Syobis Philippine Showbiz Entertainment News, TV, Movies, Music, Videos, & Pinoy Celebrities

Young actress Rhian Ramos continues to stake her claim to the bigtime as she stars in the remake of a Koreanovela well-loved and remembered by the Filipino TV audience. The original Koreanovela Stairway to Heaven hit the airwaves not 3 years ago and was an instant hit with the afternoon TV-viewing public. Rhian now teams up with Dingdong Dantes, one of today’s most sought-after leading men, as they bring the story of Cholo and Jodi back to life.

The plotline for the series is in itself Cinderella-esque, a story filled with elements of childhood love, cruel stepmothers and stepsisters, mistaken identities, and love triangles — sure to strike a note with us Pinoys. And with the beautiful Rhian Ramos playing one of the lead roles, what more could you ask for?

Rhian Ramos, or Rhian Denise Ramos Howell, has become a screen favorite and is starting to make her mark as one of the most beautiful faces her network can put in front of the camera. In fact, many would argue that she may have one of the prettiest faces in all of Philippine showbiz. Already a top endorser for numerous products, hers is a face that takes very easily to billboards and front covers of magazines. She came into the industry at age 15 and now she has worked her way into the hearts of many Filipinos.

A very grounded individual

It is refreshing to see, from her numerous interviews and guestings, that there is a very grounded individual behind the pretty face. She is quick to deny any rift and tension between her and Marian Rivera, herself a top leading lady in the industry and girlfriend of Dantes. Many have been trying make an issue of the possibility that Dantes may fall for her as they work together. She has quickly put the issue to rest, and with her most disarming of smiles, allowed us to concentrate on this new project — which many are saying could make or break her career as a top actress.

(As an aside, I don’t really know why men like Dingdong Dantes are given license to “fall for” just about anyone. But hey, that’s just me.)

The story and the role could be very taxing for this young actress, as the plotline is filled with heavily emotional scenes and wet-your-hankie sessions. Ramos seems to agree with the effect this project might have on her career, but is enthusiastic about the challenge. After all, she probably wants to prove once and for all, to herself and to her critics, that she is a serious actress and that she has the talent to back up that claim.

More Rhian Ramos photos at this link.

Whatever the outcome, this “trial-by-fire” of sorts is not going to faze Rhian Ramos, that’s for sure. Judging from what is shown, jury may still be out on whether she’s leading lady material. But from all initial evidence — her TV castings to date — and all the issues linked with her, like that sex scandal thing, which she came through just fine — she probably will turn out just fine indeed. If she goes through this and handles herself well, her network will start counting themselves very lucky to have her on board.

Stariway to Heaven is set to premiere on September 14, 2009, primetime on GMA Network.

By Valerie Tort

The bubbly yet sophisticated Mariel Rodriguez graced the heavy spotlights as a commercial model and gradually walked her way in becoming an actress.

Before Mariel’s hosting stints, she landed a couple of commercials for beauty, food, and other consumer products such as Clean and Clear, Close Up, and Pizza Hut. With hardwork and lots of guts, she flew off the Philippines for an audition to the Singaporean-based TV series Rouge, which was aired on MTV Philippines. Rouge started her acting career not only in Singapore but also here in Manila.

As soon as she came back to the Philippines, Mariel Rodriguez joined the team of the adventurous and thrill-seeking hosts of GMA7′s Extra Challenge. Aside from a couple of TV guestings for teen-oriented programs, Mariel eventually graced the MTV Pilipinas studio and joined the other MTV veejays’ wacky and cool stints for the music lovers.

With her mindset to do the best in every work given to her, it is no wonder why Mariel Rodriguez became a successful TV personality in her three-year stay in the entertainment industry.

“In every endeavor I do, I promise myself to do my best. Everytime I’m given a job whether as host or actress, I give my everything to get the job done,” Mariel said in a newspaper article.

Maria Erlinda Termulo is popularly known as Mariel Rodriguez to her fans and to the avid viewers of ABSCBN’s noontime game show Wowowee and the Filipino-pioneered reality show Pinoy Big Brother. Full of hopes and dreams, Mariel Rodriguez sketched her career path at the start of her acting and hosting stints. The goal-oriented host aspired to be one of the Philippine actresses she admired in the movies and the television shows.

Mariel began to visualize herself as a villain in her younger years.

“When I was young, I always liked playing kontrabida—Cherie Gil roles. I think I could do an okay villain,” she said. On the contrary, the mainstream entertainment industry accepted Mariel Rodriguez as the funny girl-next-door who radiated a vibrant aura that contaminated everyone who saw her.

