Looks like they're not stopping anytime soon as the folks from Puregold start grinding the cinematic world with stories of special folks, of Filipino Sari-Sari Stories, one of which will be graced by the lovely BINI JHOANNA who'll play a cameo role on a short film entitled "The Witness", much to the delight of blooms around the world!
For those who don't know, it could be any genre but the one Jhoanna will be in talks of love, community and how the person inside the store would see while manning the store. They've done similar things in the past including "Ways" by SB19's Stell where hot rapper Skusta Klee also maze an impression. It will be a good place to connect with family and friends, See, we're all connected in some way so this project is just serendipity.
Jhoanna says "People would be able to connect especially for entrepreneurs who are just starting. The film also showcases how we shouldn't fail to appreciate small businesses like Sari-Sari Stores around the country. It's an integral par of Aling Puring's movement, which is very Filipino, no matter how you put it. It's one of the reasons why there are stores nearby, always."
Ms. Ivy Hayagan Piedad reiterates why Puregold has been doing this for years because they are allies of entrepreneurs. These stories for them are not just there to promote but be a tool for them to learn a thing or two.
If that's not enough, you can still subscribe to The Puregold Channel's Youtube account or on other channels like IG, x Or FB because information about this will all be there.
This might be a gamble, but it surely looks promising as love will take center stage in this romcom action flick called "BATANG PACO". The film stars Empoy Marquez, Concert Comedy Queen Aiai Delas Alas and a throng of up and coming artists in this colorful ensemble. This is the first MiVida Productions film and they're putting their best foot forward in this story that delves on love and how it can make you change in the eyes of others.
Empoy plays Paco, a tattoo artist who got pushed to his limits, and had to take action when loved ones were at stake. His toughness will show, be vulnerable, but will also show heart.
He says "Actually it was Coco who wrote this (he kids). The action scenes here are serious and you can compare it to the show. The one who will judge it will be the viewers, if asked who among us is better, it's Mon Confiado. This film is all about love, you can date your family, loved ones, single parents. I have a say in this film because I'm part of the utility men. Take no rice but quinoa, 3 for 100 in Baliwag Bulacan. In this film, I am portraying someone dumb, but has a heart. I hope you will watch this!"
Ms. Aiai says "Working here made me forget a lot of things, I did Zumba, workouts, and told myself to join contests too. Batang Paco and a few movies took my mind off things, I've been very busy, and also travel. I love Chichi (one of the cast), we're both feisty in real life!"
Here's the press conference on video, including our interview with Kim Rodriguez whom I haven't seen for a long time!
Batang Paco is based on the writer's sister, a little slow learner. She had a son who then became a genius, sometimes they don't connect, but later on becomes besties. She is also a big fan of Coco Martin, and they also grew up on Paco Manila. It will have social relevance.
Actors Mon Confiado, Ynez Veneracion, Chichi Rita, Cassy Lavarias, Richard Quan, Alma Concepcion, Lara Morena, Natasha Ledesma, Gerard Acao, Kookoo Gonzales, Jovi Vargas, Quentin Molo and the lovely Kim Rodriguez become part of the story. This is directed by Rechie del Carmen and written by the prolific Gina Marissa Tagasa. MiVida Productions is owned by Ms. Ana Abiera Del Moral and promises a well thought out film to be enjoyed by many. This is an ode to parents, and love for family. It's going to be out on February 18th, a few days after Valentines day!
The Canon Photomarathon 2026 was just launched today at Revel at the Palace BGC. It coincided with the press thanksgiving party with media and community in attendance.
Ace Porlet the Marketing Manager of Canon Philippines says "We've planned to do this after the pandemic but it was very difficult. We are announcing the start this year on April 18, at BYC Taguig. The theme will be announced on the spot so you won't be able to prepare. From capture to output, it will be one brand, on photo and video. Yes, video will be part of the competition and you are welcome to this year's photomarathon. Free admission to all digital camera users, and the registration is now open through the Canon Philippines Delightful App which you can download on Google Play or App Store."
They also are preparing for photowalks, workshops, school tours, and regional tours before the actual photomarathon. Make sure you visit their pages, as this will start from February to March. The categories will be Open Photo Category, Video Category (both which are open to any brand and phone make), and a Main Photo Category which will be exclusive for Canon Users. Special categories will have Media Category and also, one for Canon Employees.
