I love Betty La Fea (SneakPeak)

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TV Ratings: "The Singing Bee" grabs the lead from "Dyesebel" in May NUTAM Ratings

ABS-CBN's The Singing Bee overtook the lead from GMA-7's Dyesebel by a slim .2 percent margin. According to the latest survey report prepared by AGB Nielsen Media Research Philippines among nationwide households for the whole month of May, Cesar Montano's karaoke game show registered a 32.6 percent rating against Deysebel's 32.4 tally.

Last April, Dyesebel—topbilled by Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes—outmuscled The Singing Bee in the primetime category to secure the top spot for the Top Weekday Primetime Programs. The legendary Mars Ravelo creation totaled a rating of 35.7 percent while The Singing Bee registered a score of 33.7 percent.

In the meantime, Kim Chiu and Gerald Anderson's My Girl continues to make its presence felt in the NUTAM (Nationwide Urban Television Audience Measurement) race as proven by its 31.1 percent rating, which is good enough to secure the third spot overall. My Girl, an adaptation of a popular Koreanovela, is also a prominent fixture in the Mega Manila contest, though always outpositioned by the other programs occupying the top slots.

Completing the magic five is Piolo Pascual and Angel Locsin's Lobo and primetime newscast TV Patrol World, accumulating ratings of 30.1 and 29.7 percent, respectively. Not far behind is Robin Padilla's Joaquin Bordado, which held its own ground to gain a 29.3 percent rating.

Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition Plus slipped to No.7 with its 28.2 percent showing. The popular reality show placed No. 5 in the April NUTAM tally with an impressive 30.2 percent grade. PBB Teen Edition Plus ended its latest season last June 7 with Ejay Falcon emerging as the top winner.

Willie Revillame's Wowowee is still the king of the NUTAM Top Weekday Programs in the daytime category. The Kapamilya noontime variety show garnered a 21.9 percent rating to outlast Roxanne Guinoo's latest afternoon drama soap Ligaw na Bulaklak, which for its part managed to accumulate an impressive rating of 19.9 percent, good enough for second place.

The popularity of boxing here in our country continues to flourish, never mind if Manny Pacquiao is in the bill or not. Leading the Top Weekend Programs in the daytime race is the Oscar De La Hoya vs. Steve Forbes bout held at the Home Depot Center in Carson, California, U.S.A. The well-anticipated boxing match, which De La Hoya won, registered a 23.2 percent rating, relegating Wowowee to second place.

Dyesebel also shook up the weekend race when its Dyesebel, Ang Simula special tallied a 20.9 percent, consequently securing the No. 3 spot.

Moving to the primetime category, PBB Teen Edition Plus redeemed its pale performance in the weekday race by bullying its way en route to the No. 1 spot in Top Weekday Programs evening division. Collecting a strong 28.2 percent rating, PBB outlasted another Kapamilya show Kapitan Boom, which to its credit registered a 27.8 percent grade.

Rounding up the Top 5 are Goin' Bulilit (25.6 percent) and GMA-7's Kapuso Mo Jessica Soho and Bitoy's Funniest Videos, which garnered ratings of 25.3 and 24.7 percent, respectively.

Here are the Top 10 weekday and weekend programs for the month of May, based on a survey conducted by AGB Nielsen Media Research among NUTAM households:

Top Weekday Programs (Daytime)

1. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 21.9%
2. Ligaw na Bulaklak (ABS-CBN) - 19.9%
3. Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) - 19.1%
4. Magdusa Ka (GMA-7) - 19%
5. Kaputol ng Isang Awit (GMA-7) - 18.7%
6. Daisy Siete (GMA-7) - 18.3%
7. Prinsesa ng Banyera (ABS-CBN) - 18%
8. Maging Akin Ka Lamang (GMA-7) - 17.8%
9. Pokemon (GMA-7) - 17.1%
10. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 15.7%

Top Weekday Programs (Primetime)

1. The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) - 32.6%
2. Dyesebel (GMA-7) - 32.4%
3. My Girl (ABS-CBN) - 31.1%
4. Lobo (ABS-CBN) - 30.1%
5. TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) - 29.7%
6. Joaquin Bordado (GMA-7) - 29.3%
7. Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition Plus (ABS-CBN) - 28.2%
8. Babangon Ako't Dudurugin Kita (GMA-7) - 26.9%
9. Wheel of Fortune (ABS-CBN) - 22.7%
10. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 22%

Top Weekend Programs (Daytime)

