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

By Love Dela Cruz

For those who have no idea who Aiza Marquez is, she is actually one of the most versatile actresses in the industry. Unlike most celebrities, she is a freelancer, ergo she has the benefit of working for the country’s top rival stations: ABS-CBN 2 and GMA 7.

Her credits include, Etheria a prequel to GMA’s Encantadia and a ton of movies. Yet no one really knows her. Let’s start from the basics, shall we? Aside from being the infamous ex-girlfriend of Danilo Barrios, Aiza is a great dancer. She usually struts her stuff in variety shows. She had probably gotten that sexy figure from dancing.

With her beautiful and sexy figure Aiza plans to show it off this year as she ventures out into mature roles, leaving the teeny pop genre to rest. She stresses that she’s open to posing in a bikini cause it’s very similar to walking around in the beach, although she has no plans doing it on the big screen, “Di ko ata kaya yun,” she says shyly.

Little Things About the Little Miss

As stated in our title this is all about the tiny tidbits about Aiza, when I first saw her she was prepping up for a show, manually putting on makeup so I asked her how does she get the look that she wants. Then she showed me her kikay kit, there was a bunch of lip gloss, curl lash, mascara and the vital concealer for those sleepless and long nights during shoots.

One thing that caught my attention was her array of lipsticks, “Minsan ayoko yung palipat-lipat ang gamit, let’s say meron ako gimik isang lalagyanan na lang”.

Aside from the girly stuff, Aiza is a big musical freak. “Dahil sa ex-boyfriend ko nahiligan ko na rin yung mga musical,” specifically soundtracks of musical plays. She also likes Franh McComb, Indie Arie, “Mga neo-soul” and R&B. This shows that Aiza’s musical taste is as eccentric as her personality. She shares that her last song syndrome during this interview was Buttons by the Pussycat Dolls, “Nung time na nanood ako ng concert (nila), nag eemote-emote ako na pussycat doll (rin ako),” she laughs.

Love and The Sweetness Rround It

Of course what kind of an interview would this be if the topic of love wasn’t tackled? Aiza just suffered from a break-up, her thoughts on love was very sad yet optimistic, “Ngayon sobrang ingat ako when it come to falling in love.”

She told me that due to a bad break-up she has learned her lesson. Although most of her relationships can be categorized as “long-term”, Aiza would like to have someone who will love and hold her for the rest of her life.. “This time pag nagkaroon ako ng boyfriend ulit, long-time na. Yung mapapangasawa ko na.”

Who could blame her, heartbreak is the ultimate level of pain one can endure.

So will Aiza Marquez ever find love? No worries because Aiza is still open to the idea of true love, she admits that she has a crush on Drew Arellano. Too bad Drew is already attached to Iya Villalania, but at least we know that Aiza hasn’t lost hope just yet.

Tags: Aiza Marquez, Philippine Celebrities, Philippine Entertainment News

By Valerie Tort

When looking for a perfect advocate, the National Book Development Board stumbled upon GMA Unang Hirit TV host and mother Lyn Ching-Pascual’s extensive collection of paperbacks and hard-bounds. There and then, their search was officially over.

Lyn Ching is an advocate of book reading especially for children since it is their foundation years. “When you read, you exercise and stretch your imagination, you learn something new. With reading, you are feeding the minds of the people,” the TV host said.

The National Book Development Board’s Bookwatch, a quarterly publication, promoted a campaign for Filipino book lovers and enthusiasts. Lyn Ching-Pascual is part of their campaign titled Get Caught Reading Campaign. She became an image model for the youth and helped the Board to spread the word.

Her passion with books, since her adolescent years, extended to the point where she dreamed of building her own library at the comfort of their home. She became acquainted with novels when she was 12 years old. Her book of choice was Sweet Valley High, jus like other teenagers who fell in love with romantic narratives.

She maintained her passion until she started borrowing books to satisfy her desire to learn. “I continued borrowing and reading those books while my friends who influenced me to read stopped doing so,” Lyn Ching-Pascual said.

“When I go to a bookstore, I go straight to the biographies and bestsellers. I love reading nonfiction books,” she added. From reading novels of Danielle Steel and Stephen King, Lyn Ching-Pascual’s inclination for nonfiction books and other light reading materials developed. She tried to read as many books as possible in a goal to become a broad reader. “I try to be a broad reader as possible. When you know you’re smart, you feel good about yourself,” she explained.

Reading makes her an effective TV host since a host needs to know a lot of information to keep the talk alive and continuous on cam. The small pieces of information will bring interest to the viewers and also educate them especially when trivia questions sprung up. The bits and pieces of information are very useful when impromptu discussions just appeared like a mushroom.

