Mark: I'm not using Jennylyn

Now that they have a reunion project (GMA 7’s “Rhodora X”) Mark Herras knows people are thinking he is using former girlfriend Jennlyn Mercado to boost his career.

"Sa totoo lang, hindi naman kami nakikipag-plastikan sa media or sa mga tao na kailangan sweet tayo kasi may bago tayong teleserye. Hindi eh. Kung ano yung nakikita ninyo off cam, mas nadadagdagan lang iyon kapag on cam. Wala kaming problema ni Jenn ngayon," Mark said at the press launch of the new show Monday, January 20.

Offended

And he feels offended some people are questioning his motives.

”Wala naman silang karapatan para pakialamanan yung buhay ko. Nakakapikon na din yung ibang tao na sinasabi na ginagamit ko daw si Jenn para bumalik yung career ko. Never kong ginamit si Jenn sa trabaho. Everytime na magkakatrabaho kami, trabaho lang ang ginagawa namin ng maayos."

Mark and Jennylyn, who met each other in the talent competition "Starstruck," were together for two years before they broke up in 2005.  Mark had a relationship with Ynna Asistio and Jennylyn fell in love with Luis Manzano after that.  But both relationships ended in separation.

Meanwhile, Mark and Jennylyn continued to communicate.

"Doon sa mga panahon na hindi kami ang magka love team, hindi kami magka trabaho, still nagkikita pa rin kami sa GMA or sa labas. Iba talaga yung pinagsamahan namin. Kahit ano pa yung mangyari sa amin ni Jenn, andiyan kami sa isa't isa and hindi mawawala iyon," he said.

Together again?

Is there a possibility of them getting back together?

"Ayaw ko munang lagyan or bigyan ng complication kung ano man meron kami ni Jenn ngayon, kasi wala kaming problema sa trabaho. Kung sakali dumating yung panahon na may something na puntahan itong relationship or pagkakaibigan namin ni Jenn, kung lumampas man doon, malalaman ninyo."

Mark is also aware of criticisms about his closeness to Jennylyn and Ynna. He admitted that he gets to meet Ynna and her family to this day.

"Doon sa mga tao na masyadong pinapakialaman yung personal kong buhay, wala naman silang pakialam. Kasi naging sobrang close ako sa pamilya ni Ynna, nila Tita Nads (Nadia Montenegro, Ynna's mom). Kung pumupunta ako doon nung Pasko, nung New Year, or kahit kailan na walang okasyon, gagawin ko kasi hindi ko naman kailangan pagbawalan yung sarili ko na makipag kaibigan sa mga taong iyon kasi mahal ko din sila."

He denied that he and Ynna are back in each other's arms.

"Sabi nga nila 'magka-akbay sila (Mark and Ynna) sa picture!' Magkaakbay lang nagkabalikan na ulit? Sana pakialamanan na lang nila yung sarili nilang buhay. Kung fan sila ng Mark and Jenn, maraming salamat. Pero kung may hinanakit sa akin na ginagawa sa personal kong buhay, wala na silang pakialam doon," he said.

By Karen Valeza | Yahoo Southeast Asia Newsroom

Sharon answers speculations on KC's US trip

Sharon Cuneta quashed rumors that her daughter, KC Concepcion, left for the U.S. due to ABS-CBN's decision to choose Anne Curtis over her for the coveted role of Dyesbel.

“We didn’t discuss it (the Dyesebel issue).  But I know she discussed her plans with Boss Vic (del Rosario, Viva Entertainment head) nung wala pang Dyesebel.  She did it before or during the shooting of “Boy Golden” (KC’s Metro Manila filmfest entry),” Sharon told the press at the set visit of her TV5 show “Madam Chairman.”

Sharon was referring to KC's plans of taking up acting in New York. Mother and daughter have been swapping text messages. That’s how Sharon knows KC is enjoying New York.

“She’s on her own. She thrives on going around the city.  She’s  excited about learning from a different side of the world and from different teachers.  May mapupulot siya na  mauuwi dito.  And she might have some surprises up her sleeve.”

Proud mom

The proud mom is happy citics have noticed KC’s acting in “Boy Golden.”
“She did a good job. Sulit ang training ni direk Chito (Rono). I’m happy she has that feather in her cap.”

While saying she can’t speak for KC, Sharon knows her daughter is disappointed at failing to bag the Best Actress award (Maricel Soriano won) in the Metro Manila Filmfest for Boy Golden.  And while she can’t chart her daughter’s career path, Sharon would like KC to focus on other genres besides drama. 

