Sunday, February 28, 2010

Coal Cracker Heaven, or When Life Begins to Imitate Art








Another cold gray morning in coal cracker heaven. Oh, look at that, it's snowing.....again. (pulls down the window blind)
Guess I'll get some dishes done, and put on a pot of coffee.
While the coffee's brewing, I'll save myself a trip upstairs and use the closet potty. Both "potty areas" (yes, we have two) come complete with an assortment of National Geographic magazines. The closet potty also stores a bunch of other stuff, like a lite kite, which I imagine is good for freaking the neighbors out by making them think there are aliens up there in the night sky. Yep, life doesn't get much more fancy than this. Babyzilla's training potty is in front of the mirror in the living room, so she can watch herself "go" and not feel like she's missing out on anything.
Cute Hubby brought home a Girl Scout training manual from an auction for me. Why he thought I would want it is beyond me. He said "I thought you might want it for fodder". And I said "I don't think so". Then he said "It's a lot different from the Boy Scouts manual, which teaches cool stuff like building bridges and campsites". To which I replied "The Girl Scout manual is from 1953, when girls went to school, then college, then hopefully got married so they would never have to use their education". Cute Hubby gave me one of his "clueless" looks, so the conversation died there. That's o.k., we were just getting to the interesting part of "Building your own log cabin" on youtube anyway.
I love my little folklore lamp. I am beginning to relate to it, I hope that's not a bad thing. "Dancing granny" is no beauty, but hey, at least she can still dance.

ABS-CBN Wins Big in the UPLB Gandingan Awards 2010

17 out of 24 citations in the recently concluded 2010 University of the Philippines Los Baños, Laguna (UPLB) Gandingan Isko't Iska's Broadcast Choice Awards were given to ABS-CBN Broadcasting Network including Best TV Station and Most Development Oriented Station.

Here are the complete list of citations garnered by ABS-CBN Broadcasting Network:

Best AM Station: DZMM Teleradyo
Best FM Station: Tambayan 101.9 San Ka Pa
Best Youth Oriented Program: Y Speak
Best Women Oriented Program: Wondermom
Best Morning Show: Umagang Kay Ganda
Best News Program: TV Patrol World
Best Livelihood Program: Kabuhayang Swak na Swak
Best Environment Oriented Program: Matanglawin
Best Educational Program: Matanglawin
Best AM Announcer: Ted Failon
Best News Anchor: Ted Failon
Gandingan ng Kababaihan: Karen Davila
Gandingan ng Kalikasan: Kuya Kim Atienza
Gandingan ng Kabataan: Kuya Kim Atienza
Gandingan ng Edukasyon: Kuya Kim Atienza

The annual UPLB Gandingan Awards is given by the UP Community Broadcasters’ Society at the UP Los Baños as a tribute to socially-oriented television and radio programs and broadcasters and are meant to inspire the youth.

Saturday, February 27, 2010

Shallow as an Open Grave (shopping post)



Thanks so much for all the well wishes for Cute Hubby and his "rolling stone". Not 100% sure, but we think that's what it was, and that it passed. Now on to something completely different.
Lo and behold, the Minnetonka Kilty Peace Sign Moccasin, found after looking at hundreds of moccasins (comparing prices & shipping). The winning price: $34.99 w/free shipping, SOLD baby.
What I had originally wanted was Coconuts Topanga Moccasin sold at Delia's for $44.50, but my youngest daughter pointed out questionable stitching and sole. Needless to say, I am overjoyed with my final decision, and cannot wait to get them in the mail. I haven't worn mocs since I was as young as I look, hehe.

Gerald Anderson Clear Shampoo Blacklight Challenge TVC

Check out the newest Clear Anti-Dandruff Shampoo "Blacklight Challenge" TV advertisement featuring young Kapamilya actor Gerald Anderson with Alex Castro, Joan Villablanca, and Enzo Tumlos.

Check Gerald in the TV ad below:



Gerald now joins the ranks of other Clear Anti-Dandruff shampoo endorsers such as Piolo Pascual, Jericho Rosales, Dingdong Dantes, and John Lloyd Cruz.

PBB Teen Edition 3 "Teen Clash of 2010" - Audition Schedules

Pinoy teens ages 15 - 18 all over the nation who are willing to join and experience how to become a Kuya's house mate will now have the chance to be make their dreams come true.


PBB's Business Unit Head Laurenti Dyogi announces the upcoming auditions dates which will be held in some key cities outside Metro Manila this March.

They have already announced the schedule of auditions and their first stop is SM Davao on Thursday, March 4, 2010. Then on March 6, Saturday, the audition will be held at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.

Auditions will also be held in Dipolog City, Tacloban City and Cebu but no dates have been announced yet.

Pinoy Big Brother (PBB) Teen Edition 3 "Teen Clash of 2010" is the third teen edition of Pinoy Big Brother, which will began airing this summer of 2010 only on ABS-CBN Primetime Bida.

