July 13, 2017

Look: "Dunkirk" Officila IMAX Poster, Harry Styles Marks Acting Debut


Warner Bros. Pictures has just revealed the IMAX one-sheet art for Christopher Nolan's new epic action thriller Dunkirk, which was shot with IMAX film cameras.

Check out the IMAX exclusive poster below and watch Dunkirk in Philippne cinemas on Juy 20, 2017 with special engagements in IMAX 70mm film.




Nolan (Interstellar, Inception, The Dark Knight Trilogy) directs Dunkirk from his own original screenplay, utilizing a mixture of IMAX® and 65mm film to bring the story to the screen.

Harry Styles Marks Acting Debut
 
As one of the members of the global phenomenon One Direction, Harry Styles became one of the best-known musicians in the world. Now, he makes his feature film acting debut in Christopher Nolan's new epic action thriller Dunkirk (in Philippine cinemas July 20).

Dunkirk opens as hundreds of thousands of British and Allied troops are surrounded by enemy forces. Trapped on the beach with their backs to the sea, they face an impossible situation as the enemy closes in.

The story unfolds on land, sea and air. RAF Spitfires engage the enemy in the skies above the Channel, trying to protect the defenseless men below. Meanwhile, hundreds of small boats manned by both military and civilians are mounting a desperate rescue effort, risking their lives in a race against time to save even a fraction of their army.

In the film, Styles plays Alex, a young soldier whom the actor describes as “seems nice, but there’s also this edge to him. He comes off a little more hardened than the other guys. Alex likes the idea of being the tough guy, but he’s also really scared.”

Styles talks more about Dunkirk and his experience filming it in the following interview:

Question: What can you tell us about your character and where he fits into the story of Dunkirk?
Harry Styles: I play a soldier called Alex, and he and Fionn Whitehead’s character, Tom Glynn-Carney's, pretty much stick together through most of the film. These guys are really just given a gun and some boots and thrown into this dangerous situation, and they have no idea what they’re doing or how they’re going to get out of it alive. So, it’s just: ‘All right, we’re on the same side, so we’re going to help each other out of this.’

Our part of the film is just a straight survival story, and what really sticks with me is the idea that when you’re a soldier – especially in a situation as intense and chaotic as this – it doesn’t matter what the guy next to you does or if you even know his name, if he’s wearing the same uniform as you, you’re a team. It’s you and him, and you’re going to get through this together – and that says a lot, actually. It might be flowery BS, but it’s just pure camaraderie.


Q: What was it like meeting writer/director Christopher Nolan for the first time, and what impressed you the most about working with him?

HS: When you meet him and spend a little time with him, especially on set, you understand why he takes so much time between films: he invests so much in every project he does. He doesn’t just churn them out; I think he would rather wait and know everything there is to know about what he’s going to do, and if he’s going to do it justice in a film. He has researched everything about Dunkirk to the nth degree – from the costumes, to hair and make-up, to lighting. Everyone, even people who have done their jobs for 20 years, all said that they learn something from him on every film.

Q: How did it feel when you first arrived on the set and saw the scope of the production?
HS: It was definitely bigger than you expect, but the best part about it was that even when all of this was going on around you, as soon as you started filming, it always felt like it was just you and Chris and the camera. I think he’s amazing at making you feel comfortable on set in a way that doesn’t stress you out.

Q: What was the toughest aspect of the shoot?
HS: It felt like someone pulled you out of the bed, dumped you in the water, and then put you back in bed. But those were good days. Those were the ones that you’d get back from afterwards and everyone feels like [whistles], ‘That was a big day’.

Q: How much did you know about the events at Dunkirk prior to becoming involved in this project?
HS: When you’re at school, learning about history and World War II, Dunkirk is not as emphasized as some of the big battles, but it’s actually an incredibly important moment in the war. The world might be very different if things hadn’t gone the way they did.



Dunkirk opens as hundreds of thousands of British and Allied troops are surrounded by enemy forces. Trapped on the beach with their backs to the sea they face an impossible situation as the enemy closes in.

The film features a prestigious cast, including Tom Hardy, Mark Rylance, Kenneth Branagh and Cillian Murphy as well as newcomer Fionn Whitehead. The ensemble cast also includes Aneurin Barnard, Harry Styles, James D’Arcy, Jack Lowden, Barry Keoghan and Tom Glynn-Carney.

Dunkirk is distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.

TV Ratings: "Weightlifting Fairy" Flexes Ratings Muscle, Beats Competition and Dominates Twitter Trending Topics


ABS-CBN's new show, the Tagalog-dubbed version of the Korean drama "Weightlifting Fairy," had a successful premiere.

It dominated Twitter conversations and finished just a tad lower than its predecessor, the hit "Goblin," in the ratings, based on data from Kantar Media.

"Weightlifting Fairy" had an audience share of 8.5% on Monday versus the 5% produced by "Innocent Defendant" from GMA-7.

Check out the ratings result for Monday below: 


Knowledge Channel Airs Student-Made Documentaries Entitled “Class Project”


Viewers can take inspiration from real-life stories that tackle social issues while sharing hope found in different settings on Knowledge Channel’s “Class Project.”

“Class Project” features documentaries produced and created by college students, starting with projects by the students at Colegio de San Juan de Letran.

Among the documentaries to be aired are “Tahan Na,” about the orphans of SOS Children’s Village. The SOS Children’s Villages is a private, non-political, non-denominational organization that provides long-term family-based care to children in need, and “Tahan Na” tells the story of some of its residents.  The documentary depicts how the orphaned children have found their permanent home in the village, with their fellow orphans becoming family and the house mothers becoming their own surrogate mothers.

