THE ONLY Movie I've watched so far bagged most of the awards in the 33rd Metro Manila Film Festival including the most coveted Best Picture and Best Actress awards for Anne Curtis' performance.

Following is the list of winners in the various categories in MMFF 2008.

Metro Manila Film Festival 2008 Winners

Best Picture: Baler
2nd Best Picture: Ang Tanging Ina N'yong Lahat
3rd Best Picture: Iskul Bukol: 20 Years After
Best Festival Actor: Christopher de Leon (Magkaibigan)
Best Festival Actress: Anne Curtis (Baler)
Best Supporting Actor: Phillip Salvador (Baler)
Best Supporting Actress: Manilyn Reynes (One Night Only)
Best Festival Director: Mark Meily (Baler)
Best Festival Screenplay: Roy Iglesias (Baler)
Best Festival Original Story: Jose Javier Reyes (One Night Only)
Best Festival Child Performer: Robert Villar (Shake, Rattle & Roll X)
Best Festival Musical Score - Jessie Lasaten (Dayo: Sa Mundo ng Elementalia)
Best Festival Theme Song - “Lipad” by Jessie Lasaten and Artemio Abad Jr., performed by Lea Salonga (Dayo: Sa Mundo ng Elementalia)
Best Festival Cinematography - Lee Meily (Baler)
Best Festival Makeup: Noli Villalobos (Desperadas 2)
Best Festival Visual Effects: Robert Quilao (Dayo: Sa Mundo ng Elementalia)
Best Festival Production Design: Aped Santos (Baler)
Best Festival Sound Recording: Albert Idioma and Wally Dellosa (Dayo: Sa Mundo ng Elementalia)
Best Festival Editor: Danny Anonuevo (Baler)
Gender Sensitive Award (for promoting equality of men and women through film): Baler
Gatpuno Antonio Villegas Cultural Award: Baler

After watching the movie I was quite sure that it would have a good chance at winning the Best Cinematography. Although not quite at par with these movies but Baler reminded me of Cold Mountain and The Notebook.

There were a few scenes that I was not comfortable watching: the black-and-white clips showing historical events like the declaration of Independence. The movie could still have a good standing without it. I don't think those scenes were necessary.

The actors were great. The love pairs, Anne Curtis, Nikki Bacolod, Jericho Rosales, and Mark Bautista did their parts well. Of course, Phillip Salvador and Rio Locsin were great. Jao Mapa is a winner for his hysterical cry. There plenty of cameo roles by some good actors, too, that added more spice to the movie.

But overall, the movie is one that we'd want to remember.

Congratulations to my friend, Mark Meily! Haha. I'm friends with art lovers and advocates!

BUNTIS BA si Marian Rivera?

That was the question Boy Abunda asked Karylle on The Buzz. For those who'd been wandering in the mountains in the past few days, Karylle is now a Kapamilya, she jumped over ABS-CBN after her much talked-about breakup with Dindong. By that I don't mean to say that the breakup is the reason for her moving in to Channel 2. I don't also include myself with those who talked about the breakup. Haha.

Poor Karylle, all she could muster was a smile that is as mysterious as Mona Lisa's. But I'm loving the girl. I don't think she's hiding anything. For me, she's smart and civilized.

About the other girl Marian, hmm, let me think. I think she just over-reacted. She said, Karylle could simply say she doesn't know. I'd like to tell her that she could also just say that she's not pregnant. Her reaction just proves that she is surrounded by stupid people and palengkeras. I'm not judging her. She might just be so hurt about it. Did she confront Karylle and ask her why she just smiled? That could have helped before she staged an outpouring of emotion.

Well, that girl's quite reactive, really. Who could forget her scene in one of her tapings where she made taray to one of the fans. That could be her idea of a strong woman. But it doesn't quite sound like it. A strong woman can control her emotions and knows how to act when in public.

Just a thought, I will not wonder if Marian really bears Dingdong's baby. Who would dare ditch a girl this tempting?

THE MAESTROS, a group of reknowned composers Nonoy Tan, Mon del Rosario, and Tito Cayamanda, conducted a songwriting forum at Shalom Crest Wizard Academy, General Santos City.

The workshop was an activity help alongside their dinner concert sponsored by Sabrina Haw Music Studio at Mr. Big Shot Bar and Badminton Court.

About thirty participants joined the workshop, where the following topics were discussed: Songwriting Made Easy, Preparing Your Demo, and Is There Money in Songwriting.

I should say it was a very fruitful event. The composers were very generous in sharing their knowledge and were very willing to help aspiring composers and artists in the provinces. There was really no air of arrogance or pride. They simply wanted to help. The fee was very minimal and I don't think they'll get proper compensation for what they have shared with us. I really pray that their tribe will increase.

KUYA RALPH of Ayala Young Leaders Alliance sent to our e-group the links to Juana Change videos.

Juana Change is the new symbol for change in the Philippines. She's a sharp-mouthed flabby woman who'll make you ask yourself, what have you been doing all the while? At least,that's how it affects me.

Who is Juana Change?

I really don't know. But I know what she wants. I learned about her through We Deserve Better Forum Series.

Introducing Juana Change (on Elections and Automation in the Philippines):



Juana Change on Cha-Cha (Charter Change):

CHARICE PEMPENGCO was home December 5, 2008 and she didn't fail to give her expectant Filipino fans the best performances.

She says that she feels a deeper sense of happiness when she's performing for her kababayans. That's so sweet, Charice. Because of that attitude, the Filipino people will love you and will always be behind you as you continue to make your dreams, and ours, come true.

