Wowowee Sipsip Scandal

Sharon Cuneta: Fanny Serrano, a very close friend of Sharon Cuneta, sent a text message to PEP to explain the Megastar's trip to Hong Kong dismissing rumors that Sharon and husband Kiko Pangilinan have decided to separate. "Alone time nilang mag-asawa ngayon, nauna lang umalis nang solo niya this week si Sharon. Hindi totoo na kasama niya sina Frankie at Miel dahil may pasok sa school ang mga bata. Next week naman, si Kiko ang mag-isang aalis," says Fanny.

Valerie Concepcion on Willie Revillame: "I think nakita niya siguro yung love for my work because of my daughter. So, parang lagi niya akong ina-advise noong umpisa pa lang na, ‘O, magtrabaho kang mabuti, para sa anak mo yan.' Ganun. Doon ko siya ni-love. Kasi si Kuya [Willie], para talagang family, kuya talaga," says Valerie Concepcion about Wowowee host Willie Revillame."Lahat ng hosts, buong staff [ng Wowowee]. Actually, nakapunta na rin ako sa Tagaytay rest house ni Kuya. Nakapag-jacuzzi ako. Pero kasama namin ang buong staff dahil doon ginawa ang Christmas party namin. ‘Tapos, ‘eto naman sa yate, pumunta kami sa Punta Fuego sa Batangas kasi nagkaroon kami ng parang team building sa Wowowee. One day lang yun," kuwento ni Valerie.

Judy Ann Santos: "I must admit, mayroon talagang mga dapat ayusin sa usapan, lalo na't nalalapit ang pagre-renew namin ng contract sa kanila. But, it's between my manager and the ABS-CBN executives. Sila ang mayroong mga hindi pagkakaintindihan diyan, kung mayroon man, and my primary concern, yung pagtatrabaho lang talaga."

Divas 2008: "It took so long because of so many obstacles. Unang-una, yung availability ng bawat isa sa kanila. Almost all of us naman are doing shows abroad kaya ang hirap mahanapan ng schedules. Kung kelan nandito ang tatlo, may isa naman na wala for many months. So, mahirap talaga to gather all of us together," says Kuh Ledesma (extreme right) about staging a concert together with feloow divas (from left) Regine Velasquez, Pops Fernandez, and Zsa Zsa Padilla.

Dennis Trillo: "Tahimik lang talaga ako, at naka-focus kasi ako sa trabaho. Ayoko lang maging masyadong close. Kasi, alam mo na... iwas na lang sa tsismis. 'Pag sa eksena naman, ibinibigay ko ang lahat. Kung wala lang take, nasa isang sulok lang ako," says Dennis Trillo on how focused he is now on his work.

JC de Vera: "Willing akong mag-explore, willing akong mag-improve, willing akong matuto. Ako kasi, ayokong ma-typecast dun sa drama lang ang kaya ko, ayokong masabihan ako ng gano'n. At least, masabi nila na ‘Kaya pala niyang gumanap ng bulag, pipi, at bingi.' Yung mga gano'n, gusto kong mag-explore," says JC de Vera about his capability as an actor.

• JC de Vera's effort to become a better actor is now paying off October 10, 2008 01:17 AM
• Valerie Concepcion clarifies "sipsip" issue about Willie Revillame October 10, 2008 01:16 AM
• Dennis Trillo distances himself from love, focuses on "Gagambino" October 10, 2008 01:16 AM
• La Salle student LJ Reyes explains why she refused to give flowers to Ateneo Blue Eagles players October 10, 2008 01:16 AM
• Niña Ortiz leaves "Survivor Philippines" due to fractured toe October 9, 2008 10:32 PM
• Lovi Poe says she's no rebel October 9, 2008 03:06 PM
• "Survivor" castoff Emerson Diño defends his behavior on the island October 9, 2008 02:25 PM
• Kuh Ledesma gathers fellow divas Zsa Zsa, Pops, and Regine for "Divas 4 Divas" October 9, 2008 02:03 PM
• FIRST READ ON PEP: Close friends of Sharon Cuneta and Kiko Pangilinan deny separation rumor HOT October 9, 2008 01:51 PM
• Judy Ann Santos wants to be extra-careful on renewing her contract with ABS-CBN HOT October 9, 2008 01:46 PM
• Dennis Trillo has "zero love life" but happy with his career HOT October 9, 2008 11:58 AM

Ogie Alcasid Concert

Ogie Alcasid thanks Michelle's "new man" at his concert and introduces girlfriend Regine Velasquez as his "leading lady." Michelle Van Eimerman appeared on Startalk and talked about the family being close and hoping Regine marries Ogie.

Ako Si Kim Samsoon TV Ratings

Regine Velasquez splashes on the TV screen with the 33% rating debut of Ako Si Kim Samsoon, winning it's timeslot against My Girl starring Gerald Anderson and Kim Chiu.

