ELIJAH CANLAS Outs "JosephK" Music Video

This evening was so much fun as we got to spend some time off our regular coverage and see what actor Elijah Canlas is up to. Apparently, the good looking man is wearing another hat as he is given the opportunity to pursue singing and songwriting. He began indulging himself with his type of hip-hop music, and after hearing some of it earlier, we loved every bit of it. The single is called "JosephK", and it's been in his coffers for a while now because of creative reasons. 

Elijah says "I love how they (recording corps) are giving value to the song, it's the least pop single with those that I have, but it is very personal. Thank you to Cornerstone, Project8, Island Records. This is black and white and it's cinematic, really cool."

He adds "JosephK is actually something I didn't want to explain, but for trivia, it's based on the novel called The Trial. It was when he was woken up on his birthday and sent to court, accused of something but never told what it is. Now it's a little grimey (the treatment for the video), I am JosephK. This is just a huge flex, I didn't expect this to happen but thanks to UMG and Island records for pursuing it. I hope it would be listened to by folks around the world and here in the PH. This is special because there's a lot of cameos with my friends. I feel how they love and support me. Direk Dan also conceptualized it, these are people I have worked before, and I am very grateful."

He also mentions "I wrote this in 2021, but it felt like a Christian song, I shelved it because I didn't like how it sounded. I told myself that maybe the right time will come, a better version. I asked other musicians and they said sometimes it takes years to finish a song. It took me 4 days to do this song. Sometimes you just have to listen to it again and change the melody. It's personal and based on the book I mentioned earlier. You can compare that with the lead, and I just changed it into Filipino. I want to have more gigs, to perform more of my songs, take out songs, wrote and make more of it to everyone. I hope to also join UP Fair."

To date, he's got 4 out of 10 tracks that he plans to release. He told us "I think I can do an album. It has a story, collaboration with other artists, then hopefully a concert in the near future. I don't put myself on a pedestal, if you want to know me, listen to my music because it's deeper."

Here's the event as he talks about his music:

The single "JOSEPHK" is now out on digital streaming platforms. If you loved his new songs, you'll love this even more. It also has similarities to Brandy's Full Moon which is a genre they called reverse RnB in the 2000s. I also loved how he kinda mixed Manila sound to his first few songs. I like what I see so far and from the looks of it, Elijah is not done. You're about to see him get even better. He's just starting.

Congratulations Elijah! Happy for you! 

VIBE JOCKS Making Remarkable Noise Over at VIBE: YOU Have The Power To Top The Charts!

You've probably seen it and getting a little too comfy to see VIBE, the new countdown show which premiered last August 9th on TV5 and on several MediaQuest platforms. You've probably seen something like it, but this is totally different as it is people driven, which means YOU have a hand of what particular singer, song, artist, songwriter or prod would take the top spot. Also, they've got some new folks to keep you company in each program on VIBE called VIBE JOCKS, and we met some of them a few days ago.

We met with mogul actor host and my buddy Ryle Santiago, singer and actress Ana Ramsey, good looking actor Kych Minemoto, dancer and actor Paulo Angeles, super good looking dancer actor and host Joao Constancia, the pretty internet star Queenay Mercado, the super talented and RPDR PH Season 3 Queen Maxie Andreison, new actor and commercial model Dylan Menor. Vibe Jock Elijah Canlas was supposed to be there too but he had movie scheds conflicting with the launch. He was VERY present in materials/photos though!

Ryle Santiago as a VIBE JOCK

Ryle has been doing good with his several businesses (oh yes he's handling 3 companies), recently hosting hot shows like Face 2 Face Harapan and acting jobs too.  He says "You know I'm just beginning to grasp how huge this is. I thought it was going to be just another show that I have to host, and you know me, I'm very passionate about what I do. Hearing about who our partners are, how grand of a scale they plan to do with these shows, I am quite shocked because this is going to be a major responsibility for me. It's different from what I've done before. I'm so thankful for "It's Showtime!" for really being my training ground in hosting shows. It gave me my live selling skills and powers to also do Face 2 Face. Vibe is going to be a perfect playground and put everything that I learned into this show. We'll be tackling Filipino music. We're also a countdown show, and will be here every day of the week. From Vibe on weekends, Vibe Up and Vibe Nights on weekdays, Vibe TV on Saturdays and Vibe Cafe online show on Sunday, we're going to have so much fun with VIBE."

