Sunday, January 30, 2011

A Repost From ABS-CBN News



Piolo admits relationship with KC

Piolo admits relationship with KC
Slideshow: Showbiz Photos

Calls Megastar's daughter his 'princess' MANILA, Philippines - Hunk actor Piolo Pascual on Sunday finally broke his silence on the real score between him and actress-TV host KC Concepcion. Pascual admitted on The Buzz, where Concepcion is a host, that he and the daughter of Megastar Sharon Cuneta are in a romantic relationship. Concepcion became his girlfriend on October 21 last year, he revealed. "It took me 2 years (before she said yes). Tsaka na 'yung detalye. Basta that's one of the best days of my life. For the first time in more than 8 years, I'm getting into a relationship, a commitment. And I'm planning to keep it," he told The Buzz host Charlene Gonzales. Asked about his term of endearment to Concepcion, Pascual said, "I call her my princess." For months, Pascual and Concepcion have been mum on the status of their relationship, saying that they want to stay away from the "huzzles and buzzles" of showbiz. Pascual, in particular, wanted to keep things private so as not to affect his 13-year-old son, IƱigo. "The reason why I never admitted naman was because may pinoprotektahan ako. I have a son, ayaw mong magkaroon ng ibang reaction 'yung bata. He's only 13 years old," he explained. He continued, "Mahirap talaga (for her) and I found it too unfair kasi siya lagi ang nagsasalita. So finally a couple of days ago I said na it's time for me to speak up...it's also my responsibility para she's not left in the dark, para hindi siya nahihirapang sumagot." The hunk actor also apologized to Concepcion, "Sorry if it took me this long. It's a thorn off my chest, I must say." 'KC is taken' Pascual said he also decided to announce his relationship with Concepcion so the latter's admirers would no longer consider courting the actress. Among those rumored to have expressed interest in the Megadaughter are Azkals football player Phil Younghusband, actor Sam Milby, and apl.de.ap, the Filipino member of American hip hop group Black Eyed Peas. "Para matigilan na rin 'yung mga nagpaparinig kay Kristina (laughs)," Pascual said. He added, "I wouldn't want to watch another interview para may magsabi na may crush sa kanya or gustong makipag-date. I just want them to know that she's taken." Pascual thanked Concepcion for "sticking it out with me" and for being "sobrang sobrang patient and understanding." Asked if Concepcion is the woman he's willing to spend the rest of his life with, the hunk actor said, "Siguro di naman ako aamin nang ganito or magta-take ng risk kung sa tingin ko di ko siya gusto makasama habangbuhay." Reactions After the interview, Pascual went straight to Concepcion's dressing room and gave his girlfriend a big hug, according to Boy Abunda, one of the hosts of The Buzz. "It had really been a struggle for KC. Kasi hindi madali sa babae na 'pag tinatanong na 'are you together' will say na 'no it shouldn't come from me," Abunda said. The Buzz host Toni Gonzaga, for her part, announced that Pascual first proposed to Concepcion in September 21, 2010, but the actress-host wanted some time to think and traveled to Europe. After a month, Concepcion said yes. "Hindi dapat KC ang pangalan niya ngayon. Rapunzel. Haba ng hair, abot na sa labas ng studio," Gonzaga said in jest. Concepcion, meanwhile, broke into tears upon knowing that they can finally make their relationship public. "Ang dami-dami naming pinagdaanan ni PJ, kung alam niyo lang. He's a good guy, a really really good guy," she said. She ended, "It was very sincere...Thank you, PJ, for being honest today."

Reposted From ABS CBN News

Friday, January 28, 2011

A Repost From PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal)



Anne Curtis denies replacing Marian Rivera in latest endorsement; feels disgusted by rumor linking sister Jasmine to Luis Manzano

Muling magkasama sa pelikulang Who's That Girl? ang mag-best friend na sina Anne Curtis at Luis Manzano.

Co-produced ng Viva Films with SM Development Corporation (SMDC), isang romantic comedy ang movie sa ilalim ng direksyon ni Wenn Deramas.

Sa inauguration ng SMDC Grand Showroom at launching na rin kay Anne bilang bagong mukha ng SMDC, na ginanap sa SMDC Complex, Pasay City, kagabi, January 27, panay ang biro ni Anne sa reunion nila ni Luis sa pelikula.

Ang Cute ng Ina Mo!, na ipinalabas noon pang 2007, ang huling pelikulang nagkasama sina Anne at Luis.

"Actually, hindi gaano kasaya... Hindi, joke lang!" biro ni Anne sa harap ng nag-i-interview sa kanyang press people mula sa iba't ibang media group.

"Of course, kulitan. If you guys saw the trailer."

Mukha ngang kakaibang Anne ang mapapanood sa Who's That Girl?. Iba't ibang nakakatawang eksena kasi ang ipinakita ni Anne sa pelikula, bilang babaeng obsessed sa character ni Luis.

Nagtawanan nga ang mga bisita at press na nasa inauguration at launching nang ipakita ang trailer ng pelikula at mapanood ang eksenang dinilaan ng character ni Anne ang ninakaw na baso ni Luis na ininuman nito.

"Direk Wenn Deramas really brings out the other side of me!" natatawa pang sabi ng aktres.

WHY NOT LUIS? Mahigit sampung taon na ring magkaibigan sina Anne at Luis, at madalas na natatanong nga sa kanila kung bakit hindi sila naging magkasintahan.

Tinanong tuloy si Anne kung bakit sa palagay niya ay single pa rin si Luis. At siya nga raw ba ang talagang hinihintay ng binata nina Governor Vilma Santos-Recto at Edu Manzano?

"No naman. I think Manzano [pet name niya kay Luis] kasi is at the point in his life where sooner or later he's gonna be ready to settle down. So, I think now, he's just kinda enjoying himself," sagot ng Fil-Australian na dalaga.

Hindi rin daw apektado ang mga past at present relationship niya sa pagiging mag-best friend nila ni Luis.

"No. Manzano will always be my best friend. And everyone is aware of that, and anyone that comes into my life or I have a relationship with, they know of my friendship with Manzano and they respect that."

MANZANO RUMORS. Hindi naman nagustuhan ni Anne ang tsismis na may nakakita raw na naghahalikan ang younger sister niyang si Jasmine at si Luis.

"First of all, that's disgusting! Incest! Basically, that's incest!

"Because Jasmine is 16 and Manzano is matanda na! So, you know... [that's] far from happening.

"And especially, since kuya niya... 'Kuya Manzano' tawag niya. So... 'kaloka ang mga tao!" nasabi na lang ni Anne.

Totoo rin bang ibinili siya ni Luis ng isang very expensive watch?

"Hindi. Wala nga siyang gift sa akin, e!" sagot agad ni Anne na ikinatawa ng mga nag-i-interview sa kanya.

May nagtanong tuloy kung kuripot ba si Luis.

May pag-aatubili pa muna bago sumagot si Anne, "Yes..."

Tawanan muli ang mga nag-i-interview, sabay bawi ni Anne.

"No. Kami ni Manzano, we always have a deal kung ano ang ibibigay namin sa isa't isa. And this year, hindi pa kami nagbibigayan, kasi hindi pa kami...wala pa kaming agreement kung ano ang ibibigay namin sa isa't isa."

