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Velvet, home of the biggest red carpet events, cordially invites everyone as it rolls out the red carpet once again for the exclusive double primetime telecast of the 2011 Miss Universe®, straight from Credicard Hall, Sao Paolo, Brazil on September 13, 7p.m. and 10 p.m.

Now on its 6th decade of showcasing the universe’s most regal-looking and intelligent women, this year’s Miss Universe pageant will be hosted by American TV executive Andrew Cohen and news anchor Natalie Morales.

Home to Miss Universe for four years in a row now, Velvet takes pride in setting the spotlight on our very own Binibining-Pilipinas Universe Shamcey Supsup, who’s currently making buzz in the competition and gaining lots of support from her fellow Filipinos. In an interview, Shamcey shares “Thank you for always praying for me and supporting me. It has been a roller-coaster ride and I’m getting my strength from all the Filipinos who kept on sending me messages on Facebook and Twitter. Thank you. I will be doing my best,”

If Shamcey will make it as the third Filipina to be hailed as Miss Universe, her shining moment will even be more illuminated by the intricately designed, diamond-filled crown from renowned jewelry firm Diamond Nexus Labs. The crown, arrayed with over a thousand diamond simulants, is accented by a series of gorgeous, deep red lab-created rubies to represent Miss Universe’s tireless campaign to promote HIV/AIDS awareness and education. The crown’s repeating oval pattern was inspired by the crowns of modern monarchs to reflect the regality and grace of this exquisite woman.

Different multimedia outlets say that among Shamcey’s tough contenders are candidates from Miss Netherlands, France, Nicaragua, Malaysia and Aruba.
In a Q and A challenge video uploaded on Miss U’s official Youtube page, Miss Netherlands Kelly Weekers said that women’s advantage over men is going “all the way in doing hair and makeup… Woman can also give birth to a beautiful baby.” Shamcey’s reply to the same question was “One advantage we have as women is we rely on intuition. Our intuitions are usually right. We know if you’re lying or not. So guys, don’t ever fool us.”

Witness how a Filipina shines brightly once again amid other equally beautiful and talented women representatives from over 80 countries.No one has confirmed on what evening gown will Shamcey wear at the competition, but it’s rumored to be a dashing pink evening gown, which was designed by Alfredo Barraza, a Colombian fashion designer who is the official designer Binibining Pilipinas winners’ wardrobe for the past years. The venue for the 60th installment of the pageant, the 8000-seater Credicard Hall which was named after a Citigroup-owned credit card operator, is considered to be one of the largest entertainment venue in Brazil and one of the largest in Latin America.

Know more interesting facts on the 2011 Miss Universe by always tuning in to Velvet! Viewers also get the chance to win a Velvet Pamper Weekend Promo, where two girlfriends will be treated to a weekend shopping and relaxation spree. Mechanics and other information on the promo will be aired during the telecast.

Surely a great deal of suffering and discipline for boxers who want to make it big in the arena. This week in “I Dare You,” Kapamilya challengers Bangs Garcia, Jason Francisco, and Paul Jake Castillo pay tribute to boxers who have endured and prevailed over their struggles in and out of the ring.




Paul Jake and Bangs face the hurdles of training. Meanwhile, Melai keeps an eye on Jason Francisco as they help an aspiring boxer, Jesame Dela Cerna and a boxing hotshot with a short-lived fame, Domingo “Pretty Boy” Lucas.

Catch them battle face to face for the benefit of the Bidang Kapamilya boxers in “I Dare You,” on weekday afternoons after “Kapamilya Blockbusters” on ABS-CBN.

Get updates by following it on Twitter via @idareyou2011.

BURBANK, CA, September 7, 2011 – Principal photography began this week on Warner Bros. Pictures’ and Village Roadshow Pictures’ “The Great Gatsby,” the new big screen adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel from the uniquely imaginative mind of writer/producer/director Baz Luhrmann. The filmmaker will create his own distinctive visual interpretation of the classic story, bringing the period to life in a way that has never been seen before. Leonardo DiCaprio stars in the title role.

“The Great Gatsby” follows Fitzgerald-like, would-be writer Nick Carraway as he leaves the Midwest and comes to New York City in the spring of 1922, an era of loosening morals, glittering jazz and bootleg kings. Chasing his own American Dream, Nick lands next door to a mysterious, party-giving millionaire, Jay Gatsby, and across the bay from his cousin, Daisy, and her philandering, blue-blooded husband, Tom Buchanan. It is thus that Nick is drawn into the captivating world of the super rich, their illusions, loves and deceits. As Nick bears witness, within and without the world he inhabits, he pens a tale of impossible love, incorruptible dreams and high-octane tragedy, and holds a mirror to our own modern times and struggles.

Academy Award® nominee DiCaprio (“Blood Diamond,” “Aviator”) plays Jay Gatsby, with Tobey Maguire starring as Nick Carraway; Joel Edgerton and Oscar® nominee Carey Mulligan (“An Education”) as Tom and Daisy Buchanan; Isla Fisher and Jason Clarke as Myrtle and George Wilson; and newcomer Elizabeth Debicki as Jordan Baker. Indian film legend Amitabh Bachchan will play the role of Meyer Wolfsheim.

Oscar® nominee Luhrmann (“Moulin Rouge!”) directs the film in 3D from a screenplay co-written with frequent collaborator Craig Pearce, based on Fitzgerald’s book. Luhrmann produces, along with Catherine Martin, Catherine Knapman, Lucy Fisher and Academy Award® winner Douglas Wick (“Gladiator”). The executive producers are Barrie M. Osborne and Bruce Berman.

Two-time Academy Award®-winning production and costume designer Catherine Martin (“Moulin Rouge!”) also designs with the director. The editors are Jason Ballantine, Matt Villa and Jonathan Redmond, and the director of photography is Simon Duggan.

Luhrmann said, “Fitzgerald loved the movies and was a passionate believer in the power of cinema. “The Great Gatsby” has been adapted for the screen no less than four times. Fitzgerald’s story defies time and geography. The vision and the goal of our remarkable cast and creatives is to do justice to the deftness of Fitzgerald’s telling, and illuminate its big ideas and humanity. This is our challenge and our adventure.”

“The Great Gatsby” is being shot in Luhrmann’s native Australia. The filmmaker stated, “The opportunity to make the film in Australia with the Bazmark creative team is very important to us; the assistance from Screen Australia and the NSW Government has made that possible.”

The film will be distributed in 3D and 2D by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company, and in select territories by Village Roadshow Pictures.

Veteran broadcast journalist Tina Monzon-Palma returns to “Krusada” to champion the welfare of children who are forced to supervise their own households.

Instead of going to school and playing with their friends, Christian Jay and John Mark are compelled to stay at home and look after their siblings.

As the eldest and second eldest children in their respective families, they assume the roles of their parents, who are too occupied with their jobs to take care of their kids.

This Thursday, September 8, in “Krusada,” join Tina, together with Bantay Bata, as she stands up for the rights of kids who have no choice but have their innocence gobbled up by domestic responsibilities.

As a crusader for children’s well-being, Tina believes that children have the right to an adequate amount of play, and more importantly, the access to schooling.

