Cory Aquino Wake and Memorial Service Schedules

The Aquinos, through their spokesperson Deedee Siytangco, announces their decision of having a private funeral for the late President Cory Aquino instead of a state funeral (under law, all Presidents were entitled to a state funeral but still subject to the family's approval).

"For all intentions and purposes, she had been a private citizen after stepping down, and siguro, to a degree we would like to spend as much time as possible as a family with her." explained Senator Noynoy Aquino of their decision.

Aquino, however, said that there will still be honor guards at the wake, as per tradition in wakes for former government officials.

The Aquinos also announces President Cory's wake and memorial services schedule as listed below:

• : President Cory's body will lie in state at the La Salle Greenhills (LSGH) gymnasium.

• : The wake will be open to the public (Gate 5 entrance for public and Gate 2 for media) from 5 p.m. on Saturday and will continue until Monday. The daily viewing schedule will be until 4 a.m., and will then resume on 7 a.m.

• : A mass at the LSGH will be held at 8 p.m. on Saturday, August 1.

• : Daily Catholic masses daily at 12nn and 8 p.m. at LSGH and Manila Cathedral.

• : "Dedication Garden for Tita Cory" at the Sacred Ground of EDSA Shrine (where supporters can put flowers, prayers, candles and notes to Cory).

• : President Cory's remain will be transferred from LSGH to Manila Cathedral on August 3 at 11am.

• : Chronological service will be held at the Manila Cathedral on August 4.

• : Necrological and vigil service is on August 4 from 4 a.m. until 6 a.m. at the Manila Cathedral.

• : On Wednesday, President Cory will be buried at the Manila Memorial Park after a 9 a.m. mass at the cathedral. She will be buried beside her late husband, Senator Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino Jr.

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo also declared a 10-day period of national mourning for the lost of Philippine much admired former President Cory Aquino.

Senator Noynoy Aquino Tells About Cory's Remaining Days in the Hospital

Former President Corazon Cojuangco Aquino, 76, has passed away of cardio-respiratory arrest at exactly 3:18 a.m. Saturday at the Makati Medical Center.

At about 5 a.m. outside the hospital, Senator Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III read a statement announcing the death of his mother.

The statement read:

"Our mother peacefully passed away at 3:18 a.m., August 1, 2009, of cardio-respiratory arrest.

"She would have wanted to thank each and every one of you for all the prayers and your continued love and support. It was her wish for all of us to pray for one another and for our country.

"Hinihiling po ng aming pamilya ang kaunting panahon para makasama namin ang aming mahal na ina."

At a press conference held this morning at the Ramon Cojuangco Building in Makati, Senator Noynoy speaks about the remaining days of her mother, late President Corazon Aquino, at the Makati Medical Center.

He told the press how unselfish her mother would be to still think of others while suffering from pain, "Yung touching dun sa akin yung sa ICU first time kong nakatokang magbantay. Imbes na matanong ko kung kumusta ka, ang tinanong sa akin kung kumain na ako at yung mga kasamahan ko. Other times naman nagbabasa ako ng dyaryo, tinanong nya kung ano laman dyan. Di ba pag ikaw ang maysakit eh natural yung 'ang sama naman ng pakiramdam ko', pero sya laging yung iba ang nasa isip."

Watch the video below:

Popular TV host Boy Abunda, a close friend of the Aquino family, told reporters on Saturday that the Aquinos were praying the Sorrowful Mystery of the Rosary when Cory gave her last deep breath.

Abunda said all five children of Mrs. Aquino, and her close friends and relatives were at her bedside when the former leader passed away.

After that last breath, Abunda said, Mrs. Aquino's children quietly cried.

"Malungkot. Tahimik na nag-iiyakan. Tahimik, except for Kris who was very quiet," he said, referring to the youngest daughter of Mrs. Aquino.

"Kris was very quiet. She was displaying such courage pero noong dinadala palabas mga labi ni Tita Cory... because you have to remember that Kris was in the hospital, Kris was by the side of her mother since July 20 hanggang sa mga oras na yun. Hanggang ngayon si Kris ay nasa tabi ng kanyang ina." Abunda said.

He also said that Fr. Catalino Arevalo, who is a very close friend of the former leader and had been officiating a mass for her at the hospital, officiated a mass right after Mrs. Aquino's death.

Video Source: martilyo courtesy of ABS-CBN

Former Philippine President Corazon Aquino Dies

Former Philippine President Corazon Cojuangco Aquino passed away at exactly 3:18 a.m. on Saturday, August 1, 2009, at the Makati Medical Center in Manila after battling colon cancer for more than a year. She was 76.

Once a reluctant housewife, Aquino was known as an icon of Philippine democracy after the EDSA 'People Power' revolution removed the Marcos dictatorship and restored democracy in the Southeast Asian archipelago in 1986.

Aquino served as the nation's president until 1992 when she gave way to her successor, President Fidel Ramos.

But in March 2008, Cory Aquino has been diagnosed with colon cancer and has been going in and out of the hospital since then for chemotherapy. Last May, she underwent surgery to remove parts of her colon and was brought to the Makati Medical Center in June due to loss of appetite.

Last Monday, the Aquino family said Mrs. Aquino's condition had turned to "guarded" due to her fluctuating blood pressure.

Her son, Senator Benigno 'Noynoy' Aquino III, confirmed that the former leader's cancer had already spread to her liver.

"Her weakened condition does not allow chemotherapy. We have reached the point where you're not sure if the intervention will help or worsen the condition," he told reporters.

