ALDEN RICHARDS Celebrates 15 Years with MOVING FORWARD Concert

15 years must have been a tall order for most people, but for Alden Richards... it's like he's just starting. The talented and multi awarded actor is celebrating this milestone with some of the most important people in his career, HIS FANS, which he deem deserves this concert, a way to thank them for supporting him this long. 

Watch him arrive at the red carpet in Shang Mall!

 

Alden says "I'm very excited this coming December 13th as we celebrate my journey, my learnings, the things I learned and how we keep on Moving Forward. I thank C@$in0 P|us, Bench, Belo, CDO, White Flower and Oxycure for all their help. The purpose of this event is for my 15th Anniversary, and how I want to give back and pay it forward. I want to highlight the people that have been part of my journey in the last 15 years, and that's the fans. Why Sta. Rosa Laguna as the venue? Because I've been in the industry so long but I haven't had a big event in a place where I grew up. With the help of the people of Sta. Rosa, we were able to mount this event. And I'm very excited because now I could give back to the place where I grew up in. Since Day 1, they've been always there for me. It's our little way of saying thank you to them, and I'm doing it all in this one event."

He adds "In the 15 years, there's been a lot of fan interactions that have happened. I get surprised about news, the most memorable one of which the folks that I have helped in the past would suddenly come up to me and say how their lives have changed because of that. I was just there to help, but to actually see how it has changed their lives means a lot to me. It gave them comfort, I think those are the ones that really touch me in fan encounters. I remember in 2019, a girl standing in the crowd was looking at me intently. She was holding a diploma, looking at me the whole time, smiling, so I wondered what it was about. She approached and told me that she already graduated, and that I was responsible for it. I learned that it really isn't about the volume of people that you help, it's the effect you have on people, it gives me more passion, grounds me, that because of all the things I'm doing in my own way, it creates ripples of kindness. It's why I continue doing the things I'm doing today.That kind of platform and reach, it's what keeps me going."

Here's a video of the media conference, please enjoy!

One of the highlights of the concert is the inclusion of PBB artists Will Ashley, Bianca De Vera and Dustin Yu. He will also have popular band CUP OF JOE performing a song or two in the event. This is produced by Myriad Events, and for tickets you can get them at https://arxv.helixpay.ph/. There are only a few seats left as Diamond and Platinum sections are sold out. This is a once in a lifetime experience to be with him at this locale so if you're a big fan, it's time you take the trek down south to see Alden Richards in the flesh!

Alden Richards is MOVING FORWARD and there's no stopping him anytime soon! Congratulations Alden! :) 

SPARKLE TRENTA: Stars and Launch of CLICK KINDNESS

SPARKLE GMA Artist Center recently just concluded their 30th Anniversary via Sparkle Trenta at the MOA Sky stage in Pasay City. And yes, stars took much of their time to perform for their fans, get nostalgia (especially for the folks from Starstruck) and love for the loveteams, singers, spirited dancers, and executives who made Sparkle what it is today.

PBB Celebrity Collab Edition's AZ Martinez, Charlie Fleming, Shuvee Etrata, Josh Ford, Vince Maristela and Michael Sager sang and danced the theme and had fans screaming on top of their lungs. 

Mika Salamanca had her own song number, and her screaming fans didn't hold back, they were also looking for Brent I think LOL 

Good looking hunks Anthony Constantino, Royce Cabrera, and our well loved Tuns aka Kristoffer Martin sang for the fans on stage. Quality men for primetime no?

Miguel Tanfelix showed why he's one of Sparkle's go to guy for dance, he's unbelievably charming. 

Super funny hosts Amazing Betong Sunaya, Jayson Gainza, Pepita Smith and Boobay talked and smoothly bantered with Concert Comedy Queen Aiai Delas Alas (who sang a new single btw!).

Rodjun and Rayver Cruz did handy work of the dance numbers, and Rayver's girlfriend Julie Anne San Jose did several songs, jaws were dropped the minute she stepped on stage.

The ladies and gent from hit show Sanggre charmed folks to watch their show and thanked all those who supported them all these months.

Crowd drawers Ms. Rita Daniela and the iconic Michelle Marquez Dee also sang, they of course thanked their fans for being there. 

