Katrina Halili presses on with court hearing

FREEHAND by Mario E. Bautista

KATRINA HALILI is now at home again with the press, unlike when her sex video with Hayden Kho has just been exposed and she was so fidgety when being interviewed. What can she say about Hayden going abroad and traveling with Dr. Vicki Belo to Europe? "Advice ng lawyer ko, not to comment na lang at baka makaapekto sa kaso ko against him," she says.

And what about the libel case she filed against Hayden's mom being approved by the court? "May hearing na sa June 3. Basta happy ako na pumoprogreso naman ang mga kasong pinaglalaban ko. Dahil diyan, I've regained my self confidence kaya nakakaharap na ako uli sa inyo ng ganito, unlike noon na gusto ko talaga magtago. No joke naman ang pinagdaanan ko, but we have to move on naman, di ba? Ayoko basta magpatalo sa ginawa nilang pang-aapak sa akin."

In the trailer of "Langit sa Piling Mo", that starts airing tonight at 6 PM, there's a scene where she pushes Heart Evangelista into the swimming pool. So she's back to full villain mode here? "Yes, maldita to the max na naman ako rito. Okay naman kami ni Heart. Pinag-usapan namin ang mga gagawin ko sa kanya. I'm just thankful sa GMA-7 dahil tuloy-tuloy ang pagtitiwala nila't pagbibigay ng trabaho sa akin."

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DIRECTOR CHITO RONO says that Lea Salonga was his first consideration for the role of Yaya Amelia in "Emir". "But she's so busy so we thought of other name stars like Sarah Geronimo or KC Concepcion, pero problema din ang schedule nila. I want someone who can devote her undivided time and attention to the project so we opted to audition for someone na babagay sa role. Sa auditions, si Frencheska Farr talaga ang swak sa character so we got her. She'll amaze you with her performance as a singer and as an actress. She works with an ensemble of singer-actresses na kilala sa theatre and singing, like Dulce, Liezl Batucan of Repertory, Melanie Dujunco, Bayang Barrios, Julia Clarete, pero hindi siya nagpaiwan sa kanila. Kaya bumilib talaga ako kay Frencheska kasi she was able to stand on her own. Nagawa rin niya ang gusto, maging natural lang, hindi umaarte, even in the scenes na 40 plus na ang age niya. She shows sincerity as an actress and as a singer. May puso, makikita mo sa mata niya."

Frencheska was astounded by the praises heaped on her. "Naiiyak ako sa sinabi ni Direk kasi sa shooting, never po niya pnakitang natutuwa siya sa ginagawa ko. Inaamin ko namang I felt I didn't deserve the role kasi wala akong acting experience. Pinilit lang ako ng mommy kong mag-audition at noong makita yung mga kasabay ko, gusto ko nang mag-backout pero sabi ni mommy, 'Nandito ka na, i-try mo na'. So ayun. Ngayon ko lang narinig kay Direk na okay naman pala yung ginawa ko kaya nagulat talaga ako."

"Hindi naman ako yung type ng direktor na after the take, sasabihin sa artista na ang galing-galing mo," says Chito. "Basta ngumingiti na lang ako o napapaluha sa isang tabi kapag nakuha nang artista ang mga gusto kong gawin niya sa harap ng kamera. After 'Emir', I believe marami ng kukuha kay Frencheska para mag-artista kasi magaling talaga siya at malayo ang mararating niya."

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IN GMA FILMS' "Batanes", Joem Bascon played Iza Calzado's husband and Coco Martin just supported him in a minor role. They're now both with ABS and Coco has become a big star because of his exposure in "Tayong Dalawa" and "Kung Tayo'y Magkakalayo". Coco now produces the film "Noy". He also plays the title role and Joem supports him as his crippled brother who becomes a burden in their family.

Joem admits that when "Noy" was first offered to him, he thought it's a campaign movie for new Pres. Noynoy Aquino. "But when I read the script, I realized it tries to show the reality situation ng mga kababayan nating dumaranas ng labis na paghihirap. So tinanggap ko and I got inspired doing the movie kasi kaeksena ko rito si Coco and Ms. Cherry Pie Picache as our mother. Pareho silang magagaling, award-winners, tinitingala ko, kaya dapat, I should give my best kahit sobrang kaba ko pag kaeksena ko sila. And to think ang location namin, sa isang lugar na hindi bumababa ang tubig baha kaya malamok. But 'Noy', which opens in theaters on June 5, is also about hope. It says na habang humihinga pa tayo, dapat, hindi mawawalan ng pag-asa."
About his lovelife, Joem is open about his romance with Meryll Soriano even if those who help him tell him that his affair with the single mom is not at all helping boost his career.

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THE RATINGS of the dating game "Take Me Out" went higher with the changes instituted on the show. This week, it'll be even more entertaining as the tables are turned. It's now the girls who'll be searches and there will be 30 different guys to choose from. The show's new title is "Take Him Out". This afternoon at 5:30, the searchers are two alluring models Jemariz Austria and Nicole Kaufman. Tomorrow, the searchers are Czech model, Milena Krahulcova and hot Quickfire chef-host Rosebud Benitez. On Wednesday, it will be the turn of acoustic singer Princess Velasco and sporty single girl Tanya Reidenbach. Thursday, it's the turn of La Diva's Aicelle Santos and Pinoy Idol winner Gretchen Espina.

On Friday, the searcher is Starstruck comedian Chariz Solomon. Don't miss "Take Him Out" with Jay-R as main host. From Monday to Wednesday, his co-host is Janna Dominquez. On Thursday and Friday, it's comic diva Gladys Guevarra. Monday to Friday at 5:30 PM, with replays at 12:30 MN.

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THE KOREAN soap, "My Wife is a Superwoman", about smart housewives who compete with each other, is such a hit that it's been extended from 48 to 60 episodes. TV 5 now shows it on primetime at 6:30 PM starting tonight after its successful run in the noontime block. It's shown in between two other hit Asianovelas. At 6 PM is the action comedy, "Hero", about a talented reporter who becomes so reckless after the death of the woman he loves and later becomes a hero who helps crime victims. At 7 PM is the Taiwanese romantic comedy, "Easy Fotrune, Happy Life" with Lan Cheng Long of Meteor Garden as an arrogant rich boy who refuses to marry Chen Qiao En, a carefree country girl who he has to marry to inherit his grandpa's riches.

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RUFA MAE QUINTO is happy that people finally believe she has a real life boyfriend after her secret inamorato's letter was read to her at Showbiz Central last Sunday. As of now, her BF understands she's still very much happy with her work so he can't rush her into marriage. "I'm in 'Bubble Gang', 'Showbiz Central', and I'm having a grand time playing Lady Gaga in 'Diva'. Ang dami pang raket, di ba?"

As Lady Gaga, she confronts Kelly (Rochelle Pangilinan) who presents herself as Sam, after joining a bikini contest, while George (Randy Santiago) reminds Sam that she owes him money but she can't remember it. This makes the real Sam's dad, Elvis (Boboy Garovillo) suspect that Kelly is really a fake Sam. Cops arrive to arrest Kelly and she takes Elvis hostage. A new character also joins the show, Luke (Enzo Pineda), who becomes very close to Vanessa (Ynna Asistio), making Smith (Mark Herras), who's going abroad, very jealous.

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Pinoy Showbiz

VJ Andre Felix spills the truth about relationship with Jennylyn

FREEHAND by Mario E. Bautista

VJ ANDREI FELIX opened his heart to writers who interviewed him at the Star Magic birthday presscon about the real score in his relationship with Jennylyn Mercado. "Before, when I'm asked, whatever she says, I just stick with that," he says. "Now, parang nahihirapan ako kasi ayokong sa'kin manggaling as people might say I'm doing this para mapansin lang ako ng tao."

They met when they did the movie "Tiyanaks" at Regal more than two years ago. How long did their relationship last? "Two years yata. We kept it secret kasi someone accused me na ginagamit lang siya para mapag-usapan. I said, kung ganun ang tingin sa'kin, then I'll just keep quiet. Even MYX told me they want me to have a wholesome image kasi she was already 4 or 5 months pregnant that time, so it's better daw to make the relationship discreet. Ayoko namang matanggal sa work so sabi ko, okay. She said things will be ironed out after she gives birth and I said, I believe you."

This must be the reason why Jen's baby was named after him. But after the baby came out, Jen was paired anew with Mark Herras in her comeback soap so they had to hide their relationship again. "Deny na naman, tago na naman."

Why did he woo Jen even if she's already pregnant? "Hindi naman ligaw kundi friends na talaga kami noon. She's one of the most beautiful actresses in the industry at high pala ako, crush ko na siya and she knows that. I told her I've been her fan kasi maganda rin ang boses niya."

So why did they break up? "Definitely, it's not my decision. It didn't come from me."

Was it because of Dennis Trillo? "I don't know." Were they still on when Jen was paired with Dennis in "Gumapang Ka sa Lusak"? "Yes. But Dennis didn't know na on kami kasi nga we were denying it."

Is he mad at them? "No. Wala akong karapatang magalit. Tama na. I'd rather not talk about it kasi tapos na, masaya na sila. But I did text her on my birthday last May 22. I said she didn't even greet me. Para naman kaming walang pinagsamahan. She didn't reply."

So now it's clear. He was dumped by Jen for Dennis. Wonder how Jen will reply to all these revelations.

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ANOTHER ACTOR who's rumored to have been dumped is JC Tiuseco but he's proving himself to be a gentleman by continuing to refuse to talk about his rumored aborted romance with Maxene Magalona and the alleged intervention of Maxene's mom, Pia, in asking GMA-7 not to pair him with her anew.

"If they think it's not good for us to be paired again, okay lang," he says. "Basta ako, tahimik ang buhay ko. I seldom go out nga para gumimik. Lumalabas lang ako pag may taping kami ng 'Langit sa Piling Mo' or when I play basketball."

Is it true Maxene junked him after she got jealous of Pauline Luna? "About Pauleen, hindi totoo yun. We did a show together in Abra then sa 'Eat Bulaga', but never ko siya niligawan. I don't know why may ganyang issue. Nagulat nga ako. Nakakahiya sa kanya. About getting jealous, matagal na kaming walang communication so no comment na lang."

How does he feel that he's not in Maxene's new show? "Wala sa'kin yun. Kung totoong pinatanggal nga ako, decision nila yun, I respect that. Anyway, may bago naman akong show, 'Langit sa Piling Mo' that starts airing tomorrow at sa primetime pa. Flight attendants kami rito ni Heart Evangelista. Ako yung protector niya sa mean girls na nang-aapi sa kanya headed by Arci Munoz. In love ako sa kanya but childhood sweetheart niya si Mark Herras dito."