Lyn Ching-Pascual’s world evolved in reading and taking care of the books she had. “”You start with picking the most perfect book in the bookstore. I’m very strict when buying books. The spine and the corners must have no creases. I also have rolls of plastic covers stored away just for that purpose (which is to protect the books from further damage and stress out of its usage),” the TV host said.

As an advocate for book reading, she also involved her three-year old daughter Gaby. She wanted to share the gift of learning and books became a vehicle for education. “It is something that I wanted to share with everybody,” Lyn said. “I figured if she sees me taking so much care for books, then she would also give importance to them as well,” the GMA TV host added.

She witnessed how the youth neglected the importance of books nowadays. She saw how people valued other unimportant things like toys instead of reading. She observed that people tend to neglect reading since they did not see the larger picture of life and their future. “I think every parent wants their children to be somebody someday. You can ensure their future through reading,” she said.

To help other children who have passion to reading but lack the financial aid to support their desires for education, Lyn Ching-Pascual thought of an idea that can be helpful and increase Filipino book lovers. “We need free libraries for children, libraries which are really conducive to learning,” she said.

Thus, she used her good image as a media personality to bring back the good influence that the youth need in terms of readership and book importance.

Tags: Lyn Ching,
Philippine Celebrities,
Philippine Entertainment News

By Phoebe Dorothy Estelle

Reinventing your image in the ever changing face of entertainment is crucial for every star. A child or teen star may remain as they are in the eyes of an audience even when they are prepared for more mature roles. But Actress and TV Host Gelli de Belen was lucky as Philippine viewers embraces her journey from teen star to a renowned actress.

As all we know, Gelli has an equally popular sister who came first in showbizlandia. Supposed to be tough, but the actress stepped out of sister Janice’s shadow and showed versatility. She was called the “Taray” princess before for being straightforward.

During the early 90s Gelli was the prized possessions of Viva Films. She was one the bets vis a vis Regal’s babies in the persons of Ruffa Gutierrez, Aiko Melendez and Carmina Villaroel. Though belonging to rival outfits, Gelli became friends with her contemporaries especially with Aiko and Carmina.

She was paired with Jigo Garcia, Kempee de Leon, and Raymart Santiago, who also became offscreen partner to her. But having the wit in comedy, she’s the favorite lead actress in the wacky movies of rapper – Andrew E. But it was “Gagay: Prinsesa ng Brownout”, where she threw the famous line “Kaya N’yo Iyon”, that became her major film as a young comedienne.

“Memorable movies for me would be with Viva, usually mga kasama kong gamol, sila Andrew E at love team –love team. “Dick and Carmi’ would also be memorable for me,” Gelli recalled.

However, Gelli considered the turning point of her career when she did “The Sarah Jane Salazar Story.” In this flick, she did daring and heavy drama scenes portraying an AIDS victim. She bagged the Best Actress trophy from Urian because of this memorable undertaking.

After the movie, Gelli began exuding a sophisticated woman. She was leading lady to recognized action stars such as Santiago, Ace Vergel, Cesar Montano and Bong Revilla. And among of her generation, she was able to cross over between sexy and wholesome. She did sexy-drama films like “Taguan” and “Camiguin” (co-starring with Jomari Yllana).

Though already doing flicks for the adult genres, Gelli was still beloved for movies intended to young viewers. Her remarkable romantic films were “Radio Romance,” “Ikaw Lang Pala ang Mahal ko (with husband Ariel Rivera),” and “Mahal Kita, Walang Iwanan.” Her first horror film was “Impakto.”

Having her own style of comedy Gelli was absorbed to various top TV shows such as “Mana-Mana,” “Ober Da Bakod,” “Tropang Trumpo” and “Nuts Entertainment.” She also had special participation in Rufa Mae Quintos’ fantasy drama, “Marinara.”

Every morning, TV viewing is entertaining and informative with Gelli as the candid host of “Sis” together with Janice and Carmina. In this program, audience would see more of Gelli who is jolly and frank.

One of the unforgettable moments in “Sis” was when her former foe, Asia’s songbird Regine Velasquez guested in the show. During their interview, Regine asked Gelli about the anger she felt for her. With all honesty, Ariel Rivera’s wife answered “a lot!” The said moment was well circulated in showbiz oriented shows and was even spoof in “Bubble Gang.”

It will be remembered that Gelli had a rift with Regine, because it was said that Regine was the reason why the Canadian bred Ariel broke up with Gelli years before.

Inthe end Gelli and Ariel got back together and are now hands-on parents to their two sons- Joaqui and Julio. They never hired a nanny and were personally attending the needs of their kids. For Gelli it may be a tiring task but nevertheless a worthwhile experience.

