I'M PERFECT: Understanding the Cause of This MMFF 2025 Entry

People were already crying when they got out of the cinema for the media conference of the movie I'M PERFECT, Nathan Studios' entry to the 2025 Metro Manila Film Festival. It's a film that touches on the lives of those with down syndrome. Before it even started, the conversations of media and folks from organizations captured my interest. I overheard Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines Chairman Elmer Lapeña while he was talking to a colleague about it, and he says "They have one special ability, and that is to LOVE without inhibitions, magmahal ng wagas!"

Direk Ingrid says "I need to make a story, a film about 11 years ago. We won in FDCP and this was teased. This was to show that they can. I'm very lucky that this was noticed by Ms. Sylvia and Nathan Studios and made it happen. Kita Kita was 2017, but this was 2009. They forged my characters, they choose what to show and we only had to trust them. I know it is a risk for producers but I was given the right ones with passion. I didn't want to use them, because this is a passion project and we didn't want them to be used, but loved and be independent. I felt hope because it doesn't end there."

Ms. Sylvia says "I saw two of her scripts and didn't like it but this third one was an afterthought. She didn't believe I would do this, because it was 10 years ago, they wanted it but didn't trust that this will be made, but I knew that the kids with down syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy can. I want to thank Janice, LT, Tonton, Zaijan, because at the beginning they knew they would support them, and they did. When I found the cast in Direk's laptop, I knew I had to do it. We met with the officials because we want their guidance and do it right. These kids will make history, so please make sure to watch it!"

This film called "I'm Perfect" is something special. It's about unconditional love, the support actors describe this as reality, a spectrum of emotions, and when they were in the set, instead of them teaching the lead actors, they learned more instead. They taught them the currency of love and hugs, and watch them enjoy the process as actors for MMFF. They were overwhelmed!

Here's what happened at the press conference:

You might be wasting time treating them differently but they probably need to be treated plain and the same. It's an eye opener, looking at family dynamics on how to love, and how to do it purely, without judgement, hesitation, or anger. That's what they want you to feel in this film, and if you're up to it, you can support them on the 25th! 

This film has a mission, and hopefully even before it comes out on theaters, it makes you feel what it is for. Make sure you watch it, so you'll learn more about what LOVE is in its purest form and concentrate on what they CAN DO instead of what they CANNOT DO. 

Upcoming MMFF 2025 Entry "I'M PERFECT" Set To Bring Strong Message of Love and Inclusion

When news came out of this movie being accepted as an entry for the Metro Manila Film Festival, I was excited about it. The concept is quite interesting, more so, it has not been done in Philippine cinema yet. Casting differently abled actors for the lead role, But what made this special, is the calling of proving what THEY CAN DO, rather than WHAT THEY CAN'T DO.

This film called "I'm Perfect" is something special. It's about unconditional love, the support actors describe this as reality, a spectrum of emotions, and when they were in the set, instead of them teaching the lead actors, they learned more instead. They taught them the currency of love and hugs, and watch them enjoy the process as actors for MMFF. They were overwhelmed!

Direk Ingrid says "I need to make a story, a film about 11 years ago. We won in FDCP and this was teased. This was to show that they can. I'm very lucky that this was noticed by Ms. Sylvia and Nathan Studios and made it happen. Kita Kita was 2017, but this was 2009. They forged my characters, they choose what to show and we only had to trust them. I know it is a risk for producers but I was given the right ones with passion. I didn't want to use them, because this is a passion project and we didn't want them to be used, but loved and be independent. I felt hope because it doesn't end there."

Ms. Sylvia says "I saw two of her scripts and didn't like it but this third one was an afterthought. She didn't believe I would do this, because it was 10 years ago, they wanted it but didn't trust that this will be made, but I knew that the kids with down syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy can. I want to thank Janice, LT, Tonton, Zaijan, because at the beginning they knew they would support them, and they did. When I found the cast in Direk's laptop, I knew I had to do it. We met with the officials because we want their guidance and do it right. These kids will make history, so please make sure to watch it!"

Seeing them all talk on stage already made us all cry. I saw what they saw in them, and I think that's exactly what you'll see in theaters this Christmas. I overheard Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines Chairman Elmer Lapeña while he was talking to a blogger friend where he says "They have one special ability, and that is to LOVE without inhibitions, magmahal ng wagas!"

