Kris Aquino, Pacquiao camp trade verbal jabs

Nagpasaringan sina Kris Aquino at kampo ni Pinoy boxing hero Manny Pacquiao kaugnay sa naging pahayag ng huli sa isang campaign ad na ginawa nito na nag-eendorso kay Nacionalista Party presidential bet Manny Villar.

Sa Twitter account ni Kris, sinabi nito na nakita niya ang campaign ad ng isang tinawag niyang “Pinoy spots icon" na nagbitiw ng salita na, “laban ng laban wala naman napatunayan."

Bagaman walang pangalang tinukoy si Pacquiao sa ad, idinepensa ni Kris ang kapatid na si Liberal Party presidential bet Sen Benigno “Noynoy" Aquiono III, na kahit minsan ay hindi pa natatalo sa halalan.

“In politics, ‘Noy has won 3 straight terms sa Congress & won almost 15 million votes sa Senatorial in 2007," nakasaad sa Twitter ni Kris. “How sad na he didn't think na in politics- knock out nga sya."

Idinagdag ng actress-host: “In politics si Noy ang may napatunayan because Noy has never lost an election! Ika nga, undefeated ang record nya!"

Matatandaan na natalo si Pacquiao sa unang sabak niya sa pulitika noong 2007 nang labanan ang nakaupong kongresista ng South Cotabato na si Darlene Antonino-Custodio.

Muling tumatakbo si Pacquiao bilang kongresista sa Saranggani sa ilalim ng partido ng NP kung saan makakaharap nito si Roy Chiongbian na galing din sa angkan ng mga pulitiko.

Sa naturang campaign ad, kasama ni Pacquiao na nag-endorso kay Villar sina comedy king Dolphy at TV host na si Willie Revillame.

Sa pagsuporta kay Villar, inihayag ni Pacquiao sa naturang ad na hanga siya sa senador sa dami ng nagawa: "Merong iba d'yan, laban ng laban sa salita pero wala pa namang nagawa."

Sa panayam sa telepono, sinabi ni Jayke Joson, chief of staff ni Pacquiao, kumpiyansa ito na mananaig ang tinaguriang “pambansang kamao" laban kay Chiongbian sa Mayo 10.

Idinagdag niya na hindi rin dapat ipagmalaki ang dami ng panalo sa halalan ng isang kandidato kung wala rin naman talaga itong nagawa para makatulong sa kapwa.

Siyam na taong naging kongresista si Aquino matapos manalo ng tatlong termino, at pangatlong taon na bilang senador para sa kanyang anim na taong termino.

“How sure is she na mana-knockout si Manny? (kay Chiongbian). Ang sinabi ni Manny sa commercial ay point na ‘di lang puwede yung laban lang nang laban dapat me nagawa sa bayan," ayon kay Joson.

Ayaw na rin umano ni Pacquiao na palakihin ang usapin tungkol sa kanila ni Kris na itinuturing pa rin umanong kaibigan ng boxing icon.

Noong nakaraang linggo, pinasaringan ni Bagumbayan presidential bet Richard Gordon si Aquino wala umanong naipasa kahit isang batas at walang karanasan para mamuno.

Idinagdag ni Gordon na mas mahusay pa si Sen Manuel “Lito" Lapid kay Aquino dahil nagawa nitong makapagpasa ng isang batas sa loob ng anim na taong pag-upo bilang senador.

Angel, Rica at Pokwang testigo kina Piolo at Sam

Wala si Ate Lolit Solis sa Manila Regional Trial Court nang dininig uli ang kasong libelo na isinampa laban sa kanya nina Piolo Pascual at Sam Milby, na present kahapon nang umaga.

Aware si Piolo na wala si Ate Lolit, kaya hindi raw siya nag-expect na magkikita sila ng kontrobersiyal na manager, na nag-claim at siyang sumulat na nakita sila ni Sam sa coffee shop ng Hotel Sofitel nu'ng Oct. 12.

Ipinrisinta kahapon ni Atty. Joji Alonso (legal counsel nina Sam at Piolo) ang sampung witnesses kasabay ng kanilang sinumpaang mga salaysay na nakita nila ang dalawang aktor sa oras na sinasabi ni Ate Lolit na nakita silang magkasama.

Naroon sina Pokwang (na nandu'n daw sa coffee shop bandang 4 p.m. at wala raw siyang napansing nandu'n sina Piolo at Sam);

Si Angel Locsin (na kasama raw si Piolo sa Timex Watch pictorial); si Ate Cristy Fermin (na nakita raw si Piolo na dumaan sa main lobby ng ABS-CBN); at si Rica Peralejo (na nakasama raw si Piolo sa gym bago magtungo sa Timex watch pictorial).

The rest ay road manager ni Piolo, isang UP professor na nag-interpret sa sinulat ni Ate Lolit, at ang hairstylist ni Sam.

Tinanong namin si Piolo. Sabi kasi ni Ate Lolit, patawarin na siya, dahil matanda na siya. Christians pa naman sila ni Sam.

Gusto ba nilang makita ang 60 years old sa kulungan?

“Sino naman ang may gusto ng gano'n, 'di ba? Hindi naman siya makukulong, sabihin lang niya ang totoo. All we need is retraction, and from there, let's see!” sey ni Piolo.

Hanggang kelan kaya ang isyung ito? Mag-1st anniversary kaya ito sa October 12?

Q & A with Ara Mina

Screen vixen and awarded actress Ara Mina looked tired and was coughing lightly every now and then when I arrived for our interview at the location of "Ate" last Tuesday.

She has just finished the taping of an episode of "Prinsesa ng Banyera" at 4 a.m. that same day and at the same location, went home to sleep for a few hours then went back for the shooting of "Ate."

"Ate" which is directed by Lore Reyes with Peque Gallaga as its production designer, is Ara Mina's first venture as a movie producer. Under her Posh Entertainment production company, she stars in it with her sister Cristine Reyes and Paolo Paraiso. And as a first-time producer she is very hands on and passionate about "Ate" she doesn't mind having sleepless nights and working alternately from her TV series to the movie.

According to Ara, her hectic schedule is the reason for her irritated throat but as the saying goes in the realm of entertainment, the show must go on!

She shared that she has been wanting to produce a film someday that when "Ate" came about, she deemed it as the perfect project for her. She described "Ate" as a story about how an elder sister took care of her younger sister. But it is not as simple as it seems. It also revolves around the idea that too much of everything is bad for a person. Because "Ate" is also about how a younger sister feels when her "ate" is always all over her.

The younger sister rebels and she gets back at her elder sister by sleeping with her "ate's" husband played by Paolo Paraiso. To make matters worst, the younger sister becomes pregnant with her "ate's" husband!

A tale of how an elder sister's love for her sibling could go wrong, and a story of deceit and redemption, "Ate's" cast includes Eddie Garcia, Eva Daren, Jan Marini, Gerard Pizaras, Jemuel and Roshelle Barameda, Jade Lopez and Ian Veneracion.

Below, Ara Mina talks more about "Ate," her fears, her experience and how is she as an "ate" to Cristine Reyes.

WS: Why did you finally decide to produce a movie?

Ara: Matagal ko ng naisipang gumawa tapos gumawa ako ng indie film yung "Selda." And this inspired me. Then when directors Peque Gallaga and Lore Reyes presented me the story of "Ate" I was enticed to produce it because it is a story about two sisters and I've been wanting us to do a movie together. I also want a film kung saan ko siya maaalagaan lalo na kapag may sexy scenes.

