HOME ALONG DA RILES DA REUNION: Same Family Love But Different

Spent a few hours at the Makabagong San Juan Government Center, the huge new building of the city of San Juan. It was special because of the event we had to witness there, a Family Day for the folks from around the community. Kids, their parents and guardians spent the whole afternoon watching and participating in a Volleyball match, games prepared by the folks from Home Along Da Riles Da Reunion. They also gave them food and refreshments from the good people of Rebisco. Honestly, I saw genuine smiles from the kids and the parents, they really enjoyed seeing the stars of the film interacting with them through the program that afternoon.

Then we were able to interview the whole cast in the late afternoon. They had a whole marching band and the Mayor himself Francis Zamora who welcomed everyone before the Mediacon started. The theater was huge! And if I'm right, we're probably the first few ones who got to use it for a very special reason, because yes, the COSME's are back! The family that lived at the side of the train tracks. Though yes, this is going to be different because the legendary DOLPHY, BABALU won't be around. But they promised you'll feel them in every scene, and you'll be seeing their lives after Kevin Cosme's passing. You'll also see the dynamics of the family, of how things have changed, stayed or become even crazier! 

Here's the full press conference, you must listen to the small stories they shared:

Some interesting things in this reunion:

There were actually 15 SUNOG BAGA members but only 4 were found. One passed hence 3 were seen in this presscon. (May they rest in peace!)

Ms. Nova Villa prays a lot, and spends her life serving the church. She was always the one who prays for everyone during taping days of Home Along Da Riles, that never stopped!

Vandolph Quizon met his wife Jenny in the show, and he mentions that she is the love of his life, credits the show for it. 

Boy2 Quizon aka Dos was given the task of being the Director of this film, and everybody agreed how good he did it. Dolphy would be so proud!

They tried to put in everyone from the sitcom to the series so you'll be surprised when you watch the film. Wether you're an 80's, 90's or 00's fan of the show, or new to the classic show, you will LOVE the movie equally because it is about family, caring for each other and the Filipino way of life, good manners and some crazy fun. The movie will have a premiere night on June 15th but will have the movie out on June 17th. It's going to be fun! 

29 Years of THRIVING: Forest Lake Development Inc.!

It felt good seeing Forest Lake Development Inc. hold recognition for their sales people at Okada Manila last April 21st. It was their National Sales Convention, with over 550 attendees and the theme "THRIVE: Ani ng Tagumpay". At a record breaking 5.5 Billion in sales this year compared to 3.8 Billion last year, there definitely is a reason to celebrate for this big corp. All their employees, partners and stakeholders from around the country went there including their CEO Alfred Xerez Burgos III. 

They are the leading memorial park developer and now have transformed into an entity providing total memorial care. With services like Libre Burol, Libing Anywhere, Memorial Chapels, Columbarium a d Cremation, they've surpassed their goals and continue to partner with 41 funeral homes to this day. They now have 42 memorial parks all over the Philippines and plan to launch a few more in the near future. They also got SEC approve their capital stock fom 1 Billion to 4 Billion as they plan to expand and invest in tech for their properties too.

They were also entertained by Gary Valenciano.anf PPOP boy group AZTER which got the folks excited. Top performers were also given incentives like trips to Bangkok that is all expense paid. They are now 29 years in the business, and plan to have their services make an impact in the years to come. 

Congratulations Forest Lake Development Inc.! 

GARY V Announces "INSPIRED" North American Tour

Mr. Pure Energy Gary Valenciano just got on Showtime today to promote his upcoming tour in North America, specifically in Yaamava Resort in Highland California on June 14, Thunder Valley Resort in Lincoln California on the 19th and Heinz C. Preacher Educational and Performing Arts Theater in Taylor Michigan on the 21st and Durham Convention Center in Durham North Carolina on the 27th. 

INSPIRED is Gary's musical journey designed to uplift hearts no matter what age and showcase Filipino talent on the global stage as he's been doing in the past decades. 

Gary will also be doing this tour with SUPER talented son Gabriel Valenciano. He will also be releasing a video on the 8th at 12 noon called UNSHAKEN with GARY V so there's a lot to watch out for on this tour!