For one, KC can try to do more action films, since she did a lot of running and chasing in “Boy Golden,” with no less than Angelina Jolie’s trainer in “Salt” guiding her.

That would take mother and daughter on different career paths. As it is, Sharon  and KC belong to different networks.  Sharon is with TV5 while KC is an ABS or  Kapamilya talent.

Network transfer rumors

Sharon is so happy as a  Kapatid, she vehemently denied rumors that she has been talking to ABS-CBN bosses for a possible transfer to the Kapamilya network.

“Nakakagulat, ang pangit,” she described the rumors.

TV5 is taking good care of her, thank you. She has an upcoming tawaserye.  Another show will see her performing songs based on a story other stars will dramatize on TV.

And of course, she’s extra fond of her primetime series “Madam Chairman,” where former love team and real-life ex-boyfriend Richard Gomez is appearing as the first love of Sharon’s character, Bebeth.

“It’s like wearing an old shoe. I’m so comfortable working with Richard. Hindi kami nag-away (when they were still sweethearts). Iyak lang ako tapos break na kami.”
Sharon is looking forward to a year-end concert that will mark her 35th anniversary in showbiz, plus a movie whose title and genre she’s keeping under wraps for now.

By Maridol Rañoa-Bismark | Yahoo Southeast Asia Newsroom

Alden looks forward to getting 'intimate' with Marian

Young actor Alden Richards got an unexpected but truly memorable coming-of-age present when he and his “Carmela” leading lady Marian Rivera locked lips for the teaser of the soap opera.

"Our kissing scenes on the teaser wasn’t part of any scenes from ‘Carmela.’ It was just for (public) presentation,” shared Alden.

Alden just turned 21 last Jan. 21, and he admitted that he is looking forward to doing “intimate scenes” with Marian, dubbed the Kapuso Network’s Primetime Queen.

“As per our creatives (writers), marami raw kaming intimate scenes,” quipped Alden. “If ever man magkaroon kami ng mga intimate scenes, that would also be my first love scene on television."

But “Carmela” director Dominic Zapata cautioned Kapuso televiewers that Alden and Marian would only have “intimate scenes” if and when the story eventually calls for it. It would never be included just to sell “Carmela” to mass audiences.

In “Carmela,” Alden plays the role of Yago, the grandson of Fernando (Roi Vinzon) and Fides (Ms. Laurice Guillen) who disowned his mother (played by Jaclyn Jose) for marrying someone his grandparents didn’t approve of. He may have affluent grandparents, but Yago had to struggle in life especially when his father left them. He will fall in love with Carmela.

Alden stressed that Yago is a "challenging character."

"As of now po light pa lang ang scenes na ginagawa ng character ko so I’m still enjoying it. As we go on doon ko siguro ma-discover yung challenges ng role ko. Like sa family ni Yago, yun po ang point of conflict ko,” he described.

Apparently, Alden identifies with Yago's playful, happy-go-lucky persona.

“Ako po ito in real life,” remarked Alden. “Of course binigyan ko rin ng Alden touch yung character. Kasi ako naman din yun in real life - playful, makulit and someone who doesn't take life too seriously. Enjoy every single day. Pero siyempre si Yago ang karga niya magkahiwalay ang parents niya so nandun ang drama. Pero mostly ang personality niya is playful and fun.”

Alden admitted that working with Marian was intimidating at first -- not because the latter is eight years older than him but rather due to her stature in showbiz, her experiences as an actress and the awards she has received through the years. In fact, he was more than surprised that a newbie like him was cast as Marian’s leading man in “Carmela.”

“Napakalaking artista ng GMA7 si Marian Rivera so nagulat po ako na ako ang kinuha. Kasi sobrang bago pa rin ako. Three years pa lang ako,” he related.

But Alden is glad that after working together on “Carmela” for several weeks already, he and Marian are now more comfortable with each other.

So was there any interesting facets of Marian that he discovered on the set?

“Sobrang on time sa set. An hour or 30 minutes before nasa set na siya. Na-pressure po ako kasi aminado naman ako before na na-li-late ako minsan. Pero not to the point na na-dedelay ang shoot. Ngayon, I took that as a challenge para di na maging late,” he replied.

Also in “Carmela” are Agot Isidro, Raymond Bagatsing, Jennica Garcia, Rochelle Pangilinan, Freddie Webb, Eva Darren, Krystal Reyes, Ana Feleo and RJ Padilla. 