But people would wonder why you're allowing your younger sister to do sexy scenes especially that you're her "ate?"

"Hindi naman grabe ang sexy scenes kasi we're aiming for R-13 para mapanuod lahat ng mga tao. Hinihingi lang talaga ang love scenes sa story. Ngayon hindi na puwede yung grabe kasi hindi ka na mapapalabas eh paano ka pa kikita at paano ka mapapanuod ng mga tao?"

What are the other selling points of "Ate?"

"This is a movie na magpapakita ng acting ni Cristine na meron pa siyang ibubuga kaysa sa pagpapa-sexy lang. Siyempre isa pang selling point nito eh yung i-compare kami sa pagpapa-sexy. Sa akin hindi ko na ima-mind yun kasi madami na akong pinagdaanan. Actually mas marami siyang love scenes dito tapos ang isa pang selling point dito is first time naming magkatrabaho sa isang pelikula."

Why aren't you scared of producing a movie at this time?

"Bago naman magsimula ito, eight months naman ang planning namin nila direk. Siyempre nag-canvas muna ako, naghanap ng mga tao with direk Lore and tumawad-tawad ako sa mga presyo (laughed). Actually I want to thank all my friends from showbiz who helped me here."

So what was the challenge?

"Pinagplanuhan naman naming mabuti ito. Kung baga alam mo naman malakas ang loob ko. Una nag-album ako, tapos nag-concert ako sa Araneta yung fund-raising ko. Kung baga every year iba-iba ang naiisip ko which is nagiging successful naman lahat. Nagkaroon pa kami ng workshop for this one bago nag-start para mawala ang mga inhibitions namin ni Cristine kasi meron kaming drama rito and confrontations parang feeling ko masarap panuorin kasi being sisters in real life puwedeng isipin nila kung nangyari na ito sa amin...may mga parts na parang nangyari na sa amin pero may parts na hindi naman lalo na yung mga maselan."

Are you as over protective in real life to Cristine like your character Helen in the film?

"Yes, but we just have different professions in the film. I'm over protective in real life pero may difference lang. Dito kasi dumating sa point na nasakal na siya ng husto. Nowadays in real life I let her decide for herself like in her career and in her lovelife. Pagkailangan lang niya ng help dun lang ako susulpot para di ba matuto siya. Kunwari kapag nagkamali man siya at least magkakaroon siya ng lesson."

The story of "Ate" sounds simple, what can moviegoers expect?

"Maraming eksenang pagiging ate talaga. And I feel that a lot of people can relate to it. Maraming makaka-relate na magkakapatid lalo na mga ate diyan!"

So did you have headaches from being a producer?

"Sa awa ng Diyos hindi naman. Mas sumakit ang ulo ko sa movie namin ni Manny Pacquiao (laughed). Dito very smooth, walang problema, walang pasaway na mga artista. Tuloy-tuloy lang kami sa pag gawa and almost 60% na kami at matatapos kami this January."

How much is your projected budget?

"Siyempre pinag-aralan ko muna at nagtanong ako sa manager ko, si Dondon Monteverde, anak ni Mother Lily, lahat ng mga kilala ko sa showbiz humingi ako ng advice. I just set a certain budget and my rule is not to go over it...wala namang masama sa pag-produce ko nito kasi ito ang passion natin lalo na ang pag-aartista. Tapos magagawa mo pa ang gusto mong role eh walang nakaisip na pagsamahin kaming magkapatid."

How was it working with Lore Reyes?

"He works fast. We always talk about the film and we plan things, like kung kaninong post production namin ipapa-handle ang movie. Eve-rything is in black and white kasi siya rin ang line producer. Marami rin akong natutunan."

So in the end you're sure that there won't be any investigation where a P10 million budget went?

"(Laughing). Honestly, mga nilalabas ko rito pinagtratrabahuan ko rin...hindi ko naman alam na mabibigay sa akin ang "Prinsesa ng Banyera" kasi November 2007 pa naplano itong "Ate." Pero I'm happy and thankful of all my blessings for 2008! Marami ako natutunan it's very interesting lalo na basta tapat ang mga tao mo hindi malabong mabawi mo!"

If successful, who do you plan to work with next?

"Maybe si Ate Vi ang next. Pero hindi ko pa afford ang talent fee niya. But then you'll never know. Positive thinker lang ako talaga!"

Francine Prieto, kinasuhan ng Estafa

NAHAHARAP sa kasong estafa ang sexy actress na si Francine Prieto at ina nito dahil sa umano'y pagbabalewalang bayaran ang tinatayang P150,000 halaga ng alahas na kanilang kinuha sa isang negosyante.

Kinilala ni HA Arnel Dalumpines, hepe ng Special Task Force (STF) ng NBI ang kinasuhan na sina Ana Marie Falcon, kilala sa screen name na Francine Prieto at ina nitong si Amelia Falcon.

Ang pagsasampa ng kaso laban sa mag-ina ay bunsod sa reklamo ni Barbara Tolentino, 31, may-ari ng BIC Fine Jewelry ng 116 Doctor Alejo St., Sta Ana, Manila

Ayon sa reklamo ni Tolentino kay Dalumpines, kumuha ng isang set ng jewelry si Amelia sa kanya na umabot sa halagang P150,000 noong pang Mayo 2007. Si Francice din umano ang namili ng mga alahas na kinabibilangan ng hikaw, singsing at mga bracelet at siya rin umano ang gumagamit.

Nang singilin umano ni Tolentino ang mag-ina, nag-isyu umano sila ng 14 piraso na post dated check gayunman tumalbog lahat dahil close account na umano ito.

Pinadalhan ng subpoena ang mag-ina subalit kahapon, tanging si Atty. Rommel Oliva, abugado ng mag-ina ang nagtungo sa tanggan ni Dalumpines at nangakong babayaran nila ito sa loob ng isang linggo.

Ryan , dismayado sa trato ng dos

NAGREREKLAMO ang fans nina Judy Ann Santos at Ryan Agoncillo sa naging ending ng Ysabella at hindi nila naintindihan kung bakit pinatay na naman ang character ng TV host-actor.

Double-dead daw ang character nito't twice pinatay at ang hindi maganda, ang dalawa ang sinisisi ng kanilang fans sa nagtapos na teleserye.

Ang akala ng fans, kagustuhan nina Judy Ann at Ryan ang ending na hindi sila ang magkakatuluyan. Last project pa naman ito ng dalawa at mukhang matatagalan pa bago sila muling mapanood sa serye ng ABS-CBN.

Para malinaw ang lahat, ipinarating namin kay Ryan ang reklamo at galit ng fans sa kanya at kahit nasa Amerika pa'y sumagot ito.

Heto ang kanyang pahayag: “Hindi kami ang namili ng ending ng Ysabella. Ako pa ba ang tatangging magkatuluyan kami ni Juday sa kuwento? Imposible 'yun! “Pre-set na ang ending nu'ng i-present sa amin. Masakit na dinouble dead ako sa kuwento, pero 'yun siguro ang tingin ng management na magandang mangyari sa akin. Inuulit ko, hindi ako, and not even Juday, chose the ending. That was how management regards our team-up siguro.”

Heto pa: “It's not also true that we don't want to work together. We still have film commitments with Regal and OctoArts together. Funny, but after d successful SSS & Ysabella, ang ABS ang may planong paghiwalayin kami ng soap opera. To think na unlike Sa Piling Mo, with Juday and Piolo (Pascual) and the new soap with Derek (Ramsey) and Juday, wala pa kaming soap na kami talaga ni Juday ang tinatayaan.

