Pinoy Stars

How Asero helped Rhian in La Lola

2008-11-21T00:39:00.000-08:00

Pagkatapos makilala as 'Leah' sa 'Captain Barbell' ng dalawang taon, Rhian Ramos is glad na siya ay na nare-recognize na ngayon as Lola, her first title role. "When I go to the malls, no one calls me anything else now, everyone forgot Leah from "Captain Barbell!" kwento niya sa iGMA.

Gaining confidence
Inamin ng aktres na kinabahan siya nang malaman niyang siya ang gaganap bilang Lola, pero nakatulong ang mga workshop na pinuntahan nila ng cast. "When we did our first workshop together, naging mas kampante ako. Sabi ko, ‘Okay, we all look like we have pretty good chemistry together.’ It's amazing how this cast gets along. We come from all walks of life, age groups, but we really get along together. It's nice how pretty much lahat kami binagayan yung role. It's cool [that] the characters all have a piece of us in them," she shares.

Syempre, naging mas confident si Rhian nang lumabas ang ratings ng primetime show niya. "I read the script, and then at first you think, ‘Wow it's nice, but can I pull it off?’ So when [we] finally started taping, we were so proud of the ratings that we got, and then we've been proud of how the show's been going on…We haven't been beaten, and we're very happy about the response that we got about the show."

Thanks to Claire!
Rhian shares that her character Claire in Codename: Asero helped her a lot para maka-adjust sa role niya sa La Lola. Kung matatandaan niyo, si Claire ang makulit na anak ni Apollo (Ramon Christopher) na na-in love kay Asero (Richard Gutierrez).

"I think, in a way, that was a really good warm up for La Lola, because that was my first light, funny, pang-asar na role lang. Because most of my roles have either been damsel in distress or something severe! I've never really been just prancing around, being all 'Yihee!' You know, pang-asar lang?

"I don’t think I would've been as comfortable with Lola if it weren't for Claire. Even if it was so short a time that I played Claire, it was a big help. It really eased me into it."

Ikinuwento sa kanya ng kanyang dad na naka-base sa Dubai na maraming nanonood ng La Lola doon. "My dad he has this really annoying thing that he does. He has my picture in his wallet, so every time he goes to some restaurant, he opens his wallet and then he pays, makes sure that it's facing everyone, and [since] there are so many Filipinos in Dubai, they're like, 'Sir, you like Rhian Ramos? That's so weird!' And he [says], 'She's my daughter.' [Sinasabi naman noong mga kausap niya], 'Oh my God, pa-picture!' He loves that! It's so [funny]!" Rhian exclaims with a laugh.

"His favorite stores already know [about me]. So every time he goes back, they tell him, sir, we watch La Lola! And I just wanna go see the people he's met because of that! And balita ko maraming nanonood ng La Lola doon." Ayon kay Rhian, balak niyang bumisita sa Dubai ngayong Pasko para makasama ang father niya.

- Jason John S. Lim, iGMA.tv

Heart Evangelista, beautiful and emotional

2008-11-17T21:53:00.000-08:00

Heart Evangelista is, of course, beautiful. This is precisely why Preview magazine chose her to grace the cover of its Beauty Special this November.

Preview describes her beauty as an "Oriental brand of elfin," characterized by chinita eyes and a flawless skin that elicit raves from no less than Bobbi Brown's regional director for artistry Sebastian Tardif, who does her makeup for the cover shoot.

"My main inspiration for her look today is her skin, it is just so flawless," Sebastian says. "She has nice open eyes and a generous lashline as well. Three coats of mascara and all of a sudden... boom!"

It almost seems unbelievable that she maintains such a simple beauty regimen. Heart tells Preview, "I just cleanse and moisturize around my eyes before going to bed."

But what makes Heart more beautiful nowadays is the candor with which she presents herself to the public. She arrives at the Preview cover shoot armed with a diary of answers to all of Preview's questions. "I really wanted to answer your questions well, to think about them," she tells the Preview team earnestly.

True enough, as the Preview team leafs through pages and pages of exclamation points, underlined and capitalized phrases all in Heart's own handwriting, it is clear just how much thought she has given to every question.

Preview lifts from that diary, which Heart has made out of the magazine's questions, to give readers a picture of just how emotional she really is. As she writes about the lowest point in her life and peppers it with much emphasis, it gives an idea of how wrung her feelings were during one period of her life.

She writes, "All of a sudden everything in my life changed. My career was just about DEAD, and my personal life was a DISASTER. I would wallow in self-pity. I lost my family. I lost my love and passion for life. I thought it was the end of the world."

Showbiz also reared its ugly head as Heart faced scrupulous scrutiny from the public that once adored her. "I toyed with the idea of leaving before it destroyed me," she says, "but I refused to leave the industry that way."

With her career back in full swing, it looks like Heart is not leaving just yet. "It's really what I love. The passion is really there," she says, "I'm just not over it yet, I feel it, that there's so much more to give."

Read more about Heart Evangelista in the November issue of Preview magazine, now available in newsstands and bookstores nationwide.

Jericho Rosales makes freudian slip while describing 'heavy' role in "Baler"

2008-11-14T21:37:00.000-08:00

Binati ni Jericho Rosales ang press na dumating sa presscon ng Baler kahapon, November 13, in Spanish. Throughout the presscon, paminsan-minsan din siyang siyang nag-i-Español.

