investment in children would prepare them to become productive citizens. “The day when not a single public school pupil is left behind on account of poverty and poor health is now on the horizon. This piece of inclusive legislation should be supported by every legislator,” the senator said. Drew Arellano “Improving the nutritional well-being of our children requires government at Iya Villania, intervention because majority of Filipino families today still cannot afford to feed masaya sa their children sufficiently,” she noted. Despite years of much-touted economic kanilang game growth, involuntary hunger and child malnutrition continue to be endemic in show ngayong the Philippines. Sen. Paolo Benigno Aquino III, chair- 2017 na ‘People man of the Senate education, arts and culture committee, endorsed the measure vs. The Stars’ earlier this month for plenary consider- Malapit nang magsimula ang kauna- ation. unahang game show ng celebrity couple The United Nations Children’s Fund re- na sina Drew Arellano at Iya Villania. Ano ported that the Philippines was the ninth kaya ang pakiramdam ng dalawa ngayong country with the largest number of stunted na mayroon silang pagsasamahang show children in the world in 2013. ngayong 2017? The overall economic loss consists of Kuwento ni Drew pabor sa kanilang P166.5 billion worth of lost income as mag-asawa ang maging hosts ng People a result of the lower level of education vs. The Stars. achieved by the working population who “It’s convenient. That’s the term that we suffered from childhood stunting, P160 want to use. Convenient and it’s just so billion in lost productivity due to prema- natural and easy to work with her (Iya).” ture deaths among children who would Pagpapatuloy ni Iya, “One is not have been members of current working- being away from the other. We’re working age population, and P1.23 billion in together.” additional education costs to cover grade Bukod sa kanilang pagsasama sa People repetitions linked to undernutrition. Vs The Stars, ikinuwento rin ng mag-asawa “Investing in the nutritional well-being ang saya na kanilang nararamdaman dahil of our school-children is money well- sa kanilang anak na si Primo. spent. Every P50 spent on school feeding, Kuwento ni Drew, isa lang ang mood nila we could save P5,150 in future health, sa bahay. education and lost or low productivity “Ugh, horrible! Sad and angry all the costs brought about by childhood malnu- time,” biro nito. trition,” Poe said. Dagdag pa ni Drew, sa social media Empirical data showed school feeding accounts makikita ang saya nila bilang program helped improve overall academic isang pamilya. performance of students and reduced “What you guys see on TV I guess and absenteeism. on social media is what we are talaga. The Senate had added P1 billion to the Such a joy for us lalo na nung dumating si children’s feeding budget of the Depart- Primo sa buhay namin. I guess we’re also ment of Social Welfare and Development, very generous to capture stills, every raising the amount to P4.427 billion, to moments, videos, we share it on social enable the agency to serve one hot meal media.” daily to 1.74 million two-to four-year-olds Si Iya naman ay umamin na hindi nila for 120 days next year. mapigilan na matuwa kay Primo kaya Senate Minority Leader Ralph Recto ibinabahagi nila ito sa kanilang followers. introduced the additional P1 billion in the “Siyempre hindi namin mapigilan kasi P3.3 trillion national budget for 2017 as sobra kaming natutuwa kahit kaunting ngiti he thanked his colleagues for supporting lang, kaunti coo lang niya.” the move. 11 2017 11 Philippines DSWD offers free prescription drugs for the poor

sistance by presenting their valid prescription indigent and in need, the department will and certificate of indigence to DSWD field look for ways to provide you the medicines office. because we know the issue of medicines Instead of giving cash, DSWD will replace spells out life or death particularly for the valid and updated prescriptions with guar- poor.) AlDub still antee letters and referrals to pharmacies and The talks for memorandum of agreements hospitals. with major hospitals and generic drugstores “Hopefully, ma-implement natin ito by that will help in the implementation are still the most the start of next year 2017. Kahit ngayon ongoing. hindi pa na-download sa department ang one Currently, DSWD has signed MOUs with popular love Department of Social Welfare and Devel- billion, inumpisahan na ho natin ito,” Sec. six hospitals in different areas of the country. opment Sec. Judy Taguiwalo Taguiwalo said. An individual can ask for medical as- (Hopefully, we can implement it by the sistance amounting to five to 25 thousand team MANILA - According to Social Welfare start of next year 2017. The one billion-peso pesos quarterly through the recommendation Secretary Judy Taguiwalo, the one billion-pe- fund has not been uploaded to the depart- of a field social worker. Above these amounts, so fund for the Department of Social Welfare ment but we have already started it [pro- requests have to be facilitated and approved The tandem of and and Development (DSWD) from the office gram].) by social welfare and development officials. Maine Mendoza, otherwise known of President Rodrigo Duterte and Philip- “Kung may mga reseta ho na valid at in- “In extremely justifiable cases, the amount as AlDub, is still the hottest onscreen pine Amusement and Gaming Corporation digent ho yung nangangailangan, hahanapan of assistance beyond 25,000 but not to exceed (PAGCOR) has not been downloaded yet to ho ng paraan ang department na maibigay 75,000 may be granted subject to the ap- pair in the country as far as Google the department since the guidelines for using ito dahil alam natin ang usapin ng gamot ay proval of the assistant secretary for protective Search is concerned. the fund has just been finalized. nag-i-spell out ng buhay o kamatayan lalo na programs for DSWD central office to the After dominating the Google Nevertheless, those who cannot afford sa mahihirap natin,” she added. regional director to DSWD field office,” said Philippines’ “Year in Search” report (If you have valid prescription, and you are Taguiwalo. to buy medicines can avail of DSWD’s as- in 2015, AlDub has proven once more that its popularity online is still unmatched in 2016. For one, in the search categories listed by the Cal- MAGDALO GROUP DOUBTS OVERTHROW TIP ifornia-based technology company, US coup plots vs. Duterte admin, not credible there are no other local showbiz stars or love teams that appeared, not even in the individual categories sino naman hindi madismaya sa ginagawa ing the idea of martial law for some time ni Duterte sa kanila?” Rep. Alejano said in a now because that’s what he desires.) that named the most searched male phone interview. Meanwhile, House Speaker Pantaleon and female personalities in the land. (For me, I didn’t receive any information. Alvarez already said that he wants Congress On the list topped by reigning What I know is US is dismayed with him. to investigate the matter of coup plots against , Maine It’s already a given. Meaning, who will not the administration. Mendoza ranked second as the most President Rodrigo Duterte (left) and Mag- be dismayed by what Duterte has been doing For its part, the Makabayan bloc acknowl- dalo representative Gary Alejano. against them?” edges reports of such coup plot against the searched female personality in the Rep. Alejano said, there may be those who Duterte administration. country. Alden Richards, on the other MANILA - The Magdalo group does not want to create new issues like coup plans to This is the reaction of the opposition group hand, is the sixth most searched male believe the news of a planned coup attempt justify the declaration of martial law. after news of US’ involvement in alleged personality in 2016. The list, which “Ang gusto talaga ni Duterte ay revolu- destabilization plan surfaced . against President Rodrigo Duterte. puts President Rodrigo Duterte as no. According to Magdalo Party-list represen- tionary government. Malayo yun. Pero hindi According to Anakpawis party-list tative Gary Alejano, despite the President’s basta-basta makarating tayo doon. Kaya representative Ariel Casilao, this is because 1, is dominated by Korean superstars anti-US statements, reports of US-led desta- matagal nang pino-float ang martial law kasi there are definitely some forces that do not Song Joong Ki (no. 2) and Gong Yoo bilization plots are not credible. that’s what he desire,” Alejano added. agree with the leadership style of President (no. 4). “Sa akin, wala akong nari-receive na (What Duterte really wants is a revolu- Duterte. Alden and Maine, apart from Pia tionary government. That’s way off. We don’t information. Ang alam ko dismayado ang US Wurtzbach, are the only local celeb- sa kaniya. Given naman yun. Ibig sabihin, get there just like that . So, they’ve been float- rities that made it to Google Philip- pines’ list of most searched male and female personalities US Embassy deny Duterte Overthrow plot Meanwhile, in the “Who is…?” search category, the search term “who is Aldub?” ranked second to MANILA - The United States embassy the move by the Speaker to look into the pertain to its domestic concerns.” denied yesterday that there is a US plot to matter. A House inquiry will definitely iron “I don’t think any plans to destabilize the Harley Quinn, the fictional supervillain oust President Duterte. out some things that need to be fleshed out government will succeed, especially with the appearing in American comic books The embassy, through an email sent by based on such alarming reports,” Davao City overwhelming mandate this administration published by DC Comics, and in the press attaché Molly Koscina to The STAR, Rep. Karlo Alexei Nograles said. received. Instead of being distracted by such box office hit film, The Death Squad. categorically denied the existence of a “blue- “That being said, let me emphasize that plots, we must focus on the work that needs print” to oust Duterte. President Duterte’s support is rock solid, and to be done,” Parañaque Rep. Gus Tambun- Alden and Maine made headlines This developed as lawmakers from the all attempts to unseat the President will be ting, another administration lawmaker, said. early this month when GMA Network administration-dominated House of Repre- defied,” the chairman of the House commit- For his part, Rep. Alfred announced that the onscreen couple sentatives, led by Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, tee on appropriations added. Vargas said it would be foolhardy for any would finally star in a television series, threw their support behind Duterte, who Nograles said they were “alarmed over group or individual to attempt to unseat an the only project that they can’t former US ambassador Philip Goldberg reports of an alleged coup plot,” adding “any overwhelmingly popular Chief Executive. reportedly wants ousted before 2018. sovereign state should respect the indepen- include in their resume yet as a love “We are throwing our full support towards dence of other states regarding matters that team. The two are set to star in their very first primetime series, Destined To Be Yours scheduled next year. If in case this primetime soap would PPCO INDUCTION be successful and generate interest among TV viewers, AlDub will likely still dominate 2017, that is if Google Officers and Trends is really that reliable in terms members of of measuring someone’s success and PPCO gets inducted and popularity. Remember, Pokemon Go pose for a that triggered worldwide craze is the picture. most searched term in 2016 but it’s not the top income generating app.