Gorgeous daughter Kiama will join in on a few dates, on the 14th and 19th which you have to see. Her awards speak for itself so that's another thing to see. This will be directed by Mon Faustino. He will also be performing with Alyssa Quijano, Elke Saison Ortiz, and drummer Jonathan Regalado. Aside from that, he's also appearing on The 700 Club with Gordon Robertson on June 24th in Virginia. He is being supported by PAL, TFC, ABSCBN, ASAP XP, Tancino Law Offices, Sendwave. If you want to get tickets, call 9096802905 or email allaccessconcerts@gmail.con or thundervalleyresort.com/entertainment/events/gary-valenciano#gsc.tab=0 or call 7348469552, 5178851340, 7345162960, 7348650999 or via buy tickets.at/garyv/2180534. You can also inquire at 14158121372 or info@garyv.com. 

MELAI CANTIVEROS FRANCISCO Excited for Season 5 of KUAN ON ONE and Guest ELLEN ADARNA

Going to another press conference with Melai Cantiveros Francisco made me so excited, I thought I didn't get enough sleep. First off, it's the 5th season of her digital show KUAN ON ONE where she often guests Visayan speaking artists and individuals to the delight of the public. Aside from that, I got to see her again in person (since the last time I caught her was during the 4th season of the same show). I am so happy that the show has already transcended YouTube and are being shown on streaming platforms and free to air TV via Kapamilya Channel, IWantTFC and more. This brought her show to an even large audience, and people are appreciating it even more because being Bisaya is different. Just because you're from the same region,  you immediately feel familiar, which is why they were able to talk non-stop!

Drag Queen Hana Beshie hosted the event!

Melai was super excited to share the episodes they prepared for this epic season because one of her dream interviews finally came true in the person of Ellen Adarna. Quite elusive to see being interviewed by the press, Melai was able to do it because she's going to talk about non trivial things which Ellen probably was also excited to do. Melai also told us that because they were talking about non showbiz things, they lost all track of time and did it for hours, that it already qualified for an episode the next week. This is the first time that they are also doing it so they're pretty nervous how folks at home would receive what they plan to do come June 9. She also divulged that they will be guesting Paul Jake Castillo and Mark Bautista in the weeks after that (plus a lot more to look forward to!).

Melai has really become so attractive for endorsements including her family which she's so glad about. She also told us how they became so  engrossed with Korea, and said their whole family is being tapped by the Korean Tourism Organization again (they have been for several years!), and they'd gladly go there for much needed family time too. 

Here's our interview with her yesterday at the ELJ building inside the ABSCBN compund:

All the success she says has always been attributed to God, and she promised that everytime she got to talk, she's always going to mention how thankful she is for the blessings. Evidently, she has been blessed, but has never changed since the day I saw her come out of the PBB house. She also acknowledged me and her fans (yes Melason!) for believing in them, and continuing to support them all these years. 

I asked her about her family and she said Jason is involved in businesses right now and would rather keep it private. The kids are also doing well, but she teases that they probably have an idea on how famous they are and enjoying it. Sometimes Mela even initiates photo opportunities, because people tend to be shy around them. Super cute!

Melai may have gotten accolades and success in her career but has never changed who she is as a person. She's still that kind, happy lady, who's going to make sure you won't leave her show without laughing crazy! Thank you Melai for always being like that! 

Make sure you watch KUAN ON ONE Season 5 starting June 9 on all ABSCBN platforms, including YouTube, digital and free TV!

VINCENT CO Led PUREGOLD Increases Availability of Affordable Essentials Amidst Uncertainties

The country is experiencing a circus over at the Senate and countless Filipinos are still experiencing poverty, high gas prices and commodities have gone up. Vincent Co, the President of top market brand PUREGOLD is making sure they're putting their priorities right by committing themselves to make sure that affordable and basic necessities are within reach in all their stores nationwide. 

They just launched "Always Price Packs", to help you and I with matters concerning inflation, something that has risen in the past few years. I'm these packs, products are being sold below 100 pesos and are going to be fixed so people have something affordable to get at tough times like these. Vincent says this is their mission, to serve Filipino consumers at difficult times and add how they understand what we're going. through, and take all efforts to reach the larger population in these times. Always Price Packs are designed to help ease the burden of consumers wherever they are in the country. He hopes this would also help their loyal customers to manage their budgets, but still get something of quality. 

