LISTEN TO 'BAKA PWEDE NA', THE DEBUT SINGLE OF NEW SINGER LIZZIE AGUINALDO, THE TALENTED GREAT GREAT GRANDDAUGHTER OF EMILIO AGUINALDO

 

LIZZIE AGUINALDO is a new singer who just launched her first single, “Baka Pwede Na”, with lyrics and music by award-winning songwriter, Joven Tan, and released by Star Music. 

Lizzie has a formidable pedigree as her father is the great grandson of our country’s first president, Emilio Aguinaldo. 

How did her family react when she told them she’s joining showbusiness?

“They were shocked, kasi ako pa lang sa family namin ang first na nag-showbiz,” she says. 

“But they understand naman na dream ko talaga ito, to be a singer and now, they’re very supportive.”

Her parents are in the real estate business and they really spent for the launch of Lizzie’s debut song, “Baka Pwede Na”. 

It was held at the big ballroom of Luxent Hotel and there were two big buffet tables plus they have give aways, a big box of The Good Chocolates, perfume, t-shirt and they even raffled off cash prizes. 

As one writer commented: “Talbog yung ibang naglo-launch ng talents nilang may bagong songs na tipid na tipid ang budget.” 

And it’s true. The song even has a well-produced full music video that they showed to the press, also directed by Joven Tan.

So who are Lizzie’s idols in singing? 

“Sa atin po, Lani Misalucha and Regine Velasquez. Sa foreign, Celine Dion, Alicia Keys and the late Whitney Houston.”

Lizzie turned 15 on January 21. The third of five kids, she is now in grade 9 at the British International School who’s very supportive of her and even put up their own billboard congratulating Lizzie for her debut single. 

“Nagulat nga po ako,” she beams. 

“Kasi yung billboard kasing laki ng bahay namin. Nakakatuwa.”

Her song “Baka Pwede Na” is a love song but she quickly adds that she has never had a boyfriend. “Naku, ang bata ko pa po.” 

But if ever, what kind of boyfriend would she like to have? “Definitely, he has to be family oriented, kasi sobrang laki ng family namin. And also, dapat, God-fearing siya.”

She has a fairly easy entry in showbiz. A family friend introduced her to Direk Joven Tan who quickly composed a song for her. She’s also open to try acting. 

“I auditioned po as young Darna but di ako nakuha even if I gave it my best,” she says. 

“Then I auditioned sa Vilma Santos-Christopher de Leon movie and they’re willing to get me as friend ni Cassy Legaspi, but then, hindi nag-fit yung shooting sa schedule ng classes ko, so hindi natuloy.”  

Let’s make way for Lizzie Aguinaldo, whose first single “Baka Pwede Na” is now being played on various radio stations nationwide. It’s also available for download and listening on different online music apps

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GMA NETWORK SUPPORTS HOUSE BILL 7600 THAT AIMS TO FIGHT PIRACY IN THE PHILIPPINES

 

 GMA Network First Vice President for Legal Affairs Atty. Lynn Delfin; ACE Head for Asia Pacific Mr. Neil Gane; GMA Network First Vice President and Head of International Operations Mr. Joseph Francia; GMA New Media, Inc. President and Chief Operating Officer Mr. Dennis Augusto Caharian; and Executive Vice President and Chief of Global Content Protection for the Motion Picture Association (MPA) and Head of ACE Mr. Jan van Voorn 

Leading broadcast company GMA Network gives its full support for the successful passage of House Bill 7600 in the House of Representatives. The passing of the bill is a crucial legislative measure that will address the rampant issue of online piracy in the Philippines.

Introduced by Albay Representative Joey S. Salceda, this legislation amends the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines and gives the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) “additional powers to prevent counterfeit or pirated goods and contents.” 

The bill will also allow the organization to “gather intelligence information and investigate violations of the IP Code and develop countermeasures to deter counterfeit or pirated goods or content.”

“GMA Network is committed to upholding the rights of content creators and copyright holders, and we strongly support the passage of House Bill 7600,” said GMA Network Legal Affairs Assistant Vice President Atty. Jose Vener Ibarra, representing the GMA Anti-Piracy Committee.  

“Online piracy poses a significant threat to the Philippines' creative industry, undermining the hard work and investments made by our talented content creators. This legislation will serve as a deterrent to piracy, protecting the interests of our industry and ensuring a sustainable future for our content ecosystem.”

The passage of House Bill 7600 aligns with GMA Network’s commitment to fostering a vibrant and sustainable creative industry. 

By blocking piracy sites, the legislation provides a necessary deterrent to piracy which ensures that content creators and copyright holders' creations are rightfully protected. Moreover, it safeguards the rights of consumers and protects them from potential harm associated with pirated content.