GETTING GEORGINA INTO SHOWBIZ. Isa namang kaibigan niya pa ang kasalukuyang kinatutuwaan ngayon sa showbiz at nag-e-enjoy rin sa pagpasok nito sa mundo ni Anne—ang modelong si Georgina Wilson.

Si Anne nga ba ang nakaimpluwensiya kay Anne na pumasok sa showbiz?

"Well, maybe it's in her blood as well. You never know, but when she was asked to do Showtime, she was very nervous about the 'sample-sample.'"

Nairaos naman ni Georgina [CLICK HERE to watch video clip] ang unang "Sample" nito.

"Very cute! So sinabi ko naman, 'You know, you have people there to help you out. Advisers, writers, and... they'll help you out,'" patuloy pa ni Anne.

Bukod sa pagiging magkaibigan, ang isa pang pagkakapareho nina Anne at Georgina ay pareho silang naging girlfriends ng young actor na si Richard Gutierrez.

ERWAN DOING SHOWTIME SOON? May pag-asa rin bang mag-Showtime na rin ang boyfriend niyang si Erwan Heussaff? (CLICK HERE and HERE to watch videos of Erwan.)

"I don't know... I don't think so..." may alinlangan namang sagot ni Anne.

Hangga't maaari nga ay ayaw ni Anne na maging showbiz ang kasalukuyang karelasyon niya na si Erwan, ang nakatatandang kapatid ng Survivor Philippines Celebrity Showdown runner-up na si Solenn Heussaff.

Kahit simpleng pagkumusta lang sa relasyon nila ngayon ay maikli lang ang sagot ni Anne at hindi na nag-e-elaborate pa.

"Masaya kami. Very happy. And I think that's obvious naman," ani Anne.

Ayaw raw niyang mag-showbiz si Erwan at mukhang wala ring balak si Erwan na mag-showbiz.

"No. I don't think so..." sabi pa ni Anne. "Of course, sometimes you can't avoid questions [from the press]. But at the end of the day, it's still private."

Na kay Erwan na nga ba ang hinihanap niya sa isang lalaki?

"Me kasi, I don't like anymore to have expectations of someone. So I take it day by day, and I just want to be happy, and so far we are both happy."

Dahil masaya nga sila sa isa't isa at tila pangmatagalan na sila ni Erwan, may wedding announcement o kahit engagement announcement man lang muna bang maririnig mula sa kanila sa mga nalalapit na araw? Paano nga kung bigla siyang alukin ni Erwan ng kasal?

"At this point in my career... I'm not thinking about it right now because every day I'm working. But of course, if it's the right time, then why not, di ba? But I don't think anytime soon yet," sagot ni Anne.

REPLACING MARIAN? Sa pagiging bagong mukha ng SMDC naman ni Anne, may nang-intriga agad na pinalitan na raw niya si Marian Rivera bilang endorser ng SMDC.

"Hindi ko siya pinalitan, in all fairness. I was just added to the SMDC family.

"Kami ni Marian, we're okay. There has never been an issue, and...no. I don't think anyone should make an issue out of it."

Hindi rin naman maiiwasang gawan ng issue ng ilang naroon na press ang pagiging bagong endorser ni Anne. Masyado kasing engrande ang pagpapakilala sa kanya ng SMDC.

Dumating si Anne sa event na nakasakay sa isang mamahaling luxury car. Pinagkaguluhan ng Hollywood-style paparazzi habang bumababa sa sasakyan at naglalakad sa red carpet. Pagkatapos ay hinarana papuntang stage ng ilang kalalakihang singers. At nang sinundo ni Christian Bautista patungo sa stage ay kinantahan pa rin siya with matching full-orchestra pa.

Pero aminado si Anne may pressure sa kanya bilang bagong endorser ng SM Residences.

"Of course, there is pressure. People try and make an issue out of it. But there really is no issue. I have big shoes to fill, obviously, because she still is one of the number one endorsers of the Philippines. And she's the one who set the standards for the SM Residences. I hope I am able to meet the expectations of others as well."

Hindi rin daw dapat gawan pa sila ng issue ni Marian, kung napunta na kay Anne ang ini-endorse dati ng Kapuso star.

"I think all of us that are in the industry, anything that comes our way, we all just consider it a blessing to us. Because, you know, things aren't just handed to us. We all worked for it, each and every one of us, all of us in the industry.

"So, I really think it's just the people who aren't in the industry that probably make an issue out of it, where in fact, there isn't."

Reposted From PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal)

Thursday, January 27, 2011

A Repost From GMA News.TV


All-female DOJ team to look into Dominguez group's cases

Justice Secretary Leila de Lima will form a panel that will look into the previous cases filed against members of the Dominguez carnapping syndicate, suspects in the killing of a car dealer whose charred body was found in Central Luzon.

The all-female team—Senior Assistant State Prosecutor Lilian Doris Alejo, Assistant State Prosecutor Vilma Lopez Sarmiento, and Prosecution Attorney Mary Jane Sypap—will determine whether law enforcers had connived with the suspected car thieves, De Lima said.

De Lima, however, has yet to issue the department order formally forming the special team as of posting time.

Asked by reporters why all the members are female, De Lima said: "I told Prosecutor General [Claro Arellano] I want a panel that is efficient and hardworking, but also fearless."

The creation of the panel came in light of the gruesome killings of car dealers Venson Evangelista, Emerson Lozano, and Lozano's driver Ernani Sencil allegedly by members of the Dominguez group.

The group’s alleged leader, Raymond Dominguez, is currently in police custody after he turned himself in last Saturday reportedly to seek protection. He and his brother Roger allegedly masterminded the killing of Evangelista.

This page requires a higher version browser Lozano-Sencil slays

But according to another suspect in the case, Alfred Mendoza, the Dominguez group was not only involved in the Evangelista killing, but in the Lozano-Sencil murders as well.

In an exclusive interview with GMA News aired over “24 Oras" Thursday, Mendoza said Lozano and Sencil were killed after members of the syndicate thought Lozano was trying to pull a gun while they were abducting him on Jan. 12.

He said Lozano and Sencil joined the suspects for a test drive when they posed as buyers of Lozano’s Kia Carnival.

Nakahalata si Mister Emerson Lozano na ka-karnapin yung sasakyan, nakahalata sila na parang bubunot … ewan ko kung anong bubunitin ni Emerson Lozano … so inunahan, binaril si Emerson Lozano sa ulo," Mendoza said.

(They thought Emerson Lozano was about to draw a gun when he noticed what was going on, so they shot him in the head.)

He said the Dominguez group went to Lozano after Evangelista, on that same day, did not allow them to road test a luxury vehicle that he was selling.

Hindi nila napilit si Venson Evangelista na ipa-road test yung sasakyan, napilitan sila sa other option, which is yung Kia Carnival na nakita nila sa Internet at dyaryo," Mendoza said.

(When they failed to convince Venson Evangelista to allow them to road test a vehicle he was selling, they proceeded to the next option, which is the Kia Carnival that they saw being advertised on the Internet and newspapers.)

Conspiracy

De Lima had earlier said that carnapping would not have grown as a criminal activity "without the collusion or conspiracy" of law enforcers from the Philippine National Police and the National Bureau of Investigation.

She added that even government prosecutors who handled the carnapping cases against Dominguez will be subject to investigation. She also questioned why Dominguez was allowed to post bail 19 times after being linked to car theft cases.

On Thursday, De Lima said that the panel will review cases dismissed and approved by prosecutors to determine whether there are bases for their decisions.

