Angelica Panganiban Said She's Only Second Choice for Banana Split

Actress Angelica Panganiban expressed deep gratitude that she was chosen to be part of the ABS-CBN sitcom “Banana Split” -- at the last minute.

“Ako I’m just being honest. Nung umpisa talaga hindi ako part ng cast. Happy ako na the night before the launching niya, pictorial and everything, tinawagan lang ako ng biglaan kung puwede nga ako mag-pictorial for a comedy show,” she related.Speaking during the show’s anniversary episode on Saturday, Panganiban revealed that she was not in the original lineup for the sitcom four years ago and was just a second choice.

But Panganiban said she did not think twice when “Banana Split” was offered to her.

“Ako naman siyempre wow. Huli kong ginawa 'yung “Ang TV," so sabi ko yes na yes. Maharot akong bata, gustong gusto kong nagpapasaya. Sobrang akong masaya na ako 'yung huling choice, second option lang ako, pero hanggang ngayon nandito pa rin ako,” she said.

Panganiban said “Banana Split” also paved the way for her and actor John Prats to become best friends.

“Ang best friend ko naman talaga ang kapatid niya, si Camille. Pero nung nag 'Banana Split,' magkasundo pala kaming dalawa. Si Camille, sobrang boring. Ang gusto niya pangmatalino, reading books (laughs),” she shared.

Panganiban is the only member of “Banana Split” who has been part of the show since season one. By wanderer || Full Story: Kapamilyalogy

Erich Gonzales Feels Lucky for Working With Mario Maurer

Actress Erich Gonzales shared she did not have a hard time working with Thai superstar Mario Maurer despite their different cultures.

In an interview with “The Buzz” on Sunday, Gonzales said she and Maurer became close when they were shooting their movie “Suddenly It’s Magic” in Ilocos Norte.

“Kay Mario kasi sobrang komportable ako, kahit first time ko siyang makatrabaho. Ang gaan, walang ilangan talaga and 'yung familiarity nandoon kaagad,” she said.

Gonzales said she and Maurer would talk about their personal lives, and sometimes about love, when they were not doing scenes.

Gonzales said Maurer even gave her advice about life.

“Sabi niya lang talaga ‘Erich you enjoy your life.’ Ito raw buhay natin ngayon hindi naman daw forever so lahat ng moments i-enjoy. Siya talaga, sobrang kid at heart. Napaka-playful niya,” she said.

Just like her, Gonzales said Maurer is also working hard to give his family a better life.

“Basta ang nakwento niya sa akin, gusto niyang maging artista para makatulong sa pamilya niya. Sobrang close talaga siya sa family niya, idol niya 'yung dad niya, 'yung kuya niya, sa mommy niya. Gusto niya lagi lang masaya ang family niya and sana daw maging proud sa kanya. I’m sure sa achievements niya, proud na proud sa kanya ang family niya,” she said.

Gonzales said she is really fortunate to have been given a chance to work with Maurer.

In "Suddenly It’s Magic," Maurer portrays a Thai superstar named Marcus who flies to the Philippines to escape his busy career.

Here, Marcus crosses paths with Joey (Gonzales), a romantically jaded Filipina baker who is bound to spark "magic" in the boring life of the Thai celebrity.

“Suddently It’s Magic” will be shown in theaters nationwide beginning October 31.
Source: www.abs-cbnnews.com By wanderer || Full Story: Kapamilyalogy

BB Gandanghari and Alex Gonzaga wear stunning costumes on Enchanted Garden

After entering the forbidden garden, Michiko (BB Gandanghari) and Aya (Alex Gonzaga) made their way around the enchanting world of Eden. This time, they wear costumes that reflect their true heritage. Designed by Bill Gustilo, these stunning costumes are inspired by medieval times and are made of exotic plants and flowers that fit their characters.

Daring and bold like her persona, Michiko's costume was made simple yet daring with its unique mullet cut and embellishments that play up colors representing the environment: green, red and pink. Meanwhile, Aya's costume defines youthful royalty as it was made with colorful flower ornaments and ashen sheer material.

Don't miss out the exciting scenes and the most-awaited revelation about Michiko's true identity. Will she remain a friend to Aya or will she turn on her? What challenges will they face in the hands of Queen Valerianna (Ruffa Gutierrez)? The biggest and the most shocking secrets will be revealed this week as the story continues in Enchanted Garden. The show airs from Monday to Friday at 6:30PM before Wil Time BigTime. The show also has a catch-up marathon every Sunday morning at 10:30AM before Game 'N Go.