-- Manila Bulletin

Police raid Justin Bieber's home, arrest man for drugs

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - A police search of teen pop star Justin Bieber's California home on Tuesday in a vandalism case linked to the singer resulted in the arrest of a man after drugs were found in the house, the Los Angeles County Sheriff said.

Detectives raided Bieber's home at about 8 a.m. after the "Boyfriend" singer was accused of pelting his neighbour's home with eggs in an incident on January 9.

Bieber, 19, was detained at his Calabasas home, about 30 miles (48 kilometres) northwest of Los Angeles while a dozen deputies searched for evidence.

"He has not been arrested nor has been exonerated," Sheriff's Lt. David Thompson said at a news conference in nearby Malibu following the search.

"We were looking at things that would put him or anything else at the scene," Thompson said, adding that Bieber's attorneys were not present during the search and the singer was not questioned.

It was the latest in a string of incidents that have overshadowed Bieber's music career in the last year as the Canadian star who shot to fame at age 15 transitions to adulthood.

Bieber's representatives did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The sheriff's department said the investigation sought to collect any evidence in the alleged egg attack on the singer's home video surveillance and other possible leads.

A unnamed person in Bieber's home at the time of the search was arrested for narcotics possession when deputies found cocaine in plain view, Thompson said.

NOT 'A MESSAGE'

Celebrity news website TMZ.com identified the man as aspiring 20-year-old rapper Lil Za, who is often photographed with Bieber. The website published photos and video of Lil Za, whose real name Xavier Smith, handcuffed and being led to a deputy's car.

The rapper is being held on $20,000 bond, according to county records.

The vandalism case is being treated as a felony because it caused $20,000 in damages according to the homeowner, the sheriff's department said.

"We didn't do this search warrant to send a message, that's not what we do," Thompson said. "This has nothing to do with him being a celebrity. This is a felony crime."

Thompson said the cost of damages was high because the exterior of Bieber's neighbour's home was made of imported wood and brick.

It is not known what triggered the alleged incident between Bieber and his neighbour, but the Canadian-born pop star has had several publicized run-ins with neighbours.

Last year, Bieber was accused of speeding through the neighbourhood in a Ferrari sports car and also spitting on his neighbour during a confrontation over parties at the singer's home. Prosecutors did not bring charges against Bieber in either case.


(Reporting by Eric Kelsey; editing Mary Milliken and Gunna Dickson) | Reuters

Rachelle Ann gets tips from Saigon veterans

Rachelle Ann Go, who is playing Gigi in the revival of West End's production of "Miss Saigon," is getting a lot of support from Lea Salonga, Isay Alvarez, Jinky Llamanzares and Joanna Ampil, who starred in earlier versions of the hit musical.

Lea, who played Kim in the original Miss Saigon, advised Rachelle to learn the British accent.

"Napakadami niyang tips about living in London. Sabi nga niya, when it comes to singing and acting, wala raw siyang maiaadvice sa akin kasi yung director na ang bahala sa akin doon. Ang tips lang niya ay yung mga accent doon, yung kailangan kong aralin. Kasi masyadong malalim ang kanilang British accent," Rachelle said in an interview at the pictorial for her sendoff concert “Miss Rachelle.”

Two-piece jitters

If there's one thing which worries Rachelle, it is wearing a two piece for the plum role of Gigi the bar girl. She consulted her parents and even her church about it.

“Alam naman natin lahat na sexy yung role na iyon. I told my mom about it. Eh si Mama, wala naman siyang idea kung ano yung suot doon. Then si direk Bobby (Garcia of Atlantis Productions) and yung Viva. And yung church namin, 'Okay lang po ba ito?' Positive naman lahat. Nag-go naman silang lahat. Naging at peace na rin ako after hearing everyone. Of course, I prayed about it na kung para sa akin ito, magiging smooth lahat.”

Isay Alvarez, who played Gigi for years, advised Rachelle not to fret. If getting fit is Rachelle's concern, Isay said she doesn't need abs to do so.

"Kung kinaya ko mas kaya mo!I was a MADIR already wen I first did it n 2x a MADIR wen it ran here!IKAW pa!Enjoy but nt 2 much,” Isay tweeted Rachelle.

“Si Miss Isay Alvarez, she congratulated me on Twitter. She told me to enjoy. Si Miss Jinky Llamanzares, who played Gigi in Canada, tumawag siya sa akin,” Rachelle said.