Besides being a TV personality, Gelli is also an in demand commercial endorser. Among the products she promotes are Tide, Knorr soup, Alaska Evaporated Milk and Folded N Hung. Next, Gelli will soon do a special participation in the upcoming soap opera of Sunshine Dizon and Iza Calzado, “Impostora.”

With her flexibility and talent, Gelli de Belen remains an in-demand actress and entertainer. A sign that her showbiz career will go a long, long way.

Gelli de Belen’s photo courtesy of Ms. Lhot de Ortega (of GMA 7 PR Dept.). 

Tags: Gelli De Belen, Philippine Celebrity, Philippine Entertainment News, Regine Velasquez

By Valerie Tort

One of the prettiest faces in the Philippine movie and television scene, Angelica Panganiban, knocked down a couple of men’s magazines in her comeback to the showbiz industry.

Angelica was on the spotlight of the Philippine movie industry when the film Sarah, Ang Munting Prinsesa showed in theaters. Though the spotlight was nor harsh to her, she cannot enjoy the usual things a normal person does since she became a public figure at an early age.

“At first it was fun, but when I reached 10 to 12, I became envious of my normal friends. We lived in Tondo when I was a kid, so I was able to go to places like Divisoria and the like. But when I started acting, I was not allowed to go to those places anymore, especially after Princess Sarah. Everyone in the public would always call out, ‘Becky,’” Angelica said.

She did some television acting on Gmik sometime after her movie and confessed how the Philippine movie industry can be strict when it comes to physical appearance to the point of taking her out in the long-running teen show.

“They are taking me out of the show because I’m too fat. I was such a junk food junkie during those days. I had snacks inside the car which they called ‘Angelica’s store.’” But now, my body is used not to eat too much. I just have pig out days once a week. Then, there are days I go on a really strict diet and they call me kambing because I will only eat salad. I just eat tuna in water for pictorials like this,” she said.

To lose the stubborn weight, “I took up boxing but I stopped. I do not really like working out. I prefer badminton. Carlo used to go with me to the gym nung kami pa. When I tried to go alone, I felt conscious because people would stare. I would just end up in a sauna,” she said while giggling.

“Now, I’m really conscious about how I look. Before, you would just see me in shirts, jeans, and slippers or sandals. Now I wear skirts and dresses. My guy friends would tease me whenever I dress up since they knew me as a cowboy. They would always say, ‘Feeling mo, babae ka?’” she added.

She managed to be on and of the spotlight for a long time even if her weight became a culprit for her to bag few projects. Her life’s endeavors made her strong while maintaining her virtuous side at the same time.

Though her arresting beauty overpowered her talent and character as a person especially when she did sexy pictorials for men’s magazines, she went away of the stereotype of a woman in the Philippine movie industry—all beauty, little brain, and just a lady from a men’s magazine cover. It is her challenge to prove the people were wrong in thinking of a stereotype to associate with her since the daring photo shoots she had that revived her career not as a teeny bopper but as a young and talented star.

Gossips will always be a part of the Philippine movie industry. To combat the gossips about her regarding body issues, fake Ginebra San Miguel photos, and edited men’s magazine pictures, she made sure to answer the people with respect and giving them the truth, which they will also discover soon.

“I’m really aware with the chismis about me,” said Angelica. “I’m not dedma or feeling hindi ko alam ang mga intriga about me. It’s okay for me to answer all of them. It’s better that way to settle the issues. What’s important is that all the answers came from me and not from somebody else,” she added.

Her virtues never run out of fuel to combust in her persona and radiated during interviews and press conferences. “One of them is let them know and see that you respect yourself,” the 20-year-old actress said. “There are also rumors that a dirty old man is after me and I’m taking that advantage to earn more money. Kahit sardinas o kahit wala na kaming kainin ng buong pamilya ko, hindi ako papatol sa kahit na sino, magkapera lang,” she added.

Since her schedule became hectic these days, she never forgets to connect with her friends once in a while even if she is busy with her tapings and other projects. She sets aside time to bond and catch up with them.

“On days when I do not have work, I wake up around two in the afternoon, take a shower, and then eat “breakfast”. If I know I’m free on a certain day, I plan what I’m going to do before that day and start calling up friends to see who’s free. So, my activities really depend on my friend’s availability. I rarely accept work on Saturdays because I hang out with my friends on that day. It is like a ritual…Heart and I also keep in touch. There is not a day when we don’t send text messages to each other. At madalas din kaming mag-usap sa celfone,” she said.

Angelica Panganiban’s soft and tough side was seen by her fans for a long time. She continued to bag projects, with her latest primetime show is Rounin. Angelica plays the role of Aura, who has a prohibited relationship with her fellow Rounin Luis Manzano, in the character of Juris.