Nabanggit kasi ng aktor noon sa isang panayam na mag-aaral siya ng Spanish bago simulan ang shooting ng Baler para maging makatotohanan ang portrayal niya sa role ni Celso Resurrecion, ang half-Spaniard, half-Filipino na mas piniling kumampi sa mga kaaway at talikuran ang kapwa Filipino.

Ang Baler, na idinirek ni Mark Meily, ang entry ng Viva Films sa 2008 Metro Manila Film Festival. Katambal dito ni Jericho si Anne Curtis.

"This is an important movie," sabi ni Jericho. "It touches Filipino history dahil based ito sa Siege of Baler noong 1898. Hindi lang history ang mapapanood, may romance din."

"Heavy" ang description ni Jericho sa kanyang role. Para raw mas ma-feel niya ang kanyang character, siya mismo ang nag-research. Dumaan din siya sa matinding preparasyon, pati kung paano kumilos at magsalita ng Tagalog noong unang panahon.

"Na-trap for one year sa loob ng simbahan si Celso at mga kasamang sundalo. Ipapakita ang hirap na dinanas ng mga sundalo that whole time na nasa simbahan sila. Makikita rin kung paano nila ipinaglaban ni Feliza [Anne] ang kanilang pagmamahalan," pagpapakilala ni Jericho sa kanyang role.

Paano naka-relate si Jericho kanyang role?

"Mahirap ang pinagdaanan namin sa loob ng simbahan at ang character ni Celso ay ibang-iba. Mapagmahal siya at romantiko, at kaya kong magmahal hanggang kamatayan," saad ng aktor.

Ano ang feeling niya habang ginagawa nila ang Baler?

"Sobrang excited ako and every scene, gusto ko nandun ako," saad ni Jericho. "Metikuloso ang pagkakagawa ni Direk Mark. Na-miss ko ang ginawa ko sa Bagong Buwan na war movie rin na ipinag-enjoy ko rin. De numero ang gumawa ng giyera, para kang nakikipaglaro sa mga bata."

Yasmien's Return to Dramarama

2008-10-24T00:47:00.000-07:00

Following the success of the primetime show "Babangon Ako't Dudurugin Kita," Yasmien Kurdi returns to the Dramarama block via the Sine Novela "Saan Darating ang Umaga." Reprising the role of Ms. Maricel Soriano, the StarStruck alumna now faces the challenge of living up to the award-winning performance of the Diamond Star.

At the photo shoot of the next Sine Novela, Saan Darating ang Umaga, Yasmien Kurdi sat down with iGMA for an exclusive interview to promote her new show and clear up some issues that recently made her emotional on national television.

Return to Dramarama

A blockbuster hit in the ‘80s, Saan Darating ang Umaga featured Ms. Nida Blanca and Ms. Maricel Soriano at their best. A tear-jerker and a values-filled story, Maricel Soriano won the Best Supporting Actress award in FAMAS for her portrayal of Shayne – the jealous daughter of Ruben (Nestor deVilla) and Lorie (Nida Blanca).

In the GMA remake, Yasmien will bring Shayne to life, a challenge indeed to the young actress. "Tita Maria, support ha, please. Hindi ko pa po siya (Maricel Soriano) natatawagan," confessed Yas who has once worked with Maricel Soriano in the film Bahay Kubo.

She pointed out that she’s doubling her efforts for this project to prove that she deserves the breaks that GMA has been giving her these past few years. "Pinaghihirapan ko talaga bawat eksena. Direk Mario J. de los Reyes pa ito, award winning director…After Direk Joel [Lamangan], Direk Mario naman," says the young actress who is obviously in awe of the renowned director, who also directed the original film.

New love team, old friend

Upon her return to Dramarama, Yasmien leaves her old love team behind and now concentrates on her new onscreen partner, Dion Ignacio.

"Si Dion sobrang at ease ako sa kanya. During StarStruck days, sya 'yung lagi kong katabi sa chair kapag bumabyahe kami or aalis kami. Tapos sya 'yung best friend ko sa guys noon. Hindi kami close ni Rainier talaga noon (smiles)," shared Yasmien with a smile.

After noting that she comfortable working with Dion, she said they she’s really happy that the young actor was given this break. "Deserve naman ni Dion [ang project]. Ang gwapo-gwapo nya. Sobrang proud po ako sa kanya at super support din ako sa kanya. Tapos nagtutulungan kami kasi sa [StarStruck] batch po talaga naming, walang iwanan. Mahal ko si DJ at kahit sino sa Batch 1."

Finally, she pointed out that fans will be surprised with her new partner but urged everyone to give her friend a chance. "Sana, kagatin nyo po tulad ng pag support nyo sa ibang ka-love team ko. Grabe kinakabahan din po ako," admitted Yas truthfully.

- Loretta G. Ramirez, GMANews

John Lloyd Cruz: Getting to know Armando Solis

2008-08-23T22:13:00.000-07:00

After various speculations and debates, John Lloyd Cruz was officially announced as Armando Solis - the love interest of Betty La Fea played by Bea Alonzo.

John Lloyd is no stranger as an actor. He has shown his natural talent in acting since he started in the industry almost a decade ago with different commercials, TV appearances, and segments. He also starred in blockbuster films and top rating teleseryes.

