Showbiz Chika

Matagal nang soulmates ang turingan nina Luis Manzano at Annes Curtis kaya marami ang humahanga sa kanilang pagkakaibigan. Maging si Gov. Vilma Santos-Recto ay sobrang napahanga sa relasyon ng dalawa. “Hanga ako sa friendship nila, yung pagiging soulmate nila. Maski kapag nagpupunta si Anne sa bahay, I could say na ibang klaseng friendship. Ito yung friendship na tatagal hanggang pagtanda nila, kapag may nangailangan sa isa’ isa, laging nakahanda ang isa, and for that being the mother of Luis, I’m truly happy sana ay tuloy-tuloy sila hanggang pagtanda nila. May God bless your friendship kasi bihira iyan,” nakangiting pahayag ng Star for all seasons.

Sobrang proud daw ngayon si Ate Vi para sa lahat ng achievements ng kanyang panganay na anak. “I’m very proud of my son, kung saan siya nakarating, tinrabaho niya iyan. Hindi niya kami ginamit na mga magulang niya na nasa showbiz din. He’s a hardworking person, may determination sa sarili niya. Ang alam ko naman, nasa lapag ang kanyang mga paa. I’m very very proud of my son and I’m lucky to have him,” dagdag ni Gov. Vi.

Laging nakasuporta ang actress-politician sa bawat ginagawa ni Luis at parang barkada lamang daw ang turingan nilang mag-ina. “I don’t usually meddle pero kapag malungkot siya or masaya, lagi akong kasama. Sometimes I’m a friend, kabarkada ako, what’s up anak? Sometimes naman ay nanay ako, don’t do that lie low kay diyan anak. Lagi kaming may communication as in everyday, minsan thrice a day pa,” kuwento pa ni Ate Vi.

Nag-react din si Gov. Vilma sa isyung pagkakamabutihan daw muli ngayon nina Luis at ng ex-girlfriend nitong si Angel Locsin. “Ano man ang alam ko, I don’t meddle, let it be. If it’s meant, it’s meant. Kapag hindi naman let them be friends,” pagtatapos pa niya.

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Rayver Cruz is happy with the fact that girlfriend Cristine Reyes’s family is close to him and his family, to her. As a matter of fact, the actor’s family was present at Cristine’s birthday party last February 5.

While their relationship continues to grow stronger, Rayver said that he cannot say yet if Cristine is the woman he is going to marry in the future. However, he added that he is certain that the sexy actress is the woman who gives him happiness. “Bata pa kami. Mahirap magsalita ng tapos pero sa ngayon talaga happy ako sa kanya. Mukha namang tatagal kami. So far strong ‘yung relationship namin,” he explained.

He further added that he is the type who is loyal to the girl he is with. “’Pag nasa isang relasyon ka naman ayaw mo naman ang papalit-palit ng partner’ di ba? Kung tatagal naman kayo, kung pwede kayong tumagal ba’t ‘di naman. Pangit naman ‘yung paiba-iba. Hindi naman ako mabilis matukso. Kung may karelasyon ka, gusto mo loyal ka lang dun.”

Rayver also said that he is not the type who gets jealous of Cristine’s leading men in her projects. He went on to say that he respects his girlfriend’s work and he would not mind if she needs to do kissing or love scenes with her co-actors. “Pagdating sa trabaho never naman naging mahigpit,” he said. “Kasi work naman ‘yun.”

The actor also explained the issue that Cristine refers to Rayver’s mom as mother-in-law. He related that Cristine accidently referred to her boyfriend’s mom as mother-in-law in her recent interview but clarified that it was an honest mistake. “Hindi naman daw niya sinasadya, nahihiya na daw siya kasi lahat inaasar siya. Nalito siya siguro,” said Rayver. But he joked that he does not mind this and he quipped that it is up to Cristine if she won’t let go of him anymore.

In terms of career, Rayver has recently finished the teleserye Kristine Series which also starred Cristine and said that he is still waiting for his next acting project. At present, Rayver can be seen every Sunday on ASAP Rocks.

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It’s been two years since they first started dating and now that they admitted to their relationship, Melissa Ricks says it really was a big help that she and Green Rose star Jake Cuenca decided to be mum about it at the start. “Masaya ako na everything’s okay between me and Jake and masaya ako na ang tagal na namin na steady lang. Ang tagal namin na masaya and I think it was a good idea to keep it to ourselves for a while kasi nakatulong din yun na tumagal kami ng ganong katagal,” she shares during Empress’s debut last February 20 at The Grand Terrace in Quezon City.

The 21-year-old says that it’s not true that her parents were against her dating Jake. “My mom was never against it. My mom was just being a mom. Concerned sa akin. Siyempre they don’t want their little girl na magka-boyfriend. Pero she never disliked Jake or anything like that, walang ganun. Talagang ganun lang sila talaga. Any family na may bunsong anak na babae, siguro ganun talaga,” she explains.

Mel also admits that she feels flattered that Jake has been very vocal to the press about his feelings for her. “He’s very, very nice. I know sometimes it’s cliché to say na mabait ang isang tao pero ito talaga from the start mabuti na siyang tao hindi lang sa akin pero pati sa family niya, sa mga kapatid niya. He’s very down-to-earth and alam ko na mahal niya ako,” she adds.

Mel says that Jake is also a very open-minded boyfriend. They have both decided to keep their professional decisions separate from their personal lives. “He leaves my decisions up to me. Yung career path ko and career path niya, sine-separate namin yung career namin sa personal life. So I think that’s why na nagkakasundo din kami kasi we have our own thing eh. But we support each other in everything that we do,” she reveals.

But even if they are now open towards talking about their relationship, it doesn’t mean that they will divulge everything about it. “Oo masaya ako na alam na ng tao yung sa amin pero hindi ko naman ibibigay lahat sa mga tao. Sana they leave some for us pa rin, for ourselves na private naman. Ibigay rin naman nila sa amin yung konting privacy,” she says.

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Pinaninindigan ni Cristine Reyes na hindi sila nagsabay ni Sarah Geronimo na maging girlfriend ng current boyfriend ng sexy actress na si Rayver Cruz. Sa panayam sa kanya ng The Buzz, sinabi ni Cristine na break na sina Rayver at Sarah bago naging sila ng aktor. “Kung wala naman pong nangialam hindi naman po mangyayari ‘yon, kasi hindi naman intensyon ng tao (Rayver) na pagsabayin talaga. And paano pagsasabayin, naging kami September 14. I think nag-break sila (Sarah at Rayver) summer last year,” paglilinaw ni Cristine. Dagdag pa ng sexy actress, napatunayan naman niyang wala siyang kasalanan sa paghihiwalay nina Rayver at Sarah.

Naitanong din kay Cristine kung nagpapasaring pa rin siya kay Sarah sa kanyang Twitter account ngayon matapos ang kanyang mga pasaring kay Sarah noong Disyembre ng nakaraang taon. Ani Cristine, marahil nag-iisip lang ang ibang tao ng ganon pero nilinaw niya na hindi niya pinapasaringan ang Pop Star Princess.

Hindi naman ipinagkaila ni Cristine na apektado pa rin sila ni Rayver sa mga pangyayari, partikular na ang pagsasalita kamakailan ni Sarah at ng kanyang ina hinggil sa pagbi-break nila ni Rayver. “Siyempre hindi naman alam ng mga tao. Hindi naman kami nakikita ‘pag wala sa camera, nasasaktan din kami,” himutok ng aktres. “Tingin kasi ng mga tao porke’t nagalit ka, nakapagsalita ka ng ganong bagay masama ka nang tao. ‘Di naman ganun ‘yun eh. Para sa akin siguro nadaan ko lang sa pulso ko ‘yung galit pero it doesn’t mean na masama kang tao.” Kilala kasi si Cristine sa pagiging prangka at sinasabi kung ano ang kanyang saloobin.

Sa patuloy na paglaki ng isyung kinasasangkutan nila, hangad lamang ngayon ni Cristine na matapos na ang kontrobersiyang ito. “Wish ko lang matanggap na lang po ng iba na masaya na kami. Matanggap nila na wala po kaming kasalanan sa kanila. Matanggap nila na hindi namin ginusto ang mga nangyari before.

“Naiparating lang po namin na hindi nila kami dapat sabihan ng kung ano-ano kasi wala naman po kaming kasalanan. ‘Yun lang po ‘yung sa amin. Tama na. Gusto ko nang matapos ‘yung isyu para tahimik kaming lahat. Nasabi ko na ‘yung dapat kong sabihin, naparating ko na ‘yung gusto kong maparating. Siguro time na para mag-move on na tayong lahat,” mahabang paliwanag ni Cristine.

Samantala, tumanggi naman siyang magbigay ng pahayag nang tanungin kung may mensahe siyang gustong sabihin kay Sarah.

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Masayang-masaya si KC Concepcion sa very successful grand finals ng Star Circle Quest For the Next Kiddie Superstars last Saturday. Ngayon ay busy na si KC para sa mga bago niyang projects. Excited na ngayon ang dalaga para sa kanyang nalalapit na Star Magic U.S. Concert Tour this April. “This is going to be three different places diyan sa America. I’m really excited about that kasi first time akong makasama ng Star Magic talaga. So sa lahat ng TFC (The Filipino Channel) subscribers kapamilya natin sana ay magkita-kita tayo,” pahayag ni KC.

Pagkatapos naman ng U.S. concert tour ni KC ay sisimulan na niya ang shooting ng kauna-unahang pelikulang pagsasamahan nila ni Sam Milby. “It’s a beautiful story. It’s going to be fun and makikita ng tao na iba naman. Mas totoo, mas simple at mas kapani-paniwala. Pwedeng mangyari sa kahit na sino,” kuwento  ng dalaga.

Mayroon ding participation si KC sa pinakabagong compilation album ni Kris Aquino. “It was really exciting na narinig ko na invited ako to be one of her guests kasi siyempre maganda yung kanta. Napag-usapan namin kantang ito sa interview, live sa The Buzz. Nagkataon na alam ko yung kanta na tinutukoy niya kaya siguro naisip niya to invite me to sing sa album niya,” dagdag pa ni KC.

Very active din ang aktres bilang ambassador against hunger ng World Food Programme. Gumawa raw sila ng website ngayon para mapadali ang proseso ng donation o pagtulong para sa mga kabataan sa Mindanao. “Website ito ng World Food Programme. It’s going to be place na pwedeng mag-invite ng friends, “wefeedback.org”, gumawa kayo ng account and doon n’yo mare-record yung kinain n’yo, fave food n’yo. Sa nagda-diet, pwede n’yong gawing donation yung kinain n’yo. For example frappuccino, ipapakita sa inyo kung magkano at ilang bata ang pwedeng pakainin sa isang frap na ininom mo and pwede n’yong i-donate frap n’yo in money form, so check it out,” pagde-detalye ni KC.

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Naging kontrobersyal ang photo na lumabas last Saturday sa twitter kung saan ay magkasama sina Kim Chiu at Sam Milby sa Taylor Swift concert. Doon kasi nagsimula ang balitang nag-date daw sina Sam Milby at Kim Chiu sa concert ni Taylor Swift. Sa lumabas na pahayag ni Sam ay naikuwento ng aktor na si Maja Salvador daw ang kumuha ng nasabing photo at ginamit ni Maja ang personal phone ni Sam para i-tweet ang  photo nila Kim.

Ngayon ay nagbigay na rin ng pahayag si Kim tungkol sa pagkaka-link niya kay Sam. “Nagkita lang kami doon sa Araneta coliseum and iyon, nakapasok kami sa gilid ng stage ni Taylor Swift, nahawakan namin siya. Magkasama kami sa linyang ‘yon, sa circle na ‘yon kasi binigyan kami ng V.I.P. bracelet,” kuwento ni Kim.