Also starring Mark Anthony Fernandez.

Download FREE My Girl Wallpaper
Diana Zubiri make waves with her sexy curves. FHM's July 2008 issue will definitely make a splash with the sexy actress on the cover.

Mark Herras on Rhian Ramos: "Ewan ko nga po, kung bakit ayaw nilang tumigil. Hindi po namin maintindihan ni Rhian kung bakit nagagalit sila sa team-up namin. Hindi ko po maintindihan kung bakit gustung-gusto nilang siraan si Rhian, wala namang ginagawa sa kanila. Saka nagtatrabaho lang naman po kami."

Vic Sotto proudly talks about first grandson: "He's super adorable and cute. Parang kamukha ni Danica na ayaw namang pumayag ng tatay (Marc, inset photo) at sabi, ‘Hindi, pagtagal-tagal niyan, hahaba na rin ang mukha niyan.'"

• Victor Basa admits 10-month relationship with Valeen Montenegro July 2, 2008 11:18 PM
• TV Ratings (June 30): "Ako Si Kim Samsoon" takes a big bite in the ratings game July 1, 2008 06:41 PM
• Mark Herras clueless on fans' hatred of his love team with Rhian Ramos July 1, 2008 06:12 PM
• Diana Zubiri makes a splashing comeback in FHM July 1, 2008 05:48 PM
• Mat Ranillo III shows up at Pampanga premiere of his daughter's controversial film July 1, 2008 05:48 PM
• Eight films will compete in 2008 Metro Manila Film Festival July 1, 2008 05:15 PM
• Cherry Pie Picache cites "plastikan" and politics as things she hates in showbiz July 1, 2008 04:00 PM
• Regal in search for Lovi Poe's new screen partner July 1, 2008 03:45 PM
• Vic Sotto proudly talks about first grandson July 1, 2008 03:35 PM
• Ramon Christopher easily handles the Central Jury's Killer Question July 1, 2008 03:08 PM
• Lolit Solis intentionally answers falsely in 'Don't Lie To Me' portion of "Showbiz Central" July 1, 2008 01:45 PM
• Mark Anthony Fernandez becomes an 'object of desire' because of "Kim Samsoon" July 1, 2008 12:28 PM

Asero: Richard Gutierrez, Heart

Richard Gutierrez and Heart Evangelista star in GMA7's upcoming telenovela 'Asero'. Sneak pic preview thanks to HeartWorld.
Richard Gutierrez on KC Concepcion: "Kami ni KC ngayon, we're taking things step by step. Kami ni KC , hinahayaan namin na mag-enjoy kami sa company ng isa't isa. Nagkakaalaman kami nang husto. So sa movie namin, there's a big possibility na magkakilala kami nang husto. Kaya we're just taking it slow. Let it flow."

Lea Salonga: "You know, it's fun interacting with a lot of celebrities that have become my friends. And I guess that's part of, I kind of dip my toes in every once in a while. But I grew up doing theater, I love doing theater. It's very straightforward, sequential, and I have a life."

Claudine Barreto on daughter Sabina: "Mahirap i-explain sa kanya [Sabina], but we want her to know that we love her so much. Mas kailangan niya kami. God's will yung pagdating niya sa buhay namin."

Christian Bautista to Dingdong Dantes: "Gusto ko ay yung magkausap kami like two gentlemen because I will be working with Karylle in this musical from September to October of this year. I just want to say that I will be taking good care of Karylle and he has nothing to worry about."

• Richard Gutierrez dismisses reports that he and KC Concepcion are already an item June 28, 2008 09:58 PM
• Lani Mercado speaks up about reported "winking" of Gretchen Barretto at Bong Revilla June 28, 2008 09:45 PM
• Bong Revilla on Jolo-Lovi love affair: "The more na pigilan mo, lalong magpipiglas ‘yan." June 28, 2008 09:33 PM
• Ai-Ai delas Alas and Paolo Contis win top acting honors in 24th Star Awards for Movies June 28, 2008 10:32 AM
• Newcomer Victor Aliwalas weighs options between acting career and N.Y. job June 28, 2008 10:20 AM
• Sheena Halili happy to work with Regine Velasquez in "Ako Si Kim Samsoon" June 28, 2008 10:16 AM
• Veteran comedian Tessie Tomas returns to TV after long vacation via "Kim Samsoon" June 28, 2008 10:08 AM
• Lea Salonga: "I don’t miss intrigues, but I do miss doing films." June 28, 2008 07:41 AM
• Christian Bautista wants to assure Dingdong Dantes he'll take good care of Karylle June 28, 2008 01:58 AM
• Claudine Barretto on daughter Sabina: "God's will yung pagdating niya sa buhay namin." June 28, 2008 01:49 AM
• Chariz Solomon denies threatening to slap Marian Rivera June 28, 2008 01:33 AM

Marian Rivera FHM's Sexiest Woman 2008

Marian Rivera was voted FHM's Sexiest Woman of 2008 which has Angel Locsin's fans in an uproar casting doubts on the results released in this year’s FHM Sexiest Women issue.