Prizes include EOS R8 (OPEN), PowerShot V1 EOS R50V (video), EPS R6 MARK III (Main Photo). Photoworld Asia will happen on the 29th at Glorietta, so if you're itching to get your DSLR, it's time!
It's been years since Encantadiks had seen a whiff of what have been DanAquil, the love between Aquil who commands the army of Lireo and Danaya, one of the 4 Sanggres who controls the Gem of the Earth (played by Alfred Vargas and Diana Zubiri). These two live super happy and separate lives now, but recent videos of their 2005 series resurfaced and have been talked about on different platforms, bringing nostalgia to many Encantadiks the world over!
The two have been loved during the Etheria: Ang Ika Limang Kaharian Ng Encantadia (Etheria: The 5th Kingdom of Encantadia) and also the sequel Encantadia: Pag-Ibig Hanggang Wakas (Encantadia: Love Until The End). They proceeded to do several more projects under GMA including a reality show in mid 2006. They also had a film during the same year together with legends Eddie Garcia and Gloria Romero. It was directed by Nose Javier Reyes under Seiko films, plus a 2003 flick Liberated under Direk Mac Alejandro. In 2016, they had different roles for the second chapter of Encantadia as Alfred did Amarro, while Diana did the role of LilaSari, which were both so colorful. Rocco Nacino and Sanya Lopez then took on their Aquil and Danaya roles which catapulted their careers too.
Alfred's appearance in Encantadia marked his comeback in GMA-7. Then in 2011, he started making several series in ABSCBN's stable, and then moved to concentrate on public service during that time.
Alfred reacted to the videos that came out on FB and TikTok and said "This may have happened a long time ago but I'm so glad to see that there are still a lot of people who still get "kilig" with our pairing. When I was tagged and sent this video, I was so elated how it still trended on the platform. Diana and I had a really good working relationship which is why we remain friends until now. I hope we can make more movies or be in a series soon.
I hope GMA or ABSCBN would see how fans remain so happy to see them together after all these years. Will they be given the chance to reprise roles or maybe paired in new shows soon?!
Looks like there exists a movement to make an action comedy flick called "Batang Paco". Direk Rechie Del Carmen has confirmed they are already building an ensemble cast for it. Known for character driven films, she wants to make this intricately done by choosing apt ones for roles, because this isn't just going to be action and comedy, but will also contain family drama which Producer Ana Abiera Del Moral says Direk Rechie understands, and needs to have meaningful emotional core, so they could breathe new life to these characters once the film starts rolling.
They also divulged the appearance of Chichi Rita, who's wit and charm will rival lead actors Empoy Marquez and Ms. Aiai Delas Alas comedic powers, it's going to be more fun than usual. The cast also includes Mon Confiado, Ynez Veneracion, Richard Quan, Alma Concepcion, Lara Morena, Natasha Ledesma, Gerard Acao, Kookoo Gonzales, Josh Ivan Morales, Kim Rodriguez, Jovi Vargas and Quentin Molo among others. It's going to be a crazy time and very Manila, written by one of the most successful writers in cinema, Ms. Gina Marissa Tagasa. This will be under MiVida Productions Inc., and "Batang Paco" will hit theaters on February 18th, stay tuned for that!
The current Pinoy Big Brother Celebrity Collab Edition 2.0 is almost ending, and steadily going to its finale... the Kapuso Stars nominated to leave the famous house include Sofia Pablo, Heath Jornales and Caprice Cayetano. On the Kapamilya side, they've got Carmelle, Eliza and Joaquin who's all going to be at the eviction night. This is a nail biter because there are only 10 guys and gals left and it'll be a crucial week to get those votes.
Fans say Caprice is authentic, calm, and gives genuine care for other housemates. Heath on the other hand is on his 4th time being nominated, but fans say they will never give up saving him inside the house. Sofia on the other hand is getting feedback that labels thrown at her are not true, and they're seeing it the more time she stays in the Big Brother House. She has helped a lot in chores and might be her ace.