“Not Krystala dahl tatlo kaming pinackage na leading men ninaTJ Trinidad at Sid Lucero and not Ysabella which was sold as a Juday starrer with a triangle. In fairness to me, kailan kaya ako tatayaan ng ABS at magiging priority like other stars na sunud-sunod ang projects sa kanila?”

Pinag-react din namin ang manager ni Ryan na si Noel Ferrer na hindi rin natutuwa sa nangyayari sa kanyang talent.

Sabi ng text message nito: “I surely don't think that this is the price of loyalty and box-office hits.”

Ang maganda lang daw kay Ryan, hindi nawawalan ng options at lagi pang nag-i-excel.

Raymond Gutierrez to host "Pinoy Idol"

We heard, though unofficially, that GMA-7 has finally picked Raymond Gutierrez to host "Pinoy Idol" which will commence in March in its new home network in the country.

With this news comes the confirmation that Ryan Agoncillo (who successfully hosted "Philippine Idol" on ABC 5) has been taken in by ABS-CBN to host the second season of the network's answer to the reality talent search, " Pinoy Dream Academy ."

As it is Paolo Bediones got eliminated also from the list. We just don't know if Paolo takes it any harder since his game show "Whammy, Push Your Luck" with Rufa Mae Quinto on GMA 7 was not doing so well after it got clobbered by Kris Aquino's "Wheel of Fortune" during the pilot week of the game show on ABS-CBN.

This bit of news also puts to rest the long-circulating rumor that Regine Velasquez will be the one to host the said show. According to those in the know, the Idol guidelines carry that the host must not be a singer so Regine, basically, was disqualified right at the onset. So is Ogie Alcasid.

We heard that Raymond considers this latest development in his career as the greatest birthday gift ever accorded to him. He is just excited about his new hosting chore, which, in fact, is a highly-coveted position.

We tried to contact the Gutierrez's publicist Jun Lalin for details of this news, but he refused to say anything not wanting to preempt any move by the network.

In the meantime, let's all wait, with bated breath, the commencement of the local idol's second season in the Philippines in the next couple of months.

Sharon all-out for her ‘Fad’

MEGASTAR Sharon Cuneta is all out in her support for her uncle, Tito Sotto, who is running for senator. She reveals that she has volunteered to support the husband of her Auntie Helen, the youngest sister of her Mommy Elaine, whom she refers to as her "Fad" (for Father).

Tito, on the other hand, considers her as his "eldest daughter."

During the shoot of her ad for Sotto, she related to the press how the moment she got the green light for the endorsement, she immediately sent a text message to him.A few days before, she went to a presscon thrown by Regal’s Lily Monteverder for Sharon’s kumpare, Jinggoy Estrada, a reelectionist senator, but did not openly endorse him.

"’Yung kay Pareng Jinggoy, ’di ba, hindi pa ako makaano, I could not even say na ‘tulungan natin,’ ganu’n. "Pero the very minute talaga na I just got my go, which you know what, thank God, was the next day, I texted him (Tito Sotto) right away and said, ‘I just got my go, so please, please, can I volunteer to do a commercial with you or ganyan, whatever, ’di ba? ‘Yung hanggang kung puwede ’yung picture namin nasa lata, baso, pamaypay, tarpaulin, anything," she reveals.

Sharon says she has always been close to the family of her "Fad," who has four kids, three girls (Apples, Lala, the youngest Ciara) and one boy, Gian, who is running for councilor in the third district of Quezon City. "Sabi ko, ‘daddy, sorry, kasi ngayon lang. Sabi ko, I just want you to know that I don’t take your treating me as your eldest daughter very lightly. In other words, dinidibdib ko ’yon mula nu’ng pagkabata. "Sabi ko nga, sorry po, ngayon lang, kasi nahihiya rin ako mula nu’ng tumakbo siyang vice mayor, senador, ’di ba, super lakas siya, tingin ko, I was never needed.

"Tapos ang sagot naman niya, ‘alam mo naman, ayokong nang-aabala.’ Oo nga naman, dapat ako ang nagpupumilit," she further reveals. "Actually kahit nung last election, naalala n’yo yun? Hindi ako nakasama sa kampanya kasi kumakampanya rin si Kiko. Pero bawat lugar na pupuntahan namin, kinakampanya ko rin siya. Tapos nire-report ko sa kanya. ‘Da, in-announce ko rin po kayo.’ Kung saan-saan kami nakakarating nun."

She also praised Tito for being a good family man.

"Hindi naman kaya ni Auntie Helen na palakihin lahat ang kanilang mga anak. Tumulong talaga si Fab. Talagang haligi siya ng pamilya."

Tito says he considers it a boost that no less than one of the country’s biggest stars is endorsing him. Sharon joins other stars, including Tito’s brother Vic Sotto, friend Joey de Leon, hosts Boy Abunda and Kris Aquino, in supporting him.

American police officer makes Pokwang happy nowadays

Feeling ni comedienne Pokwang, ang haba-haba ng buhok niya! Kasi may isang foreigner na nagkagusto sa kanya nang mag-show siya sa U.S. kamakailan, kasama ang ilang co-talents niya sa ABS-CBN Star Magic. Siya ang police officer na si Ryan Navarro.

"Sa show namin sa Dallas, dun kami nagkakilala nang bonggang-bongga after ng show. Nanood siya ng show nung time na naka-duty siya. Natuwa siya siguro sa pinag-aarte ko sa stage, although hindi naman niya naiintindihan. And then after that, may inutusan siya, yung isa sa mga producers namin, nakisuyo siya para manghingi ng autograph sa akin. Tapos binigay niya yung number niya," kuwento ni Pokwang sa PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal) at iba pang entertainment press sa isang tsikahan last Wednesday, April 21.

After daw nilang magkakilala ay nakipag-date na si Pokwang kay Ryan kinabukasan.

"May free day kami kasi uuwi na kami the next day. Lumabas kami, may dalawang kasama ako from Star Magic. So yun, nag-bonding kami," aniya.

May communication pa rin ba sila ni Ryan?

"Tinatawagan niya ako, tapos nagti-text siya," tila kinikilig pang sabi ng komedyana.

Ano ang mga sinasabi ni Ryan sa kanya?

"Hindi ko maintindihan kasi English, e!" tawa ni Pokwang

Nagpaparamdam na ba si Ryan sa kanya?

"Ay, naku, ini-enjoy ko lang yung mga moment na ganito, yung kinikilig lang. Pero hindi mo alam kung ano talaga yung kalalabasan, di ba?"

May plano ba naman si Ryan na dalawin siya sa Pilipinas?

"Oo. Hinihintay niya lang yung schedule ko. Ayaw niyang sumabay sa trabaho ko. Gusto niya kung kelan ako maluwag, dun siya pupunta rito," sabi ni Pokwang.

Kahit paano ay may nalalaman naman daw si Ryan tungkol sa Pilipinas dahil nagbabasa siya tungkol dito.

"Gusto niyang pumunta sa Corregidor [historical site sa Bataan]," banggit ni Pokwang.

So, sasamahan niya sa Corregidor si Ryan?

"Tingnan natin. Kung wala naman tayong gagawin o ano, why not, di ba?"

So talagang maglalaan siya ng oras para kay Ryan?

"Ay, aarte pa?" tawa na naman ni Pokwang

POKWANG'S DAUGHTER. May anak na teenager na babae si Pokwang. Ano ang reaksiyon ng anak niya nang malaman nitong may admirer na naman siyang isang foreigner after ng isang Canadian?

