2017 JANUARY HAPPY NEW YEAR 2017

Hospitalization will be Pacquiao help Cambodia free for poor manage traffic STORY INSIDE PHNOM PENH – Philippine boxing icon Sena- tor has been tapped to help the Cambodian government in raising public aware- ness on traffic management and safety. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen made the “personal request” to Pacquiao in the ASEAN country’s bid to reduce road traffic injuries in the country.

MARCOS continued on page 7

WHY JANUARY IS THE MONTH FOR SINGLES STORY INSIDE

Who’s The Dancer In The House Now?

Hannah Alilio performs at the Christmas Dr. Solon Guzman seems to be trying to teach his daughters Princess and Angelina new moves at Ayesha de Guzman and Kayla Vitasa enjoy a night out at the party of Forex Cargo. the Dundas Tower Dental and Milton Dental Annual Philippine Canadian Charitable Foundation / AFCM / OLA Christmas party. Christmas Party. Lovebirds Charms Friends

Forex and THD man Ted Dayno is all smiles at the Forex Christmas dinner with his lovely wife Rhodora.

Star Entertainment Circle’s Charms relaxes prior to the start of the Journalist Jojo Taduran poses with Irene Reeder, wife Star Circle Christmas . of former Canada Ambassador to the Phl Neil Reeder. JANUARY 2017 JANUARY 2017 1 2 JANUARY 2017 JANUARY 2017 to LJ Reyes: “I promise to protect your Honey Shot heart so it will never get hurt ever again”

Paolo Contis shares the sweetest message to LJ Reyes for her birthday on December 25. Alden and Maine in In his Insta- gram account a TV series, finally the actor poured his heart out Every popular has their own as he shared a TVCs (a lot of them), big screen projects collage of LJ’s and a television series. photos and and Maine Mendoza, otherwise known captioned it with, as AlDub, have done almost everything “I know nobody except starring in a soap opera. is PERFECT... Since their astronomic rise as one of but if there is someone close enough to Cassandra is the most popular love teams in local perfection, that would be YOU.” tinsel town, fans have been clamoring Paolo continued, “You are a very very a memeber to see their idols in a regular show other beautiful person... You are so funny and of Charms. than the Eat Bulaga segment “Kalyes- you make everyone around you happy. erye.” There were even jokes that The Your smile and your laugh never fails to She sings, Baes were given their own show first while bright up someone’s day. You are a bril- she dances. AlDub’s debut in a television series is still liant actress. You are a great sister. You are on hold. Almost two years after becom- great daughter. You are a great partner/ Her dream is ing a TV phenomena, the Pambansang best friend! And everybody knows that to become a Bae and the Dubsmash Queen are finally you are the best mother to Aki... and the set to star in their own soap opera on best Tita to my kids.” famous star in GMA next year. The romantic drama is The Kapuso actor also took notice of entitled Destined To Be Yours and will LJ’s kindness, “You do all of these things the start taping next week in Quezon prov- without asking anything in return. You to make her ince. The show will be directed by Irene are the most unassuming person I know Villamor, who helmed the surprise box and I am in awe of your kindness.” parents proud. office hit, Camp Sawi. In the last part of his birthday mes- We wish her Initially titled Hiling, Destined To Be sage, Paolo expressed his feelings towards Yours revolves around the story of a rich LJ. He disclosed, “These are only a few all the luck. architect (Alden) while Maine’s charac- reasons why I love you and why I’m never ter is a barrio lass and an environmental- going anywhere. You have so much love ist who rallies against the construction to give and I promise to protect your project. heart so it will never get hurt ever again. Maine Mendoza and Alden Richards Happy Birthday, my Love... I always Cassandra Adajar will now star in a TV series that they can want to see you happy!” call their own

JANUARY 2017 JANUARY 2017 3 Andrea denies tiff Wat Da FACT? BY JOSE BAKING with Marian, Megan

advanced taping for his hit soap on Extra Judicial Killings GMA7, “Someone to Watch Over Me”, since he is leaving next week to spend Christmas with his family It seems Extra Judicial Killings (EJK) is the talk of the country these days in the in the States, especially with his Philippines. While there is no consensus as to who is doing all these killings, the dad who’s battling the big C. Be- media likes to point the fingers towards the government. However, if you are not cause of this, he won’t be spending the holidays with his inamorata, going to catch the perpetrators, it makes it impossible to get straight answers to . these. To the critics of President Duterte, it’s him. The the fans of DU30, these are “Hindi naman ako magtatagal,” drug dealers killing each other, their low level dealers and / or buyers. What is the he says. “I have to come back right reason for the killings? According to some people that you ask, they say “if the drug after the holidays and resume tap- ing for ‘Someone to Watch Over dealers feel that you are the weak link, and if they feel you are about to expose them, Me’. This will be a good break for they will kill you. So, the killing spree continues unabated.

THERE’S a rumor that Marian Fake news in facebook... Rivera got jealous and stormed voted for Trump. The same non-elite the set of “Alyas Robin Hood” that also voted for DU30. The losing side unannounced to confront Andrea Comedian George Carlin said “Never should get over it. Torres for flirting with her hus- band in her role underestimate the power of stupid as Venus, who’s always wearing people in large groups.” In the last US In Facebook, How many will seductive outfits in her scenes with Presidential Dingdong. reply if... “That’s not true,” says Andrea election, Senator when we visited the set of “Alyas Hillary Clinton NOBODY. Posting that asks how Robin Hood”. “Hindi ko nga alam had no problem kung bakit ginagawaan kami ng many of my friends will answer me issue ni Ate Yan ganung okay about fake news if yada yada yada...because it has the naman kami. Ever since magka- in facebook same appeal of a fake email from a bank kasama kami sa ‘My Beloved’ in me kasi very emotionally draining when the polls 2012, Ate at Kuya ang tawag ko ang mga eksena ko sa show lately. “Dear Client, your account has been sa kanila. We text each other and showed she was compromised so please the click the link kung minsan, I send Ate Yan some CHRISTIAN GETS BIG- leading. She to change your user name and password.” food na ako mismo ang gumagawa, GEST BREAK said “the more, like polvoron and bread pud- A real security breakdown notice from ding. Tapos, ‘yun nga, lumabas na is one the better.” She your bank will address you by your name. kinausap daw niya ako sa taping. lucky newcomer who is given his reversed her position now that she lost. So, if you just say, to all my friends in It’s true na dumating siya sa set, biggest break as the best friend of Now, they want facebook to police fake kasama pa si Baby Zia, pero hindi in “Die Beauti- facebook, it has the same effect. kami nagkita kasi late ang calltime ful”. Director says he news. What is fake news? What is satire, ko that day. Nalaman ko na lang first noticed Christian as the gay like the Onion? Is that fake news? Who If we follow the logic who from the staff that she dropped ‘kabarkada’ of Celis in “I are asking for the removal or censorship by earlier. Kung sinuman ang Love You to Death”. never took flu shots... nagbalita niyan, mali ang source “Nakita ko, mahusay siya, at da- of news in facebook? Is it the losing niya kasi imposibleng magkaroon hil doon, kinuha ko siya as Barbie, side? If that is the case, then, it seems kami ng friction ni Ate Yan dahil ang gay confidante ni Paolo in ‘Die Why do we hear the few who get flu the “elite” still cannot accept the reality lang sa mga eksena namin ni Kuya Beautiful’,” says Direk Jun. “Sa gal- shots and still get sick but never the Dingdong sa show. Alam niyang ing niya rito, tiyak na mapapansin of Donald Trump becoming president. ones who got the shot and stayed well? ‘yung pagpi-flirt, part ‘yun ng role siya at, sa tingin ko, puwede siyang You are not hearing President Trump ko as Venus.” ma-nominate as best supporting Why do we hear the ones who stay well asking facebook to remove fake news. She says the production staff actor.” despite not getting the shot and make it provides all the sexy outfits she Two gay roles in a row? So is he Apparently, the netizens still cannot sound like it is a major accomplishment? wears in the show. “Sila’ng bumibili really gay in real life? “Hindi po,” accept the fact that they are not the at binibigay na lang nila sa’kin. Christian tells us at the presscon of Let’s put it this way, if every couple majority. That there are people out there Hindi ako puwedeng tumanggi o “”. “Straight po ako.” listened and followed the couple who humindi.” He says he’s long been trying to who have a life outside their absement, did not use any contraceptive wherein But she’s really pleased to be get into acting. “I took up several that are not glued to their computer part of a hit show like “Alyas acting workshops sa ABS-CBN the female did not get pregnant, what do screen, who are mad as hell and that they Robin Hood”. “Dahil dito, my under Direk Rahyan Carlos, in- you think will happen? first primetime show na lead ako, cluding ‘yung master class ni Ivan- are going to take it anymore. And they nakilala ako as an action star sa na Chubbuck na acting coach from dami ng fight scenes ko. At dahil Hollywood. Na-touch nga ako kasi sa pagsusuot ko ng sexy outfits, dun sa book niyang ibinigay sa lalo ng two-piece swimsuit, mas dumami ang fans ko, lalo among Submit ads & press releases by the male viewers. Napakasarap Janaury 15 for the February 2017 issue. ding katrabaho ni Kuya Dong dahil wala siyang kaere-ere na big star siya.” It’s said is sore at her as she now has more scenes in the show. “Naku, hindi, a. We get along fine, kahit pinagsasabong at may confrontation scene pa kam- EDITOR: Jose Baking EMAIL: [email protected] ing pareho, kaming naka-identical TEL: PUBLISHED BY: 416-945-2336 Match International Group red bikini. Lahat kami, tuwang-tu- akin, may sinulat siyang dedication wa dahil laging mataas ang rating na she’s so impressed with me and CORRESPONDENTS: ng aming show.” she has seen me grow as an actor. How is she and rumored BF After that, nakuha ako sa teleserye, Sef Cadayona? “Single po ako.” ‘Nasaan Ka ng Kailangan Kita’, So they’ve broken up? “How can at sa indie movies na ‘Anino’ and we break up, never naman naging ‘Bang Bang Alley’, pero puro small kami. Hanggang ngayon, friends roles lang. Akala ko nga, walang lang kami. Ang tagal na nga nam- mangyayari sa career ko, until du- ing hindi nagkikita mula nang mating itong ‘Die Beautiful’, kaya Sheila Camangian Noli Gumapac Froilan Baking Raymond Santos Jojo Taduran naging busy ako sa ‘Alyas Robin nagpapasalamat ako kay Direk Jun Hood’ at hindi na ako nakapag- Lana for this big break.” taping uli with him sa ‘Bubble Isn’t he afraid he might be NOTICE CORRESPONDENTS Gang’.” typecast in gay roles? “No. Yung The advertiser has purchased the right of reproduction in LM Ed Tubale mga dati nang nakakakilala sa akin, Confidential only & not for use for other publications. The exception TOM NOT SPENDING alam naman nilang straight ako.” applies if the advertising material was supplied by the advertiser. CHRISTMAS WITH CARLA www.FilipinoGoodLife.com www.LMConfidential.com is doing some 4 JANUARY 2017 JANUARY 2017 Moving to Canada Calling all Devotees to the Virgin of Penafrancia ! now a crapshoot

The Devotions and Celebrations of the Feast of the Virgin of Penafrancia, Patroness of the Bicolandia for the year for parents, 2017 in the GTA , hosted by the Devotees of the Virgin of Penafrancia, supported by the Bicol Canada Community Association ( BCCA ) starts on January 2017. grandparents Schedule of Events : Canada will hold a lottery in 2017 for parents and grandparents seeking I to immigrate and reunite with their - 9 Monthly Novena Devotions starts from January 2017 to September 2017. offspring, the government announced Venue : Our Lady of Assumption Church Wednesday. 2565 Bathurst St. M6B 2Z3 The new system, which would see Toronto, Ontario winners moving in 2017, aims to Time : Starts 2:00 pm Rosary and Novena prayers level the applicant field and clear a followed by a Holy Mass processing backlog. Fellowship after the Holy Mass – 3 to 4:30 pm Immigration Minister John McCallum said it is fairer than the old Novena Dates Fellowship Venue oversubscribed first-come, first-serve January 15. 2017 3rd Sunday Church Hall visa program. February 19, 2017 3rd Sunday Church Hall That system reportedly saw March 19, 2017 3rd Sunday Church Hall couriers charging hefty fees to get April 9, 2017 2nd Sunday Church Hall applications to the top of the pile for May 14, 2017 2nd Sunday Rectory Grounds spots in January and others camping June 18, 2017 3rd Sunday Rectory Grounds out for hours at immigration offices. July 16, 2017 3rd Sunday Church Hall “We’re listening to what past August 20, 2017 3rd Sunday Church Hall applicants had to say and making September 10, 2017 2nd Sunday Rectory Grounds the process fairer for people who want to sponsor their parents or Devotees of the Virgin from the 6 provinces of the Bicol Region are invited to Sponsor a Novena Month as per grandparents,” he said in a statement. schedule on a first come first serve basis. “We’re ensuring everyone can The Virgin will be happy to see that each Novena Month will be sponsored by a province, ( Albay, Camarines Sur, access the application process by Camarines Norte, Sorsogon, Masbate and Catanduanes ) OR from Bicol, representing a Province. giving them the same chance to have For Information to Sponsor a Novena Month please call : Paeng Nebres - Tel # 416 618 1362 their name chosen.” Starting January 3 for 30 days, II sponsors will be able to submit an - 9 Days Evening Novena before the Feast Day on September 16, 2017 starts online form. September 7, 2017 to September 15, 2017. ( House to House ) For Information in Sponsoring an evening please call: The ministry will randomly select 10,000 individuals from those who Felix and Mayette Reyes – Tel # 905 896 4958 filled out the form, and those people III - Feast Day on September 16, 2017 ( 3rd Saturday ). More information and final will be invited to send in a completed arrangements will be published on a later date. application package. Announcements by : Paeng Nebres , Devotees to the Virgin of Penafrancia and BCCA .

