SBNLifestyle

March 25, 2019

“It’s Showtime” First International Franchise Airs Starting March 25 in Indonesia

The country's number one noontime show "It's Showtime" is spreading good vibes to more viewers not just in the Philippines but across the world by landing its first international franchise in Indonesia.

Starting Monday (March 25), Indonesian viewers will get to watch their own version of the program on the TV station MNCTV. The groundbreaking milestone also marks ABS-CBN's first non-narrative format franchise buy, solidifying the company's position as a reliable content provider in the international arena.

"It's Showtime" hosts Jugs Jugueta and Teddy Corpuz will also be flying to Indonesia this weekend to observe and support the launch of the show on MNCTV. Jugs and Teddy are considered pioneers of "It's Showtime," having hosted it since 2009 when it was still airing in the morning timeslot.

"From introducing XB Gensan, Rachel Gabreza, and international sensation TNT Boys to the world, 'It's Showtime' and ABS-CBN are committed to discovering world-class talent and providing high-quality Filipino content and entertainment that would appeal to the global market. This a massive achievement and honor for the whole team as we celebrate the 10^th anniversary of 'It's Showtime' this year," said Peter Dizon, business unit head of "It's Showtime."

"While are proud that 'It's Showtime' will have its own version in Indonesia, it's really about sharing the happiness with the viewers and extending the experience not just here in the Philippines but also in another country," he added.

MNCTV's version of "It's Showtime" will carry popular segments that have brought happiness to many Filipinos, including "Sine Mo 'To," "Cash-Ya! Kaya!" "Ansabe," "Copy Cut," and "Bida Kapamilya."

As "It's Showtime" continues its year-long countdown to its 10^th anniversary in October, it has introduced new segments that draw viewers whether on TV or online, such as the compatibility game "KapareWho" and the search for the next leading man, "Bida Man." Outstanding singers will once again pull out all the stops in the week-long Quarter 3 semifinals of "Tawag ng Tanghalan," which kicks off on April 1.

"It's Showtime," meanwhile, remains as the most watched noontime show in the country, having recorded a national TV rating of 20.1%, almost double that of "Eat Bulaga's" 10.4%, based on data from Kantar Media last Thursday (March 21).

Like the Philippine version of the show, Indonesia's "It's Showtime" also enlisted its the brightest stars, including singer-comedian-actor Raffi Ahmad, model-turned-actress Luna Maya, renowned host Indra Herlambang, host-actress Chika Jessica, Filipino TV host and recording artist Leo Consul, and rockstar twins Musbrother.

"It's Showtime," which continues its countdown to its tenth anniversary celebration, airs Mondays to Saturdays on ABS-CBN and ABS-CBN HD (Sky Cable ch 167). For the program's past episode, login to iWant (iwant.ph) or on skyondemand.com.ph for Sky subscribers.

By: JENG On 3/25/2019 01:58:00 PM

March 24, 2019

Kathryn Bernardo Wins Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Trending Artist 2019

Kathryn Bernardo bested Liza Soberano, Julia Barretto and Yassi Pressman in this year's Nickelodeon's Kids' Choice Awards.

The Kapamilya blockbuster actress was voted the Favorite Trending Pinoy artist after garnering the most number of fan votes which were cast using a special hashtag.

Held annually, the Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards brings together top celebrities in the United States for a fun-filled show that honors the biggest acts and programs of the past year.

By: JENG On 3/24/2019 04:23:00 PM

March 20, 2019

Zachary Levi Brims with Hope, Enthusiasm as “Shazam!”

Zachary Levi ("Thor: The Dark World," TV's "Chuck," "Heroes Reborn") stars as the titular DC Super Hero of New Line Cinema's origin story "SHAZAM!"

Director David F. Sandberg says Levi's passion and youthful nature were vital in his casting. "It was important to find someone who could feel like a kid in a grownup's body. I think a mistake a lot of people make when grownups try to play kids is that they just sort of lower the IQ, just play it dumber. And kids aren't dumber, they're just inexperienced, and more enthusiastic about life. And they don't have the filter that a lot of adults have. So that's what we were looking for and what we absolutely found in Zachary Levi."

In the film, streetwise 14-year-old foster kid Billy Batson (Asher Angel) can turn into the adult Super Hero Shazam (Levi), by shouting out one word—SHAZAM!— courtesy of an ancient wizard. Still a kid at heart—inside a ripped, godlike body—Shazam revels in this adult version of himself by doing what any teen would do with superpowers.

