The Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) recently held a luncheon for its members to signify their gratefulness to Filipino Christmas icon Jose Mari Chan. Their President Dr. Cecilio K. Pedro was there to officiate the event and addressed the media on why they are honoring the Filipino Singer, Songwriter and Businessman. For those who don't know, Mr. Jose Mari Chan has been supporting FFC VII's various charities and continue to do so til now.
He plays a huge part in socio-civic charitable endeavors that the organization does, including its 170 Filipino Chinese Chambers around the country. Recently, they also held advocacy, economic relief during the calamities in communities in the Bicol region, Metro Manila which was hit by typhoons. They did this with the Tsino Magkaibigan Foundation through their networks. They also held Medical Missions and supported different rural public schools among others. They also gave assistance to several Filipino Chinese Volunteer Fire Brigades that help and give assistance to different communities, no rich or poor.
Mr. Jose Mari Chan says "My songs have been part of Christmas, but it's the coming together, to come alive with care and love. We too are pinoys, let's continue to champion the spirit of bayanihan."
Dr. Pedro adds "It's all about Christ, whoever accepts him will have eternal life. Salamat throughout the year for your support, you are the ones giving services for the people. We have problems in the country but you also have to give people good news. Every Christmas celebration is about love, grace and forgiveness, then we can have Hapeeness."
Both Jose Mari Chan, Dr. Cecilio K. Pedro and the Filipino Chinese organizations pronounced their commitment in helping fellow Filipinos especially those who are in the underprivileged communities.
You know what, I'm still recovering from experiencing this particular event because aside from seeing this good looking lad, ABSCBN rolled the red carpet for him and his family. He was teased a couple of times in Star Magic's various channels, and now, the time has come.
Meet Robbie Jaworski. As the name suggests, he's the grandson of the living PBA legend Robert Jaworski, son of Dodot and Mikee Jaworski. This is the first time we're meeting him but from what we felt during this grand occasion was, he's a very good boy. His good looks, chiseled jawline, eyes that could melt, was just an addition to who he was. He's charming, he's got manners, overall, a good young man. This is because of his good upbringing, I think this stems from how Dodot and Mikee Cojuangco Jaworski did it. He's very much a person for others, his parents complained that he even was taking over parental duties at times, forgetting he's one of the kids because of his maturity.
His parents only wanted one thing, for him to finish his studies before this quick foray into the entertainment industry. He really thought about it, and when he was ready, he was the one who initiated talks of entering showbusiness. I bet he's going places, with looks like that he'd obviously fit primetime leading man roles because he's SUPER GWAPO.
While on the sidelines though, I thought it would be a breeze to become a celebrity because of that trait, but Direk Lauren insists that he'd undergo a battery of workshops because he needs to be equipped. They're all glad he doesn't want to take the easy route, eager to do these workshops because he wants to become a great actor. He admitted to want to work with Kim Chiu, and Direk is right, if he worked without being trained first, he'll be eaten up with the seasoned actresses he wanted to work with.
Here's the contract signing, please, enjoy!
Robbie says "I feel very special (with the welcome). I feel grateful that I've got an opportunity to be here, thankful to be with Direk Lauren, Tita Cory and everyone. I just can't wait to start this and enjoy the journey. I didn't expect that video from my family. I am trying my best not to cry because what they said was very touching, but know that I hear these on a daily basis, you know I'm just so grateful for my family and am blessed to have them on my corner. They inspire me. Mommy, Daddy, and Raf and Renzo, thank you guys so much!"
Robbie is now officially a KAPAMILYA and a STAR MAGIC ARTIST.
Direk Lauren says "Thank you for bringing Robbie to us, thank you for trusting Star Magic and ABSCBN. This is not easy work, he's not excluded in doing work so he becomes a good entertainer and actor. He's very humble, he's got no air, which is why he connects to people easily. He's got physical training, workshops, and we will make sure he's prepared in entering showbusiness. We'd like to welcome you on becoming a Kapamilya."
Ms. Cory adds "I'd like to officially welcome you to ABSCBN, today you are officially a Star Magic talent, we're so proud you're here. I had to literally ask for you through GR and with your parents to allow us to manage your career and be part of ABSCBN. Mikee was nervous, didn't eat lunch so she has to eat now. GR thank you very much, I know it was tough for you. It all came at the perfect time to have him. Thank you for choosing us! What struck me most was when he said mas iba pag magmahal. This is part of our values and what we look for as an artist. You really fit the bill. We will be your family, we will support you. We will take care of you. To your parents, please trust us, don't worry because we're stricter than the both of you... and we will wait for his brother soon."