 


Other documentaries include “Triple Kayod,” which follows a father juggling three different jobs to support his family, and “Haligi,” which features a father and son as they ride through the streets of Manila in their pedicab.

According to Danie Sedilla-Cruz, channel head of Knowledge Channel, the project aims to give the spotlight to relevant social issues while giving a platform to student producers and content creators who come up with high-quality content for broadcast. The partnership with Colegio de San Juan de Letran will be the first in a series of tie-ups with different schools.

As the title already implies, there are so many class projects like documentaries, especially by communication students, that are well-produced and should be shared,” says Sedilla-Cruz.

 


The project aims to give students at the collegiate level opportunities to showcase their work while making use of Knowledge Channel’s platform of educational television. The series will be airing student-made documentaries throughout the coming school year.

Watch the “Class Project” documentaries every Friday at 7:30 pm on Knowledge Channel.

Founded in 1999, Knowledge Channel Foundation, Inc. is the only non-profit organization in the Philippines that offers curriculum-based, multimedia educational resources, and professional teacher trainings to improve teaching skills, thereby helping audiences learn better through technology.

Watch New "Baby Driver" Featurette on Ansel Elgort's Life, Love....and Emoji


He is everybody's Baby! Watch the newly released featurette from Columbia Pictures' Baby Driver at and be captivated by lead star Ansel Elgort's charm. Click https://youtu.be/3BqE1LU1h7I

Baby Driver is the critically acclaimed action comedy from director Edgar Wright (The World's End). The film stars Ansel Elgort as Baby, a getaway driver who suffers from a hearing impairment that requires him to listen to music in order to drown out the humming noise.

In the film, Baby relies on the beat of his personal soundtrack to be the best in the game. When he meets the girl of his dreams (Lily James), Baby sees a chance to ditch his criminal life and make a clean getaway. But after being coerced into working for a crime boss (Kevin Spacey), he must face the music when a doomed heist threatens his life, love and freedom.

Written and directed by Edgar Wright, Baby Driver stars Ansel Elgort, Kevin Spacey, Lily James, Jon Bernthal, Eiza González with Jon Hamm and Jamie Foxx.

Opening in Philippine cinemas in August 2, 2017, Baby Driver is distributed by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International.

Kuya Kim Atienza Challenges "Bloody Crayons" Stars with Trivia Game

 
Kim Atienza challenges today’s hottest young stars to an exciting trivia game in another fun and educational episode of “Matanglawin” this Sunday (July 16), 9:45am on ABS-CBN.  
 
Elmo Magalona, Janella Salvador, Jane Oineza, Diego Loyzaga, Ronnie Alonte, and Yves Flores of the movie “Bloody Crayons” will get a different kind of thrill as they race to answer Kuya Kim’s questions while a mystery guest awaits to surprise the losing team. 
 
 
 
 
Meanwhile, the Gimme 5 boys will relive the era of knights and kings as they attempt to help “Haring Kim” in finding the cure to his “ailment.” Join Nash Aguas, Grae Fernandez, Brace Arquiza, Joaquin Reyes, and John Bermundo in this epic journey this Sunday (July 16) on “Matanglawin,” 10am on ABS-CBN and ABS-CBN HD. 
 
You can also watch online via iwantv.com.ph and skyondemand.com.ph. For updates on the program, follow @MatanglawinTV on Facebook and Twitter.

Look: Dashing Debonaire Daniel Padilla and Gorgeous Kathryn Bernardo Photoshoot for Yes! Most Beautiful Faces 2017


Photographed by ace lensman Mark Nicdao, here are the photos of Daniel Padilla and Kathryn Bernardo goofing around each other, sharing a fun dance together for  Yes! Most Beautiful Faces 2017 where the country's most famous loveteam hailed as the "most beautiful" celebrities of this year by the magazine. 


July 12, 2017

TRUEMONEY Breaks The Norms, Offer Low-Cost Remittance, Load, and Bills Payment Charges


“FinTech” (short for Financial Technology) is an extremely hot industry sector in business today. Talk to any tech investor or Venture Capitalist out there and they will tell you how investment into Fintech companies and start-ups has soared in the past 2 years. In 2016 alone, according to data accumulated by investment bank Financial Technology Partners, FinTech companies globally raised a total of US$36 billion in funding.

FinTech is especially attractive in emerging markets like the Philippines because of the massive opportunity to serve those without access to efficient payments and banking services today.

And according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), this number of “underbanked” or “unbanked” Filipinos is still around 70% of working adults today.

 


However, skim through these FinTech companies and you’ll find that most, if not all, existing FinTech players have a skew towards an app-based service or digital-first business model.

Enter TrueMoney, the latest mobile financial services provider in the market. The company

started out with a totally different view of how to provide FinTech services - its focus on face-to-face transactions.

TRUE ACCESSIBILITY

Our mission is to provide affordable and innovative financial services to those who are underbanked and underserved today,” says TrueMoney Philippines CEO Xavier Marzan. “That means going beyond a purely digital UI (user interface) and being present in the physical world where these segments are transacting today.”

The strategy seems to be working. The company has only been in operations in the Philippines for less than a year and yet has achieved a level of size and scale that some of these FinTech start-ups are still aspiring for. In a matter of months, the company has grown from nothing into an organization with hundreds of employees across the country and with a distribution network comprised of 5,000 TrueMoney Centers which they manage with a high standard. These  Centers are currently capable of performing remittance transactions, bills payment, gaming credits, and even payments for e-commerce purchases.