Last week, her supporters tied yellow ribbons along Times St. and Examiner St. in Quezon City near Mrs. Aquino's residence, and also outside the Makati Medical Center, symbolizing hope and prayers for her recovery and as a show of support for Philippine democracy.

May Your Soul Rest in Peace, President Cory.

Piolo Pascual Graces the Cover of Garage Magazine 1st Anniversary Issue

This August 2009 marks Garage Magazine�s first year anniversary. And they're celebrating it with none other than the Kapamilya hunk Piolo Pascual.

For this special issue, Garage pumped up the fashion and added more pages to highlight the magazine's year of existence.

Picked off the international scenes, Garage profiles the top collections from the all/Winter 2009 shows in Paris and Milan.

Also, the multi-awarded actor Piolo Pascual leads the magazine's first ever most stylish list called Street Dapper Kings. To find out who else made it on the list and the many special features in the latest issue, better grab a copy of Garage this August at all magazine stands nationwide.

Here are Garage Magazine's Cover Boys then 'til now:

Speed Racer (June - July 2009)

Sun and Sand (April - May 2009)

Young and Modern - Double Cover Special (February - Marh 2009)


Make Your Mark (December 2008 - January 2009)

Second Coming (October - November 2008)

Premier Issue (August - September 2008)

GMA-7 Dominates But ABS-CBN Leads the Top 30 Programs of AGB Total Urban Luzon Survey from July 12-18, 2009

The drama series �May Bukas Pa� retained it�s no. 1 position in the Total Urban Luzon tv ratings survey of AGB Nielsen for the week of July 12 to 18, 2009.

At no. 2 is another kapamilya program �Tayong Dalawa� with an average rating of 30% while GMA�s Zorro dropped to 3rd place.

Although ABS-CBN topped the rankings, GMA captured 16 out of the Top 30 slots. TV5 had one and ABS-CBN had 13.

GMA still leads in the channel rating (16.7% vs. 15.1% ) and audience share (37.7% vs. 34.2%) for the said week.

Here are the Top 30 programs from July 12 to 18, 2009 based on the survey of AGB Nielsen Philippines among Total Urban Luzon TV households:

1. May Bukas Pa (ABS-CBN) - 31%
2. Tayong Dalawa (ABS-CBN) - 30%
3. Zorro (GMA-7) - 29.9%
4. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 29.1%
5. Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (GMA-7) - 28.9%
6. Only You (ABS-CBN) - 28.7%
7. TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) - 27.5%
8. Rated K (ABS-CBN) - 25.8%
9. Imbestigador (GMA-7) - 25.6%
10. Rosalinda (GMA-7) - 24.4%
11. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 24.2%
12. Boys Over Flowers (ABS-CBN) - 23.8%
13. Talentadong Pinoy (TV5) - 22.9%
14. All My Life (GMA-7) - 22.8%
15. Adik Sa �Yo (GMA-7) - 22.3%
16. Kung Aagawin Mo ang Lahat Sa Akin (GMA-7) - 22.2%
17. Sharon (ABS-CBN) - 21.8%
18. Bitoy�s Funniest Videos (GMA-7) - 21.7%
19. Mel & Joey (GMA-7) - 21.5%
20. Maalaala Mo Kaya (ABS-CBN) - 21.3%
21. Ngayon at Kailanman (GMA-7) - 20.3%
22. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 19.9%
23-24. The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) tied with Kap�s Amazing Stories (GMA-7) - 19.6%
25. Cinema FPJ: Agila ng Maynila (ABS-CBN) - 19.5%
26. Are You The Next Big Star? (GMA-7) - 19%
27-29. George and Cecil (ABS-CBN) tied with Hole In The Wall (GMA-7) and Kambal Sa Uma (ABS-CBN) - 18.9%
30. Daisy Siete (GMA-7) - 18.8%

TOP 5 DAYTIME PROGRAMS

1. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 24.2%
2. Kung Aagawin Mo ang Lahat Sa Akin (GMA-7) - 22.2%
3. Ngayon at Kailanman (GMA-7) - 20.3%
4. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 19.9%
5. Cinema FPJ: Agila ng Maynila (ABS-CBN) - 19.5%

TOP 5 PRIMETIME SERIES

1. May Bukas Pa (ABS-CBN) - 31%
2. Tayong Dalawa (ABS-CBN) - 30%
3. Zorro (GMA-7) - 29.9%
4. Only You (ABS-CBN) - 28.7%
5. Rosalinda (GMA-7) - 24.4%

TOP 5 NEWS, MAGAZINE AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS PROGRAMS

1. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 29.1%
2. Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (GMA-7) - 28.9%
3. TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) - 27.5%
4. Rated K (ABS-CBN) - 25.8%
5. Imbestigador (GMA-7) - 25.6%

TOP 4 REALITY COMPETITION AND GAME SHOWS

1. Talentadong Pinoy (TV5) - 22.9%
2. The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) - 19.6%
3. Are You The Next Big Star? (GMA-7) - 19%
4. Hole In The Wall (GMA-7) - 18.9%

MISSING IN ACTION

XXX (ABS-CBN)
The Wedding (ABS-CBN)
Pinoy Records (GMA-7)
All Star K (GMA-7)

Source: AGB Nielsen Phils. via Starmometer

Maricar Reyes Covers Metro Magazine August 2009 Issue

Controversial model-turned actress Maricar Reyes is in the cover of Metro Magazine August 2009 issue.

