SBNLifestyle

September 2, 2019

Violeta Bayawa and Julius Cawaling Named Latest “Tawag Ng Tanghalan” Grand Finalists

Singers Violeta Bayawa of Dipolog, Zamboanga del Norte and Julius Cawaling of Bacoor, Cavite were hailed as the newest grand finalists of "Tawag ng Tanghalan" on "It's Showtime" after their voices prevailed in the Quarter 4 semifinals that concluded last Saturday (August 31).

Fan favorite Violeta, 70, earned the combined score of 88.82% from audience votes and judges' scores after she offered a touching performance of "Saan Ka Man Naroroon" and got the studio audience, hurados, and viewers emotional when her daughter, through the help of the program, saw her father - the man Violeta married and still loves - for the first time.

Following her was Julius, a 38-year-old singer who belongs to a band that helps underprivileged kids buy school supplies, who earned a combined score of 61.61%. His version of "Titanium" impressed judge Ogie Alcasid, who said the grand finalist kept getting better and better.

Both of them won P150,000 each and the chance to become this year's "Tawag ng Tanghalan" grand champion versus other grand finalists Elaine Duran, Ranillo Enriquez, John Mark Saga, John Michael Dela Cerna, Charizze Arnigo, and Jonas Oñate.

After the "Tawag ng Tanghalan" semifinals, more surprises are in store for the madlang people as "It's Showtime" continues its countdown to celebrate its tenth anniversary in October.

The fun and competition continues in the "Instant Rebak" week of "Tawag ng Tanghalan," where 16 'resbakers' selected by the judges will face off with each other beginning on Monday (September 2).

Don't miss the talented Pinoy singers as they battle for supremacy in "Tawag ng Tanghalan," in the noontime variety show "It's Showtime," Mondays to Saturdays in ABS-CBN and ABS-CBN HD (Sky Cable ch 167).

For updates, like www.facebook.com/TawagNgTanghalan and follow @tntabscbn on Twitter. TO watch the program's episode online, just download the iWant app (iOs and Andoid) or register via iwant.ph.

By: JENG On 9/02/2019 10:25:00 PM

Miss Universe Philippines Gazini Ganados Takes Over the Throne

ABS-CBN Lifestyle continues its line of aspirational personalities turned online life and style gurus now in the person of this year's crowned Binibining Pilipinas - Universe Gazini Ganados.

Gazini, who hails from Cebu and is the country's next bet at the much-anticipated Miss Universe 2019, takes a breather from her pageant preparations by writing about her journey, insights, and helpful beauty queen-approved life hacks as this month's ABS-CBN Lifestyle Inspo.

Meanwhile, the celebrity lifestyle site strengthens its watch on the much-awaited ABS-CBN Ball 2019, happening on September 14 (Saturday). It will be on full force covering the hottest stars, outfits, and happenings on the red carpet real-time.

It will also feature the bigger reason behind the Ball, which is a benefit event for Bantay Bata 163's Bantay Edukasyon Program. The site will likewise put the spotlight on celebrity designers participating at the fashion event, who have causes of their own.

Check out the exciting reads and videos with Gazini, the newest #ABSCBNLifestyleInspo. Catch more Inspiring Stellar Stories on ABS-CBN Lifestyle by logging on to Lifestyle.ABS-CBN.com and following the site through its social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter @abscbnlifestyle.

By: JENG On 9/02/2019 10:14:00 PM

August 31, 2019

Get Reel Mobile Shorts Film Festival 2019 Winners - Full List

Get Reel Mobile Shorts Film Festival 2019, a film festival presented by McJim Classic Leather, has chosen the winners from among seven incredibly inspiring, heart-rending, and relatable mobile shorts entries shot solely with smartphones. The use of a device that almost all Filipinos have access to levelled the playing field for aspiring filmmakers who were asked to share their stories depicting the modern Filipino gentleman and the values he holds dear.

Get Reel is understandably proud to have provided an avenue for such filmmakers who rose to the challenge and turned out truly remarkable and impressive works. The following winners were announced in an awards ceremony held last August 30 at Cinema 1, Fisher Mall.

Among scores of creative entries, seven films were chosen as finalists with Dylan Ray Talon’s Walang Hanggang Ligaya Sa Una Mong Ngiti and James Edward Golla’s May Love Life Na Si Pepito Jr. bagging most of the coveted awards.

Talon’s Walang Hanggang Ligaya Sa Una Mong Ngiti won the grand prize for the festival, the McJim Prize for Best Mobile Short Film, winning P50,000.

The said film also bagged Best Director for Dylan Ray Talon, worth P25,000, and Best in Cinematography, worth P10,000.

