american style dress up to date: June 2011

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Philippine Azkals Begin World Cup Bid vs Sri Lanka

An “all-star” Philippine Azkals football team will face a tough delegation from Sri Lanka to kick-off their journey to the 2014 World Cup, the biggest tournament in the world of football.

With new yet experienced recruits from abroad, the Azkals are confident to snatch a win on unfriendly soil as they play Leg 1of the first round of qualifying matches in Sri Lanka on Wednesday (June 29).

ABS-CBN Sports, the official coveror of Azkals’ international matches, will air the much-awaited opening showdown on Studio 23 at 5:30pm on the same day, pre-empting “Justice League” and “The Wrap.”

Afterwards, the Azkals, will defend home field as the battle shifts to the Philippines for the qualifying round’s Leg 2.

Watch the Philippine football team’s home game at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex live on Sunday (July 3) at 2pm on Studio 23, with a replay on Tuesday (July 5) at 4pm, both on the same channel.

Already stacked with talent led by star players Phil and James Younghusband, Ian Araneta, Neil Etheridge, Angel Guirado, and team captain Aly Borromeo, the Azkals are believed to be more solid with the entry of Fil-Germans Stefan Schrock and returnee Manuel Ott.

The Azkals also played a series of exhibition matches here and abroad to tune-up for their World Cup Qualifier matches with Sri Lanka.

Metrowear Pays Tribute to Filipiniana

Over the course of more than a hundred years, Philippine fashion has gone through a rich and storied history, as culture and international influences have molded it into its latest fashion-forward incarnation. In celebration of the Philippines' 113th year of Independence, Metro magazine takes this opportunity to bring together the fashion community in a special tribute to Filipiniana, aptly dubbed Metrowear Filipiniana, to be held on June 30. One hundred designers take to the stage to present their interpretations of the terno, the baro't sayaand the barong Tagalog, combining local fabrics with intricate beadwork and Filipino artistry.

Participating in Metrowear Filipiniana are fashion designers from all the major design groups, presenting their thematic interpretations of traditional Filipino dress. The Young Designers' Guild will present Avant-Garde, while FDCP takes on red carpet gowns and FDAP will do cocktail. International designers Albert Andrada, Cary Santiago and Ezra will showcase theatrical creations. The Cebu designers will present bridal interpretations of Filipiniana, while the independent designers will showcase modern pieces. The show will also have a menswear presentation featuring designs by Anthony Nocom, Gerry Katigbak, Aries Lagat, Joey Samson, Jerome Lorico, Jeffrey Rogador, Barge Ramos, among others. Metrowear will also be having a special segment showcasing the works of The Masters - designers who have brought Filipino fashion design to the forefront - presenting traditional ternos and Maria Claras. On this list are the likes of Mike dela Rosa, Loreto, Patis Tesoro, Danilo Franco, Efren Ocampo, Greg Centeno and Nolie Hans.

Adding glamour to this biggest celebration of local fashion is Metrowear’s first musical revue of traditional and classic Filipino songs infused with modern rock songs to be performed live by the String Minstrels.

Completing the Metrowear Filipiniana experience will be an exhibit featuring the most-skilled and artistic jewelry, bags, accessories and shoe designers - Amina Aranaz-Alunan and Rocio (bags), Ana Rocha, Nicole Whisehunt, Michelline Syjuco (jewelries), Cesar Gaupo (shoes) and Mich Dulce (hats). The Ninay dolls of Patis Tesoro will also be on display on that evening.

Metrowear continues to be one of the most anticipated fashion events in the Philippines that is held numerous times annually and has long been recognized as a platform for local designers to promote and celebrate their creativity.

Toy Story 4 Movie Coming Soon Reveals Tom Hanks

Everybody will agree for sure when I say people really can't get enough of Woody, Buzz Lightyear and the whole "Toy Story" gang. Now, it wouldn't also come as a surprise that the most famous computer-animated film which grossed more than one billion dollars in worldwide receipts would be seeing a sequel in development even if Pixar already said that the third installment would be the final in the franchise - well, that was before it hit billions worldwide .

And yes, good news! The movie's lead star Tom Hanks spill the beans and (accidentally?) told the BBC News that he's heard a Toy Story 4 is being worked on at the moment.

"I think there will be yeah." Hanks tells the BBC News. "Yeah, yeah, think they're working on it now. There you go."

Just last week, Pixar revealed that the studio will have its second release in 2013 but didn't specify whether it would be a sequel to their hits like Wall E, Finding Nemo, The Incredibles or an entirely new story.

Let's cross our fingers and hope it would be a new adventure for our favorite toy comrades.

GMA-7's Amaya Struggles to Lead Weekday Primetime; Pilipinas Got Talent Grand Finals Wins Bigtime!

Here are the Top 10 daytime and primetime programs from June 24 to 27, 2011 among Mega Manila households (People Ratings):

June 24, Friday

Daytime:
Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 14.5%
Super Sine 5: The Spy Next Door (TV5) - 9.3%
Sinner Or Saint (GMA-7) - 7.1%
Sisid (GMA-7) - 7%
Playful Kiss (GMA-7) - 6.9%
Blusang Itim (GMA-7) - 6.8%
Slam Dunk (GMA-7) - 6.7%
Ghost Fighter (GMA-7) - 6.1%
Kapamilya Blockbusters: CJ7 (ABS-CBN) - 6%
Showtime (ABS-CBN) - 5.9%

Primetime:
24 Oras (GMA-7) - 15.8%
Munting Heredera (GMA-7) - 15.1%
Amaya (GMA-7) - 14.9%
100 Days To Heaven (ABS-CBN) - 13.4%
Captain Barbell (GMA-7) - 12.8%
Guns And Roses (ABS-CBN) - 11.9%
Secret Garden (GMA-7) - 11.6%
TV Patrol (ABS-CBN) - 11.2%%
Minsan Lang Kita Iibigin (ABS-CBN) - 10.4%
The Biggest Loser Pinoy Edition (ABS-CBN) - 9.7%