Lead stars Earl Jonathan Amanda and Anne Krystel Daphne Go will make you feel love like you've never seen or felt before. They will be together with Ms. Sylvia Sanchez, Janice De Belen, Ms. Lorna Tolentino, Tonton Gutierrez, Joey Marquez and Zaijian Jaranilla. 

Here's what happened at the Mediacon!

During the talk, it made me wonder that we might be wasting time treating them differently... but they probably need to be treated plain and the same. It's an eye opener, looking at family dynamics on how to love, and how to do it purely, without judgement, hesitation, or anger. That's what they want you to feel in this film, and if you're up to it, you can support them on the 25th!

Celebrate Mothers Day with NOVA VILLA, CES QUESADA, FYANG and JM: "PICNIC" A Tagalized Korean Film Released by Nathan Studios

While the rest of the world is happening, there's this Korean film called PICNIC that's taking the theaters by storm. This is a film directed by Kim Yong-gyun and will be showing today (May 7th) in theaters nationwide.

We were at Gateway Mall last night to cover the premiere night, and the lobbies were filled with JMFyang fans and movie goers who were screaming on top of their lungs when they saw stars on the red carpet. We were able to record the media conference before the screening, so please enjoy!

The film is certainly a tear jerker. It revolves around the characters Eun-Sim played by Na Moon-hee (voice dubbed by Ms. Ces Quesada) and Jun Geum-soon played by Kim Young-ok (voice dubbed by Ms. Nova Villa) and their friend Tae-Ho played by Park Geun-hyung (voice by Kuya Bodjie Pascua). The younger version of Eun-Sim and Tae-Ho was dubbed by Fyang Smith and JM Ibarra.

 

 

 

They are a rowdy bunch despite the number of octogenarians included in the cast, and there's certainly no shortchanging of "landi" if you could say that out loud. Super happy about scenes where they were able to throw shade at each other. It didn't matter if their backs would hurt at each turn, they will tell you a spade is a spade even if it hurts your feelings, even if it means bringing back the past. The conversations were so amusing that when you're about to cry, they'll insert humor in between so you would giggle about the situation. I think this was clearly done that way to make sure it wouldn't be heavy and cerebral.

 

I super love the banter between Ms. Nova Villa and Ms. Ces Quesada. It was a good decision to provide Filipino dubbing for it as it felt a lot like home. No need to rush reading subtitles to understand the story because it could easily be understood in cinema audio. Should you watch it? DEFINITELY. I bet you'll find the story more apt for the children rather than for the Grandmas or Mothers involved in it. They'll learn a lot about how to go through the intricacies of love for family. It's a gem, and if you find KDramas so good for watching in the corners of your room, go do this in the cinemas because the experience hits certainly different.

 

Congratulations to CEO Ria Atayde and COO Ms. Sylvia Sanchez who knew right from the start that this would be a good thing to bring in Philippine shores.

Spend Time with Family and Watch "BUFFALO KIDS"

 Just got off the cinemas after watching this new animated movie called "BUFFALO KIDS". The name itself made me happy because of its affinity with cows, so I'd like to thank the good people from Nathan Studios for brining this into the country. I knew it was special because they always bring something different when it comes to movies.

This Valentine's season surely wouldn't be just for pairs, but for the whole family. So if you are looking for an activity this week, this family film will surely touch your hearts. First off, it's a journey so you get to feel that adventure right from the start. The characters are also interesting because they are immigrants from Ireland who went to America in hopes of reuniting with their Uncle Niall. When they didn't get to see him after they went down the ship, they journeyed far and beyond to find him, and that's where they found Nick. Nick is special, a paraplegic, so he couldn't talk or walk, but the two (Tom and Mary) treated him as a friend and equal. This would teach kids to do the same, unadulterated kindness, something that should be taught early on. He's also an orphan, but in the movie, he gets to be a hero (or is he?) just like anybody else.  

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Kids would also love a glimpse of the great outdoors, the western scape, some historic element of the gold rush, the original settlers (Indians). They will also teach kids not to judge just because of looks, race, skin color or features.

KUMAGCOW loves this not just because it's a really nice film, but because of the COW/BUFFALO element. So make sure you plan your week with the kids, take them to cinemas this coming February 12 to see BUFFALO KIDS! Because if I enjoyed it, they will too!