John Lloyd has been honored with different awards from respected award-giving bodies such as the Famas Awards, Enpress Golden Screen Awards, and PMPC Star Awards for Movies.

Because of his undeniable talent, enthralling charm and warm personality, John Lloyd is now popularly known as the Philippine's Box Office King.

And now, he is partnered once again to Bea, one of the most in-demand actresses in the industry.

They have already proven that they are one of the hottest love teams today because of their electrifying chemistry and countless supporters.

If Betty is kind-hearted, hardworking, always happy and smiling and a bit physically challenged, Armando is the complete opposite.

Growing up in a wealthy family where everything was handed to him on a silver platter, it seems that Armando has everything. Handsome, smart, and educated. He is the big boss of the advertising agency Eco Moda Manila.

A good dresser, suave and has an alluring appeal, somewhat arrogant and a certified chick boy, Armando is every girl's dream boy.

As these two completely different people come face to face, will they agree on good working terms? In matters of the heart, is the saying "opposites attract" really true?

Under the direction of Erick Salud and Don Cuaresma, "I Love Betty La Fea" will capture everyone's hearts soon on ABS-CBN Primetime Bida.

Sunshine Dizon excited over her comeback

2008-08-13T09:39:00.000-07:00

Highly-acclaimed actress Sunshine Dizon is back after several months of being absent in the limelight.

Sunshine said this is a perfect timing for her to make a comeback as she will be working with her idol action star Robin Padilla in the movie “Sundo.”

“I’m actually very excited. I think we will start shooting this week. It’s been a long time since I did a movie so I am very excited,” she said during the launching of Rhian Ramos as the new image model of Sabella, which she also endorses.

Rhian is also part of the GMA Film’s movie as well as Katrina Halili.

Sunshine was hospitalized for a month due to severe migraine. She rested for a couple of months before she decided to return in showbiz.

“I also got to rest after I was hospitalized for a month and a half. So now, when I get migraine attacks I don’t need to be injected anymore. I should only drink a tablet to ease the pain,” she said.

Sunshine also explained that she was confined for a long-time in the hospital because she needed to get a high dosage of pain killer for her migraine.

Asked if she really suffered from depression as what earlier reports stated, she clarified in a television interview, “I don’t want to call it depression. You know everybody gets their low days. I am also a person who experiences problems in life. And I guess let’s just put it behind because it’s in the past. What is important now is that I’m back.”

Meanwhile, Sunshine refused to talk about what really happened with her relationship with Jojo Manlongat. “I have always been quiet from the very beginning about my relationship with him and I will continue on being quiet about it,” she said.

The cast of “Sundo” will start shooting the film this week. The play date of the GMA Film’s flick is in last week of October in time for the observance of All Saints Day.

Sarah Geronimo is reigning Box-Office Queen of ABS-CBN/Star Cinema

2008-08-12T00:02:00.000-07:00

With the tremendous (unexpected?) box-office success of her first-starring movie, Star Cinema’s A Very Special Love (with John Lloyd Cruz), Sarah Geronimo has handily dislodged (as in "wiped out") her colleagues at ABS-CBN/Star Cinema as the twin company’s Newest Box-Office Queen. She could be the New

Millennium’s Nora Aunor, somebody the masa can identify with, not very beautiful but pretty just the same.

Even in the US, according to Funfare’s Big Apple correspondent Edmund Silvestre (of The Filipino Reporter), Sarah is hailed as the new "superstar," with dozens lining up to reserve tickets ($15 per) to the East Coast showing of the movie on Sept. 6 (at the AMC Loews Kips Bay 15 Theater at Second Ave., Manhattan) and Sept. 7 (at AMC Loews Jersey Garden 20 at 651 Kappowski Road, Elizabeth, New Jersey).

"Mabilis ang bentahan ng ticket," said Edmund. "The US-based SCAT Productions, led by Satrick Uy, Cathy Uy and Rolando Abaquin said they are overwhelmed by the response. Last year, Sarah gave SCAT a blockbuster concert, Sarah Geronimo in Motion, at the Manhattan Center." "We want to be part of Sarah’s successful crossover as a silver screen superstar," Edmund quoted Satrick as saying.

"Sarah has a big following in the US East Coast," said Rolando. "The interest and enthusiasm to see Sarah in her first major movie was amplified after they heard about the movie surpassing P130-M on its third week of showing in the Philippines."

A Very Special Love is directed by Cathy Garcia-Molina who also megged the hit romance-drama One More Chance starring John Lloyd and Bea Alonzo.

There’s no word yet if any of the cast members will be present during the screenings, but Cathy Uy said they are hopeful Star Cinema will send a special guest to add excitement to the event. "We love her because she’s so down-to-earth and so simple, and she always gives her all in every performance. Like Lea Salonga, she’s a perfect role model for other young artists."

Part of the proceeds will go to SCAT Productions’ favorite charity, Children’s Chance, Inc., which has been helping numerous ailing Filipino kids get life-saving and life-changing surgery and medical care in US hospitals. It is headed by Dorita Urrata, who was responsible (along with PAL Foundation) for bringing to the US the formerly conjoined twins Carl and Clarence Aguirre of Bacolod.

Maja Salvador on posing for men’s magazines

2008-08-08T00:46:00.000-07:00

Young actress Maja Salvador said that she has no qualms posing sexy on the cover of men’s magazines but reiterated that she has a reputation to take care of. She said that she is willing to show some skin but at the right time.