June 25, Saturday

Daytime:
Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 14.3%
Sabado Sineplex: Blade (TV5) - 7.6%
Showtime (ABS-CBN) - 6.6%
Wish Ko Lang! (GMA-7) - 6.4%
Amazing Cooking Kids (GMA-7) - 6.2%
Maynila (GMA-7) - 5.6%
Powerpuff Girls Z (TV5) - 5.5%
Johnny Bravo (TV5) - 5.2%
Spongebob Squarepants (ABS-CBN) / Ripley's Believe It Or Not (GMA-7) - 5%
Misteryo (GMA-7) - 4.6%

Primetime:
Pilipinas Got Talent (ABS-CBN) - 14.1%
Kapuso Mo Jessica Soho (GMA-7) - 11.5%
Maalaala Mo Kaya (ABS-CBN) - 10%
Wil Time Bigtime (TV5) - 8.6%
Andres de Saya (GMA-7) - 8.5%
24 Oras Weekend (GMA-7) - 7.9%
Imbestigador (GMA-7) - 7.7%
Spooky Nights: Snow White Lady and the Seven Ghosts (GMA-7) - 7.6%
R U Kidding Me? Owws? Hindi Nga?! (TV5) - 6%
Wansapantaym: Boys Bestfriend (ABS-CBN) / Talentadong Pinoy (TV5) - 5.9%

June 26, Sunday

Daytime:
Kapuso Movie Festival: Fantastic Man (GMA-7) - 7.4%
ASAP Rocks (ABS-CBN) - 6.4%
Party Pilipinas (GMA-7) - 6.1%
Sunday Sineplex: Transformers (TV5) - 5.4%
Tween Hearts (GMA-7) - 5.1%
Ghost Fighter (GMA-7) / Kapamilya Blockbusters: How To Keep My Love (ABS-CBN) - 4.4%
Pokemon Advanced Battle (GMA-7) - 3.7%
AHA! (GMA-7) - 3.5%
Matanglawin (ABS-CBN) - 3.4%
howbiz Central (GMA-7) - 3.3%

Primetime:
Pilipinas Got Talent (ABS-CBN) - 15.2%
Pepito Manaloto (GMA-7) - 11.1%
Gandang Gabi Vice (ABS-CBN) - 10.9%
Kap's Amazing Stories (GMA-7) - 10.4%
Rated K (ABS-CBN) - 9.1%
Mel & Joey (GMA-7) - 7.8%
Who Wants To Be A Millionaire (TV5) - 6.5%
Talentadong Pinoy (TV5) - 6.3%
Big Shot Jackpot Bonus Round (TV5) - 6.2%
24 Oras Weekend (GMA-7) - 6.1%

June 27, Monday

Daytime:
Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 10.9%
Blusang Itim (GMA-7) - 6.4%
Sinner Or Saint (GMA-7) - 6%
Sisid (GMA-7) - 4.9%
Slam Dunk (GMA-7) - 4.7%
Super Sine 5: Jaws (ABS-CBN) - 4.6%
Face To Face (TV5) - 4.5%
Playful Kiss (GMA-7) - 4.4%
Ghost Fighter (GMA-7) - 4.1%
Showtime (ABS-CBN) - 3.9%

Primetime:
Amaya (GMA-7) - 14.6%
Munting Heredera (GMA-7) - 13.6%
Captain Barbell (GMA-7) - 11.6%
100 Days To Heaven (ABS-CBN) - 10.7%
Secret Garden (GMA-7) - 10.5%
Guns And Roses (ABS-CBN) - 10.1%
24 Oras (GMA-7) - 9.7%
Minsan Lang Kita Iibigin (ABS-CBN) - 9%
TV Patrol (ABS-CBN) - 8.4%
The Biggest Loser Pinoy Edition (ABS-CBN) - 6.1%

Here are the Top 10 daytime and primetime programs from June 24 to 27, 2011 among Mega Manila households (Household Ratings):

June 24, Friday

Daytime:
Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 29.7%
Sinner Or Saint (GMA-7) - 16.6%
Slam Dunk (GMA-7) - 16.5%
Sisid (GMA-7) - 15.9%
Blusang Itim (GMA-7) / Playful Kiss (GMA-7) - 15.5%
Ghost Fighter (GMA-7) / Unang Hirit (GMA-7) - 14%
Showtime (ABS-CBN) - 13.3%
Flame of Recca (GMA-7) / Kitchen Superstar (GMA-7) - 13%
Pokemon (GMA-7) - 12.7%
Kapamilya Blockbusters: CJ7 (ABS-CBN) - 12.6%

Primetime:
24 Oras (GMA-7) - 30.6%
Munting Heredera (GMA-7) - 28.8%
Amaya (GMA-7) - 26.6%
100 Days To Heaven (ABS-CBN) - 25.4%
Captain Barbell (GMA-7) - 23.4%
TV Patrol (ABS-CBN) / Secret Garden (GMA-7) - 23.3%
Guns And Roses (ABS-CBN) - 22.8%
Minsan Lang Kita Iibigin (ABS-CBN) - 21.1%
Magic Palayok (GMA-7) - 18.7%
Bubble Gang (GMA-7) - 16.5%

June 25, Saturday
Daytime:
Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 30.4%
Showtime (ABS-CBN) - 14.7%
Wish Ko Lang! (GMA-7) - 14.6%
Amazing Cooking Kids (GMA-7) - 13.9%
Maynila (GMA-7) - 13.1%
Ripley's Believe It Or Not! (GMA-7) - 11.7%
Spongebob Squarepants (ABS-CBN) - 11.6%
Hanep Buhay (GMA-7) - 11.5%
Misteryo (GMA-7) - 11.1%
Startalk TX (GMA-7) - 10.6%