Because it takes more than words to make a stand, listen, take part, and be one with Tina Monzon-Palma’s cause this Thursday, September 8, in “Krusada,” after “Bandila” on ABS-CBN, or catch it earlier at 9:15 pm on DZMM TeleRadyo (SkyCable channel 26).

BURBANK, CA, September 7, 2011 – Principal photography began today on Warner Bros. Pictures’ and Village Roadshow Pictures’ “The Gangster Squad,” starring Oscar® nominees Josh Brolin (“Milk,” “True Grit”) and Ryan Gosling (“Half Nelson,” “Blue Valentine”), Emma Stone (“The Help”) and Academy Award® winner Sean Penn (“Milk,” “Mystic River”), under the direction of Ruben Fleischer (“Zombieland”).

Los Angeles, 1949. Ruthless, Brooklyn-born mob king Mickey Cohen (Sean Penn) runs the show in this town, reaping the ill-gotten gains from the drugs, the guns, the prostitutes and - if he has his way - every wire bet placed west of Chicago. And he does it all with the protection of not only his own paid goons, but also the police and the politicians who are under his control. It’s enough to intimidate even the bravest, street-hardened cop…except, perhaps, for the small, secret crew of LAPD outsiders led by Sgt. John O’Mara (Josh Brolin) and Jerry Wooters (Ryan Gosling), who come together to try to tear Cohen’s world apart.

Shooting entirely in and around Los Angeles, including in many of the actual locations featured in the story, “The Gangster Squad” is a colorful retelling of events surrounding the LAPD’s efforts to take back their nascent city from one of the most dangerous mafia bosses of all time. The screenplay is by Will Beall (TV’s “Castle”), based on Paul Lieberman’s series of articles entitled “Tales From the Gangster Squad.” The film is being produced by Dan Lin (“Sherlock Holmes”), Kevin McCormick (upcoming “The Lucky One”) and Michael Tadross (“Arthur”).

“The Gangster Squad” stars Penn as real-life mobster Mickey Cohen; Brolin and Gosling as the LAPD’s Sgt. John O’Mara and Jerry Wooters; and Stone as Grace Faraday, Cohen’s moll and the object of Wooters’ attention.

The movie also stars Robert Patrick (“Flags of Our Fathers”) as Officer Max Kennard, a deadly cop who patrols the Olvera Street beat; Michael Peña (“Battle Los Angeles”) as Kennard’s over-eager sidekick, Navidad Ramirez; Giovanni Ribisi (“Avatar”) as the force’s Conway Keeler, an electronics expert who takes as much pleasure in fixing his son’s bike as he does tinkering with experimental, military-grade equipment; and Anthony Mackie (“The Adjustment Bureau”) as Coleman Harris, a switchblade-wielding cop who proudly patrols one of the most crime-ridden areas of the city.

Joining Fleischer behind the scenes are the director’s regular collaborators, production designer Maher Ahmad and editor Alan Baumgarten (“30 Minutes or Less,” “Zombieland”), as well as Academy Award®-winning director of photography Dion Beebe (“Memoirs of a Geisha”) and Oscar®-nominated costume designer Mary Zophres (“True Grit”).

“The Gangster Squad” will be distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company, and in select territories by Village Roadshow Pictures.

Eric Bana stars in Columbia Pictures' gripping, action-thriller “Hanna” as a former CIA agent who raises his 16-year-old daughter (Saoirsie Ronan) to be a cold-hearted killing machine. Directed by Joe Wright (“Atonement,” “Pride & Prejudice”) and also starring Cate Blanchett and Saoirse Ronan, “Hanna” will be shown exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas (Glorietta 4 & Greenbelt 3) starting September 21.

Raised by her father in the wilds of Finland, Hanna's upbringing and training have been one and the same, all geared to making her the perfect assassin. The turning point in her adolescence is a sharp one; sent into the world by her father on a mission, Hanna journeys stealthily across Europe while eluding agents dispatched after her by a ruthless intelligence operative with secrets of her own. As she nears her ultimate target, Hanna faces startling revelations about her existence and unexpected questions about her humanity.

At the start of the film, the only person Hanna has in her world is Erik, her widowed father. Actor Eric Bana remembers, “The script reminded me of…nothing; I thought, ‘I haven’t seen this film before.’ I loved that this movie has a teenaged girl as the main character; what an exciting opportunity for Saoirse at this age. Joe’s take on the story fascinated me, so I quickly jumped on board.

“Hanna has to grow up and take on responsibilities, as her parent relinquishes control,” continues Bana. “I’m a parent myself, and I saw Hanna as a heightened version of every parent’s nightmare of their child going off for the first time.”

Bana was also drawn to his character’s complexities. He notes, “There are very traditional fatherly qualities to Erik; he’s a protector and a teacher. He’s forever been preparing Hanna to survive battles both mental and physical, so he’s also like a cruel drill sergeant with her. Yet, when a parent has done a great job of protecting their child from the world, the harsh realities out there are that much more shocking for the child, and Hanna is in real danger.”

Director Joe Wright has nothing but compliments for Bana. “Eric is a terrific actor and is lovely to be around. He is like a ray of light on the set. He’s hilarious, and would keep me smiling on the coldest days in Finland.”

For his part, Bana praises Wright as having “a great sense of humanity, as a person and in his work. He is able to communicate what the scene is about and what he sees in his head, but I know I will still be surprised along with audiences when I see the finished film.”

TV5’s newest daily morning magazine offering is a spin-off to Sapul sa Singko’s mommy-centric segment Kumare Tips following a very positive feedback from the then segment hosted by Amy Perez and Chiqui Roa-Puno. Joining the magkumare Amy and Chiqui in the newest program under TV5 News and Information Division is the newest addition to Kapatid Network, Chistine Bersola Babao.

Tintin, as what she’s widely-known, has been one of the most prominent faces of morning shows since she started co-anchoring her very first morning show with her real-life husband, broadcaster Julius Babao 15 years ago. A hands-on mom to her kids Antonia and Antonio Francesco, the radio-TV host and children’s book author has been supporting advocacies that champion women’s and children’s welfare and right parenting for moms.

“Ever since we launched the segment on Sapul sa Singko, we’ve seen how the viewers, especially mothers who stay at home, patronized every tips Tiyang Amy and Nyora Chiqui deliver in a very light and easy-to-understand manner. They’re watching real mothers themselves who can relate to their daily dealings as manager of household. This prompted the management to produce a standalone show dedicated to mothers,” said Bing Mallari-Maaño, program manager of NEWS5.

“And with Amy, Chiqui and Tintin aboard, we are very hopeful that our viewers will embrace our team’s effort to put up a very informative show for moms,” Bing continued.

Every day, the dynamic trio serves the viewers with exciting dishes of information and solutions that will surely become helpful to every household. Together they solve household concerns with very easy steps and using simple and often-overlooked materials and remedies via “Kumare Tips.” Most of the time, the welfare of their family always comes first for mothers. Through “Kumare Chika,” Ate Tintin, Nyora Chiqui and Tiyang Amy will talk to mothers and look after their personal (and sometimes) relationship problems with light-hearted kwentuhan about domestic trends and bits of showbiz intrigues.