Here's more of the press conference on video, I got everything here!
This is just the start of Robbie Jaworski's story. If you like what you see, Robbie will be doing more projects from ABSCBN, and other places. He's bound to be one great actor. Here's hoping he gets to be as successful as his Mom, even more than that!
It's been only a few months and change has definitely happened with the brand of iStudio Plus. After being a Premium Apple Reseller for years, they now carry MORE brands under their belt. What this means for consumers is OPTIONS, that in this day and age of different smartphone brands and accessories, you've got iStudio Plus stores you can go to.
After covering the iStudio Plus iPhone 16 event a couple weeks ago, they have opened up a brand new store over at the 3rd Floor of Shangri-la Plaza Mall in Mandaluyong City. We were able to get first dibs on some of the brands that they carry including top fan manufacturer Jisulife, smartphone manufacturer Samsung, and the really fun Divoom, a brand that has lots of bags, speakers, microphones, LED and accessories. iStudio plus also has their own branded products, which I love every bit of.
They carry Philips products, but I fancied this huge 30,000mAh power bank. It's small but compared to other brands, this has more capacity.
This is one of the things that are iStudio branded, they've got a lot! But what I dig about this brick is the two outputs. I don't have to wait for one device to charge and can do it at the same time!
A big surprise was this JBL Wind 3S portable bluetooth speaker, you can attach this to bikes when you're outdoors. Enjoy the fun of music even in the midst of your workout. There's more where this came from!
Being a Premium Apple Reseller, they carry Apple products like this Apple TV 4K. It's got really good audio and video quality. With it, you can Facetime people while you're in the living room. It also has access to Apple original shows and films!
Because it's hot in the Philippines, iStudio Plus carries Jisulife products. Different from the usual wireless rechargeable fans in the market, this is much stronger and lasts quite a long time. This is why it's the top selling brand of portable fans in the country, and in the world.
I'm a sucker for really good bluetooth speakers. Divoom has these. This is the Divoom Spark Pop Bluetooth Speaker, a kind of small portable speaker which they carry in store. Don't be fooled by how small it is because it sound so loud and crisp in real life. Imagine the things you can do with this while you're traveling to other countries or domestically. You don't have to be bored at all!
This is just the tip of the iceberg, during the event, they also told us that they're planning to open/revamp a few more stores within the year. They are also targeting even more before 2030. It's going to be more convenient shopping for phones, audio, video devices and accessories because they made it all in one place, at iStudio Plus!
I'd like to take this bit to thank the folks at iStudio Plus for letting us see what's about to happen at their store in Shangri-la Plaza Mall. From the looks of it, it's amazing!
We just got off the press conference of My Future You, the new Regal Films entry for the 50th year of the Metro Manila Film Festival. This stars Francine Diaz and Seth Fedelin, the couple known as FranSeth has this as their first ever movie together.
Seth says "I'm at a point where I could protect her, I can fight for her, I think that is what I feel about her now. I can stand on my own two feet and I'll be in front of her. We want to thank everyone who are supporting us, especially for the movie and Regal Films. We know how much you are doing block screenings, it's hard because most of you are not earning much yet, as young as us, and we are happy about your feedback, we feel we're doing something right. We are just starting with My Future You and we still have a lot to prove. That's why we are hungry to do this, we dedicate our work for all of you. I wish I could make my siblings finish their studies, build my own home, have another installment of My Future You, finish my studies, have a person to love me, understand me, and I think that will happen very soon. I wanted to be a seaman, because that's how I saw my Uncle, and ended up doing PBB. Now I want to be a pilot, but know how expensive that is, and the time to spend for that course. I hope I could have time to do that, or just graduate. I feel good when I was the one watching movies during MMFF, being rated G means everyone in the family could go inside theaters and watch films."