By Night Owl || Full Story: Kapamilyanewsngayon

"THIS GUY'S IN LOVE WITH YOU, MARE" TUMABO NA NG P200-M!

Humataw na ng P200 milyon sa box-office sa loob lamang ng dalawang linggo ang wild comedy movie event ng taon mula sa Star Cinema na "This Guy's in Love With You, Mare" na pinagbibidahan ng box-office comedy trio nina Toni Gonzaga, Luis Manzano at Vice Ganda.

 

Dahil sa kanilang box-office success, apaw-apaw na pasasalamat ang nais iparating ng buong cast ng pelikula ng at director nitong si Direk Wenn V. Deramas.

 

"Maraming salamat sa lahat," ani Direk Wenn. "Masayang-masaya kami dahil over 'yung suporta ng tao sa movie namin bawat araw. Sobra kaming nag-enjoy noong ginagawa namin ito at talagang nagreflect naman ito sa pelikula pati sa mga manonood."

 

Proud naman si Toni sa 'first time' niyang naranasan dahil sa "This Guy's In Love With You, Mare." Ayon sa aktres, "Natutuwa ako kasi first time kong ma-experince yung ganung outcome ng movie ever in my life. Syempre grateful kami sa sumuporta, nanood at naniwala sa peliuklang ito."

 

Nagmarka naman kay Luis ang nasaksihan niyang husay ng mga kaibigan habang ginagawa ang kanilang kauna-unahang movie project. "Noong sinimulan namin ang 'This Guy's In Love With You, Mare,' kaibigan lang ako nina Toni at Vice. But we ended this movie na naging fan ako nina Toni at Vice," pahayag ng TV host-actor na saludo sa galing sa comedy ng dalawa sa kanyang closest friends sa showbiz.

 

Samantala, buong-buo namang inialay ni Vice sa Diyos ang pinakabago niyang box-office success. "Thank you talaga kay Lord. Alam ko kasing napunta ako sa mahusay na team kaya alam kong magiging maganda ang kalalabasan ng pelikula namin," ani Vice. "Isa ito sa mga nagawa kong project na wala akong naramdamang stress kaya hindi nakapagtatakang mauulit ito."

 

Huwag palampasin ang third blockbuster week ng "This Guy's In Love With You, Mare" na ipinalalabas pa rin sa mga sinehan nationwide.

 

Matapos ang "This Guys In Love With You, Mare," sunod na ihahandog ng Star Cinema sa Filipino moviegoers worldwide ang pinakapinananabikang romantic-comedy film na pinagbibidahan ng Thai superstar na si Mario Maurer at Philippine sweetheart na si Erich Gonzales, ang "Suddenly It's Magic." Sa ilalim ng direksyon ni Rory B. Quintos, ang "Suddenly It's Magic" ay mapapanood na sa mga sinehan sa buong bansa ngayong October 31 (Wednesday).

 

Para sa karagdagang impormasyon tungkol sa "This Guy's In Love With You, Mare" at "Suddenly It's Magic," mag- log on lamang sahttp://www.StarCinema.com.ph/, http://facebook.com/StarCinema athttp://twitter.com/StarCinema.

By Night Owl || Full Story: Kapamilyanewsngayon

Stunning July 2012 Magazine Covers feat. Iza Calzado, Erich Gonzales and Angel Locsin

An eye-catching Kapamilya leading ladies grace the covers of several of the country’s top magazines this month of July.

Kapamilya Dramatic Actress Iza Calzado graces the cover of Rogue Magazine’s July 2012 edition. It’s the 5th anniversary issue of the magazine which features the “reconstruction” of their latest cover girl Iza. The cover photo was photographed by Mark Nicdao and I think one of the most stunning cover stints by the lead star of ABS-CBN’s new primetime series “Kapag Puso'y Sinugatan”.

Erika Chryselle Gonzales Gancayco known as Erich Gonzales talks about her diva reputation and working with her latest leading man Mario Maurer in the “BIG DEAL” issue of MEG Magazine (July 2012). For the fans of Erich, don’t miss to grab a copy of this latest magazine cover of your idol. I’ve already saw the BTS photo shoots and I must say Erich graced this cover very well. She’s undeniably very gorgeous young actress!