In this issue, Metro focuses on the other side of Maricar. Besides from modeling and acting, she is also a licensed doctor and an athlete. And being the youngest child in her family, everyone wants to keep an extra eye on what's going on with her.

"I think everyone should aim to be a survivor, everyone should think of themselves as fighters.The only thing to do is to fight and rise above it," Maricar told the magazine.

Maricar, who first gained nationwide popularity by being one (and probably has the most number of videos) of the girls in Hayden Kho Jr's controversial videos, is now gaining a wide popularity and beng consider as the "it" girl now in showbusiness.

Cristine Reyes Remains a Kapamilya

Cristine Reyes will remain a Kapamilya.

Despite her previous statements that she is no longer happy with ABS-CBN, Cristine still decided to renew her contract with the Kapamilya network.

Cristine officially sealed her status as Kapamilya at a contract signing that happened this afternoon, July 30, at the 14th floor of ELJ Building. Present during the event are some ABS-CBN Executives and her manager Veronique del Rosario of Viva Artists Agency (VAA).

Cristine is set to do several projects like a weekly drama special titled "Cristine Reyes Drama Special" and a primetime soap with a tentative title "Bedspacer".

She will also be featured in the upcoming episodes of of Sunday afternoon soap "Your Song Presents".

Joe Jonas - Camilla Belle Split-Up

Joe Jonas and (ex) girlfriend Camilla Belle reportedly call it quits.

According to the source close to the two, "Yes, it�s true. Joe and Camilla have broken up. There is no third party involved and they care deeply about each other and will remain friends."

Paw Diaz "Blooms" on the Cover of FHM Philippines August 2009 Issue

Star Circle talent Paw Diaz turns sexy on the August 2009 cover of FHM Philippines.

According to Paw it was her long-time dream to grace the cover of this sexy magazine, "Dati ko pang nai-imagine yung sarili ko na nasa cover ng FHM kaya mahilig akong bumili nito. Tapos, titingnan ko lahat ng mga pictures at babasahin ang mga article. Kaya inisip ko na baka masayang maging cover nito. And it's really for myself. I really want this sexy pictorial.

Masaya ako, masayang-masaya! Ang ganda ng kinalabasan ng mga pictures ko sa shoot, at ang daming pictures!"

2009 National Artists of the Philippines Awardee

President Gloria Arroyo recently named the 7 National Artist of the Philippines awardees for 2009.

Jose Pitoy Moreno - Fashion Design

Cecille Guidote Alvarez (National Commission on Culture and the Arts Executive Director) - Theater

Manuel Conde - Film and Broadcast Arts, Posthumous

Lazaro Francisco - Literature, Posthumous

Federico Aguilar Alcuaz - Visual Arts, Painting, Sculpture, Mixed Media

Francisco "Bobby" Ma�oza - Architecture

Jose Carlos Caparas - Visual Arts and Film

A National Artist of the Philippines is a title given to a Filipino who has been given the highest recognition for having made significant contributions to the development of Philippine arts namely: Music, Dance, Theater, Visual Arts, Literature, Film, Broadcast Arts, Fashion Design, Architecture, and Allied Arts.

Rhian Ramos is Dingdong Dantes "Jodi" in Stairway To Heaven

The much coveted role of "Jodi" in the Philippine remake of Stairway to Heaven is given to Rhian Ramos , the niece of GMA Artist Center Head Yda Henares.

Dingdong Dantes will play "Cholo", Jodi's childhood sweetheart and love interest.

Although GMA-7 is yet to officialy reveal the entire cast of Stairway to Heaven including the much-awaited new leading lady of Dingdong, GMA executive Redgie Magno confirmed that it�s Rhian who will play the role of Jodi in the said adaptation.

Amongst in the cast are TJ Trinidad as Tristan, Jean Garcia as Tae Mira - mother of Eunice and Tristan who will make Jodi's life difficult. Rumor has it that Cristine Reyes will play the role of Eunice if ever her comeback to GMA pushes through.

Directed by Bb. Joyce Bernal with headwriter Dode Cruz, Stairway to Heaven will debut on GMA Telebabad this September 7, 2009.

Miss Universe Will Air Live on ABS-CBN, August 24

When the best from all creation come together, it is the most beautiful day in the universe.

About 80 of the finest and most gorgeous women from across the globe will gather in Bahamas to compete for the world's most coveted beauty title of Miss Universe 2009.

Miss Universe 2008 Dayana Mendoza, who hails from Venezuela, has traveled across the globe as an advocate for HIV/AIDS education, research and legislation. She will crown her successor in August during the pageant to be hosted by Access Hollywood co-anchor Billy Bush and Celebrity Apprentice star Claudia.

This marks the third consecutive year that ABS-CBN was chosen by the Miss Universe organization to be its exclusive media partner here in the Philippines. ABS-CBN also aired the 1994 Miss Universe pageant held in Manila, where Miss India Shusmita Sen took home the crown.

Who will be crowned the next Miss Universe?

Watch it happen in the Miss Universe 2009 pageant live on ABS-CBN on August 24 (Monday) at 9:30 AM with a primetime telecast the same day via Velvet (SkyCable channel 53) at 8:00 PM; on August 25 (Tuesday), 8 PM on Studio 23; and on August 27 (Thursday), 10 PM on ABS-CBN. Catch the replays on Velvet on Wednesday (August 26) at 8:30pm and on Saturday (August 30) at 10 pm.