12 2017 12 ‘Legally Blind’ star Janine Ryza enjoys being other woman

Gutierrez, may planong kapag nakikita ako in public, tinatawag akong Georgia then tinatanong kung magkakabalikan sumali sa beauty pageants? pa raw ba sina Gabby Concepcion as Rome and as Emma pagkatapos kong maging homewrecker sa kanila. Bentang- Marami ang nagsasabing pang-beauty queen ang ganda ni Kapuso actress Janine Gutierrez benta rin sa kanilang ‘yung tagpong nagkita noon pa man. Dahil dito, marami rin ang naghihintay na sumali ang aktres sa beauty contests. kami ni Sunshine at nagsampalan kami nang Ayon kay Janine, thankful daw siya sa mga taong nagsasabi husto. So dahil nag-click ‘yun, uulitin daw at na qualified siya sa beauty pageants ngunit hindi raw ito ang pinaghahandaan ko na ang another round of career na gusto niyang tahakin. sampalan with her. Actually, learning experience “Nafa-flatter ako siyempre pero hindi ko kasi talaga din for me to portray an other woman kasi pangarap eh. Wala talaga sa plano kong sumali sa pageant,” nalaman kong iba-ibang klase pala ang kabit. paliwanag ni Janine. May mga pera lang ang habol dun sa lalaki. Pero kahit na sa ngayon ay hindi interesado si Janine, Pero meron ding talagang nai-in love dun sa aminado siyang fan siya ng beauty contests. “Excited ako lalaki kahit alam na nilang may asawa, gaya manood ng Miss Universe kasi dito siya [gagawin] sa ng nangyari sa’kin kay Gabby Concepcion. Philippines and sana manalo tayo this year,” saad niya. Kulang din kasi siya sa atensiyon from his own Nang tanungin tungkol kay Philippines Miss Universe family, kaya kay Gabby niya ‘yun hinahanap. 2016 bet Maxine Medina, hindi raw niya personally kilala But the show stresses hindi tama ‘yung pagiging ang pambato ng bansa. “Never ko pa siya na-meet pero I wish kabit. Gusto lang namin ipakitang tao rin sila, her the best. Sana maiuwi niya ‘yung korona,” pagtatapos ng maaaring nagkamali, pero nagmamahal din lang upcoming Legally Blind star. sila, may emosyon din sila.” Off cam, Ryza is so happy in the arms of her loving BF, Cholo Barretto (nephew of Gretchen, Marjorie and Claudine), who says he’s watching “Ika-6 na Utos” everyday. “Number one critic ko ‘yun, e. May mga APOLOGY Jee’s kidnap-slay is the latest in a long list suggestion pa siya kung paano ko mas continued from page 3 of controversies which has been hounding mapapaganda ang acting ko. Very supportive the PNP, considered as one of the most siya, kahit sa love scenes ko with Gabby, okay the entire Philippine National Police, the corrupt institutions in the Philippines. lang sa kanya.” institution most vital to his war on drugs. Prior to assuming his post as the country’s never expected that playing Cholo has taken her with him to the social Murder most foul: Timeline of ‘tokhang- top cop, Dela Rosa dismissed fears that an aggressive and shameless other woman in gatherings of the Barretto family and they for-ransom’ rogue policemen will take advantage of then the big Afternoon Prime hit, “Ika-6 na Utos”, welcome her warmly. It seems he’s serious with Previously, Duterte turned down PNP President-elect Duterte’s anti-drug push. will give her career its much needed boost. her. Does she see herself walking to the altar chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa’s However, a string of controversies such “Grabe ang feedback sa’kin, lalo sa social with him? offer to resign in the wake of the controversy. as the killing of Albuera, Leyte Mayor media kunsaan bina-bash ‘yung character ko, “Sana, kasi let’s face it, 29 na ako, I’m not The abduction of Jee Ick-joo and his Rolando Espinosa Sr. under questionable si Georgia, and I’m happy it means I’m so getting any younger. Tapos, ‘yung mga friends alleged killing inside Camp Crame is circumstances did not stop Dela Rosa and effective in my role,” she says. “And I’d like to ko in the business may mga baby na, like LJ considered a smack in the face of police chief Duterte from pushing through with their thank Direk for helping me Reyes and Chynna Ortaleza. But I want to wait Dela Rosa’s much-vaunted “Oplan Tokhang” controversial war on drugs. Even Duterte every step of the way in interpreting my role. pa bago kami pakasal. Siguro two years pa para anti-drug campaign, after it was discovered chose to side with policemen behind Sabi niya, mag-isip ako ng isang bagay na mas mapaghandaan, mas maplano namin nang that the victim was kidnapped in October Espinosa’s killing, led by Supt. Marvin gustung-gusto kong makuha, pero iba ng may husto, emotionally and also financially, ang 2016 under the guise of an anti-drug Marcos. ari kaya aagawin ko.” pag-aasawa.” operation. Duterte has always defended the police, Doesn’t she feel bad when her haters threaten “I want to disappear from this world saying he will provide them assistance should to harm her? “No, okay lang. Kung anu-ano ang because of so much shame after what my they face charges in the performance of their sinasabi nila sa’kin, like bubuhusan ka namin men did,” Dela Rosa earlier said. duty. ng asido, sasabunutan ka namin, kakalbuhin Jee’s killing also shocked the South ka namin. So I just tell them si Georgia po Korean community, which has a big presence ‘yun, hindi po si Ryza. Pero meron din namang in the Philippines.

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13 2017 13 Scenes in the City James, proud sa revealing photo ni Nadine

James, proud sa halip na magalit sa revealing photo ni Nadine HINDI dapat mag-alala si Nadine Lustre na magagalit ang mahal niyang si James Reid sa pagsu- suot niya ng bikini na kita ang kanyang behind. Katwiran niya: “Kasama ko naman sa picture ang kapatid niya (James Reid) na si Lauren. Hindi ko naman gagawin iyon kung ayaw niya.” Balitang proud pa nga ang teen idol sa halip na nagalit. Mukhang hindi lamang si James ang nakaka-like ng sexy photo na ‘yon kung hindi ang utol niyang si Jack (Reid). Pinayagan na ni James ang mga kapatid niyang pasukin ang showbiz. May nagawa nang pelikula “GABBI IS si Jack, ang “Dark Room” mula sa Viva Films at si Lauren naman ay in-demand as a model. MINE!” – Ruru

Everytime na lang talaga na makakakita kami ng posts ni Ruru Madrid kasama o patungkol kay Gabbi Garcia, lagi talagang kaaya-aya ang dating. Sobra kasing sweet ng young actor sa dalaga. Kamakailan nga, muli na naman niyang ipinagmalaki sa Instagram ang aktres at sinabing “Stop. She’s mine”. Nakakaloka, ‘di ba? Kaya nga kahit sa kanilang GMA hit telefantasya na Encan- tadia, hindi magkamayaw ang GabRu fans na pigilan ang pagmamahalang nabubuo between Ruru’s character na si Ybarro at ABOVE, Birthday boy Mel Galeon (LEFT) Amihan (Kylie Padilla). Ano na nga kaya ang celebrates with friends. And with em- mangyayari sa dalawa? ployees at picture on Left. 18 year old na ang Kapuso star na si Gabbi Garcia. Kahit sinasabi pareho nina Ruru Madrid at Gabbi Garcia na 18 man ito, hindi pa rin talaga ina-allow na magkaroon ng boyfriend ng mga magulang. Pero, very vocal si Ruru palagi ng pagma- mahal niya sa Kapuso star, ka-loveteam at isa sa mga Sang’gre ng Encantadia bilang si Sang’gre Alena. So, sila na nga ba? Grabe ‘yung caption ni Ruru sa post niya sa picture nilang dalawa ni Gabbi na “Stop. She’s mine.” Ano ‘to, inangkin na? Huh! Parang warning ni Ruru sa mga magka- kainteres o baka may nagpaparamdam na nga na gustong manligaw kay Gabbi? May pananakot? Huh! Wondering, ano kaya reaksiyon ni Gabbi BELOW AND ABOVE, sa sinabing ‘yun ni Ruru o katulad din kaya Enfield Place Dental si Gabbi ng mga GabRu fans na todo-kilig Clinic celbrated their siyempre sa post na ‘yun. Christmas party at the So ‘yun na nga, kaya sa Encantadia mismo, Wok of Fame in Bramp- parang rigodon din ang mga fans. Talagang ton. LEFT, Dr. Annette umaasa ang mga ito na ang ending, sina Simbulan (SEATED Ybarro at Alena talaga at hindi sina Ybarro at LEFT) and the staff of Amihan (Kylie Padilla) na in a way, nakabuo Enfield Place Dental enjoy the night away. na rin naman ng sarili nilang hukbo ng taga- hanga. So, paano, makuha rin kaya sa “stop, she’s mine” caption ni Ruru ang kahahantun- gan nila sa kanang primetime fantaserye? What Arci realizes in the end

AFTER her primetime show “Magpahang- gang Wakas” ended last Friday, to be replaced by “A Love ABOVE, Melissa Saldua to Last”, Arci Ventocilla, her mom Flora Muñoz is happy Saldua and Michelle Jucar attend the Canadian Asian to star in a new Fashion week awards movie, “Extra dinner. WORLD VISION SUPPORTERS Service”, an ac- Eric Frans, Edgar Gonzales, Rafael Nebres, Caroline Nobuto-Shepherd, Abu Becker, Aris tion comedy that LEFT, Michelle Jucar and Babikian, Harry Dhaliwal, Joe Daniel, Iqbal Ali, Dr. Doaa Mohsen, Leo Liu, Rose Tijam, Rich- is ’s Melissa Ventocilla pose ard Chapman pose at the launch of World Vision Fundraising Program. first offering for after the show. 2017. There’s something new in her life this 2017: she’s now loveless. Yes, she has broken up with her rocker boyfriend of more than three years, named Badi del Rosario, whose other name as a band vocalist Believing is Bones Frankenstein. The guy is also the son that people of a Brunei prince. Friends inquire how she’s get united with a bottle doing and she assures them she’s okay. “I’m of San Miguel beer, Dr. happy that I now have more time to spend Solon Guzman happily with my family,” she says. “Kasi lately, puro poses with one at work na lang ako palagi. E, di ba we just lost his New Years’ my dad last year, so I want to spend more eve party as he time with them. In the end talaga, I realized and his family celebrates New na mas importante pa rin ang pamilya.” Year’s Eve with family and friends. 14 2017 14 ** 2006 Honda Civic From $5,889

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Mel Galeon, owner and President of FV Foods celebrated his birthday in the company of friends, family and employees at the FV Foods Lawrence Avenue East branch last January 6, 2017. Obviously, there were lots of delicious foods. Dancing and games made the night more fun and exciting. With the frigid cold temperature outside, it was nice to be inside, celebrating a special occasion with friends, enjoying the warmth brought about by good company.

16 2017 16 Hello World, this is the Philippines

An insider in this sunrise industry reveals how BPO employees deal with late working hours, raging hormones, and the generous compensation package that brings with it security concerns, an indulgent lifestyle and risky sex practices