For those who are quite far from Eastwood City, Libis, the full-packed venue of her first solo concert in the Philippines, here are some clips I got from various YouTube accounts:

Charice Pempengco sings "No Air"



Charice Pempengco sings "All By Myself"





Charice Pempengco sings "Because You Loved Me"




Charice Pempengco sings "Alone"

A HISTORY has again been made our People's Champ, the world's greatest pound-for-pound boxer, Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao as he beat The Golden Boy Oscar dela Hoya in the 8th Round of the Dream Fight Las Vegas, Nevada, December 7, 2008.

The world watched out this fight but not everyone got the chance to see it live. Here's a collection of videos from one of the greatest matches in boxing history:

Rounds 1 & 2


Rounds 5& 6



Round 7 & 8

YOU MIGHT be wondering why I am writing about the Pacquiao-dela Hoya dream fight in this music and entertainment blog. I only have one answer: boxing is entertainment.

Well, anyway, everything is entertainment in the Philippines. Maybe, just maybe, we have problems about putting things in order or classifying things and we end up mixing up politics and showbiz, sports and showbiz, sports and politics. Or, maybe, just maybe, again, it's not a problem whether things have to be strictly classified. Apparently, that's not a problem with Manny Pacquiao who definitely the best of both (er, three?) worlds.

This fight is deemed a big-buck fight. There's big bucks for the boxers themselves, the promoters, the media partners, the sponsoring merchants, the wise betters/gamblers/Singson, and some SEO experts. This a great win-win fight.


Maybe, just maybe, if the fight were a movie, it's a sure global mega-blockbusters that would surpass the combined incomes of Harry Potter and Twilight the Movie.

What more, how about video replays of the Manny Pacquiao and Oscar dela Hoya Fight?

This is a dream fight and Bob Arum is an excellent dreamer. The question is, after dela Hoya, who's next?

I DON'T have the intention to start a war here. I am just appreciating two great singers of our country. I find listening to these singers worth my time. It makes me feel good about us as a people.

Here's a video of Charice Pempengco's recent performance in the ABS-CBN Morning Show, Umagang Kay Ganda:


Here is Sarah Geronimo's version of the same song that won her the Star for A Night title when she was fourteen. Today, Sahah is reaping the fruits of her talent.


Bravo, bravo!

THERE'S SOMETHING great brewing on YouTube! If you are into music and if you can play an instrument, why don't you join the YouTube Symphony Orchestra!

It's pretty easy. Easy as 1 2 3.

1. Prepare - Select your instrument to access the sheet music and rehearse with the conductor
2. Submit - Upload your performances and submit them to join the YouTube Symphony Orchestra
3. Entries - Browse videos to get ideas and check out the competition

It could just be your way to perform at New York City's Carnegie Hall in April 2009!




Here's a quote from the project:

Play your part in music history.

Interested in joining the first-ever collaborative online orchestra? Professionals and amateur musicians of all ages, locations and instruments are welcome to audition for the YouTube Symphony Orchestra by submitting a video performance of a new piece written for the occasion by the renowned Chinese composer Tan Dun (Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon). We have tools to help you learn the music, rehearse with the conductor and upload your part for the collaborative video.

And how do you get to Carnegie Hall? Practice and upload. Send us your talent video performance from a list of recommended pieces. Finalists will be chosen by a judging panel and YouTube users to travel to New York in April 2009, to participate in the YouTube Symphony Orchestra summit, and play at Carnegie Hall under the direction of Michael Tilson Thomas.

The deadline for all video submissions is January 28, 2009.

I hope there's a Filipino among those who'll get the chance to perform at Carnegie Hall.

CHARICE PEMPENGCO once again amazed fans awaiting for her performance that has always been great. And in this post, two great performances are featured: In New York, on the ocassion of Macy's 82nd Thanksgiving Day Parade, November 27, Charice sang Because You Loved Me. In San Diego, she sang Alone in the ABS-CBN gameshow, Wowowee, November 29.

Here are the videos:
Charice at Macy's 82nd Thanks Giving Day Parade in New York


Charice in the game show, Wowowee in San Diego




I hope Charice Pempengco will be releasing an album to be released worldwide so that the world can sing to new songs that are Charice's own.

I CAN't imagine such steamy scenes are allowed by the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) to be shown on national TV at primetime. Nevertheless, EVA FONDA is really showing on December 1. At long last.

As early as May this year, we've all seen the seashore scene of Christine Reyes being chased by Jason Abalos, which just sends chills to wherever thst chills are supposed to go. And there comes maniacal Baron Geisler in a violent rape scene.

I am waiting for the new trailer on YouTube. Meanwhile, here's a teaser that has been posted about three months ago:



Eva Fonda is a TV remake of a 1976 movie, which starred then starlet Alma Moreno. It was written by respected writer Pablo S. Gomez.

Joross Gamboa, Hazel Ann Mendoza, Rustom Padilla, and the original Eva Fonda, herself, Alma Moreno as also part of the cast.

GOOD MORNING, America! must be fond of Filipinos.

First, they danced to the Papaya made popular by Edu Manzano on Philippine TV. This time, they had Charice Pempengco on the show.

I know, this post is quite late but it's better late than never. In this video, Charice Pempengco sings I Will Survive:



A very nice version like I wanna dance to it. Charice Pempengco is now a very good performer. See that moves?

'VERY GOOD SINGERS I WAS IMPRESSED"

That was what Micheal Johns said of Sarah Geronimo, Rachelle Ann Go, and Yeng Constantino is his blog on MySpace.

Michael Johns of American Idol was referring to his performance with the three young singers on ASAP 08, where he sung Bohemian Rhapsody.

Here's a video I got from YouTube:



Johns also had concerts in various malls in Metro Manila, where he was overwhelmed by the support shown by Filipino fans. In fact, on TV Patrol, there was a mention of his coming back in 2009.

"Man, is this country a music mad place!" Johns said on his blog. And he's right. We're mad about music. But he hasn't seen the rural places yet, where there's always a videoke machine in every corner and a concert every night. I wonder what he would say about it.