She also did not deny the fact that there have been a lot of offers for her to be a cover girl. “Kung puwede ko lang silang pagbigyan gagawin ko, kaya lang dahan-dahan na muna.” Maja revealed.

The teen star though pointed out that she has already appeared sexy and seductive on billboards for a popular clothing line in the country.

“Nung ginawa ko nga ‘yon marami ang nagulat, ‘Ikaw ba talaga yon?’ Akala ng marami di ko kayang gawin,” she shared. “Kaya kong lumabas ngayon sa (men’s) magazines, pero alisin nila yung word na sex (and other similar words).”

Being 19 years old, the actress expressed that she is not in a hurry to go “sexy.” “Tama na muna ‘yung pinapakita ko. Hindi naman ako nagmamadali eh, 19 pa lang naman ako. May reputasyon na kailangang ingatan.”

Maja is set to start taping her launching teleserye next week where she will be partnered with a new leading man, Geoff Eigenmann.

How Marian Rivera got the deals

2008-08-07T03:27:00.000-07:00

How did Marian Rivera along with Valerie Concepcion land their latest endorsement deals?

Valerie joins, “not replaces,” Dawn Zulueta as image model for the clothing line Meg because, a statement from the brand owner Maricar Tuason says, Valerie “courageously picked up the pieces after a fall.”

Tuason adds: “Val is a strong, independent woman who was not afraid to own up to her mistakes and then moved on to pursue her dreams.”

Marian Rivera’s matching up with the dermatological center Facial Care is based on less philosophical considerations.

She explains why she is endorsing FC’s LaserLight treatment (for unwanted hair). “Ang dami kong hair sa legs! I tried waxing, shaving... Often, I just wouldn’t have the time or, I’d have to wait for re-growth before another round of hair removal. I was always worried that my sexy costumes would show body hair... somewhere. At last, I’m free from all that.”

Anne Curtis thrilled with 'Dyosa' and with Sam Milby

2008-08-06T00:51:00.000-07:00

Actress Anne Curtis shared her happiness and excitement over her upcoming television series “Dyosa", as well as the attention she is getting from all three of her leading men: hunks Zanjoe Marudo, Luis Manzano, and especially Sam Milby. The fantasy series "Dyosa" will air over ABS-CBN staring August 11.

“I know August 11 na very exciting for me, and I guess for everyone; kasi we’d been working really hard, but at the same time. I'm nervous,” Curtis told abs-cbnNEWS.com in an interview held at Trinoma in Quezon City.

Curtis also talked about her working relationship with her three leading men, one of whom, as they both already admitted--she is exclusively dating: that's actor Sam Milb of course.

“Ayon makukulit lahat sila makukulit but it’s been so much fun working with them,” she said, adding that there was no shortage of funny, wacky moments on the set.

She also said that she's happy working with director Wenn Deramas again this after the two of them had a rift over shooting schedules on a past film,"Ang Cute ng Ina Mo". From what she said about the director, it's obvious that they've patched things up.

“Okay siya. It’s so much fun working with him again ang last namin kasi iyong ‘Ang Cute ng Ina Mo,’ so to work with him iyon naalala ko lahat… iyong dictation sa tagalog so iyon, narrates the actress.

Curtis has obviously lost weight, a result, she said, of the hard work she's been putting into the making of "Dyosa." Despite the toll on her body, however, she said that she actually enjoys the work.

“Hindi naman sa nahihirapan, but it has a lot of work; and it’s thrice a week na iyong tipong, para matulog gigising nang hapon na. Tapos tulog ulit tapos diretso na sa set. So it’s a lot of work hindi ko nga alam na pumayat na ako--hindi ko na-notice. But it’s a good thing for me, she said.

Dingdong Dantes: Hottest male star is Belo’s newest body

2008-08-02T00:16:00.000-07:00

A heavy early evening downpour didn’t stop the Belo Medical Group in giving Dingdong Dantes a grand welcome as its newest addition to its long (and still growing) list of celebrity endorsers. Coincidentally, Dong (as Karylle calls her boyfriend) was celebrating his birthday, so the launch was like a birthday bash hosted by Vicki Belo’s corporate family at the NBC Tent in Global City’s The Fort.

The Casino Royale-inspired party had gaming tables, slot machines, and guns on display, with sexy ladies sashaying as they welcomed the rain-drenched guests. A Martini bar featured in James Bond movies was also set up in one corner of the hall.

An AVP produced by Infinite Ideas shows the actor in his Agent 007 character, driving a shiny Audi R8, brandishing slick hand guns, sporting an Omega chronograph watch, surfing the Net on a MacBookPro l, using the latest mobile phone and getting in the thick of hard-core action.

Bayon Alcoseba, of Peppermill Catering, showed his expertise in preparing sumptuous food in stylized, buffet setting. The centerpiece at each table arrangements was a waterfall of diamonds to complement the James Bond concept.

Guests were treated to mouth-watering appetizers consisting of baked whole salmon encrusted in salt and herbs, grilled shrimp shooters with chipotle butter sauce, beef tacos parmigiana, chicken burrito wrap, mini-pancakes with smoked tanguigue and cream cheese. Grapes salad with Cervelat sausage was also on the buffet table.