Personal growth
Knowing Rachelle will get homesick, former Miss Saigon actress Joanna Ampil wants the Kapuso artist to try other things in London, like attending classes for personal growth.
Rachelle plans to study business or fashion in London.

“Baka raw magsawa ako sa gagawin ko na role. Everyday, pare-pareho yung songs. Mag-school raw ako. Kung gusto ko, dance or acting. Gusto kong business. Gusto kong ituloy, gusto ko rin ng fashion dahil designer yung brother ko. Sana magkaroon kami ng business pagbalik ko.”

Rachelle is looking forward to experiencing new things and maturing as a person, since she’ll be on her own in London.

She will surely miss her family, friends and work.

“That's very different from what I'll be doing in Miss Saigon. Iba yung mundo ng teatro.”

Slater Young

The singer-actress admitted dating former Pinoy Big Brother housemate Slater Young. But she’s not in a hurry to get into a relationship because she’s leaving for London.

“Ako kasi focused muna ako doon sa gagawin ko. 14 months rin iyon. Mahirap magsalita kasi andoon yung focus ko sa trabaho. Lagi ko naman sinasabi na kailangan focused ako doon. Kung may nagpupursue man sa akin dito, dapat maintindihan niya iyon. At makapaghintay kung sino man iyon.”

Is she expecting Slater to watch her perform in London the way her friends will?

“Basta dapat andoon siya,” Rachelle said in jest.

Rachelle’s sendoff concert will be held at Meralco Theatre on Saturday, February 22.
She flies to London in March, and will stay there for 14 months.

By Karen Valeza | Yahoo Southeast Asia Newsroom

Jennylyn cherishes time spent with Luis

While saying she’s now “content” and “happy,” Jennylyn Mercado seemingly hinted still having feelings for her ex-boyfriend Luis Manzano.

In an interview on “Startalk TX,” Jennylyn was asked by host Heart Evangelista if she still loves her ex-boyfriend.

“May expiration ba ang pagmamahal,” responds Jennylyn, adding that she always gives everything into a relationship.

The actress acknowledges that Luis was a special part of her life and she values the time they were together for more than two years.

Notwithstanding their fall out, Jennylyn has no gripe nor regret about it. No one is to be blame for their breakup, saying that they both share “responsibility” for it.

“Wala akong pinanghihinayangan, wala akong pinagsisisihan. Kasi sa isang relationship, two way iyan eh. ‘Pag pumasok ka sa isang relationship, kumbaga couple kayo and kung magkamali ang isa sa inyo, may responsibility ka rin... Give and take,” she said.

Despite marriage rumors in the past, Jennylyn clarified that she and Luis never talked about settling down.

“No, hindi kami nagkaroon ng time na pag-usapan ‘yung mga ganong bagay. Ang importante naman, naging masaya kami. Espesyal siya sa akin at naging part siya ng buhay ko,” she said.

After giving everything to the relationship, Jennylyn says she now wants to prioritize herself more than anything else.

“Siguro mas una ko nang mamahalin ‘yung sarili ko. And that’s very important. Sa lahat ng taong minahal ko at lahat ng taong dumaan sa buhay, grabe. Halos binibigay natin ‘yung lahat.
“Kailangan kong mahalin at unahin ang sarili ko bago ang ibang tao,” she shared.

Out of respect to Luis’ family, Jennylyn opts to keep mum on details of their breakup. The 26-year-old single mother claims that she’s now a “matured woman” that limits what she publicly shares.

--Manila Bulletin

Maja dismisses comparison to her mistress role

Upon release of the trailer of the drama series “The Legal Wife,” several memes circulated online likening Maja Salvador to her mistress role.

Appearing on “Buzz Ng Bayan,” Maja distanced herself from the character she plays named Nicole.
“Ang layo ng karakter ko sa kung ano man ’yung nangyari sa akin sa totoong buhay,” she said.
Maja is the girlfriend of Gerald Anderson, who happens to be the ex-boyfriend of her erstwhile best friend Kim Chiu. Still, this fact did not hinder Maja from accepting the job.

“Hindi ako nagdalawang-isip kasi para sa akin po, artista ako eh. Ang ganda nitong project na ibinibigay sa akin. Bakit ko tatanggihan? Hindi ako du’n sa kung ano man ’yung sasabihin ng mga tao,” the 25-year-old actress explained.