YOU MUST be afraid of vampires -- sharp-fanged, red-eyed, blood suckers.

Yes, they suck blood but they can love and be loved, too. That is if you are Isabella Swan. Oh, she insists being called "Bella." If you're in the bandwagon, you should have read Twilight, and fell in love with vamps, too.

This is no Anne Rice. It's more gentle, sweeter, and filled with love. It's about seventeen-year-old Bella, who just moved in to Forks, a town where it always rains, and found Edward Cullen who happens to be vampire.

A different kind of love story, Edward protects Bella from himself, because he finds Bella's blood so enticing, and from other vampires, of course, especially James.

A movie version of the novel will hit the Philippine movies on November 21 November 26.

The movie stars Kristen Stewart (Bella Swan), Robert Pattinson (Edward Cullen), Billy Burke (Charlie Swan), Peter Facinelli (Dr. Carlisle Cullen), Elizabeth Reaser (Esme Cullen), Nikki Reed (Rosalie Hale), Ashley Greene (Alice Cullen), Jackson Rathbone (Jasper Hale), Kellan Lutz (Emmett Cullen), Cam Gigandet (James), Edi Gathegi (Laurent), Rachelle Lefevre (Victoria), Anna Kendrick (Jessica), and Taylor Lautner (Jacob Black).

Here's movie trailer from YouTube:

Visit the Twilight Official website

LAST YEAR it was Parokya ni Edgar that rocked Sarangani Province's MunaTo Festival. This year, on the 6th MunaTo Festival, the Sarangans will feast on the music of Sugarfree.

For sure, it will be well attended as people here are fanatics of bands. The concert will be on November 29 at the Provincial Capitol Grounds.

See you, there!

PINOY FEAR FACTOR started airing this week on ABS-CBN nightly after I Love Betty La Fea. But there seems to be too little buzz about the show despite the copious promotions. It debuted at Number 8, too far away from GMA-7's Survivor Philippines that dominates the primetime block. The other station must be saying now that there's nothing to fear about Pinoy Fear Factor.

Nevertheless, the PFF theme song is cool. Here's the Music Video and Lyrics:



Pagsubok
Chivas of PDA

By: Chivas of Pinoy Dream Academy

Ang buhay ay parang laro
May natatalo at may nananalo
Maging anuman ang kaparalan
Hindi bibitiw sa laban ko
Itutuloy ko lang dahil…

Di ako susuko sa gitna ng pagsubok
Buong tapang na haharap sa hamon ng buhay

‘Di umuurong sa hamon, ‘di sumusuko
‘Di aatras, ‘di kakalas ipapakita ang lakas
Ang tapang ko’y ilalabas kakayanin ang lahat
Nasa aking mga kamay ang pag-abot sa tagumpay

Sa ating tagumpay…

Kahit ’san man mapunta
galing ipapakita
Ang bayaning nasa akin ipagsisigawan ko.

OUR VERY own talented Charice Pempengco is really making it big in the US. In fact, she's joining today's most popular young celebrities in the 82nd Annual Macy's Thanksgiving Parade in New York on November 27.

Charice will be joining Trace Adkins, David Archuleta, The Cheetah Girls, Kristen Chenoweth, Clique Girlz, Miley Cyrus (Hannah Montana), Grandma and the Big Apple Circus, the cast of the Broadway Musical Hair, Harajuku Girls, Kermit the Frog, Lang Lang and the cast and Muppets of Sesame Street, Miss U.S.A. 2008 - Crystle Stewart, Idina Menzel, PushPlay, Darius Rucker, James Taylor, Uno the 2008 Westminster Dog Show Champion, Varsity Fanclub and Andy Williams.

And mind you, she will be on board the largest float in one of America's most celebrated annual traditon aired on NBC.

WHEN I was in high school, I used to dance to the music of Joey Ayala. This year, we will be seeing him face to face as he performs for the 6th Munato Festival of Sarangani Province, November 27.

Of Joey Ayala's songs, I love most Magkaugnay, Karaniwang Tao, Tutubing Bakal, Little Brown Man, Lumad sa Siyudad, Ikaw at Ako, among others.

He has been awarded as one of the Ten Outstanding Young Men of the Philippines in 1989. He was also given the Musical Intelligence Award and Benigno S Aquino, Jr. Award for Social Artistry in 2007. See More.

The name Joey Ayala is synonymous to Philippine Contemporary Pop Music.

What makes me more proud of Joey Ayala is the fact that he is from Mindanao, an outstanding alumnus of Ateneo de Davao University.

Here's what I got from YouTube:

Join us as we celebrate Munato Festival! Hope to see you here in Sarangani!

SARAH GERONIMO is going international, too! Soon, Sarah G will be joining our little Charice Pempengo in the world's music scene with her duet with Howie Dorough of the boy band Backstreet Boys.

I'll Be There is part of Sarah Geronimo's new album called Just Me. It has good melody and lyrics. Sarah's newest single featuring Howie D is uplifting. It's easy on the ears, unlike her other songs. If she will only be singing more songs like this, I guess, she will not be overshadowed by Charice Pempengco. Sarah doesn't have to wail all the time because she has already established a name as a belter. She's already the Pop Princess.

Watch the video below of their performance on ASAP '08.