Richard Gutierrez and Heart Evangelista - Patient X

Richard Gutierrez will be reunited with Heart Evangelista on a movie project titled "Patient X".

Patient X is a horror movie produced by GMA Films and Viva Films. The script was written by Aloy Adlawan and will be directed by Yam Laranas (The Echo).

The movie is set to release on October 28 playdate.

Carla Abellana is Sharon Cuneta's Daughter in Mano Po 6

After the much talk-about "walang utang na loob" brouhaha between Mother Lily Monteverde and Angel Locsin, finally, the Regal matriarch announces the final choice to play Sharon Cuneta's daughter in Mano Po 6. She is but no other than the latest addition to her Regal Babies - Carla Abellana.

The role was first offered to Angel Locsin but she declined the role since due to some previous commitments with her home network ABS-CBN and its film arm Star Cinema. Second choice was Kim Chiu but the Kapamilya young actress has already a movie entry in the upcoming MMFF titled "I Love You� Goodbye" starring Gabby Concepcion, Derek Ramsey and Angelica Panganiban.

Mano Po 6 will be Carla's baptism of fire as far as movie project is concern. She is indeed lucky to have the Megastar as her co-star on her first film project.

Carla became famous through her GMA-7 hit telenovela Rosalinda.

Mano Po 6 is scheduled to hit the theaters on Christmas Day as one of the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) movie entries and to be directed by Joel Lamangan.

Survivor Philippines Season 2 - Teaser Trailer

New Heroes

and Anti-Heroes

Tackle a New Twist

In a Familiar Game.


Survivor Philippines Season 2

Coming this August 2009

Only on GMA.

Marian Rivera: Darna - Teaser Trailer

Mapapataw sa kanyang balikat ang pinakamabigat na katungkulan.


Parating na ang tagapagligtas ng sangkatauhan.

Abangan ang kanyang muling paglipad!


Darna

Ngayong Agosto

Sa GMA Telebabad.

Cinemalaya 2009 Winners

The awarding ceremonies of Cinemalaya Cinco which was hosted by Ricky Davao and Eugene Domingo took take place on July 26, 2009 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines.

This affair marked the end of the ten-day film festival that kicked off last July 17, 2009. CCP President Nestor Jardin happily announced that 38,000 viewers watched at the CCP during the last nine days which proves the success of this year Cinemalaya Festival.


Here is the complete list of Cinemalaya 2009 winners:

Best Film: Last Supper No. 3

Special Jury Award: Colorum and Ang Panggagahasa Kay Fe (tie)

NETPAC Award: Baseco Bakal Boys

National Council for Children's Television Award: Dinig Sana Kita

Audience Choice (Full Length): Dinig Sana Kita

Best Director: GB Sampedro (Astig)

Best Actress: Ina Feleo (Sanglaan)

Best Actor: Lou Veloso (Colorum)

Best Supporting Actress: Tessie Tomas (Sanglaan)

Best Supporting Actor: Arnold Reyes (Astig)

Best Screenplay: Nerseri

Best Cinematography: 24K

Best Production Design: Mangatyanan

Best Editing: Astig

Best Musical Score: Dinig Sana Kita

Best Sound Recording: Astig

Best Short Film: Bonsai

Special Jury Award: Blogog

Audience Choice (Shorts): Tatang

Best Director (Shorts): Dexter B. Cayanes (Musa)

Best Screenplay (Shorts): Behind Closed Doors

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Former American Idol Contestant Alexis Cohen Found Dead

Alexis Cohen aka Glitter Girl, who became famous for flippin' the bird in American Idol and failing twice in American Idol auditions (2008 and 2009), was found dead on the streets of Allentown on July 25.

A 25-year-old Allentown, Pa. woman and former contestant on the television show American Idol was struck by a car and killed in Seaside Heights early Saturday morning in an apparent homicide, authorities said. Alexis Cohen was found dead at the edge of Dupont Avenue near Bay Boulevard at about 4 a.m., said Deputy Chief Michael Mohel of the Ocean County Prosecutors Office.

See Alexis Cohen's AI audition below:

She will be remembered as one of the funny-weird character in AI auditions who delivered some laughs when she curse Simon Cowell.

Sarah Geronimo - Record Breaker (Music Video and Lyrics)

Sarah Geronimo was officially launched as the newest endorser of shampoo brand Sunsilk on ASAP '09 last Sunday. Alongside with the launch is the premiere of Sarah's latest hit song "Record Breaker" which is also the jingle for Sarah's Sunsilk commercial.

Sing-along with Sarah below:

Ooh Ooh . Record Breaker
Ooh Ooh . Record Breaker

Im gonna flip this game around
Shake it up. Break it down

Record Breaker, Deal Maker
Shake it baby, get it ready
Bring it to the dance floor
Boy i leave you wanting more

Record Breaker, Deal Maker
Shake it baby, get it ready
Bring it to the dance floor
Boy i leave you wanting more

You think you kno-ow ..
I bet you think you know the score
I think you don�t though,
gonna flip it show you more
I�m a new sound,
like you never heard before
Move it along now, you know,
you want to groove some more

Uh-Oh-Oh! Uh-Oh-Oh!

Im gonna flip this game around
Shake it up. Break it down

Uh-Oh-Oh! Uh-Oh-Oh!