Celebrating 10 Years: "JUAN KARLOS LIVE" at the Mall of Asia Arena this November 29th

I distinctly remember being seated beside this good looking lad at a concert in Mall of Asia Arena a couple of years ago. Even back then, he's one of the most adored artists of his generation, and I could reckon how he was at awe of how it must have been like performing on stage especially at this big venue. This year marks his 10th year in the industry and with all the pieces falling into place, it's the right time to hold his very own concert. They call it "JUAN KARLOS LIVE", happening this November 29 at the same venue.

JK says "I'm excited, but nervous, but I'm working with amazing and talented people so I'm concentrating on audio and visual aspect of the concert. Nathan Studios is working on a lot of things. I never think of it too much, it was never really set as a goal to perform in big stages, it was more of contentment wherever I perform. I think it's just the people I work with that makes it worth it. I have a song called KALAWAKAN, which is a nice song, but haven't performed it on stage yet just like a few collabs I've done in the past. Sometimes I forget it, but imagining performing those songs just have that cool aspect."

He adds "I don't think anyone could be ready for something like this, but Tita Ibyang (Sylvia Sanchez) told me not to think of what to perform, because this is for the fans that supported me all these years. It's something that I have to do for the people who believe in me, it is the direction I felt was right. With that, I just said "oo nga ano", it is for them. I'm trying to balance selfishness and selflessness, to try to balance the flow of the show that I'm just there to perform rather that complicate it. It will be intimate, a jam session, it will be an experience, no lessons, but the feeling of being in that capsule to be able to relate to those songs, and the life we went through all these years. I just feel like yesterday I was a bisaya that was just playing on stage by coach Bamboo, not taking things seriously when I was in Voice Kids as a bonding moment. I never dreamt any of these things, now here we are because of that one decision I made to please my Mom. For some reason, it was something she wanted, it made us happy. It's beautiful because I've been through a lot to be able to get to where I am now. To reflect on that, and be in this moment, it's beautiful. I am lucky and blessed to be surrounded by people who believe in me."

 

For him it was a no brainier for Nathan Studios to produce this because Ms. Sylvia was a mother figure. She was the one who pushed the concert even if the decision was made. He just said yes to it. JK also discussed his relationship with his Lola, the one who pushed him to achieve things. One that didn't talk too much, but is part of who he is. He says the things she does is cute, and he's happy she is witnessing this.

JK also lamented how he used to watch concerts, and believes how he should be a consumer before becoming a performer. He felt he was able to get a perspective of what he should see to enjoy a concert, and now that he is doing this, he is finding solace in creating songs that the populace will appreciate, make him feel good, because music was the thing that made him feel constant even if he's going through a lot. This is for the people who made him, and his songs, part of their lives.

 Here's the full press conference on video, took a long time to upload this, please enjoy!

He is honest, fragile and vulnerable, and wishes to write more songs in the near future. He has a lot in his coffers, it's just the release part that worries him and prolly his label. The viral version of "Through the Years" may or may not be played on the concert too because a lot of people are requesting for it. It's just going to be a surprise, so make sure you get the few tickets left for the concert on the 29th! We heard some sections are already sold out!

This concert is also directed by Paolo Valenciano. Musical Direction is by Karel Honasan. This is produced by Nathan Studios and fully supported by his label Universal Music Group Philippines.

Get your tickets at SM Tickets website smtickets.com/events/view/13698. He's a very cool guy, and I think I'm a fan. :)

ARJO ATAYDE Reveals More Projects After ContentAsia Awards Win

 

It's been a while since I've last seen multi awarded actor and Congressman Arjo Atayde. He's been very busy, with good reason because after his wedding, he had to really pay attention to his duties as a public servant in the 1st District of Quezon City. The movies/series that he's done a few years ago is reaping fruit, and recently won him Best Male Lead for his role in Cattleya Killer at ContentAsia Awards 2024. 

We celebrated with him, his family, and a few more people from the press. They held a no holds barred interview to specifically get more updates from the busy good looking man fresh from Taipei, Taiwan where he received the it.

Arjo also addressed one of the movie projects where he was supposed to appear but ended up not being in it. His sole reason was because he wanted to be 100 percent in that project and felt it would be unfair to his co-actors if he didn't commit to the role just like them. He also doesn't choose projects and trusts his management about what he does, it is sometimes the schedule that he gets a little trouble with because he has a lot of priorities. The roles he take, is something he is thankful for because it becomes his outlet to be able to express his artistry. He's glad he is not boxed, tied to roles, in his 11 years in the business. He says "Every role I take is a learning opportunity."