Anne Curtis on her three different roles in ABS-CBN's Dyosa: "Sulit! I mean, sobrang nag-e-enjoy ako sa taping ko. Yung bawat character talagang minamahal ko."

Gretchen Barreto: If you think you've heard the last of Greta, well, think again. Two separate incidents that happened in one night put the actress in the news again—one took place in a hotel; the other, at Daboy's wake.

Billy Crawford and German Moreno's rift: "Time will tell kung kailan sila mag-uusap or magkakausap. Ako kasi, I don't want to meddle because I'm not part of the past. Of course, siya [Billy] ang mas bata, so better if he will talk to Kuya Germs. Sabi ko, 'If you think na natapakan mo sila, say sorry'," says Arnold Vegafria.

• PEP EXCLUSIVE: Talent manager Arnold Vegafria clarifies Billy Crawford's stint in ABS-CBN HOT June 17, 2008 05:24 PM
• Angel Locsin fans question FHM’s 100 Sexiest Women tally HOT June 17, 2008 04:43 PM
• Judy Ann Santos aware of issues against her while in Europe June 17, 2008 04:03 PM
• German Moreno convinces Ms. Gloria Romero to curse in "Paupahan" June 17, 2008 03:20 PM
• Princess Revilla: "Wala akong kasalanan." HOT June 17, 2008 03:15 PM
• Anne Curtis now tagged as "Dyosa ng Kagandahan" June 17, 2008 02:23 PM
• Mariel Rodriguez on abortion rumor: "Huwag ninyo ako i-accuse na mamamatay-tao." HOT June 17, 2008 01:59 PM
• Snooky Serna says her casino days are over June 17, 2008 01:33 PM
• Patrick Garcia's mom to Jennylyn Mercado: "Knock and the door will be opened, ask and it shall be yours." June 17, 2008 12:48 PM
• Marvin Agustin flunks three questions in "Showbiz Central"'s "Don't Lie To Me" segment June 17, 2008 09:52 AM
• FIRST READ ON PEP: Gretchen Barretto strikes again HOT June 17, 2008 09:01 AM
• Krista Ranillo's director-boyfriend is okay with her going sexy in "Paupahan" June 17, 2008 09:00 AM

• 

  TV Ratings (June 13-15): "Kaputol ng Isang Awit" sings a happy tune...

  "Pinoy Idol" and "Pinoy Dream Academy" in.... Read more

TV Ratings Dyesebel reigns

Dyesebel has weathered the stormy weather to remain in the No. 1 spot. Also strong in their respective positions in the Top 5 are Joaquin Bordado, Babangon Ako't Dudurugin Kita, 24 Oras, and The Singing Bee.

The afternoon soaps of GMA-7 continue to reign in the daytime race with Kaputol ng Isang Awit, Magdusa Ka, and Daisy Siete consistently occupying the top three spots from May 13 to 15.

Although Magdusa Ka slipped to second and third place after its No. 1 debut last Monday, May 12, its rating is still very close to Kaputol ng Isang Awit and Daisy Siete.

El Cuerpo del Deseo is generating more audience share, reaching an all time high at No. 5 on Tuesday and Thursday before slipping to No. 7. Eat Bulaga! remained strong at No. 4 the past three days.

Regine Velasquez's new musical show, Songbird, debuted last night, May 15, with a modest 11.9 percent.

Full TV ratings after the jump.

Here are the Top 10 daytime and programs from May 13 to 15 based on the overnight ratings conducted by AGB Nielsen Philippines among Mega Manila households:

May 13 (Tuesday)

Daytime:

1. Kaputol ng Isang Awit (GMA-7) - 22.4%
2. Magdusa Ka (GMA-7) - 22.3%
3. Daisy Siete (GMA-7) - 22.1%
4. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 20.3%
5. El Cuerpo Deseo (ABS-CBN) - 15.8%
6. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 15.1%
7. Da Big Show (GMA-7) - 14.5%
8. Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) - 13.4%
9. Prinsesa ng Banyera (ABS-CBN) - 12.2%
10. SiS (GMA-7) - 10.5%

Primetime:

1. Dyesebel (GMA-7) - 41.5%
2. Joaquin Bordado (GMA-7) - 36%
3. Babangon Ako't Dudurugin Kita (GMA-7) - 35.2%
4. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 28.9%
5. The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) - 25%
6. TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) - 24.5%
7. Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition Plus (ABS-CBN) 23.2%
8. Wheel of Fortune (ABS-CBN) - 20.9%
9. Lobo (ABS-CBN) - 20.7%
10. The Legend (GMA-7) - 18.6%

May 14 (Wednesday)