Levi was thrilled with the opportunity to tap into the 14-year-old in him. "I don't want to say I'm a man-child," he jokes, "but I happen to be an enthusiastic, hopeful, energy-filled type of person. So, to show up on set and get to play this character, Shazam, and fly around and fight bad guys? I was totally in! I was so eager to shoot every scene of this film, to be able to bring not just a really badass Super Hero to life, but one who has so much heart and charm and humor."

The actor surmises that growing up reading comic books and playing video games probably set him on a particular trajectory, but still, "the scene where the Wizard first transforms Billy into Shazam and he hears his voice for the first time—and it's my voice! I couldn't wait for that moment, I knew it was going to be so much fun." Or, to act out the moments "when he sees his reflection for the first time, the whole montage of him learning what his powers are…" Levi adds. So, really, everything.

Levi says that to play a boy in a grown man's body was really about straddling the two sides of himself. "Kids don't get bogged down with life the way adults do. They're not dealing with 401ks or mortgages; they're just going to school and thinking, 'I really don't wanna go to math right now.' They haven't built the catalogue of experiences in their journey to adult wisdom yet to understand why things are the way they are.

"But even as an adult, and especially as an actor," he continues, "I've always tried to maintain a lust for life, along with enthusiasm and sincerity, which I think is what most kids just exude naturally. Up to a point, they have a purity of heart, and I think that's what's so great about this story and what's unique about Billy specifically. He is pure of heart, and that's why the Wizard endows him with this power. And that's a big gamble—giving this 14-year-old kid the power of the gods."

Along with the wisdom of Solomon, the strength of Hercules, the endurance of Atlas, the power of Zeus, the fighting abilities of Achilles, and the speed of Mercury, "He's also got the ability to wield lightning, which is very much in tune with his Zeusitude, if I can be so bold as to call it Zeusitude. I'm coining that phrase right now," Levi quips.

On set, the actor had as much fun with the discovery of Shazam's powers as the character did. "One of the moments that just delighted me was the scene when he's stopping the robbery, and he figures out he has bullet immunity. Basically, he just starts giggling because the bullets literally tickle him." Long before production began, just reading the scene, Levi confesses, "I just lost it, I started laughing out loud, legitimately LOL-ing by myself in my living room. Because it's the joy of that moment. You don't get to see Batman or Superman being tickled by their abilities. Those guys are dudes who've had a lot on their shoulders for a long time, while Billy's just stepping into this world. You get to experience his delight, and I just loved it."

Speaking of Shazam's fellow Super Heroes' attributes, director Sandberg offers, "Shazam has the best secret identity of all. He becomes a totally different person, a young boy. So, if he needs to blend in or get away, he can say 'Shazam!' and turn into Billy, just a normal kid."

In Philippine cinemas April 3, "Shazam!" is a New Line Cinema production, and distributed by Warner Bros., a WarnerMedia Company.

By: JENG On 3/20/2019 09:37:00 AM

Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray Shows Off the ‘Best Twirl Ever’

Jollibee—the country's number one fast-food brand—brought another stellar member to its growing family of iconic celebrity endorsers: Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray.

In her first-ever commercial for the proudly homegrown brand, Catriona shows off the twirl that sent waves on- and offline, all over the world: the iconic slow-motion twirl.

Clad in white, Catriona talks about how the universe has spoken, referring to a new twirl that is set to win everyone's hearts. For the 25-year-old beauty queen and singer, the "best twirl ever" is not her crown-winning move—it's the new and improved Jolly Twirl!

Her face—lit up in desire and anticipation—and her elegant, seamless movements are in perfect sync with the irresistible twirls of the soft-serve ice cream.

"We are honored to have none other than Miss Universe 2018 herself join the Jollibee family in bringing more joy and pride to our customers," said Francis E. Flores, Jollibee Global Brand Chief Marketing Officer and Jollibee Philippines Marketing Head. "Having her show off her world-famous twirl alongside her love for both the Jolly Twirl and Jollibee is an incredible opportunity for a proudly Filipino brand."

The new and improved Jolly Twirl comes with a thicker, creamier texture and a special formulation that makes it slow-melt so that everyone can enjoy it longer. It's still the same delightful vanilla soft-serve ice cream generations of Filipinos have grown to love, but with improved characteristics to make for a better dining experience. Whether you're looking for a sweet way to cap off your favorite Jollibee meals or an indulgent treat to enjoy "just because," the Jolly Twirl is indeed the best twirl for you!