"If [the dismissal is] improper, [the panel is tasked] to determine the possible culpability of those involved in the improper dismissal or improper release of the respondents or the suspects," she told reporters.

"So the determination of possible culpability will cover investigators involved or the fiscals involved. So that is the focus of that panel," she added. She said that the DILG reported to her that a carnapping case "was dismissed questionably" by a government prosecutor whom she did not name.

"I want that validated—if there is really a case like that, if that was really dismissed. And if dismissed, whether there is basis," she said. – KBK, GMANews.TV

Reposted From GMA News.TV

Wednesday, January 26, 2011

A Repost From PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal)



KC Concepcion endures risk in Uganda; auctions stuff anew for charity

KC Concepcion's recent trip to Africa was not just an ordinary field mission for the United Nations World Food Programme (UN WFP).

Speaking before the local press in a press conference held earlier today, January 26, at the White House resto bar in Quezon City, the actress-singer-host related her experience while in Uganda's impoverished regions for a five-day visit.

KC's itinerary took her to Northern Uganda's three sub-regions: Karamoja, Karimojong, and Kapchorwa.

All mentioned areas are beset with a number of problems, particularly malnutrition caused by food shortage due largely to the effects of climate change.

But armed conflicts are also a long-standing concern as ethnic groups reportedly continue to wage war against each other.

Uganda has been plagued with civil war for two decades, and although the country has managed to rise above instability and institute economic reforms since the '90s, some areas remain prone to human rights abuses and poverty.

"I didn't leave with any expectations except that I knew that visiting Africa was always in my bucket list. It was always one of these things that I have to do in my 20s. But I have never imagined my first trip to Africa to be so meaningful and so packed, and so real, and so genuine," said KC, who is currently serving as the Philippines' National Ambassador Against Hunger.

"The fact that it was with the WFP," she continued, "there's already enough excitement and adrenalin for me. It wasn't until they asked us to wear bullet-proof vests and helmets that it really hit me that there's a possibility [that I might get hurt].

"Because while we were having dinner, there were a few gun shots because somebody tried to steal some livestock, which is 'yong livelihood talaga nila... It wasn't until the days went by that you actually realized that there's a risk."

RISKY JOURNEY. KC is no stranger when it comes to visiting places categorized as "unsafe."

The daughter of Megastar Sharon Cuneta and former matinee idol Gabby Concepcion has been to remote areas in Mindanao to carry out activities and programs of the WFP since her appointment as ambassador in 2008.

Continued KC: "I realized it's the same anyway when I go to Central Mindanao. It's just that this time around, it was for a week. Usually in Mindanao, in Central Mindanao, we fly for a few hours and then fly back."

But there's a noticeable difference between Mindanao and Uganda: the presence of security personnel tasked to safeguard individuals on a humanitarian mission.

"Tsaka kasi pag nandito kami, 'yong missions dito, marami po kaming nakikita na naka-army [uniform], 'yong security. Doon po, hindi ko po alam kung meron. Pero as far as my eyes could see, wala pong mga armas 'yong mga tao," she recalled.

WFP Deputy Country Director Asaka Nyangara confirmed the danger involved in most of their field missions around the globe, citing, "We do risk our lives. A lot of our colleagues that we worked with have lost their lives while they're out there... Anything can happen."

How did KC's parents deal with the thought of their daughter being in another continent and putting her life in jeopardy for a good cause?

"Sa parents ko naman po kasi, parang siguro po naiintindihan naman nila na part siya ng ginagawa talaga ng mga gumagawa ng ganitong trabaho.

"Katulad po siguro nung sayaw ko sa Araneta [Coliseum, during Sharon's birthday concert last January 11], at the end of the day, nakikita naman po siguro nila na maganda naman po 'yong work. At gagawin ko 'yon dahil nakaka-contribute siya kahit papaano, in that case sa arts siguro, and dito naman sa society natin.

"They're very supportive and si Mama siguro kahit papaano natanggap na rin niya na meron akong streak na ganun. Siguro lagi niyang sinasabi mas risk taker ako sa kanya, mas adventurous daw ako sa kanya. So, medyo parang na-accept na po niya na may adventurous streak talaga ako."

EYE-OPENING EXPERIENCE. KC was able to see the two sides of Uganda and this left a profound impression on the former host of the morning talk show Simply KC.

She remembered being greeted first by "the pulang lupa na maraming-maraming tumutubo" and the little shops that adorn the busy sidewalks.

The scenery, however, changes drastically as KC and her team move to their real destination.

"Medyo iba na 'yong sitwasyon dun," she said seriously. "Makakakita na kayo ng mga kababaihang barefoot na nagdadala ng tubig sa ulo nila, nagdadala ng kahoy-kahoy na buhat buhat nila sa ulo nila and malayo 'yong nilalakaran nila."

KC added, "When I got there, sa Moroto, dun mo makikita 'yong mga character talaga. Parang it's like the heart of Africa, na parang siguro sa part na 'yon, which is iba sa the rest of the country, parang masasabi mo na pareho sa mga images na makikita mo from the sinaunang panahon pa—talagang very basic 'yong way of living nila dun."

KC had to immerse herself deep into the way of living of the locals to better understand their situation and to gain their trust as she carry out her mission.

"We spend hours sitting and really living with them, talking, cooking with them. 'Yong lola nagbibigay sa akin ng mga dried fruit peels to boil kasi akala niya apo niya ako, kasi partially blind siya.

"The more kasi you spend time with them, the more they're able to open up. Hanggang sa pag-alis namin dun, it was never the same. Parang may nagbago talaga sa akin."

Part of KC's activities included providing assistance to the communities in dire need of food and nutrition, interacting with women farmers and babies stationed in therapeutic centers, meeting up with people trained by WFP to create fuel efficient cooking stoves, participating in the harvesting of corn and other crops, and visiting a warehouse built to assist farmers dry, store, and gather their maize.

AUCTION FOR CHARITY. The press conference was also called to announce the auctioning of some of KC's personal belongings through the webpage KC's Closet found at eBay.ph.

Just like what she did in the past, the money that will be earned from the online auction will go straight to WFP's campaign in Mindanao.

"We were able to raise since late last year about half a million pesos that will all go to our projects in Central Mindanao especially for the school feeding. In the last ten days, because we put up a new batch of second-hand items for the online auction in eBay, in the last ten days, we were able to raise a 106,000 pesos just with most of my clothes, watches, and bags," KC proudly confided.

Having seen the situation of the people living in the sub-regions of Uganda brought some changes in KC's way of thinking.

It also made her look closely at her role as a celebrity and representative of a global humanitarian organization.

"Just being in the plane for 'yong 22-hour na biyahe and seeing the pictures, which I'm so glad I took in my own personal camera for personal use... It's just really, really, parang you'll see na there are things that you don't see off-hand when you're there.

"Then you go back to your world plus you're in entertainment so everything is presented beautifully, everyone's striving for perfection. Parang the glitz the glamour, the high heels, the lights, the audience, and then you remember this quiet place under the hot sun with people you have never seen or met before.

"You remember all their stories about 'Yeah, my sister-in-law was killed trying to get these fruits four months ago. So we don't have anything to eat right now. We're eating the fruit peel of those fruits.' I mean, di ba, it hits you?

"Kayo ba when you're in a bad situation, and you hear stories like that na hindi mo naman araw-araw naririnig at minsan naririnig mo lang sa TV, pero hindi ka naman tinatamaan kasi you can change the channel?