There were tons more that happened but what's even more important was what Alden Richards discussed about that evening. Tons of artists have experienced bullying, mental anguish online and he talked about a campaign they are launching called CLICK KINDNESS, it's a call for you to think about what you post and publish online, to spread positivity and make experience online a good one instead of adding toxicity and bad things on the internet. I have a few videos on my page so just search KUMAGCOW on Facebook to see it on my reels. 

Congratulations SPARKLE! Continue to shine!

S & J Beauty Welcomes MAX COLLINS and ANTHONY CONSTANTINO

This evening we had the chance to be with the folks from S&J Beauty, a company that is in the business of cosmetics and personal care. While fairly new in the industry, their Glowboss Jhazz Bonifacio has taken the brand into success with innovative products that brings users that beautiful glow.

Today, they introduced two of the most gorgeous faces in GMA's stable to become full pledged endorsers for the brand. The hunky and good looking actor Anthony Constantino and GMA Primetime actress Max Collins.

Ms. Jhazz Bonifacio welcomed us at the event and said "I was nervous, but I didn't expect this. I am the CEO and Founder of S & J. This is for anyone and everyone who wanted to boost their confidence. Thank you very much for being here!"

She saw the struggle of men and women about skin. She wants to address real skin problems with products from Japan. They now also have drinks that can complement what the skin needs.

Ms. Jhazz says "It's a big event for A and J beauty and I see the hard work that they put in. I personally use our products and I see how it works."

S & J beauty blends help with weight management and boost the immune system. It also aids in collagen production, reduce stress, support mental alertness, muscle growth and gives you a boost of energy. My personal favorite is the Milky Melon as it has anti inflammatory effects. Hydration, focus, energy and radiance. If you nourish the inside, you'll glow on the outside!

The drinks are available in Milky Avocado, Curvee Coffee, Cucumber Lemonade and Milky Melon. Max says "Being a mom there are only a few things that make you happy. I'm very busy, I have businesses, work in showbiz and I am a little tired at the end of the day. My Curvy Coffee is something that makes me curb appetite. I've known Jhazz for a while now and she wants to make sure we get what we need in daily work. It's also something that aligns with my values. I don't endorse products that I don't believe in. I also look for brands that empower women. We make better versions of ourselves and that's what I look for in endorsing brands. Before I met Ms. Jhazz, I researched and asked about it. I knew how passionate she is, she wants to empower other women even if she is already successful."

They also had a few more Glow friends (KOL's) as part of the S & J beauty family. It was a fun night to get to know the folks from S & J, congratulations to Max and Anthony, surely this wouldn't be the last of your endorsements!

GMA Playlist Features Songs of Love, Life with JOHN REX, KIM DE LEON, KIM PEREZ and MITZI JOSH

GMA Playlist has always been a really good platform to further dabble artistry of home grown GMA artists as they tackle songs about love, regret, friendship and the trials of life. It will be part of a line of soundtracks under GMA Network's "Ganito Tayo, Kapuso: Masayahin" (This is what we are Kapuso, Fun) which is part of their values campaign made with Sparkle Artists performing the different songs.

I distinctly remember several actors from Sparkle's stable who have done this and recorded songs meant for GMA shows as soundtracks and this time, they're doing the same. We saw Kim Perez, Kim de Leon, Mitzi Josh and John Rex perform their songs (in different genres), all heartfelt and ones that you can connect with. Some talk about love, being sorry, friendship that aligns with their network's current campaign. The lone rose Mitzi Josh performed "Ikaw Na Lang Ang Kulang" while Kim de Leon did "Basta't Magkasama Tayo". Champ John Rex did "Kahit Wala Nang Tayo" and Kim Perez had a more 2000's rock vibe with "Huling Hinto".

Their thrust is all about connections, because at this day and age we've gone accustomed to being in front of computers, tablets, our phones. This takes our inter personal ones on the backseat, so imagine how that puts our relationships with family, friends and everyone else in trouble. That's a really good talking point, and I hope the conversations continue after the GMA Playlist release.

Here's our interview with them at the posh THE GRAND HOUSSE which is both a fashion house and restaurant (really good selection and food btw!): 

When I asked them about their dreams, they all want to have the chance to have their own concerts, but ultimately just want to share their music, have someone appreciate it. Kim Perez believes he doesn't have to achieve the status of the big names in the industry, just the thought of putting out a song, as part of OPM, that's enough for him. Kim De Leon didn't even imagine singing at one point but now have 3 singles out under GMA Playlist. He also wishes to become a singer songwriter soon. Mitzi is thankful because singing is her first love, and wants to do Coachella, a concert, sing and have folks sing along with her (hopefully soon). John on the other hand wants to become a person who inspire others, and hope the song touches hearts, not just the charts, to see people in love with what he does on stage.