He also shared how there's lots of things planned in the pipeline including guests on the show. If you would like an OPM artist to be there and perform, voting for them would certainly make it happen. Much of these things are also live, so it falls on your end to show how much love to give them on the shows.

Here's more of what we talked about on the sidelines:

And that's not all... because you've got more VIBE JOCKS to entertain you all throughout the day. VIBE JOCK Dylan Menor says "I'm very excited about this new project with TV5 and Mediaquest. I believe VIBE is going to be a great platform not just for artists, but those who work behind the music. We'll get to know their stories, see them perform and do things beyond what folks usually see in concerts. That's certainly something that you should look forward to when VIBE arrives on TV and other channels. I like the genre of Gen Z's, but I'm quite open to any genre, I want things that are energetic!"

Joao was quite happy about the fact that fans now have a hand of who will be on the top of the charts. The shows will also be a good platform not just for established artists, but the indie, new and up and coming ones too. He's quite confident that there are so many OPM artists out there that can really challenge not just themselves but those who have big fan groups because they'll also get to listen to the others. This platform is for them too. They're also keen on performing on the shows because they will have a chance to do that if the opportunity arises. They are also excited to get to know the artists through their interviews. 

We asked Maxie about having representation as a VIBE JOCK, but says this wasn't something that she would be nervous about. She's more proud in some way because she gets to represent those who wish to be in the same shoes. She lauds the production of VIBE because they're very progressive to include her as a VIBE JOCK. Thing is, she's going to switch between Maxie and Jhayvot when she feels like it, so there's going to be so much fun that folks will look forward to when she hosts the shows. 

Pao and Ryle may have had experience hosting online and TV shows in the past but they both consider VIBE very different because it's going to be more on the art side of things while they're doing the programs. Pao knows they're also there to promote OPM music, the artists and the show so he's very eager to point that out in both the afternoon and evening shows.  Anna Ramsey also said that she feels so right at home because the work they've done so far wasn't too stressful, it was smooth sailing since day 1 and she hopes to continue to have that work ethic all throughout the show's duration. For her, the work is light and felt very happy because they've grown very close as the launch comes near. As early as now, the jokes kept being thrown around by the other jocks and she feels it's going to happen quite often once the live shows become a regular thing.  

Queenay said that she's quite grateful that she's being given the opportunity to become part of these shows. She knows that the responsibility to do the show is huge and says this wouldn't be given to her if the one above knows that she wouldn't be able to do it. She's happy that there will be a connection with the fans and is excited how the voting will affect the concept of the show. 

Kych is quite a happy chap and feels so elated to become part of these jocks. Since he's quite experienced with podcasts, he's got a lot to bring to the table. Plus, he's such a huge fan of Filipino music and knowing that they've got the chance to talk to the OPM artists appearing on their shows, this will be the best platform to get to know them even more. The newcomers will also have the opportunity to be in the show and will give more exposure for them in the long run.  

Here's what we talked about during the press conference: 

So if you're raring to see how your favorite Filipino and OPM artists are going to fare on the show, make sure to follow their social channels, TV5 and other MediaQuest channels because it's going to be fun! It's time you put your idols into the charts, support them by watching the shows every day and vote for them on FB or the other ways to support. So far, I've managed to watch several these past few days and I can say, I'm hooked! I feel their VIBE!

Elijah Canlas Joins CORNERSTONE Entertainment

From hit digital series to several TV shows and film, Elijah Canlas has proven his worth. With the young actor's very promising career that's still continously growing, he now joins Cornerstone Entertainment to manage his career form hereon.

For those who don't know, he starred with Kokoy de Santos in the worldwide hit BL series Gameboys. Aside from that, he also was in Direk Perci Intalan's "Unconditional', Direk Jun Lana's "KALEL, 15" and Jason Paul Laxamana's "He Who is Without Sin" among others. He's already won accolades left and right and soon will be doing "Keys to the Heart", a Philippine adaptation to the hit Korean series which will be done together with Zanjoe Marudo under Reality MM Studios. This will be directed by Kerwin Go who did Mina Anud in 2019. Elijah will also reprise the role of Paciano in historical piece "GomBurZa".  