Samantala, isa rin ang basketball player na si Simon Atkins sa mga nali-link ngayon sa young actress, very vocal kasi ang binata sa kanyang paghanga kay Kim. Nagbigay na rin ng pahayag si Simon tungkol sa kanilang pag-uusap ni Kim last week sa telepono. “She was really nice, down to earth. She’s always laughing, really jolly girl. I like girls like that simple, walang arte,” seryosong kuwento ni Simon. Ayon naman kay Kim ay okay naman daw ang naging conversation nila ni Simon at nakakatawa raw ang basketball player.

Kumalat din ang balitang niyaya raw ni Gerald Anderson si Kim na mag-date sa isang events place sa Pasig  noong Valentines dahil sa dami ng lalaking nali-link sa young actress ngayon. “Hindi ko po alam, kasi kasama ko sina Maja noong araw na iyon. Nag-dinner kami sa bahay nila. Hindi ko alam kung sino ang nasa Glass Garden,” paglilinaw ni Kim. Willing daw siya na maghintay kung sino man ang lalaki ang tunay na magmamahal sa kanya. “Hindi naman ako naghahanap ng mamahalin sa buhay. Darating naman iyan sa tamang panahon. May nakalaang tao na magmamahal sa iyo at mag-aalaga sa iyo at hintayin na lang natin siya,” pagtatapos pa ni Kim.

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Last Sunday ay nanalo si Sam Milby ng 2nd place at 3rd place sa dalawang magkaibang division ng isang Motocross competition, ang Philippine NAMSSA Motocross series round 2. Masayang-masaya ang aktor sa kanyang napanalunan dahil kinabahan din daw siya sa nasabing kompetisyon.

Samantala, may balitang magka-date daw sina Sam at Kim Chiu sa katatapos pa lamang na concert ni Taylor Swift sa Araneta Coliseum. Mayroon daw kasing photo na lumabas na magkasama sina Kim at Sam sa nasabing event. Ano nga ba ang tunay na nangyari noong concert ng International singer? “I wanted to watch pero sold out talaga yung tickets. Si Ate Carress (Road manager ni Sam) said, Sam I was able to get tickets punta ka na dito. Okay, Kim and Maja (Salvador) told me they were watching. Hey! Where are you guys, let’s meet up, yun lang,” kuwento ni Sam. “Nakakatawa iyon, si Maja kinuha niya yung cellphone ko hoy! Ano, picture-an ko kayo. Sige, sige, she pictured us, took my phone and tweeted it from my phone. So yung mga tweets, nagde-date kayo ni Kim ngayon, pero it was a group of us, even afterwards, kumain kami, It was a group,” dagdag pa ng aktor.

Hindi naman masamang ma-link sa isa’t isa sina Kim at Sam dahil pareho naman silang single sa kasalukuyan. Kung mabibigyan ng pagkakataon, may plano kayang ligawan ni Sam ang young actress? “Cute naman si Kim and she’s nice naman. Cute siya, wala lang, we’re all friends lang naman, ganon lang. Sa ngayon hanggang doon lang, never kami nag-date or anything like that. Wala namang nangyayari na ganoon. We just worked together one time sa “Your Song”. Single naman ako, ready naman ako for love, di pa lang nangyayari. Dadating ‘yon, kung sino man ‘yon, naghihintay lang ako,” nakangiting pahayag ni Sam.

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Albie Casiño expressed his gratitude to all the viewers who made Mara Clara the most watched drama in the country. “It’s overwhelming na ang lakas ng suporta ng mga tao sa Mara Clara ngayon, so now magtutuloy siya sa book two. Sana patuloy pa rin na panoorin ng mga tao.”

The original Mara Clara, which aired during the ‘90s, elevated then teenaged Judy Ann Santos and Gladys Reyes to star status. The remake, which is already in its second season, also created stars out of then relative unknowns Kathryn Bernardo and Julia Montes (who play Mara and Clara respectively), and their leading men Ablie and John Manalo.

Although in the teleserye, Albie is the leading man of Kathryn while John is paired with Julia, a rumor recently came out that there was a “partner swap” off camera. John already confessed that he had a crush on Kathryn, but immediately clarified that he is too young to pursue her. On the other hand, Albie is said to be acting sweet towards Julia every time they’re on the set.

“Hindi po. Close lang talaga kami kasi nakakasama ko siya sa set halos araw-araw,” Albie said. He also spoke about the time when he and Julia were spotted together in a restaurant within the ABS-CBN compound. “Pareho kasi ang RM (road manager) namin. Kasama namin ‘yung RM namin nun.”

The 17-year-old actor went to set the record straight. “Nothing is going on between me and Julia.” Albie added that he is just focused on the big break given to him by ABS-CBN and he doesn’t want to mess it up by thinking about girls. “Hindi ko pa pinagiisipan ‘yung mga ganyan. Bata pa po ako,” he explained.

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After celebrating their one-year anniversary last February 8, Jason Francisco said he and girlfriend Melai Cantiveros are excited about their newest show, Precious Hearts Romance Presents Mana Po which premieres February 21 on ABS-CBN’s Hapontastic line-up.

Jason, who is also part of the cast of Banana Split, admitted that he was nervous when they started taping the series. Jason and Melai had to undergo an intensive three-day acting workshop with the directors of the show in order to prepare themselves for their roles. “Nung unang araw ng taping talaga, hindi ko alam kung anong gagawin ko kasi ibang-iba yung role ko dito, hindi lang puro pangungulit kasi may drama din tapos sobrang malayo sa totoong ako. Ayun, hanggang sa ngayon na nasanay ako. Alam ko na yung role ko. Kaya ‘pag papunta sa set parang wala na lang,” he said during the Mana Po presscon held last February 17 at the ABS-CBN compound.

Jason said that he hopes that Melason fans will appreciate their efforts and support the show. “Hindi naman na ako kinakabahan kung magugustuhan ng fans o hindi. Marunong naman ako tumanggap sa kung ano ang magiging kalabasan ng mga pangyayari. Sa totoo lang ang nararamdaman ko ay masaya ako kasi mag-e-air na kami so yung pressure medyo nawala na kasi ang dami na rin naming na-taping.

During the press interview, the 23-year-old from Mindoro admitted that he wishes Melai would not be so open when it comes to matters regarding their relationship. There were speculations that the two were already living together when Melai admitted that they sleep over at each other’s houses from time to time. “Sinabi ko na huwag na dapat siya magsalita tungkol dun. Kasi isa yun na ikinagagalit ko sa kanya. Kasi minsan pag nagsalita siya, parang wala lang. Lasi kung ano yung feelings niya, sasabihin niya eh, wala siya talagang tinatago eh. Sabi ko dapat matuto ka na rin na minsan, hindi mo puwede sabihin yan kasi parang dapat medyo formal na kasi hindi na tayo mga bata eh. Kaya dapat medyo may privacy sa sarili, hindi lahat sinasabi. Yung ganun,” he stressed.

Now that they’re one year into their relationship, Jason said that he constantly reminds Melai to show more restraint when giving interviews. “Oo sinusunod naman niya ako ‘pag minsan. Kasi mga ilang araw lang, balik na ulit yan. Kaya wala na akong magawa dun. Kaya minsan nagkakatampuhan na dahil ‘pag sobra na yung nasasabi,” he said.

But the Banana Split comedian said since he is older, he knows that he still has to help guide his girlfriend when it comes to making decisions regarding her career. “Parang kasing tatay ako ‘pag minsan nagsasabi sa kanya, ako ang adviser niya pagka may mga bagay siya na hindi na maganda. Ayan, gaya minsan sabi ko huwag siya na ma-le-late sa trabaho. Pangit yun. Mga ganun, ganun. Nagagalit siya rin sa akin minsan dahil diyan pero nakikinig naman siya,” he said.

Catch Jason and Melai in Precious Hearts Romance Presents Mana Po beginning Monday, February 21 after Agimat: Ang Mga Alamat ni Ramon Revilla Sr presents Kapitan Inggo on ABS-CBN.

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Natapos na nung Biyernes, February 18, ang pinaka-masustansiyang teleserye, Juanita Banana. Nalulungkot si Bianca Manalo sa pagtatapos ng kanyang programa dahil ito ang nag-launch sa kanya bilang bida sa isang project. “Nakakalungkot kasi parang kailan lang yun na nag-shoot kami para sa promo ng Juanita, tapos ngayon ay ending na. Kinukuha na nila yung saging ko. Sobrang alam ko, ito pinaka-stepping stone ng career ko. Sobrang hindi ko ini-expect na ganun nila tatanggapin ang Juanita Banana,” ang naging na emosyonal na pahayag ni Bianca.

Mami-miss daw ng beauty queen turned actress ang mga kasamahan niya sa programa na todo-suporta sa kanya sa tuwing mayroon siyang kinakaharap na mga kontrobersiya. “Maraming-marami rin po akong tsismis na kesyo masama ang ugali ko, maldita, malaki ang ulo. Sila mismo ang nagre-react, sobrang nakakatuwa kasi sila ang nagre-react. Yung crew, ‘Ma’am Biancs, huwag kang mag-alala, kapag may kumalat na ganyan kami mismo ang magsasalita para sabihin na hindi totoo yun.’ Kaya nakakatuwa. Isang pamilya kami dito,” kuwento pa ni Bianca.

Hanggang ngayon ay wala pang love life si Bianca, wala raw kasing nanliligaw sa kanya. Accepted kaya ng dalaga na walang nanliligaw sa kanya kahit maganda, sexy at talented siya? “’Di ko tanggap, wala eh. Kung meron eh ‘di meron, nandiyan lang ‘yan. Kahit nga kilig-kilig wala eh. Darating din ‘yan, kapag meron, isisigaw ko sa inyong lahat na may boyfriend na ako,” natatawang sagot ng aktres.

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Jericho Rosales was apologetic to Green Rose co-star, Alessandra de Rossi, after he sparked a controversy when he said in a recent interview that he loves the dusky actress. Jericho explained, “Nung araw na ‘yon nung nasa presscon kami, I was joking. Lahat naman kami alam ‘yon. But what they showed on The Buzz was that part na, ‘I love Alessandra,’ I was so serious [when I said that] sabi ko, ‘Ay naku!’”

He continued, “You know what, I’m sorry, Alex, hindi ko naman sinasadya na magkaroon ng ganitong gulo but I love you, we’re friends and masarap ‘yung samahan namin sa Green Rose.”

Asked about his love life, the actor replied, “Wala pa. Wala akong nililigawan ngayon.” Echo’s last relationship was with sports caster and segment host Cesca Litton with whom he broke up last year. However, Echo said that they are good friends now. “It’s actually a blessing na naayos namin ‘yung mga bagay and kung ano ‘yung mga dapat lumabalas, lumabas. We’re friends.”

He said he and Cesca get to talk about life and some personal stuff when they get the chance, but he did not elaborate. “’Yung barkada ko naman, barkada n’ya rin. [And] mahal siya ng mama ko,” he said.

Meanwhile, Echo returned to singing when he staged a Valentine concert at Teatrino in Greenhills last week. The show was different from typical concerts because there was some acting involved. “Parang concert na parang may storya siya, parang isang musical since gusto ko naman talaga ng stage play,” he shared. “Nabuo ko ‘yung concept sa isip ko. I pitched it to Genesis (Entertainment, his management company). They supported me and they liked it.” He went on to say that he is hoping to do more similar projects in the future and to have a repeat of his recent show.