Tiyang Amy talks about potential startup businesses and entrepreneurial activities that mothers can engage in via “NegoTyang; while she gives ideas on what’s good for lunch on “Luto na ba, Tiyang?” Meanwhile, Ate Tin gives a daily dose of parenting tips through “Parentin;” while making sure that moms could stay fab even at home on “Fashionistang Mudra.” Nyora Chiqui, on the other hand, teaches mom to stay fit and live healthy one step at a time via “Chiqui-Chiqui Dance” and “Ok ka lang?” Other must-watch segments are cheap and bargain finds “Pasok sa Budget,” “Pera Pera Lang” with Chinkee Tan and “Palengke Watch” with Rhoda Magnaye.

Don’t miss every episode of Kumare Klub from Monday to Friday, 7am to 8am, after Sapul sa Singko on TV5.

Jasmine Curtis-Smith, Anne Curtis' younger sister and TV5's primetime princess has been vocal about her on JC de Vera, her leading man in the upcoming primetime series "Ang Utol Kong Hoodlum".

So how is JC feeling about this admiration from her leading lady?

"Gaya ng sabi ko, magandang kalalabasan non para sa aming dalawa…ang maging open sa isa’t-isa means walang hesitation even sa work."

However, JC said he has no plans of pursuing any romantic relationship with the 17-year-old Kapatid star since he is currently in a romantic relationship with another TV5 talent, Danita Paner.

Incidentally, JC and Jasmine lead the cast of TV5's upcoming TV adaptation of Robin Padilla blockbuster movie "Ang Utol Kong Hoodlum" which is set to premiere on September 12 right after "Bangis".

"Ang Utol Kong Hoodlum" also stars Jay Manalo, Arci Munoz, Rainier Castillo, Empoy, Carlo Aquino, IC Mendoza, Bella Flores, Flora Gasser, Dennis Padilla, Bau Bollinger, Regine Tolentino, Noel Trinidad and Ara Mina.

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. earlier announced a voluntary recall of some Honda Fit (Jazz in the Philippines) City and CR-V models to replace the power window master switch assembly with countermeasure parts.

Consequently, Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) would like to inform its customers that a total of 19,143 units of combined Yr. ’05-’07 Honda Jazz, Yr. ’06-’08 City and Yr. ’05-’06 CR-V models are included in the safety measure.

The silicon component commonly found in air fresheners or automotive cleaning agents, etc. enters into the power window master switch. This accelerates wear in the contact area and over time, wear particles accumulate between the power source and ground of the unit switch. The resin material of the unit switch is then heated and carbonized. This may cause smoke and in worst case, partial burning of the window switch cover. No accidents or injuries have been reported related to this defect. With the total safety of Honda vehicle users as priority at all times, HCPI is taking this voluntary recall to replace the power window master switch assembly of affected units. Jazz, City and CR-V models with the following frame numbers are included in the voluntary recall (click chart below to enlarge):


Letters of notice will be sent to concerned Jazz, City and CR-V owners starting September 06, 2011. To conduct the voluntary recall in an orderly manner, customers are requested to call their respective dealers or the Honda Hotline at 1-800-1000-Honda (46632) or (02) 857-7240 and visit our website, www.hondaphil.com, for inquiries and details of scheduling. Replacement of affected parts will be carried out in all 28 authorized dealers and 3 service centers nationwide, free of charge and will take no more than 30 minutes.

Owners of Jazz, City and CR-V models not included in the list above have no reason to worry since the affected parts are of different specifications. Other Honda models such as the Civic, Accord, Pilot, Odyssey and HR-V sold and distributed by Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. are likewise not affected.

Andi Eigenmann finally speaks of the obvious.

Two months after her untimely pregnancy came out which started the guessing game on who really is the source of that active gamete, Andi finally named the father of her unborn child. Yes, you're guess is as good as the whole nation - no other than her ex-boyfriend Albie Casiño.

Shocker!!!

On her personal blog "The Good That Won't Come Out Chapter: Deux" at andieigengirl.posterous.com, the young expectant mom wrote as part of her "#welliwasneverreallytheconventionaltype" post on Sunday, September 4:

Maybe instead of feeling bad that Albie left me to take on this responsibility by myself, I should thank him for giving me the opportunity go out and find genuine happiness once again.I'd obviously love for him to be around eventually. You know, to save myself the struggle to find a good way to explain his absence to his child. At the same time, I'd understand. Cus after all, I have no idea who or what kind of a person all the fame and fortune has turned him into now. All I hope is that he's well."

Furthermore, Andi revealed how the father of his unborn child shattered her dreams of a grand wedding and her almost successful career.

I thought, maybe thinking about how my life should be right now, like the freedom and lightness of dreaming of the next wedding of the century, would readily bring me to tears again," Andi said. "Tears of regret in terms of being fully aware of the greatness and success that should have been."

But despite that, Andi said that she remained strong and optimistic, fully accepting the consequences of her action backed with the full support and understanding of his family members.

As soon as I have learned to embrace the fact that instead of having a child at the age of 29, it was blessed upon me as early as now, all those points that would usually bring me to endless tears, have remained to be dreams, STILL highly possible from coming true. This just goes to show that, yes, amidst the lack of maternal instincts and no ounce of being nurturing or maternal whatsoever, I am now undoubtedly ready to raise a child on my own.

"God didn't create us to be immature spoiled brats who have to get everything as planned. Nothing's perfect, but I can assure you one thing: God is awesome and He knows what's best for us, without a doubt. Though not everything may go our way, things will always end up to be just what would keep us happy and contented,"

One day after that revelation, another intriguing message as part of her "#Warning" entry made headlines when Andi said she edited, particularly deleting Albie's name on her previous post, to stop violent reactions from fans who made a big deal out of her revelations. She wrote:

So again, "fans", this blog wasn't created for you to make a big deal out of. This blog should not at all interest those who know who I am due to the fact that they watch me on tv and nothing more. This blog aims to inspire those who want to be inspired. This blog does not need nor care about the idiosyncratic haters. This blog warmly welcomes people who are educated enough to not idolize someone only for its good good looks."

A 21-foot (6.4-meter), 2,370 pounds (1,075 kilograms) male saltwater giant crocodile captured by local villagers along a creek in Bunawan township in Agusan del Sur province in the Philippines is suspected to have an even bigger female partner still lurking around the area.

Local wildlife official Ronnie Sumiller said the local villagers still fear for their lives and will continue their hunt for a possible larger crocodile.

"There is a bigger one, and it could be the one creating problems." Sumiller said.

"The villagers were saying 10 percent of their fear was gone because of the first capture. But there is still the other 90 percent to take care of." he added.

The giant male crocodile caught on Saturday, September 2, by means of a sturdier traps using steel cables was first seen by local farm villagers killing a water buffalo last month and was also suspected of having attacked a fisherman who went missing in July.

It was placed by almost 100 people in a fenced cage in an area where the town plans to build an ecotourism park for species found in a vast marshland in Agusan, an impoverished region about 515 miles (830 kilometers) southeast of Manila.

Tar balls were found washed ashore on Orange Beach in Alabama because of the heavy surf kicked up by Tropical Storm Lee.

According to Mayor of Orange Beach Tony Kennon, the surf was the heaviest seen in the area since last year's Gulf oil spill.

