Jun Lana's "Anino Sa Likod ng Buwan" Gets Theater Run at PETA

Director Jun Lana has already proven that the Filipino talent in film is world class. His 2015 film called "Anino Sa Likod ng Buwan" which he wrote as a budding screenplay writer at 19 already drew accolades for him internationally. And yes, it's celebrating its 10th Anniversary this year which means a proper change would be the best way to do it.

Today, they gave us an opportunity to see a theater adaptation of it in bare form. After a grueling 4 month intense prep, they got us ready for this drama and sociopolitical piece starring theater actors Elora Espano, Ross Pesigan and Kapuso Prime Star Martin del Rosario. Edward Benosa, Denise Esteban and Vincent Pajara will be their understudies, you will get to catch them on different dates. This is Directed by Tuxqs Rutaquio who's also not a stranger in the theater scene in the Philippines. The play is produced by IdeaFirst Live which is a new theater arm of the IdeaFirst Company.

"Anino Sa Likod ng Buwan" is a story that revolves around the lives of Emma, Nardo and Joel. Emma and Nardo are husband and wife, and because of some matters regarding war torn villages and them becoming evacuees, they had to seek refuge in a house near an army barracks where they met Joel. They became friends, and then things got complicated along the way (Of course I can't spoil that for you!). They have remained loyal to the plot of the film, and I think it felt a bit more raw when these guys did it on stage (which I felt was better). Because of the distance (from stage to crowd), you'll feel involved in much of the conflicts they'd dish out on scenes. And we're not talking about simple family drama here, but more of the armed struggle and how their lives have been affected by it.

If you also remember the film, there are going to be some raunchy scenes... and the theater version didn't hold back on that. While it was necessary, it didn't get smoke screened as it was an inevitable tool for either advancing their self interests, love, or just plain lust. You'll certainly have to expect some twists and turns, and even those who didn't get to watch it, would understand and make their own assumptions about each character they play. This is intended for mature audiences, and would probably spark conversation about how it still mirrors society today... even if the story was made a decade ago.

Adrian Alandy was there too (he played the original Joel in the film), and it was certainly nice to see him enjoy the reprisal of his character and the theater version of it.

Direk Tuxqs says "This is just a bare bone, stripped down version of the show. We will be showing this at the PETA Theater on March 1st and perform 4 times a week til the 23rd of the same month. You will see the full production with bells and whistles there. We couldn't wait to share it with you as we've been preparing this for over 4 months. We hope this preview would provide more excitement for those who wish to see it soon. We have poured our heart and soul into it."

Direk Perci Intalan added "Thank you all for coming tonight, our official run will be in March, and tonight's performance marks a significant moment in Direk Jun Lana's journey. We are celebrating the 10th anniversary of it. It is still a groundbreaking film, from an international premier, this is part of what we are doing at IdeaFirst Live. Thank you Direk Tuxqs and our playwright Jun Lana. It has come full circle, from winning in 1993, it is back on stage to resonate even more with audiences. We hope you were moved and challenged, this is our debut production with IdeaFirst Live!"

Direk Jun Lana says "If you liked the movie, please tell your friends, your family about this play. We hope more people would be able to see and enjoy it. It is relevant because of what is happening in the Philippines and around the world."

Here's what happened at the press conference this evening:

While this is Martin del Rosario's first foray into theater, he didn't even stutter in any of his lines. This is also quite lengthy, I'd reckon they probably have nightmares seeing a deck of paper when their scripts were given out because it all happened in one take in the movie, it's probably going to be as complicated and even harder to do since they had to project a bit on stage so the people at the back would feel the same as the ones in front. 

I am quite impressed, a drama that could get me interested that long must mean they've got something good up their sleeves. They also plan to do a Die Beautiful play soon, it's good, and it'll be even better when the curtains go up! If you want to purchase tickets, just search via the Ticket2Me app or bit.ly/aninobulkbuyingpackages for bulk purchases. You won't regret it!