GMA Network also recognizes the importance of collaboration among industry players, regulators, and lawmakers in addressing the challenges posed by online piracy.

As an industry leader, GMA Network actively participated in the anti-piracy symposium convened in collaboration with Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment (ACE) and IPOPHL in March with the theme "Disrupting the Piracy Ecosystem and Protecting Legal Services." 

During the symposium, senior politicians and key proponents from the private and public sectors demonstrated their support for critical legislation.

With its support for House Bill 7600, GMA Network joins the government and entertainment industry stakeholders in advocating for the protection of intellectual property rights and the promotion of a thriving creative industry. 

GMA Network applauds Congressman Salceda’s dedication and determination in addressing the issue of online piracy and encourages further collaboration between the government, the industry, and consumers to combat this pressing concern.

For more information on GMA Network advocacies, visit www.gmanetwork.com

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JESSICA SOHO REMAINS TO BE A KAPUSO AFTER 38 YEARS WITH "KAPUSO MO, JESSICA SOHO' REIGNING AS THE TOP SHOW EVERY SUNDAY NIGHT

 

 (L-R) GMA Public Affairs First Vice President Nessa Valdellon; GMA Network President and COO Gilberto R. Duavit, Jr.; Jessica Soho; GMA Network Executive Vice President and CFO Felipe S. Yalong.

 Jessica Soho – the Philippines’ most awarded broadcast journalist – proudly remains a Kapuso as she renews her contract with GMA Network on May 31.

                         JESSICA with the hardworking GMA PUBLIC AFFAIRS TEAM

WE FIRST met Jessica Soho in the early 90s in “Brigada Siete”, which was originally hosted by the late Louie Beltran, her journalism mentor in UP. We really admire her work, specially when she did the documentaries “Kamao” about boxing and “Kidneys for Sale” that eventually won the prestigious international Peabody Award.

And now, after almost four decades with GMA, she is certainly one of the most respected names in broadcast journalism who has won all available awards locally. And her “Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho” remains to be a toprating show every Sunday evening. 

Jessica proudly remains a Kapuso as she renews her contract with GMA Network on May 31, and commits to carry on with her mission of sharing the Filipinos’ story around the globe. Jessica gave the Philippines its first-ever George Foster Peabody award in 1999 and earned another Peabody win in 2014. 

She became the first Filipino to be nominated and to have won in the New York Festivals (NYF) TV & Film Awards. She holds the distinction of having won all the medal categories at the NYF.

 ‘Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho’ took home the Gold World Medal earlier this year – the show’s third World Medal after winning Bronze Medals in 2019 and 2022.

Her other former programs 'State of the Nation with Jessica Soho' and 'Brigada' have also brought home Silver and Bronze Medals in previous NYF Awards.

 

Before she was elevated to the Hall of Fame, Soho was the “Most Trusted TV Host for News and Current Affairs” by the Reader’s Digest Trusted Brands Awards for 13 consecutive years. 

She was also the first UP College of Mass Communication alumna to receive the Gawad Plaridel Award for Journalism.

 

Yet through all these accolades, Soho, who is a self-confessed “promdi” or “a small town girl from La Union, who made good,” remains grounded and focused on her goal: to serve the public and do good. 

And despite her success, she also remains humble and very nice every time we’d see her. GMA Network Chairman and CEO Atty. Felipe L. Gozon underscores the value of Jessica to the Network.

 “Jessica Soho is not only ‘The Philippines' most awarded broadcast journalist,' she is also one of GMA Network’s most-prized gems. Bilang isa sa mga itinuturing na mukha ng GMA Network, naging matibay na institusyon si Jessica ng GMA News, at isa siya sa mga nirerespetong haligi ng award-winning team ng GMA Public Affairs,” says Atty. Gozon.

“Ang kanyang programang ‘Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho’ ay patuloy na number 1 sa viewers at humahakot ng karangalan sa loob at labas ng bansa. Kaya hindi kataka-taka, na mula noon, hanggang ngayon, isa pa rin siya sa mga tinitingalang broadcast journalist sa Pilipinas. 

"Kaya naman, ako at ang buong GMA Network ay nagagalak na nananatili siyang Kapuso,” he adds. 

Soho’s heart is full of gratitude as she remains a loyal Kapuso.

“Thank you very much. Walang hanggang pasasalamat,” she says to the Network that has been her home since 1985. “GMA has been my home for the past 38 years and counting. Kung walang GMA, walang Jessica Soho. Ganun lang iyun kasimple.” 

Present during Soho’s contract renewal were GMA President and COO Gilberto R. Duavit, Jr., Executive Vice President and CFO Felipe S. Yalong; and First Vice President of Public Affairs Nessa Valdellon. 