In 2010, oil from the BP spill washed ashore and stained many Gulf Coast beaches.

Kennon did say that many of the reported tar balls are very small – ranging from the size of a marble to nearly the size of a baseball – and that the Alabama Department of Environmental Management is trying to assess the situation. Plans are in motion to test the black tar balls in order to find if they are linked to last year’s oil spills.

According to CBS News, Brandon Franklin, the coastal plans manager for the city of Gulf Shores, said officials are collecting samples that will be sent to Auburn University for testing.

BP is also sending survey teams to conduct assessments along coastal beaches as a result of Lee. If necessary, BP will send additional response crews to deal with affected areas.

Grant Brown, a spokesman for the city of Gulf Shores, told CBS News that the situation does not appear to be as bad as 2010, but added, “It confirms our fear that there are tar mats just offshore and that we may have more tar coming in whenever there's a storm.”

Angeline Quinto is fast becoming one of Philippine showbiz' most important star.

Six months after she was named Star Power first grand star winner, she already accomplished so much. From a sold-out solo concert, a best-selling album, concerts here and abroad, voice behind blockbuster movie, top-rating TV programs and TV plugs and one of ASAP Rocks lead performers, Angeline will now venture into something her favorite singers Regine Velasquez and Sarah Geronimo have also tried and succeeded - movies.

Yes, Angeline is now a movie star. And she is currently filming her first movie project with a working title "You Light Up My Life" opposite Coco Martin.

Coco, according to Angeline, is her ultimate crush in showbiz. The two have shown their chemistry and public appeal when the former surprised Angeline in her "Patuloy Ang Pangarap" first solo concert last July 15 at SM SkyDome. Coco even gave the singer a necklace with a crucifix pendant that became Angeline's most prized jewelries yet.

But, do you think Angeline's star status good enough to be given by Star Cinema a project as big as this? Will the kilig she and Coco brought those who watched her concert turned into a blockbuster movie receipt? That we have to wait and see...

Here are the Top 10 daytime and primetime programs from September 2 to 5, 2011 among Mega Manila households (People Ratings):

September 2, Friday

Daytime:
1. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 11.6%
2. Sisid (GMA-7) - 7.2%
3. Sinner Or Saint (GMA-7) - 6.8%
4. Pahiram ng Isang Ina (GMA-7) - 6.4%
5. Slam Dunk (GMA-7) - 6%
6. Kapuso Movie Festival: Wala Na Bang Pag-ibig (GMA-7) - 5.4%
7. Super Sine 5: Komodo vs. Cobra (TV5) - 5.3%
8. One Piece (GMA-7) - 5.2%
9. Face To Face (TV5) / Gourmet (GMA-7) - 4.6%
10. Showtime (ABS-CBN) - 4.3%

Primetime:
1. Amaya (GMA-7) - 14.5%
2. Munting Heredera (GMA-7) - 13.5%
3. Iglot (GMA-7) - 12.4%
4. Time of My Life (GMA-7) - 12.1%
5. 100 Days To Heaven (ABS-CBN) - 10.2%
6. My Binondo Girl (ABS-CBN) - 10%
7. Bubble Gang (GMA-7) - 9.5%
8. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 9.4%
9. Guns And Roses (ABS-CBN) - 9%
10. TV Patrol (ABS-CBN) - 8.3%

September 3, Saturday

Daytime:
1. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 13.9%
2. World Press Tour: Pacquiao vs. Marquez III Manila Leg (GMA-7) - 7.5%
3. Kapuso Movie Festival: In Your Eyes (GMA-7) - 7.1%
4. Wish Ko Lang! (GMA-7) / 24 Oras Weekend (GMA-7) - 5.7%
5. Sabado Sineplex: Golden Eye (TV5) - 4.7%
6. Maynila (GMA-7) / Showtime (ABS-CBN) - 4.5%
7. TV Patrol Weekend (ABS-CBN) - 3.8%
8. Spongebob Squarepants (TV5) / Ripley's Believe It Or Not! (GMA-7) - 3.1%
9. Johnny Bravo (TV5) - 2.9%
10. I Love So: Autumn's Concerto (ABS-CBN) - 2.8%

Primetime:
1. Kapuso Mo Jessica Soho (GMA-7) - 11.6%
2. Maalaala Mo Kaya (ABS-CBN) - 10.6%
3. Spooky Nights Presents Ang Munting Mahadera (GMA-7) - 10.2%
4. Pilipinas Got Talent (ABS-CBN) - 8.8%
5. Junior Masterchef Pinoy Edition (ABS-CBN) - 8.7%
6. Wil Time Bigtime (TV5) - 8.2%
7. Imbestigador (GMA-7) - 8.1%
8. Manny Many Prizes (GMA-7) - 7.3%
9. Wansapantaym: Ningning Kuting (ABS-CBN) - 6.4%
10. R U Kidding Me? Owws? Hindi Nga? (TV5) - 6.2%

September 4, Sunday

Daytime:
1. ASAP Rocks (ABS-CBN) - 5.5%
2. Iglot Ang Egg-citing Beginning (GMA-7) / Party Pilipinas (GMA-7) - 5.4%
3. Tween Hearts (GMA-7) - 4.9%
4. One Piece (GMA-7) / Growing Up (ABS-CBN) - 4.4%
5. Sunday Sineplex: Lemony Snickets A Series of Unfortunate Events (TV5) - 4.1%
6. The Buzz (ABS-CBN) - 4%
7. Dragon Ball (GMA-7) / TV5 Kids Presents A Disney Movie - 3.9%
8. AHA! (GMA-7) - 3.8%
9. Pinoy Samurai (TV5) - 3.4%
10. Ninoy Sa Puso Ng Pinoy (ABS-CBN) - 3.2%

Primetime:
1. Rated K (ABS-CBN) - 10.9%
2. Pilipinas Got Talent (ABS-CBN) - 10%
3. Kap's Amazing Stories (GMA-7) - 9.9%
4. Talentadong Pinoy (TV5) - 8.6%
5. Goin' Bulilit (ABS-CBN) - 8.5%
6. Pepito Manaloto (GMA-7) - 8.4%
7. Gandang Gabi Vice (ABS-CBN) - 8.3%
8. Sunday Night Box Office: Thunderbolt (GMA-7) - 8.2%
9. Protégé (GMA-7) - 7.6%
10. Sunday Night Box Office: Balasubas (GMA-7) - 7.5%

September 5, Monday

Daytime:
1. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 11.1%
2. Sisid (GMA-7) - 6.6%
3. Slam Dunk (GMA-7) - 6.4%
4. Sinner Or Saint (GMA-7) - 5.8%
5. One Piece (GMA-7) / Pahiram ng Isang Ina (GMA-7) - 4.8%
6. Gourmet (GMA-7) - 4.5%
7. Showtime (ABS-CBN) - 4.4%
8. Kapuso Movie Festival: Kastilyong Buhangin (GMA-7) / The Fierce Wife (ABS-CBN) - 4.1%
9. Face To Face (TV5) / Super Sine 5: Die Hard 2 (TV5) - 4%
10. T3 Kapatid Sagot Kita! (TV5) - 3.8%

Primetime:
1. Munting Heredera (GMA-7) - 13.6%
2. Amaya (GMA-7) - 13.3%
3. Time of My Life (GMA-7) - 12.1%
4. 100 Days To Heaven (ABS-CBN) - 11.6%
5. Iglot (GMA-7) - 10.9%
6. My Binondo Girl (ABS-CBN) - 10.3%
7. Guns And Roses (ABS-CBN) - 9.6%
8. TV Patrol (ABS-CBN) - 9.3%
9. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 9.2%
10. Big Thing (GMA-7) - 8.8%

Source: AGB Nielsen Phils.