Friday, February 26, 2010

33rd Gawad Urian – 2010 Nominees

The Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino (MPP) released their list of nominees in the running for the 33rd Gawad Urian which is happening on April 29, 2010 at the UP Cine Adarna.

Here is the complete list of nominees for 2010 Gawad Urian:

Best Film

The Arrival
Bakal Boys
Colorum
Engkwentro
Himpapawid
Hospital Boat
Kinatay
Lola
Last Supper No. 3
Ang Panggagahasa kay Fe.

Best Director

John Steffan Ballesteros (Colorum)
Pepe Diokno (Engkwentro)
Ralston Jover (Bakal Boys)
Erik Matti (The Arrival)
Arnel Mardoquio (Hospital Boat)
Brillante Mendoza (Kinatay)
Brillante Mendoza (Lola)
Raymond Red (Himpapawid)
GB Sampedro (Astig)
Veronica Velasco (Last Supper No. 3)
Alvin Yapan (Ang Panggagahasa kay Fe)

Best Actor

Raul Arellano (Himpapawid)
Allen Dizon (Dukot)
Dwight Gaston (The Arrival)
John Lloyd Cruz (In My Life)
Coco Martin (Kinatay)
Joey Paras (Last Supper)
Felix Roco (Engkwentro)
Alfred Vargas (Colorum)
Lou Veloso (Colorum)
Jacky Woo (Walang Hanggang Paalam)

Best Actress

Irma Adlawan (Ang Panggagahasa kay Fe)
Janice de Belen (Last Viewing)
Iza Calzado (Dukot)
Rustica Carpio (Lola)
Eugene Domingo (Kimmy/Dora)
Anita Linda (Lola)
Che Ramos (Mangatyanan)
Rosanna Roces (Wanted Border)
Vilma Santos (In My Life)
Tessie Tomas (Sanglaan)

Best Supporting Actor

John Arcilla (Himpapawid)
Dennis Ascalon (The Arrival)
Soliman Cruz (Himpapawid)
Milton Dionson (The Arrival)
Jose Ma. Javellana (Colorum)
John Regala (Kinatay)
Jake Roxas (Walang Hanggang Paalam)
Ariel Ureta (Kimmy/Dora)

Best Supporting Actress

Gina Alajar (Dukot)
Glaiza de Castro (Astig)
Jea Lyka Cinco (Hospital Boat)
Maria Isabel Lopez (Kinatay)
Gina Pareño (Baseco Bakal Boys)
Marissa Sue Prado (Himpapawid)
Miriam Quiambao (Kimmy/Dora)
Dimples Romana (In My Life)

Best Screenplay

Linda Casimiro (Lola)
Pepe Diokno (Engkwentro)
Christopher Gozum (Anacbanua)
Armando Lao (Biyaheng Lupa)
Armando Lao (Kinatay)
Erik Matti (The Arrival)
Raymond Red (Himpapawid)
Veronica Velasco and Jinky Laurel (Last Supper No. 3)
Alvin Yapan (Ang Panggagahasa kay Fe)

Best Sound

Ditoy Aguila (Himpapawid)
Mark Locsin (Bakal Boys)
Albert Michael Idioma (Kinatay)
Albert Michael Idioma and Addiss Tabong (Lola)
Mark Laccay (Engkwentro)
Andrew Millalos and Mike Idioma, (Last Supper No. 3)

Best Music

Teresa Barrazo (Kinatay)
Dan Gil (Last Supper No. 3)
Lutgardo Labad (Independencia)
Gauss Obenza (Hospital Boat)
Francisbrew Reyes (Dinig Sana Kita)
Francis de Veyra (The Arrival)

Best Editing

John Steffan Ballesteros (Colorum)
Jay Halili (Biyaheng Lupa)
Raymond Red, Dave Hukom and Jay Halili (Himpapawid)
Kats Serraon (Kinatay)
Kats Serraon (Lola)
Orlean Tan, Ralph Crisostomo and Miko Araneta (Engkwentro)
Borgy Torre and Ronald Banawa (The Arrival)
Veronica Velasco and Pablo Biglang-awa Jr. (Last Supper No. 3).

Best Production Design

Bryan Bajado (Hospital Boat)
Deans Habal (Bakal Boys)
Brillante Mendoza (Kinatay)
Brillante Mendoza (Lola)
Danny Red (Himpapawid)
Digo Ricio (Independencia)
Mic Tatad and Giselle Andres (Last Supper No. 3)

Best Cinematography

Dax Canedo (Hospital Boat)
Ruben Dela Cruz (Bakal Boys)
Neil Daza (Engkwentro)
Odyssey Flores (Kinatay)
Odyssey Flores (Lola)
Sol Garcia (Ang Panggagahasa kay Fe)
Joni Guttierez (Anacbanua)
Jeanne Lapoirie (Independencia)
Raymond Red (Himpapawid)

Natatanging Gawad Urian

Armida Siguion-Reyna

Reader's Digest "Philippines' Most Trusted Individuals of 2010"

Reader's Digest Asia reveals the result of its exclusive survey which looks at the most trusted people and professions in the Philippines for 2010.