Primetime:
Pilipinas Got Talent (ABS-CBN) - 27%
Kapuso Mo Jessica Soho (GMA-7) - 22.3%
Maalaala Mo Kaya (ABS-CBN) - 20.5%
Andres de Saya (GMA-7) - 19.4%
24 Oras Weekend (GMA-7) - 18.4%
Spooky Nights: Snow White and the Seven Ghosts (GMA-7) - 15.7%
Imbestigador (GMA-7) - 15.4%
Wansapantaym: Boys Bestfriend (ABS-CBN) - 12.4%
Banana Split (ABS-CBN) - 9.9%
TV Patrol Weekend (ABS-CBN) - 8.9%

June 26, Sunday

Daytime:
Kapuso Movie Festival: Fantastic Man (GMA-7) - 16.8%
Party Pilipinas (GMA-7) - 13.7%
ASAP Rocks (ABS-CBN) - 13.3%
Tween Hearts (GMA-7) - 13.1%
Ghost Fighter (GMA-7) - 11.4%
Kapamilya Blockbusters: How To Keep My Love (ABS-CBN) - 10.6%
Pokemon Advanced Battle (GMA-7) - 9.7%
AHA! (GMA-7) - 9%
Matanglawin (ABS-CBN) / Showbiz Central (GMA-7) - 8.4%
Good Vibes (ABS-CBN) - 7.6%

Primetime:
Pilipinas Got Talent (ABS-CBN) - 28.4%
Pepito Manaloto (GMA-7) - 23.1%
Gandang Gabi Vice (ABS-CBN) - 20.6%
Kap's Amazing Stories (GMA-7) - 20.4%
Rated K (ABS-CBN) - 18.6%
Mel & Joey (GMA-7) - 15.8%
24 Oras Weekend (GMA-7) - 15.3%
TV Patrol Weekend (ABS-CBN) - 12.1%
Goin' Bulilit (ABS-CBN) - 12%
Show Me Da Manny (GMA-7) - 9.8%

June 27, Monday

Daytime:
Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 26%
Blusang Itim (GMA-7) - 15.2%
Sinner Or Saint (GMA-7) - 15%
Slam Dunk (GMA-7) - 13.8%
Sisid (GMA-7) - 12.8%
Ghost Fighter (GMA-7) - 12.6%
Flame of Recca (GMA-7) - 11.6%
Playful Kiss (GMA-7) - 10.9%
Showtime (ABS-CBN) - 10.7%
Kapamilya Blockbusters: Shaolin Soccer (ABS-CBN) - 9.5%

Primetime:
Amaya (GMA-7) - 28.3%
Munting Heredera (GMA-7) - 26.6%
Captain Barbell (GMA-7) - 24.9%
100 Days To Heaven (ABS-CBN) - 23.4%
24 Oras (GMA-7) - 21.9%
Secret Garden (GMA-7) - 20.7%
Guns And Roses (ABS-CBN) - 20.5%
TV Patrol (ABS-CBN) - 20.4%
Minsan Lang Kita Iibigin (ABS-CBN) - 19.9%
Mula Sa Puso (ABS-CBN) / The Biggest Loser Pinoy Edition (ABS-CBN) - 13.4%

Source: AGB Nielsen Phils.

Dingdong Dantes Supports RH Bill; Says He Practice Safe S&)(

Kapuso prime leading man Dingdong Dantes is publicly supporting and advocating the passage of the Reproductive Health (RH) bill but is strongly against abortion.

Dingdong doesn’t claim to be an expert of the said bill that’s been the subject of an ongoing national debate, but he feels it would help Filipinos with regards to family planning.

“I’m really more for the bill’s educational side which is for everyone and not just women. There’s awareness of the sexuality. There’s awareness of what can happen and precautionary measures. Whatever happens, people especially women have choices or alternatives to do what they think is right for them,” Dingdong explained.

He stressed, though, that the bill for him is aimed at educating people.

“At the end of the day it’s all about being responsible parents and responsible teachers. But definitely I’m against abortion. I’m a Roman Catholic and I practice what’s expected,” he replied.

Does he practice safe sex then?

“I don't want to get there. But I think I’m very safe,” he replied smiling.

Enchong Dee Denies Julia Montes

Enchong Dee speaks to once and for all put an end to the rumors linking him to young actress and fellow Kapamilya artist Julia Montes.

Enchong has made it clear that he Julia are just friends - no more no less, despite people often seeing them out together.

"Kasi ako talaga [ang] pagkakaintindi ko ng date kapag kayong dalawa lang. Kapag kaming dalawa nakita n'yo, date na 'yon," Enchong said, adding that they were always accompanied by Julia's "Mara Clara" co-stars Kathryn Bernardo and Diego Loyzaga whenever they are seen out.

"Once and for all, magkaibigan lang po kami ni Julia Montes." he stressed.

Photo credit: Mabuhay Beauties

Happy Feet Two Now in 3D

Check out the trailer for the sequel to the Academy Award-winning computer animated film Happy Feet, "Happy Feet Two" ((also known as Happy Feet Two in 3D)

Starring Elijah Wood, Robin Williams, Hank Azaria, Alecia Moore (Pink), Brad Pitt, Matt Damon and Sofia Vergara, the film is slated to hit theaters on November 18, 2011 in RealD 3D and IMAX 3D. The film will also be released with a Looney Tunes short called Daffy's Rhapsody.

Happy Feet Two - Synopsis:

The sequel to the Academy Award(R) winning animated smash hit, “Happy Feet Two” returns audiences to the magnificent landscape of Antarctica in superb 3D. Mumble, The Master of Tap, has a problem because his tiny son Erik is choreo-phobic. Reluctant to dance, Erik runs away and encounters The Mighty Sven – a penguin who can fly!! Mumble has no hope of competing with this charismatic new role model. But things get worse when the world is shaken by powerful forces.

Erik learns of his father’s “guts and grit” as Mumble brings together the penguin nations and all manner of fabulous creatures–from tiny Krill to giant Elephant Seals–to put things right.