"Ay, dumi-dedma siya nang bonggang-bongga. Siyempre, hindi siya natutuwa. Alam mo naman, teenager na, di ba, kaya umaarte nang bonggang-bongga?"

Angelica, si Derek na ang gustong pakasalan

BAKLAIN ang des­kripsyon ni John Lapus kay Angelica Panganiban na nakapalitan niya ng puso’t katawan sa pelikulang Here Comes The Bride. Say pa ni John, dinaig pa raw siya ng young actress lalo na sa eksenang “hinahalay” nito ang ex-PBB housemate na si Tom Rodriguez.

“Importante kasi sa role ko na maka-score ako, kaya dapat may booking! Ha! Ha! Ha!” bulalas ni Angelica.

Deklara pa nga ni Angelica, si John talaga ang peg niya nang ma­ging bading na siya sa movie.

Pero teka, hindi ba siya nahirapan sa eksenang `yon na hinahalay niya si Tom?

“Noong una akala ko, madali lang. Pero kung seryosong trabaho na, mahirap pala! Kasi kailangang seryosohin. Totoo na pala kaya may challenge na kasama!” paliwanag ni Angelica.

Pero si Tom, aminadong takut na takot sa eksenang ‘yon na halos hubaran na siya ni Angelica!

“Never ko pa ka­sing ginawa ang bagay na ‘yon kaya takut na takot ako! Mabuti naman at nandiyan sila na tulungan ako. Eh, mabait naman si Angelica, kaya ‘yung experience na ‘yon, na­ging maganda!”

sabi pa ni Tom. Nagpakabading man si Angelica sa mo­vie, gaya ng role niyang ikakasal sa movie, pa­ngarap din ng young actress na mangyari sa kanya ‘yon at si De­rek Ramsay ang wish niyang la­laki na mapakasalan niya. “Hindi pa siya (De­rek) nagpu-propose. Talk show ko sa inyo pag me­ron na. Ha! Ha! Ha!” bading na bading na sey niya.

Willing na siyang pa­kasal? “Naka-stand by, ganoon! Ha! Ha! Ha!” tugon ni Angelica. Ano ang dream niyang wedding? “Hindi pa ako nag-i-imagine! Baka maiyak ako! Kapag nandoon na, saka ko ipapasok sa isip ko,” aniya. Pero napag-usapan na ba nila ni Derek ang kasal? “Minsan, sa lambingan pero hindi pa naman seryosohan,” sagot ng aktres. Pero gusto niyang paka­salan si Derek? “Oo naman!” deklara ni Angelica.

Lambingan kay Sam, itinanggi ni Gab

WALA pa rin daw nagiging kapalit sa puso ni Gabriel Valenciano ang ex-girlfriend na si Rachelle Ann Go.

Pero, hindi raw nangangahulugan `yon na hindi pa siya nakaka-move on.

Nag-e-enjoy lang daw siya ngayon sa kanyang buhay. In fact, hindi na rin nakatira si Gab sa bahay ng mga magulang dahil may sarilli na raw siyang place sa Eastwood. Isang reason daw siguro ‘yun kaya siya naiintriga na babaero.

“Siyempre, minsan you get lonely so, I invite friends, kumakain kami, lumalabas and most of them are girls. Ako naman, close naman ako and I can get-along with girls since I studied at a coed school. So, I’m single and when people see me with the company of girls, siguro iniisip agad nila is that I’m playing around.”

Itinanggi ni Gab na ang ipinalit niya kay Rachelle ay ang ex-PBB housemate na si Sam Pinto, kung saan sa Boracay nga raw ay marami ang nakakita ng ka-sweetan nilang dalawa. Bukod kay Sam, una muna siyang naintriga noong kasagsagan ng break-up nila ni Rachelle kay Carmen Soo.

Pero parehong itinanggi ni Gabriel na may something siya sa dalawa.

“They are just my friend. Carmen is a friend as well as with Sam. I cannot deny that they are both beautiful but they are just my friends. Promise. Sasabihin ko naman sa inyo kung talagang me­ron,” sey pa niya.

Kuwento niya rin, sa pag­labas-labas, talking with friends daw ang naging way niya para makapag-move on no­on sa nangyari sa kanila ni Rachelle kaya madali siyang naging okey.

Dugtong pa niya, okey rin naman daw sila ni Rachelle, nagkakausap naman daw sila like noong nasa ASAP pa ito. Pero hindi raw nila napag-usapan ang tungkol kay Kean Cipriano na nali-link naman dito.

“We never talked about it but I remember the one time na nag-usap kami was the fact that we told each other na kung saan ka masaya, du’n ka. I mean, hindi naman talaga impossible na hindi kami makakahanap ng someone in the future, ‘di ba? So, that’s what we told about each other.”

Aminado rin si Gab na sa kinahinatnan ng relasyon nila ni Rachelle, mas naging madali sa kanya ngayong isa na itong Kapuso at hindi na sila magkasama sa isang show tulad ng ASAP XV.

And speaking of ASAP XV, may bago silang ni-launch na album, ang Supah2Dance album featuring Gabriel with other ASAP Supah dancers na sina John Prats, Rayver Cruz, Mickey Perez and Kim Chiu.

Ara at Aiko, ‘di natulungan sa kampanya ni Jomari

DIRETSAHANG sinasabi ni Jomari Yllana na hindi lang love life ang wala sa kanya, kundi pati na rin sex life! Ang kawalan daw ng love life at sex life ang rason ng kanyang pagtaba ngayon.

Kuwento ni Jomari, paano raw siya magkaka-love life ngayon, eh nauubos daw ang oras niya sa pagsama sa kampaniya ng kapatid niyang sina Anjo Yllana (tumatakbong vice-mayor sa Parañaque) at Ryan (tumatakbong councilor).

Nahihiya nga si Jomari dahil hindi raw niya mapagbigyan na samahan sa kampaniya ang ex-girlfriend niyang si Ara Mina (tumatakbong councilor sa QC) at ex-wife niyang si Aiko Melendez (tumatakbong vice-mayor sa QC), dahil nga sa abala sa pagtulong sa kanyang dala­wang kapatid.

Pagdating sa career, ang project lang na Five Star Specials ni Ruffa Gutierrez sa TV 5 ang natanggap niya. At sa sob­rang busy raw niya, ni hindi na raw niya matandaan kung nagkaroon sila ng halikan ni Ruffa sa project na `yon.

“May kissing scene ba kami? Ang natatandaan ko ay ‘yung kissing scene namin ni Gretchen (Barretto) sa MMK. Ha! Ha! Ha!” say ni Jomari.

“Ah, wala pala ka­ming kissing scene ni Ruffa. Ang meron lang kami ay ‘yung naked office scene namin. Ako ‘yung bagong boss niya sa kuwento. It’s a light comedy,” dugtong na sabi niya.

Anyway, binalikan ni Jomari ang rason kung bakit matagal na siyang walang love life. Hindi raw kasi siya gumigimik, kaya wala siyang nakikilala.

“Hindi nga ako nagdi-date. Nagtatra­baho na lang ako. Pag pagod ako, umuuwi na lang ako sa bahay at natutulog. Minsan, nila­laro ko ‘yung aso na birthday gift sa akin ng anak kong si Andrei, si Chuwee,”pahayag niya.

Anyway, tungkol naman sa anak nila ni Aiko na si Andrei, nakikita raw niya na susunod ito sa yapak ni Aiko sa pulitika.