Joining them were Public Affairs’ Senior Assistant Vice President Clyde Mercado; Asst. Vice President Angelie Atienza; Asst. Vice President Lee Joseph Castel; and Asst. Vice President for Systems and Budget Riza Laurente. Also present was Asst. Vice President for Corporate Communications Jojo Aquio.  

Soho is one of the main driving forces behind GMA Network’s News and Public Affairs. From her ideas, some of the country’s most iconic public affairs shows were born. Among these were ‘Brigada Siete,’ ‘Emergency,’ and ‘I-Witness.’ 

Her passion to tell stories from all walks of life extends to creating new concepts for television – some of which became hit TV series. 

“I think God blessed me with an overactive mind, kaya dapat lang i-share even my craziest of thoughts,” she says. 

Soho was behind the idea of the hit adventure series ‘Lolong.’ It’s not a surprise that people around Soho find her inspiration– especially her colleagues. 

“I promise to continue sharing my ideas and pitching storylines and program concepts as well as mentoring our production staff. My colleagues will bear me out on this – hindi ako maramot.” 

From this generosity also comes Soho’s determination to pay it forward and share her talents and ideas to more people. 

“So I’m looking forward to keep on generating story concepts and sharing these with our producers and storytellers, in whatever formats or genres.”

Her show, ‘Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho,’ is still the Filipinos’ favorite Sunday viewing habit on TV. 

“One of my biggest blessings in life is KMJS. I will always be grateful to this program and to the best, Team KMJS!!! Renewing my talent contract with KMJS means more stories to share, inspire, help, give hope, and change lives. 

"Iyung mga naikukuwento naming mga kababayan natin na nangangailangan ng tulong, nabibiyayaan nang sobra-sobra pagkatapos naming ikuwento ang kanilang mga buhay,” she says. 

KMJS is proof, too, that the good still prevails over bad and there will always be people willing to extend a helping hand. 

“There truly are more good people in the world. A special shoutout to our OFWs who watch KMJS online and readily give donations to our kababayans in need. Tunay ngang busilak ang puso ng Pinoy.” 

“I would like to think that another opportunity to go on hosting KMJS is continuing my life’s mission of storytelling and helping others,” adds Soho.

Soho takes a step further to reach more audiences beyond television. 

She is set to lead “The GMA Public Affairs Talk” as it goes around the Philippines soon.

The first leg was called “The New York Festival Medalists & The National Artist GMA Public Affairs Talk on Storytelling and Producing,” where Soho shared to GMA staff and employees her extensive experience in reporting and broadcasting spanning almost four decades.

GMA Public Affairs is planning a road show version of this, which will be open to students and young professionals. 

Soho also wants to remind the young and future journalists of what journalism is all about. 

“Two things I’ve always been consistent about every time I am asked for advice to young journalists: Keep on reading and that it’s never about us,” she says. 

“The first one is self-explanatory so let me expound on the second one. We are not the story. 

"I get the need for selfies and the influencing and promoting on our social media accounts but when chasing after stories and reporting or producing those, the “old school” rules should never be compromised. Because those are values and what journalism is all about: accuracy, fairness, responsibility.”

“It’s a continuing quest to be trusted or to be worthy of trust,” she adds. 

“Earn your stripes. Show up for work even on bad days. Especially on bad days. 

"Because there’s a public to be served and to borrow a line from colleague and fellow Kapuso journalist Malou Mangahas — 'Journalism is a far bigger cause than anyone of us,” she ends. 

 

 

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REVIEW OF THRILLER ABOUT TODAY'S ONLINE GENERATION AND THE PERILS THEY FACE, ‘INFLUENCER’

 

WE ARE now living in the age of the online generation. And they are always online, even while eating, while watching a movie, or worse, even while hearing mass in church. 

This is also the age of influencer culture on the internet. A friend asks the boyfriend of her daughter what his job and his answer: “Influencer po.” 

Yes, more and more people earn a living by dancing on Tiktok or posting their selfie videos in the hope of being able to monetize them.

“Influencer” is a horror-thriller with a very intriguing opening scene. We see a drone shot of an isolated island in the distance and as the camera zooms in closer while the musical score becomes ominous, we figure out that there is someone lying on the beach, face down.

It is the motionless body of a woman and our curiosity is piqued as to how it ended up there on the shore.

We then meet a pretty blonde influencer, Madison (Emily Tennant of “Riverdale”), who’s staying in a luxury hotel resort.

In her online channel, she is seen backpacking around the world on her own. 

She’s currently in Thailand, annoyed that her boyfriend Ryan (Rory Saper) is supposed to be with her but backs out at the last minute.

She is having a drink in a bar by herself when an older British guy approaches her and tries to befriend her.

Another girl, CW (Cassandra Naud, who has a big birthmark on the right side of her face, that is real and not just prosthetic makeup), rescues her from the slimy guy. 