While she values and understands people’s opinions, Maja said she is tired of persistent accusations of those who cannot accept her relationship with Gerald.

“Tao lang naman po ako. Nakakapagod din na marami kang naririnig na alam mong hindi naman ikaw ’yun. Kahit na kilala mo ’yung sarili mo kung sino ka talaga, naapketuhan ka, kasi tatanungin mo, ‘Bakit may mga taong kaya nilang sabihin ’yun kahit hindi naman nila alam,’” she said.

Out of respect to the negative sentiment, she opts to keep quiet about it.

Meanwhile, Maja was brought to tears in relating the agony her mother feels over continued criticisms being hurled at the actress. Her mom makes up for it by expressing support for and belief in her.
“Sinasabi niya kung gaano niya ako kamahal, na kilala niya ako, kilala niya kung sino ’yung anak niya, na kahit anong sabihin ng iba, hindi importante ’yun kasi nakita niya ako kung paano ko mahalin ’yung mga tao sa paligid ko at kung paano ko sila pahalagahan,” Maja said.

Forever With Gerald

Maja believes that her relationship with Gerald is for keeps. She said they are both working out their romance to remain successful.

“Sa bawat relasyon naman kailangan paniwalaan mo at pagkatiwaalan mo ’yung relasyon na ’yon,” she pointed out. “Sa lahat naman, para maging successful ka, dapat meron ka talagang pagdadaanan at parang mahihirapan ka. Hindi naman lahat madali.”

With trust, she said, they can surpass all challenges.

-- Manila Bulletin 

Billy Crawford admits courting Coleen Garcia

Billy Crawford finally broke his silence and admitted he is indeed courting Coleen Garcia.

"Yes, nililigawan ko. She is not my girlfriend yet and I would love for her to be," he said in an interview with "Buzz ng Bayan" on Sunday, January 12.

Billy denied Coleen is the cause of his breakup with Nikki Gil, whom he doesn't want to put on the spot by revealing the reason why they split up.
Billy and Coleen have been romantically linked for months, after photos of them together spread online.The photos showed both of them in Bacolod, while other pictures captured the two watching an NBA game in New York last December.

"It was an event (in Bacolod) where most of the Showtime family was there. That picture was taken out of context. Coleen was doing that with Vice (Ganda), she was hugging everyone. I was also hugging everyone and everyone was having a good time. People just put words into pictures. Coleen and I are not boyfriend-girlfriend. We are not a couple yet," he said.
Billy went to New York to meet family and friends, while Coleen was there to be with a friend. They got to meet fellow "It's Showtime" host Ryan Bang in the US.

NBA game

"Yes, I did ask Coleen to watch with me. I bought tickets beforehand and said I would like to go there in NY, to spend time with you, to watch the game and have dinner," Billy said.

Billy admits he is hurt over people’s criticisms about him and Coleen.

"I know she really wanted to pull away at one point and really just didn't want to have anything to do with me because of the speculations. Pero ako bilang lalaki, I'll pursue her, paninindigan ko. I want to get to know her."

He has a touching message for Coleen.

"I just really want to say thank you. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to be myself, to be real, to try to get to know me despite what's going on. You mean a lot to me. You motivate me to go to work every day and I just enjoy who I am now. And I just want to pursue trying to get to know you better. I will be here for you, as a friend or maybe even more. Thank you."

By Karen Valeza | Yahoo Southeast Asia Newsroom

Anne Curtis is new Dyesebel

After weeks of speculation, ABS-CBN finally revealed that it has chosen Anne Curtis to play the mermaid Dyesebel in a remake of the popular Mars Ravelo story.

The "It's Showtime" host, who just learned the good news the day before the Kapamilya network made its formal announcement, showed how overwhelmed she was.

“It’s another dream come true. Sobra lang akong speechless kasi napakalaking project ito. Sinasabi ko noon sa interviews dati, dream role ko ang Dyesebel. So ito na, 2014, great way to start the year," she  told media in a press conference on Thursday, January 9.

She feels honored to reprise the role  Vilma Santos, Charlene Gonzalez, Alice Dixson and Marian Rivera portrayed years ago.

"Lahat sila sexy. Mapasama lang doon is truly an honor. Gagawin ko ang lahat, mag-aral ng fin swimming, magpasexy lalo," Anne said.

Starting the year right

2013 was tough for Anne. It will be recalled that she got a lot of flak for getting involved in a slapping incident that affected fellow celebrities.