People asked about Arjo and Maine on becoming parents and he told us "We are enjoying each others time because we wouldn't be able to do this in the long run. We definitely talk about it but we'll keep that as a secret. We are all excited though about having our pamangkin (with Ria and Zanjoe) and support Ria and Z, it's their story to tell, but we are SUPER SUPER excited and send much love to them!"

Here's the press conference on video, please raise the volume a bit because it was a little too noisy (along the road) but please, enjoy!

Arjo also shared a preview of MOONLIGHT, a film made by US based Isabel Sandoval. She's had great success with previous project Lingua Franca which won awards in 2019, and the Filipina film maker didn't disappoint with what we saw that evening. It's a masterpiece just waiting to be showcased in festivals and platforms. Arjo also showed us scenes from "Bagman" and "TOPAKK" which we loved. Each felt like Hollywood quality, no doubt, and he says this is just the start.

The wins in several award giving bodies would mean more exposure not just for Arjo but for the Filipino talent. Hopefully, this snowball starts an avalanche of opportunities for Filipino actors, those behind the camera and productions that are just waiting to be discovered. His work as Congressman of the 1st District of Quezon City will continue, and he vows to continue to help the communities he represent and make effective laws. He also wants the bills he principally authored (all 223 of them) be implemented well including the Eddie Garcia Law which is for the occupation and safety standards in the entertainment industry.

Thank you for the opportunity to see you again Cong. Arjo! Thank you also to Ms. Sylvia Sanchez who was also there that evening to tell us a few things about Ria and Z. (and for taking care of my Mom during Dessa's concert a few weeks ago). As Arjo said, this is just the start of good things ahead for whatever hat he wears!

Her Time to Shine: GELA ATAYDE

It is her time to shine!

Gela Atayde just got back from battling at the World Hip Hop Dance Championships together with their crew "Legit Status" for the MegaCrew division. They emerged CHAMPIONS and represented the country well in the US (Phoenix, Arizona) versus 54 other groups in the prestigious tilt.

Talking to her, I felt how Gela knows herself. She isn't pressured about her status in show business being part of the Atayde family. Her Mom Ms. Sylvia Sanchez was always someone who pushed her to go after her passions, and not be persuaded to prove herself. Seeing her brother Congressman Arjo and sister Ria to have to do that during their start was a learning experience, that she didn't have to do that and just do things at her own pace. When she saw her Mom giving a message about her recent achievements, she immediately looked at her back, and we saw her cry. She was just reminded on how much her Mom and Dad supported her all these years. Her Mom never forced her into show business, but always was there to encourage her in any thing she wants to do with the words "Kaya Mo Yan Nak!".  She also said how even if her Dad wasn't much of a talker, he was on camera this time and really said things that moved her. Her new Sister in Law Maine Mendoza was also so happy about her recent achievements, and felt the love when they were featured in a video prepared for her during the press conference.

Here's a few scenes from the presser a few days ago:

She was actually okay if fitted with a title especially if it's about dance because she wants this particular art form to be something that Filipinos would love. As for love teams, she's okay to be paired up for a show but rather not a permanent one. She can do it much like what Congressman Arjo and Ria did, and if the time comes to have a very serious relationship, we got the gist that she prefers to do it in proper time... and with someone non-showbiz. 

Gela is also part of the cast of the new ABSCBN youth oriented show Senior High which stars Andrea Brillantes (doing a dual role). The show will premiere on August 28th, so make sure you check out what Gela has up her sleeves in this new series. Together with them are former child stars Zaijian Jaranilla, Xyriel Manabat, Gameboy's Elijah Canlas, Gold Squad's Kyle Echarri, singer-rocker Juan Karlos, Daniela Stranner, and her mom Ms. Sylvia Sanchez. 

This is Gela's time to shine, make sure you watch her shows because she's just starting! Congratulations Gela and the whole Legit Status crew for being hailed champs!

Beautéderm Opens Corporate Headquarters and Beauté Beanery in Pampanga

It must have been her great dream to to one day, cement her brand and put her business in one roof hence the new Beautéderm Corporate Headquarters in Angeles City, Pampanga. Ms. Rei Ramos Anicoche Tan and the Beautéderm team finally opened the new building (which houses several of her brands) and the newly launched Beauté Beanery (a coffee shop) in this location. It's also Beautéderm Corporation's 14th year in the business and this was the opportune time for us to see what they've done with the place. It was absolutely gorgeous from outside!