We need to bring underserved customers who don’t even use banking services today along a customer journey. This requires us to be pervasive across the country and be able to serve customers even in farther-flung areas,” Marzan adds.

Getting to this point, however, has not been easy,” says Mr. Marzan. “We had to contend with all kinds of challenges that are inherent in a ‘last mile’ business.”

True enough, access to financial services has been hard to come by in majority of places in the Philippines, with nearly 40% of municipalities in the country not having any banking presence, according to a study by the BSP.

 


Currently, TrueMoney Centers in the Philippines already provide convenient payments and financial services to provinces and far flung areas including Albay, Bataan, Benguet, Bohol, Bukidnon, Cagayan de Oro, Camarines Sur, Cavite, Cebu, Davao, Ilocos, Isabela, Laguna, La Union, Metro Manila, Misamis Oriental, Nueva Ecija, Nueva Vizcaya, Pampanga, Pangasinan, Quezon, Rizal, Tarlac, and Zambales and more!

Where we are today is just the starting point,” Marzan says. “We are constantly growing our network of partner centers to cover more greenfield areas.”

TRUE AFFORDABILITY

Given its large network today, TrueMoney has also started to offer domestic money remittance services. And true to its mission of providing affordable services, it has come out with one of the lowest sending rates in the country for cash-to- cash remittance services.

While the average rates for domestic remittances today range from 3 percent to more than 10 percent for some providers, TrueMoney rates go as low as only 2 percent of the transaction amount - without any additional charges to the recipient. So say for remittances of P1,000, the total cost of sending is only P20. The recipient also gets the entire amount without any additional charges.

We are also constantly innovating our services and plan to offer more services in the future,”, says Marzan.

To know more about TrueMoney and how to become a TrueMoney partner agent, visit www.truemoney.com.ph or call (02) 7189999. 

You may even text them at 09778063775 (Globe) or 0998565999 (Smart).

Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla Lead Yes! 100 Most Beautiful Stars 2017


Daniel Padilla and Kathryn Bernardo made it to the cover of the highly-anticipated annual YES! Magazine 100 Most Beautiful Stars issue.

The "La Luna Sangre" stars were hailed by the magazine as the "most beautiful stars" of 2017. 

Check out the cover photo arranged by lensman Mark Nicdao below:




10,000 Smart Subscribers Get First Dib of Justin Bieber "Purpose Tour" Manila Concert #SmartJustinBieber


Smart subscribers had first dibs to a presale of tickets of Justin Bieber "Purpose Tour" happening on September 30 at the 55,000-capacity Philippine Arena.

More than 4,800 Smart subscribers were able to get ahead of others their 2 tickets each for the concert last July 7 at SM Outlets nationwide.

MORE THAN THE CONCERT, ITS A FAMILY EVENT

The management of Philippine Arena has announced that preparations are underway, especially ample parking at the 80-hectare compound.

It also promises to have an improved traffic system via three entrance and exit points: NLEX, Duhat and Sta. Maria.

There will be 1,000 traffic enforcers patrolling the grounds and PNP/LGU officers present inside and outside the venue.

Before showtime, Bieber fans are encouraged to enjoy biking, Zumba classes, inflatables, Kids Zone, and local live band performances, as well as food stalls and a bazaar within the premises.

The Philippine Arena has also contracted the services of 50 Point-to-Point (P2P) shuttle buses for concert-goers coming from different locations. Bus schedule and pickup points will follow.

And since the Philippine Arena is quite a distance for Metro Manila residents, there are more than 400 housing units within the property available for a Bieber staycation. For reservations, visit philippinearena.net, or Official Philippine Arena on Facebook, or contact 09179372870.

Tickets available at all SM Tickets outlets. Visit www.smtickets.com or call 4702222.

For more ticket information, follow MMI Live on Facebook, and @mmilive on Instagram and Twitter, or visit mmilive.com.

July 11, 2017

Anne Curtis Fearless in Saying "Yes!" To Her Childhood Love


I never fear or regret saying ‘yes,’ especially to situations and things that can lead me to great, unforgettable experiences,” quipped Anne Curtis, one of the Philippines’ most sought-after entertainment personalities.

With such an open attitude towards life, it’s easy to see why Anne has managed to go from a balikbayan on a holiday to a prominent figure in the showbiz industry for the last twenty years.

And I have to add that my showbiz career started right in Jollibee Boni, when I was approached by a talent scout,” the actress said. “Jollibee really reminds me of that fateful ‘Yes’ that I said twenty years ago, and look where that brought me!

Earlier this year, Anne returned to where her impressive career began, but with a sweeter twist as the endorser of Jollibee’s best-tasting and best-selling Burger Steak. The actress calls her Jollibee endorsement as a “homecoming,” and is truly in love with her favorite 100% beefy-linamnam and saucy-sarap rice meal.

Despite her Australian heritage, Anne remains truly Pinay at heart - especially in her favorite comfort foods. She loves a good ulam with white rice, just like millions of Filipinos who enjoy this simple yet filling combination every day.

I know that there are some who would think that a burger patty doesn’t go well with rice, but Jollibee Burger Steak’s 100% beef patty with its flavorful mushroom sauce really is best paired with a steaming cup of rice,” said Anne.