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IS IT TRUE Calla Lily vocalist Kean Cipriano is now a headache on the set of TV 5's Sunday noontime show "PO5"? It's said he doesn't even rehearse his numbers and then he suddenly disappears without informing anyone that he's leaving and where he's going. It's said he's also often late at the taping of his Sunday rom-com, "BFGF", shown after "Paparazzi". This is his first acting job and, in fairness to him, he acquits himself as an actor but it's seems he got so swellheaded so quickly. In today's episode o BFGF, he takes the challenge of his ladylove Chanel and prepares to go to college. The dean assigns him to write a take-home essay and his dad Victor assigns Alex Gonzaga as Yaya Claring to be his personal tutor. Meantime, Jackson continues to court Claring even if she doesn't care for him at all.

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RYZA CENON is the winner in Starstruck 2 but she never really gained full stardom. She's now trying to foray into sexier territory with her role as a sexy pole dancer who becomes the mistress of Tonton Gutierrez in "Langit sa Piling Mo" that starts tomorrow. "This is a career move to show na kahit anong role ang ibigay sa'kin, I can portray it well," she says. "This is the most daring role I've done, pati sa mga damit na isusuot ko at maging sa kilos ko. It's so far from what I am in real life. Dati, puro hiphop ang sayaw ko, ngayon, sexy dance na at kumuha ako ng special lessons for pole dancing para maging credible ako. Thankful din ako sa GMA-7 kasi nasa afternoon soap din akong 'Gumapang Ka sa Lusak' at di pa tapos ito, pero heto't they gave me another show on primetime."

We know she didn't like to go sexy before because of her family. What do they say about this now? "Supportive naman sila, pero siempre, kinakantiyawan nila kong nagbago na ako ng image. Sabi ko naman, I have to grow and mature as an actress. Hindi naman puedeng puro teenybopper roles na lang lagi."

So is she now ready to pose for FHM like some of her colleagues? "Hindi pa ko ready for that. Ayokong gawin na hindi fully comfortable ako, baka pangit lang lumabas. Iba naman kasi yung sexy pictorial sa pag-portray ng sexy role on screen. Pag ready na ako, ako pa pupunta sa FHM to say, let's do it."

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SHARON CUNETA went to the U.S. last week and the rumor that she went there for cancer treatment quickly circulated. Her hubby, Sen. Kiko Pangilinan, denies this. He says she's just on vacation with their two daughters, Frankie and Miel, before school starts here again. Tonight, her eldest daughter KC will be hosting "Sharon" for her and she'll do special musical numbers with a live band and with other Kapamilya stars. We've seen the trailer of the Gabby-KC Concepcion movie, "I'll Be There", shown at the screening of "Here Comes the Bride". Their director, Maryo de los Reyes, says it's obvious that both father and daughter are very much inspired working together. "It's like they're making up for lost time whenever they're together on the set," he says.

The film seems to be full of heart-rending confrontation scenes with KC playing a balikbayan who has plenty of grudges against her dad who left her in the States. It will have its presscon on Thursday and to promote it, they're now on the cover of Star Studio Magazine with an 18-page story on them as a special Father's Day issue. "Iba na si Papa ngayon," KC reveals. "He's now the man he has always aspired to be. May iba na siyang peace ngayon. It helped when he left showbiz as it forced him to depend only on himself."

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Pinoy Showbiz

ABS CBN upstages GMA 7

FREEHAND by Mario E. Bautista

GMA-7 BETTER do something quick as most of their primetime shows are currently being upstaged by those of ABS-CBN. The new 6 PM show, "Momay", is proving to be quite a toprater, rating 20% plus and this helps boost the rating of their evening newscast, "TV Patrol", that used to be second fiddle to "24 Oras". All the other succeeding shows are thereby affected, what with also the poor showing of "Panday Kids" vs. "Agua Bendita". We hope their new shows like "Langit sa Piling Mo" (pitted against "Momay") and "Pilyang Kerubin" (pitted against "Agua") will be more attractive to primetime viewers than the shows that they're replacing. Another thing GMA should do is to shorten "24 Oras". It's just too long for a primetime newscast and a lot of the items shown have already been seen in "Unang Hirit". They should make it more compact and concise so it won't drag. By the time they end, "Agua" has already started way ahead of "Panday Kids". Even the morning and noontime shows are now clobbered by ABS. "Diz Is It" had been on the air for some months now and it just doesn't prove to be a good match against "Showtime". The high ratings of "Showtime" has helped boost that of "Wowowee", which went even higher when Willie Revillame was replaced by Robin Padilla, often trouncing "Eat Bulaga". It's obvious some drastic changes have to be instituted to regain Kapuso viewers.

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LOCAL SHOWBIZ lack tall leading men so Enzo Pineda, at 6 ft., is truly a welcome addition to the GMA roster of male talents. Although he was just first runnerup in Starstruck V, many writers opine that he's the one most likely to succeed. Unlike other newbies who want to make it big in showbiz as they're family breadwinners, Enzo, 19, comes from a well to do family. He's the youngest of two boys and his Kuya Paolo, who's 29, is an executive in Pepsi and also has his own tattoo business in front of La Salle Taft Ave. Enzo got into the performing arts while taking up enterpreneurial management at UAP. He would have been a junior now but he decided to focus on showbiz first. "Sayang naman ang opportunities that GMA-7 is giving to me," he says.

Well bred and with a good PR, Enzo is Mr. Nice Guy personified. No wonder the staffers at Starstruck like him very much as he treats everyone with courtesy and respect. A lot of people were predicting he'd win. Was he sore when Steven Silva was declared winner? "More or less, kami ni Rocco Nacino, alam na namin na lamang siya kasi ang lakas-lakas niya sa text votes sa aming lima, including Sarah Lahbati and Diva Montelaba, so we're not really surprised anymore. But being in the top 5 already makes you a winner kasi sobrang alaga talaga sa amin ng GMA Artist Center. For 40 days, we've been taking workshops with various mentors. Na-enjoy ko sa lahat the acting workshops with Direk Gina Alajar kasi she really motivated us and push us to our limits in the emotional scenes na umiiyak at nagagalit ka. We took singing lessons with Atek Jacinto and now, malakas na loob ko kumanta ng live. We took up dancing under various mentors and hosting with Direk Freddie Santos. That really boosted our self confidence."

Aside from "Party Pilipinas", Enzo is now a regular in "Diva" as the new partner of Ynna Asistio after Mark Herras went abroad. He'll also co-star with Sarah, Diva and Steven in an episode of "Love Bug" set in a cruise ship to Guam. "Sayang nga, sina Sarah at Steven lang ang sasama sa ship. Kami ni Diva, dito lang daw sa Manila kukunan ang scenes namin." Too bad for Diva who thought it's her chance to go abroad for the first time.

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STAR MAGIC hosted merienda for their May celebrants: Bangs Garcia, Nico Antonio, Chris Gutierrez, Drei Felix, Albie Casino, Mara Lopez, and Nikki Bagaporo. Bangs is glad that after being launched in "Magkano ang Iyong Dangal", she's now doing a movie, "Cinco", the Star Cinema horror offering with 5 episodes where she appears with Pokwang in "Puso", directed by Cathy Molina. "There's also an offer for me to do a sexy film with Direk Joel Lamangan," she says. "But it's still under negotiation as I want to know first how sexy the role is." Bangs is now their family's breadwinner after her dad's business in Davao went bankrupt. She spent for her dad, a civil engineer, to be able to work now in Saudi. She turned 23 on May 26 and is going to Davao this Monday to celebrate it with her family.

Nico is all smiles as his career is on a roll. After playing Tuesday Vargas' boyfriend in the hit "Here Comes the Bride" (that already raked in P105 million to date), he's now doing another movie, "Magkakapatid" for Cinemalaya, and two TV shows, "M3, Malay Mo Ma-develop" and "Payatas". "In 'Magkakapatid', I play a very challenging role, someone with dual personalities, Caloy and Cardo," he says. "'M3' stars Aga Muhlach and Ai Ai de las Alas and I play a closet queen na ladlad lang sa friend kong si Nina Jose. In 'Payatas', a musical na parang 'Glee', I play a ladies' man na maangas." He's also with Voizboys and they're launching their first album, 'Fuzion', tonight with a concert at Zirkoh Morato. A senior law student at San Sebastian, he turned 27 on May 24.

Chris Gutierrez is Gloria Romero's grandson who's now 6 ft. tall at 18. He's part of Giggerboys in ASAP XV. Mara Lopez is very proud that her mom, Maria Isabel Lopez, just won best supporting actress for "Kinatay". She just finished comm arts from La Salle and a movie about football, "Happyland". She's now starting "Si Heidi, si Ivy at si Vi", a film that fosters HIV awareness. She turned 19 on May 20. Nikki Bagaporo is a regular in "Goin Bulilit" and was also in "Flor de Luna", "Pangarap na Bituin", and "Anghel na Walang Langit". She turned 13 on May 23. Albie Casino is a new discovery who's introduced in Gimik 2010. His full name is Allan Benedict and is related to Gabby Concepcion on his father's side and to the Barretto sisters on his mom's side. He turned 17 on May 14 and is an incoming high school senior at La Salle. He has had several girlfriends, starting when he was 13. Last year, he had three girlfriends simultaneously. "Nahuli nila ako at nasampal ako," he says. "Kasi, puro sila taga-St. Paul."

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KELLY MISA is one of the new hosts of "Wowowee" who's now given a chance to act as one of Jake Cuenca's leading ladies in "Agimat Present Elias Paniki" that starts airing tonight. She started as a model in 2001 when she was only 18. Then she got into writing and was beauty columnist for a broadsheet for two years. "I realized parang may kulang pa rin so heto, nag-showbiz na ako, upon the encouragement of friends like Anne Curtis and fashion stylist Liz Uy," she says. "First as a host and now, as an actress. And I'm learning a lot. Sa hosting, from Mariel Rodriguez, Valerie Concepcion and Ate Pokwang na datihan na sa 'Wowowee'. Sa acting naman, with my co-actors, like Jake Cuenca who's very nice to work with kasi napaka-intense niya. This is my first acting try and everyone's very supportive kaya nakakatuwa. I do hope gumaling ako talaga in both fields, hosting and acting."

Kelly is honest enough to admit she's already 27, a bit late to start in showbiz but, well, better late than never.

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MISSING AT the presscon of "Langit sa Piling Mo" were Sheryl Cruz as Heart Evangelista's mom, Tonton Gutierrez as Katrina Halili's dad and Ricardo Cepeda as Mark Herras' dad. We can't blame them as senior stars are often ignored at such presscons now and writers only flock to the younger lead stars. That's why we admire Celia Rodriguez as she attends all the presscons of her new shows, even if the attention now is given to her younger co-stars.