Tags: Angelica Panganiban, Philippine Celebrities, Philippine Entertainment News, Philippine Showbiz

By Phoebe Dorothy Estelle

Many doors opened for Jennylyn Mercado when she won the grand prize of reality based talent search “Starstruck.” However, off cam, the sought-after young actress is a lady with strong advocacy versus child abuse.

It is an open book that the Super S of top rating fantasy series, “Super Twins” was once a battered child. The drama anthology program “Magpakailanman” featured a point in her life when her step dad used to lash her young body while her biological mother preferred the abuser than her. Lydia Mercado, her adopted mother is actually her auntie on her mother’s side.

The traumatizing memory seems not evident in Jen as she blooms into a successful teenager. She has numerous assignments left and right, she has also began acquiring properties, and maintains colorful love life. But despite a hectic schedule, Jen still finds time to pursue her fight against child abuse.

Jen is the official spokesperson of Bata Foundation, a Christian Mission Services. Her manager Ms. Becky Aguila shared that Jen has two foster kids in Cavite. Every year she selects orphans in which she gives financial support.

Her self-produced birthday concert at the Music Museum entitled “Music in Me” was an accomplishment for her. In the said concert she fulfilled her dream of having a major concert and to help a charity foundation through it.

“In show business, aside from the beauty, you must have talent. Everybody can act but not everybody can sing. Jennylyn is gifted with the golden voice,” Ms. Aguila notes for her talent.

The Manager-Producer divulged that most of the time people misinterpreted Jen as a snub and loner. She clarified that Jen is just a shy but definitely a pleasant gal.

“Mabait, magalang, masunurin at marunong tumanaw ng utang na loob,” said Jen and Angel Locsin’s handler.

The Young actress has poor health. She admitted before that she suffers from heart ailment that forbids her to get too tired and to feel extreme emotions such as anger and excitement. Notwithstanding her physical limitation, Jen proves that she’s brave and daring. She exemplified it when she guested in defunct reality program “Extra Challenge” and in her daredevil stunt in the movie “Supernoypi” in which she hanged 50 feet high through helicopter.

Her second album under GMA Records entitled “Letting Go” is also a manifestation of her moving, on not only from her past but also for being heartbroken. In the album, she showcased her singing style and songs that symbolizes her maturity.

After the successful tandem with her former reel and real partner Mark Herras, Jen attests that she doesn’t need a love team to survive in showbiz. She top billed a season of the defunct mini series “Now and Forever”, entitled “Dangal” and currently she’s the heroine in “Super Twins” together with her Starstruck batch mate Nadine Samonte.

Currently, she’s busy filming two movies. “Angels”, a trilogy movie produced by Angel Locsin and her manager Aguila, Jen is paired with her present boyfriend Patrick Garcia in the episode “Angel of Mine.” While in the remake of “Tiyanak,” Jen is reunited with Mark.

Other than showbiz, Jen is also an entrepreneur. She ownes a boutique in Star Mall, Mandaluyong that sells fashionable clothes for young women.

Her life may have been clouded by different struggles, but Jennylyn Mercado truly embodies her title, the Female ultimate survivor.

Jennylyn Mercado’s photos courtesy of GMA Records and GMA 7

Tags: Jennylyn Mercado, Philippine Celebrities, Philippine Entertainment News, Starstruck

By Phoebe Dorothy Estelle

Cameras are now rolling for the new flick produced by Regal Films. “My Kuya’s Wedding” top billed by TV host – actor Ryan Agoncillo, Pauleen Luna and newcomer Maja Salvador, the prime star in the film.

But who is Maja? Why is Regal matriarch Mother Lily Monteverde entrusted this project on her? Does she have the qualities of a record-breaking movie star or is she at least a good actress perhaps?

Every Sunday noon, Maja livens up the ASAP stage with her graceful dancing. She’s the “Dance Princess” and part of the Ultimate Dance Four (UD4) together with Rayver Cruz, Shaina Magdayao and John Prats.

Maja comes from the celebrity clan of the Salvadors. She is the daughter of Ross Rival (Rosauro Salvador in real life) and her uncle is the versatile actor Philip Salvador. Her arrival in the entertainment industry was like a reality show that touched the hearts of many.

She was then a girl looking forward to meet her father whom she did not see for seven years. Her discoverer –manager Chit Ramos coordinated with Philip so that Maja could meet her father. The said emotional event featured at “The Buzz” for two Sundays in 2003. It happened that ABS-CBN Entertainment head Charo Santos –Concio was also watching Maja’s story in showbiz-oriented show. She called up Maja to be part of their talent pool and the rest is history.