For the first time ever, Reader's Digest have conducted a nationwide survey asking people to rate 80 influential Filipino personalities on their trustworthiness. The list was presented in random order and ratings were given as a score out of ten where one equated to "Don’t trust at all" and ten being "Trust completely".

Here’s the complete list of Philippines' Most Trusted 2010:

Individual

1. Rosa Rosal (actress and philanthropist)
2. Lea Salonga (Singer and Actress)
3. Jessica Soho (Journalist and Vice President of GMA News)
4. Tony Meloto (Philanthropist, Founder of Gawad Kalinga)
5. Beningo “Noynoy” Aquino III (senator)
6. Rafael “Paeng” Nepumuceno (bowling champion)
7. Howie G. Severino (documentary filmmaker)
8. Randy David (Newspaper columnist)
9. Mel Tiangco (TV host and Newscaster)
10. Efren "Bata" Reyes (Pool and Billiard champion)
11. Jaime August Zobel de Ayala (Businessman and CEO of the Ayala Corporation)
12. Cristeta Comerford (White House Executive Chef)
13. Miguel Castro "Mike" Enriquez (TV and Radio newscaster, Senior Vice-President of GMA news)
14. Boots Anson-Roa (Former actress, Director of Mowelfound)
15. Angel Alcala (Marine scientist)
16. Julius Babao (News anchor)
17. Vilma Santos-Recto (ctress and Governor of Batangas)
18. Von Hernandez (Executive Director of Greenpeace, Southeast Asia)
19. Archbishop Angel Lagdameo (President of Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines)
20. Michael V. (Comedian and TV host)
21. Chin Chin Guiterrez (Actress and Environmental activist)
22. Archbishop Oscar V. Cruz (Priest)
23. Arnel Pineda (Lead singer of Journey)
24. Mar Roxaz (Senator)
25. Henry Sy (Founder and Chairman of SM)
26. Sharon Cuneta (Entertainer)
27. Conrado de Quiros (Newspaper columnist and Author)
28. Kidlat Tahimik (Documentary filmmaker, Writer)
29. Antonio A. Oposa Junior (Environmental lawyer)
30. Bishop Efraim Tendero (National Director, The Philippine Council for Evangelical Churches)
31. Charice Pempengco (Singer)
32. Dr. Rey Melchor F. Santos (President of Philippine Medical Association)
33. Monique Lhuillier (Fashion designer)
34. Gloria Diaz (Actress and Former Miss Universe)
35. Dr. Lilia H. Pagtakhan-Luna (Obstetrician and Gynecologist)
36. Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao (Boxer)
37. Dr Eusebio Z. Dizon (Archeologist)
38. Dr. Ramon Santos (Musical composer)
39. Chris Tiu (Basketballer and TV co-host Pinoy Records)
40. Reynato S. Puno (Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines)
41. Alfredo S. Lim (Manila Mayor)
42. Kris Aquino (TV personality and Actress)
43. Lorenzo "Lory" Tan (Vice-Chairman WWF)
44. KC Concepcion (Actress)
45. Jaime T. "Jimmy" Licauco (Parapsychologist, Author and Founder of the Inner Mind Development Institute)
46. Brillante Mendoza (Filmmaker)
47. Rodrigo Duterte (Davao City Mayor)
48. Senator Richard "Dick" Gordan (Politician and Chairman of The Philippine National Red Cross)
49. Roberto del Rosario (businessman and inventor of the Karaoke Sing Along System)
50. Francis G. Escudero (Senator)
51. Romeo Gacad (Photo journalist)
52. Joker Arroyo (Politician and Lawyer)
53. Dr. Esperanza I. Cabral (Secretary of Department of Social Welfare and Development)
54. Napoleon L. Nazareno (President and CEO of PLDT and SMART)
55. Ernest L. Cu (Director and CEO of Globe Telecom)
56. Korina Sanchez (TV personality)
57. Jon Santos (comedian, gay marriage activist)
58. Billy Crawford (Musician and Actor)
59. Alfonso T. Yuchengco (head of Yuchengco Group)
60. Manuel "Manny" Villar (Senator)
61. Hon. Jesil A. Lapus (Department of Education)
62. Fidel V. Ramos (Former President of the Philippines)
63. Noli de Castro (Vice President of the Philippines)
64. Lucio Tan (businessman)
65. Gilberto Teodoro (Secretary of National Defence)
66. Lieutenant General Victor S Ibrado (Chief of Staff, Armed Forces of the Philippines)
67. Marian Rivera (Actress and Model)
68. Eduardo V. Manalo (deputy Executive Minister of Iglesia Ni Cristo)
69. Carlos J. Caparas (cartoonist and filmmaker)
70. Asi Taulava (Philippines National Basketball team captain)
71. General Jesus A. Verzosa (Chief of Philippine National Police)
72. Cristine Reyes (Actress and FHM's Sexiest Woman 2009)
73. Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos, Jr. (Politician)
74. Imee Marcos (Politician)
75. Willie Revillame (TV host (Wowowee))
76. Katrina Halili (Actress and Model)
77. Imelda Marcos (former First Lady of the Philippines)
78. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (President of the Philippines)
79. Joseph "Erap" Estrada (Former President of the Philippines)
80. Hayden Kho, Jr. (Doctor, Actor and Model)