Now that she is opening 2014 with "Dyesebel," Anne is more optimistic about what lies ahead.

She has two leading men -- Sam Milby and Gerald Anderson -- who will play the merman Liro and Fredo, respectively.

Before Anne’s name came out, several actresses, like Kim Chiu (she issued a denial), Julia Montes and Jessy Mendiola, were tagged as possible choices for Dyesebel.

By Karen Valeza | Yahoo Southeast Asia Newsroom

Kim mum on real score between her and Xian

Is the Kim Chiu-Xian Lim romance for real or just for reel?

“We don't owe you any of our personal lives, siguro. Kasi you can think whatever you want to think as long as you're happy when you watch us on TV. Nakikita niyo kung paano kami ma-inlove, and iyon na iyon,” Kim told the media during the press conference of their movie “Bride for Rent” under Star Cinema.

In other words, Kim feels the press conference at the Dolphy Theater in ABS-CBN was not the proper venue to talk about the real score between her and Xian.

“Lahat naman tayo merong mga hindi dapat i-share o dapat i-share. And it's our choice. I hope you guys respect it.”

Kim hopes her decision to keep mum about herself and Xian did not alienate her from media.

“Medyo naiba yata 'yung pagkaintindi nila sa akin. Nag-explain naman na ako. Sana naintindihan nila, sorry.”

Open book

Ever since she entered showbiz through the reality show “Pinoy Big Brother,” Kim said  her life has always been an open book. But there are things she wants to keep to herself.

“Syempre meron ring masasaya (ako na shini-share). Na mataas 'yung rating ng soap, blockbuster, nakakuha ako ng best actress award. Marami din naman po akong shinare. Hindi naman iyon press release. Syempre sini-share ko rin 'yung mga success ko, dahil utang ko rin ang success ko sa mga tao. Utang ko sa inyo kung ano ang narating ko ngayon.”

“Bride for Rent,” which also stars Pilita Corrales, Matt Evans, Martin del Rosario and Empoy, opens Wednesday, January 15 in theaters nationwide.

By Karen Valeza | Yahoo Southeast Asia Newsroom

Jessica Sanchez wows fans with bikini shots

Season 11 “American Idol” runner-up Jessica Sanchez caused quite a stir when she shared some of her sexy bikini photos via her Instagram account.

The photos were taken in Boracay over the Christmas season.

In one photo taken inside what looks like a room at a resort, she is seen in a white bikini with a skimpy bottom. Another shot shows her clad in a black see-through dress and a two-piece swimsuit while wading in the water. The third photo captures her in a sexy black bikini while she’s browsing shots in her camera.

“OMG! You so H O T! How do you spell hot? J E S S I C A S A N C H E Z. SOO jelly gurl,” one supporter wailed.

“Sexy namannn... grrr pengeng burger,” another fan blurted upon seeing the singer in her white bikini.
Other fans also said things like “jaw-dropping,” “so hot,” “simply beautiful” and “sexy.” The first two photos have each earned more than 6,000 “likes” so far, with the third one earning over 5,000 “likes.”

As related by getitfromboy.net, Jessica was “in the Philippines after appearing in the New Year’s Eve countdown of Eastwood Mall and thereafter visiting her mother’s family in Bataan.”

Indeed, Jessica had a grand time vacationing in the country even for a short time.

“I've had such an amazing time in the Philippines! But I can't wait to get home and see my babies,” she posted.

Manila Bulletin

Is Toni Gonzaga ready to settle down?

TV host-actress Toni Gonzaga is ready to settle down anytime once her long-time boyfriend, director Paul Soriano pops the question.

“Ako naman ready na ako kahit anong ibigay sa akin ng life ko ngayon. I've reached a point na whatever life is going to offer me, I'm going to take it wholeheartedly. When that time finally happens and when that comes, that's something I'm going to embrace wholeheartedly,”  Toni said at the press conference of “Home Sweetie Home,” her new sitcom with John Lloyd Cruz.

Toni admitted she prevented Paul from popping the question during the early years of their relationship because she wasn’t ready yet. But she has changed her mind.

“Dati (sinasabihan ko siya na) ‘Huwag kang mag po-propose’ noong 2008, 2009, 2010. Then dumating ako sa point na hindi na kita pipigilin. Kung kailan ma-feel mo sa puso mo and sabi ni Lord.”

Toni feels that at 29, she’s at the right age to settle down and have her own family. She also shared that she isn’t bound by any contract, which hinders her from marrying anytime soon.