The Jolly Twirl comes in the following variants: the Chocolate Sundae Twirl (PHP 30.00), with the vanilla soft-serve ice cream complemented by a drizzling of rich chocolate syrup; the classic Vanilla Cone Twirl (PHP 10.00), with the thicker, creamier vanilla soft-serve ice cream twirled into a crispy cone; the Chocolate Cone Twirl (PHP 15.00), with the vanilla soft-serve dipped in chocolate; and the Mini Chocolate Sundae Twirl (PHP 24.00).

For more information on Jollibee's products and promotions, like Jollibee Philippines on Facebook, subscribe to Jollibee Studios on YouTube, and follow @Jollibee on Twitter and Instagram.

*Prices may vary across locations.

By: JENG On 3/20/2019 09:34:00 AM

Koreanovela “That Man Oh Soo” Premieres in PH via TVplus’ Asianovela Channel

Korean superstars Lee Jong-hyun and Kim So-eun are teaming up to unload kilig and spread love through their fantasy rom-com series "That Man Oh Soo" that will hit TV screens in the Philippines via TVplus' Asianovela Channel starting March 18 (Monday).

Lee Jong-hyun plays Oh Soo, an attractive and smart IT engineer who serves as Cupid for people looking for love using a magic pollen. Despite Oh Soo's incredible matchmaking skills, his heart does not belong to anyone. But all this is about to change when Oh Soo meets Seo Yoo Ri (Kim So-eun), a policewoman who will capture his heart.

"That Man Oh Soo" first premiered in South Korea in 2018 and immediately became the talk of the town because of the undeniable chemistry of its two lead actors and the romantic story. In the Philippines, "That Man Oh Soo" will air on weekdays at 10:00 AM with same-day replays at 3:00 PM and 12:00 midnight.

Meanwhile, Park Seo Joon and Park Min Young will return to TV as their hit Korean romcom "What's Wrong with Secretary Kim" airs on TVplus' Asianovela Channel on March 18 before "That Man Oh Soo."

More and more TVplus users are also watching programs on Asianovela Channel that is now the eighth most watched channel among DTT households based on Kantar Media's Q4 2018 report that covers DTT households nationwide.

Other programs that will surely entertain TVplus viewers are the medical romance drama "Doctor Crush," the romance fantasy "Tomorrow with You," and the iconic series "Meteor Garden."

For more details, visit Asianovela Channel on Facebook (fb.com/AsianovelaChannel).

By: JENG On 3/20/2019 09:30:00 AM

Thriller “Us” Puts Lupita Nyong’o Front and Center of Shocking Tale

Oscar-winner Lupita Nyong'o stars in Universal Pictures' new horror thriller Us, playing the film's central character is Adelaide Wilson, a woman hiding an inexplicable childhood trauma from her past. She discovers that her attempts to push down and suppress the incident now threatens to destroy not only herself, but her husband and her children.

For such an expansive and complex dual role, director-writer Jordan Peele and his fellow filmmakers quickly turned to Nyong'o.

"We've admired Lupita for so long, and as we were thinking about casting, we were shocked to realize that she's never been the star of a film, but has instead always played these amazing supporting roles," producer Ian Cooper says. "So we were excited at the opportunity to have her as the anchor at the center of this film. Lupita is someone audiences feel they can access and have an identification with; she's someone you want to spend time with, but she's also so good at turning the screw a bit and making you feel suddenly alienated from her as well. That duality in her performance was perfect for this film, on multiple levels."

Nyong'o has vivid memories of her first meetings with Peele about the roles.

"At first, every time I spoke to Jordan about these roles, I felt like I needed to sign up for philosophy, psychology and sociology courses at a university to be able to play them," Nyong'o says, laughing. "He's so detailed and, in my first reading of the script, I knew there was more significance to it than I had caught onto. It wasn't until I spoke to him that I realized how much he was investigating and trying to unpack in this one story within the horror genre."

Nyong'o continues, "Early on, I asked Jordan which films were influencing this story or had inspired his imagination. He created a list for me of films to go through that ranged from Dead Again to A Tale of Two Sisters, The Shining, Alien, The Birds. That was very informative, not just for how he was framing this world, but also for specific moments in those films that he pays homage to in Us."

"One of the themes Jordan said he was interested in exploring was the sense that one of America's biggest flaws is being unable to recognize its own demons," Nyong'o says. "That is a powerful thing to be able to do, because it's what real self-acceptance is: the ability to recognize both your most noble and your most destructive sides." The idea intrigued her. "We cast judgment on people," Nyong'o says. "We decide who is good and who is bad. But the truth is that we all possess that duality. That's a really powerful statement to make, for us to recognize that evil is not an external force but is very much part and parcel of our experience as human beings."