Profession

1. Pilot
2. Teacher
3. Surgeon
4. Farmer
5. Doctor
6. Paramedic
7. Scientist
8. Nurse
9. Chef
10. Dentist
11. Firefighter
12. Veterinarian
13. Pharmacist
14. Engineer
15. Architect
16. Musician
17. Flight Steward/Stewardess
18. Electrician
19. Software Engineer
20. Tour Guide
21. Mechanic
22. Religious Leader
23. Plumber
24. CEO
25. Domestic Helper
26. Accountant
27. Economist
28. Journalist
29. Banker
30. Financial Planner
31. Hairdresser
32. Bus/Train Driver
33. Judge
34. Member Of Armed Forces
35. Taxi Driver
36. Real Estate Agent
37. Lawyer
38. Police Officer
39. Hawker
40. Politician

Cristine Reyes Covers MEGA Magazine March 2010 Issue

Kapamilya actress Cristine Reyes looks alluring in the cover of Mega Magazine March 2010 issue.


Aside from its special Summer Fashion tips, MEGA also features "Over 60 of the Best Swimwear for Every Body Type," "Bold and Bright Accessories to Match," "Look Better Naked – Sunscreens, Tanners, Slimming Treatment for a Beach Ready Body," "Shape Up – 6 Fitness Routines So You Can Be Little and Lean," "Maximize Your Credit Without Maxing Out," "Graphic Black and White, Body Electric 80s Style," "City Chic Resort Wear," and "This Season’s Most Desirable Shoes, Bags, Jewelry"

MEGA Magazine March 2010 issue is now available at all magazine stands nationwide.

Shakira - "Gypsy" Music Video and Lyrics

Check out Shakira’s hot new video "Gypsy" featuring tennis champ Rafael Nadal.

Here's what Shakira has to say about Rafael Nadal:

"Shooting this video with Rafa was a great experience, he is very sweet and made it easy and fun. He and I have so much in common — starting out so young in our respective careers and traveling the world — I felt this would translate the spirit of the lyrics in the song and I was thrilled he wanted to be a part of it."

Rafael Nadal's response:

"It has been a great experience and I had a lot of fun doing it. I had some time in between tournaments and preparation and could not miss this opportunity. Shakira, as always, was spectacular. Working with a woman as charming as her, well, it makes it a lot easier to tell the truth. It was great, very easy, she’s really sweet and that always makes the hours go by faster."

See "Gypsy" music video below from Shakira’s latest album "She Wolf"
:



Broke my heart
On the road
Spent the weekend
Sewing the pieces back on

Friends and thoughts pass me by
Walking gets too boring
When you learn how to fly

Not the homecoming kind
Take the top off
And who knows what you might find

Won't confess all my sins
You can bet I'll try it
But I can't always win

'Cause I'm a gypsy
Are you coming with me?
I might steal your clothes
And wear them if they fit me
I never made agreements
Just like a gypsy
And I won't back down
'Cause life's already bit me
And I won't cry
I'm too young to die
If you're gonna quit me
'Cause I'm a gypsy

('Cause I'm a gypsy)

I can't hide
what I've done
Scars remind me
Of just how far that I've come
To whom it may concern
Only run with scissors
When you want to get hurt

I said hey you
You're no fool
If you say 'NO'
Ain't it just the way life goes?
People fear what they don't know
Come along for the ride, Oh yeah
Come along for the ride, whoo-hoo.


AGB Mega Manila TV Ratings (February 23-25): "Kapamilya Shows Lead the Daytime and Primetime Race"

Here are the Top 10 Daytime and Primetime TV ratings of ABS-CBN and GMA-7 programs on the overnight ratings of AGB Nielsen Philippines among Mega Manila households on February 23 - 25, 2010:

February 23, Tuesday

Daytime:
1. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 20.6%
2. Showtime (ABS-CBN) - 19.6%
3. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 19%
4. Ina, Kasusuklaman Ba Kita? (GMA-7) - 15.8%
5. Magkano ang Iyong Dangal? (ABS-CBN) - 14%
6. Daisy Siete: Bebe & Me (GMA-7) - 13.7%
7. Gumapang Ka Sa Lusak (GMA-7) - 12.7%
8. Family Feud (GMA-7) / The Substitute Bride (ABS-CBN) - 12.4%
9. Maria de Jesus: Anghel Sa Lansangan (ABS-CBN) - 11%
10. Pilipinas Got More Talent (ABS-CBN) - 9.1%

Primetime:
1. Agua Bendita (ABS-CBN) - 33.4%
2. Kung Tayo'y Magkakalayo (ABS-CBN) - 32.2%
3. Panday Kids (GMA-7) - 31.6%
4. Habang May Buhay (ABS-CBN) - 29.9%
5. The Last Prince (GMA-7) - 29.7%
6. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 28.6%
7. Full House (GMA-7) - 28.1%
8. TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) - 25.9%
9. Rubi (ABS-CBN) - 23.8%
10. First Time (GMA-7) - 21.4%