Young Superstar Angel Locsin is on the cover of Maven Magazine’s June-July 2012 issue. It’s the 1st year anniversary of the ABS-CBN publication for smart, real and sexy women. And what a great to rejoice it’s 1st year by having a fabulous issue with one of today showbiz’ finest on the cover. And Maven did it! Find out why they tagged Angel as their “Ultimate Maven”.
  The July 2012 issue of Rogue, MEG and Maven Magazine are now available at all magazine stands and selected bookstores and supermarkets nationwide. Be sure to grab a copy! By Zeaven28 || Full Story: Pinoy Showbiz Surfer

2012 Most Popular Pinay Actress on the Web (Update) – Last 5 Days to Vote

5 days left before we announce this year’s Most Popular Pinay Actress on the Web, Primetime Queen Marian Rivera still unbeatable!
 
Currently on 2nd place is Walang Hanggan star Julia Montes. So far she’s the no.1 highest vote-getter among Kapamilya stars in the Final 15. Followed by Primetime Princess Kim Chiu. Completing the Top 5 are Erich Gonzales and Angel Locsin.

2012 Most Popular Pinay Actress on the Web
As of July 10 (Tuesday), 11:30 a.m. (votes on Facebook)

Marian Rivera - 7019
Julia Montes - 3300
Kim Chiu - 1833
Erich Gonzales - 1519
Angel Locsin - 1355
Kathryn Bernardo - 1273
Anne Curtis - 1149
Sarah Geronimo - 1146
Jennylyn Mercado - 937
Maja Salvador - 908
Toni Gonzaga - 886
Julie Ann San Jose - 798
Melai Cantiveros - 574
KC Concepcion - 523
Bea Alonzo – 387

Note: The web votes will be added on Thursday, July 12. Check out the Final Web Votes HERE

HOW TO CAST YOUR VOTE?

1. Go to our Official Pinoybizsurfer Facebook Page and click the “LIKE” button. If you already “LIKE” our Page, proceed to the next step.

2. After you LIKE our page, you can now proceed to the “Photos” section and click the album “2012 Most Popular Pinay Actress on the Web – The Final 15”.

3. To vote, just choose the image of your liked female celebrities and click on the word “LIKE” located below of the image. And presto! Your vote/s IN!

Reminder: To make sure your votes will be counted on July 15 (end of voting), you must be a fan of our Facebook Page. This is very important matter in case Facebook change the system of their security.
photo credit: Karimadon (Marian), Star Cinema (Erich), MEG (Julia & Kim) By Zeaven28 || Full Story: Pinoy Showbiz Surfer

Ara Mina, hindi pa rin napapatawad si Cristine Reyes

Naitanong kay Ara Mina ang patungkol sa kanilang relasyon ng kapatid na si Cristine Reyes at kinumpirma niya na hindi pa rin sila nagkakasundo nito. Nangingilid ang mga luha sa mga mata ni Ara nang mabuksan ang usapin patungkol kay Cristine dahil hanggang ngayon ay mabigat pa rin umano sa kaniyang loob ang pag-usapan ito. Nilinaw naman ni Ara Mina na kahit pa madalas sabihin sa kaniya na gusto lamang niya ng publicity ay naninindigan siya na handa niyang hintayin ang pagbaba ng resolusyon ng piskalya sa kasong isinampa niya sa kapatid.

Inamin ni Ara na lumala pa ang sitwasyon nila ni Cristine Reyes nang magkaroon ng engkwentro ang dalaga at isa pa nilang kapatid na lalaki. Pinigilan lamang daw ito nina Ara Mina dahil gusto pa sana nito magpa-interview. Naintindihan din daw ng kanilang kapatid na lalaki kung bakit idinemanda ni Ara si Cristine. Hindi na rin daw kilala ngayon ng aktres ang kapatid na nakilala niya noon dahil ibang-iba na raw ang pagkatao nito. Bilib naman daw siya sa nobyo ng kapatid na si Rayver Cruz lalo na sa ipinapakita nitong pagmamahal sa dalaga. Bagamat alam umano ni Ara Mina na magkakaayos din sila ni Cristine Reyes ay hindi naman siya sigurado kung kailan ito mangyayari.