CW has been in Thailand for sometime and offers to take her around to some scenic spots. When they return to her hotel, Madison discovers that her room has been burglarized and her passport was stolen. 

It will take about two weeks before a new passport can be issued so CW suggests she stays on for a while. 

The next day, CW, using her own boat, takes Madison to a deserted island. 

She describes what will happen to anyone who gets marooned in the island and Madison has no inkling that it is exactly what CW intends to do to her.

When she wakes up on the beach the next day, CW is gone and it seems she’s not her first victim who’s been abandoned in the island.

CW then impersonates Madison online so that none of the followers of her vlog would notice that she is gone. 

She also moves on to her next target, Jessica (Sarah Canning), another influencer who, like Madison, is on vacation in Thailand all by herself.

Will she succeed in conning Jessica like she did with Madison? This is about as much as we’d sure so as not to spoil things for you. 

But things really get more complicated at this point, what with Madison’s boyfriend, Ryan, also turning up to look for her. 

CW gets away with murder as she says influencers are so disposable as no one really looks for them. 

If this is Director Kurtis David Harder’s way of commenting on prevalent influencer culture and to show how social media has ruined our sensibilities, we don’t think he is doing it effectively.

The story starts promisingly, but the way the narrative goes is quite predictable. 

This is not even a whodunit as the identity of the killer is something revealed right away. 

CW burns up the things Madison has left behind but she decides to keep her diary, so it’s easy to guess that it will prove to be her undoing. 

To begin with, CW is the lead character, so how will we root for her when she is clearly an evil pscyhopath and a cold blooded murderer who has no compunctions about killing people?  

Her character is so underwritten with no depth at all as she’s given so little by way of motivation.

Is she conning people to get back at them after being bullied for her unsightly birthmark? 

We don’t know.

We simply don’t have even an iota of sympathy for her, unlike with Matt Damon in “The Talented Mr. Ripley” who we also know is a murderer but for some perverse reason, we somehow don’t want him to get caught.

Another film similar to this is “Single White Female” with Jennifer Jason Leigh.

The locations where they shot “Influencer” are absolutely spectacular, but key scenes are badly shot, like a climactic underwater fight scene where someone gets killed. 

It’s badly blocked and unconvincingly shot in an unimaginative way with poor lighting that leaves a lot to be desired. 

The ending is also not really satisfying. After all the evil things CW did, she deserves a more severe punishment.

But no doubt Naud gives a creditable portrayal of CW, from her menacing stares and the sinister way she manipulates her victims.

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JILLIAN WARD DEFINITELY NOW ONE OF THE BRIGHTEST KAPUSO TEEN STARS WITH THE SUCCESS OF 'ABOT KAMAY NA PANGARAP' NOW ON ITS 9TH MONTH

 

JILLIAN WARD is definitely now one of the hottest teen stars of GMA Network. 

Her afternoon drama series, “Abot Kamay na Pangarap”, started airing in September. 

And now, after nine long months, it is still going strong in the ratings game. 

There are times when its ratings are even higher than the Kapuso shows on primetime like “Voltes V Legacy”, “Hearts on Ice” and “Unbreak My Heart”. 

Enough proof of how strong and well followed the show is. No wonder it just keeps on being extended when most GMA dramas now run for only a minimum of three months. 

The original members of the cast include Richard Yap as Dr. RJ Tanyag (who turns out to be Jillian’s real father), Dominic Ochoa, Pinky Amador, Andre Paras, Wilma Doesnt, Kazel Kinouchi, Dexter Doria, Ariel Villasanta and Dexter Doria. 

But due to its many extensions, several new stars were added to the show playing new characters to spice it up, like Allen Dizon, Dina Bonnevie, Ken Chan, Sophie Albert, Melissa Mendez, Lianne Valentin, Betong Sumaya, Ariella Arida, Joyce Ching, Samantha Lopez, Max Collins, Cassy Legaspi, Dion Ignacio, Gabby and Ryan Eigenmann and Sparkle young actors Raheel Byria and Michael Sager.

Jillian started as a child actress when she was only five years old in shows like “Trudis Liit” and “Daldalita”. 

She never experienced taking a vacation while on that awkward tween stage as she continues to have shows all throughout her career, like “Daig Kayo ng Lola Ko” and the two seasons of “Prima Donnas”. 

Jillian turned 18 years old last February. 

She’s lucky that GMA-7 gave her a great role in “Abot Kamay na Pangarap” as Analyn Santos, the daughter of Carmina Villaroel who proved to be a child prodigy and became a full fledged doctor in her teens and encountered a lot of trials in her personal life and career.

“I’m really so happy and thankful to GMA for giving me this great character na naging malaki ang impact sa viewers,” she says.