Francine says "We're best of friends and it's nice to know that I have someone to protect me. It's huge, we owe the existence of FranSeth with our fans. We have young followers, we're not perfect but we do our best to make sure they are happy too, and the things we can give them as an example. I want to give my family's needs before mine, create my own path, and come home to my future. I just want that to happen, that's enough for me. This is the first time we are together, it's a sign that what we have been working for all these months can be loved by folks who would watch it. You can just get everyone at home to see it."
Direk felt so good about the movie being G rated by MTRCB. This means that even the kids can see the movie. This is under Regal Films and they've had a tradition of making projects like this film every Christmas. If you want to support the two fine actors, make sure you watch "My Future You" in cinemas from December 25 onwards!
Have you ever thought of how long you've been watching the morning show UNANG HIRIT? They're celebrating their 25th anniversary this December, and if you think about it, that's a full grown man at the prime of his life. Much to say, they gave us a glimpse of what's about to happen in the next few days as they celebrate this milestone. After all, they've been there when you wake up in the morning when you're preparing breakfast, your kids baon, or when your husband is about to go to work. They're routinely serving various forms of entertainment so you don't feel bad before you go to school, or for work.
Host Arnold Clavio says "Being in Unang Hirit for the last 25 years has been very rewarding. While we give the day's freshest news and happenings, we get to set the mood so you feel great at the start of the day. We bring not just good information, we'll be your alarm clock and make you be ahead of all the updates even hopefully, in the next 25 years!"
I asked Ms. Susan Enriquez about what particular piece moved her out of all the reportage she does for the show and identified the Typhoon Yolanda. She was there the day after when it hit the province and saw lives lost and devastation. She couldn't move as a person but she had to do her job to make sure information about it reaches entities in the government so they could give help. Another one was the chance to cover the Vatican, she was up close Pope Francis, she wept while seeing him during mass and admitted how blessed she felt that moment. She wants to do more and hopefully only do bigger stories in the next few years because she wants to be a source of positivity in the morning just like the rest of the hosts in the show.
Mark December 6 on your calendars as this will be the National Unang Hirit Day, the day when the show first aired. If you're a fan of the show, this is the time to celebrate in huge giveaways, public service offerings they plan to do on that date. They have surprises prepared for everyone, no matter where you are in the country. A few days ago, they already gave 25 peso rice grains, and 25 per kilo of LPG, so imagine what they'll be doing when the actual day arrives.
Here's our coverage on video, please sub!
Not only that, but if you recall the song they have on the show, they're going to have a few changes to it as well courtesy of the voices of Jose Mari Chan, Zephanie and Mark Bautista. It's going to be a bit modern than usual so stay tuned for that!
I also got the chance to participate in one of the games they usually do in the show and got tons of rice, a rice cooker and microwave oven, for that, I am so thankful! I thought I was just there to participate but got surprised by the hosts. Really thankful for that! It just reminded me, my birthday is their anniversary, congratulations on the show! And I'm looking forward to see what other surprises you have up your sleeves! Remember, UNANG HIRIT shows every weekday at, 5:30am. Thank you to Arnold Clavio, Susan Enriquez, Suzi Entrata Abrera, Atty. Gabby Concepcion, Shaira Diaz, Anjo Pertierra, Kaloy Tingcungco and Chef Jr for being so kind that afternoon. They're ready for you in the coming days, so make sure you watch the show! Make sure to be there and be heard as they celebrate 25 years with you!
Spent the weekend at SM Mall of Asia a few days ago to see "She Leads: Fun Beyond Shopping", an event organized by SM Supermalls and TikTok Shop. This happened at the mall's Main Atrium and as expected, there were TONS of people who appeared, partly for Marian Rivera, and also several girl bosses who brought their business along so people could get to know their success stories.
See, success didn't come overnight for most of them. They really had to do the legwork of knowing their market, learning the ropes, and looking for avenues where business could thrive in. This partnership means TikTok Shops and SM's platforms can now be accessed easily online so you can do more. It's WOMEN led brands after all that make a huge chunk of businesses in TikTok Shops and in real life retail. We saw Sip2Glow, Tapies, Gorgeous Glow, Azul, Huga, Mikana, HB Jewelry, Dood PH, Perfume Dessert, Pina Beauty PH, Urban Scent, Tiny Buds and Wise Cleaner. They were there in 3 separate days and shared not only success stories, but their actual business to other hoping entrepreneurs who would really be good at it. It was a chance to learn, which I loved because they gave a lot of people a chance to also earn, rather than just selling per se. People also got a lot of deals with SM Malls Online, the app is definitely better and can be easily downloaded on Google Play and the App Store. Some put out 50 percent off, 10 percent off SM Malls Online and their TikTok Shops.
