Sparkle Artists Shine at SIGNED FOR STARDOM 2023

One of the most awaited events in the country happened at the GMA Studios a couple days ago. This is "Signed for Stardom 2023" hosted by GMA's Sparkle Artist Center, and we loved seeing those who have stayed and renewed ties with the Kapuso network and its affiliates. The contract signing event also included performances from the network's stars, singers, spiels from their host influencers and appearances from their homegrown character actors which we love seeing in their various series and shows on GMA.

All in all, there were over 48 artists who got singned again, plus a few who got renewed and retained their management contracts with Sparkle. The event was hosted by Martin Javier, Rain Matienzo and guests were welcomed by GMA Netowrk's very own Chairman and CEO Attorney Felipe L. Gozon.

In the event, young GMA stars Siena Stevens, Will Ashley, Bruce Roeland, Matthew Uy, Angel Leighton, AZ Martinez, Yvette Sanchez and Shuveee Etrata got on stage in their best gowns and suits. Seeing them doing good in different GMA shows, endorsements and projects just mean they're reaping the fruits of their labor, working hard especially in honing their talents with the premier talent management company.

From champion singers, international performers and PPOP sensations, GMA is home to the most talented singers this country has ever produced. Liana Castillo, John Rex, Timmy Albert, Vianna Ricafranca, powerful Hannah Precillas, Jessica Villarubin and Guam theater star Garrett Bolden plus XOXO's Riel, Mel, Lyra and Dani went up the stage and performed several hits LIVE at the event. It proved all the more that the Filipino is world class!

Host and Influencers who are going to be part of the various planned lifestyle shows on GMA include Janeena Chan, MH Ordinllano, Maureen Schrijvers, Asnley Yap and Mica Salamanca.

Signed talented actors like Martin Del Rosario, Ashley Rivera, Kristoffer Martin, Paul Salas, Ms. Amy Austria, Maricar de Mesa, Archie Alemania and Nadine Samonte also signed with Sparkle together with already established Sparkle artists Andrea Torres, Andre Paras, Arra San Agustin, Shaira Diaz, beauty queen Celeste Cortesi, Mike Tan, Rita Daniela, Rocco Nacino, Khalil Ramos, twins Mavy and Cassy Legaspi, plus Richard Yap, Paolo Contis, Lolong lead star Ruru Madrid and popular pair "BarDa's" Barbie Forteza and David Licauco also joined the signing activity.

This is just the start of even more things to come for Sparkle and their artists. The event was also witnessed by GMA Executives SVP Attorney Anette Gozon-Valdes, Sparkle's VP Joy Marcelo. Here's to more projects with the stars who appeared at this Signed for Stardom. and yes, until next year! Congratulations to everyone who got signed, we can't wait to see more!

PHILUSA Corporation Launches Babyflo Buddies at Robinsons Magnolia

Just got off the Babyflo Buddies media launch at Robinsons Magnolia's Central Garden grounds in Quezon City. Folks had to wake up early for the morning event and tons of activities were prepared for kids and their families for one fun Saturday with the Play, Party and Pamper event.

Babyflo is one of the most trusted brands when it comes to baby products. Their parent company PHILUSA is also Filipino owned, making sure their products are affordable but of world class quality. If you live nearby or are just in the area, the activities are open to the public from 1pm to 9pm just for today!

I love the party games and food carts the most because you kinda get to have fun while you're there. This would be a fun activity with your kids and other family members. 

PHILUSA Corporation's Marketing Head Maya Leander says "This is the first time we are holding an event after the pandemic, and we are excited to tell you about the latest additions to the Babyflo family. We are the second happiest country in Asia, and we wear that smile while we practice the joy with our families. It's our mission to bring that happiness to every kid, and we have the widest range of products to do that. We use the highest quality of ingredients and make it affordable, all proudly Filipino made. Now we have to encourage our kids to use this inner joy, to make sure they grow up right. I wish everyone a happy day today and beyond!"

Brand Manager Rachelle Inciso adds "Together with our team, we want you to experience fun and the magic of childhood. We believe a happy baby makes a happy mommy, and it also makes a less stressed Dad. We hope you can love the new Babyflow Buddies because you will see them on stage today!"

Mommy influencers Neri Miranda and Iya Villana Arellano also joined in the fun. They have a talk encouraging Moms like them to take time to have fun while taking care of their kids. Iya says "Thank you Lord it's not raining now, we can enjoy the fun activities Babyflo has prepared for all of us. As parents we can always relate at some way and form. I took off a lot of my workout regimen because I need to recover. They are rough boys, all of them, no 5th one yet. No plans but it would be a happy accident because it's unsurmountable joy they bring everyday. If you ask Primo, weekends are the only gadget day."