 

Full Story @ Tsismoso

Pia Guanio, Steeve Magno ipinagdiwang ang kanilang renewal of vows

Doble ang naging selebrasyon ng mag-asawang Pia Guanio at Steeve Magno kamakailan lang dahil bukod sa dedication ng kanilang anak na si Scarlet Jenine ay nagdiwang din silang mag-asawa ng kanilang renewal of vows. Ang nag-officiate ng seremonya nina Pia at Steeve ay ang kanilang malapit na kaibigan na si Pastor Paolo Punzalan na siyang nag-officiate ng kasalan noon ng dalawa. Tumayong ninong ng anak ng mag-asawa sina  Joey de Leon at Mr. Tony Tuviera na parehong hindi nakarating sa pagdiriwang.

Hindi naman nawala sa selebrasyon ang kasama sa 24 Oras ni Pia Guanio na si Mike Enriquez kung saan nagbigay pa ito ng maiksing prayer blessing sa mag-asawa. Hindi rin nawala ang dating co-host ni Pia sa Showbiz Central na si John “Sweet” Lapus. Dinaluhan ang seremonya ng mga malalapit na kaibigan nina Steeve Magno at ng kaniyang misis. Suot ni Pia ang gawa ng damit ni Rosanna Ocampo na isang lace dress. Samantalang si Steeve naman ay nakasuot ng itim na Hugo Boss suit. Natawa naman na ikinuwento ni Pia Guanio na nabigla siya sa isinulat na vows ng asawang si Steeve Magno dahil napakaganda umano nito.

Full Story @ Tsismoso

Marian Rivera's 'Temptation of Wife' Begins October 29 on GMA-7

Marian Rivera's 'Temptation of Wife' Begins October 29 on GMA-7


The Korean drama series that phenomenally hooked Filipino viewers to their TV screens makes a big comeback as GMA Network brings the Pinoy adaptation of the top-rating drama, “Temptation of Wife.”
Starting October 29, Temptation of Wife, which scored phenomenal ratings success when it was aired twice in the network, gets a “Filipinized” version with the most bankable Kapuso actors portraying the well-loved roles in the original Korean series.
Leading the grand ensemble of cast is no less than Primetime Queen Marian Rivera as she breathes life to the character of Angeline Santos, the main protagonist of the series who will transform from a timid and submissive wife to a cunning, feisty and reformed woman to avenge herself against her husband and her best friend.



Playing the role of Angeline’s irresponsible and unfaithful husband Marcel Salcedo is award-winning dramatic actor Dennis Trillo. Dennis has clearly established himself as one of the most talented and versatile leading men in the industry and with his latest TV endeavour, he is set to show a new dimension to his acting ability and charm the hearts of millions of Filipinos.
Tasked to reprise the equally popular character of Angeline’s hard-hearted best friend Heidi Fernandez is multitalented actress Glaiza de Castro. With her new role as the ruthless Heidi, Glaiza will deliver another exceptional performance as the woman who will do anything to get what she wants even to the point of forsaking her family, betraying and even conspiring to kill her childhood best friend.
Set to portray the role of warm and caring Nigel Armada is newest Kapuso Rafael Rosell. Rafael feels very honoured and excited as he dabbles on his first primetime lead role which will surely make even more female fans swooning over him.
GMA Network is proud to present a stellar cast of the country’s most respected artists in film and television: Rio Locsin as Minda; Raymond Bagatsing as Romeo; Michelle Madrigal as Chantal Armada; Antonio Aquitania as Leo; Ayen Munji-Laurel as Lady Armada; Bettina Carlos as Madel; Rez Cortez as Abner and Ms. Cherie Gil as Stella.
Angeline and Heidi share a deep bond of friendship ever since Heidi was orphaned and was taken under the custody of Angeline’s parents, Abner and Minda. Angeline grows up responsible and compassionate while Heidi, fuelled by ambition and envy, secretly detests Angeline and always feels inferior next to her.



Many boys are attracted to Angeline but she falls in love with Marcel. It doesn’t take long before Angeline becomes pregnant and gives up on her dreams of becoming a make up artist in order to marry Marcel.
Although their marriage is void of happiness, Angeline tries to be an excellent wife to her husband, and takes good care of her in-laws, Romeo and Stella. However, she soon learns that the life she chose is full of lies and betrayals. Adding to her woes is her unexpected miscarriage.
She soon discovers that Marcel is cheating on her and shocked to learn of Heidi’s treachery. Angeline is devastated by the thought of being betrayed by the two people closest to her heart.
Marcel decides to end his affair with Heidi but Heidi is already pregnant with his child. He chooses to live with her as Angeline is forced to go back and stay with her parents. But Angeline finds out that she, too, is pregnant with Marcel’s child.
Marcel and Heidi plot to kill Angeline and disguise her death as suicide. But by a twist of fate, Angeline survives and is back for revenge. She assumes the identity of another woman and seeks out vengeance against Marcel and Heidi.
Now, it’s time for pay back and Angeline will do everything to taste the bittersweet part of her revenge. How will Marcel react to a woman who looks exactly like his supposed dead wife, Angeline? And when fate begins to favor the once oppressed Angeline, how will she turn the tables on Marcel and Heidi who once betrayed and punished her?