In her latest TV commercial for Jollibee Burger Steak that began airing last July 9, Anne gives us a couple of reasons to say ‘Yes na Yes’ to this flavor-packed combination.




The Jollibee Burger Steak is indeed the best-tasting rice meal you’ll have for this really great, affordable price,” shared the actress. “Best-tasting na ang 100% beefy-linamnam patty, saucy-sarap pa ang mushroom gravy, bagay na bagay pa with rice!

Haven’t tried the Jollibee Burger Steak yet? Take it from true-blue Burger Steak lovers like Anne Curtis and say “Yes na Yes” to the unforgettably delicious dining experience offered by the Jollibee Burger Steak Rice Meal, available for dine-in, take-out, delivery, and drive-thru transactions, starting at P50.00*.

* Prices may vary across different locations  
    

A Former Prisoner's Journey Back Into Society in ANC's "Mukha"


Award-winning documentary series “Mukha” presents another riveting story as it reveals the struggles of a formerly incarcerated individual who is trying to ingrain himself back into society, this Wednesday (July 12), 6:30pm on ANC, the ABS-CBN News Channel.

Michael Baretto had been in and out of jails before being sentenced to 14 years in prison for possession of illegal drugs. Growing up away from his family, he lived among criminals and engaged in petty offenses.

He just got married and was ready to start a new life when he received his jail term.

He was prepared to serve the full sentence, until a decade later, a good news arrived—he is set to be released early from prison due to good conduct.

Having missed out on the outside world for more than a decade, the possible rejection from society is something he wishes he would never encounter.

Join him in his journey back to society in this week’s episode of “Mukha” entitled “Tali”, 6:30pm only on ANC as narrated by Tony Velasquez on ABS-CBN and ABS-CBN HD. 

It can also be viewed online via iwantv.com.ph and skyondemand.com.ph. 

For updates, follow “Mukha” on Facebook and Twitter (@MukhaTV).

"The Dark Tower" Posters Put Good vs. Evil


Two new character posters for The Dark Tower has just been released by Columbia Pictures, featuring its two main protagonists The Gunslinger (Idris Elba) and the Man in Black (Matthew McConaughey).

Check out the character one-sheets below and watch The Dark Tower in Philippine cinemas on August 20, 2017.

There are other worlds than these. Stephen King’s The Dark Tower, the ambitious and expansive story from one of the world’s most celebrated authors, makes its launch to the big screen. The last Knight Warrior, Roland Deschain (Elba), has been locked in an eternal battle with Walter O’Dim, also known as the Man in Black (McConaughey), determined to prevent him from toppling the Dark Tower, which holds the universe together. With the fate of the worlds at stake, good and evil will collide in the ultimate battle as only Roland can defend the Tower from the Man in Black.

The Dark Tower is directed by Nikolaj Arcel (A Royal Affair), with a screenplay by Akiva Goldsman & Jeff Pinkner and Anders Thomas Jensen & Nikolaj Arcel, based on King’s novels. Producers on the film are Akiva Goldsman, Brian Grazer, Ron Howard, and Erica Huggins.

The Dark Tower is distributed by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International.

Kapuso Actor Sancho Vito Leaves GMA-7 in Favor of ABS-CBN


More and more Kapuso artists are switching to Kapamilya. The latest of which is Sancho Vito, the eldest son of Ai Ai delas Alas.

Sancho will soon sign an exclusive contract with ABS-CBN's talent management arm, Star Magic. He will also join the hit series "FPJ's Ang Probinsyano".

The news was announced by his stage mother, comedienne Aiai delas Alas on Instagram. In the caption, the former comedy queen thanked the Kapamilya network.

"Masayang masaya siya at 'pag masaya ang anak, pinakamasaya ang magulang lalo na ang isang ina na kagaya ko," she wrote.



"Spider-Man: Homecoming" Grosses P208.44 in 4 Days in Philippine Theaters


Peter Parker triumphantly returned home to a hero's welcome as Columbia Pictures' Spider-Man: Homecoming opened at No.1 in the Philippines, amassing P208.44-million in only its first four days of release, according to the studio.

The new adventure starring Tom Holland as the 15-year-old Peter Parker broke the industry's record for All-Time Biggest July Opening Weekend ever, as well as three long-held records by Columbia Pictures – Biggest Non-Holiday Opening Weekend, Single Biggest Day of All-Time (at P70.9-M) on Saturday, July 8 and the Second Biggest Single Day (at P68-M) on Sunday, July 9.

Fans and critics alike heaped praises on Spider-Man: Homecoming with discussions on social media centering on the freshness of the filmmakers' approach to the reboot, the diversity of the cast which includes Fil-Am talent Jacob Batalon as Spidey's best buddy, and how Holland's portrayal is the “best depiction ever” of the young superhero.

It's also been mentioned by fans that Homecoming is THE best movie from the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), not only from the Spider-Man series.

In the US, the web-slinger's latest tale debuted to a record-shattering $120-M in estimates, while the international box-office took a smash $140-M opening gross. That should give the film a $260 million global opening, if estimates hold.

Back in the Philippines, Spidey's coming-of-age spectacle rolled out in 591 screens and 183 locations, with SM Mall of Asia (at P8.89-M), SM Megamall (P8.04-M) and SM North EDSA (P7.42-M) besting all cinemas in terms of sales.