Peele also gave her a warning before she agreed to take on the film. "One of the first things Jordan said to me was, 'Lupita, you're going to be very tired,'" she says, laughing. "And he delivered on that promise! I feel like I've made five films, and we've only just made one. This was a really intense and all-consuming film to be a part of."

In Philippine cinemas March 20, Us is distributed in the Philippines by United International Pictures through Columbia Pictures. Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/uipmoviesph/ ; Twitter at https://twitter.com/uipmoviesph and Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/uipmoviesph/.

By: JENG On 3/20/2019 09:25:00 AM

Olympian Greg Louganis Ready to Officiate 2019 Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series

Four-time Olympic Gold Medal diver, Greg Louganis, will continue to serve as Sports Director for this year's upcoming Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series - Season 11. The World Series will kick-off on April 12th in the Small and Big Lagoons located in Miniloc Island, El Nido, Palawan. This year will mark the first time the event comes to the Philippines and will likewise be the only Asian stop of the 2019 series.

Louganis' Work with Red Bull Cliff Diving

In 2017, Louganis was named as the Sports Director for the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series after having attended the event in the past as a judge.

"I was invited as a judge on the tour years ago," shares Louganis. "Then after the passing of my dear friend and former Olympic competitor Niki Stajkovic, who was the original Sports Director, Red Bull reached out to me and asked if I could step into the role."

Moreover, Louganis is excited to be working on the 11^th season, stating "I am honoured to be back this year on the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series. I look forward to another exciting year."

As Red Bull Cliff Diving's Sports Director, Louganis oversees every athletic and logical aspect of the competition. This ensures that all safety measures are met, in addition to the implementation of consistent competition rules across all the competitors.

"Some of the safety measures we look for is if the diving heights meet the standard requirements for 27 meters for the Men and 21 meters for the Women," says Louganis. "Also that there is at least 5 meters water depth which the divers would be diving in."

A Quick Look at Greg Louganis' Unforgettable Career
Louganis, who is widely considered the "the greatest American diver", made his Olympic debut in the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, where he took home the Silver Medal in the platform event.

After having won three combined FINA World Championships in 1979 and 1982, Louganis returned to the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles where he placed first on both the platform and springboard events. Four years later, at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul, South Korea, Louganis suffered a concussion in the preliminary rounds. An undeterred Louganis continued and outplaced his competition by winning both Gold Medals in the springboard and platform contests.

In the years since his Olympic wins, Louganis has established himself as a global icon for civil and LGBT rights.

Where to Watch Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series

Catch the live broadcast from El Nido, Palawan, via Red Bull TV on April 13th, 2019. Viewers in the Philippines may also watch the full event, along with the remaining six stops of the 2019 World Series, on SportsAndAction and iWant Sports (iwant.ph), 5PLUS and 5plus.com.ph, FOX Sports, FOX Sports GO, FOX+ app, and online at http://www.foxsports.ph. Check local listings for times and availabilities.

We also invite you to follow the World Series on Facebook (facebook.com/redbullcliffdiving), Instagram (@redbullcliffdiving) and Twitter (@cliffdiving).

By: JENG On 3/20/2019 09:23:00 AM

Jeff Canoy and BAS-CBN Docucentral Premiere “Ang Babae ng Balangiga” on “Sunda’d Best”

A devout Catholic prayer leader, a dedicated sister, a woman who fell in love with the enemy—who was Casiana Nacionales and what was her role in the Balangiga Encounter of 1901?

Award-winning broadcast journalist Jeff Canoy answers these questions and delves deeper into the history of the September 1901 attack by telling the often untold story of Casiana in the ABS-CBN DocuCentral documentary "Ang Babae ng Balangiga" on Sunday's Best, January 20 after "Gandang Gabi Vice."

The town of Balangiga, Eastern Samar was recently back in the spotlight after its famous church bells were returned to their original home in San Lorenzo de Martir last December 15, 2018. Before American troops took the bells as war loot, historic accounts told the story of the Balangiga Uprising, the United States' worst defeat at the hands of Filipinos.

Often left out of the narratives is the Visayan woman who played an important role in one of the Filipinos' biggest victories in the Filipino-American war. Jeff finds out more about the unsung hero by meeting the individuals who knew Casiana personally and learned of her story through oral tradition, and attempts to sort out fact from fiction. The documentary will also put a face to her name by having an artist render a portrait from the descriptions of those who still remember her.

According to Jeff, the story of the Balangiga Encounter deserves to be told, especially because the events of that time mirror issues happening today.

"There's so much more to the story than what we've seen in history books. It's important to revisit this because we're so used to hearing stories of our people's oppression that we rarely celebrate our victories. Balangiga is a story worth celebrating, and Casiana's bravery, who she was, what she did, and how she subverted societal expectations from women at that time should be heard by everyone."