This is their mission, to help those in the Filipino homes in these tough times. Go visit one near you to get them deals!

(REVIEW) Watching Stars with the LUMOS FLOAT EVO Home Cinema Projector

This week, we've been very busy covering several movies, events and runs among others. For starters, some of the country's brightest love teams are having their first movie out, something their fans are raring to show up for. Then there's the Sparkle Run over at Luneta Park that had GMA's biggest stars doing it to fund various charities that they support. This also is a time for them to personally interact with their fans, something they'd been looking forward to do every year. With this schedule, we're so excited to take a few days off to get some needed rest and recreation. I wanted to watch stars where it's more private, air conditioned, and got to use our LUMOS FLOAT EVO Home Cinema Projector.

This is a smart projector, pretty much installed with YouTube, Netflix, and several TV Box Apps. It is also 4K video capable, and can do 270 degree rotation to get those movies projected from different view points. It's also got auto Keystone + auto focus that can check your walls and angles, and automatically adjust views when needed. I watched with it on my projector screen, but if I'm a little lazy, do it with our bare wall or ceiling.

This can also connect to 5G, has Bluetooth, USB and in built applications such as Netflix, YouTube, and a whole lot more. If you're a little meticulous, you can watch 4K videos on it and see sharper videos, more lively colors and better details on 4500 lumens brightness. They also delivered this quite fast, quite affordable at Php 9,999.00, as they got 50% Off its original price. Get the LUMOS FLOAT EVO Home Cinema Projector here.

Having this in my room means I get to enjoy all the content that I love. I get to watch things from a joe's point of view, including interviews we've done with stars recently. The LUMOS Float EVO Home Cinema Projector also has really good audio built in stereo speakers, all 5W without distortion. This is available in Silver and Gold (which I got) so if you're a little picky of design and things you put in your room, they've got you covered.  

Whether you want to watch in the comforts of your own room, or with a few guests, or a whole room of people, the LUMOS Float EVO Home Cinema Projector can get you do that massive display up in seconds. I'm planning to put this as a permanent fixture in one of our rooms since I've been planning to do a theater, for personal use. I can watch ALL THE STARS in my own little refuge, because I think I deserve it. If you're thinking of getting one, see their website for the full specifications. They've also got it at a good price, so don't be too complacent! It's time you do yourself a favor and get it.

VARGAS Appeals Dismissal of Bullying Case, Urges Thorough Review

Alfred Vargas and wife Yasmine has urged the Manila Prosecutors Office to review the recent resolution which has thrown out their complaint against Rob Sy and Juvelle Bacosa. (Just an update from the case of actor and public servant Alfred Vargas who filed in behalf of their son).

As per their statement, they pointed out the erroneous basis for the resolution and non acceptance of important evidence that they have presented for the case. They pointed out RA 10627 or commonly called Anti Bullying Act of 2913 that addresses matters inside educational institutions, instead of Section 10a of RA 7610 which is for the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse Exploitation and Discrimination Act which is apt for that. The incident they also reported has happened inside Rizal Memorial Sports Complex last February 14th and not inside school premises as they claimed. They also believe that this was erroneous in adapting that and their evidence too. 

Vargas also feels the resolution lessens the protection given to their child as they're treating this as a school incident instead of it being a bullying matter. They would want the matter to be looked at with RA 7610 in mind since it gives a broader protection for their child. Aside from the non inclusion of evidence, they didn't also touch on witness testimonies or psychiatric findings since their child has struggled, as the incident brought fear, distraught and psychological damage. They also deem Sy and Bacosa failed to correct and stop the incident after giving notice in earlier incidents. They also told the court how their child received aggression, emotional stress and clinically documented psychological distress. 

In their petition, they reiterated that it is not based on just their story, but of material, direct, eyewitness accounts which supports the case. They also said the resolution didn't consider the child's statement, the one who experienced it all. They feel this isn't just an ordinary conflict between minors and shouldn't be downplayed. 

ISHA PONTI Takes Emotional Journey with New Album LIKAS

Her smile and infectious charm was felt across the room. She began holding the mic and immediately grabbed our attention, like any other talented Filipino would do. She's ISHA PONTI, and yes, we felt right away how she wanted us to listen to her songs. 