JANUARY 2017 JANUARY 2017 5 Philippines

Agri chief returns gift Rolex watch worth P450-K

gift during a dinner hosted about P450,000. by the executives of “a very “I would be lying if I say that the thought large agricultural company” of keeping it did not cross my mind. Who that he declined to name. does not like to own a Rolex anyway?” he He said he did not give said. much importance to the box But he decided to return the gift because containing the gift since he doing otherwise is illegal. Awra is thank- often receives small tokens “I explained that I could not take the gift and handicraft items as part because not only because the company is ful to of the courtesies during for- involved in activities which would require the mal meetings and events. supervision of the Department which I head and “The one I received but also because the law prohibits officials recently was just stuffed in like me from accepting expensive gifts,” he for their guidance a bag along with the other said. Masayang masaya ang Internet sensation mementos which I usually “I added that I could go to jail if I was turned child actor na si McNeal Briguela o receive during ceremonial ex- found to have kept the watch or accepted mas kilala bilang Awra para sa naging mainit change of gifts,” he narrated. expensive gifts from people with interests in na pagtanggap ng mga manunuod ng Maa- “It was not until I was in the Dept. of Agriculture.” laala Mo Kaya noong nakaraang episode This photo shows Agriculture Secretary my farm in Kidapawan City, After turning over the watch to the giver, nito noong December 10. Emmanuel Piñol holding a Rolex watch when I decided to open the box and I almost Piñol said: “I felt as if a huge burden was “Sobrang masaya po kasi maraming pumuri that he has since returned to its sender. fell off my seat when I saw what was inside taken off my back.” Photo by John Pagaduan/Piñol’s Facebook at nag congratulate sa akin na ang galing the box. It was a Rolex submariner, a watch “Now, I can look at anybody straight in the page ko daw po.” which almost every man dreams of owning.” eye and tell them that I am following Presi- Aminado din si Awra na nahirapan siya Piñol said a friend back in 1995 gave him dent Rody Duterte’s directive that members habang binubuo nila ang kaniyang storya - “It is the season of giving, but a Rolex Oyster Perpetual before he entered of his Cabinet must not be linked to any act sorry, we can’t receive.” dahil sa pag aalinlagan sa mga humuhusga politics. He said he seldom uses the watch of corruption,” he added. sa kanya. So said Agriculture Chief Emmanuel that is now “so old that it spends more time The Agriculture chief also urged his fellow Piñol on Wednesday as he shared how he re- “Siyempre po nahirapan pero tinanggap in the repair shop than on my wrist.” public officials to carefully discern the gifts ko po yun ng buo kasi para malaman na rin turned a Rolex luxury watch worth P450,000. The Secretary said he checked the price of they would receive this Christmas. On Facebook, Piñol wrote he received the nila kung sino ako at para hindi na rin nila the new Rolex online and found that it costs ako husgahan.” Ayon din kay Awra, pagkatapos nilang gawin ang kanyang life story sa MMK ay naayos ang mga gusot sa kanyang pamilya. Pinasalamatan din ni Awra ang mga nagsisilbing gabay niya na sila Coco Martin Duterte, PM Lee agree to pursue at Vice Ganda na siyang naging inspirasyon niya sa kanyang karera bilang artista. fight vs. terrorism, illegal drugs “Thank you po kasi lahat naman po ng mga ito ay dahil kay kuya Coco and Ate things we both agreed we want to pursue,” ing principled positions on the rule of law in Vice sila po yung gumabay sa akin,” kuwento Published December 16, 2016 8:28am Yasay was quoted. the peaceful settlement of disputes,” Duterte ni Awra. President Rodrigo Duterte and Singapor- Duterte is currently in Singapore after his said. Dagdag pa ni Awra ang lahat ng ean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong have state visit in Cambodia. “We reaffirm, respect an independence and tagumpay niya ay ang kanyang maitutur- agreed to pursue the fight against terrorism In a state banquet prepared by Singaporean the non-interference in the internal affairs of ing na pinakamagandang regalo ngayong and illegal drugs, both being their areas of President Tony Tan Keng Yam on Thurs- the states,” he added. kapaskuhan. mutual cooperation, Foreign Affairs Secretary day night, Duterte praised the cooperation Duterte is set to meet around 7,000 mem- “Siguro po yung regalo ko para sa sarili ko Perfecto Yasay Jr. said. between the Philippines and Singapore on bers of the Filipino community in Singapore ibibigay ko nalang po muna sa family ko kasi “We talked a lot about the areas of mutual political issues while respecting each other’s before he goes back to the Philippines Friday para sa kanila naman lahat ng ito,” pagtata- cooperation, particularly the field of the independence. night. pos ng child actor. fight against illegal drugs. These are the basic “We work closely on political issues, pursu- says Baste Duterte is ‘important’ to Customs men open Balikbayan box, find ‘stolen diamonds’ her Sexy actress Ellen Adarna admitted that MANILA - The Bureau of Customs (BOC) However, we cannot tolerate Filipinos abroad chief said the box arrived in the country on she dehydrated herself - the reason why she said it had found 22 pieces of “stolen dia- who use these boxes for smuggling as it Dec. 5. It was transported in a freight con- passed out during her recent nude photo monds” when it opened a balikbayan box sent violates our laws,” Faeldon said. tainer holding 245 other packages onboard shoot for a men’s magazine, from Malaysia. According to Faeldon, the BOC found the the vessel Sima Genesis 0231 from Port “Three days before the shoot, which I BOC Commissioner Nicanor Faeldon diamonds based on information relayed by Klang’s Westport. normally do ‘pag mayroong photoshoot, I said the diamonds were contained in a plastic National Bureau of Investigation Director Based on BOC records, the designated dehydrate,” she confessed, adding that it resealable pouch that was neatly hidden in a Dante Gierran. agents of the shipment were LBC Express. makes her lose five pounds of water weight. wallet inside the box sent by one Arturo R. The BOC statement did not provide other The BOC has yet to determine the value “Para mas payat. Mas makita ‘yung cuts,” Rivera from Kuala Lumpur. details, like the diamond’s real owner and of the 22 diamonds, which were placed in the Ellen said, although she advised people to The package was consigned to one Lajane how the diamonds were stolen. custody of Manila International Container never follow suit. Basilio of Purok 1, Luakan, Bataan. Faeldon and the BOC’s communication Port District Collector Philip Maronilla. “Hindi ko inexpect na it will be under the “It is disheartening to confiscate a balik- officer could not be reached for an interview The bureau said charges were being pre- heat of the sun kasi usually ‘pag shoots, sa bayan box believing it contains gifts and other at press time. pared against Rivera and Basilio. studio lang so ‘yun, nahimatay.” items for the loved ones of . Citing Gierran’s information, the BOC “We had to stop (the pictorial) and then, nagdecide na nga sila na parang i-pack up na ‘coz my blood pressure was really low na raw and then I said na wala ng other time kasi aalis na rin ako, may vacation ako that DECEMBER time,” she said and asked for an hour to rest instead. CELEBRANTS Ellen said, “Kumain ako so balewala ‘yung December birthday diet ko kasi pinakain ako ng sugar and salt celebrants got and everything.” together on When asked about presidential son Baste Christmas Day at Duterte, Ellen just laughed and told Boy their former home in Abunda that she will post about their status North York. From Left on her social media. to Right are Steve, She however described Baste as caring May, Jiron, Emil, and a very down-to-earth person. Kevin, Nancy, and Neng. Trying not to give the TV host a direct answer, Ellen also admitted Baste is an ‘im- PHOTO BY portant’ person in her life. ARIEL RAMOS

6 JANUARY 2017 JANUARY 2017 reveals she Darren Espanto wants to audition for Miss considers his fans as his Saigon this year extended family

As part of “ 7: Sana maka-work ko rin Young Kapamilya singer Darren Chinoy,” Janella Salvador si Mu-lan so yun lang Espanto dominated the public said she did not hesitate (laughs). Oo naman gusto voting results of the category ‘ASAP when Regal Films offered ko,” she said Pop Heartthrob’ in the recently- her another project after The young star also said concluded ASAP Pop Teen Choice doing “Haunted Mansion” being part of an interna- Awards . LINDSAY GIVEN A in the Film tional brand she loves has He garnered 58.98%, besting out Festival last year. in-spired her to audition nominees (19.81%), CHANCE “Of course it’s ‘Mano Po’ for even bigger things in (12.62%) and Bailey so no matter what they say, 2017. May (8.59%). GMA-7 gives newcomer Lindsay de kahit sabihin na hindi ikaw “Siguro medyo nakaka- Vera her biggest break in the current yung pinaka-main (charac- pressure siya. Pero I’m Darren expressed his gratitude ter) it’s still ’Mano Po.’ It’s actually having fun because towards his fans who continuously primetime hit, “Alyas Robin Hood”. something I wouldn’t even I’m just being myself. I support him. “Maraming, maraming Lindsay’s real name is Lindt Johnston think to have second thoughts about. So really love Disney. Since I was small, maka- salamat po sa mga Darrenatics sa and she started as a child star and in-accept ko naman siya agad. Yun lang. Disney talaga ako and I guess it’s not hard walang sawang suporta po ninyo TV commercial when she was (laughs),” Janella shared. talaga for me kasi I’ve always believed in kahit minsan pagod na po kayo, you Meanwhile, the 18-year-old actress doing what’s right naman. eight years old. Now a sweet 16, she guys still do your best and I see your plays Dingdong Dantes’ niece named admitted that it was the highlight of her “Actually after doing the Disney concert efforts parati. You guys are the best year to be tapped by Disney to sing the local mas lalo ko na-realize na gusto ko pala Lizzy. This is their second time together release of the “Moana” theme song. talagang i-try yung theater like my mom. and I love you, guys, so much. Thank you always for making it happen.” as she was introduced in Dong’s tele- “I’m actually so happy kapag nakakakita And I was actually supposed to audi-tion for serye last year, “Pari Koy”. ako ng mga reaction videos and I see some Miss Saigon nung nagpa-audition sila nung At the young age of 15, Darren international bloggers na nakikinig sa ver- March dito kasi hindi ako umabot kasi nasa has already developed a loyal “Napakabait po niya and my sion ko and it just makes me so happy kasi Japan ako nun nag-fi-film (ng ‘Born For following who never fails to support dream is one day, maging leading siyempre hindi naman ako yung original na You’). Hopefully next time pag meron. Any him in all of his endeavors and even lady rin sana ako ni Kuya Dong,” she kumanta and yet they liked my version. production naman pero favorite ko kasi yung nominations from award-giving says. “as joined “Alyas Robin Hood”. “Working with Disney is really such an Miss Saigon. Kung mabigyan ako ng chance bodies. They are held captive by Dina and experience so sobrang blessed lang ng paki- next year I’m going to go,” she remarked. Talking about how he takes care ramdam. Sana maka-work ko pa ang Disney. her cohorts, along with Dingdong of them, the In Love Ako Sa ‘Yo Dantes as Pepe. Lindsay keeps on singer shared, “I guess it’s just being crying, scared of what Dina might relatable to them and having a good relationship with them, of course. do to them. But Dingdong manages Also, interacting with them, of to fight back and holds one of the course and para sa akin, sila po ‘yung guards hostage (Michael Flores). He extended family ko that I can always then warns the other guards that he feel support from and who are always will kill Michael if they will not give him there.” back his freedom.

MARCOS measures to enhance diplomatic, eco- continued from page 1 nomic, and security relations between the two countries during their closed- Pacquiao, widely popular among door meeting at the Peace Palace. Cambodian boxing fans, is part of the The two leaders have agreed to President’s official delegation in his increase trade volume between the two-day state visit to Cambodia. He Philippines and Cambodia, including was among those present in the Presi- the holding of a trade fair between the dent’s expanded bilateral meeting with two countries. the Prime Minister and his Cabinet Also discussed were technology ministers at the Peace Palace here. transfer from the International Rice Re- “Part of the discussion is the personal search Institute (IRRI) to improve rice request of Cambodian Prime Minister seeds as well as the construction of 100 Hun Sen for Senator Manny Pacquiao percentFilipino-owned rice warehouses to assist to the traffic information drive in Cambodia. in Cambodia,” a statement from the The two nations also agreed to in- Presidential Communications Office crease tourism exchange “with attention (PCO) read. on direct flight from Manila to Siem The PCO did not provide other de- Reap to increase tourism on both sides,” tails about Pacquiao’s role in the traffic according to the PCO. information campaign here. The two leaders also affirmed to Road safety has become a public intensify cooperation in fighting cross issue in Cambodia amid concerns of border crimes, including drug traffick- rising traffic accidents. Many drivers ing. in Cambodia reportedly violate traffic They also discussed “60 Philippine laws while drunk driving is supposedly education scholarships for Cambodians, common. particularly in science and engineering Meantime, President Duterte and his courses, and defense cooperation.” Cambodian counterpart also discussed

JANUARY 2017 JANUARY 2017 7 Philippines

Albay solon sees economic gains under Duterte

“hit the ground running with 10 full Cabinet meetings A worker watches the first presidential debate and two Legislative-Executive Development Advisory between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump Council consultations in the first five months. This inside an appliances showroom in Manila on means faster and better results,” he stressed. Sept 27, 2016. A Fifth, the lawmaker said, are the peace talks and wod. indefinite ceasefire with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army and the Moro Islamic posted Liberation Front, started in the first months of the US ex- December 15, Duterte regime, compared to the years of preparation 2016 at 10:00 by former administrations. pm by Manila Sixth is the huge business potential from Duterte’s Standard China pivot and the forging of an independent foreign envoy With 2016 policy, all in one instance, “debunking long held myths about to close, about PH-US relations, and highlighting a promising what positive PH-China’s partnership.” Seventh is the Philippines’ registered fastest plotting prospects can Dominic Filipinos look economic growth in Asia and the resurgence of the forward to next country’s manufacturing industry. The country posted year and the years ahead? a 7.1 percent on-year July-September hike—its most Duterte Roque re- Albay Rep. Joey Sarte Salceda, a noted economist, robust growth pace in three years, Salceda noted. said Filipinos have good reasons to be optimistic The figure surpassed the 6.7-percent median growth based on the “significant positive gains” registered by estimate of 15 economists survey by Bloomberg and veals having the national economy during the first six months of matched an estimated 1.2-percent GDP rise against fall President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration. the previous quarter. It also stacked favorably against The Albay lawmaker has identified the positive China’s third quarter growth rate of 6.7 percent and butt exposure economic events of 2016 under Duterte. First on his Vietnam’s 6.4 percent. LISBON, PORTUGAL: The list was the “peaceful, orderly and democratic transition Eighth is the rollout of “AmBisyon Natin 2040,” the Philippines may be in for another of power following Duterte’s landslide victory last May Duterte administration’s 10-point economic agenda rough ride in 2017. in ‘Seklusy- 2016 elections. Investors hate uncertainty,” he said. and the preparation of 2017-2022 development plan. “AmBisyon 2040 represents the collective long- Not only did former United term vision and aspirations of the Filipino people for States Ambassador Philip Gold- on’ Albay Rep. Joey Sarte Salceda themselves and for the country in the next 25 years,” berg leave the Philippines with Duterte garnered 16.6 million votes in the last Salceda said. “It describes the kind of life Filipinos a legacy of fractured relations want to live, and how the country will be by 2040. As Dominic Roque did not bat an elections, beating his closest rival by over six million between the two countries, he al- votes, Salceda noted. “The outcome cemented the such, it is an anchor for development planning across at eyelash when he revealed that he least four administrations.” legedly left behind a “blueprint to stunning populist victory, founded on his promise did a love scene that had him do- to eradicate crime and corruption. It brought back The substantial improvement in peace and order undermine Duterte,” a strategic people’s belief in good governance, and restored with 80 percent reduction in drug volume and 39 recommendation ostensibly to ing butt exposure in his 2016 Metro investors’ confidence,” he added. percent drop in crime is ninth on Salceda’s list. The Manila Film Festival entry Seklusyon. peace and order gains “represents a decisive effort at the State Department for the Second is Duterte’s “empowered Cabinet of “Nasa international cut siya,” said solutions-driven practitioners and economic managers” ridding the country of specific crime problems never ultimate removal of President that include Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno, given so much serious attention before.” Rodrigo Roa Duterte from of- Dominic in an interview during their Finance Secretary Sonny Dominguez, Trade and Tenth is the government’s commitment to deploy fice, according to a highly placed funds, with an 83 percent increase in infrastructure recent blogger’s conference. Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez, and Socioeconomic source. It is not clear, however, if Planning Secretary Ernesto Pernia. spending and improved absorptive capacity. Salceda The film became the Phil- “This team of battle-tested men hauled from both said this thrust could drive the Philippines’ GDP the State Department in Wash- ippine entry to the non-competition to 9 percent in three years, with Duterte’s policy government and the private sector has shown a decisive ington DC had given its impri- Hidden Dragons category of the posture early on, and gives Duterte’s economic team strengths and a blueprint for growth hinged largely on matur to the recommendation infrastructure. 1st Macao International Film Festi- and clarity of purpose and doable objectives,” he by its former ambassador to the pointed out. “This could usher in a golden age of infrastructure,” val just a few days ago. he noted. Philippines. Third is the “formation of supermajorities in the Dominic added, “Actually, ang House of Representatives and the Senate, the closest to Based on economic forecast models developed A document received over the a government of national unity,” and a viable response by a group of econometricians, Salceda said the weekend by The Manila Times ganda noong pinanuod namin yung country can hit 9 percent GDP growth by 2019, with to Duterte’s pledge of clean government, which is the from that source said Goldberg buong movie ng international cut. popular public clamor. “infrastructure spending from 5 to 6 percent of GDP, Fourth on Salceda’s list was the “demonstrated funded by new taxes and tax efficiencies.” had outlined a list of “strategies” Iba yung pagka-intense ng mga seriousness” of the President’s dynamic Cabinet, which to undermine President Duterte eksenang natanggal.” and called for his eventual ouster. Without revealing too much The blueprint gave a timetable of about how the scene went, Dominic one-and-a-half years. described the moment as “Kahit ako Quoting Goldberg, it said the po, yun siguro yung pinakamalalang ‘Bye-bye America’ and we don’t “political actors (the opposition) would need all the political weap- eksenang ginawa ko sa showbiz ons in their arsenal to replace po.” need your money the Duterte administration and The former Pangako Sa’Yo star replace it with something more went on to joke that he had to Duterte tells U.S. to prepare to leave the country to the opposition’s liking.” He undergo a “butt audition” for that noted, however, “that (deposing moment. MANILA - Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte) would be a challenge for “Makinis naman daw po [yung Duterte told the to prepare for the opposition.” puwet ko]. May audition kasi yung repeal of an agreement on deployment of troops To bring down Duterte, the puwet, e. Titignan kung ano yung and equipment for exercises, declaring “bye-bye Goldberg plan calls for stok- pinaka okay!” he said. America”, and we don’t need your money. ing public dissatisfaction with But Duterte suggested relations could improve the President over unfulfilled Does he want to local viewers to under a President Donald Trump. see his behind? “I like your mouth, it’s like mine, yes Mr election promises, isolating the President. We are similar and people with the Philippines from the rest of the “Siyempre, mas gusto pa rin po same feathers flock together,” he said, recalling his Asean by extending military nating makakuha ng maraming audi- phone conversation with the president-elect early assistance to member countries ence para sa pelikula. Feeling ko, this month. except the Philippines, and/or kung sa PG-13 [ilagay], baka po Returning his focus to the present U.S. that will eventually move you out of the through economic “blackmail” matanggal eh,” he said. “Pero ako, administration which has criticized him over Philippines,” he said, adding his decision would that aims to limit trade by some reports of extra-judicial killings in his campaign okay lang po kung mapanuod ng come “any day soon” after reviewing another Asean member countries with the against drugs, he said: lahat.” military deal, Enhanced Defense Cooperation Philippines. “We do not need you,” Duterte said in a news Agreement (EDCA). Dominic, along with Hashtags conference after arriving from visits to Cambodia Goldberg predicts a worsening The firebrand leader was visibly upset and member Ronnie Alonte and new- and Singapore. “Prepare to leave the Philippines. of the US-Philippine relations, vented his anger on Washington because of a Prepare for the eventual repeal or abrogation of more so on the issue of the US comers Johnvic de Guzman, and JR decision by the Millennium Challenge Corp the VFA.” military presence in the Philip- Versales, play the role of the four (MCC) board to defer vote on the re-selection of The Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), signed deacons sent to a seclusion house Manila for compact development due to human pines, more particularly during in 1998, accorded legal status to thousands of rights issues. the last two years of the Duterte to resist temptations from the devil U.S. troops who were rotated in the country for “We do not need the money. China said they administration. to attack their faith. military exercises and humanitarian assistance will provide so many,” he said. “The politics here operations. in Southeast Asia is changing.” “Bye, bye America and work on the protocols 8 JANUARY 2017 JANUARY 2017 Obama signs bill awarding Congressional Gold Medal to Filipino World War II vets