“It’s also a good transition for me from my former child star image to playing a more mature role. 

"I’d also like to thank Tita Carmina who plays my mom dahil napakalaki ng tulong niya sa akin para magampanan ko effectively ang character ni Analyn.”

She is proud that the show imparts good values. 

“It stresses the importance of family, lalo na yung mother-daughter relationship namin ni Tita Carmina na very loving talaga. 

"It also shows na kahit anong problema ang ibigay sa’yo ng ibang tao, lalo na si Analyn who encountered a lot of hardships as a young doctor, you should just hang on, don’t give up and never lose hope. 

"Ang maganda kay Analyn, laging pure ang intentions niya kahit inaapi na siya.”  

After she turned 18, folks want to know if she’s ready to accept suitors.  

“Wala nga akong time matulog dahil sa trabaho, suitors pa?” she laughs.

“May nagpaparamdam but I don’t wanna encourage them kasi ang concentration ko lang ngayon is my career, and also my family. 

"Darating din ang lovelife sa tamang panahon, kapag ready na talaga ako.”

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NEW NYMPHET HERSHIE DE LEON FROM LUCENA LAUNCHED TO STARDOM IN VIVAMAX' 'HOME SERVICE'

 

HERSHIE DE LEON is the latest nubile nymphet being launched to full stardom by Viva in the sexy drama, “Home Service”, directed by Ma-an Asuncion Dagnalan, who won the best director award in the Cinemalaya last year for the movie about police corruption, “Blue Room”. 

Hershie turned 20 years old last January 25. 

She was only 18 years old when producer Len Carillo of 3:16 Talent Management discovered her in Lucena in June 2021 and brought her to Viva. 

She was about to take up culinary arts then but the acting bug got her first.

She then did supporting roles in “Moonlight Butterfly” of Direk Joel Lamangan, “Virgin Forest” by Direk Brillante Mendoza, “Putahe” by Direk Roman Perez and "Bugso" by Adolf Alix. 

“Masuwerte po ako kasi puro magagaling na director kaagad ang mga nakatrabaho ko and I really learned a lot from them,” says Hershie who we got to interview at the Vivamax Victory/Thanksgiving Party for their now having a total of 7 million subscribers all over the world. 

Hershie also got to do a mini-series, “Lovely Ladies Dormitory”, by Mervyn Brondial where she played a college student who turns out to be the mistress of a dirty old man. 

Then she got to work again with Direk Joel in “Fall Guy” where she played the witness to a crime. 

And now, she’s being launched in her first starring role in “Home Service”. What is her role in the movie? 

“I play a nursing student who works as a masseuse doing home service to finance my studies,” she says.

“I’m paired with Vance Larena, but mabubudol po ako diyan ni Angelica Cervantes at ng boyfriend niya, si Mon Mendoza. 

"They got me para maging model daw na calendar girl, yun pala, they are pornographers.”

What’s the sexiest thing she did in “Home Service”?  “Yun pong pinilit ako nina Angelica and Mon na makipag-threesome ako sa kanila. It’s also my most difficult scene in the movie.”

What does her family say about her going sexy? 

“Wala po. Alam nilang part ito ng work ko. Supportive naman sila kasi ako ang breadwinner sa family namin, e.”

What about her boyfriend? 

“Naku, wala po akong boyfriend. Ayoko na, kasi sakit lang sila ng ulo. 

"Yung lahat ng past boyfriends ko, niloko lang ako. So focus muna ako sa career ko. 

"Sayang naman ang breaks na ibinibigay sa’kin ng Viva. At ang bait din ng manager ko, si Mommy Len, at ng daughter niya, si Quinn Carillo. 

"I used to rent a condo pero ang hirap mag-isa kasi nasa probinsiya ang family ko. 

"But sina Mommy Len and Quinn, they treat me like I’m a member of their family and for that, I’m very grateful.”

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VIVA CELEBRATES 7 MILLION SUBSCRIBERS ON VIVAMAX, LAUNCHES NEW STREAMING PLATFORM VIVA ONE

 

                     SIBLINGS  VALERIE AND VINCENT DEL ROSARIO OF VIVA

                                                                      VIVA'S A LISTERS

                            VIVA'S STABLE OF SEXY ACTRESSES and DIRECDTORS

VIVAMAX now has 7 million subscribers so they gave a victory/thanksgiving party at the new Viva Cafe at Araneta Center’s new Cyber Park. 

Viva Pres.-CEO Vincent del Rosario and sister Valerie del Rosario of Viva Studio went on stage to thank the press and answer their questions. 

Val says they got the most number of subscribers at the Middle East and North America where Filipino expats are eager to watch Pinoy movies and shows. 