Carmelle on the other hand is quiet but fans say people feel her efforts in tasks. Eliza is a very doting daughter, very kind and caring according to them. Joaquin has played this with strategy, and consistently has done tasks quite well. They also say he has love and empathy for other housemates. Will this make them stay in the house?
Make sure you watch the show on GMA and ABSCBN assets because you shouldn't miss the last few week before the finale! Meanwhile follow Sparkle's FB page for updates of those who have already gone out and are having the time of their life, as they've got lots of opportunities after the show!
The recently concluded 2025 edition of TikTok Live Awards Philippines proved to be one of the most successful ones for the Kapuso Network as Sparkle GMA Artist Center copped the Digital Spotlight Award for getting 1 Billion Views for last year's GMA Gala. It's one of the biggest gathering of celebrities held at the ballroom of Marriot Hotel in Pasay City.
The award was received by Sparkle GMA Artist Center Head of PR, Events and Digital Ms. Roche Tuazon Chavez, and Caiel Pajarillo their PR Manager. Ms. Roche Tuazon says "We are so honored to be recongnized, and this belongs to our artists, fans, creators, and partners who continue to support Sparkle. Thank you very much!"
Congratulations to SPARKLE and to everyone who made this feat possible! (photo credits Mary Gurat)
My favorite Rhodesian Sales Corporation products specifically Tai Chi Rubs and VCO Liniments just got their own new brand ambassadors. They're from Team Orange, the folks from Orange Magazine who's been quite visible these past few years under Jeman Villanueva. Kister Morata and Sharmaine Rodriguez have been doing lifestyle events under the same group and they've been working hard creating content for the digital mag.
Rhodesian Sales Corporation have been noticing them, seeing the need for folks from their generation to market their various products including Tai Chi Rub and VCO Liniments, Kuchi Pearl, Foamee, Kuchi Kuchi, Doggies Choice, Moringa Vita, Guyasteen Oilganics, Hailey's Underarm and Foot Powder who's been doing well in online shops, and on TikTok.
They've been doing a lot of content on socials (part of their skill set) and this time, they're going to even do more to bolster Rhodesian's efforts, to further reinforce what they've been currently doing for their various brands.
Present during the contract signing is Kirk Chester Dy the COO and Eric King current Head of Marketing for Rhodesian Sales Corporation, and Orange Magazine's Editor Jeman Villanueva. I'd like to send my congratulations to both brands and their 2 new brand ambassadors for this feat!
They've been doing it so good that the rest of the country needs one, so they opened one at Purok New Visayas in Barangay Acacia, Buhangin District in Davao City. It's a full blown memorial park that is thoughtfully designed for families who would want their loved ones seen, remembered with dignity and serenity in mind. They've been doing this for years and Filipinos have seen great value from their other properties in Luzon, now Davao gets to have one of their own.
Ms. Emy Lustado who manages Golden Haven's VisMin Operations dubs this as part of their huge commitment in memorial care, and to offer opportunities too for the local community. They will be starting pre selling period soon as this is set to be done first quarter. If you are interested, you may visit their official website goldenhaven.com.ph or call them via +63 917 828 4527 if you have inquiries.
You've seen her several times in news outlets, shows here and abroad. She's absolutely proud to be a Filipino American. She's also a businesswoman, lawyer, and author. One who doesn't hold back when she needs to speak. She just released her third book properly titled "Look Younger When You're Older - No Botox, No Surgery (Philippine Edition)" under Anvil Publishing last December. This is available in leading bookstores (now part of the best sellers list!) including National Bookstore and online shopping apps Shopee and Lazada.
She is in the country for a few days for a book signing event at the National Bookstore Edsa Shangrila Mall branch. Guests were treated to discounts on her new book, prizes, and a short meet and greet with the woman of the hour Atty. Loida Nicolas Lewis. She dedicates this third one for her family, specifically her grand kids who keeps her company on regular days.