Daytime:

1. Daisy Siete (GMA-7) - 25.6%
2. Kaputol ng Isang Awit (GMA-7) - 24.8%
3. Magdusa Ka (GMA-7) - 24.2%
4. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 22.1%
5. El Cuerpo Deseo (ABS-CBN) - 16.8%
6. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 16.7%
7. Da Big Show (GMA-7) - 15.4%
8. Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) - 14.6%
9. Prinsesa ng Banyera (ABS-CBN) - 13.5%
10. SiS (GMA-7) - 10.3%

Primetime:

1. Dyesebel (GMA-7) - 38.5%
2. Joaquin Bordado (GMA-7) - 34.5%
3. Babangon Ako't Dudurugin Kita (GMA-7) - 33.7%
4. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 29.8%
5. The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) - 27.9%
6. Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition Plus (ABS-CBN) 26%
7. TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) - 24.6%
8. Lobo (ABS-CBN) - 23.9%
9. Maligno (ABS-CBN) - 20.9%
10. The Legend (GMA-7) - 20.1%

May 15 (Thursday)

Daytime:

1. Kaputol ng Isang Awit (GMA-7) - 25.1%
2. Magdusa Ka (GMA-7) - 24%
3. Daisy Siete (GMA-7) - 23.6%
4. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 21.1%
5. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 17.5%
6. Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) - 14.7%
7. El Cuerpo Deseo (ABS-CBN) - 14%
8. Da Big Show (GMA-7) - 12.7%
9. Prinsesa ng Banyera (ABS-CBN) - 10.9%
10. SiS (GMA-7) - 10.7%

Primetime:

1. Dyesebel (GMA-7) - 38.7%
2. Joaquin Bordado (GMA-7) - 36.2%
3. Babangon Ako't Dudurugin Kita (GMA-7) - 34.9%
4. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 27.6%
5. The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) - 27.3%
6. Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition Plus (ABS-CBN) 25.4%
7. Lobo (ABS-CBN) - 24.8%
8. The Legend (GMA-7) - 23.8%
9. TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) - 23.7%
10. Wheel of Fortune (ABS-CBN) - 18.5%

Source: AGB Nielsen Philippines

Here are the comparative TV ratings of ABS-CBN and GMA-7 shows from May 9 to 12 based on the overnight ratings conducted by AGB Nielsen Philippines among Mega Manila households:

May 13 (Tuesday)

Non-Primetime:

SiS (GMA-7) 10.5%; Boy & Kris (ABS-CBN) 7.9%

Da Big Show (GMA-7) 14.5%; Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) 13.4%

Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) 20.3%; Wowowee (ABS-CBN) 15.1%

Daisy Siete (GMA-7) 22.1%; Prinsesa ng Banyera (ABS-CBN) 12.2%

Magdusa Ka (GMA-7) 22.3%; El Cuerpo Deseo (ABS-CBN) 15.8%; Kaputol ng Isang Awit (GMA-7) 22.4%

Primetime:

Gobingo (GMA-7) 13.5%; Wheel of Fortune (ABS-CBN) 20.9%

24 Oras (GMA-7) 28.9%; TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) 24.5%

Joaquin Bordado (GMA-7) 36%; The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) 25%

Dyesebel (GMA-7) 41.5%; Lobo (ABS-CBN) 20.7%

Babangon Ako't Dudurugin Kita (GMA-7) 35.2%; Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition Plus (ABS-CBN) 23.2%

The Legend (GMA-7) 18.6%; Maligno (ABS-CBN) 17.6%

Kung Ako Ikaw (GMA-7) 12%; Lovers (ABS-CBN) 14.9%; Bandila (ABS-CBN) 9.7%

May 14 (Wednesday)

Non-Primetime:

SiS (GMA-7) 10.3%; Boy & Kris (ABS-CBN) 8.1%

Da Big Show (GMA-7) 15.4%; Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) 14.6%

Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) 22.1%; Wowowee (ABS-CBN) 16.7%

Daisy Siete (GMA-7) 25.6%; Prinsesa ng Banyera (ABS-CBN) 13.5%

Magdusa Ka (GMA-7) 24.2%; El Cuerpo Deseo (ABS-CBN) 16.8%; Kaputol ng Isang Awit (GMA-7) 24.8%

Primetime:

Gobingo (GMA-7) 13.6%; Wheel of Fortune (ABS-CBN) 17.9%

24 Oras (GMA-7) 29.8%; TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) 24.6%

Joaquin Bordado (GMA-7) 34.5%; The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) 27.9%

Dyesebel (GMA-7) 38.5%; Lobo (ABS-CBN) 23.9%

Babangon Ako't Dudurugin Kita (GMA-7) 33.7%; Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition Plus (ABS-CBN) 26%