Im gonna flip this game around
Shake it up. Dance now

Record Breaker, Deal Maker
Shake it baby, get it ready
Bring it to the dance floor
Boy i leave you wanting more

Record Breaker, Deal Maker
Shake it baby, get it ready
Bring it to the dance floor
Boy i leave you wanting more

Ooh Ooh .
Ooh Ooh . Record Breaker

Come on and move it
Leavin� all the rest behind
Later if need be
I�ll run it by you one more time
Im not your average
Girl who sits and reads her line
If you�re carrying baggage
You�re heading to the exit sign

Uh-Oh-Oh! Uh-Oh-Oh!

Im gonna flip this game around
Shake it up. Break it down

Uh-Oh-Oh! Uh-Oh-Oh!

Im gonna flip this game around
Shake it up. Dance now

Record Breaker, Deal Maker
Shake it baby, get it ready
Bring it to the dance floor
Boy i leave you wanting more

Record Breaker
Record Breaker.

Akihiro Sato Acts in the Movie "Handumanan"

Brazilian-Japanese model Akihiro Sato stars in his very first acting role via the Cinemalaya entry, "Handumanan" (Remembrance).

Chin Chin Gutierrez and Jason Abalos topbill the film which was shot on location in Dumaguete, Negros Oriental. The film is about three people who seem to have lost hope of their worlds until their fateful encounter in a resort in Negros Oriental.

Chin Chin plays a romance novelist named Solita Locsin a.k.a. Soledad Miranda who cannot accept her publisher�s demand that she write erotic pocketbooks. When she is diagnosed with a terminal illness, she decides to quit her job and go back home to Dumaguete.

Jason is Alejandro Tan a.k.a. Lean. He wants to be a writer but he is trapped in his job at the Commission on Audit after finishing accountancy upon the wish of his mother. He also wants to escape from a world that has been harsh to his family.

Akihiro portrays the role of Carlos Silva, a Brazilian print ad model who is searching for his roots. He uses his blog to connect with people all over the world. After Sol finds out about blogging from her niece, she makes use of this new tool to continue writing. Intrigued with her writing, Carlos finds her blog on the Internet and expresses his wish to meet her personally. Meanwhile, Lean is assigned to audit in Dumaguete but his escapist attitude leads him to Sol, whose romance novels play a significant role in his life.

Handumanan will have its regular screening from July 29 to August 4 at the Robinsons Galleria Indie Sine.

Watch the full trailer of "Handumanan" (Remembrance) below:

Rain Stars in His First Hollywood Starring Role as the Ninja Assassin

He may not be a big star yet in Hollywood, but the South Korean pop singer Rain is starting to land big roles in some big films. He already has a supporting role in the movie Speed Racer, and now Rain (aka Jung Ji-hoon) has nabbed a leading role in a film called Ninja Assassin.

Rain will portray Raizo, a kidnapped child who is raised to be a professional killer but ends up seeking revenge against the clan that made him who he is.

Synopsis: Ninja Assassin follows Raizo (Rain), one of the deadliest assassins in the world. Taken from the streets as a child, he was transformed into a trained killer by the Ozunu Clan, a secret society whose very existence is considered a myth. But haunted by the merciless execution of his friend by the Clan, Raizo breaks free from them and vanishes. Now he waits, preparing to exact his revenge.

In Berlin, Europol agent Mika Coretti (Naomie Harris) has stumbled upon a money trail linking several political murders to an underground network of untraceable assassins from the Far East. Defying the orders of her superior, Ryan Maslow (Ben Miles), Mika digs into top secret agency files to learn the truth behind the murders. Her investigation makes her a target, and the Ozunu Clan sends a team of killers, led by the lethal Takeshi (Rick Yune), to silence her forever. Raizo saves Mika from her attackers, but he knows that the Clan will not rest until they are both eliminated. Now, entangled in a deadly game of cat and mouse through the streets of Europe, Raizo and Mika must trust one another if they hope to survive and finally bring down the elusive Ozunu Clan.

Ninja Assassin - Movie Trailer:

Set for worldwide release on November 25, 2009, Ninja Assassin is directed by James McTeigue under Warner Bros. Pictures production.

Joseph "Erap" Estrada and Ai-Ai Delas Alas Talk About Their Upcoming Star Cinema Movie

After 22 years, Former President Joseph "Erap" Estrada is set to do a grand movie comeback this year opposite the Box-office Comedy Queen Ai-Ai delas Alas.

The comedienne and the screen legend-turned-country leader will play husband and wife in the still untitled romantic comedy film by Star Cinema and will be directed by Wenn Deramas.

The movie will revolves around the forthcoming wedding of their daughter played by Toni Gonzaga to her boyfriend played by Sam Milby.

Also included in the cast is Mommy Dionisia Pacquiao who will play as Sam Milby's mother.

Watch below Erap and Ai-Ai talk about the movie:

So what do you think of the film's cast? Blockbuster or Flop?

Dara Park of 2NE1 Interview with Bianca Gonzales of Entertainment Live!

Bianca Gonzales had the chance to interview Dara Park of Korea's famous pop group 2NE1 in SBS Broadcast Company TV studio in Seoul Korea.

Other members of 2NE1 like CL, Bom and Minzy also joined the interview.

Watch the interview below:

Mommy Dionisia Pacquiao Performs Ballroom Dance Medley on Wowowee

There is no stopping Mommy Dionisia Pacquiao.

Mommy Dionisia brought total fun and entertainment to the studio and home viewers of Wowowee when she performed ballroom dance medley on Saturday, July 25.

Watch her performs below:

Panalo!

Eva Fonda and Cristine Reyes are the Only Philippine Entries Nominated in the 2009 Seoul International Drama Awards

Eva Fonda of ABS-CBN is the only Philippine entry nominated at the Seoul International Drama Awards 2009.