They’re also happy that it’s not only Vivamax which is doing well but their other streaming channel, Vivaone, whose 10-part series, “The Rain in Espana”, that successfully launched the Heaven Peralejo-Marco Gallo love team, is a blockbuster hit.

Soon, they’re coming up with more exciting series like “Road Kill” starring Nadine Lustre, “Minsan Pa Nating Hagkan ang Nakaraan” with Cristine Reyes and Marco Gumabao, and “Deadly Love”, starring Jaclyn Jose, Marco Gumabao, McCoy de Leon and Louise delos Reyes.

At the party, Viva’s sexiest stars performed song and dance numbers to entertain the press. 

Among them are A-LIsters Azi Acosta, Ayanna Misola, Alexa Ocampo and Aiko Garcia; Viva Belles Hershie de Leon, Angelica Cervantes, Quinn Carillo, Tiffany Grey and Denise Esteban, plus the Pantaxia Sirens Apple Dy, Angelica Hart, Armina Alegre and Audrey Avila. 

Vivamax was launched in 2021 and is now the undisputed no. 1 local OTT service in the Philippines. 

It took only eight months from when it launched in February 2021 to reach 1 million subscribers in October. By January 2022 Vivamax had two million subscribers. By the end of 2022 it had 5 million subscibers. 

And in May 2023, the 7 million mark had been breached. Vivamax is now on  its road to 10 million subscribers.

To date, Vivamax has 408 titles in its library, with one new title coming out every week.

It is now also accessible in more than 100 countries and territories (Asia, Middle East, North America, Europe, Oceania, China, Africa and Central / South America). It has solidified its reputation as the go-to platform for compelling content geared towards mature audiences.

In February, Viva proudly introduced VIVA ONE which provides a more wholesome content geared for families and the general audience.

In just three months, it has already garnered 500,000 subscribers. And very soon, VIVA ONE will have its stand-alone app! Easier to download. Easier to subscribe.

 With two individual streaming apps (VIVAMAX and VIVA ONE), Viva further establishes its hold in the local video streaming industry.  

Here are the upcoming new titles to watch out for in 2023 on Vivamax and Vivaone: Brillante Mendoza’s “Hosto” and “Japino (Japanese Pilipino)”, Joey Reyes’ “Secret Campus” and “Choose(y) Me”, McArthur Alejandre’s “Call Me Alma” and “Burlesk Queen", 

Jerry Lopez Sineneng’s “ Rita”, Yam Laranas’ “Bugaw”, Topel Lee’s “Tayuan”, Law Fajardo’s “Ben and Ana” and “Erotica Manila 2”, Roman Perez, Jr’s “Litsoneras” and “Kamadora”, 

Ian Arondaing’s “Mamalakaya”, GB Sampedro’s “Hilom”; “High on Sex 2”; and “Tuhog”, Bobby Bonifacio’s “Sex Hub”; “Broken Desire”; and “Kahalili”, Pam Miras’ “Star Dancer”, Jeffrey Hidalgo’s “Ilang”, 

Rodante Pajemna Jr’s “Punit Na Langit”, Christian Paolo Lat’s “Amok”; Daniel Palacio’s “Legit”; “Hugot”; and “Totoy Mola”, Ma-an L. Asuncion-Dagnalan’s “ Home Service”, Paul Basinillo’s “Sex Hurts”, Carlo Obispo’s “Bedspacer” and Ato Bautista’s “Ahasss”.

Viva One’s Originals will show MMFF’s 2023 Award-winning Movie “Deleter” starring Nadine Lustre. “Sa Muli” Starring Xian Lim and Ryza Cenon. “Hello, Universe!” Starring Janno Gibbs ,“Always” Starring Kim Chiu and Xian Lim. “Ikaw At Ako At Ang Ending” Starring Kim Molina and Jerald Napoles. 

“Expensive Candy” Starring Julia Barretto and Carlo Aquino. “Kidnap for Romance” Starring Cristine Reyes and Empoy Marquez. “Safe Skies, Archer”, “Kung Hindi Lang Tayo Sumuko” starring, Carlo Aquino and Coleen Garcia. “Martyr or Murderer”, 

“My Father, Myself”, “Yorme”, “Beks Days of Our Lives”, “Working Boys 2: Choose Your Papa”, “Babaylan”, “Death By Desire”, “Mary Cherry Chua”, “Bahay Na Pula”, “Kung Pwede Lang”, “Adik Sayo”, “Kunwari Mahal Kita”, “The Last Five Years”, 

“Bakit Di Mo Sabihin”, “Sa Haba Ng Gabi”, “Barumbadings”, “Mahal Kita Beksman”, “Cup of Flavor”, “Penduko”, “Instant Daddy”, “Itutumba Ka Ng Tatay Ko”, “The Ship Show”, “Forgetting Canseco”, 

“Nocturnos”, “Video City” and international movies “Winnie The Pooh: Blood and Honey”, “Decision To Leave”, “Remember”, “Agency”, “Confidential Assignment”, “Beautiful Disaster”, “One True Loves”.  Don’t miss all these wonderful treats. 