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Ilang araw bago maganap ang kanyang debutante party ay nagkaroon ng mild accident si Empress sa kanyang bahay. Kuwento ng aktres, papunta siya sa comfort room sa kanilang bahay nang mabangga nito ang pinto na akala niya ay bukas. “Madilim, naglalakad ako, nabangga ko ‘yung glass door. Akala ko kase bukas siya. Nagkaroon ng minor injuries,” kuwento ng aktres sa The Buzz kahapon. Gayunpaman very thankful ang aktres na kahit nagkaroon siya ng stitches sa noo ay hindi seryoso ang aksidente niyang natamo.

Ipinaliwanag din ni Empress na hindi totoong hindi niya inimbita ang kaibigang si Kim Chiu sa kanyang birthday party. “January pa lang inilista ko na ‘yung 18 roses and 18 treasures ko and sinabi na ng handler ko na may gagawin na si Kim ng February 20. Sabi ko, ‘patay naunahan na ako.’ Siyempre kami pong mga artista hindi madaling ma-move ‘yung sched namin, so parang ngayon hopeful na lang ako na sana makaabot siya kung anong meron siya ngayon,” paliwanag ni Empress hours before her birthday celebration. Dagdag pa ng aktres, kung may mga lumalabas na kwento na nag-away daw sila ng grupo niyang Chiurigogobaschu— na kinabibilangan ni Melissa Ricks, Erich Gonzales, Kitkat at Beauty Gonzales—ay hindi ‘yon totoo. “Kahit ano pong lumalabas hindi lang po sa amin ni Kim, kahit sa aming grupo hindi po totoo lahat ‘yon.”

Hindi rin daw big deal kung wala siyang escort sa kanyan debut. “’Yung pagkakaroon ng escort hindi siya special, hindi siya big deal sa akin. Wala po akong special someone, never naman akong nagkaroon, so okay lang po na solo flight.”

Depende rin daw sa proyekto kung papayag na siyang makipag-kissing scene ngayong dalaga na siya. Pero kung pipili siya ng unang makaka-kissing scene ay gusto niya itong maging si Enchong Dee. “Kasi po si Enchong siya po talaga ‘yung pinaka-close ko na lalaki sa show business. Nung nagsa-start po siya, kami ang naging close, hanggang ngayon close kami. Nag-love team kami dati. Isa po talaga siya sa mga tina-trust ko na kaibigan. Kung magkakaron ng kissing scene hindi na kailangang mag-ilangan,” tapos ni Empress.

Naluha naman ang dalaga nang biglang handugan siya ng isang espesyal na awitin ng kanyang ama sa live show mismo ng The Buzz. 

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Mukhang nauuso ngayon ang ligawan sa Twitter dahil last week ay naging kontrobersyal ang palitan ng mensahe nina Phil Younghusband at Angel Locsin sa nasabing social networking site. Inimbitahan kasi ng football player via twitter ang aktres para isang romantic Valentine date at in-entertain naman ni Angel si Phil kaya pinag-usapan ito sa buong showbiz industry.

Isang panibagong athlete naman ngayon ang nag-post sa Twitter ng pangalan ni Kim Chiu with a smiley, ang basketball superstar na si Simon Atkins. Desididong makilala ni Simon ang aktres dahil nakiusap din daw ito sa kaibigan niyang si Josef Elizalde na ipakilala siya kay Kim. Ayon pa kay Simon ay hindi pa naman daw niya ini-invite ang young actress to go out on a date.

Kagabi, sa press launch ng produktong ini-endorse ni Kim ay naikuwento ng aktres na nagkausap na raw sila ni Simon sa telepono for the first time. “Actually ay hindi ko siya (Simon) kilala. Hindi ko alam, sinearch ko lang siya sa Google. Tapos yung isang friend niya, pinakausap siya sa akin. Sandali lang kasi may ginagawa rin ako. Sabi ko, bakit ko siya kakausapin eh hindi ko siya kilala,” natatawang pahayag ni Kim.

Ano kaya ang posibleng gawin ng aktres kung sakaling imbitahin siya ni Simon para sa isang date? “Di ko pa alam, depende,” maikling sagot ni Kim.

Paano kung seryoso na ang basketball player sa gagawin nitong panliligaw sa kanya? Handa na kaya si Kim na muling pumasok sa isang bagong relasyon? Si Simon na kaya ang papalit kay Gerald Anderson sa puso niya? “Hindi muna, hindi ko alam. Yung pagmamahal, yung boyfriend, darating at darating din iyan. Hindi hinahanap ‘yan. Darating na kusa iyan nang hindi mo sinasadya,” paglilinaw pa ng young actress.

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Last week ay madalas tanungin ang showbiz couple na sina John Lloyd Cruz at Shaina Magdayao kung paano nila ise-celebrate ang Valentine’s Day, pero wala pa raw silang concrete plans para dito. Kahapon sa isang pictorial ay naikuwento ni John Lloyd kung paano sila nag-celebrate ni Shaina ng kanilang first ever Valentine’s Day as a couple. “Kami ni Shaina, we celebrated Valentine’s Day noong Sunday, the day before. After work, sinundo ko siya and we went to church, nanood ng sine and then kumain kami sa labas. Very simple pero ganun, kung paano namin ginusto. Napaka-simple lang pero normal lang, para kaming normal na tao,” kuwento ni John Lloyd. Binigyan daw ng aktor si Shaina ng paborito nitong bulaklak na Tulips.

Nasa Imortal taping daw si John Lloyd noong mismong Valentine’s Day at naikuwento rin ng aktor na marami raw natanggap na bulaklak ang kanyang leading lady sa serye na si Angel Locsin. “We celebrated Valentine’s Day, kasama ang cast ng Imortal and our staff and crew pero wala naman sa set namin, may ilang nagbigay ng chocolates. Si Angel, balita ko maraming natanggap ng flowers,” pagde-detalye pa ng binata.

Hindi raw kataka-takang maraming lalaki ang nagpaparamdam kay Angel ngayon dahil bukod sa maganda na ay mabait pa ang aktres. “I’m sure maraming lalaking naiinggit sa akin ngayon, kaya if you want to do business with me para mapalapit kay Angel, okay lang naman sa akin,” nakangiting pahayag ni Lloydie.

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Donita Rose said she was looking forward to working with Umagang Kay Ganda’s newest batch of hosts, which also includes Miss Universe 2010 fourth runner-up Venus Raj and Iya Villania. “I’m excited rin kasi of course panibago na yung mga ka-banter ko. I spent three and half years with the other hosts before and medyo nagkaroon na kami ng comfort zone dahil they know you so well, ganun. So with these guys we’re kind of like in the getting-to-know-you stage,” she said.

Donita said that with this new batch of hosts also come a lot of fresh changes in the popular morning show. “So it’s starting all over again and we don’t really know what’s in store for us yet. Because I’m pretty sure we’re going to be doing a lot of experimenting on this show, but I’m also looking forward to a more mature me. It’s still going to be fun naman pero parang mag-fo-focus on me being a young mom. And I guess that would mean more substance in some of the segments I do so I’m really looking forward to that,” she shared during the Umagang Kay Ganda presscon held at the 9501 restaurant inside the ABS-CBN compound last February 11.

The former VJ admitted that after her stint with MTV in Singapore and after she got married, she wasn’t really that keen on going back to showbiz. “The thing is, I really didn’t want to do the normal showbiz route anymore. Not that there’s anything wrong with doing soap operas and doing lagare, but after MTV and after finding so much fulfillment in my last job, parang I was hesitant to continue on in my career knowing that I might not be able to top that. Expectations would be so high, being an international VJ and blah, blah, blah all of a sudden. Baka people might think na na-downgrade ko yung sarili ko in a sense by coming home and doing the typical thing so I was pressured,” she admitted.

Donita shared that getting the offer to join Umagang Kay Ganda back in 2007 came at the perfect time. “Before UKG, I actually planned on quitting showbiz already. Me and my husband were planning to move back to the States and we’ve been praying about it for a long time. We had this deal na he and I would pray about it separately and when it reaches it’s deadline, mag-uusap kami on what we believe is God’s destiny and purpose for us. And then before that happened, I did a documentary in Boracay, which was supposed to be really fun and more for tourism and Eric saw me at work. He said na I was glowing, I was so alive and since I had taken a break from the industry after my son was born, parang I thought yes I’ve always been happy, nagha-honeymoon pa kami, bahay-bahayan. But he says that there was a different side of me that he recognized that was part of his responsibility to uphold, and that was to see me still in this industry, maximizing the platform that’s been given to me. When he saw that, he said ‘You know what, it’s not about confirmation from God. It’s really about what specific purpose did God create you for and I know for a fact that he created you for this.’ And then he said, ‘Let’s move to the Philippines.’ Three days later, that’s when my manager told me that I had an offer from Umagang Kay Ganda,” she recalled.

Now that she’s happily settled down, Donita said she doesn’t mind the gradual change of image. “When UKG came along, I was just the happiest person on the planet because this is something that suits the person I have become since I got married. Like I’m a young mom who still loves entertaining but wants to deliver more information and educate the audience more in a way that I know I best can. So when it came along, I went ahead and moved here then my husband followed a couple of months after and it was one of the best decisions we’ve ever made kasi sobrang happy ako dito,” she said.

Even now that she’s a regular fixture on ABS-CBN, Donita still makes sure to set her limits when it comes to working. “Except for UKG, I didn’t accept any other jobs. I do odd jobs here and there like hosting jobs or modelling ng konti for a day or two, but nothing that requires a full-time commitment like UKG because that in itself is like a full-time job. I wake up at 2:30 am and then we finish by 9:30 am kasi may meeting kami after. Sometimes maximum 10 am. So if you count the hours, its not like a typical 9 to 5 job but it’s very taxing pa rin, lalong lalo na parang feeling ko call center ang dating kasi pagdating ng 9 am sobrang antok ka na. and then now I’m trying to get in shape by going to the gym like 4 to 6 times a week. I’m tired. All I want to do for the rest of the day is spend time with my husband and son,” she said.

Donita said she also got lucky that her hubby Eric Valderrama works from home because it allows them more bonding time with their six-year-old son JP. “My husband has many different hats that he wears. What I love about his job is because he is his own boss. When I come home from work, he dedicates his entire day to me and then my son who comes home at about 2 pm so we get to spend a whole day together and kalokohan yung mga ginagawa namin. We play Nerf wars at home or PS3 or we go to the mall to eat out and watch a movie. Luxurious lifestyle talaga pero ‘pag when he tucks us into bed at night, between 7:30 to 8:30 pm, he works until 2 or 3 in the morning and then that’s when I wake up so switch naman kami. And then he sleeps until about 10 am. Sabi nga namin ng asawa ko, we’re so blessed kasi we can afford the luxury of time and building such a strong foundation for our marriage and our parenting, raising our son well,” she said.

Catch Donita Rose on Umagang kay Ganda, 5:30 am, Mondays to Fridays on ABS-CBN.

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Masaya si Megastar Sharon Cuneta sa ginawang pag-amin nina Piolo Pascual at KC Concepcion tungkol sa kanilang tunay na relasyon kamakailan. Noong una ay na-sorpresa raw si Mega pero natutuwa siya dahil very responsible naman daw talaga ang dalawa.

Natutuwa si Mega na si Piolo ang karelasyon ng kanyang anak at very welcome daw si Piolo sa buong pamilya ni Ate Shawie. “Piolo, he’s welcome. He’s part of our family in a way kahit hindi officially. Ang pakiusap ko lang, PJ, she was my princess before she became yours and she will always be, and I love her to death. Please just love her and then we will love you,” pakiusap ng Megastar sa aktor.

“My wish for them is that huwag nila masyadong iisipin ang lahat ng opinion ng mga tao, ke napakaganda o hindi maganda. Hindi nawawala sa showbiz ‘yun. I want them both to be happy. They have my full support,” dagdag pa ni Sharon.