Mind you, this isn't the first time Atty. Mon Abrea hosted Ms. Loida Lewis after meeting several times in the US. He says "It's an honor and privilege to host Tita Loida when she was here last year, this year, this is her despedida because she's leaving tomorrow for NY. I love her wisdom, and meeting at Harvard, I thought she was very feisty and frank. I got connections to make sure she's going to know me before I left school. We tried online and it didn't work, we both forgot about the zoom meetings. We met at Harvard Club later on for lunch, and joined her activity. I met a lot of successful Filipinos through Tita Loida, and what folks may not know is how generous she is. She introduces you to people, she's a mother, a good friend, and when there are times people lose hope, she's a source for that. We are all privileged to be in the presence of our 80 year old friend, who doesn't look like it, Ms. Loida Nicolas Lewis!"
I asked Ms. Loida about taking a breather at this age and she says "I don't consider waking up in the morning as work, I still work even after selling the company because I as trying to build another one. For me, work is not work if you love what you are doing. When folks ask me when I'll retire, I'd say NEVER. Because there's always work to do. When you rest, you die. That's the real rest. When you're still alive, you do what you LOVE to do. You have to enjoy whatever is in front of you. If you're working, do it good, do it well. Joy is our secret ingredient. When you are Christian, God loves you. My good husband may have left but I'm still here. People should look at the positive side of things, and always say THANK YOU LORD! Don't emphasize the negative things in your life, don't mind the vampires and don't do it to yourself. You deserve better."
Tax Whiz Atty. Mon Abrea
Here's more of our conversation on video:
It's such an awesome experience to talk to Ms. Loida, and I've felt how much care she pours out for others while keeping her cup full. Their outlook, and what good things they do while building their network, not minding their net worth because from their eyes, it will follow. Ms. Loida's book also concentrates not just on physical beauty, but more on spirit. There never will be an end to learning, on having the right mindset, to never think of growing older, maintain that young mind, great goals, and value for oneself. If you want to get a copy of the book, it's available on Shopee and Lazada. I also linked it on the youtube video to make it easy.
Have you seen that Bilyonaryo interview with Congressman Toby Tiangco from Navotas? It's kind of troubling to know how folks know details about the public funds, how it was used and just the mere thought of having knowledge of it.
The interviewer asked if a confrontation happened between the Tiangco, Marcos and Romualdez, and he first said he couldn't put the President on the spot, then he continued to say about the incident wherein they sat down and then the President asked "Martin, how many houses, planes, helicopters do you need in Forbes Park? How many tins of caviar can you eat? How many Ferraris do you need?"
Then further says "You know Martin, I don't receive anything from that, and I couldn't do projects in 2 years because you and Zaldy are getting the funds from congress." The interviewer asked "So he knew?". Congressman Tiangco says "He had a list of flagship projects in his phone that were put on unprogrammed and done project insertions. The promise of Martin during that time was they will return it in the bicameral meeting, which didn't happen... which is why he was so mad in January."
Here's that clip:
@bnc.ph
TIANGCO DEFENDS PBBM, WARNS ON MARTIN ROMUALDEZ AND ZALDY CO Navotas Lone District Rep. Toby Tiangco defended President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., saying he believes the President has no involvement in the flood control corruption scandal, but warned he would politically part ways if Marcos protects former House Speaker Martin Romualdez or Zaldy Co. Speaking with Atty. Edwin Lacierda and Nani Braganza, Tiangco added he is willing to testify if Romualdez faces criminal prosecution over alleged budget anomalies and unprogrammed projects, emphasizing that he can only tell the truth when called as a witness. More on this in the full episode of #TheSpokes #fyp #foryou #foryoupage #news #newsph #balita #philippines #pilipinas #viral #viralvideos #PBBM #BongbongMarcos #Marcos #MartinRomualdez #ZaldyCo #FloodControl #FloodControlScandal #BudgetAnomaly #Corruption #UnprogrammedProjects #Truth #Witness
♬ original sound - bnc.ph
So I guess that's why folks have resigned from their post and also affected the President's ratings? This is a really troubling issue and I guess people should look into this even further because from the looks of it, people are now telling their story. The public deserves nothing but the truth and see accountability, put perpetrators behind bars, not soon, but now. It's high time they face the consequences.
Just got off the press conference of the upcoming Borracho Films movie called Spring in Prague, romantic comedy film starring Paolo Gumabao and Sara Sandeva.