He's going to be with other world class artists in the Cornerstone Entertainment group and plans are surely head way for more films, shows for Elijah. Hopefully this will mean more opportunities for the talented guy because he's definitely worked hard for it.

See you soon and congratulations Elijah!

AGA MULACH, ELIJAH CANLAS on Father and Son Film Series "Suntok Sa Buwan"

It's been a while since we've had the pleasure of seeing Aga Mulach on television. The iconic leading man, 80's hearthrob and prime actor is now going to work with one of the most promising award winning actors in the country Elijah Canlas. The series is called "Suntok Sa Buwan", it's like a movie made for TV produced by Antonette Jadaone and Dan Villegas which will premiere in Cignal's channels and their other properties.

Robert P. Galang says "Aga, Elijah, Direk Antoinette, I'm glad to introduce to you Cignal's newest project. This is produced by Jadaone and Dan Villegas. High quality content and best talents in the business. Congrats on the cast and team, we can't wait for everyone to see this first of the kind Movie-Serye"

It's a father and son story, which you will see set in a rural area. With his love, he did crimes so he could be with his Dad inside the jail. It's all about doing the impossible things. Jimmy Boy is the Father of Dos, a yes man who was very popular in the valley of colors. Dos wants to continue what his Dad's dreams were, hence the boxing scenes and training in this film.

Aga says "Everyone had to shine, we have to think about our viewers. They are shooting this like a film. You do your best and leave the rest to them. I hope they love what they will see in this film serye. The best part is accepting the role, everything was nice from there. At first I was a little nervous because it's been a while but when you see this, you will be hooked. The best part is being offered the role, and being able to work with the cast. I also love how the training went and I'm excited to see this be shown on TV5. When they offered this to me, I wanted Baguio to be the location. I really was impressed how different this was and how it does fit me. It"s unbelievable that this is going to happen. I know people will love this."

About him working with Elijah, he says "I'm happy when I saw him during the look test, I find him really kind."

Elijah says "When I saw Kuya Aga, I felt relaxed and at ease with him. I admit I was very nervous at first but he got in touch prior to our first meet, this was before the screen test. I got a text from him calling me as his son, that made me really look forward working with him."

This is Directed by Geo Lomuntad and Produced by Project 8 Projects and Cignal Entertainment which I mentioned earlier. For those who would want to see it this month, it'll start on July 18 on TV5 at 7:15 PM. Then the next episodes on the same days after that.

A Realistic and Endearing Family Drama: MISIS PIGGY on iWantTFC

Got to watch MISIS PIGGY a few days ago. This was during the press screening which happened over the weekend. This is first and foremost a family story, albeit somewhat dysfunctional because of their separation (Marivic and Rupert played by Ms. Sylvia Sanchez and Ricky Davao), you can still feel how the love for each other surfaces when they need it.

If you were in the shoes of Lani, Steffi and Jeffrey (played by Ria Atayde, Iana Bernardez and Elijah Canlas), you would be hungry for a Father's love but have to remain understanding because your folks relationship didn't really end well. It wouldn't be a easy to balance when and where your Dad would become present if you had special occasions and this is where you'll look like you have to balance things so as not to hurt your Mom who's been with you for a long time and your Dad who just came into the picture. Ria Atayde tries to reason out as Lani but it will eventually fall on deaf ears with Marivic (her real life Mom Ms. Sylvia). I am really excited to see how their dynamics would eventually pan out as they started leaving their Mom's house after interacting with their Dad during the graduation of Jeffrey. I like the sub plots too which BL lovers would adore, plus the whole drama scenes with Lani and her Dad Rupert at the swimming pool which you should look forward to.

Ria was supported by good friends Kyle Echarri and Darren Espanto

 

The advanced screening only had us watch about 2 episodes and I wouldn't want to spoil things, but honestly Ms. Sylvia Sanchez is a given, but this would be a huge opportunity for Ria Atayde, Iana Bernardez and Elijah Canlas to showcase their acting prowess. The first few episodes have proven they are at par, or gave even more what the role asked for.  Go watch it on iWantTFC today because you'll be touched by the story. You can download the app now on Google Play or App Store, or just watch it on their website.