Sparkle Artists Shine at SIGNED FOR STARDOM 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Alden Richards for The Gift

This will show on September 16, a few of you have it already tweeted I’m sure.

Alden says “This is the first time I am portraying a blind character. Jo Berry will play my Mom and the fear here is not doing other characters you could explore with. My grandparents are my inspiration especially in my life. This story affected me so much because the story is hopeful, regardless of circumstances.”

We saw the first few episodes, much like a long trailer. They took time establishing the characters back story, why he ended up with his Mom and the whole tragedy that happened with his life. Add to that the fun things he’ll do with his love life, oh yeah he’s going to have that happen a few days. Until something abrupt happens. It will change his life... and destiny.

The cast includes Jo Berry, Elizabeth Oropesa, Jean Garcia, TJ Trinidad, Mikee Quintos, Mikoy Morales, Martin Del Rosario, Christian Vasquez, Betong Sumaya, Rochelle Pangilinan, Tetay, Luz Valdez, Victor Anastacio, Isabelle Ortega, and Thia Thomalia.

Check out our coverage here from the September reveal last night!

Make sure you stay tuned on GMA this September 16, you wouldn’t want to miss Alden of course!

10 Reasons To Watch BORN BEAUTIFUL

Okay, I think it’s about time you get ready for this wonderful film by Direk Jun Lana and Perci Intalan which had us all at the edge of our seats with the tons of trailers they came out with. I was hoping to see this last MMFF but as Direk Perci told me, they will have their time. I was one of the few people invited to see the film’s UNCUT version last week, so here’s 10 reasons why you should watch BORN BEAUTIFUL.

1. This is a SEQUEL. The highly successful DIE BEAUTIFUL needs to be continued and this did not disappoint.

2. Martin Del Rosario as Barbs is eye candy. He fits the role like a glove, because if it’s not him it wouldn’t be believable why Barbs always wins in beaucons. There I said it.

3. Lou Veloso is a very good actor then, he’s greater now. You will love his quirks, how motherly and forgiving he has been not just for Barbs, but for every gay person she’s welcomed to her home and business. You will love her even more in confrontations, she’ll blurt out expletives like breakfast, tons of it.

4. Paolo Ballesteros is also here. His character Trisha is no small role, in fact he feels like a highlight in this film even if it was a few cameos. He comes armed with the makeup transformations he’s known for. This time though, it will be iconic, it will be controversial, it will stir emotions of the conservative, religious, but he explained well why he did it (as part of the conversation).

5. Kiko Matos is ANIMALISTIC. He’s the rough and tough guy you always fantasized about. He did it and Barbs liked it. Maybe because there’s just too much tongue all round lol. Even if it was traumatic in the beginning and all the friends warned her about him, she chose to be with him still. Until when? That remains to be seen when you watch this film.

6. Akihiro Blanco is the ROMANTIC type. I must say, I didn’t expect him to do the things he did in this film because he’s always been the goody two shoes, the guy who wouldn’t dare do it with a guy, but he gave himself for the craft and I think I heard several shrieks in the front row (from his fans) who actually felt it was a romantic scene every time he appeared with Barbs on screen. That is a good measure of his capability as an actor, I personally also am rooting for Barbs and him to be paired in the movie given the circumstances (which you will see in the movie). This actually happens in real life and this was a tough way to bring it out in the open.

7. Jun Lana and Perci Intalan are geniuses. As Direk Jun puts it he says “We do not make films to be SAFE. If you make a film, you must step on something. If that’s what you want then let’s not make films anymore.” That for me is a tough and bold statement, I can’t wait to see what they have in the series through Cignal.

8. VJ Mendoza (albeit shortlived) have delivered strongly as Princess. The comedic punches in this movie was an opportunity to show how crafty people are and have that sense of TIMING. He did good, also the whole cast so prepare yourself laughing continuously on some instances.

