The MANZANOS: Luis and Jessy Reflect on Tumultuous Year

When I see Luis and Jessy, I feel like it's going to be a beautiful day. Their pleasant smiles has always been something people love, and for good reason, as they are very good people. This isn't the first time that I've seen Luis and Jessy, because back in the day, I've seen Luis at gym and several press conferences for shows in ABSCBN. Jessy on the other hand has been so genuinely lovely during an interview for "The Girl with the Orange Dress" which was her last film project(?) before going on a supposed hiatus. 

Luis then became very busy with a lot of things, including scandals which he addressed plus an exhausting electoral run that he admitted to have taken a toll on his mental health. He was lucky (literally) that he had Jessy on his side, that no matter what things may have happened these past few years. Jessy on the other hand went on recovery mode (since Peanut came) and also made sure they both spent time with her because they want too experience that too. Specifically on her formative years, but now reflects on it as the kid took Luis' mannerisms + naughtiness and and Jessy's innate kindness.

Jessy says "I really am thankful about a lot of things, not claiming redirections, but confidently I think we found our path as a couple. Me returning after 6 long years, finally I was reminded why I started in this career. I now have experience to bring, coming from real life. I am thankful for Star Magic and Hawhaw, I talk about work and things that make me happy. When Mumskie is asking stuff, it's mostly for updates about us and her son, she calls and really asks me, and treats me as her daughter. I am so lucky to have a very good MIL."

Lucky also credits Jessy and said "She shows me things behind the scenes (about her current shows), she's really happy. I also realized the programs that were battling it out on TV (media asked about his shows in same time slots in different channels). The magic of streaming is that you can go back and watch it. There's also the vlog where she's more open, more spontaneous. Recently people have been inquiring about hosting jobs, we've done it together in past shows and it may happen soon."

We also got to talk about how they actually fell in love. It was interesting because Luis was actually dumped twice before being officially a couple. It was crazy but he detailed that on this video:

Yes, it was a challenging few years for Luis and Jessy. To say that they've been through a lot is short of a joke, because it was complicated, scary, even dangerous. These two went through those issues together, and as Jessy puts it, she had to step up and be there for her husband especially during the most difficult times, more so after giving birth and being a full time home maker.

Tumultuous as it was, it was a challenge that never stood a chance because at the end of the day... they've got each other. They also told us about their relationship with Ms. Vilma Santos whom they've described treated Jessy as her own daughter since day 1. It's inspiring to see that despite of it all, love was there for them.  

Congratulations Luis and Jessy, can't wait to see your future projects and the ones you're already doing now!

KAI MONTINOLA Appears at the "HEARTS AND BELLS" Event in Megamall

My favorite cake brand is ramping up their stores with an even bigger look as "Hearts and Bells" unveiled their newest branch at the 2nd floor of SM Megamall Building B in Mandaluyong City. One great thing was PBB Teen housemate Kai Montinola was gracing the event (we had the pleasure of meeting her in previous occasions) and it was certainly lovely to know that she's here to support them and give a huge thanks. She personally met with the owners Mr. Reynold and Marita Laddaran too.

For those who don't know, Hearts and Bells actually was responsible for the actual cake that Kai had during her debut (18th birthday) which is why she really see it fit to be present during one of the brand's biggest event this year. If you're familiar with the brand, they usually have those square kiosks and fridges but now are sporting a bigger, new look. They've been able to grow to over 15 branches over the years and have a very loyal following because of their buttercream cakes, which are not too sweet and tastes so good! 

Cakes by Hearts and Bells (photo from their FB page, edited by me)

The folks from Hearts and Bells had Kai cut the ribbon for their newest branch. People from all walks of life suddenly packed the area, trying to take a glimpse of the PBB alumnus, Star Magic artist and the new store. We had the pleasure of talking to Kai after the event, and we got to talk about a few things regarding her recent endorsements, shows, music and future plans. She was gorgeous, very eloquent, very smart too. 