This is welcome news for the multitude of their loyal customers who have always patronized their skin, body, fragance and health booster products known for its efficacy and quality. This isn't just a business for CEO and founder Rhea Tan because it provides resellers, their distributors and franchisees something that could change their lives. The new building has been 2 years in the making and it was meant to be the main base of operations in the country.

The place was absolutely posh. They had marble and nice tiles, gold fixtures from floor to ceiling. They also had several designer trunks here and there which made it look even better. They also had the BeautéHaus which provides skin services and we were greeted by several of their people, it felt quite welcoming. Since it's also the first time we're seeing this building, they invited several artists to make the event sparkle!

Artists include singer Alynna Velasquez, character actress Ynez Veneracion, internationally awarded actress Ms. Sylvia Sanchez, the gorgeous Jane Oineza, the iconic Ms. Lorna Tolentino, international sensation Darren Espanto, premier broadcaster Korina Sanchez Roxas and the beautiful Bea Alonzo.  There were also several social media influencers in attendance and a lot of media entities from Pampanga, broadsheets, tabloids and bloggers.

Beautederm Execs, Celebrities, Ms. Rei's Mom during the launch

Darren even gave a small song number after being egged by the press

Ms. Rei and Bea Alonzo

The new Beauté Beanery on the other hand concocted several hot and cold coffee variations, also prepared hot food, cakes and pastries. It'll surely be a nice spot for remote work, dates or just usual coffee breaks if you're in the area.

Ms. Sylvia Sanchez also obliged us with an interview about how she feels about being an endorser of Beautéderm and her whole journey. We also asked he a bit about Ria Atayde's recent milestones as the newest calendar girl.

Ms. Rei was very optimistic that this will just be the first of 10 buildings she wants to put up all over the country. I've seen them grow over the years and I'm so happy that a Filipino corporation has achieved so much in such a short amount of time. She had very humble beginnings, her life story is quite inspiring and it teaches you that anything is possible if you put your mind, your heart and hard work into it.

Congratulations to the men and women who have made it possible for Beautéderm to grow where it is today!

RIA ATAYDE is Your New WHITE CASTLE Calendar Girl 2023

I am personally so happy to see this happen as gorgeous actress Ria Atayde don the much coveted White Castle Calendar this 2023. This was witnessed by select press and executives of Destileria Limtuaco & Co., Inc. this afternoon.

I'm sure over the years, you've identified White Castle Whisky with the iconic red bikini clad female riding a white horse, but management figured it was a bit arduous for them to train women to ride horses (which they did in the past) and do the actual shoot after that. Last year, they did a campaign differently by letting the public choose, this was when Sassa Gurl entered the competition and won. It was certainly a risk for them, but they understood it was but a proper time to have the LGBTQIA+ sector to be represented, a very current social step that got them in touch with a new younger market and a social media presence they gladly received. A few months before that, they also got Ninong Ry to represent the brand, all of which had awesome reception from the public albeit restrictions because of the pandemic. All of these made them realize to use their platform to also cater to different causes and advocacies.

Ms Olivia Limpe-Aw says "My father created White Castle Whisky and the several advertisements with the horse and castle in it. As we celebrate 60 years, the White Castle Calendar has featured several women, LGBT, and has brought social issues in the forefront. This year, we have the diversity in beauty campaign continued as we believe it is inclusive and promote body positivity + build our confidence. We welcome 2023 by celebrating that and beauty, let's cheer for White castle Whisky!" 

She adds "As you noticed we have Ninong Ry and last year with Sassa Gurl, we believe that if you are confident, you are beautiful. Let's not be obsessed by size, color, it's what's inside that matters and we're happy to have Ria represent the brand!"

Ria Atayde certainly had a very successful 2022. Aside from working in several series and shows, she had her hand in production together with her folks and siblings. Needless to say, her successful stint in MIPCOM Cannes has brought honor to the country and peers in Cannes, France via their production company Nathan Studios and ABS-CBN.  They also have finished filming several projects which will have international distribution and also be seen on platforms, much will be released this year so there's certainly a lot to look forward to. During the press conference, she also talked about her real struggles with body dysmorphia. 