1. De La Hoya vs. Forbes: Homecoming** (ABS-CBN) - 23.2%
2. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 21.8%
3. Dyesebel, Ang Simula** (GMA-7) - 20.9%
4. Cinema FPJ: Da King on ABS-CBN (ABS-CBN) - 17.4%
5. ASAP '08 (ABS-CBN) - 16.9%
6. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 16.2%
7. Dragon Ball Z (GMA-7) - 14.7%
8. The Buzz (ABS-CBN) - 14%
9. Your Song (ABS-CBN) - 13.6%
10. Pilipinas, KNB? (ABS-CBN) - 13.4%

Top Weekend Programs (Primetime)

1. Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition Plus (ABS-CBN) - 28.2%
2. Kapitan Boom (ABS-CBN) - 27.8%
3. Goin' Bulilit (ABS-CBN) - 25.6%
4. Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (GMA-7) - 25.3%
5. Bitoy's Funniest Videos (GMA-7) - 24.7%
6. Tok! Tok! Tok! Isang Milyon Pasok (GMA-7) - 22.1%
7. Kap's Amazing Stories (GMA-7) - 21.4%
8. Rated K (ABS-CBN) - 21.4%
9. Mel & Joey (GMA-7) - 20.7%
10. Imbestigador (GMA-7) - 20.4%

Vhong joins ‘Betty’ cast

Vhong Navarro is the newest name to be announced as a cast member of the much-awaited Pinoy version of Betty La Fea. The dancer-comedian is set to play Nicolas, the best friend/sidekick of lead character, Betty, who will be portrayed by Bea Alonzo. This comedy project is very much up Vhong’s alley, as seen in the success of his last movie, Supahpapalicious. This will be Vhong’s second time to a role in a teleserye after playing the lead in Mars Ravelo’s Lastikman.

Fans of the original Colombian Betty La Fea will remember the character of Nicolas as the equally "ugly" but cunning best friend of Betty. Nicholas is a significant role as he will serve as Betty’s "partner-in-crime" as she struggles to work in the demanding and discriminating Eco Moda fashion house. As much as people are excited to see how Bea will fit into her "Betty" character, another element to watch out for is the comic spin that Vhong will add to the teleserye.

From the time it was announced that Bea was playing the title role in ABS-CBN’s adaptation of the worldwide hit franchise, fans couldn’t wait to find out who would play the other characters, especially the role of Armando, Betty’s boss and love interest. Producers are keeping the names of the cast under wraps for now, but Vhong is definitely a welcome addition to the Betty La Fea crew.

Dyosa, (Full Trailer)

Dyosa, (Full Trailer)
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Casting call for Betty La Fea done!

After months of conceptualizing the perfect cast for the Tagalog version of the popular Colombian telenovela Betty La Fea, ABS-CBN has finally rounded out its cast for the sure-fire hit comedy. The Philippine cast, which will adapt characters from both the Columbian and US versions of the series, will include a lot of local veteran actors as well as some exciting new faces. Expect a lot of surprises as Betty La Fea promises to be as addicting as its foreign counterparts.

Betty (played by Bea Alonzo) is a smart yet unattractive girl, fresh out of college, who wants to prove her worth in the working world. After a lot of unsuccessful job applications, she lands a job at the Eco Moda fashion office, where she encounters a lot of interesting and difficult characters who aren’t used to seeing anything unfashionable walking in their corridors.

Since most of the scenes will be shot in an office setting, ABS-CBN decided to construct a full-scale office set just for the series. The Eco Moda office set is already under construction at one of the floors of the Eugenio Lopez Building in the ABS-CBN compound. This is just one of the exciting developments expected to unfold as the series gets underway. Story-wise, expect to see a lot of Filipino touches although a lot of the original elements are being retained.

Although there is much speculation as to who will finally play Armando, Betty’s love interest, the producers still refuse to reveal who will be Bea’s new leading man. Will Bea finally be sharing kilig scenes with hot hunk Jon Avila or will she test her on-screen chemistry with Luis Manzano? Or will diehard fans get their wish granted to see their favorite love team reunited once again? Tune in to www.abs-cbn.com for more updates on Betty la Fea.

Bianca Gonzalez "happy" even without an inspiration

Kitang-kita ang excitement sa mukha ni Bianca Gonzalez sa launching ng "Y Speak: Back 2 Books" project, in partnership with the Office of Senator Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan and in cooperation with Help Kids Learn Project, noong Miyerkules, June 11, sa Shakey's Tomas Morato, Quezon City.

"Isa siyang book drive kung saan puwedeng mag-donate kahit sino—bata na high school, college, or grade school or parents na may mga lumang libro na hindi na nagagamit. Ibibigay dito and then kapag enough na ang books na makuha namin, ibibigay na sa Barangay Bagong Silang," lahad ni Bianca nang makausap siya ng PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal).