Samantala, naikuwento rin ng megastar na malapit na raw maayos ang adoption papers ng kanyang baby boy na si Miguel. Sobrang happiness daw ang naibibigay ni Baby Miguel sa kanya at sa kanilang buong pamilya. “Na-submit na namin yung aming application na gusto naming maging parents niya. Talagang we went through the legal process na walang pandaraya, so we just want him very much in our lives. Si Miguel ngayon ang love ko eh, I’m so in love with Miguel. Walang ginawa kundi magsabi ng Mama, mama, mama. Kiss nang kiss,” nakangiting kuwento pa ni Ate Shawie.

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In a recent interview with Billy Crawford, the international singing sensation was surprised when he was asked for his reaction to the news that KC Concepcion and Piolo Pascual were officially in a relationship. Billy was once romantically linked to KC even before she joined showbiz a few years ago. “Diyos ko, ang tagal-tagal naman na nun. But with regards to KC’s love life, I don’t really know what’s going on with the relationship. Kasi si PJ (as friends fondly call Piolo) naman kasama ko siya sa dressing room sa ASAP, tapos si KC naman I hardly see them together. Pero, I mean if they’re out as a couple, that’s a blessing naman no. It’s a good thing. But they like their privacy, I’m sure they would like that,” said Billy who was genuinely happy for KC and Piolo.

The issue between Billy and KC is definitely a thing of the past especially now that the Billy’s own relationship with Nikki Gil is as strong as ever. “I think araw-araw sa amin ni Nikki Valentine's Day e. Yihee! Special nga ang Valentine’s Day, pero we cherish everyday. Parang araw-araw sa amin Valentine’s kasi lagi kaming may surprise sa isa’t isa. There are some days na bigla ko na lang siya papadalhan ng flowers kahit walang okasyon. I give her chocolates ‘pag pagod siya, yun. So I think it’s the thought that counts and how you are as a boyfriend or girlfriend even if it’s just an ordinary day.”

When asked if they’re ready to settle down anytime soon, Billy admitted that it’s not yet at the top of their priority list even though they’ve been going steady for three years now. Both are still focused on their respective showbiz careers. “Diyos ko, ‘yan ang mga tanong na ‘di pwedeng tanungin pa sa ngayon. Not yet, in due time, in the right time, when she's comfortable, when I’m comfortable, kapag ready na kami. But I can say that our relationship is very, very strong. We’re happy. I couldn’t ask for more.”

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Aside from working on I Dare You and her upcoming Precious Hearts Romances series Mana Po, Melai Cantiveros is also part of ABS-CBN’s new noontime variety show Happy Yipee Yehey!
The former Pinoy Big Brother housemate admitted that she feels both lucky and overwhelmed to be given such opportunities this early in her career. “Excited ako kasi first time ko mapasama sa noontime show. Kinakabahan ako pero kakayanin ko kasi kasa-kasama ko rin yung ibang comedian. Magulo ako eh tapos magulo din si Bianca Manalo, si Kuya Jobert at Kuya Bentong. I’m sure na o-over kami dun. Manggugulo kami (laughs). Kami ang panggulo dun. Basta marami kaming gagawin dito. Kakayanin ko na maging enjoy sila sa panunuod sa aming variety show,” she shared during the Happy Yipee Yehey! pictorial last February 4 at a photo studio in Quezon City.

With all her new projects, Melai said she had to give up Banana Split because her schedule was becoming too full. “Umalis na ako sa Banana Split kasi kailangan ko din naman matulog, alangan naman mamatay na ako sa kakatrabaho kasi diri-diretso na (laughs),” she said.

The 22-year-old former teacher from Gensan admitted that she went through a rollercoaster of emotions after finding out the news. During her last taping day with Banana Split, Melai found it so hard to hold back tears. “Nalungkot nga ako, pero masaya naman dahil andito na ako sa noontime show. Family ko din yung Banana Split, nag-iyakan kami kahapon pero magkapitbahay lang naman yung studio namin so puwede naman ako dumaan dun. Nag-iyak iyak pa ako,” she added.

Now that she has more TV exposure, Melai said she is concentrating on improving her way of speaking, after being advised by ABS-CBN President Charo Santos-Concio that she should enunciate her words and speak more slowly. “Ang skills na kailangan ko gawin is magdahan-dahan ako sa salita ko paramaintindihan naman ako ng mga tao. Nag-pra-practice na naman ako. Marami ng nag-a-advise na bagalan ko. Nag-practice nga ako ngayon. Sabi ni Ma’am Charo bagalan ko daw ang aking pagsasalita kasi kumbaga papunta na ako Malabon, kayo nasa Quezon City pa kayo (laughs) kaya babagalan ko na pagsasalita ko,” she admitted.

When it comes to hosting, Melai shared that she really looks up to the Happy Yipee Yahey! hosts when it comes to delivering spiels. “Kasi napaka-spontaneous talaga ni Ate Toni (Gonzaga). Ang galing niya sa ganun. Magaling din sila John (Estrada) at Randy (Santiago), nakakatawa sila. Napapanuod ko na sila before pa sa Magandang Tanghali Bayan. Siyempre may TV din kami dun sa probinsya (laughs),” she said.

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Iya Villania said that she felt proud that she became part of the recently concluded Kristine Series, considering that it was the most daring role she did so far. “It actually gave me that sense of fulfillment of enjoying acting, the enjoyment of playing a different character, of being someone very different from who you really are,” she said.

She admitted that she was uncomfortable at first when she learned that her character was required to be daring, but she took on the challenge and put her trust in their director. Apart from her daring role in Kristine Series, Iya also posed as a calendar girl for an alcohol brand.

However, Iya admitted that her boyfriend, host Drew Arellano, is not comfortable with her sexier image. “It’s something different for him, like, ‘Wow may ganyan ka na, ha!’ But of course, it’s normal for a guy to feel uncomfortable when he see or hears that his girlfriend is kissing another guy so I understand that.” Iya added that Drew would go to sleep early so that he wouldn’t be able to watch his girlfriend doing kissing scenes with leading man Rafael Rosell in Kristine Series. “Alam naman niya and bakit niya ilalagay ang sarili niya sa uncomfortable situation?” She was quick to add that Drew trusts her that is why he lets her decide on her own. “He just wants to let me make my own decision because I’m discovering more about myself. And I’m becoming a stronger and better person.”

Now that they have been together for seven years, Iya said that her relationship with Drew grows stronger because they try to keep it private as much as they can and they are in constant communication and are understanding with each other. “Matindi na kasi ‘yung foundation namin,” she said.

She also explained that their relationship is not affected even if their respective morning shows are direct competitors. Drew has been part of Unang Hirit for many years now while it is Iya’s first time to do an early morning program via Umagang Kay Ganda. The host-actress went on to say that her boyfriend is really supportive of her new hosting stint. “Actually excited siya for me because it’s something new. He’s been with Unang Hirit for how many years, college pa lang ako. Excited kami to experience that.”

Iya will also be hosting an upcoming reality TV show I Dare You with Jericho Rosales and Melai Cantiveros. Asked if she will be doing more acting projects, she replied, “I don’t think it’s something that I can dictate. If there are opportunities, I’ll do my thing, I’ll do my best.”

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hough he is already recognized as one of the hottest teleserye leading men today, Jake Cuenca said he never had any hesitation when he was offered to play kontrabida to Jericho Rosales in the Koreanovela remake Green Rose. During the press conference for the new drama, Jake described his character Edward Fuentebella. “Hindi siya marunong magmahal. Gagawin niya ang lahat para makuha ang gusto niya. Ang taong mahal lang niya is si Angela, played by Anne. Along the story makokonsensya siya kasi makikita niya na maraming nagmamahal sa kanya. Makikita niya ‘yung pagkakamali niya, magsisisi siya.”

Jake said he was convinced that the role would enable to mature as an actor. “When this project was presented to me I thought I needed to do this for my maturity as an actor. Gusto ko ma-enhance ang aking craft. Also I wanted to work with Jericho and Anne (Curtis) who are both good actors.”

Now that Green Rose is already in its final days of taping, Jake said he learned so much from playing Edward and from being directed by Manny Palo. “Nasa last five days of taping na kami and madami madudugong eksena, marami akong natutunan from Direk Manny who’s such a great director. I’ve learned so much from this project and I’m very proud of it. I’m excited sa pag ere namin kasi matagal na namin itong pinaghihirapan lahat.”

Direk Manny revealed why he felt reluctant about working with Jake before. “Dati apprehensive akong makatrabaho siya kasi parang ang pormal pormal niya. ‘Yun pala ‘yung pagiging pormal niya sa set nagta-translate into sa pagiging intense niya as an actor. Nakakatakot siya minsan sa mga eksena. Sa mga mabibigat na eksena gusto ko sana ‘wag muna niyang ibigay lahat. Pero si Jake, gaya rin ni Jericho, kahit rehearsal pa lang umiiyak na.”

Jake expressed his gratitude to ABS-CBN for entrusting him with roles and projects that gave him the opportunity to prove his acting talent. “Malaki ang utang na loob ko from the other station. But kaya kong sabihin na because of ABS-CBN nailabas ko ‘yung galing ko as an artista. Nagtiwala sila sa akin, marami na akong shows na nagawa in almost four years. Ang sarap ng feeling na sumusugal ‘yung network sa ‘yo, nagtitiwala sila ng responsibilidad sa ‘yo.”

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During the press conference of the teleserye Green Rose, stars Jericho Rosales and Alessandra De Rossi kept teasing each other, which made reporters think that there was something special going on between the two. When asked if she is attracted to Jericho, Alessandra quickly joked, “Excuse me, hindi niyo ba pansin na siya ‘yung tingin nang tingin sa akin? Siya ‘yung tawag nang tawag na, ‘Bibi!’ Ako may pagnanasa sa kanya? Of course not! Napipilitan lang ako. Sa ganda kong ‘to? Ha ha ha!”

In Green Rose, Alessandra works for the very first time with Jericho, and she revealed that in one scene that they did together, she got distracted when his face got too close to hers. “Alam ko lang na magaling siyang artista, na he’s cute. Pero ‘yung una naming eksena together, nakahiga ako sa kama habang sinasakal niya ako. Ang dialogue ko, ‘Huwag! Huwag!’ Pero napahinto ako kasi, ‘Ang gwapo pala nito!’ Na-distract ako. After nun inamin ko sa kanya na na-distract nga ako kasi ang gwapo niya. Mula noon nilalandi na niya ako, ni hindi ko nga siya pinapansin.”

Alessandra and Jericho both maintained that they only became good friends after months of taping Green Rose. Jericho has had the reputation of getting attracted to actresses he works with, so he was asked if there’s a slight chance that he might fall in love with Alessandra. Jericho answered, “Love ko ‘yan si Alex. Mahal siya ng lahat sa set. Alex is ‘love.’ Who wouldn’t fall in love with someone who makes you laugh everyday? Hindi mahirap ma in-love sa katulad ni Alex kasi rock and roll ang puso mo kapag siya ang kasama mo.”

Alessandra is also very close to another Green Rose actor, Jake Cuenca, who she has known for almost ten years now, even from when they were still on another network. Alessandra shared that when she moved to ABS-CBN in 2008, Jake was the first person she got in touch with. “Nung lumipat ako dito sa ABS-CBN si Jake ang una kong hinanap. Alam ko kasi na siya ‘yung kaibigan ko talaga. Alam kong kaya niya akong protektahan, bantayan dito sa ABS-CBN. Masaya ako na ‘yung una kong project dito, ‘yung Tayong Dalawa e kasama ko si Jake. It felt like home agad kasi kasama mo ‘yung taong alam mong nandiyan lagi para sa ‘yo.”