“When I entered showbiz I really thought that I was going to do more of acting, and that’s really what I wanted to do from the start. I wanted to be a dramatic actress,” she said. “But lately, I’ve leaned more towards comedy and hosting. It is really far from what I wanted to do but if I was given a choice, I want to do drama and be in movies. I also want to be in a teleserye,” the model-turned-host added.

Reflecting from her first acting stint to her latest Maalaala Mo Kaya guesting, she saw how she was transformed from the playful performer of Rouge to a serious actress in the Philippine primetime.

“The Mariel in Rouge? All I cared about was looking good in Rouge. I swear. Whenever I would watch a scene I’d say, ‘Oh no, I have no lip gloss there,” or, like ‘Oh no, that’s not my best angle,’” she recalled.

“I didn’t feel conscious, even when I had a crying scene and my face got even more distorted (referring to her role in Maalaala Mo Kaya). I was dedicated to give justice to my role as compared to the Mariel in Rouge. I’m definitely more mature now,” Mariel said.

Mariel felt that she owed her biggest break to Pinoy Big Brother and learned a lot from the experience. “I’m really lucky that my manager is also a host so he really guided me every step of the way,” she said.

From all these work experiences Mariel had, she knew that there is still something out there to be learned—whether it may be in the field of acting or another kind of hosting for a different kind of television show.

“I don’t think I’m on top. I’m still working my way,” she said.

Mariel Rodriguez is just blossoming as an actress. No wonder if she will once again captivate the audiences as they see her more serious side just like in Maalaala Mo Kaya.

Tags: Mariel Rodriguez, Philippine Celebrities, Philippine Entertainment News

by Valerie Tort

Iya Villania is one of the mainstream talents in the Philippine showbiz industry that started as a commercial and print ad model.

Her features that resembled like an anime figure is Iya’s stepping stone in becoming one of the hottest model and product endorser especially for Globe ads. Not only her stardom was due to the “anime look” but also her screen name Iya.

“Iya’s not my real name. It’s actually the name of an Anime character. They presented me as ‘Iya’ when I first appeared on TV because they thought the name suited me. I looked like an Anime character daw kasi!” Iya recalled.

‘Raelene Elaine Villania’ is her name known to some of her friends and classmates, ‘Bubba’ is her nickname with her family, and simply ‘Iya’ for her loving and supportive fans.

Music was close to her heart even in her formative years. She loved participating in school concerts, church choirs, and would sing to her family during one of her “home concert performances.” The bubbly Iya continued her passion for music by performing on stage with one of the Philippine singing talent Geneva Cruz in a concert tour in her hometown, Australia. Since her mother was one of the people who made the show possible, she was xxx to do the front act of Geneva’s concert.

Luckily, she became one of the MYX VJs. “Being a VJ is, for me, the perfect job. I can be myself. I can do what I love doing. just playing around with music. It’s something that I’ve always wanted to do, because I used to see Donita Rose and I’m. like, ‘Wow, what she’s doing is so fun! I love music!.’”

Before becoming a VJ, a hosting job opportunity opened its doors along with numerous product endorsements and TV shows that made her shine.

“School ends in December in Australia and starts in June here in the Philippines. So for six months, I did nothing but attend VTR’s. At first, I felt bad because I wasn’t getting any callbacks. I even began to think something was wrong with me,” Iya recalled.

Thanks to Arnold Vegafria, the talent manager who spotted her in Australia and to her perseverance in going to endless VTRs, she landed modeling stints for Globe, Sketchers, Coca Cola, Bench, Palmolive, and Silka Papaya.

Soon, she was launched as one of the GMA7 talents in their youth-oriented show Click. After some time, she landed a hosting gig for Gamechannel and a full-blown acting career in her debut movie A Beautiful Life. She still embraced acting with open arms, even if her first love was music.

“I didn’t quite dream of being in showbiz when I was a kid,” the host of the Sunday primetime show U Can Dance said.

Iya Villania is also a goal-oriented person even outside the Philippine showbiz industry. She knows what she wanted after her career is over.

“It’s fun, but it’s a dangerous business, really. There are new people constantly coming in. A lot of people in show biz my age make the mistake of thinking that it’s gonna be here forever, that they can live off show biz for the rest of their lives. Some of them stop pursuing their education,” Iya said.

Iya Villania made sure that she would be prepared when the time comes she needs to say goodbye to showbizness.

“I keep my priorities straight. I promised my family and myself that I’d study. So I’m keeping my word. I like studying,” Iya said.

The model-celebrity made sure she can juggle up her school commitments alongside her modeling, hosting, and acting stints.