It’s a sunrise industry where night turns to Fortunately, one of the priceless offerings of the day and day to night. At the business process BPO industry is its health package. As one of outsourcing (BPO) industry, employees forsake a handful of senior employees, I have mainly restful sleep, fueled by cups of java 24/7 to serve praise for this package as my contemporaries in countries several time zones away. other fields complain of losing their company- With revenues second only to OFW remit- sponsored medical insurance upon retirement. tances, the BPO industry in the Philippines has I gratefully availed myself of physical therapy attracted young, hip, tech-savvy IT profes- sessions for cervical strain and underwent an sionals mainly enamored with its generous angiogram without shelling out a centavo. compensation package. Eastwood City in Libis, Quezon City, the first approved IT center with Holdups its bandwidth-enabled towers, hosts a wide range of call center companies that provide But there are safety and security risks as well outsourcing services for both local and global in working in a sleepless industry, as indicated companies. by media reports on how BPO workers have Now at 61, I am defying ageism as my con- been targeted by muggers, holduppers and other temporaries dandle grandchildren or welcome criminals because of their ungodly work hours. retirement with glee. Competition and the A recent case is that of Teng Santaromana whole notion of a corporate setting acquire a Gamboa, widow of the late Filipino musician new meaning in the BPO industry for people Dominic “Papadom” Gamboa, who died shortly my age who are latecomers to the Internet. after logging off from work, apparently a victim Nevertheless, I learned computer jargon and of a holdup inside the cab she hailed to go basic troubleshooting skills, and navigated to do freelance work as a writer. At the end of conspicuous consumption. home. Gamboa was working in a call center in software side by side with the young ’uns. a grueling workweek, she ends up organizing Legaspi Village, Makati City, and had left the Although the outfit where I work is located at Friday nights-out with friends. And Eastwood Nest egg office in the early hours of Feb. 10 when tragedy Eastwood City and employs the same technol- is uniquely geared for this, offering bars, bistros, struck. ogy, Benito, 40, our HR Manager, makes it clear band gigs, and tiangges (bazaars and flea mar- In 2003, Carlo, 33, with a total BPO experi- Because of their payday schedule every other that ours is not strictly a BPO company doing kets) for its still wide-awake denizens. Friday, Rocky’s colleagues became similarly vul- backroom operations. ence of 10 years, started as an outbound agent But Rocky, 34, a 12-year call center veteran, with an average net pay of P14,000, a windfall nerable to muggings, robberies, and taxi holdups who remained on night shift throughout his in Manila. To address this, Carlo’s company had HIV-AIDS risk for a new graduate. Such rates have made many career, says the body never quite acclimatizes BPO workers family breadwinners, while some an ATM unit installed within the office building to this day-for-night reversal. “The body rebels have attained independence. Rocky was able to to save employees the trouble of withdrawing But our workforce similarly has to contend against this,” he says. On weekends, he would move out of the parental fold into his own place their pay in public. with issues and concerns that hound the BPO catch up on sleep only to be jolted back into and built his own nest egg in financial invest- Some companies arranged for batches of industry—like that Health Department report the same reversal mode on Monday, making ments. homeward-bound employees to be escorted by some years back which said that call center Mondays tortuous for him. Sharline was able to travel “at least once a their security patrols to the nearest MRT sta- agents have a higher risk of acquiring Human Still, the generous paycheck somehow makes year” to nearby Asian destinations, help her tion. Others organized shuttle services for em- Immuno Virus-Acquired Immune Deficiency up for his disrupted body clock. But that ex- OFW mother support the family, and buy the ployees with fixed drop-off points. The Human Syndrome (HIV-AIDS). The report said that tracts a price as well. badly-needed family van on a salary double that Resource department at Rocky’s company also because of their environment and peer pressure, Back in 2003 when Rocky started his career of her former job as a lifestyle magazine writer. published a list of safe and reputable taxi com- call center agents tend to indulge themselves as a call center agent, entry-level salaries Like Rocky, she was able to move into her own panies that employees can call instead of hailing and engage in risky sex practices. averaged P15,000. Today, it’s currently in flat with another trainer. cabs on the street. Our firm has developed a My fellow trainer, Sharline, 31, who has the P20,000 to P25,000 range, luring young All those perks however leave most BPO worked in our company for seven years ends BPO workers to indulge in spending sprees employees prone to hypertension, obesity, CALL CENTER her shift at 10 p.m. She uses the morning hours on devices, travel, real estate, and the habit of cardiovascular disorders, insomnia, and diabetes. continued on page 20

BLOCKED: Some porn sites inaccessible in PH

Some pornographic websites were blocked in the Philippines as of Saturday, January 14. Top porn sites like Pornhub, Xvideos, and Redtube do not load anymore when accessed in some devices. It appears, however, that this filter does not yet apply across all Internet service providers (ISPs) in the country. As of this posting, there is neither a list of porn sites that would be blocked, nor a list of ISPs that have implemented this filter.

MIKA AND BARBIE pinapasan pa niya ako sa likod niya. I feel continued from page 25 so blessed na sa first project ko sa GMA, siya ang nakasama ko kasi nga comfort- ng artista nila. I trust my Ate so lumipat able na ako sa kanya. Nagpaalam naman nga ako and so far, no regrets naman. ako nang maayos sa ABS na susubukan Enjoy naman ako. Napi-feel ko ‘yung pag- ko munang magtrabaho sa iba at pumayag aalaga nila sa handlers ko who make me naman sila.” feel valued at inaasikaso ako nang husto.” Does she live with her sister? “No, she She was glad when she was informed has her own house with her family. I live she’ll be in Barbie’s show. “Bata pa lang with my mom and dad, pero ‘yung mom kami ni Barbie, nagkatrabaho na kami sa ko, umuwi ngayon sa kanila sa Austria for movie na ‘Ang Darling Kong Aswang’, a vacation.” mga 7 years ago na ‘yun. Mga anak kami Eventually, her relationship with Barbie ni Bossing . So parang reunion in “Meant to Be” will go sour and she’ll be namin itong ‘Meant to Be’. At saka a contravida. Does she mind? “No. Enjoy hindi lang ako ang galing sa Dos dito sa nga akong magcontravida. Mas tumatagal show, kundi sina , Addy sila sa industry at mas maraming nagaga- Raj at mismong director naming si L.A. wa. But dito, hindi naman ako salbaheng Madridejos. Lahat sila nagsimula as a villain kundi kulang lang sa attention.” Kapamilya.” So it’s a reunion for them to be working together again in “Meant to Be”? “Yes, lalo na si Direk L.A., sobrang saya kong nag- kasama kami uli. Kasi noong bata pa ako,

17 2017 17 Entertainment

Another element in the show that viewers find interesting is the story Stars to Watch Out for in 2017 among the Triplets: as + other stories Amelia, Tina Paner as Suzy and Sheryl Cruz as Beatriz. It seems all the three of them have had a previous connection 2016 has brought us a lot of memorable high- Michelle Marquez Dee with Manilyn’s husband, Keempee de lights with our favorite stars. Be it the overflowing With a distinct beauty that is very Leon as Wilton, making their relation- kilig courtesy of real-life sweethearts JaDine, the much attributed to her genes, Mi- ship very, very intriguing. nostalgic vibe of Encantadia‘s comeback, or Liza So- chelle, daughter of Filipina beauty berano’s internet-breaking beauty, we have been truly icon , is starting ADDY, INDIAN WHO blessed with incredible fan moments this year. And to capture attention for herself. as we wrap 2016 up, we are now looking forward to We don’t know much about her WANTS TO BE FILI- the near future and giving you our fair prediction of yet, but we think she fits the bill as PINO ACTOR who to lookout for in 2017. fashion’s next top muse. From 2016 breakout star Lauren Reid to GMA’s newest darlings and every pretty heartthrob in be- Ivan Dorschner is being officially intro- tween, check out our short list of 2017’s next bright Fresh from his two-year hiatus in duced in “Meant to Be” as one of Barbie young things below: the States, ex-Pinoy Forteza’s four leading men. He was an housemate Ivan Dorschner is exchange student at the Ateneo when Gil Cuerva making a comeback with a new he met a talent scout who asked him Much to our series on GMA entitled Meant Barbie sees to join ABS-CBN’s singing contest for surprise, Filipino- to Be. We’re all excited to see him foreigners, “I Love OPM”. “I auditioned Spanish model Gil play Ethan Spencer Hughes, one and I passed,” he says. “But I didn’t win. Cuerva was just of teen actress ’s Ivan go to- I only made it up to the top 24. recently announced four dashing leading men in the light-hearted TV But because of that, I learned how to speak Tagalog because I was made to sing to star opposite show. tally nude a Tagalog song.” Born in New Delhi, India seasoned actress on August 30, 1995, his full name is Adhiraj Kira Balinger Gaur. “My screen name now is from my real in the GMA remake Currently playing as Y opposite BARBIE Forteza has reason to feel first name, na ginawang Addy Raj. I never of Korean hit, My Joshua Garcia’s Z in ABS-CBN’s ecstatic as her primetime show, “Meant really planned to join showbiz. I had an offer Love From the Stars. afternoon series The Greatest to Be”, has been rating very high since from MTV India but I wanted to go out of With his long hair Love, Kira is one of ’s it started two weeks ago. The feedback India and work in another Asian country. I and chinito charm, newest faces this year. We’re is great every night and her four leading enjoyed my stay here in the Philippines so there’s no doubt this betting her doll-like beauty and men now have their own cheerleaders. much, so I decided to come back here. guy will be every promising talent will lead her to “I’m really surprised na lagi kaming I had a contract with ABS-CBN then girl’s favorite leading man on TV come next year. greater things in the new year. trending sa social media at gulat din ako but it has expired and then GMA had a better offer, a lead role in ‘Meant to Be’, so I sa dami ng fans ng show na iba-iba ang grabbed it. Lauren Reid Jameson Blake boy na gusto para sa akin,” says Barbie. But does he know that the image of Lauren Reid has broken through everybody’s radar Hashtag member Jameson Blake “May mga maka-Ken Chan, maka- Indians or Bumbays here is as the main this year by gracing print and caught our attention after win- Addy Raj, maka-Jak Roberto, maka- source of 5-6 money lending? “Yes and I was online publications with her ning Best Supporting Actor at Ivan Dorschner. Each of them, may so surprised. People will come up and tell me candid beauty and laid-back this year’s Cinema One Originals kanya-kanyang kilig na dulot sa fans. they want to borrow money from me, so I’d appeal. For 2017, we are more Festival for his role in the film Sobrang haba ng hair ko, o. Sabi ko nga, tell them, I’m not rich. Dito lang ‘yan, kasi than excited to witness more 2 Cool 2 Be 4gotten. With his ano kaya, daanin na lang sa text votes as hindi naman kami ganyan sa India.” His family remains in New Delhi. He is of her hosting dreams come Filipino-American looks and to who should you win my heart? Sino now enjoying taping “Meant to Be”. “Every- to reality from our television outstanding acting chops, his peers kaya ang makaka-receive ng pinakama- one is nice on the set. So relaxed and light screens. better watch out. raming text votes?” sa taping. And I’m also making new friends This week, Barbie as Billie contin- with all my co-stars. Someday, I plan to take Klea Pineda Kate Valdez ues to work as the girl Friday of the all my family to live here.” With her mesmerizing looks and Kate is often compared to Angel four handsome boys in their sports “Meant to Be” comes right after “Alyas statuesque figure, it’s hard to ignore Locsin and Liza Soberano, but we bar. What’s nice about the show is the Robin Hood”. We told the show’s very styl- Klea Pineda’s regal beauty. Cur- think that this girl is GMA’s new- touches of comedy that make the view- ish program manager, Hazel Abonita, that this might be a late slot for the young fans rently playing as Muyak in GMA’s est It-face out of her own merit. ers laugh out loud, like when Ivan as of Barbie. “Hindi naman,” she replies. “Na- Encantadia, we’re thrilled to see this With her morena complexion, Ethan takes a shower without knowing develop na ng GMA ang slot na ‘yan for this stunner’s career bloom even more pointed nose, and overall exotic that Barbie is inside and sees him going kind of romantic comedy, like in ‘Because in 2017. charm, Kate, who plays Sang’gre totally nude. of You’ nina Gabby Concepcion and Carla Lira in Encantadia, will surely Viewers who complain that Barbie Abellana, and ‘Juan Happy Love Story’ nina Ronnie Alonte take her spot as showbiz royalty sooner than later. has more scenes with Ken as Yuan will Heart Evangelista and Dennies Trillo, which Quite the irresistible charmer, Hashtag member see this week that Barbie is now getting are both topraters. So we’re confident na Ronnie Alonte co-stars with Julia Barretto in the Joshua Garcia closer to Ivan who she advises to be in magiging mataas din ang rating ng ‘Meant to Be’ na talaga namang mai-in love ang viewers film for this year’s Metro Also starring in Vince and Kath good terms with his own mom who sa character ni Barbie as Billie at ng four Manila Film Festival. His boy- and James with Julia Barretto, he addresses as Mi. Barbie often hears leading men niya.” next-door appeal and crazy fan- Joshua is surely a star on the rise. him arguing on the phone with his base are only a couple of reasons as With his nice guy charm that’s Mi. But Ivan, it turns out, already has a to why he’s going to make it big in easy to fall for, everyone is saying girlfriend, and her name is Mia. In fact, the next few months. that he might just be the next John she’s the one that Ivan addresses as Mi, Lloyd Cruz. not his mommy.