Jeff is fresh from recent wins here and abroad, including awards from prestigious competitions like the New York Festivals in the US, Cannes Corporate Media & TV Awards in France, Society of Publishers in Asia's (SOPA) 2018 Awards, a Carlos Palanca Memorial Award for Literature, and a Marshall McLuhan journalism fellowship from the Canadian Embassy in the Philippines for his stories and documentary on the Marawi conflict. Here in his latest documentary, which he wrote, the "Red Alert" anchor will also tell the full story behind the Balangiga bells and what it truly means to the Balangiga people.

"There are so many lessons we could learn even though it all happened over a century ago," said Jeff. "This is similar to the story of Marawi in the sense that it's uniquely Filipino—it is a story of a community and its people, and those are the stories I love to tell."

Who was Casiana, the lone female of the Balangiga Encounter? Find out in "Ang Babae ng Balangiga" on ABS-CBN "Sunday's Best," January 20 after "Gandang Gabi Vice." The documentary will also be available for viewing online via iwant.ph.

For updates on the latest documentaries on ABS-CBN, follow @DocuCentral on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. For updates follow @ABSCBNpr on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram or go to abscbnpr.com.

Sent from my iPhone

By: JENG On 3/20/2019 09:21:00 AM

“Once Upon a Time...in Hollywood” Reveals First Posters

Columbia Pictures has unveiled the first posters for Once Upon a Time…in Hollywood, the ninth film from writer/director Quentin Tarantino.

Check out the one-sheet artworks below and watch Once Upon a Time…in Hollywood in Philippine cinemas soon.

Quentin Tarantino's Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood visits 1969 Los Angeles, where everything is changing, as TV star Rick Dalton (Leonardo DiCaprio) and his longtime stunt double Cliff Booth (Brad Pitt) make their way around an industry they hardly recognize anymore. The ninth film from the writer-director features a large ensemble cast and multiple storylines in a tribute to the final moments of Hollywood's golden age.

Written and Directed by Quentin Tarantino, Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood is produced by David Heyman, Shannon McIntosh and Quentin Tarantino.

The cast is led by Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt and Margot Robbie.

In Philippine cinemas soon, Once Upon a Time…In Hollywood will be distributed by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International.

By: JENG On 3/20/2019 09:18:00 AM

March 10, 2019

Comedian Chokoleit is Dead

Comedian Chokoleit has passed away, his talent agency, Star Magic, has confirmed.

Jonathan Aguilar Garcia in real life, Chokoleit, who featured regularly in movies and shows, most notably in 2004's fantaserye "Marina," died Saturday.

In a statement, Star Magic said: "Details are still being gathered. Chokoleit was performing in an out of town show in Abra, and experienced difficulty in breathing after his performance."

By: JENG On 3/10/2019 12:32:00 AM

March 8, 2019

Kelly Clarkson Returns to Host the “2019 Billboard Music Awards” Live May 2, 9am on Blue Ant Entertainment

Kelly Clarkson will return to host the three-hour live telecast of the "2019 Billboard Music Awards" on Blue Ant Entertainment.

The "2019 Billboard Music Awards" will air LIVE on Thursday, May 2 at 9:00AM from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

"I had so much fun hosting the 'Billboard Music Awards' last year that I'm back for more," Clarkson said. "We're turning it up a notch this year and I can't wait to celebrate all of my fellow amazing artists for another unforgettable night of live music."

Clarkson, who recently released her critically acclaimed eighth studio album, "Meaning of Life," is among the most popular artists of this era with total worldwide sales of more than 25 million albums and 36 million singles. She is one of pop's top singles artists, with 17 singles boasting multi-platinum, platinum and gold certifications around the world. Clarkson has released eight studio albums ("Thankful," "Breakaway," "My December," "All I Ever Wanted," "Stronger," "Wrapped in Red," "Piece By Piece," "Meaning of Life"), one greatest hits album and two children's books (New York Times Top 10 bestseller "River Rose and the Magical Lullaby" and the recent follow up, "River Rose and the Magical Christmas").

She has won three Grammy Awards, four American Music Awards, three MTV Video Music Awards, two Academy of Country Music Awards, two American Country Awards and one Country Music Association Award. She has also shown extremely rare versatility, having topped Billboard's pop, adult contemporary, country and dance charts.

Clarkson currently serves as a coach on the four-time Emmy Award-winning competition series "The Voice" and is slated to make her daytime debut this fall with "The Kelly Clarkson Show."