She says "I never thought it was going to be possible as usually, calendar girls have a certain mold in the country. White Castle proved us all that big girls can get to do this. The campaign revolves around body positivity, flaws and all. I never thought I'd be one, this made me realize "kaya pala" (it's possible!). I'd be lying if I'm unaffected with all of that but I'd rather workout because I love it, now it's just a positive thing, not dreading it makes all the difference. You just have to turn off the noise, you only listen to those who matter. People have a lot of things to say, but I don't stop telling them about my advocacy."

Talented, strong, powerful, and deserving... Ria Atayde is now your new White Castle Whisky Calendar Girl for 2023. 

Congratulations Ria! <3

ARJO ATAYDE Praises JULIA MONTES in Action Film TOPAKK

 

This has been under the wraps for quite a while since they've been looking for an international release for this film a couple months back. They've secured it but kept mum about who had the rights for distributing this new action flick called TOPAKK starring Congressman Arjo Atayde, the very elusive Julia Montes, very talented actor Sid Lucero. This is Directed by Richard Somes who also did several films and TV series on ABSCBN.  We sat down with them after a grueling shoot that afternoon while marveling at their real cuts and bruises which they got from the scenes they did that day.

 Arjo says "JM was supposed to play this role but he wasn't available because of a series he's involved in. TOPAKK is about a guy who has PTSD, in a nutshell, he's a little crazy. But really, if you have this condition, it doesn't automatically mean you are crazy, because there might be reasons why you act a certain way which will be shown on the film. This also talks about how there might be no support system in the military. This is quite a very well thought out concept by our Director Richard Somes, I just feel so lucky to be on board and able to work with some of the best actors and actresses in the country."

 

@kumagcow Some behind the scenes look at TOPAKK with @arjoataydeofficial #JuliaMontes and Sid Lucero #tiktokshowbizreporter #EntertainmentPH ♬ Tuwing Umuulan - Moira Dela Torre

With Nathan Studios, Arjo adds "We do talk about it with the whole family. Before the pandemic, my Mom was really looking forward to putting out quality content by having a production company of our own. This was born out of passion, and Nathan Studios was already involved in Catleya Killer before this project, and much of the projects are under post production, hopefully they will all come out soon. As much as possible, we want to tap the international market first before showcasing it locally. Because I'm in public service, Nathan Studios is handled more by Mom. For creative inputs, suggestions, we try to come up with that. It's a blessing to also work with great directors because they also do that. Richard Somes is a brilliant Director, and he's so intense! He doesn't just do lip service, as you can see during the shoot he's doing everything including stunts and shows us how its done. You'll see him on set and getting wet too, he's not all talk, he knows what he wants and if he sees it on screen that a punch is awkward, you'll have to do it again."

 

Sid Lucero and Director Richard Somes for TOPAKK

He also talked about working with Julia Montes and says "Some actors often say that you'll see a different person here, but you will see a different kind of Julia. The character was specifically made for her, and she had to do a lot of new things in this movie. She really brought her A game, I have worked with her in a series before and I can say, she's going to blow your mind when you watch her in this movie. There also won't be a romantic angle between us, which is something new because it doesn't rely on a love story which is often seen on Philippine cinema. I'm telling you, what she's done in this movie is just over the top. We're so lucky to have Julia in this film!"

We also got to talk to Director Richard Somes and brilliant actor Sid Lucero, who gave us more insight about how this film was made. Listen in!

We also had the opportunity of watching the raw trailer for the film after the shoot, and I must say, you will get quite exhausted on how they tied up the story and action scenes. Hopefully, when this comes out this year, Filipinos would get a glimpse of TOPAKK and see how these fine actors did justice with their roles. Arjo didn't get those Best Actor trophies for nothing. And Julia Montes is just starting to get her face seen on the international stage, people will definitely love her acting prowess because of how genuine she is to this day. Here is also our talk with Arjo that evening.

 

This film also stars Bernard Palanca, Enchong Dee, Kokoy de Santos and a lot of other actors. It's time we get a taste of the action genre once again in cinemas!

Filipino Film TOPAKK (Arjo Atayde, Julia Montes) Gets Hollywood Sales and Distribution

After making a huge impression on MIPCOM Cannes weeks ago, Nathan Studios Inc. just secured the nod of Raven Banner Entertainment which is a Candian production company for global sales and distribution. After successfully doing the screening for Cattleya Killer in France, this adds another great acheivement for the new production company of the Atayde Family (also Sir Art and Ms. Sylvia Sanchez), not surprised by the amount of talent in that.