Kai says "They were the ones who made my cake during my debut, to return that favor and thank them, I am here today. Even if they've been very quiet, they've grown as a brand and now have 15 branches all over the country. I love that they're not showy, not commercial, I love how they do business and I'm glad I'm here."

Talking about her recent wins, she attributes it to PBB and her journey there. She adds "My biggest achievement though is just being able to push through, not really the title that I've achieved, but with all the challenges that came my way, I am glad I am still here. Add to that my first album, and my first MMK appearance, I can say I'm still ready for more."

She also feels elated on how brands have continued to trust her and became their endorser. She's very new in the industry and felt her dreams are starting to all come true. To be chosen by these brands, she feels honored and validated. She also feels the good kind of pressure this brings and hope to become better at it and her craft. Though she feels that she still has a LOT of things to learn. She chooses the brands that are the same with her morals, also tells us how thankful she is for the team that supports her career.

Here's our whole interview with Kai after the event:

I would like to take this bit and say thank you and congratulations to Hearts and Bells on their recent achievements. Be assured that I'll continue to order my Mocha flavored cake from you guys every occasion that I can. Thank you also to Kai for being so nice that afternoon, and for letting us interview her after the event. Really appreciate it! Here's wishing more success in the coming years as your star shine brighter! 

STAR MAGIC SPOTLIGHT: PBB Celebrity Collab Edition at the PBB House

It's been years since I last stepped inside the walls of the PBB House. This time we're doing it with the BIG 4 Ralph De Leon , Esnyr , Brent Manalo , and River Joseph. Then we'll also be talking to gorgeous Kira Balinger , Xyriel Manabat , AC Bonifacio , Emilio Daez , Klarisse De Guzman , and Bianca De Vera. This must have been a dream for a lot of people, and it's happening, so I took my phones and tried to record it all! 

This PBB year has certainly been fun, to have 2 giant networks work together must have been a tall order to look at on paper, but they were certainly eager to do it this way because you deserve it. First up is the good looking ladies and gents from STAR MAGIC. They've been doing several bouts of these STAR MAGIC SPOTLIGHT to make sure we get to talk to the artists directly. I was so happy because most of my questions were actually asked, and they answered quite legibly.

 

Here's our conversation with Kira, Xyriel, AC, Emilio, Klarisse, Bianca at the PBB house:

 

Meanwhile here's the BIG 4 Ralph, Esnyr, Brent, and River:

Their lives have really changed over a few months being in the PBB house, and as they mentioned, this isn't the last time they'll be doing collaborations after leaving the house. As a matter of fact, they'll be having the PBB Collab Concert: PBB COLLOVE on August 10th at the Araneta Coliseum. Tickets are selling out fast via TICKETNET so go and get them now!

Thank you to STAR MAGIC for bringing these talented folks together. I'm sure you've got lots of plans for them, they're very talented and if this means they'll be in ABSCBN shows and doing GMA things too. Can't wait for their stars to shine!

KAI MONTINOLA is the face of HEBESKIN CurvWhyt Coffee

New beauty brand HEBESKIN just launched a new product at Incanta Cave Bar in Quezon City this afternoon. It's a coffee drink made with Mangosteen Extract, Green Coffee Extract, Arabica Coffee, Non Dairy Creamer, Stevia for sweetener, and contains Vitamin C, Probiotics, Alpha Lipoic Acid, L Carnetine, Zinc, Aloe Vera, Ashwagandha and more. Best of all, Total Sugar per serving is 0 grams, something that people like me would love. 

 

Founder and CEO Ms. Penelope Cadlina says "I will do my best to turn my product into results, to something you'll be truly proud. To my family and friends, your support has been my backbone. To my family, you are the heart of everything I do, I promise to push boundaries, and thank you for making this event possible. We are just beginning."