This is produced by Atty. Ferdinand Topacio who says "Newcomers in the industry always have challenges, Mamasapano was one of them during MMFF, but we in Borracho Films love making films and we do it for the love of the craft. Not necessarily high gross, but lately you have placed it in the hands of people who don't know anything about movies. It should be reformed, with people that are from the industry so we won't have mediocre entries. It's a festival, give us the best, not just commercially viable."
He adds "Spring in Prague I think can try to be a catalyst to make better films, the competition online is really tough, the movies also cost much. The industry should show it is irreplaceable, folks who think radio was gonna die still listen to it now. Same with visual arts, the cinema experience still is the best which is why we have a good cinematographer, bringing better vistas on the screen, something you can't see on a small phone. The difference is big in cinema, and this is new which can't be done in other platforms. I got Paolo Gumabao because his face is expressive, each gesture has something to say, and not all artists can be like that."
Lead actor Paolo says "I do my best with the characters I have to portray, I really aim to the best actor that I can be. I give what the director asks for me, and I did that here in Spring in Prague."
He adds "I guess one of the things that challenged us is showing the difference in culture, Alfonso and Marushka come from different countries, different habits, like mixing ketchup and soy sauce, but they still clicked. I try to see if the director is open to work with other artists, mine was very open hearing our ideas and concepts which is a good thing. They gave us their blessing if we need changes in the scene and story."
He also told us how easy it was to work with Czech Macedonian actress Sara Sandeva. He also described how different the working ethics were in Prague when they needed to shoot everything in one and a half week. He mentioned how they were really time centric, not relaxed, and when they go on set, they're really prepared. One instance was when they asked her to go to the location, she went back to her room because there were some left to be fixed at the location. They really mean business I guess.
Although it's been a long time since this was done, they're going to have a public viewing this coming February 4th in theaters nationwide! Included in the film and production are some of the BORRACHO Artists/Talents who sang the theme song and did the music video for it. Some of the artists appearing in the movie are under Tyrrone Escalante's Artist Management, both of whom are excited to have this movie come out since it's also their first time to be part of one. I've seen the trailer and it's quite nice, especially the majestic views they shot in Prague, you'll also love their story. Here's a bit of the media conference on video:
Again, if you fancy views (of Prague and Puerto Galera), a good laugh and a romantic love story, watch SPRING IN PRAGUE this coming February 4th in theaters nationwide!
Inspiring stories from real life heroes take the stage with Ginebra San Miguel's recent campaign called "Tatak Ng Tapang, Tatak Ginebra" (Seal of Courage, Brand of Ginebra) that tells the story of 4 folks, real, unadulterated stories of heroes. The videos are now up on Ginebra's social channels since December 31st, with real people as subjects which Filipinos can relate to. The Never Say Die spirit still lives in this era, with the lives of Filipinos, including educators, jeepney drivers, medical professionals, and people who work each day to make a living. They're quite sure you experienced meeting these heroes during the pandemic where we had to live under closed doors, but still made a point to be of help for your countrymen, no matter how big or small it is.
Folks have endured one of the most challenging times of our lives, like Miguel Mapalad who scaled Mount Everest, talented artist Aughie Fontanilla, PBA'S Sonny Estil, and Billiard Phenom Chezka Centeno. They wear their scars as badges, this is their "Tatak ng Tapang", and won it. We all have this, our struggles can be a thing of the past, we do it for ourselves, our family, and our country. No matter what it is, we can conquer them! Like the highest peak in the world, where Miguel braved the cold and difficulty, shared a bottle of Ginebra with other mountaineers and their Sherpa, and did it greatly!
Auggie on the other hand left her comfy job in publishing, to get into her real passion, doing graffiti work, and now earning recognition for it. She now also manages her clothing brand with the Pilipinas Street Plan Collective. Meanwhile, Sonny Estil is now part of the Ginebra Kings. He's also the top draft pick and became part of the most popular team in the PH pro league. He had to go through hard work as a farmer and carpenter prior to that, carries his courage up his sleeve like a Ginebra King should! Same with Billiard champ Chezka who did so well in 10 ball. She hails from the streets of Zamboanga, used to battle veteran male players, some of which she lost, but she never gave up. It was her dream, and even if it was economically impossible at times, she did it. This is what Ginebra San Miguel wants to celebrate, the never say die spirit has now bared real life heroes and that's amazing!