With Director Dominic Zapata at the helm, GMA Network’s Temptation of Wife will definitely make primetime viewing more intense and empowering with its intriguing and absorbing storyline and interesting characters.
Temptation of Wife premieres October 29, Mondays to Fridays replacing Luna Blanca right after Aso ni San Roque on GMA Telebabad.

Share By JED || Full Story @ Showbiznest

Ramon Bautista Helps Advocate FREEDOM

Ramon Bautista Helps Advocate FREEDOM


Ramon Bautista, known comedy actor, TV host, director and author of the book "Bakit Di Ka Crush ng Crush Mo" is now involved in an advocacy that targets to benefit users who wish to have full FREEDOM to control their monthly mobile service plans that greatly suit their needs.

Enough is enough already!
Say goodbye to fixed monthly service fees.
Eliminate overspending.
Stretch your usage based on your budget.
Enjoy an unbelievable rebate on your bills.

Don't let your mobile service plan overpower you. It's about time you upgrade to Postpaid. With SMART FREEDOM, you can customize and control your plan to suit your needs.  
And just like Ramon, Boys Night Out DJs Slick Rick, Sam YG and Tony Toni also switched and now enjoying their much-deserved FREEDOM! 
Learn how to enjoy your FREEDOM just like Ramon and Boys Night Out DJs by watching the video below:



For more information, visit http://www1.smart.com.ph/postpaid/plans/freedom-plans for more details! #SmartFreedom

Share By JED || Full Story @ Showbiznest

Julie Anne San Jose Reveals Secret to Success in 'Tonight with Arnold Clavio'

Julie Anne San Jose Reveals Secret to Success in 'Tonight with Arnold Clavio'


Kapuso singing sensation Julie Anne San Jose is Arnold Clavio's special guest in tonight's episode of his talk show, "Tonight with Arnold Clavio" on GMA News TV Channel 11.
Being one of the most popular stars of today, Julie Anne almost always trends in the social networking site, Twitter, and has a huge following on Facebook.  Her music videos have also become popular on YouTube, with one video fetching more than 15 million views to date.



Julie Anne is one multi-talented artist.  Aside from being a great singer and performer, she also plays the guitar, piano, drums and other musical instruments.  Tonight, in "Tonight with Arnold Clavio," Julie Anne will show another newly-discovered talent.  What could it be?
Don't miss tonight's episode of "Tonight with Arnold Clavio," 10:30pm on GMA News TV Channel 11.

Share By JED || Full Story @ Showbiznest

‘Protégé’ winners declared

Jeric Gonzales and Thea Tolentino were declared the winners of GMA-7’s “Protégé: The Battle For The Big Artista Break.” The artista search’s results night was held at the GMA-7 compound on Sunday, October 21.

The male Protégé winner was mentored by Jolina Magdangal, while the female winner was mentored by Gina Alajar. Both are from Calamba, Laguna.

Jeric bested fellow male finalists Mikoy Morales and Ruru Madrid while Thea won against Zandra Summer and Elle Ramirez for the top plum.

The two will receive P 1 million pesos, a two-bedroom condominium unit, and a five-year exclusive contract from GMA Artist Center. Jeric and Thea will also be part of upcoming GMA-7 youth oriented program.

Meanwhile, mentors Magdangal and Alajar will receive P500,000 each.

The winners of “Protégé: The Battle For The Big Artista Break” were decided based on text votes and the decision of judges Annette Gozon-Abrogar, Bert de Leon, Cherie Gil, and Joey de Leon.

Chuck Smith | Yahoo! Southeast Asia Newsroom

Matt Evans arrested for allegedly hurting girlfriend

(UPDATE 2) Kapamilya actor Matt Evans was arrested on Sunday, October 21, for allegedly hurting his girlfriend Johnelline Hickins.