I'll Be There
Sarah Geronimo feat. Howie Dorough

HD: I'll be there for you
SG: I'll be there for you
( 2 times)

HD:
When the night falls on the world
And you're sad because I'm far away
Just remember you're my girl
Baby, think of how you feel today

SG:
All I know is our love will go on
You can dream me there with you all night long
When you need my heaven simply close your eyes
And keep your heart strong

Chorus

I'll be there for you till the earth stops turning
Playing in your heart like love songs do
I'll be there for you like a candle burning
Just believe it's true I'll be there for you

SG:We got awful close of so fast
It's hard to say our goodbyes
HD:Now I've found you girl at last
I can't forget you If I try
SG:when I'm awake or sleeping you'll be mine
HD:You're the one love I'll keep you fill up my mind
SG:I will count the hours till you're here with me for all time

I'll be there for you till the earth stops turning
Playing in your heart like love songs do
I'll be there for you like a candle burning
Just believe it's true I'll be there for you

SG:When you're troubled I'll be there when you're sad I will be there
When you're laughing I'll be there Just think of me and I'll be there
HD:I'll be there coz you're my star I'll be anywhere you are
When you're hurt I'll feel it too and If you leave I'll go with you
I'll be there for you baby count on me I'll be there for you there for you

Repeat chorus

Bridge
I'll be there for you anytime at all
If you need me I'll go to the wall
You'll be in my mind you'll be in my heart
When I'm close to you when we're far apart ohhhh
I'll be there for you

CHARICE PEMPENGCO was very emotional during her second guesting on Oprah where her idol, Celine Dion announced that she wanted to sing Because You Love Me with the young diva in her Taking Chances World Tour in Madison Square Garden, New York.

Now, videos of that spectacular duet is all over the internet and a lot of people watched out for it. Here's one among the many videos you can find:

Keep on reaching your dreams, Charice! We are so happy for you!

THE SPELL of the sympathy vote is broken on Philippine reality TV shows as the unpopular Laarni Losala (now, Lozada) wins against Bugoy Bugayon (now, Drilon) and his touching farm-boy-with-a-big-dream story.

Since the start of the reality shows in the Philippines, it's usually the underdog that wins and the kontrabida loses. Remember Hero Angeles (Star Circle Quest) and his champorado for Christmas? How about Nene Tamayo (PBB 1) and Ejay Falcon (PBB Teen Edition 2)?

It is not sympathy vote that made Laarni win. It's the appreciation of an outstanding talent.

Here's a video of her performance on the Grand Dream Night at the Cuneta Astrodome. She sang Manalig Ka and Boogie Wonderland:

THERE'S REALLY no stopping our young diva, Charice Pempengco from conquering the world with her voice.

The world followed her from YouTube to Oprah, to Las Vegas, to Italy, and very soon to Madison Square! Yes. She was asked to sing Because You Love Me with Celine Dione on September 15 or 16 in her Taking Chances World Tour.

That for sure is another performance the world will looking forward to witness. I'm wishing the best for Charice. Soar high, Charice!

By the way, here are some videos of her second guesting on Oprah, where the focus now is on her life story.

CLICK HERE for more videos.

AS THE competition in on its final stretch, it's about time to send our votes for Laarni, the most talented among this season's batch of scholars.

To vote for Laarni, Type PDA LAARNI and send to 231 for Globe, TM, and Sun Cellular subcribers and 2331 for Smart, Talk 'n Text, adn Addict Mobile Subscribers.

Here are some of Laarni's latest performances:

The Prayer with Jed Madela

Hiram with Zsa Zsa Padilla

I Am Blessed on the 11th Gala Performance Night

Waray-Waray on the 12th Gala Performance Night

Photo from forum.abs-cbn.com

THE FIRST ever drama series that is a collaboration between two production oufits in two different countries in Asia will soon hit Philippine TV.

Produced by ABS-CBN (Philippines) and Double Vision (Malaysia), "Kahit Isang Saglit" is top billed by Filipino actor Jericho Rosales and Malaysian model Carmen Soo. Scenes were shot both in Malaysia and in the Philippines and the drama will also be aired in the two countries.

The title was changed to "Kahit Isang Saglit" in honor of the late Director Gilbert Perez, who died while the rpoject is still in the works. (Kahit Isang Saglit was a movies directed by Perez that starred Judy Ann Santos and Piolo Pascual.) But the drama series is, of course, not a TV adaptation of the said movie of the same title. Now, the series is the hands of Jerry Lopez-Sineneng.

Here's the trailer of Kahit Isang Saglit:

THE SOUTH is really a home of talents. General Santos, for one, has produced the world famous boxer, Manny Pacquiao. And now, we have a very young and very talented singer, 9-year-old Philip Cesar Nadela.

He's really good that he was, in fact, awarded Most Outstanding Scholar.

Here's a video of one of his performances on Pinoy Dream Academy Little Dreamers:

Philip already has plenty of supporters. He's got an official website here. And a friendster account here.

So, if you want Philip to become the Grand Star Little Dreamer, keep supporting him!

I OPTED to watch a few shows on this new TV channel before actually blogging about it and yes, some of their shows are really good. Here are two of the shows that I found good.

Let's start with mp3, a sunday afternoon entertainment. It's different from ASAP and SOP because it's not shown live but it has other segments like profile interviews and showbiz bits. It's hosted by Valeen Montenegro and Paolo Valenciano. It's an alternative to ASAP and SOP for the younger music lovers.

Next is TEN, or The Evening News, which I believe revolutionized news. It's a countdown of the day's top stories, presented in a casual manner. And in Taglish. That makes it a radical shift from the stiff and so formal evening news of other stations. It has less clutter, making each story clear. It's the only news program on Philippine TV that will give a good night rest. It's really worth staying late in the night for.

I'm also watching out for Lip Gloss the local adaptation of the hit US TV series, Gossip Girl, which is said to be top-billed by Cheska Ortega, Sam Conception, and Mikee Lee of Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition 1. Laurice Guillen directs this show.

Best of luck for TV5!

ANYONE HERE watching Project Runway Philippines on etc? Raise your hands.

Please take a look at how well Ivan Raborar, 23 is peforming. Project Runway is a search for the most promising fashion designers in the Philippines. You can view the previous episodes here.

If you think he deserves to be one of te Philippines' top fashion designer, please vote for him here.

He is being described as the fast worker in the show. He finishes his tasks very quickly. I know him becasue he is from South Cotabato where I studied. He designed the barong I wore in one of the contests back in college.