In the Top Ten are Trinoma (P6.42-M), Glorietta IV (P4.79-M), Powerplant (P4.11-M), Greenbelt III (P3.59-M), Alabang Town Center (P3.47-M), Greenhills Promenade (P3.46-M) and Uptown Place (P3.06-M)

Fisher Mall leads the Top Twenty with P3.01-M, followed by Robinsons Magnolia (P2.97-M), Gateway Cineplex (P2.94-M), SM Cebu (P2.87-M), U.P. Town Center (P2.85-M), SM Aura (P2.79-M), SM Southmall (P2.78-M), Ayala Cebu (P2.72-M), Eastwood (P2.70-M) and Bonifacio High Street (P2.59-M).

Rounding out the Top Thirty are SM Clark (P2.56-M), Robinsons Ermita (P2.49-M), Shang Cineplex (P2.43-M), Fairview Terraces (P2.26-M), Market!Market! (P2.23-M), SM Seaside (2.16-M),
SM Marikina (P2.11-M), SM Dasmarinas (P2.00-M), SM Fairview (P1.95-M) and Harbor Point (P1.73-M).

A young Peter Parker/Spider-Man (Tom Holland), who made his sensational debut in Captain America: Civil War, enters the Marvel Cinematic Universe in Spider-Man: Homecoming. Embraced all over the world, Spider-Man is the most popular comic book character in history and the crown jewel of Marvel comics. Now, he comes home in a film with a fresh, fun tone and new take, produced by Marvel Studios, that brings the Peter Parker of the comic books to the screen alongside MCU heroes for the first time.

Thrilled by his experience with the Avengers, Peter returns home, where he lives with his Aunt May (Marisa Tomei), under the watchful eye of his new mentor Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.). Peter tries to fall back into his normal daily routine – distracted by thoughts of proving himself to be more than just your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man – but when the Vulture (Michael Keaton) emerges as a new villain, everything that Peter holds most important will be threatened. His moment has arrived as he is challenged to become the hero he is meant to be.

Spider-Man: Homecoming is distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International.

StarStudio Takes a Peek Into the Happy Home of Ogie Alcasid and Regine Velasquez


StarStudio reveals the exclusive story of one of the most iconic couples in the industry as its July issue features the songbird and the songwriter, Regine Velasquez and Ogie Alcasid. 

Take a tour of their beautiful house and listen to the story of how their beautiful family came to be, with big new revelations that will surprise, inspire, and touch the readers’ hearts. 

Also featured in the issue are brides-to-be Maxene Magalona and Coleen Garcia, mother-daughter tandems Sunshine and Angelina Cruz and Jessa and Jayda Avanzado, and actor-turned-artist Hero Angeles. 

Grab a copy of StarStudio's July 2017 issue from ABS-CBN Publishing available in bookstores and newsstands nationwide.

Awra Named Newest Pinoy Super Hero 'Amazing Ving'


After making his mark in the hit series "FPJ's Ang Probinsyano", child star McNeal "Awra" Briguela will next play a superhero in "Wansapanataym."




Joining Awra in the special episodes of Wansapanataym are Roderick Paulate, Carmi Martin, Ellen Adarna, Marco Gallo and Kisses Delavin.
Coco Martin, lead star of the hit series "Ang Probinsyano", announced Awra's newest project on Instagram.

"Pakaabangan ang pinaka bagong SUPERHERO ng ating Bayan... lilipad na!!! THE AMAZING VING... every Sunday 8pm sabay sabay po tayo manood mga kapamilya. Congrats Baby ko!!!" Coco wrote.

Also on Instagram, Awra extended his appreciation to Martin for supporting his newest project.

"Maraming salamat po kuya @mr.cocomartin sa pagiging supportive kuya at tatay pa," Awra wrote.

July 7, 2017

Spanky Manikan Leaves "My Love From The Star" Due to Bad Health Condition


From the stellar visual effects to the out-of-this-world kilig brought by its vibrant characters, GMA Network’s local adaptation of My Love From The Star has undeniably become a nightly favorite of Kapuso viewers. Unfortunately, one of its beloved actors,Spanky Manikan who plays the role of Mr. Jang, cannot continue his character in the show as he is sick and needs to rest.

During the show’s early stages, the veteran actor expressed his excitement to be part of the hit Korean series and has declined other projects to focus on My Love From The Star. Gil Cuerva, who plays the role of his dear friend Matteo Domingo, is sad that he has to leave but wishes him well. “I think working with Tito Spanky is one of the best things that can happen to a new actor such as myself. He’s a man with so much wisdom and being the newbie that I am, I was always looking for someone I could ask questions from, get advice from and he was the perfect person to give me a lot of advice, a lot of tips. Ultimately, he is really a great actor to have scenes with and even though the time we spent together wasn’t that much, he somehow has been a mentor to me when it comes to acting. Sir Spanky, get well soon, we miss you. And I hope that our paths will collide again in the future,” he says.

Meanwhile, other members of the show also voiced their sentiments that they will miss having him in the show but understands that it is in his best interest to take a break. Glydel Mercado, who plays Lynelle Chavez, sings nothing but praises for the actor. “Si Tito Spanky, as a co-actor, siyempre alam nating lahat na napakagaling niyang aktor talaga. Ang galing niyang ka-eksena, madali siyang katrabaho kasi alam niya lahat ng gagawin niya once na dumating siya sa set. Tito Spanky, hope you get well soon and we’re praying for you and may God bless you always.

My Love From The Star’s main antagonist Gabby Eigenmann, who portrays Jackson Libredo, also had a message. “Tito Spanky, get well soon and I pray that you get better any time soon. Of course umaasa ako na makatrabaho parin kita and it’s always a joy to be working with you. Mahal ka namin,” he says.