The "2019 Billboard Music Awards" is produced by dick clark productions. Mark Bracco, Barry Adelman, Kelly Clarkson and Robert Deaton are executive producers.

By: JENG On 3/08/2019 08:39:00 PM

Mang Inasal Releases #SolbAngBuhay, a Digital Short Film on Self-love Starring Carlo Aquino and Angelica Panganiban

Leading Pinoy restaurant chain Mang Inasal has recently produced a thought-provoking, bittersweet digital short film. Helmed by ace director Dan Villegas, the Mang Inasal digital film stars versatile actors and onscreen partners Carlo Aquino and Angelica Panganiban.

In the three-minute digital short, Mang Inasal and its creative agency DDB Philippines wanted to capture a very contemporary view on romance and relationships - in a way that only Villegas and "CarGel" can deliver spot on.

Dubbed #SolbAngBuhay, the CarGel video ushers viewers to the affectionate relationship between the characters portrayed by Carlo and Angelica. Both are happy and fulfilled by being together and are completely "solb" (fully satisfied) with the life they share.

The first half of the video showcases the engaging chemistry of the couple as portrayed by CarGel, including their most kilig moments - playfully washing the dishes, texting sweet messages to each other, and sharing their love for Mang Inasal Chicken Inasal. Their characters express what they think about each other, and how one cannot live without the other.

The popular song, "Sana," of folk artist, I Belong to the Zoo, complements the digital film's romantic narrative, specially as the couple is shown having a misunderstanding, with Carlo trying his best to comfort a crying Angelica. They part ways, in tears. This is followed by a montage of the characters doing their favorite things by themselves. The twist at the end lays the truth that the two are no longer together.

But even with a tinge of sadness, the couple still manage to be happy. As the two are shown eating in a Mang Inasal store by their lonesome, a loving moment that they used to share together, they seem to be contented eating alone by themselves.

This is where Mang Inasal's self-assuring message that "one can still be happy regardless of one's relationship status." In reality, relationships end even between two people who seem to be perfect for each other. And when it does, the important thing is to know that life does not end there. People will eventually be okay, and that it is okay to be single, that it is okay to love yourself.

The closing line goes: "Kahit single, in a relationship, or it's complicated, solb pa rin ang buhay 'di ba? (Whether you're single, in a relationship, or 'it's complicated, you can still enjoy life to the fullest)."

"The film feels very real, as everyone does experience heartbreak once in a while. It's our post-Valentine treat to our customers and CarGel fans, where we want to show the other side of love, where you don't have to be in a relationship with anybody to be happy. We want to tell everyone that there is such a thing called 'self-love,' and this is the most potent of all kinds of love. It inspires one to discover happiness within, against trying to find it in someone else," said Mang Inasal Marketing Director Michael Dumaual.

The digital short is a reunion for Angelica, Carlo and Direk Dan, coming off from the highly successful romantic drama "Exes Baggage."

During the 90s, Carlo and Angelica were child stars who made names for themselves for their superb acting and talent. They were paired in many television shows and films until they became real life lovers. The two eventually ended their relationship and went their separate ways, pursuing their own careers in showbiz. But Exes Baggage reignited the comeback of the CarGel loveteam. To date, many fans still root for the couple, who now star in ABS-CBN's "Playhouse."

With this digital film's release last February 25, Dan Villegas continues his streak of tearjerkers like "Never Not Love You," "All of You," and "The Breakup Playlist." Villegas was the award-winning force behind "Hintayan ng Langit" and highly successful TV drama series "On The Wings of Love" and "Till I Met You."

Watch the CarGel #SolbAngBuhay short film on Mang Inasal Philippines Facebook and YouTube page.

By: JENG On 3/08/2019 08:28:00 PM

UAAP Player Ricci Rivero Steps Up as MYX Celebrity VJ for March

UP Fighting Maroon Ricci Rivero takes a break from shooting hoops and takes up MYX's monthly hosting challenge as Celebrity VJ for March.

The basketball heartthrob is sure to swoon viewers with his swag style and sweet moves as he ushers in the hottest music of today.

The music channel is ready for heat this month with alternative rock and grunge band Teeth as "MYX Headliner." With Glenn Jacinto on vocals, Jerome Velasco on guitars, Pedz Narvaja on bass, Mike Dizon on drums, and Dok Sergio on guitars, the band is sure to fire up the channel with hits "Laklak", "Prinsesa" and "Shooting Star."

Rock band St. Wolf also makes its move under the "MYX Spotlight" with songs "Taguan," "Jealousy," and "Papara."