"'Pag nagiging totoo siya, iba na 'yong pakiramdam talaga kasi no matter where you are, or what happens, or kung sinong kausap mo, or kung anong na-achieve mo, you will always know that there is a corner in the world that exist na ganun—and it's either that in our daily life, we forget that we think of this or we just never knew we did."

Reposted From PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal)

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

A Repost From PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal)


ennylyn Mercado's former PA acquitted on case of qualified theft

Jennylyn Mercado's former PA acquitted on case of qualified theft
Slideshow: Showbiz Photos

Pinawalang-sala ngayong araw, January 25, ng isang Quezon City court ang dating personal assistant ni Jennylyn Mercado mula sa kasong qualified theft, na isinampa ng aktres laban sa kanya.

Ayon sa report ng GMA News, napagpasyahan ni Judge Vivencio Baclig ng Quezon City Regional Trial Court Branch 77 na hindi napatunayan ng kampo ni Jennylyn na guilty ang akusadong si Rowena "Mel" Pulmano.

"Although the court is not certain as to her innocence, it is also not certain to her guilt; hence, it is its duty to acquit her," saad ni Judge Baclig sa kanyang 10-page decision.

Matatandaang kinasuhan ni Jennylyn ng qualified theft si Pulmano noong October 28, 2008 dahil umano sa paggamit nito sa checkbook ng aktres nang walang paalam.

Sa kabuuan, umabot daw sa P460,272.84 ang nakubra ni Pulmano mula kay Jennylyn, mula June hanggang September 2008. (CLICK HERE to read related story.)

Sa hukuman, iprinisinta ng kampo ni Jennylyn ang walong witnesses, kasama na ang aktres. Sa cross-examination kay Jennylyn, inamin nito na hindi siya sigurado kung si Pulmano nga ang pumirma sa mga tseke. Nauna nang itinanggi ng personal assistant na siya ang gumamit ng mga tseke.

Ayon kay Judge Baclig, walang matibay na ebidensiya na pineke ni Pulmano ang mga pirma ng aktres. Hindi rin daw na-establish na si Pulmano lamang ang may access sa mga tseke ni Jennylyn.

Ngunit kahit pa na-acquit si Pulmano sa kasong ito ay mananatili pa rin siyang nakakulong sa Quezon City Jail Female Dormitory dahil sa mga kasong estafa na hindi pa nareresolba ng QCRTC Branches 88 at 219.

Ayon sa lawyer ni Pulmano na si Cornelio Samaniego, malapit na ring resolbahin ng Branch 88 ang isang kaso ng estafa.

Samantala, magpa-file naman sila ng piyansang P60,000 sa Branch 219.

Reposted From PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal)

Monday, January 24, 2011

A Repost From Philstar.com




Bb. beauties unite for batch 2011

A little drama happened during the screening of more than two hundred aspirants for the 2011 Bb. Pilipinas title, held at the Gateway Suites of Araneta Center last Saturday, Jan. 22.

Madame Stella Marquez de Araneta, head of the Bb. Pilipinas Charities, Inc. (BPCI), had an emotional reconciliation with three former Binibinis with whom she had a falling out — 2005 Bb. Pilipinas-International and Miss International Precious Lara Quigaman, 2002 Bb. Pilipinas-Universe Karen Loren Agustin and 2006 Bb. Pilipinas-International Denille Lou Valmonte.

Two years ago, the three “prodigal” binibinis organized their own beauty search called Miss Turismo Pilipina, a supposedly annual pageant that ended up as a one-shot deal. Another binibini was a member of the “renegade” group but she didn’t show up. A Funfare VDPA (Very Deep Penetrating Agent) said that the binibini who hails from the south, has found love with a rich Visayan businessman “Mahigpit na mahigpit ang pagmamahalan nila,” said the VDPA as his way of giving a “clue.”

First to arrive was Lara who is now a freelance web-page writer, TV host and actress, rumored to be engaged to be married to Marco Alcaraz.

Lara and SMA (as Madame Stella is fondly called) sealed their reconciliation with a tight embrace, near tears.

Karen and Denille said that they never harbored any ill feelings against SMA whom they look up to as their mentor. In fact, as soon as they were done with the Miss Turismo Pilipina project, staged in cooperation with the Department of Tourism, the three binibinis disclosed that they were ready to support what they called their “mother pageant.” For sure, they realized that managing a beauty search is no picnic.

During the contract signing between ABS-CBN and Bb. Pilipinas Charities, Inc. (BPCI) (from left): Conchitina Sevilla-Bernardo (BPCI executive), Sienna Olaso (director for entertainment and marketing of UNIPROM), Miss Universe-Philippines Venus Raj, BPCI head Stella Marquez de Araneta, ABS-CBN head Charo Santos-Concio, ABS-CBN executives Cory Vidanes and Linggit Tan, and BPCI executive Pitoy Moreno.

“They’re back!” SMA announced to the media. Applause!!!

Mentor and “prodigal daughters” formed the screening committee together with SMA, BPCI executive directors Pitoy Moreno and Conchitina Sevilla-Bernardo and 2010 Bb. Pilipinas Universe/Miss Universe-Philippines Venus Raj. The aspirants paraded in casual wear and swimsuit. The number of aspirants was winnowed down to more than a hundred and, in a further screening yesterday, down to about 60 from which the 24 (or 26) official candidates will be chosen. The list will be revealed next Saturday, Jan. 29. Two titles, Bb. Pilipinas-Universe and Bb. Pilipinas-International, are at stake at the coronation night in April, to be covered by ABS-CBN which recently signed a five-year alliance with BPCI. Previous franchise holder for more than 13 years was GMA. The Miss Universe pageant, which will be held in Sao Paulo, Brazil, in September, will also be telecast live by ABS-CBN as in the past many years.

Karen said that she and her co-beauty queens were impressed by the beauty and intelligence of the current crop of applicants and that she would be more than willing to help the final 24 candidates in their quest.

“It’s the year for reconciliation, it’s the year for unity,” said Karen. “It’s time for Bb. Pilipinas beauties to come together and unite!”

Other binibinis present at the first screening were Czarina Gatbonton, Maricar Tolosa, Denille Lou Valmonte, Jennifer Barrientos, Janina San Miguel, Patricia Fernandez, Danielle CastaƱo and Nicolette Henson.

The Bb. Pilipinas pageant is regarded as the most prestigious in the Philippines. So far, it has produced two Misses Universe (Gloria Diaz in 1969 and Margie Moran in 1973), three Misses International (Aurora Pijuan in 1970, Melanie Marquez in 1979 and Precious Lara Quigaman in 2005).

Director Albert Martinez gives Jennylyn Mercado (who plays the title role) last-minute instructions on the set of Rosario

Rosario to be shown at NY’s SoHo Filmfest

Down-hearted by the fate of Rosario, his directorial debut, at the just-concluded Metro Filmfest, Albert Martinez is consoled by the rave reviews and, the latest great news, the invitation for the movie to be shown at the SoHo International Film Festival in New York City on April 15 to 21.

How did it happen?