“Kasi si Andrei, parang ang type niya mag-model, ‘yung nakikita niya ang sarili sa billboard. Pero ‘yung showbiz parang wala pa. Isinasama siya ni Aiko sa mga rallies, nagsasalita siya sa stage. Sana nga magmana siya sa nanay niya. Gusto ko siyang maging pulitiko. Feeling ko type niya mag-politics kasi nagsasalita siya sa stage, hindi siya nahihiya,” kuwento pa rin ni Jomari.

Kris, galit kay Aljur

Kumpara sa reaksyon ni Aljur Abrenica, tila mas apektado si Kris Bernal sa nalalapit na “pagkabuwag “ ng kanilang loveteam, base sa kanyang mga binitiwang salita nang makausap namin siya.

May naghihintay na television project kay Aljur sa sandaling matapos ang airing ng The Last Prince, pero walang nababalitaan na follow-up project si Kris para sa kanya.

“Nakakalungkot dahil three years kaming loveteam. Tingin ko rin naman kasi, kailangan namin na mag-grow. Lahat naman ng mga ar­tist dumaraan sa paghihiwalay. Kami rin ni Aljur, kailangan din namin ‘yon para maka-expe­rience din kami na makatrabaho ng iba at makita nila kung kaya ba namin na mag-isa.

“Sa ngayon sa The Last Prince, si Carl Guevara ang kapareha ko.

Hindi ko alam kung tatagal (ang partnership namin), katulad ng kay Aljur. Marami na nga ang nagagalit na mga Al-Kris supporter.

Bakit daw paghihiwalayin? Na­ka­kabasa rin ako ng mga forum, marami ang naiinis. Ako kasi, nagpo-post din sa mga forum, ini-explain ko sa kanila na kailangan din namin ni Aljur ‘yon.

“Wala pa akong project, after ng The Last Prince. ‘Yun nga ang ikinaka-worry ko, Si Aljur may kasunod na. Paano ako? Ano ang susunod ko?

“Nagulat ako dahil hindi naikuwento sa akin ni Aljur na mag-o-Odessa siya. Sabi ko, ‘Bakit hindi mo ikinukuwento sa akin? Nagagalit ako sa’yo.’

“Ang dahillan ni Aljur sa akin, hindi niya ikinukuwento dahil hindi pa siya sigurado. Kumbaga, narinig lang niya kaya ayaw niya na i-confirm,” ang mahabang kuwento ni Kris.

Ang Odessa ang TV series na pagbibidahan ni Rhian Ramos at ang pro­ject na tinutukoy ni Kris na hindi sinabi sa kanya ni Aljur. Si Aljur ang love interest ni Rhian sa Odessa.

Carmen Soo's first film with Jericho postponed

Due to hectic schedules, Malaysian star Carmen Soo confirmed that the filming of her first movie project with actress Kristine Hermosa and former on-screen partner Jericho “Echo” Rosales has been postponed.

Rosales was Soo's leading man in now defunct hit television series "Kahit Isang Saglit."

"I don't know the real reason why but it's going to be delayed. Maybe they are finding the right combination for the 3 of us, the right time and to coordinate everyone's schedule. Echo is shooting a movie now... and I have to work on my Tagalog," Soo, who is now co-hosting hit afternoon show "Wowowee," said.

Learning the Filipino language is part of Soo’s preparations for the movie.

Tsismis Cristine-Willie ayaw mamatay

PERSISTENT ang rumor about Willie Revillame and Ara Mina's sister na si Cristine Reyes.

Nag-explain na ang dalawa, ang Wowowee host and Ara's sister, that they're just friends but we got sources to say otherwise.

Ang isa, ang half-sister daw mismo ni Willie ang nagkukuwento sa kan-yang officemate, na isang Pinoy Exchange regular, at nagku-confirm na silang dalawa nga (Willie at Cristine).

We had to check ano-ther source kung may ka-patid ngang babae si Willie dahil ang pagkakaalam namin, puro sila lalaki. Meron nga raw.

The other source, nagbabalita sa amin na regular ang bisita ni Willie sa set ng Ate, ang first produced movie ni Ara starring herself and her sister from the collaboration of Peque Gallaga and Lore Reyes.

Balitang nagbababad si Willie sa set kapag tapos na ito sa kanyang Wowo-wee hosting. We asked our source, baka naman si Ara ang binibisita ni Willie dahil special co-host ang aktres sa Wowowee now and again.

Hindi raw, ang sister daw.

* * *

MEANWHILE, tuloy pa rin ang isang problema ni Wil-lie Revillame.

Kalalabas pa lang ng ruling ng KBP na wala silang nakitang dayaan sa Wilyonaryo segment ng Wowowee, here comes two bodies who have a diffe-rent say about the matter.

Ang una na nga, ang Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) na nag-file ng administrative charges against ABS regarding the Wowowee scam last August 2007.

Lahat ng game shows kasi, under the supervision pa rin ng DTI kung hindi kami nagka-kamali.

Now, here comes the Mo-vie Television Review and Classification Board (MTR-CB) now under the current Chair Consoliza Laguardia has filed its own administrative charges against the show.

Now it's not just Wil-lie's say about this matter but also KBP.

By the way, matagal nang hindi miyembro ng KBP ang GMA dahil marami na itong naging reklamo sa ru-ling ng Kapisanan ng Brodkasters sa Pilipinas.

Oo nga pala, makukulit din ang mga taga You Tube ha, ibinalik nila ang Kita Mo.

* * *

HINDI Valentine concert ang Catch Me… Toni Gonzaga.

Alas dose ng tanghali, napakanta nang live si Toni ng kanyang bagong hit Catch Me sa press con ng kanyang first major concert Catch Me… Toni Gon-zaga this Feb. 9 sa Aliw Theater as produced by Nitram Entertainment at Manio Events.

This is staged directed by GB Sampedro from the musical direction of Marc Lopez at sina Sam Milby and Vhong Navarro ang magiging special guests niya for the concert.

A lot of the press are as-king kung bakit hindi ang kanyang boyfriend director na si Paul Soriano ang nag-direk ng concert.

Una, commercial director daw kasi si Paul, hindi concert director. Ikalawa , natatawang sagot ni Toni, hindi naman daw kasi ito Valentine concert, nagka-taon lang na best date ang Feb. 9 for her to stage her first major concert. Siguro raw kapag nag- Valentine concert na siya next year, baka mag-try magdirek ang boyfriend niya.

* * *

DALAWA ang bagong ka-kasa sa mga grade 5 today.

Hanggang ngayon, wa-la pang nakaaabot ng one million question sa pinakabagong paboritong queiz show sa TV na Kakasa Ka Ba Sa Grade 5 hosted by the Chairman of the Blackboard na si Janno Gibbs.

Raymond Gutierrez to host "Pinoy Idol"

We heard, though unofficially, that GMA-7 has finally picked Raymond Gutierrez to host "Pinoy Idol" which will commence in March in its new home network in the country.

With this news comes the confirmation that Ryan Agoncillo (who successfully hosted "Philippine Idol" on ABC 5) has been taken in by ABS-CBN to host the second season of the network's answer to the reality talent search, " Pinoy Dream Academy ."

As it is Paolo Bediones got eliminated also from the list. We just don't know if Paolo takes it any harder since his game show "Whammy, Push Your Luck" with Rufa Mae Quinto on GMA 7 was not doing so well after it got clobbered by Kris Aquino's "Wheel of Fortune" during the pilot week of the game show on ABS-CBN.

This bit of news also puts to rest the long-circulating rumor that Regine Velasquez will be the one to host the said show. According to those in the know, the Idol guidelines carry that the host must not be a singer so Regine, basically, was disqualified right at the onset. So is Ogie Alcasid.