“The reason I took up AB Psych in De La Salle University is because if ever I can become a full-time student again, and I really want to take up Law or Medicine, I can always shift to BS. I’d like to be a doctor, or maybe anything that has to do with helping people,” Iya confessed her plans after showbizness.

“I’m scared to dissapoint my parents and my priority is to finish my studies. That’s the reason why I’m picky with my commitments,” Iya Villania said.

Studying is also a therapeutic activity for the model-host-actress. Keeping in touch with her normal life is one of the best gifts school can give her.

“I think it’s probably one of the biggest reasons why I stay real and also feel so normal. because I’m around so many students and not artistas, So It makes me feel like I’m one of them, because I am. The only difference is that I work on TV. and people see me on TV,” Iya confesed.

Iya Villania is a real and normal person valuing education and every blessing she did receive.

At the end of her typical day, Iya bows down her head and thanks the Lord for all the blessings she received.

Tags: Iya Villania, Philippine Celebrities, Philippine Entertainment News

By Phoebe Dorothy Estelle

More and more bachelor actors become unwed fathers and award winning actor and businessman Marvin Agustin is one of them. One of Philippines’ top TV stars is proud being the father of fraternal twins – Santiago and Sebastian.

Indeed, the Asian Treasures star has carved successful careers both in the entertainment industry and restaurant business, even before his sons came. At an early age he took the responsibility of supporting his family while his father did his time in jail years ago.

Launched as member of Star Circle Batch two, Marvin immediately became a favorite in various teen oriented shows and his tandem with Jolina Magdangal marked smash hit projects both in boobtube and the big screen.

They did “Gimik,” “Labs Ko si Babes” “Hey Babe,” F.L.A.M.E.S. the movie” and “Kung Ayaw mo, Huwag mo”. Jolina and him re-teamed for the top rating program “I Love NY” aired at GMA last year.

His wacky personality was exposed further with his buddies Dominic Ochoa and the late Rico Yan in the sitcom, Whattamen of ABS-CBN.

But his first serious acting break was the mini series “Sa Sandaling Kailangan Mo Ako” where he was paired with Kristine Hermosa. He also demostrated his dramatic prowess in “Esperanza” where he played the brother of Judy Ann Santos.

The much deserved award finally came when he portrayed the character of former boxing champ Rolando Navarette in “Maalaala Mo Kaya.” He won Best Single Performance by a Lead Actor in 1st Golden Screen Entertainment TV Awards in 2004.

Since then, Marvin went on to appear in many award-winning movies including “Kutob”, which one gave him best actor trophies from Metro Manila Film Festival and Luna Awards.

Marvin The Businessman

Marvin was discovered in a restaurant where he worked as a waiter. Now, he is not only a TV and movie personality but also a restaurant and bar owner. He established Sumosam, Oyster Boy Bar, Café Ten Titas and managed a franchise of Mr. Donut.

“Walang hatian na nangyayari kasi both ventures (acting and entrepreneurship) are very close to my heart. Ini-enjoy ko pareho. You have to love what you’re doing para hindi siya maging trabaho,” Marvin answered on how he handled his showbiz career and businesses.

He considers his twins as his inspirations and guides to his many roles. And it seems his kids are his lucky charms, too.

“Ang kukulit na nila they’re turning two this year,” Marvin shared about Sebastian and Santiago.

After “I Love NY” and “Asian Treasures” he will play another challenging role in new teledrama “Mga Mata ni Angelita.”

In his latest flick, “Angels”, Marvin was able to work for the first time with film director Dingdong Dantes. Marvin says Dingdong was a good and very sensitive director.

Asked whether he would like to try directing, too: “Wala pa siguro right now. Ang dami ko pang bagay na dapat asikasuhin muna. Although gusto ko it’s been a dream. Pero saka na natin mare-realize iyan.”

Despite being a full-fledged dad, Marvin’s name is still being linked to beautiful young ladies like Pauleen Luna, Valerie Concepcion and Angel Locsin. He is being paired with his “Angels’ producer and “Asian Treasure co-star Angel and as rumor has it, they’re a hot items.

Marvin would not claim that they have relationship but he said Angel is a very close friend. Looks like there’s another inspiration for our boy…

Tags: Marvin Agustin, Philippine Celebrities, Philippine Entertainment News

By Phoebe Dorothy Estelle

Patrick Garcia is one the most misinterpreted actors in showbiz. The once Golden Boy of Philippine Cinema has been criticized as a snub and someone with attitude problem. However, the original teen heartthrob differed especially when it comes to his love with young singer-actress Jennylyn Mercado.

Compared to other young stars, Patrick stays away from any form of controversy. Even when he was still the sought after teen star in ABS-CBN, it was very rare that he was being interviewed for an intrigue. He would only be visible in live shows to perform and promote his shows or movies.