Neri says "I'm really busy with business but I decided to put load later because I can see my kids are growing up so fast. I want to make sure I have time for them, to be there to send them off to school. Kids are different now, you have to chase them at a certain age. I used to also let them use gadgets but I see the big difference in attitude, so I don't let them have it unless it's needed. They did become impatient, addictive, so I removed it from the equation and let them bond together. That is a whole lot better!"

Together with living with kids, you need products that can make sure they're clean and safe.. and also are having fun. Go to Robinsons Magnolia today and get you, your kids in tow to enjoy the activities this afternoon. Remember, it opens at 1PM til 9PM, only for today! 

Congratulations PHILUSA and Babyflo!

Japanese Condo Living in Taft: Kizuna Heights

I've been recommending a lot of places to live in and sometimes it just is getting a little expensive to do because instead of just plainly recommending it, I'd mostly be contemplating to do investments instead LOL. Why? Because sometimes you get the nitty gritty details that are just too attractive to pass on. Case in point is Kizuna Heights, an urban residential mecca right in the heart of the university belt.

As the name suggests, it's a Japanese inspired condominium project that's situated in Taft Avenue. This place is very near De La Salle University, College of St. Benilde, UP Manila, Letran, Adamson, so it's pretty good for families with students in tow. It's a great place tor receive your next course or do graduate studies if you're looking for opportunities like that. It's also near business establishments, churches, banks, and the cultural district of Manila.     

Ms. Teresa Tumbaga the property Division Head says "Living here is like taking part in Manila's rich history, you get to visit parks, iconic places because of its close proximity to Kizuna Heights. The address is highly sought after, and we are giving the chance to live in an urban metropolis, and have a life that they deserve at this address."
 

If you're looking for investments, you know where to go! Visit their official website vistaresidences.com.ph/properties/kizuna and their social channels to get more information.

HONOR Introduces 3 Affordable Phones and a Tablet

Much of the crazy talk about HONOR Philippines releasing phones this month played along the lines of it being more affordable for the market. The entry level and mid-range price range certainly feels more appealing in the country as we slowly recover from the economic effects of the pandemic. Since the recent HONOR 90 5G got sold out in the previous quarter, there's a feeling of optimism and being bullish with the brand since it's gone and given those high end features in a mid range price.

HONOR Public Relations Manager Pao Oga says "It is with great pleasure to represent a brand that pushes boundaries of what's possible. From smartphones to wearables, the quality is synonymous to the brand. It has shaken the PH mobile industry especially when we launched the previous models Honor Magicbook Series, Honor X7a, Honor Magic Pro 5G, Honor X9a 5G, Honor X8a, Honor 90 5G. We are ready to introduce to you more, and innovation is enriching lives, it is our testament and our dedication. We will unveil more in 2024!"

Honor's Brand Marketing Manager Ms. Joepy Libo-on adds "The Honor 90 Lite 5G is specifically made for students and young professionals looking for storage and good cameras. 6.7 inches screen, better graphics, 93.6% screen to body ratio means you've got more movies to watch, even clear when zoomed in. It's not noisy or pixelated even if it's affordable. It's got a large storage which means you don't get too worried running out of space.

Here's our unboxing video of the HONOR X6a!

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Here are some highlights from the event this evening!

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Their Senior PR Officer Denis Santos also talked about two more smartphones and the HONOR PAD X9. He mentions "The Honor Pad X9 has better vocal enhancement tech which means it has accurate sound better rated for vocals. It can be gripped easily, has snapdragon 685, so you get smoother performance. With a 7250mAh battery, you can stream 13 hours and is available in Space Gray color. It also has ample storage, can do multitasking, and can sync with Honor Connect across your different Honor devices. It also runs on Android 13, and can be installed with Google Kids so you can control what they see on the device. 120 Hz and 2K display makes sure you see crisp videos via its 11.5 inch display."

 

(Photos are compressed by FB, so imagine what you can do with the high resolution photos from the X6a)

I personally used the X6a for a couple weeks now and have been able to shoot a few photos with it. Suffice to say, it's really the Indian and not the Pana. But it helps when you do get a good phone like it, you need less editing especially if used in daylight. The sharpness and colors are quite nice too, if you're looking for a phone at this price point, you get a lot with an HONOR device.

Training Head Jaynard Lamarca boasts about the X series and adds "The Honor X6a and X5 Plus can store tons of photos, audio and movies. It's got a full view display, plus a 50mp dual camera which can do quality shots. The 90Hz refresh rate and comfortable display is good for kids and young pros who need it most. The price point is also attractive, you just have to decide what would fit your lifestyle."