WASHINGTON, USA - President Barack Senate version won unanimous approval on Obama has signed into law a bill recogniz- Wednesday, July 13. Its counterpart passed ing the sacrifices and contributions of over in the House on Wednesday, November 30. 260,000 Filipinos and Filipino Americans Another bill resubmitted to Congress in who fought alongside allied forces during May, the Filipino Veterans Fairness Act, World War II. would officially recognize the active service The legislation approved on Thursday, of those Filipinos who took part in allied December 15 awards the Congressional military operations. It would also give them Gold Medal—the nation’s highest civilian full access to programs and benefits admin- honor—to veterans whose service had been istered by the U.S. Department of Veterans largely dismissed by prior acts of Congress. Affairs. “The Filipino veterans of World War II Both Gabbard and Hirono said they overcame many challenges in their fight would work with FilVetREP to organize for compensation, family reunification, and Congressional Gold Medal ceremonies. verification of wartime service,” said Sena- The signing of this bill comes after a se- tor Mazie Hirono (D-HI), one of the lead ries of actions earlier this year to give some sponsors of the legislation, in a statement recognition and benefits to the Filipino published on Thursday. veterans. The Rescission Act of 1946 barred Fili- The State Board of Education pino soldiers from receiving veterans’ ben- veterans regained their honor and dignity,” veterans who earned and deserve their place recently approved curriculum changes of efits awarded by measures enacted by the Maj. Gen. Antonio Taguba (Ret.), the amongst our greatest generation,” Rep. Tul- the state’s high schools to incorporate more U.S. government after the end of WWII. It chairman of the Filipino Veterans Recogni- si Gabbard (D-HI) said in a statement. “To information about Filipinos’ roles in the also officially labelled their contributions as tion Project (FilVetREP), said in a state- our Filipino veterans, their families, and all war in Grade 11 U.S. History lesson plans. inactive service, according to the Filipino ment released on Thursday. who worked so hard to make today a real- In the summer, the United States American National Historical Society. Decades after their service ended, fewer ity, maraming salamat sa inyong lahat.” Citizenship and Immigration Services In 2009, a portion of the federal econom- than 18,000 Filipino veterans are still alive The pair of companion bills submitted (USCIS) rolled out a new family-based im- ic stimulus package gave surviving Filipino to personally celebrate the acknowledgment to Congress in June of 2015 and eventually migration program for Filipino WWII vet- veterans a one-time lump sum of $15,000 of their sacrifices. signed into law on Thursday was intro- erans and their families called the Filipino for citizens and $9,000 for non-citizens. “…[T]his recognition is a testament to duced by Hirono in the Senate and Gab- World War II Veterans Parole Program. “After enduring 75 years of injustice and each and every one of our Filipino WWII bard in the House of Representatives. The humiliation, our Filipino World War II

Coleen and Jessy: No scene stealing

paired with , Jessy with nang-aaway, fierce. Lagi kong kinokontra si Au Arci. Enzo Pineda who’s from GMA7 kaya lagi kaming nag-aaway.” “Mahirap ‘yung roles namin kasi maraming and Coleen with Vin Abrenica, “I’m Gee na nabilanggo naman for hacking,” action scenes,” adds Jessy. “So may standby rin a transferee from TV5. They play says Jessy. “Ako ‘yung pinakamatalino sa’min, na fight instructor to guide us in our stunts and convicted felons who meet in jail tech savvy, but bobo rin kasi I’m not streetsmart. fight scenes.” and recruited by I’m called Genia.” “We guarantee the viewers they will have to be secret agents. They are Chris Martinez says the script is written by Al- a good time watching ‘Extra Service’,” says named Au, Em, Gee and work pha Habon and echoes “Charlie’s Angels” and Coleen. “It’s a combination of fun, adventure undercover as masseuses at the “Mission Impossible,” but with a very Pinoy flavor. and yes, plenty of sexy scenes dahil kami ang Touch Mahal Spa of Tessie Tomas. Carmi Martin as the girls’ boss speaks carabao, Ultimate Sexy Squad dito. So don’t miss it when So they’re spa workers by night Visayan-accented English. “I’m glad to be part it opens in theaters on January 11 to welcome Arci, Coleen and Jessy: No scene stealing and spies by day. of this film kasi I started in showbiz as one of 2017.” “I play Au, short for Aurora,” says Arci. “Nabi- ’s Angels,” says Carmi. “Nakaka-relate Is there no sapawan or scene stealing be- ARCI Muñoz, and Coleen langgo ako for robbing a bank. I’m called the ako sa kanila kasi sila ang modern version ng tween them while shooting the movie? “None,” Garcia are together for the first time in a sexy Kapitana kasi sobrang strong ng personality Dolphy’s Angels.” it’s Direk Chris who answers. “This is a team effort action comedy movie that opens the new year ko.” So, how did the girls prepare for their roles? and everyone collaborated well. First time 2017 for and , “Extra “I’m Em for Emerald,” says Coleen. “I’m called “As masseuses, may totoong masahista sa set to nilang mag-comedy like this at magaling silang Service”, directed by Chris Martinez. Arci is Maldita. Ako ‘yung hothead sa amin, laging teach us what to do sa massage scenes,” says lahat.”

Pitting against Maine Mendoza

Liza Soberano Nescafe coffee commercials and film trail- during the last round. But in the end, the excitedly announces ers ( for Maine and panelists made a unanimous decision and that she is the new- Everyday I Love You for Liza) chose Maine over Liza and shouted in est ambassador of During the voting rounds, one of the unison, “Maine Mendoza for the win!” TechnoMarine and judges claimed that she is a big fan of Maine has a special participation along along with the an- Maine after seeing her Dubsmash clips but with Alden in the latest installment of the nouncement comes admitted that she has not heard of Liza yet. film series. The film re- a viral photo taken “She’s way too prettier than this dude,” ceived unfavorable reviews from critics and during her first the panelist said of Maine referring to her the film producers are still mum on the box campaign shoot for movie poster with his onscreen partner office performance of the -starrer the brand Alden Richards. comedy. Most cinemas owners are starting In one of the A male judge, on the other hand, com- to pull the movie out of their theaters due trending videos on mented that Liza’s beauty needs no adver- to its anemic performance at the tills. YouTube this week, netizens were engaged tisements as he goes through the young Meanwhile, Liza set the Internet ablaze Stemming from the ongoing skirmish in a virtual word war when Mofo Daily, a actress’s Instagram feed. once more when her photo wearing a black between ABS-CBN and GMA 7 is the popular American channel on the video “She’s super cute, it’s not so much per- leather jacket with her left shoulder ex- clash of celebrities and talents associated sharing site known for curating pop trends sonality and I’m into that,” another panelist posed hit the online world. In less than 24 with the respective media outfits. Indeed, across the globe, pitted the 18-year-old Ka- said describing Liza. hours since it was posted, Liza’s stunning network war, which most of the time fueled pamilya against the 21-year-old Kalyeserye Maine Mendoza’s almost 7 million fans photo already garnered close to 200,000 by fans’ fervent support for their idols, goes star. The video is entitled “For The Win: on Instagram and believe that her “likes” and more than 2,100 comments. beyond the ratings game. Maine Mendoza vs Liza Soberano.” star is far from waning, and they are ready The 18-year-old Kapamilya also made it to Kapamilya darling Liza Soberano and In three rounds, the three pairs of judges, to rally behind the television darling to Twitter’s trending topics that day proving Kapuso star Maine Mendoza are the latest who are all Americans, compared the Dolce prove that. nobody gets tired of her look. subject of a celebrity face-off that threw Amore star with the Dubsmash Queen Maine dominated the first two rounds fans into rabid frenzy. based on their Instagram feed, respective and Liza won the hearts of the panelists JANUARY 2017 JANUARY 2017 9 Philippines

Duterte to Singapore: Philippines is open for business

MANILA - Insisting that his war on illegal READ: Philippines says 2016 growth of an end to protectionism in industries mo- narcotics has made the country safer, Presi- 6.5-7 pct ‘quite safe’ nopolized by a few companies. dent Rodrigo Duterte on Friday encouraged According to analysts, this growth was also “More competition would only mean better Anne, Erwan Singapore business leaders to invest locally. boosted by government spending, after the ap- services and affordability of quality products “Over the last few months, we’ve improved proval of the P3-trillion budget under former for all,” he said. engaged our peace and order situation. Filipinos today President Benigno Aquino. Singapore is the country’s largest trading generally feel safer and the crime has remark- Philippine economic growth in the third partner and the largest source of investments ably dropped, especially in the urban areas,” quarter was reportedly faster than China’s 6.7 among members of the Association of South- is one actress we saw growing Duterte told potential investors in a speech at percent, Vietnam’s 6.4 percent, Indonesia’s 5 east Asian Nations (Asean). up before our eyes, from the time she started the Shangri-la Hotel in Singapore. percent and Malaysia’s 4.3 percent. as a child star in ’s “Magic He also highlighted the Philippines’ growth Many developments and reforms in the Kingdom” to being one of the hottest stars in terms of the gross domestic product, which country, Duterte said, are favorable for busi- of her generation. jumped by 7.1 percent year-on-year in the nesses, especially in key growth sectors such as On the big screen, she won best actress third quarter of 2016, the first three months of energy and infrastructure. for “Baler.” She’s no singer but has a hit his administration, which data from the Phil- “The Philippines is open for business and album, “Annebisyosa”, which also became a ippine Statistics Authority attributed to gains we welcome what you have to offer,” he said, hit concert at the Big Dome. in manufacturing, trade, and real estate. and added that more investments would put And now, she’s getting married. She’s offi- cially engaged to her boyfriend of six years, chef Erwan Heussaff, the younger brother of her good friend, Solenn. You can see Erwan officially proposing to her on a video posted in YouTube when they had a trip to Opposition to death penalty seen in Senate New York last November where they joined a marathon. MANILA, Philippines - Senate Presi- pronouncements “unsettling.” against death penalty… We would continue Erwan kneeled in front of Anne then gave dent Aquilino Pimentel III vowed to allow “We can consider this. But then again, what with our anti-death penalty campaign and her an engagement ring and proposed thorough debates on the proposals to revive I want to see is reform in our judicial system. inform the politicians that this is not the solu- marriage to her. Anne was visibly surprised the death penalty as he expects stiff opposition Our courts need rehabilitation, both physically tion to our problems,” Pabillo said. but looked so happy. They both cried during despite its being pushed by President Duterte. and manpower-wise,” Poe said, adding that He said that they would also encourage the that momentous event in their lives. The fans The pending bills to reimpose the penalty the court should be seen as fair by punishing lay faithful to write to their congressmen. are jubilant and they were flooded with in the country for certain heinous crimes, he its own corrupt judges. Batangas Archbishop Ramon Arguelles ad- congratulatory notes. Anne is now 31 years said, are “really going to be contentious.” With the current woes afflicting the judicial mitted he had communicated to the lawmak- old while Erwan is 29, so they’re both of the “That (death penalty) is a priority for system, she said, only poor and innocent indi- ers representing the province. right age to settle down and start their own discussion in the Senate and I feel that there’ll viduals may be executed. “I am confident that all the Batangueño family. be many who will oppose that but we need Sen. Manny Pacquiao was one of those congressmen and women will oppose the In a photo with Amy Perez, Anne proudly to talk about it… we’ll give everyone time to who filed bills seeking the death penalty, re-imposition of the death penalty. Batangas showed off the solitaire diamond engage- discuss it,” Pimentel said. saying he has personally witnessed the deadly is pro-God, pro-life; pro-people and pro-envi- ment ring that Erwan gave her. Her co-hosts He described the reimposition as a effects of illegal drugs when he was still a ronment,” he said. in “Showtime” then offered her a special “conscience issue” among the 24 senators, of struggling boxer. Activist priest Robert Reyes said the con- song number for her engagement to Erwan. whom he counts five to seven opposing it. He Among those expected to oppose the bill gressmen who would allow the death penalty Anne later delivers this message on the himself is undecided as he pointed out that are Sens. Francis Pangilinan, Risa Hontiveros are those who “are addicted to power and air: “Erwan and I are engaged. I am happy the PDP-Laban, which Duterte leads, is also and Leila de Lima. money.” to share with all of you the great news. And divided on the issue. This early, some Catholic bishops already He believes that the primary change the being someone who’s always in the public “I’ve kept an open mind on it and if the intend to write to their diocese’s congressmen country needs is a “change on politics, not on eye, I think it’s very, very important that I death penalty will be revived, it should be only to convince them not to support the passage of drugs.” share it with all of you. Thank you everyone. for the most heinous of crimes, or for only one the death penalty. Sociology professor May Racelis said the It was all over the news and social media. crime, about drugs,” Pimentel, president of Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo, Duterte administration’s war on drugs could To those who sent their well wishes and love PDP-Laban, said. head of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of have adverse effects on children, youth and to both Erwan and I, sobra kaming nagpa- Duterte earlier said he wants five to six ex- the Philippines-Episcopal Commission on the women from the urban poor – making them pasalamat po sa inyo. And I’m just hoping na ecutions daily if the death penalty is imposed. Laity, also said they would continue with their think that “violence is the new normal.” until the end of this whole journey and as I Sen. Grace Poe said she was still study- campaign for life. enter the whole chapter in my life, kasama ko ing the issue even as she found Duterte’s “We would continue with our campaign pa rin ang ‘It’s Showtime’ family ko. And sana po, even when I become misis na, patuloy pa rin po ang suporta n’yo. Isa itong bagay na hindi ko talaga ini-expect na mangyayari ngayong taon na ‘to. But it came as a beau- ABS-CBN apologizes to Pagasa tiful surprise. Para sa akin, what a beautiful way to end 2016. As in, it’s so, so beautiful. MANILA - Television network ABS-CBN given to the acronym Pagasa in an episode from the producers of the comedy show for And I have no one else to thank but my mon has apologized to employees of the Philip- of “Goin’ Bulilit” “was said in the context of belittling the weather bureau and endangering amour, Erwan. I love you so much.” pine Atmospheric Geophysical Astronomical a joke and should not be deemed as a fact or public safety. Anne’s best friends, , Services Administration (Pagasa) for a kids criticism.” “It was not our intention to hurt or demean Georgina Wilson and all television gag show’s joke over unrealiable The Philippine Weathermen Employees the agency and we apologize to the employees got married abroad this year. And they all weather forecasts. Association, the union of Pagasa employees, of Pagasa who may have been offended by the expressed their happiness for her. Let’s wait The media giant said the different meaning the next day demanded a public apology joke that we aired,” ABS-CBN said. for further announcements about the details of Anne’s wedding to Erwan.