“Oo naman. Kapag sa ganitong edad, I think dapat ready ka na. No one and nothing is stopping. We are waiting for God's perfect time and the ball is really not on my court, it's in his court.”

Toni and Paul’s relationship has been ongoing for six years.

Secrets of staying in love

“Yung commitment, loyalty and honesty ang binuo namin kaya siguro tumagal kami,” Toni said.

If Toni was busy last year with “The Voice of the Philippines,” she has returned to acting this year via “Home Sweetie Home.” Besides the new sitcom, Toni doesn’t know yet what her goals are for this year.

“I will just let it go. I will just go with whatever He's going to give or bless me. Wala akong ipaplano this year. Kung ano yung mga ibibigay, gagawin ko na lang yung best ko. His plans are always better than mine.”

“Home Sweetie Home” casts Toni and John Lloyd as newlyweds.

“This project came at the right age. Kasi laging part ng contract ko yung magkasitcom, but since nashelve yung mga sitcoms sa ABS-CBN, na-hold siya ng na-hold. Dumating ito at the right age na pwede na ako sa role na may asawa. Parang tamang edad na rin ito na may asawa. Maganda na may transition na ng kaunti,” Toni relates.

By Karen Valeza | Yahoo Southeast Asia Newsroom

Andi hurt over Mayor Erap’s statement

Manila Mayor Joseph “Erap” Estrada has opted to keep his opinions to himself regarding his son Jake Estrada’s affairs.

Asked if he accepts Andi as Jake’s lady love, the veteran politician curtly said, “No comment.”
Andi, who is romantically linked to the Estrada scion currently pursuing his college degree in London, expressed hurt over the recent statement.

“Masakit kasi nakakapanliit siya tsaka parang medyo judgmental po ’yung dating,” Andi said of Erap on “Buzz Ng Bayan.”

“Wala naman po akong magagawa eh. Kailangan ko pong respetuhin kung ano po ’yung sinasabi nila kasi sila po ’yung magulang ni Jake,” she added.

The “Galema” star acknowledged, “They know what’s best for their son. Sila ang nagpalaki so dapat naman po sila ang masusunod.”

The 23-year-old single mom also said, “But at the same time, nandito po ako para naman ipakita na hindi ako dapat i-dislike for their son kasi una sa lahat, totoo naman po ’yung nararamdaman ko para sa kanya. Pangalawa, hindi naman po akong masamang tao.”

Despite being vocal about her feelings, Andi maintains that her relationship with Jake has no label.

“I really care for him a lot but he’s not based here. Ayaw po naming ipilit ang mga bagay na hindi naman po puwede. I’ve always been honest about my feelings for him naman,” she stressed.

In a separate press interview, Erap advised his son to “concentrate” on his studies first, following rumors that the erstwhile couple has rekindled their disrupted romance.

Manila Bulletin

Korina takes a leave from radio program

(UPDATE) Broadcast journalist Korina Sanchez took a leave from DZMM to focus on her postgraduate studies at the Ateneo de Manila University.

“Korina Sanchez is currently on leave from her morning program on DZMM to concentrate on her postgraduate studies at the Ateneo de Manila University.  This was planned as early as middle of 2013 when Korina informed ABS-CBN management about her intentions to focus on her studies.  Korina will continue to be seen on television as anchor of 'TV Patrol' and 'Rated K,'" a press statement released by ABS-CBN revealed.

Various speculations about Korina’s stay in the Kapamilya network cropped up after she questioned  CNN anchor Anderson Cooper’s coverage of super typhoon Yolanda.  When she took a leave from “TV Patrol,” many people speculated that she was suspended or was asked to take a leave.

But Korina explained that her absence from the daily news program was due to her special coverage on Yolanda .

Meanwhile, “TV Patrol” reported on Sunday, January 5, that Korina is set to renew her contract with ABS-CBN.  "Sakto," hosted by Amy Perez and Marc Logan, is replacing Korina’s DZMM program starting  Monday, January 6.

By Karen Valeza | Yahoo Southeast Asia Newsroom

Billy-Coleen, Enrique-Bangs photos go viral

Romantic rumors between Billy Crawford and Coleen Garcia resurfaced after a recent photo of them sitting next to each other went viral.

A gossip blog site posted a photo of the “It’s Showtime” co-hosts reportedly watching the game of NBA teams  Brooklyn Nets and the Milwaukee Bucks at Barclays Center in New York City last December 27.