February 24, Wednesday (No available data)

February 25, Thursday

Daytime:
1. Showtime (ABS-CBN) - 21.9%
2. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 20.6%
3. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 19.3%
4. Ina, Kasusuklaman Ba Kita? (GMA-7) - 14.6%
5. Magkano ang Iyong Dangal? (ABS-CBN) - 12.7%
6. Daisy Siete: Bebe & Me (GMA-7) - 12.2%
7. Gumapang Ka Sa Lusak (GMA-7) - 12%
8. The Substitute Bride (ABS-CBN) - 11.5%
9. Family Feud (GMA-7) - 9.8%
10. OC to the Max (GMA-7) / Pilipinas Got More Talent (ABS-CBN) - 8.1%

Primetime:
1. Agua Bendita (ABS-CBN) - 34.3%
2. Panday Kids (GMA-7) - 33.2%
3. The Last Prince (GMA-7) - 32.2%
4. Kung Tayo'y Magkakalayo (ABS-CBN) - 30.3%
5. Full House (GMA-7) - 29.3%
6. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 28.9%
7. Habang May Buhay (ABS-CBN) - 27.5%
8. TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) - 25.9%
9. Rubi (ABS-CBN) - 23.5%
10. Queen Seon Deok (GMA-7) - 21.9%

Source: AGB Nielsen Philippines

Diva - Cast and Characters

LEAD CAST:

Asia's Songbird Regine Velasquez stars in her fifth primetime series on GMA-7, Diva. Here, she plays Sampaguita a.k.a. Sam, a hideous-looking woman who dreams of becoming a famous singer someday. Sam's singing prowess and good-natured personality will lead her to find a spot in the entertainment industry despite her unpleasant looks.



Regine was able to sympathize with her character "Sam" because of the discrimination that they go through. Even though Regine's character has an extraordinary talent in singing, she had to cover her face with clothes or even mascot costumes so as not to "scare away" the people.

Diva will also reunite the sweet comic tandem of Regine and Mark Anthony Fernandez. They first worked together in the romantic-comedy series Ako Si Kim Samsoon. In Diva, Mark plays Gary, Sam's cool and loyal childhood friend. A good lyricist and a good writer, Gary's goal is to find the woman who deserves his love.

IN SUPPORT:

TJ Trinidad. In her first TV project with the Asia's Songbird, TJ plays Martin, a rich, charming, boy-next-door kind of guy. He is a good composer and very passionate about his music. His parents want him to focus on classical music but he prefers pop and alternative music.

Rufa Mae Quinto. This sexy comedienne portrays the role of Lady, a model who becomes a singer despite her lack of talent. Sam will be her ghost singer and eventually her rival. Lady will make Sam's life miserable.

Glaiza de Castro. Young actress Glaiza follows up her kontrabida role as Eunice in Stairway To Heaven with another kontrabida role here in Diva. She plays Tiffany, Lady's personal assistant who will eventually become a singer also.

Jaya. The Queen of Soul finally gets to realize her dream of acting in a soap opera via Diva. Here, she plays Barbra, the know-it-all best friend of Sam.

Randy Santiago. This '90s matinee idol plays George, an executive producer of a recording company who will give Sam the opportunity to become a diva.

Buboy Garovillo. APO Hiking Society's Buboy Garovillo is Elvis, the loving father of Sam. A former musician turned taxi driver, Elvis will push his daughter to reach for her dream. He is even Sam's avid fan and will support his daughter in every step she makes to reach her dream.

Gloria Diaz. Former Miss Universe Gloria Diaz plays Paula, the mother of Sam. She is a former beauty queen and a frustrated singer/actress who blames her ugly daughter for losing opportunity in showbiz.

Mark Herras. This Starstruck alumna plays Smith, Sam's half-brother. This is the second soap of Mark with Regine. They first worked together in Forever in My Heart.

Ynna Asistio. She will portray the role of Vanessa, the neighbor of Sam who has a big crush on Smith.

This primetime series, which will premiere on March 1, is being directed by Dominic Zapata.

Ghost Dog and White Pain Faced Man


We got pounded by snow again last night. This year's snow totals are the highest since 1979. Everything has taken on a kind of a ghostly look: The snow blowing sideways in the night, the snow dunes, even the neighbor's dogs. When the dogs run through the snow, you can't see their legs so they look like they're floating. Floating slowly across a snow duned landscape.

Cute Hubby's having some strange pain, we think it might be a kidney stone, ugh. We have no medical insurance, surprise! So, he's drinking lots of water, and hoping to be able to deal with the pain until he passes it. There might be a trip to the ER in the near future. I'll be working later, so I've left him with a list of phone numbers in case the pain comes back. Stop making that face at me, I tried my best to get out of working, o.k.? Done judging? Good, so anywhoooo, I might be a little scarce the next few days. I don't know, we'll see. I keep imagining getting really reamed out by the doctor for not bringing him in sooner:

Doctor: (looking sternly over his spectacles at me)Tell me again why you didn't bring him in sooner.