At the "Langit" presscon, Heart dismisses any possibility of her and co-star Mark Herras falling for each other. "Everyone knows may love na siya (Ynna Asistio) at meron din ako (Ian Dy), so wag ng ipilit yan," she says.

Has she and Ian talked about settling down? "Yes, but not seriously. We're both still young at marami pa kaming ibang plans before getting married, which is certainly no joke. Enjoy pa naman ako sa career ko, e."

Heart plays a flight attendant in "Langit", something she never dreamt of doing. "Kasi may fear of heights ako, also 5'2" lang ako so I won't qualify sa requirement nilang 5'3". But what's good about being an actress is you get to play things you never thought you'd do. So, kundi ako puede in real life, dito sa 'Langit', heto flight attendant ako."

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Pinoy Showbiz

ABS CBN statement on Wowowee confusing

FREEHAND by Mario E. Bautista

IT SEEMS the official ABS statement about Willie Revillame has confused some writers. Well, to begin with it, some parts are really ambiguous. One writer interpreted it as an assurance that Willie will return to Wowowee since it says "Wowowee will continue to provide entertainment and inspiration to Filipinos worldwide.: He opines: "Kasi, Willie is Wowowee and vice versa, so that means he'll continue to provide entertainment and inspiration." Another writer thinks the statement says it means Willie is fired for good and this is what will be discussed "in the best interest of the viewing public" who have expressed in polls that they don't want to see him back in ABS. The indefinite leave is just a way of giving him a graceful exit. After all, in a Facebook page, 303,244 people already voted that "Let Willie resign". Before, ABS always backed up Willie even during the Ultra tragedy, the Wilyonaryo cheating incident and his outburst against the Cory funeral, but this time, it seems "napuno na rin ang salop."

Too bad for Willie Revillame he's not in a position to feel high and mighty with ABS-CBN after he arrogantly ordered them to fire Jobert Sucaldito or he'll resign. It's just been proven that he's not really that an effective endorser. His presidential bet lost and many folks are even saying Manny Villar only lost more votes because people feel antagonistic towards Willie. Second, the ratings of "Wowowee" soared even higher without him, such that it's now regularly beating up "Eat Bulaga" in the ratings game so the "Eat Bulaga" has reason to be alarmed. Third, everyone is saying Robin Padilla is a better host than him, not "bastos". Fourth, all polls conducted by various venues, including ABS itself, unanimously called for ABS-CBN to kick Willie out of the show. In other words, all cards are stacked against him so he has no choice but to abide by ABS decision's for him to take a leave of absence. He cannot appear anywhere else as he still has a contract with ABS. In effect, he's being suspended. And he also has reason to be alarmed. As the saying goes, out of sight, out of mind.

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MARIEL RODRIGUEZ has confirmed that she and Zanjoe Marudo have called it quits. She won't say the reason, though, but someone said it's because Zanjoe got jealous of her being so close to Robin Padilla while they're hosting "Wowowee" together. "It's obvious kasi na she's flirting with Binoy," says an observer. "Kaya may K talaga magselos si Zanjoe."

Mariel has previously admitted that, at first, she won't look Robin in the eye as she's been warned that he has an irresistible charisma to chicks. Also, Robin has always been her idol even when she's still not in showbiz, so she's really starstruck with him and gets tongue-tied when they're together. As we all know, Robin is negotiable now after he and his wife Liezl have separated. But Mariel insists Robin has nothing to do with the breakup. "Nakakahiya kay Robin at ginagawaan pa siya ng issue," she told a friend who said there's a deeper cause why she broke up with Zanjoe.

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COGIE DOMINGO is back from the U.S. to do another comeback in the indie gay film, "Muli". He and Sid Lucero will play secret lovers whose relationship will last for 40 years. They'll just meet in Baguio every summer. Written by Jerry Gracio (also of "Emir"), the project was conceived with Noel Ferrer as an answer to the so many gay films shown lately that capitalize only on frontal nudity.

"We want a different take, para maiba naman," says Jerry. "'Muli' will answer the question: may gay relationship ba talagang nagtatagal? It shows the greatest arbiter in a relationship is really time. The love story here starts in the 60s. Sid is a seminarian who got involved with the Communist Party so ipapakita rin dito ang nag-ibang pananaw ng society at ng leftist sa gays. Kasi noon, bawal na bawal, pero ngayon, may pro-gay na, may Ladlad, may same sex marriage na. Sid inherits an inn in Baguio from his mom and Cogie becomes a guest there at doon nag-start ang affair nila. Sid becomes a teacher and Cogie becomes a lawyer who is a spokesman for the Supreme Court. Cogie gets married to the daughter of a Marcos crony, but every year, nagkikita pa rin sila. Sid also has a regular partner, first si Rocky Salumbides, a mining engineer, then his student, Ardie Bascara. Ang bookmark ng stories dito, yung beauty pageants kasi ang mga bading mahilig sa beauty contest. So we start with Gloria Diaz winning as Miss Universe in 1969."

Jerry did extensive research on this and we heard one of the characters is based on the life of a national artist. "Muli" is produced by Edgar Mangahas, who co-produced the hits "Caregiver" and "Kimmy Dora" and the flop, "Manila" with Piolo Pascual, and directed by Adolf Alix. It will premiere at the Cinemalaya Filmfest in July.

Why did Cogie consent to do a gay movie for his comeback? "The role is good and I find it very challenging. I also believe in the project. This is not really new to me kasi in 'Deathrow', I was raped in prison. Isa pa, I really missed my work and I'm excited and reading-ready na to act again."

He'll have plenty of kissing scenes with Sid. "Yes, I'm sure iga-guide naman ako nina Direk on how to do it. Pero mas matindi si Sid dito kasi he'll do love scenes with various other guys."

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MARK HERRAS wants to make it clear he didn't walk out on Heart Evangelista at the taping of "Langit sa Piling Mo" in Subic. "There was just miscommunication," he says. "Akala ko, tapos na kunan lahat ng scenes ko so I left. Madaling araw na noon kaya mabilis akong nakauwi. When I got home, they called me at di na talaga ko puede kasi lagari ako sa taping ng 'Langit' at ng 'Diva'."

What will they do with his character in "Diva" as Regine's brother? "As Smith, natanggap na ako to perform abroad so aalis muna yung charatcer ko. Pero puede pa ring ibalik later. Meantime, tutok muna ko ngayon sa 'Langit'. Magkaibang-magkaiba ang roles ko in these two show. Rocker-musician ako sa 'Diva' at airline executive namang laging formally dressed in 'Langit'."

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AFTER PLAYING a regular role in "Diva" and in "Bubble Gang", comedian Bearwin Meily is glad that he's also given the chance to appear in "Basahang Ginto" as the husband of Rita Avila who becomes the adoptive father of Carla Abellana. "It's a very challenging role kasi Aeta kami rito ni Rita," he says. "Pinaitim kami't pinasuot ng kinky wig. Napulot namin si Carla as a baby at pinalaki namin kahit ibang kulay niya from us."

What's amazing with Bearwin is he's now very slim and no longer a fatso. "I lost 30 lbs. through dieting and exercise. I don't eat rice and only very little meat, puro salads lang. My dad kasi passed last year so naisip ko ang health ko."

His dad is Eddie Meily, a former pelotari. His half brother who's also in showbiz is Emil Sandoval, who plays a villain role in "Emir".

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Pinoy Showbiz

Angel Locsin's new flame

FREEHAND by Mario E. Bautista

ANGEL LOCSIN is said to have a new suitor, Colby Montero, the youngest brother of Troy and KC who both married Pinay single moms, Aubrey Miles and Geneva Cruz. Colby is in town and he reads the love poems he has made for Angel in the radio show of KC for all the world to hear. He even got interviewed on TV about this and he's very open in wanting to make Angel know about his feelings. We ask Angel's current manager, Manay Ethel, what she can say about this? "Naku, it can only mean si Angel pa rin ang hottest young actress we have today kasi ayan at gustong gamitin ng kapatid nina Troy na obviously, gustong mag-showbiz ," she declares.

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CONGRATS TO Luigi "Igiboy" Muhlach. His wife Patricia Petil gave birth to their first born, a baby boy named Alejandro Miguel last May 16. His parents Aga Muhlach and Janice de Belen are now officially a lolo and lola at 40 and 41. His fotos were shown in "Showbiz Central" last Sunday and you can also check them in Janice's Facebook account. Janice is apparently very happy to be a lola.

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GMA-7's NEW soap before "24 Oras", "Langit sa Piling Mo", will be up against the new ABS show about a girl ghost, "Momay". The 6 PM slot is still mainly for kids and "Momay" caters to them so it's now rating high. What are GMA's chances in the ratings against it? "We're confident with how well written and well acted our show is," says "Langit" program manager Hazel Abonita. "Maraming firsts dito. First teamup nina Heart Evangelista and Mark Herras. As you can see, maganda chemistry nila. This is the first show that revolves on the world of pilots and flight attendants and we got consultants to make it authentic. First full length series ko rin ito as program manager and so much effort was given into it, a different kind of soap for viewers looking for something new. Maraming eye candy rito, both male and female."

Sennedy Que, who used to be with ABS, later approached us and explained they're positioning "Langit" against the new Cristine Reyes series at ABS. "But biglang 'Momay' ang ginawa nila after the child actress Xyriel gained fame in 'Agua Bendita'," he says. "Usually, 7 months bago mabuo ang isang new show sa ABS, but ito, binilisan nila to take advantage of the popularity of Xyriel."

In the story, Heart and Mark play childhood friends who dream of flying. They get separated when Mark's dad, Ricardo Cepeda, is killed and Heart's dad, Rey PJ Abellana, is accused of the crime. Heart is adopted by Sylvia Sanchez and also gets separated from her two siblings who grow up to be Ryza Cenon, a sexy dancer in a bar, and Jay Aquitania, a streetkid. 15 years later, Heart and Mark meet again. Heart is now a flight attendant while Mark is an airline executive engaged to Katrina Halili, whose scheming dad, Tonton Gutierrez, is the actual killer of Mark's dad. Also in the cast are Maritoni Fernandez as Mark's mom, JC Tiuseco and Daniel Matsunaga as Mark's rivals over Heart, Sheryl Cruz' as Heart's ill fated mom, Say Alonzo and Joanne Quintas as Heart's good friends, Arci Munoz as a villainous flight attendant, and Philip Lazaro as the trainer of attendants. "Langit sa Piling Mo" starts flying on Monday, May 31.