Moving forward, the series’ heads have casted Mr. Crispin Pineda to take over the role and are confident that he will competently portray the endearing and lovable character of Mr. Jang.

Paolo Bediones Admits Suffering from This Disease More Than Half of His Life


Paolo Bediones admitted via a lengthy Facebook post on July 5 that he is suffering from psoriasis "for more than half my life."

The 43 year-old news program host wrote:
I HAVE A SECRET

Look at me. Look closely. What if I told you that I have been keeping a secret for more than half my life? A secret that I used to be ashamed of until I found comfort in knowing that there are others who kept the same thing hidden. Some weren’t good at concealing it, while some, no matter what they do, could not hide it.

Look at the picture again. You want to know my secret?

I HAVE PSORIASIS. Don’t worry it’s a non communicable skin disorder. It is NOT CONTAGIOUS. It’s a painful, chronic disease characterized by incessant itching and scratching. Occasional bleeding and scabbing. Reddening of the skin and flaking. It's not pretty for sure, but I have been hiding it well.

More than 2 million of my KABALAT in the country suffer the daily plight of flare ups that are mild to severe, that happen during bouts of stress and heat, and sometimes it’s caused by the food we eat. Some have even perished from the ordeal.

Everyday we have to mentally prepare ourselves before we go out into the world. Each one of us insecure, knowing someone will notice the discolored patch of skin or the white flakes. Knowing someone would like to ask about it, but feel uncomfortable doing so. Ask us about it and we will gladly share with you.

If you, a family member, or a friend share these symptoms, look up Psor Phil and please see a specialist and learn about the various forms of treatment that exists.

If you know anyone with psoriasis, hug them.
If you see me on the street, hug me

Other celebrities who have opened up about suffering from psoriasis include reality TV star Kim Kardashian and singer Britney Spears.

"The Better Half: Rewind," "My Girlfriend is a Gumiho," Jerry Yan and John Lloyd Cruz Make Their Way to Jeepney TV this July


One of ABS-CBN’s presently leading afternoon drama series, “The Better Half,” and popular Koreanovela “My Girlfriend is a Gumiho” complete Jeepney TV’s line up of exciting programs this month as they make their mark on cable TV starting this Saturday (July 8).

Revel in love and mystery with the rewind of the drama and psychological thriller “The Better Half.” Find out why viewers have been hooked with the intense and growing revelations in the lives of Camille (Shaina Magdayao), her lost husband Marco (Carlo Aquino), her new love Rafael (JC De Vera), and the woman who pretends to be her husband’s wife, Bianca (Denise Laurel).

Relive the 100 days spent by Dae Woong with Mi Ho in fantasy romcom “My Girlfriend is a Gumiho.” The series is about an aspiring actor who unintentionally releases a gumiho, a legendary nine-tailed fox in the appearance of a mysterious girl, from her centuries-old prison. He injures himself badly from running away, but she saves his life and asks to stay by his side.

Don’t miss the funny love story between an ordinary guy and a mythical creature in “My Girlfriend is a Gumiho” at 8:20PM to 10PM, back-to-back with the lives tangled and ruined by love in “The Better Half: Rewind” at 10PM to 11:10PM every Saturday and Sunday starting July 8.

Meanwhile, two romantic family dramas join Jeepney TV’s roster of entertainment shows beginning July 31 - Chinovela “Unforgettable Love” starring Taiwanese star and former F4 member Jerry Yan at 9:10-10PM, Mondays thru Thursdays; and the 2015 ABS-CBN series “You’re My Home,” starring Dawn Zulueta, Richard Gomez, JC De Vera and Jessy Mendiola, at 2:45 to 4:15PM, Mondays thru Wednesdays.

Also, John Lloyd Cruz makes an appearance on Jeepney TV as “Icon of the Month.” Follow his story in “BTS: John Lloyd Cruz,” a behind-the-scene documentary special on the multi-awarded actor airing on July 30, Sunday, 7:30-8:30 PM.

Jeepney TV is the only local variety cable channel that offers the most extensive and well-preserved archived programs that bridge generations of Filipino viewers by bringing back good memories and celebrating the best of Pinoy pop culture. It is available on SkyCable channel 9, Destiny Cable Analog 41 and Digital 9For updates, like the Jeepney TV page on Facebook (www.facebook.com/JeepneyTV) or visit www.jeepneytv.ph.

Matteo Guidicelli, Robin Domingo and Gretchen Ho Join Thousands of Fitness Enthusiasts in Robinsons Supermarket's 10th Fit & Fun Wellness Buddy Run


Running, especially when done with a friend or loved one, is truly a fun and exciting way to achieve a fitness goal or to get back on track to a healthy and active lifestyle.

This show in the bright faces of hundreds of running pairs who took part in Robinsons Supermarket's 10th Fit & Fun Wellness Buddy Run at the Parade Grounds of Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.

In line with Robinsons Supermarket's wellness campaign to continuously encourage more people to choose and live healthier lifestyles, the Fit & Fun Welness Buddy Run gave everyone an opportunity to partner with friends and family, and run together towards the finish line.

"Through the years, the Fit & Fun Buddy Run has been a much-anticipated event for a lot of people. It's our kick-off as we celebrate with the nation, Wellness and Nutrition month. It provides a fun gateway activity for fitness newbies who are just about to start their wellness journey and loyal runners," said general manager of Robinsons Supermarket, Mr. Jody Gadia.