9. This movie will educate you about OPEN relationships, how to LOVE as much as you can. It also discusses about false religious groups, abuses, mature stuff not normally discussed in classrooms. I hope this would be allowed to be viewed R-16 as they are appealing I think. The uncut version wasn’t as harsh or overly matured as I thought it would be. MTRCB should reconsider.

10. It is worth every penny you will spend for a movie ticket, I even can say they have given even MORE in this sequel. I would highly suggest you bring yourself, your straight friends, your LGBTQ+ people because this would be something people could LEARN from aside from getting the entertainment value it brings.

Born Beautiful is also being planned to be shown as a series in CIGNAL very soon. Before that, you should take the time to watch it this January 23, 2019. This again is written by Direk Jun Lana, done by Screenwriter Rody Vera, Elmer Gatchalian, Ivan Andrew Payawal and Fatrick Tabada. This is produced by CIGNAL Entertainment, Octobertrain Films and The IdeaFirst Company. Some scenes will be bleeped on the regular screening, but you will still have the story told.

Congratulations to the men, women, LGBTQ+ people who made this what it is. 9/10 for me.

GMA Outs First Advocaserye “Hindi Ko Kayang Iwan Ka!”

Love is happiness, love is dreamy, but what if you suddenly found out that you have HIV? Will that be the end of your relationship? Will that mean the end of your existence? What would be more painful than having it? What if you didn’t know how you got it? That’s exactly what this show will try to answer. This is “Hindi Ko Kayang Iwan Ka!”

To inspire, to make you understand what an HIV positive person would go through while living with the virus. I think this is but a noble thing to do now that the statistics shows how huge HIV incidents happen in the Philippines. This is what they call an “advocaserye” (a series about an advocacy) and it’s starred by Yasmien Kurdi, Mike Tan, Martin Del Rosario.

Milo Alto Paz the show’s Executive Producer says “It’s not your usual drama, the incidents are high and people should be aware to actually make this successful and we hope you create a lot of noise so people would know more about it.”

Martin del Rosario says “Supporting this advocacy will help a lot of people, and I hope you enjoy watching the show.”

Mike Tan adds “I hope you get something more out of the episode, we hope you can help us spread the word about the show because it’s an advocacy which GMA spearheads. It’s like a documentary and people would want to watch this, it will help them to understand it and know how to help.”

Yasmien Kurdi says “I am so nervous, but excited at the same time for you to see what we’ve done for the past few months. On February 26, please help us through social media and help us make this known through your blogs so people would be able to read about it and watch our show.”

We watched the first episode ahead of everyone this afternoon and it’s quite nice to actually see how it all started. You’ll also get to know how each individual character would get connected, as Mike Tan says fate has a lot to do with how people meet. It’s a very complicated story to tell because the topic alone means you have to explain things. You have to be patient, but be prepared also to get butterflies when Marco and Thea’s love story begins.

Ms. Gina Alajar (Marco’s Mom) and Jackie Rice (Eva is Marco’s Girlfriend) will be making the whole thing miserable. Watch out for instances where they’ll be slapping them around silly... because it will happen and the prejudice against HIV patients is real. Watch out for the show during GMA’s Afternoon Prime starting February 26.

KUMAGCOW

Fresh Blogs Fast!

In the pool with Martin Del Rosario

Had to run from BGC to Quezon City a few days ago to be with Martin Del Rosario. It's his birthday and I was so ecstatic to see him because it's been a while since I last interviewed him. What I'm so glad about is that whenever you see him, it's like you're old friends and it's like you're just starting where you left off. 

It's his birthday too and in the last few years he's done a couple of things for special education kids, charities, he also had us in his bar The Armory in Congressional Avenue in Quezon City (which by the way is the number one bar in this district) but he felt he needed to experience something new this year with no less but his closest fans. Where else to do that but the Swimming Pool of Ace Water Spa in Quezon City. 

This place is pretty nice, it's got several places to relax and get water massages, a jacuzzi like pool, then a lap pool where Martin is going to be with his fans this afternoon.