Inspired by the recent victory of the three proudly Pinoy cosplayers at the prestigious Singapore Toy, Game and Comic Convention (STGCC), about a hundred aspiring Filipino cosplayers battled it out in the sold-out "Hero Face Off 2: The Ultimate Cosplay Battle" recently at the Megatrade Hall 2, SM Megamall.

Organized by Hero TV, Philippines' most wanted anime channel, and in cooperation with cosplay org giants Anime Alliance and Cosplay.ph, "Hero Face Off 2: The Ultimate Cosplay Battle" took cosplay here in the Philippines a notch higher and a mile further, as it sends this year's Hero Face Off champion to witness one of Asia's biggest anime event, STGCC.

"Everyone's passionate. All of us had a hard time choosing the winners," said Hero TV Channel Head Ruel Ferrer.

Hosted by JC Cuadrado, Tracy Abad and Coleen Garcia, the competition featured Filipino cosplayers from three categories - Kids Squad (Individual), League of Heroes (Group) and Face Off (Individual) - participating in this superb creative battle of not just contumes but characters.

Winners were selected mainly by Ferrer and Marketing Head of ABS-CBN Cable Channels and Print Media Group Christina Lopez.

The grand winner in Face Off category Jan Erick Torres, who portrayed "Final Fantasy's" Warrior of Light, received P30,000 cash prize, plaque from Hero TV, limited-edition Hero TV poster, loot bags and a trip to Singapore to celebrate STGCC 2012. Runner up for this category received P10,000.




In an interview after the event, Torres, who's a freelance graphic artist by profession, revealed he's a newbie in cosplaying with only five months of competing experience. He said, however, that he's extremely passionate in his craft, just like other senior cosplayers.

"I think my edge over other contestants was my strong resemblance with the character I'm protraying. I've also shown a snobbish image, just like the Warrior of Light," Torres said.

A cash prize of P20,000 on the other hand, was given to the grand winner of the League of Heroes Group category, Team Suna, while P15,000 was received by Bolen Lareza, the first palcer of the Kids Squad Category. Vash prizes for the runners-up of each categories will also be given.

Meanwhile, reigning Hero Face Off champions Mary Grace Roldan and Stephanie Sumbe, who both received a Special Jury Prize in STGCC, thanked everyone who supported their cosplay stint in Singapore.

To see the complete list of winners, log on to www.myheronation.com, www.animealliance.asia/faceoff, or www.cosplay.ph. Hero Face Off 2 was also made possible by ABS-CBN Multimedia, ABS-CBN Licensing and official gaming partner Amped.

Get inspired by our new and seasoned Hero TV champions and fulfill your destiny of becoming that hero that you always aspire to be. Hero TV (SkyCable Channel 44) is available on Sky Cable Gold, Sky Cable Silver and in over 200 quality cable operators nationwide.

A 21-foot (6.4-meter), 2,370 pounds (1,075 kilograms) male saltwater giant crocodile captured by local villagers along a creek in Bunawan township in Agusan del Sur province in the Philippines is suspected to have an even bigger female partner still lurking around the area.

Local wildlife official Ronnie Sumiller said the local villagers still fear for their lives and will continue their hunt for a possible larger crocodile.

"There is a bigger one, and it could be the one creating problems." Sumiller said.

"The villagers were saying 10 percent of their fear was gone because of the first capture. But there is still the other 90 percent to take care of." he added.

The giant male crocodile caught on Saturday, September 2, by means of a sturdier traps using steel cables was first seen by local farm villagers killing a water buffalo last month and was also suspected of having attacked a fisherman who went missing in July.

It was placed by almost 100 people in a fenced cage in an area where the town plans to build an ecotourism park for species found in a vast marshland in Agusan, an impoverished region about 515 miles (830 kilometers) southeast of Manila.

Anne Curtis, for the 6th time, is on the cover of Preview Magazine for its September issue.

Aside from Anne, this month's issue also features topics like Preview Emerging Fashion Talent Awards, 12 Top Beauty Trends from the A/W Catwalks, and a special features on Mon Tulfo and Georgina Wilson, etc.

Preview Magazine September 2011 issue is now available at all magazine stands and selected bookstores and supermarkets nationwide.

UAAP Season 74 Men's Basketball Team Standing as of September 5, 2011:

1. Ateneo Blue Eagles, Ateneo de Manila University: 13W-1L
2. Adamson Soaring Falcons, Adamson University: 9W-4L
3. FEU Tamaraw, Far Eastern University: 8W-4L
4. UST Tigers, University of Sto. Tomas: 7W-5L
5. DLSU Green Archers, De La Salle University: 5W-7L
6. NU Bulldogs, National University: 4W-8L
7. UE Red Warriors, University of the East: 2W-11L
8. UP Fighting Maroons, University of the Philippines: 2W-11L

Meanwhile, here is the remaining game schedules of UAAP Season 74 Round 2:

Thursday, September 8
Smart – Araneta Coliseum
1PM DLSU vs NU
3PM UST vs FEU

Saturday, September 10
Smart – Araneta Coliseum
1PM UP vs UE
3PM ADMU vs ADU

Sunday, September 11
Smart – Araneta Coliseum
1PM NU vs UST
3PM FEU vs DLSU

From the producers of the Oscar-winning film “The Blind Side” comes Warner Bros.' heartwarming family adventure, “Dolphin Tale” which is inspired by the amazing true story of a brave dolphin and the compassionate strangers who banded together to save her life.

Dolphins and humans have always shared an intriguing symbiosis despite the natural divide of land and water. Their gentle spirits, smiling expressions and undeniable intelligence captivate us, and dolphins, likewise, seem drawn to the people who venture in or onto the oceans they call home…sometimes to their own detriment. Throughout the years, there have been many tales of dolphins saving the lives of people. In the feature film “Dolphin Tale,” a few dedicated humans join together to return the favor.

Director Charles Martin Smith offers, “One of the larger themes of the film is that we - people, animals, nature - are all in this together. We are part of an overall community that extends beyond our human family, and I think the movie speaks to that in a meaningful and entertaining way, with both humor and heart.”

“Dolphin Tale” has its origins in a story that would be almost impossible to believe if it weren’t true. In December 2005, a fisherman in Florida happened on a baby dolphin that had become entangled in the ropes of a crab trap, cutting off the circulation to her tail. Critically injured, the young animal was transported to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA), where she eventually lost her tail altogether, increasing the odds against her survival. However, the people working 24/7 to help Winter - as the dolphin was named - were determined to defy those odds, and Winter’s own will to live trumped all the cards she’d been dealt. Her miraculous recovery was due, in large part, to an ingenious prosthetic tail. It is held on via a revolutionary sleeve made out of a super-soft, flexible, durable material, dubbed “Winter’s Gel,” which not only saved her life but has since changed the lives of physically challenged people around the world.