Having huge followers, ASAP music (program’s record label) released the “ASAP’s UD4” dance album, with the carrier single is “Kembot.” The two tandems were even featured in all Sundays of February in Love Spell presents “Shoes Ko Po, Shoes ko Day.”

For the 2007, Guillermo Mendoza Memorial Scholarship Foundation, Inc Maja Salvador was awarded Most Promising Female Star, while the 4th Golden Screen Awards honored her with the Breakthrough Performance by an Actress trophy. 23rd Star Awards for Movies hailed her as New Movie Actress of the Year. All of these awards are because of her striking performance in the mega box-office hit “Sukob.”

In the anniversary special of “Maalaala Mo Kaya” last year, Maja portrayed the character of an autistic but achiever teenager. Her loving mother in the “Regalo” episode was the Star For All Season Vilma Santos.

As of today, she had three primetime soap operas so far. She was introduced in John Lloyd Cruz and Bea Alonzo’s debut drama series “It Might Be You” in 2003. She was paired with John Prats.

Respected director Chito Roño created the suspense –adventure series, “Spirits” in 2005. He picked six potential young actors to carry the show and he selected Maja as the main female lead. Her tandem with Anime member John Wayne Sace from this program continued into Piolo Pascual and Judy Ann Santos ‘soap opera, “Sa Piling Mo”

“First Day High” was the first movie of Maja. In the said film inspired by a deodorant commercial she played the “sossy high” freshman student together with Kim Chiu, Gerald Anderson, Jason Abalos and Geoff Eigenmann.

In demand performer, effective endorser, one of the most admired youth and certified “Crush ng Bayan” are the adjectives describing Maja Salvador, today. She was the first female celebrity model of clothing apparell Aga Muhlach and John Lloyd endorsed. Now, she is the new face of the high-end clothing line also promoted by Claudine Barretto and Gelli de Belen.

The Dance Princess is linked to numerous good –looking men, some are her screen partners. Recently, the award-winning young actor Carlo Aquino confessed that he courted Maja.

In the new season of “Komiks presents Pedro Penduko, Maja plays the gal who has the power to be invisible. In a span of four years, the teenager from Aparri, Cagayan has collected major projects and recognitions. She continues to improve and impress the Philippine showbiz fans who are fondly watching her.

Tags: Maja Salvador, Ultimate Dance Four, Philippine Entertainment News

by Valerie Tort

Before judging her as shattering the one-woman-man phrase, Anne Curtis is a brave woman who fought for her own independence under harsh camera lights of Philippine showbiz.

The half-Filipina half-Australian ABSCBN talent showed who she is even off camera. “Basically, I am a ‘what you see is what you get’ woman. I don’t put up any front or act for other people to adore me. I do not believe in hiding or proving anything and that, I think, is what makes me somewhat controversial in the showbiz.”

“I can make mistakes. It’s all part of growing up,” Anne added. She is not bothered or afraid of having slip-ups once in a while. Being independent means learning from your own experiences.

Anne has been in the show biz industry for 10 years. She did numerous product endorsements from high-profile companies such as Ginebra San Miguel and Head and Shoulders shampoo commercials under Procter & Gamble Philippines, and other photo shoots for glossy magazine covers. She also appeared in numerous TV series, soap opera, and Philippine primetime shows including her ongoing project Maging Sino Ka Man with Bea Alonzo, John Lloyd Cruz, and Sam Milby. She also starred in several movies, with her latest movie under Star Cinema titled ‘Ang Cute ng Ina Mo.’

With all her hardships since she was 12, and her Australian upbringing somehow contributed to her modern outlook in life—a woman of strength, character, and personality.

The cultural differences between Australia and the Philippines are highlighted by Anne as ‘somewhat restricted in terms of the daughters of the family.’ In Australia, daughters can go to school using their bikes, without any worry for the parents. “We live on the outskirts of Melbourne, in the countryside, away from urbanized and contemporary living. I had a happy childhood. I rode my bike to school and I enjoyed doing the daily household chores. It was so much fun,” she said. In the Philippines, daughters are fetched or even rode in school buses for safety purposes.

In her long stay in the country, Anne has adapted certain Filipino characteristics and traditions, but not foregoing the independence a woman must possess. “Well, I have to say that I am more Filipino now. The only thing that’s Australian about me is my childhood and my accent. Since I live here now, I’m more Filipina. When I go back to Australia, it seems that I’m learning things all over again.”

The half-Aussie and half-Pinoy beauty resided in Australia with her father, James Curtis, and transferred residence here in the Philippines when she was in her teenage years. “I am so happy that I’m here. If I were in Australia I’d have been in a boarding school! My dad was strict when it came to education. He kept on dissuading me when I tried doing TV commercials, claiming that they are just swindling me to dodge school.”