New challenges for Janine, Kris

JANINE Gutierrez faces the most challeng- She’ll also train with actual lawyers to fa- one of the nameless performers napansin nang husto,” he says. ‘At ing role in her career as a blind lawyer in one miliarize herself with her role. We’re personally in the late Kuya Germs’ midnight ngayon, grateful akong mab- of the first shows to start taping for 2017 at the advising her to also watch good TV series about show, “Walang Tulugan”, he’s finally igyan ng lead role on primetime Kapuso Network, “Legally Blind”. “Maganda lawyers, notably our personal favorites, “The given leading man status on prime- in ‘Meant to Be’. When I was first nga ang pasok ng new year for me dahil may Good Wife” and “Suits”, and also “Daredevil”, time in GMA’s new show, “Meant informed about it, hindi agad nag- bago agad akong show,” she says. “At napaka- where the hero is also a blind lawyer. to Be”. Jak used to be part of the sink in sa akin. But now, feeling ko, ganda pa ng role ko.” Another Kapuso star to have a challeng- trio, Threelogy, with Jeric Gonzales nasa cloud nine ako sa sobrang saya She will play a law student who gets raped ing project for 2017 is , who was and Abel Estanislao, which has ko for this opportunity. At least, and brutally beaten up that she loses her eye- earlier reportedly plan to move to ABS-CBN. been disbanded after Abel left may acting akong maipapakita at sight. Despite her disability, she Obviously, her plan didn’t prosper and she’s now GMA Artist Center. His breakout hindi puro pagtatanggal lang ng continues to pursue her law slated to do the remake of “Impostora”, first role is in “”, where he is shirt ko sa harap ng kamera.” degree and becomes a Bar shown by GMA-7 exactly ten years ago starring often shown shirtless to display his Being assigned a lead role topnotcher who will help Sunshine Dizon in dual roles as twins where chiselled torso, which he also does in ‘Bubble has multiplied his followers in his social media oppressed people. For one is good and the other is evil. Kris is a good Gang’. This earned him the title Pambansang accounts. “Biglang naging 141,000 sa Insta- her role, she has to study actress, as shown in her last soap, “Little Nanay”, Abs because of his very pronounced abdominal gram at 20,000 sa Twitter ang followers ko. how actual blind and we have no doubt she can tackle the twin muscles. Pero siempre, dumami rin ang bashers. I guess people behave and roles competently. “Marami na rin akong ginawang shows normal naman yun. I understand them. Sana, learn how to read the before that, doing supporting roles, like ‘Cielo panoorin na lang nila ang ‘Meant to Be’ starting Braille alphabet for JAK’S TIME TO SHINE de Angelina’, ‘Half Sisters’, ‘With a Smile’, ‘Ilus- this Monday night sa GMA7.” the visually chal- trado’, ‘Hanggang Makita Kang Muli’, ‘Usapang lenged. Real Love’, pero sa ‘Dear Uge’ talaga ako unang JAK Roberto’s time has come. After being 18 2017 18

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Drew describes wife Iya as ‘phenomenal’ KEN: DI AKO BALIW KEN Chan was so convincing as the trans- sa taping. I want him to need me. Ayokong the correct answers in all the 8 questions, they woman in “Destiny Rose” and he even won ma-feel na hindi na niya ako kailangan,” Iya can win as much as P200,000. an acting award for it. He says the role made laughs. In the presscon, some press people acted people think he’s really gay so he’s happy that Drew says he’s hats off to Iya when it comes as contestants and they got only one correct this time, in his new show, “Meant to Be”, he to being a good mom. “She’s a first time answer. It’s because most of the questions are projects a totally different persona as Yuan mother but she’s very phenomenal in doing trick questions so you have to really think care- Lee. her job. She’s a working mom but, at night, she fully first before giving an answer. If the stars “Nakabigote ako rito, masyadong maangas, still wakes up to feed our son without kicking fail to give a correct answer, the question’s cash galit sa mundo kasi masama ang loob ko sa me on the bed to help her. I think everyday is a prize goes to the televiewers who can text their father kong Chinese tycoon dahil anak lang Mother’s Day for her.” answer to the People Question of the Week. niya ako sa labas,” he says. “Malayong-malayo “In fairness to Drew, he’s also a hands In the first episode they taped, the guests are ito sa transgender role ko before kaya, hope- on dad. When he’s not working, he just stays Kapuso Heartthrobs Alden Richards, Derrick fully, maiba na ang tingin sa’kin ng tao after home helps me in changing Primo’s diapers. Monasterio and Kristoffer Martin. Featured in they’ve seen me in my more macho role in He even carries our baby at isinasayaw niya to the second episode are Kapuso actresses Rhian ‘Meant to Be’.” put him to sleep, until someone warned him na Ramos, Solenn Heussaff and . He just laughs off rumors that he was seen huwag sanayin at baka maghanap,” says Iya. “They are such good contestants, they made kissing with another guy in a bar in BGC. It’s a lot of fun for them to be working our job as hosts easier, lalo na sina Alden kasi “Malayong mangyari ‘yun kasi hindi ako together in one show. “We hosted a cooking barkada talaga sila at sila mismo, maraming mahilig lumabas at mag-bar. I’m often just show last year, ‘Home Foodie’, pero ten min- punchlines, lalo na si Kristoffer who’s so kulit at home with my family. At baliw ba akong IYA Villania and husband Drew Arellano utes lang ‘yun, unlike this one that runs for one and is the clown in their group. Never a dull gagawa ng something like makikipaghalikan are hosting the original GMA game show, hour. It’s nice kasi we can leave home together moment at laugh trip talaga. With this type sa kapwa ko lalaki, na siguradong makakasira “People vs. the Stars”. At its presscon, they and sabay rin kaming umuwi,” says Drew. of game show format, it’s not only the viewers sa’kin, in public? Malinis ang conscience ko brought their 4-month old son, Primo, with “People vs. the Stars” will feature three guest who’ll enjoy but also the guests themselves.” kasi secure akong girls pa rin ang gusto ko. them. “Kasi I’m breastfeeding him at ayokong stars each week. They will be asked 8 questions “People vs. the Stars” airs coming Sunday Wag na lang pansinin ang ganyang tsismis.” masanay siya sa bottle kaya isinasama ko, pati with a corresponding cash value. If they’d give from 5 to 6 p.m. on GMA7.

“It was James who con- rin namin noon sa PBB. Kasi SCAPEGOAT BROMANCE vinced me to return to Manila nawala ako, ‘di ba? At sila, nag- continued from page 1 and make a showbiz comeback ing magkasama sa Viva. But Ivan and James when we saw each other in we’re all just good friends.” to respect the rule of law or enforce the law. “It L.A.,” says Ivan, who’s now 26. So is he happy now with will only continue to deteriorate and eventually Ivan Dorschner belongs to the same batch “For sure, people would GMA? cease to be the major law enforcement agency of of “: Clash of 2010” where compare me to him, but “Sobra. They gave me a the government,” she said. James Reid emerged as the winner. Both of between us, there’s no com- really warm welcome at lahat De Lima put most of the blame to Duterte, them were given supporting roles in ABS- petition. We’re good friends kami ng cast ng ‘Meant to Be,’ who according to her transformed the PNP into CBN but their careers didn’t really prosper. and he’s very supportive of nagkakasundo. I gained new a “death squad.” James hit it big when he moved to Viva me. But I’ll just do my best friends here.” “This is not the sole fault of its PNP chief, while Ivan decided to just go back to Cali- on my own.” They’re so close folks say they The show’s very fashionable program but mostly of his President who has transformed fornia. Now, he’s back in circulation and has have a “bromance.” “Well, bahala na ang mga manager Hazel Abonita says they’re very a once professional institution into nothing moved to GMA-7, given his biggest break so tao kung gusto nilang lagyan ng malice ang happy with the high ratings and very positive more than ‘tokhang’ death squads engaged in far as one of the four leading men of Barbie friendship namin. Go ahead, it’s fine. Actually, feedback that the show got in its pilot telecast. “tong” shakedown rackets,” she said. Forteza in “Meant to Be.” James is also close to Bret Jackson, na kasama Congratulations! 19 2017 19 Entertainment Gina apologizes to Ara: ‘Sana, maayos na’+ other stories