Happy Feet Two - Full Trailer:

Tommy Mottola and Thalia Welcome a Son Named Alejandro Mottola

Mexican singer-actress Thalia gave birth to a healthy baby boy with his husband Tommy Mottola.

The baby whom they named as Alejandro Mottola was born on June 25 and weighs 7lbs 14oz.

Thalia, 39, and Mottola, 61, have been married for 10 years and have a daughter named Sabrina Sakaë, 3.

Mottola is Mariah Carey's previous husband and the current co-owner of Casablanca Records, a joint venture with the Universal Music Group.

He used to be the head of the Sony Music Group and the former mentor and talent manager of Mariah, Hall & Oates, Carly Simon, Diana Ross, Gloria Estefan, Jessica Simpson and Jennifer Lopez.

‘Forever and a Day’ Grosses P23.27- M in First 5 Days

Star Cinema’s “Forever and a Day” starring Sam Milby and KC Concepcion had an opening weekend gross of P23.27 million at the box-office.

HIGHEST-GROSSING FILMS IN THE PHILIPPINES FOR 2011
(As of June 22, 2011)

1. Kung Fu Panda 2 – P197.65M *
2. Thor – P173.98M
3. Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides – P155.32M *
4. X-Men: First Class – P147.25M *
5. Fast Five – P126.8M
6. Catch Me…I’m In Love – P120.21M
7. In the Name of Love – P117.2M
8. Gulliver’s Travels – P82.33M
9. Pak! Pak! My Dr. Kwak! – P72.31M
10. Green Lantern – P72M *

TOP-GROSSING PINOY FILMS FOR 2011 SO FAR
(As of June 22, 2011)

1. Catch Me…I’m In Love – P120.21M
2. In the Name of Love – P117.2M
3. Pak! Pak! My Dr. Kwak! – P72.31M
4. Bulong – P67.27M
5. Who’s That Girl? – P58.31M
6. My Valentine Girls – P44.26M
7. Forever and a Day – P23.27M
8. Tumbok – P10.53M
9. Tum: My Pledge of Love – P5.16M

* still showing in theaters

Figures are estimates from third party tabulator Box Office Mojo

Prince Harry, 100 Percent Single and Playboy?

Prince Harry reportedly told her on and off (ex) girlfriend Chelsy Davy that he's ready to settle down for good with her and make things official despite their tumultuous relationship in the past.

The couple, who met in 2004 and split in September of 2010, rekindled their romance just in time for Prince William and Kate Middleton's Royal Wedding in April.

But in less than a month after that Royal event, a rumor saying he is being seen with Kate's sister, Pippa Middleton (who happens to be Davy's close friend as well), spending sweet time alone together at a London pub, surfaced.

Now, 26 year-old Prince Harry was seen getting flirty, chatting up a blonde American woman in the Live Nation VIP tent during the Hard Rock Calling concert in London's Hyde Park on Friday.

Mmm...a clear indication of "infidelity" and "playboy" image? He said not while trying to close down the persistent rumors of a Pippa fling.

"Pippa? Ha!" he told fellow concertgoers right before taking in a set from The Killers, according to a Daily Mail report. "No, I am not seeing anyone at the moment. I'm 100 percent single.

"I'm working a lot at the moment, so dating and watching TV are the last things I have time for."

The Adventures of Pureza: Queen of The Riles - Full Trailer Starring Melai Cantiveros and Jason Francisco

Star Cinema and Sine Screen bring the grandest and the pinaka-bonggang movie event of the year, "The Adventures of Pureza: Queen of The Riles".

Starring in her first major movie role is PBB's 5th Season Female Big Winner Melissa "Melai" Cantiveros.

Joining Melai is her real and reel sweetheart Jason Francisco. With Martin del Rosario, Nico Antonio, Bekimon, Joem Bascon, Bianca Manalo and Ms. Gina Pareno in supporting roles.

Directed by Soxie H. Topacio, "The Adventures of Pureza: Queen of The Riles" hits theaters on July 13, 2011.

The Adventures of Pureza: Queen of The Riles - Full Trailer:

Monday, June 27, 2011

2NE1 "I Am The Best" Music Video; Dara Park "Dragon Ball" Inspired Hairstyle To Set Trend in Korea

K-pop girl group 2NE1 has just released their latest single “I Am the Best” which they performed for the first time on SBS “Inkigayo” last June 26.

But not only their new song that is earning numerous recognitions and high hits on Youtube, Dara Park's anime-inspired hairstyle similar to Dragon Ball’s Vegeta character where her hair has been made to stand up is also getting a lot of attention and is starting to set trend in Korea.

On her me2day account, Sandara playfully wrote on June 27 that she is now “Daragonball” because of her hairdo.

“Yesterday I met Chundoong at Inkigayo! But, when I came home and watched our first performance I was worried! I always wanted to be the "pretty" noona to him but my appearance yesterday was? "Dara"gonball... Doodoong! So I asked him! "Did I...look humiliating?" And Doongie said "Nope!" while smiling at me! As expected my younger brother!!!! He's so nice!” Sandara posted according to a translation by fan site YGladies.com.

2NE1's “I Am the Best” music immediately garnered honors including the No. 3 Top Favorite video in the music category, No. 2 Top Favorite and No. 2 Top Rated video in South Korea after its day of release.

The song also tops music charts. Instiz, a music ranking site in South Korea, declared the song as a “perfect all-kill” for achieving No. 1 on various music charts including Dosirak, Cyworld and Mnet.

Andi Eigenmann, Pregnant?

It all started with a blind item. Became a known talks amongst the netizens and showbiz insiders. And now, is it true that the allege young drama actress from a big TV network who is reportedly pregnant is Andi Eigenman?

As of presstime, a confirmation nor denial has yet to receive from Andi's camp.

When asked for comments, Star Magic through its publicist Thess Gubi, meanwhile, issued this official statement:

"As far as Star Magic is concerned, Andi is taping at the set of Minsan Lang Kita Iibigin. Questions regarding her pregnancy should be addressed [to] the family. Thanks."