It wasn’t long before the media became aware of the events unfolding in Florida, which is how the story came to the attention of producer Richard Ingber. He recalls, “I was watching morning television when a piece about Winter came on that stopped me in my tracks. I was completely caught up in it and immediately realized the potential for a great family film that would be appealing to audiences of any age.”

Producer Andrew A. Kosove says, “‘Dolphin Tale’ is about overcoming adversity, about persistence, and about courage - qualities that human beings can relate to at a very core level. What makes it even more special is that those qualities are seen through the experiences of an animal.”

“Andrew and I have always gravitated to these kinds of inspirational movies,” adds producer Broderick Johnson. “From ‘My Dog Skip’ to ‘The Blind Side’ and now ‘Dolphin Tale’…these are stories that lift people up. When you hear about Winter - and especially when you meet her - it’s a life-affirming experience, regardless of your age or background or circumstance. We wanted to capture that feeling in the movie.”

“As soon as I heard about Winter, I just knew I had to do this film,” director Charles Martin Smith says. “I thought it was delightful and very much the kind of movie I’m interested in making. I also loved the idea of approaching it from a child’s point of view because children and animals have a kind of innocence and purity, and I really wanted to emphasize that bond.”

Opening soon across the Philippines in 3D and regular theaters, “Dolphin Tale” is distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.

A 21-foot (6.4-meter) male saltwater giant crocodile was captured by villagers along a creek in Bunawan township in Agusan del Sur province in the Philippines last Saturday, September 2, 2011.

According to town Mayor Edwin Cox Elorde, the giant crocodile weighing about 2,370 pounds (1,075 kilograms) was placed by almost 100 people in a fenced cage in an area where the town plans to build an ecotourism park for species found in a vast marshland in Agusan, an impoverished region about 515 miles (830 kilometers) southeast of Manila.

The giant crocodile was first seen by local farm villagers killing a water buffalo last month and was also suspected of having attacked a fisherman who went missing in July.

After initial sightings, villagers and veteran hunters set four traps, which the crocodile destroyed. They then used sturdier traps using steel cables, one of which finally caught the giant crocodile late Saturday.

Happy Feet penguin, the penguin found on a beach near Wellington in New Zealand in mid-June and became a worldwide celebrity, was released back into the Southern Ocean on Sunday, September 5, to begin a long swim home to Antarctica.

The 27.5 kilograms (60.5 pounds) emperor penguin, dubbed Happy Feet, was released into the water from the New Zealand fisheries vessel Tangaroa near Campbell Island, about 700 kilometres (435 miles) south of New Zealand's South Island.

His home in Antarctica is about 2,000 kilometres further south and it is expected he will join up with other emperor penguins on the long voyage.

The three-and-a-half-year-old bird had travelled south in a custom-made crate designed to keep him cold and comfortable during the voyage.


Watch the video here:

Matteo Guidicelli was man enough to apologize and face the consequences brought about by the fistfight incident between him and fellow Kapamilya actor Coco Martin early Sunday morning, September 4, infront of Salon de Ning Bar at the Manila Peninsula Hotel in Makati (read related article HERE).

Matteo made his public apology on Monday afternoon, September 5, during the live airing of ABS-CBN daily noontime show "Happy Yipee Yehey!" where he is one of the co-hosts.


Here is the full transcript of Matteo's apology:

I'm very, very sorry for what happened. It was a very unnecessary matter.

Sorry talaga sa nangyari. Sa lahat ng mga fans. Sa lahat ng mga bosses namin, sorry talaga po.

Tita Cory, nandun po sya eh. Sir Deo, nandun sila. Sorry talaga.

At sa lahat ng mga direktor at sa lahat ng mga taong naaapekto, the biggest sorry...the biggest sorry. I'm very sad.

You know Kuya John (referring to the show's main host John Estrada who was beside him during the time he airs his apology) nandito ako bilang artista para magpapasaya ng tao, para mag-smile sila...pero heto we had a problem and I'm very, very sorry.

Gagawa po ako ng paraan para maging maayos ang lahat.

And yun, I love you guys"

Andi Eigenmann finally speaks of the obvious.

Two months after her untimely pregnancy came out which started the guessing game on who really is the source of that active gamete, Andi finally named the father of her unborn child. Yes, you're guess is as good as the whole nation - no other than her ex-boyfriend Albie Casiño.

Shocker!!!

On her personal blog "The Good That Won't Come Out Chapter: Deux" at andieigengirl.posterous.com, the young expectant mom wrote as part of her "#welliwasneverreallytheconventionaltype" post on Sunday, September 4:

Maybe instead of feeling bad that Albie left me to take on this responsibility by myself, I should thank him for giving me the opportunity go out and find genuine happiness once again.I'd obviously love for him to be around eventually. You know, to save myself the struggle to find a good way to explain his absence to his child. At the same time, I'd understand. Cus after all, I have no idea who or what kind of a person all the fame and fortune has turned him into now. All I hope is that he's well."

Furthermore, Andi revealed how the father of his unborn child shattered her dreams of a grand wedding and her almost successful career.

I thought, maybe thinking about how my life should be right now, like the freedom and lightness of dreaming of the next wedding of the century, would readily bring me to tears again," Andi said. "Tears of regret in terms of being fully aware of the greatness and success that should have been."

But despite that, Andi said that she remained strong and optimistic, fully accepting the consequences of her action backed with the full support and understanding of his family members.

As soon as I have learned to embrace the fact that instead of having a child at the age of 29, it was blessed upon me as early as now, all those points that would usually bring me to endless tears, have remained to be dreams, STILL highly possible from coming true. This just goes to show that, yes, amidst the lack of maternal instincts and no ounce of being nurturing or maternal whatsoever, I am now undoubtedly ready to raise a child on my own.

"God didn't create us to be immature spoiled brats who have to get everything as planned. Nothing's perfect, but I can assure you one thing: God is awesome and He knows what's best for us, without a doubt. Though not everything may go our way, things will always end up to be just what would keep us happy and contented,"

Kim Chiu, Manny Pacquiao and Rajo Laurel - three big names in their chosen fields collaborates with the organizer store Beabi for their Limited Artist Edition 2011 Tote Bag and Bag Organizer.

The three celebrities were asked to design bags that reflect their personalities and will be sold at Beabi stores in Greenbelt 5, Robinsons Galleria, SM Mall of Asia, Robinsons Place Manila, TriNoMa, SM North EDSA, Eastwood City, and SM Fairview for a retail price of Php 1,395 for medium sized bag and Php 1,695 for the large bag that comes with a nice zippered pouch.

Part of the proceeds goes to the three celebrities' chosen charities: Bantay Bata, Bantay Kalikasan and Pacqman Partnerships for the Poor.

Daniel Padilla, ABS-CBN's next big teen star and Kathryn Bernardo's loveteam in Sunday teen-oriented program "Growing Up", feels so much blessed with the recent happenings on his career.

The teen actor said he is determined to make it big in showbiz and is willing to learn more from from his co-stars. In fact, he said that he always asks pointers from his mom, former actress Karla Padilla.

Catch Daniel every Sunday afternoon on "Growing Up" right after "ASAP Rocks".