Albert told STAR contributor Carlo Orosa, “I got a letter sent to me through Bibsy Carballo who is friends with Jojo Ballos, founder of the SoHo Filmfest. He forwarded an e-mail to me that formally invited Rosario, Tarima and Presa to the filmfest. It read, This new festival, which celebrates the cutting-edge of digital technology while honoring traditional forms of storytelling, encourages new and seasoned filmmakers from here in New York City and around the world to create and send in their fresh and innovative cinematic pieces. By enticing filmmakers, journalists and cineastes from America and across the globe, we expect to draw audiences to this side of the city that’s known for its artistic community and cultural sophistication. It is our way of helping boost the profile, the sense of pride, and the economy of the local community and the city itself.

“I am excited and honored because I will get to see the great director Martin Scorsese in the festival, plus the program will be hosted by Frank Vincent who will receive the first SIFFNYC Icon award. Director John Gallager will host the closing night to be held at the Quad Cinema. NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg will also attend the opening night and the Red Carpet night.”

Albert told Carlo that Rosario will soon start screening in Filipino communities abroad — Hong Kong and Singapore next month; and San Francisco, L.A., Seattle, Las Vegas and San Diego in March.

Already, Albert said that he has started pre-production work on his next project, an action-drama, which will start shooting in February 2012.

Reposted From Philstar.com

Sunday, January 23, 2011

A Repost From PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal)



Danica Flores Magpantay wins 2011 Supermodel of the World title

Danica Flores Magpantay wins 2011 Supermodel of the World title
Slideshow: Showbiz Photos

Toast of the town si Danica Flores Magpantay.

Ang 17-year-old daughter ng 1990 Supermodel of the World - Philippines winner, Lala Flores, ang idineklara ng Ford Models bilang winner ng 2011 Supermodel of the World.

Danica is a B.S. Fine Arts student major in Visual Communication at the University of the Philippines in Diliman. Siya ang pinakabata at kauna-unahang Pilipina na nanalo sa prestigious modelling contest ng Ford Models.

Bukod sa title na Supermodel of the World, tatanggap si Danica ng $250,000-modelling contract mula sa sikat na modelling agency sa buong mundo.

August 2010 nang magdesisyon si Danica na subukan ang modeling at sinuportahan ito ng kanyang mga magulang.

Nag-enroll siya sa Masters School for Models at dito siya natuto ng wastong paglalakad at body posture.

Ang mga mentor ni Danica ang nagkumbinsi sa kanya na sumali sa Supermodel of the Philippines contest noong nakaraang taon at siya ang pinalad na manalo. Kasali rin sa contest ang kanyang kapatid na si Danielle.

Si Eileen Ford ang founder ng Ford Models. Noong 1980, tinatag niya ang Supermodel of the World Contest para makatuklas ng mga bagong modelo para sa fashion industry.

Face of the '80s ang dating pangalan ng modelling contest ng Ford Models. Ang former Miss International na si Melanie Marquez ang unang Filipina na sumali sa Face of the '80s noong 1986 at siya ang tinanghal na first-runner up kay Monica Schnarre ng Canada.

Kabilang din sina Charo Ronquillo at Charlene Almarvez sa mga Filipina models na sumali sa Supermodel of the World. Si Charo ang 3rd runner-up sa 2006 edition ng contest at si Chat ang 1st runner up noong 2010.

Taon-taon, limampung modelo mula sa iba't-ibang bansa ang sumasali sa Supermodel of the World Contest, dahil bukod sa malaking premyo ($250,000 modeling contract sa Ford Models para sa grand winner, and $150,000 at $100,000 respectively, para sa mga runners-up), naniniwala sila na malaki ang maitutulong ng contest para matupad ang kanilang pangarap na ma-penetrate ang international fashion industry.

Reposted From PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal)

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

A Repost From PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal)



Baron Geisler gets another complaint, this time from Noah co-star Cherry Pie Picache

Baron Geisler gets another complaint, this time from Noah co-star Cherry Pie Picache
Slideshow: Showbiz Photos

Nagsampa ng reklamo si Cherry Pie Picache at ang kanyang manager na si Ed Instrella sa Philippine Artists Managers Inc. (PAMI) at sa ABS-CBN, laban sa character actor na si Baron Geisler.

Ayon sa balita, dinakma umano ni Baron ang dibdib ni Cherry Pie sa taping ng Noah, isang primetime show sa ABS-CBN, noong isang linggo.

Ang karakter ni Cherry Pie sa Noah ay si Rebecca, ang ina ng love interest ng pangunahing karakter ni Joem Bascon. Ginagampanan naman ni Baron si Caleb, isa sa mga kontrabida sa programa.

Lasing umano si Baron sa taping ng Noah nang mangyari ang insidente.

Sa simula raw ay nararamdaman lang ni Cherry Pie na iba na ang hipo ni Baron sa kanya. Ngunit hindi pa rin umano niya napigilan ang paghawak ng aktor sa kanyang dibdib bago matapos ang taping.

Dahil dito, nagalit agad si Cherry Pie at nagreklamo sa produksyon ng Noah, kaya agad namang pinatay ang karakter ni Baron sa show matapos ang insidente.

Ayon pa sa text message na ipinadala ni Ed Instrella sa PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal) ngayong gabi, January 17, nagreklamo na nga sila sa PAMI (Professional Artists Managers, Inc.) at management ng ABS-CBN "with the hope that similar incident will not happen again."

Nang tanungin ng PEP ang manager kung kumusta na ang kanyang talent, ito ang kanyang ipinadalang sagot: "Ayaw lang ni ms Picache lumaki pa issue so as not to affect her son."

Sinubukan din ng PEP na kuhanin ang panig ni Baron ukol sa ganitong issue ngunit wala pa kaming sagot na natatanggap mula sa kanya.

Nakakuha naman ng maikling pahayag ang PEP sa manager ni Baron na si Arnold Vegafria.

Sa pakikipag-usap ng PEP kay Arnold sa telepono ngayong gabi, sinabi nito na: "Makikipag-meeting pa lang ako with ABS-CBN tungkol diyan."

Ayon pa kay Arnold, hindi pa niya natatanggap ang kopya ang sulat ng manager ni Cherry Pie sa PAMI, kunsaan din siya kabilang.

Hindi na bago kay Baron ang ganitong akusasyon.

Noong May 21, 2009 ay binastos na rin umano ng aktor ang Kapuso actress na si Yasmien Kurdi sa isang taping. (CLICK HERE to read related story)

Nasa arraignment stage pa hanggang ngayon ang kasong acts of lasciviousness at unjust vexation na isinampa ni Yasmien laban kay Baron noong May 25, 2009.

Si Baron Geisler ay isang dramatic actor na nakatanggap na ng ilang acting awards mula sa pagganap niya sa ilang indie films tulad ng Jay (2008) at Donor (2010).

Reposted From PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal)

Monday, January 17, 2011

Pinakanakakatawang Nakita Ko Sa TV- Si Regine Velasquez Gumanap Na Bakla Sa Gay Bar


Ito na talaga ang pinakanakakatawang nakita ko sa TV- si Regine Velasquez ay gumanap nang isang bakla sa gay bar sa telenobelang I Love You Pare na ipalalabas pa lang, bwahahaha. Teaser pa lang nang programa na hindi pa ipinalalabas nang channel 7 ay talagang nakakaaliw na ang itsura ni Regine- bading na bading talaga
ang dating (with apologies to Rose [Chubskulit] and Shy- the original badingding nang blog world- joke lang, lol). Panuorin nyo ang official teaser nang telenobela na ito na ipalalabas na sa 1st quarter nang 2011.