Their COO Jazmine Gonzales added "To be surrounded by people who support us, thank you for believing and you are part of our growth, of who we are today. Your faith in me has meant everything, to my good friend Penelope, your dedication has made this brand truly meaningful. It is about empowering others, to make people be confident about our skin. Thank you so much!"

 

 

 

This is the first time I'm seeing Kai Montinola. I've only known her from PBB and the work she does in Star Magic. She went down the spiral staircase of the venue singing a song that was very apt for her. She's very beautiful, quite eloquent, and have had a happy disposition that afternoon. To say she looked like a goddess is an understatement. This is one of the many reasons why she was chosen as the face of HEBESKIN CurvWhyt Coffee.

Kai says "I feel thankful, thank you for choosing me to represent a product, for HEBESKIN to empower men and women, I feel so great to be the face of the new product. My goddess era is empowering, powerful and confident. "

"For me endorsing a product is a big responsibility, for something that stands for health, I have to implement it in real life and it encourages me to be better."

"Believe it or not, I always ask myself if I am deserving of what I receive, of success and all. You should cherish that, of what people around you say. Know yourself before you say the same with others."

Here's her interview in full:

Kai also sings, we witnessed it that afternoon.

@kumagcow KAI MONTINOLA Sings You'll be in my heart at the launch of CurvWyt Coffee #kaimontinola #kairen #tiktoktainment #tiktoktainmentph #tiktokshowbizreporter ♬ You'll Be in My Heart - NIKI

If you want to try the coffee she endorses, you may get them HERE. Kai is still in her teens, and she's already an endorser of a very promising brand. She's bound for more. With her beautiful skin, brains and undeniable charm, it's going to be a great year for her. Congratulations HEBESKIN and Kai!

Become a World Class Talent at STAR MAGIC's School for the Creative and Performing Arts

If it's about stars getting workshops, there's no other reliable organization to do that in the Philippines and in some parts of the world than Star Magic Workshops. This year, there's going to be a huge change because they've gone the mile, made it even BIGGER... and now call it STAR MAGIC SCHOOL FOR THE CREATIVE & PERFORMING ARTS. This means they'll be catering to folks, kids to adults and hone them in multiple disciplines, including acting, singing, dance and more. 

 What I've learned from the press conference is that they've managed to already do good in the workshops, but wanted to improve and grow. This is why they made sure to get different subject matter experts so that they wouldn't be boxed up in just the ABSCBN grounds. They wanted folks who are excellent in their fields and have them instruct in the workshops too including master classes, character building, music production, and train more directors for live events too. The launch was graced by Star Magic and Production Head Direk Lauren Dyogi, Business Unit Head Raymund Dizon, acting coaches HB Benitez III, Alecx Lorica and Marcel David, theater coach Meann Espinosa, ABSCBN Show Director Jon Moll, Kirby Balagtas, Dale Recina, Troi Bautista who are producers from You Me Us MNL, plus veteran Voice Coach Julie Anne Reyes. They also had coaches of BGYO and BINI Anna Graham, Jerwin Nicomedes, plus dance coaches Mickey Perz, Reden Blanquera, Matthew Almodovar, Aennon Tabungar and Josh Junio. They also had the very talented Talia Concio, BGYO perform on stage so we could have a taste of  what could happen if we have undergone their workshops. It was a sight for sore eyes!

If you want to be part of this, they have onsite enrollment on March 29 and 30, April 5 and 6. Just fill up the form at this website forms.abs-cbn.com/starmagicscpa and follow the directions. You may also follow their social channels at facebook.com/starmagicscpa or @starmagicscpa on IG. Come prove your talent is world class by joining one or more of their classes. Information about the courses are also there. I'm so interested in the Music Production and the Directors course.

IVANA ALAWI Enters Pinoy Big Brother Celebrity Collab Edition House

It was a nice afternoon to see Ivana Alawi right before her PBB stint which none of us was aware of. It was a simple thanksgiving event which she arranged for the support she's getting from the press and bloggers, so it was certainly a surprise to see her in the famous house days after.