Jessica Alba, who gave birth to her second baby, Haven, with husband Cash Warren on August 13, shows off her post-baby body as she made her way around L.A. this weekend with her oldest daughter, Honor.

Her secrets? The Hollywood star tweeted:

I did my first day of wrkout since I had the baby, just cardio for 40 min. -it's a start. Anyone else starting a fitness regimen? - August 31

- stationary bike and elliptical. - August 31

- cardio do interval training 4 at least 30min and circuit training with light weights, plyometrics 4 at least 30 min. - August 31

- i would keep ur diet as healthy as possible 6 days a wk and give urself 1 day to indulge. - August 31

- start with walking and throw in 3 sets of lunges 20 per leg. U could do it while strolling ur baby. - August 31

- commit to 10 min a day for a wk then add another 10 until u get up 2 40 min a day. It's easier to ease into it. - August 31

- my doc told me I could start after 2 wks. -im going light, stationary bike and elliptical. - August 31

- Wrked out w trainer 2day... My legs r still shaky. - September 2

Denise Laurel, one of Kapamilya's fast-rising sexy actress, suddenly gone out of showbiz limelight after her alleged pregnancy surfaced during the taping of her defunct primetime series "Kristine".

But few months after her absence, Denise granted "The Buzz" host Boy Abunda an exclusive interview where she finally admitted that she has already given birth to her first son.

In a report by Shiela Reyes on abs-cbnnews.com, Denise said the first thing that came to her mind after finding out that she was pregnant was her family.

“The moment I found out, the first thing that came into my mind was my family. Iyon parati ang una kong iniisip eh. I come from a very strict family, very conservative… I was just thinking how they would react although I never ever thought, not even once, that this was a mistake,” she said.

Denise said her family got disappointed when she told them about the baby but they still stood by her through everything.

“I thought they would kick me out of the house. I thought they would be very angry. Not once did they raise their voice. They were disappointed but they talked to me, they asked me if I love the father, if I’m ready for this. Bali-baliktarin mo man ang mundo, ang pamilya mo ang nandyan para sa iyo. My family has always been there for me. Not even thank you is enough. I’m just so thankful that I have people in my life like them,” she said.

The sexy actress, however, refused to name the father of her son.

“All I can say is he is not an actor. He is not a personality. In respect sa pamilya niya, hindi ko na lang sasabihin ang pangalan niya. We are still together. I can say that he provides for his family. He is a great father. We are just working on things as they come along,” she said.

The actress stressed she does not regret anything even though she had her baby at the peak of her career.

“Ang tagal ko in this industry. I’ve been in showbiz for 13 years. Everybody is always telling me ‘Bakit ang bagal bago ka sumikat? Bakit hindi ka pinapakanta? Bakit ayaw kang bigyan ng lead role?’ I always say the same thing, ‘In God’s time.’ Now if God gave me a taste of what I want, I got a taste of it. I really work hard. I love every part of it so there’s nothing to be sad about because I’ve met so many beautiful people… there’s no regrets because what’s to say I can’t work again?” she said.

Asked why she is revealing everything just now, Laurel said: “Para masagot ko iyong mga tanong. I wanted to do it in a time na hindi magulo, hindi stressful, 'yung I can face everybody happy and show them what I really feel.”

Maja Salvador finally admitted her true relationship with actor Matteo Guidicelli on her interview with Boy Abunda last Sunday, September 4, on "The Buzz".

Due to the recent altercation involving Matteo and Coco Martin that happened at the Star Magic Ball event early Sunday morning (read related article HERE), Maja sees no other choice but to admit her relationship with Matteo despite their previous constant denials.

Boy asked: "Maja, may relasyon ba kayo ni Matteo Guidicelli?" which Maja, who was in tears, answered "Opo Tito Boy".

But the young actress followed her statement with, "Pero pagkatapos po nung nangyari kagabi, 'di ko po alam kung saan pupunta." referring to the brawl the happened between her boyfriend and former teleserye loveteam.

When asked by Boy if she was the reason behind the fistfight, the actress said "Opo."




According to "The Buzz" report Matteo saw Coco kissed Maja on the lips, thus making the former mad and started the fight.

Coco Martin and Matteo Guidicelli's brawl that happened right after the Star Magic Ball event this morning at the Manila Peninsula hotel in Makati City is a case of simple misunderstanding according to a statement released by Star Magic Public Relations Manager Thess Gubi.

"What happened was just a simple misunderstanding. Both Coco and Matteo are sorry it happened. Everything has been resolved." the statemet said.




According to a report posted at PEP scoopbox, the incident happened inside the hotel where the two Kapamilya actors were seen involved in a fistfight because of Maja Salvador, Matteo's girlfriend and Coco's leading lady in the recently concluded ABS-CBN primetime teleserye "Minsan Lang Kita Iibigin".

Nagkaroon ng away sa pagitan nina Coco Martin at Matteo Guidicelli pagkatapos ng Star Magic Ball. Ayon sa report nagsuntukan daw ang dalawang Kapamilya actors sa Salon de Ning sa loob pa rin ng Manila Peninsula. Selos diumano ang ugat ng away ng dalawa dahil kay Maja Salvador, na balitang girlfriend ni Matteo at naging kapareha naman ni Coco sa isang teleserye. Ayon pa sa report, tinawag diumanong "faggot" ni Matteo si Coco kaya nagalit ang huli at sinuntok ang una. Si Maja raw mismo ang umawat sa dalawa, pero duguan daw ang mukha ni Matteo. Isang source naman ang nagsabing matagal nang may conflict sa dalawang aktor, pero hindi niya alam na aabot sa ganitong punto ang lahat."

One eyewitness, meanwhile, said Matteo started the fight but he ended up to be the most hurt in the incident.

"Mukhang okay naman sila habang naglalakad papuntang Salon de Ning pero biglang nalang parang sinasakal na ni Matteo si Coco. Then, lumaban si Coco at sinuntok si Matteo. Nagkagulo na hanggang dumating si Maja at iba pang Star Magic talents and officials para umawat. Pero mukhang badly hurt si Matteo. He's in blood." tells the eyewitness.

In "The Buzz" late this afternoon, Maja appeared on the show and talked about the incident. The "Thelma" star revealed that she and Matteo are already in a serious relationship.Although she declined to disclose the reason behind the incident, Maja admitted that she causes the two actor's fight.

Completing the list are Paulo Avelino, Aly Borromeo, Ahron Villena, Anton del Rosario, Enzo Pineda, Ejay Falcon, Enrique Gil, Hideo Muraoka and James Younghusband.

This year‘s Cosmo Bachelor Bash will take place on September 15, 2011, at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

Photos: rddantes

A 7.0-magnitude earthquake hit off the coast of the South Pacific island of Vanuatu on Sunday, the US Geological Survey (USGS)said, but there was no tsunami warning issued.

The quake struck just before 10 am (2255 GMT Saturday) at a depth of 132 kilometres (82 miles), around 350 kilometres southeast of the capital Port Vila.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said there was no destructive tsunami generated.

Vanuatu lies on the so-called "Pacific Ring of Fire", a zone of frequent seismic activity caused by friction between shifting tectonic plates.

New 7 Wonders of Nature poll update as of September 4, 2011 based on a demographic voting trends:

Among Male voters, the Palawan Underground River currently ranks at no. 26 or 3rd to the last. The most popular among male voters worldwide is the Uluru in Australia.

Among Female voters, on the other hand, the Palawan Underground River ranks 2nd to Halong Bay in Vietnam. So it means more women are voting for our national treasure than men.

Among Children voters (17 years old and below), the Palawan Underground River ranks 3rd while among Adult voters, the Philippine entry ranks 26th.


Here's a short video for Puerto Princesa Underground River with the discovery of the 20 million year old Sirenia Fossil:

Mario Maurer, the famous Thai heartthrob, will be here in the Philippines sooner than you think!

Yes, the "Crazy Thing Called Love" and "Love of Siam" star has a latest movie which will be shown in Philippine theaters starting September 7, 2011 - a horror movie titled "Bangkok Ghost Stories" also known in Thailand as “Rahtree Reborn” (Buppha Rahtree 3.1) where he plays the role of a boy who fell in love with a dead girl.


Bangkok Ghost Stories - Synopsis:

Surrounded by tranquility of the apartment, a horrible spirit in the room 609 is lurking, and going to be awaken. This time the terrors are triplex.

It is time for Oscar apartment to renovate after the death of the former owner. Now, it’s J’Sam who takes over the whole business and stealthily turns the third floor into an illegal casino. Meanwhile, Rang, a handsome guy who has a job as horror cartoonist moves in for a personal reason. As Rang has a supernatural ability to see ghost, he finally meets Buppha, a mysterious girl who lives in the room 609. Soon, He falls in love with her.

When love is blind, Rang isn’t aware that his crush indeed is the haunting and dangerous spirit that he needs to avoid. But he is too late when his sweet dream turns to nightmare as Buppha is now on the rage again.

And the bloody horror love story begins…..


Bangkok Ghost Stories - Trailer:

Juan Manuel Marquez objective is to knock out Filipino pound-for-pound boxing champ Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao to assure his victory in their upcoming fight on November 12 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

"It is necessary to knock him out," Marquez told BoxingScene.com.

Marquez said that he does not want the fight to be decided by the judges' scorecards.

"When we fought, I landed more power shots, but the judges didn't see it that way," he said.

The November 12 fight will be the two boxer's 3rd meeting in the boxing arena.

The first 2 bouts between the 2 fighters were controversial.

In 2004, Pacquiao settled for a draw, despite knocking down Marquez 3 times in the first round. While their 2008 rematch ended in a split decision victory for Pacquiao.

Anne Hathaway's performance in the movie "One Day" receives good reviews from film critics. And following that, Anne reportedly landed a starring role in the film version of "Les Miserables."

In February, Anne performed her rendition of "On My Own" for Hugh Jackman during the Oscars event where the actress co-hosted with James Franco.

Now, Broadway World is reporting that Hathaway is in contention to play Fantine in Tom Hooper's adaptation of the hit opposite Jackman who is set to play Jean Valjean.

On what’s happening to her Marilyn Monroe tattoo:

I’m removing it. It is a negative character, as she suffered from personality disorders and was bipolar. I do not want to attract this kind of negative energy in my life.

On her navel piercing:

Oh, this? I did it when I was 16-years-old because I was a fan of Britney Spears. The only time I tried to imitate someone else. But then I thought it was tacky and so I removed it when I turned 20.

On being dubbed as a ’sex-bomb’:

What they call me sexy is not something that I can operate or shut down at will, but something that shines through as a journey, from how I talk, how I move. On the screen, I seem very sure of myself, but the real world is the place where I feel more conflict.

On if she’d be happy if she had a daughter who wanted to be an actress:

I would not be happy but wouldn’t prevent her from doing so. I just would hope [my child] had a strong character, because you have to be strong to do this job. If she was weak and too emotional, I would not advise it.

On whether there’s something about her body that she dislikes:

Of course, I have a lot of flaws. But I do not tell them – ever.

On how she stays so fit:

For a year and a half, until about four months ago, I followed a strict vegan diet based on raw fruits and vegetables, no bread, sugar and coffee. But I had lost too much weight. So now I eat a bit of everything. I train three times a week doing circuit training (a series of exercises with tools that improve muscle power, etc) with my trainer Harley Pasternak (the guru of the five factors Diet).

Aside from “Friends with Kids”, Megan Fox is also in the cast of “The Dictator” with Sascha Baron Cohen, the new Judd Apatow film “This is Forty” starring Leslie Mann, Jason Segel and Paul Rudd, and “Luna” with Chris Evans and Zoe Saldana.

Imogen Poots (“28 Weeks Later,” “V for Vendetta”) is an emerging actress on the rise who challenges herself with each new role and continues to evolve with each project she takes on. Now she stars in DreamWorks Pictures’ new horror thriller “Fright Night” as Amy, Charley’s (Anton Yelchin) beautiful and popular girlfriend who’s highly coveted by Jerry (Colin Farrell), the vampire-next-door.

“When I first read the screenplay, it was exciting because there’s a real combination of horror and humor,” Poots says. “It’s not a purely gruesome film. It has real character. Amy’s relationship with Charley is sweet. As the story unfolds, they’re obviously on this adventure together. It’s really about what they learn about one another, and themselves.”

Q: What do you think about our culture’s fascination with vampires?
Imogen Poots: I think the fascination has developed because the vampire is such a malleable creature and represents hyper-sexuality and religious imagery. “Fright Night” is a movie that goes back to the original form of the vampire, which is that they are predators in a horror environment.

Q: Did both you and director Craig Gillespie have the same ideas for your character? A: I believe we did. We didn’t want her to be dismissed as “just the girlfriend,” an object for the male protagonist to bounce off of. We also wanted her to take part in some of the humor and find a dynamic there that was light and poignant and real.

Q: How was it doing battle with a vampire?
A: Well, Charley and Amy are battling a vampire but they’re also battling to not lose their innocence. That's part of why you love them and want it to work out for them. They don’t understand the greater force that Jerry personifies, which is everything you have no control over and succumb to in the world. They don’t understand that there are things in the world that make you seem completely insignificant.

Q: How embarrassing are your intimate scenes with Anton Yelchin?
A: They're not too embarrassing. You just get on with it.

Q: Marti Noxon, the film’s screenwriter, has said that she was conscious of giving your character more to do and making her more empowered in the film. Did you feel you were playing a strong character?
A: That's definitely how I felt. Playing a girl who was strong, had an arc, was a character in her own right and got to be funny was key for me. It really elevates Amy’s character and takes it somewhere. Craig really cared about the characters and making a character based film, too.
Q: Do you believe in the supernatural?
A: I think you've got to be open to something out there. The whole idea of us being here on this planet is pretty peculiar to start with, so I think it's good to have an open mind to things both scientific and spiritual.

Q: How was working with Colin Farrell?
A: He's a very intelligent man, charming and a very gentle, extraordinary, fun actor. I love him. Plus, the film we were making is fun and watching him transform into Jerry the vampire was really intriguing.

Opening across the Philippines on Sept. 07 in 3D and regular format, “Fright Night is a DreamWorks Picture distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures International through Columbia Pictures.