At a young age, Patrick became “crush ng bayan.” He was part of the youth show, “Ang TV,” where he first fascinated legion of fans that led to numerous meaty offers. He starred in remarkable TV programs such as “Mula sa Puso,” “Gimik,” “Tabing Ilog,” “Pangako Sa Iyo,” “Saan Darating ang Umaga,” and “Kampanerang Kuba.”

In the movies, his first top billing movie with the Divine Diva – Zsa Zsa Padilla, “Batang PX,” he bagged best actor awards from 14th Star Awards for Movies at the age of 16. He was also recognized by 8th Circle Citations for Films and 46th FAMAS as the German Moreno Youth Achievers Awardee.

His other best remembered films were “Separada,” where he was the son of Maricel Soriano and Edu Manzano, and “Madrasta” that gave him the Most Promising Actor from 6th People’s Choice Awards and Best Child Actor from FAMAS awards. In the said movie, he worked with Claudine Barretto, Zsa Zsa, Christopher de Leon and Megastar Sharon Cuneta.

“With ABS CBN, I owe them a lot because I was with them for a long time. When I left, I made sure that I left the right way. Kung baga wala akong kaaway, nagpaalam ako nang maayos. Now, here at GMA, I’m very thankful dahil kahit meron silang homegrown talents and stars, they still give me good roles. ”

When Patrick moved to GMA, he took the part of Richard Gutierrez’s best friend in “Captain Barbell.” Then he was cast in the recently concluded “Super Twins” where he was paired with fellow GMA transferee-Camille Prats and co–starred with his real life girlfriend Jennylyn.

Reel and Real love interest

Patrick was paired with different leading ladies. His first screen partners were Anna Larucea and Paula Peralejo (sister of TV host-actress Rica). Paula and Patrick were one of the pairs in the memorable youth drama “Tabing Ilog.”

With Jodi Sta. Maria, he did “Saan Darating ang Umaga” and “Pangako Sa Iyo.” Then in “Kampanerang Kuba” he was one of the love interests of Anne Curtis.

Though he was linked to various female celebrities Patrick refused to talk about his love life on cam. Prior to Jennylyn he had a relationship with model-actress Bianca King.

In the trilogy movie “Angels,” Patrick was teamed up with Jennylyn for the first time. Their episode “Angel of Love” brings romantic story and memorable scenes.

“Doing this movie was memorable kasi I’m doing it with Jen and after a long time, I’m doing a film again (his last movie was ‘Mano Po III, My Love’), so basically it’s a memorable experience.

“noong una nakakailang kasi maraming tao ang nakatingin. Knowing that she’s my real girlfriend in real life di ba? But after a while naging komportable naman kasi kung ano man iyong eksena namin we tend to do it naturally.”

Unlike his past romantic involvements, Patrick is open with his feeling towards Jen. He is not shy whenever reporters talk to him about her and he supports Jen’s career. There was an intrigue about him and Mark Herras, Jen’s former love team and boyfriend, but Patrick denied there’s problem between him and Mark.

The three were supposed to work in Horror film “Tiyanaks” but it did not work out. On television, Patrick joins Mark’s fantasy series “Fantastic Man.

From the secretive Golden Boy, Patrick Garcia changes into a man who admits his true emotion. He exemplifies the ideal guy we often see in most romantic series, a lad with admirable personality.

Tags: Patrick Garcia, Philippine Celebrities, Philippine Entertainment News

by Phoebe Dorothy Estelle

Since her character soared high in GMA’s fantasy series, Mulawin, Angel Locsin has been unstoppable. Now, the bankable young actress tries her luck into more challenging tasks of her young career, producing a trilogy film called “Angels.”

Angel was originally a part of youth oriented show “Click,” that was her break. But through continuous hard work, it was not surprising at all that being in her early twenties, she already owns a Php16 million-worth property and has co-produced a Php20 million flick

“Pasalamat ako na naging smooth naman lahat. Mas naging maproblema noong planning, nu’ng binubuo namin ‘yung script, story conference, paghahanap ng mga director at ng mga artista. Nakaka-stress din iyong after ng pelikula, pagpapa-print at pag-e-edit, ang gastos nuon,” Angel says about her being a film producer for the first time.

She admitted that it was not easy to doing two tasks at the same time. She’s starring in the movie, top billing the “Angel of Mine” episode. “Angels” feature inspiring stories and today’s hot young actors actors as Jennylyn Mercado, Patrick Garcia and Marvin Agustin.

The “Asian Treasures” lead star noted that she prepared herself in the difficulty of her new venture. Asked which part of the production was the hardest, she retorts “Everything!”.