If you are also from Mindanao please show your support by voting for him. It takes only a few seconds. Vote for Ivan Raborar on Project Runway Philippines.

THIS IS probabaly Laarni's most awaited performance. This coming Saturday, our very own southern belter Laarni is going to sing The Prayer with Jed Madela.

This song is said to be the acid test for really good singers. There have been many versions of it by different artists. There was Andrea Bocelli and Celine Dion's, Josh Groban and Charlotte Church's, and recently, our very own Charice Pempengco sang it with Andrea Bocelli in Italy.

Can Laarni stand out with this song? It's extremely difficult I guess, this time, for her to be the star scholar again, given this song. God bless her.

Meanwhile, here's a youtube video of her 9th Gala Night performance, a counterpointing with Bugoy. Bugoy sang Back at One while Laarni sang On The Wings of Love:

AFTER THE bad joke that Eat Bulaga host Joey de Leon threw against Pokwang of Wowowee, Willie Revillame finally expressed his sentiments in support to the lady co-host, whose family is said to have already been suffering from mockery due to de Leon's ill-considered joke.

In his speech, he mentioned the hardships Pokwang went through before she became a popular comedienne in the country. Here is a video from youtube:

This is not the first time that conflict arose between the hosts of two competing noontime shows. From time to time, they throw bitter statements at each other, which may be due to the ratings game.

If you have missed the happenings, here's a video of Joey de Leon's joke:

As for me, we all really have to be careful about we say as media personalities. We are talking to varied audiences, thus, we get varied connotations everytime. We can make jokes about people we are working with, making the subject understand why is it being done. For Bubble Gang peeps, for example, they are making funny jokes about the appearances of their cast because they know that people enjoy it. The cast understands that because they know that it helps glue their audience on the show and that it is necessary to do it.

On Joey de Leon against Pokwang, on the other hand, is another story. Joey de Leon crossed the border so he has to expect a negative reaction. It insinuates battle against personalities because it would appear as a tirade against the show (Wowowee) as whole, because they are in different camps.

That's all. A lesson learned here.

THE GORGEOUS Bea Alonzo transforms into an ugly but intelligent woman working in a fashion design comapany, Eco Moda, for yet another Pinoy remake of an international drama series, i ♥ Betty la fea (pronounced I Love Betty La Fea) on ABS-CBN.

i ♥ Betty la fea is top-billed by big names in the Philippine showbiz industry. Here's the list of the show's cast from wikipedia:

THE PRODUCTION design of ABS-CBN's newest fantaserye, DYOSA starring Anne Curtis is enticing. The musical score, theme song, and post-production are great. Kids at home really watch out for every episode of it. But what got my attention is the theme song, Himig ng Pag-ibig. originally sung by ASIN, and given a different interpretation by Yeng Constantino for the primetime series.

So here is the video and lyrics of DYOSA's theme song:







Himig ng Pag-ibig
by Yeng Constantino

Hoo hoo-hoo hoo-hoo
Hoh hoh-hoo hoo-hoo

Sa pagsapit ng dilim ako'y naghihintay pa rin
Sa iyong maagang pagdating
Pagkat ako'y nababalisa kung 'di ka kapiling
Bawat sandali mahalaga sa atin.

Tulad ng ibong malaya ang pag-ibig natin
Tulad ng langit na kay sarap marating
Ang bawat tibok ng puso'y kay sarap damhin
Tulad ng himig na kay sarap awitin.

[Chorus 1:]
[Nan nanana nan nanana nan nanana nan nana]
[Nana nana nana nana]
[Nan nanana nan nanana na]
[Nana nana na]
[Nan nanana nan nanana nan nanana nan nana]
[Nana nana nana nana]
[Nan nanana nan nanana na]
[Nana nana na]

At ngayong ikaw ay nagbalik sa aking piling
Luha ng pag-ibig kay sarap haplusin
Tulad ng tubig sa batis hinahagkan ng hangin
Pag-ibig ang ilaw sa buhay natin.

Tulad ng ibong malaya ang pag-ibig natin
[Ang ibong malaya]
Tulad ng la-ngit na kay sarap marating
[Langit man ay na---is niyang marating]
Ang bawat tibok ng puso'y kay sarap damhin
[Ang tibok ng puso]
Tulad ng himig ng pag-ibig natin.
[Tulad ng himig ng pag-ibig]

[Chorus 2:]
La lala lala
[Na na na na na na nana]
[Nana nana nana nana]
La lala lala
[Na na na na na nanana]
[Nana nana na]
La la la la la la la

THOSE OF you in Manila and those who can afford a seat at the CCP must buy your tickets now, as they sell faster than hotcakes, or esle you won't be able to catch Lea Salonga's performance as the main character in Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella, which runs from August 13-24.

After her succesful performance as Fantine in Les Miserables, Lea mesmerizes the orient with her 30-week Cinderella Asian Tour produced by Broadway Asia Entertainment.

Ticket prices are as follows:
Pareterre Box and Premiere Circle P 7, 000
Orchestra Center P 4, 000
Lower Box P 3, 000
Orchestra Side P 2, 500

For ticket inquiries, please call (63 2) 891-9999 You might also want to check this site.

I HAVE no reason now really to follow what's going on in Pinoy Idol. I only watched Pinoy Idol because of Kid Camaya who is a fellow AYLC alumnus. Now that he's booted out, I can announce to the whole world how crappy the show is.

Here is a video of Kid Camaya's performance on their Greatest Performance of My Life night. He soulfully sang Careless Whisper:


Darryl Celis also got kicked out. So many people were pissed off by this. The more talented ones on the show were voted off. I think it's no longer a competition. Ram Chavez will surely win this time. Whatever.