Meanwhile, May Love Life Na Si Pepito Jr. by Golla won Best Screenplay and Best Comedy, with prizes worth P20,000 and P25,00 respectively.

Mark Jason Sucgang’s Pitaka won P25,000 for the Get Reel Viral Shorts Award; John Carlo Balasbas Tarobal’s Champion won P10,000 for Best Inspirational Story; and Roy Robert Rusiana’s Kabilin bagged P25,000 for Best Drama.

The judges also gave acting citations to actors and actresses in the film for their noteworthy performances.

Citations were awarded to Russel Ian Paguia for May Lovelife Na Si Pepito Jr.; Jorrybell Agoto for Walang Hanggang Ligaya Sa Una Mong Ngiti;Jonathan Oraño for Pitaka; Marialyn Tamarra for Cotard Syndrome; Philip Carlo Ty and King Richard Visto for Kabilin; and James Lohoman, Shawn Villete and Carlo Tarobal for Champion.

McJim Classic Leather presented this cutting-edge event to give aspiring filmmakers a chance to share their content with a massive audience in the digital age where short films have become a way to spread meaningful and timely messages, and mobile devices have become a tool for creating relevant content.

The brand has garnered recognition in international film festivals for viral and unforgettable short films like Bag, Sinturon and Pitaka, which were created and produced in collaboration with award-winning filmmaker Chris Cahilig, Get Reel Mobile Shorts Film festival’s director.

With intent to affirm the uniqueness of Filipino artistry and excellence before a global audience, McJim continues to innovate through efforts such as the Get Reel Mobile Shorts Festival, which showcases the very same values that the brand pursues when creating McJim products.

Closer to home, however, the brand believes that it can prove to Filipinos that local products are of world-class quality and that Filipino values are truly worth emulating.

All film genres were allowed in the mobile shorts film festival, as long as McJim leather products like bags, belts, and wallets were used as organic parts of the narratives.

Winning entries will be uploaded in the official McJim Classic Leather Facebook page.

By: JENG On 8/31/2019 07:54:00 PM

August 28, 2019

Cetaphil and Watsons Launch National Healthy Skin Mission

Does your face feel clean but not tight after you wash it?

Does your face feel hydrated and well moisturized?

Is it free from scales and flakes? Do you use sunscreen to protect your skin from having sun spots?

If you answered yes to all four, then you have healthy skin, the four components of which are eveness, smooth texture, hydration, and normal sensations.

You may have skin that looks beautiful and glowing but it is not necessarily healthy.

Cetaphil, the most prescribed skin care brand by dermatologists in the Philippines recently launched National Healthy Skin Mission, an educational campaign that aims to educate Filipinos on how to achieve healthy skin.

Healthy skin looks and feels smooth. The key word is consistent. It does not have to be as smooth as glass. Consistent skin color is also a sign of good health. Plump skin is also a sign that it is well hydrated.

"National Healthy Skin Mission is an effort initiated by Cetaphil in partnership with Watsons. As Cetaphil’s brand purpose is to improve lives of Filipino’s through healthy skin. It is consistent with Galderma's commitment to promoting healthy skin as part of a healthy lifestyle. To be completely healthy, you also need healthy skin," said Cetaphil Brand Manager, Francesca Sy

"We are very happy to be partnering with Galderma and Cetaphil for National Healthy Skin Mission. At Watsons, we believe that you can look good, feel great by being healthy inside and out," said Watson’s Category Manager, Aimee Pernia

As part of the National Healthy Skin Mission, Cetaphil imparts that there are different skin types. A complicated skin care routine is not the key to healthy skin. What is important is to come up with a skin care routine that is geared toward your skin type and skin issues.

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is the most iconic product of Cetaphil. It is fragrance-free, has a pH level of 5.5 and is even gentler than water. It is the gentlest cleanser you can use on your skin, whatever your skin type and concern.

The Cetaphil routine is simple but effective and includes three steps: Cleanse, Moisturize and Protect.

Cetaphil is launching a roadshow to different parts of the Philippines so Filipinos could try out the products for themselves. Visit Cetaphil Healthy Skin Mission activations in SM Makati, SM Megamall, SM North EDSA and SM Lanang Premier on August 16-18, 2019 and in SM San Lazaro, SM Mall of Asia, and SM Fairview on August 30-September 1, 2019.

By: JENG On 8/28/2019 09:01:00 PM

August 26, 2019

Viva International Pictures Brings “Angel Has Fallen” in PH Cinemas; Now Showing Nationwide

He had been down a few times, but nothing could ever take him out. That's Gerard Butler as Secret Service Agent Mike Banning in the global box office hits "Olympus Has Fallen" (2013) and "London Has Fallen" (2016).

This year, this agent who is referred to as "the President's top guardian angel" is going to get beat up yet again, the question is, how will Butler's Banning rise from this fall?