GINA Alajar is one of GMA-7’s new show introduced by GMA-7 this year after most trusted direc- tors the highly successful toprater, “Meant to Be”. today. She’s always directing This will be followed by “Destined to be Yours”, something, like “Villa Quin- a Valentine offering starring Alden Richards and Kylie to tana”, “Yagit”, “Let the Maine Mendoza, co-starring Janice de Belen, Love Begin”, “Half Sis- Lotlot de Leon, Gardo Versoza, Dominic Roco, Nadine inaway- ters” and now “Pinulot Sheena Halili, Ina Feleo, Juancho Triviño, RJ give birth in Ka Lang sa Lupa”. In Padilla, Koreen Medina and Boots Anson-Roa. away ng ilang fans between, she also Janine Gutierrez stars in “Legally Australia? acts, like playing Blind”, where she plays a law student nina Kathryn at the main villain raped and beaten up and loses her in “Magkaibang eyesight but goes on to become a Daniel KYLIE Padilla turned 24 years old last Mundo”. She’s hotshot lawyer. She’s paired with Wednesday, January 25, and she spent her birthday quietly to avoid any nosey people now challenged Mikael Daez and Rod- jun TANONG ng ilang fans today ay who’d inquire about her infanticipation. to adapt National Cruz, co-starring Lau- ren kung in-unfollow na ni Nadine Lustre si She just continues to post cryptic messages Artist Ishmael Young, Marc Abaya and Kathryn Bernardo sa Instagram. like: “Whichever you are, be proud.” This Bernal’s hit drama , directed by This came after lumabas sa isang made netizens feel that she’s proud of her movie, “Pinulot Ka . website ang isang post where it pregnancy and she doesn’t intend to hide Lang” for the small Kris Bernal has showed na hindi na pina-follow ng her condition. But it’s also bruited about screen. dumped her plan to be dyowa ni James Reid ang girlfriend ni that she’ll soon fly to Australia (where her “Maraming naka- a Kapamilya and will star in . mom lives) to give birth there. This has yet panood noon kasi pinagsama sina Lorna Tolentino a remake of “Impostora”, Super depensa naman ang fans to be confirmed, though. and Maricel Soriano,” she says. “But for TV, mara- which starred Sunshine Dizon before. Her leading ni Nadine laban sa ilang matataray What is sure is that even if they have mi kaming binago para mas kumapal ang story. Isa men are Rafael Rosell and Ryan Eigenmann. Then at palabang fans nina Kathryn at yet to admit her condition, the latest na rito ‘yung role ni as the patriarch there’s the adaptation of the Koreanovela, “My Daniel. development on her current situation is in the movie na ginawa naming babae ngayon, si Loved from the Star”, starring Jennylyn Mercado Baka natoxic si Nadine sa mga that her manager, Betchay Vidanes posted Jean Garcia. Binigyan din namin ng back story and new discovery Gil Cuerva. pina follow nya so she just unfollowed on the net that she and ang characters nina Julie Anne San Jose as Santina Regine Velasquez will have two new shows. everyone tapos follow na lang ulit sa are now officially engaged. That means, a and LJ Reyes as Angelie. May mga magulang sila One is a comedy-musical show on Saturdays start- mga people that she really like. wedding is probably imminent, even if they rito na nawalay sa kanila. Si ang ama ing February 18, “Full House Tonight”, co-starring “Is it that far-fetched na impossible have different faiths since Kylie is officially ni Julie at si Ara Mina ang ina ni LJ.” Miguel Tanfelix, Bianca Umali, Solenn Heussaff, mangyari? Haha, be analytic din kase. a Muslim like her dad and What can she say about the rant of Ara Mina Joross Gamboa and several comedians led by Kim If she unfollowed na isa-isa, then for Aljur is a Christian. against the show in her Instagram account? Idol and Philip Lazaro. Regine’s other show will sure big issue na yan and I’m pretty What’s nice is that her fans continue to “Hindi ko nabasa, e. When someone told me be the telefantasya, “Mulawin vs. Ravena”, with sure she’ll get bashed for it. tell Kylie that they love her and that they’ll about it, I checked it pero deleted na. But sana , Derrick Monasterio, , “Mas realistic pa sayo yung ‘nasira’ support her, so she should remain strong maayos kasi if she’d really quit the show, say- Miguel Tanfelix, Bianca Umali, Chynna Ortaleza, yung IG nya or na-hack, given na and brave for her baby. One supporter ang naman dahil ang dami na niyang nakuhang Dion Ignacio, Winwyn Marquez, Kiko Estrada verified account siya? THINK!” wailed wrote to her: “Be proud because God sent eksena. Magiging kawalan siya kasi in fairness to and Roi Vinzon, directed by Dominic Zapata and one fan. you an angel from above that’s going to her, she’s really very good. Nakatrabaho ko na siya Don Michael Perez. “Itong mga kampon ng Kathnyek, love you for life. Lucky you!” They say that bilang artista sa ‘Tatlo Magkasalo’ before na bagets The game show, kung makagawa ng intriga ganun this is not the end of her career since other pa siya at magaling talaga. Ngayon ko lang uli siya “Celebrity Bluff ”, will na lang tapos pag pinatulan kayo, female stars got preggy but were able to nakatrabaho at ako nang director niya and she has be back, this time as a banas naman kayo. comeback, like Jennylyn Mercado who really transformed herself into a very good actress. daily show, still with “IG ni Nadine yan, wala kayong was impregnated by Patrick Garcia and LJ At okay siyang katrabaho, hindi mareklamo. but paki kung sino gusto niya ifollow or Reyes who has a son with Paulo Avelino. Once, napaghintay ko siya nang matagal sa gabi no longer with Jose unfollow. Lahat ng lang ng galaw But they add that they’ll miss her and I said sorry and she said, ‘No, Ate Gina, okay Manalo as co-host but ni Nadine, inaalam ninyo. Stalkers!” character in “Encantadia” as Amihan, lang.’ Mabait talaga siya. I don’t know the reason with Edu Manzano as mataray na comment ng isang maka- whose death has already been leaked in kung anong hindi niya nagustuhan but, siguro, Master Bluffer. JaDine. social media. And if the fans are very kind ‘yun ‘yung na-delay ang airing ng show at nainip “Isa kang reyna ng nega. Kung to Kylie, it’s totally the opposite in the case na siya sa kahihintay. Kasi dapat, October pa ang will host his own do- yung ibang kaibigan ni Nadine di of Aljur. The fans are mad at him and they airing namin pero naurong nang naurong dahil cu-drama, “Case Solved”, about crimes complete pa rin nya follow uli lahat eh. Ilan say: “Wala ka nang career, idinamay mo pa na-extend ‘yung ‘Sa Piling ni Nanay’. Pero heto, with actual footage, interviews with victims and araw nga after nya nagkaproblema si Kylie kung kailan sumisikat na siya dahil finally, we’ll start on January 30. Baka may ibang dramatization. Wifey Marian Rivera will also have sa Instagram si James lang muna ang sa ‘Encantadia’.” “Ang kapal ng mukha offers sa kanya na hindi niya natanggap dahil dito. her own show on primetime, now being cooked kaisa isa follow nya. Lawakan ang mo, binalikan mo si Kylie, bubuntisin mo Sana naman, maayos na nang husto ng production up. Heart Evangelista will be hosting “Project isip ha at di puro paggawa ng gulo lang pala.” They’re asking what he will feed para makabalik na siya uli sa taping.” Achieved”. Other shows lined up are “Text Serye”, at galawang troll ang asa isip,” one Kylie and their baby, considering he has no “Daig Kayo ng Lola Ko, “Lip Sync Battle Philip- guy said. work at the moment. pines Season 3” and the hit Koreanovela, “The “Mga jejecakes na itez, ano bang GMA ANNOUNCES NEW What the fans seem to forget is that it Big One” starring Park Seo Joon and Choi Siwon. pakealam niyo kung inunfollow ni ate takes two to make a baby. If Kylie didn’t SHOWS FOR 2017 Will Kris Aquino have a show with them? The Nadz si Kath? Kasalanan ba sa Diyos open her legs for her boyfriend, then he answer is none. yun? Nag-react ba kame for the could not get in during their vacation in longest time nung hindi pina-follow ni ‘PINULOT Ka Lang Sa Lupa’ is the second Japan last September where it’s said that kath si ate nadz???” said another fan. the baby was conceived.

CALL CENTER ners within the company, often breaking the work to be more in sync with him.” process improvement program manager. Rocky continued from page 17 unwritten code about not dating a friend’s ex. observes that BPO companies prefer to promote George, 48, another trainer with about 10 years Burnout from within their ranks and invest in their em- system of alerting employees to any event or act of experience in the BPO industry, notes how ployees with leadership training. Even supervi- of nature that could threaten our safety. Adds short-lived most pairings are, with many of sors who transfer from other companies must But while I and fellow trainers in our senior Adam: “Companies generally provide transpor- them lasting only weeks. In BPO companies he start again as agents. Adam points out: “One years feel blessed to be enjoying this second tation when there are typhoons or flooding, with has worked for, stories of amorous tussles in the thing that is powerful about this industry in the wind, younger employees remain open to other emergency provisions so people can crash [in sleeping quarters are not unheard of. To avoid Philippines is that agents can build a career here. career options. Benito says burnout in the job the office] in [unforeseen] circumstances. ” such encounters, Ramona recounts how some In the US, agents often see it as transitional companies have installed separate male and fe- arises from the routine work. Carlo observes work. There are so many [call] centers in the city Close proximity male sleeping that the aver- that every company is looking for strong people dorms. many employees rotate partners within age length of at all levels. So there’s a huge opportunity for But there stay is about personal growth in this industry here.” As for the perception of promiscuity among are enduring the company, often breaking the unwritten six months for To break into the industry, Benito says the its mostly young workforce and the resulting relationships about half of worst thing an applicant can write is that he/she spike in HIV/AIDS cases, the BPO industry code about not dating a friend’s ex as well that the employ- is applying for “any position.” “Understand your is like any other in that love can bloom amid have led to ees.” These skill and how you can be useful to the organi- work deadlines. But yes, “the median age of 23 the altar, such as George’s love story with fellow moves are zation,” he advises. Rocky says to debut in the to 25, plus the sheer number, the close proxim- trainer, Chin, 38, which started with him giving often spurred by the ease with which employees industry, an applicant should “speak well, learn ity among employees, and the unorthodox work her and other colleagues a lift home. A shared can transfer to other BPO companies. to be conversational, must have attention to hours” can breed new rules when it comes to devotion to their families drew them closer. The Despite the revolving-door careers, the BPO detail, and be good at problem-solving.” relationships. couple made the union official in 2014 and are industry does try to build a culture of job secu- In my sunset years, I am proud to be a part of Ramona, 26, a trainer whose five-year now parents to a daughter born this year. rity. Carlo cites their janitor who moved up from this sunrise industry that continues to give the experience includes working for small BPO Says Rocky, whose current partner is not in agent to supervisor. He himself has climbed Philippines—a small country—a big voice in the companies, says many employees rotate part- the industry: “I felt I needed to get daytime from being an outbound agent to becoming a global marketplace. 20 2017 20 More int’l cruises set to dock in Philippines Jean says

cruise ships carrying 24,712 passengers made holding calls to the Philippines. This was still short of the 72,350 passenger target set by the DOT under its National Cruise Tourism Strategy. hands with This year’s target, meanwhile, is to attract 85 port calls, bringing in 75,000 travelers into the Jomari has country. Tourism undersecretary for Administration Rolando Canizal said having a cruise home no malice port in Manila would make it more affordable and convenient for locals to buy cruise pack- JEAN Garcia says that although it’s true ages. “This means to say Flipinos don’t have that she and are very close to go to Hong Kong to take the cruise because and were even seen holding hands in public, SINGAPORE — More international cruise one of Asia’s cruise hubs,” Teo said. they can just take the cruise from Manila,” the it doesn’t mean that companies have started to express interest to Star Cruises, a subsidiary of Genting Hong official said. they have a romantic dock in the Philippines, further strengthening Kong, earlier announced its fleet flagship, Meanwhile, Canizal said the DOT was relationship. the government’s bid to make the country a Superstar Virgo, was set to establish Manila scheduled to meet with representatives of Royal “We call each major hub for international cruise ships. as its new home port this summer. This is the Caribbean. other Kaps, meaning, Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo revealed the first time a company has chosen the city as its “The vice president (of Royal Caribbean) Kapatid,” she says. “But agency was in discussions with cruise giants vessel’s base. will be seeing the Tourism Minister to discuss honestly, hindi talaga Carnival Cruise Line and the Genting Group. Michael Goh, SVP of Genting’s Dream attracting more cruise visits to the Philippines, kami on. Kapag tina- “I’ve been meeting with the executives of Cruise Line, said the ships would start docking and also how they would be able to help us tanong ako about him, I really say, si Jom, Carnival Corp. and Genting. Both agreed that in Manila waters in March until May. develop our cruise products and infrastructure,” love ko ‘yun, but walang malice ‘yun, kundi the Philippines has great potential to become From January to October 2016, a total of 19 he said. as friends lang. Siguro mahirap maintindi- han ‘yung ganung relationship namin. Kasi sa atin, kapag babae’t lalaki, ang conclusion, magkarelasyon na kayo agad. May relasyon kami, but only as friends talaga. More than KATRINA WANTS TO ako sa GMA, e, dito na ko siyang lunurin sa one year kaming magkasama sa ‘The Half GROW OLD WITH GMA siguro ako tatanda.” ilog. Si Jillian Ward Sisters’, di ba? Doon talaga kami naging So how’s “Sa as Katherine, nakuha magka-vibes nang husto. Pero bilang mag- Piling ni Nanay” do- ni Antonio Aquitania kaibigan lang talaga, wala pong anything KATRINA Halili’s current soap, “Sa ing? “Naku, lalong as Rod pero dumat- sexual, sa maniwala kayo’t hindi.” Piling ni Nanay”, will end on January 27 gumaganda ang mga ing sina Mark Herras Meanwhile, as the adoptive mother of LJ while her contract with GMA7 is expiring eksena. Sa gubat ang as Jonas and Gabby Reyes and Julie Anne San Jose in “Pinulot Ka Lang sa Lupa”, what can she say about this April. Will she renew her contract as a set namin ngayon kasi Eigenmann as Bene- Kapuso? “Wala pang napag-uusapan,” she the quality of their acting? “Both of them naghahabulan kami dict para iligtas siya. are okay, pareho silang maganda at magaling. says. “Siguro sa April na lang. Pero siyem- nina Yasmien Kurdi as Abangan nyo kasi ang pre, first preference ko pa rin ang GMA Sana, ma-maintain nila at maging consistent Ysabel. Nagkita kami daming action scenes sila sa commitment nila sa work at yung pa- kasi more than ten years na ako rito at sa gilid ng bangin at na ginawa namin kaya giging professional nila. In fairness sa lahat hindi naman nila ako pinababayaan. Mula naglaban. Muntik na lalong very exciting ang ng mga kasama ko rito sa ‘Pinulot Ka Lang’, pa noong na-discover ako sa StarStruck, akong mahulog, pero mga eksena hanggang walang itatapon sa cast, lahat mahusay, pati lagi akong may show sa kanila kahit na niligtas pa rin ako ni sa ending nito sa Janu- si Geleen Eugenio as my confidante, si Tiya noong nagkaroon ng issues about me then Yasmien. ary 27.” Yoleng, ibang-iba siya rito. Hindi siya mag- sasayaw kundi a-acting talaga.” I got pregnant pa. Kaya nga feeling loyal Kaya lang, nakabawi ako at gusto