After seeing some of the episodes of Green Rose, Alessandra shared that she feels very proud about Jake’s performance in the teleserye. “Nakita ko ‘yung pag-mature ni Jake bilang aktor dahil dito sa Green Rose. Kung iko-compare mo sa mga dati niyang nagawa, talagang makikita mong gumaling si Jake. Kapag napanood niyo, talagang sobrang bagay sa kanya ‘yung role.”

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Luis Manzano is looking forward to promoting his new movie Who’s That Girl which will premiere on March 7. Unlike their past movies where Luis tries his best to win Anne’s heart, in Who’s That Girl, it’s Anne who does all the chasing.

Admittedly close friends for the past ten years, Luis and Anne (who address each other by their respective pet names Manzano and Nippy) have maintained their strong bond throughout the years. Luis said that Anne is currently the closest girl to his heart. “Talagang sabi ko nga, she’s my soulmate. Napag-isipan nga namin na kung may female version ko rin na maiintindihan ako no matter what. Na alam kong kahit anong pinagdadaanan ko, alam kong nandun yung tao na yun para sa akin. Para kumbaga, ako din siya. So for me, that’s Anne. My soulmate,” he shared during the Who’s That Girl presscon held last February 4 at the City Best Restaurant in Tomas Morato Avenue, Quezon City.

The 30-year-old actor saif that even though they have had relationships with other people, it doesn’t mean that there is no chance of them ending up together in the future. “Kaya naming sabihin na tuloy-tuloy kaming ganito, tuloy-tuloy itong kung ano mang meron si Manzano at si Nippy. Pero sabi ko nga, no one can tell the future. Walang puwedeng magmagaling at kayang sabihin kung ano mangyayari pa. Sa akin naman, at this point, whatever we have right now is a very, very good foundation for the future, kung ano man yun,” he admitted.

Luis also shared that his friendship with Anne was not always smooth sailing. “May time na nung nag-a-ASAP kami, hindi kami nag-uusap. Best friends na kami nun. May mga tampuhang kaibigan rin kami na basta sa amin na yun kung bakit nangyari. Basta dumaan kami dun nung sa ASAP na magkakasama kami na literally ‘pag kinukulit ko sila Nikki (Gil) at si Iya (Villania), si Nippy nakatingin lang sa amin. Tapos ako mananahimik. Umabot sa puntong hindi na kami nag-uusap sa ASAP. Umabot kami sa part na yun,” he explained.

The Who’s That Girl actor said that it’s not hard to be friends with Anne because it doesn’t take a lot to soften her heart. But he admitted he also had to make an effort to get on her good side after a fight. “Pag may tampo yan, it’s very, very easy to make her smile. Eh dati nga, nag-antay nga ako ng alas-diyes ng umaga sa school niya. Akala ko kung nasaan siya, akala ko nasa school. Pinuntahan ko siya dun, yun pala wala! Puyat na puyat ako, so talagang nag-effort ako, nag-aantay ako sa labas ng school niya para lumabas siya. Para gusto ko maranasan naming yun maglu-lunch break date, yung ganun lang. Pero wala, hindi siya pumasok. Pagdating ko sa ABS-CBN ang init tuloy ng ulo ko! (laughs) Pero pagdating ko sa dressing room ko, may flowers siya para sa akin. Ganun, ganun kami,” he said with a smile.

Luis said he loves to make Anne smile especially when he knows she’s going through a tough time. “Si Nippy kasi ‘pag may mga araw na may pinagdadaanan or kung ano man, ‘pag masama ang gising, kahit gaano kainit ng ulo niya or irritable siya, ako wala akong pakialam, kukulitin ko pa rin siya, hanggang matawa siya, parang ganun,” he said.

Luis said that his friendship with Anne has only become stronger because they are also both there for each other even during times of heartache. “Ako naman kasi, kahit anong pinagdadaanan ko, nashe-share ko rin sa kanya. Minsan humihingi pa ako ng dasal mula sa kanya, kung puwede bang isingit niya ako sa mga prayers niya, whatever it maybe. Siguro something as substantial as my love life, eh sa pinagdaanan namin aabot din dun at one point or another dahil she’ll be a very, very constant part of my life. Sa akin yun ah,” he said.

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During the press con of Happy Yipee Yehey!, Toni Gonzaga refuted reports that she snubbed her fans during her recent show in Antipolo. While it is true that she can’t accommodate her fans all the time, she stressed that she’s not the type who’d rudely say no to photo-ops. “Ay hindi ko naman sasabihin yun. Hindi naman ako nagsasalita ng ayoko. Kung sasabihin ko man na ayoko, ang sasabihin ko pasensya na po. Pero sa pagkakaala ko po hindi ako nagsasabi ng ayoko sa mga nagpapa-picture. Kahit mga kasama ko mga pa ko po tanungin niyo. Well, siyempre bias sa akin yun. Pero yung mga taong nakakakilala sa akin, they can attest na hindi ako nagsasabi ng ayoko. Pasensya lang ang lagi ko sinasabi.”

Toni further explained that she was in a rush to leave that show because it was her father’s birthday celebration that same day. “Meron akong show sa Antipolo. Sa ano yun, One Simulong, naaalala ko pa. Galing ako ng dry run ng Happy Yipee Yehey! E yun, kailangan ko na umalis dahil sinagutan ko naman yung constituents ng daddy ko sa Taytay. Birthday ng daddy ko yun.”

When told that the incident might affect her fans’ support of her new noontime show, Toni explained that there are lots of reasons why an artist like her couldn’t mingle with fans even if she wants to. “Ay, hindi na natin maiiwasan ‘yan na lahat ng tao may masasabi sa atin, kasi hindi naman talaga lahat mapli-please mo. Kahit anong i-try natin na i-accommodate lahat, meron at meron tayong hindi maa-accommodate. Hindi dahil nagsusuplada, pero dahil minsan sa oras, dahil minsan segue segue kami. Hindi rin minsan dahil lang pagod, pero dahil talagang occupied ang mga utak namin dahil sa schedule, sa mga inisiip, minsan ’pag may intriga nakakadagdag din ’yan sa iniisip—so hindi yun intensyon.”

But when it comes down to it, Toni stressed that she’d rather be optimistic with all the blessings coming her way than dwell on showbiz intrigues. “At saka ‘di ko iniisip na ganon kasi nagsisimula pa lang ang show. Ayoko po mag-isip ng nega vibes. Mas masaya kung puro positive lang. Kasi ’pag inisip ko pa yun, makakadagdag pa yun ng worry at stress. E ang saya saya ng bago kong show at bago kong pamilya, kaya mag-enjoy na lang ako at mag-look forward na lang ako sa mga mapapasaya kong tao.”

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Iniintriga ngayon si Anne Curtis at itinatapat siya sa kapwa niya leading ladies gaya nina Angel Locsin, KC Concepcion at Bea Alonzo pero sinabi ng Fil-Australian actress na walang anumang kumpetisyon ang namamagitan sa kanilang apat. Aniya, nagsimula lamang ang intriga dahil kamakailan ay nagkaroon sila ng photo-shoot na magkakasama. “For me, it’s actually flattering to be compared with such beautiful ladies, to be part of such that league, this generation of leading ladies. Ako I’m flattered,” lahad ni Anne. “Nakaka-sad lang that people try to make an issue out of it or minsan fans nag-aaway-away. I just wish the four of us get along, sana ganun din lahat, wala nang negativity, (that) everyone could just be positive about it.”

Ngayong Valentine’s Day, sinabi ng aktres na magtatrabaho siya sa Showtime na bumalik na sa dati nitong oras pero may date sila ng kanyang non-showbiz boyfriend na si Erwann Heussaff after. “But I’m not the one whose gonna do the planning. I have no idea what’s gonna happen. Surprise daw.”

Sa kanyang previous interview sinabi ni Anne na ang kanyang first love ay si Oyo Sotto, young love si Richard Gutierrez at greatest love si Sam Milby. Sa ngayon ay masaya na siya sa piling ni Erwann pero ayaw raw niya itong bigyan  ng label. “I don’t wanna have expectations anymore, but I still hope. I can say that now I’m happy, and that’s all that matters,” aniya. “I don’t like giving titles. When you give a title that’s the end already, eh you are putting a period and a full stop. That’s why with Sam, greatest love coz it’s a title and saying it’s over. So with Erwann, I’d rather not give a title because I don’t want it to end. I don’t want it to stop. Just enjoy be inspired, be happy be positive, be optimistic about things. I hate negativity.”

Samantala, magsisimula na ngayong Lunes, ang Filipino adaptation ng Koreanovela na Green Rose at makakasama ni Anne sina Jericho Rosales at Jake Cuenca dito. Ipapalabas din sa March 2 ang kanyang pelikula with Luis Manzano na Who’s That Girl?, na produced ng Viva Films.

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Nagsalita na sa The Buzz kahapon si Sharon Cuneta at nilinaw ang tungkol sa isyung may kinalaman sa diumano’y pagiging malayo ng tunay na pigura niya sa sexy billboard niya ng slimming center. “Kaya siguro nagkaroon ng maraming reaction (because) it’s a big business ang beauty business, slimming business. Mga hundreds of millions ang pinag-uusapan,” paliwanag ni Megastar.

Nilinaw rin ng actress-host na walang daya ang nasabing billboard. “Lahat ng billboards na nakikita n’yo, before and after, ‘yung nasa billboard, na nasa dyaryo at ‘yung mga hindi pa lumalabas, iisang pictorial lang po ‘yon,” paniniyak niya.  “I can assure you and as God is my witness those pictures were not altered to make me look thinner than I was that time.”

Depensa pa ni Sharon madalas siyang makita sa telebisyon at pagkatapos ay laging nakikita ang kanyang billboard. “Sino naman ang magmumukhang tanga doon? Ako ‘di ba at ang Marie France?” pagtukoy ni Sharon sa controversial billboard niya.

Sabi pa niya, may kakayahan siyang hindian ang mga endorsement offers kung gugustuhin niya.  “Ang pinapatulan ko ‘yung hindi ako mapapahiya sa consumers, lalo na sa supporters ko at fans ko. I have to believe in it. “ Gaya ng kanyang latest endorsement, matagal nang nasa industriya si Sharon at hindi niya hahayaang masira ang inalagaang pangalan.

Pinatamaan din ni Sharon si Hayden Kho na matapos mag-tweet ng message na nakatatawa raw ang mga “deceiving billboards” pero hindi pinangalanan kung kaninong billboard ito. Matapos mag-react ni Sharon ay sinabi naman ni Hayden na ang pinapatamaan niya ay ang billboard ni Joel Cruz. “’Yung billboard (ni Joel) na pinatatamaan ay July 2010 pa, bakit pitong buwan bago ka nag-react?” buwelta ni Mega.

Sa nasabing interview rin ay hindi napigilan ni Sharon na magsalita hinggil sa dating controversial issue about sex videos ni Hayden. Matatandaang lumabas din noon ang isyung may video rin umano sila ni KC Concepcion pero nanatiling tahimik si Sharon. “Lalong sumama ang loob ko dahil pati pangalan ng anak ko nadadawit. Once and for all, masabi ko dahil nadadawit sa isyu na ‘yon ‘yung videos na ‘yon. Once lang nakita ni KC ever ang taong yan, dito pa sa The Buzz. Once lang ‘yan.”

Hindi rin tinanggap ni Sharon ang sagot ni Hayden sa kanyang Twitter account na sinabi niyang ikinagulat niya ang reaction ni Sharon dahil nirerespeto niya ito. “Going back to KC, if he respects me so much bakit nadamay ang pangalan ng anak ko do'n? I think at that time lagi niyang tine-text ang anak ko,” pagbubunyag niya.