The price for the HONOR Pad X9 Tablet is PHP 11,990. The Honor 90 Lite can be bought for PHP 12,990. The two x series phones Honor X6a is at PHP 6,990 and the Honor X5 costs PHP 5,490. There will be freebies with the corresponding devices, details will be on HONOR PH social channels and dealers. Go get them while it's hot!

SHERATON MANILA Starts 5th Anniversary Celebrations with SUNDOWN SOIREE

It was so much fun to be amidst media friends and the executives of Sheraton Manila. "The World's Gathering Place" had us in a Sundown Soiree as preparations for their 5th Anniversary in the Philippines are on its way. It was lovely at the 10th floor of Sheraton Manila's Sheraton Club. The interiors were conducive for talk, so we did that over cocktails and food served by Chef Andrea Burzio.

He's Sheraton Manila's new Executive Chef and was also there to tell us about the cuisine served at the restaurant. He says "I am a Filipino by heart, I learned sarap, mahal kita and hay nako so far and I'm excited about what to serve here. When I came here in 2016, and we have family, just like in Italy. We are family based, on October, we will feature lunch and dinner with family. Between our main meals, we are also offering Merienda Cena, and we hope you all like it. This is a teaser to Pranzo e Cena which we will be doing at S Kitchen this coming October, you should look forward to it!"

We were welcomed by Sheraton's GM Ms. Anna Vergara. She says "Welcome to Sheraton and today we kick off festivities for our 5th anniversary. This is a gathering of friends, perfectly way to start the holiday season. We have several activities as we showcase our facilities and celebrate the near tree lighting event, it's not an easy feat especially after the pandemic. We are celebrating with you now with our Sundown Soiree."

Ria Galvez Director of Sales and Marketing adds "This is the world's gathering place, and since it's the start of the holidays in the country, we have curated several packages coming out soon. All you need to check is SheratonManila.com. The Marriot Bonvoy app is also available so you can be a member and get perks. This September we have Beyond Happiness for those celebrating love, for family or friends, just talk to us so we can tailor fit your weddings and your most memorable events. We can't wait to see you soon!"

This is just the start of the festivities on their 5th year. There will certainly be more events up til early 2024. Make sure to be part of Sheraton Manila Hotel's celebrations as they do "JIVES AT FIVE". Head on to sheratonmanila.com and their social channels for more updates @SheratonManila. You can also call 02 7902 1800 or their mobile number 0917 859 7496 if you want to make it official. See you at The World's Gathering Place!

Naughty Platform GOBLIN Releases Debut Film "THE LAST RESORT" on the 26th

 

There's certainly more room for entertainment options as a new player arrives in the content streaming industry. It's called Goblin, which would be available on their official website on the 26th and is subscription based. They will be  featuring their first film called "The Last Resort" which stars Erin Ocampo, Paolo Paraiso, Oliver Aquino and Rolando Inocencio. They will also introduce Mia Alvarez, Chloe Garcia and Czarina Chong in this film which they categorize as naughty and intended for a more mature audience. This is directed by Dave Lao and Jay Altajeros, produced by Dave Lao and Richard Perez under Goblin Films.

Oliver Aquino plays Robert who's wife Emily (played by Erin Ocampo) who's in the middle of a failing marriage, embark on a journey to a private resort in the countryside in hopes of saving their relationship. Different things happen along the way plus, a frightening experience when they get to the resort, testing if this trip would save their love and perhaps... their lives.

Aside from that, they've got a second film in the works starring Long Mejia and Diana Menezes. It's called TALPAKAN and is Directed by Jay Altajeros. The cast includes Kristoff Garcia, Maragarette Sison, Sofia David and Ann Pomer. As the platform's name suggest, again, this is a naughty film. This one though will tickle your funny bones, or wherever you need it. He was also there at the press conference to say hi to the media. It'll probably be out on October. They are still developing their app which they hope to finish either on December or January next year (according to Mr. Dave Lao). He also adds that this will include a huge library of movies as they've been able to secure several films, productions, particularly Solar Films (including their classics). 

Here's the press conference on video:

The plan is also to gather even more artists in the production outfit, to eventually make more content available on the new platform. If you're interested to be as naughty as they are, get the subscription for only Php 129 (GCash and other digital payments accepted). That's extremely affordable for a month, hopefully they'll have even better packaged plans soon at goblinfilms.com! 

Can't wait to see what GOBLIN has up their sleeves!

NOTE: Heard they closed down the corp because of some issues with payment systems not allowing their platform. Please be advised!