Hello to all my gorgeous readers. May this make your day. God bless you all.

Mel Avila Alarilla

Sunday, January 16, 2011

A Repost From PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal)



Nanay Donaire tells her son Nonito Jr., WBA Super Flyweight champion, to stop spreading lies about the family

Nanay Donaire tells her son Nonito Jr., WBA Super Flyweight champion, to stop spreading lies about the family
Slideshow: Showbiz Photos

Lumikha ng kontrobersya ang mga pahayag ng Filipino boxer na si Nonito Donaire Jr. sa exclusive interview sa kanya ni Tris Dixon ng boxingnews.com.

Sa artikulo na may pamagat na "Nonito Donaire: The Sadness Behind The Smile," na lumabas sa boxingnews.com noong January 6, 2011, muling ikinuwento ni Nonito ang hindi nila pagkakasundo ng mga magulang niya na tutol sa kanyang misis na si Rachel.

Unang naungkat ang gap ng mag-amang Nonito Sr. at Nonito Jr. nang mag-guest ito sa Showbiz Central. Napag-usapan ang kanilang hindi pagkakasundo na nag-umpisa noong November 2008. Ipinagtapat ni Nonito Jr. sa kanyang TV guesting noon na hindi boto ang pamilya niya sa kanyang asawa.

Umingay uli ang family feud ng mga Donaire dahil sa mga ipinagtapat ni Nonito Jr. sa boxingnews.com na mariing pinabulaanan ng kanyang ina na nakapanayam naman ni Anthony Andales ng philboxing.com.

Humingi ang PEP ng permiso kay Anthony at philboxing.com owner Dong Secuya para i-reprint ang mga sagot ng ina ni Nonito Jr. at pumayag sila.

MOM SAYS IT'S NOT TRUE. Sinabi ni Nanay Donaire kay Anthony na walang katotohanan ang mga rebelasyon ni Nonito Jr. sa boxingnews.com na galing siya sa mahirap na pamilya, na hindi siya ang paboritong anak at biktima siya ng pagmamaltrato ng kanyang military man na ama.

Ito ang kabuuan ng interview ni Anthony sa ina ni Nonito Jr. para sa philboxing.com:

"'Enough is enough,' Nanay Donaire (Mom Donaire) told Anthony Andales. She wanted to clarify everything and to let her world champion son know that she is listening and will spank him if he keeps on lying.

"'Again, I'm not here to fan the flames, but to relay a message from a very concerned Mama. The Mama said it's about time for her to speak to let her son know that she's been listening to all the lies thrown around against his dad. And as a mother, she will not tolerate the bare-faced lying by her son.'

"Nanay Donaire, who is a 3rd order Augustinian secular and a church choir member, told me that hearing her son not tell the truth makes her sad. So after reading Tris Dixon's story she said to herself that this needs to be stopped.

"First, Nanay Donaire said that Nonito's dad didn't steal any money. The $240 Nonito Jr. accused his dad of stealing from him was used to feed the boxing staff.

"I say, what is $240? Is that enough to accuse your own dad of stealing? Is that enough to cut the relationship? Nanay Donaire was with me, she believes that $240 is not enough to make [Nonito Sr.] look bad.

"She added: 'Did Dodong (Nonito Sr.) accuse his son of stealing money when he spent lots of money raising him? Paying his phone bills, rent and other expenses? No the dad never accused his son of anything because he loves his son.'

"When I spoke to Nonito Sr., he recalled the Moruti Mthalane fight in Mandalay Bay, he was supposed to make $30,000 but after the fight, Junjun (Donito Jr.) and Rachel only gave him $20,000.

"'Did I accuse him of stealing? Never, I never did,' the elder Nonito said.

HE TRIED TO BE LIKE PACMAN. "Nonito Jr. tried very hard to make himself look like Manny Pacquiao, like growing up very poor, with almost nothing to eat, no food at the table, smallest share in the table. Nanay Donaire said they were poor but not as poor as his son said.

"Nanay told me she was a teacher and Dodong was a soldier, there was always food at the table, maybe not [a lot] but [there] was always enough for everybody.

"Nanay Donaire was also surprised that Nonito Jr. was jealous of Glenn.

"Growing up, Junjun recounted that his my family always said, 'Glenn's good-looking. Glenn's better than you, Glenn's this and this. Glenn's the best.'

"'Anthony, I am very sad to read this one, how can he carry this in his heart? If he thinks that he was overlooked he should have shut his mouth. His brother, Glenn even supported him because he was not working, he only boxed,' Nanay Donaire said.

"'Glenn gave him money, or shared his money, and he didn't care because he is his brother and they have a pact. No he can't mention those things, we never did that to him.'

NEW RULES. "Nanay Donaire recalled that when she watched her son fight in Manila, the first thing Rachel's dad did was to gave her the rules: She can't go near her son anytime she wants, she can't always ask for something from the son... she can't go in to the ring in case Junjun wins.

"She told me that she threw that paper away, she only read a portion of it... Now the time comes, Junjun won, if my recollection is correct, he knocked out Raul Martinez in 4 rounds, and GMA TV approached Nanay Donaire and she stood up, and Nonito's new mommy (Rachel's mom) reacted right away and said: 'Why did you get up? Did you [not] read the rules?'

"Nanay Donaire, being polite, answered, 'I can't make those GMA guys wait for me...'

"Still in Manila, she said she had a room provided by her son, but that afternoon, Rachel told her to just go downstairs and stay with five other relatives (room is very small though) because her room will be given to Dr. Ed Dela Vega. (The doc is more important than the mom? Hmmm...)

"But she knew that Doc Ed was in another room... [then] she learned the room was given to a bodyguard commissioned by Rachel.

INVITE TO JAPAN. "Recently, Nanay Donaire was invited by her son to visit him in Japan. Nanay jumped at the opportunity. First she missed Nonito a lot and she thought this was maybe the chance to salvage a compromise. She told me that her main purpose was to bring peace and reconciliation.

"Nanay asked her son, 'Why don't you call us anymore?'

"The son said, 'I totally forgot about you guys, coz I'm happy with my new family.'

"'You know your dad lost his job and he has some kidney problem, maybe you can help him,' Nanay said.

"The son replied: 'If it is God's will it is God's will.'

"'Jun, your dad made you a champion, he sacrificed a lot for you, he quit his job and lost his retirement,' Nanay pointed out.

"The son, in an arrogant manner, said 'That's his fault that he lost his retirement, no mercy and no guilt towards him.'

"'Jun, I thought you said that we'll help each other once you become a champion,' Nanay said.

"'That was before mom,' the misguided son said.

"'Jun, your dad has a note for you... no time to reconcile and no time to read.'

WHY IS HE DOING THIS TO HIS DAD? "Donito Sr. said: 'I don't know why he's doing this to me. I love all my kids because I lost my dad when I was 3 years old... So when I read all his lies, it crushes my heart and it hurts his brothers and sister also.

"'I didn't force him to box either, he chose to do karate, he could do the split... but when he saw Glenn win trophies, he told me that he'll box also. I dragged them on weekends to run, I held both their hands to run in the Marina. There was no jealousy at all, we were happy. We had a goal to help each other, we had a pact.'

"Both parents recalled that after Donito Jr. knocked out Darchinyan, the former reportedly said: 'Ma, Pa you don't have to work anymore, we'll buy a new house, we will live together, we gonna be happy. But those promises perished when he got married.'