Main course consisted of baked dory herbs and spices, shrimp tamales, Argentina pork loin with apricot sauce, tequila lime chicken with pineapple salsa, fettuccine cream pesto with smoked chicken and steamed rice.

For the carving station, there was roasted calf; and for desserts fresh fruits with chantilly cream, pistachio opera cake, yoghurt gazpacho shooters and hot fudge brownies.

Vicki Belo was extremely delighted to welcome Dingdong to her growing roster of celebrity endorsers. In her welcome address, she said that as Belo’s newest signature model, Dingdong will endorse Belo-Shape, a special and unique combination of treatments to tighten skin and remove fat. The non-invasive body-shaping procedure can yield faster and visible results with far less effort.

Dingdong used to have stubborn love handles which he couldn’t get rid of despite rigid workouts in the gym. But thanks to Belo-Shape, the actor became the highest paid underwear model and was voted as the no. 1 Bachelor of 2007 of Cosmopolitan Magazine.

Those who braved the rain to give Dingdong moral support as Belo’s new body included, of course, off-screen sweetheart Karylle, on-screen sweetheart Marian Rivera, GMA Films president Annette Abrogar, actors Ricky Davao, Marky Lopez, Dino Guevarra, GMA Network executives Wilma Galvante, Marivin Arayata, Redgie Magno, Joey Abacan, Lilibeth Rasonable.

Despite the inclement weather, not one of the guests were heard complaining. Some were even delighted to have won prizes in a raffle draw. Dingdong gave away a 42-inch LCD TV set, and 15 dual-SIM mobile phones. I got one for a prize, too.

Richard Gutierrez on Codename: Asero

2008-07-17T23:49:00.000-07:00

Get ready for primetime's most heart-pounding action-packed series in Codename: Asero! It is GMA Network's grandest and first-ever sci-fi romantic movie on primetime television, which starts airing tonight on GMA Telebabad, taking over the timeslot of Joaquin Bordado, which concluded on Friday.

Topbilled by Primetime King Richard Gutierrez, Codename: Asero boasts of an enthralling story, a powerhouse cast and a remarkable creative team led by Annette Gozon-Abrogar, Don Michael Perez and RJ Nuevas.

It is also directed by two of the country's most distinguished directors: Mark Reyes and Mike Tuviera.

The all-new program, Codename: Asero not only features state-of-the-art props and grand set designs but also goes to great heights shooting its sequences in the most scenic locations here and abroad. The show also uses high quality film and equipment creating a unique and distinct texture on screen.

Codename: Asero is about a young man named Grecko Abesamis (Richard Gutierrez) who will do anything to protect his family. But unknown to his family, Grecko lives a double life as the talented Agent Phoenix of the Advocate. It is a secret agency whose mission is to get rid of lawbreakers in the world.

The Advocate's number one opponent, on the other hand, is the secret agency called The Empire whose ultimate goal is to destroy The Advocate.

The story begins when The Advocate sends Agent Phoenix on a mission. During his mission, Grecko meets the lovely Emily San Juan (Heart Evangelista) in the breathtaking country of Dubai. During this quest, The Empire finds out Grecko's true identity as Agent Phoenix and comes up with a plan to retaliate.

The Empire kidnaps Grecko's sister and only agrees to release her if he can find and deliver important software needed by the wicked The Empire agency. Grecko finally agrees and goes on the deadly mission.

The mission proved to be lethal to this talented secret agent. He was barely breathing when a Japanese scientist tries to rescue him. To be able to survive, Grecko had to undergo a delicate procedure, an operation that will cause all of his memory to disappear.

Now, he is unable to remember his life as Grecko or his life as The Advocate's star agent. The Japanese scientist turned him into a cyborg but not just any cyborg but the most powerful cyborg the world has ever known. He is named Codename: Asero.

How will the Abesamis family accept the changes in their beloved Grecko, now that he is a cyborg without feelings or any memory? How will the Advocate face their former number one agent who turns out to be their newest and strongest foe? How will he understand the women in his life? Emily, Fran and Claire? And how will Codename: Asero be able to find his way back to become human?

Joining Richard Guttierez in this grand action-adventure series are Richard Gomez as Ibsen Abesamis, Grecko's father who is a university professor; Michael V as Bodjie X, the Advocate's resident inventor; Janno Gibbs as Geron Aguilar, Grecko's agent-partner; Carmina Villaroel as Lady Q, the head of the Advocate and the newest member of the GMA-7's roster of talents, Heart Evangelista as Emily San Juan, a poor, young woman working in Dubai hiding from her fiancé‚ who accused her of theft and whose charm and beauty captures the heart of Grecko, Agent Phoenix and Codename: Asero.

Also in the cast are Paolo Contis as Dave Aviejo, Emily's fiance; Ramon Christopher as Gary Morales/Codename: Apollo of the group Empire; Ehra Madrigal as Dayze Tagimoro, daughter of the Japanese scientist that changed Grecko into cyborg; Chynna Ortaleza as Fran Guevarra, Grecko's girlfriend; Francine Prieto as Aureana, the sexy assistant of Bodjie X; Rhian Ramos as Claire Morales, and Ms. Caridad Sanchez as Lola Bertita, Emily's selfish grandmother.