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DIVA MONTELABA of "Starstruck V" is annoyed with the rumor that she visits colleague Steven Silva in his condo. "Minsan lang ako nagpunta roon as I wanted to see his place dahil puede nang lakarin from GMA-7," she says. "Kasi ako, nakakuha ng apartment with my mom, pero sa may Cubao pa. After that one visit, di na ko nakabalik doon, tapos pinalabas nang parang lagi akong nandun at may relasyon na kami ni Steven, e wala naman."

But if Steven would woo her, would she fall for him? "Oo naman. Ideal siya for any girl kasi mature ang pag-iisip, hardworking at totoong tao siya. Pero ni hindi siya nanliligaw sa'kin."

She's excited as she's finally given the chance to act in a future episode of "Love Bug" to be shot in Guam. "Kami nina Steven, Sarah Lahbati at Enzo Pineda ang magkakasama rito. Sa'min iikot ang story na di love triangle but love square daw. Excited din ako kasi first time kong mag-abroad at sumakay ng ship. Nakasakay na ko sa boat going to Tacloban and Ormoc, pero hindi cruise ship."

She wants to thank GMA Artist Center for taking good care of them. "Maganda ang career plans nila for us at ang daming binigay na free workshops sa amin for us to improve our craft. May regular exposure din kami sa Party Pilipinas at laging may portion about our latest activities sa Showbiz Central for our fans. May guestings din kami kaya we earn naman, enough as pambayad sa apartment that I rent and to send something to my Lola in Cebu who's now sick."

Her full name is Hyacinth Diva Mantalaba. "Yun Manta, ginawang Monte ng GMA para mas class daw ang dating at hindi parang talaba." She's from the town of Minglanilla in Cebu, 30 minutes away from the city going south. The last time she went home, she was given a hero's welcome. Diva describes herself as competitive. "Na dapat lang, lalo dito sa showbiz na you should show na magaling ka. I'm happy naman dahil may fans na ako who call themselves Divaholics. They inspire me to give my best and they also encourage me to join Bb. Pilipinas."

With her 5'7" height and exotic kayumanggi beauty, she's really qualified to be a beauty queen.

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ALJUR ABRENICA and Kris Bernal get to do their most torrid kissing scene ever in "The Last Prince". "May kissing scene na kami before but not as intense as this one," says Kris. "Dito, matindi talaga kaya kinabahan ako ng husto."
"Even the story becomes more absorbing," says Aljur. "Kasi magtatagumpay si Bianca King as the witch Bawana na pilitin akong pakasal sa kanya huwag lang niya gawing daga uli si Kris."

This crushes the heart of Kris as Lara but Annexi (Paolo Ballesteros) makes them see each other again in their dreams. Bawana learns about this and intervenes with their dreams. She dreams of having a child so Almiro will love her, but it turns out that it is Lara who is now pregnant. Jerrick (Carl Guevarra) tells Lara he's ready to be a dad to her baby.

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THE FOUR TEEN housemates evicted last Saturday from PBB Clash of 2010 were Canadian Carson Vince, Korean Richard Do Dun, and local housemates Yen Santos and Kazel Kinouchi (a bulimic who'd vomit after eating.) Saved were Korean Sophia Young and natives Angelo Pasco, Tricia Santos, and Ivan Dorschner. Carson got only 22.18% text votes while Richard got 34.06%. Sophia got the highest votes with 43.76%. Among the locals, Yen got only 15.29% while Kazel 16.15%. Angelo got 16.80% and Ivan, 18.13%. As usual, Tricia got the most votes with 43.33%. We notice that the housemates always nominate Tricia. When she celebrated her birthday simultaneously with Devon, most of them attended Devon's party and avoided her. It's obvious she's threatened by them but the viewers love her and always vote for her to be saved.

Many changes happened in Kuya's house lately. The Teenternational bed spacers have now moved to the Villa while the weekly tasks between them and the Pinoy housemates have become more competitive, like in "Let's Beat It Birit" where they tried to outsing each other. The Teenternationals won unanimously. They also won in the Clash on the Ramp Fashion Show, making them win three slots in the Big Night, so the Pinoys said they felt cheated and want a rematch, offending the foreign housemates. This coming Saturday is eviction night once again and those nominared are Jack, James, Sophia, Jenny, Angelo, Patrick, Jose, and once again, Tricia.

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SOME NEWLY elected officials are asking us about the crash course on public administration and governance that Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos took under our late wife before she assumed her position 12 years ago as Lipa Mayor. They are now starting a course for such unprepared officials. Get in touch with the UP National COllege of Public Administration Dean Alex Brillantes, Jr. Call his secretary Bing Perillo for an appointment, tel. 928-386, or the Academic Affairs head, Dan Saguil, at 927-9085.

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Pinoy Showbiz

Ricky not breaking up with Jackielou

FREEHAND by Mario E. Bautista

AT THE "Basahang Ginto" presscon, Jackielou Blanco, who plays Goeff Eigenman's mom, was asked how come the rumor that she and husband Ricky Davao are already separated won't die. "I don't know," she shrugs. "Ang tagal na nga niyan, ayaw pang tigilan. Sa isang recent awards night, di kami sabay dumating, kinu-question na agad. Hindi kami sabay kasi I came from the house and he came from another appointment. He texted me nga na 'Where are you na?' at nagkita kami sa backstage." Is it true she's not in favor of Ricky's running for public office and she felt relieved when he backed out? "No, sabi ko nga sa kanya, ituloy na niya ang candidacy niya but ayaw niya as he wanted to do the right thing for the movie he's in, 'Working Girls'. I realized it's a good decision because he set a good example. He can ran naman uli sa next election. Our daughter said nga, papa, it's not meant to be this time. Next time na lang."

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RUFA MAE QUINTO celebrated her birthday last Sunday in "Showbiz Central" and they paid tribute to her in the "Story of Your Life" portion as the most successful sexy comedian in showbiz. Relatives, friends and former teachers praised her for being intelligent and generous. A friend said when she has no money to pay the rent, Peachy is also there to help her. She was both mother and father to her siblings as their breadwinner. Her sister appeared live on the show and thanked her for sending them to school. "Sila ang greatest achievement ko," says Peachy. "Yung bunso na lang ang nag-aaral, the rest, puro nakatapos at may trabaho na. I'm proud of them kasi ako mismo, hindi nakatapos."

The episode is capped by a letter from her secret fiance that Raymond Gutierrez read on air. The mystery guy still won't divulge his identity but said "I dream of filling the emptiness in your life. When the time is right, I'm willing to appear in any public forum with you. You are the centerpiece of my life." Our birthday wish for Peachy is for her lover to be brave enough to make himself known so that people will no longer make fun of her and suspect that he's just a figment of her imagination.

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MARK HERRAS was grilled by the usual three secret informants in the Behind the Wall portion. First question: "You're doing 'Langit sa Piling Mo' with Heart Evangelista. Aren't you afraid ma-develop ka sa kanya?" "Hindi ako kinakabahan, mas nahihiya ako sa kanya. Even sa pictorial, tensiyonado ako, I felt awkward. Maganda talaga kasi siya, award-winning pa at first time ko siyang makapareha. But I'm happy we bond sa taping, kuwentuhan."

Your career is doing well, but will you be ready to leave it for your lovelife? "Priority ko talaga is trabaho. I won't get married at this time. Kailangan sa right time, ayokong madaliin. Maraming trabahong dumarating sa'kin, ayokong sayangin ang opportunities given by GMA to me."

The third question is more or less like the second one. Handa ka bang iwan ang pamilya mo at magpakasal na? "No. Career at family muna ko ever since. Hindi pa ko magpapakasal ngayon. Matagal-tagal pa."

Mark is the first Behind the Wall guest who correctly guessed the identity of the three informants: his friend Dominic Roco, his girlfriend Ynna's sister Alyssa Asistio, and his dad Jun Herras. He may no longer answer the ultimate question but he still did so to prove he's game: tatlong taon na ba talaga kayong on ni Ynna? "No. My feelings for Ynna, ayokong i-rush. Kung ano meron ako ngayon, basta happy ako na kasama ko ang family ko and at the same time, may second family sa likod ko, sina Ynna. With Ynna, it's a relationship na parehas kaming masaya. Napakasaya namin, that's the best word."

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HAS YNEZ Veneracion broken up with long time beau Mon Confiado? "Showbiz Central" showed Ynez going out on a date with new Maguindanao Gov. Esmael Mangudadatu at a restaurant in The Fort. Ynez said she met the new governor when she joined his campaign in Maguindanao. "Tatanggi nga sana ako kasi di ba delikado roon," she says. "Akala ko siya yung Ampatuan. Yun pala, isa siya sa mga naapi at humihingi ng hustisya. Naisip ko, sayang din ang kikitain ko, e proprotektahan daw naman kami para safe kami, kaya pumayag ako. Even his family, inalagaan talaga kami."

She found the governor friendly. "Akala ko masungit siya pero mabait pala. Simpling tao, down to earth. Even his staff, sabi, sobrang bait niya. Naawa ako ng magkuwento siya about his wife na napatay, kaya nangampanya ko talaga for him and prayed na he'd win. Nang manalo siya, natuwa ako kasi vindicated siya. Lumalabas lang kami, hindi nagde-date. Nagkataon kasing nasa Manila siya and invited me sa dinner. Sinama ko naman ang mommy ko. Timing naman, nahuli nyo kaming magkasama rito."

When the governor was interviewed, he said: "Natuwa ako kay Ynez dahil noong kampanya, pinasaya niya ko. Maganda, siya sexy pa at mabait. Lahat kami sa Maguindanao, pinasaya niya. Naramdaman ko ang suporta niya sa akin. Dahil sa kanya, naibsan ang aking pagdadalamhati."

We're amazed that the governor is from Mindanao but he speaks flowery Tagalog. Since he's a widower, does he plan to woo Ynez. "Friends muna kami. Hindi ako nagmamadali."

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COCO MARTIN started with indie films and won best supporting and best actor awards for indie works like "Masahista" (his first movie), "Jay" and "Kinatay". He now acts in "Noy", a film he himself produces and directs. "Producing, like directing and acting, is an art itself," he says. "I pray marami sanang manood ng 'Noy' dahil may magandang mensahe ito. I play the title role, kapangalan ni new Pres. Noynoy Aquino but this isn't about him. Nataon lang na sa story, I'm supposed to cover the campaign of then Sen. Noynoy. I'm a journalist na breadwinner for my mom, Cherry Pie Picache and two siblings. It shows na ang araw-araw na trabaho ko is a matter of survival. Erich Gonzales plays my girlfriend. Kasama rin sina Baron Geisler and Vice Ganda. Ever since, interested na ko to work behind the scenes. When I do a movie or TV show, I observe what's going on sa set. Dito sa 'Noy', involved ako from conceptualization, location hunting, casting, up to editing and color grading. 'Noy' is the hardest film I did. Kasi sa indie, 11 days lang, buo na ang movie. Ito, the shooting ran for six months kasi we took actual footage noong campaign period. It's an eye opener for me mismo kasi di naman ako mahilig sa politics. But since I play a journalist, dapat alam ko lahat ng tungkol sa politics so I really prepared for that. 'Noy' is a movie that reflects the realities in our country. The viewer will gain meaningful insights, mamumulat sila na ganito pala ang mga nangyayari sa bansa natin. When I started to do it, I was thinking parang documentary ito, but then, pinagsama namin ang totoong kuwento with the fictionalized story of Noy, the journalist, and the result is a film about poverty, survival and the Filipino family."