The Legend (GMA-7) 20.1%; Maligno (ABS-CBN) 20.9%

Kung Ako Ikaw (GMA-7) 12.8%; Lovers (ABS-CBN) 15.4%; Bandila (ABS-CBN) 7%

May 15 (Thursday)

Non-Primetime:

SiS (GMA-7) 10.7%; Boy & Kris (ABS-CBN) 8%

Da Big Show (GMA-7) 12.7%; Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) 14.7%

Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) 21.1%; Wowowee (ABS-CBN) 17.5%

Daisy Siete (GMA-7) 23.6%; Prinsesa ng Banyera (ABS-CBN) 10.9%

Magdusa Ka (GMA-7) 24%; El Cuerpo Deseo (ABS-CBN) 14%; Kaputol ng Isang Awit (GMA-7) 25.1%

Primetime:

Gobingo (GMA-7) 12%; Wheel of Fortune (ABS-CBN) 18.5%

24 Oras (GMA-7) 27.6%; TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) 23.7%

Joaquin Bordado (GMA-7) 36.2%; The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) 27.3%

Dyesebel (GMA-7) 38.7%; Lobo (ABS-CBN) 24.8%

Babangon Ako't Dudurugin Kita (GMA-7) 34.9%; Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition Plus (ABS-CBN) 25.4%

The Legend (GMA-7) 23.8%; Maligno (ABS-CBN) 16.7%

Songbird (GMA-7) 11.9%; Lovers (ABS-CBN) 14.3%; Bandila (ABS-CBN) 9.4%

• TV Director Andoy Ranay depicts horse-racing milieu in "Ligaw" May 16, 2008 04:49 PM
• TV Ratings (May 13-15): Kapuso soaps still rule daytime race, "Dyesebel" reigns supreme in primetime May 16, 2008 04:08 PM
• Rhian Ramos prays for success in supermodel competition in China May 16, 2008 04:08 PM
• Former bold star Anton Bernardo resumes his acting career May 16, 2008 02:51 PM
• Matteo Guidicelli now loves acting more than car racing May 16, 2008 02:31 PM
• Lotlot de Leon: "I am starting my life all over again." May 16, 2008 02:31 PM
• Gabby Concepcion wants to take a vacation so he can avoid promo of Sharon's movie HOT May 16, 2008 01:34 PM
• Sharon Cuneta explains why she can't do a movie with Gabby at this time HOT May 16, 2008 12:55 PM
• Judy Ann Santos dismisses reports that she and Ryan Agoncillo have already set a wedding date HOT May 16, 2008 12:07 PM
• Dingdong Dantes says being nominated for Best Director is "unbelievable!" May 16, 2008 12:07 PM
• Five Artist Center beauties to represent the Philippines in 3rd Asian Supermodel Contest May 16, 2008 10:52 AM
• Kim Chiu replaced Pops Fernandez as host at 38th Box-Office Entertainment Awards May 16, 2008 09:43 AM

Betty La Fea's Bea Alonzo feels pressured?

Bea Alonzo will star in the Philippine version of the world famous Colombian telenovela Betty La Fea. Shooting on the series will reportedly start immediately, as ABS-CBN continues to falter in TV ratings due to the high rating GMA programs 'Dyesebel' 'Babangon' and 'Joaquin Bordado', respectively the top 3 rating programs in the Philippines.

TV Patrol: Bea Alonzo talks about 'Betty La Fea'

Director Wenn Deramas confirmed that ABS-CBS management chose Bea to star in the Philippine adaptation of the hit Colombian telenovela, Betty La Fea.

Betty La Fea is a world famous Colombian telenovela that aired from 1999 to 2001. The first version was shown in GMA7 in the Philippines, and re-run on Studio 23. ABS-CBN bought the rights to remake the telenovela from Colombian TV company RCN Caracol.

Betty was remade around the world, including the Emmy-Award winning U.S. comedy Ugly Betty. Other countries to remake the telenovela were Spain, Israel, India, Germany, Turkey, Russia, Netherlands, Greece, Croatia, Czech Republic, Portugal, and more.

Regine Velazquez 'Songbird'

Regine Velasquez will serenade viewers in her weekly variety show "Songbird."

"I've always wanted to do a TV show na talagang magagawa ko yung... Kasi ang concert, ilang kanta lang din yung magagawa mo. Ito [Songbird] kasi andaming puwedeng gawin. Yung mga kantang hindi ko nakakanta sa concerts, puwede kong gawin dito, di ba? Kaya excited na excited talaga ako dito," says Regine Velasquez about her new musica show, Songbird.

Asia's Songbird Regine Velasquez will be very visible in GMA-7, at least for the next two years after signing up an exclusive contract with the Kapuso network.



Aside from her regular musical-variety show SOP, Regine has already started taping for her second primetime series with the Kapuso network, the Pinoy version of the hit Koreanovela My Name Is Kim Sam Soon—her first was Forever In My Heart. But before Kim Sam Soon, Regine will mesmerize late-night viewers with her amazing vocal prowess through her own musical show aptly titled Songbird.