Eva Fonda was nominated for Special Prize, and it's lead star, Cristine Reyes, is the only Filipina actress nominated for Best Actress category.

Here are the list of nominees:

BEST AND EXCELLENT DRAMAS

Single Drama

The Englishman's Boy - Minds Eye Entertainment, Canada
False Witness - Screentime Pty Ltd, Australia
Taipei 24 - Public Television Service Foundation, Taiwan
The Last War Criminal - NHK, Japan
The Shopping Trip - NHK, Japan
The Vow - Bavaria Media Television, Germany
Whitechapel - BBC Worldwide Limited, UK

Mini-Series

Maria - Rubicon TV, Norway
The Emperor of Taste - Caviar Films NV, Belgium
Beethoven Virus - MBC, Korea
The Painter of Wind - SBS, Korea
Merlin - Shine Limited, UK
Being Erica - BBC Worldwide Limited, UK
Underbelly - Screentime Pty Ltd, Australia

Series Drama

The Slingshot - KBS, Korea
Doctor Who Srs4 - BBC Worldwide Limited, UK
Live a Luxury and Dissipation Life - China Guoan Culture & Media Investment, China
Memoirs in China - Zhejiang Huace, China
Taking Lives - Telefe, Argentina
The Cartel - Caracol Television, Colombia

INDIVIDUAL

Director

John N. Smith, The Englishman's Boy - Minds Eye Entertainment, Canada
Duane Clark, XIII: The Conspiracy - Power, UK
Anthony Byrne, Single Handed 3: The Drowning Man - RTE, Ireland
Margret Bergheim/Cathrine Irgens Nilsen, Maria - Rubicon TV, Norway
Frank Van Passel/Jan Matthys, The Emperor of Taste - Caviar Films NV, Belgium
Tom Van Dyck/Michel Vanhove, Flesh and Bones - Woestijnvis NV, Belgium
Miguel Angel Colom, Taking Lives - Telefe, Argentina
Lius Alberto Restrepo, The Cartel - Caracol Television, Colombia

Writer

Guy Vanderhaeghe, The Englishman's Boy - Minds Eye Entertainment, Canada
Barry Simner, Single Handed 3: The Drowning Man - RTE, Ireland
Arne Berggren, Maria - Rubicon TV, Norway
Marc Didden, The Emperor of Taste - Caviar Films NV, Belgium
Erica Halvorsen/Celina Amadeo, Amanda O - Dori Media International, Switzerland
Marcelo Camano/Guillermo Salmeron, Taking Lives - Telefe, Argentina

Actor

Akira Kume, The Shopping Trip - NHK, Japan
Rupert Penry-Jones, Whitechapel - BBC Worldwide Limited, UK
Myung-min, KIM, Beethoven Virus - MBC, Korea
Colin Morgan, Merlin - Shine Limited, UK
Antony Starr, Outrageous Fortune - South Pacific Pictures, New Zealand
Facundo Arana, Taking Lives - Telefe, Argentina
Yong-ha, Park, The Slingshot - KBS, Korea

Actress

Christiane Horbiger, The Visit - Ziegler Film GmSH & Co.KG, Germany
Lindsay Duncan, Margaret - BBC Worldwide Limited, UK
Charlotte Frogner, Maria - Rubicon TV, Norway
Geun-young, Moon, The Painter of Wind - SBS, Korea
Shu Chen, Love in a Fallen City - Zhejiang Huace, China
Cristine Reyes, Eva Fonda - ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation, Philippines

SPECIAL PRIZE

Token - IRIB Media Trade, Iran
Fathers and Sons - TV channel Russia, Russia
Britannia High - ITV Global Entertainment Ltd, UK
Fighting Spiders - MediaCorp TV (S) Pte Ltd, Singapore
Eva Fonda - ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation, Philippines
Forbidden Love - Calinos Entertainment, Turkey

Watch "Eva Fonda" trailer below:



Winners will be announced on September 11 in Seoul, South Korea.

Source: Seoul Drama Awards 2009

John Lloyd Cruz - Swatch Watch

Box-office actor John Lloyd Cruz is the newest endorser for Swatch Watches.

He was officially launched at The Establishment in The Fort last July 22 - a well attended event by press people and some personalities closest to JLC. Even her ex-girlfriend Liz Uy was there to support the actor.

And guess what he wears during the event? A pale blue blazer over a thin white V-neck shirt and coral pants. His feet are shod in orange leather shoes - a bright, shockingly blinding orange Lanvin shoes. His coat and pants were tailor-made for him by Joey Samson. Some fashion critiques says its quite appropriate considering that he�s wearing it for his launch as the next endorser for Swatch, the trendy watch brand that catapulted to fame wrist candies such as the in-your-face Pop Swatch, graphic-riddled plastic straps and colored link-strap watches.

Billy Crawford, co-Swatch endorser and event host even commented that JLC look like candy in his outfit. Which the actor gladly acknowledged by saying "Thank you!"

So what's your take on JLC's outfit? A hit or a miss?

Megan Fox and Josh Brolin - "Jonah Hex" Movie Poster

Megan Fox has been cast in Warner Bros� adaptation of Jonah Hex. Megan will play Leila, Jonah Hex�s beautiful gun-wielding love interest.

Directed by former Pixar animator Jimmy Hayward, Jonah Hex tells the story of a former alcoholic and confederate soldier (played by Josh Brolin) turned supernatural loner and gunslinger.