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Pinoy Showbiz

Geneva Cruz suffers 2 miscarriages

FREEHAND by Mario E. Bautista

LAST SATURDAY, Geneva Cruz guested in "Startalk" and revealed that she had two miscarriages while married to estranged hubby KC Montero. "Showbiz Central" got KC to be their guest co-host last Sunday and he admitted to Pia Guanio that what Geneva said was true and one of the babies was a boy who could have been his junior. "It was really hard for us both," he said. "I wasn't there, I was in the States, so it's super hard for her. It's good she's a strong woman."

What's the reason they broke up? "Well, I was here, she's there, then she was here pursuing her singing career and I was there to attend to family business. We grew apart in two years. Long distance relationships don't really work." Any regrets? "I have regrets that somewhere along the line something went wrong. There can be a second chance. I'll never close my door on her. She's the boss. Whatever she says, I'll suppot her."

Heaven, Geneva's son with Paco Arespacochaga who grew up with KC, has a message for him: "I love you, Dad. I really appreciate everything you've done for me." KC says in return: "I really miss the boy a lot."

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ALWYN UYTINGCO came late to the presscon of "Pendong" so some writers who want to ask if it's true that he's now on with Jennica Garcia wasn't able to talk to him anymore. "I'm still courting her," he admits. "She inspires me. Matagal-tagal na rin akong nanliligaw pero hindi pa siya sumasagot. I want to be close not only to her kundi sa buong family niya para mas makilala nila ako at makita nilang I have good intentions. Sa ngayon, maayos naman ang pagtanggap nila sa akin, lalo na ang mommy niya (Jean Garcia.)"

He says Jen brings her good luck. Aside from "Pendong", he's in the cast of three other movies and a new ABS-CBN TV series. "Suwerte talaga siya sa akin. Dahil sa kanya, pinagupit ko ang buhok ko na dati, ang haba na. Gusto niya kasi, mas clean cut ang hitsura ko."

"Pendong" is based on the famous expression of young people when they punish someone. "Halimbawa, may dumaan na kalbo, babatukan mo yung katabi mo sabay sabi ng 'Pendong!' Mga ganung biruan."

"Pendong" is produced by Oxin Entertainment and directed by the youthful Sean Lim, who made "Xenoa 1 and 2" and also wrote the story. "It's a road movie inspired by my own experiences in driving," says Sean. "The story revolves on three young men looking for solutions to their problems. Alwyn just discovered his dad pala na kinalakhan niya is not his real dad so he's looking for him. Si Felix, walang direction in life and Will is an actor who wants to take a break from his busy sked. During their trip, they learn that their problems only get worse. Pero comedy ang treatment dito so it's very funny."

"Pendong" will have its premiere at Mall of Asia on June 20 in time for Father's Day and World's Volkswagen Day. It will open in theateres on June 25.

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FELIX ROCO got acclaim for indie films like "UPCAT", "Enkwentro" and "Sagrada Familia", so he's excited to do another indie flick like "Pendong". His real life dad, Bembol Roco, also appears in the movie and it's said he snubbed his father as he's sore that Bembol left his mom for a younger woman. "It's true magkasama kami dito ng dad ko pero walang isnabang nangyari," he says. "It's not like na bago lang sila nag-split ng mom ko. Matagal na yun and we've all moved on. Our family is really quiet so sana, respetuhan na lang. Ayoko ng palakihin. Basta okay kami ng dad ko at natanggap ko na yung nangyari."

He's glad ABS also gave him a good role in "Rosalka". "It's just now that I was given a lead role sa TV as one of Empress Schuck's leading men kaya career na lang muna talaga ang focus ko."

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AT THE PRESSCON of "Emir", Julia Clarete finally admitted that Baron Geisler indeed sexually harrassed her by squeezing her behind a few times. Baron denied this when he was interviewed on TV recently. "Ayoko na sana magsalita pero siya itong unang nagpa-interview," says Julia. "What happened was he guested in the Bebot contest of 'Eat Bulaga' na nanalo siya while in drag. Ako ang tumayong manager niya. He invited me to attend the party ng isang movie niya that night and I went. Pagkakamali ko rin kasi alam na ng lahat na may reputation siyang ganun tapos nagpunta pa rin ako. But I never thought it could happen to me kasi dati ko ng barkada yan at pareho kaming Star Magic sa ABS. Yun pala, tataluhin pa rin ako, siguro kasi lasing na nga siya. Pero ako hindi, kasi kadarating ko pa lang noon. The next day, tumawag naman siya at nag-sorry pero napatawad ko na siya dahil ayoko ng palakihin yan o magsampa pa ng kaso."

In "Emir", she plays one of the "yayas" in the Sheik's palace in Saudi. "Ako yung pinakamalandi sa lahat."

How did she make herself credible when Baron said she's one of the boys? "Totoo yung sabi ni Baron na may pagka-boyish ako. Pero doon mo makikita ang galing ni Direk Chito Rono in getting what he wants from his actors. Alangan namang malandi ang role ko, tapos boyish ang projection ko, baka tinalakan lang ako ni direk. This is a big movie, pang-international, so I'm really happy to be a part of it."

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WHY DID THE Pop Girls replace Maja Salvador as Sisters Feminine Napkin and Pantyliner endorser? "No, she's not replaced," says Sisters exec Aileen Go from Cagayan de Oro. "Idinagdag lang namin ang Pop Girls para mas marami kaming kasama sa out of town promos namin for Sisters. Di ba, the more the merrier?"

The Pops Girls is a Viva Records creation composed of perky teeners Rose, Schai, Nadine and the twins Lai and Mar. They've already released their 13-track debut album supervised by U.S.international producers Christian de Walden and Marcus Davis, with "Crazy Crazy" as carrier single. They're now seen Sundays on GMA-7's Party Pilipinas. They're glad to be endorsing Sisters napkin and pantyliner as they really treat each other as Sisters.

"We're also one with Sisters in their efforts to honor outstanding youth achievers all over the country, lalo na yung mahirap pero matatalino na binibigyan ng cash incentives with trophy and certificate of recognition," say the Pop Girls. "Napakagandang project nito, pati yung pagtulong nila sa various schools all over the country, giving computers and other facilities that will help in educating young people like us."

"It's our way of giving back to the community and thanking them for supporting Sisters," says Aileen Go. "So far, nakatulong na kami sa Mindoro, Pampanga, Pangasinan, Cavite, Quezon, Laguna and Batangas, helping over 700 schoolchildren and different schools. We're glad to have PopGirls in our tours kasi nakakatulong sila sa pagpapasaya sa mga kababayan natin with their lively song and dance acts."

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ROBIN PADILLA is getting good feedback as new "Wowowee" host. Most polls about Willie Revillame urge ABS to accept his resignation, release him from his contract and not allow him to return to the show anymore. Binoy must really be enjoying his hosting job as he said on an interview in DZMM that he's open to replacing Willie permanently but he's still hoping that Willie would reconsider his decision and still return to "Wowowee".

Robin is participating in the Philippine Fashion Week this weekend as model for Jag Jeans. The event is highly anticipated as the country's top brands, designers and fashion celebs parade on the catwalk to display the latest collections for Holiday 2010. Jag Jeans will unveil its Dstrukt Denim Wars show directed by Robby Carmona highlighting their premium denim line: Jag's Legging Jeans and Weather Beaten Jeans marked by adventurism and a devil may care attitude that the charismatic Robin perfectly personifies. Robin will be accompanied by his son Ali and daughter Kylie on the ramp, along with model-actor Will Devaughn. Don't miss it this Saturday, May 29, 7 PM at the Mall of Asia Atrium.

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Pinoy Showbiz

Take Me Out photos

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Photo Gallery

Basahang Ginto in GMA 7

FREEHAND by Mario E. Bautista

NOW THAT they're paired again in "Basahang Ginto" that starts this afternoon on GMA-7, what's the real score between Geoff Eigenmann and Carla Abellana? "We're not really together yet, but we're happy in each other's company. People ask kung exclusively dating kami or may mutual understanding, but we don't want to put any label on it. The important thing is we're happy and comfortable with each other. It's up to people what they want to think. Alam nyo naman sa showbiz, when you're a love team, pipilitin kayong umamin na kayo na, di ba? We don't want to do that naman just to please the press or anyone. We also don't want to be accused using our love team for our show to rate."

Didn't he feel jealous with Carla's romantic scenes with Dennis Trillo in "Love Bug"? "Okay lang yun. Pareho kaming lumaki sa showbiz, anak ng artista, we're aware part yun ng work namin."

It's said when he had his last birthday in March, Carla hosted a special dinner for him at the plush Eskaya resort in Bohol no less. "That's true and I was really touched. Gumastos talaga siya. Naiyak nga ako as I could saw it's really heartfelt on her part. It's my best birthday ever."

And what will be his gift to her when she celebrates her own birthday on June 12? "I already thought of something but of course, I can't tell you about it as I want it to be a big surprise for her."

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JOHN LLOYD CRUZ is the first guest of KC Concepcion in her talk show this morning, "Simply KC". Lloydie is quite controversial these days as there are reports he's now living in with Shaina Magdayao. "There's no truth to that rumor," he says. "Her parents will not allow her to do that at hindi rin kami papayag."
He's non committal, though, as to whether he and Shaina are now really going steady. "What I can say is there's proper timing for everything as it concerns both of us. So kailangan muna naming pag-usapan how we are going to go about it."
The full interview with Lloydie is in the June issue of The Buzz Magazine along with stories about Sarah Geronimo, Marian Rivera, Dingdong Dantes and other stars. For updates, see www.abscbnmags.multiply.com.

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WHAT CAN RUFFA GUTIERREZ say about the Lloydie-Shaina living in rumor? "Malay ko," she laughs. "I haven't seen them for a long time so wala akong alam diyan. Isa pa, I'm so busy now sa TV 5. I play a very challenging role as the avenging heroine in "Venganza", the episode featured in "5 Star Specials Presents Ruffa" on Wednesday at 8:30 PM, so don't miss it."