Meanwhile, the MYX VJ Search is back this year. Applicants may submit a one-minute video via unlisted feature of YouTube until March 21. Aspirants may also audition in person on March 16, 17, 23, and 24 at 12nn to 6pm. Requirements include a head shot, full body photo, and 2 valid IDs confirming the candidate is within the 18 to 27 age range.

Chill out with Celebrity VJ Ricci on "Pop MYX" until March 9, "Pinoy MYX" on March 10 to 16, "Mellow MYX" on March 17 to 23, and "My MYX" on March 25 to 29. Watch MYX on ABS-CBN TVplus channel 12, SKYcable channel 23, and SKYdirect channel 37. For updates, follow @abscbnpr on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram or visit www.abs-cbn.com/newsroom.

By: JENG On 3/08/2019 08:21:00 PM

Elisse Joson Finds True Love in Kit Thompson

Elisse Joson and Kit Thompson prove that a person's weight doesn't matter when it comes to true love on this Saturday's (March 9) "MMK."

Ancel (Elisse) has always been insecure of her looks because of her heavy weight set. She is often used to connect suitors to her beautiful and thin friends.

That will all change when she meets Mark (Kit), the popular basketball player in their school who will fall head over heels in love with her despite her weight and insecurities.

Will their relationship stay strong and be able to withstand the judgment of other people?

Also in this episode are Epy Quizon and Bernard Palanca. It is under the direction of Barry Gonzales and written by Joan Habana.

Meanwhile, the "MMK" episode last Saturday (March 2), entitled "Mansanas," fetched a new all-time high national TV rating for the show for 2019. The episode, which told the story of a man who persevered against the odds to finish his studies, received a rating of 30%, 13.5 points higher than "Magpakailanman" (16.5%), according to data from Kantar Media.

Don't miss the longest-running drama anthology in Asia, "MMK," every Saturday on ABS-CBN. For updates, follow @abscbnpr on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram or visit www.abscbnpr.com.

By: JENG On 3/08/2019 08:19:00 PM

February 28, 2019

Nadine Lustre Becomes the First Filipina Ambassador of International Brand H&M

After launching her own perfume, Multimedia Princess Nadine Lustre signed up as the first Filipina Ambassador of international brand H&M.

H&M has worked with worldwide-known celebrities like Beyonce, David Beckham, Diane Kruger, and Namie Amuro.

Nadine's endorsement deal comes with a special swimwear collection tagged as "Selected by Nadine" to be launched in the Philippines on March 14. 2019.

By: JENG On 2/28/2019 11:20:00 PM

Maymay Entrata and Edward Barber Simultaneous Release of New Singles “Kakayanin Kaya” and “No One Else” Under Star Pop

International runway superstar, future beauty queen and recording artist Maymay Entrata mellows with track "Kakayanin Kaya," as the song sentimentalizes harboring feelings for a person who may like another. In the ballad, the popular young actress hesitates whether to stay or to let go.

The next important star/recording artist Edward Barber is up with a heart-warming serenade entitled "No One Else." The track talks about how the singer is hesitant in revealing his feelings as he waits for the perfect time to confess to the only apple of his eye.

"Kakayanin Kaya" is Maymay's first single from her second album, while "No One Else" is Edward's new single from his first album—both under the production of ABS-CBN Music's sublabel Star Pop with @RoxSantos as overall producer.

Maymay is all set to release her "Kakayanin Kaya" music video on March 9 (Saturday). Catch its premiere on MYX at 7pm and on Star Music's YouTube channel at 7:30pm. Edward's "No One Else" video, meanwhile, is already in the works. Download MayWard's new songs, now available in digital stores.

By: JENG On 2/28/2019 10:51:00 PM

February 22, 2019

Catriona Gray's Homecoming Concert Airs on KBO this Sunday, February 24

Welcome Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Grey into your own homes this weekend as KBO airs her one-night-only homecoming concert at the Araneta Coliseum live this Sunday at 7 PM (February 24).

Raise your flags and welcome the new queen. Joining Catriona are MayMay Entrata, TNT Boys Keifer Sanchez, Mackie Empuerto, and Francis Concepcion, as well as Morisette Amon, Jed Madela, Bamboo, and KZ Tandingan.

The concertwill be hosted by Boy Abunda. Aside from the guests mentioned, viewers can also catch the one-on-one interview of Vice Ganda with the newly crowned beauty queen.

KBO viewers are in for a treat this long weekend as Aga Muhlach and Bea Alonzo’s “First Time” makes its TV premiere with the digitally restored at remastered film “Forevermore,” “You’re My Boss,” Kusina Kings,” and “That Thing Called Tadhana.”