“Lahat! Iyong biglang magkakaroon ng problema. Kunwari, hindi available iyong ganyan (props) na laging may ganoon (conflict) pero buti nagagawan ng paraan at nasosolusyonan.”

The favorite TV heroine is very thankful to the people who supported her projects with her manager and co–producer Becky Aguila.

“Nagpasalamat ako sa mga kasama ko sa Angels kasi lahat sila naging professional, walang nale-late at walang nagre-reklamo. Lahat naging excited sa project, nakikipag-cooperate. Pati ang iba ko pang kasama sa trabaho gaya nina Raymond at Richard (Gutierrez). Tuwang tuwa ako sa kanila kasi sa ‘SOP,” pino-promote nila iyong Angels ‘di ba ang sweet-sweet nila.”

Producing another film is not impossible for her, but as of now that will have to wait.

The Well Loved Personality

Angel is a lady with top rating television series, top grossing films and several endorsements. In addition she’s part of those personalities who have diversified followers, ranging from children to adults. She has played the admirable “Darna” in the small screen then posed as FHM’s Sexiest Woman in 2005.

“Ang sarap ng buhay ng artista. Pupunta ka sa set, dapat alam mo na ang linya mo, may make-up ka na, bibihisan ka at aarte ka na. Dito (Angels) mahirap kasi artista ako at producer din ako, mahirap!”

Undeniably, Angel’s successful career is connected to her screen partnership with Richard Gutierrez whom she co-starred with in Mulawin and box office hit movies – “Let the Love Begin,” I Will Always Love You,” “Mulawin The Movie” and “The Promise.”

On the other hand she’s also a saleable endorser, she was able to work with ABS-CBN’s premier actor Piolo Pascual for a coffee commercial. In one interview, Piolo cited that he wants to do a movie with Angel.

“Ako din! Sobrang gusto ko ring makatrabaho si Piolo kasi magaling siya. Napi-feel ko na marami akong matutuhan kapag kasama ko siya.”

Angel shared that when they were doing their coffee ad, where they were shown as seducing each other, she couldn’t look to Piolo out of shyness. She was surprised afterwards when Piolo confessed that he felt the same.

Ange’s showbiz recognitions include the German Moreno Youth Award (FAMAS), Miss FAMAS Popularity and Princess of the Philippine Movies and TV (Box Office Entertainment Awards) also in 2005.

Life Outside Showbiz

After four top rating shows in a row, Angel is planning to take a break from her showbiz career for two months. She’ll take fashion design course in London, which according to her is a preparation for her future.

“Mahal ko ang ginagawa ko, hindi ako nagrereklamo pero gusto kong gumawa ng bagay na ikade-develop ko, para sa akin din naman iyon. Actually, para sa pamilya ko rin dahil ‘pag nagka-business ako sila rin ang makikinabang… Kailangan ko lang ayusin ang sarili ko para makagawa ako ng maayos na trabaho.”

The actress is determined to pursue her study and reportedly rejected another project. She clarified that it was a break for her to improve her craft as well as to empower her knowledge in other aspects.

Angel Locsin is simple lass, which aside from having heavenly face, curvaceous body, talent and achievements is also a woman who shows great love for her career, family with a clear outlook in life.

That’s more than we can say about other young artists of today.

Tags: Angel Locsin, Philippine Celebrities, Philippine Entertainment News

By Phoebe Dorothy Estelle

If you’re talking about a strong contender for best TV villain, Jean Garcia’s name must be in the list. The former member of “That’s Entertainment” who became best known as Madame Claudia Buenavista of “Pangako Sa Iyo” is now back in another anti-heroine role in “Impostora.”

“Dito (Impostora) mas mean ako na medyo parang komiks ang dating. So parating two levels up yung acting and two levels up everything.”

A Kuya Germs baby

Jean earlier career was greatly connected to German Moreno as she became part of the Master showman’s former shows GMA. After “That’s Entertainment”, she also hosted “GMA Super show” together with Lani Mercado, Jackie Lou Blanco, Maricel Laxa and Gretchen Barretto.

Mostly, Jean played supporting roles in her film projects but in her launching vehicle, “Impaktita,” she was paired with two of the most eligible guys of local showbiz, Richard Gomez and Aga Muhlach.

One of the highlights of her career and personal life was when she got pregnant with actor Jigo Garcia’s daughter. They didn’t end up as a couple but Jean proved that she could raise her daughter Jenica on her own.

At first she was hesitant to accept her role in PSI because she would play the mother of Jericho Rosales. Obviously, she made the right decision as the drama series turned into mania in 2002, not only here in the Philippines but also in other countries like Indonesia, Malaysia and South Africa.