10 JANUARY 2017 JANUARY 2017 ‘My Love from the Star’ cast announced

anticipated programs in 2017, promises man on Earth for 400 years ever since his to delight the viewers by bringing back spaceship crash-landed, is commercial and the mala-aso’t pusang kilig of Steffi and print model Gil Cuerva. Matteo with and Gil After going through a series of audi- Cuerva. tions, the newbie actor is thankful that Jennylyn plays Steffi, the popular, beau- the Network chose him to play the role of tiful and sought-after actress and endorser. Matteo. “Naninibago ako. This is all new to She is rich, successful but over confident me but at the same time I’m very grate- Marian Saves and feeling entitled. ful and honored na ako ang pinili at may Comedian Boobay, who had a stroke Mercado is excited to begin work on the tiwala po ang production, si Direk Joyce recently, is now getting better adaptation. She is looking forward to give (Bernal), si Jennylyn sa akin. Sa totoo lang Boobay’s partner Kent Juan Resquir said the audience a whole new viewing experi- po there’s a lot of pressure on me na mag- the comedian’s vital signs are stable now ence with her role as Steffi. “Dito, they will deliver. Kim Soo-hyun is very big in Korea Comedian Ate Gay expressed gratitude AT LAST! Kapuso network has introduced see another side of me—the one na nakita so siyempre may comparisons po doon but to actress for saving Gil Cuerva and Jennylyn Mercado as Matteo nila sa films ko. Kasi kung dati sa pelikula I’m up to the challenge. I’m excited to do it Boobay’s life. Do and Steffi Cheon, the well-loved charac- ko siya ginagawa ngayon dadalhin natin and hopefully I will be able to deliver.” On Instagram, Ate Gay posted a ters in the top-rating Koreanovela ‘My Love photo of him with Rivera and Boobay and from the Star’ ‘yun dito sa GMA. And finally, dumating Completing the cast are Gabby Eigen- na si Matteo, and I saw na very willing siya mann, , , with captioned it with a heartfelt message of thanks for the actress. na matuto and open siya sa lahat ng mga Glydel Mercado, Spanky Manikan, Renz GMA Network has revealed the identi- “‘Di ako nagkamali ng pakiramdam ideas at mabait. That’s why excited ako na Fernandez, Melissa Mendez, and Nar ties of the lead stars in the TV adaptation mabuting tao si Marian. Salamat sa mapanood na ito ng mga viewers natin.” Cabico. of the phenomenal Korean hit My Love pagsagip kay Boobay ha. Mamahalin ko Meanwhile, bagging the role of Matteo from the Star. kayo habang ako’y nabubuhay. Salamat the extremely intelligent yet cold and aloof The series, one of the Network’s highly- salamat salamat,” Ate Gay said. extra-terrestrial being who lived as a hu- [I wasn’t wrong when I felt that Marian is a good person. Thank you for saving Boobay. I will love both of you for as long as I live. Thank you, thank, you, thank you.] Boobay suffered from stroke earlier this Will Philippines score a back-to-back win at Miss Universe? week. His partner Kent Juan Resquir said the comedian is getting better now. “Boobay’s condition is getting better. That’s possible and that’s what Gaffud and his team of pageant contestant He is conscious and vital signs are trainers have been credited for the successful we’ve been hoping for.” stable. Strength of both upper and lower placements of the Philippine representatives at extremities is not impaired. Comprehension international beauty pageants. Most notable of These were the words of Jonas Gaffud when is preserved but has trouble speaking them, of course, were Miss World 2013 Megan interviewed during the Miss Universe 2016 fluently. Still in Acute Stroke Care for further Young, Miss International 2016 Kylie Versoza, kick-off party that was spearheaded by Miss observation,” Resquir stated. and Miss Universe 2015 . Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach along with Miss Boobay, who is Norman Balbuena in His team believes Medina has a big chance Universe Organization President Paula Shugart real life, is a Filipino actor, comedian to win as the 26-year-old interior designer has and the executives of the pageant’s major part- and television host. He is best known for been doing her homework seriously. Though ners and sponsors. appearing in several GMA News and most pageant fans are not sold to Medina’s Gaffud, or popularly known to pageant fans Public Affairs shows as a co-host. He was performance during the Question and Answer as “the beauty queen maker,” was positive on also a regular host in the award-winning portion at the Binibining Pilipinas early this the chances of Maxine Medina, the Philippine comedy-game show Celebrity Bluff, along year, Gaffud acknowledged Medina’s waterloo delegate to the pageant, in clinching the Miss with , Brod Pete, and Eugene and said they made sure the Philippine bet Universe crown on Jan. 30. her for the more technical aspects of the beauty Domingo. would overcome this hurdle. He said that the 5-foot-8 stunner is 100 contest. Rivera and Boobay first became “We always tell her, ‘you just need to answer percent prepared and is focused on making “The are a few little things that she needs to friends after they worked as hosts of from your heart.’ People expect that candidates her countrymen proud. Medina went through improve on but now when we see her onstage, Extra Challenge Extreme in 2012. After would give pageant patty answers during Q and rigorous training at the gym to work on her we are confident that she will deliver. She looks hearing what happened to Boobay, Allan A but when you answer from the heart, you can core to achieve her perfect figure in time for the classy and very stunning,” Gaffud said. K said Rivera immediately transferred the answer the question well,” Gaffud shared. pre-pageant events. She’s undergone personality Medina said that she is grateful for the sup- comedian to St. Luke’s Medical Center in development and Q-and-A training to prepare port her predecessor is giving her. Global City.

JANUARY 2017 JANUARY 2017 11 Philippines

‘PH can’t stop China’ Govt: Sino militarization up to US, Europe to take action

ippines, we have our bilateral engage- the South China Sea was a major con- ments with China... and our efforts have cern for the United States, Japan and the paid off. As you can see, our fishermen European Union. or Dolores Maiquez Clark are allowed to... not allowed—But our “Let them take whatever action is in real life was a multi-awarded actress, she fishermen now have free access, insofar necessary in the pursuit of their national starred in more than 80 films as Scarborough Shoal is concerned,” interest... and we will leave it at that. For between 1953 and 1992 Yasay said. the Philippines, we have our bilateral On Thursday, the US-based think tank engagements with China,” Yasay said. Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative He said the country would continue Remembering showed new satellite imagery showing to engage China in other aspects of that China has installed “significant” their relationship—trade, investments, defensive weapons in its seven islets in people-to-people contact, cooperation, Lolita the Spratly Islands in recent years, built infrastructure development and other up from much smaller land protuber- such assistance “that will have no strings MANILA - FOREIGN Affairs Secre- ances and reefs. attached.” Rodriguez tary Perfecto Yasay Jr. admitted that the Although Beijing has said it does A leftist Duterte ally in the House, Philippines cannot do anything about not intend to militarize the contested however, assailed China for its militarist China’s move to militarize a series of Stars never die, they just fade away. waters of the South China Sea, ongoing actions. contested artificial islands in the South satellite imagery has shown the instal- “This is highly deplorable as it fur- The country mourned the passing of China Sea. lation of military equipment and longer ther militarizes an already militarized Lolita Rodriguez, one of Philippine cin- “There is nothing that we can do runways. maritime zone. It raises the stakes for a ema’s legendary actresses, who died about that now, whether or not it is be- They appear to be large anti-aircraft potential regional dispute as US Pres- at the age of 81 in Hemet, California ing done for purposes of further milita- guns and close-in weapons systems, the ident-elect Donald Trump claimed he where she and family migrated in 1977. rizing these facilities that they have put AMTI said. is ready to confront Beijing on territo- Born in Majayjay, to an up,” Yasay told journalists in Singapore. Despite these threats however, Yasay rial issues,” Bayan Muna party-list Rep. American father and Filipino mother, “We cannot, we cannot stop China at said that the issue about the militariza- Carlos Zarate said. Lolita made her movie debut at the this point... and saying do not put that tion and the construction of permanent What is worse though, Zarate said, is age of 18 in up. We will continue to pursue peace- facilities by China “has already been that the action was done despite Presi- Ating Pag-ibig in 1953, which starred ful means [by] which all of these can be passed upon by the arbitral tribunal and dent Xi Jinping’s pledge not to militarize prevented,” he added. Tita Duran and Pancho Magalona. decision there is very clear.” the islands in the Spratly archipelago. Yasay said the Philippines would tol- She made her first starring role in “We will move forward in the future “There should be a stop to these mili- erate Beijings actions so that there will Sabungera in 1953 and co-starred insofar as pursuing the enforcement of tarist activities both from China and the be “no further actions that will heighten with Dolphy in the now classic Jack and the decision of the arbitral tribunal,” he US because it would be very disadvanta- the tensions between the two countries,” Jill in 1954. added. geous to the region and its people if this particularly in the Scarborough Shoal. Lolita Rodriguez or Dolores Maiquez He said the freedom of navigation in situation escalates,” Zarate said. “We will leave it at that. For the Phil- Clark in real life was a multi-awarded actress, she starred in more than 80 films between 1953 and 1992 Lolita made a mark in “love-triangle’ COUNTERING BATO’S REVERSAL movies in the 60’s with and Marlene Dauden, like Sapagkat Top PNP official claims he received cash gift from Duterte Kami’y Tao Lamang (1963), Kapag Puso’y Sinugatan (1967) and Kasala- MANILA - Despite the galing kay presidente. bonuses after Dela admitted that news of top of- nan Kaya? (1968). pronouncement of Philippine Love na love niya Rosa’s speech. ficials receiving huge Christmas Her most memorable role was the National Police chief Dir. Gen. yung PNP kaya ganon. bonuses comes as a disappoint- town’s outcast Kuala in the landmark Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa to the Lahat tayo happy,” The amount varied ment to them. contrary, a ranking police official Dela Rosa said. depending on the rank Meanwhile, PNP spokes- 1974 film Tinimbang ka Ngunit Ku- revealed that he had received a But Dela Rosa took of PNP officers. person Senior Superintendent lang by , part of the 70’s cash gift supposedly from Presi- back his statement, Malacañang had Dionardo Carlos said a paper golden harvests in Philippine cinema. dent Rodrigo Duterte. saying no cash bonus earlier denied that trail should be present if police Rodriguez won her second Famas Best In a report by Sandra Agui- will be coming from cash gifts will be given generals indeed received their Actress award for this film, 18 years naldo on “24 Oras,” the police Malacañang. to officers. bonus. after her first in Gilda in 1956. official said said he received “Gusto ko sanang mag-share “It has not been released and “Kung meron ngang natang- the bonus in cash at the PNP sa inyo kung meron akong apparently is not forthcoming. gap, may resibo yan. Kasi yung Lolita was incomparable in her team- General Headquarters and not malaking matatanggap kahapon Those who do their work well sinasabing pipirmahan, malala- up with the great Brocka in Stardoom through their payroll like their dahil akala ko may ibibigay na deserves the reward they can man kung ano yung purpose or (1971), Tubog sa Ginto (1971), Lunes, other incentives. bonus ang Malacañang. Kaso get,” Presidential Spokesperson intention of whatever amount Martes, Miyerkules, Huwebes, Biyernes, During the PNP Christmas kinulit ng media, saan daw ang Ernesto Abella said. was released,” Carlos said in an Sabado, Linggo (1976) and Tatlo, Party on Monday, Dela Rosa source, saan galing hanggang interview on QRT. Dalawa, Isa (Bukas, Madilim, Bukas) said high-ranking officials will sa sige lang tayo hintay, walang Disappointing Carlos added such documents receive cash gifts ranging from dumating,” he said. should also bare the identity of (1974)’ In 1979, Lolita made two Brocka films P50,000 to P400,000 from But the police official who GMA News spoke to police the giver and he source of the Duterte. spoke to GMA News said he officers of lower rank, who fund. considered as “acting coup team-up.” “Kunin niyo pamasko na and other colleagues received the First was Ina, Kapatid, Anak, which pit- ted her for the first time against , with one of the most dramatic confrontational scenes ever in local OLA, AFCM and PCCF Christmas Party film. This was followed by the Manila Film Festival entry Ina ka Ng Anak Mo in which Lolita won best actress in a tie Officers and with co-star . members of Indeed, if there is one local actress PCCF pose that can match Rodriguez’s quiet inten- for a picture. sity and depth in style, it is Aunor who got the rare chance to appear with her in the Brocka opus. Aunor was said to have gotten more enamored and awed with the veteran actress whom the Superstar considered her biggest idol because of her unselfish behavior on the set.

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JANUARY 2017 JANUARY 2017 13 DUNDAS TOWER DENTAL & DENTISTRY IN MILTON 19TH Annual Christmas Party

Community leaders Doctors Solon and Josephine Guzman held their 19th annual Christmas party at their home in Mississauga. As expected, staff, family and friends experienced the warmth hospitality of the philanthropic couple, with a variety of dishes from halal, Japanese, Mediterranean and of course, Filipino food. There was a performance by the choir Handmaids of the Lord, a group by Couples for Christ and also dance numbers including by the Siony Dance Company with their daughters Princess and Angeline. There were words of gratitude by staff and former staff that Doctor Solon hired again. One was Eleanor, who lost her husband in 2014. “I just want to share my good life with everyone, spread happiness,” said Dr. Solon. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone.

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Dundas Tower Medical Dental Centre & Laboratory Dr. Solon C. Guzman & Associates Dr. Josephine Adorna Guzman DDS Dr. Venus B. Guzman MD 165 Dundas Street West, Suite 108, Mississauga, Ontario L5B 2N6 497 Laurier Avenue, Suite 5 Milton, Ontario L9T 3K8 www.drsolonguzman.ca Email: [email protected] 905-864-8889 905-804-8000 Email: [email protected] Monday to Friday 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM Mon to Fri 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM Sat 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Saturday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Sundays & Holidays by Appointment Sundays & Holidays by Appointment JANUARY 2017 JANUARY 2017 15 Forex Christmas Party Forex held their Christmas party at Estate banquet Hall. There were good food and even more good company. There were games and as always, the Kris Kringle. Of course, there was the yearly awards for employees who have the done beyond the call of duty. It was a great night and in good company. There were gifts for everyone. Even I got a gift jacket. Thank you to Forex for inviting me to join your merry party. Merry Christmas to everyone and a Happy New Year.

Oras ni Maine sa ‘Bulaga,’ mababawasan

SIMPLE subalit fruitful ang maliit na pasasalamat ng Triple A sa showbiz press na nakatuwang na nila mula noong si Marian Rivera pa lang ang artist nila. Ngayon ay lumalaki na ito at bukod kay Yan Yan, pasok sa Triple A management sina , Maine Mendoza, , Jerald Napoles, ang Baes ng Eat Bulaga, Taki, Andrew Garcia at Baby Baste. Ibinalita ni Rams David, presidente ng Triple A, na kasado na ang paggawa ng GMA primetime series nina Alden Richards at Maine Mendoza. Kaya naman hindi na sila kukulitin ng fans ng dalawa. After ng storycon nu’ng nakaraang mga araw, next year na raw ang taping sa Quezon. Target itong ilabas ng Kapuso Network by February. Walang sinabing title ang series, pero ayon sa fans nina Alden at Maine, ito’y Destined to be Yours. Base naman sa ilang nasulat, si Irene Villamor ang director, ang gumawa ng movie na Camp Sawi. Komo location ang shooting, malamang mabawasan ang oras ni Meng sa Eat Bulaga. Hindi biro itong series nila dahil usually ay three to four days ang taping. “Pero hindi pa rin siya mawawala. Nandoon pa rin siya,” sabi ni Rams. Ilan sa nabalitaan naming kasama sa series ay sina at Lotlot. Kamakailan naman ay muling ininyterbyu ni Kris Aquino si Maine. Mahaba-habang intebyuhan ang naganap na ilalabas uli ng host-actress sa kanyang Facebook Live.