It will be the first public library sa Barangay Bagong Silang sa Caloocan City.

"Apparently, according to the office of Senator Kiko Pangilinan, ito yung poorest barangay in the country. Imagine, one million sa isang barangay at wala man lang silang public library. So, ito yung first ever na magiging public library. In a few months, hopefully, matayo na."

Si Senator Kiko raw ang nag-suggest sa kanila kung saang barangay ilalagak ang mga librong makakuha nila sa "Back 2 Books" project nila.

"Actually, nung in-approach ko nga sila ng Y Speak about it, I think because the senator nga came there recently... Yun nga, naghahanap sila ng project na puwedeng gawin doon ‘tapos biglang, ayun, doon nagsimula yung buong project," kuwento ni Bianca.

BIANCA ON KC. Hindi kaya sila maintriga ni Senator Kiko since siya ang stepdad ni KC Concepcion, na na-link din sa dating boyfriend ni Bianca na si Lino Cayetano?

"No problem, kasi nga, like Ms. George said from the office of Senator Kiko, ever since Y Speak started, every time kailangan namin ng interview or support for any project, he's very, very supportive."

Ito rin kaya ang maging daan para magkatrabaho sila o magkasama man lang ni KC?

"Malay natin, oo," very positive na pagtingin ni Bianca sa situwasyon.

Welcome ba sa kanya na makasama si KC?

"Of course, of course, definitely! Not a problem at all, lalo na everybody knows kung gaano kalakas ang hatak ni KC with all the young people, so definitely," sabi ni Bianca.

Paano kung intrigahin sila ni KC dahil kay Direk Lino?

"Ay, hindi!" bulalas niya. "Wala yun talaga sa amin. I'm sure kahit if you'll ask her [KC], wala rin sa kanya yun."

LONGER HAIR. That afternoon, napansin naman namin ang bagong hairstyle ni Bianca. Nagpa-hair extension si Bianca abot na halos sa kanyang puwet. Bakit niya naisipang magpahaba ng buhok?

"E, basta," natatawang sagot niya. "Kasi tapos na ang Pinoy Big Brother Edition Plus [Teen ]. Oo, kaya humaba siya. Tingnan ninyo naman, mukha na akong mermaid. Hindi, kasi actually, every like bagong edition or tapos ng something, nag-iiba talaga kami ng hair. In fact, si Toni this week, mag-iiba rin siya ng hair niya. So ako, imbes na maikli, humaba naman siya.

"Bakit sumobra ang haba? E, akala ko mermaid ako, e!" tawa niya. "Para maiba lang. Mas mataray nga si Mariel [Rodriguez] kasi two days nga lang, short hair ‘tapos biglang ang haba na. Siya ang inspiration ko."

Hindi kaya may ibang dahilan kaya siya inspired?

"Hindi, ano lang, bored lang ako sa buhok ko? Oo, kasi, di ba, lalo na babae?"

Sabi nila kapag nagpapahaba ng buhok ang babae, may pinagpapahabaan.

"Tingnan natin kung magkaka-effect ang pagpapahaba ng buhok ko," biro ni Bianca.

Alam na ba ni Direk Lino ang bago niyang hairstyle?

"Ay, hindi! Actually, yesterday lang ito. Surprise nga sila [Y Speak staff]sa akin."

Obviously, blooming si Bianca habang kausap namin.

"Talaga? Kahit may pimple ako?" tawa niya. "Hindi ano, inspired sa work. Ang sarap kasi parang every day you do, kunyari showbiz show or PBB, pero on the side, makakagawa ng campaign na ganito kaganda napakalaking bagay din."

BIANCA ON LINO. May participation ba si Direk Lino sa proyekto nila sa Y Speak?

"Ay, no. None at all. Kung aware siya? Baka hindi rin! Talagang effort lang ito ng Y Speak. In fact, from my barkada I'll be asking for books din," sabi niya.

Kumusta si Direk Lino?

"Okey lang naman. Malayo siya," sagot niya.

Ayaw na bang bumalik ng Pilipinas ni Direk Lino?

"Hindi naman yata. I think, I don't know though kung hanggang kailan siya doon [Singapore], but I think naman, lalo na't buong pamilya niya nandito, I think in the end babalik din siya."

Hindi ba niya nami-miss si Direk Lino?

"Hindi, no time. Busy tayo with work."

For sure, may mga girls na nami-meet abroad si Direk Lino. What about her? May boys din ba siya na nami-meet dito na interesado siya?

"Sana, pero hindi, e. Wala naman. Puro work, pero siyempre I get to enjoy time with my friends, with my family."

Nakikipag-date na siya sa ibang guys?