She finished her seventh grade in the Philippines so her father was worried that she may dump school and do modeling full-time. The thought of ditching school never entered in her mind. She even planned to finish her tertiary year in Australia after graduating at College of Mount Carmel in Parañaque City and be a pre-school teacher afterwards.

It started her independence since she’s able to decide for herself even if her father was discouraging her to go into modeling or even showbiz. But she continued to shine in her own little way by participating in various teen roles in movies and TV series in her adolescent years.

And this independence was always translated as being a stubborn or even an image of a ‘playgirl.’ “Well, I guess that’s the remaining false impression about me for five years now. I’ve learned to live with it, but I want to demonstrate people incorrect who suppose that big lie. They declare that I have two boyfriends at one fell swoop but on no account that had happened, I swear. I go on dates, yes, but at the end of the day I’m just a normal teenager,” Anne explained.

People knew her as a party girl enjoying all night with her liberated friends at the trendiest and hippest bars in the metro, and someone who is not serious about life and takes all the challenge, even with hooking up with other men. “I’m not really super pa-sweet but I can be in certain aspects. Bit I’m not the super all-out bad girl rin naman.

“I guess everyone goes through that stage when finally you are free of your boyfriend and enjoying yourself. But not to a point that if ever I have feelings for someone else, I’ll date him. I’ll break up with my boyfriend first before entertaining a suitor. I never cheat because I believe in karma. My God! Even if I finished work at three in the morning, I’d still take time to go out with the friends. But not anymore, I’m too tired,” she confessed.

In her public life, there will always be a misconception especially the Filipinos who are not used to seeing and being with independent woman. The tradition and values of a historical age somehow remained in our minds. Gossips and canard stories will surely be around as a result of the Filipino way of thinking.

“I hate people who are liars and who are not true people. I hate that. I hate tsismis even though I know it is part of the job being an actress, but what I do not like is when it’s dirty tsismis. I don’t let it get to me. Just as long as the people who are really close to me know who I really am, that’s what matters.”

People vary in how they define and put the word independence into context. Anne made herself clear at what independence of a woman is: “I think kahit papaano you still have to be independent in your own way by still working to have her own money for herself, working to buy her personal needs, and toiling for other things just to spoil herself. That is how a girl should be independent.”

She enjoys her hard-earned Victorian-inspired mansion near Laguna de Bay as the fruit of her 10-year labor in the showbiz industry.

“I live alone in my house, which I just finished paying. I want to enjoy my house kasi pinaghirapan ko ‘yon. My savings from the 10 years I’ve been in showbiz went into that house so I really treasure it. Everytime I walk into that house, parang ayoko nang lumabas pa.”

That is how Anne Curtis treated her life for her personal and career growth—an independent Anne that still is shining on.

Tags: Anne Curtis, Philippine Celebrities, Philippine Entertainment News, Philippine Showbiz

By Phoebe Dorothy Estelle

Taking her Philippine showbiz glitter to another level, former teen star Sheryl Cruz is back with more appealing and offbeat roles. After her special participation in “Mulawin,” in 2004, projects came pouring in on her.

Being a member of “Triplets” (with Kristina Paner and Manilyn Reynes) and part of a popular love team in the 80s to mid 90s, Sheryl was secluded to teenybopper, good girl and cutie–cutie roles. She got meaty projects when she decided to be a freelancer. But instead of continuing her flourishing career, Sheryl migrated to United States with her family and was out of the limelight for eight years.

But she didn’t have to resort to gimmicks when she decided to enliven her showbiz career anew. The former Regal Baby involved herself in doing movies and drama series. She starred in “Mano Po 3: My Love” and featured was twice in afternoon program “Now & Forever.” However, her role as the ambitious and scheming Valeria in the TV series Bakekang sealed here newfound fame.

Her eight-year hiatus, indeed, has been a great help in honing her craft and personality.

“I’d learned to depend on my self more. The Philippines is very different from States,” Sheryl said. “Of course, it’s part of our family na ang mga help natin dito, they do a lot of things for you. I’m proud to say na during my time in the US I learned not to be very needy na every time ‘pakikuha ito, pakikuha iyan.’ I do help around the house and I do clean the house.”

Sheryl is the only daughter of the late Ricky Belmonte and former actress Rosemarie Sonora (sister of Susan Roces). She’s married to Norman Bustos, a sheriff in California and mother to Ashley. The singer-actress professed that she’s blessed for having them in her life.