Albeit quite familiar with her previous songs, she's taken a little different path than usual. She's launching a new album called LIKAS which she dubs as a more emotional and personal album. She sang her heart out in between conversations , and she began mustering the courage to let it all out, feel her songs made of love, her growth as an artist and undoubtedly raw self discovery. LIKAS for her was an authentic outlet, so she gives her time to be her truthful self, both as a songwriter and a storyteller. She also worked with several producers such as Adonis Tabanda,whom she worked with for her artistry and sensibility. She also garnered the nod of the 17th PMPC Star Awards for Music, a feat for a very talented person of her age in the industry. 

A few of the songs she sang resonated with me, particularly KABANATA which was about hope, love and longing. There's also NUMERO which was a bit catchy, and HINGA which was a bit of an emotional journey. If you're a bit more involved in OPM, she's got more singles like Darating, Halika, Warmth, Gulong, Bakas, Riversky and Mismo.

You may listen to her songs now on all streaming platforms, or listen to radio stations nationwide by requesting for it. In each single she plans to release, you'll see her vulnerability, and hopeful beginnings. 

If you want to see her perform live, she's having an album launch this coming June 20th at the Viva Cafe in Quezon City. Show starts 7pm and she will be with other special guests to join in on the fun too. LIKAS is her vehicle to make sure you're going to hear more of her songs, and if you're up to it, she's on social media via Ponti Entertainment Productions. Follow Isha's and their account for more information. 

Understanding the Love for Maddox Jewelry

A lot of people are obsessed with Maddox Jewelry, but I couldn't blame them at all. I've been at their Marikina showroom and couldn't believe how much diamond pieces they have there. From simple looking ones, to complicated and posh designs, they have a lot to offer their clients and those finding something that they would love. From classic ones, to those that are trendy, there's always a piece you would like when you get there.

They mostly do transactions online during their live streams via their official Facebook account (https://www.facebook.com/dmaddox.jewelry) , but if you are extra meticulous, they highly suggest you go there via scheduled appointment and in person. If you prefer to combine it with your existing jewelry or watches, you can stack them lightly. Once light hits those stones, don't be surprised when a friend or two would complement you though. 

Maddox Jewelry pieces have always been like that. They wouldn't be this successful if they didn't do it right. Their pieces always go with your personality, they elevate your look and make you feel expensive and polished. Things like these make you feel good. It's also more than just a thing that makes you sparkle. They are statement pieces, something that could give you that glow. They are serious about their craftsmanship, they think about each diamond they set in each piece. They also suggest mild soap and warm water to clean it, because they know you also need to take care of these at home. It sparks joy! 

It's why Maddox Jewelry is worthy of the LOVE it gets (celebrities and a lot of people also do), go take the trip at 1011 J.P. Rizal Street, Concepcion Uno, Marikina City. Make yourself shine even more! 

Hailey's Body Essentials Introduces New Brightening Tawas Powder for the PH Market

A man or a woman's self confidence can really make or break them. In the Philippines, people get shunned by the sight of dark underarms. While for most it's okay, a person's emotions sometimes get the best of you when you become the topic of conversations between friends or family. While it's not right, Filipinas have done a lot to make sure that it doesn't happen to them. Some become okay doing nothing at all, while others have to do magic or mumbo jumbo  Most would prefer something au naturel. This is where Hailey's Body Essentials come in. 

Recently, they launched a new product called Hailey's Brightening Tawas Powder. They made an FDA approved formula that combines the deo ability of natural Tawas, and a light brightening effect in one form. This is also free from parabens, and compliant with ASEAN standards. 

It is also affordable at 18 pesos for a 50 gram tub. There's also a 12 piece pack which you can get for 216 pesos. They also got a promo going on at their TikTok and IG accounts, just use BRIGHTENNOW as your voucher to get 10 pesos off. You can also opt to buy the Buy 12 get 1 promo instead. They also have a running social media contest so read up on their posts. You could get a chance to win months of product supply, and as much as 5000 cash. 

Go use it and see if it works, tons of women got their confidence back with it. Raise those arms and show them off, you deserve to glow!