Ready To Serve The South: ROBINSONS APPLIANCES Opens New Store at Festival Mall Alabang

One of the most trusted brands in the realm of home and kitchen appliances just opened up their newest branch at Festival Mall in Alabang last September 15th, it's Robinsons Appliances. Ribbons were cut by Robinsons Appliances AVP for Operations Mr. Anthony Caliwag, their FVP Michael Dumlao who heads Festival Mall's Retail Business Unit, Marizell Narvaez the VP for Leasing at Festival Mall , Satoshi Kono the Executive Director of Panasonic, Jie Cheng the CEO of TCL Sun Inc., Dindy Deng the CEO of Data Analytics Ventures Inc., Albert Wong the Depute GM of Concepcion Midea, Mr. James Anthony Lim of Finden Technologies and Jovito Santos the Group GM of Robinsons Appliances Corporation. Their goal is to bring the best appliances and services even closer to homes in the South of Manila. 

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It's actually not that common to see in this neck of the woods and the presence would help a lot of their patrons get the appliances they need fast where they need it, and when they need it. This is part of their aggressive expansion plans across the country according to Ms. Donna San Luis, their Marketing Services Manager. You can expect the best brands of home entertainment systems, top selling washing machines, TV, air conditioners in the store where patrons would be able to check before they take it home. These are also available online so if you're a little busy, it'll be a great help if you could order it that way instead of the usual brick and mortar way we're used to. The event was also witnessed by Ms. Robina Gokongwei-Pe the President and CEO of Robinsons Retail Holdings Inc. who was very hands on in making sure people are getting what they need from the shop. Several executives from different brands also paid a visit and made sure they're part of the celebrations. It was nice seeing them all in one place.

The convenience you're going to get from the new Robinsons Applinaces store here in Festival Mall Alabang is priceless especially for those who are living in the same area. You don't need to go to Makati or other cities if you need to purchase these high ticket items for your home. You may head on to RobinsonsAppliances.com.ph or their social channels if you want to know more about their offerings. Aside from that, they promise to have more discounts, promos especially during the holidays so make sure you're following them on FB, IG and TikTok.

Ysabel Ortega, Elle Villanueva, Sophia Seneron Opens Own a NAILANDIA Salon

Proud owners of NAILANDIA IL TERRAZO Tomas Morato, Ysabel Ortega, Elle Villanueva, Sophia Seneron

It must have been fun doing VOLTES V LEGACY over at GMA when Sparkle stars Ysabel Ortega, Elle Villanueva, Sophia Seneron met on set initially as just mere co-stars, then friends, and now business partners. The three promising stars from the Kapuso network just opened their own NAILANDIA Nail Salon over at IL TERRAZO at Tomas Morato in Quezon City. And by the looks of it, they're excited for what's about to happen to this venture they're doing because obviously, they're so passionate about it.

Ysabel, Elle and Sophia went out a couple of times during the filming of VOLTES V LEGACY but always found themselves going to a NAILANDIA Salon in BGC which they loved because of the service they get. True enough, they felt right at home to be called "SUKI" because it's the least they can do to take care of themselves, their looks, especially for the demanding requirements of being celebrities in GMA. After realizing they wouldn't probably meet after the show, they promised to see each other regularly which is why they thought of doing business. They decided to incorporate with equal shares, and now they've put up a company that would be able to do other businesses. Their child project however was this NAILANDIA Salon. Now you can go to this branch at the ground floor if you want Nail Art, Manicure, Pedicure, Foot Spa, Paraffin Wax, Massage, or your eyelashes done in a jiffy. They took sweet time training all their staff to make sure you get your money's worth each time you go to a Nailandia branch. Here's their story on how they started:

During the first few days of operations, they had family, friends, especially those who helped them put up the salon. It wasn't easy, and they had to ask favors from a lot of people to finish the construction of this branch. The look definitely was white and bright, you'll feel relaxed just as soon as you step into the establishment. It was cold and breezy, the perfect ambiance while you get your nails done, and yes, even I tried to get my nails worked on. I say, they did quite an excellent job with what I had in mind!

 

Supportive boyfriends (I think hehe) Derrick Monasterio and Miguel Tanfelix

They've got this done and plan to do more in the future. Aside from that, they're raring to do a good job in the separate projects they are doing right now. Ysabel by the way will be appearing in Firefly together with Miguel Tanfelix, Elle on the other hand will be doing projects with Derrick Monasterio (who was also there by the way and said "I LOVE YOU!" loudly when they cut the ribbon), plus Sophia who will be doing more episodes of Pepito Manaloto. As much as they've worked on their shows, they want to also do businesses together since they are now a corporation. They will be at the branch every now and then so if you're fond of them, go visit them today!