“Thanking Lord for he given me good parents, a good family, and a good education. Naturuan akong makisama sa mga tao whether mayaman or mahirap sila. Alam ko kung saan ko ilalagay ang sarili ko. Maraming salamat din sa naibigay na impluwensiya ng aking asawa. It was through him that I learned you can enjoy your life but that time is so precious. Kailangan talagang wala kang pinaghihintay. So he helps me become more efficient when it comes to managing my time.”

“Mr. Dreamboy” and “Sabi Ko na Nga Ba” were among her hit songs in the late 80s. She did two albums while she was already a renowned teen star. And this is one the many things she missed. Fortunately, she sang the female version of “Sinasamba Kita,” the theme song and title of her new drama series at GMA 7.

“I’m very happy that I was given a chance to record the female version of this (Sinasamba Kita) new arrangement. Ang sarap din kasi si Janno Gibbs, who is a dear friend of mine, sang back up for me.”

Three weeks before “Bakekang” ended, Sheryl started taping “Sinasamba Kita.” Her weekdays are fully-booked with shootings and other engagements. But her weekends are fully dedicated to her daughter.

“Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays I would do “Bakekang” and Tuesdays and Thursdays I do “Sinasamba Kita.” Kung ano man ang natitirang days or weekends sa akin I would spend that with my daughter or with my family. I would also spend that sleeping because I don’t really go out a lot. And I just moved to a new place siyempre mas gusto kong nag-aayos ng house.”

Though she’s not one to complain, Sheryl admitted that it’s not easy being an actress.

“Akala mo ang mga artista hindi napapagod. Mahirap din iyong trabaho because emotionally you have to be all there. Hindi puwedeng mainit ang ulo mo pagdating mo sa set if ever mayroon kang problems na nagba-bother sa iyo. Hindi mo maayos iyong mga scenes na hinihingi sa iyo.”

Sheryl plays the character that Vilma Santos did in “Sinasamba Kita” movie version. She is paired to Wendell Ramos and co-starred with Valerie Concepcion and Carlo Aquino.

Since she’s busy with her new program, Sheryl holds her summer activities.

“I’d like to go to the beach but right now I can’t. I would like to try the yoga lessons na ginagawa ni Jackie Lou (Blanco), but I’ll do it only if I have the energy kasi useless din na pagod ako tapos magyo-yoga ako. Hindi ko mararamdaman iyong high ng natural exercise na iyon.”

Fame do have a price. But Sheryl Cruz isn’t about to slow down anytime soon. After all, not everyone is given a second shot in this business so expect her to be around for a long time.

Tags: Sheryl Cruz, Philippine Celebrities, Philippine Entertainment News, Philippine Showbiz

By Phoebe Dorothy Estelle

No doubt that Piolo Pascual is one of the most bankable and the most awarded actors today. The actor–singer who just received two best actor trophies for his impressive performance in the movie “Don’t Give Up On Us” is now back on primetime TV with a new drama offering, “Walang Kapalit.”

After all Toni Gonzaga’s TV Ad where she screamed “I Love You Piolo!” would not be so popular if the market did not agree with the message. The hunk is an admired film and TV artist, stage performer and popular product endorser.

Gone are the days when Piolo had minor roles. His Kapamilya career began as mainstay of the children show “ATBP.” But before that he was PJ of “That’s Entertainment,” that groundbreaking 80s/90s program of talent discoverer/host German Moreno.

His launching flick “Lagarista” did not hit well at the tills, but for that he was recognized as a good actor. Supposedly, at first he was the other party in the Judy Ann Santos and Wowie de Guzman’s relationship in “Esperanza” but as the story unfloded, they became the sought after love team of the new generation. They did several films- “Kahit Isang Saglit”, “Bakit “Di Totohanin”, “Till There Was You” and the most recent “Don’t Give Up On Us.”

The Judy Ann-Piolo team was also the certified top-rating tandem of ABS-CBN netwrok. Leading their fans to get dismayed when the love team love team did not blossom in real life. The actress now has a relationship with TV host/actor Ryan Agoncillo. Reportedly, an issue came between Piolo and Ryan that started last year. Piolo also denied that his friendship with Judy Ann was affected because of the gap.

“Juday (Judy Ann’ nickname) and I naman, even if we don’t talk, we’re okay. I mean, you know, wala naman kami sigurong atraso sa isa’t isa para mag-away o magkagalit, so wala kaming gap. We know each other too well to even fight over anything,” he said.

Piolo also admitted that he is looking forward to working with the award winning actress again.

“At the end of the day, trabaho lang ‘yan. Kung pepersonalin ng ibang tao, eh, huwag na lang kesa magkasiraan pa. Basta ako, ‘pag ibinigay sa akin, kung alam ko na kikita at professional lang, gagawin ko.”