We heard that Raymond considers this latest development in his career as the greatest birthday gift ever accorded to him. He is just excited about his new hosting chore, which, in fact, is a highly-coveted position.

We tried to contact the Gutierrez's publicist Jun Lalin for details of this news, but he refused to say anything not wanting to preempt any move by the network.

In the meantime, let's all wait, with bated breath, the commencement of the local idol's second season in the Philippines in the next couple of months.

* * *

KC-Lino split-up confirmed

Our friend Noel Ferrer told us that KC Concepcion and Lino Cayetano have finally broken up. He said this was revealed to him by someone very, very close to KC. Reason remains unknown, however.

But could it be true that Lino has resumed seeing former girlfriend Bianca Gonzales? If it is, then maybe these two are destined to be together after all.

Remember they used to be an item before Bianca got "involved" with Zanjoe Marudo inside Big Brother's house a couple of years back which led to their eventual splitup when she got out of the house?

Maybe they believe that love is lovelier the second time around?

* * *

Marian a better actress - Mother Lily

Mother Lily Monteverde seems to be favoring the Richard Gutierrez-Marian Rivera tandem more than the Richard Gutierrez-Angel Locsin loveteam for whom she produced movies under her film outfit.

She was quoted during the press conference of Richard and Marian's new movie "Valentine" as saying that Marian is a better actress. In effect, our source said Mother Lily means that Marian has a wider range of acting depth, and can tackle both comedy and drama easily.

We hope that the Regal matriarch was not saying that just to spite Angel. It is no secret that Mother Lily has held a grudge against Angel for a long time now, since the question of an alleged existing contract with her had been brought forth as an offshoot of Angel's switching networks.

However, a lot are excited about the team-up of Richard and Marian, who are GMA's hottest properties at this time of their toprating primetime series. The timing they say is perfect, since both are unattached and will be together at a most romantic time of the year promoting their movie.

Let's wait and see.

Daphne also a fashion Icon

Host and TV producer Daphne Oseña-Paez invites us into her home for a close look at her stylish arsenal

Tell us when your love for fashion began. I was in kindergarten, and parents got me red patent leather maryjanes. I used it for my kinder graduation—white toga and red shoes. It didn't matter that I didn't have as many clothes as the other girls, but my mom always told me that my clothes were special and that I had to take good care of them.

Who or what inspires you to look good all the time? When I still in university in Canada , I always dressed a notch neater than my friends and classmates. While my friends were in Doc Martens, I'd be in Robert Clergerie shoes that I had saved up for. When I was a news reporter in Malacañang, I was always in little suits. I just think tat when you're working, it's important to put your best self forward. My job as a TV host requires me to look polished and fashionable. But my husband also inspires me to make the proper choices. He is my shopping buddy, my third eye. We have this inside joke when we shop: he always asks, “Would Angelina [Jolie] wear that?”

What is the secret to always looking polished? Keep it simple. Avoid over-embellishment. Always have one last look in the mirror. When in doubt, remove the item from your outfit. I'd rather be seen repeating a dress/ outfit than wear something different just for the sake of being different.

What one item in your closet would you save from a fire? My jewelry. They are all significant, either design-wise or for sentimental reasons.

Do you ever have “off” fashion days? Oh, just about every day, I have a fashion crisis. That's why I always end up wearing a shift dress. I really don't have time to worry to much about clothes; I've got two daughters—Sophia, 4, and Lily, 8 months. So usually in the mornings, after I give each kid a bath and get them ready for their day, I'm left wit 30 minutes to get myself ready. I rush out the door with wet hair and do my makeup in the car. Luckily, I have soooo many shoes. So that's how I make each dress look different—by switching shoes.

You're a fashion victim the day you wear… I think every item of clothing can be worn without looking like an FV. As long as you have the confidence and as long as it is appropriate.

If you had the power to swap closets with anyone at anytime, it would be… Cecile Zamora. She had a very distinct and individual style.

What is your style philosophy? I always aspire to be a minimalist but I'm tempted by jewelry, bags and shoes. So at the least I try to keep my clothes simple—clean lines, no frills. But I like to contradict myself sometimes and I wear loud prints, but still tailored. But I don't do flowy, frilly stuff.

This is why my favorite designer now is Joey Samson. He leans towards menswear/ men's-type tailoring, but when he applies is philosophy to the dresses he makes for me, the result is a genius dress. When I want a pretty dress or gown, I go to Richie Ortega. No one does pretty and beading as well as Richie. For everyday, I wear K & Company.

Wardrobe maintenance advice? Dry-cleaning is a must. Organize your closet. It's easier to get dressed when you see your inventory. Occasionally edit your wardrobe—give away or sell what you are no longer using.

Bags Black Chanel 2.55, the Celestina Batanes Tiger, and the Goyard Croissiere.
“I'm a relatively new luxury bag convert. When I realized I was practically spending as much by buying ‘disposable' inexpensive bags, I learned to appreciate better bags. I stick to classic and more structure pieces.”

Neckpieces
“I've been collecting antique hand-painted enamel medallions. Some date back to the early 1900s. They were popular in Manila after the women stopped wearing the Maria Clara. My personal collection consists of antique medals. Since my viewers (from F, Urban Zone and ANC Life) saw my charm necklaces, they started ordering. Now I have an entire collection of new hand-painted enamel medals set in 14K gold of my design. There are available by order online ( www.daphneosena.com) .”

Angel, Rica at Pokwang testigo kina Piolo at Sam

ala si Ate Lolit Solis sa Manila Regional Trial Court nang dininig uli ang kasong libelo na isinampa laban sa kanya nina Piolo Pascual at Sam Milby, na present kahapon nang umaga.

Aware si Piolo na wala si Ate Lolit, kaya hindi raw siya nag-expect na magkikita sila ng kontrobersiyal na manager, na nag-claim at siyang sumulat na nakita sila ni Sam sa coffee shop ng Hotel Sofitel nu'ng Oct. 12.

Ipinrisinta kahapon ni Atty. Joji Alonso (legal counsel nina Sam at Piolo) ang sampung witnesses kasabay ng kanilang sinumpaang mga salaysay na nakita nila ang dalawang aktor sa oras na sinasabi ni Ate Lolit na nakita silang magkasama.

Naroon sina Pokwang (na nandu'n daw sa coffee shop bandang 4 p.m. at wala raw siyang napansing nandu'n sina Piolo at Sam);

Si Angel Locsin (na kasama raw si Piolo sa Timex Watch pictorial); si Ate Cristy Fermin (na nakita raw si Piolo na dumaan sa main lobby ng ABS-CBN); at si Rica Peralejo (na nakasama raw si Piolo sa gym bago magtungo sa Timex watch pictorial).

The rest ay road manager ni Piolo, isang UP professor na nag-interpret sa sinulat ni Ate Lolit, at ang hairstylist ni Sam.

Tinanong namin si Piolo. Sabi kasi ni Ate Lolit, patawarin na siya, dahil matanda na siya. Christians pa naman sila ni Sam.

Gusto ba nilang makita ang 60 years old sa kulungan?

“Sino naman ang may gusto ng gano'n, 'di ba? Hindi naman siya makukulong, sabihin lang niya ang totoo. All we need is retraction, and from there, let's see!” sey ni Piolo.

Hanggang kelan kaya ang isyung ito? Mag-1st anniversary kaya ito sa October 12?

* * *

BLIND item: Naku, eh, matagal nang bading ‘yan, ayaw lang umamin at lumantad. Ibina-blind item pa ba 'yan?