Songbird is a weekly musical show where Regine will sing some of the most popular songs and compositions of some of the world's best singers and composers. This will start airing on May 15, Thursday, after the Telebabad block of GMA-7.



"I'm very thankful to GMA for trusting me, for giving me the opportunity to do what I love to do most, which is singing. I've always dreamed of having a show like this and I feel very, very blessed na ibinigay po ng GMA sa akin itong napakagandang show na talaga naman pong pinagkakaabalahan ng aming buong staff and crew," Regine began during the press conference of Songbird held last night, May 9, at Melo's restaurant on Bohol Ave., Quezon City.



Regine told the entertainment press about the concept of her solo show.



"Nakakatuwa po siya, kasi thematic po siya," she said. "Every week, there's a different theme, we feature different artists, songwriters, genre; we even do movie themes. So every week is different. We also have different guests for each week depending on what theme ang meron sa week na ‘yon. Ibinabagay rin po namin ang aming guests."



REGINE'S STAGE. Aside from the unique concept of Songbird, Regine is also very proud of her show's stage design.



"Well, napakaganda ng stage! Pinagkaabalahan ang stage, hi-tech ang stage. Pangmayaman!" she said laughing. "Nagulat nga ako, e. Hindi, natuwa nga ako, e, kasi when we were meeting for this show, in-explain nila sa akin na this is what's going to happen, na ito yung magiging hitsura ng stage... Actually nung nag-taping na kami, nung first taping day, naiiyak ako kasi parang, ‘Ah, may budget ang show, pinagkaabalahan. Hindi napunta lahat sa talent fee ko!'" Regine laughed again.



"No, like I said," she continued, "it's been my dream to have a musical show. Maipagmamalaki, kasi nga it's been a long time na rin since walang musical show. Hindi siya variety show talaga, it's a straight musical.



"Tapos yung kine-cater pa namin siyempreng market, medyo late na, so siyempre yung music na maririnig mo, hindi naman yung pumapalahaw-palahaw ako na magigising ka. Hindi naman ganun. So magagandang kanta lang talaga ang madidinig mo... Mga [Barbra] Streisand, we will feature [Barry] Manilow. We're going to feature siyempre mga OPM [Original Pilipino Music] din, mga OPM songs, writers, and composers.



"Ako, sa akin, having a show like this is something to be proud of. Kasi siyempre, bihira na itong naibibigay sa mga singers na katulad ko. And GMA actually picked me to have this kind of special every week. I am very, very proud to be given this opportunity."



So does this mean viewers won't be hearing Regine belting out songs?



"Meron ding konti, meron din," she clarified. "Kasi tinawagan na ako ni Mariah [Carrey], e, umaapila na siya. Sabi niya, ‘Songbird, it can't be,' sabi niyang ganun. Sabi ko, ‘Don't worry, you'll be there.' Sinabi ko, ‘Friend, next season ka pa,'" Regine said in jest.



SONGBIRD'S CHOICE. Each week, Regine will also get the chance to sing a song only a few are familiar with.



"Kasi ‘pag nag-feature ka ng isang artist, like Barbra Streisand, yung mga alam ng tao. Understandable naman kasi yun ang ini-expect ng mga manonood. But I also requested na may isang kanta na hindi masyadong kilala ng mga tao. Ako lang ang may alam!" she joked before adding, "Pero maganda. Something that they would appreciate also. Like yung naririnig n'yo kanina, yung ‘Who Needs To Dream,' that was a Manilow song, that was included in the soundtrack of Copacobana. Not everybody happens to know that song, and I happen to love that song very much."



For each episode, the Asia's Songbird will be singing seven to eight songs. "And then minsan, meron kaming medley na about five minutes, ganyan. Para siyang concert talaga," Regine added.



THE GUEST LIST. Regine also revealed that she has a hand in choosing her guest list.



"Usually, ako nga ang pinapapili nila kung sino ang gusto kong guests, depende sa concept," she said.



One of Regine's guests on the pilot episode of Songbird is Richard Gomez, her leading man in the movie Pangarap Ko ang Ibigin Ka and the drama series Forever In My Heart. A member of the press asked how they were able to convince Richard to sing a duet with Regine.



"Naku, hindi na naming kailangan i-convince! To tell you frankly, kami pa ang tinawagan!" Regine laughed. "You know Richard, he's such a great friend, sobrang reliable friend. Saka hindi n'yo po naitatanong, si Richard po, akala niya ho talaga kasi, concert artist siya. He loves to sing. As a matter of fact, ‘pag Sunday, di ba, ‘Wala ba akong SOP?' No, he really loves to sing. I'm really happy na kasama siya sa Songbird."



MOST DIFFICULT SONG. It seems that Regine has no trouble singing any kind of song. But if there's one song that she finds it very difficult to sing, it has to be the Philippine National Anthem, "Lupang Hinirang."