It's so nice to see women entrepreneurs so successful in these platforms. They really made meaningful connections for audiences, the executives behind brands, and all. If you want to know more, check out smmallsonline.com!
November 1st and 2nd actually is quite important for Filipinos. Celebrating All Saints and All Souls Day means remembering our dearly departed ones, but it sometimes feels a little awkward because we celebrate the Christmas season during the BER months. Both are huge occasions for us and recently, the folks at Forest Lake coined the term UNDASKO 2024 to celebrate both.
They made an event out of it and started a tradition in all Forest Lake parks by lighting up Christmas trees in the same occasion, and they did it simultaneously. It was so nice seeing them do it as a tribute for loved ones too. The event also earmarked promos, discounts, and services, for lot owners so they could feel how it is to have Total Memorial Care. They also showed various deals on lots, they also have Libing Anywhere, Libre burol, and Qronicle, the digital storytelling service they do during interment.
Families also enjoyed making memories, which was one things that they put importance to according to their CEO Alfred Xerez-Burgos III. He said "Thsi is an event where we encourage folks to share the joy of the holidays so they could celebrate love, the life of their loved ones and make more memories."
They have received a lot of positive feedback about it that they want to do it again in future years so they could better serve their communities. If you would want to learn more about it, just search forestlakememorialparks on Facebook. Do the same in IG, and TikTok where they are present to.
Filipinos can't deny their affinity for something that soaks them in love, hope, hurt and a lot of melancholy. We met with Seb Pajarillo and Jeniffer Maravilla a few days ago and listened to two new singles they've released, and it was quite interesting.
First off, as individuals, they're very different than what I thought they would be. I've met Jennifer during a workshop a couple months ago, and her serious quiet looking facade could fool anyone who's going to meet her the first time. She's very bubbly, quite fun to talk to, a person who you can strike a conversation with.. or initiates it (which I absolutely like about her). She's also a fierce singer, one that could read a phone book and belt it out like the powerful divas we watch on Philippine television.
Seb on the other hand, felt like a young classy gentleman. He's not the type that super imposes his good looks, but the one that takes time to do things and makes you fall for his charm. His voice is much of a crooner, someone who could do good with the classics but instead delved into more emotional type OPM told into stories. He's also a very nice guy, which will be quite a huge addition to his attractiveness and the ability to sing.
With the folks from GMA Playlist, they're releasing individual singles. Seb sang for us his latest one called "Dati Pa" which is about enjoying the feeling of being in love, and about losing it. Jennifer on the other hand sang "Di Na Pwede", which is about getting hurt, and asking for a chance for her questions to be answered.
I asked them a bit about their previous relationships, on how they fell in love with the person, and what they learned from it. They answered honestly.. and Seb says "I think I fell in love with her because I saw that I would really learn a lot from her. Growing up, I was used to being very dependent with my parents and I had a hard time being independent. I kinda felt that I'd be experiencing things with her that would lead me to learn stuff. She was smart, very independent, and I did learn a lot, but I also learned that loving someone means I need to equip and love myself first."
Jen adds "For me, I don't think you could tell that you will fall in love with a person. I couldn't tell the specific time, but now that I'm dating again, I realized that you need to qualify who you are going to be with for the rest of your life. You can definitely start with your preferences, that's where I'm starting again so far. Yes, I was hurt from that last relationship, no, more of devastated. Though I learned from it, it was almost half of my life. I never really thought it would end. I only learned to let go of the hurt when I started to love my self. That's when I began seeing things clearly, on what my preferences were, what I deserve, and what I want. I realized I also needed to go through that because it has really strengthened me."
Here's the rest of the interview on video:
"Dati Pa" and "Di Na Pwede" is out now on streaming sites. Go listen to them today and make your love a lesson too. This is under GMA Playlist of GMA Music. Follow Seb and Jennifer on their social channels too because from the looks of it, this is just the start of their music and acting careers, and did good.
Thank you to Sparkle for letting us interview these two talented singers!