When a love team is torn apart, most likely casualty is the guy but definitely Piolo’s show biz luck continue to flourish. His first film without Judy Ann was “9 Mornings” where he co-starred with former MTV VJ Donita Rose. Then his first solo series was “Mangarap Ka.” Both did well with the fans.

“Dekada 70” was probably one of the highlights of his acting career. Because of that movie, he was the “Grand Slam” Best Supporting Actor in 2003. While he bagged his first FAMAS Best Actor for the movie ‘Milan’.

In Walang Kapalit, Piolo is paired with Claudine Barretto. The actor says he’s pleased to once again work with the six-month-old pregnant actress. He praised her kindness and generosity. For trivia, when “Milan” was an entry to an international award giving body, Claudine herself ironed Piolo’s unkempt “barong” before attending the award’s night.

“We all thought she’d be moody at masungit, pero mas bumait pa nga siya ngayong buntis. She’s very pleasant to work with, very caring. She’s also very generous. Kapag nagpabili ng pagkain, she buys food for everyone, “ Piolo commended.

Other than acting Piolo is also a well-known balladeer and concert artist. Under Star Records he has four albums that are certified record sales holders. He even had a sold out concert at the Araneta Coliseum in 2004. Recently, his “Heartthrobs” show with Sam Milby at Music Museum was another success.

Tags: Piolo Pascual, Philippine Celebrities, Philippine Entertainment News, Philippine Showbiz

By Phoebe Dorothy Estelle

Three months to go and the drama princess Claudine Barretto-Santiago will deliver her first biological child with husband actor Raymart Santiago. They adopted daughter Sabina Natasha in 2005 and married March 27 last year.

Indeed, being loving and caring mother is not new to Claudine. Aside from taking care of Sabina the once teen icon is also an affectionate auntie to her siblings’ children especially with her sister Marjorie.

Looking back, Claudine at some point was pressured to have a baby after the wedding. People were already speculating that she’s pregnant even when she was not. Good thing, her wish was answered last November.

Some say pregnancy brings luck, if that is true then Claudine is enjoying it this 2007. For her last flick “Sukob” she won the Box Office Queen honor from the Guillermo Mendoza Memorial Scholarship Foundation, Inc. (GMMSF). And this April she’s back to her throne as the soap opera princess via “Walang Kapalit”, a series she topbills with Ultimate Heartthrob Piolo Pascual.

“Ang sarap ng feeling ko ngayon. Ayokong malungkot, ayokong mag-isip. Enjoy lang talaga ako,” Claudine remarks.

While filming “Walang Kapalit,” Claudine was already at child, a difficult task for any actress but her co-stars like Piolo shares that Claudine become more kind and generous.

“After this teleserye, pahinga muna ’ko and will be preparing for my delivery on July 31 o kaya baka maging ka-birthday pa namin ni Raymart (July 20) ang aming baby!” Claudine declares.

Because she usually baby sit girls, Sabina and Marjorie’s daughters, Claudine prayed before that her first born would be girl. But upon learning that she’s carrying a baby boy, she’s ready to welcome her son into her growing family.

“Hindi ako marunong sa boy. Siguro dahil sanay ako sa mga pamangkin kong girls. Si Leon (son of Marjorie) hindi na sa akin lumaki, hindi kagaya ng mga girls. Although si Sabina, ganoon kasi ang mga kalaro nila boys. Sa tingin ko, matututunan ko naman ‘yon.”

To follow the Santiago tradition, Claudine and Raymart want to call their son as Rodrigo, a name that starts with R. Raymart’s real name is Rozelle Ramond Martin and his siblings are the famous TV- concert director Rowell and singer –host Randy.

Claudine also discloses that she’s not experiencing any pregnancy symptoms. She just changed her eating habit and that is to eat meat and beef and avoid sweet foods to prevent gestational diabetes. Kris Aquino was diagnosed with the said illness for having high blood sugar while pregnant.

“Dati noong hindi ako nagbubuntis, hindi ako nagra-rice. Hindi ako nagmi-meat. Hindi ako nagpo-pork. Hindi ako nagbi-beef. Ngayon, lahat. Bumalik ako sa pagkain ng pork and beef kasi mahirap ‘yong puro vegetables lang. Naglihi (ako), manggang hilaw and toyo. Gusto ko ng duhat, pero wala namang duhat.”

Claudine’s adolescent years was spent doing sitcoms/gag such as “Ang TV”, “Oki Doki Dok”, “Home along the Riles.” Her first soap was “Mula sa Puso” with ex boyfriend Rico Yan (RIP). Her mermaid portrayal in “Marina” began the invasion of fantasy series on prime time television.

For now, though, Claudine is prepping up for a new and better role. As mom and wife to her wonderful family.