* * *

IBINALITA pa rin ni Rams na bahagi na raw ng Johnson & Johnson si Dingdong Dantes. Ang ibig sabihin, may TV commercial na ginawa si Dong at sila naman ang sentro ng anak nilang si Zia. Unang kinuha si Zia sa TVC na kasama si Yan Star Circle Academy held their Christmas Variety a bit), Star Circle kids put much needed warmth Show and their first Lip-Sync Battle - Kid’s Edition and merriment inside the mall. The contestants were Yan. This time, Star Circle Christmas at the Oriental Centre at the corner of Brimley and very excited and very much into the battle as they kumpleto na Sheppard. It was a fun afternoon for everyone and gamely impersonated stars like and silang pamilya. Variety Show brought much-needed life to the mall. While the other pop stars. Pagdating weather outside was not delightful (it was snowing naman sa soap, tatapusin lang ni Marian ang pagpapadede sa anak bago sumabak sa tra- baho. May duration pala ang pagpapasuso sa anak kaya hindi muna tumanggap ng trabaho si Yan Yan. Eh, sa isyu namang may away sina Marian at Andrea Torres na umano’y pinagselosan sa taping ng Alyas Robin Hood, “Walang away sina Marian at Andrea. Magkasama sila sa isang management team kaya ’wag silang pag- awayin. Hindi sila aabot sa ganoon!” May offer din daw ang TV5 sa kanila na gumawa ng programa, but as of now, wala sa priority ’yon ng APT Entertainment.

16 JANUARY 2017 JANUARY 2017 How a Failed Peaceful Revolution Led to Rodrigo Duterte Cleve Kevin Robert Arguelles, University of the Philippines / The Conversation

The Philippines president’s drug war shows many of the problems that concern Filipinos. the authoritarian past. Although national statis- ery out of the national justice system; even what happens to democracies when the public is Despite promising national growth rates, the tics show otherwise, people felt those were the convicted corrupt politicians enjoy their freedom forgotten gains appear to have largely benefited the rich. country’s golden years. while innocents languish in jail. A corrup- How can this be explained in a country that More than 26 million Filipinos remain impov- Extrajudicial killings are a regular feature of tion whistleblower, Jun Lozada, was recently a mere 30 years ago brought down a dictator erished. And unemployment rates are said to be post-EDSA governments as they were of the convicted, while ex-president Gloria Arroyo was without resorting to violence? the worst in Asia. martial law years. Examples include the 1987 acquitted and set free. Duterte’s rise is an evolving lesson in the Mendiola massacre, 2004 Hacienda Luisita The legislature has been used to turn issues vulnerability of democracies in the face of a Democracy’s discontent massacre and 2009 Maguindanao massacre, to of justice into a public circus, such as in the neglected public. The democratic institutions name a few. impeachment of Supreme Court Chief Justice of the Philippines have little power when faced Perpetrators have not been brought to justice. Reynato Corona and the hearings on allega- with a populist president determined to channel Amid political and economic exclusion and Even before Duterte, the Philippines was tions of graft and corruption against former vice frustrations into immediate actions. malaise came Duterte. He offered empathy to known as the country with the worst state of president Jejomar Binay. the economic strugglers and protection from the impunity. Government critics were the usual Is it surprising then that Duterte’s support- Unfulfilled promise violence of criminals and politicians. His was a victims until Duterte took aim at alleged drug ers find calls to follow the rule of law and due twin campaign narrative of care and power. His dealers and users. process hypocritical? When institutions do not supporters often highlighted how they felt that In my fieldwork in a massive poor urban work, it becomes unreasonable to rely on them. In 1986, millions of Filipinos ended Ferdi- Duterte truly cared for them. nand Marcos’ dictatorship through sustained community in , residents have Duterte’s narrative plays on the temptations And he was not just all talk. Duterte is seen welcomed Duterte’s war on drugs. They now for a disgruntled public to claim swift justice. In civil resistance against government violence and as a man of action: decisive and quick. His “au- electoral fraud. This culminated in a massive feel more secure in what they call their “drug- the context of his rise to power, it’s no surprise thenticity” is manifest in his everyday language infested community” even though drug use has that calls to respect human rights or the rule of peaceful protest in the capital along Epifanio coupled with humour that comes from the Delos Santos Avenue (EDSA). The event is now substantially declined compared to previous law fall on deaf ears. streets. decades, according to one village official. The election of Duterte may be seen as the popularly known as the 1986 EDSA People Many felt that Duterte rose from the ranks Power Revolution. Residents argue that their perceptions of nadir, but possibly also a turning point, in the of ordinary citizens despite coming from a community security are just as important as the long-standing democratic deficit in Asia’s oldest Marcos was ousted after 21 years in power. traditional political family and holding various He had been democratically elected as president numbers in government records. For people democracy. His rejection of the rule of law and political offices for 30 years. This is especially to feel safe in a city where 92% of villages face liberal democracy represents a rupture in the in 1965, but essentially ruled as a dictator from evident in his overwhelming support in the 1972 to 1986. drug-related crimes and in a nation where post-EDSA consensus. southern Philippines, as the first president from crimes against persons and property are rising is It’s not a stretch to say that the Philippines’ To the disappointment of many, an elite- a region long neglected by the capital. dominated democracy replaced Marcos’ no easy thing. elite democracy had it coming. The failure to When Duterte’s campaign translates to deliver on the promises of the People Power authoritarian rule. From 1987, a small number How did it come to this? of families started to restore their control of perceived everyday safety, it is no wonder that revolution made the rise of Duterte politically the government and rotate the seats of power drug-war murders have not met considerable possible. among themselves. They included the Marcos When democracy doesn’t deliver, its legiti- resistance. Cleve Kevin Robert Arguelles is Instruc- family, who returned from exile in 1991 and macy becomes difficult to defend. And when Anyone with experience of the country’s in- tor of Political Science at University of were welcomed by their allies. successive elite-dominated governments have stitutions of justice knows how elusive criminal the Philippines But three decades later, the post-EDSA pact used democracy for their own ends, the balance justice is. Around 80% of drug cases end up is far from being fulfilled. tilts towards authoritarianism. being dismissed and it may take a decade to Under post-EDSA democracy the rich- achieve a conviction. A neglected public est families amassed more wealth than ever Most people do not trust the judiciary and while poverty, hunger, homelessness, and crime many are convinced that power and money are continued to afflict ordinary Filipinos. It’s not needed to claim justice. The post-EDSA leadership has failed to solve difficult to imagine why some are nostalgic for Previous administrations also made a mock-

NEW DATE: March 3, 2017

JANUARY 2017 JANUARY 2017 17 Entertainment

No more hiding for Jennylyn and Dennis + other stories

JENNYLYN Mercado was absent from her Brother 737. Miho was the big winner and Tommy hosting duties in “Superstar Duets” last was her runner up and their on and off cam romance Saturday because she was vacationing in Amster- bloomed while they’re both inside Bahay ni Kuya. dam, Paris and Belgium with her inamorato, Dennis Miho plays Cindy, a “kasambahay” in the home of Trillo. This time, they’re apparently no longer hiding Xia Vigor working for her mom, . the real score about this as they’ve been posting their Tommy is Kit, the tutor of Xia who falls in love pictures on their social media account together, look- with Miho. Let’s see if these three tandems will help ing very much the sweet lovebirds that they are. attract more viewers who’d be glued to the show. GMA allowed her to take a leave of absence from her show as they know she needs a break after PAOLO, THE RELUCTANT her Mommy Lydia’s long illness at the hospital that ended with her passing away. It’s good Dennis ACTOR REDISCOVERED served as a ready and willing shoulder to cry on dur- James said: “I think so far it’s been a ing Jen’s hour of bereavement. PAOLO Ballesteros is on cloud 9 as his “Die very smooth relationship. I think the only Their fans quickly registered their messages of Beautiful” is now an official entry in the Metro Ma- thing, I guess you know, is privacy as approval on the internet upon seeing the sweet pho- nila Filmfest, with releasing it. and Nadine a couple. But we’re enjoying it. We’re tos of the lovebirds and added they are so “kinikilig” His manager, Joji Dingcong, says Paolo has always having a lot of fun. Of course, we enjoy seeing the two of them together. Some of them are been lackadaisical in his career. Lustre say sharing this with the fans.” even asking as to when they are going to walk down “Actually, noon pa maraming kumukuha sa Nadine is also thankful for their the aisle. But Jen said then that they’re not in a hurry kanya, pero lagi niyang sinasabi, happy na siya sa their 10-month travels together. They’ve been to a to do that and she’s willing to wait for five more ‘Eat Bulaga’. It’s his own decision na huwag tumang- lot of countries this year thanks to their years before wedding bells start ringing for them. gap ng projects nang sabay-sabay, huwag maglagari. relationship concert tour and their TV and movie Early this year, both Dennis and Jen will be Lagi kong sinasabi sa kanya, hindi na siya bumabata projects. busy with their own new shows. Dennis was already at hindi rin siya yumayaman. So blessing in disguise has been per- “Lahat ng pinuntahan namin super shown attending the initial meetings for the revival nga na na-suspend siya dahil nakagawa siya ng two nag-enjoy talaga kami. Favorite talaga of “Mulawin”. He was also part of the first “Mu- movies at nanalo pa siyang best actor sa isang inter- fect and very namin mag travel pareho,” she said. lawin” more than ten years ago. As for Jen, it looks national filmfest.” (We enjoyed all our travels. Travel- like her own local version of the Korean hit, “My Direk Jun Lana says that when he wrote the smooth ling is really our favorite.) Love from the Star”, will finally start grinding, but script for “Die Beautiful”, he had no particular James and Nadine faced fans and it’s still a guessing game as to who her leading man actor in mind. “But when we presented it sa Hong “We enjoy sharing this with members of the press during a Jollibee will be. Kong Film Financing Forum in 2014, kailangang the fans,” James Reid says of Live event (to the promote the fast may maipakita kaming trabaho and I asked Paolo, his relationship with Nadine food chain’s Burger Steak meal, which ABS-CBN’S NEW MORN- puwede ba mag-pictorial ka. Kunwari, ikaw ang they endorse) at the Century City Mall bida para makahingi kami ng funding. At ‘yun nga, Lustre. Awww! PHOTO: Coco- in City on Sun, Dec 11. ING ATTRACTIONS natuloy ‘yung project at ang laking tulong na si Paolo nuts Manila Coincidentally, the day marks their ang kinuha namin kasi siya mismo ang nagme-make Sweethearts James Reid and 10th month as a couple (they officially ABS-CBN’s new morning soap that starts airing up sa sarili niya para sa kanyang transformations, became an item on Feb 11). today, “Langit Lupa”, just before “Showtime”, offers kaya nakatipid kami. But more than that, he really are turning out Despite being famously aloof and three new tandems to viewers of all ages. First is that has so many talents. Yung acting na pinakita niya to be our relationship goals. mum about their personal lives, they’re of cute 7-year old child stars Yesha Camile and Xia rito sa dramatic scenes niya with his daughter, Inah happy to share a personal milestone Vigor who play the best of friends whose lives are de Belen, he’ll surprise a lot of people. Like ‘yung The couple expressed their gratitude with their loyal fans. affected by the fact that their parents are at war with members ng jury sa Tokyo Filmfest, galing na galing for having a pretty solid 2016. The During the event, James even per- each other. Both of them are very talented. When sa kanya. Napatawa na niya, napaiyak pa.” year, James said, has been the “high- formed a spoken word poetry piece asked who’s the better actress between them, Yesha “Malaki rin ang nagawa ni Direk Jun,” says light” of their young careers, espcially (written by former co-star Juan Miguel played safe and replied: “Parehas lang po kami.” Paolo. “Kasi kahit akala mo, light lang ‘yung eksena, after headlining a successful soap Severo) for Nadine. In turn, Nadine per- But Xia gave a very humble answer: “Mas mahu- nag-uusap lang kayo. Yung last scene ko sa best opera and a concert tour. formed a song that remind her of James. say po siya kasi mas matagal na siyang artista sa’kin. friend ko, hindi ko alam, nagpapaalam na pala ako “It has been the highlight of our ca- James and Nadine currently star in Mas marami na siyang nagawang teleserye. Ako, mas kasi mamamatay na ko. Kapag pinanood mo na on reer because it was the finale of On The the ABS-CBN drama . But bago kaya kulang pa ko sa training.” screen, maiiyak ka. At saka perfectionist siya, paulit- Wings of Love, which I think is our great- they say their fans have a lot to look When asked which of the scenes they’ve shot for ulit ang eksena. Kung minsan, may isang strand lang est achievement. It was the year that we forward in 2017. the show they liked the most, Yesha replied: “Yung ng buhok ko na nakita niyang nakatikwas, pauulit became international because of the “Basta surprise na lang. Marami kam- pong naliligo ako sa ulan using a firetruck.” As for ang eksena. E, ang hirap kayang padapain ng buhok tour, the concert. It’s been a long year,” ing suprises para sa lahat, magugulat Xia, “yun pong haunted house scene kasi nakakata- kasi wig nga, e. Ha ha ha!” the 23-year-old actor-singer said. kayo. And syempre, album ni James next kot po talaga.” Isn’t he afraid he’d be typecast in gay roles? Of course, 2016 is also the year year. Hindi na namin sasabihin sa inyo Then there’s the teen love team of Jairus Aquino “Wala namang kaso kung gay role uli ang ibigay the popular love team turned their para surprise na lang talaga pagdat- and Sharlene San Pedro, both of them also former sa’kin. Basta ibang klaseng bading naman. Hindi onscreen partnership into a real-life ing ng 2017,” Nadine said. child stars who graduated from “Goin’ Bulilit”. Jairus yung gaya ni Trisha rito sa ‘Die Beautiful’ na nagawa romance. (It’s a surprise. We have a lot of plays Junjun, the brother of who is the ko na.” James and Nadine described their surprise for everyone. Of course, James father of Yesha, while Sharlene is Corazon or Heart, What if it’s a gay role where he’d do nude hot relationship so far as perfect and very has an album next year. But we won’t tell a probinsyana who arrives in Manila and becomes love scenes and torrid kissing scenes with his leading smooth. you what else we have planned for you Jairus’ love interest. man? Is he ready? “Ang tanong is: ready na ba sila “It’s been perfect so far. It has been so it will be a surprise in 2017.) Finally there’s the love team of young adults sa’kin?” easy. Very smooth,” Nadine said. We can’t wait. Tommy Esguerra and Miho Nishida from Pinoy Big