Directed by Argel Joseph and written by Andrew Paredes, Ruffa plays the sister of Rochelle Barrameda who was killed by her husband Phillip Salvador and paramour Jenny Miller. Also in the cast is Victor Basa. "I like the story kasi tungkol sa isang inaping babae at ang revenge ng sister niya for her sake," says Ruffa. "Being a spokewoman against domestic violence, I can identify with women who survived violence in the hands of men kasi pinagdaanan ko rin yan noon."

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BERNADETTE YAP, GMA program manager for "Take Me Out", says they're introducing changes to the show to make it more "masa". "We'll now have musical production numbers for Jay-R and he'll have a guest co-host," she says. "For this week, his co-host is singer-comedian Janna Dominguez from 'I Laff Sabado' who'll also have comic sketches to make the show more entertaining and reach a wider audience. We'll also feature male celebrity searchers this week." Today, the searcher is hunky balikbayan actor Victor Aliwalas. On Tuesday, it's single dad and chef Martin Jickain, Aiko's ex. On Wednesday, two Kapuso hunks will be searchers: Arthur Solinap and Survivor's Jace Flores. For Thursday, the searchers are actor Luis Alandy and cager Alex Cabagnot. On Friday, it's Starstruck V heartthrob Enzo Pineda. Then next week, the tables will be turned as the searchers will be females and the 30 searchees will be all males. "Take Me Out" is shown at 5:30 PM and 12:30 MN.

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JOSHUA DIONISIO and Barbie Forteza are both happy and sad with the ending of "First Time" this week. 'Memorable sa amin ito kasi first prime time show namin at nag-click agad sa viewers," says Joshua.

"We want to thank all those who supported us at sana panoorin din nila ang kasunod, 'Pilyang Kerubin'," says Barbie.

All the loose ends in "First Time" will be tied up to a satisfying conclusion this week. Baste (Jake Vargas) finally accepts that Cyndi has no feelings for him. Young lovers Lukas (Joshua) and Cyndi (Barbie) finally get to express their honest feelings for each other. They arrange for their dads (Eric Quizon and Ian Veneracion) to patch things up but Ben (Cris Villanueva) intervenes and there's a dark secret that will be revealed so Eric tells Lukas that they'll just go back to the U.S. Don't miss the heartrending finale this week.

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AS A STARMAKER, Boy Abunda and his Backroom introduce five new faces determined to hit it big in showbiz: Bianca Roque, K-La, Bonjovi Osorio, Neil Fereira and Richard Reyes. Bianca is a familiar face on the small screen because of her stint as a MYX VJ. The bubbly, chinita host has done some various TV ads and is a former flight attendant who's been all over Europe. “Being a VJ is something that I really love doing. It’s fun. It’s an art for you to express yourself in so many ways just by talking and making people laugh," she says.

K-La’s powerful voice makes listeners gape in awe when she effortlessly belts out a high note. Her love affair with music began when she was 3. “I love entertaining people, being the center of attention. I love expressing myself through song.” Born and raised in Canada, K-La was discovered through the David Foster Star Search and was given a once in a lifetime chance of performing with David Foster himself. She has rubbed elbows with Lionel Ritchie, Sinbad, Peter Cetera. Aside from winning in beauty pageants, she also has several awards as a role model in the Filipino community in Calgary.

Bonjovi was named after his dad’s favorite American band. His boyish looks and irresistible charm can make him a matinee idol. He wants to be a John Lloyd Cruz and work with the sultry Angel Locsin. He grew up in the US but came back in 2007 after an uncle’s death. He said that being an actor is a personal thing for him as it was his uncle who encouraged him to act. “I can do anything. If you have passion, you become good at it."

Neil wants to be an action star, thanks to his rigorous workouts in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu that gave him his hunky body. He is currently a martial arts blue belter. “I see myself doing action scenes and stunts." Neil had a taste of showbiz a few years ago with his acting stints in the GMA 7 teleserye Now and Forever starring Yasmien Kurdi. Neil is also a Consular and Diplomatic Affairs graduate. Richard was a finalist in Starstruck. A jack of all trades, he can sing, dance, host and act. He has appeared in TV ads and once starred in a school play titled Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. He is a big fan of horror flicks and lists Final Destination and Saw as his favorites. For inquiries, call Backroom at 4351108 and 4351120 or email at backroomtalents@pldtdsl.net

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Simply KC

FREEHAND by Mario E. Bautista

AFTER CO-HOSTING in "The Buzz", KC Concepcion now has her own morning talk show to start tomorrow at 9:45 AM, "Simply KC". What can she say to the allegation of some folks that she doesn't have much experience yet in hosting and it's the likes of Toni Gonzaga who should've been given such a show? "Sina Toni, ang dami na nilang shows so di na nila kakayanin na mag-host from morning to evening," she says. "I actually started hosting at 17 as a VJ with 6 shows on MTV. Hindi lang kasi mainstream kaya siguro di nila napapanood. I don't claim to know everything and that I'm the best but I'm learning naman. I promise to give an entertaining show with good insights for the viewers. For the pilot week, my guests are John Lloyd Cruz, Jericho Rosales, Pokwang, Mariel Rodriguez and brothers Luis Manzano and Ryan Christian. We tried na paghaluin ang mundo ng showbiz at mundo ng ordinary people. Like with Jericho, bumalik kami sa Concepcion Market where he started as a fish vendor. First time ko maranasan maglinis at magtinda ng isda. Kay John Lloyd, I did his hobby with him, mountain biking sa San Mateo. Kina Luis at Ryan, I joined them doing muay thai. For future episodes, I want to feature Tito Boy Abunda and Tita Kris Aquino, then my mama (Sharon Cuneta) and papa (Gabby Concepcion)."

What's her mom's reaction when she learned she'll host a talk show? "When I joined 'The Buzz', tuwang-tuwa siya. She said sana magkaroon ka rin ng morning show. A few weeks later, eto nga, binigay na. I'm excited kasi I also get to do things here I've never done before, like sumakay sa MRT and visit Golden Acres to help cut the hair of the lolas there. This will also be an interactive show as we'll have website links to connect with viewers."

Would she be willing to guest guys linked to her before, like Rico Blanco and Director Lino Cayetano? "Okay lang. We've maintained naman the friendship. I just hope willing din sila to guest in my show, lalo si Lino."

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IT'S THE FIRST time for Carla Abellana to tape a show abroad, the "Last Romance" episode in "Love Bug" that starts airing today at 3 PM on GMA-7. "We did it in Hongkong at siempre, konti lang kami ng staff kaya I myself do my own hair and make up. Tumulong din ako to carry yung mga gamit namin. Buti na lang koboy ang lahat at tulungan talaga. I also enjoyed yung iba't ibang rides sa Hongkong Disneyland and I felt like a child again."

How is it to play a girl dying of cancer? "Nakaka-sad but mind you, happy ending ang story namin, ha. Marami kaming touching moments ni Dennis Trillo who I meet sa cruise going to Hongkong."

Did she ask permission from ka-love team Geoff Eigenmann to do kissing scenes with Dennis? "No need. Puede naman kami to work with other partners. He knows trabaho lang naman yun and chance for me to grow as an actress. Balik-tambalan din naman kami sa 'Basahang Ginto' na magsisimula rin bukas sa GMA's Dramarama sa Hapon, so no problem."

The original "Basahang Ginto" was made by Sampaguita Pictures and won the best actress award for the late Alicia Vergel in the first FAMAS Awards of 1952. It's the story of a housemaid who's transformed to be a socialite. The story has been changed and Carla now plays the adopted daughter of a poor Aeta couple (Rita Avila and Bearwin Meily). "We taped the story in a real Aeta community in Zambales, then when we went na to Manila, marami rin kaming locations sa mga kalye. Our first meeting ni Geoff in the story is in the middle of the street nang mag-away kami at dinuraan ko ang windshield ng car niya."

Playing Carla's real mom in the show is the former Graciaaa aka Samantha Lopez. Does this mean she has split up with her American husband in New York? "No, kami pa rin," she says. "I'm really thankful that he allowed me to come home to act again kasi he knows this is my passion, along with dancing. I'm very happy that he's supportive kasi hinahanap-hanap ko talaga ang pag-arte after 8 years in the States. Medyo kinalawang na nga ako so I'm glad pinag-workshop muna kami ni Direk Joel Lamangan, who directed me before sa 1998 movie, in 'Sidhi' with Nora Aunor. Sana habaan ang role ko rito at wag naman patayin agad."

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AFTER PRODUCING the hit comedy, "Here Comes the Bride", Atty. Joji Alonso of "Legal Forum" now produces the debut album of Voizboys, "Fuzion", and their first big concert at Zirkoh Morato on Saturday, May 29 with Pokwang, Saicy Aguila, Carol Leus and The Rainmakers as guests. The Voizboys are Jay-R Siaboc, Guji Lorenzana, Nico Antonio, and Tom Rodriguez and they're seen regularly in ASAP. Guji and Jay-R are into rock, Nico into ballads while Tom does pop music. The willingness to share and accept each other allows an extraordinary fusion that uniquely shapes and happens only in Voizboys.

Jay-R, 23, was discovered in Pinoy Dream Academy (Season 1) won first runner-up. He has tried acting in such teleseryes as Pangarap na Bituin, Palos, and Kapitan Boom.. Guj is the oldest at 27. A Mellow Touch 94.7 DJ and alternative singer, he has appeared in West Side Story with Karylle and acted in "Precious Hearts Romances". Nico, 26, comes from a clan of scientists and lawyers and a musically inclined uncle, who himself was part of the ‘70s quartet The Rainmakers. Ateneo-educated, he’s now a fourth term San Sebastian College law student and had appeared in films like Minsan Pa, Kubrador, and Ang Laro ng Buhay ni Juan. He's in Chito Rono’s P50-million original musical film Emir, the hit comedy Here Comes The Bride and the Cinemalaya entry, Kim Garcia’s Magkakapatid. He plays a gay role in the new sitcom of Aga Muhlach and Ai Ai de las Alas. Tom, the youngest at 22, was a Pinoy Big Brother Double Up housemate. Born in Samar and raised in the US, he made his acting debut in Precious Hearts Romance: My Cheating Heart and Love Me Again. He plays Angelica Panganiban’s groom in Here Comes the Bride. Presented by Caltex, Sen. Enrile, Sumishomo Motor Finance and Splash, tickets are available at Ticketnet (911-5555 or www.ticket.com.ph) and Ticketworld (891-9999 or www.ticketworld.com.ph) and at Zirkoh Morato. For inquiries, please call Weng (887-0226 or 0917-800-0556).