All these tracks for the GMA Playlist (these 5 singles) are produced by Rocky Gacho and can be streamed worldwide. Now go and stream them on platforms today because they're planning to do more music in the coming years, it would be awesome you could follow their journey now.

Learning from Love with SEB PAJARILLO and JENIFFER MARAVILLA

Filipinos can't deny their affinity for something that soaks them in love, hope, hurt and a lot of melancholy. We met with Seb Pajarillo and Jeniffer Maravilla a few days ago and listened to two new singles they've released, and it was quite interesting.

First off, as individuals, they're very different than what I thought they would be. I've met Jennifer during a workshop a couple months ago, and her serious quiet looking facade could fool anyone who's going to meet her the first time. She's very bubbly, quite fun to talk to, a person who you can strike a conversation with.. or initiates it (which I absolutely like about her). She's also a fierce singer, one that could read a phone book and belt it out like the powerful divas we watch on Philippine television.

 Seb on the other hand, felt like a young classy gentleman. He's not the type that super imposes his good looks, but the one that takes time to do things and makes you fall for his charm. His voice is much of a crooner, someone who could do good with the classics but instead delved into more emotional type OPM told into stories. He's also a very nice guy, which will be quite a huge addition to his attractiveness and the ability to sing.

 With the folks from GMA Playlist, they're releasing individual singles. Seb sang for us his latest one called "Dati Pa" which is about enjoying the feeling of being in love, and about losing it. Jennifer on the other hand sang "Di Na Pwede", which is about getting hurt, and asking for a chance for her questions to be answered. 

I asked them a bit about their previous relationships, on how they fell in love with the person, and what they learned from it. They answered honestly.. and Seb says "I think I fell in love with her because I saw that I would really learn a lot from her. Growing up, I was used to being very dependent with my parents and I had a hard time being independent. I kinda felt that I'd be experiencing things with her that would lead me to learn stuff. She was smart, very independent, and I did learn a lot, but I also learned that loving someone means I need to equip and love myself first."

Jen adds "For me, I don't think you could tell that you will fall in love with a person. I couldn't tell the specific time, but now that I'm dating again, I realized that you need to qualify who you are going to be with for the rest of your life. You can definitely start with your preferences, that's where I'm starting again so far. Yes, I was hurt from that last relationship, no, more of devastated. Though I learned from it, it was almost half of my life. I never really thought it would end. I only learned to let go of the hurt when I started to love my self. That's when I began seeing things clearly, on what my preferences were, what I deserve, and what I want. I realized I also needed to go through that because it has really strengthened me."

 Here's the rest of the interview on video:

 "Dati Pa" and "Di Na Pwede" is out now on streaming sites. Go listen to them today and make your love a lesson too. This is under GMA Playlist of GMA Music. Follow Seb and Jennifer on their social channels too because from the looks of it, this is just the start of their music and acting careers, and did good.

 Thank you to Sparkle for letting us interview these two talented singers!

Made Me Cry Twice: CHANCES ARE, YOU AND I in Theaters Today!

The night was indeed stellar at the SM Megamall Cinemas because of the red carpet premiere of CHANCES ARE, YOU AND I which stars hunky Kelvin Miranda and the angelic Kira Balinger. We had the chance to talk to the stars a few weeks back, but this time, I'd like to concentrate more on the actual movie which we got to see last night May 28, 2024.

It's about two strangers who had the same fate, finding their lives intertwined at very interesting points. The hospitals wouldn't be just providing care, but a launch pad for realizations and grounds for what seem to be "opposite personalities" at first, then became that tiny flame that would ignite care, an adventure, special friendships, and love.

Do not at any instance downplay this movie to be just a cute chick flick. Kelvin has been recently awarded the Most Prolific Dramatic Actor Award at the Jinseo Arigato Film Festival in Nagoya, Japan. Kira on the other hand had several scenes to pull heartstrings, which is surprising to see for a neophyte lead in this film. They didn't even had to force themselves, it felt quite natural because you will bear witness with their love story.