He immediately waved at me when he saw me taking photos. See what I mean about him being a long lost friend? That's exactly how it felt. He definitely is very down to earth, I really like him because of that.

They were taught by a professional swimming instructor, honestly I was envious because I still don't know how to swim. They on the other hand were enjoying the time with Martin and practically now learning a new skill.

Here's good looking Joshua Jacobe too who hosted the event. As mentioned in earlier events, this guy is just getting so good at this, I could tell because he's cracking jokes now while making a spiel LOL. He's probably going to host shows soon too.

So now is the time to get serious, so we got Martin in one shallow part of the pool and asked him about his current projects. Of course we didn't forget to take photos of the puppy eyed guy so you can also marvel how cute he is. So aside from updates about his business, he's keeping himself busy with a new show on GMA called "HINDI KO KAYANG IWAN KA!" (I can't leave you!) which will be replacing the hit series with Kris Bernal called Impostora. The show was extended so theirs will start as soon as that show ends. We also have it on video, but we have a separate one which we will release soon (if we get permission). In the meantime enjoy Martin while beside the pool.

GMA Artist Center would loke to thank Goldilocks and ACE Water Spa for supporting this event. Male sure you stay tuned with Martin's new show and upcoming movies, you'll surely love him even more as soon as some of them come out. Congratulations Martin! I couldn't be more proud of the things you are doing now and the plans you have for yourself in the future! Continue to be humble, as hou'll be successful every time you need to because you're a good man. That takes a lot!

Ryza Cenon and Martin Del Rosario for "Ang Manananggal Sa Unit 23B"

I am typing these thoughts at 3AM. I just watched the Ryza Cenon and Martin Del Rosario starrer for the QC International Film Festival entry called "Ang Mananananggal sa Unit 23B". I thought it was going to be a run of the mill horror story that we always watch during this season, but alas, that wasn't the case at all.

The supposed freak show turned into a light plotted romantic film. I was giddy seeing how the love blossomed between Nico and Jewel, and how it almost failed in the end. 

Humor wise, I would really want to give props to Ms. Vangie Labalan for doing such a good work on the grandma role, she had us love her character which was so cute and endearing.

I could feel Ryza Cenon struggle really hard on that run of the mill painful transformation to a mythical monster, she did good as Jewel and if there's one thing I would want her character to do, it's a successful love making session with Nico. Not to spoil anything but I don't really find this movie scary at all, but more "cute" in a way.... plus a little bloody with the way things turned out for the lead roles. I think that was on purpose too, a little thinking wouldn't really matter much to capable audiences.

Here's our short interview before the film was shown in Robinsons Galleria.

I went home wanting to congratulate the two who saw the film with us a few rows back but they were already whisked away for work and perhaps more screenings the next day. I couldn't be prouder for Martin Del Rosario, if I would have not known these artists personally I swear there must have been something going on with them romantically judging from the film. It's very current too as it touches on Extra Judicial Killings, not on the President or any names though.

Think of horror, but see something cute, if that's making you think about seeing this film, nobody is stopping you. As for me, I find it good to watch with friends and your girlfriend. Go to Trinoma, Gateway Mall, Robinsons Galleria and UP Town Center. It's totally worth it! You'll end up smiling like I did. For the ladies, pretty soon you'll love wearing red nails. Watch the film and it'll tell you why.

For more information about their artists:

Official GMA Artist Center

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http://gmanetwork.com/artistcenter

VOTE Team Boys as GMA Artists Promote Heart Over Hate

It's only a few hours to go, but may I ask you to support our cause?

You see, some people have this undoubtedly crazy notion that they can actually hide behind keyboards and bash people. This has really got to stop. I'm okay with constructive criticism but if it's already hurting the person, that's not right. 

I'm blessed to have been able to work with GMA Artist Center's Martin Del Rosario, Phytos Ramirez, Ken Chan and Derrick Monasterio. Our campaign sounds off what we want to happen in cyberspace, to be safe, to remain positive, so we're choosing Heart over Hate. 