“Kay Tagal Kitang Hinintay” was her sophomore series with ABS-CBN, which was also a top rater. She played Lady Morgana, the revengeful rival of the character played by Lorna Tolentino.

To break the stereotype, her last two primetime shows with channel 2 were non-villain characters. In “It Might Be You” she was the mentally ill Orlanda Lacuesta while in “Kampanerang Kuba” she worked again with her PSI archenemy Eula Valdez. Another project was the cooking show “Makuha Ka sa Tikim,” her last show with the station before she transferred to GMA 7.

Her new home immediately showered her with projects like the fantasy series “Majika” and “Atlantika”.

Jean is now proud and happy working in her new soap Impostora. She’s not only working with two premier actress of GMA – Sunshine Dizon and Iza Calzado but also with the award winning director Mario J. de los Reyes.

“I’m very excited kasi di ba nag- Majika ako sa kanila and then “Atlantika,” goodie-goodie ako. Ito, something different medyo kontrabida naman. I’m excited, I’m very happy of course, working with Mario J is always an honor.

“Working with him is really iba kasi blockings pa lang, talagang mararamdaman mo na he’s very good,” Jean muses. “He’s very supportive and very clear ang mga explanation niya about the characters.”

Her now high school graduate daughter, Jenica, is also part of “Impostora.” Jean imparted that she’s nervous about it but she trust her daughter.

“Hindi ako magiging stage mother. Kinakabahan lang ako for Jenika, siyempre kasi she’s my daughter. Malaki ang tiwala ko sa kanya na kaya niya kaya hindi ko siya pakikialaman sa puntong iyan ng kanyang pag-aartista. I’ll just be here beside here and guidance lang siguro.”

Jean has also another child named Kotaro, her son to a Japanese Businessman.

Admitting she’s loveless, Jean seemed blooming nowadays. She said being happy and contented are her secrets in maintaining her beauty. No wonder, she was tapped to become endorser of a leading women’s apparel, skin clinic and baby shampoo.

Despite being popular as her evil characters in top rating television shows; Jean is opening up to doing different roles. She can be a powerful villain or an effective lead star, this actress is ready to take on any role.

Tags: Jean Garcia, Philippine Celebrities, Philippine Entertainment News

by Valerie Tort

Heart Evangelista is one of the most familiar faces in Philippine television. Her defining moment in the entertainment industry transformed from an experimental teenybopper in a youth-oriented show and several shoe and apparel endorsements to a lady clad in low-cut dresses and sexier outfits in magazine photo shoots and primetime series.

The hardworking personality of the bubbly young star was based on her strongest desire is to fulfill her childhood dreams of becoming an actress.

“Ever since I was young, I wanted to act. I’ve been through a lot already. I auditioned and lined up and had trainings for so long and finally I’m here—it is like graduating from high school or grade school. I didn’t expect it to be this much. I just wanted to see myself on TV,” Heart said in an interview.

Heart Evangelista recently made a come back in the ABS-CBN talent management after she took a chance to manage her own career path together with the pool of talents managed by Genesis Entertainment. She had several TV guestings on ASAP and did new projects under the roof of ABS-CBN Star Magic.

“Hiram na Mukha” was featured in ABS-CBN’s Sineserye, a short TV series that brings back the memories of timeless classics and blockbuster movies that hit the big screen in the 80s and the 90s, this is a remake of the 1992 film starring Nanette Medved and Christopher de Leon.

Heart (Carissa) played Medved’s role together with her co-stars TJ Trinidad (Hugo), the plastic surgeon who transformed the monkey-looking Carissa into a lovely lady that looks like his deceased wife, and Geoff Eigenman (Mendez Pedrosa) played as the love interest of Carissa prior to her plastic surgery. i

After long hours of taping, Heart makes time to see her family and friends and bond with them. For Heart, it is important to spend time with your loved ones since time runs so fast to miss those precious memories with them.

“When I’m free, I need to be relaxed, I have to be with my family and friends, because time for me is gold. I go to a parlor, anything that can relax me physically, get a massage or get a foot spa,” she shared.

At a very young age, she knew that all her folks wanted was to protect her and keep her away from nasty rumors. Her parents’ image of the entertainment world was an environment full of temptations and bad influences that might ruin her studies and future.

“They said showbiz is magulo, and maraming intriga. But maybe it really depends on who you get involved with (in the business), so they didn’t want me to join showbiz at first,” Heart recalled.

“Kasi siyempre ang daming at stake before, like my studies. Some of the people that are in showbiz are wild. Sa tingin nila (her parents) I’d be molded into someone like that. So natakot sila. Pero naging okay na sa kanila,” the Philippine Idol host said.