Me: He's a survivalist, and also, he doesn't trust doctors.

The conversation spirals quickly downward from there. Use your imagination.

Regine Velasquez Stars in GMA-7's First Kantaserye "Diva"

GMA-7 presents its first-ever "kantaserye" Diva, a drama-musical starring Asia's Songbird Regine Velasquez and her reunion project with her former Ako Si Samsoon leading man Mark Anthony Fernandez, plus TJ Trinidad.



Aside from Regine, Mark Anthony and TJ, Diva will feature a star-studded cast composed of Rufa Mae Quinto, and Glaiza de Castro along with music icons Buboy Garovillo and Randy Santiago. It also marks the first time that the Queen of Soul, Jaya, will take part in a soap opera.

Adding color to the story are Mark Herras, Ynna Asistio and former beauty queen-turned-actress Gloria Diaz.

Synopsis: Diva is about the funny but touching life of Sampaguita a.k.a. Sam (Regine Velasquez), a hideous-looking woman who dreams of becoming a famous singer someday. Sam's singing prowess and good-natured personality will lead her to find a spot in the entertainment industry despite her unpleasant looks.

But life will not be that easy for Sam because there are pretty, sexy and talented ladies who will make life miserable for her. These include Lady (Rufa Mae Quinto), a model who aspires to be a diva and Tiffany (Glaiza de Castro), Lady's personal assistant who will eventually becomes a singer too. These women will be Sam's friends-turned-rivals.

Another character who will hinder Sam's dreams of becoming a singer is her own mother, Paula (Gloria Diaz), a former beauty queen and a frustrated singer-actress. She blames her ugly daughter for making her lose the opportunity to become big in showbiz.

Unlike her mother, Sam's dad Elvis (Buboy Garovillo), a former musician-turned-taxi driver, is very supportive of her dreams. He will push his daughter to reach for her dream. He is Sam's number one fan.

Aside from Elvis, the people who believe in Sam's talents are her best friend Barbra (Jaya), her half-brother Smith (Mark Herras), her neighbor Vanessa (Ynna Asistio), and George (Randy Santiago), an executive producer of a recording company.

Two young and gorgeous men, meanwhile, will fall for Sam. They are cousins Gary (Mark Anthony Fernandez) and Martin (TJ Trinidad). Gary is Sam's cool and loyal childhood friend. He is a good lyricist and a good writer. His goal is to find a woman who deserves his love.

Martin, on the other hand, is a rich, charming, boy-next-door kind of guy. He is a good composer and very passionate about his music. His parents want him to focus on classical music but he prefers pop and alternative music.

Who among these men will truly love Sam? Does having an ugly face automatically become an impediment to one's dreams? Is surgery the best solution to fulfill one's ambitions? When Sam gets the spotlight that she aspires for, will she manage to withstand the intrigues that go along with it?

Join Sam as she takes a humorous and awe-inspiring journey in GMA-7's first-ever kantaserye titled Diva. Under the direction of Dominic Zapata, it will air on the Kapuso Network starting Monday, March 1, right after The Last Prince on GMA Telebabad.

GMA-7 is Looking for Singles

GMA Network is calling all the single ladies and bachelors who are looking for perfect dates but simply can't find the right one. And all those who want to try new and exciting ways to meet and have a blast with just about any woman o man are welcome.

Single people, 20 to 40 years old, who are up for dating challenges full of excitement, thrill and sparks, are invited to audition for GMA Network's newest and upcoming dating game show. The auditions are held every Saturday and Sunday from 12 nn to 5 pm at the GMA Network Drive.

Applicants need to bring the original and photocopy of their birth certificate, valid ID, and whole body and close-up photos. They should bring the requirements personally and should look for Virna Cañete.

The chance to find the perfect match and experience a spicy dating life on TV for free is here on GMA Network.

Kapamilya Stars Lead "DZMM Takbo Para sa Kalikasan" on Sunday, February 28

DZMM’s "Takbo Para sa Kalikasan" is now on its 11th year this Sunday.

The country’s brightest stars led by Piolo Pascual are set to save the environment at the “DZMM Takbo Para Sa Kalikasan Year 11” on Sunday (Feb 28) at the Quirino Grandstand.

Pascual will race to the finish line with "Rubi" leading man Jake Cuenca, "Tanging Yaman" star Enchong Dee, "Kung Tayo’y Magkakalayo" beauty Maricar Reyes, DZMM anchors, and thousands of athletes, students, health enthusiasts, and environmentalists.

Vice President Noli De Castro is also expected to arrive to show his support for the fun run, which will benefit the rehabilitation of the Pasig River through ABS-CBN Foundation’s Bantay Kalikasan.

Aside from the earliest finishers in the 3K, 5K, and 10K categories, the youngest and oldest runners and the biggest government, non-government organization, and student contingents will be awarded in the race.