Were there any clues?

None at all, because much of the talk that transpired that afternoon revolved around her success, the brands she's representing, and getting married among others.

The YouTube star will certainly be seen in a more "personal" way now that she's in the ABSCBN and GMA partnered celebrity edition of the show which they dubbed as COLLAB, something she's quite used to.

She mentioned during our small talk that most of her content didn't really have scripts and just happens when it happens. She was very witty, down to earth, and doesn't mind answering even the most controversial of issues thrown at her. She confirmed some jewellery endorsement woes are on trial which prohibited her from speaking about it. 

Will she do good on the show?

Definitely. Her personality shines in her recent YouTube episodes and her hunger to even create interesting talk with Barbie Forteza (which she deems is still the same person she was with years ago) is a testament for the kind of person she is in or out of the cameras.

She also shared how she wanted to work with previous winner Fyang soon. Maybe that'll happen when she gets out from the house of Kuya.

Here's our interview with her a few days ago:

I'm rooting for her.

Good Looks and More: The Newest ABSCBN Star Magic Artist ROBBIE JAWORSKI

You know what, I'm still recovering from experiencing this particular event because aside from seeing this good looking lad, ABSCBN rolled the red carpet for him and his family. He was teased a couple of times in Star Magic's various channels, and now, the time has come.

Meet Robbie Jaworski. As the name suggests, he's the grandson of the living PBA legend Robert Jaworski, son of Dodot and Mikee Jaworski. This is the first time we're meeting him but from what we felt during this grand occasion was, he's a very good boy. His good looks, chiseled jawline, eyes that could melt, was just an addition to who he was. He's charming, he's got manners, overall, a good young man. This is because of his good upbringing, I think this stems from how Dodot and Mikee Cojuangco Jaworski did it. He's very much a person for others, his parents complained that he even was taking over parental duties at times, forgetting he's one of the kids because of his maturity.

His parents only wanted one thing, for him to finish his studies before this quick foray into the entertainment industry. He really thought about it, and when he was ready, he was the one who initiated talks of entering showbusiness. I bet he's going places, with looks like that he'd obviously fit primetime leading man roles because he's SUPER GWAPO.

While on the sidelines though, I thought it would be a breeze to become a celebrity because of that trait, but Direk Lauren insists that he'd undergo a battery of workshops because he needs to be equipped. They're all glad he doesn't want to take the easy route, eager to do these workshops because he wants to become a great actor. He admitted to want to work with Kim Chiu, and Direk is right, if he worked without being trained first, he'll be eaten up with the seasoned actresses he wanted to work with.

Here's the contract signing, please, enjoy!

Robbie says "I feel very special (with the welcome). I feel grateful that I've got an opportunity to be here, thankful to be with Direk Lauren, Tita Cory and everyone. I just can't wait to start this and enjoy the journey. I didn't expect that video from my family. I am trying my best not to cry because what they said was very touching, but know that I hear these on a daily basis, you know I'm just so grateful for my family and am blessed to have them on my corner. They inspire me. Mommy, Daddy, and Raf and Renzo, thank you guys so much!" 

Robbie is now officially a KAPAMILYA and a STAR MAGIC ARTIST.

Direk Lauren says "Thank you for bringing Robbie to us, thank you for trusting Star Magic and ABSCBN. This is not easy work, he's not excluded in doing work so he becomes a good entertainer and actor. He's very humble, he's got no air, which is why he connects to people easily. He's got physical training, workshops, and we will make sure he's prepared in entering showbusiness. We'd like to welcome you on becoming a Kapamilya."

Ms. Cory adds "I'd like to officially welcome you to ABSCBN, today you are officially a Star Magic talent, we're so proud you're here. I had to literally ask for you through GR and with your parents to allow us to manage your career and be part of ABSCBN. Mikee was nervous, didn't eat lunch so she has to eat now. GR thank you very much, I know it was tough for you. It all came at the perfect time to have him. Thank you for choosing us! What struck me most was when he said mas iba pag magmahal. This is part of our values and what we look for as an artist. You really fit the bill. We will be your family, we will support you. We will take care of you. To your parents, please trust us, don't worry because we're stricter than the both of you... and we will wait for his brother soon."