If there's something to tell about this movie aside the stars, it's the sheer scale of it. This is HUGE, and I couldn't wrap my head around why they've done it this way, but with Nadine Lustre, Ms. Vilma Santos and Aga Mulach in the cast, this kind of welcome is needed for their movie UNINVITED.
It was grand, it was fitting, because the story involved a Filipino billionaire. The story is also very dark as depicted on the trailer they released. This is going to be an acting piece for the three lead actors and honestly, I wouldn't want to be a juror for MMFF 2024 because from the looks of it, they'll be having a headache with first, having actresses with phenomenal awards battle it out for Best Actress. Two, seeing Aga do evil roles, something unlike his very sunny personality. That's just the tip of the iceberg though.
They revealed the official poster at the start of the event!
This is the huge stage, have I used huge a lot in this article? Yes I know.
Ms. Vilma Santos told the media "There's nobody else, no other name to play his role, it was only Aga Mulach. When he called me, he only asked if I'd accept the project, asked if it was true, and I immediately told him to accept it because otherwise, I'd be returning the candles for being Ninang to him and Charlene Gonzales. I wanted him to accept it so I could beat him up (she kids). When I head also that Nadine agreed with the project, I was already asking for shooting dates, with all honesty, I was mostly excited about it. Then I learned the huge cast that will also be with us, even if I felt bad in several shooting days, I knew I had to go through with it because I was with them all. I am inspired and in love with them."
Aga quipped "People were asking me why I'd be calling her, and they didn't know we often talk like that because we're really that close. The only question I asked was if she was game to do it, she didn't even had to talk more because I've been waiting for it the whole time. I'm just so happy this happened. It comes in threes, and out of the stuff we did, I'm very proud of this one! I'm quite excited too. When I heard Nadine was in the cast, I thought she was going to be a love interest, but production told me she will be my daughter (he kids), I was relieved!"
Nadine divulged a few things about her character and said "About similarities, I think we're polar opposites. Nicole is kind of extreme, she's rich, she does all the bad things, she's a foul mouth, she's got lots of hatred towards her father and the situation. I on the other hand am a more chill person, and the relationship I have with my father isn't the same either. The only thing I think that is similar is that we're both feisty. Our scenes are very heavy, but Kuya Aga does these adlibs that are not on script and we laugh about it after the scenes. But it feels different when you are working with a person of his caliber. Our scenes are going to be triggering, his personality is totally different in real life."
Here's the rest of the press conference on video:
Producer Bryan Dy responded to my question about being so passionate doing HUGE projects like these and he said "I'm actually very fortunate to be in this position. This is the part that you would never have to hold back, because with this kind of cast and story, if we let go of the chance, we probably wouldn't have something like this happen in our lifetime. One reason is, going to cinemas actually is expensive, so you want to really make sure that every peso cinema goers spend is worth it. With this cast, with the people working behind the camera, we think they're the best and we believe the Filipinos deserve it. And, we're not yet done, we're just starting! It is a dream project, and I've seen Ms. Vilma Santos in different roles when I was growing up, she didn't act on this film, she was more of a collaborator. She is very important for the entire film because she was assisting all the actors, they don't even go home anymore even if their scenes were done because they stayed to make sure this film has something to give. This is important and fulfilling for me. All our earnings from past projects, we rolled over here and even gave more. We're sure that we won't disappoint you with this film."
If the stars won't be the sole reason to see this film, you've got the story, the production value, and the anticipation of how great actors do it on screen should.
DigiPlus Interactive seem to have caught winning ways with their recent awards from Transform Awards Asia 2024. They managed to cop Silver for the Best Brand Evolution under the corporate category, they also got Silver for Best use of Visual Property, and took Bronze for both Best Brand Development Project to Reflect Change of Mission, Values or Positioning and Best Use of Typography.
DigiPlus and Landor gave a worthy fight with their recent transformation from a mortar and pestle brand to a more advanced and technology driven entertainment entity that scores their "Multiply the Fun" tagline.
Today, they're continuing to provide exceptional entertainment via their platforms, featuring more of the traditional Filipino fair games, but this certainly gives them more reason to continue as their efforts have been clearly appreciated and recognized. For those who don't know, Transform Awards Asia 2024 is Transform Magazine's way of celebrating the fantastic work involved in rebranding and strategies. DigiPlus will continue to implement fairness, transparency, innovation, and teamwork at all times and continue to be the premier trusted brand they've become in the years to come.