GMA News and Public Affairs "Panata sa Bayan" Premieres Tonight

GMA News and Public Affairs is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. To mark this milestone, GMA News comes up with "Panata sa Bayan," a song that will serve as the organization's official anthem.


Sugarfree and Kris Gebilaguin translated GMA News and Public Affairs' vow for unbiased reportage into "Panata sa Bayan's" powerful music and poetic lyrics. Sugarfree sings the band version, while Ms. Kuh Ledesma delivers a powerful solo version of the anthem.

Touted to be a first in Philippine television history, "Panata sa Bayan" speaks of GMA News' commitment to delivering only the untainted truth.

"Panata sa Bayan's" music video is bannered by the pillars of GMA News and Public Affairs—Mike Enriquez, Mel Tiangco, Jessica Soho, Arnold Clavio, Vicky Morales, and Howie Severino with GMA-7's roster of news reporters.

Together, they vow to uphold the organization's slogan "Walang kinikilingan. Walang pinoprotektahan. Walang kasinungalingan. Serbisyong totoo lamang."



The music video premieres tonight, February 26, on 24 Oras. The song will also be heard over AM radio station Super Radyo DZBB 594 and FM radio station Barangay LS 97.1 starting February 27.

Seann William Scott in Cop Out!




Seann William Scott's (IMTA '95) newest comedy Cop Out is opening in theaters nationwide today! Bruce Willis and Tracy Morgan play two longtime NYPD partners who are on the trail of a stolen, rare, mint-condition baseball card. They pull out all the stops to catch the memorabilia-obsessed gangster who stole the card, breaking every rule and enlisting the help of an annoying thief- Seann's “Doody Calls” Dave.

From the American Pie series to Dude, Where’s My Car, to The Dukes of Hazzard to Role Models, audiences continue to appreciate Seann as a bankable, comic leading man. After voicing characters in two of last year’s animated hits, Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs and Planet 51, Seann returns to his comedic alter-ego to co-star in this hilarious new comedy!


Catch Seann William Scott in Cop Out!

Thursday, February 25, 2010

My Eyes Misted Up When I Watched This

The blog Oana posted this video as a tribute to the passing of Alexander McQueen. It brought shivers up my spine and made me cry. Go to youtube and search Kate Moss for Alexander McQueen Fashion Show to watch. Seriously worth watching. I tried to post it twice, but I couldn't get it to come up. Or you could go to Oana and scroll down to the video, that would be easier.

IMTA Alum Ashley Greene's Marie Claire Shoot!

Check out this fabulous video of Ashley Greene on her latest Marie Claire photoshoot!



Ashley competed at IMTA in 2004, when she said,"I'm so thankful I got the opportunity to be here at IMTA because there are so many people and so many opportunities. I want to come back to IMTA even if do I make something big of it. I definitely want to come back, it was a lot of fun!"

Ashley signed with a manager and agent at IMTA and stars as Alice Cullen in the blockbuster hit movies Twlight and The Twlight Saga: New Moon! The most recent film of the saga, New Moon, broke the record for the highest grossing single day domestic box office record ever!


Wednesday, February 24, 2010

Goodbye "SOP Fully Charged"; Hello "Party Pilipinas"

After 14 years, SOP, the Kapuso channel's long-running Sunday party show will undergo a major revamp with reinforced staff, a remarkable performers, and a new title, "Party Pilipinas", starting March 21.

Party Pilipinas is now going to be an "all-party and all-positive vibes" show, according to the Corporate Communications Department of GMA-7 and the show's new production manager, Ruth Mariñas.

Director Louie Ignacio will now have a co-director and creative manager, Paul Basinillo, a seasoned music video director who helmed some projects for Sarah Geronimo and other young singers.

Four musical directors will alternate every week, two of which will be Raul Mitra and Danny Tan.

Geleen Eugenio will hand over the choreography to her son Miggy, but she will become the chief adviser of the new choreographers coming from different school organizations, which will be given the chance to show off their dancing skills.

The four main hosts Regine Velasquez, Ogie Alcasid, Janno Gibbs, and Jaya are retained, along with the R&B pair of Jay-R and Kyla, plus La Diva.

New co-hosts and semi-regulars will join them in launching all-new segments, such as a revolving special number every week from one group of Telebabad stars and a high-powered number from different schools' dancing groups.

When Ads Were Cool






Sean Harju in Fashion Week!


Check out these amazing shots of IMTA alum Sean Harju on the runway. Sean appeared in many top designer shows debuting the latest menswear fashion. Sean competed at IMTA in Los Angeles in 2006 where he won first runner up for Male Model of the Year and signed with the legendary Major Model Management team. He has been featured in the magazines GQ, Details, HUGE, on the home page for Eluxury and in a Diesel campaign ad. He was in the Spring/Summer ad campaign for Dolce & Gabbana with fellow IMTA grad and supermodel Tyson Ballou and has modeled for Y-3 and Calvin Klein, Dior, Diesel, Lucien Palley Finet, Numero Hommes and many more.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

Google dona 2 millones de dólares a Wikipedia

La compañía más importante de Internet Google, ha donado la suma de 2 millones de dólares para la Fundación Wikipedia.  Realmente es una suma millonaria para wikipedia. Aunque el año pasado recaudó 230 aportes de usuarios y diversas organizaciones alcanzando la suma de 8 millones de dólares.