Here's more of the press conference on video, I got everything here!

This is just the start of Robbie Jaworski's story. If you like what you see, Robbie will be doing more projects from ABSCBN, and other places. He's bound to be one great actor. Here's hoping he gets to be as successful as his Mom, even more than that!

Here's Another Run of "TABING ILOG: The Musical" This 2024

We celebrate good things, including this new run of "Tabing Ilog the Musical" run which starts November 8 up until December 1 this 2024. 

PETA's Melvin Lee says "Who would have thought the pandemic would become a surprise fruitful partnership between a very seasoned theater group and Star Magic. Even now, some of them have already done several productions. Now we have them and more Star Magic artists in another run of Tabing Ilog the Musical."

Tabing Ilog is something that I have religiously watched in ABSCBN to follow the lives of Eds and Rovic, Corrine and Badong, Fonzy and George, James and the rest of the friends who made life interesting in the early 2000's. They made it into a musical a couple years ago (during the pandemic). This year, the reprisal warrants a few changes in the story, the music and the cast. Although most of them have been in it, cast changes was seen something essential to tie in a lot of relationships in the story line, even if it means a couple veteran "Marites" would play the part.

I remember them teasing this back in the Star Magic Hot Summer event. During the mediacon, we saw Andi Abaya, Kiara Takahashi, Vino Mabalot, Jordan Andrews, Kobe Brown, Miah Canton, Anji Salvacion, BGYO Akira, Benedix Ramos, Sheena Belarmino, and Vivoree. Although BINI Jhoanna Robles wasn't there, she is going to be part of the cast, she just had prior commitments (we all know how busy they've been if you watch the BINI documentary). Adrian Lindayag was also there, something I was so happy about since he's done a LOT of good roles in movies I've covered.

Vivoree came in first, and obliged us with a few details about doing the iconic role of Eds in the musical.

Meanwhile, here's the mediacon proper with the rest of the cast. I could feel how excited they were and how much has changed since their initial outing.

A revamped cast that's full of confidence really would spell success, now that they're doing another installment, expect that they're going to do it a little different, with bigger and better music, plus really great acting improvements for most of them. If you're planning to watch it again, or just new to the scene, you can now get tickets at Ticketworld. There will be around 2 shows a day, and again, will run from November 8 to December 1st. Come reminisce with the cast and have fun at PETA Theater. Your Star Magic stars will be there, including remarkable PETA theater regulars to make sure you're going to enjoy every minute of it.

Jed Madela Set to do "WELCOME TO MY WORLD" Concert and Tour!

Whenever I hear the name Jed Madela, I think about a world champion, a technically blessed singer and a helpful soul. To this day, he continues to help singers that are just starting with their careers to point them to the right path.

He's been in the industry for around 2 decades, with accolades and recognition around his belt, he still continues to dream despite a very illustrious career. Aside from new music, he wants you to be with him this coming July 5 at the Music Museum, in a concert he calls "WELCOME TO MY WORLD".

In it, he wants to have an intimate crowd where he could tell more about what he has achieved in the past 20 years, of what he is doing now, and what he also plans to do in the future. He didn't quite want to spoil by naming his guests, he wants people to get the shock of their lives once some special people in his life walk by on stage all on his birthday concert.

He's got a lot of stories to also share with you, especially on how he started his singing journey. Here's our video coverage of his press conference which happened just a few days ago!

Make sure you get tickets to the show via Music Museum box office or Ticketworld. This is also a tour set to visit Sheraton Laguardia East Hotel in Flushing, New York on July 12, 2024, Sheraton Laguardia East Hotel, Ovation Hollywood on July 27, 2024, and back home at the Iloilo Convention Center on September 21, 2024. There might be some other dates to be announced soon when he goes to North America and visit select cities. You should definitely watch it, talent like this comes once in a blue moon!