PEP meanwhile reported that they have a source who said Andi, who just turned 21 last June 25, is indeed pregnant. However, their source refused to provide further information about the young actress' rumored pregnancy.

Before the pregnancy issue, Andi got involved in a word war battle with his ex-boyfriend and fellow Kapamilya artist Albie Casiño.

Recently, she is seen attending several showbiz functions with her rumored boyfriend Jake Ejercito, ex-President Joseph Estrada's love child with former actress Laarni Enriquez. Although, there is no admission from both of them on the true status of their relationship, many are speculating that they are romantically involved already.

Andi (Andrea Nicole Guck Eigenmann in real life) is the daughter of multi-awarded actors Jaclyn Jose and Mark Gil and is a half-sister of Sid Lucero, Gabby Eigenmann and Maxene Eigenmann who also got pregnant last year during the peak of her showbiz career.

She is currently one of ABS-CBN's major primetime female stars and under management contract with ABS-CBN's talent arm Star Magic. Her stardom started when he played the lead role in Kapamilya hit fantaserye "Agua Bendita". She is now one of the lead cast in the hit drama series "Minsan Lang Kita Iibigin".

But during the 19th anniversary celebration of Star Magic last Sunday on ASAP Rocks, Andi, being one of the talent arm's prime star, was noticeably absent...why?

Andi was also one of the featured young stars in Yes! Magazine's list of "Next Big Thing" in showbiz. Reportedly, she will topbill the TV adaptation of "Galema, Ang Anak ni Zuma" when MLKI came to an end.

Incidentally, Coco Martin, who is Andi's leading man in MLKI, was also Maxene's leading man in Kung Tayo'y Magkakalayo which was aired in January last year.

Lady Gaga Sued Over Japan Earthquake Charity Bracelet Scam

Lady Gaga is facing class suit on deceptive advertising and misrepresentation of profits from the sale of her wristbands intended for Japan's earthquake victims.

Michigan legal network 1800LAWFIRM alleges that Gaga and other companies involved in the sale and marketing of the $5 white and red "We Pray for Japan" wristbands overcharged buyers on shipping costs and "artificially inflated reports of total donations".

"While we commend Lady Gaga for her philanthropic efforts, we want to ensure that claims that 'all proceeds will be donated to Japan's earthquake' are in fact true," said Alyson Oliver, an attorney for 1800LAWFIRM.

"Our intention via this lawsuit is to uncover any improprieties committed by Lady Gaga and appropriate the full donations assumed to the victims in Japan."

The federal class action lawsuit was filed in Michigan on Friday while the "Born This Way" singer was in Japan for a benefit concert for victims of the March earthquake and tsunami.

The pop superstar is reported to have donated about $3 million to Japan disaster relief through sales of the wristbands and other ventures.

The official website for the singer's store however has several comments from frustrated fans complaining about long delivery times and shipping and handling costs of more than $5 for the small rubber wristbands.

Lady Gaga and her representatives has yet to comment on the lawsuit.

"Star Wars Galaxies" Bids Goodbye on December 15; To Be Replaced by "Star Wars: The Old Republic"

LucasArts and Sony Online have recently announced that they're shutting down the popular multi-player online role-playing game (MMORPG), "Star Wars: Galaxies" on December 15, 2011.

But before the game ends, Sony will be encouraging players to participate in a "galaxy-ending event" which details has yet to be announced. The game is shutting down in stages. Its trading-card store has already been taken offline. 12-, 6-, and 3-month subscriptions are no longer available.

And on October 15, players will have full access as paid members to Free Realms, Star Wars: Clone Wars Adventures, EverQuest, EverQuest II, and DC Universe Online games.

In an interview with Joystiq, SOE president John Smedley said the closure was "first and foremost a business decision mutually agreed upon between SOE and LucasArts. LucasArts has a new game coming out, and the contract would be running out in 2012 anyway, so we feel like it's the right time for the game to end."

He is referring to "Star Wars: The Old Republic," which is set to launch in 2012.

Asteroid 2011 MD Almost Reaches the Earth (Video)

An asteroid the size of a tour bus zipped by Earth today (June 27) in a flyby so close that the space rock was nearer to the planet than some satellites, giving skywatchers and astronomers a tantalizing target for photos.

The space rock, called asteroid 2011 MD, reached its closest point to Earth just after 1 p.m. EDT (1700 GMT), when it crept within 7,500 miles (12,000 km) of Earth before whipping away again like a slingshot. The asteroid was flying over the southern Atlantic Ocean, off the coast of Antarctica, at the time of its closest approach.

The asteroid was discovered just last week on June 22, but there was never any risk of it impacting Earth, NASA scientists said. Astronomers with the LINEAR near-Earth object survey in Socorro, N.M., made the find.

Video of Asteroid 2011 MD

The space rock is on the small side, with latest size estimates ranging from 16 to 66 feet (5 to 20 meters) wide.

That means asteroid 2011 MD would likely be too small to survive the fiery plunge through Earth's atmosphere, let alone reach the surface, NASA scientists said. Asteroids this size can be expected to buzz Earth with close shaves about once every six years, they added.

The asteroid's close brush with Earth sent it off on a new trajectory through the solar system. The space rock flew well below geosynchronous satellites, which orbit 22,236 miles (35,786 km) above Earth, but well above the 220-mile (354-km) altitude of the International Space Station.

There was little chance the asteroid would hit a satellite because of the vastness of space and relatively small number of satellites, experts said.

By Tariq Malik, SPACE.com Managing Editor

GMA Films and Regal Entertainment Issue Official Statement on Marian Rivera-Heart Evangelista Feud

After Marian Rivera's emotional revelations about what really transpired between her, Heart Evangelista and Heart's mother Mrs. Cecile Ongpauco at the airport (read related article HERE) during the “Temptation Island” press conference on June 23, GMA Films and Regal Entertainment release an official statement to...ahmm....protect the movie? Read below:

GMA Films and Regal Entertainment acknowledge that there was a recent incident involving Marian Rivera and Heart Evangelista that happened during the shooting of ‘Temptation Island’ in Laoag, Ilocos Norte. This unfortunate matter caused stress to both Marian and Heart and Heart made this known to her parents.