Completing the cast are Marky Cielo, Bobby Andrews, Rainier Castillo, Bubbles Paraiso, Rocky Gutierrez, Elvis Gutierrez, Martin delos Santos, Chariz Solomon, Jenny Miller, Sheree, Ysa Villar, Joanne Quintas and Shyr Valdez.

John Lloyd Cruz: “Find your niche, learn what you are good at, and develop it! ”

2008-01-06T21:10:00.000-08:00

Philip Salvador, his co-star in Maging Sino Ka Man, called him “a brilliant actor; one of the best of his generation”. Intense and brooding, but immensely talented—that is John Lloyd Cruz. The 2007 Star Awards Best Actor in a Drama Series for his role as Gabriel ‘Eli’ Roxas in Maging Sino Ka Man has trod a long and difficult path to fame, and it’s only now that his sacrifices have finally started to pay off.

Getting his first break in ABS-CBN’s youth-oriented shows like Tabing Ilog, and graduating to more demanding dramatic parts like that of hotshot young lawyer Yuri Orbida in Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay (where his love team with Bea Alonzo was born), John Lloyd’s career is a lesson in patience and a living embodiment of the saying that “The best things come to those who wait.”

Here, John Lloyd shares the words he lives by and the secrets of his success.

You have been an actor for so long, playing many different roles. What is the most difficult thing about your job?

Ang pinakamahirap is that as an actor, you deal with emotions. Sometimes those emotions are very heavy, and it’s hard to let go even after you leave the set. Kaya siguro minsan napapagkamalan akong suplado ng mga tao. What they don’t realize is imposible talagang di ka maapektuhan ng role, lalo na kapag mabigat na drama.

Do you sometimes feel that you’re misunderstood by people because of your job?

I get that a lot. Di ba nga, meron silang tinatawag na ‘John Lloyd mood’? When I’m on the set and I’m internalizing a role, there are times na hindi ako makausap. I take my work seriously.

Is that really part of your work as an actor?

I guess. It comes with the territory. It might sound like nagsusuplado na naman ako, but I don’t expect everyone to like me, or to understand the way I do things.

Where does your motivation for your work come from?

One thing’s for sure: I don’t work for the awards. The acting awards are just a bonus. If people recognize your craft, that’s the main thing. Pero hindi awards ang dahilan kung bakit ka nagtra-trabaho. It should never be the case, otherwise you lose sight of the real reason for being here.

Your meteoric rise in the last few years has people calling you a big threat to the career of many of your fellow ABS-CBN talents, notably Piolo Pascual. How do you feel about that?

I’m just big; I’m not a threat. (Laughs). In all honesty, malayo pa ako sa naabot ni Piolo. He’s done a concert at Araneta Coliseum; I haven’t. I can’t even sing or dance. And seriously, mataas ang respeto ko kay Piolo, both as an actor and as a person. I don’t see myself as being in competition with him.

You have successfully established your own identity as an actor, apart from Piolo. How did you do that? What would you say is the secret of your success?

I think that what it boils down to is realizing and accepting what you can and can’t do. Piolo can sing; I can’t. But I can act. It’s important to find your niche, learn what you’re good at, and develop that.

Who are the people who have helped you succeed in your career?

A lot. Wala naman kasing perpektong artista. There is always something to learn from every person that you work with. Like in Maging Sino Ka Man, I’m privileged to work with really great actors like Tito Ipe (Philip Salvador) and Tito Boyet (Christopher de Leon). Ang dami kong nakukuha sa kanila bilang artista at bilang tao. And I always value what I learn from them. Sometimes, I even learn just by observing them at work.

What advice would you give to those wanting to follow your footsteps in this business?

You have to have a conscious desire to keep wanting to be better. That’s why I never see myself as being in competition with other actors; I’m in competition with myself. Each day, you have to want to better yourself. That’s the only way to succeed.

Bianca Gonzalez: “Have a good heart regardless of what happens around you”

2007-11-27T21:05:00.000-08:00

She is one of the busiest, most visible hosts on ABS-CBN, with three regular shows: Pinoy Big Brother, Entertainment Live and and Y Speak on Studio 23.

Bianca Gonzalez makes an excellent host, because not only is she pretty and nice to look at; she’s even better to listen to. Articulate, well-read and blessed with a passionate interest in people and things around her, the 24-year-old knows what it’s like to be on both sides of the fence, having once been a housemate in Pinoy Big Brother Celebrity Edition, which she is currently hosting.

Her experience as a celebrity housemate taught her about how difficult it is to walk the fine line between being a celebrity and an ordinary person. “When you’re a celebrity, people have these preconceived notions of you—they think they know you, based on what they see on television. You get judged all the time.”

Bianca has been through a lot, but now she’s recovered and looking forward to what the future will bring. “This year [2007] was my defining year, when I focused on me as a person. I told myself that after what I went through in 2006, the wheel has to go up. This year, I learned a lot of things, one of which is that ultimately, the one person you can really count on is yourself.”

In the question-and-answer session that follows, the dating boarder ni Kuya shares more of her career secrets and the lessons she’s learned.

You’ve hosted so many shows, some of which are no longer on the air. Which one was the most memorable or enjoyable for you, and for what reason?

Each show is different and special in its own way, but Magandang Umaga Pilipinas was a career turning point. Before I joined MUP, people said I was sobrang sosyal and that I had this AB image. Joining MUP, they said, ‘humanized’ me and made me more reachable by the masa.