Hosted by Volleyball superstar and TV personality Gretchen Ho and Kapamilya host Robi Domingo, the event also featured exciting booths with lots of freebies from Nestle Philippines, Johnson & Johnson, Fontera, Unilab and Wyeth Nutrition, Unilever, International Pharmaceuticals Incorporated (IPI), Procter & Gamble, Abbot Nutrition, Getz Bros, Eccosential, Del Monte, Foodsphere Inc., and Philusa.




Coaches Jim and Toni Saret prepped-up the runners with a short work-out and invited them to register on-site for the Fit Filipino 1 Million Pounds National Weight Loss Challenge, the biggest on-ground and online wellness program in the country which aims to encourage to pledge and lose weight.




The Fun Run is just one of the programs this July. Robinsons Supermarket is also giving away Healthy You snack platters for a minimum purchase of 3,000php inclusive of Php 500 worth of participating items of the Wellness Festival.

Robinsons Supermarket commitment to wellness campaign extends to providing Filipinos with delicious and healthy food options and alternatives. 

Check out their facebook page www.facebook.com/RobinsonsSupermarketOfficial or website www.robinsonssupermarket.com.ph to see what's good for you.

"Wonder Woman" Overtakes "Batman V Superman" as Biggest Warner Bros. Movie in PH Theaters


It’s official: An Amazonian princess has bested both the Man of Steel and the Dark Knight at the Philippine box office.

As of last Saturday, July 1, the P520.5-million cumulative box-office gross of Wonder Woman has overtaken the lifetime gross of Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice to become the biggest Warner Bros. Movie of All-Time. This was announced today by Francis Soliven, General Manager of Warner Bros. Philippines.

`Wonder Woman' has shown tremendous staying power and repeat business at the local box-office, and we could not be prouder of the film,” says Soliven in making the announcement. “The story of Diana, as played by the incomparable Gal Gadot, has resonated across all demographics and continues to inspire moviegoers. We are truly grateful to the fans and critics for embracing Wonder Woman.

The film's success in the Philippines is mirrored by its exceptional performance in the U.S. where just four weeks after it bowed, the superhero origin story has outperformed all the previous entries in the D.C. Extended Universe franchise, including last year’s Batman v. Superman, Suicide Squad and Man of Steel.

The Amazonian’s success story is all the more astounding when considering global movie revenues. The movie has made more than $660 million worldwide despite still awaiting release in over 12 countries. When all markets are accounted for, Wonder Woman has the potential to cross the $1 billion mark.

Now playing across the Philippines, “Wonder Woman” is distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.

DZMM Leads in Metro Manila Radio Survey, Launches New Programs "Good Vibes" and "On The Spot"


In its bid to provide the best mix of informative programs to its audiences, DZMM recently launched two new afternoon programs, namely “Good Vibes” with Niña Corpuz and “On The Spot” newscast anchored by Vic Lima and Toni Aquino that will be simulcast on radio, digital TV, and cable TV.

“Good Vibes” is a health and wellness show that runs daily, Monday to Friday, from 1pm to 2pm, while “On The Spot” gives a rundown of news highlights and issues of the day from 4pm to 4:30pm. Both are simulcast on DZMM Radyo Patrol 630 on AM radio and DZMM TeleRadyo on cable TV and ABS-CBN TVplus.

Meanwhile, DZMM also led in the latest AM radio survey released by Kantar Media for the period of March 14 to 20, 2017 in Metro Manila. ABS-CBN’s flagship AM radio station garnered an audience share of 46% in the AM band with almost half of AM radio listeners choosing to tune in to the station. A far second is DZBB with an audience share of 20%, followed by DZRH with 11%.

With “Good Vibes” and “On The Spot,” DZMM hopes to sustain its AM leadership as it continues to strive to provide Filipinos with timely and relevant information as they go about their daily work and home routines.

Set in DZMM TeleRadyo’s brand new studio, “Good Vibes” celebrates positivity by providing informative health news, practical home keeping tips, interesting features for the moms, young and the old, and medical information straight from different health experts. Dra. Luisa Puyat also joins every Thursday to share her own medical expertise and give updates on DZMM’s Teaching Learning and Caring accomplishments.

Formerly of the show “Magandang Gabi Dok,” anchor Niña relishes another opportunity to serve more people and help bring happiness to the homes of Filipinos.

’Good Vibes’ is all about public service. We want to help people make their lives easier and care for their families better, especially senior citizens. People tend to forget our elders so this program will address their needs so that they can enjoy their lives more,”  she shared.

 


“On The Spot,” on the other hand, aims to make people aware of what’s happening all over the country as Vic and Toni present reports from the ABS-CBN news gathering team, Radyo Patrol and Regional reporters assigned in different beats and locations in the Philippines. Delivered in a conversational manner, news reports are much easier to digest and understand for the people in the program.

Stay tuned for other news and public service efforts of DZMM, which is celebrating the 10th anniversary of DZMM TeleRadyo this year. For updates, tune in to DZMM 630KHz on AM radio or DZMM TeleRadyo on cable TV and ABS-CBN TVplus. For updates, follow @DZMMTeleRadyo on Twitter and Facebook.

Filipino Actor Jacob Batalon is Tom Holland's Bestfriend in "Spider-Man: Homecoming"


Besides being your neighorbood superhero Spider-Man, high school student Peter Peter (Tom Holland) has an ordinary life to lead – helped out by his best friend, Ned, played by Filipino-American actor Jacob Batalon, in Columbia Pictures’ new action-adventure Spider-Man: Homecoming (now showing in Philippine cinemas).