21 2017 21 Entertainment

Lovi on new guy: Just showing our true colors to each other + other stories YASMIEN won’t forget the year 2016 as it’s been a very good one And she is paired with her own inamorato, Benjamin Alves. Is it true for her. She has a hit movie, “The Escort”, and a hit they’ve been officially on for four months now? It’s the other members CELEBRATES primetime soap that now rules its time slot, “Someone to of the cast who chorused with a big “YES!” BIRTHDAY WITHOUT Watch Over Me”. And we add: she has found a new It’s Benjamin who replies: “Wala naman kaming itinatago. What love in European guy, Chris Johnson who she said you see is what you get. Basta maganda ang pasok ng 2017 sa amin kasi HER HUSBAND will be with her this holiday season. magkasama kami sa show and we’re happy to be working together.” “Actually, nandito na siya,” she says when In the TV version of “Pinulot Ka Lang sa Lupa”, Jean Garcia is YASMIEN Kurdi also celebrated her we visited her o n the final taping day of married to Victor Neri but when their daughter dies in a fire caused by birthday on January 25. “Yes, magkasabay “Someone to Watch Over Me”. So Allan Paule, Victor leaves her with their son Ephraim (who’ll grow up kami ng birthday ni Kylie Padilla,” she what’s the real status of their to be Benjamin Alves). She puts up a small carinderia that succeeds and says. relation- ship? “Wala pang becomes a big restaurant. She takes two girls under her wing, Santina Like Kylie, she was also 23 years official status. We’re just (who becomes Julie Anne San Jose), the daughter of Allan Paule, and old when she got pregnant. “Pero kasal na enjoying each other’s Angeli (who becomes LJ Reyes), the daughter of Ara Mina who’s es- kami noon ng husband ko (Rey Soldevilla, companion- ship. I don’t tranged from her own mom. Eventually, Julie and LJ become bitter rivals a pilot) and I gave birth when I was 24. believe in court- for the attention of Jean and the affection of Benjamin. Also in the cast Now, 4 years old na ang daughter naming ship where are Geleen Eugenio as Jean’s confidante, Yoleng; Janna Dominguez as a si Ayesha. When we were married, you put former Japayuki who oppresses Julie; and Lharby Policarpio as Benja- birthday ko rin kaya ang wedding your best foot anniversary namin coincides with my min’s friend, Boggs. forward, so we’re just birthday.” showing our true colors to So do they intend to have another each other. No pretensions. Even baby soon? “Naku, hindi muna. Mahirap, my mom and my sister like him. kasi wala kaming yaya. Ang hirap We get along fine. We’re leaving for maghanap. ‘Yung last yaya ko, na-in love Thailand with other friends after sa security guard in the condo in BGC Christmas. We’ll go island hopping.” where we live.” How does she feel now that “Someone to Watch Over Me” will end What’s her birthday wish? “Actually, on January 6? “I’m gonna miss everybody. I love this show kahit sobrang I already feel so blessed. I’m in ‘Sa Piling mahirap siyang gawin kasi physically and emotionally draining. Every LJ’s son by Paulo looking for father: ni Nanay’ na ang taas ng rating and now episode, umiiyak ako as Joanna, the wife who has to make a lot of sac- ‘He’s busy’ that it’s ending this Friday, may isang rifices for her ailing husband. But it’s very fulfilling, kahit kung minsan, existing show which I will join. And I nadadala ko ‘yung lungkot ng character ko sa bahay. just renewed my contract with GMA7 LJ Reyes doesn’t mind if she was without a show for over a year. She Na-attach ako sa kanya kasi she’s fighting for a love that is not re- for a long, long time. Kung may wish was last seen in “Yagit” with Yasmien Kurdi in 2015. Yasmien has since ciprocated by her husband who has totally forgotten her. It’s good Tom man ako, it’s good health for my family. I appeared in “Sa Piling ni Nanay” that run for seven months but it’s only Rodriguez and I have good teamwork. He’s very giving and that makes also wish I’d be given the chance to play now that LJ has been given a new soap, “Pinulot Ka Lang sa Lupa”, my job easier.” different kinds of roles and makapag- which will replace “Sa Piling” on GMA-7’s Afternoon Prime starting What does she do so she won’t run out of tears when she faces the movie sana uli ako, kasi my last movie January 30. camera for a heavy dramatic scene? “I drink a lot of water para ’di ako was ‘Bahay Kubo’ with Maricel Soriano “Kahit wala akong regular show, nagkaroon naman ako ng guest- maubusan ng luha. Pero madali na rin once I’m in character kasi this is in 2009 pa. Ang tagal na. Sana rin, ings sa ‘’, ‘Wagas’, ‘Dear Uge’, ‘Karelasyon’, and I had the most painful role I’ve ever played so far. This will be hard to top and makapag-recording na ako ng bagong extended guest roles in ‘Marimar’ and I’m thankful this role was given to me.” songs kasi I miss doing yung mall shows ‘Poor Senorita’, so hindi naman ako What’s next for her in 2017? “I’m looking forward to a new TV series. na kahit wala kaming bayad to promote nabakante,” she says. “Tapos, I won Pinag-uusapan na raw but I don’t know the details yet. Mukhang mas our songs, it gives me naman the chance best actress awards pa in Russia and maganda ang 2017 kasi everything is moving forward for me. I’ve also na kumanta and connect with my fans. I Urian for ‘Anino sa Likod ng Buwan’. moved to a new house.” want to do more love songs kasi Filipinos At itong role ko as Angeli in ‘Pinulot Does she have a new year’s wish or resolution? “My wish is for people are hopeless romantics.” Ka Lang sa Lupa’, it’s worth the wait to have kindness in everyone’s heart, less greed. Ayoko ng mag-resolu- So how will “Sa Piling Ni Nanay” end? naman kasi challenging talaga siya tion kasi hindi ko naman natutupad, but my plan is to eat less snacks, “Na-tape na namin ang ending the other and I get to work again with Direk sweets and junk food kasi sobrang lakas kong kumain niyan.” week pa, pero hindi nila nagustuhan, na siya ring director ko in We tell her she need not worry since she seems to have a very strong so tinapon yung scenes na nakunan na ‘Yagit’.” metabolism and she doesn’t get fat at all. namin and just this last Monday, nag-tape Ara Mina plays her mom in ‘Pi- kami uli ng mas magandang ending. nulot Ka Lang sa Lupa’. How did she feel when Ara ranted against the Abangan nyo kung paano ang magiging Benjamin on relationship with Julie show in social media and threatened to leave it? “Wala akong alam kasi katapusan ni Katrina Halili as the nasa States ako noon. Hindi ko naman nabasa what she posted. Nagulat Anne: Not hiding kontrabida, si Scarlett, at kung ano ang na lang ako pag-uwi ko, may ganun palang issue. Marami na kaming mangyayari sa amin nina Mark Herras na-tape na eksena, e. Sayang naman kung ayaw na niya. At enjoy naman JULIE Anne San Jose reprises Maricel Soriano’s role as Santina in “Pi- and Gabby Eigenmann. Ibang klase akong katrabaho siya. Friend ko rin ang sister niyang si Cristine (Reyes), nulot Ka Lang sa Lupa”, GMA-7’s adaptation of the 1987 hit Ishmael siya. Somehow, mami-miss ko yung mga so sana nga, maayos na para makapag-resume na siya ng taping.” Bernal drama made by Regal Films. Playing the role of Lorna Tolentino sapakan at sampalan namin ni Katrina. About her love life, it’s common knowledge she and are as Angeli is LJ Reyes. But the story has been changed. In the original Dahil dun kaya naging mas close kami.” now together. Do they have plans to walk down the aisle? “As of now, movie, the one who adopted So how will she celebrate her birthday wala, marami pang kailangang ayusin.” them was Eddie Garcia. This with her husband Rey? “Wala siya. May How about her son Aki’s dad, Paulo Avelino, does he visit their boy time, it’s a woman, Jean Gar- flight sa Vietnam, so pagbalik na lang niya regularly? “No. Busy siya, e.” cia as Diony. at saka kami magse-celebrate.” Does Aki look for his dad? “Siyempre. Alam naman niya kung sino “I really want to thank To what will she attribute the success ang father niya, so hinahanap niya. Nakikita naman niya, sa TV.” GMA-7 for giving me this of her marriage? “Siguro ‘yung trust She gave a very daring performance in “Anino sa Likod ng Buwan”. project,” she says. “It’s a great namin sa isa’t isa. And also, we know But we heard she now refuses to go sexy again. How true? “Yes, ang laki acting opportunity kasi puro how to give each other space. But si Rey, na kasi ng anak ko. Ayoko namang ma-call pa niya ang attention ko.” magagaling ang mga kasama whenever he’s abroad, sabik na sabik na ko and I get to be directed by siya laging umuwi sa amin ng anak niya. a great actress herself, Gina Miss na miss niya ang lutong bahay ko.” Alajar.”

LEFT, PPCO officers and members enjoy dinner at Max’s during the induction. CENTER, IPEN boss Edgar Sulit announces the winner beside the jr president. RIGHT, Jemilie Cunanan Adajar, Emely Abuno Gavin, Ma El, and LiezelBermejoabuno Tupas Castillo enjoy the despedida for Shanaia. 22 2017 22 Spotlight

Sarah Geronimo teases John Lloyd Cruz about set- tling down Escolta, 1950s Sarah Geronimo and John Lloyd Cruz are finally reuniting in a movie four years after their last one. “Very excited po ako kasi galing din sa bakasyon. Maganda to start the year na magtrabaho ulit,” said Sarah in an interview during their movie Dear Fu- “Matagal-tagal na yung huling pagsasama Sarah then asked her leading man, “Ikaw walked the aisle yet. ture Husband’s story conference together with John namin. Kapag tumagal pa, baka hindi na kaya Lloydie kelan? Ikaw ba Lloydie hindi pa? “Meron pa tayong ibang aspiration sa buhay Lloyd and their new directer Ted Boborol. mangyari,” he said. “Dapat mangyari na siya. Ano ba ang mindset mo ngayon?” in both personal and work-related. [Pero] According to Sarah, the project came unex- Life is short.” “I’m forever young,” said John Lloyd. siguro kahit naman anong sabihin ko, siguro pectedly as she already wanted to veer away from In order to differentiate their film from The actor was honest enough to admit that ang totoo naman diyan, hindi ko pa nakikita,” rom-coms. their past three projects, Sarah said she would he doesn’t see himself settling down any time he ended. “Nagkataon nung umakyat si Ma’am Charo make a conscious effort to act according to soon even if he’ll “always be a lover.” Without revealing much about their story [Santos-Concio] nung Christmas special, sabi her age. “Marami pa tayong gustong ma-achieve sa Direk Ted shared that they are slated to start niya ‘O, gagawa pa ba kayo ng movie ni Lloydie?’ “Galing sa title mismo ng pelikula na Dear buhay natin since nabalitaan ko na life is short filming by end of January or early February. Nagulat ako. Siyempre si Ma’am Charo, nakakahiya Future Husband, siyempre dadating sa buhay nga daw,” he explained. He also shared that they are looking into hit- mag-decline,” she shared about what made her say natin na gusto din natin magkaroon ng saril- While he initially reiterated that there’s ting the theaters by second quarter of the year. “yes” to the project. ing pamilya,” she said. more to life than just settling down, John The box office actor also expressed his excitement To which John Lloyd replied with “Ganon?” Lloyd revealed the real reason why he hasn’t about their reunion project.