Subscribe now on Vivamax and Vivaone!

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KIM CHIU LAUNCHED IN A GRAND PRESSCON AS NEW ENDORSER OF MEGASOFT SISTERS NAPKINS & PANTYLINERS

 

KIM CHIU is launched as the new brand ambassadress of Sisters Sanitary Napkins and Pantyliners. Microsofy Hygienic Products VP Aileen Choi-Go says they got Kim as she has admirable qualities that resonate with their premium product and with the consumers as well. 

“She’s a good actress, a great host, a fine businesswoman. May building nga sa Cagayan de Oro na balak ko sanang bilihin, pero naunahan niya ako. 

"And she’s a really generous sister to all her siblings, lalo sa sister niyang nagkasakit at binantayan niya talaga hanggang gumaling. 

"Kaya bagay lang talaga siyang maging endorser ng Sisters Sanitary Napkins and Pantyliner,” adds Ms. Aileen.

Kim, in turn, says she’s really been using Sisters products even before they got her as their endorser.  

“Pinapadalhan kasi nila ako at ginagamit ko naman,” she adds. 

“I love using Sisters kasi, magalaw ako, I love to dance, and with Sisters, you feel very secure with their adhesives that prevent it from leaking or shifting. 

"The pads are so absorbent and breathable, affordable and really durable.”

She felt so happy when they got her as their brand ambassadress. 

“When they offered it to me, yes agad ako kasi I really believe in the product. Isa pa, friend ko na talaga si Atchi Aileen. 

"Nagkasundo kami agad kasi pareho kaming Chinese at pareho ring Bisaya. Also, I really look forward sa program nila that tours schools all over the country.”

This visit to schools stopped during the pandemic but they’re about to resume it soon.

“I want to meet all the young women who are experiencing puberty. 

"Kasi ako, when I first had my monthly period, I was in grade 6 at nasa school ako, pinagtatawanan ako ng classmates ko. I was not aware na nagkaroon pala ako.

"After that, two weeks akong hindi pumasok sa school kasi I don’t know how to handle it, how I would react. 

"So I want to explain to these young girls that they have no reason to be afraid as it is part of being a woman.”

Does she experience menstrual pains during her period? 

“Oh yes, I’m sure a lot of women experienced it also.” 

So what does her BF Xian Lim do when she’s having such pains? 

“Ay alam na niya, chocolate lang ang katapat niyan. Kung nahihirapan ka, kumain ka na lang nang kumain nang hindi mo maramdaman yung sakit.”

Kim continues to be so busy. She has three new projects this year. 

And she’s now taping one of them, the drama series “Linlang” with Maricel Soriano, Paulo Avelino and JM De Guzman. 

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KRISTEL FULGAR & FRANCES CABATUANDO JOIN ANIMA PODCASTS AS NEW VOICES FOR K-CULTURE & HOME ENTHUSIASTS

 

                           KRISTEL FULGAR & FRANCES CABATUANDO

                                                         KRISTEL FULGAR

ANIMA Podcasts, together with NYMA, launches two new exciting shows featuring K-content queen Kristel Fulgar and Home Buddies' founder Frances Cabatuando. 

Fulgar’s “Anyare Saeyo?” hosted with fellow Pinoy vlogger friend Moy Esguerra is set to excite listeners on K-Culture, while Cabatuando’s “Home Buddies: The Podcast '' will delight the audience with home improvement stories. 

They started airing last Wednesday, May 31. 

In the very entertaining “Anyare Saeyo?,” Kristel Fulgar and Moy Esguerra dive into Korean culture, drawing from their own immersive experiences in the Land of the Morning Calm. 

It is a must-listen for all Hallyu enthusiasts as the podcast explores K-dramas, Korean cuisine, fashion and lifestyle trends, and travel through their Pinoy POV. 

Even more, “Anyare Saeyo?”  promises to be the ultimate “relate” podcast as it also takes on a journey that goes beyond love for Korean culture. 

Tune in as Kristel and Moy dish out wise advice that is sure to hit home for the new generation, whether it be about life, love, and everything in between.

“Malaki at importante ang role ng Korea sa buhay ko during the last two years." says Kristel. 

"I am excited to have you watch us as Moy and I talk about our mutual love for Korea, Korean culture, pati mga personal experiences at life lessons namin while we were there. 

"We're so eager na i-share lahat ng ito sa inyo." 

Joining the roster of leading ANIMA podcasters is the founder of the three million-strong Facebook community Home Buddies, Frances Cabatuando. 