Iniugnay rin ni Sharon na ang ginawa ni Hayden ay maaaring may kinalaman sa cosmetic company ng kanyang girlfriend na si Dra. Vicki Belo na competitor ng iniendorso niyang Marie France.  “Napaka-successful naman (ng business ni Belo and which) is a competitor like any slimming business, parang ang nangyayari sinisiraan mo ba kami dahil meron kayong kumpanya rin?” ani Sharon.  Sa huli, sinabi ng aktres na siya ay nagtatrabaho lamang at walang balak makipag-away kahit kanino.

Meantime, sinabi naman ni Mega na ikinagulat niya ang pag-amin ni Piolo Pascual a relasyon nila ni KC just recently. Gayunpaman natutuwa siya sa dalawa dahil sila ay responsable. “My daughter is hindi naman kung saan-saan pinulot ‘yan. She is very loving, lovely, very strong, all women in the family, and she is independent I’ve never known her to be needy,” paglalarawan ni Mega sa panganay. “Basta ako, alagaan lang ang anak ko. Kahit sino pa ‘yang dumating sa buhay ng anak ko basta alagaan siya, iparamdam na mahal na mahal siya, treat her well lang. Huwag sasaktan, emotionally or physically. Anybody who makes my daughter happy, because she grew up happy considering she came from a broken family, she’s a good kid. Anybody that gives her the kind of treatment she deserves, I will welcome with open arms.”

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Given her husband’s reputation as a certified ladies’ man, rumor has it that Mariel Rodriguez has been frequenting the set of Guns and Roses so that she could keep an eye on Robin Padilla and his leading lady Bea Alonzo. But Mariel claimed that there’s no truth to such reports because she knows that the two are complete professionals. “Although wala pa naman talaga akong naririnig na ganon, pero siguro ganon talaga, yun ang interpretation nila. But I am very excited for their show. We respect Bea, we respect Robin’s work. Robin has good work ethics. Siguro hindi naman siya tatagal for the last 25 years in the movie industry kung wala siyang work ethics ‘di ba? Hindi [ako nabo-bother na baka magkadevelopan sila], ngayon pa,” said Mariel in an interview with Push.com.ph.

Incidentally, Bea is currently dating Mariel’s ex-boyfriend Zanjoe Marudo. When asked how she feels that the two are now an item, Mariel said that she’s really thrilled that Zanjoe has improved a lot when it comes to expressing his feelings. “I am happy na nasasabi niya yung nararamdaman niya openly, that’s good.” For the record, the bubbly TV host stressed that she has no angst towards Zanjoe even though they didn’t exactly part on good terms last year. “Wala naman talagang issue kasi Zanjoe and I were no longer together when I met Robin last year. So kumbaga may closure naman kaya there are no issues for us to worry about.”

In fact, Mariel can see herself being good friends with Zanjoe again. But there would have to be certain limitations because of her status as a married woman. “E sa akin naman lahat ng nakilala mo na tao dapat talaga meron kayong friendship, what more towards someone that you had a relationship with? It’s just that we have to respect na I’m married now, parang hindi rin proper na lalabas kayo, parang hindi ko nakita na ganon ‘di ba?”

In the meantime, Mariel’s excited to celebrate her first Valentine’s Day with Robin. Although she’s been working almost 24/7 for Happy Yipee Yehey!, she made sure that they would still have quality time together at home. “Everyday is Valentine’s for us, kinikilig ako. Siyempre mag-uumpisa pa lang yung noontime show, so ang ang sabi lang niya sa akin, ‘Think of your work, don’t think about me first,’ very supportive naman siya. On my part, sinabihan ko din naman ang handler ko na basta Sunday and Monday ‘wag mo ko iko-commit ha. Wife ako n’yan. I’m really happy,” she beamed.

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Mainit na pinag-usapan ang pagkapanalo ng Philippine Football Team na Azkals laban sa team Mongolia noong Miyerkules. Kahapon, ang star player ng team na si Phil Younghusband ang naging sentro ng balita dahil ginulat nito ang lahat nang mag-post ng message sa twitter para kay Angel Locsin. Niyaya ni Phil na maka-date si Angel sa darating na Valentine’s day. Narito ang eksaktong mensahe ni Phil para kay Angel. “Hi Angel! This Phil. How are you? I was just wondering if you are free for Valentine’s day?”

Sinagot din agad sa twitter ng aktres ang imbitasyon ng binata sa kanya. Ayon kay Angel ay mayroon daw siyang trabaho sa Valentine’s day pero very open naman daw ang dalaga na matuloy ang kanilang date sa ibang araw kapag maluwag na ang kanyang schedule. Ito naman ang eksaktong sagot ni Angel kay Phil. “Hi! This is Angel Congrats on your win last night! Tnx for the invite but I have work on Valentines..Let’s try another day ” Nagulat at natuwa si Phil dahil sa pagsagot ni Angel sa kanyang imbistasyon.

Matatandaang inamin ni Phil kamakailan na isa si Angel sa mga crushes niya sa showbiz, nabanggit din ng binata na apat na taon na rin siyang loveless tuwing Valentines. Ngayon ay pina-follow na nina Angel at Phil ang isa’ isa sa twitter kaya posibleng nagpapalitan na rin sila ng direct messages. Saan kaya hahantong ang imbistasyon ni Phil kay Angel at Kailan kaya matutuloy ang much-awaited date ng dalawa? Posible na magkagustuhan ang dalawa since pareho naman silang single sa ngayon.

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Rayver Cruz said that he could not be happier now that his relationship with Cristine Reyes is finally out in the open. Having kept their relationship at first, Rayver said that he could only imagine how difficult it is for others, such as some celebrity couples, who still keep their relationship in the dark.

Rayver’s mom, uncle and brother, Rodjun were present when Cristine recently had her birthday party. The actor explained that it is good to know that he and Cristine are in good terms with each other’s family. “Comfortable naman siya sa family ko at ako sa family niya (kaya) masaya. Sobrang sarap ng pakiramdam,” the actor described.  He even related that he is made to feel welcome every time he spends time with his girlfriend’s family.

Rayver said that his birthday gift to Cristine is the promise ring that the actress always wears. He said that it is a reminder of his promise to be at her side all the time and to love her completely.

As for his birthday wish for Cristine, Rayver said, “Sana more blessings at mas maraming maganda pa ang mangyari sa kanya kasi napakabuti niyang tao and alam naman niya kung gaano siya kaimporante sa akin at maraming salamat sa lahat-lahat. Lagi lang akong nandito para sa kanya. Alam naman niya ‘yun, eh. Alam naman niya kung gaano ko siya kamahal.”

The actor also said that he is a loyal boyfriend and reasoned out that there is no point of getting into a commitment if he has won't be loyal to the woman he loves.  He is also hoping that he and Cristine won’t have work on Valentine’s Day so they can go out on a date. He refused to give details though of his plans because he wants to surprise Cristine. “Mahilig ako sa surprise, eh. Gusto ko biglaan lang.”

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As part of ABS-CBN’s newest noontime variety show Happy Yipee Yehey!, Melai Cantiveros shared that her boyfriend Jason Francisco is both happy and excited about her newest project. “Sabay kami na-shock din siya nung nalaman namin. Siyempre masaya naman siya para sa akin kasi may noontime show na ako,” she said.

Melai said that she is nervous about how the show will do and shared that the entire cast and crew have been working very hard to come up with a good show. “Kinabahan nga ako eh. Sana makayanan namin para mag-rate. Si God na ang bahala sa atin dito,” she added.

Until now, Melai says she cannot believe she was chosen to be part of the Happy Yipee Yehey! ensemble. “Nasuwertehan lang siguro ako na nalagay ako dito. Siyempre deserve ko naman siguro pero na-shock ako na parang sino ba ako para mapili ‘di ba? pero choks lang, thank you very much na lang. Yun na lang iniisip ko,” she said.

Even with her new daily show and other projects, Melai isn’t bothered by the fact that she might not have as much time for Jason anymore since they still have another project they’re doing together, Precious Hearts Romances Presents: Mana Po. “Mabuti nga ngayon meron akong noontime show, dati kasi di ba parati kami magkasama sa aming mga show? Dahil magkasama kami palagi, kesa magkasawaan kami, mag-away kami ganyan-ganyan, mabuti ito para medyo magkahiwalay kami ng konti. At least mami-miss namin ang isa’t isa, ganun. Pero kahit papano meron pa rin naman kami time para sa isa’t isa kasi may indie film tapos meron din kaming Mana Po so choks lang yun,” she said.

The former Pinoy Big Brother housemate said that having a little distance between them will actually be beneficial for their relationship. “Hindi naman ako nababahala kasi mas gusto namin ngayon na maghiwalay din minsan kasi lagi na kami magkasama. Minsan nag-aaway kami kasi hindi na mabigay yung kinakailangan ng isa’t isa so mabuti ngayon mami-miss namin ang isa’t isa. Para meron kaming thrill sa aming relationship. Naisip ko rin yun,” she explained.

This coming Valentine’s Day, Melai said she prefers that Jason be the one to make plans for the both of them. “Siya na bahala. Alangan naman ako pa ang magplano. May regalo na ako naiisip para sa kanya pero secret pa. Siyempre may naiisip isip na ako na gusto niya,” she said. But if she were the one to decide, Melai said spending quality time together is what she considers the best gift he could give to her. “Siyempre ang sa akin lang is gusto ko mag-spend kami ng time together. Kahit saan kami magpunta, kahit sa kalsada pa yan, basta maka-spend time kami together. Siyempre ang gusto ng babae romantic naman talaga. Kahit saan, kahit sa CR basta maraming flowers ‘di ba? (laughs) Hindi naman kailangan the best yung lugar. Kahit saan basta romantic na may flowers, nakaka-touch naman. Yan ang gusto ng babae. Yun lang ang aking choice, romantic,” she said.

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Even though they were both unattached when they shot Baler, Jericho Rosales said it was not the right time to think of romance on the set of the 2008 film. Although Echo admitted he developed feelings for Anne over the course of the project, he said that they were both still healing from their former relationships.

During that time, Anne was still recovering from her breakup with Sam Milby while Echo split with longtime girlfriend Heart Evangelista. Now that they are being paired together again in the Philippine adaptation of the hit Korean series Green Rose, Jericho said he has no regrets about not acting on his feelings for Anne two years ago. “I won’t say it’s wrong timing, I would say it’s not the time. It wasn’t the time siguro. Hindi ko binalak manligaw. You could say that may naramdaman ako. Kaya lang we were both healing and I believe that there’s a time for everything. Siyempre si God dapat yung healing power ng bawat isa. Hindi yung hahanap ako ng tao. I wanted to heal also,” he shared during the Green Rose presscon held last February 9 at the ABS-CBN compound.

The singer-actor said that even though he is still single and Anne is now in a relationship with model-businessman Erwann Heussaff, he knows he still made the right decision. When asked if he still has feelings for Anne, Echo declined to comment, which further fueled the press’s curiosity about how it felt for him to be working with her again. “Mahirap na magsalita, (laughs) basta I’m just happy na nakaka-inspire na katrabaho si Anne. There’s a reason to smile everyday, ganun. Siyempre she’s very beautiful, sino bang hindi matutuwa kung yung leading lady mo maganda, maayos at mabait pa, so who wouldn’t be happy? I’m just happy. Yun na yun,” he added.