While the rest of the folks are in the bleachers watching, Akbayan took to the streets and the halls of congress to make sure check and balance exists even if all the odds were against them in recent years. Meet CongressMader Perci Vilar Cendana, second nominee and stalwart of your rights, matters on labor, the less privileged, youth, women, LGBT and various sectors.
He's not new in the movement. Hailed as the first openly gay university student council Chairperson in UP Diliman (at a time where homophobia was still happening), he fought tooth and nail with individuals that resorted to personal attacks, and faced real pressing discrimination in his early college years. Together with UP Babaylan (the country's first LGBT student organization), they eventually opened minds, avenues and spark change in the campus, and the rest followed suit. He feels in congress, he's doing the same bringing in the agenda that would benefit the needs of ordinary citizens.
He says "My political life has always revolved around Anakbayan, I became part of it after college by working in civil society groups, an NGO like the Freedom from Debt Coalition (involves matters on economic issues), and fell in love with the work that Akbayan is doing. I was involved with them since they 90's til now. I then became the Chief of Staff for Senator Risa Hontiveros whom I already knew when she was in congress, and planned to run for Senate in 2010 (as Campaign Manager), 2013, then she won in 2016. I was then appointed for the National Youth Commission during PNOY's term. While working for the government was far from my mind, it was a time for reform, and I felt it was a good time to work for the country."
He adds "I
was part of group who organized pride marches, the one in 1996, over
100+ people who marched in the contingent in Manila. Last year, hundreds of
thousands now march in the occasion. Akbayan is for equality, til today, it baffles me that
security of tenure is still being discussed. The culture of
ENDO/contractualization should never be done. We also do the same for
women, LGBT, anyone who needs social services. Citizens should never be
asking for it, it is but a right. Universal Health Care should be supported by
all of us."
NYC was the same venue where he started the campaign about "Teen Pregnancy", working on the Reproductive Health Law. He also started with various efforts on HIV, and still on the SOGIE Equality Bill. He is now the 2nd Nominee for the Akbayan Partylist, bringing his experience to the House of Congress over 2 decades of experience in public service. He's quite aware that he's got big shoes to fill since several Akbayan representatives like Eta Rosales, Risa Hontiveros, and more have done quite well during their stint in the congress. Today, CongressMader Perci is pushing for the KIAN Bill. This is to keep innocent young kids from getting victimized further. He also will try to enable laws against mining, the nationwide availability of the right to care card (a version of which is already done in Quezon City), plus the most controversial one yet, a bill for "Mindful Parking" which penalizes those who will bodily reserve parking slots; which as of recent has enraged the public.
Here's more of our discussion on video:
Together with Atty. Chel Diokno (1st Nominee), Dadah Kiram Ismula (3rd Nominee) and Akbayan Youth Chair Justine Balane (4th nominee), CongressMader Perci Vilar Cendana (2nd Nominee) and the Akbayan Partylist is committed increase effort and reforms against political dynasties, improve + hold rights for ordinary Filipinos, and continue to push for apt labor laws in the congress. They will also be participating in Quad hearings to hold folks accountable specifically EJK's in previous years. They will also help with regards to the rights of Moro women in various indigenous and marginalized communities, to work as a force who understands their struggles and the youth.
CongressMader Perci not only presents an option, but a person who's got a track record of work accomplished. Akbayan's not done with the causes they've so passionately worked on these past few years. Here's to more legislation work that is felt by ordinary folks, ones that deserve the help they could provide. It was a pleasure to get to know you!
Met Direk Rahyan Carlos a couple years back, in hybrid situation because of the pandemic. He's a phenomenal acting coach, the only one officially allowed to teach the Chubbuck Technique which most A-List Hollywood actors (most of which are award winners too) go through.
This time, he's become the newest addition to the training and development program (which he's heading) of MQuest Artist Agency. Designed to train new and existing actors for film and television, he's bringing a couple decades of his experience to teach Introductory, Advanced Level 1 and 2, and a Masterclass in acting. MQAA will also be offering Kids Acting, Dance and Voice Workshops in order to produce artists that are triple threats! This will all start on November 23 and 24, you may scan the QR code on this poster (or follow their social channels) for details, schedules and fees for it.