Congratulations to everyone who is a part of this series, can't wait for the next few episodes. I'm sure it'll be good!

Kokoy De Santos Chooses Who To Love in OH MANDO!

We spent this evening talking to the Director and actors of the upcoming series OH MANDO! which stars current King of BL Kokoy De Santos and hot guy Alex Diaz and lovely Barbie Imperial. This series will be shown tomorrow on the iWantTFC platform and if you haven't downloaded that yet, please do so you can watch this series which was shot before the lockdown happened in Manila.

During the blogcon, Barbie was asked about the challenges she had to go through during the pandemic and she says "The most challenging part was being away from my family and what's important is that I am keeping my job so I can earn for my family too. Until now I have family in Albay and Catanduanes, I am afraid of knowing what happened to them. It's different now, I don't think I would be able to go back home for Christmas because of the way things are. I don't even know if permits are needed, I'm a bit happy now though because my Mom and my brother are here with me." awww that's nice to know.

Barbie was also asked about what she has learned doing this role and if she had to choose a person to love in real life... and she says "For me, I don't mind if you're straight or not, as long as they respect me, I'm a bit bakla in real life and people don't know that. I am very open, I grew up in the streets, as long as I'm not being looked down upon I am okay. As long as that person likes you, love has no gender."

Alex was asked about what he learned from his character and he says "Oh Mando means love is love is love. It has brought us to a place where we always think about what other people would say, and for me, I have gotten to a point where I don't care anymore as long as I'm not stepping on anybody's toes, I'm fine. We just have to make sure we love as much as we can."

 Kokoy says "I know love has no gender, romantic or not, you can't stop that because we all are human. Don't stop yourself from doing that. I have always wished for projects like these, something that has a twist, a romcom, so I did try out for it. This is so satisfying to do as an actor, to work with them all, I am so thankful for that. This is a family related series, my decisions also have them in mind so I would never do something that wouldn't benefit them."

Here's what happened during the blogcon, so make sure you do download the iWant TFC app and get your subscription going. This would be so nice to watch starting tomorrow!

GAMEBOYS' Elijah Canlas: In the shoes of Cai Lazaro

Elijah taking a dip.

(Photo credits: Photo is from Elijah Canlas' IG post, not mine)

Kokoy De Santos and Elijah Canlas have done several films already and this digital Filipino BL (boys love) series have made everyone stick to their phones, tablets and PC's over several months, obsessed with the show called GAMEBOYS. 

It's timely, current, and discusses tons of issues so people have been able to relate to it. Aside from that, their story continues to blossom, putting spins to run of the mill hetero kind of relationships and opens a whole world of possibilities on LOVE. It doesn't go without hitches of course because along the way, friends, exes, comebacks, always had to ruin things for them. Fret not, as they will keep you at the edge of your seats and give you more reasons to see if CaiReel (Cairo and Gavreel) will eventually end up together. We all want that to happen.

I have already asked Kokoy De Santos about the show and this time, we're asking Elijah Canlas about his embodiment of Cairo Lazaro. He is the gamer who fell in the hands of Gavreel played by Kokoy De Santos. Will he get charmed and tell the truth about his feelings? Or will he be holding back and suffer in the end? 

I had the chance to interview you for your film Kalel,15, a very daring role. How did you get picked for Gameboys?

I don’t really know why Direk Jun and Perci picked me exactly but I’ve been blessed enough to be a part of The IdeaFirst family ever since late-2018. I’m also grateful for the trust the whole team has given me.

Have you worked with Kokoy before? How is he as a person?

Yup. I’ve worked with Kokoy before for Petersen Vargas’ Some Nights I Feel Like Walking. He’s definitely fun to be around with. He’s not far off from Gavreel’s personality also but I’d say he’s much more than that.

Who is Cairo for you?

Cairo is definitely one of the hardest roles I’ve had to portray. Me and Cairo have a love and hate relationship. But I’ve grown to love and appreciate him more now. I

always work hard and strive for a performance that justifies representation the best I can. There’s always immense pressure in portraying a character who is dear to the LGBTQIA+ community.

Who in Cai’s eyes is Gavreel? Who/what is he to you? Do you think Kokoy is doing a good job portraying Gav?