You can start helping by making your friends and family know that it's not okay to say hurtful words online. You can start with your own circle and tell them to do the same to other people so they can pay it forward. Be nice, be responsible online and hope our little work would be something you'll love while you're doing this deed.

As a treat, here's a small something I prepared during our shoot. Hope you get to also vote for TEAM BOYS over at www.gmanetwork.com/BSCVOTE now til 12 AM!

For more information about their artists:

Official GMA Artist Center

Like them on Facebook


Visit their official website

http://gmanetwork.com/artistcenter

Martin Del Rosario Means Business: THE ARMORY in QC

The last time I talked to Martin Del Rosario was during a charity birthday party held last year. He's one of the most impressive actors in the stable of GMA and with good reason. He's never held back in BENCH Body photo shoots either and was dubbed once as an "unbelievable subject" during the last Denim and Underwear show of the same brand. He's also gone through a lot of shows, done extremely well with drama, even if it requires him to play homo roles, with or lesser clothing. 

He just finished a series on GMA and had a short break for a couple of weeks. He made sure he got to spend these few days wisely and put it to good use. Martin together with his partners just opened a bar at Congressional Avenue Extension in Quezon City called THE ARMORY. With the congested Makati scene and pretty toxic Tomas Morato area, he wanted people in this side of Quezon City to have their own hangout and he did it with good research.

The Interiors

Martin used to always go to BGC and Makati just to go to bars that serve excellent drinks. The problem is, it is really far and it takes hours just to go to and from those clubs. Not to mention how pricey the drinks were each time they order off the bar. He's just like most of us in QC, much like his partners. We want to take it easy, have a place to chill, have fun, wanted it affordable, plus really close to where we lived. This is where THE ARMORY was born.

THE ARMORY is divided into two areas. The one upstairs is for dance music, where they play the best in the music charts. Expect the second floor to be a little more intense, VERY PACKED til the wee hours of the morning. They've got a few tables, but most of the folks are really gonna dance so it won't be a walk in the park to find seating. The bar they have upstairs and downstairs only serve drinks, so don't expect food to be served in the first few months. They're building a kitchen outside via a Volkswagen which will serve streetfood and small bar chows that would be easy to serve and fast. Downstairs is a space they call BUNKER which houses their main bar, plus a couple of tables so people could chill, talk and listen to music. By design, they wanted this to replicate a warehouse, something raw and industrial but NOT intimidating. They want younger people to frequent the place and not think that it isn't a place to hang out because it would look pricey. They've done a remarkable job in that part. They're also planning to build an extension up front with more tables, seats, with just easy listening music. That will be built perhaps within this year. That's the same period where Martin and his partners wanted to get the return of their investments, it's quite achievable judging from the people going to the place these days.

Martin will be still prioritizing his career just like his partners, but assure that they're running this business with their eyes on it. You'll even get the chance to see Martin himself man the bar when he's free, whenever he can.

Here's our interview with Martin that evening. We got the chance to talk to him before chaos ensued.

Part 1



Part 2



The Drinks

If I were to recommend a drink, this is it. It's the White Sangria. Martin and his partners hired a real deal mixologist who also did the bars in Makati so they could get these lovely drinks served in the place, without the "Makati/BGC" pricetag of course! I love this as it is fruity, but still gets you dizzy. Lovely and fancy, but totally worth the price.

This Red Sangria on the other hand is a bit stronger than the white version.  Both are good don't get me wrong but again, my favorite is the white one.

The ladies on the other hand loved this Grapefruit Mojito. It's the usual but a little on the fruity but sour side because of obvious reasons - the grapefruit! These are what I recommend you order whilst at THE ARMORY.

Congratulations Martin Del Rosario! Hope this thing becomes BIGGER than you hope for! 

Visit https://www.facebook.com/thearmoryqc for more details! You can also drive by at Congressional Avenue Extension and see it yourself!

For more information about their artists:

Official GMA Artist Center

Like them on Facebook


Visit their official website

http://gmanetwork.com/artistcenter