However, the production team intervened and was able to handle the situation. Both Marian and Heart tried to put the issue behind them.

The producers would like to assure the fans that this minor incident did not in any way affect the shooting of ‘Temptation Island’ and also request all their supporters and followers to put a closure to this episode.

We are excited for the showing of the movie and we encourage all the fans and moviegoers to watch the film on July 6.”

TV5 to Air President Joseph Estrada's 34 Movies

The classic movies of award-winning actor and former Philippine president Joseph 'Erap" Estrada will soon be enjoyed by his fans as well as today's youth as TV5 airs 34 of his films, including Asiong Salonga, Erap is My Guy, Kumander Alibasbas, Sa Kuko ng Agila, Geron Busabos, Ang Batang Quiapo, and Batang Iwahig.

The deal was finalized in a contract signing held at Erap's residence in North Greenhills, San Juan last June 17. Present at the contract signing were TV5 President and CEO Atty Ray Espinosa, TV5 EVP and COO Roberto Barreiro, Viva Entertainment head Vic Del Rosario and Erap's brother, Jesse Ejercito.

After the contract signing, the former president thanked the TV5 executives for presenting the opportunity to show his library of films to today's viewers. "Sa nakikita ko, panahon na para ipalabas yung mga pelikula ko katulad ng kay FPJ [his good friend, Fernando Poe Jr) para naman makita ng mga kabataan natin na ang mga pelikula ng araw ay ganito. When I was starting out as a movie actor, pinapanood ko din yung mga pelikula nila Rogelio Dela Rosa at Leopoldo Salcedo. Natuto din kami sa mga pelikula nila noon," he shared.

The former president's lengthy film career that began in 1959 yielded more than 100 films, most of which featured him in the lead role. He also had around 70 films for which he was credited as producer. According to him, his most memorable films include those that were cited by award-giving bodies such as the FAMAS (Film Academy of Movie Arts and Science).

Erap was inducted into the FAMAS Hall of Fame as an actor in 1981. Two years later, he also figured in the Hall of Fame as a producer. In 1974, the former president founded the Movie Workers Welfare Fund (Mowelfund), a non-stock, non-profit foundation established to look after the welfare of workers in the Philippine movie industry.

Justin Bieber's Babe Selena Gomez in “Monte Carlo”

Teen superstar and Justin Bieber’s babe Selena Gomez stars in the romantic comedy “Monte Carlo” co-starring Leighton Meester, Katie Cassidy and Cory Monteith. The movie revolves three American girls who take a trip to Paris and get caught up in a case of mistaken identity, based on the Jules Bass novel “Headhunters” and directed by Thomas Bezucha.

Gomez plays Grace, a young woman who uses her savings to go on the Parisian holiday of a lifetime, bringing along her best friend and her uptight big sister. When Grace is mistaken for Cordelia, a British heiress, the trio find themselves swept into a storybook world of romance, paparazzi and couture as their vacation takes them to Monte Carlo.

However, the holiday is not without its crazy moments, as the girls must avoid the real Cordelia (also played by Selena Gomez) as well as dealing with the suitors pursuing them accross Europe.

Selena Gomez, 18, first appeared in “Barney and Friends” at the age of nine and is most famous for her role as Alex Russo in “The Wizards of Waverly Place” shares in the following q&a shares her experience on filming her first movie out of Wizards.

Q. Do you have anything in common with your character?

A. Like Grace, I grew up in a small town, and I was determined to branch out and do something that I love. Being at home is wonderful, but I think you need to be prepared to push yourself out of your comfort zone and explore all your options if you’re going to achieve your dreams. I think that’s something that I share with Grace.

Q. What was the most challenging part of making the film?

A. This is by far the hardest job I’ve ever taken on. Because I graduated this year, this is the first project I’ve been able to work on as an adult. It means working 17 hour days, which can be quite intense! It’s also been one of the most fun projects I’ve ever worked on. Monte Carlo is a beautiful place to work, and I’ve got some amazing people around me - Cory’s so much fun, and Leighton is like a big sister! They make me feel relaxed and carefree.

Q. Is it tough to be away from your family and friends during filming?

A. Well, I’ve got my Mom with me, and my friend Ashley flew over from Texas. I miss my friends a lot. The internet is really bad here, which doesn’t help. I talked to my Grandma on iChat once. She’s really tech savvy - my Grandma has got it going on!

Q. Who are you closest to on set?

A. It’s impossible to pick just one person! The girls are amazing. Leighton and Katie are so sweet and affectionate. You know that they’ll always be there for you. Katie is really honest. She’s a big fan of tough love and she has lots of strong opinions that she’s happy to express. Leighton is a bit more romantic and dreamy. She’ll be the one saying “follow your heart” when you need advice.

Q. Has working on Monte Carlo inspired any of your songwriting?

A. We shot a lot of the movie in Budapest, and I recorded half of my album while I was there. I wrote a song called Ready, Steady Go, which is about how it feels to move to a different country and all the anxieties I had about going. I was terrified, but I was surrounded by people who helped and supported me. The whole theme is about following your heart and finding yourself.

“Monte Carlo” opens July 1 in theaters from 20th Century Fox to be distributed by Warner Bros.

Emma Watson Says Farewell to Hermione in “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2”

She first played Hermione in the “Harry Potter” film series at age nine. Eleven years and eight movies later, with the final one, “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2” showing in July, Emma Watson is ready to close that chapter in her life. Or is she? Find out in the following interview.

Question: How are you feeling now that the films are coming to a close? Are you nostalgic?