Gavreel is the most pleasant surprise in Cairo’s life. Though annoying and aggressive, Cairo appreciates the company and attention Gavreel gives him. He’s never felt a connection as deep as what he’s getting with Gav. He may deny it, but Gav brings light to his life. That sometimes scares him. There is no one else to play Gavreel other than Kokoy, no doubt. He delivers a performance that would instantly give you butterflies in your stomach with every line.

What do you think made Gav fall in love with Cai?

I think it’s Cairo’s mysteriousness. You never know what he’s thinking. I would say that Cairo has this innocence that makes him seem charming. And just like what Terrence said (during Ep5), Gav loves the challenge of courting a guy who’s hard to get.

Do you think Gav is sexy? Do you think Cai is sexy? In what way? (Rate for 1-10, indicate the sexiest part of your body)

Gav is.... sexy... I guess. Next question! Cai can be sexy sometimes. When he pushes his hair back, and gives you that intimidating look. (10/10 they’re my lips, people usually say they’re so kissable.)

Would you want your own Pearl? Why?

Definitely! We all need a supportive friend who genuinely cares for our well-being and the state of the country.

The show made so many people emotional in your latest episode, you guys are so effective in portraying your roles, where would you like to take Cai’s character? Would you want them to end up together (Are you also rooting for them?)? Why?

I would want Cai to be more decisive and mature. And eventually go to outer space (he kids).

Of course, I want Cai and Gav to end up together! Who doesn’t want a happy ending for these two!

Speaking as Cai, would you love someone like Gav?

To be honest.... maybe... I don’t know!

Did this show change your perspective about love? Was it different prior to starting this show? What’s your message to the fans ofthe show?

This show hasn’t changed my perspective at all. I’ve always been a firm believer of people having the right to love in all ways. It’s sad how our brothers and sisters from

the LGBTQIA+ community continue to face stigma and discrimination to this day and still don’t have the rights they deserve. Everyone should have the right to love.

This is why I’m proud to be a part of this show because it helps in normalizing stories like these. Because there’s no difference between Gameboys and every conventional romantic story out there. They’re all stories about love.

Thank you to everyone who’s been watching and supporting Gameboys! You guys make everything worth it, and we really appreciate it. We have a long way to go! I have so much love for each and everyone of you and I hope we’re able to entertain you despite all the chaos that’s been happening in the world today. Always stay safe and stay sane! Hope to meet all of you soon!

They will be showing Episode 7 this Friday, 8pm at the official The IdeaFirst Company YouTube channel. Make sure to be there to witness what will happen between Gavreel and Cairo's story, he might just admit he loves Gav in front of his ex. Perhaps, you'll see a happy ending as Elijah always wanted too. 

Again, I would like to thank MediaXchange and The IdeaFirst Company for accommodating my request to interview these guys. Thank you also to Kokoy and Elijah for being so nice, hats off to you for not only being so smart answering my questions, hope to see you soon!

PS Fans are going bonkers with Kokoy admitting a relationship with Elijah on CNN, but he said CHARENG. These guys are so funny!

Hope I'd be able to talk to Adrianna So aka Pearl and ask about her upcoming series. She just admitted doing a GL on Twitter, this is interesting!

Get To Know GAMEBOYS' Kokoy De Santos

(Photo credits: Courtesy of Kokoy De Santos' IG post)

If you haven't seen their show, you must be living under a rock. They've been really popular all over social media, and getting hundreds of thousands of views on YouTube earmarks the success of the series called GAMEBOYS. It's a home grown Pinoy BL series (Boys Love) which was done while everyone was under ECQ. It kept everyone glued to their phones, PC's and laptops, so I was really interested about how they personally felt about playing their characters. 

GAMEBOYS lead stars Elijah Canlas and Kokoy De Santos really piqued the interest of viewers as each episode unfold at 8pm every Friday at the IdeaFirst Company's official YouTube channel and they've confirmed that it will end on Episode 10. I sent Kokoy De Santos some questions so you could get to know them more. It was very interesting to see how he answered them.

How did you get involved with GAMEBOYS?

Nagsimula po ang lahat nung tinawagan ako ng The Idea First Company, inoffer nila sakin yung project, kwinento nila sakin yung role, and i just fell in love with it!