Did Pinoy Big Brother Celebrity Edition have the same effect?

Looking back, if I knew how that was going to turn out, I probably wouldn’t have done anything that people could use to my disadvantage. On the good side, PBB taught me how to be more independent. I learned a lot of things that 20somethings don’t always have the chance to learn—but in a setting like that, you have to. There were times I thought I wouldn’t survive, but on the whole, I became stronger, wiser and more independent because of that experience.
If you had to reduce it to just one thing, what do you think would be the secret of your success?

Honestly, it’s hard for me to say that I am successful because I'm so young and I do have my own set of trials, but I always say I am very blessed! Success—that’s really hard to measure! I would say the secret to succeeding over small or big trials in life is keeping a good and positive heart despite all the bad things happening around you.

What's the best career-related advice you've been given?

My brother told me before I started working in this business, "Know what you're worth, and prove you're worthy."
Who have been your career models? What have you learned from each one?

I learn from every person I get to work with! There is so much to learn in the industry, and I think every person I meet, from writer to PA (production assistant) to producer to co-host, I learn so much.

What is the best and worst thing about your current job?

The best thing about being a host is the power to touch people's lives by virtue of telling stories (like in Pinoy Big Brother) and by empowering them with their opinions (like in Y Speak). I'm able to get an important message across, able to inspire and touch people, able to make some kind of difference in their lives. That means the world to me.

The worst is all the intrigues that come with being in show business, and your values being challenged.

If you could switch careers even just for a day, what career would you like to try and why?

I would love to do humanitarian work for the United Nations. After finishing my studies and working for a few years, it may sound pretentious to some, but I really do wanna use the resources and talents I've been blessed with to help those who have less in life.

What advice would you give to those wanting to follow in your footsteps?

To dream big but keep their feet on the ground. :)

Bea Alonzo: “SUCCESS IS JUST A BONUS”

2007-11-27T20:59:00.000-08:00

She is one of the prime talents of Star Magic. Currently making waves on ABS-CBN's primetime teleserye Maging Sino Ka Man, Bea Alonzo has established herself as one of the most promising actresses of her generation. Despite her being only 19 years old—she turned a year older on October 17—there is a maturity in her portrayals that was evident as early as her first teleserye appearance in Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay, where she had to convince audiences that she was a 20-something lawyer despite being only 15 years old.

Showbiz watchers predict that this young actress will be showbiz's next big thing. Let's ask Bea how she feels about all the attention being heaped on her, the lessons she's learned and her future plans.

How do you feel about your success?

Nag-e-enjoy ako. I love what I do. The success is just a bonus.

Do you sometimes feel that you had to give up a big part of your life in the name of your career?

Breadwinner ako, and I have a lot of commitments and responsibilities, pero okay lang yon. Like I said, I'm really enjoying my career, so I don't mind. It's all part of the job.

Who are the people who have been a big influence on your career?

Definitely, si Mr. M. (Johnny Manahan, head of Star Magic). Siya ang dahilan ng lahat ng ito. Parang tatay ko na siya eh. At siyempre, yung ibang mga taga-Star Magic like Ms. Mariole and my handlers. They've been a big help to me. At saka si Tito Archie Ilagan, who discovered me. I wouldn't even be in showbiz if not for him. Among my colleagues, si Shaina (Magdayao), who's my best friend. She was in showbiz ahead of me, and knows a lot about the business. She has been guiding me ever since. She taught me a lot. And of course, John Lloyd (Cruz).

Malaki talaga ang utang na loob ko sa love team namin. It's a big part of my career success. Hindi siguro ako makakarating sa kinalalagyan ko ngayon kung hindi siya ang ka-loveteam ko.

What is the best piece of career advice someone has given you?

Mr. M. told me, just recently, not to think about others too much and to just concentrate on my work and on what I'm doing. Sabi niya, “Basta alam mo ang ginagawa mo, 'yon ang importante.” The problem with me sometimes is that I think about others and what they say too much that I tend to get distracted. That's one thing I want to change about myself. I really need to learn how to focus more.

What is the best thing about your job?

That I get to entertain people and make them happy. That's definitely the best thing about it.

What is the biggest trade-off?

Of course, being in showbiz, I would say that it's the lack of privacy. Lahat naman yata ng artista, ganoon ang nararamdaman from time to time.It's not that we hate showbiz, pero siyempre, tao ka pa rin at kailangan mo pa rin ng privacy kahit paano.

I love my job, pero ang dami ko din na-sacrifice for it—like my studies. I was never able to continue my studies. That's something I'd still like to do in the future. I hope I get a chance to do that. Sayang naman kung hindi.
What has been the biggest benefit of having a career like yours?

Siyempre, nandiyan yung satisfaction sa job mo. At saka the earnings are also a big thing. Thanks to my job, I've already been able to buy a two bedroom condo at Eastwood last month. I was also able to buy a brand-new car. I wouldn't say I'm financially successful, but I like being financially independent and being able to buy the things I want and need.

What have your learned from being in showbusiness?

A lot. First of all, I've learned how to manage my finances.

And more important, naging mas mabuting tao ako, kasi siyempre, ang dami kong nakakahalubilo na tao.

At saka mas magaling na ako mag-handle ng problems. I've become more mature. I've learned to face things in life in a more mature way. Time management is also important, especially when you have so many things to do.