Emma Watson: That question never gets clearer or easier really to answer. It’s hard for me to answer because I still don’t really know how I feel about it. I’m still processing it. So, to give you an answer is actually quite hard. I have days where I feel relieved and I have days where I feel very sad. And I have days where I’m like, ‘I’m so excited.’ Because this just took up my life, all of my time; my life revolved around Harry Potter. That was the focal point of my existence. And it’s exciting now that I have this time, I can accept other things. I mean, I know the grass is always greener, but there were moments when I was making this when I was like, ‘God, I wish I could go and do that.’ Or something would come up and now I have time to go and do different things. So, it’s exciting too. I swing kind of like a pendulum back and forth between all these different emotions.

Q: Is there any particular scene in any of the films that you would like to go back and reshoot, even as a different character?

Watson: Ooh, that’s interesting. I actually had a really good time playing the evil Hermione in Ron’s vision, so I’d quite like to go back and play a bad guy for once. I think that would be fun.

Q: You seem to take the media stuff in stride.

Watson: It’s experience. I’m twenty years old now and I was nine when I went into my first press conference, so you just get used to it. It takes too much emotional energy to get upset every time something’s written that you don’t want to see. You just have to let it go. I would be a crazy person.

Q: Did you realize that early on?

Watson: It took me a while to figure that one out, actually. I mean, I would be lying if I said I didn’t still get upset. I do still get upset. But I don’t care quite so much, which is good. I mean, I still get misquoted all the time. And there’s so much information out there about me you think it would be very easy to check facts, but…

Q: So would you still think of an acting career or is it still up in the air for you?

Watson: No, definitely, and this film’s given me a lot of confidence. I just did a movie called My Week with Marilyn, which is a Weinstein production with Eddie Redmayne and Michelle Williams and that went really well. And, no, I think I will keep acting. I think I’d like to make maybe one movie a year or something.

Q: This movie really gives all of you a chance to really act. What does David Yates bring to that?

Watson: The thing about working with David Yates is that you always hear this word, “truth” and finding the truth and being honest and real. He really hates anything false; he wants it to be from the heart. And so I think that made me a better actress. Especially at the very beginning; I felt I was playing such a character and when I was playing Hermione I could really put on this act and become this kind of big personality and use that to avoid being as truthful. And then he just said, ‘Just do it from here. Just forget all of that stuff. Just be honest.’ That’s what I tried to do. And I think it made a difference.

Q: Which of all the scenes with Ron and Hermione was your favorite to film?

Watson: In “Part 2,” we go off on this little adventure together to destroy the horcrux. And it’s kind of like a comedy act because it’s the first time you see Hermione and Ron in tune. We’re usually so offbeat. We’re always going to miss each other and we kind of clash. And then, in this one scene, we’re this real team and it’s so funny and we’re both so into it. There are just a couple of really funny comedy moments and I just really enjoyed them. Rupert’s a great comedic actor and so we had a really good time just really bringing the humor out of everything that we could.

Distributed by Warner Bros., “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2” will be released in Philippine theatres and IMAX, in 3D and 2D, beginning July 14.

World’s First Ever ‘Comedy Awards’ Airs on Velvet

The Comedy Awards is the first multi-network event dedicated to the serious art of being funny. Velvet agrees that laughter is truly the best medicine. Get a hit of hilarity as the fun sexy party channel airs “The Comedy Awards 2011,” the first-ever event dedicated to the serious art of being funny on June 25, Saturday at 10p.m, with encore telecasts on June 28, Tuesday at 11p.m., and July 1, Friday at 10p.m.

The Comedy Awards 2011 gathered a long, interesting list of the world’s comedy geniuses - not only actors. but writers, producers and directors as well.

Besides the formidable awards given, Comedy Awards also featured Best Viral Video, which was voted online by the public.

The creme de la creme of comedy were chosen by an exclusive voting body, comprised of nearly 1,000 members from the comedy community.

Have the loudest laugh in this year’s night of punchlines! Catch “The Comedy Awards 2011” on June 25, Saturday at 10p.m, with encore telecasts on June 28, Tuesday at 11p.m., and July 1, Friday at 10p.m., on Velvet (SkyCable Channel 53), the country’s premier general entertainment channel.

Velvet is available on SkyCable Platinum, SkyCable Gold, SkyCable Silver and other quality cable operators nationwide.

"100 Days To Heaven," Xyriel Manabat and Jodi Sta Maria Earn Critics' Nods, Top TV Ratings

The teleserye about a successful executive who was killed and given a second chance to make up for her life's mistakes within a time period has not only gripped the nation, but has also won the nods of the country's TV critics.

ABS-CBN's "100 Days to Heaven" is currently the most-watched TV program across the country. Kantar Media reported that the teleserye starring Xyriel Manabat, Coney Reyes, and Jodi Sta Maria obtained a national TV rating of 32.6%, which is the highest among regular programs in May.

The series has also gained nice reviews from TV critics who did not only talk about “100 Days to Heaven” impressive plot but also praised Xyriel and Jodi’s portrayals in the show.

Isah Red of Manila Standard Today wrote that "100 Days to Heaven" is the kind of soap opera that has everyone wondering why it works and is leading in nationwide surveys. He cited two reasons why it is beating competition in the ratings game: novel concept and good performances.

Red wrote in his review, "The concept is novel to many Filipinos. I think the writers have been able to make each week dramatic enough for audiences to look forward to the next level."

In the acting department, Red said the lead child actress "Xyriel Manabat proves that she can deliver punches as well as buckets of tears and the audience are loving her."

"Coney Reyes who plays the older woman must be delightfully amused that she has found her clone. More so, the series is populated with competent performers among whom Jodi Sta Maria and Rafael Rosell," he added.

Tito Genova Valiente of Business Mirror also praised Xyriel as really a mature actor and that her portrayal of the character exudes a sense of truth.

“Manabat, because she is so good, is really a mature actor trapped in a cute and charming little girl’s body. Onscreen, she manifests all the mannerisms of a mature person in the character she plays. She is supposed to be the young Anna/Reyes but one realizes that we are not ‘supposing’ anything in and with her,” he said.