(It started with a call from The IdeaFirst Company who offered me this project, they told me about the role and I just fell in love with it!)

Can you tell us a little bit about your filming process?

Nakakapanibago, nag-shoot kami sa kanya-kanyang tahanan. Challenging, nakakapagod pero sobrang rewarding. Just enjoying the process!

(It was all new to me because we had to shoot scenes at home. It was challenging, tiring at times, but super rewarding. I am just enjoying the process!)

How did you guys make this all possible?

Sa tulong po ng aming Direktor at ang buong Production, syempre kasama din ang aming mga pamilya.

(With the help of our Director, the whole production, and our family)

This show is breaking ground on so many issues, what made you say yes to it?

Mas nandoon lang po ako sa positive side, always! Sobrang happy ako kasi madami po ang nakaka-appreciate ng aming series.

(I am just on the positive side of things, always! I am so happy that there are a lot of people who appreciate our series)

Do you enjoy doing Gavreel’s character? Who is he to you?

Sobra.. kasi marami kaming pagkakapareho po ni Gavreel. As in!

(A lot. Because Gavreel and I have so much in common)

Do you think Gav is sexy?

Funny is the new sexy?I guess? Hahaha!

Do you think Cai is sexy?

Of course! Yun lang! Naman po.

(Of course! That's it!)

In what way? (Rate for 1-10, indicate the sexiest part of your body)

Lips? 5 po? Sakto lang.

(My lips, it's a 5. Just enough)

How much of him are you in real life?

Hmmm. Sobra po. Marami talaga kaming pagkakapareho.

(Hmmm. We really have a lot in common.)

Did you know Elijah prior to doing this project?

Yes nagkasama nadin kami sa isang proyekto. At magkaibigan talaga kami.

(Yes we had a previous project. We are friends in real life)

What was your firstimpression of him?

Tahimik. Pero magaling na aktor kasi talaga tong si Elijah eh.

(Very meek. But Elijah is really a good actor.)

Do you think he’s doing a good job playing Cairo?

Naman! Hindi po mag-wowork lahat ng to, kung hindi din dahil sa kaniya.

(Of course! This wouldn't have worked if it weren't for him.)

If you were Gav, what would be the characteristics of your ideal guy?

Cute, matalino at maginoo pero medyo bastos.

(Cute, intelligent, gentlemanly but a little naughty.)

What’s your impression of Pearl’s character?

Cute!!!! Super cute talaga niya. Sobrang bagay si Adrianna sa role!

(Cute!!!! She is super cute! Adrianna was really fit for the role!)

Adrianna So has been lauded for her performance in this show, how important is she to Gav?

Hindi lang siya kay Gav importante, sa lahat ng characters. Kasi siya ang nagiging tulay namin ni Baby Cairo.

(She was not just important for Have, but for all the characters. It's because she was the bridge between me and my Baby Cairo.)

If you had one wish for Gav’s character, what would it be and why?

Wala nakong hihilingin pa, tingin ko. Tamang tama na yung timpla.

(I couldn't ask for anything more. I think he's just right.)

Fans are eager to see you end up together, cliche as it sounds, I want to ask you, has this show changed your perspective about love? What’s your message to

the fans ofthe show?

"Tingin ko hindi nagbago yung pananaw ko sa love, mas lalo lang akong naniwala na ang LOVE ay malaking part satin bilang mga tao, para maging proud, masaya, malaya at mabuhay."

"Gusto ko lang po magsalamat sa walang sawang suporta ninyo sa amin. Mahal ko kayong lahat!"

(I think my point of view about love didn't change, it made me believe even more and how big it is for us as humans. To be proud, to be happy, to live freely!)

(I would just like to thank you all for your support. I love you all!)

It was so nice and refreshing to hear him answer as Gav, no wonder a lot of people love Kokoy's character in the series. There are still a few more episodes left, I know you are excited for Part 7 this Friday, make sure you're there at 8pm. For fans of Adrianna So, I'll try to make arrangements to interview her perhaps on a later date!

Aside from this interview, we also talked to Elijah Canlas. Make sure you read that too in our next post! Stay tuned! 

PS. Thank you so much to MediaXChange and The IdeaFirst Company for helping us connect with Kokoy and Elijah! You guys rock!