Duterte promises translate to freebies in 2017 budget

Hospitalization will be free-- -DOH CHIEF

MANILA - The bicameral committee approved received tons of requests for endorsements for special fund for the indigent. investment for the youth of the country. a P3.35-trillion budget for 2017, an appropria- scholarships. “Why should it be that a Filipino “That allows scholarships for state universi- For 2018, she added, she hopes that the tion described by Senate Finance Committee child or a Filipino who wants to go to college ties and colleges and even private educational budget would also cover miscellaneous fees, Chair Loren Legarda as a “compassionate” must know a politician,” she said. institutions as long as they apply and go through dormitory expenses, and food and transportation budget. With the budget infusion, undergraduate the process,” explained Legarda. allowances for the indigent. “People can’t believe but it’s true because we studies in state universities and colleges will be However, the Senate is leaving the accom- have resources, we have funds...It’s a compas- free of tuition. plishment of the implementing rules and regula- FREE HEALTHCARE sionate budget. It’s really for the welfare of the “Anyone who is enrolled or will be enrolled tions to CHED. Filipino people,” she said on ANC’s Headstart in a state university and college, who’s a Filipino “Itong mga operationalization, how to avail Although the Universal Healthcare Law had Monday. citizen should be free in terms of tuition,” she of it, nasa eskwelahan yan kung papaano. What long been passed, Legarda lamented that the law She shared the highlights in her interview. said. we’re saying is we provided the funds. CHED which she authored had not been implemented, P300-million of the P8.3-billion allocation, should now talk to the SUCs, how much should allegedly due to a lack of funding. FREE TUITION IN STATE she added, shall go to the SUCs which offer be downloaded per SUCs depending on the “Ang parating sinasabi, kulang ng pondo, UNIVERSITIES AND COL- medical courses. number of students enrolled and projected to walang pondo. Kaya naman pala e,” she said. Also in the 2017 budget for the Commission enroll, how much is their tuition,” she said. LEGES She added, there are approximately 8 million on Higher Education (CHED) is an approxi- Legarda believes, this kind of allocation is FREE mate P5-billion allocation for scholarship and “very sustainable” and is a practical allotment continued on page 24 Legarda noted, as a lawmaker, she had student assistance, including Tulong Dunong, a from a P3.35-trillion budget as it would be an 18 JANUARY 2017 JANUARY 2017

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JANUARY 2017 JANUARY 2017 19 Entertainment Andrea happy with Dingdong: Sabay kami + other stories

forward na sana magkatulungan kaming lahat para mapaganda at mag-rate nang husto ang aming show.” One of them is Ken Chan, who finally has a follow-up show after he won acclaim as a trans- Lovi hints on woman for “Destiny Rose”. This time, he’d play a Chinoy, the illegitimate son of a rich Chinese tycoon, who’s a bad boy post at new because he has a big chip on his shoulder. lovelife The other one is Jak Roberto, who gained fame showing off his six-pack Jessy ok says 2016 is a very abs in “”. The good year for her as she has a hit other two are both foreign movie, ‘The Escort’, and a hit TV guys who both started with Luis show, ‘Someone to Watch Over with the Kapamilya JESSY Mendiola is thankful to Regal Me’, so for the Christmas season, Network: and Mother Lily for getting her to be and . she chose to share her blessings by the leading lady of ANDREA Torres is elated over the positive Ivan is a Fil-Am actor who is the runner-up of visiting the wards of Child of Hope in “Mano Po 7: Chinoy”. “I’m thank- feedback she’s getting for her role as Venus in the James Reid in PBB Teen Clash of 2010. Addy is ful and proud na napasama ako Asia, which cares for deprived street hit GMA primetime show, “Alyas Robin Hood”. an Indian singer who made waves in ABS-CBN’s sa ganito kalaking movie na puro children. “Ang daming nagko-comment na ang sexy ko talent search for foreigners, “I Love OPM”. Ivan magagaling ang artista,” she says. raw kasi medyo revealing ang outfits na pinasu- did a lot of supporting roles in ABS-CBN soaps “I encourage everyone to extend “Very challenging din ang role ko as suot nila sa’kin sa show,” she says. “But more than but his career did not take off, so he went back their help to our needy country- a former drug addict na tinulungan ni that, I’m happy to get the chance to do action to the U.S.A. and it’s only recently when James Enchong. Nagdrama rin ako rito.” men,” she says. “Maraming nan- scenes in the show. Bale sabay kami rito ni Ding- became a big star with the help of Viva that How does it feel to do a love gangailangan ng tulong, so let’s dong Dantes as Pepe sa pakikipaglaban sa mga he decided to renew his showbiz career here in scene with Enchong? “Wala namang open our hearts and pay it forward masasamang-loob and I really trained well para Manila. Here’s hoping he’ll be luckier this time as problema kasi ilang beses na kaming magampanan ko nang tama ang fight scenes na a Kapuso. by sharing the graces that the Lord pinagagawa sa akin. Basta magagawa ko, I myself nagkasama. Palagay na ang loob ko has given to us.” sa kanya.” do my action scenes and my own stunts.” Lovi intrigued her fans when She also wants to thank Dingdong for guiding VIC’S NEW ‘ENTENG’ At the movie’s presscon, Enchong her. “Talagang he’s very helpful sa akin. Very excit- FOR TODAY’S VIEWERS was very candid in admitting that he she posted in social media her lat- ing ang ‘Alyas Robin Hood’ this week kasi itatakas finds their kissing scene “masarap”. est photo with rumored European ni Michael Flores as Joerel si Dingdong as Pepe at Because of this, it was reported that VIC Sotto’s ‘Enteng Kabisote 10 and the boyfriend, Chris Johnson. For her hahabulin namin sila ni Gio Alvarez as Jekjek and her BF got jealous. Abangers” is the first in Vic’s Enteng franchise caption, she wrote: “All smiles be- Antonette Garcia as Frida, pero hindi namin aabu- “Walang ganun. Kinuwento ko ‘yun that will not be shown as part of the annual tan. Nabihag din ni sina Lindsay sa kanya before it was shot and he cause Chris...tmas is here.” Does Metro Filmfest. Too bad because it’s very now in de Vera as Lizzy and Dave Bornea as Julian para doesn’t have any negative reaction this mean that the guy is coming story and execution, showing Enteng’s skills in isali sa patayang cosplay game called Anger Games kasi he knows part ‘yun ng work ko. ironworks and robotics industries ala-Tony Stark over this Christmas season to be na pay per view ang laban. Bubugbugin sila ni Alam din naman niyang best of friends in the “Ironman” series with her? Lovi continues to deny Liezel Lopez as Miaka sa gitna ng arena, pero dun kami ni Enchong kaya sanay na kami which clicks so well with that they have a romantic relation- din pala dadalhin si Dingdong at siya ang lalaban sa isa’t isa.” kid viewers who flock to kay Miaka as Askal. Hindi magpapatalo si Miaka So after the aborted love affair ship but her most recent posts in- movie theaters on Christ- at hihingi ng tulong sa Cinco Masculados na five with JM de Guzman, is she happy dicate that there is more between mas Day. muscled men na siyang sasagupa kay Dingdong. now? “Happy namin ako lagi, e. Pero The new addition in them than what meets the eye. Action-packed talaga ang sequence na ito at inabot kung dati, happy lang. Ngayon, mas this family film-fantasy- Meantime, in “Someone to ng madaling araw ang pagshoot dito.” haping-happy na ako. Si Luis, very adventure franchise is the supportive siya. Papanoorin daw Watch Over Me”, Lovi as Joanna fact that Enteng is now niya ang ‘Mano Po 7: Chinoy’ kapag continues to carry her personal BARBIE HAS FOUR a grandfather, with his ipinalabas na ito sa December 14.” cross as the suffering wife of Tom LEADING MEN IN NEW son Benok (Oyo Sotto) What else does she appreciate giving him a cute grandchild called Benokis. Rodriguez as TJ. Tom has a very SERIES in Luis? “His sense of humor. Lagi niya Complications in the story arise when the villain akong pinapatawa kasi natural co- active sex drive and wants to make Kwak Kwak (Epy Quizon) was expelled from the median siya. He also inspires me to go a baby with as Irene, ’s fans who are asking as to fairyland Engkantasya and wreaks havoc through a on kapag nai-stress ako sa pressure who refuses him. Another compli- virtual video game. when she’ll have a new show will be glad to know at dami ng work. He reminds me to cation occurs when a new character that she’s about to start taping a new soap, tenta- This makes Vic form the Abangers to fight the always be thankful sa maraming bless- tively titled “Meant to Be”, to be aired early next bad guys, led by his son Oyo. The Abangers are ings na dumarating sa buhay ko.” is introduced: Dave. Who is Dave? year. We’re happy for Barbie as she’s really one of made up of OEW’s, which stands for Overseas What can she say about a It turns out he is the husband of the most competent young actresses we have today, Engkantasya Workers, and this includes the trium- recent video of JM looking okay now Max abroad but they are already virate of the Eat Bulaga Kalyeserye Lolas of Wally as she has proven with the awards she has won and back to normal? “I haven’t seen estranged and just waiting for their for films like “Puntod”, “Mariquina” and “Laut” Bayola, Jose Manalo and Paolo Ballesteros. Also it. May nagsabi lang po sa’kin, but divorce. But now that Dave has fol- for which she won in an international filmfest in appearing in special roles are , Vic’s hindi ko alam, wala akong direktang Portugal. wife , child actor Alonzo Muhlach, balita sa kanya. Kung totoong okay lowed Max, he wants them to rec- In “Meant to Be”, she will have not just one but and the Aldub love team of Alden Richards and na siya, I’m happy for him. ‘Yun naman oncile. Tom sees Dave and attacks four leading men no less. “I hope maging okay Maine Mendoza. “Enteng Kabisote 10” is under ang laging wish ko para sa kanya.” him. ang working relationship naming lahat,” she says. the twin direction of Marlon Rivera and Tony Y. “First time ko silang makakasama and I’m looking Reyes.

Guardians Brotherhood Toronto Chapter held their Induction-Christmas dinner last December. (lLEFT) Inductees pose with retiured General Patricio Abo (5TH FROM RIGHT). LEFT, Nena Guma- pac (3rd from right) pose with friends.

20 JANUARY 2017 JANUARY 2017 Twitter and the video of her performance Over the weekend, the singer-songwriter People...are went viral on YouTube shortly after the was officially introduced as a Kapami- show ended. Her fans will support her all lya. Although he’s already appeared in talking about: the way whatever she does or decides to do several Kapamilya shows in the past few as a solo artist. weeks, it’s only now that Ogie’s change of network was formalized. The 49-year-old OPM singer is joining the rest of other Kapuso singers who recently joined the Kapamilya network.

He’s been appointed to head the country’s Tourism Promo- tion Board. As the COO, his duty is to promote the Philip- Duterte still en- pines domestically joys people’s and internationally. Maine Mendoza Although we don’t trust—Palace know yet if Cesar Some say her star is fading but her sup- would stop doing President Rodrigo Duterte still has the porters say otherwise. And to show that movies and TV shows since he’s got a few support of the people. they are right, and that they are big in projects underway, one thing we are very Malacañang issued this statement on Tues- numbers, they trooped to a mall in Que- sure of. If he couldn’t promote his own day after a newspaper report claimed former Is she the best actress of her generation? zon City where the Dubsmash Queen was movies, how could he promote effectively US Ambassador to the Philippines Philip The Inding-Indie Short Film Festival having a show. As a result, Maine’s brief the country’s tourism? Goldberg made a “blueprint to undermine” believes she is. During the film fest’s Mr. Duterte’s six-month-old administration. tour caused commotion and traffic conges- third edition held last Saturday, Angel Ernesto Abella, the President’s spokes- tion in the area. You know, something that Kris Aquino was named “Best Actress of the Decade” person, said the US State Department had only happens when superstars arrive. If relegating her contemporaries as just tele- already denied participation in a supposed only Maine had a regular show other than People will no longer see her on TV un- plot to unseat the President. vision and movie talents. The Kapamilya Kalyeserye, then it would be easy for her to less she has a special guest appearance or “The President continues to enjoy the trust star, on the other hand, took to Instagram silence her detractors. interview that normally involves, well, her of the people and… (they) apparently ap- to share the recognition with her million life and her ongoing struggle to be part of preciate what he’s doing,” Abella told a news fans and thank them for their unwavering the mainstream media. Kris, instead, will briefing. support. be seen by her fans doing a series of shows He also pointed out that Goldberg himself People...are purportedly admitted that ousting Mr. that can be viewed online via Facebook Duterte would be “difficult.” not talking Live. We heard networks are a bit reluc- Asked if agreed with the former US tant in giving Kris the media mileage she ambassador’s assessment, Abella said: “I don’t Even if 2NE1 is no longer together, is asking for. Now it can be said, Kris is no have any opinion. I’m just a spokesperson. I Filipinos still continue supporting the about longer a queen, not even of social media. don’t need to agree.” “Pambansang Krung Krung.” A testament Despite the spiraling drug killings in the to her being the brightest Korean star in country, Mr. Duterte has kept his popularity town, her solo performance during the as he registered “excellent” ratings in recent finale of Boy Band Superstar trended on surveys.