Jericho said that as they finish up the last few shooting days of Green Rose, he has noticed a definite transformation with Anne with regards to acting. The two closely worked together on their scenes and tried to bring out the best they could from each other and further develop the material given to them. “We knew we have responsibilities. It’s a primetime show and we have children watching so we discuss things to the point na kung may physical contact ng konti kasi lovers nga kami so dun ko nakita yung dedication niya dun sa character and the responsibility and she can separate that and alam niya kung saan niya ilulugar yung sarili niya sa bawat position. As a professional, she knows when to put her foot down and she knows when to stop and when to go and alam niya yung situation, marunong siyang umintindi,” he said.

Even off-cam, Echo said that Anne has been nothing but a welcome presence to everyone. “As a person, mas nakita ko na malapit siya dun sa staff niya and sa staff namin. I don’t want to say it’s a natural charm eh. Parang love siya ng lahat, that’s it. Ganun. Ang gaan ng feeling and I love working with actors na walang kiyeme. So punta siya sa set, kain siya ng kahit anong pagkain. Medyo natanggal yung pagkailang ko,” he admitted.

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Noong isang linggo ay naging successful ang pagtatapos ng teleseryeng Noah dahil sa magandang feedback sa programa.  Sa ngayon ay pahinga muna si Piolo Pascual sa paggawa ng teleserye, pero mayroon ibang pinagkaka-abalahan ang aktor ngayon. Pinaghahandaan ni Piolo ang kanyang series of shows na gagawin sa Amerika. “Punta muna ako sa States, magtu-tour ako. I’m doing six shows in March, puro America lang,” bungad ni Piolo.

Bukod sa concert tour abroad ay dalawang pelikula rin ang susunod na gagawin Piolo at sa America rin daw kununan ang isa dito. “I’m doing a movie while I’m there. Pagbalik ko ay simulan ko yung movie dito by April. Di pa napa-finalize yung casting. Malalaman natin, wala pa kaming artista. Wala pa yung final concept kung sino at ano ang istorya. But I’m still looking forward to working with Kim Chiu because nakakasa na yun eh kumbaga,” pahayag pa ng aktor. Magsisimula na rin daw gawin by April or May ang Bagong TV show ni Piolo.

Looking forward ngayon si Piolo sa pagdating ni KC Concepcion sa kanyang Valentine Concert na gaganapin sa PICC on February 14. “I’m so excited, we wanted to get her as a guest kaso nga siyempre she opted to just watch, being in the audience, and I think it’s sweeter because hindi trabaho. She’s just really there to watch,” pagtatapos pa ng aktor.

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While he’s busy wrapping up work for the February 14 premiere of his newest teleserye Green Rose, Jericho Rosales is also busy with last minute preparations for his Valentine concert entitled And I Love Her. The actor, who has consistently denied rumors linking him to Andi Manzano, said he has no Valentine’s date this year. Instead, the singer-actor plans to spend February 14 out of town after a scheduled doctor’s appointment. “May date ako, with my chiropractor. I have a neck problem because of an accident on the show. Nalalag ako, na-aksidente, yung leeg ko. Medyo na-disalign yung isang buto. Nakabaluktot siya ng ganun. So ginagamot namin ngayon. Kung napansin niyo hindi ako masyado nag-gagagalaw lately. Yun lang yun. Sa February 14, baka mag-surf na lang ako. Ginawa ko na yun three years ago. Kasama ko naman yung best friends ko,” he shared during the Green Rose press con held last February 9 at the ABS-CBN compound.

After his breakup with SNN reporter Cesca Litton late last year, Echo said he has no regrets about keeping their relationship relatively low-key. ”We were open naman. But it’s not that open kasi hindi ko gustong masyadong pinag-uusapan. Yun yung respeto ko dun sa kanya, sa akin, sa family because katulad ng sabi ko, hindi ko gustong na-te-tense yung relationship namin, parang ganun. And I really respect everyone na rumespeto dun sa kagustuhan ko na medyo quiet lang. She’s not really showbiz na showbiz ‘di ba so hindi siya sanay sa relationship na showbiz. Ako sanay na ako eh and alam ko na yung repercussions at consequences pag ganun so I said its better for us to be quiet so that we can enjoy it to just stay quiet. We’re not hiding na hindi tayo or tayo, ganun,” he shared.

Echo said his relationship with Cesca was unique because of how they dealt with the breakup. “I’m glad that we’re friends even though it didn’t work. She’s the first person na naging girlfriend ko na after ng relationship namin naging magkaibigan kami,” he admitted.

Echo also revealed minimal details about his concert And I Love Her, which runs February 11 to 12 at Teatrino, The Promenade in Greenhills. “Obviously I want to keep it a surprise. Gusto kong i-surprise yung mga tao sa kung ano ang repertoire kasi hindi ko masasabi. Kakantahin ko yung mga original songs ko na naging hit din naman, maririnig niyo rin dun. But imagine niyo na lang na medyo may pagka-swing ng konti,” he said.

The show, which Echo co-directed with Paolo Valenciano, is one of the projects he has really been looking forward to for the year. “When I say it’s a different kind of show, it’s something na hindi ko pa nagagawa and hindi pa siguro nakikita ng karamihan so I’m excited kung ano magiging reaction ng tao. May love songs ako definitely. It’s going to be fun. It’s just different. Hindi ko puwede ibitaw lahat ng mangyayari eh. But my dream kasi is mas masubukan ko yung pagiging stage actor, yung sa play. Makagawa ng musical. So I tried something here. Let’s see if it will work. So yun yung buong idea nun,” he said.

Echo, who also sang Green Rose’s theme song “Bumuhos Man Ang Ulan,” said that he hopes to pursue singing as much as acting this year which makes his concert very meaningful for him. “For me, this kind of show is a dream come true. So it really means a lot. Sir Gary Valenciano is helping out with the production. Ito na yun, ito yung future ko eh. Gusto ko mag-produce nung mga concerts, mga shows, eto na yun. I’m living my dream right now. I promise you, even though madaming nagsasabi sa akin ng negative stuff, hindi ako nagpapatama dun. Basta I want to entertain people and I want to show them na eto talaga yung buhay ko. Meron akong special guest pero hindi ko talaga masasabi kung sino. But all I can promise you is I will try my best. We’ve prepared something good para sa lahat ng manunuod so I’m hoping that they will like the show,” he shared.

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For the first time ay muling nagkita sina Luis Manzano at Mariel Rodriguez sa ELive last Saturday. Matatandaang nagkaroon ng tampuhan ang dalawa at hindi nakapag-usap ng ilang buwan dahil nawala ring pansamantala sa telebisyon si Mariel nang magpakasal ito kay Robin Padilla.
Very awkward daw ang muling pagkikita nina Luis at Mariel pagkatapos ng mahabang panahon. “Noong una, admittedly, di ako magpapaka-plastik. Matagal na rin kaming hindi nagkita at nag-usap so di naman mawawala iyon, pero as it progressed, safe to say na nalalabas naman namin kung sino man kami, bilang magkaibigan kami dati,” pahayag ni Luis.

Kahit nakaramdam ng pagkailang si Luis ay inamin nito na hindi naman daw siya nagdalawang isip nang malaman niya na muling makakasama si Mariel. “Sabi ko, oo naman! No problem at all. I’m not gonna even think twice, sinabi nga sa isang part, yung sa amin ni Mariel was very very petty. Least of her worries yung sa amin,” paglilinaw pa ni Luis.

Ngayon daw ay muling isinasaayos at ibinabalik nina Luis at Mariel ang maganda nilang pagtuturingan bilang magkaibigan. “Hindi rin naman kasi pwedeng biglain yung sa amin. It was indeed, pero sana more talks din sana. Kasi iba rin naman yung napatutok rin kami bigla sa harap ng camera. Baby steps pa yung sa amin. Ayoko naman sabihin na okay na okay na, tapos na ang usapan. It was a good start din naman,” dagdag pa ng aktor.

Samantala, napabalita ring dumalaw diumano si Luis sa taping ng ex-girlfriend niyang si Angel Locsin sa Tagaytay. Muli na nga bang nagde-date ngayon ang dating magkasintahan? “Kaya kong sabihing walang katotohanan ‘yan, na nakita kami sa bar or sa mall, nagkita at nagkasama kami pero…” makahulugan pero bitin na sagot ni Luis sa isyu.

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Luis Manzano did not hide his annoyance when it came to the rumor that he was seen kissing Anne Curtis’s younger sister, Jasmine. “Sobrang foul ‘yun kasi ‘pag naiisip ko ‘yung isyu nandidiri ako kasi naiisip ko parang hinalikan ko ‘yung little sister ko na si Andi. Kasi halos magkasing edad sila so kadiri lang.”

The actor-host said that the malicious rumor might have spawned from that one time when he drove Anne’s younger sister home. “Totoo, magkakasama kaming nag-dinner, si Jasmine, ako, si Anne… madami kaming nag-dinner I think that was a Saturday. Ako kailangan ko nang umuwi kasi may ASAP ako the next day so si Jasmine sabi sa ‘kin, ‘Okay lang bang sumabay?’ Kasi meron siyang PO5 (variety show on another network). Sabay kami. Hinatid ko siya [tapos] beso, hug [and then] alis. Nothing more, nothing less. So hindi ko alam kung sino ‘yung naggagaling-galingan na nakakita. Pakiusap ko kung gagawa ka pa lang ng tsismis sana siguraduhin na lang [na totoo],” Luis ranted.

Luis explained that he loves Jasmine like his own sister and for others to claim that they have a relationship beyond brotherly love is below the belt. “Nakakadiri ‘yung isyu,” he said. “Nakikita natin kung gaano kamalisyoso ang ibang tao. Ang pagmamahal ko nga kay Jasmine parang little sister ko.”

On a personal note, Luis said that he is single but happy because he has a lot of projects at the moment, such as ASAP Rocks, an upcoming movie with Anne Curtis, and the upcoming second season of Pilipinas Got Talent.

He continued that he is now on speaking terms with former girlfriend Angel Locsin. “Safe to say na nakakapag-usap kami uli, so yes we’re friends,” he said. Luis also defended Angel on the issue that she is allegedly being extra sweet with Imortal leading man, John Lloyd Cruz, who also happens to be Luis’s friend. “I would understand kung nag-aalagaan ang love team. That’s very, very normal. Pero I highly doubt na super-sweet dahil si John Lloyd ay may love life (with girlfriend Shaina Magdayao) din. Hindi ganun si Angel, especially when alam niyang may love life ‘yung isa.”

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Ever since it was announced that Toni Gonzaga and Mariel Rodriguez would both be on Happy Yipee Yehey!, people have been wondering how they would work together after their controversial falling out last year. But during the press con of their upcoming noontime show, they refused to say how they managed to overcome their misgivings about their friendship. “Kasi kung i-elaborate pa namin, ang haba na e. Tsaka ang hirap na rin pong mag-explain at magkwento dahil ang tagal na. Kahit ano pang sabihin namin, yung ibang tao may mindset na about us, so hayaan na lang namin. Ang importante, kaya kami nagkasama ulit ni Ma, hindi dahil may show, pero dahil matagal na rin kaming naging okay, actually last year pa naman. Siguro ngayon magiging sensationalized lang dahil ngayon lang ulit kami makikita na magkasama together,” said Toni who previously accused Mariel of betraying her several times.

Mariel admitted that she was scared that they would never be able to revive their friendship. But one thing she learned from what they went through is the fact that anything could be solved through proper communication. “Ako nagkaroon ng ganong worry na baka hindi na maibalik yung dating samahan, because the friendship matters. If you don’t care about the friendship, [deadma na] ‘di ba? Pero yun nga siguro yung magic dahil maganda yung foundation ng friendship namin [kaya nalampasan namin yung misunderstanding namin noon]. But it’s what happens after which matters now, na ngayon okay na kami.”