Every step that Heart took was not easy especially if the main man in the house is objecting her daughter’s chance of a lifetime. She described her father as “super strict.” Still, Heart took a chance in persuading her father to agree with her terms and conditions: “If I don’t get in, never mind na. I’ll forget na.”

“But I did, so he didn’t do anything na. He just told me not to forget about my studies and not to change because I was earning my own money and everything,” she giggled while recalling the incident.

She was very lucky and happy to be discovered in a Body Shop store branch in Alabang while strolling with her sister. Her break as a product endorser began when she made a Rexona commercial and jumped in the bandwagon of actress wannabes on an audition for ABS-CBN’s Star Circle Batch 9. She honed her acting skills and was molded into a public figure by attending several public workshops and short courses on personality development.

She treasured her craft so much and did her best until she is in the limelight. She knew that the young star is no Sharon Cuneta to stay under the hot spotlight and camera flashes a lifetime.

What’s her greatest experience to treasure as an actress?

“The best thing about acting is when you watch yourself on TV or on the screen, because it’s like you’ve been working the whole day, 24 hours, then there’s a crying scene, and you watch yourself and finally you did it. And you get to work with different directors and act with big stars.”

Well, Heart Evangelista has a long way to go and a long career to look forward to in Philippine showbiz.

Tags: Heart Evangelista, Philippine Celebrities, Philippine Entertainment News

by Valerie Tort

A big familial responsibility Bea Alonzo managed to take charge of at the age of 14 robbed her opportunity to enjoy her normal teenage years.

“Noon I used to pray hard na sana maging stable din naman kami financially,” the stunning actress shared in an interview. Bea Alonzo took a giant leap that changed her life forever even if she was still on the brink to stardom.

“Maraming nabago sa buhay ko. I miss riding jeepneys. Bibihira ko na ring makalaro ang younger brother ko. These days, I only go home to sleep, sleep and eat. So we’re just satisfied with sending picture messages to each other,” Bea said.

“All my friends have just graduated and they’re starting to work, but now I’m working to study afterwards. Parang baliktad lang nang nangyayari sa kanila,” Bea added.

Bea wanted to be an actress ever since her childhood years. She even mimicked the kids while watching the youth oriented show Ang TV.

“I used to act and cry in front of the mirror. Now I just laugh when I remember those times,” Bea reminisced. Her prayer to help raise the family with financial support was answered when she was introduced to Director Johnny Manahan after joining a mini pageant in Pasig City. She grabbed the opportunity to enter the glitz, the glamour, and the intrigue of the entertainment world the moment her chance knocked on her door. Her mom was hesitant to let Bea enter showbiz because she was still studying.

“Ayaw niya talaga akong mag-showbiz. Nagdrama pa ako. I told her, Sige na this is my opportunity, kapag ma-miss ko to, wala na,” Bea Alonzo said.

She vowed to balance her acting career and the school workload. She even juggled her acting workshop and taping schedules with her school attendance.

Bea Alonzo’s showbiz debut was unveiled during the presentation of Star Circle Batch 10. “My first TV appearance was on ASAP during the launch. After that, it was ASAP every Sunday. A trio was also formed, with me, Angelene Aguilar and Pia Romero — we were supposed to be the new generation of underage stars. It didn’t click, so they came up with youth-oriented show K2BU with me, Angelene, Pia and Shaina (Magdayao). It ran for five months.”

The limelight never took away her innocent image but it infused the maturity of an adult. In her more or less five-year stay in showbiz, the entertainment industry’s giants transformed her instantly from a teenager to a young professional woman.

ABSCBN recently put Bea Alonzo on the spotlight portraying the role of Jacky Madrigal, the heiress of a bank owner and a businessman (Christopher de Leon) in the dramatic love and life conflicts in the teleserye Maging Sino Ka Man, which ended last May. It was one of the most top-rated soap operas in primetime television that featured the reel couple Bea Alonzo and John Lloyd Cruz along with the new love team of Anne Curtis and Sam Milby.

With the harsh spotlight aimed at her, she was still responsible enough to deal with every pressure and hardships life threw on her acting career. Bea Alonzo sees to it that she was informed in what her job needed, what it takes to land a particular role, and what she needed to improve to reach her dream of becoming a character actress.

“Actually, my dream is to be a character actress, not really ‘yung lead. For every role you do, with every taping, you learn something from your dialogue, along with your acting skills. Gusto ko kasing maraming matutuhan,” Bea Alonzo said.

“…destined ako mapunta sa showbiz. Dito ako nilinya ni God so kailangan na pagbutihan ko. I focus myself on my work. I keep in mind the best advice that somebody has given me: if you see a goal for yourself, go for it, give it your best,” the ABSCBN talent added.