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RICO GUTIERREZ is the busiest Kapuso director now, megging "Take Me Out", "Kap's Amazing Stories", "Ripley's Believe It or Not", "Showbiz Central", "Pinoy Records" and starting June, "Party Pilipinas". He's also directing a new special effects action movie, "Ran", in October starring Richard Gutierrez and Rhian Ramos, and a new National Geographic type of special hosted by Richard to be shot in Mt. Pinatubo.

What is his vision for "Party Pilipinas"? "First of all, gusto ko sabihing before I accepted it, pinagisipan ko muna ng husto," he says. "I called up Direk Louie Ignacio to make it clear hindi ko yun sinusulot sa kanya. Actually, alternate kami ni Mark Reyes as director and I also talked to him. Sabi ko, for sure, we'll be compared with each other and we should not let that affect us but just maintain our respect for each other. I read all the comments of the show's fans sa Pinoy Exchange, Facebook and other internet sites at marami sa kanila, may valuable suggestions na magagamit ko talaga, from the choice of songs, the sets, the performance of the stars. I'm very open minded and their opinion matters to me, so I'll take this all into consideration. We should listen to them as they love the show."

What does he think of Jay R as host of "Take Me Out"? "He's doing fine and he's really trying his best to speak in Tagalog kasi that's our medium. The show is doing pretty well. We really expect it to have a slow burn and now that it's seen in both the afternoon and evening, mas maraming nakakapanood nito. In other countries kasi, this is only once a week. Dito sa atin, originally, ito sana ipapalit sa Banda Oke on Sunday night pero ginawang daily kasi sa Indonesia, nag-number one siya."

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Carla and Geoff pictures

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Dennis Trillo does not kiss and tell

FREEHAND by Mario E. Bautista

THE LAST TIME he was in Hongkong a couple of weeks ago, Dennis Trillo was with Jennlyn Mercado, then he returned there to tape the pilot episode, "Last Romance", of "Love Bug" with Carla Abellana. Didn't he miss Jen when he was back in Hongkong? "Siempre na-miss din," he says. "But work naman ang pinunta ko roon."
As usual, writers ask him the standard question: if he's not on with Jen now, would he fall for Carla?

And he gave the standard answer: "Why not? Napakaganda niya, talented pa. Sino di mai-in love sa kanya?"

He seems to fall in love with all his leading ladies. "Hindi naman. I was also paired with Angel Locsin, Katrina Halili, Nadine Samonte, Marian Rivera, hindi naman ako na-link sa kanila."

So how will he compare the kiss of Jen to that of Carla? "Naku, it's not good magkumpara ng mga halik ng babae. Malinaw naman kay Jen na trabaho lang ang lahat."
Carla is a newcomer compared to him. How will he assess her acting in "Love Bug" that starts airing tomorrow after Party Pilipinas? "Co-hosts ko siya sa 'Starstruck V' kaya friends na kami. Nakita ko kung paano siya nahasa sa 'Rosalinda' and other shows niya. Magaling siya. She plays a dying girl in 'Love Bug'. Mahusay siya sa lahat ng eksena niya. This is a touching love story for all those who love romance."

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ALLAN K is thankful that viewers have accepted warmly his new show with Eugene Domingo, "Comedy Bar", shown tonight at 11 PM. But won't this somehow be a rival to live comedy bars like his own Klownz and Zirkoh? "No naman, kasi iba pa rin ang humor sa live na anything goes kaysa on TV na mas sanitized," he says. "But I'm enjoying doing this kasi may kantahan, may skits, may live interaction with our audience inside the studio. It's fun to do kasi lumalabas yung natural sense of humor namin, hindi scripted kundi spontaneous."

Allan has been on TV since 1995 with "Eat Bulaga". "Bale I'm celebrating my 15th year on TV now and sana, umabot pa ng another 15 more years."

How is it working with Eugene? "Madaling katrabaho kasi funny talaga siya just being herself. She's sharp, witty, kaya pati yung normal na pag-uusap nyo, you'd laugh at her. Never naming pinag-usapan what we'll do, kusa na lang lumalabas. Even in introducing the guests, wala kaming script. Bahala na kami. Ganun lang. Napansin ko lang, nate-threaten siya sa'kin kasi yung Brazilian na kasama namin, si Fabio Ide, parang mas type ako kaysa sa kanya. Hindi ko naman masisi si Fabio kasi mas kaakit-akit naman talaga ako, di ba?" And he laughs.

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FRENCHESKA FARR won in GMA-7's Are You the next Big Star but it's the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) that gives her the chance to be an actress in the movie musical "Emir" opening on June 9 in theaters nationwide. "It's an honor for me na akong nakuha to play the role of Amelia," she says. "She's a yaya who devotes all her life in taking care of the sheik's son in the Middle East. Ipapakitang tumanda ako rito and it's really a big acting challenge for me. I'm grateful to Direk Chito Rono for guiding my performance all throughout the filming. I'm proud to be in a film that pays tribute to overseas Filipino workers."

"Emir" is an original Filipino musical written by Jerry Gracio and with original songs by various Pinoy composers headed by Gary Granada, shot on location in Morocco. Frencheska sang her solo song, "Bakit Ako Naririto", at the presscon and she's superb. She is given a formidable supporting cast who all sing, headed by Dulce as Ester, the strict mayordoma in the sheik's palace; Bayang Barrios as Amelia's mom, Beverly Salviejo as Diday, the Visayan yaya with crab mentality; Liesl Batucan as the Fil-Muslim yaya, Melanie Dujunco as Mylene, the villainous cook, Julia Clarete as Angie, the flirtatious yaya; Valerie Bariou Bondoc (wife of Onemig Bondoc) as the sheik's wife, Sid Lucero as her leading man, plus Arabic actors led by Joshua Hourani and Mahdi Varjani.

"We are thrilled to have an outstanding artistic team led by Chito Rono," says executive producer Nestor Jardin of the CCP. "The material is good and we left no stone unturned, budget wise, to make sure it's world class, from the authentic locations to the larger than life sets and the state of the art filming equipment like the Red camera. The elements we used are all topnotch and we're confident this film will raise the bar for Filipino filmmaking."

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SHE USED to be identified as Diether Ocampo's girlfriend but Rima Ostwani is now determined to make it on her own. Born to a Syrian father and a Spanish-German mother, her name means "the eyes of the deer." She grew up in Lebanon, spending at least 10 years of her childhood there. She went back to the Philippines when she reached high school. She speaks 5 languages: Pilipino, English, Spanish, French and Arabic. "I was schooled formally in Arabic and French. We speak English at home,while I learned Spanish informally from my mom," she says.

What did he like in Diet? "When I first met him, he told me 'I have this foundation. It's about children.' That's when I realized that he wasn't just an actor. He had me when he told me he has this social cause and I also love kids." Now that she has joined showbiz, she wants to be a host. "I want to do lifestyle shows since I love talking. In fact, I was in the high school debate team and also a member of the student council. I can discuss anything, everything under the sun. I have a very cheery personality and am very friendly. Hindi ako maarte. I may be makikay but I can be very cowboy too." She has done a few modeling stints in high school and college and is open to do TV commercials, but she has no plans of acting. "It's for a certain kind of people. I don't think I'm fit to be an actress." But with Boy managing her, who knows what will happen next?

For inquiries, call Backroom at 4351108 and 4351120 or email at backroomtalents@pldtdsl.net.

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FOUR HOUSEMATES will be evicted tonight from PBB Teen Clash of 2010. The 8 nominated housemates are Carson, Richard, Sophia, Angelo, Kazel, Ivan, Tricia and Yen. Find out who among them will say goodbye tonight. In the Dakilang Hamon challenge, the mothers who acted as kasambahays lost as they were prematurely discovered by the other housemates as the true moms of Angelo and Devon. But thanks for the sacrifice of the Pinoy teen housemates who played the hula hoop nonstop for 24 hours, Angelo still wins the prize, which is a scholarship. The Teenternational housemates also get to dub an anime, Hana Yori Dango, that make fun of their Pinoy counterparts.

Wonder how the Pinoy housemates would react to this. Meantime, two housemates, Tricia and Devon both celebrate their birthdays. Tricia will have a masquerade party while original Villa housemate Devon will have a Cosplay theme party. All the other housemates will have to choose just one where they'll attend. So which one will be better attended: Tricia's or Devon's. Find out in Mariel's Uber, Toni's primetime Teen Clash of 2010 and Bianca's Updates, with live streaming at pinoybigbrother.com.

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Manny Pacquiao a symbol of unity

FREEHAND by Mario E. Bautista

MANNY PACQUIAO is a symbol of unity as he makes the entire nation one each time he has a fight. He campaigned for Manny Villar but now that he's Sarangani congressman, he wants to unite with other newly elected officials, including Noynoy Aquino, so he went with wife Jinkee to the Aquino residence in Times St. on Tuesday to express support for the new administration. Manny has also smoked the peace wife with Noynoy's sister, Kris, who reported this in her show SNN. Jinkee is her "kumare". "Sabi ko, nagtampo ako sa asawa mo noon pero okay na kami ngayon, love, love, love na ulit," she said.

Kris has also revealed that she's leaving her showbiz oriented shows, SNN and The Buzz, as these might create issues detrimental to her brother's presidency. But she'll stay as host of "Pilipinas Got Talent" and she'll return soon in the soap "Kung Tayo'y Magkakalayo". In October, she'll host again the game show "Deal or No Deal".

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WE'RE SURPRISED when we saw child actor BJ Forbes on the set of "Midnight DJ". He's now 12, almost a teenager. He's taller and says it's because he's already been circumcised. So what's his role in the story that's showing tonight at 8:30? "Multo po," he says. "The episode is 'Demonyong Swing' kasi yung mga sumasakay sa swing, namamatay. Ako po ang multo doon. The father of my playmate killed me at mula noon, I'm haunting the playground na."

It's the team of Samboy (Oyo Sotto) and Bodjie (Joaqui Tupaz) who will uncover the mystery. Comedian Joaqui has been with the show since it started with Paolo Contis in the lead role. Oyo took over when Paulo concentrated on GMA-7. So who does he enjoy working with more between the two? "Sandali ko lang nakasama si Paulo, e. Si Oyo, almost two years na and matindi na ang rapport namin. Tinginan lang, we understand each other on how to do a scene. Masayang katrabaho si Oyo, comedian talaga. Si Paulo, more serious sa set."

Joaqui got married in January and he's happy as his wife is now pregnant. "Sa binyag, siempre, ninong si Oyo at lahat ng mga kasama namin sa 'Midnight DJ."

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TANGING YAMAN is about to end and as thanksgiving, Erich Gonzales went to the Hospicio de San Jose to spend time with the orphans there. She brought special gifts and food, conducted parlor games with big prizes, making the children laugh as they have fun with her. "Iba talaga ang feeling ng nakakatulong ka't nakakapagpasaya ng kapwa mo," says Erich. "A lot of our viewers are young people and this is my way of thanking them for their support to our show."