La donación de 2 millones de dólares le permitirá financiar sus operaciones corrientes e invertir en su infraestructura.

"Wikipedia es uno de los grandes triunfos de internet", justificó uno de los cofundadores de Google, Serguei Brin, citado por un comunicado de Wikimedia. "Ese vasto depósito de informaciones generadas por la comunidad de los usuarios de internet es un recurso de incalculable valor para todos", enfatizó.

Organización sin ánimo de lucro basada en San Francisco (costa oeste de Estados Unidos), Wikimedia funciona con tan sólo 35 empleados cuando sus sitios reciben más de 364 millones de visitantes únicos por mes, lo cual le permite reivindicar el título de quinto sitio internet más visitado del mundo.

Christian Bautista's "Beautiful Girl" Music Video Feat. Angel Locsin, Anne Curtis, Georgina Wilson and Solenn Heusaff

Catch the Asia’s pop idol and romantic balladeer, Christian Bautista, with Asia's four beautiful young women Angel Locsin, Anne Curtis, Georgina Wilson and Solenn Heusaff in his "Beautiful Girl" music video.

Beautiful Girl - Music Video:



Beautiful girl, wherever you are
I knew when I saw you, you had opened the door
I knew that I'd love again after a long, long while
I'd love again.

You said hello and I turned to go
But something in your eyes left my heart beating so
I just knew that I'd love again after a long, long while
I'd love again.

It was destiny's game
For when love finally came on
I rushed in line only to find
That you were gone.

Whenever you are, I fear that I might
Have lost you forever like a song in the night
Now that I've loved again after a long, long while
I've loved again.

Beautiful girl, I'll search on for you
'Til all of your loveliness in my arms come true
You've made me love again after a long, long while
In love again.

And I'm glad that it's you
Hmm, beautiful girl...

Adodo Magazine's Top 10 Credible Endorsers

Adobo Magazine, the Philippine Advertising and Brand Communications magazine, releases its list of Philippines' Top 10 Credible Endorsers as a result of a survey conducted late last year by Synergy Business Consultancy among 1,000 males and females aged 15 to 60 from all socio-economic levels in Metro Manila, seven out of 10 said they purchased a product because of a celebrity endorser.


Adobo quoted JJ Henson, creative director of Publicis Manila, as saying, "Sometimes celebrities become the brand, and when something bad happens to the celebrity, the brand suffers." That’s the risk advertisers have to take.

Adobo lists the following as The Top 10 Credible Endorsers:

• Manny Pacquiao, 47 percent

• Vicki Belo, 34 percent

• Ruffa Gutierrez, 33 percent

• Marian Rivera, 33 percent

• Mel Tiangco, 22 percent

• James Yap, 22 percent

• Melanie Marquez, 21 percent

• Korina Sanchez, 20 percent

• Manny Calayan, 20 percent

• Mike Enriquez, 19 percent

Gerald Anderson Covers YES! Magazine March 2010 Issue

Read about Gerald Anderson’s journey to stardom in the March 2010 issue of YES! Magazine.


Here’s what the cover says about Gerald:

"ABS-CBN’s golden boy talks about being his mom’s kargador at 8, dealing with his parents’ breakup at 14, having a home of his own at 19. From Subic Bay to Kansas City, from GenSan to Tayong Dalawa, here is the journey of the tough kid with the boy-next-door smile."

YES! Magazine March 2010 issue is now available at all magazine stands nationwide.

Sam Milby Covers StarStudio Magazine March 2010 Issue

Fil-Am Kapamilya heartthrob, Sam Milby is on the cover of StarStudio magazine for its March 2010 issue.


On this issue, Sam will talk about how he feels about living alone in the house of his own. His life in Ohio and why he misses it. He also clears the hottest issues about his lovelife including his relationships with Toni Gonzaga and Anne Curtis.

StarStudio Magazine March 2010 issue is now available at all magazine stands nationwide.

This is What Happens When You Lose Control of the Camera



Cute Hubby snapped off some photos of me. The first one is pretty good. Not bad for a 51 year old broad.

The second one, not so good. Notice the pissy facial expression and the "hamhock" thigh that looks like it's ready for carving.

shirt: vintage Free People
bangle: forever 21
earrings: Silver Forest of Vermont (each piece tells a story, mine have the bee- very rare)
vest: thrifted, huge. Love the way it hangs on me. Makes me feel thin, hehe.
chords: Delia's blue smoke
booties: Cutesy girl
hair: Colorsilk medium brown
make-up: Covergirl loose powder, Bobbie Brown blush, L'Oreal shadow quad, Rimmel of London green liner, Covergirl professional mascara in brown/black, Mac creme blush as lip color.

The cinnamon rolls and pumpkin pie are ready. Gotta go.