To fulfill her dream of landing into more challenging roles and not limiting herself to a certain stereotype, Bea Alonzo struggled to shed the excess weight by squeezing workout sessions in her free time and dieting.

“Before, I tried eating less carbs and meat. I tried a special diet for a while, and then return to a sinful diet,” the 18-year old beauty confessed.

Bea’s success and stardom were the fruits of her laborious efforts and dedication to participate even in the minor roles the showbiz industry assigned to her. The stunning 5’7 actress resided her faith in God’s hands and let Him draw her destiny.

“I’m very patient. I’m not impulsive. I’m a Christian. Sometimes I do worry and get scared of thinking that I might lose projects at the same fast rate that I was getting them. I just pray, if ever He must have other plans for me. He put me here for a reason,” she said.

Her booming career will continue to teach and inspire us that nothing in this world is obtained easily. Bea Alonzo’s pretty face will remind us that it would involve numerous hardships, trials, and responsibilities in order to spell the word SUCCESS.

Tags: Bea Alonzo, Philippine Celebrities, Philippine Entertainment News

By Phoebe Dorothy Estelle

We first knew Sunshine Dizon as the child actress, then the budding teen star in the 90s youth show, T.G.I.S (Thank God It’s Sabado). And among her contenporaries in that now defunct show, only Sunshine seem to be surviving with a thriving career in Philippine show business.

Sunshine is only 23 years old but her record is impressive beyond her age. For one, she has able to overcome tons of intrigues. The most unforgettable, perhaps, was the accusation that she was an adopted child, which she strongly denied.

Prior to her top rating TV shows such as “Encantadia,” and “Bakekang,” Sunshine was visible in mild hit dramas: “Habang Kapiling Ka,” “Ikaw Lang Ang Mamahalin” “Kahit Kailan” and “Anna Karenina.” These series made her a popular and promising actress. But Sunshine believed that her turning point was winning the best actress from Star Awards for TV.

“I think it started when I won the best actress award. The first one was for “Magpakailanman,” the one I did with Yul Servo. From that day on, I knew it’s gonna be different.”

Next, the 2nd Golden Screen Awards and Gawad America honored her as best actress for her effective portrayal of the flaming fairy-Pirena in Encantadia.

Sunshine disclosed that she’s not afraid of turning down an offer, especially if her gut feeling dictates it’s not for her. She meticulously analyzes if the project will help her career or not.

“But I’m always trying to challenge myself because I like doing different things. That’s why you see me playing both good and bad roles. I get bored kasi so I like to try everything.”

Beyond question, this “Bahay mo Ba ‘to” star is one of the few actors that can play heroine and an antagonist at the same time. Other series she appeared in were “Captain Barbell,” Now & Forever: Agos and her first ever solo soap was “Kung Mawawala Ka” where she was paired with Cogie Domingo and co-starred with Iza Calzado.

Incidentally, she reunites with Iza in the new soap, “Impostora,” where Sunshine plays the bad Vanessa and the good Sarah whose face initially belonged to Iza.

“I’m very inspired with this project noong in-offer sa akin ito. Sinabi talaga sa akin na I really have to prepare for it because iyong role nga kasi commercial model. I was thinking, kailangang magkapareho kami ng body structure ni Iza para maging impostora ako. ”

Unlike many who seek the magical help of cosmetic surgery, Sunshine preferred the organic way of getting in shape — diet and exercise — which she gladly shares with her co-stars.

In the crazy world of network battles in Philippine entertainment, Sunshine admitted that she’s mildly affected with ratings competition, especially if she perceived there is something doubtful.

“I’m not that really affected but it hurts sometimes when you know na may mga hokus pokus because we’re working very hard. Nakakalungkot isipin pero mayroon talagang may bagay na nawawalan kami ng puntos. I guess what really matters is how the people respond. That’s what I did with Bakekang, I played it by ear. Whatever they said, as long as people were talking about my show, I’m very happy. ”

The young actress is currently loveless. She contradicted the rumor that she and her Bakekang leading man Victor Neri was an item. Sunshine also disagreed to the perception that only through a relationship can a woman would be happy.

“Hindi mo pwedeng sabihin na kaya ka lang masaya is because you have someone in your life. In order to be happy, you must be happy on your own.”

In Impostora, Sunshine is matched with Marc Anthony Fernandez and Luis Alandy. Will rumors of affairs arise from these new team-ups? Possibly. But for Sunshine Dizon it’s all work. At least for now.

Tags: Sunshine Dizon, Philippine Celebrities, Philippine Entertainment News