Toni further shared that they didn’t expect to be part of the same show soon after their reconciliation. But it’s definitely meant to happen especially because they can’t deny the fact that they work so well together as hosts. “Ako sobra akong na-excite sa idea na inofferan ako ulit mag-noontime show, mahirap naman tumanggi. Si Mariel naman, setting aside yung mga pinagdaanan namin, we worked together for many years already. Yung chemistry at rapport na nabuo namin, hindi mo makukuha na yun, buo na yun. So ang sarap ng feeling na magkakasama kayo sa isang show.”

At this point, Toni and Mariel were honest enough to say, however, that they’re not yet one hundred percent okay with each other. Not because they have lingering doubts about their friendship, but it’s just that they’re still in the process of working things out. “When you experience new storm or a bump in the road, tapos magsisimula kayo ulit, you take it one step at a time. It’s a work in progress,” said Toni. To which Mariel added, “Parang sa mag-boyfriend at girlfriend ‘di ba? Ganon naman talaga yun e. Ito yung natural na nararamdaman namin ngayon. Hindi naman yung mine-measure na, ‘Ay mas close kami noon!’ Hindi na pinaplano, meron siyang tamang panahon.”

For now they’re still planning when they would spend quality time with their good friend Bianca Gonzalez who’s really thrilled with Mariel and Toni’s reconciliation. “Siya ang pinakamasaya ngayon. We still have to set a date kasi ngayon we have dry runs for the show. Basta dadating tayo d’yan,” Mariel stated.

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Empress is very much excited about celebrating her 18th birthday this coming February 19. The young actress said that like most debutantes, she will be having a special party, but without the formal customs. “Rocker chick ‘yung theme, so lahat ng pupunta pwedeng magsuot ng pink, black, or white. Nung teenager ako ganito na talaga ang gusto kong maging theme ng debut ko. Gustong gusto ko kasi ‘yung pink and black. Ayoko rin kasi ng pa-cute, ‘yung fairytale at mga princess. Gusto ko maiba. Once lang kasi ang debut kaya gusto ko hindi katulad ng karamihan.”

She also shared that aside from her family and relatives, her close friends in showbiz will also come to her party, like the stars she got to work with in her shows Rosalka, Shoutout, and Abt Ur Luv, her friends from Star Magic, and a few executives of ABS-CBN.

Now that she’s old enough, Empress said that she is ready to accept mature roles both on TV and movies. “Halos lahat naman kapag 18 years old na dapat naman may transformation. Dapat na ring mag mature. Kailangan since nandito ako sa industriya. Okay naman ako tumanggap ng mature roles para naman hindi rin paulit ulit ‘yung mga ginagawa ko. Hindi na pa-cute lang.”

Empress revealed that she has also gotten the approval of her parents to finally accept suitors. But she clarified that this doesn’t mean that she is in a hurry to get into a relationship because for now, her priority is her showbiz career. “Siguro ngayon pwede nang may manligaw. Ang pangit naman na 18 na ako tapos ayoko pang magpaligaw. Pero it doesn’t mean na gusto ko na talaga magka-boyfriend. Wala pa talaga kasi sa isip ko ‘yun. Kasi ngayong 18 na ako ang mas naiisip ko talaga is pag-igihin ‘yung trabaho ko. Kapag may gustong manligaw na sa akin okay lang, wala naman yatang masama. Ayoko lang na isipin nilang porke pinayagan ko silang manligaw e sasagutin ko na sila agad. Ayoko naman na magpaasa rin. Kapag ready na ako at nakita ko talaga na ‘yung guy e sincere at willing maghintay kung kailan ako ready, okay sa akin.”

For now she is just happy for her friends who have their own love lives, like her close pal Melissa Ricks who just recently admitted that she has long been dating Jake Cuenca. “I’m happy for Melissa. Parang natanggalan ng tinik. As long as happy ‘yung friend ko at nakikita kong inaalagaan siya ni Jake, okay sa akin. Nakakasama namin minsan si Jake and he’s nice naman.”

Empress if it’s true that her other close friend Erich Gonzales in secretly having a relationship with young actor Enrique Gil. Empress, Erich, and Enrique are mainstays of the daily reality-variety show Shoutout. Empress said, “Umamin ba sila? Lahat kasi kami sa Shoutout close. Lahat naguusap, nagkukwentuhan, walang nagdededmahan. Masaya lang kami. Para sa akin hindi mo naman mapapansin kung may something. Siguro pareho lang kasi silang friendly. Tingin ko wala naman. Wala ring naikukwento sa akin si Erich.”

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Sa darating na Sabado ay muli nating mapapanood sa telebisyon si Mariel Rodriguez sa pinakabagong noon time show na Happy Yippie Yehey. Marami ang nag-aabang sa pagbabalik ng TV host. Noong Sabado ay nag-guest si Mariel sa Entertainment Live matapos siyang mawala ng ilang buwan. Naikuwento niya dito na masaya siya bilang may bahay ni Robin Padilla.

“Nagpaka-wife ako. Alam n’yo namang bagong kasal kami ni Robin, so kailangan kong maging mabuting maybahay, and I’m very happy being a wife. Very happy ang aming married life. Mas maalaga si Robin sa akin rather than ako ang mas maalaga sa kanya,” pahayag ni Mariel.

Masaya rin si Mariel sa pagkakaayos nila ni Toni Gonzaga. “Noong una, it was kinda awkward. Oo small talk may ganun, noong finally nadoon na, it felt good kasi nailabas na. The nice thing is during the time na we were talking, ang daming nangyari sa amin, kaming dalawa. Iba yung journey na pinag-uusapan namin ngayon. It’s a different level din. It’s a new chapter,” masayang kuwento pa ni Mariel.

Maging si Toni ay excited na rin sa show na pagsasamahan nila ni Mariel. “Nag-dry run na kami for the segments for the flow of the show. It was very relaxing, it was smooth. Di kami nag-trabaho at nagkita ni Mariel ng matagal. Noong pagsabak namin, walang adjustment na nangyari kasi memorize ko na siya, memorize na rin niya ako. We’re looking forward to something bigger, better, happier, so yung mga bagay na hurtful ay ayaw na naming pag-usapan. We both agreed with that, na huwag na nating pag-usapan,” kuwento naman ni Toni.

Nagkaayos na rin sina Mariel at ang nakatampuhan din noon na si Luis Manzano. Napag-usapan ng dalawa kung ano ang naging problema nila at na-solve naman nila ito. Ngayon ay masaya na muli ang pagkakaibigan nina Mariel, Toni at Luis.

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Kahapon ay pormal nang inilunsad ang tax campaign ng Bureau of Internal Revenue na may theme na “Buwis Mo Para Sa Bagong Pilipinas”. Isa itong kampanya ng B.I.R. para ma-meet nila ang target na 940 billion collection for this year. Ginanap ang nasabing event sa Trinoma Mall at dinaluhan ito ng ilang Kapamilya stars like John Lloyd Cruz, Shaina Magdayao at KC Concepcion.

Todo ang suporta na ibinibigay ngayon ni John Lloyd sa B.I.R. kahit na nagkaroon ng problema sa pagitan niya at ng ahensya noong isang taon. “Nagpapasalamat tayo kasi na-invite tayo dito ng B.I.R. Nagpunta kami rito kasama ng mga iba pang artista like si KC Concepcion, Jaya, para sumuporta sa isinusulong ng B.I.R. na makapagbayad tayo on time. Akala mo kasi February pa lang pero April mabilis lang iyan. Sana ay makapagbayad lahat on time para maiwasan ang mga problema. Mga hindi inaasahang problema with the B.I.R., iyon ang ayaw nating mangyari,” pahayag ni John Lloyd.

Natutuwa rin si B.I.R. commissioner Kim Jacinto-Henares dahil pinaunlakan ng ilang celebrities ang kanilang invitation para makatulong sa kanilang campaign. “Every year we have celebrities in part of the campaign. I guess, it made them more conscious about their tax obligations,” pahayag naman ng commissioner. Umaasa ang Bureau of Internal Revenue na magiging matagumpay sila ngayong taon sa pangongolekta ng tamang buwis.

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Anne Curtis explained that she was not surprised when she and the Showtime team heard that their program will return to its original timeslot—which is 10:30 a.m.—when Happy, Yippee, Yehey premieres this coming Saturday, February 12 at noon. “We knew that from the beginning,” explained Anne. The talent-search show was placed in the noontime slot after Pilipinas Win na Win bid goodbye last December 31, 2010.

“They asked Showtime very quickly at the end of last year to be noontime for three hours, so naloka kami," she said. "We took on the challenge given to us, but we were told naman back in December that it will only going to be until February, so it’s okay. Fight kami dyan.” The Fil-Australian shared that it was challenging for them to keep the show running for three hours every episode in a noontime slot.

Rather than being sad, Anne shared that she feels relieved that Showtime will be in the morning again because it is when their real target audience is available. “Kasi at least you know we’re back on the timeslot of young audience kasi if you’ve noticed the audience in Showtime, they’re all young, they’re students. Gusto nila nakakanood muna sila ng Showtime and then they go to school, kaya minsan naka-uniform sila [‘pag pumupunta ng show].”

She said that when Showtime’s timeslot was changed to noontime, many students reacted on Twitter and complained that they could not watch the show anymore because they needed to be in school during the new timeslot.

Anne was also asked for her opinion on Mariel Rodriguez’s return to hosting since she will be part of Happy, Yippee, Yehey. The two had a rift last year because Anne got involved in the Toni Gonzaga-Mariel issue. “I think that would be good,” began Anne. “They’re really pang-noontime and I think it should be given back… to them. She had a long break she needs to come back na.” The actress also stressed that she is on good terms with Mariel but did not elaborate.

Aside from Showtime and her endorsements nowadays, Anne is busy with a new teleserye, titled Green Rose with Jericho Rosales and Jake Cuenca and a movie with Luis Manzano entitled Who’s That Girl. “I don’t think I could ask for anything more,” said Anne on her career. “But if there is something more to happen, then I’d happily take it all in. I’m just taking everything in day by day [and] no expectations. I just want to be happy, [to have a] positive year. I wanna have a great 2011, and I wish the same for everyone else.”

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Noong isang linggo ay may lumabas na balitang nang-isnab diumano si Kim Chiu ng isang taga-hanga sa isang mall. Nagmula raw ang balita sa mismong ina ng fan na sinasabing na-isnab daw ni Kim noon. Isang kolehiyala raw ang fan na ito at kasama pa ang ilang mga kaibigang balikbayan nang maganap ang insidente. Parang wala raw kasing nakita si Kim nang tawagin nila ang aktres. Galit na galit daw ang ina at nagbanta pa na hindi na susuportahan ang mga projects ni Kim.

Ano kaya ang masasabi ni Kim sa isyung ito? “Hindi ko nga alam kung saan iyan, hindi ko alam ‘yan,” bungad ni Kim. Hindi raw talaga maiiwasan na hindi mapagbigyan o ma-greet ng aktres ang lahat ng fans na gustong bumati sa kanya. Kung may nangyari mang hindi maganda ay hindi naman daw ito sinasadya ni Kim.

“Nakakalungkot siyempre, kasi hindi naman lahat naririnig ko. Parang Hi Kim! Minsan mababa lang tapos hindi ka na makaka-hi back so akala nila suplada or something. Sa amin, hindi naman namin intensyon yun tsaka gusto pa rin naming kumaway sa kanila para matuwa sila,” paglilinaw pa ng young actress.

Humihingi naman si Kim ng paumanhin kung mayroon man daw siyang mga nasaktan sa nasabing insidente. “Pasensiya na po. Hindi ko naman intention na hindi mag-hi back sa kanila. Siyempre hindi naman lahat ng tao ay napi-please ko kasi tao lang naman ako eh, may pagkukulang din,” emosyonal na pagtatapos ni Kim.

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