Nestor Torre of Philippine Daily Inquirer welcomed the introduction of a street-smart seam artist in the series, that is played by actress Jodi Santamaria. Torre described Jodi's portrayal as "bracingly edgy and textured."

"Unlike many of her contemporaries, she (Jodi) has the imagination and work ethic to act, rather than merely pass muster with lazy, little variations on herself. It would be really great if more young-adult performers would be similarly ambitious and gung-ho creative,” Torre added.

Keep watching "100 Days to Heaven" and find out how Anna Manalastas will find her way to heaven. The show airs weeknights after “TV Patrol.”

Sam Pinto Reveals True Feelings for Aljur Abrenica

In her interview last Saturday at “Startalk TX”, Kapuso sexy star and 2011's FHM sexiest woman Sam Pinto expressed her admiration towards Kapuso hunk Aljur Abrenica.

Sam revealed that she finds Aljur to be her perfect leading man because of his good looks.

"Actually naka-work ko na po si Aljur sa ‘Spooky Nights Present The Ring Tone.’ Okay naman po yung chemistry namin, masaya naman sa set, so why not?" the sexy star said referring to their first TV project together - the second installment of “Spooky Nights” (Aljur opposite Kris Bernal and she with Sef Cadayona).

And when asked a hypothetical query of 'what if Aljur decides to woo her,' Sam has only this to say: "And paano kung ligawan ako ni Aljur? Ay naku, kakapalabas lang, meron siyang Kylie Padilla," she said, referring to a taped interview of Aljur earlier aired on the show admitting he is currently exclusively dating with Robin Padilla's daughter Kylie.

"For me naman po, we'll get to know each other first," she continued.

Sunday, June 26, 2011

Typhoon Falcon Update: Falcon Leaves PHL with 68,939 Families Still Affected by Floods; 15 People Missing

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), reported on Saturday morning that Falcon had intensified into a severe storm as it continued to move away from the country at a faster rate.

The storm has increased its speed at 24 kph from 19 kph while moving north-northwest in the general direction of Korea.

However, floods caused by typhoon Falcon affected at least 68,939 families or 329,904 people in 220 villages in 27 towns and 14 cities in the National Capital Region, Central Luzon, Calabarzon and the Bicol region, National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported on Saturday.

Fifteen persons, including two children, remain missing. They are identified as Fedelito Muana Jr., 14, Olongapo City; Rosa Belga Ordan, 54, Ligao City; Antonio Avila Bailon, 40, Catanduanes; Jason Balingit, 16, Catanduanes; Pedro Balingit, 37, Catanduanes; Nestor Tapit Mandasoc, 53, Catanduanes; Jonsy Rodriguez, Catanduanes; Denver Sta. Ines, 2, Catanduanes; Paquito Tabios, 40, Catanduanes; Joselito de los Santos, 39, Camarines Norte; Rolando Sarmiento Tabios, 30, Catanduanes; Joey Mendoza, 20, Camarines Norte; Jenan Mendoza, 18, Camarines Norte; Vicente Rodriguez Tapit, 40, Catanduanes; and Angelica S. Recome, 3, Rizal.

Forecast:

Northern and Central Luzon including Metro Manila will experience Monsoon rains becoming widespread rains over the Western section which may trigger flashfloods and landslides. Southern Tagalog will have mostly cloudy skies with scattered rainshowers and thunderstorms. The rest of the country will be partly cloudy to at times cloudy with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms.

Moderate to strong winds blowing from the Southwest will prevail over Luzon and coming from the Southeast to Southwest over the rest of the country. The coastal waters throughout the archipelago will be moderate to rough.

PAGASA also said it is monitoring another weather disturbance - a low pressure area - East of Eastern Visayas, which is expected to bring more rains over the Visayas, Mindanao, the Bicol region and the western coast of Luzon.

Marcelito Pomoy is Pilipinas Got Talent Season 2 Winner (PGT Season 2 Grand Finals Photos)

Marcelito Po Moy‘s powerful rendition of “The Prayer” at the grand finals of “Pilipinas Got Talent” not only earned him a standing ovation at the Araneta Coliseum last Saturday, but also the honor of being the winner of the country’s leading talent-reality show.

Marcelito Po Moy, who became an internet sensation via YouTube at the early part of the contest, bested 13 other grand finalists by getting the highest number of text and online votes (19.56%).

He came to Manila to search for his mother and siblings, but little did he know that he will also be able to realize his other dreams by joining “Pilipinas Got Talent.” Not only did he get to be reunited with his family and he also topped the talent-reality search for the best Filipino talent and brought home the P2 million cash prize.

Tapdancing brothers Happy Feet, on the other hand, came in second place with 18.32% and deathdefying breakdancers Freestylers on third with 9.46%. They won P100,000 each, while the eleven other grand finalists received P50,000 each.

The eleven other grand finalists were Madrigal Siblings, B4, Angel Calalas, Jem Cubil, Filogram, John Michael Narag, Buildex Pagales, DJP Trio, Leoniel Enopia and Elizabeth Dazo, Rico the Magician, and Skeights.

The grand finals of “Pilipinas Got Talent” season 2 became the most-talked about topic in the social networking site Twitter worldwide. The results night got even more exciting with superb performances by Gary Valenciano, Zsa Zsa Padilla, Jhong Hilario, Rayver Cruz, Gab Valenciano, and John Prats.

Watch the reunion of “Pilipinas Got Talent” contestants this Saturday (July 2) and Sunday (July 3), 8:45 PM.

Meanwhile, the search for the country’s best acts continues as “Pilipinas Got Talent” premieres its third season this July 9 on ABS-CBN with Luis Manzano and Billy Crawford as hosts and Kris Aquino, Ai Ai Delas Alas, and Freddie M. Garcia as judges.

See PGT Season 2 Grand Finals photos below: