JOJO MENDREZ Wish to Cease Airing of DIREKwentuhan Interview by Director Ronald Carballo

Filipino "Revival King" Jojo Mendrez recently expressed his wish to not have his recent interview with Direk Ronald Carballo be published on platforms on his show DIREKwentuhan (on YouTube). He feels this would affect him and his artistry negatively as some parts of the interview might have onlookers feel offensive and or uncomfortable.  

He mentions how talk around his sexuality, how he got his title as Revival King, might have felt too personal to get published. He initially agreed to do the show expecting they'd talk more about his music but felt parts were a bit inappropriate, and didn't seem to align with his purpose to promote his music. He hopes this episode won't be aired, and issues be solved amicably. 

Director Ronald Carballo as of publishing has not expressed what will happen to the episode, but his show DIREKwentuhan has always been about conversations with personalities in the entertainment industry. Mendrez for now will be concentrating about his music and upcoming projects, more revival hits which he hopes people would continue to enjoy. 

Netizens Continue to Swoon Over Danaya-Aquil Pairing

It's been years since Encantadiks had seen a whiff of what have been DanAquil, the love between Aquil who commands the army of Lireo and Danaya, one of the 4 Sanggres who controls the Gem of the Earth (played by Alfred Vargas and Diana Zubiri). These two live super happy and separate lives now, but recent videos of their 2005 series resurfaced and have been talked about on different platforms, bringing nostalgia to many Encantadiks the world over!

The two have been loved during the Etheria: Ang Ika Limang Kaharian Ng Encantadia (Etheria: The 5th Kingdom of Encantadia) and also the sequel Encantadia: Pag-Ibig Hanggang Wakas (Encantadia: Love Until The End). They proceeded to do several more projects under GMA including a reality show in mid 2006. They also had a film during the same year together with legends Eddie Garcia and Gloria Romero. It was directed by Nose Javier Reyes under Seiko films, plus a 2003 flick Liberated under Direk Mac Alejandro. In 2016, they had different roles for the second chapter of Encantadia as Alfred did Amarro, while Diana did the role of LilaSari, which were both so colorful. Rocco Nacino and Sanya Lopez then took on their Aquil and Danaya roles which catapulted their careers too. 

Alfred's appearance in Encantadia marked his comeback in GMA-7. Then in 2011, he started making several series in ABSCBN's stable, and then moved to concentrate on public service during that time.

Alfred reacted to the videos that came out on FB and TikTok and said "This may have happened a long time ago but I'm so glad to see that there are still a lot of people who still get "kilig" with our pairing. When I was tagged and sent this video, I was so elated how it still trended on the platform. Diana and I had a really good working relationship which is why we remain friends until now. I hope we can make more movies or be in a series soon. 

I hope GMA or ABSCBN would see how fans remain so happy to see them together after all these years. Will they be given the chance to reprise roles or maybe paired in new shows soon?!

JOSEPH MARCO at his PEAK, Celebrating His 3rd Year with HANFORD

Took the trip up north to cover the contract signing of actor/model Joseph Marco. The well loved man is on his third year with Hanford. 

The contract signing was witnessed by Dr. Victor N. Te the President, Ms. Sincerely C.Te the Executive Vice President, Ms. Sheena Ann Te-Tan the Vice President, Ms. Angelica Sangco the Sales And Marketing Manager, all of Mansfield International Incorporated. Present in the occasion was Ms. Katherine M. Liclican the President/ CEO of JKast Management Productions, Inc. (Joseph's management).

Dr. Victor N. Te welcomed us to the occasion. He said "This is the 3rd time we are signing Joseph Marco with Hanford. He is very intelligent, capable, dashing, fun, fearless, fresh, genuine and handsome. He's also very personable, quick witted, radiant, stylish, talented, unique, versatile, wholesome, has an x factor, youthful, and zesty. He is special, and our collaboration with him will have great success!"

Joseph replied "They chose to believe in me and that means everything to me. If you invest in me, I give back, I will always do my best. It's about comfort, confidence, and this is what Hanford stood for. For believing in me once again, thank you so much!"

Here's our conversation with him after the contract signing with the executives of Mansfield International Inc., the entity that owns HANFORD.

Joseph added "With HANFORD, every year our connection grows deeper. They made me own my craft in terms of the business, they really teach me the ropes. When you're given difficulties in life, you discover so much with yourself. Every year, I prepare a lot for them and the campaigns they include me in. I am bulking right now, last year, it took me months to get ready and I learn a lot doing that including nutrition, food, my lifestyle and working out. Soon, I want to have my own designs and I think it's the perfect time to do that. It's been amazing to spend 3 years with them, I am thankful, grateful and it's a powerful to be with a brand that trusts you. I feel like I'm at my peak, when you reach maturity, most of the distractions are muted. Right now, I don't waste time anymore so I make sure to work out and watch my diet. I have a personal cook, she cooks for me, it's part of the process because I want to challenge myself, to improve this time, stretch myself in setting the bar high!" 

Asked if he's wishing for anything, he says "I really think that the most valuable things in life are family, friends, self fulfillment, and finding your purpose. I am just grateful that I've passed that phase. When you learn how to be content, it's amazing. Always maintain your mental peace."

Congratulations Joseph Marco! You're killing it, and we can't wait to see what HANFORD is planning for your campaign this coming 2026. So far, it looks amazing from here!

Platform Holds First VIP Nights

ArenaP|us, one of DigiP|us !nteractive Corp's sport entertainment platform got together with their loyal clientele in Pasay City for an event called Champions VIP Circle Night last December 12th at Chairman's Lounge in 0kada. They got to have the best experience, even talk to head honchos of the platform that evening. The next night on the other hand had their Champions Prime Circle folks at S0laire, with top engaging clients who have obviously influenced how the platform would become including the features and rewards they have developed. 

Their platform head Erick Su promised an even better experience in the coming years and thanked those who have graced the event. He also mentioned bigger rewards and deeper conversations in the entertainment platform. They will also include new limits and reminders, 24/7 help as it becomes a more responsible platform in upcoming years. 

The event was also graced by Soul Siren Nina and Joey G who performed their best hits, while lots of food and drinks were served all night just for them. They also held several raffle draws which included trips to Japan and the US. One of the winners will also have a meet and greet with NBA star Derrick Rose. 

Other prizes include luxury fashion vouchers and entertainment credits. All these to say THANKS for their loyalty to the platform. Now that's fun!

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!

VIBEPH Powers 38th Awit Awards

The recent 38th Awit Awards was one for the books. It's the most excellently produced awards show I've ever seen in recent years. This was powered by the same folks who produced VIBEPH which is under MQuest, an entertainment subsidiary of the MVP Group. When they announced their partnership with Awit Awards and PARI (Philippine Association of the Record Industry) a few weeks ago, that was when we knew they'll be working with them for the Awit Awards. This is also presented by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO).

Awit Awards remains as the premier award giving body to honor OPM artists, songwriters, Producers, industry pros and music professionals. Ours is a rich and diverse one, so with a multitude genres, it's just apt to recognize them during this evening. 

Hosts of VIBEPH or Vibe Jocks also hosted the event, with their fun banters and fun chat in between, it made the long hours bearable. But the Purple Carpet started getting full with OPM artists, they were so generous in posing for photos. I had so much fun being their in the afternoon!

As expected the internationally acclaimed PPOP groups SB19 and BINI got much of the awards, including individual awards for the boys since they have other singles made, my bias FELIP included! SB19 copped Best Global Collaboration Recording (with Gloc9), Best Rap Hip Hop Recording, Best Cover Art and Best Music Video. BINI got People's Voice Favorite Album and Group Artist, and Best Dance/Electronic for the single Salamin Salamin. 

Usual suspects Ben & Ben, Lola Amour, Cup of Joe, Dionela also won awards, plus special ones for rock god Ely Buendia and Viva head Vic Del Rosario. Congratulations to PARI, MQuest Ventures, VibePH, PCSO who all helped make this happen. It was so nice to see Regine Velasquez and that tribute to Ely Buendia, can't wait to see your next partnership!

ZELLE Sets Ablaze Her Comeback with New Single MARTIR

After a grueling 13 years in Sweden, OPM artist Zelle is back in the country for new music, a new perspective with empowerment, her truth and the process of healing. Her single "Martir" talks about the trials and tribulations of love and the complexities of relationships.  

This resurgence didn't come easy as it stemmed from her own life experiences which happened recently, a matter that compelled her to go back to the country. 

She admits experiencing depression, but realized how she could use music as an expression. It was something that she knew was important, to use it to heal. Her gift is now being used with intention and fervor, which is why her music feels more genuine than ever. A way to show her truth, and strength which she hopes to also inspire other women. 

Love certainly is still part of her songs creative process, but says she uses a more psychological aspect in writing about it. She shares how one shouldn't lose their identity while experiencing love. That's a pretty strong statement!

She now is doing gigs and tours with a dependable band. With John Abiathar De Leon on drums, Archie Salvador on guitar, Chester Ventura on violin, and Jing Gonzales on bass plus a few more people in charge of production, she's ready to perform in different stages, here or elsewhere. She's also preparing a release for another single "Liberate Me" which she's doing soon. In the meantime, listen download and stream "Martir" on all streaming platforms and take that awesome healing and feisty journey with Zelle.

GARY V Ready to INSPIRE on his US Tour!

There's no stopping Gary Valenciano as he takes on his "Gary V Inspired US Tour 2025" forward this month. After finishing his judge duties in the recent IDOL Kids season, he's ready to take the experience in 5 US cities particularly Temecula Pechanga on October 12th, Cache Creek Resort on the 17th, Cypress Texas CFSID Visual Performing Arts Center on the 19th, Hilton Hawaiian Village on the 26th in Honolulu, and Dale Halton Theater in Charlotte NC on November 2nd, a really hectic month for Mr. Pure Energy. 

He's already done sold out concerts in New Zealand, several cities in Australia, and he's taking the inspirational music in other countries toon. Mind you, he's been in the industry for a little over 40 years and people continue to love his songs, its message and how exciting it is to see him perform on stage.

 

Philippine Airlines has been flying him non stop to these destinations and fans are expected to flock down these venues as tickets become sold out quite early. If you want to be part of it, take the trip down memory lane and visit his website garyv.com/tour to know more about his performances. He's as excited as you are because he wants to reconnect with those who are in the US, and honestly I've seen him perform at a recent event, he's just on a different level!

Take the chance to see him now!

That Nordic Spirit Flavor City Party was Epic!

I've been partying non-stop and gracing different clubs every weekend for years now. While I'm still in the mood for it, some of my peers are all trying to embrace family life and adulting, which is not a bad idea. I on the other hand have not stopped, and I am so glad about it. It brings me endorphins, and I love it. 

I was invited a little over a week ago to Nordic Spirit's Flavor City party at the POP UP place in Katipunan Avenue. They're a brand of t0bacco free nic0tine pouches that are designed for no fuss, very discreet use. I used to sm0ke occasionally but stopped cold turkey about a decade ago and things like these weren't available in the PH market. It's a Swedish brand and available in different flavors like Fresh Frost, Lush Red, Lush Crimson, and Green Frost. It's used by tucking under the lip, left or right side cheek and could last you around 40mins. They didn't encourage using it but I did, and I think it's a pretty good alternative. They also had several booths and activities to try out, so it was fun to see all that happen.

Anyway, the party was sick because Denise Julia and Sam Concepcion performed on stage. Crowd was quite young but their music was universal. I loved what they dished out including the DJ who was there til the wee hours of the morning. Thanks for the epic party Nordic Spirit!

SING GALING: Sing-lebrity Edition Starts This September 27

Looks like your weekend watching will be severely interesting as TV5 amps up one of their hottest fun shows SING GALING as it enters another installment of SING GALING: Sing-lebrity Edition to find the Ultimate Bida-oke Sing-lebrity. 

 

Hosted by gorgeous Donita Nose, funny vixen comedienne K Brosas and literally *shadey* Randy Santiago this coming September 27 onwards. This is for the benefit of their individual "Bidaficiaries" and will be judged by Rey Valera, Ariel River, Nina, Ella May Saison, Mitoy Yonting and Ethel Booba.

And if that's not enough, they'll be fielding in over 48 celebrities in the show coming from different genres and industries. They have the opportunity to choose their charities and help if they get to be the Ultimate Bida-Oke Singlebrity. This includes Almira Teng, Andrew Muhlach, Anton Diva, Arman Salon, Bobby Andrews, Carmi Martin, CJ Navato, CJ Opiaza, CJ Ramos, Chad Kinis, Cedrick Juan, Dawn Chang, Divine Tetay, Dominic Ochoa, Gio Alvarez, Gus Abelgas, Jay Gonzaga, Jay Manalo, Jeff Tam, Johannes Rissler, Keanna Reeves, Krissha Viaje, Kych Minemoto, Laila Chikadora, Leandro Baldemor, Lloyd Samartino, Luis Alandy, Madam Kilay, Mark Ian Garcia, Maoui David, Maui Taylor, Meryll Soriano, Nathalie Hart, Nikki Valdez, Noel Comia, Patricia Javier, Rey “PJ” Abellana, Rikki Mae Davao, Romnick Sarmenta, Rufa Mae Quinto, Ryle Santiago, Sexbomb Mia Pangyarihan, Sexbomb Monic Icban, Troy Montero, Valerie Concepcion, Via Antonio and Yobab. As you can see there are TV, film and theater actors, singers, and internet celebrities who will surely do their best to get that crown.

 

Let's not forget your Singtokers (Gab, Queenay, Ari G, Yanyan, Muse Jazz, Niko and Zendee) who will also do hosting duties, online so you get to know the contestants through behind the scene segments for the duration of the show. Again, this shows 7PM on Saturdays and 8PM on Sundays and will be shown on TV5, Sari Sari Channel, Buko Channel, and TV5 social accounts where available.

This will certainly be an exciting year for you, those who love these celebrities, and their chosen charities. So who's your bet?

LUMOS FLOAT Review: First 360° Rotatable Projector For Movie Nights on Walls or Ceilings!

Taking time out of your busy schedule to watch a movie, a show or two has been really hard these days. Work for most is getting in the way, but it certainly the same level of sadness if you don't have your own projector at home. These days, it's essential because going to theaters have already been a little troublesome and expensive. Add to that, transportation costs, overpriced food, and that kid kicking your chair too.

I've featured LUMOS a few times here on the site and have lived to enjoy it so much that I get to use it regularly for family gatherings and parties. Folks often ask me where I got it. Well let me get you in on a secret, you can actually purchase this online and have it delivered to your home conveniently. They also have a new one called LUMOS FLOAT, a one of a kind 360 degree rotatable home cinema projector which we installed just a week ago. See, my room needed an upgrade because I've always wanted to have one installed for movie nights or YouTube sessions because I love watching anime series off the app.

The LUMOS FLOAT is pretty light and compact. No more heavy and bulky projectors!

 

For starters, installing this LUMOS FLOAT is quite easy. You can mount this off a regular tripod or choose to put this on a wall or ceiling. Think about the possibilities. If you put this above your bed, you can beam it to the wall in front or even use the ceiling if you are lying on your back. This means you can be in the most comfortable position you can imagine. Like watching the best shows without straining your neck.

 

 

They call this the SkyTrack, a built-in bracket that makes it even easier to mount the projector with hooks from 3M without the need to drill your walls or ceiling. You can then have it pointed to your preferred position, totally convenient for those who are not handy with building stuff (especially those IKEA shelves you've been meaning to finish months back LOL). The LUMOS FLOAT can be projected to a wall so you can get a 150-inch screen. Since my room is a bit small, I could take it a little around 1.5 meters away from it and I could enjoy a 50-inch screen. It's super easy to set it up that way and looks crisp at 1080p quality. It has 3000 lumens which makes it brighter than usual, I've seen no washed-out parts so far, the video quality is quite awesome!

The LUMOS FLOAT uses its remote to focus, way more convenient now since it's not manually done. The device also has built in apps like Netflix, Wi-Fi connection and Bluetooth if you want to connect it to the internet or your device. It has Wireless Mirror Casting, so you can easily see what you have on your phone. I even watched several videos from my phone without any hitches. The sound quality was also good and loud enough to fill the room. With it, you'll feel those shows and movies would be more immersive. You'll start to fall in love with those nights you'd spend with loved ones, your family, and with yourself. 

 

If the video looks a little imbalanced, it's easy to access the settings and adjust the projector. You can also adjust the zoom to your liking. The device also has a USB port so if you've got media you need to access from a drive, this is plug and play. So far, I'm addicted watching anime on it and several Filipino series. I've also been watching several action movies which felt like I'm in the actual scene in full volume. No wonder a lot of people get hooked with the LUMOS projectors. This isn't just me, a lot of folks swear by it and I'm sure if you experience it first hand, you'll know what I'm talking about.

Here's a little preview of the LUMOS FLOAT:

The LUMOS FLOAT also comes in 3 colors. You can choose Gold, Silver or Pink. I prefer the Gold since I have several gold accents in my room and it goes pretty well with the white walls. This costs Php 4,999 for the regular while the Smart version (with the apps) cost Php 7,999. It also comes with a 1-year local warranty so if you run into concerns, they'd be able to take care of it.

If you want to know more, visit their official site http://www.lumosprojector.ph/float and see what difference it makes on your entertainment arsenal. Prepare to change your views about projectors and be obsessed!

HEAVEN PERALEJO Supports Responsible Entertainment in Latest Endorsement

Viva Executives, including Boss Vic Del Rosario was at the recent PlayTime event as they launched their newest muse, Viva's brightest star Heaven Peralejo.

Krizia Cortez the PR Director of Pl@y🐯Tim3 says "It's a pleasure to meet you today, and to our new ambassador that could connect with our customers in so many ways. We are the country's most innovative platform, licensed by government agencies. We already have Bossing Vic Sotto, and have partnered with the biggest events like MMFF and Bb. Pilipinas, we are reshaping online entertainment."

Bossing Vic Sotto also sent his welcome message and said that Lucky the cat will take care of her. It'll be Bossing Vic, Lucky the Cat and Heaven that will be leveling up the happiness for countless folks who will be on the platform and site. 

Heaven says "This will be not about just play, we thank everyone for being here, to all my supporters, this one is special, it's a community that we can play together. I am excited to enjoy and grow together!"

She adds "PlayTime stood out to me, it wants people to enjoy but also not to be reckless. Right now we are busy with I Love You a series. My idea about it is about balance, when to play and pause. We have to find joy in small things, that's my outlook. It feels surreal to be with my V Barkada, Boss Vic for giving us the platform to showcase our talent."

She also commented about working with Bossing Vic Sotto "I am so honored, a dream of mine to work with him. It makes me happy to know that I am promoting with him. If ever, we can do movies together. Boss Vic listens so it's not impossible. We have many shows endorsing responsible gaming, I'm lending my voice for that."

You will be seeing Heaven and her 3D counterpart on the platform. Head on to their official website and app because it's going to be fun with HEAVEN there!

Longer Episodes for "SOL at si LUNA" as it nears FINALE

If you haven't watched "SOL at Si LUNA" on YouTube's Puregold Channel, then I must say, you are missing a lot. It's a series launched a couple months ago by the folks from Puregold starring Jane Oineza and Zaijan Jaranilla. It's got a really good story, cinematography is impressive. I would even mistake it for a full blown movie as the quality is just above your usual teleseryes.

It talks about love and its intricacies, of what's normal and what is taboo. It also talks about the magic it brings, of when it comes at unexpected times, and find happiness in it even on dark days. He also gets really good advice from his Dad, about what it's like to be in a relationship and how it is a commitment and a choice. 

It also talks about being heartbroken, what things they learned in past relationships and the things they are still carrying to this day. Other episodes also discuss how love is found, how to protect it, how to win in life. They also vent out their frustrations, if they are attracted to each other, their labels too. 

SOL at si LUNA will have a longer episode this August 16th at 7pm. Subscribe to their official YouTube channel as they regularly upload the episodes there. Follow the Puregold social channels as well because they provide updates on latest promos and episodes too. 

METROBANK Urges You To Get HOLIDEALS Early! Gets JOSE MARI CHAN Singing in AUGUST!

 

It's August but Metrobank is about to change the holiday schedules as they start the season with planning early with products fit for the Filipino resolution makers, and not have it too late. Folks should not start change after new year revelries, the time to start doing it is right now! 

Last year, they initiated GIFT. Mr. Digs Dimagiba the Digital Marketing Lead for Metrobank talked lengthily about it and said "Goals, Invest, Follow a Budget Plan and Take Advantage of Deals (aka GIFT) was done last year. This year, we need to plan ahead. We need to spend with purpose, and August as Financial Resolutions Month and it needs to be done a bit early because those who start late usually don't get to achieve their goals. We want more people to accomplish their goals, and stop making it in January just like any successful business. It's going to be clearer, have gift guides, plan before your bonus comes into play in your financial journey. The #EarlyGIFT challenge means you need to know your realistic goal in 12 months, take time to write it down, make it public and tag your friends, before the holiday rush begins. You may refer to earlygift.ph, and don't be afraid to have big goals. We'll help you make your plans become a reality." 

Ms. Peaches Cuenco the Head of Consumer Lending Group for Metrobank says "Look at where are right now. Home ownership is a priority for every family, there are 2/5 folks who don't own their homes. The younger Filipinos increased ownership for car and homes, there is an increase YOY. It's an opportunity for Metrobank to make that a reality. Our best offer ever is the Car and Home Loans now have a 3 year fixed term, waived fees (10K), and these include insurance from AXA. Convenience that is FREE. If you are interested, you can apply online on our website or physically go to a branch near you. We can be your financial partner all the way!" 

Now is the time to be financially ready. And what better way to start that but by singing Christmas Songs with the one and only Jose Mari Chan!

@kumagcow JOSE MARI CHAN Starts Singing CHRISTMAS SONGS IN AUGUST, just like your plans to save! Do it early with METROBANK #TikTokTainmentPH #TikToktainment #tiktokshowbizreporter #JoseMariChan ♬ original sound - John Bueno

Metrobank wants you to know that YOU CAN do your yearly plans early instead of just doing it in January and feeling like a failure because it's too late. You've got funds available even before the holidays, and being adept to changes before it happens can spell success. They've got the best offers in loans when you want a new home or transportation. Go get it and make that year a successful one today!