'Yan siguro ang sasabihin n'yo sa amin 'pag nalaman n'yo kung sino ang aming tinutukoy.

Eh, ayaw pa ngang maglantad ng lola n'yo. Kasi nga naman, 'pag lumantad siya, hindi rin siya sure kung may trabaho pang naghihintay sa kanya.

Eto na lang bago sa kanya ang itsitsika namin. Alam n'yo bang “bottom” ang tinutukoy naming young tv host-actor? Bottom, as in, “pauring” siya.

Papikit-pikit pa raw ang lola n'yo kapag “ine-enternal examine” siya ng ka-partner.

Naku, 'wag na tayong magtaguan pung, dahil knows n'yo naman kung zino ziya, 'no!

* * *

Hindi namin alam kung paano nakuha ng Kimerald fans ang aming cellphone number.

Wala silang tigil sa kate-text sa amin para sabihing niloko ni Gerald Anderson ang kanilang idolo na si Kim Chiu.

Syota na raw ni Gerald ngayon si Empress Schuck. Gano'n?

Ayaw nina Dino Imperial at Enchong Dee ng ganyan.

caregiver

Sharon already has a full schedule for the shoot of “Caregiver.” They are set to leave for London on February 15 where 75% of the film would be shot. Direk Chito wants to finish all the Philippine scenes of the movie so when they come back from London , post production work could already start... Robin Padilla teams up for the first time with Ai Ai delas Alas. This fresh combination will make the big screen come alive with rollicking comedy and edge-of-your-seat action in Viva Films' first offering for the year, Ikaw Pa Rin. It's the story of veterinarian Baby Holmes (Ai Ai) who bumps into a simple fireman's...

Charice to meet Justin Bieber

Philippine singing sensation Charice on Sunday defended herself from criticisms that surfaced following her recent appearance in a popular gay bar in the United States to promote her current international single "Pyramid."

Charice, 17, told “The Buzz” in a live interview that she was surprised that some people made a big deal out of her appearance at Club 57. She said it was not the first time that she went to clubs in order to promote the remix version of Pyramid.

“Hindi lang ako ‘yong nagpro-promote sa mga club. Ganoon talaga sila sa US…. umaalis na po ako [after ng performance ko]. Nagpe-perform lang po talaga ako," she said.

Amid the issue, Charice was happy that Pyramid placed 4th on the US Billboard pop/dance club chart.

Charice also confirmed that her self-titled international album will be launched on “The Oprah Winfrey Show” on May 11, with Justin Bieber as a special guest. She said it will be her first time to meet Bieber.

She will also make a special appearance on “Good Morning America,” said Charice.

The launching of her debut album will take place a day after she celebrates her 18th birthday.

When asked about her birthday plans, Charice said: “Nasa New York [kami]. Baka pumunta sa amusement park with friends lang po and family po.”

Johan Santos laughs off sex video scandal

Pinoy Big Brother (PBB) Double Up 4th Big Placer Johan Santos is the latest victim of the perennial sex video scandal in show business.

According to rumors, a video showing a man masturbating is fast spreading online. The man is said to be the former PBB housemate.

In a text message sent to “The Buzz” host Joebert Sucaldito, Santos’s manager, Leo Bukas, denied that his talent was involved in any video scandal.

“Personal na tiningnan ni Johan sa internet ang nude photos at malaswa raw niyang video pero sa halip na magalit ay natawa na lang siya habang pinapanood ito,” said Bukas’s text message, which was read by Sucaldito on “The Buzz” Sunday.

“Maaaring kahawig niya ang lalaking nasa video at larawan, pero it’s very obvious na hindi siya ‘yon. Makikita ang pagkakaiba nila ng lalaki kapag pinanood nang buo ang video. Ipinagtataka lang ni Johan kung ano ang motibo ng taong nagpapakalat ng video. Handa naman siya na harapin ang mga ganitong intriga,” the talent manager added.

The manager also extended Santos's gratitude to his fans for their continued support.

He said: “Nagpapasalamat siya sa concern ng kanyang mga supporters, lalo na ang Johanatics at JoCath fans. Wala silang dapat ipag-alala dahil hindi apektado si Johan sa issue. Nagpapasalamat siya sa ‘The Buzz’ for giving him the chance na makapag-explain.”

Santos currently stars in the afternoon teleserye “Precious Hearts Romances Presents: Love Me Again.”

Angel Locsin, Chito Miranda are just friends

Angel Locsin and “Parokya ni Edgar” front man Chito Miranda have put an end to persistent rumors that they are dating.

During the launch of Locsin’s bar, both the actress and Miranda maintained that they are just friends. Miranda added that they are “part of a big group.”

The band vocalist also dismissed accusations that he is a bad influence.

“Hindi ako B.I. kay Angel. B.I ako sa lahat. Best influence, hindi lang kay Angel,” Miranda said, a remark supported by Locsin.

Locsin, who just turned 25 on April 23, also brushed off rumors that she challenged her former talent manager, Becky Aguila, to a fistfight because the latter was allegedly spreading lies about her.

When sought for comment, Aguila said in a text message sent to “The Buzz:” “Maayos ang paghihiwalay namin ni Angel. Wala kaming issue.”

Locsin called on her detractors to stop spreading rumors about her, including her purported drinking problem.

She said: “Positive naman tayo para masaya naman. Huwag ninyo naman akong gawing depressed. Gusto kong maging masayahing tao. Wala naman akong ginagawang masama sa inyo.”

“Good vibes na lang ako. Ayoko ng mag-entertain ng mga negative [vibes],” she added.

Locsin will be paired with John Lloyd Cruz in an upcoming ABS-CBN teleserye

Pokwang checks background of American suitor

The ace comedianne shared that suitor Ramon Navarro, 29, is divorced and works as a police officer in the United States.

“Mabait naman daw… Maligaya ako dahil may inspirasyon na. Titingnan muna natin kung saan ito hahantong. Sana love talaga hanap niya, hindi account. Laughs,” the “Wowowee” host said.

The 2, according to reports, met when the singer-host staged a concert in the US recently. Navarro introduced himself to Pokwang backstage after her performance. They exchanged numbers and are now communicating regularly through text messages, reports added.

Pokwang said Navarro would regularly watch her shows on ABS-CBN via the internet.

She also disclosed that the Mexican-American prohibited her from doing daring roles after he learned that she is part of the remake of “Temptation Island,” a sexy-comedy-drama film in the 80s.

Young actress Andi Eigenmann has been tapped to play one of the major roles in the upcoming Regal Films movie.

Pokwang said: “Ako ‘yong karakter ni Deborah Sun…. Sabi niya, ‘No kissing scene.’ Haaay, nakakakilig, di ba? Parang sa kanya lang ako. Chos! Laughs.”

“Pero ‘yong concern niya wow! Sabi ko magbabali-baliktad lang ako doon. Kung ayaw niya talaga, ako na lang sana ‘yong baklang kinain nila sa pelikula. Laughs,” she added.

Pokwang said she hopes her daughter will accept Navarro. “Sabi ko kasi sa kanya, ‘Iiwan mo rin naman ako kapag malaki ka na…Paano naman ako, di ba? I deserve to wear a wedding gown chos! Laughs.”

Reports said Navarro is planning to fly to the country soon to see the “Wowowee” female host. Pokwang said she will decide if she wants to settle down by then.

ANOTHER WARDROBE MALFUNCTION?