"Oo, pero parang wala. Parang lahat ng tao dito sa Pilipinas taken!" tawa niya.


Biniro namin si Bianca baka gusto niyang manawagan ng potential boyfriend habang wala sa Pilipinas si Direk Lino.

"Ay, wala! Hindi naman ako nananawagan. Huwag naman. Kung darating, darating," seryosong sagot ni Bianca.

Lahat ng kasama niya sa showbiz talk show na Entertainment Live!—Toni Gonzaga, Mariel Rodriguez, and Luis Manzano—ay may kanya-kanyang inspirasyon na.

"Si Luis ang saya-saya! Lahat kami masaya."

Siya lang ang walang partner dito?

"But I'm happy," sabi naman niya. "Wala talaga [inspiration], but I'm happy. ‘Pag meron talaga, I will share it, definitely. Hindi sini-secret ang mga ganyang sobrang masayang bagay."

Ejay hailed as PBB Teen Edition Plus Big Winner

The theme of this season, as it emerged in the housemates’ experiences, was transformation. To reinforce this, the transition of the PBB house to the Big Dome

was animated as one would a transforming robot, very futuristic. There were also blurbs in praise of the housemates’ creatively presented in animation. Clad in shimmering white robes, the Teen Big Four, dressed in their finery, left the big yellow house and headed towards Araneta Coliseum where their fans awaited. They were escorted by Luis and left in a special room until the designated moment of their presentation.

Former housemates John Prats and Mickey Perz opened the celebration with an energized dance number, followed by Gerald Anderson, Kim Chiu and the resident extra-terrestrial Kokey. This was followed by the teen-choreographed performance of the song Ang Sarap ng Buhay sung by Project One. Of course, this was presented by the ex-teen housemates and the house players. Aside from Valerie and Priscilla who were decked with wings as angels, the rest of the teens sported the classic red and white.

Kim, the first Teen Big Winner, performed once again a dance number along with partner Gerald and the rest of the cast of My Girl. The newest Kapamilya and Dream host Billy Crawford also strutted his stuff as teaser for the start of classes in Pinoy Dream Academy. The Dream mentors, headed by Ryan Cayabyab, also made a cameo.

Kuya spent his last moments with the Teen Big Four as he reminded them of their goals when they first expressed their wish to enter his house. With them, he recalled how they initially were and, with more than a hint of nostalgia, walked through their ups and downs that eventually led them to a transformation and to the Big Night --- all in a span of almost three months. Kuya expressed his pride in each and reminded them, in true Big Bro fashion, to take along the lessons they learned in the house and to be a good example of and to the Pinoy youth.

Finally, the moment of reckoning has come. After months of smiles, tears, challenges, failures, successes, relationships, heartaches, decisions, growing up… here they were, aptly crowned Teen Big Four. To cheers that they couldn’t help smiling at, they prepared to face the crowd. With 10.91% or 186,523 votes, Beauty was first to step onstage as the PBB Teen 4th Big Placer. Nikki follows suit as PBB Teen 3rd Big Placer, garnering 18.39% or 314,582 votes. With bated breaths, the two boys were left, almost neck-to neck, based at the tally. Robi was awarded the PBB Teen 2nd Big Placer, with 34.39% or 588,115 votes. Finally, with 36.31% or 620,934 votes, Ejay emerged as the PBB Teen Big Winner! Pumped by adrenalin, perhaps, PBB Guardian Big Winner Daddy Erning was able to lift his son several inches off the floor as they celebrate his win. Ejay took home P1,000,000, a condo unit at Château Valenzuela, a business franchise from Crystal Clear drinking water and a Sony Bravia plasma TV. For those who have faithfully kept track of the housemates this edition, and for those who have expressed active support through their votes, thank you. Don’t stray and be part of the Big Reunion tomorrow night, after Goin’ Bulilit. Stay tuned for the never-before-seen moments to be shown on Uber, same time slot, next week.

Who will be the Teen Big Winner?

Hours from now, one housemate from the Teen Big Four--Beauty, Ejay, Nicole, and Robi--will be hailed as Big Winner of Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition Plus. This PBB season will end in a grand event, Big Night at the Big Dome, with a star-studded line-up that includes Teen Edition Season 1 Big Winner Kim Chiu and third placer Gerald Anderson with the cast of My Girl, Mickey Perz, John Prats, the ex-teen housemates, guardians, house players, plus the newest Kapamilya and Pinoy Dream Academy Season 2 host, Billy Crawford.