JANUARY 2017 JANUARY 2017 21 Entertainment

Jean explains rumored ‘liaison’ with younger men + other stories

JEAN Garcia plays a cougar in her recent film, “The Escort”, at magpumiglas? and also in her new one, “Mano Po 7: Chinoy”. She had sizzling Please enlighten me if there is any justification in this. love scenes with in the former and she now has Baron, you have been getting away with this behavior far too a similarly hot love scene with in “Mano Po 7”. “At long. That is precisely why I am saying something about this. You pareho rin akong unfaithful wife in both movies,” she adds. “Sa were given a free pass, look where it brought you? Wala kang ‘Escort’, asawa ko si Rommel Padilla na pinabugbog si Derek. respeto sa sarili mo at sa trabaho mo. Buti sana kung sarili mo Dito naman sa ‘Mano Po 7’, asawa ako ng isang very rich Chi- lang ang apektado pero hindi eh. You are endangering the safety nese taipan, si , but he’s always busy with his business and well-being of your colleagues. This is where the line is drawn. kaya napabayaan ang buong family namin, pati ako, kaya nagka- I will not allow this. Not under my watch. affair kami ni Jake.” As head of this film council, I have a responsibility to this in- Why January Is Reporters at the presscon of “Mano Po 7” kidded her that even dustry. And it is to make sure that we can all work safely together in real life, she seems to be a cougar reported to be having love ng may respeto sa bawat isa. You should be sanctioned.” Going to Be the affairs with younger guys like and Polo Ravales. The last younger guy linked to her was . CLAUDINE VS RAYMART AGAIN Best Month for “Naku, kayo naman, mahilig kayong maniwala sa mga tsismis,” Single People Jean says. “Mga katrabaho ko lang ‘yun na naging kabarkada. Si IT’s shame and scandal in the family all over again between Jomari, naging co-stars kami sa maraming soap, like ‘Alakdana’, and estranged hubby Raymart Santiago. Clau- Struggling to make it through “en- ‘Kakambal ni Eliana’ at last nga, sa ‘’, na inabot dine is fuming because their son Santino was physically hurt by gagement season” without deleting your ng two years sa ere kaya naging close talaga kami. Tapos, when he Raphael, his cousin, son of Raymart’s elder brother, Randy San- Facebook account? Take heart, single folks: ran sa last election as councilor, na nanalo naman siya, he asked tiago. She will reportedly file a case of serious physical injuries January could be the best month yet. me to help in his campaign at ‘yun, sinuportahan ko naman siya. against Raphael. Clover, a dating app described as “the offspring of OkCupid and Tinder if they Marami kasi kaming naging fans dahil sa ‘The Half Sisters’. Pero She accused Raymart of being a “walang kuwentang ama” who parang magkapatid lang kami talaga. Walang malice ang friend- had a one-night stand and forgot to use a even sided with his nephew and not his own son. Raymart says condom,” has tantalizing new data from ship namin. May nakarinig daw na nag-a-I love you kami sa isa’t it’s just a case of “away bata na pinalalaki lang” but Claudine says: isa. Parang I love you nang magkapatid lang ‘yun. Maski nga sa a survey of 150,000 users: December has “Nagtataka lang ako kung bakit sa lahat ng lalaki sa mundo dito seen a 300% increase in sign-ups from Facebook, we say I love you, pero wala kaming romantic rela- ako napunta sa lalaking Duwag! Stupid!” people already in relationships, with tionship. Hindi ko talaga maisip na magiging magdyowa kami. How sad that this has to happen just when their relationship women signing up more than men. Dalawang taon na akong walang boyfriend at hindi naman ako has become cordial and friendly again after their separation. In other words, as a Clover rep put it naghahanap. If ever, magiging maingat na ako kasi 47 na ako. I in a press release, “Our data shows that don’t want to make another mistake at aksaya lang ng oras. Isa Phoebe goes nude for ‘biggest break’ women are more likely to shop for a new pa, lola na ako ni Mori (daughter of her own daughter, Jennica), mate over the holidays.” ano?” December is for breaking up... and Janu- PHOEBE Walker gets the biggest break in her career in the ary is for getting busy? The data isn’t con- LIZA CONDEMNS BARON’S ACT OF Metro Filmfest horror entry, “Seklusyon”, as the very controver- clusive, of course, but Clover’s logic points sial Sister Maria Cecilia, the mysterious nun who takes care of to a preexisting trend. The holiday season ‘DISRESPECT’ a child faith healer and ends up seducing and making love to a has already been referred to as “breakup season” — back in 2008, David McCand- young priest, played by Dominic Roque. What makes their love less and Lee Byron charted peak breakup BARON Geisler is controversial once again for urinating on scene more controversial is that they both have nude scenes. times throughout the year via Facebook the face of his co-star, Ping Medina, in the shoot of the movie, Dominic has butt exposure while Phoebe goes full frontal. statuses. Their major finding: Breakups “Bubog”. Baron said he asked the permission of their director, The first time we saw Phoebe was at the TV5 presscon of the started rising around mid-November (the Arlyn de la Cruz, who says all Baron said was “May gagawin ako, local version of “Amazing Race Season 2” in 2014, where she won infamous “turkey drop”) and peaked two direk”, without clarifying that what he’ll do is to answer the call with her former boyfriend, Matt Edwards. They were tagged then weeks before Christmas. of nature on the face of his co-actor who was all tied up in that as the Dating Couple. We quickly noticed even then that she’s a November and December might seem scene as Baron was supposed to be torturing him. deadringer for . like a counterintuitive time to break up, Of course, Ping was irate when he realized what Baron was Managed by Viva, she then played bit roles in movies like given the cold weather and everyone’s compulsive need to snuggle up (see: cuffing doing to him. He could not move but after the take, he slapped “Trophy Wife” and “Etiquette for Mistresses”, and also got to season). Plus, the stretch from Thanks- Baron repeatedly. Baron obviously needs professional help. play a meaty role in the QCinema indie entry, “Gayuma”, where giving to New Year’s is also known as Whatever his excuse is, what he did is just plain sick. Even Liza she played a model who had sizzling scenes with a painter, Ben- engagement season, when couples tend to Diño Seguerra, head of FDCP, sided with Ping Medina. This is jamin Alves. That movie came and went without too many people take stock of their relationships in front of what her latest post on this case says: seeing it. family and friends (and strategically plan “Baron did this appalling act without his co-actor’s consent. She says doing “Seklusyon” with Direk Erik Matti is a big for summer weddings). Ang sabi niya, nagpaalam daw siya. Pero siya na mismo ang blessing for her. “I saw kasi his past works, like ‘On the Job’ and But all the taking stock that sparks nagsabi na ang sabi niya sa direktor at kay Ping Medina, ay “may ‘Honor Thy Father’ and I really like them,” she says. “Sabi ko sa engagements might also explain “breakup gagawin siya” pero hindi niya sinabi kung ano. If you’re accepting sarili ko, kailan kaya ako maididirek ng isang Erik Matti? Tapos, season.” Heading to your hometown and reconnecting with family can spur some his logic, halimbawa sa isang eksena, naisip ni Baron na saksakin heto nakatrabaho ko na nga siya.” serious thinking about your relation- nang totohanan ang ka-eksena niya...ok lang ‘yun kasi nagpaalam Direk Erik Matti says he’s very pleased with Phoebe as Sister ship; as author and sociologist Pepper siya na “may gagawin” siya? Maria Cecilia. “Markado ‘yung role at ang lakas ng dating Schwartz told NBC News, “The holi- Walang aktor ang tatanggap sa logic na ito. This is not the first ni Phoebe on screen kaya tiyak na matatandaan siya ng mga days put so much weight on everything.” time that Baron committed something like this. Alam nating manonood dito,” he adds. Clover reasoned in their press release that lahat yan. So how could you give one the benefit of the doubt financial strain, seasonal depression and when he has countlessly offended co-actors sa set? -Harassment peer pressure could also contribute to the against women. -Minumura ang mga staff at trabahador sa set. serious evaluating that happens at this time -Umiinom sa shoot. -Nakikipagbugbugan. At ngayon, inihian sa mukha ang co-actor nyang nakatali at walang chance mag-react

John Lloyd Cruz Toronto Roadshow was a very successful event; held at Saint Lawrence Arts Theatre on November 27, 2016; Western Union sponsored the event, that the Entrance Fee was covered by Western Union Company. John Lloyd was kind enough to accommodate the request of the audience for a selfie. PHOTOS BY ARIEL RAMOS 22 JANUARY 2017 JANUARY 2017 of year. All of which can lead to taking a leap and buy- ing a ring... or realizing it’s just not going to work. Hence the spike in dating app activity. It’s not just Spotlight Clover that’s seen a boost in signups; Match.com told Today that they also see a 25% to 30% rise in new members in the period around Christmas that stretches to Valentine’s Day. Whether it’s people rebounding from holiday breakups or singles inspired by New Year’s resolu- tions, January is clearly the time to get busy. So don’t sweat the lonely holidays, singles: January holds serious promise.

‘National holiday for single daters’: why the best day to date online is 3 January

Online dating websites like Plenty of Fish and Match.com see a spike in new users and activity on first Sunday after the holidays are over Let the swiping begin. Ladies and gentlemen, charge your phones and ready those in- dex fingers, because the first Sunday of the year is almost here and that means just one thing: there are plenty more fish in the online pool of love-seekers. It’s not just all those Christmas WHEN FLYING WAS SIMPLE & GLAMOUROUS engagement photos flooding your Facebook feed, Manila International Airport - 1960s all those questions that your single cousin had to dodge over her relationship status or the fact that you have the FarmersOnly.com jingle stuck in your head after being parked in front of the TV for most of the holidays – the beginning of the year is the busiest time for online dating sites. throughout the year.” Year’s resolutions will be to socialize more and Even swiping on Tinder will be more plen- Plenty of Fish, a free online dating service with Match.com also said its busiest time of the focus on finding that special someone, making tiful this weekend. three million daily users, expects to see sign-ups year is the Sunday after New Year’s Day. the desire to connect with someone a driving “Generally speaking, Tinder use sees a spike jump 24% over the course of the day, with the peak “It’s as close to a national holiday for single force for singles to get online and holidays,” during the beginning of the New Year,” Tinder happening around 6pm ET on the first Sunday of daters as you can get. Match has proclaimed it Amarnath Thombre, president of Match.com, spokeswoman said. the year. A total of 81,000 people are expected to ‘Dating Sunday’, and with good reason,” writes said in 2014. According to Washington Post, it’s not just sign up for the dating site that day. Julie Spira, an online dating expert and the Other sites have, however, confirmed higher dating sites that see a spike in traffic around “The numbers are set to pay off for hopeful founder of Cyber-Dating Expert, on Match. number of sign-ups early in the year. How this time of the year. There is also post-holiday singles,” said Shannon Smith, public relations and com’s blog. About We told Today.com that its member- spike in searches for pornography, condom communications manager at Plenty of Fish. “Users Last year, the site invited users to “come join ship goes up 40% in January and February. For sales, conceptions and people changing their who sign up during the first week of January will the biggest online party of the year” – signups ChristianMingle.com, new memberships go relationship status. find their partner an average of two weeks faster generally peak just before 9pm ET. up 41% between Christmas and Valentine’s than those who sign up later, taking an average of “Match.com found that 51% of singles’ New Day. just 10 weeks compared to an average of 12 weeks

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original Mang Kepweng pero itinago siya sa Alden saves Phl’s face in publiko for an important reason. Si ang nanay niya at kapatid niya si James Blanco as Doc Asian awards night + other stories Zach. May iniwang bandana si Mang Kepweng na nang isuot ni Keps sa ulo niya, nagkaroon siya ng Call 416-945-2336 kapangyarihan para manggamot as an albularyo.”

ALDEN Richards won big in the recent Did Vhong get to watch any of the past Mang . His album with GMA Records, Kepweng movies? “May napanood ako noong “Wish I May”, got the Album of the Year bata pa ako pero natakot ako doon sa multong Award and Diamond Record Award and he sumusunod sa kanya, si Piling. Isinama rin si was named the Most Downloaded Artist of For Sale Piling dito sa bagong movie and he’s now played the Year. His hit song, “Wish I May”, was Sanken CS1 Microphone by comedian Tuko. Fan ako ng mga comedian like named Most Downloaded Song of 2015. $ 713.13 / best offer Dolphy and Chiquito kasi, gaya ko, they started “I really want to thank all my fans who as dancers at magaling silang sumayaw. Kung supported me and bought the album and maghi-hit itong ‘Mang Kepweng Returns’, I hope downloaded the song,” he says. “Sana, maging I’m given the chance to play the other memorable ganito rin ka-successful ang second album ko characters he created like ‘Asyong Aksaya’ and ‘Mr. with GMA Records na ‘Say It Again’.” Wong’. Kay Tito Dolphy naman, with whom I Alden is really on a winning streak as his had the chance of working sa ABS-CBN, gusto first international hosting assignment at Call ko sanang i-remake yung hit niyang ‘Facifica the recent 21st Asian TV Awards held in Falayfay’.” 416-945-2336 Singapore International Convention Center got a lot of acclaim. He looks so relaxed in the company of more experienced co-host Adrian “Mang Kepweng Returns” is produced by new Pang of Singapore, Korean- American TV host model Stephanie Carrington, Malaysian TV host producers of Cineko Productions and released by Baki Zainal and Chinese dancer Fiona Su. They were all surprised because the audience reaction Viva. It has a very big cast. Aside from the stars inside the convention center was overwhelming and he got a lot of fans rooting for him when he we’ve mentioned, also in the cast are Sunshine walked on the red carpet. Cruz as the wife of James Blanco, sexpot Kim When asked by Adrian Pang how he feels about being a successful young actor, he replied: Domingo (who was absent at the presscon as she “Well you know, being young and being given this opportunity to make people happy in had to undergo a medical procedure) as Sunshine’s everything that you do, you just basically have to give love in return. Love your job. Love the sister Alyssa who becomes Vhong’s love interest, people who give you support and basically, you just have to be yourself, have fun with what you’re Kapuso stars Louise de los Reyes and Juancho doing and keep the faith.” Trivino as a pair of young lovers, Pen Medina as Later on, the people handling the awards night told him: “We’ll love to have you back next Vhong’s rival albularyo Impong Kapiz, Jackie Rice year.” It’s really good that Alden got a lot of positive feedback for his hosting because it’s so sad as the fairy Princess Alesandra who teaches Vhong that the Philippines didn’t win a single award that night. Michael V was there as a best comedy how to use his magic bandana, comedians Alex “LANGIT LUPA” CAP- actor nominee but he, too, went home empty handed. Calleja and Jobert Austria as Vhong’s barkada, Meantime, AlDub fans will be pleased to know that the first Alden-Maine Mendoza teleserye, Crazy Duo Mickey and Bugs as duwendes, and TIVATES VIEWERS IN titled “Destined to Be Yours”, will be taping soon. This is slated to be shown early next year, appearing as Vhong’s various patients are Lotlot under the direction of Irene Villamor, who helmed the hit rom-com “Camp Sawi”. Maine plays PILOT EPISODE and Matet de Leon, Ahron Villena, Odette Khan, an activist who does all kinds of job to earn money for her family, with Janice de Belen as her Marlou Arizala, plus , , mom and Gardo Versoza as her dad. Viewers were easily captivated by the Helga Krapf, Shalala, Petite, Gerard Acao and story of love and friendship in ABS-CBN’s child stars Balang, Joshua and Chun Sa playing newest series “Langit Lupa” as its pilot Triple A one of Busiest Talent Agencies Today different roles. episode scored high in national TV ratings

last Monday (Nov 28). “Mang Kepweng Returns” opens in theaters TRIPLE A of Mr. Tony Tuviera is one of the busiest talent agencies in showbiz today. Their The morning series topbilled by child on January 4 right after the Metro Filmfest that roster of talents include Marian Rivera, Maine Mendoza, Andrea Torres, child stars Baste, stars Yesha Camile and Xia Vigor scored ends on January 3. “January 4 is my birthday so comedian Jerald Napoles and their latest acquisition is Kris Aquino. a national TV rating of 17.5%, beating its magandang senyales ‘yan,” says Vhong. “Blessing They also manage the stars of the hit morning show that’s a pre-program to “Eat Bulaga”, rival show “Trops,” which only got 8.7%, in disguise na hindi ito nasali sa filmfest kasi “Trops”, which include Fil-Japanese singer-actress Taki Saito and the six EB Baes: Kenneth according to data from Kantar Media. malalaking movies ang makakalaban ko kung Medrano, Joel Palencia, Kim Last, Jon Timmons, Miggy Tolentino and Tommy Penaflor. Also Netizens also showed their love and sup- nataong nakapasok pareho sina Vice Ganda at in their stable is new singer-actor Andrew Gan Calupitan whose screen name will be Andrew port for the series, with the official hashtag Bossing Vic Sotto. Now, at least, solong-solo ko Garcia. #LLFriendshipBegins joining the list of ang January 4 playdate.” Triple A manager Rams David recognizes the big help that the entertainment press does trending topics on Twitter. for their talents and held a special thanksgiving party for a select group of writers at Relish In its first episode, viewers witnessed how On January 22, it would have been two years Restaurant. It was such a happy affair where no one went home in tears. To Rams, thank you for the friendship of Lala (Yam Concepcion) since Vhong had a sad and ugly experience in the acknowledging our efforts to help your talents. About Kris Aquino, Rams said the reports that and Dey (Alessandra De Rossi) started condo of Deniece Cornejo at the The Fort where she’ll have a show soon on GMA7 aren’t true. and their journey to fulfilling their dreams he was mauled by Cedric Lee and company. So “We’re cultivating a new digital platform for her, like Facebook and Youtube,” says Rams. “This together. how is the case he filed against them? “Patuloy is the next big thing here and big hit na ito sa U.S. Kris will be the first big artist to venture into However, their friendship was put to pa rin po. Mahirap, dahil tuwing may hearing, this kind of platform.” test when Dey died after Lala failed to give nagbabalik ‘yung nangyari sa akin. Ganitong the money she needed for her medication. magpapasko, ayoko ngang isipin ang ganyang VHONG: MAHIRAP MAGPATAWAD SA MGA To forget all the pain, Joey ( Jason Abalos), pinagdaraanan ko kasi gusto kong maging happy Dey’s husband, decided to move to Manila TAONG ’DI NAGSISISI kami ng mga anak ko at ni Tanya, yung girlfriend and start a new life with their family. ko. Ganyang may ipalalabas akong bagong movie, Will Dey’s family find forgiveness for gusto ko sana, good vibes na lang ang lahat.” had a big hit when he made a spoof of Tony Ferrer’s secret agent role in Lala? How will their paths cross again?

“Agent X44”. He now gets the chance to reprise the role of the late top 60s and 70s comedian, Don’t miss the start of friendship that Has he forgiven the people who harmed him? Chiquito, in “Mang Kepweng Returns”. The Mang Kepweng character is based on a popular will brighten viewers’ mornings, “Langit “Mahirap magpatawad sa mga taong hindi naman komiks strip and one of Chiquito’s big hits that it spawned no less than three films. The new Lupa,” weekdays, on ABS-CBN or ABS- humihingi ng tawad at hindi rin nagsisisi sa mga version is now written by Volta de los Santos and directed by Giuseppe Bede Sampedro. CBN HD (SkyCable ch 167). Catch up on ginawa nila.” “This is not really a remake but more of a sequel, kasi we have to update the material for the show’s latest episodes on iWanTV or today’s young audiences,” says Direk GB. “Vhong is Kiefer, or Keps for short. Anak siya ng skyondemand.com.ph for Sky subscribers.