"He quarreled with his dad and he didn't help Glenn train against Ulysses Solis. He didn't show up for sparring. Maybe jealousy drove his intentions at that time. If Junjun helped Glenn in that fight, the outcome might have been different.

"I asked Nonito Sr. if he had any favorites among his kids? 'No,' he said. In fact, Junjun is his favorite because he was sickly.

STAND BY HIM. "Nanay Donaire said she just hopes his new family will stand by him all the way, not just for fame.

"I asked Nanay, what if her son loses to Montiel on Feb. 19? What if this would turn him around and make him humble?

"'I don't care if Montiel will win,' she said. 'Junjun destroyed his reputation every time he throws lies against his dad and our family. And if Rachel is a good wife, she should teach her husband to respect his parents.

"'But what happened? She tried to pull Nonito Jr. away from his own family,' Nanay said.

"The Donaire siblings don't want their mom to talk to the media because they think that it'll just make the problem worse. But now, after reading Tris Dixon's long story, they asked their Mama to talk.

"The siblings think their brother needs some spanking, that only Mama can do that. And Mama told me that Junjun might read this and he should stop spreading lies, especially about his dad."

Reposted From PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal)

Saturday, January 15, 2011

A Repost From PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal)


Gwen Zamora on being linked to different men: "Maybe because I'm just too friendly."

Gwen Zamora on being linked to different men: "Maybe because I'm just too friendly."
Slideshow: Showbiz Photos

Pinagtatawanan na lang daw ng baguhang si Gwen Zamora ang pagkaka-link niya sa kung kani-kaninong aktor sa showbiz ngayon. Nagugulat nga ang French-Italian-Pinay beauty dahil iba-ibang mga names ng lalake ang naiuugnay sa kanya.

Sabi nga ni Gwen sa panayam sa kanya ng PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal) sa story conference ng bagong GMA-7 primetime series na Machete, wala naman daw sa plano niya ang magkaroon muna ng boyfriend.

Pinangako nga raw niya sa kanyang parents na uunahin muna niya ang career sa showbiz. Ayaw nga raw niyang may makasira sa kanyang magandang plano.

"It's so funny because they keep linking me to different men. Paiba-iba kaya naguguluhan na rin ako," sabay tawa ni Gwen.

"Maybe because I'm just too friendly. Hindi naman mawawala sa akin ang bumati or makipagkaibigan kasi normal na sa atin iyon, e.

"Masyado lang kasing binibigyan ng malisya ng ibang tao ang pagiging friendly ko. There's nothing I would want than to have new friends, lalo na sa business na ito. Wala akong nakikitang masama sa pagiging friendly, 'di ba?"

Na-link na nga ang pangalan ni Gwen kina Boy 2 Quizon, Wendell Ramos, Ervic Vijandre, Aljur Abrenica and just recently sa leading man niya sa blockbuster hit movie na Si Agimat at si Enteng Kabisote na si Vic Sotto.

Sabi ni Gwen na mga kaibigan lang daw niya ang mga lalakeng 'yan. Nahihiya nga siya dahil sa pagkaka-link niya sa mga ito na hindi naman daw dapat.

"Sobra akong nahihiya, lalo na kay Bossing Vic," diin ni Gwen.

"Kasi may nagpalaki lang ng issue na hinatid niya ako sa bahay ko. He was just being kind enough to drop me off since he's from Ayala Alabang and I'm from Las PiƱas. Wala kasi akong ride that time kaya he offered and nahiya pa nga ako.

"Since para na nga kaming pamilya because we did Si Agimat at si Enteng Kabisote, wala akong nakitang masama. May nagpalaki lang ng issue which is hindi maganda.

"Nagmagandang loob na nga si Bossing sa akin, nabigyan pa ng hindi magandang interpretation. Kaya sobra akong nahihiya sa kanya ngayon."

Dahil sa issue na iyon, si Gwen tuloy ang sinisisi sa breakup ni Vic sa girlfriend at co-host nito sa Eat Bulaga na si Pia Guanio.

"Iyon tuloy ang naiisip ng mga tao. That I had something to do with their breakup. The truth is, wala akong alam diyan. I'm not a part of it. Never will I be the cause of anyone's breakup.

"I only met Bossing Vic noong nagsu-shoot na kami ng movie. I think 'yung nangyari sa kanila ni Miss Pia ay matagal na yata. I wasn't even aware of it when we were shooting the movie.

"Kaya hindi ako. Huwag naman nila akong sisisihin diyan. That's their problem and sila lang ang makakasagot niyan. As for me, I'm not part of it."

At dahil kasama nga si Gwen sa Machete, mukhang matsitsismis siya ulit sa bida ng teleserye na si Aljur Abrenica. Natsismis na sila before na nag-date at pareho namang nag-deny ang dalawa.

"Na-explain ko na ang tungkol sa sinasabi nilang date namin ni Aljur. Nagsalita na rin si Aljur na it wasn't a date.

"Nagyaya lang siyang kumain sa labas kasi gutom na siya after ng workshop namin sa GMA-7. We were with friends kaya it wasn't a date. Nanlibre lang si Aljur sa amin."

At dahil dalaga't maganda si Gwen at wala namang nababalitang boyfriend, open kaya siya sa possibility na puwede siyang ligawan nila Vic at Aljur dahil single din naman sila?

"Mahirap sumagot because mabibigyan ng different meaning," diin ni Gwen.

"Okey lang na kaibigan ko silang dalawa. Like si Bossing Vic, I have so much respect for him. Nirerespeto si Bossing ng maraming tao sa showbiz. Si Aljur naman, he's a good guy and he's a gentleman.

"Like what I said, getting into a relationship is not my priority. I want to work and be good at it," pagtatapos pa ni Gwen Zamora.

Reposted From PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal)

Friday, January 14, 2011

A Repost From Janie Octia For Yahoo! Southeast Asia

Community divided over PNoy’s Porsche purchase

By Janie Octia – January 14th, 2011
600ap_paquino3

By Janie Octia, Yahoo! Southeast Asia

News of President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III’s recent car purchase has put him on the hot seat again.

The 50-year-old bachelor president, according to Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda, bought the thirdhand 2007 Porsche for P4.5 million using his personal funds from the sale of another asset.

While the administration emphasized the president’s right to use his own funds for personal purchases, some believe that this move might send the wrong message.

In a question posted on Yahoo! Philippines Answers, some users criticized Aquino’s move.

User Maxwell said that even if Aquino used his personal funds to buy the car, as the president, he should have been more sensitive to the plight of the people.

“It’s nobody’s business if he were a private individual but as President, he is the example everybody should follow. What example did he set by buying another car that he doesn’t really need?” added Maxwell.

User Gene thought that Aquino’s purchase is untimely.

“So in these dire times, I think he should stay away from luxuries even though he bought it from his own purse. I still believe in him but the timing is really bad, I think,” said Gene.

For user don torero, being a public figure, Aquino’s actions should’ve been “calculated.” He said, “Huwag na niyang isipin na may private life pa siya. kahit sariling pera niya yan, isipin niya yung message na ibinabahagi. Puro increases ng pamasahe (jeep, MRT, LRT, etc), gasolina, at bilihin tapos parang helpless ang gobyerno na wala silang magawa.”

CaJosh on the other hand warns that Aquino should be more cautious. He wrote: “The kind of government that he runs is mirrored from the kind of lifestyle that he has.”