PBB Teen Edition Plus has been a season of many "firsts" in PBB history. During the grand kick-off last March, the first global teen housemates--Spanish hunk Kevin, Fil-German lass Valerie, and Italian Valentino Alex--were introduced. Then the "biggest plus" was revealed when the guardians joined the teens inside Kuya’s house. The guardians were to have their own Big Four later on, with Mommy My Love, Momm

y Sandy, and Mommy Minda earning fourth, third, and second place respectively. Ejay’s daddy Erning would emerge as the guardian Big Winner.

Big Brother also for the first time unleashed the house players ng bayan to test the characters of the housemates. Pretty girl Shy created quite a stir with Nicole and the girls when she pretended to have a crush on Josef, while teen actress Andi acted clumsy to test Robi’s patience. But the two ladies eventually gave up when the military training week came around, so the third house player, Mikan, had to step in and take over.

The teens also went on an exciting week-long island adventure in Palawan where they faced numerous challenges like real-life castaways. They also explored the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, which is a candidate on the New Seven Wonders of Nature list.

] With a season jam-packed with so many twists and turns, any one of the Big Four could emerge as the final winner. You only have until tonight to decide who among Beauty, Ejay, Nicole, and Robi truly embodies the qualities of a true Kabataang Pinoy. Cast your vote by texting BB (name of housemate) to 2331 (Globe, TM, Sun), 231 (Smart and Talk N Text), or 4200 (Etisalat subscribers in UAE). Be sure to watch Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition Plus: Big Night at the Big Dome live at 7:45 pm.

Toni on her love life: ‘It’s alive and kicking’

Toni Gonzaga says that her love life is in full bloom, pretty much like her career. “It’s alive and kicking. Buhay na buhay naman siya,” humors the versatile celebrity. She says that before she entered a relationship, she told herself that she would make sure that she is totally ready for it.

“I told myself (that) I wouldn’t get into a relationship if I know I couldn’t commit and if I couldn’t give time. It just so happen that I think na-set ko na yung priorities ko. Nagagawa ko naman ang mga responsibilities ko. So I told myself, ‘I think I’m ready for a commitment,’” she shared.

Toni, who is one of the hosts of PinoyDreamAcademy, says that giving time to her boyfriend, Direk Paul Soriano, could be challenging sometimes, especially when both of their schedules are hectic.

“We’re on that path that we want to achieve namin yung mga pangarap namin. I guess we just have to support each other,” says Toni.

Fall in love all over again with Wu Chun in ‘Romantic Princess'

Taiwanese heartthrob Wu Chun makes us fall in love with him all over again with his newest series Romantic Princess, starting June 2 on ABS-CBN. Following the success of Hana Kimi, Romantic Princess is a romantic comedy that tells the story of an ordinary girl, Janna Mae (Angela Zhang), whose life will change once she discovers that she is the long-lost granddaughter of a wealthy and influential man.

As Janna gets to know her newfound family, she will meet four good-looking guys who are all considered as potential heirs to her grandfather’s business. One of these heir candidates is Jin Nan Feng played by Wu Chun.

What happens when two people with opposing personalities and lifestyles are thrown together by fate? What if they are forced to do something against their will? Will love help them achieve their dreams? Or will it destroy the simple happiness they both seek? Catch the crazy antics of Jin and Janna on Romantic Princess, weekdays, right after El Cuerpo.

Jericho Rosales: Excited to be working again with Kristine Hermosa

After months of shooting in Malaysia for his teleserye with model-turned-actress Carmen Soo, Jericho Rosales is happy to finally be back in the country. With his newly single status, a lot of people have been commenting that his career is finally on the rise again after doing Pangarap Na Bituin last year.

Aside from the Malaysian series, which is co-produced by ABS-CBN and Malaysia's Double Vision, Echo is also excited to be part of an international movie where he will be sharing screen time with Hollywood actress Briana Evigan of the movie Step Up 2. But more than that, fans are excited to discover that he will soon be reunited onscreen with former real life sweetheart Kristine Hermosa, with whom he has not worked with for the past five years.

In an interview in Entertainment Live last May 31, the actor confirms that ABS-CBN honchos Malou and Charo Santos got in touch with his management at Genesis to ask if he would be interested in doing a Maalala Mo Kaya episode and a movie with Kristine. "Abangan niyo po yan. Naghahanap lang siguro ng magandang story and I think the timing is right," he says.

Echo has also been in the news lately because of his highly publicized breakup with girlfriend of three years Heart Evangelista. Despite rumors persistently pointing to co-star Carmen as the cause, Echo still maintains that the Malaysian beauty had nothing to do with his failed relationship. He even went so far as to say that nothing could develop between him and Carmen. "Yun yung challenge sa akin ngayon. I'm just working professionally so talaga pong wala pong halong kiyeme. Focused talaga ako," he stresses.