"Hindi nga, totoo nga... Hindi naman po dahil sa hindi ako proud sa ating National Anthem. Actually, I'm very proud... It's a beautiful song, but it's one of the hardest songs I have ever sung in my life. I don't know, maybe because it's long and iba-iba yung lyrics niya. Tsaka nakakatakot na magkamali. That's the hardest song ever to sing," she explained.



The last time Regine sang "Lupang Hinirang" in public was during Manny Pacquiao's 2004 boxing match against Thailand's Narongrit Pingrat in Taguig.



FREE CONCERT. Now that the viewers have the chance to see and hear Regine perform on TV free of charge, isn't she worried that this would somehow affect her concert ticket sales?



"Nowadays, actually kahit naman before, I don't really do a lot," she clarified. "Di ba, I usually do one major concert a year and then one series? Yun lang naman talaga ang ginagawa ko. And then the other times, mga raket-raket, pupunta ako ng abroad or I'll do a movie.



"I've always wanted to do a TV show na talagang magagawa ko yung... Kasi ang concert, ilang kanta lang din yung magagawa mo. Ito [Songbird] kasi andaming puwedeng gawin. Yung mga kantang hindi ko nakakanta sa concerts, puwede kong gawin dito, di ba? Like kung Madonna, Madonna lang, yung ganun. Sa concert, hindi ko naman puwedeng gawin na puro ganun lang; or kung Canseco, Canseco lang. Kaya excited na excited talaga ako dito.



"I don't think magsa-suffer yung concerts kasi like I said, I don't do it naman as often. Like for this year, I'm only going to do one. And besides, the show is not naman three hours. Actually, it's only 45 minutes, so medyo bitin pa nga ng konti. So, aabangan nila yung next, parang may itutuloy kinda na thing.



"Sa ngayon, sobrang happy ako kasi I've always wanted to do a show like this. Pero I never really asked naman for it. Because at that time, kasi nga I felt iniisip ko rin na baka mag-suffer yung concerts, that's why I didn't ask for a musical show. I was also thinking, I was already doing SOP...



"Kasi nowadays, wala nang ganito. Kasi nung mga panahon ng Vilma!, Sharon...lahat may ganun, di ba? May Manilyn [Live!]...lahat! Sabi ko, ang ganda, tapos ngayon wala na, naubos na talaga. So sabi ko, baka naman puwedeng ibalik yun," Regine explained.

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Betty La Fea Filipinas

Bea Alonzo won the coveted role of Betty La Fea, in the upcoming Philippine remake of the famous Colombian telenovela, despite the fact that Kristine Hermosa was more suited to it.

Director Wenn Deramas confirmed that ABS-CBS management chose Bea to star in the Philippine adaptation of the hit Colombian telenovela, Betty La Fea.

Deramas was in Calatagan, Batangas for the first official taping day of Dyosa with Anne Curtis.

He said he'll be meeting with ABS-CBN executives on May 6 to discuss the upcoming project. The network wants the taping of the show to start immediately, simultaneously as the taping for Dyosa.

Betty La Fea is a world famous Colombian telenovela that aired from 1999 to 2001. The first version was shown in GMA7 in the Philippines, and re-run on Studio 23. ABS-CBN bought the rights to remake the telenovela from Colombian TV company RCN Caracol.

Betty was remade around the world, including the Emmy-Award winning U.S. comedy Ugly Betty. Other countries to remake the telenovela were Spain, Israel, India, Germany, Turkey, Russia, Netherlands, Greece, Croatia, Czech Republic, Portugal, and more.

Kristine Hermosa, Angel Locsin, Anne Curtis, and Valerie Concepcion were also considered for the role.

It also caused controversy for Regine Velasquez, who was in talks to star in the role. Regine will now star in the remake of the Koreanovela My Name is Kim Sam Soon, which has already started taping.

Bea's last appearance on primetime TV was in Maging Sino Ka Man Book 2.

I'm excited to watch it, and Bea is a good actress, not the best, but she's a good actress. And now I expect ABS-CBN to follow stereotype, and will cast John Lloyd Cruz as Armando, uuh, how predictable, hehe.

Watch, I'm probably right, hehe. Well, I'd rather have John Lloyd than Sam Milby in the role, please not, he will ruin the show because he is not talented enough of an actor to portray something as important as this. Hope all goes well and this turns out to be a good show.

Marian Rivera Mermaid Pics

Marian Rivera is on the cover of Mega magazine for March 2008, and is deep in swim training for her upcoming role as Dyesebel, with Michelle Madrigal, Paolo Ballesteros and cast. Exclusive pictures below, thanks to our friend Diego.

More Filipino celebrity wallpapers in the archives.