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James Reid What People talked about in He is a walking example of a perfect 2016 + other stories transformation. From a lanky lad Call 416-945-2336 when he joined PBB Teens, James As we welcome the New Year, we are listing down the newsmakers of 2016 from the world of sports a muscular show business. physique now that looks desirable in Alden Richards every angle. And He had a concert in London in October. It For Sale this physical change was sold out. Thousands of his Filipino fans Sanken CS1 Microphone put the 23-year-old flocked to Troxy in Stepney East London $ 713.13 / best offer Kapamilya star in a to watch the Kapuso star live in the flesh. league all his own. Apart from being a platinum This concert was just one of the shows Alden recording artist, a certified box office actor, James staged sans his onscreen partner, Maine also a sought-after product endorser. He is the top Mendoza, whose career (according to some choice of high profile brands making him one if kibitzers) is close to stagnation. But what not the top celebrity endorser of the year. really made 2016 his biggest year yet? This is the same year when he received a Diamond Call Liza Soberano Record award for his album Wish I May. It’s hard to argue when people call her the face 416-945-2336 The album was certified by PARI (Philippine of 2016 for looking effortlessly Association of Record Industry) after it sold beautiful in every angle. In fact, more than 150,000 physical copies. This even Pia Wurtzbach admires her recognition put the showbiz golden boy as the beauty. No other local celebrity biggest recording artist of the year. broke the Internet this year for Sheena Halili just looking pretty. Liza did it Jessy Mendiola several times, most memorable renews contract Last summer in Boracay, the 24-year-old Kapamilya star made headlines when a photo of her of which was her sensational look at the 10th in a red bikini circulated on the web. In what supposed to be just a fun photo Star Magic Ball in October. In an interview with with GMA that celebrates her being comfortable in her own skin elicited a barrage of hate Manila Standard, Liza said she doesn’t want comments with trolls calling her fat and her photo deceitful. Two months later, people to remember her for just being someone Network Jessy felt vindicated when FHM, via on online poll, declared her as the sexiest with a pretty face. She wants them to see what’s woman in the land after receiving more than half a million votes. But controversy between her ears, too. Little did many people Sheena Halili, who is co-managed by on body shaming didn’t stop there. Her name was then dragged into the Luis know, Liza is actually a geek. GMA Artist Center, continues her journey Manzano-Angel Locsin split with fans creating social media memes just to call her names. as a Kapuso as she renewed her contract Pangako Sa ‘Yo with GMA Star Cinema People anticipated the premiere of the Network Once again, ABS-CBN’s film production arm has proven that it’s the only home of Daniel Padilla and Kathryn Bernardo-starrer recently. commercially successful films. The production outfit produced a total of 11 films this year and series playing the star-crossed lovers Angelo Sheena only one of which didn’t breach the P100-million mark in terms of box office receipt. It’s most Buenavista and said she is recent offering, My Super Parental Guardians, is now considered as the biggest film of 2016 after Yna Macaspac. very happy it grossed more than P400 million at the tills. Previous record holder was Barcelona: A Love The series, to renew Untold, which Star Cinema released in September. which ended in her contract February, made with GMA history in 2016 7 which Her “As is, Where is” method of acting, which we learned from for registering the has been Eugene Domingo in Ang Babae sa Septic Tank, proved to be a hit at highest rating for her home Cannes Film Festival. Her gritty portrayal of a drug-dealing matriarch a primetime TV network for in Ma’Rosa, an indie film helmed by , helped show finale. The remake of the classic series posted many years. Jaclyn become the first Filipino to win the Best Actress award in the 27.5 percent ratings according to AGB Neilsen “I’m prestigious film event. and 44.7 percent according to TNS Kantar. It was really the only time that the two ratings provider agreed happy kasi Encantadia on something. everytime naman na nagre-renew ako ng The return of the immensely popular fantasy show on the small contract dito, nafi-feel ko talaga na dito ako screen was one big TV event. On July 18, when the “requel” of sa GMA; that I am meant for and to be Encantadia premiered, two generations of TV viewers were glued A showbiz pillar passed on in 2016 but the with GMA. Kasi second family ko talaga in front of their TV sets. The pilot was very successful. It topped the Master Showman’s passing ang GMA Network. This is where I grew Twitter trending topics, and made competing progrmas, including was the most talked about up talaga, where I developed my talent and the one-year-old FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano, eat dust. Encantadia when the entire showbiz skills as an artist. ” posted a 26.1 percent TV ratings, which is the highest primetime mourned. Kuya Germs died Sheena is in the upcoming primetime premiere in 2016. on Jan. 8 at the age of 82. He series, Destined To Be Yours, starring the was known as a star builder phenomenal love team—Alden Richards Pia Wurtzbach in his youth-oriented show and Maine Mendoza. In a month’s time, the Philippines’ third Miss Universe will relinquish her in the 1980s called That’s “Excited ako kasi ang ganda ng start ng crown. Now, looking back at her entire year as Miss Universe, Pia was able to Entertainment for aspiring year ko since makakatrabaho ko sina Alden prove that she deserved the title. The confidently beautiful with a heart beauty actors, dancers, and singers. He also initiated the and Maine sa Destined To Be Yours. Wala queen has been travelling the world spreading awareness on well-meaning “Walk of Fame” in Eastwood, Quezon City, which akong masabi sa dalawang yun kasi napaka- causes including cyber bullying and aids awareness. And because of her being is the local counterpart of the “Walk of Fame” in professional nila. Nung first taping day the “best Miss Universe ever,” Pia will still do a lot of work for MUO even after Hollywood, USA to recognize artists, broadcasters, nga namin, basang-basa na kami sa ulan, her reign. singers and others who made significant maputik pero wala akong narinig sa lahat contributions to the showbiz industry. ng kasama ko,” she added.

SHOWBIZ ROMANCES linked to . He now finds comfort and Pancho Magno also finally Estrada got cozy while doing the soap “That’s continued from page 26 in the arms of a Japanese-English model, Mari confessed this year that they’ve been together My Amboy”. Barbie quickly admitted their Jasmine. for four years now. relationship but Kiko seems to be shy about Borromeo, team captain of the Philippine and Xian Lim used to deny that Another pair of Kapuso lovebirds who it and denied it. Reporters quickly concluded, Azkals. Both her parents Gabby Concepcion they are on but when they did their soap this owned up to their relationship are Mark Herras “Hindi magtatagal ‘yan.” And that’s exactly what and have expressed their year, “The Story of Us”, they finally admitted and Winwyn Marquez and they just celebrated happened. approval for Aly. that they’re romantically involved with each Mark’s recent 30th birthday in Boracay a couple Valeen Montenegro was reported to be the Other stars who have found romance in a other. Still, this did not help the show to achieve of weeks ago. cause of the break up of Ciara Sotto’s marriage non-showbiz partner are Sunshine Cruz, the ex- high ratings. Julie Anne San Jose and Benjamin Alves also to TV exec Jojo Oconer, but she says she has a wife of , who found new love in At the Kapuso Network, love bloomed got cozy after they did a music video. They’re non-showbiz boyfriend, a Filipino-Spanish guy the arms of Macky Mathay, the half brother of between and Carla Abellana now paired in the new soap “Pinulot Ka Lang named Selu Lozano. actress Ara Mina who’s also separated from his after they did “My Husband’s Lover” and “My sa Lupa”. Stars who officially got engaged are Anne first spouse. Both of them have kids from their Destiny”. They were also paired in the movie Meantime, their co-star in the same soap, LJ Curtis with chef husband Erwan Heussaff, Billy past relationships. “No Boyfriend Since Birth”. At first, they said Reyes, has found love in Paolo Contis. LJ has Crawford and Coleen Garcia, Erich Gonzales Alex Gonzaga finds a new beau with non- they were just exclusively dating but this year, a son with Paulo Avelino while Paolo has two and , Rochelle Pangilinan showbiz guy Mikee Morada who’s said to they officially admitted that they’re indeed going daughters with former Sexbomb dancer Lian and Arthur Solinap, Gwen Zamora and Jeremy have come from a well-to-do family. After her steady. Paz. Marquez, widow Camille Prats and new found controversial relationships with Jake Ejercito Another couple who were linked to each Another Kapuso actress, Louise de los Reyes, love JB Yambot, Desiree del Valle and Boom and Albie Casino, found new other but finally admitted their romance is now lovey-dovey with Hale band’s main romance in non-showbiz guy Emilio Arambulo. officially only this year is 2013 singer Champ Lui Pio. SHOWBIZ ROMANCES Kapamilya matinee idol was last and Mikael Daez. Kapuso stars Barbie Forteza and Kiko continued on page 26 24 2017 24 Angeline Quinto ad- Mika reunites mits she fell in love with Barbie: with a ‘taken’ man Hunk Shot During the bloggers’ conference for Regal Films’ offering, Foolish Love, lead No regrets actress Angeline Quinto talked about the “foolish” things she did for love. According to her, she fell in love with a man who is already taken during that time. Talking about a non- showbiz guy, the Queen of Teleser- ye Theme Songs said, “Two years na po na mahal pa rin kahit na nakita ko na po at alam ko na na mayroon na siyang ibang partner. Parang ilang mga theme songs din po na siya ‘yung naging inspirasyon ko.” 17 year old The next foolish thing she experienced IPEN model in love was similar to the first. Hebrew stays in “Sa Sampaloc (Manila) pa po ako nakatira. Mayroon po akong mahal na shape by playing mahal na lalaki na may girlfriend siya MIKA de la Cruz is the younger sister basketball. pero alam niya naman na gusto ko siya so of Angelika de la Cruz. Both of them His ambition is pumunta ako minsan sa bahay ‘nung guy kahit alam kong nandoon ‘yung babae. used to be with ABS-CBN but Angelika tobe a graphic transferred to GMA-7. Mika now also Gusto ko lang siyang kausapin,” she said. does her first soap on GMA-7 in “Meant designer. We In former interviews, Angeline admit- to Be”, where she plays Mariko, the first wish him all ted not thinking about herself when she falls in love. However, she said she has no cousin of Barbie Forteza. the luck in his “It was my Ate who advised me to regrets. move to GMA and to be managed by endeavour. “Ako kasi, kapag nagmahal ako, hindi her manager, si Tito Perry Lansigan,” ko na iniisip ang sarili ko. Nagiging she says. “11 years na rin naman po ako priority ko ‘yung love ko, hanggang sa sa Channel 2. Nag-start ako sa kanila as matauhan kang bigyan mo rin ng priority a child actress. So for a change, lumipat ang sarili mo. Pero kung naging tanga ako. Sabi ng Ate ko, i-try ko sa GMA man ako sa pag-ibig, no regrets kasi kasi mabait sila at magaling mag-alaga marami akong natutuhan doon. Hindi ko Hebrew Miller na babalikan ang ganung experience kasi mas nag-mature na ako,” she said. MIKA AND BARBIE continued on page 17