Recently recognized as one of  Cosmopolitan Philippines’ Women of Influence 2023, Frances, the queen of “budol” finds and a NYMA talent, adds podcast host to her fascinating resumé with the “Home Buddies: The Podcast.” 

Mayora Frances, as she is lovingly known to her followers, will share inspiring “kapitbahay” stories, give home improvement tips, and fill you in on “budol” finds that will make one’s personal space look better than before.

“I am excited for Home Buddies to take its place in the world of podcasts, get the community engaged in this new platform, and welcome new kapitbahays. Everyone is invited to listen in as we tackle home improvement and share heartwarming stories in each episode,” she says.  

Kat Bautista, Head of NYMA, says the start of these new podcasts show the power of collaboration among brands under KROMA Entertainment. 

“ANIMA  and NYMA coming together is more than just a collaboration between medium and messengers; the entire process makes tangible the advantages of working with KROMA and underscores the strength of its ecosystem,” she says. “Ultimately, the audience benefits the most.”

Aside from “Anyare Saeyo?” and “Home Buddies: The Podcast,” another exciting addition to your listening list from ANIMA Pods is “Block to the Future.” 

The podcast explores the world of blockchain and cryptocurrencies. 

Marketer and crypto advocate Harry Santos dives deep into the latest trends, interviews industry experts, and explores the exciting world of cryptocurrencies and their potential to reshape how we transact, invest, and store value. “Block to the Future” is now streaming. 

ANIMA Podcasts, a division of KROMA Entertainment, has been making waves in the Philippine podcast scene since its inception in 2019. 

With over 25 titles under its belt, ANIMA Podcasts is home to several Tier 1 podcasts, including "Paano Ba ‘To" by Bianca Gonzalez, "The Linya-Linya Show" by Ali Sangalang, and “The Karen Davila Podcast,” among others. 

Stay updated on the latest from ANIMA Podcasts by visiting anima.ph/podcast/ or following @ANIMAPodcasts on social media platforms.

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ROSE VAN GINKEL ON WHY SHE AGREED TO PLAY CONTRAVIDA TO DENISE ESTEBAN IN 'STAR DANCER'

 

ROSE VAN GINKEL has played lead roles in ‘Kitty K 7’, and in series like ‘Boy Bastos’ and ‘Stalkers’.  

She now plays Giselle, a supporting role as the contravida to Denise Esteban, who plays Odessa, in Vivamax’ “Star Dancer” that starts streaming on June 2. How come she agreed to play support again when she’s already doing bida roles?

“The director is Pam Miras, who wrote the script for ‘Kitty K 7’,” she says. “So it’s not a big concern of mine kung bida or villain ang role ko. I’m very thankful to Direk Pam for 

Kitty K 7’ and I now just want to support her in her first full length directorial work for Vivamax. And I really love working with her.’’

She says she might not be the lead in “Star Dancer” but she is pretty satisfied with her role. 

“Maganda naman at challenging yung role ko in ‘Star Dancer’, kahit I appear halfway na through the movie. 

"And I’m happy rin to support Denise Esteban. Abangan nyo yung dance showdown namin to prove kung sino ba talaga ang dapat na tanghaling ‘Star Dancer’ as we really gave it our all.”

She says they’re both all out and not half-hearted in their scenes together. 

“Todo talaga yung scenes namin ni Denise. Kapag sinabing away, away kami talaga. 

"Kapag sinabing drama, sige, drama kami, kasi ang feeling ko, inagaw ni Denise rito yung boyfriend ko, played by Arron Villaflor. 

"At pag sinabing sayaw, go go go lang kami on the dance stage, with the help of our choreographer who really trained us well for the dance scenes. ”

She says she believes in the saying that there are no small roles, only small actors. 

“Totoo talaga ang kasabihang yun kasi kahit small role lang ang role na ibigay sa’yo, kung paghuhusayan mo talaga, mapapansin ka ng mga manonood and I think, yun ang importante.

"So I always try to give my best in every scene, kasi yun naman ang dapat. 

"Kung maliit man ang role o kontrabida ka, pero mapapansin ka naman at matatandaan ng tao ang performance mo, then it could only mean na magaling kang aktres.”

So she doesn’t mind playing supporting roles even if she has already done lead roles?

“Okay lang, basta maganda yung  role at material, like my role in ‘Star Dancer’. 

"Actually, ang sarap ng feeling na light lang ang role na ginawa ko in this movie compared sa roles ko in ‘Kitty K 7’ na online cam girl at sa ‘Stalkers’ na akala mo mabait ang character ko, pero yun pala siya, ang serial killer.  

"So it’s nice to do lighter roles in between the very demanding lead ones that I did.”

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