Marian Rivera's manager about the young actress' decision to back out of the Dolphy-Vic Sotto movie: "Unfair at pangit kay Yan [palayaw ni Marian] ang akusasyon dahil tinanggap namin ang project nang hindi pinag-usapan ang talent fee. Tinanggap namin ‘yon dahil sa pagmamahal at utang na loob namin kina Mr. Tuviera at Vic." Noel Orsal

Marimar Philippines Wedding!

Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes cause a nationwide spectacle as Marimar weds Sergio in a grand wedding ceremony to be broadcast LIVE tonight, March 14, 2008, on GMA7 to end the No. 1 primetime series in the country, Marimar, with a bang! A multi-million peso bang as GMA7 spent that much to bring this wedding to fruition. Watch this special video of Marimar and Sergio's Wedding!

PEP and Ronnie Bernaldo:

Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes play the central characters Marimar and Sergio in the toprating drama series Marimar. In its final episode, Marimar and Sergio finally got married in a lavish wedding ceremony at the San Agustin Church in Intramuros, Manila.

Marian and Dingdong wave to the fans who trooped to the San Agustin Church to take a glimpse of the wedding scene of Marimar and Sergio. Although the location of the wedding scene was supposed to be a secret, fans still flocked to the set as early as 7 a.m.

Richard Gomez (extreme left) and Dingdong Dantes (extreme right) play father and son, Renato and Sergio Santibañez. They are joined by real-life couple Regine Velasquez and Ogie Alcasid who are among the special guests in the wedding scene.

Arthur Solinap and Sheena Halili play married couple Diego and Monica, who are integral in the downfall of Angelika (played by Katrina Halili).

Ogie Alcasid and Regine Velasquez sang the love theme of Marimar titled "Mahal Kita" composed by Danny Tan. The fans are also anticipating the wedding of this singing couple, but Ogie is still waiting for the decision on the annulment of his marriage with Michelle Van Eimeren.

Marian and Dingdong are about to seal their wedding with a kiss in this scene from Marimar's final episode to be aired on Friday, March 14. Right after, the wedding reception will be covered live at the Studio 3 of GMA Network.

Boboy Garovillo (extreme left) of the APO Hiking Society plays Father Porres, a very close friend to Marimar and Sergio. It is but fitting that Father Porres officiate the wedding of Marimar and Sergio.

Some of the biggest names in showbiz became part of the wedding entourage. Greeting Sergio and Marimar on their way ouf of the church are talent manager Douglas Quijano, beauty expert Ricky Reyes (partly hidden), eventologist Tim Yap, and TV host German Moreno (partly hidden). Also in the photo is Victor Aliwalas (extreme right) who played Atty. Adrian Alasco.

Marimar and Sergio are all smiles as they make their way out of the church after the wedding ceremony. With them is their daughter Cruzita, played by child actress Francheska Salcedo.

Marian Rivera's career zoomed to the hilt after playing the title character in Marimar. She is now considered as one the top young actresses in the country with TV and movie projects waiting in line, aside from numerous product endorsements.

Sexy comedienne Rufa Mae Quinto was one of the secondary sponsors in the wedding scene. Actually, Rufa Mae is really part of Marimar as the voice of Fifi, the love interest of Marimar's pet dog Fulgoso (voiced by Michael V).

StarStruck 1 Avenger Sheena Halili's portrayal as Monica, Angelika's not-so-bright best friend, catapulted her as one of the most promising young stars in the land. Her comic scenes in the soap are truly scene-stealers and memorable.

Young actress LJ Reyes is not part of Marimar, but she makes a special apperance as one of the bridesmaids, along with StarStruck 3 Avenger Arci Muñoz. LJ is in the cast of the show that will replace Marimar—Babangon Ako't Dudurugin Kita.

Master Showman German Moreno also makes a special appearance as one of the principal sponsors, along with MTRCB Chairman Consoliza Laguardia, Mother Lily Monteverde, Douglas Quijano, Ms. Wilma Galvante, and Ricky Reyes.

Marian and Dingdong are flanked by (from left) Rufa Mae Quinto, GMA Films President Annette Gozon-Abrogar, Sheena Halili, Arthur Solinap, and Victor Aliwalas who acted as secondary sponsors.

The newlyweds with bridesmaids Arci Muñoz (second from left) and LJ Reyes (third from left) and flower girls Sandy Talag (extreme left) and Francheska Salcedo (who also plays the daughter of Marimar and Sergio). Also in the picture is an unidentified young boy who acted as the ring bearer and Fulgoso, Marimar's pet dog and friend.

Marian and Dingdong with Manilyn Reynes as Corazon, Dino Guevarra as Antonio, and Marky Lopez as Arturo.

It is truly a happy ending for Marimar and Sergio after going through a lot of trials and pains. But as Marimar and Sergio live happily ever after, Marian and Dingdong will give life to the characters of Dyesebel and Fredo in the first TV adaptation of Mars Ravelo's Dyesebel.

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