This is an action thriller film starring Arjo Atayde and lovely Julia Montes, furthering their craft and foray to the international film market. Also in this film is Sid Lucero, fine looking Enchong Dee, and the gorgeous Ria Atayde.

This film is co produced Wilfredo Manalang of Fusee, Director Richard Somes of Strawdogs Studio Production and Fernando Henna of Toronto based Theo and Atlas Productions Inc.

Director Richard says "This is different as Topakk discusses violence which we see in reality in any part of the world. More of an action picture, and this is a Filipino take on the genre made for the cinema. I want to showcase the talented throng of Filipinos especially the very talented Julia Montes and Arjo Atayde. We are also doing the legwork for next year to see what we might possibly do in continouation of this setting. They'll also see stunts, and several ailments people get mentally. You'll see how he's going to rescue while going through hardships in life. You'll see them perform in an entirely different level, apt for local and international audiences worldwide!"

This is just the beginning and hopefully, as we get more interest with the films we make in the Philippines, it'll be better for the industry. Stay tuned for more updates about this and future film projects on this site.

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!

ARJO ATAYDE Tops Survey in QC's 1st District

How can you not love Arjo?! :)

Not surprised that our man Arjo Atayde is doing good in District 1 Quezon City. See, our boy puts in the hard work, genuine eagerness to help and that’s exactly why he’s leading in the surveys. This is according to Istratehiya Inc. where it confirms 74.9% for the congressional hopeful after being asked of who would have the ability to help, capacity to understand the plight of the less fortunate, honesty, intelligence, being tough and the ability to help others whilst not being a traditional politician.

Arjo knows how hard his volunteers have dedicated their time and effort to inform constituents about what he plans for District 1, while not resorting to mudslinging on ground. While he knows there are existing black propaganda hurled against him, he’s very glad QC’s District 1 remains trusting of him. 

Arjo says “What District 1 in QC needs is help, none of those black propaganda or rumor mongering. If elected, I’d choose to work closely with government agencies to generate more jobs and livelihood. Also, I’d concentrate on improving transportation and health care, and address providing education for the unprivileged youth. We can’t be complacent just because we’re leading the surveys, we’ve got a lot to do aside from assuring we have clean and honest elections, let’s not allow them to steal our votes on May 9th.”

I’m glad our boy Arjo is also being supported by his whole family (Actress Ria Atayde, Best Actress Ms. Sylvia Sanchez and  Businessman Art Atayde), and our incumbent Mayor Joy Belmonte too. You guys in District 1 of QC are lucky, he’s a good man.

ARJO ATAYDE Celebrates Early Pride Month in Quezon City

Arjo Atayde's celebrity friends and family join in the fun with the LGBTQIA+ community in Quezon City's 1st District

Everybody loves Arjo Atayde.

With his recent endeavor to run as Congressman of Quezon City's 1st District, he celebrated early Pride Month with the LGBT community at the Ampitheater of Quezon City Memorial Park. This is part of his efforts to communicate on how he's adovacies with regards to advocating the rights of the LGBTQIA+ population which includes pushing for laws and local policies regarding their plight in employment, on discrimination and the experiences of violence. Tgus was attended by thousands from the sector and welcomed by Team Aksyon Agad's Doray Dolarmente, TJ Calalay, Joseph Juico, Bernard Herrera and Charm Ferrer who's running for the 1st district council, aiming to help their constituents in their district.

Arjo says "I've worked in the industry for over a decade, much of which I've had the opportunity to work with the most talented LGBT individuals. I'm a proud ally and have so much respect for them all. My folks have raised us all to treat everyone kindly, remain inclusive regardless of one's gender. No one should be deprived of their human rights, and today, we're celebrating their contributions to the community, their lives and accomplishments."

The event also was graced by Arjo's folks, businessman Art Atayde and the incomparable actress Sylvia Sanchez plus performances by Arjo's friends which includes huge belter Katrina Velarde, good looking Hashtag Jameson Blake and Nikko Natividad, the funny man Bayani Agbayani, one of the most beautiful voices in the industry Ice Seguerra, beauty queen Alma Concepcion, actresses Anne Feo and Ynez Veneracion, and fun hosts DJ Jai Ho and Viveka who entertained the crowd that evening.

I fervently hope this gets appreciated not just by the constituents of Arjo, the whole Quezon City and his fans that adore him. I know I do!

Happy birthday to his sister Ria by the way!