[PHOTO AT LEFT - Beauty pageant contestants such as Ella Castillo (left) and Kimberly Brandon must show grace under pressure]

MANILA, APRIL 24, 2010 (STAR) STAR BYTES By Butch Francisco - Last year’s Miss Bikini Philippines competition yielded such promising hopefuls that some of the contestants were again drafted to enter other beauty pageants this 2010.

Ella Castillo, an Alma Concepcion look-alike, who was a finalist in the 2009 Miss Bikini contest, tried her luck in the recent Binibining Pilipinas (the one with the controversial Venus Raj) and ended up in the Top 10 — not bad since Stella Marquez had a good harvest of candidates this year and the competition was tougher than usual.

In the Miss Earth Philippines pageant scheduled tonight, the winner of last year’s Miss Bikini Philippines-International, Kimberly Brandon, is said to be among the favorites to win the crown (another one in her growing collection of beauty titles).

When she returns to relinquish her duties as Miss Bikini Philippines on May 1 at the Aliw Theater, I’m sure she will heave a sigh of relief because she doesn’t have to compete on that stage. The arena this time will have shapelier bodies and more beautiful faces compared to last year and even in 2008 when this Slimmers World International-sponsored pageant began (no offense meant to previous batches).

This year’s candidates — 24 in all — were introduced to the press last Wednesday evening in a pre-pageant presentation held at the theater of the RCBC Plaza. (The winner on coronation night will be sent to the Miss Bikini International contest to be held later this year either in China or Vietnam.)

Looking at the contestants parading in their two-piece swimsuits, you notice that there are some who resemble movie stars. One looks like Glaiza de Castro, but slightly taller.

Why, there’s even a Pinay version of Debbie Reynolds, but who in this generation knows her? Okay, she’s the mother of Carrie Fisher. I hope the name already sounds familiar to today’s youth.

Oh, and how can I forget the Angelica Jones dead-ringer? There’s nothing wrong with that. Angelica is very pretty and sexy — and so is this Miss Bikini Philippines contestant. But I didn’t say that this bet sounded like the controversial entertainment personality, who once declared on television (in my old show in ABS-CBN) that: “I am not a GR.”

Most of the Miss Bikini Philippines candidates this year actually speak well (which speaks well of what’s in their head). During the introduction and even in the interview portion, there were no fumbles that all of us love to see in beauty pageants.

Some of the girls even traded jokes with the hosts for that evening, disc jockeys Sheryll Crystal and Christian “Slyde” Ardiente.

The proceedings went very well (I had fun, especially since I had a reunion that night with Nelson Canlas, who was once head writer for Startalk) and the evening concluded without a glitch — save for one incident: Another wardrobe malfunction.

In the talent portion, a delicate area of the participant’s upper body partly slid out of her top while doing her dance number. To the organizers’ relief, she was wearing what wardrobe experts now call “niplets.” It turned out that Slimmers World International vice president Helen Camacho had a sixth sense that this may happen and instructed all the contestants to put on these safety devices. Such wisdom.

If ever anything comes out on the Internet, I have to say this early that this picture was photo-shopped because we were there as witnesses — and we were in the front row. The contestant had that “covering” when that happened. Whew!

Ms. Camacho surely must have heard about the Anne Curtis incident — and poor Anne, she suffered from the meanness of some people who posted that picture on the Internet without thinking that they, too, have females among their family members.

Fortunately, something positive could still come out of the worst scenario in life: Anne’s experience served as lesson to a lot of young women today — they now all wear protection. And they have to thank Anne Curtis for this.

Don’t worry, Anne. We all know it was an accident and in spite of what happened we will always look at you with utmost respect.

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THE YODEL KING: FRED PANOPIO, 71

MANILA, APRIL 24, 2010 (STAR) The “yodel king” is dead. He was 71.

Fred Panopio (photo), who popularized the song Pitong Gatang (theme song of a ‘60s FPJ movie), died of cirrhosis of the liver at 4 o’clock on Thursday afternoon, April 22, at the Capitol Medical Center where he was confined.

Aside from the classic song, Panopio was also the voice behind other hits, including Markado, Tatlong Baraha and Kawawang Cowboy, which are also the theme songs of hit movies.

He was the composer of the radio jingle Gloria, Gloria, Labandera (also a TV commercial) and Bilmoko, another TV commercial.

He is survived by his wife “Buliglig,” only daughter Jane and one grandchild.

His remains lie at the Greenpark, Pasig City. Burial date will be announced as soon as Jane arrives from Japan where she works. She’s married to a Japanese.

REGINE: TURNING 40 TO THE BEAT OF SALSA

Totally explosive, totally exciting, totally exposed, totally exclusive and totally extreme. That sums up this afternoon’s edition of Startalk (on GMA, after Eat, Bulaga!) which features extremely controversial stories Vic Sotto who will make an “astounding revelation,” Arci Muñoz “live” on her ex-flame Kean Cipriano (of Callalily), Katrina Halili and Dr. Vicki Belo on their close encounter during a recent court hearing, and Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera also “live” on the real score between them. And many more. Do tune in.

• Also not to be missed is the documentary on the assassination of Sen. Ninoy Aquino on the History Channel, airing on May 2, and produced by Kara Magsanoc Alikpala’s company which is the first Filipino team to be commissioned by the channel to do a special project.

• Yes, it was Sen./Vice Presidentiable Loren Legarda (photo) and her son Lean who were standing at the MRT from Makati to Timog Avenue in Quezon City, the other day, in a rush to be on Arnold Clavio’s radio program on dzBB. Loren beat the traffic but she arrived a few minutes after the show so her interview was taped and aired yesterday. Standing beside Loren, also holding on to the handrail, was a girl not yet of voting age. During their chat, Loren learned that the girl was a good singer and that they had the same favorite song, A Certain Sadness (by Astrud Gilberto). Loren asked the girl to sing it and she got an approving nod from the other passengers. “Akala ko po suplada kayo,” the girl told Loren. “Hindi po naman pala.”

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Contrary to what everybody must have expected, Regine Velasquez spent her 40th birthday Thursday (April 22, Taurus) simply and quietly, far from the Manila crowd. She and her family hied off to Bohol last Monday, April 19, and stayed for four nights at the Panglao Island Nature Resort (PINR) in Panglao, a virtual paradise which has a breathtaking view of sunrise and sunset, and which is so serene that, as I’ve been saying, you could hear observe yourself soul-search while listening to the rhythmic beating of your heart.

Regine’s beloved Ogie Alcasid and his family flew in a day after and the two families had a grand time celebrating. During the first two days, they went around Bohol with Marlyn and Nerissa as tour guides. Among the scenic spots they visited were the Chocolate Hills, The Bee Farm, the old churches (including that in Baclayon, the hometown of Cesar Montano who is in Bohol with his family campaigning for his bid as governor of the province) and the Loboc River which they cruised while enjoying a yummy lunch hosted by Tessie Labunog-Sumampong.

On her birthday, the Velasquezes and the Alcasids had lunch at the resort’s Spa, hosted by Raymond Ong and his sister Gretel. The Ongs own and manage the resort and other businesses besides, including the Metro Mall and the Metro Hotel located in the heart of Tagbilaran City.

In the evening, they partook of a buffet dinner at the KTV Room while being serenaded by PINR band. It was salsa night, a fitting way for a Pop Queen to welcome “40” when, they say, life actually begins. And then the well-wishers sang Happy Birthday to Regine before they spent the rest of the night with Karaoke.

It was an exclusively family celebration, exactly what Regine wished for.

They came back yesterday.

Middle of next month, Regine and Ogie, together with Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera, will embark on a month-long concert tour of the US and Canada.