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Manzano and Jessy Mendiola. Jessy earlier Showbiz Romances rekindled her romance with JM de Guzman, which crumbled once again when JM was NOW that another year is over, let’s take reported to not have succeeded in kicking an one last look at 2016. As usual, we give what old habit. Jessy was later accused of causing our readers prefer: The report on the colorful the break up of Luis and Angel Locsin, which love life of our celebrities. First, those who was also just rekindled, but Luis says his became romantically involved with each other relationship with Jessy started long after his this year, those who got married and those split from Angel. who got officially engaged. JaDine loveteam’s James Reid and Nadine First, wedding bells rang for three of the Lustre finally admitted that they’re on after so called IT Girls: Solenn Heussaff married working together for nearly two years. Their live-in partner Nico Bolzico in France on “On the Wings of Love” soap was a big hit May 21. Georgina Wilson had her wedding when they still kept people guessing about with Arthur Burnand in England on April the real score between them. Sadly, after they 29. Isabelle Daza and groom Adrien Semblatt admitted that they’re really on for reel and real, chose Tuscany, Italy for their nuptials on their new soap “Till We Meet Again” failed to September 11. hit the high ratings of their past soap. Cristalle Belo, daughter of Dr. Vicki Belo, Following in the footsteps of JaDine, the also married hotelier Justin Pitt in Lake KathNiel loveteam of Kathryn Bernardo More stars to Como, Italy on September 15. Carla Abellana and Tom Rodriguez and Daniel Padilla also admitted that they’re Vic Sotto finally walked down the aisle officially together and this resulted in the big watch in 2017 box office hit that was “Barcelona: A Love with much younger bride and “Eat Bulaga” at Santuario de San Antonio on December Untold”. co-host Pauleen Luna on January 30. TV5 1. Kaye Abad walked down the aisle in Kim Domingo Just like Jennylyn Mercado and Dennis entertainment reporter MJ Marfori also faced with PBB discovery Paul Jake Castillo just this For a long time, nobody knew who she was Trillo whose romance was rekindled, it’s the altar with GMA news reporter Oscar December 9. until the audience watched her regularly in also a case of love is lovelier the second time Oida on the same date. Another couple who Movie, TV and theatre actress Cris Villonco and a cover of a popular men’s around for Kylie Padilla and Aljur Abrenica got married in January was and also got hitched and married businessman magazine featured her sexy self. To start off who broke up in 2014 and got together again Ali Kathibi. Paolo Valderrama in May, while former a very promising year, Kim is cast as Vhong after two years. While they were off, Kylie was Singer-theatre actor Nyoy Volante married sexpot Francine Prieto married her American Navarro’s leading lady in the remake of Mang linked to teen actor Julian Trono, with whom theatre actress Mikkie Bradshaw in February. molecular biologist groom Frank Shotkotski Kepweng. It’s her first major role in a film in she had a break up, according to Aljur himself. Former GMA stars Stephanie Henares and in Italy last September. eight years, not to mention her first lead role. After and Paulo Avelino, Gino de la Pena got married in March. A controversial relationship involves that KC Concepcion seems to have gotten tired Rufa Mae Quinto also tied the knot with of sexpot and presidential Baste Gabbi Garcia of actors and is now on with athlete Aly Fil-Am balikbayan Trevor Magallanes on Duterte, simply because Baste already has a The 18-year-old actress earned a place in November 25 and they’re now waiting for the model girlfriend with whom he has a child. SHOWBIZ ROMANCES our shortlist for 2017 breakout contenders delivery of their first baby. Those who got together include Luis continued on page 26 when she joined Karel Marquez married non-showbiz groom the cast of the hit series Encantadia as Alena. Although PM and the Miss Philippines final selection competitions. The same rehearsal sequence she’s already Philippine Independence Day is scheduled at 7:00 PM. Ticket Admission is to be observed for both events including a appeared in a few Council 2017 Annual Beauty Price: $15.00/person (children 5 below free). Question-and-Answer portion for the Miss Kapuso shows, Prizes for all major winners will receive a Philippines only. Other vital schedules include it’s only recently Pageant Now Underway crown, sash and flowers including the follow- : 1) a photo opportunity on April 23, 2017, when people ing cash awards : Miss Philippines PIDC Sunday; 2) dress rehearsal on June 2, 2017, started noticing By Tony A. San Juan, OCT 2017 - One round trip ticket to the Philip- Friday , from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m.at the Gotta the young star as pines ; First runner up- $400.00; Second Run- Dance Studio, Toronto. the love team with Ruru Madrid also gains The annual beauty - and - talent competition ner Up - $200.00 and for Little Miss Philip- The PIDC officers and directors tasked to numbers among TV viewers. for Miss Philippines and Little Miss Philip- pines PIDC 2017 - $800.00; First runner organize and coordinate the yearly pageant pines PIDC 2017 titles is now underway. The up- $400.00 & Second Runner up- $200.00. include the Overall Pageant Chair: Rory Elisse Joson widely popular contest is being sponsored by On January 22, 2017, the PIDC officially Elefano; Miss Philippines Chair: Gene Pardo- Her biggest break was her being cast in a the prestigious Philippine Independence Day launched the pageant with a meet-and- greet Elamparo; Little Miss Chair: Helen Lao fast-food commercial, which promoted the Council (PIDC), a 19- year old not-for-profit, event at the Toronto City Hall. The second and Pageant Coordinator: Ophelia Santiago. concept of welcoming change and moving cultural and societal - responsive organiza- launching day is slated on February 19, 2017, Program Director: Karen Pascual–Binaday; forward after a heartbreak. The TVC itself tion in the Filipino Canadian and mainstream from 2:00 to 5: 00 PM at the same venue. Stage Director: Aris Elefano and Ric Nerona went viral online and communities. PIDC has been prominently According to PIDC pageant coordinators, with Website administrator Randy Bucao trended worldwide showcasing Pinoy heritage - centred programs Rehearsals will start on Sunday, March 26, and long-serving President Norma Carpio on Twitter. She such as the Mabuhay Philippines Festival, Salo 2017, from 2:00 to 5:00 PM for Little Miss as Pageant Adviser. Board Members Ben then became a part Salu sa Earl Bales Park, Mabuhay Cup Vol- Philippines contestants and 4:00 to 6:00 Corpuz, Aimee Maravilla, Al Tupe, Verth of the “lucky” group leyball Tournament, Mabuhay Golf, Mabuhay PM for Miss Philippines candidates at the Bugtong, Filomena Ticzon, Tom Tan, Chyrell of housemates in Cup Invitational Basketball Tournament and Gotta Dance Studio, 3581 Dundas St. West, Samson, Suzy Llanera, Roy Start, Jun Villaruz, the reality TV series the Philippine Independence Day Flag-Rais- Toronto.. The rehearsals will continue every Nanding Ticzon and Rose Cruz have rendered Pinoy Big Brother: ing rites at Queen’s Park. Sunday until May 28, 2017. additional support and assistance. Lucky Season 7 Coronation Night is going to be held on The rehearsals will focus on prepara- For further information or anyone who is and then in the June 3, 2017, Saturday at the Isabel Bader tions and instructions for every contestant ‘s interested in joining this prestigious pageant primetime TV series FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano. Theatre, UT- Victoria University , 93 Charles opening performance, catwalk and program – please e-mail: [email protected] or It’s just going to be a busy year for the Street W., Toronto. The Little Miss Philip- presentation in casual dress, talent, gown visit the PIDC website www:pidctoronto.com millennials’ “hugot queen.” pines contest will begin at 2:00 until 5:00

(Pop-ups are not supposed to be taken SHOWBIZ ROMANCES seriously - EDITOR) continued from page 24 Candid SPOOF Labrusca, Luis Alandy and non-showbiz fiancee Joselle Fernandez, and Bangs Garcia Dr. Solon and British boyfriend Lloyd Birchmore who Guzman You put already have a wedding date, January 17, in you right foot doesn’t seem to be Boracay, where they first met. out... impressing An actress who had a same sex wedding his daughters in December is Rosanna Roces with Princess and transgender Jessy Arias. Transwoman Ate Angeline on Glow (impersonator of former Pres. Gloria how to dance Arroyo whose real name is Rene Facunla) the Hawaiian. also married a British guy last July in London Well, they and is now known as Renee Hampshire. should know better than The actress daughter of Rez Cortez, Cai to follow their Cortez, also revealed she got married in civil dad’s dancing. rites with Tunisian businessman Wissem After all, they Rahkmi and she just gave birth to their son, are enrolled at Habib. Siony’s Dance Other folks who found romance in each School. other this year are actor Geoff Eigenmann Dr. SolonGuzman poses with an IPEN beauty at and singer Maya, singers the IPEN pageant at Rembrandt Banquet Hall. and Garie Concepcion, Brazilian import 26 2017 26 Scenes in the City+

RIGHT, Angela Castillo blows the candles on her cake. ABOVE RIGHT, Charms, with Samantha Gavin, Sha- naia G, KC Adajar and Angela Castillo Song and dance binds these young girls together. And for Marissa Andrada’s 50th birthday, they came in force. LEFT, Katherine has last minute fun before Shanaia Reyes, Grace , April Joyce Bulangcao, Jheo Navarro, Edessa Andrada and Jeanette Ricasio helped make the night special. departs for the Philippines to pursue RIGHT, Marissa Andrada poses with her family at the Rhythm of the Dance to the Rhythm studio. a showbiz career. ABOVE, Chris and sister Samantha try the karaoke.

PCCF Charity Philippine Canadian Charitable Foundation (PCCF) went to the Philippines and embarked on their annual charity projects which included dental and medical missions, handover of 7 houses to Tala Village in cooperation with ANCOP, giving meals to poor children and giving bags of necessities to poor recipients. Below are some photos of PCCF in action.

LEFT, Miss Teen Philippines Canada 2016 Chiara Silo gets interviewed by GMA7. RIGHT, Chiara Silo assists in dental mission in Davao.

ABOVE, Giving goods RIGHT, Mass before dental mission in Davao; Chiara at Aldevinco night market in davao; Chiara and her police escorsts in Davao

Fabio Ide and ex-beauty queen Bianca Manalo. Anderson, but they have yet to admit it formally is currently in Manila to spend the Christmas April and seems so happy about it even if she’s broke up with Architect in public. Bea used to be on with Zanjoe Marudo holidays with Lovi, then they will fly to Thailand 12-years older than him. But five months later in Conrad Onglao but patched things up and have and reports of their split were reported late in for the New Year, but Lovi insists they’re not yet September, the relationship was over. Aiko’s ex- since gone back into each other’s arms. 2015 and confirmed early last year. officially on even if their action speaks louder than husband, Jomari Yllana, is said to be romancing Also reported to have gotten back into each After her breakup from , Lovi words. his “” co-star Jean Garcia and other’s arms when they were paired in the movie Poe seems to have found a new romance in a found new romance in they’re constantly seen together. But they have yet “How to Be Yours” are Bea Alonzo and Gerald non-showbiz foreign guy, Chris Johnson. He an Iranian named Shahin Alimirzapour in to admit their romance in public.

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