The comic book was introduced in the 1970�s, created by writer John Albano and artist Tony DeZuniga, the character received his signature scar at the hands of Indians who placed a hot tomahawk to his face. His mother was a prostitute and his dad sold him into slavery.

Jonah Hex also stars John Malkovich who will play the film�s villain, a voodoo practitioner who wants to raise an army of undead to liberate the South.

The film is scheduled to be seen everywhere on August 6, 2010.

Check out the new Jonah Hex movie poster below:

The new poster was revealed during the 2009 Comic-Con Convention at the San Diego Convention Center on Thursday, July 23, in San Diego, California.

Katie Holmes - Judy Garland Performance on SYTYCD

Katie Holmes performs an homage to the legendary Judy Garland in which she dances and sings to Garland�s classic "Get Happy" on the 100th episode of So You Think You Can Dance on Thursday, July 23.

Mommy Dionisia Pacquiao, a Kapamilya?

Dionisia Pacquiao, the equally famous mother of top pound-for-pound boxer Manny Pacquiao, made a special appearance on popular Kapamilya noontime show "Wowowee" to the delight of its host and viewers.

It was a dream come true according to Mommy Dionisia, adding, "Masaya ako na nayakap ko na siya. Wow!"

The highlight of her guesting though was when she and her impersonator, co-host Pokwang, danced and grooved together on stage. Pokwang will reportedly play the role of Pacquiao�s mother in an upcoming "Maalaala Mo Kaya" episode.

Not to be left behind, Mommy Dionisio is reportedly being offered to make a special appearance in former President Joseph Estrada and Ai-Ai delas Alas� Star Cinema movie intended for the Metro Manila Film Festival this Christmas. She said it will only take four days to shoot her scenes.

She was also introduced to ABS-CBN Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Eugenio "Gabby" Lopez III, President Charo Santos-Concio and other ABS-CBN Executives.

Lopez said he is happy to know that Mommy Dionisia will play Sam Milby�s mother in the Estrada-Delas Alas movie.

See video below courtesy of TV Patrol World:

Would it mean that Mommy Dionisia is now a certified Kapamilya? How about Manny Pacquiao's new Kapuso comedy show "Show Me the Manny" where she reportedly will play as Manny's mother? Seems like even Mommy Dionisia's bossoming showbiz career will be a victim of unending network war. Let's wait and see.

One thing's is sure "Di ka na talaga ma-reach Mommy Dionisia!"

Carla Abellana - HerBench

And now it started to pour!

You've seen her in numerous TV commercials.

She was launched as a primetime star via her Kapuso TV novela "Rosalinda".

Soon she'll star in a Regal movie titled "Ang Nanay Kong Aswang".

And now, a billboard in EDSA.

Carla Abellana is really not just getting the celebrity superstar treatment from GMA-7's top honcho, and film producer Lily Monteverde but her potential to perfectly endorse a clothing line also caught the attention of Ben Chan - the the man behind the famous apparel brands Bench and HerBench.

See here some of her pictorials for HerBench below:

Fil-Am Thia Megia Wows Judges of America's Got Talent

14-year-old Filipino-American Thia Megia is now one of the front runners of American reality television show �America�s Got Talent.�

During the show�s audition in Chicago, Thia wowed judges David Hasselhoff, Sharon Osborne and Piers Morgan with her rendition of "I Am Changing" by Jennifer Holliday.

Watch THIA MEGIA performs "I Am Changing" at America's Got Talent -->>HERE<<--
David Hasselhoff: "You just sang 'I Am Changing' and nothing�s going to stop me now, you know what, nothing�s going to stop you now. You�ve got a beautiful God-given talent. Terrific, terrific, terrific job. Congratulations,"

Sharon Osborne: "You sing, I mean, not only are you a great singer but you sing with emotion and that�s very hard to do. And great little package here with a huge voice. Well done."

Morgan Piers: "Right now you are the best I've seen in the competition."

After getting 3 �yes� from the judges, Morgan told Megia: �I tell you what�s coming your way - Las Vegas.�

Those who pass the auditions are sent to a bootcamp in Las Vegas where they can perfect their craft.

The gifted young Filipina from California has been singing since she was four years old. She also composes her own songs.

'Glee' is Fox's Answer to Disney's 'High School Musical'

Fox is again giving its viewers a new, delightful promising program that will surely capture the heart of teens and young alikes.

"Glee" is a little dark musical comedy tv series set within the fictional William McKinley High School in Lima, Ohio and revolves around a high school show choir, also known as the glee club. It is like a combination of Disney's 'High School Musical' and the famous musical movie 'Fame'.

It stars Dianna Agron, Chris Colfer, Jessalyn Gilsig, Jane Lynch, Jayma Mays, Kevin McHale, Lea Michele (Teen Choice nominee for Breakout Female), Cory Monteith (Teen Choice nominee for Breakout Male), Matthew Morrison, Amber Riley, Mark Salling and Jenna Ushkowitz.

A pilot episode of the show was broadcast after American Idol on May 19, 2009, and raked an incredibly high 10 million viewers at average. The rest of the season will begin airing on September 16, 2009.

The show was created by Ryan Murphy, Brad Falchuk and Ian Brennan, and originally envisioned as a film rather than a TV series. Murphy selects all music featured within the series himself, and intends to maintain a balance between show tunes and chart hits. Because of the extensive choreography necessary to stage the show�s musical numbers, episodes can take up to 10 days to film, and cost over $3 million to produce.