JANINE GUTIERREZ Signs with STAR MAGIC

She's pretty, fashionable, and ultra talented, but didn't sit at the laurels of her parents Ramon Christopher and Lotlot De Leon. With several awards under her belt, and experience to boot, the gorgeous Janine Gutierrez is now ready to sign with top talent management, Star Magic under ABSCBN. 

Janine says "My role in Dirty Linen was really my dream role. It was a locked in taping, timeless, important and Alexa was really memorable. There's a lot more things I want to do, my next role will be Anna in the Loyalty Game, it's very layered and I'm excited because it is with Jericho again, pretty far from what I'm doing now. I still have Prime Video, I'll show you soon. It's not what you expect for both of us, so that's what is coming up next, plus Cinemalaya with Magiina, with Chery Pie Picache, in a screenplay that is Palanca awardee too. I will be with  Ray Red later this year. I am excited with the way Star Magic mentors their talents, I ask people a lot when deciding things, they've helped a lot of people in the past and I've seen it. I will be guided by them. They have been successful, and I'm looking forward to starting this year with them."

She adds "I am grateful that I have done a lot already but I still have dreams, contract signing with them will make that happen, I have the best people to support me, and Echo, I am surrounded by people that are smarter and more experienced than me. When I was a kid you were all there, and you are still here now!"

Janine also adds "In the beginning it would be negative to ask for help, but now I realize it is an asset for artists to do that. I hope it is one of the things that would make me an even better actress, and a better person. I wish to be part of Filipino projects that would be seen outside the country, I think it's inspiring to see how we will be looked at by people around the world. We have projects to be streamed globally, thank you Prime, and also Balarao on Netflix. I think I know people are helping me right now with my decisions, my family supports me to achieve my dreams. I want to do more, and I even showed my goals with Direk Lauren, and I think he also got pressured after that (she kids)."

You can bet your pretty face that she is going to have more series and movies while under their care. As she also said, she knows how Star Magic actually takes care of their artists. They'll be helping her in career decisions which she says has been a difficult job when she's in new projects. Are you ec

excited to see what she can do now that she is with ABSCBN?

Congratulations Janine! Thank you for being so nice earlier!

KUCHI KUCHI Unleashes New KUCHI KUCHI COOLING POWDER CITRONELLA Variant

When I read about this, I couldn't believe it exists! Best of all, it's made in the Philippines, which is why I'll get some for personal consumption and for my Mom. See, my Mom always complains about how it is super hot in the afternoons, and when she's even doing nothing, she becomes an easy target for mosquitoes, something that she has dreaded for years now. 

Kuchi Kuchi has made a Kuchi Kuchi Cooling Powder that is a Citronella Variant. This means, you get to solve 2 things at the same time,.particularly if it's too HOT (as it gives you the cooling effect) and when there's mosquitoes (as Citronella plants are known for deterring mosquitoes naturally). 

The product is also gentle, easily accessible as it is available in Shopee and Lazada. It comes in 50g and 100g bottles and cost less than a hundred pesos. For those who want a more mortar and pestle style of purchasing, fret not because it'll be available in pharmacies like Mercury Drug, Watsons, Rose Pharmacy, even stores like Puregold, SM Supermarket and Robinsons starting next month. 

Now is the time to put Kuchi Kuchi Cooling Powder Citronella in your go bags, for your Mom or kids, it's FDA approved and safe! Isn't that a good thing?!

MAKANA Set To Do Encore Performance This Weekend!

Seeing the visuals, I already knew this was going to be good. Folks who missed seeing "MAKARA" will have the chance to do so as they do an encore run this coming June 6 and 7 at the Proscenium Theater at Rockwell Center in Makati. 

Described by theater goers as mysterious, haunting and emotionally charged,  you get to see it for only 2 days, and get yourself captivated by this Studio A produced stage production. They've been quite successful even if they've done things by word of mouth, but it needs to be seen by all so you could experience how it feels in their world, that does deserve this repeat. It is immersive, filled with mystery, and drama. You'll be asking yourself some really good questions after the curtains close. 

Fair warning, there are only a few tickets left over at StudioAShows.com. Go get them before they're gone! 

Go watch MAKANA on the weekend!