Angel Has Fallen is the third entry to the "Fallen" franchise. Mike Banning is selected by U.S. President Allan Trumbull (Morgan Freeman) to be the director of the Secret Service. But before he could assume his new appointment, Banning finds himself in a crucial position to protect the president as they are attacked by explosive drones.

The next thing he knows, he is already in the hospital, handcuffed and being charged with the attempted murder of President Trumbull. FBI Agent Thompson (Jada Pinkett-Smith) is convinced of Banning's culpability because he is the only one in his team who survives the tragedy.

Hellbent on proving his innocence and bringing the real culprit to justice, Banning escapes capture. As the FBI and his own agency are hot on his trail, Banning tracks down his father (Nick Nolte) to get his help.

Just like in all his previous battles, he must keep his family from harm, keep the president alive, and save the country from imminent danger. The big difference is, he is also fighting for his life.

Directed by Ric Roman Waugh (Snitch, Shot Caller), "Angel Has Fallen" offers non-stop action while taking the audience to what Butler describes as a "much deeper, darker journey" of Mike Banning. Reports have it that two other scripts had been scrapped in favor of this story, which is said to have been inspired by The Fugitive, The Bourne Identity, and Taken.

Butler said in an interview back in 2017, ^*I couldn't even see a way to make a third (Fallen film), you know we'd joke about it 'What, Tokyo? Hong Kong? What is it going to be!?' …Until this idea came along and until Ric came along – now I've gone from not knowing what to do with it, to thinking this is going to be the best one."

In the same interview, Butler shared that Waugh told him that he wanted to make a movie with him "that'll be remembered for three generations". In response to that, Butler said, "Well what about Has Fallen 3?", and Waugh said, "That's not what I was thinking!" Butler said to the reluctant director, 'Read this script, it's kind of like The Fugitive, take it and let's put your spin on it'.

Fast forward to May 2019, Waugh posted the trailer of "Angel Has Fallen" on Twitter and wrote, "For years Gerard Butler and I have been wanting to collaborate. Damn glad it was this one. It was definitely worth the wait!"

"Angel Has Fallen" opens in Philippine cinemas nationwide on August 21, 2019. From Viva International Pictures and MVP Entertainment.

By: JENG On 8/26/2019 09:26:00 PM

August 25, 2019

ABS-CBN Remembers Gina Lopez in the “Genuine Love” Documentary this Sunday at 1045am and 9pm

ABS-CBN shares the amazing and inspiring life story of well-loved environmentalist and philanthropist Gina Lopez in the special documentary "Genuine Love," which airs this Sunday (August 25) at 10:45 am before "ASAP Natin 'To" and at 9 pm after "The Voice Kids."

Produced by ABS-CBN DocuCentral, "Genuine Love" takes us to Gina's younger days and shows how and why she left her family and a life of privilege to search for a deeper life purpose.

After serving as an Ananda Marga missionary for more than 15 years in Africa, she returned to the Philippines and took over ABS-CBN Foundation -- the socio-civic arm of the country's biggest broadcast network that was founded by her father Eugenio "Geny" Lopez Jr.

In her trailblazing way, Gina spearheaded projects, which included Educational Television (ETV) that produced iconic programs like "Sineskwela" and "Hiraya Manawari;" Bantay Kalikasan that promoted environmental preservation; and Bantay Bata 163, Asia's first rescue hotline for abused children.

Her advocacy against illegal and destructive commercial mining made President Rodrigo Duterte appoint her as an environment secretary.

After her short stint in the government, Gina wasted no time and founded the Investments in Loving Organizations for Village Economies (ILOVE) Foundation, where partner organizations in the government and private sector united to provide financial and technical support to eight deserving groups. She featured the stories of the eight organizations in her show "G Diaries" on ABS-CBN.

Her death last Monday (August 19), crushed the hearts of her many supporters, fellow advocates, and beneficiaries of her projects, who attest to her sincerity and unwavering passion to serve the Filipino people.

As it traces the beginning of Gina's life in public service until her passing, "Genuine Love" will share stories about Gina as told by her family members, friends, and colleagues who attended her wake held in ABS-CBN. It will also show final interview last July 12 with Tina Monzon-Palma.

Watch the inspiring story of the ABS-CBN Foundation, the individuals and communities it has helped, and the woman behind its enduring mission this Sunday (August 25) ) at 10:45 am before "ASAP Natin 'To" and at 9 pm after "The Voice Kids." Watch online on iwant.ph or skyondemand.com.ph.

Join the nation in remembering her on social media by using the hashtag #MaramingSalamatGinaLopez. For updates, follow @abscbnpr on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram or visit abscbnpr.com.