SAM MILBY: "BE A GOOD STEWARD OF YOUR TALENTS"

2007-02-19T21:16:00.000-08:00

These days, he's wowing audiences as JB Berenguer in the top-rating ABS-CBN primetime drama Maging Sino Ka Man. He's local showbiz's hottest male celebrity, a certified box-office star, platinum recording artist, popular endorser and all-around nice guy with a smile that could launch a thousand toothpaste commercials.

But before all this, Sam Milby was just another Filipino-American teenager dreaming of a career in entertainment. Then Pinoy Big Brother came along, and his life was never the same again. Upon exiting the house, Sam discovered that he had developed a huge following. Magmahal Muli, a song he'd written and which was translated into Tagalog by fellow housemates Bob dela Cruz and Nene Tamayo (and which Sam recorded with another fellow housemate, Say Alonzo) catapulted him to instant fame as a recording artist. From there, it was a short leap to television, the movies and stardom.

That was in 2005. Two years later, Sam is still on top of his game. Let's talk to this Fil-Am hottie and learn the secrets of his success.

Did you always have your heart set on being an actor and singer?

I’ve always wanted to but never believed it could happen, because in my opinion, it’s practically impossible to make it.

How did you go about making your dream come true?

Honestly, it was just handed to me. I just joined a reality TV contest (Pinoy Big Brother), did my best, got in, and the rest is history, as they say.

Reflect on your PBB experience. What did you learn from it that helped you in your present career?

Being stuck in the house for so long, 49 days to be exact, you gotta have a lot of patience and teamwork—which are the same values needed in working with other actors to make a good scene happen.

You are both an actor and singer. Which did you really want to be? Or did you want to be both? Had you always been interested in music?

Music is my first love; acting was always something I wanted to do but didn’t believe would happen.

Did you have any formal training in music (guitar-playing) or singing?

Not really. I pretty much taught myself to play guitar. I never really was a singer but I did one year of choir in high school just to get my art credit.

What is the greatest and worst thing about your job?

Worst things: there’s no privacy and the tsismis of course. Greatest things are the support I receive, the travel and financial blessings.

Who are the people you would consider career role models?

Gary Valenciano, Piolo Pascual, John Lloyd Cruz and Edward Norton.

What was the best career advice you were given?

Take care and be a good steward of the talent, skills and blessings given me and to enjoy it while I can.

Who inspires you in your work?

The people I work with.

Do you think your lack of fluency in Tagalog hindered your career, that you could have been even more successful if you knew the language? What are you doing to overcome it?

Yes, I know malaki ang maitutulong pag marunong mag-Tagalog. Sinusubukan kong makipag-usap sa mga kakilala ko ng Tagalog para masanay.

What does it feel like to be away from your family in the US just to further your career? How difficult is that for you, and how are you coping with it?

Siyempre, nami-miss ko ang pamilya ko pero at the same time masarap ang feeling na I’m doing this on my own at proud naman sila sa akin.

How do you feel about your success in Maging Sino Ka Man? More people seem to be rooting for the JB-Celine loveteam these days. Does it make you feel pressured in any way?

No. And knowing that people are really getting into the show is a good feeling.

What was it like shooting those (kissing) scenes with Anne? Also, delivering what is probably now the most famous line from the show, “I never said that I love you!” Did you ever think your role as JB Berenguer would have that kind of impact on the viewers?

Not at all! With Anne, siyempre conscious kami kasi andun lahat ng mga production staff pero siyempre we are professionals and maganda talaga si Anne so I really can’t complain.

If you could give someone career advice—someone wanting to go into showbiz—what would you tell that person?

Join PBB! Haha! Seriously, I believe that if you want it hard enough and work on it hard enough then anything can happen.

Some pretty nasty rumors have been spread about you. How do you handle work-related intrigues?

If I know it’s not true then I don’t let it affect me. But I know that if it’s something that I need to take notice of, I try to improve and be better.

Who are the people who have helped you a lot in your work?

My manager, Erick Raymundo and pretty much everyone I’ve worked with on and off screen—the actors, behind-the-scenes production staff, the directors and my fans of course.

Speaking of fans, how important is fan support to you? How do you reward your fans for supporting your career?

The support of my fans is very very important to me because I know without them I wouldn’t be where I am now. So I try to spend as much time with them as I can, despite my crazy work schedule.

You’re doing a concert with Piolo at the Music Museum on February 2 and 3. We just heard that tickets to your show were sold out in five days, and that the demand for tickets is still very strong that a repeat has already been scheduled for March 9. How do you feel about that? Do you feel pressured?

I am quite nervous and a little pressured especially doing a concert with a superstar like Kuya Piolo but I know that I will have fun and besides, this concert is such a blessing as it is.

What’s it like working with Piolo?

He is already an established singer, with a successful cd and solo concert to his name.

Does that make you even the least bit insecure about sharing the stage with him? Personally, how are you preparing for this show?

Well, because I’ve done concerts in the States with Kuya Piolo, I’m more comfortable and he is very supportive and helpful too. I prepare by doing voice lessons and mastering the songs.

What would you consider the highlights of your career so far?

My two movies (Close To You and You Are The One), the platinum album, Maging Sino Ka Man, twelve endorsements and the awards I received.

What are your career plans in the next few years?

To improve and be a better artist, to try out different roles at siyempre matutong mag-Tagalog!