Asked about the Billy-Coleen rumored romance in “Buzz ng Bayan”  where he appeared as guest on Sunday, January 4, Vice Ganda, the duo’s “It’s Showtime” co-host refused to give a comment.

“Gusto kong manguna sa takilya. Pero ayaw kong manguna sa tsismis,” he said.

Coleen is reportedly the third party in the breakup between Billy and Nikki Gil last year. However, Billy and Coleen claimed they’re just friends.

A photo of Billy and Coleen in Bacolod also went viral last year. Both claimed they were with other “It’s Showtime” hosts when the photo was taken.

Enrique and Bangs

Meanwhile, photos showing Kapamilya artists Enrique Gil and Bangs Garcia enjoying Tokyo Disneyland together are also spreading fast online.

Bangs’  Instagram photo showed her,  Enrique and his family in the said theme park.  Other photos of Enrique and Bangs were  posted online, thus fanning rumors that something romantic is going on between  the Star Magic artists.

By Karen Valeza | Yahoo Southeast Asia Newsroom

Vice Ganda is top Pinoy influencer on Twitter

Vice Ganda soars anew this yearend, not only because his Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) entry Girl, Boy, Bakla, Tomboy has raked in over P200 million in the box office in just five days. The feat mimics the success of Vice’s previous MMFF film, Sisterakas, which earned over P340 million, making it the highest- grossing Filipino film of all time.

If Girl, Boy, Bakla, Tomboy surpasses Sisterakas, it means moviegoers have spent nearly a billion pesos watching Vice Ganda’s films—a phenomenal roll starting from The Unkabogable Praybeyt Benjamin in 2011 that yielded about P331 million.

This proves Vice’s incredible talent, immense popularity and all-encompassing influence in what he says, what he projects on TV, how he brings his golden touch on the silver screen, and recently, his stature as the 2013 top Filipino influencer on the microblogging site Twitter.

After three straight years of bagging the Yahoo! OMG! Award for Best Male Comedian, Vice has clinched this new special award recognizing his having the strongest influence in the local Twitterverse garnering the most retweets for his tweets during the calendar year, Twitter said in a press statement announcing the 2013 Philippines Year on Twitter (the announcement follows the worldwide 2013 Year on Twitter).

Vice’s tweets had over a million retweets in 2013, the Twitter statement said.

This distinction definitely holds true for this Twitter user Jose Marie Viceral and handle @vicegandaako. Vice does have enough “influencing” power to command legions of moviegoers to watch his films, repeat his words and watch his TV shows. And on Twitter, retweet his tweets.

Anne Curtis, too

Vice’s It’s Showtime co-host and close friend Anne Curtis was named the top entertainment influencer, with nearly 700,000 retweets of all her tweets over the calendar year. Anne also has the runner-up Golden Tweet of the Year title, trailing Pope Francis’ tweet of rallying the world to help Yolanda victims (it had 14 million impressions and thousands of retweets and favorites).

Anne’s tweet of apology for “letting my fans down,” and explanation that she’s “just like any other person that makes mistakes in life” in the controversial slapping incident she was involved in, was the second most retweeted and viewed tweet of the year, with over six million impressions and thousands of retweets and favorites.

Twitter also named another It’s Showtime personality, “Kuya Kim” Atienza, as the top Science Influencer, and Bandila anchor Karen Davila as its top Media Influencer. Angel Locsin emerged as the most tweeted celebrity of the year. Vice’s Sisterakas is the most tweeted movie of the year and It’s Showtime is the most tweeted variety show. Be Careful With My Heart, meanwhile, is the most tweeted TV drama, while GMA News TV is the most tweeted TV station.

Other top influencers

Other top Twitter influencers include President Benigno Aquino III for politics, Ogie Alcasid for music, Aly Borromeo for sports, Georgina Wilson for lifestyle, Rajo Laurel for fashion, Prof. Rommel Feria for tech and Jim Paredes for advocacies.

#YolandaPH is the top Twitter conversation topic with the most tweets and retweets, followed by #phvote discussing the midterm elections in May, #labanpilipinas that supported the Smart Gilas campaign in FIBA Asia, and #missworld, #misssupranational, and #missinternational for Megan Young, Bea Rose Santiago and Mutya Datul’s historic wins at the Miss World, Miss International and Miss Supranational beauty pageants, respectively.

By Gerry Plaza | omg! Philippines News Blog