There will be limited slots for this workshop, and will culminate with an event after the course. They will also be including some of the artists from MQAA's stable, as they too will undergo the acting, song and dance workshop.
Direk Rahyan says "Fpr me this is exciting because we're pioneering something at the MQuest Artists Agency. I want to be part of that group who will prioritize training these talented actors. There's a lot of ways that actors could gain fame, but I believe you just need to put in a LOT of effort. Existing artists also become rusty, and I always tell them that they're as good as their last work. Acting is a lifestyle, doing workshops is something that people in the west do before and while they are in character, like constant training. Their craft changes because people change. What they may have implemented in the 80's may have been effective during that time, but art and acting is evolving. You need to study that, and adapt as well. A good agency needs the right training. It is important to inculcate to actors some good old ethics, discipline and professionalism. This is also the priority of Sir Jeff when I went onboard."
MQAA Head and VP for Content Acquisition at Cignal TV Jeffrey Remigio adds "Part of the vision we had for MQAA was to have it act like a hub for actors that can be trained, be known that they go through a very rigorous process and not just because they've got pretty faces. I don't want to put them in projects where we could get criticized by Directors or Producers because they're not properly equipped. We are investing in training and development on the onset, right from the very beginning where we can really focus on the talent pool we have at MQAA."
Here's more of where that came from:
During our interview, he mentioned how the first few MQAA artists that have already gone through the workshop felt so hungry about learning more about the craft. They made an example of Ms. Carmi Martin who now is taking on more dramatic roles, pretty off tangent from her "sexy comedienne" persona that she's had since the 80's. Direk Rahyan Carlos surely know what he's doing, he's transforming a generation of actors and following a sure fire way of using pain as fuel for their craft. They are in the lookout for talents too, so if you're trying your luck in the industry, this may just be your chance to not just hone your craft but land various MQAA projects.
I've been at Solaire North during Oktoberfest and the start of the Christmas Season, and yes, I've been overjoyed with their way of celebrating every occasion. This New Year's Eve is going to be different because it will be so much BIGGER, as the show will be headlined by world class Filipino acts, reality show champions and an international multi awarded singer songwriter.
Christmas season is in full swing so there will be performances by the Regina Coeli choir, the Ambassadors of Christ Chamber Singers, OPM hit makers The Company, The Leading Ladies who will perform at the Oasis Garden Cafe, and the jazz trio calle Baihana. During Christmas eve, home bar Waterside will be having the Bellissima Party Band. For those who are dining over at Finestra Italian Steakhouse, you will be entertained by the talented Jenny Garcia all month.
Santa will also be stopping by for the kids come December 24 and 25 while you get in the mood for more Christmas music with the UP Singing Ambassadors plus the Quezon City Performing Arts Development Foundation Inc. Choir evenings at the Atrium of Solaire North.
At the Ultimate Solaire New Year's Eve Party, the one and only Lea Salonga, Concert King Martin Nievera, Bituin Escalante will be with you at Solaire Resort Entertainment City. At Solaire North, you get the chance to see NeYo, the Jabbawockeez, my personal favorite quirky dance group Avantgardey, Beast House and DJ Soda. There will also be performances by BGYO, Billy Crawford, DJ Mars Miranda, Kat DJ and more. If you see this the apt way to welcome 2025, you can get tickets via Ticket World 0917114 7317, or 0999954 5922. You can calso inquire via 8888-8888 or their website solaireresort.com for more information about these events!
Ever wondered where that famous Reymundo Animated Display is at today? It's now at the flagpole area of Quezon City Hall. Most people call it the "Manila COD Christmas on Display", and I used to watch it every year... mostly staring at it on top of Manila COD Department Store (which is gone now).
The thing actually started in 1966 but I was able to experience it a
little around the 80's, when people could still carry me in their
shoulders by the side of the road. Sources say, there's some trade name
trouble with regards to the "Christmas on Display" IP. They (sources)
said it was being claimed by Araneta Center, and opposed by Rosario
Animated Display. They've done it thrice and was still turned down
(according to the same source).
The Office of the Director
General has ordered them to cease and discontinue registering for it
during their third attempt last July 29 this year, even indicating it
was trying to do so in bad faith (according to the source).
Is it apt to do so at this point? What are your thoughts?
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