According to a TV Patrol report, Johnelline fell off the stairs during a heated argument that prompted her brother Juan Alberto Hickins Carlotta to intervene. Juan also accused Matt of kicking him.

“Hindi niya dapat sinasaktan ang kapatid ko kasi wala pang isang buwan nung nanganak siya,” he said in an interview on TV Patrol.

Matt, through his legal counsel, Gerly Rico, denied inflicting physical harm on Johnelline and her brother. TV Patrol reported that Matt refused to give an interview and his talent management, Star Magic still has to give its official statement on Monday, October 22.

“In the evening of October 20, domestic violence happened between Matt, his girlfriend Johnelline and the latter’s brother. Matt denies having inflicted any injury against his girlfriend or her brother. In fact it was Matt who was hit on the leg and was threatened with a knife. We are awaiting the legal process to proceed so that Matt’s name will be cleared from all of these accusations, which are nothing but lies,” Atty. Rico’s statement read.

Meanwhile, in a text message sent to Yahoo! Philippines OMG!, Pasig City Police district Women and Children Protection desk Chief SPO4 Digna R. Cas, the siblings filed “physical injuries in relation to RA 9262 (Anti-Violence against Women and their Children Act of 2004) and slight physical injuries.”

The actor was released from jail on Monday, October 22 after posting a P200 bail.

Karen Valeza | Yahoo! Southeast Asia Newsroom

A new challenge for Dingdong, Lovi and Joey

Although doing horror films is not new to them, Dingdong Dantes, Lovi Poe and Joey Marquez still find their new thriller “Tiktik: The Aswang Chronicles” extra challenging.

The film, made with a  budget of around P80-M, was shot entirely on green screen.  Its computer-generated imagery (CGI) effects gives a modern take to the concept of the local aswang or tiktik.

“Kasi sanay ako sa typical, old school acting na may kaharap ka, may nakikita ka. But this one, it is totally new for me. Alienated ako sa nangyayari pero with the guidance of our director, they made sure na lahat ng magiging visuals eh nasa isip namin,” Joey said.

“Hindi tulad noong araw na kapag may lumilipad eh makikita mo pa yung tali minsan. Dito malinis talaga. This should be a legacy of Philippine cinema. I'm very proud when I saw it. I think it's about time we do more films like this,” he adds.

Dingdong, who co-produces and topbills the movie, found it taxing to act and pretend to be surrounded with aswangs at the same time.

“Grabe para sa aming actors kasi kunyari wala ka naman talagang ka-eksena. Pero in some scenes,may stand-ins, tapos aalis sila. Pero mahirap pa rin ma-eksakto.”

The  movie, directed by Erik Matti, required 12 months of computer-generated work and post-production.

Actors who  played aswang roles did not wear prosthetics, but looked scary through the magic of digital make-up.

Stretching the imagination

Lovi has been doing horror films one after another, shared that her imagination went overtime while doing the film.

"It's really different pero masaya siyang gawin kasi mati-test talaga ang imagination mo. Surprisingly, the scenes didn't take so much time kasi si Direk meron pa siyang ginagawang sounds para mas ma-feel namin.”

Co-producer Dondon Monteverde shared that the movie will be distributed in Asian countries like Singapore and Indonesia.

“Ganoon kathirsty ang mga tao na makanuood ng pelikulang Pinoy na dekalidad. I feel very proud na kasama sa project na iyon.

Everything is a risk, but more than monetary expectations, ginagawa namin ito kasi gusto talaga namin. Sabi nga ni Dondon, we are taking it a notch higher,” Dingdong explained.

“Tiktik: The Aswang Chronicles” is produced by Reality Media, Post Manila, Mothership, Agostodos Pictures and GMA Films.

Karen Valeza | Yahoo! Southeast Asia Newsroom 

Anthony Taberna says no to politics

Anthony has turned down offers to run as congressman and senator since he’d rather stick to broadcast journalism.

The host of ABS-CBN’s “Umagang Kay Ganda,” Iba-balita” and now, “Mano-Mano ni Anthony Taberna” explains, “Gusto kong sabihin na kailan man ay hindi. Palagay ko mas marami akong magagawa sa bayan dito (being a broadcast-journalist), kumpara sa magiging politiko ako.” “Nakita mo naman na maraming matitinong tao na nung nagpolitiko ay naging salbahe,” he added.

Tempting offers

Anthony admitted offers of financial support for a  political campaign were tempting.