Although Echo admits he is free and single, he confesses that the state of his heart at the moment is not that great. "Ang puso ko medyo kalmado na. I'm okay,” he admits.

Pinay My Girl’s favorite expression ‘Tira! Tira!’ has become a craze

My Girl is only on its first airing week but "Tira! Tira!" has quickly turned into a fad that everybody loves to utter especially among the teens. It’s the term that Kim Chiu’s character often cries out to boost her morale every time she’s in the brink of downfall.

Kim happily explains, "Yung expression na 'yon, madalas sabihin ni Jasmine kapag naiipit siya sa isang sitwasyon!

Meaning, go, go, go!"

Truth be told, it’s no big surprise if people are captivated with the Pinay My Girl and her favorite expression. After all, Kim Chiu is a popular teen icon who has inspired the youth with her charm, confidence, and countless talents ever since her stint in Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition back in 2006. Perhaps this is one of the reasons why My Girl has acquired a strong viewership.

So the next time you feel down and blue, just remember, "Tira! Tira!"

Keep yourself in the loop! Catch Kim Chiu’s hilarious adventures on My Girl, weeknights, right after Lobo on Primetime Bida.

Anne Curtis’s sizzling photo shoot

Anne Curtis looked downright sexy during the pictorial for the teleseryeDyosa, where she wore three costumes representing her character’s different personas. The actress stressed, however, that the sexiness ends with the costumes and that Dyosa’s storyline is very wholesome. "It’s like wearing a swimsuit except that it’s more covered than a swimsuit. It’s sexy in that way but the story is really pambata."

It took hours for Anne and some of her cast mates to put on their costumes. Epi Quizon and Carlos Morales, who both play "goat people," had their costumes, prosthetics, and makeup done in a span of three hours. Anne’s leading men-- Zanjoe Marudo, Luis Manzano, and Sam Milby--have yet to reveal their costumes for the show. Other stars present at the pictorial were Lloyd Samartino, Matt Mendoza, and Jaclyn Jose.

Anne was all smiles at the mention of Sam’s name. At a recent press conference, Sam mentioned that Anne is the only woman whom he is interested in and wants to be with. This statement flattered the actress to no end. "Wow! Really
now… Talaga? That’s flattering. Wow," a flustered Anne said.

KC and Richard taking it easy

KC Concepcion and Richard Gutierrez are both overjoyed to team-up in a movie for the first time. And what makes this project special is that they come from rival networks, ABS-CBN and GMA-7.

The actor confessed that it took many months before an agreement was reached by the two networks, but it was all worth the wait.

“I didn’t expect that this will happen. It was months and months of meetings,” he shared. “Pero hindi pa rin ako nawalan ng pag-asa, kasi hindi rin nawalan ng pag-asa si KC. And I think it’s a big leap in the industry and for KC and me.”

The film, which is also KC’s movie debut, is a collaboration between Star Cinema and GMA Films. Richard, who recently signed the one-movie contract under Star Cinema, confessed he was overwhelmed by the Kapamilya management’s warm welcome.

On her part, KC admitted that she is very glad that her partner is Richard in her first movie.

“I feel so much comfortable that it’s with Chard for my first film,” she shared, who confirmed that both of them will also fly to Greece to shoot some of the scenes there.

The beautiful actress gave a hint that she will also have her first kissing scene with Richard in this romantic-drama movie.

“A love story is not complete without a kiss,” she giggled.

The two also clarified that they seldom go out on dates because of their hectic schedules, but adds that whenever they get the chance, they enjoy each other’s company.

“I don’t wanna rush into things. I wanna be settled if I’m gonna (pursue) KC, I want everything to be perfect,” Richard admitted.

KC reaffirmed this, saying they are both young and free and are enjoying their time together. She said that she likes Richard because of his good manners in treating people.

“It’s nice to have a set of good people around you in a way you wanted to be influenced,” she said.

Charice earns standing ovations in Las Vegas

Charice once again made Filipinos proud when she was chosen as one of the featured artists in renowned US composer David Foster’s concert at the Mandalay Bay Hotel in Las Vegas last May 23. Other performers in the show included artists Josh Groban, Alicia Keys, Brian McKnight, Michael Buble, and Andrea Bocelli. Charice sang two songs--a medley of Whitney Houston hits and And I Am Telling You from Dreamgirls--and received standing ovations for both. “A star is born tonight,” Foster said after her numbers.

For Charice, the experience is still like a dream. “Parang nanaginip lang po ako. Lalo na pagnakikita ko yung program. Hello, pinagitnaan ako ng dalawang big stars, si Michael Buble, ako po, tapos si Josh Groban. ‘Di ko po ine-expect na kasama si Alicia Keys, mga big stars talaga. Si Mr. Andrea Bocelli, kinongrats pa niya ako after ng performance ko.”

Also singing Charice’s praises is Josh Groban who was very impressed with Charice’s big voice. “I had the great pleasure of standing on the side of the stage when she was performing. She’s got an instrument which she has to continue to develop and must take care of it. One of the most beautiful voices I’ve heard in a long time.”

Fall in love all over again with ‘My Girl'

My Girl—the hit Korean drama series which swept the Filipino viewers off their feet when it was aired by ABS-CBN in 2006—is back with an all-new Pinoy twist with the first ever adaptation of Koreanovela on Philippine TV.

Kim Chiu plays the role of Jasmine, a Fil-Chinese girl whose zest for life never wavers despite her endless struggles. Her destiny changes once she crosses paths with Julian (Gerald Anderson) who asks her to pretend to be his long-lost cousin to grant his grandfather’s dying wish. As they carry on with their charade however, Jasmine learns that nothing good will come out of the ruse, especially when it leads to some romantic confusion. In an increasingly complicated situation, where will fate lead these "partners in crime?"

Fans definitely have to tune in and witness the hottest teen love team in the country KIMERALD take on these popular roles. In fact, directors Erick Salud and Jerome Pobocan are all praises for the two talented stars for their exemplary performance. They also reveal that Kim and Gerald’s remarkable chemistry both in reel and real life makes it easy for them to shoot the super kilig scenes between the adorable Jasmine and Julian.

Also part of the cast are Enchong Dee (Nico), Nina Jose (Anika), Alex Gonzaga (Christine), David Chua (Jeffrey), and Regine Angeles (Sheila) who’ll definitely keep things on the romantic front interesting. The quirky characters played by Ronaldo Valdez, Bing Loyzaga, Lito Pimentel, K Brosas, and DJ Durano will complete the fun and drama of Kapamilya’s latest TV offering. Catch the Pinay My Girl mondays to fridays right after Lobo n prime time Bida.

Sharon takes pride in ‘Caregiver'

After an almost four-year absence, Sharon Cuneta marks her return to the big screen with Star Cinema’s 15th anniversary offering, Caregiver. The Megastar says that she never realized how much she missed making movies until she did this film. But the movie is proving well worth the wait, with Sharon herself admitting that the shoot was a very memorable experience.

"Naiiyakako. Nagta-tighten yung chest ko kasi proud na proud ako sa pelikulang ‘to. Ang feeling ko I am not just an actress in this movie, but I am also representing all the OFWs," she reveals.

After portraying the role of a caregiver, the Megastar now has a deeper respect for all the OFWs. In Caregiver, Sharon gets a taste of the struggles and sacrifices of the "bagong bayani" who forsake home and family for better opportunities. She says that the three weeks of her doing real caregiver work cannot compare to the years that OFWs have spent performing this thankless job.

Caregiver tells the story of Sarah, played by Sharon, a teacher in the province who gives up her career and leaves behind her son to join her husband who works as a caregiver in London. The cast and crew went on location for three weeks in the British capital, but the shoot was anything but a vacation.

"I was there for three weeks. I had a hard time living for three weeks lang in an unfamiliar territory, in conditions that my body is not just used to. I lived in for a year in Boston, pero mas grabe ang lamig sa England. Tapos yung demands ng schedule. I had one day off in three weeks. Nakawan ng tulog, I had three hours of sleep a night, masuwerte na ‘pag four. Kadalasan sa van kapag break magna-nap ka muna." she recalls.

Sharon also has nothing but praises for her director, Chito S. Roño, for seeing her through the entire moviemaking experience. "Walang Megastar kay Chito Roño.Hindi uso dun. Truth be told sa lahat ng direktor na nakatrabaho ko walang ganun.Pag nasa set kayo it’s understood that the director is the boss. Lovable at funny si Direk Chito ‘pag off hours, pero pag trabaho na para siyang teacher na terror. Manginginig ka, maiiyak ka, hirap na hirap ka na, pero ‘pag pumasa ka, ang yabang mo!" she describes.

Given all the blood, sweat, and tears that went into making Caregiver, Sharon cannot help but look back on the experience with an overwhelming sense of pride. "First time ‘ata na halos na immerse ako sa isang character. I think nakatulong yung araw araw for three weeks, more than the usual number of hours. Lahat ng meron ako, inilabas ko na. Walang minuto na dumaan sa paggawa ng pelikulang ‘to na hindi ko nadama. If there’s a movie that I gave my 100% heart and soul into, this has to be it. I never thought this would come. Thank you to Star Cinema."

Finally, the Megastar extends her excitement about Caregiver to all the fans. "Magbubuhat na ko ng sariling bangko, paumanhin niyo na po, pero napakaganda ng pelikulang ‘to. Hindi po ako mapapahiya sa inyo. I hope I did justice to the role. I hope that this movie does what I prayed God would help me do which is to bring more attention and honor to all OFWs, especially the caregivers. I hope that you feel every beat of my heart when you watch this movie."

Angel Locsin is the ultimate Dream Girl

In the May 2008 issue of Maxim Philippines, It Girl Angel Locsin talks about the qualities she looks for in her ideal guy, as well as her kick-ass car and other juicy secrets every hot-blooded male would want to know. When it comes to dream dates, the Lobo star says it doesn’t take much to make her happy. “For me, it doesn’t matter where you go or if it’s expensive. What matters is that the guy is extra sweet, sensitive, and attentive. Being a gentleman goes a long way,” Angel says in her Maxim interview.

Sexy image aside, Angel admits that just like any girl, she also dreams of settling down with a nice guy someday. She tells Maxim writer and managing editor Peejo Pilar how she sees herself many, many years from now. “Happily married with grandkids, a nice quiet life, and a bahay kubo sa tapat ng beach!” she admits.

But as of the moment, the 23-year-old actress is enjoying a career high, especially with the good feedback she’s been getting from Lobo. “Hindi ako talaga pinupuri dati sa pag-a-acting ko. Pero lately may mga lumalapit na mga tao or yung mga nababasa ko sa internet na gusto nila yung scene na ginawa ko. Plus, I’m working with Piolo Pascual! It’s all very exciting,” she tells Maxim.

Check out Angel and other hot cover girls at Maxim’s Hot 100 Party on May 29, 2008 at The AVenue Events Hall in MakatiCity. Every purchase of the May issue of Maxim from selected National Bookstores and Bufini stores comes with a free entrance ticket to the party. This is available for readers 18 years old and above only.

Precious Lara: ‘The bridges have been burned’

Beauty queen-TV host Precious Lara Quigaman said that she will not go back to noontime game show “Wowowee” even if she was asked to.

“I think the bridges have been burned talaga. I was really hurt,” she said while trying to hold back tears.

Precious was “axed” from Wowowee when she allegedly violated the “house rule” of the program by bringing her boyfriend with her when the entire cast flew to Hawaii to do a show.

“For that reason tinanggal ako. For that reason alone. If they ask me to go back (to Wowowee), I don’t think I can do that anymore,” she declared.

The beauty-queen-turned-host shared that when the crew flew to Hawaii, she brought not obly her boyfriend but also her mom, as a Mother’s Day treat for her.

“Nagalit si Kuya Willie (Revillame). There was a rule daw that I was not to bring a boyfriend, which was very unclear to me. I did not know, I was not told very clearly,” she confessed.

Precious stood by her statement that she was professional in their stint in Hawaii, as co-host in Wowowee. Rumors said that she allegedly became unprofessional and that she was with her boyfriend most of the time. She said that some of the nasty rumors even came from people she knows.

“I’m sure all the people of Wowowee who came with us, can attest that hindi ko napabayaan yung work ko. I was never late, never absent for any rehearsal, I gave my best.”

In her interview on The Buzz yesterday (May 25), host Boy Abunda said the policy about bringing boyfriends is not a company policy but possibly a “house rule” of programs.

Meanwhile, Precious confirmed that she will remain a Kapamilya and will continuously be seen in That’s My Doc every Saturday.

Billy Crawford: ‘It’s about me coming back to the Philippines’

International artist Billy Crawford has asked people not to make a big issue out of his becoming a part of the Kapamilya network. His upcoming gig as PinoyDreamAcademy Season 2 host was coursed by his management abroad through Endemol, which in turn made the negotiations with ABS-CBN. “Trying to make this decision was a little hard at one point, but I’m excited to come back to the Philippines.”

The singer also cleared that this has nothing to do with the network wars. “It’s not about the two different channels. It’s about me coming back to the Philippines. Lahat ng ginagawa ko, pinagmamalaki ko ang Pilipinas. There’s so much going on with contracts here and there… You know what? God will guide me as to where I need to go.” Billy also clarified that German Moreno, who has been a family friend since he was three years old, never managed his career.

Aside from hosting PDA, Billy was pretty psyched about getting to work with old friends like Gary Valenciano and Vina Morales on ASAP 08. He also has a concert lined up at the Araneta with Sarah Geronimo.He’s very open to working with anyone, like KC Concepcion, if given the chance. “I’ve known KC for a long time… You know, I think Tita Sharon (Cuneta) has to approve everything first before I say anything so…” Billy shared with a very big grin on his face. “I’m excited!”