I don't think that Pinoy Idol measures up to the standards of the Idol franchise. From the judges, the host, the set, and the results, everything about it is so crappy. I think it was reduced to a mere Pinoy Pop Superstar. I'm just sad about the talented contestants who aimed for popularity. They should have joined other REAL competitions that will give them what they deserve.

Watch the full episode HERE.

THE LAST gala performance night had been very unfair on the part of Laarni. She should not have been under probation. She did a lot better than the other scholars inside the academy.

Here are the reasons why I think it was very unfair for Laarni:

First, the song choice was biased in favor of Liezel. Liezel was made to sing the Beyonce hit, Listen, which is perfect for her because of the association that people are inclined to make between the two. Laarni, on the other hand, was made to sing an April Boy Regino classic with a very difficult vocal arrangement.




Second, she was made to sing another difficult song, And I am Telling You. This time, against Poy. How could she concentrate on her performance if she had to master two difficult songs against very good singers.



I really think that some kind of manipulation is going on. The people behind PDA, I think, do not like Laarni because of her attitude. But isn't the show looking for talents, not angels? Yeah, attitude is a big thing but why don't they do something to help Laarni cope, instead? I could understand Laarni's behavior. She doesn't deserve to be condemned because of her attitude. She would learn in time.

Let's support Laarni! Type PDA LAARNI and send to 2331 for Globe, TM, and Sun Cellular subcribers, and 231 for Smart, Talk n Text, and Addict Mobile subscribers. You may also vote online HERE.

IT'S SURELY gonna be another exciting gala performance on Saturday because it's the Pinoy Dream Academy Season 2 Showstopper Week, where the scholars will sing showstopper songs and will compete one-on-one with another scholar.

That means one from each of the five pairs will compose the bottom five, who will be next week's probationary scholars. The pairing are as follows:

Laarni versus Liezel
Bugoy vesus Apple
Bunny versus Cris
Van versus Sen
Miguel versus Iñaki
Poy verus Everyone


Watch this video of Laarni's Birit power and whoever's not scared, raise your hands:

Uploaded on YouTube by dlightshines

If Liezel gets a grade lower than that of Laarni, she will automatically become a probationary scholar. Liezel really fears being put under probation. Exciting di ba?

Poy is competing with everyone as part of the challenge. If ever Poy will be this week's star scholar, she will get P 50, 000.00, which will be deducted from the PDA Season 2 winners' pot money.

THE PINOY Dream Academy Season 2 jurors seemed very hard to please, especially Gerard Salonga who notices the smallest mistakes like singing an eighth note ahead of the chorus, but last Saturday their smiles are up to their ears that they rated the scolars 10 out of 10!

It was the first time on PDA Season 2 that the scholars garnered a very high GPA. The trios really worked well. Here is a video of the trio that got the highest grades in both the fast song and acapella, Bugoy, Van, and Sen:

Yesterday, popularized by The Beatles
Uploaded by MoreEvilThanNorman

For their acapella version of this popular Beatles song, the trio got a perfect 10 and for their fast song, Gerard Salonga said that it was the real thing. Here's the video:

Pinoy Dream Academy gets more exciting every week! :D

OUR YOUNG diva, Charice Pempengco, continues to amaze the world with her vocal prowess, the most recent being her duet with no less than the world famous Italian Tenor, Andrea Bocelli at the Teatro del Silenzio in Tuscany, Italy.

Here's a video, courtesy of nythawk25 of the duet that lifted the Philippine flag even higher:

Their duet was given a well-deserved ovation, a reaction that Charice always gets when performing for foreign audiences.

Mr. Bocelli, himself, is all praises for our young diva. Here's a video from Filipinoz08:

Fly high Charice and lift up the name of the Filipinos! We are all proud of you!

THE WHOLE Philippines and even the whole world will now know Charice Pempengco more as the Philippines' best drama anthology show, Maalaala Mo Kaya (MMK) on ABS-CBN, features her travails as she follows her dream.

Charice Pempengco's biography is one of the featured stories in the 17th Anniversary of MMK.

Her are the teasers of Charice's episode on MMK, courtesy of nythawk25:

The episode will be aired on MMK's new time slot on Saturday night, after Pinoy Dream Academy.

HERE'S THE lovely performance of Cris and Van on Pinoy Dream Academy Season 2 überture as requested by a fan.

Isn't it lovely?

Here's the lyrics of the song, in case you want to sing along with them. :D

Realize
Colbie Caillat

Take time to realize,
That your warmth is
Crashing down on in.
Take time to realize,
That I am on your side
Didn't I, didn't I tell you.

But I can't spell it out for you,
You know it's never gonna be that simple
No I can't spell it out for you

[Chorus:]
If you just realize what I just realized,
Then we'd be perfect for each other
And we'll never find another
Just realized what I just realized
We'd never have to wonder if
We missed out on each other now.

[Verse 2:]
Take time to realize
Oh-oh I'm on your side
Didn't I, didn't I tell you.
Take time to realize
This all can pass you by
Didn't I tell you

[Refrain:]
But I can't spell it out for you,
You know it's never gonna be that simple
No I can't spell it out for you.

[Chorus:]
If you just realized what I just realized
Then we'd be perfect for each other
Then we'd never find another
Just realized what I just realized
We'd never have to wonder if
We missed out on each other but.

[Verse 3:]
It's not all the same
No it's never the same
If you don't feel it too.
If you meet me half way
If you would meet me half way.
It could be the same for you.

[Chorus:]
If you just realize what I just realized
Then we'd be perfect for each other
And we'd never find another
Just realize what I just realized
We'd never have to wonder

Just realize what I just realized

If you just realize what I just realized

OoOoOOo

Missed out on each other now
Missed out on each other now
Missed out on each other now

Realize, realize
Realize, realize

LAST SATURDAY'S Gala Night was filled with Sensual and trying-so-hard-to-be-sensual performances.