While Aquino’s purchase is being criticized, others came to his aid and defended that as a private citizen, he can use his own money for personal needs.

“The guy is single. His immediate family are relatively well off. He is therefore free to do as he pleases, including where and how to spend his money. Besides, the car isn’t even brand new,” said JJK.

Another user, Mark appealed to the people to give Aquino a break.

“It’s his money. Why do we even have to pry on what he wants for himself, if i had that kind of money i’d buy me one too. Give the president a break. He deserves it. That’s what’s wrong about us filipinos…crab mentality. People are just jealous, if you want a Porsche…work hard or try your luck on the lottery,” said Mark.

User Worried Ed thought that the public should learn to distinguish Aquino as the public figure and the private one. He added, “As long as P-noy doesn’t use public funds for his personal gain, then he is doing nothing wrong. Besides, what he bought was a third-hand Porsche; still expensive, but to the elite, it’s already a shabby car — a sign of frugality just the same.”

Amid criticisms, Aquino defended his car purchase and dismissed reports that this will affect his administration’s austerity policies.

Reposted From Janie Octia For Yahoo! Southeast Asia

Thursday, January 13, 2011

A Repost From Jam Sisante of GMA News.TV


PNoy buys himself a Porsche

(Updated 4:32 p.m.) The country's 50-year-old bachelor president has bought himself a new car.

Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda confirmed on Thursday that President Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III has purchased a third-hand 2007 Porsche, but emphasized that the president used his personal funds for the purchase.

"It's a private purchase, it came from his own funds. The pruchase were proceeds from the sale of another asset and that other asset was acquired through personal loans," Lacierda said at a press briefing in MalacaƱang.

A source close to the president said Aquino sold his blue BMW, which he bought back when he was a senator and finished paying last year, for P4.5 million so he could purchase the white Porsche.

Lacierda noted that the value of the Porsche, whose model he could not specify, was depreciated. "If it was not depreciated, the president wouldn't even buy it, wouldn't even consider it."

Last month, Aquino issued a memorandum prohibiting all agencies from acquiring and using luxury vehicles for their operations, "and to be more prudent in spending government funds, especially in the acquisition of motor vehicles to maximize the utilization of scarce government resources."

At the news briefing, Lacierda said Aquino did not violate the memorandum, as the president used his own funds for the purchase of the Porsche.

"How the president spends his personal funds is entirely his own discretion and I think that should not be used to sow intrigue. If there's anybody planning to do that, let's respect the president's private transactions," Lacierda said.

Lacierda said Aquino had been"prudent" in spending government money, particularly during his foreign travels as chief executive.

"He's subject to scrutiny as a public official, I will grant you that. [But] what he does, again, privately is entirely his own discretion and I think we should allow him some private space," he said.

Policy of austerity

In an interview with Palace reporters, Aquino said he does not think his purchase should affect his government's policy of austerity in spending public funds.

"Hindi ho gobyerno ang nagbayad niyan. Ibinenta ko po ‘yung isang sasakyan ko at nagkataon ho meron namang buyer na ‘yun po ang ginamit ko pambayad nitong sasakyan ko (The government did not pay for that. I sold my own vehicle and there was a buyer, so I used the money to buy this [Porsche])," he said.

Aquino said he sees nothing wrong in buying the car while he can still drive a sports car, although he added that he may not be able to drive his Porsche that often.

"Ano bang masama na habang may kakayahan pa po akong magmaneho ng ganoong klaseng sasakyan dahil siguro naman pagbaba ko or ten years from now, iba na ang ating reflexes (What's wrong with buying that while I can still drive that kind of car? Perhaps when I step down from office, or in 10 years, my reflexes will have changed)," he said.

"Hindi naman po ako siguro pupunta ng videogame para sumubok ng eksperiensiyang ‘yon (Maybe I shouldn't resort to playing videogames just to experience that)," he added in jest.

Porsche Automobile Holding SE, which is based in Germany, manufactures luxury automobiles. — Jam Sisante/RSJ, GMANews.TV

Reposted From Jam Sisante of GMA News.TV

Tuesday, January 11, 2011

A Repost From PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal)



Heart Evangelista on snubbing issue with Raymond Gutierrez: "Honestly, I don't know if he is making an issue out of it."

Repoated From PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal)
Heart Evangelista on snubbing issue with Raymond Gutierrez: "Honestly, I don't know if he is making an issue out of it."
Slideshow: Showbiz Photos

Nauna nang lumabas dito sa PEP Alerts kahapon, January 10, ang tungkol sa nangyaring pagdededmahan o hindi pagpapansinan umano sa pagitan ng dating magkaibigan na sina Heart Evangelista at Raymond Gutierrez.

Ang insidente ay magkasunod daw na naganap noong Linggo, January 9, sa Party Pilipinas at sa Showbiz Central.

Kapwa hosts sina Heart at Raymond sa Party Pilipinas. Sa balitang nakarating sa PEP, sa set diumano ng Sunday musical-variety show ng GMA-7 ay binati raw ni Heart si Raymond, pero hindi raw siya pinansin nito.

Pero mas lumala pa ang sitwasyon pagdating sa Showbiz Central noong hapon. Co-host si Raymond sa show at guest naman ng hapong iyon si Heart para sa promo ng bagong telefantasya ng GMA-7 na Dwarfina.

Diumano, sa isang bahagi ng show ay nagpasaring si Raymond kay Heart on the air nang sabihin nito na, "Pati yung mga hindi namamansin, puwede kayong maging involved diyan."

At may pahabol pa raw ang male host na, "Thank you Kuya Ogie [Alcasid] pinansin mo ako," dahil sa pagpayag daw ng singer na makipag-one-on-one interview sa kanya.

Nag-ugat ang conflict sa pagitan nina Heart at Raymond dahil sa nangyaring hidwaan last year sa pagitan naman ni Heart at ng ina ni Raymond na si Annabelle Rama, co-manager ng aktres.

Hanggang ngayon kasi ay hindi pa nagkakaayos ang dalawang panig. At natural lang naman siguro na pumanig si Raymond sa kanyang ina.

HEART EXPLAINS. Nagkaroon ng pagkakataon na magpaliwanag si Heart tungkol sa nangyari sa phone-patch interview sa kanya ng showbiz talk show ng QTV 11 na Tweetbiz ngayon gabi, January 11.

"Honestly, I don't know if he [Raymond] is making an issue out of it. Because from the technical rehearsal [sa Party Pilipinas], I went up to him.

"Nakita ko nakaupo siya. Sabi ko, 'Hi!' Pero hindi naman niya ako kinausap or hindi naman siya nag-react o nag-hi," kuwento ni Heart.

Sa Showbiz Central ay tila may pasaring si Raymond about "pansinan." Alam niya ba ang tungkol dito at ano ang reaksiyon niya rito?

"Actually, I would appreciate it if they stop making fun and just say my name then maybe I can address [the issue]. Because at this point, I really don't know to whom they are saying that to.

"So, next time, I'd appreciate it if they make parinig, it would be better if they say my name then I can address the issue," saad ng aktres.

Ayaw naman daw talagang makipag-away ni Heart.

"Mabuting tao naman talaga ako. Maarte lang talaga ako, pero I am a nice person. I just really hate fighting. I hate it."

Mananatiling bukas ang PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal) sa panig ni Raymond kung nais niyang magsalita tungkol sa naging pahayag ni Heart.

Reposted From PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal)

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