Congratulations Ysabel Ortega, Elle Villanueva and Sophia Seneron... you are now proud owners of your own NAILANDIA branch. Here's to more days of working hard, and harvesting the fruits of your labor.

"Likhang HABI Market Fair" Slated October 13-15 at Makati City

 

Seeing the various colors, textures and ingenuity done on Philippine fabric in one place was overwhelming to see. I had the chance to actually experience all these at the preview of "Web of Woven Wonders", an activity of HABI: The Philippine Text Tile Council. They will be mounting the Likhang HABI Market Fair this coming October 13-15 at the Glorietta 2 and Palm Drive Activity Center grounds in Makati City.

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HABI President Adelaida Lim says "People are connected, like textiles, people, places and things bind us together. As you can see in this preview, it's the outstanding skill of our weavers that make these world class products happen. Definitely, it's something we can all be proud of!"

The fair will be having over 72 vendors from all across the country. They will converge at the venue to showcase, promote and make available the hand woven textiles, clothes, bags, trinkets and more. They also have pieces made of pineapple, abaca, cotton that will be shown in a bigger space this year and other international exhibitors from countries like Laos, Vietnam, Indonesia so PH vendors get inspired from our SEA neighbors. The event is supported by Ayala Land, Ayala Foundation, government agencies and private corporations. There will also be competitions happening at the event, particularly the 6th Lourdes Montinola Pina Weaving and the 2nd Eloisa Hizon Gomez Abaca Weaving. This will be an exciting venue to showcase their work!

Dr. Randy Madrid's book "Pina Futures: Weaving Memories and Innovations" will be launched at the same fair, so for those who are passionate about PH textile, you can get them all there!   

This is just the tip of the iceberg, so make sure to be there on October 13-15 when the event happens!

Miguel Tanfelix Changes Looks on His 25th Birthday

 

BTS of Miguel Tanfelix's shoot

 Miguel Tanfelix is officially 25 years old today. The young and prime Kapuso actor just finished Voltes V Legacy, and portraying Steve Armstrong was like a dream come true. We asked about how he felt after doing their finale episode and what this means for him. He says "I am a little sad about ending the show, but ultimately, it brings back how a family actually bonds over what they watch on TV. I am so happy about what Voltes V Legacy has achieved. It's a privilege to do a very popular show from the 80's and 90's, and how we got to San Diego Comic Con for it." Miguel also felt it was a good break for those who are all just usually watching on their phones.

They have a new movie called FIREFLY under GMA News and Public Affairs. This is directed by critically acclaimed Zig Dulay. In it, he's able to work with the likes of Cherry Pie Picache, Yayo Aguila, Alessandra De Rossi, Epi Quizon. It's about a kid's adventures and how he gets to see different people along his journey. Like a slice of life.

Some of the looks he's serving this last quarter

CHANGING HIS LOOKS

Since his birthday is coming up, they planned this photo shoot ahead of time. Miguel is actually turning 25 this year and with it, comes a lot of change especially when it comes to his looks and demeanor. No particualr theme in mind, but just envibe maturity... also show off his new hair. If you didn't notice, he was not able to cut his hair for a number of years for the continuity in the script and the show VOLTES V LEGACY he's in.

HOW HE PLANS TO CELEBRATE THIS YEAR

Miguel doesn't want the run of the mill birthday party to go to bars and celebrate it that way, and rather just spend time with family, friends and do outdoorsy stuff especially wake boarding. Something like a short break after the grueling Voltes V Legacy shoot that actually took 4 years to make and took a few months to have the public watch. Any place is fine, as long as it's outside and spend it with the most important people in his life.

 

Miguel told us that Isabel actually tried to do wake boarding, but it was just physically draining. Miguel of course just wants her to be there. Miguel also wants the shoot to be something he could use in social media. Though let me ask you, do you like his new hair? I do.

Miguel is careful, still reaching for his dreams. Although he went through a lot these past few years, we are seeing Miguel's steady rise happen before our very eyes. For now, he wants to just take a break and spend it with his family. He's been working hard and deserve it, to say the least.

We will see more of Miguel Tanfelix in his upcoming projects. Do expect that he's going to do more mature roles, exciting ones which he plans to do on TV, online and in film. Our boy is all grown up, and we can see how he's become a fine young actor who's very passionate about his craft. Watch out for his photos coming out today!

Happy Birthday Miguel! We love you!

(Photos and Videos on this article were taken by our correspondent Ishin Cuizon for KUMAGCOW.COM)