By: JENG On 8/25/2019 11:03:00 AM

August 21, 2019

Mayonnaise to Stage a Sequel to Their Sold-Out “Akalain Mo ‘Yun” this September 7 at Music Museum

Mayonnaise returns to the big stage for the second run of the sold-out show, "Akalain Mo 'Yun," after the tremendous success of their first major concert.

The acclaimed pop-rock band promises to take the sequel to a more exciting direction with new music arrangements, special collaborations, and engaging production values that will leave the audience wanting for more.

"We're always willing to take up the challenge of not repeating ourselves," lead singer and guitarist Monty Macalino said. "Expect the second run to be more open to musical possibilities. We're also excited to work with some of our esteemed peers in the local music scene."

For the second time, Mayonnaise is slated to perform their greatest hits and rarities with support by The Manila String Machine—a musical ensemble known for their captivating, string-laden performances and mood-setting soundscapes.

The "Tayo Na Lang Dalawa" hitmakers will also be joined by a stellar batch of guests, including alternative rock icons Barbie Almalbis, Champ Lui Pio of Hale, and I Belong To The Zoo.

Produced by One Music PH and Gabi Na Naman Productions, and in partnership with Mango Mama, Mayonnaise's sophomore concert happens on September 7 (Saturday), 7:30pm at the Music Museum.

One Music is one of the digital initiatives of ABS-CBN, the Philippines' leading media and entertainment company, which is rapidly transitioning into an agile digital company with the biggest online presence among all media companies and a growing list of digital properties.

Grab your tickets via bit.ly/AkalainMoYun2019 and ktx.abs-cbn.com. You may also contact Music Museum at 7210635 or 7216726. For updates, follow @abscbnpr on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram or visit www.abs-cbn.com/newsroom.

By: JENG On 8/21/2019 07:43:00 PM

ABS-CBN Content Will Soon Be Available to LRT and MRT Commuters via ‘Tube’

ABS-CBN, the country's leading media and entertainment company, will soon provide quality content, including the latest news updates and short, entertaining videos to 1.3 million Filipino LRT and MRT commuters daily as it inked a deal with international media and marketing company PHAR Partnership Inc. through Manila's first in-train TV network, TUBE.

TUBE is a real-time passenger information system which has been patented in the Philippines and approved by the Department of Transportation. It employs a GPS/location-based system fortified with a CCTV that keeps passengers posted on what the next train station is, and whether there are any emergencies or interruptions during the trip.

With over 1,000 screens installed across the LRT and MRT train lines, the platform also engages the commuting public by offering news, weather reminders, traffic updates and short videos that enhances regular travelling experience.

Signing the partnership ABS-CBN's Creative Programs, Inc. (CPI) head Paolo Pineda, CPI senior finance officer Carmelita Ramos and CPI finance operations head Cat Lopez, PHAR Partnership Inc.'s general manager for commercial Maria Thessa M. Verano and finance controller Christian Alfonso.

The partnership is consistent with the company's continuing efforts to venture into groundbreaking new channels for convenient media consumption of Filipinos across the country.

For updates, follow @abscbnpr on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram or visit www.abs-cbn.com/newsroom and@tubemnl on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

By: JENG On 8/21/2019 07:37:00 PM

August 19, 2019

“The Killer Bride” Records High Pilot Ratings

ABS-CBN's newest teleserye "The Killer Bride" became an instant hit as more Filipinos tuned in to its pilot episode and witnessed the passionate yet tragic love story of Camila (Maja Salvador) and Vito (Geoff Eigenmann) last Monday (August 12).

It recorded a national TV rating of 23.1%, compared to its rival show "Love You Two"'s 10.1%, according to data from Kantar Media. The show was also a hit online as it's official hashtag #TheKillerBrideFirstDance topped the list of trending topics on Twitter.

From being perfect, Camila's world turned upside down as she was found guilty for killing the brother of her fiancé Vito, ultimately dying as the jail she was in was destroyed by fire, separating her from her child.

But a a new chapter in the lives of people in Las Espadas will open with the arrival of Emma (Janella Salvador), the woman who will remind everyone about the killer bride's sworn vengeance.

Netizens aired their excitement online and were all praises for the lead stars of the new primetime series.

"My gosh! Maja Salvador's acting was beyond amazing! She's a topnotch phenomenal actress when it comes to drama. That was just only the pilot episode yet she already served," @coffeeholic16 tweeted.

"It was only the first episode and my tears are already flowing. Maja is brilliant, and Geoff plays such characters really well," said another Twitter user @ShielaLaLa02.

"Just watched the pilot episode of #TheKillerBride on @iwant and it was so good. Maja and Geoff also have a strong chemistry. It was a powerful cast. Congrats @ABSCBN," said netizen @Dkenangeles.