Critical response for program was mixed, with The New York Times� Alessandra Stanley highlighting the episode�s unoriginality and stereotyped characters, but praising the showmanship and talent of the cast. The Daily News� David Hinckley opined that the show was imperfect and implausible but "potentially heartwarming", while USA Today�s Robert Bianco noted casting and tone problems, but commented positively on the show�s humor and musical performances. Mary McNamara for the LA Times wrote that the show had a wide audience appeal, calling it "the first show in a long time that�s just plain full-throttle, no-guilty-pleasure-rationalizations-necessary fun."

Glee - Full Trailer:

Will 'Glee' surpass or even equal the popularity made by 'High School Musical'? What do you think?

Josefina Norcio Filed Charges Against Belo Clinic Due to Failed Butt Surgery

40 year-old businesswoman Josefina P. Norcio filed charges of reckless imprudence resulting in serious physical injuries against the Belo Medical Group (BMG) and Dr. Francis Decangchon (who is no longer affiliated with the BMG is an obstetric gynecologist who performed the second butt augmentation surgery on Norcio).

The complainant suffered complications from two butt augmentation procedures performed by BMG doctors in 2003 and 2005. She now can't sit, walk, or wear her lower garments properly since she is still suffering from open wounds on her buttocks, which were bulging with pus. Norcio is at the St. Luke's Medical Center undergoing treatment for infection allegedly caused by her hydrogel buttock implants.

Norcio said she consulted with Belo prior to her butt augmentation procedures, and that Belo assured her the implants were safe and permanent. "I thought [Belo] was the best in the industry, but she's not. She did not even finish her dermatology residency," Norcio said in a statement.

Norcio paid P120,000 for her first surgery, and another P180,000 when she went back to the clinic to have doctors correct the assymetry on her buttocks.

Norcio's lawyer Atty. Argee Guevarra said in a phone interview that the hydrogel material, which was implanted directly against the patient's muscles, had spread to other parts of Norcio's body nearly causing the patient's death.

Atty. Guevarra said the BMG is culpable for Norcio's injuries since they are not authorized to use hydrogel butt implants or perform surgeries on patients. He said the hydrogel material - composed of 97.5% water - was banned in the U.S., Europe and China, and is not certified by the Bureau of Food and Drugs.

"We just learned recently that the Belo group sources its hydrogel from China, which banned the product. Also, the Belo group has only 2 licensed surgeons among its 70 or 80 doctors. So really, this brings to question the existence of collorum clinics. So really, clinics like Belo's are really just beauty parlors masquerading as clinics," he said.

Photos released with consent of patient and her lawyer.

Meanwhile, BMG's Corporate Public Relations Chief Leah Salterio said in a statement that the BMG cannot comment on Norcio's condition since they have not examined her yet.

She also noted that Norcio's infection came four years after her surgery was performed, and that other "supervening events" may have occurred within that time.

"Allow us to say that Belo Medical only wishes the best for Ms. Norcio and we pray for her full and speedy recovery," Salterio said in a statement.

Source: Kristine Servando, ABS-CBNnews/Newsbreak

Rhap Salazar Brings Home the 2009 WCOPA Junior Grand Champion Performer of the Word Title

Rhap Salazar wins the top award in the 13th World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) held at the Westin Bonaventure in downtown Los Angeles, California on July 17.

ABS-CBN's Little Big Star Brightest Star Rhap won the coveted titles of Junior Grand Champion Solo Vocalist of the World and Junior Grand Champion Performer of the World.

Twelve-year-old Rhap sang a one-minute version of Celine Dion's "All By Myself" at the final show.

WCOPA Philippine National Director Carlo Orosa narrated, "Hours before the finals, Rhap's voice was getting tired due to extensive rehearsals for two straight days. He did everything to conserve his voice. Despite the odds, he gave a stellar performance worthy of the top prizes in the junior division. The American judges were simply blown away by his soaring vocals."

The judges at the grand finals were composed of high profile agents, record and television producers, choreographers, and Disney theme park directors in California and New York.

Aside from Rhap, the vocal quartet The Young Voices of Negros won the title Junior Grand Champion Group Vocalists of the World.

On their part, The Young Voices of Negros (Katrina, Kristina, Aissa and Kristopherson Madrigal) performed a highly polished rendition of "And I Am Telling You" from the musical Dreamgirls, in four-part harmony.

WCOPA's newest junior champions Rhap and The Young Voices of Negros will be featured on ABC's Good Morning America through the "My Life in Three Words" segment.

Watch below Rhap Salazar�s performances at this year�s WCOPA:

Rhap Salazar - All By Myself

Rhap Salazar - Reach




Rhap Salazar - I'll Be There




Rhap Salazar - And I'm Telling You




Rhap Salazar - Somewhere Over The Rainbow

Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs - Movie Trailer and Poster

Columbia Pictures and Sony Pictures are about to give us the most delicious event since macaroni met cheese. Inspired by the beloved children's book "Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs", the film focuses on a town where food falls from the sky like rain.

Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs is a children's book written by author Judi Barrett and illustrated by Ron Barrett. It was first published in 1978 by Aladdin Paperbacks.

Featuring the voices of Anna Faris, Bill Hader, Bruce Campbell, James Caan, Mr T, Tracy Morgan and Andy Samberg. The movie is directed by Phil Lord and Chris Miller. Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs will be released worldwide on September 18, 2009.

Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs - 3D poster:

Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs - Full Trailer: