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MYX Music Awards 2012 Nominees

The nominees for MYX Music Awards 2012 was announced yesterday, February 8, on MYXph.com, another first from the no. 1 music channel in the Philippines.

This year’s announcement of MYX Music Awards’ nominees last February 8 (Wednesday), 3 p.m., was more special and fun, as it was witnessed live via the top music channel’s equally patronized online platform www.myxph.com.

Last year was believed to be the emergence of fresh OPM acts and the return to original compositions. That’s why MYX Channel Head Andre Allan Alvarez wants to continue the channel’s legacy, as he aims to jumpstart OPM’s new Golden Age

It can be recalled that the 70’s was the Golden Age of OPM. Now, the MYX Music Awards proudly brings back this colorful era with a series of offerings that every music lover will surely love.

He added that every music and artist - be it rock, pop, R&B, etc. - has its own potential of getting known worldwide.

“As a music channel, MYX takes pride in letting artists perform no matter which network or station they belong to. So long as you’re a performer or a musician, MYX welcomes you, regardless of network affiliation,” Alvarez said.

At the live nomination, MYX VJs joined in the fun, while Rock Princess Yeng Constantino, electronica-themed Somedaydream and Zia Quizon spiced up the event with their exciting performances. The nominations also went in depth, as the media participated in this session.

MYX Music Awards, which is the biggest award-giving body in Philippine music, aims to uplift and honor the best-of-the-best original Pilipino music or OPM. With the tagline “Your Choice. Your Music.” MYX has always been commended for being the venue of fresh talents to the biggest mainstream artists.

The fate of country’s most favorite artists are in the hands of worldwide music lovers. Voting is now officially open and will run until March 9 (Friday) 2012. Fans’ online votes will determine the 60% of a nominee’s total score, and the other 40% will be from the artists’ poll. For more information on the online voting, everyone is encouraged to logon to www.myxph.com and www.facebook.com/MYX.Philippines and follow @myxphilippines on Twitter. Voters are only allowed to vote once per category a day.

The much-awaited MYX Music Awards 2012 night on March 13, Tuesday, at the Music Museum will be streamed live on myxph.com for the very first time.

MYX (SkyCable Channel 23) is available on SkyCable Platinum, SkyCable Gold, SkyCable Silver and over 200 quality cable operators nationwide. For updates, download the MYX Charts app from Android Market and install free of charge.

Here are the nominees:

Favorite Music Video

· 20/20 – Pupil (Director: Jason Tan)
· Gaano Ko Ikaw Kamahal – Itchyworms (Director: King Palisoc)
· Hey Daydreamer – Somedaydream (Director: Bianca King & Envo Valdez)
· Pangarap Lang Kita – Parokya Ni Edgar Feat. Happee Sy (Director: Avid Liongoren)
· Pera Pera – Sandwich (Director: Marie Jamora)
Favorite Song

· 20/20 – Pupil
· Ako Na Lang – Zia Quizon
· Hey Daydreamer – Somedaydream
· Pangarap Lang Kita – Parokya Ni Edgar Feat. Happee Sy
· Walang Natira – Gloc-9 Feat. Sheng Belmonte

Favorite Artist

· Christian Bautista
· Gloc-9
· Parokya Ni Edgar
· Somedaydream
· Yeng Constantino

Favorite Female Artist

· Karylle
· Kyla
· Sarah Geronimo
· Yeng Constantino
· Zia Quizon

Favorite Male Artist

· Bamboo
· Christian Bautista
· Gloc-9
· Sam Concepcion
· Somedaydream
Favorite Group

· Itchyworms
· Parokya Ni Edgar
· Pupil
· Slapshock
· Sponge Cola

Favorite Mellow Video

· Hindi Kita Iiwan – Sam Milby (Director: Treb Monteras)
· Kay Tagal Kitang Hinintay – Sponge Cola (Director: Yan Yuzon)
· Lagi – Kiss Jane (Director: J. Pacena)
· Wag Mo Na Munang Sabihin – Sitti (Director: Rember Gelera)
· Wala Na Tayo – Bbs Feat. Kean Cipriano (Director: J. Pacena)

Favorite Rock Video

· 20/20 – Pupil (Director: Jason Tan)
· Halik – Kamikazee (Director: Avid Liongoren)
· Ngayon Na – Slapshock (Director: Team Manila)
· Pera Pera – Sandwich (Director: Marie Jamora)
· Unbelievable – Chicosci (Director: Tower Of Doom / Paolo Ruiz)
Favorite Urban Video

· Ain’t A Crime – Amber Davis (Director: Luis Daniel Tabuena)
· Connection – Chelo A, Q-York & Jay R (Director: Treb Monteras)
· Elmer – Gloc-9 Feat. Jaq Dionisio & Jomal Linao (Director: J. Pacena)
· Heartbreaker – Mobbstarr (Director: Ace Villena)
· Kaibigan Lang (Remix) – Young Jv
Favorite New Artist

· Angeline Quinto
· Ebe Dancel
· Solenn Heussaff
· Somedaydream
· Zia Quizon
Favorite Collaboration

· Meron Akong Ano – Kamikazee Feat. Chito Miranda, Reg Rubio & Ian Tayao
· One Hit Combo – Parokya Ni Edgar Feat. Gloc-9
· Pawiin – Bbs Feat. Kean Cipriano & Jay Durias
· Sari-Saring Kuwento – Champ Feat. Noel Cabangon & Gloc-9
· Walang Natira – Gloc-9 Feat. Sheng Belmonte
Favorite Remake

· Fire – Solenn Heussaff
· Forever Young – Sam Concepcion
· Gaano Ko Ikaw Kamahal – Itchyworms
· Love Moves In Mysterious Ways – Christian Bautista Feat. Kris Aquino
· Unbelievable – Chicosci

Favorite Media Soundtrack

· Bumuhos Man Ang Ulan – Jericho Rosales (Green Rose)
· Fallin’ – Sarah Geronimo (Catch Me I’m In Love)
· I’m Already King – Christian Bautista (A Special Symphony)
· Kahit Walang Sabihin – Rico Blanco (Imortal)
· Where Do I Begin – Gary Valenciano (In The Name Of Love)

Favorite Guest Appearance In A Music Video

· Alodia Gosengfiao (All That’s Left – Christian Bautista)
· Enrique Gil (Ako Na Lang – Zia Quizon)
· Jasmine Curtis (Hey Daydreamer – Somedaydream)
· JM De Guzman (Pangarap Lang Kita – Parokya Ni Edgar Feat. Happee Sy)
· Kuya Kim & Eugene Domingo (Wala Na Tayo – Bbs Feat. Kean Cipriano)
Favorite Myx Celebrity Vj

· Enchong Dee
· Kean Cipriano
· Rocksteddy
· Sam Concepcion
· Somedaydream

Favorite Myx Live Performance

· Ebe Dancel
· Juris
· Kyla
· Parokya Ni Edgar
· Pupil

Favorite International Video

· Born This Way – Lady Gaga
· Firework – Katy Perry
· Moves Like Jagger – Maroon 5 Feat. Christina Aguilera
· The Lazy Song – Bruno Mars
· What Makes You Beautiful – One Direction
Favorite K-Pop Video

· Break Down – Kim Hyun Joong
· Lonely – 2ne1
· Mr. Simple – Super Junior
· The Boys – Girls’ Generation
· Tonight – Big Bang

Genelyn Magsaysay Shares Her Deepest Thoughts on Ramgen’s Murder in ‘The Bottomline’

Genelyn Magsaysay, the mother of slain actor Ramgen Revilla, sits face-to-face with Asia’s King of Talk Boy Abunda this Saturday, February 11, in “The Bottomline with Boy Abunda” to share her deepest emotions about her life, love, and motherhood.

Get to know the ‘real’ Genelyn before and after Ramgen’s highly publicized death. How was her childhood? Why did she fight for the illicit love affair with former Senator Ramon Revilla Sr? After Janelle Manahan involved her children in the killing of Ramgen, how will she prove to the public that her family is innocent?

Unravel more revelations in Asian TV Awards’ Best Talk Show for 2011, “The Bottomline with Boy Abunda”, this Saturday night at 11:30pm, after “Banana Split” in ABS-CBN. For more updates, log on to www.abs-cbn.com or follow @abscbndotcom on Twitter.

David Archuleta's TV5 Miniseries "Nandito Ako" Full Trailer Released

Here is the full trailer of TV5's upcoming miniserye titled “Nandito Ako” starring international Kapatid star David Archuleta in his first ever acting project and TV5's princesses Jasmine Curtis Smith and Eula Caballero.

In supporting roles are Gelli de Belen, Aiko Melendez, G Toengi, Ana Capri, Mon Confiado, Alwyn Uytingco, Joseph Bitangcol, RS Francisco, Ana Feleo, Perla Bautista, David Bianco and Byron Ortile.

Bourne Legacy Movie Trailer Released

The teaser trailer for the "The Bourne Legacy" movie starring Jeremy Renner, Edward Norton and Rachel Weisz has just been released.

Based on the novels of Robert Ludlum and directed by Tony Gilroy, "The Bourne Legacy" was partially filmed in several areas in Manila and El Nido in Palawan, Philippines.

The movie also Joan Allen, Albert Finney, Scott Glenn, Stacy Keach and Oscar Isaac and is set to be released in theaters worldwide on August 3, 2012.


The Bourne Legacy - Trailer:

Regine Velasquez and Ogie Alcasid 'Mr. & Mrs. A' - Their First as Husband and Wife

And she's back!

Three months after giving birth to Nathaniel James Alcasid, Regine Velasquez is back - with a bang!

Regine together with her husband Ogie Alcasid will stage a Valentine concert at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum on February 14, 2012 titled "Mr. & Mrs. A".

Watch the concert ad below:

Negros Quake Death Toll Reaches 48, Survivors Beg for Help

The official death toll from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, (NDRRMC) however, is lower, at 22, including seven new fatalities.

NDRRMC Executive Director Benito Ramos, who is in Negros Oriental, said the seven new fatalities died in hospitals where they were brought after they were pinned down by collapsed walls.

Ramos also said the number of missing remain at 71 – mostly victims of landslides in Guihulngan City, which is near the epicenter of the quake, and La Libertad town.




Meanwhile, survivors begged rescuers to keep searching for dozens of people buried in landslides, but officials said hopes of finding them alive were dim.

“Please do not give up, please continue searching,” 47-year-old housewife Virginsita Magalso whose 68-year-old mother, an older brother, his wife, and their two young children were among those buried when part of a hill collapsed on homes in the farming community of La Libertad on Negros.

“We can still save them, miracles happen all the time.”

Guihulngan Mayor Ernesto Reyes said the mountain village in Guihulngan was buried under about 10 meters (30 feet) of debris, with rescue efforts painfully slow because people had only picks, shovels and their bare hands to claw through the dirt.

Roads and bridges to Guihulngan, a coastal city of about 100,000 flanked by mountains, were badly damaged in the quake, meaning rescuers had difficulties bringing in earth movers and supplies for survivors.

“Our immediate concern now is how to serve the living. We don’t have enough food, there is no electricity and water,” Reyes said.

“We are appealing for help from everyone.”

Roel Degamo, the governor of Negros Oriental province where the worst of the damage occurred, said the likelihood of finding anyone alive was very low.

“We are in a state of shock, and all we can do now for those still missing is to pray,” Degamo said.

Sources: Malaya, PDI

Charice One for the Heart Valentine Special on GMA 7

International singing sensation Charice, comes home once again to celebrate Valentine's Day with her Kapuso fans via her television special aptly entitled "Charice, One for the Heart."




The Pinoy Pride is back, and she is all grown up–her voice more breathtaking, and her stance more powerful before her audience. This time with her very own band that she takes to her international tours, Charice performs songs closest to her heart–songs that talk about her journey as an artist, and her plight as a daughter ever loving to her parents and family.

Charice also pays tribute to well-loved OPM love songs as she shares the stage with Pop Balladeer Mark Bautista, and RNB Prince Jay-R. Another must-see on the show is a tender moment where Charice sings to her father Ricky Pempengco who passed away last year.




Get to know the latest from Charice as she sings a few hits off her second international studio album Infinity, and talks about an Asian tour happening very soon.

Watch also the country’s most sought-after love teams, newly-weds, and most celebrated couples, as they share their love stories and give a prelude to each special performance by Charice.


Directed by Louie Ignacio (the man behind the acclaimed "Charice – Home for Valentine’s" in 2011, the International singing sensation promises to captivate and capture hearts once again on "Charice, One for the Heart" airing this February on GMA.

Bianca Manalo and Alfred Vargas Star in MMK ‘Love Potion’ Episode this Saturday

The popular quote ‘True love conquers all’ will be proven true this Saturday as “Maalaala Mo Kaya” caters the love story of a half Korean-half Pinoy named Lenny (Alfred Vargas) and his conquest in pursuing his love for Yvonne (Bianca Manalo).

After being turned down several times, Lenny’s persistence when Yvonne became his girlfriend. Just when Lenny thought everything was going well for both of them, he proposed to Yvonne thinking that she would be willing to marry him. Yvonne did accept his proposal but three days before their wedding, she got cold feet and runaway. Frustrated, Lenny sought the help of a witch doctor to make Yvonne fall for him through a love potion. Will the potion work or will it drive Yvonne away from him.

MMK’s ‘Love Potion’ episode also features Rio Locsin, Bembol Rocco, Alfred Labatos, Bea Nicholas, Mark Joshua Sayarot, Richard Yap, Wendy Valdez and Joyce So. It was researched by Ayoy Ramos, written by Joan Habana, and directed by Lino Cayetano.

Don’t miss the month-long celebration of love this February in the longest running drama anthology of Asia, “Maalaala Mo Kaya” (MMK), every Saturday night, after “Junior Master Chef Pinoy Edition.” For more updates, log on to www.mmk.abs-cbn.com, follow @MMKOfficial on Twitter, and “like” www.faceboook.com/MMKOfficial.

Academy Awards Best Picture Nominee “Moneyball” Soon in Philippine Cinemas

Nominated for six Academy Awards including Best Picture and Best Actor, Columbia Pictures’ critically acclaimed sports-oriented film “Moneyball” is based on the true story of Billy Beane (Brad Pitt) – once a would-be baseball superstar who, stung by the failure to live up to expectations on the field, turned his fiercely competitive nature to management.

Directed by Bennett Miller (“Capote”), “Moneyball” also bagged nominations for Best Supporting Actor (Jonah Hill), Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Editing and Best Sound Mixing.




In 2003, former Salomon Brothers bond trader turned author Michael Lewis, at the time best known for such business and politics bestsellers as Liar’s Poker and The New New Thing, published a book about baseball. Only it wasn’t just about baseball. On the surface, it was about how the under-funded, underrated Oakland A’s took on an unfair system of big-money and powerhouse teams. But it was really about the fascinating mix of men behind a major cultural shift and how a risky vision, born from necessity, becomes reality, when a ragtag team of cast-offs rejected due to unfounded biases, get the chance to finally prove their potential.

Now, Lewis’s book has been adapted into a feature film, “Moneyball,” starring Brad Pitt as Billy Beane, the A’s General Manager – the man who would have to think differently and reinvent the rules if his team was going to compete. “Moneyball is a classic underdog story,” says Pitt, who also serves as a producer of the project. “They go up against the system. How are they going to survive, how are they going to compete? Even if they do groom good talent, that talent gets poached by the big-market, big-money teams. And what these guys decided was, they couldn’t fight the other guy’s fight, or they were going to lose. They had to re-examine everything, to look for new knowledge, to find some kind of justice.”

At first glimpse, Lewis’ best-selling and groundbreaking book does not lend itself to a film adaptation. The book is a study of inefficiencies and oversights within the markets of the game of baseball and features case studies of undervalued items, (players, strategies, tactics), using analyses of statistics and theories. But at the center of it all is Billy Beane on a quixotic quest and as his story unfolds, something unexpected happens. His pursuit of a championship leads to something larger and more meaningful. The hallways and front offices of the Oakland Coliseum become an unlikely setting for inspiration and redemption.

Lewis’ book sheds light on the hindrances of groupthink and how irrational intuition and conventional ‘wisdom’ have dominated institutions throughout history. Challenging a system invariably provokes a fight. The film Moneyball builds its foundation from the experience of one man who chooses to take on that fight. Piercing through the layers of statistics, the film finds the quieter, deeper, and more personal story of Billy Beane, which bristles with moments of self-doubt and real life courage.

“Whenever a book is adapted into a movie, there are two possibilities: either the filmmakers stick to the book, or they make up their own story,” says Michael Lewis. “With `Moneyball,’ frankly, I wondered how they were going to do it, because the book doesn’t necessarily have a single narrative or the kind of dramatic arc you usually see in a movie. So it was truly tough to crack the code and get it right and it was an extremely pleasant surprise to see that Bennett and the screenwriters did the impossible – not only did I love the movie, but I was stunned by how well it represents my book. It is honest and true to what happened with Billy and the A’s and what they achieved.”

Bennett Miller adds, “I wasn’t interested in the tropes of sports movies. I’d rather not end a film with a hero carried off on the shoulders of teammates in a stadium where fans are screaming their heads off, champagne corks flying, trophies, fireworks, and all of that. I prefer the quiet triumphs, that might not burn as bright but deeper and more lasting, where you see someone struggle internally and then come out the other side to realize something has changed within them.”

“Michael Lewis likes stories about unconventional thinkers,” says Miller. “That’s what Moneyball is – a story about a character whose past and whose circumstances lead him to and require him to think differently. I like that you have a character who takes a risk not just to make something of himself, but more so to understand something about himself. Billy is trying to do something more meaningful than simply win baseball games – only even he doesn’t really understand that until he starts to turn things around. All of a sudden this baseball season, which is a David versus Goliath story, becomes not just one competitive man’s desperate attempt to win games. It’s really a trial, an attempt to prove something that would, if proven true, explain in part why his life turned out the way it did, which is a thrilling idea.”



Opening soon across the Philippines, “Moneyball” is distributed by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Visit http://www.columbiapictures.com.ph for trailers, exclusive content and free downloads. Like us at www.Facebook.com/ColumbiaPicturesPH and join our fan contests.

'My Beloved' Cast Photos

My Beloved, starring reel and real-life sweethearts Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera, is an upcoming romance-horror-suspense series GMA-7.

Under the direction of Dominic Zapata, "My Beloved" premieres February 13, 2012 on GMA Telebabad.

Dingdong Dantes as Arlan / Benjie



Marian Rivera as Sharina



Mikael Daez



Jennica Garcia as Monica



Carl Guevarra



Alden Richards as Harold



John Hall



Saab Magalona as Kaye



Ynna Asistio as Kynnah



Andrea Torres as Bianca



Fabio Ide as Rowan

Katrina Halili Offers a Different Kind of Massage in GMA’s ‘Spooky Valentine’

This Saturday, February 11, Katrina Halili, Paolo Contis and Antonio Aquitaña will star in GMA-7′s “Spooky Valentine presents Masahista,” airing after Manny Many Prizes.

When people talk about “stress relievers” these days, medications only rank second to a hard and soothing massage, which is readily available in the hundreds of spas and massage parlors marking the Metro Manila landscape. People come to these places to unwind and de-stress. But what if you’d find out that the masseuse, who’s giving you a gentle rub, is a vengeful ghost with a gloomy past?

This Saturday, Katrina Halili, Paolo Contis and Antonio Aquitaña will give a “spooky” twist to the usually relaxing massage in Spooky Valentine presents “Masahista.”

Antonio Aquintaña portrays the character of Patrick, a massage-parlor owner, who meets an accident that would render him suffering from locunar amnesia. After being discharged from the hospital, he resumes work at the massage parlor hoping that this would aid in his recovery. But just as he thinks everything in his life is falling back into place, something strange happens: a ghost of a beautiful woman frequently appears to him, seemingly wanting to reveal to him something. Ripped off his memories, Patrick couldn’t comprehend that the ghost was that of Noemi (Katrina Halili), a former masseuse who worked at his parlor. Noemi and Patrick’s womanizing brother Mike (Paolo Contis) have had an affair until one day, it took a tragic end. As Patrick recovers his memory, he begins to solve the puzzle, piece by piece.

Find out how this strange story unfolds on Spooky Valentine presents “Masahista”, this Saturday, February 11, after Manny Many Prizes on GMA-7.

Creative Valentine's Day date and Gift Ideas in "US Girls"

Forgot the usual wine and dine plans as “Us Girls” lists down tomorrow, February 9, uncommon but more exciting and adventurous ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your significant other.

Fab hosts Iya Villania and Angel Aquino will give tips on how to celebrate February 14 for sporty couples, workaholic sweethearts, or hopeless romantic duos. Show how much you love your partner with the lifestyle magazine show’s feature of the traditional and most unique gift items to give this love season – from classic greeting cards, flowers, chocolates, cute couple shirts and jewelry.

Learn how to glam up and impress your date as the hosts teach you how to dress up based on specific venues. Also, catch the “Us Girls” staff’s birthday surprise for Angel.

Meanwhile, “Us Girls” received a special citation for Best Women-Oriented Program from this year’s “Gandingan: The UPLB Isko’t Iska’s Broadcast Choice Awards,” with hosts Iya, Angel, and Chesca also receiving a special citation for Best Women-Oriented Program Hosts.

Make your Hearts’ Day extraordinary by watching the special episode of “Us Girls” tomorrow, February 9, on Studio 23 at 9:30 p.m. or watch it anytime on www.studio23.tv.

Charice 'One for the Heart' Valentine Special on GMA 7

International singing sensation Charice, comes home once again to celebrate Valentine's Day with her Kapuso fans via her television special aptly entitled "Charice, One for the Heart."




The Pinoy Pride is back, and she is all grown up–her voice more breathtaking, and her stance more powerful before her audience. This time with her very own band that she takes to her international tours, Charice performs songs closest to her heart–songs that talk about her journey as an artist, and her plight as a daughter ever loving to her parents and family.

Charice also pays tribute to well-loved OPM love songs as she shares the stage with Pop Balladeer Mark Bautista, and RNB Prince Jay-R. Another must-see on the show is a tender moment where Charice sings to her father Ricky Pempengco who passed away last year.




Get to know the latest from Charice as she sings a few hits off her second international studio album Infinity, and talks about an Asian tour happening very soon.

Watch also the country’s most sought-after love teams, newly-weds, and most celebrated couples, as they share their love stories and give a prelude to each special performance by Charice.



Directed by Louie Ignacio (the man behind the acclaimed "Charice – Home for Valentine’s" in 2011, the International singing sensation promises to captivate and capture hearts once again on "Charice, One for the Heart" airing this February on GMA.

‘Startalk’ Remains Undefeated

Despite the launch of ABS-CBN's newest investigative showbiz-oriented talk show "Showbiz Inside Report", GMA-7's longest running and trusted showbiz authority Startalk continues to reign on its timeslot.

Sa loob ng labing-anim na taon, patuloy ang pamamayagpag sa ere ng Startalk TX. Kaya naman kahit na anong programang itapat dito ay hindi tumatagal sa ere at palaging natatalo sa ratings.

Ayon sa datos na nagmula sa mas kinikilala at pinagkakatiwalaang TV ratings supplier na Nielsen TV Audience Measurement, noong nakaraang Sabado ay tinalo ng STARTALK TX ang katapat nitong bagong programa na Showbiz Inside Report.

Nakapagtala ang STARTALK TX ng household audience share na 32.1% rating habang ang kalaban nitong programa ay nakakuha lamang ng 21.6% base sa Mega Manila overnight ratings.

Hindi na talaga matibag ang STARTALK pagdating sa paghahatid ng mga maiinit at esklusibong showbiz scoops at balita tuwing Sabado ng hapon.

Kaya para sa pinagkakatiwalaang explosive showbiz balita, huwag ng palampasin ang nag-iinit na episodes ng STARTALK TX tuwing Sabado pagkatapos ng Eat Bulaga sa GMA.

Shailene Woodley and Amara Miller: Raw Young Talents to Watch for in ‘The Descendants’

“The Descendants” showcases breakthrough performances from Shailene Woodley and newcomer Amara Miller as the daughters of this year’s Oscar contender for Best Actor, George Clooney.

In the depths of a crisis following a boating accident of Matt King’s (Clooney) wife, King has to come to terms with the fact that he has been largely inadequate as a father as he attempts to repair his relationship with his two daughters. Lack of parental support and stability have left both girls without direction. Alexandra (Shailene Woodley) is rebellious and has been sent off to boarding school. 10 year-old Scottie, played by first time actress Amara Miller, is precocious and in need of parental supervision.

Woodley plays 17-year old Alexandra, troubled daughter of Matt King (Clooney) who has to help her father come to terms with his wife’s coma – and her secrets.

Woodley is best known to US audiences for her performance as Amy Juergens in long-running TV series The Secret Life Of The American Teenager, for which she has received particular praise – including being named ‘Breakthrough of 2008’ by the magazine Entertainment Weekly.

Q: How would you describe your character, Alexandra?
A: I’d say she’s kind of a normal teen going through her angsty period in life and as a child she realized her Mom was going to be more of a best friend than an actual mother. And that her Dad was far removed and would show up for but not really have any communication within the family. So she built walls up and kind of became her own protector. She became very independent at a very young age.

Q: Could you relate to the character?
A: Yeah, of course, I went through my angsty period. I was probably about 14/15 when I hated the world, but that went away quickly and I didn’t really pull from my childhood for this character. For me acting is just about being yourself in the colors and restrictions of a particular character. I try not to pull from my own life or think about it too much. I’d rather just stay present to the situation in which the characters are being forced through.

Q: Is the first challenge of working with George Clooney getting over the fact that he’s George Clooney?
A: I wasn’t really nervous until he walked into the room for the table read in Los Angeles. I started sweating and shaking. Then he came up to me and gave me a big hug and he said “Welcome, Sweetie” and immediately the intimidation factor just disappeared. He’s so great. He’s just George Clooney, a guy from Kentucky with a heart of gold. He’s a spectacular human being on every level.

Q: The scene when you are filmed underwater, after you hear some bad news about your mother, must have been challenging.
A: I loved the underwater scene. I was literally born under water. I learnt to swim at one year old. Water is my personal comfort zone. In Hawaii, girls and guys alike learn to swim before they learn to walk. So I thought it was beautifully written that after hearing such tragic news she recedes into the water and has her moment to be vulnerable for the first time. I thought that was beautiful and then for me, selfishly, it was my own therapy session. I got to go under water and scream.

Q: Shailene is quite an unusual name.
A: Yeah. My Mom found it on a license plate actually. The name Shay was on a license plate in front of her. She was 18 and thought “Shay is cute but that’s a nickname.” So she added Shay-Lene, Shay-Line, Shay-Lin. And she liked Shailene. She didn’t have me until she was 26 but she remembered it for all those years. When I was born my Dad liked it too.

Q: As you’ve been acting for a long time and she is new to it, did you find yourself showing Amara the ropes a little bit?
A: Yes I did, and it was so much fun. She was 10 when we filmed so I definitely became the big sister and she was the little sister. It got to the point sometimes when I would say, “Scram! I need my space” and she was always coming from the position of, “Play with me! Play with me!” But, yeah, it was really cool. It was great when you could say, “So, this is how a camera works,” which seems obvious to those that have been on a film set many times but to a 10 year old, she literally thought there were only four people behind the camera. When she got to set and there were 200 people on the stage she thought, “What is going on? This is so bizarre!” But she is a really mature young lady. She’s definitely an old soul in the sense that she didn’t get overwhelmed. We got lucky. She actually can act.



“The Descendants” opens February 15 in theatres from 20th Century Fox to be distributed by Warner Bros.

Cirque Mother Africa to Perform at Resorts World Manila

For the first time in Manila, the world-renowned Cirque Mother Africa (created by professional acrobat Winston Ruddle) will dazzle and mesmerize local audiences with wild African music, dance and performance in a two-hour showcase.

The series of performances will start from April 19 to 22 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resorts World Manila.

Having performed in sold out shows staged in Germany, Italy, Romania, Russia, Netherlands, Australia, Belgium and Spain – Cirque Mother Africa will tantalize audiences in Manila with a unique African-themed spectacle.

Dancers, percussionists, singers, acrobats and contortionists energetically take to the stage in a celebration of the culture of the traditional and modern African arts & culture.

The heartbeat of Africa pulsates throughout the jaw-dropping show as the musicians and artistes articulate their passion and love for their homeland including Ethiopia, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Ivory Coast, Benin, Zimbabwe, and Guinea.

The innovative show combines the talents from nine African countries to provide the wonder, suspense and joy of Cirque Mother Africa.

The show is a delight for the senses with items spun through the air, bodies contorted into mind-boggling shapes, and performers balance on other performers, percussionists beat up a storm of sound and traditional dancers tell their own stories. The audience will be overwhelmed by the complexity and versatility of these world-class acts.

Masks, drums, beads, and amazing costumes all bring forth the feel of authentic African traditions.




Cirque Mother Africa is not just a traditional African show. It also has a take on the modern, fresh and dynamic culture of the new Africa. Young acrobats perform feats that belong in any world-class circus, and energetic young performers compete in tap-dancing that is a toe-tapping delight. This is a fresh and fantastic show that evokes passion and demands a response. Audiences are encouraged, prodded and charmed to actively respond rather than to simply watch a breath-taking spectacle.

Cirque Mother Africa 2012 can be seen from April 19 to 22 at Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resorts World Manila. Tickets are available at selected National Book Stores, Robinsons Department Stores, Cinema Lobby – Greenbelt 1 and Trinoma. You may also inquire at TicketWorld Office www.ticketworld.com.ph call 891-9999 for bookings & reservations.



Exclusive! Enjoy a 15% discount from February 7-20 by calling the following hotlines 0916-3403919 or 0921-5642108

Women Take Off With 'Pan Am' on AXN Beyond

The high flying women of Pan Am are set to take off with you this February 11 on the captivating new TV drama series on AXN Beyond.

There was a time when air travel itself was as exciting as the destinations, and passengers actually dressed up to fly. But that was also the same era that a woman’s ‘place’ or ‘role in society’ was deemed to be at home amongst marriage, children and chores.

Then, the Jet Age dawned upon the 1960s to usher in a new ‘breed’ of women in America. With the world at their feet – actually 30,000 feet under – the stewardesses of the iconic American airline Pan Am were among the first women to see the world like never before, when many others, including men, were not privileged enough to. Personifying glamour, style, freedom and empowerment, these women took control of their own destinies and their lives truly took off into the friendly skies, inspiring a whole generation of men and women.

Welcome to 1963, the start of a unique period in history brought back to life in the glossy and stylishly retro TV drama series Pan Am to chronicle the lives and loves of its aircrew. Premiering 11 February 2012 and airing on Saturdays at 9.50pm first and exclusively on AXN Beyond, Pan Am will follow these lucky first few who could fly regularly on board the world’s largest and most prestigious airline to a truly global adventure.

The drama series is led by Emmy winner Christina Ricci (Grey’s Anatomy) as Maggie Ryan, the purser on board Pan Am’s new Clipper Majestic jet. Having climbed step-by-step up the social ladder to a better life and great opportunity, the resourceful, ambitious but stubborn Maggie is finally riding high and is determined not to fall. She works with the resilient and selfless French native Colette Valois (Karine Vanasse, Midnight in Paris) who has an innate understanding of international affairs, but is a searching wanderer when it comes to affairs of the heart.

Also part of the clique is the competitive rebel Kate Cameron (Kelli Garner, The Aviator) who left her sheltered life in East Granby, Connecticut to brave the world. Now, she must also navigate espionage and intrigue by becoming an international agent for the CIA. Running off on her wedding day, Kate’s enthusiastic, adventurous yet naïve younger sister, Laura Cameron (Margot Robbie, Neighbours) left her past behind to join Kate in a bold move that could bring serious personal consequences.

Piloting the Clipper Majestic on its maiden flight is the charming, industrious but proud Dean Lowrey (Mike Vogel, Cloverfield) who is newly promoted to captain and would not trade this moment for the world. The self-assured and flirty First Officer and Co-Pilot Ted Vanderway (Michael Mosley, Scrubs) is a former Navy test pilot who finds the commercial skies as turbulent as he struggles to overcome past mistakes and prove his worth as an aviator. And as the latter finds out, the ladies flying on Pan Am are different from the rest, “I’ve hit on enough of these girls to know that they’re not like normal women… They are a new breed of women.”

Despite mandatory weigh-ins before flights, grooming inspections and wearing of girdles, Maggie, Kate, Laura and Colette enjoy independence and liberation that was unheard of at that time complete with romantic liaisons, social engagements and a career of their choosing. Most of all, the international travels open their eyes to the world. Viewers will go with Maggie and her crew to new destinations each week including dream cities as London, Paris, Berlin, Monte Carlo, Rome and even Asia’s own Jakarta of half a century ago, re-created in the series.

Along the way, enjoy front-row seats to history in the making, as they witness former US President John Ford Kennedy’s visit to Berlin in 1963 and the arrival of British band The Beatles in New York in 1964…

Indeed, Pan Am will serve up authentic re-creations of the workings of Pan Am in the 60s: from serving seven course meals complete with turtle soup and caviar; to stewardesses playing board and card games with passengers; and a stewardess who was actually recruited to be a CIA operative. The series is executive produced by Nancy Hult Ganis (Akeelah and the Bee), a former Pan Am stewardess who added to her own experiences through extensive research and interviews with other ex-staff. Capturing the essence of the Jet Age, Pan Am has won over many critics including American daily Los Angeles Times’ high praise, “this is as good as it looks, and it looks very good.”

Among the first to be “beautiful, educated and trilingual”, the high flying women of Pan Am are set to take off with you on the captivating new TV drama series into the dreamy and swinging sixties this February. So, buckle up; adventure calls! And thank you for choosing Pan Am on AXN Beyond.

Pan Am premieres February 11, 2012 at 9.50 p.m. First and exclusively on AXN Beyond.

Feel the Kiddie-Kilig this Saturday on 'Tropang Potchi'

As the 1966 Motown hit goes, "You can't hurry love" - this is what kids will learn this week from GMA's award-winning Saturday morning kiddie program Tropang Potchi.

Julian Trono, Sabrina Man, Miggy Jimenez, Liane Valentino, Bianca Umali, Lenlen Frial and their vivacious friend Potchi experience "love" just right in time for Valentine's Day - but wait - aren't they too young to fall in love?

Bianca's cousin, Angel (portrayed by Louise delos Reyes), visits Potchi's house this Saturday. As Julian beholds Angel's beauty, he consults his "love horoscope," which he takes very seriously, looking for the three signs it says would tell him if he's finally met his one, true love. Will Julian's horoscope point the love compass toward Angel or will Julian's "puppy love" lead to a deeper understanding of love and relationships?