Here's my favorite performances:

ERIK SANTOS is reported to perform during the Olympics Conerts with other foreign artists.

In an interview with ABS-CBN, Erik says that he'll do his best to show the world the amazing talents of Filipinos.

Part of Santos' preparations in learning the language as he will be introducing his song in Mandarin.

After winning as grand champion in the talent search, Star in Million, in 2004, thsi one of Erik Santos' top achievements.

Erik is a proud Kapamilya but some Kapuso supporters have already expressed their support. Go, Erik! The whole Philippines is supporting you.

*Photo is from http://opmusikahan.com

THERE SEEMS to be some silence about Charice Pempengco now. I'd really love to hear more about her. Charice's talent will take her further in her career.

Here are videos of her performances in Las Vegas:





More power to Charice!

AWESOME! EVEN Gerard Salonga himself from whom we always hear criticisms, expressed admiration for Bugoy and Liezel's performance last night.

In case you weren't able to see it, take a look at this video so you would know what I'm talking about:

It's a product of hardwork, they say, but for me, it really unique talent. Mabuhay, Bugoy and Liezel! You are really making us all, Filipinos, proud! I have never seen a performance as powerful as that in any talent show on Philippine television. It's really wonderful.

On the other hand, I think, it's now time for Bea to go. My thoughts on her stay in the academy still didn't change. Somebody more talented than her should have had her chance to go through the training PDA gives its scholars. Bea can afford to be trained privately. The opportunity should have been given to someone who deserves it better than she does.

Another thing, I'm glad I didn't hear a lot of comments about notes not hit by the scholars. Hearing the judges give such comments makes me feel PDA is being too strict, too perfectionist, in fact, on singing. Yeah, hitting the right notes is very important but the judges should tone down a bit on that part because it makes the show sound too technical that it sort of robs the viewers a chance to appreciate the performances despite the imperfections.

DESPITE THE negative comments he got from the judges, I still think Kid Camaya did well in his performance of Narito Ako, as his piece for Pinoy Idol's Regine Velasquez night.

Take a look at this:

Let's continue to Support Kid Camaya!

I don't undertand why the Pinoy Idol judges kept praising Sue Ellen's crappy performance last night of Velasquez's Dadalhin.

FOR THE third time now, Liezel Garcia was chosen Star Scholar of Pinoy Dream Academy Season 2.

Liezel sang So Much in Love by Sheena Easton. Here's a video:

My favorite scholar, Laarni Losala, was no longer on the top three because, I think, she lacked energy when she performed Fighter by Christina Aguilera.

Van Pojas' performance was a surprise. I even thought he would be this week's star scholar. He made it to the top three. Here's how he performed this week:

HERE IS a video of Kid Camaya performing Warior is A Child on Pinoy Idol:

Kid Camaya - Warrior is a Child
Uploaded by starmometerdotcom

I just don't understand the judges. At one point, they will like Kid. On other times, they will say nonsense criticism s of his performance. They're very inconsistent.

Ogie Alcasid says that it's kid's most soulful performance ever while Wyngard Tracy say's it's his worst. (Never mind Jolina's. Haha.) Are the judges there to confuse the viewing public? They are supposed to give hints to the contestants so that they will suit to the taste of the public.

Nevertheless, let's continue to Support Kid Camaya on Pinoy Idol. He's now number one of Starmometer.com's Power Ranking.

I DIDN'T like Laarni Losala when Pinoy Dream first aired. Although she has the talent, I didn't find her attractive. In the first few days inside the academy, I also found her as an immature person who needed attention.

But later on everything changed. I now understand why she acts like she does. I believe that there are lots of things in her life that she couldn't understand. For being herself, I think she adds more color to the academy.

She has real talent and I believe it will take her far.

Media Performance Mentor Direk Joey Reyes said in an Inquirer article that they are looking for unique talents and not another Gary V or Regine Velasquez. In other words, they are not only looking for someone who can sing well but one who also has the so-called x-factor.

Here's a video of Laarni Losala singing Barbara Streissand's If We Never Said Goodbye:

SHE USED to lack confidence because of her skin's color, but last night, Liezel Garcia showed everyone how vocal prowess can compensate for one's lack of physical attractiveness. She is no less than the first Star Scholar of Pinoy Dream Academy Season 2.

Here's a video of her performance, in case you're doubting:

ON PINOY Idol, our bet, Kid Camaya sings Ordinary People by John Legend. Here is a video:

Here are the judges' comments:

Ogie Alcasid: “Para sa akin isa ka sa pinakamahuhusay
talaga pagdating sa boses. But you know what, it was so easy for you parang nabitin ako.”
Jolina Magdangal: “Hindi excuse na one minute
lang, dapat umpisa pa lang nakuha mo na kami lahat.”
Wyngard Tracy: “It was outstanding.”

But, of course, as we all know, Jolina's comment has no weight whatsoever. Support Kid Camaya on Pinoy Idol.

And oh, the voting period is extended. GMA-7's got to get lot's of money from the poll.

HEAR YE, Hear ye! KC Concepcion creates a stir in the Philippine Music scene with the release of her first album, a.k.a Cassandra.

Here are videos of the launching on ASAP last Sunday:

Her 11-cut album contains revivals: Melt With You (Modern English), It Must Have Been Love (Roxette), Imagine (John Lennon), Just Can't Get Enough (Depeche Mode), Umbrella (Rihanna), Agila-Haring Ibon (Joey Ayala), and Doo Bee Doo, a South African song.

It also includes original composition by well-known Pinoy musicians: Ngiti Lang by Ryan Cayabyab, Breathe by Raymund Marasigan, Imposible, and An Updated Version of Me.

For sure, her album will sell for so many reasons. First, KC's got the talent. Second, she has lots of fans. Third, she's the daughter of a megastar and a stepdaughter of a senator. Fourth, her album is a product of the Philippine's music geniuses.