Duterte delivers on freebies for 2017

FREE Legarda vowed, should the 2017 allocation nation, pay for the irrigation they need to till es: P1-billion from page 18 prove to be insufficient, she will discuss an their land and to grow the produce needed to increase for the following year. feed the people? That is not fair,” she said. The additional funding would go to the little- Filipinos who are not enrolled with the Phil- “If the the P3-billion is not enough I will Legarda also maintained, however, that ir- known government agency called the “Small health as most of them are poor. discuss it for 2018 budget,” she said. rigation would only be one of the problems of Business Corporation,” which is mandated to With this allocation, it should cover basic Filipino farmers, most of whom are the poor, lend money to micro-enterprises at 0-1% inter- healthcare coverage for all when availed in state- FREE IRRIGATION FOR but is already a big step. est rate. owned hospitals. FARMERS Legarda said, the P1-billion allocation is “No balance billing. It should always be free, BONUS: “Chalk Allowance” actually small compared to President Duterte’s and they should bill government, not the per- goal of providing P1-billion per region for this At the moment, farmers pay the National Ir- for public school teachers: son,” emphasized Legarda. purpose. rigation Administration dues for the agency’s P770-million She said, there may be some ailments, like operational expenses. cancer, which may not be completely free, but Additional funding for jail Legarda asserted, with the additional if the patient is indigent, “kailangang gawan ng Although the name says “chalk,” Legarda said funding government would be providing the and prison: P551-million paraan na masakop ‘yan.” this is not merely for the purchase of enamel government-owned and controlled corporation “Those are things that would have to be chalk, but a general allowance for the teachers. the subsidy so that it would not need to mete worked out by Philhealth with either the payments from the farmers. FREE regional or specialty hospitals, or the provincial Lending for small enterpris- “Why do you make the farmers, who feed the hospitals continued on page 26 24 JANUARY 2017 JANUARY 2017 drama, “,” on Primetime single father, on top of his job as a presi- Bida. dent and CEO of his company. Topbilled by box office actress Bea Fate then brings them together in the Alonzo and sought after leading man Ian most unexpected time and place. Never Veneracion, “A Love to Last” is a timely have Andeng imagined that she will find story about family and how love isn’t always love in an older man--- a much older man. what it seems to be. As she takes this risk, she also finds herself Andeng Agoncillo (), a caught in the middle of Anton’s compli- bread-winner and a successful events orga- cated life--- dealing with the ex-wife and nizer, has always believed in love. For her, seeking acceptance from his kids. love is being with the man she loves and How far will Andeng go to fight for the having a happy family with him. family she wished for and to fight for her Unfortunately, her ideal fairy tale love place in Anton’s life? story didn’t have its happy ending after Joining the cast of “A Love to Last” are she caught her fiancé cheating on her days Enchong Dee, , Ronnie Alon- before their wedding. But despite this, te, JK Labajo and Hannah Vito. It is under Andeng remains hopeful that love will still the direction of Jerry Lopez Sineneng and come her way. Richard Arellano with creative head Henry Anton Noble IV (), Quitain under the business unit headed by meanwhile, thought he already found love. Lourdes De Guzman. Star Creatives is led ABS-CBN OPENS 2017 “A LOVE TO LAST” After many years of marriage, his wife by COO Malou Santos. WITH NEWEST PRIME- Grace () decided to leave him Don’t miss the premiere of “A Love to TIME FAMILY DRAMA ABS-CBN opens the year 2017 with and demanded for an annulment. He’s then Last” on Primetime Bida soon on ABS- the premiere of the much awaited family left with their three children and became a CBN.

Series on infidelity is Kapuso’s centerpiece on its Afternoon Prime

GMA Network opened December with an The lead cast unforgettable. Talagang naalagaan nila “Also, at this point in my career, gusto ko intriguing drama on infidelity in the After- of ‘Ika-6 na ako sa aspeto na ‘yun. I’m very happy naman na bawat teleseryeng gagawin ko ay may Utos’ Gabby noon Prime series now making waves since it and grateful for that,” the Kapuso actress message at pwedeng may maibahaging aral sa Concepcion premiered. as Rome, a said. viewers natin. ” he added. Ika-6 Na Utos tells the story of Emma, who pilot, Sunshine is Rome, a pilot Ryza considers playing the role of Georgia as is fighting to keep her husband from leaving her Dizon, his whom Emma marries. He stands up for an avenue to showcase the other story of a kept for another woman. wife, and Ryza her despite his mother’s approval. He woman. “Ang maganda dito kasi ipapakita na- Sunshine Dizon plays Emma, a sweet and Cenon, his shares that the show is one that will min ‘yung side naman ng kabit kung bakit niya cheerful souvenir merchant who falls deeply in kept woman mark another milestone in his career as ginagawa yun. Hindi naman namin sinasabi na love with a pilot whom she eventually marries. an actor as it enables him to experience tama ‘yung pagiging kabit. Kumbaga mayroon Sunshine appreciates GMA Network for giving different things. ding siyang emosyon, tao lang din siya. Nagma- her always challenging and offbeat roles. “This show is a new thing for me. Ang mahal lang,” she said. “I’m just really blessed and happy because dami kong firsts dito. First time kong directs Ika-6 Na Utos. through the years, hindi naman tumigil talaga makakatrabaho in a soap sila Sunshine ang GMA from giving me characters that are and Ryza.”

JANUARY 2017 JANUARY 2017 25 Entertainment Cogie swears he’s now a changed man + other stories

COGIE Domingo to help promote her new second time to work with Director Jun Lana looks like he gained a bit movie, “Extra Service”, after ‘Anino sa Likod ng Buwan’, kunsaan of unwanted weight when where she co-stars with Arci nanalo rin ng acting award ang kapareha ko, si we spoke to him on the Muñoz and Jessy Mendiola, LJ Reyes. Sana, kung gagawa uli ako kay Direk set of “Someone to Watch as she’ll be back on January Jun, ako naman ang mabigyan ng challenging Over Me”, where he plays 10 yet, the day before the role na puwede ring magbigay sa’kin ng Ian, the new guy in Lovi movie opens on January 11. award.” Poe’s life who might be her Billy reveals that he Luis is currently preparing for his church OGIE ALCASID replacement for her ailing actually bought the diamond wedding with non-showbiz fiancee Joselle husband, Tom Rodriguez, engagement ring he gave Fernandez. The date is on February 17 but he’d who’s suffering from Coleen over a year ago. rather keep the other details private. “Nakaka- ADDS SPICE irreversible Alzheimer’s “When I bought the ring, I stress din ang preparation but we’re doing it disease. We tell him we already knew sa sarili ko na together. Magastos, maraming dapat bayaran remember his very first siya na talaga ang babaeng na hindi maiiwasan. But you just lift it all up TO “TAWAG NG soap on GMA when he was pakakasalan ko,” he says. to the Lord and expect more blessings from still a teenager was “Kung “But then, hindi puwedeng Him.” TANGHALAN” Mawawala Ka”, where madaliin ang lahat kasi At 36, he’s really ready to settle down. he became a problem ‘dahil lagi nga siyang there are a lot of other things going on in our “Ako na lang ang single sa aming mga biglang nawawala sa set.’ Through the years, lives, so kailangang unti-untiin namin and magkakapatid.” AS ITS NEWEST he’d come and go and his once promising we have to know how to prioritize things. Did they consider living in? “No. Hindi career failed to fulfill its promise due to reports We don’t have a wedding date yet but we’ll kami ganun. We value the sanctity and of being unprofessional. keep you informed kung mayroon ng further importance of the sacrament of matrimony. ‘HURADO.’ “Iba na ako ngayon,” he says. “31 na ako. developments.” My wife to be’s family is conservative. And Acclaimed singer-songwriter I’m back for good. Kung pasaway ako noon, also very supportive, pati sa pagiging artista ko. Ogie Alcasid has joined “Tawag ng seryoso na ako ngayon. Tanungin nyo sila Solenn welcomes Anne Alam nilang this is the career that fulfills me.” rito sa ‘Someone to Watch Over Me’ kung Tanghalan” on “It’s Showtime” and binibigyan ko sila ng problema.” as future sister-in-law Jennylyn’s Leading Man was officially introduced as one of its And the show’s executive producer, ‘hurados’ or judges in the most talked Michelle Borja, confirmed to us that he is SOLENN Heussaff continues to get great is Unknown about competition in noontime Saturday indeed very cooperative now and never gives feedback for her portrayal of Cassiopeia in (Dec 10). Like the other hurados, he will them a headache. Does he somehow regret “”. She also got good reviews JENNYLYN Mercado has finally found evaluate the performances of hopefuls that he somehow neglected his career before? for her recent daring portrayal as the victim her leading man in the local remake of the from contestants from , , “Pag naiisip ko, yes may regret, but then, it’s of a gang rape in the “Liberated” episode Koreanovela hit, “My Love from the Star”. It’s , and Metro Manila. In his first part of my growing up. Siguro kailangan kong of “Karelasyon”. In both shows, she gets to total newcomer Gil Cuerva. appearance in the competition, pagdaanan ‘yun. As of now, may asawa na ako display her lean and slender body that makes “Hopefully, tanggapin ng viewers ang Ogie made the audience laugh at may anak.” people think she’s a vegetarian because of her tambalan namin,” says Jen. “Ang daming His daughter is now four years old, slim figure. pinagpilian and Gil is lucky na siya ang with his light jokes as he was giving but his wife now is not Rihanna’s mom. “Yung “Actually, I’m no vegetarian as I love to nakuha to play Matteo Do, the alien who’s his commentary as a ‘hurado.’ Last mom niya has moved to . Iniwan siya eat meat,” she says. “I love cooking and been on earth for four centuries. Ako naman si night (Dec 11) at the “Pinoy Boyband sa akin.” sometimes I get to show this in ‘Taste Steffi, the actress-model who he’ll get involved Superstar: The Grand Reveal,” Ogie Does his daughter and his wife get along Buddies’. I just prepared and ate a lot dishes with him. We promise to do our best para was also named one of the judges of fine? “Oh yes, magkasundo sila. My wife also for this holiday season with my favorite ham, patawanin namin ang viewers and make them “Your Face Sounds Familiar: Kids,” which has a daughter from a past relationship na 8 CDO Premium Holiday Ham from CDO fall in love with the story.” premieres in 2017. years old naman. We all get along fine.” Foodsphere Inc. It’s the ham of choice this “I really didn’t expect na akong “” is currently in “Someone to Watch Over Me” is ending season and I don’t settle for anything less as mapipili,” says Gil. “I got an email from my its Last Quarter with Hazelyn Cascano on January 6. What’s his next project? “Wala my family and friends deserve nothing less management, Cornerstone, to audition for the pa. But I hope masundan sana agad. I’m now this Christmas holidays.” role. I was in then at nagkataon of Metro Manila, Jeramie Sanico of being managed by GMA Artist Center. Right Why did CDO Premium Holiday Ham got namang pabalik na ako to fix some school Mindanao, and Sam Mangubat and now, I work out regularly to get rid of my Solenn as their endorser? “She’s just perfect papers sa La Salle, so I told myself, ‘I might as Froilan Canlas of Luzon as its semi- unwanted pounds para mabigyan uli agad ako kasi she loves to cook at kahit ang lakas niyang well audition, baka suwertihin ako’t makuha’. finalists. Don’t miss the talented Pinoy ng bagong project.” kumain ng CDO Ham, she’s still so sexy,” says Na nangyari nga. I’m truly grateful for this singers as they battle for supremacy in Category Brand Manager Kim Favis. opportunity na makatrabaho si Jennylyn and “Tawag ng Tanghalan” in the noontime Coleen on wedding with And what can she say about the recent si Direk . I’m proud to now be a variety show “It’s Showtime,” Mondays to engagement of her brother Erwan to Anne Kapuso”. Saturdays in ABS-CBN or ABS-CBN HD Billy: Not anytime soon Curtis? “I’m very happy for them and I’m very Gil’s full name is Guillermo and he’s 5’11” (SkyCable ch 167). happy to have Anne to be part of our family.” tall. He’s Fil-Spanish but has chinito eyes. says that just because she’s He’s 20 years old and first appeared in Candy For more information, log-on now officially engaged to , it Luis Prepares For Magazine last year. He has no previous acting toTawagNgTanghalan.abs-cbn.com/ doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re now experience so he’s attending some acting livestream and follow “Tawag ng making arrangements for their wedding. “It Wedding: ‘MAGASTOS’ workshops under Joyce Bernal to prepare him Tanghalan” on Facebook (facebook. wouldn’t be anytime soon,” she says. “Marami for the cameras with Jennylyn. Here’s hoping com/TawagNgTanghalan), Twitter pa kaming ibang commitments.” LUIS Alandy plays the man who is truly in he will give justice to the role of Matteo in (@TNTABSCBN), and Instagram (@ She just flew to with Billy and love with Paolo Ballesteros as Trisha in “Die “My Love from the Star”. TawagNgTanghalan). her family to spend the holidays with their Beautiful”. “I’m proud to be part of this movie relatives there. As such, she won’t be able that won awards abroad,” he says. “This is my

PCCF table Foundation Officers and Members, and ANCOP are beneficiaries of PCCF’s FREE from on page 16 led by President Romy Rafael, Ricky yearly summer event, the Pinoy Fiesta from page 24 Cuenca, President of ANCOP Canada. and Trade Show sa Toronto. For the fourth consecutive year, a Christ- Dignitaries present were: Canadian Everyone enjoyed the program emceed This would mean a P10 increase for the mas Party which is a joint initiative of the Senator Tobias (Jun) Enverga, Jr., MPP by Lita Leano, PCCF Executive Secre- prisoners’ food allowance, currently pegged Philippine Canadian Charitable Foun- Patrick Brown, leader of the Ontario Of- tary, and the sumptuous spread of food, at P50. dation (PCCF), Archdiocesan Filipino ficial Opposition, former Consul General raffle prizes, line dancing and Santa’s gift At P60, it would still be P20 short of the Catholic Mission (AFCM), and the Our Pedro O. Chan, former Canada Ambas- giving for the children and adults. Gifts ideal P80 daily food allowance of the resi- Lady of Assumption Church, was held in sador to the Philippines Neil Reeder were given by GMA Pinoy TV. dents of the prison facilities. and his wife, Irene. Ambassador Reeder’s Entertainment numbers included Toronto on December 10th, 2016. Drug rehabilitation: P2.6- The event was organized by Rosemer huge contribution and effort during the numbers from the Little Miss Philippines Enverga, AFCM Chair of Temporalities, /Yolanda efforts in the Canada 2016’s Angeline Siao, Amber billion Zeny Uy, AFCM Chair of Workship Philippines during his term was recog- Rinker, Ranielle Lucero, Monique & Ministry, Jeanette Rosales, AFCM Chair nized during the event. Princess Dador, and LittleMr Philip- This allocation shall go to the Philippine of Social Ministry, Knights of Columbus During the night, the Philippine pines Canada 2015 Edward Jones and Drug Enforcement Agency, according to Council 12582, and the Our Lady of Canadian Charitable Foundation donated his brother Quiency Jones. Also amongst Legarda. Additionally, the Department of Health is Assumption Parish, led by Lita and Tim $ 5,700.00 to OLA/AFCM for the those present were: Miss Philippines Orphanage in Tacloban; and $ 11,500.00 Canada 2016 Krista Bella, Miss Teen also mandated to run the drug rehabilitation Sinclair,and Cynthia Vergara. centers for the drug addicts. It shall cover In attendance were 400 guests, which to ANCOP for the PCCF Tala/ANCOP Philippines Canada 2016 Chiara Silo and the needs for therapists and psychosocial included: Rev. Fr.Ben Ebcas, Jr., Pastor of Village. PCCF Officers and Pageants will Mrs Philippines Canada 2016 Amelia therapists. Our Lady of Assumption Church, OLA be heading to the Philippines in January Arcilla. Major sponsor for the Christmas Parishioners, Philippine Canadian Chari- 2017 to do more charity work. AFCM event was: GMA Pinoy. 26 JANUARY 2017 JANUARY 2017 PCCF/AFCM/OLA hold Christmas Party By Fe Paca Taduran

For the fourth consecutive year, a Christ- Philippine Canadian Charitable Founda- PCCF mas Party which is a joint initiative of the tion (PCCF), Archdiocesan Filipino continued on page 26

JANUARY 2017 JANUARY 2017 27 28 JANUARY 2017 JANUARY 2017