If there's anything to add that should be noted amazing in this film is Kelvin and Gian Magdangal's confrontation scene. Tart Carlos also had her moment with Kira Balinger when she had to admit all her faults, it was personal and heartbreaking. Jinho Bae whom people might expect to only blurt out Hangul in most of the scenes in Korea, will be your breath of fresh air. His comedic timing is impressive and as he revealed, he was personally surprised about having 80 percent of his adlibs being put in scenes when he was quite sure it should have been cut by the director. You'll love him for that!

I think I cried twice, and you might have to bring a few sheets of fascial tissues for that. You can now see CHANCES ARE, YOU AND I on theaters starting today! Bring your friends, significant others and family because you'll love how they executed it. 

Photography is A+, plan and go, or flip a coin if you need to decide. This is produced by Pocket Media Productions, Inc. and Happy Infinite Productions. They will have Regal Films distribute this to 130 (I heard) cinemas nationwide!

A Glimpse of the Sparkle Prime Workshop

I've had my bout with acting back when I was a kid. During those years, my workshops were done privately and the system was pretty much unscientific, it was mostly putting ourselves in scenes. You could say it was something I'd do on occasion... and since I wasn't doing roles anymore I was so excited I'd get to experience the "Sparkle Acting and Empowerment Workshop" through the partnership of Philippine Entertainment Bloggers Association (PEBA) and Sparkle GMA Artist Center which happened a few days ago.

This was going to be conducted by THE Ana Feleo (Certified on Eric Morris System) whom I've had the opportunity to interview in the past (especially during the pandemic). This was also the first time I'm meeting her (in a physical sense), so I was quite excited about that when we arrived at the rehearsal studios. To tell you honestly, I've been overthinking a lot about this event and what I think I'd be learning from the workshop. Participants in our group were from different blogs and social channels. With Sparkle they had artists Jennifer Maravilla, Mitzi Josh, Zonia Mejia, Lauren King, Aidan Veneracion and Bruce Roeland whom all had previous experience of doing workshops under Ms. Ana Feleo.

After pleasantries, Ms. Ana took us to a plethora of exercises that would help us be more open about ourselves, our emotions, and feel what's possible. Ours was like a teaser of what she's been doing for 3-day workshops, so we get a gist of what artists usually do. This I'd say made me feel like I'd be more susceptible of absorbing what she taught on the red mat. Mind you, tons of Sparkle and GMA actors have gone through a lot in the same place, and if the mat could talk it'll probably tell a lot about their life, their pain and agony as it's been primarily used for motivation on scenes. They'd learn how to control how much of it will be used when they need to on projects, which makes sense with the nature of their work.

Knowing how huge of a roadmap this is for people undergoing the same training made me realize how it could impact their skills, especially for new actors. Since this was also an empowerment process, we learned how to communicate, express ourselves with no inhibitions, which would help us navigate the things we plan to do with our organization. It's not only leadership, but how we would be able to put our points across when we meet people. It's a skill we all have to work on and it was so nice we get to touch on that. There were a lot of things that we got to experience during the short time we spent that afternoon, and we even got to know each other even more. It was different than just looking at our blogs, our different backgrounds, because we saw how we learned as people. I bet that will be beneficial for a lot of individuals, and I'm so glad they're taking these workshops all over the country. 

Here's how you can enroll in the Sparkle Prime Workshop:

I'd like to take this bit to thank the men and women of Sparkle Artist Center, Ms. Jenny Donato the Sparkle AVP for Talent Recruitment and Development (who was quite fun to talk to on the sidelines!), Ms. Rochelle Tuazon-Chavez the Sparkle Senior Manager for PR, Events and Digital , and good guy Mr. Chester Singian (who I think is also going to be an artist soon!). Also, to the Sparkle artists Jennifer Maravilla, Mitzi Josh, Zonia Mejia, Lauren King, Aidan Veneracion and Bruce Roeland who were all so kind and game during the session. We also got to know you a little bit during the exercises that Ms. Ana executed that afternoon.

I'd also like to personally thank Ms. Ana Feleo who braved through her migraine just to make sure we had an unforgettable experience during the workshop, I really learned a lot in such a short time. I get it why the artists you previously worked with talk so highly of you. Thank you for being there to help us all throughout the workshop!

If you wish to join, just get in touch with them via the art card we added above. It'll change the way you think about actors, and you'll learn a lot about the craft.