Don't miss the show's shocking finale. For more updates, log on to www.abs-cbn.com or tangingyamantv.multiply.com or abascbndoctom on Twitter.

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MOST CHILD stars fade into oblivion when they grow up so Aiza Seguerra is so thankful that she's still very much active in showbiz up to now, mainly as a singer. If she became a teen actress, would she have also come out about her sexual preference? "I think so," she says. "Noon pa naman, kita nang hindi ako girl. Imagine, nang mag-church wedding ang parents ko, ako ang ring bearer. May girl bang ganun? At saka hindi rin ako makakatagal kasi noong pine-pair ako kay Spencer Reyes, nanghihilakbot ako tuwing hahawakan niya ko."

She's grateful that the public has accepted her sexual orientation. She and her girlfriend Chen have been on for six years now. "Ang dami talagang blessings na dapat kong ipagpasalamat. Tulad nitong chance to sing and release my album in Singapore and various other Asian countries. Hindi ko naman hiningi ito pero kusang binigay ni Lord."

Her first album, "Open Arms, Asian Edition" is certified platinum. It was also released in Japan, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Hongkong, Taiwan and Korea. The reception is great so she's now releasing her second Asian album, "Perhaps Love", launched at Odyssey Megamall last Tuesday and in "ASAP" this Sunday. "All the songs here are for easy listening, which is what the Singapore record execs want. Kasama rito ang favorite ko, 'Almost Over You', na very proud ako kasi sobrang ganda ng areglo, also 'Forever and a Day', 'She's Gone', "Ellie My Love", 'Ngayong Wala Ka Na', 'Angel', 'I';l Be Over You', 'A Thousand Miles', and others."

Watch Aiza promote the album at SM Fairview on May 23, SM North Edsa on May 28, SM Bacoor on June 13, Robinsons Manila on June 17, Sta Lucia on June 19, SM Marilao on June 20, SM Tarla on June 25, SM Baguio on June 26, SMA Rosales on June 27, and StarMills Pampanga on July 3. She's also flying to Singapore next week to launch the album there and shoot a new music video.

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AIZA'S PR is now handled by Joyce Pagala of Power of 3 Productions who used to handle the PR of Mocha and now handles Girls Ink. which is composed of the girls who left Mocha. What can she say about the allegations of Mocha's camp that Hershey and company didn't resign but were kicked out for doing monkey business in Guam? "Ayoko ng magsalita tungkol diyan," she says. "Kasi they thrive on that kind of intrigue. I told sina Hershey na huwag siyang papatulan kasi ka-cheapan. Alam nila kung ano ang totoo. Ayoko na lang magsalita kasi what will happen, magsisiraan lang, hindi naman makakatulong sa careers nila. We want peaceful co-existence kaya tumigil na lang sila sa paninira dahil hindi na nga kumikibo sina Hershey."

If you want to contact Joyce, email her at powerof3prod@gmail.com.

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RICO GUTIERREZ is the busiest Kapuso director now, megging "Take Me Out", "Kap's Amazing Stories", "Ripley's Believe It or Not", "Showbiz Central", "Pinoy Records" and starting June, "Party Pilipinas". He's also directing a new special effects action movie, "Ran", in October starring Richard Gutierrez and Rhian Ramos, and a new National Geographic type of special hosted by Richard to be shot in Mt. Pinatubo.

What is his vision for "Party Pilipinas"? "First of all, gusto ko sabihing before I accepted it, pinagisipan ko muna ng husto," he says. "I called up Direk Louie Ignacio to make it clear hindi ko yun sinusulot sa kanya. Actually, alternate kami ni Mark Reyes as director and I also talked to him. Sabi ko, for sure, we'll be compared with each other and we should not let that affect us but just maintain our respect for each other. I read all the comments of the show's fans sa Pinoy Exchange, Facebook and other internet sites at marami sa kanila, may valuable suggestions na magagamit ko talaga, from the choice of songs, the sets, the performance of the stars. I'm very open minded and their opinion matters to me, so I'll take this all into consideration. We should listen to them as they love the show."

What does he think of Jay R as host of "Take Me Out"? "He's doing fine and he's really trying his best to speak in Tagalog kasi that's our medium. The show is doing pretty well. We really expect it to have a slow burn and now that it's seen in both the afternoon and evening, mas maraming nakakapanood nito. In other countries kasi, this is only once a week. Dito sa atin, originally, ito sana ipapalit sa Banda Oke on Sunday night pero ginawang daily kasi sa Indonesia, nag-number one siya."

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Pinoy Showbiz

Jennylyn Mercado and Dennis Trillo admit relationship

FREEHAND by Mario E. Bautista

AT THE RECENT birthday show of Jennylyn Mercado, there's a phone patch with Dennis Trillo and he professed on the phone for all their fans to hear: "I love you". And Jen reciprocated by telling him "I love you, too."

In Showbiz Central, they invited a fortuneteller, Maricel Gaskell, who predicted that their relationship will not last as they're not compatible since they have opposing zodiac signs, rabbit for Jen and rooster for Dennis. "Hindi aabot yan sa kasalan at kung makasal man, maghihiwalay rin," she added.

The prediction is very negative but, more than that, we think their respective track records in keeping a relationship counts a lot. Both of them have figured in very messy relationships that ended bitterly for one or both parties involved, making both of them single parents. Plenty of baggage for both of them that they will carry into their future relationships, unless both of them will seek responsible counseling that will help them truly nurture and nourish their relationship as a couple. For now, they can just enjoy it while it lasts.

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DENNIS TRILLO is truly one of the busiest actors on GMA. His "Gumapang Ka sa Lusak" is yet to end and now he's in "Love Bug" with Carla Abellana (replacing "Dear Friend") and in "Endless Love" with Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera. The same goes for Carla. Her "Love Bug" and new afternoon soap with Geoff Eigenmann, "Basahang Ginto", will be shown simultaneously. Since the story of "Love Bug" happens in Star Cruise Aquarius, its presscon was held at a Suncruise yacht on Manila Bay on Tuesday night. The next night, we saw Carla again at the presscon of "Basahang Ginto" at GMA. Isn't she worried about overexposure?

"Magkaiba naman totally ang stories and 'Love Bug' is only every Sunday afternoon after 'Party Pilipinas'," she says. "In 'Basahang Ginto', I play a poor housemaid in a rags-to-riches story. In 'The Last Romance', our episode in 'Love Bug', I play cancer survivor who goes on a cruise after my tumor came back and I meet Dennis, a tour organizer. While touring Hongkong Disneyland, we fall in love but the problem is he's about to marry his girlfriend, si Iwa Moto. It's a bittersweet love story that viewers will surely enjoy watching. It's special to me kasi I appear with my real dad (Rey PJ Abellana.)"

Directed by Mark Reyes, "Love Bug" starts this coming Sunday while "Basahang Ginto" starts on Monday.

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SAM PINTO is one of the best looking female recruits in PBB Double Up. She's now given a break as Jake Cuenca's leading lady in "Elias Paniki". "I was surprised when I was informed na ako ang napili nila kasi baguhan pa lang ako, e ang daming more established ABS actresses na puedeng makuha," she says.

Did the fact that she and Jake dated before Jake joined showbiz help her get the role? "I don't know. Sabi nga nila, may past daw kasi kami, but it's not really a past naman kasi we were just teenage models then."

Jake says he's surprised because she's new to acting and yet she delivers. "Nagulat nga ako, kahit bago pa lang siya sa pag-arte, mahusay na agad. May innate acting talent siya," he adds.

It's said Sam was asked first to co-host "Wowowee" but she nixed it because she got scared of Willie Revillame who reportedly tried to court her when she guested in the show. "In fairness to him, he didn't really court me and it's not true that I'm scared of him. Gusto ko lang talaga mas mag-concentrate sa acting kaysa hosting. Naisip ko ring mahirap matali sa isang daily show. Now, I'm happy na heto, I'm given a lead role in 'Elias Paniki'."

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LA DIVA, composed of Pinoy Pop Superstar winners Jonalyn Viray, Maricris Garcia and Aicelle Santos, just returned from a successful concert in Vancouver, Canada. What makes them click is not only their combined heavenly voices but also the fact that they're really good friends.

"Bago pa kami pinagsama as La Diva, friends na talaga kami," says Maricris, PPS Year 3 winner who's called Divine Princess due to her vocal resemblance to Zsa Zsa Padilla's. "We already know the strengths and weaknesses of each other."

Jonalyn does the soprano parts, Maricris does the mezzo-soprano and Aicelle, the alto. They were officially formed by GMA Artist Center and became an instant hit with their rendition of Guy Sebastian's "Angels Brought Me Here", now the theme song of the hit Koreanovela, "Queen Seon Deok" which is from their self-titled debut album released by GMA Records and Sony Music last year.

"Mas maraming naka-appreciate sa'min ng pagsamahin kaming tatlo," says Jonalyn of PPS 1. "Nag-join forces pati ang fans namin both as a group and as individual singers."

A high point in their career was the first major concert at Music Museum last November and when they sang "Lupang Hinirang" at the Pacquiao-Cotto match for which they got glowing reviews. "Big achievement yun for us," says Aicelle. "It inspires us to give our best all the time."

La Diva can be seen each Sunday on Party Pilipinas. They'll have another big concert at SM North Skydome in July then they'll have a U.S. tour in August.

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IWA MOTO wants to go on vacation in Japan now that that "Ina, Kasusuklaman Ba Kita" is ending this week and don't miss its thrilling finale. "Nandun na yung younger sister ko at na-approved na ang Japanese citizenship niya kasi nga our dad is Japanese. Pero ako, hindi nag-qualify kasi over 21 na ako. So I want to bring our mom there at pati na rin ang boyfriend ko (Mikey Ablan) para makapag-bonding kami. Gusto ko rin mag-recharge bago uli ako magtrabaho."

She's glad that GMA-7 has given her another new show, "Love Bug", where she supports Dennis Trillo and Carla Abellana. " "Love triangle kami rito, but I'm not as bad as my role as Rossan in 'Ina' who's an unhappy person kaya gusto niya, maging unhappy rin lahat ng tao. Don't miss our explosive last week. Madugo, abangan nyo, maraming mamamatay. Napasok ako sa mental hospital dahil baliw ako pero makakatakas ako. Si Karla Estrada naman, nabaliw rin at babarilin si Jean Garcia at mabibingit ang buhay sa kamatayan. Reunited sina Jean at Jennica at magsasabwatan naman kami ni Karla para gumanti at patayin silang lahat."

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