Tune in to "The Killer Bride," weeknight on ABS-CBN. For more updates, follow ABS-CBN PR on Facebook (fb.com/abscbnpr), Twitter (@abscbnpr), and Instagram (@abscbnpr).

By: JENG On 8/19/2019 02:42:00 PM

“TNT Boys: Journey to World Stage” Now Available for Free Streaming on iWant

Filipino and foreign fans witnessed the whirlwind journey of the TNT Boys from being social media sensations to Hollywood darlings. What were their lives like before they found worldwide fame, and what awaits them as they grow older into their teenage years?

iWant lets their fans in on never-before-seen footage, behind-the-scenes struggles, and friendship that glued together Mackie Empuerto, Keifer Sanchez, and Francis Concepcion to become the bigshot vocal trio they are today in the iWant original documentary series "TNT Boys: Journey to the World Stage" that is now available for free streaming.

Before they became a group, these little boys with small voices first impressed viewers as grand finalists in "Tawag ng Tanghalan Kids" on "It's Showtime." Although they did not win the competition, their experience only made them more determined to pursue their passion and dreams for their families.

They were then officially launched as a trio in 2017, unexpectedly, after the video of their vocal showdown on "Gandang Gabi Vice" became viral online. The boys have since gained worldwide attention and have sung for international audiences in "Little Big Shots" US, UK, and Australia and have performed for several head of states.

Their versatility and charm made them stand out in the second season of "Your Face Sounds Familiar Kids," where they were hailed as the grand champion, as their transformations into music icons, including Bee Gees, Jessie J, Nicki Minaj, and Ariana Grande, made headlines around the world.

This ultimately landed them a defining stint in US TV network CBS' international talent competition "The World's Best," where Hollywood stars Ru Paul, Faith Hill, and Drew Barrymore showered them with praises. Worldwide attention on the trio reached fever pitch when they appeared in the TV show "The Late Late Show with James Corden," where they got to perform with their idol, global superstar Ariana Grande.

Last year, the international sensation also added another history-making feat to their long list of accolades as they now hold the record of being the youngest artists to headline a sold-out concert, not only at the Araneta Coliseum but in the whole country, with their successful "Listen: The Big Shot Concert."

How do Mackie, Keifer, and Francis handle the pressure of fame despite being so young? How do they deal with misunderstandings among themselves in order for their trio to work?

Find out by streaming all the episodes of "TNT Boys: Journey to the World Stage" on the iWant app (iOS and Android_ or on For updates, like www.facebook.com/iWant, and follow @iwant on Twitter and @dreamscapedigital and @iwantofficial on Instagram, and subscribe to www.youtube.com/iWantPH.

By: JENG On 8/19/2019 02:39:00 PM

ABS-CBN Ball 2019 to Grant Scholarships to Underprivileged Children

For ABS-CBN, celebrating 65 years of being in the service of the Filipino means remaining committed to help those in need. That is why when it brings back the ABS-CBN Ball on September 14 at Shangri-La The Fort, it will continue what it started last year – to bring hope to underprivileged children, this time through the Bantay Bata 163 Bantay Edukasyon program.

The coming ball will give the stars and other attendees the chance to provide children in need the tool to reach their dreams, through scholarships.

With the program, all of the children's basic needs to help them have a normal education, from complete tuition assistance, to meal and transportation allowances, school supplies, and other fees, will be covered.

Under the program, the children and their families receive counseling and are provided self-development sessions, as well as training on basic life skills through social work intervention. This includes values formation and parenting sessions, the Resiliency Program, which helps scholars determine their strengths and weaknesses; music, arts, and sports programs to teach them the value of discipline in their lives; and more recently, even a digital workshop to help expand the children's choices of possible careers.

Bantay Bata 163 implemented the Bantay Edukasyon program in 1998 to serve as an aftercare service for rescued children. It has since provided 6,400 scholarships all over the country since it started.

This year's affair essentially continues what it started last year, which helped successfully re-open the Bantay Bata Children's Village, and gave a group of underprivileged children a new home.

The Ball will also honor ABS-CBN Foundation and Bantay Bata 163 founder Gina Lopez. Under Lopez, Bantay Bata 163 rescued thousands of children from physical and sexual abuse and eventually provided what she considers her greatest achievement for it, the Children's Village in Norzagaray, Bulacan. The Village is now more than a shelter and rehabilitation area for children as it has become a benchmark for childcare excellence.

The 2018 ABS-CBN Ball gathered a total of P5 million, which was used for the construction and rehabilitation of the structures of the village, CCTV training for social workers, the installation of a call and paging system, a Library, and a multimedia room.

Since the Bantay Bata Children's Village opened its doors last December 2018, it has already served 46 children. Five of them have already reunited with their families while 41 are still in the village.

For more updates and to catch the ABS-CBN Ball's red carpet airing, visit www.abscbnball.com.

By: JENG On 8/19/2019 02:35:00 PM

#HimigHandog2019 Top 12 Ready to Win Big and Win Hearts

Masterpieces reflecting Filipinos' struggle and hope when it comes to love comprise the Himig Handog 2019 Top 12 entries, all vying to win the sought-after Best Song recognition from the country's biggest songwriting competition.

From almost 4,000 entries, the song finalists are down to 12, now produced and brought to life by this year's carefully selected interpreters.

Daniel Padilla and Moira Dela Torre come back in this year's competition and collaborate in Dan Martel Simon Tañedo's "Mabagal."

"The Killer Bride" star Janella Salvador also returns to join the roster of interpreters and sings "Nung Tayo Pa" of Rex Torremoro and Elmar Jann Bolaño.

Former "Idol Philippines" contestant Alekzandra Nicolle Quitalig competes with her own composition, "Alaala," while Davao-based singer-songwriter Eamarie Gilayo likewise interprets her own song, "Ikaw at Linggo."

Another former "Idol Philippines" contender, Vanya Castor, tries her luck in a different contest by interpreting "Paano Ba," penned by composer Richanne Charms Jacinto. Meanwhile, "Isa Pang Ikaw," composed by Joseph Ponce is performed by former "X Factor Australia" contestant Justin Vasquez.

This year, acoustic balladeer TJ Monterde interprets "Panandalian," composed by Jerome Arcangel and Cee Jay Del Rosario, while Alex Gonzaga sings the composition of Michael Angelo "Aikee" Aplacador titled "Please Lang."

Former "X Factor Philippines" contender Joan Da interprets her song with LJ Manzano entitled "Sasabihin Ko," while singer-songwriter Davey Langit comes back in the competition—this time as an interpreter of the song "Simula ng Dulo," which he co-wrote with Therese Marie Villarante.

I Belong To The Zoo, sings Ferdinand Aragon's song "Ingat," while "Tawag ng Tanghalan" champion Janine Berdin gives her rendition to "Sa'yong Mundo," composed by Noah Zuniga.

Over the years, the songs produced in Himig Handog have won hearts of Filipino listeners here and abroad. True to its mission, ABS-CBN's songwriting competition has also continuously brought about the best of OPM by searching for outstanding musical compositions from all over the world.

The grand winner will take home P1 million, while the 2^nd, 3^rd, 4^th, and 5^th placers get P500,000, P200,000, P150,000, and P100,000 cash prizes, respectively. Watch out for the grand finals of Himig Handog 2019 live on "ASAP Natin 'To" on October 13.

Aside from being hailed as this year's Best Song, the entries also go head-to-head for the other sought-after awards, including MOR's Choice, MYX Choice for Best Music Video, TFC's Global Choice Award, Star Music's Choice Award, and Best Produced track.

The #HimigHandog2019 songs can be streamed on all digital music stores worldwide and are also available on Star Music's YouTube channel. For details, like @HimigHandog2019 on Facebook. You may also visit starmusic.ph, like Star Music on facebook.com/starmusicph, and follow it on Twitter and Instagram @ StarMusicPH.

By: JENG On 8/19/2019 02:31:00 PM

Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt: A “Once” in a Lifetime “Hollywood” Team-Up

In Columbia Pictures' Once Upon a Time…in Hollywood, director-witer Quentin Tarantino unites two of today's greatest stars -- Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt -- in a first-ever pairing. They star as TV actor Rick Dalton (DiCaprio) and his longtime stunt double Cliff Booth (Pitt) who make their way around an industry they hardly recognize anymore.

(Watch the film's new spot at https://youtu.be/1CFZT3gbZ1s.)

Set in 1969, Once Upon a Time…in Hollywood recreates the time and place of Tarantino's formative years, when everything – the United States, the city of Los Angeles, the Hollywood star system, even the movies themselves – was at an inflection point, and no one knew where the pieces would land. All this is not entirely dissimilar from the changes buffeting Hollywood today.

At the center is Rick Dalton who had been the star of "Bounty Law," a hit television series in the 50s and early 60s, but his prophesied transition to motion picture stardom never materialized. Now, as Hollywood moves towards a hippie aesthetic, Rick worries that his time has passed – and wonders if there's still a chance for him.

"Rick Dalton is a byproduct of the 50s – the 1950s pompadour hero – but now there's a new era and this train has passed him by," says DiCaprio. "Working with Quentin, we saw Rick Dalton's story as a journey of an immense lack of confidence – his inability to be thankful for the position that he's in and what he's already gotten. He's constantly yearning for something more."

At Rick's side is Cliff Booth, a former war hero, now Rick's stunt double. As their careers have evolved and their struggles increased, the one constant for them has been each other. Cliff has proven his loyalty to Rick over and over again, and vice versa – they are the only true family that either has.

"Our characters are based on an actor-stuntman relationship – spending entire careers together was much more prevalent at that time," says Pitt. "We talked about Steve McQueen and Bud Ekins, who were a strong team with The Great Escape, and we talked about Burt Reynolds and Hal Needham. In fact, we got to talk to Burt about that, which was a real joy. There was just a tighter bond between the two – where we're more transitory in that way today. Cliff and Rick really rely on each other. The down time is more grueling than the actual work at times, so to have a friend, to have a partner, was all-important. It's even all-important now."

"Part of what makes the film so special is to watch Leo and Brad work off of each other," says producer Shannon McIntosh, who has worked with Tarantino in several capacities for decades. "They're both fully inhabiting these characters, bringing them to life in a way that leaves you feeling like they are family. For those of us who love making movies, it hits close to home, because ultimately that's what we love about it: working with these people and forging these lifelong bonds."

Films about such bonds, and the opportunity for "Butch and Sundance type" casting they afford, are rare in the modern system, so both parts needed to be strong. "I tried a couple of different stories, and then I decided no, I don't want to put them through some typical melodramatic plot line," says Tarantino. "I want it to be three rich days in the lives of these characters as they move about Los Angeles, and the conflict of the story builds each day until it reaches a tipping point."

In Philippine cinemas August 28, Once Upon a Time…In Hollywood is distributed by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International.

By: JENG On 8/19/2019 02:26:00 PM

Hatch(l)ing Another Mission in “The Angry Birds Movie 2”

While the pigs and birds are joining forces to save their islands, another adventure is unfolding in Columbia Pictures' adventure comedy The Angry Birds Movie 2, courtesy of three adorable hatchlings.

The trio of baby birds – Zoe (pink), Vivi (green) and Sam-Sam (beige) – are re-enacting the events of the first Angry Birds Movie as they honor their new hero, Red. When an outside force endangers some eggs, the youngsters find themselves embarking on an epic quest to rescue them.

The adorable Hatchlings are being voiced by Brooklynn Prince (The Florida Project), YouTube sensation JoJo Siwa, Genesis Tennon, Alma Varsano, Faith Kidman-Urban and Sunday Kidman- Urban.

"Playing 'pigs' and 'birds', they realize the rocks they've been using to stand in for the eggs don't cut it," producer John Cohen elaborates. "So they borrow Zoe's still unhatched baby sisters from the crib, only to see a wave yank the eggs away."

With their big screen debut in the first film, the adorable hatchlings stole the hearts of audiences around the world, and the filmmakers knew there was much more humor, adventure and uber-cuteness to be explored with their antics in the new story.

"In this film, they provide a different flavor of comedy relief from the comically intense scenes of the team infiltrating Eagle Island," says director Thurop Van Orman. "Theirs is a big adventure in its own right, which ultimately dovetails into the main story. They are a big part of the movie."

In Philippine cinemas August 21, The Angry Birds Movie 2 is distributed by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International.

By: JENG On 8/19/2019 02:24:00 PM

Gina Lopez Is Dead

Former DENR Secretary and ABS-CBN Foundation Inc. (AFI) Ms. Gina Lopez died on Monday, August 19, due to multiple organ failure after battling brain cancer according to ABS-CBN Corp. statement.

She was 65.

Before her death, the former environment secretary hosted "G Diaries" on ABS-CBN, where she promoted sustainable tourism. She also embarked on "Quest for Love" through her ILOVE Foundation, a search for "change agents" who help the underprivileged.

"What I do is I follow my heart and right now, my heart wants to do this," Lopez told ANC's Headstart in April last year, explaining why she was pursuing her pro-poor advocacy in a private capacity instead of running for public office, as many had urged her to do.

By: JENG On 8/19/2019 11:04:00 AM

August 8, 2019

Filipino Households Nationwide Prefers ABS-CBN Shows Over Competitors in July

ABS-CBN SHOWS RESONATE WITH MORE FILIPINOS IN JULY

Majority of households nationwide still turned to ABS-CBN for their dose of relevant news stories and inspiring shows in July, leading the network to hit an average audience share of 45%, or 13 points higher than GMA's 32%, according to data from Kantar Media.

Like in previous months, "FPJ's Ang Probinsyano" (37.6%) remained as the top program Filipinos enjoy nationwide, followed by the action-drama, "The General's Daughter" (31.3%).

"Search for the Idol Philippines" (30.1%) ended its first season with a bang as it kept its throne as the choice program of Filipinos on weekends, while "TV Patrol" (28.5%) retained its title as the most watched weekday newscast nationwide.

The moving life stories in "Maalaala Mo Kaya" (24.8%) made the drama anthology a favorite among viewers every weekend, while "Kadenang Ginto" (24.1%) continues to strike gold in nationwide ratings for delivering intensely entertaining episodes to viewers.

Rounding out the top ten are "Hiwaga ng Kambat" (23.6%) and "Home Sweetie Home: Extra Sweet" (21.6%).

Meanwhile, ABS-CBN also won all time blocks in July, particularly in primetime and in the afternoon. During primetime, it recorded 47%, compared to GMA's 31%. The Kapamilya network also registered 47% in the afternoon block (3 PM to 6PM), beating GMA's 33%.

Likewise, ABS-CBN also ruled the morning block (6 AM to 12 NN) with an average audience share of 39%, versus GMA's 30% and the noontime block (12 NN to 3 PM) with 44%, beating GMA's 34%.

Meanwhile, the Kapamilya network won in both urban and rural homes, particularly in Metro Manila where it registered an average audience share of 41% versus GMA's 26%; in Mega Manila where it got 36%, versus GMA's 32%; in Total Luzon where it recorded 40%, compared to GMA's 34%; in Total Visayas as it garnered 53%, beating GMA's 25%; and in Total Mindanao where it got 52%, while GMA only recorded 29%.

Multinational audience measurement provider Kantar Media uses a nationwide panel size of 2,610 urban and rural homes that represent 100% of the total Philippine TV viewing population.

By: JENG On 8/08/2019 10:50:00 PM

Yamyam Gucong of Bohol Named “PBB Otso” Ultim8 Big Winner

Yamyam Gucong of Batch 2 was hailed "PBB Otso's" Ultim8 Big Winner as he garnered the highest number of public text votes last Sunday (August 4).

The "Iskulit Bai ng Bohol" raked in a total text votes of 58.52% and took home a grand prize of P2 million, a brand new condo unit, a negosyo package, and an Asian tour package.

Even before the Big Night, Yamyam already built a huge following with his antics and positive disposition, gaining enough votes to land as the batch winner of Batch 2. His determination to collect gold bars in Kuya's challenges and his followers' immense support, on the other hand, helped him land a spot in the Ultim8 Big 4, eventually becoming the Big Winner.

He bested housemates Kiara Takahashi of Batch 4, who got a total text vote of 30.29%, Lou Yanong of Batch 2 who got 8.28%, and Andre Brouillette of Batch 2 who earned 2.91%.

Meanwhile, the rankings of the other members of the Big Otso were announced last Saturday (August 3), with Fumiya Sankai finishing as the 5th Big Placer, Lie Reposposa, the 6th Big Placer, and Ashley Del Mundo and Kaori Oinuma as the 7th and 8th Big Placers, respectively.

The Big Night was also a hit online as it gathered over 300,000 viewers while netizens shared their excitement over the thrilling announcements as the official hashtags #PBBCelebr8AtTheBigNight and #PBBUltim8BigWinner became the top trending topics worldwide and received thousands of tweets.

By: JENG On 8/08/2019 10:45:00 PM

Ken Chan Launches Peculiar Eyewear Collection

Versatile Kapuso actor Ken Chan has been showcasing his prowess in various scenes.

Following the success of top-rating GMA Afternoon Prime series "My Special Tatay" where he portrayed the lead role of Boyet, the audience saw another side of him in the concert stage after he showed off his natural talent at the My Special Love - #BoBreyinCONCERT together with Rita Daniela.

Ken and Rita has released their first duet single "Almusal" under GMA Music. The novelty song's music video, which can be streamed on GMA Music's YouTube channel (GMAMusicOfficial), features Ken and Rita in their iconic roles as Boyet and Aubrey, respectively, with their on-screen son Baby Angelo who makes a special appearance.

Aside from this, Ken has also launched his latest single "1 Like" under GMA Music which is available for streaming on Apple Music, iTunes and other digital stores worldwide. Its music video, directed by Miggy Tanchanco, is also available for streaming on GMA Music's YouTube channel (GMAMusicOfficial).

Just recently, Ken and Rita also performed Barangay LS 97.1's newest theme song "Tayo ay Forever" that reminds everyone how forever can be defined and related in so many ways. The two sought-after Kapuso artists also star in the FM station's series of short digital films.

Meanwhile, Ken is also one of the lead stars of GMA Public Affair's upcoming primetime series, One of The Baes, where he plays the role of Grant, a hopeless romantic and an environmental vlogger.

But before that, the GMA Artist Center star has another treat to his fans as he launches his much-awaited eyewear collection.

By: JENG On 8/08/2019 10:39:00 PM