EVERYTHING WAS a mess on the Pinoy Dream Academy Season 2 opening night. Not surprisingly, the one who made the most mess is the international star, himself, Billy Joe Crawford, who, it turns out, has the talent of talking to himself.

The routine was Billy and Toni Gonzaga taking turns in introducing the scholars and escorting them through the ugly and too narrow pathway to the academy, where at the gate, Nikki Gil waits with the relatives or friends of the scholars. There were too many awkward moments as they did that. The asking of too many cliche questions as they walked towards the academy was very trivial. Was it necessary? It also showed how inexperienced Billy was in hosting the PBB or PDA way.

By the way, here's a video of the opening number:

I also object the inclusion of that Bea and Jovannie in the list of scholars. They didn't perform well in the auditions and even during the opening night. Those in the waitlist were even better singers than them.

Good luck to PDA. I think there's no way it's gonna beat Pinoy Idol this time. I used to think Raymond's hosting was crap until I witnessed how the dream hosts, as they are called, hosted the opening night. First impressions usually last.

Kid Camaya - Gone Too Soon
Uploaded by starmometerdotcom

HAVING THE voice that everybody would love to hear, Kid Camaya chose Gone Too Soon by Michael Jackson in a performance, which will be the basis for his entering or not the final twelve.

I hope he makes it.

HERE IS a video of Kid Camaya's performance this week on Pinoy Idol. He sang Peabo Bryson's "Love Always Finds A Way."

With his talent I believe he has a really good chance in the show. Although, of course, as the judges point out, he needs to improve his performace.

Kid made it to the Top 14. Let's continue supporting Kid Camaya on Pinoy idol. Support Kid Camaya.

ON JUNE 18, we will be enthralled by the first ever full-length animated feature Urduja.

Not only Disney or Pixar studios can produce animated films, our vey own APT Entertainment, an Antonio P. Tuviera production, and Seventoon at Imaginary Friends, created Urduja, an animated film about a legendary warrior princess that we usually read in elemtary school textbooks.

We know that our animators had a hand in the making of famous foreign animated films like Nemo. Now, it's time to have our own film produced by local productions.

Urduja is voiced by Asia's Songbird, Regine Velasquez, who also sang the theme song, Babae Ako. The film also features the voices of Eddie Garcia for "Lakanpati", Johnny Delgado for "Wang", Allan K for "Tarsir", Michael V for "Kukut", Jay Manalo for "Simakwel", Epi Quizon for "Daisuke", Ruby Rodriguez for "Mayumi", and Cesar Monatano for "Lim Hang".

Let us all support this movie. This might just be start of more animated films in the Philippines.

Here's the lyrics and video of the theme song:

Babae Ako
Regine Velasquez

Babae ako
Ano bang dapat kong gampanan
Sa daigdig na ating ginagalawan
Ang hangganan ko ba'y hanggang saan

Babae ako
Ako ba'y mayro'ng kapangyarihan
O ako'y isa lamang na bukal
Na pagkukunan ng pagmamahal

Nais kong lumipad na may sariling bagwis
Nais kong marating pangarap nang mabilis
Nais kong manguna sa mga maya
Para makita ang bagong umaga
Ngunit kailan pa
Gusto ko na
Ngayon na

May galit ako
Ngunit pag-asa'y nasa puso ko

Bukas ang hamog makikita mo
Hihigupin niya ang paru-paro..
Ang paru-paro

Nais kong lumipad na may sariling bagwis
Nais kong marating pangarap nang mabilis
Nais kong manguna sa mga maya
Para makita ang bagong umaga
Ngunit kailan pa
Gusto ko na
Ngayon na

IN A spectacular, out-of-this world Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition BIG NIGHT, Ejay Falcon affirms the predictable voting behavior of Filipinos--the preference for the underdog.

Many might still be questioning whether Ejay deserves to be the big winner. And many are still wondering how he has surpassed Robi Domingo's consistent lead in online polls. Ejay got 620,934 votes, 32, 819 votes more than Robi's 588,115 votes. We saw the numbers change. It was Robi who was leading the count in the first few minutes of the show. But right before the announcement, an unbelievable number of votes, about 35-40 thousand or even more votes, came in for Ejay.

One justification we could give about the outcome of the voting is that the people saw that it was Ejay who deserved the money more than anyone else in the show--the same reason why Erning, Ejay's guardian made it as the Big Winner, too, among the guardians. Others might also be needing money but Eajy and Erning both showed the more acceptable behavior inside, by staying in the sidelines, or as they call it, playing safe.

Robi, on the other hand, obviously didn't get inside the house to get the money. Although Robi has also shown an attitude that is worth emulating, the people still didn't chose him because they might be thinking that he has already proven himself. In their hearts, they know that Robi is the role model for the youth and he dosn't have to be the big winner in orther to create a positive influence.

In this video, you will see how happy Ejay was at the moment he knew he was the night's Big winner:

In our poll here on MusikaCentral, it was Robi who won by small margin:


Congratulations to Ejay, Robi, Nicole, and Beauty!

I HAVE one reason to watch Pinoy Idol: to support a fellow Ayala Young Leader, Elizalde Camaya, who goes by the screen name Kid Camaya.

He is one of the participants of the Ayala Young Leaders Congress 2004 and currently works at the Bank of the Philippine Islands.

Last Saturday, he sang "Always Something There to Remind Me."

Here's a video uploaded by Starmometerdotcom on DailyMotion.com of Kid Camaya's performace last Saturday:

To vote for Kid Camaya:

Text IDOL KID and send to the following numbers:

367- smart and talk and text
2344- globe/touch mobile/suncellular

cost is PHP2.50 per vote.

Voting mechanics:

Voting will start only after every show until 12 noon of the next day.

Kid Camaya shares his story on the Ayala Young Leaders website. CLICK HERE to read what Kid has to say.