Meanwhile, Bianca and Julian discover the different dance forms which find their root in romance and courtship like the Lyrical Dance, Flamenco, Ballet and the folk dance Cariñosa. Discover how these dance forms creatively convey our complex emotions through different graceful steps. Also, "Sayaw Pilipinas" members Yassi and Sef Cadayona will demonstrate how dancing could be used in telling stories.

Find out how Julian's Valentine's Day ends and learn what it really means when mama says "you just have to wait."

Tropang Potchi is sponsored by Columbia International Food Products, Inc., the makers of Potchi, V-Fresh, My Juiz, Champy and So Lucky Crackers. It airs every Saturday, 9:00am on GMA-7.

Wake up with TV5’s New Daytime Show 'Good Morning Club'

It’s never easy to wake up in the morning and get out of bed. TV5 is giving you a good reason to jumpstart your day with Good Morning Club airing from 5:00 to 7:00am on weekdays. The new daytime magazine program is hosted by Paolo Bediones, Cheryl Cosim, Amy Perez, Martin Andanar, Tintin Bersola-Babao, Chiqui Roa-Puno, Pat Fernandez, Lucky Mercado, Makata Tawanan, and Shalala.

Good Morning Club gives your day a head start with all the latest news, enjoyable features, and other helpful bits of information.

Mothers and homemakers will be delighted with various segments especially catered to them, beginning with “Kumare Klub,” which offers advice on different topics involving motherhood. “Kumare Tips,” meanwhile, deals with other useful ideas regarding household maintenance, handicrafts, and business opportunities. Lastly, “Baon Tips” presents new baon ideas for kids, while “Luto na ba T’yang?” gives valuable tips on budgeting family meals.

Fathers won’t be left behind as well with “Tatay Kong Pogi,” the ultimate daddy manual on how to attain pogi points, not just physically but also by being the main man in the family.

The youth can also enjoy the show with feature segments dedicated to them like “P.O.P. (Pasok o Patok),” a one-stop-shop for the latest craze in fashion, food, gadgets, hang-out spots, and everything pop culture.

To bring the family closer, Good Morning Club also has offerings for the whole family. “Makata Adventures” explores the world of fiestas, events, tourist spots, and places families can explore together. “Ok ka Lang?,” focuses on providing discussions and helpful trivia regarding health, while “Parentin” promotes good hobbies for kids and gives opportunities for viewers to send letters regarding parenting issues. “Chiqui Dance,” meanwhile, serves as the daily family activity by promoting good health thru fun dance routines. Finally, “Love Hearts” aims to iron out relationship dilemmas by feasible resolutions.

Of course, mornings won’t be complete without updates on the latest happenings in and out of the country. Get the freshest news and current affairs issues (Morning Balita), entertainment tidbits (Showbiz Mwah), and weather information (Pana-Panahon).

Mornings never looked this good! Gather the family and wake up with the Good Morning Club barkada! Join the club every day at 5:00-7:30am on TV5 (with simulcast airing over Aksyon TV).

‘Budoy’ Pays Tribute to Education Advocates

ABS-CBN’s biggest family drama series, “Budoy,” continues to inspire viewers not only through its heartwarming scenes but also with its new segment titled “Mga Kuwento ni Budoy: Isang Pagpupugay sa mga Guro at Mag-aaral,” that features short documentaries of ordinary people that showed their utmost dedication to uphold the value of education in the country. It aims to pay tribute to education advocates like 2009 CNN Hero of the Year Efren Peñaflorida.

Meanwhile, “Budoy” fans will surely be glued more on their TV sets as more explosive scenes are yet to be revealed. How will Budoy react upon learning that her Mommy Luisa (ZsaZsa Padilla) and Nanay Elena (Janice de Belen) filed a case against his father Anton (Tirso Cruz III)? Will the Maniegos feel more guilty when they discover that Luisa’s life was put on the line just to save Budoy from the kidnappers?

Don’t dare miss “Budoy,” weeknights, after “E-Boy” on ABS-CBN. For more updates, log on to www. budoy .tv , follow @budoy_tv on Twitter, and ‘like’ www.facebook.com/budoy.tv.

KC Concepcion Reveals Valentine Date

KC Concepcion will celebrate Valentine’s Day, February 14, with not just one person but the whole city of Cebu as she goes to Cebu Institute of Technology-University for the Visayas leg of the highly anticipated singing competition “The X Factor Philippines.”

Before that, KC will also invade Bacolod City this Saturday (Feb 11) and go to Colegio San Agustin to witness if hopefuls from the city of smiles can be the country’s next singing superstar. “The X Factor Philippines” is open to all Filipinos, aged 16 and above, who can sing and who thinks he or she has the ‘x factor.’ Interested Kapamilyas can audition in solo, duo, trio, or group acts.



Those auditioning should bring a minus one CD of their audition piece. First introduced in the UK, “The X Factor” has conquered more than 30 countries as of mid-2011 and produced more than 50 winners around the world, including Melanie Amaro, who became the first season winner of “The X Factor USA” last month. Who will be the first Pinoy “X Factor” winner? Watch out for “The X Factor Philippines,” hosted by KC Concepcion, airing soon on ABS-CBN.