To catch this weekend’s KBO movies, simply register using any prepaid or postpaid SIM. For prepaid, just load up (Globe, TM, Smart, Sun, TNT) with P30; press the green / INFO button on your TVplus box remote to get your box ID; then text KBO30 (date) to 2366.

For updates, follow @abscbnpr on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram or visit www.abscbnpr.com.

By: JENG On 2/22/2019 05:03:00 PM

McJim’s Newest Viral Short Film “The Bully” Zeroes in on the Pathetic Plight of Bullying Victims

Nearly two decades into the new millennium, the age-old problem of bullying remains to be a cause for concern among school authorities and parents of bullied children, mainly because most cases take place in the campus. For some reason, however, such incidents have been largely kept unreported until a fairly recent bullying incident broke out and went viral on social media, creating quite a ruckus among netizens.

Bullying, in fact, is an issue that is hiding in plain sight. According to the United Nations’ 2018 report, one in three children worldwide experience some form of bullying, a disturbing fact we must confront if we resolve to find a long-term solution to the problem.

This is the central theme of McJim Classic Leather’s newest viral short film titled “The Bully,” which zeroes in on the pathetic plight of bullying victims.

Directed by award-winning filmmaker Chris Cahilig, it tells the story of Ramon Christian Galvez (played by Jordan “Jay” Castillo, Jr.), an anti-bullying advocate who returns to his alma mater to give a talk on bullying. This rouses memories of the character’s own disquieting past—visions that continue to haunt him to this day.

“With ‘The Bully,’ McJim comes up with yet another compelling and socially relevant short film that tackles issues we need to talk about as a humane and progressive society,” says Cahilig, who is also behind McJim’s previous award-winning shorts “Pitaka,” “Sinturon,” “Bag,” and “No Strings Attached.”

“Once again, McJim proves to be more than just a lifestyle brand as it strives to stay relevant in this day and age. It does so rather convincingly as it takes on another critical advocacy: anti-bullying,” Cahilig says of McJim and its newest short film, which, the director promises, will get viewers hooked until the end - all for a good cause.

“‘The Bully’ is a heart-rending but essential watch for people of all ages. Bullying is real. If we persist in glossing over the issue, we will do a disservice to scores of bullying victims and to the values that we hold dear,” Cahilig asserts.

He likewise counsels the youth. “If you are a victim of, or a witness to, bullying, don’t keep quiet. Talk about it and ask for help.”

“The Bully” comes at a time when issues concerning child abuse are coming to the fore. The short film also has worthy precedents. “Pitaka” was hailed as the Best Branded Digital Ad at the 40th Catholic Mass Media Awards, and the Best Illustrated Poem at the 2018 Wales International Film Festival. “No Strings Attached,” meanwhile, bagged the Best Social Shorts award at the Liverpool International Film Festival 2018 in the United Kingdom.

Prior to “The Bully,” McJim earned praises for its first LGBT-themed short filmed “Bag” for its honest portrayal of a gay-straight friendship - a bold and unconventional move for a masculine brand like McJim.

“The Bully” and other McJim short films can be viewed on McJim’s official Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/OfficialMcJIM/.

“The Bully” was crafted by a team led by Yuji Gonzales (screenplay), Patrick Ferrer (cinematography), Paulo Luneta (editor), Kenneth Amparo (online vfx and color), Jordan Castillo, Jr. (assistant director), Kat Salinas (sound design), Richard Gonzales (scoring), Johanna Evangelista (production manager), and Christian Paul Mendoza (production coordinator). It also stars Adrian Cabido, RJ Perkins, Gold Azeron, Allen Ansay, Sheryl Pasia, and Johanna Evangelista.

For generations now, McJim Classic Leather has been the leading and trusted brand for classic leather goods and accessories of superior quality and design.

For more information, visit and like the official McJim Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/OfficialMcJIM/ .

By: JENG On 2/22/2019 04:45:00 PM

February 20, 2019

“POKÉMON Detective Pikachu” Spot Reveals New Footage

Warner Bros. Pictures has just revealed a new TV Spot featuring never-before-seen footage from its upcoming live-action adventure "POKÉMON Detective Pikachu."

Check out the spot below and watch "POKÉMON Detective Pikachu" in Philippine cinemas May 09.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/warnerbrosphils/videos/vl.360675458026455/2328026674189408/?type=1

YouTube: https://youtu.be/d1ZHN-5pjWE

"POKÉMON Detective Pikachu" is distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a WarnerMedia Company.

By: JENG On 2/20/2019 12:38:00 AM