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!

CHIE FILOMENO is the Face of SkeenCare

Looks like Chie Filomeno is on a roll as she had us excited during the Glam and Glow event of SkeenCare, a new brand of personal care essentials founded in 2019.

Their story is so inspiring. Imagine starting with a 10K capital, venturing into reselling, then later having their own brand appearing in various online platforms. With the arrival of their premier peeling lotion, it catapulted them in the forefront of the beauty and wellness industry.

Aside from their peeling lotion, their current line of products include Sunscreen Creams, Lotions, (NEW!) Rejuvenating and Maintenance Sets, Healing Balms, Soaps, Deo Mist, Feminine Wash and Underarm Cream.

Chie says "With this new endorsement, I have no words but am extremely thankful for the trust. I know their story and about where they started. To be able to go through challenges and championing over it, they are now a force to be reckoned with in the beauty and wellness industry. They have given me a platform, us, to share what we can offer. I am also thankful to be part of their milestone as they celebrate their anniversary."

 

To take care of her skin, she shares the importance of removing makeup before you sleep because that's where the problem starts. She has a simple process, just cleansing, prepping the skin with toners, moisturizers for a youthful glow, and then removing make up at the end of the day.    

Also at the event was SkeenCare COO Lei Langamin and their CEO Nars Cabellero. Ms. Nars was a bit emotional and said "I know I'm not the perfect CEO, I do have shortcomings. I'm glad that even though we experience hardships in the company, you still believe how we all could work out things. Know that I come from a place of making sure you our partners, and the company would benefit both ways. This is al; for our success. This is me out of my comfort zone. I don't usually talk in front of audiences. You are the reason why I got my Dad to Japan, he mentioned how thankful he was of just being there. You are the reason why we are achieving our dreams, which is why we pushed for this anniversary celebration to happen. This is one way to thank you all!"

Behind the tears, the excitement of having a new endorser, this once small business is now flourishing. They also have new products launched which would make sure you get to maintain the good things you've done to your skin. The Rejuvenating and Maintenance Sets would certainly be a good skinvestment and  hope to help a lot of people. They will make sure it remains affordable and effective for years to come.

 

Congratulations SkeenCare!

A Brilliant Boracay Summer with Andrea Brillantes, Kyle Echarri and Brilliant Skin Essentials

Boracay was suddenly even more brilliant as Star Magic artists Andrea Brillantes and Kyle Echarri went ashore for Brilliant Skin Essentials summer event. This was hosted by the brand's queen and CEO Ms. Glenda dela Cruz. The event last May 19th also was the perfect time to introduce their newest brand ambassador and some new products which is part of the new line.

Ms. Glenda says "We call this a Brilliant Summer, and honestly, I am overwhelmed by the amount of support we are getting. Thank you all for making this possible. Even if they say that the hot season is over, we're still celebrating summer!"

She's continued to give really great incentives to brand partners and this time, she flew over 300 franchise owners, distributors and guests. They also had Andrea Brillantes and Kyle Echarri entertaining them all in the evening with song and dance numbers. Andrea mentioned "Brilliant Skin has been something I use since I was 15, and I know it's effective." Kyle added "Being with this brand makes me feel like I'm with family, which I'm sure even you would attest to! (and points to the crowd)."

Then they launched their new products particularly Brilliant Sun Professional Sunscreen, Hello Melo Drinks (a drink with collagen and vitamins), and Hyper Hydra Pressed Powder (which is available in different shades).

Andrea was also renewed as their endorser this year. She looked so happy during the event. Later in the evening, they raffled off prizes like Handheld Fans, TCL 55 Inch TV's, iPhone 15 Pro and cash to lucky guests. If you want to know more about their products, just search for @missglenda on social channels as they post all their products there.

What a Brilliant Summer!