“Pero sabi ko, gamitin niyo na lang sa ibang mas pakikinabangan. Happy naman ako dito, kahit nakakapagod lang.”

The hard-hitting broadcast journalist known for his exclusive stories and direct to the point questions, will probe  upcoming political bets in Studio 23’s “Mano-Mano ni Anthony Taberna.”

“Ayaw kong magmukhang propagandista ng guest namin, na dahil lang andoon siya eh kakampihan namin siya. Magiging masagwa ang dating noon para sa akin.”

The show’s segments,  “Ang Hilig Mo,” “Face-buking” and “Miron Akong Tanong” will show the lighter side of candidates.  Taberna will also ask candidates pressing issues and their real intentions for running.

“Matatanong natin sila ng hindi nasa-sanitize ang mga question. Kasi ito namang itatanong natin sa kanila ay tanong din ng mga tao. So kung itanong natin ay ayaw niyang sagutin, may problema siya. Ang kagandahan dito ay walang pipiliin tanong dito. At usapan naman sa guest kapag humarap ka sa amin, sagutin mo ang lahat ng tanong namin.”

“Mano Mano ni Anthony Taberna” airs every Sunday at 9:30 p.m. with Monday replays at 7 a.m.

Karen Valeza | Yahoo! Southeast Asia Newsroom 

Lotlot doesn‘t resent biological parents

Lotlot de Leon feels happy at finally meeting her biological parents, who gave her up for adoption many years ago.

“They’re human enough, humble enough to accept the mistakes they’ve done. For that, I’m very grateful. The wrong decisions that they made led me to a good life, to a better me. Nanay ko si Nora Aunor, Tatay ko si Christopher de Leon, kapatid ko si Matet, si Ian, si Ken at si Kiko. I can’t ask for more,” she said in an interview on “The Buzz” on Sunday, October 21.

Lotlot first met her biological mother in the '90s and her real father, Donald Olson in 2009. Lotlot and her father continue to communicate although their initial talks lasted for only three hours. Lotlot is excited to return to the US where she’ll reunite with her real father and meet her siblings for the first time.

“I would like to know my roots. Like what my sister said, 'Hindi mo man kayang harapin ngayon, pero darating ang panahon na magtatanong ka pa rin na ‘Bakit? Anong nangyari?' At the same time, mayroon pa ring 'Salamat.'”

Lotlot admitted somehow feeling bad towards her biological parents when she was  younger. But she has long forgiven them and feels grateful Nora and Christopher (who were still together then) adopted her and gave her a good family.

Lotlot added that  love for her real parents made her accept them and the circumstances she went through.

No finger pointing

“Wala nang sisihan. Pagtanggap na lang ang gawin natin. It’s the love that I have for them. Hindi na rin naman sila mga bata. I appreciate it when my parents said 'I’m sorry.' You just have to accept that. It’s God’s will. Plano na ng Diyos ang buhay natin eh.”

She looks forward to her reunion with her father and her first meeting with her siblings. She appreciates her father’s efforts to stay in touch with her even though he first kept it a secret from his family.

“He (her biological dad) makes me a part of his life, which I appreciate. He wants to make up for lost time.”

While she doesn’t believe in “lukso ng dugo,” Lotlot said what’s more important is  the relationship she is building with her biological parents.

“Sa akin kasi yung effort ng biological parents ko to be close to me, iyon ang paraan para mahalin ko sila, para makilala ko sila, para mapalapit ako sa kanila at para maintindihan ko sila kung bakit nangyari ang mga panohong iyon. Kasi I don’t think instant ang pagmahahal sa isang tao. It takes time, it takes a relationship.”

Nora and Christopher’s reactions

How did Nora and Christopher react to Lotlot’s reunion with her biological parents?

“Magaganda kasi ang puso ng mga magulang ko eh. Si mommy (Nora), noong nagpunta ako sa Chicago noong 2009, alam na niya na that was my purpose of going there. Noong nakilala ko biological father ko, sabi niya,‘Please tell Nora, thank you for taking care of you, for raising you,” Lotlot replied.

She stressed that she will be forever grateful to Nora and Christopher and feels blessed to be part of their family.

“Hindi naman kabawasan ng pagmamahal ko sa mommy Guy at daddy Boyet ko ang pagtatanong kung saan ako nanggaling. Hindi dahil nagtanong ako ay hindi ko sila mahal or I’m ungrateful.”

Karen Valeza | Yahoo! Southeast Asia Newsroom