While many of the actors in Spider-Man: Homecoming have experience with the behind-the-scenes demands of promoting an MCU film, Batalon is making his motion picture debut. (Not a bad way to start one’s career.)

He got his first taste last year at Comic-Con, which culminated a long casting process. “The gravity of it didn’t sink in until we went to Comic-Con,” he says. “I could see how much fans love this character and go crazy for him. I’ve never felt an energy like that – and knowing that they support us really made me feel great. The first super hero film I saw was the first Spider-Man and those first films were such a big part of my childhood. It’s hard to explain what it feels like to know that you’re now part of building that story.

In the film, Ned Leeds is Peter’s best friend and confidant. But when Peter begins his journey into the solitary world of Spider-Man, it leaves Ned as more of an outlier than his best buddy. “Ned’s very sweet, genuine – well, I guess you’d say he’s nerdy,” says Batalon. “He loves technology. He’s super-duper smart. And all he wants to do is be Peter’s right hand man. It is very tough on him not knowing what Peter is keeping from him – he finds it very frustrating and thinks that Peter is just getting too cool for him, like when you think you may lose a person who’s very important to you at one point in your life. So when Ned finally finds out Peter’s secret, it’s the greatest thing in the world for him – it’s going to be so cool having Spider-Man as his best friend.”

The relationship between Peter and Ned is probably the most important relationship in the movie because Ned is the only person who Peter confides in and talks to about being Spider-Man,” says Tom Holland. “Tony Stark and Happy Hogan seem a little distant, so Ned is almost like a shrink that he can just really let it out to.”

 


And, Holland says, that’s similar to their off-screen dynamic. “Since day one, Jacob and I hit it off immediately. Director Jon Watts sent us off on some tasks to sort of start bonding, but we didn’t really need to do that. We were already really good friends and we just gelled, and it’s exactly what happens in the movie.”

Even though Batalon was not the most experienced actor who was up for the role, co-producer Eric Hauserman Carroll says it was an easy call to cast him. “He brought an authentic, high school innocence,” he says. “He really is this young kid who’s super excited about everything. That came through in his screen test and auditions and translates perfectly to the way Ned Leeds would be excited about finding out that his best friend is Spider-Man. And he was the perfect Ned Leeds -- the entire crew loved him, he hugged every single person on his way to and from set, and he became the unofficial mascot of the production.

 


Spider-Man: Homecoming is distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International.

Pambansang Bae Alden Richards Charms in New, Classic Cinema-Inspired McSaver Meals Ad


Pambansang Bae Alden Richards surprised fans as he took on a different kind of leading role in his latest TV commercial with McDonald’s. Clad in boots and a cape, he channelled the iconic Filipino fantasy prinsipe of classic Pinoy films as his character travelled through mountainous terrain on a trusty horse. 

Watch McSaver Meals TVC below to learn why Alden has the potential for more comical and dashing roles in the future:



McDonald’s is no stranger to producing campaigns that lighten Filipinos’ days. Just when you think you’ve seen McDonald’s tackle a breadth of emotions, its latest TVC breaks conventions and leaves viewers laughing. The TVC is an ode to the early days of Pinoy storytelling that kept generations of Filipinos glued to their screens, as it was shot in black and white and completed with grainy effect and dramatic scoring.

Inspired by Filipino epics like Ibong Adarna, with a comedic and charismatic exchange betweenAlden’s Prinsipe and the temperamental giant, the commercial stood out and made an impression on viewers!

Just like Alden’s cunning Prinsipe, you too can rely on the delicious McDonald’s McSaverMeals to get you through! Choose from the Crispy Chicken Fillet Meal (P59), Chicken Fillet Ala King Meal (P59,) and 1-pc. Mushroom Pepper Steak (P55).

Charo Santos-Concio's Book "My Journey: The Story of an Unexpected Leader," Now a Certified Bestseller


The memoir-leadership manual of ABS-CBN’s chief content officer Charo Santos-Concio, entitled “My Journey: The Story of an Unexpected Leader,” has won over readers, topping the list of Powerbooks’ non-fiction bestsellers among Philippine publications for the month of May.

The master storyteller on television with the longest running drama anthology “MMK” has now made her mark as a notable storyteller in print through her book which spans her childhood up to her retirement as president and CEO of ABS-CBN.

Charo recalls her journey to the top, sharing lessons that have been vital in her journey. “I never really planned out my life the way it unfolded. I was just really open to the opportunities that came my way. One can be full of self-doubts and fears, and I had to grapple with them. It allowed me to connect the dots and gave me a chance to be kind to myself and learn from my mistakes.”

An Mercado Alcantara joined Charo as co-writer of the book, revealing that the latter was hesitant at first, but was encouraged to pursue this project to help others. “If by telling her story, it will encourage others to dream and to follow their passion, she said she’s willing to do it.”

According to Charo, “many parts of my story would resonate with everyone -- men and women who are aspiring for greater dreams for themselves.”

Each chapter has a summary at the end, highlighting the leadership lessons she gained from various parts of her life, and the values she espoused as she went through challenging trials in her career.   

The bestselling bio-manual for leadership success published by ABS-CBN Publishing is now on its third round of printing. Grab a copy of “My Journey: The Story of an Unexpected Leader” available at selected Powerbooks, Fully Booked, and National Book Store outlets for P550.

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