Actor Roi Vinzon, who plays as the homophobic retired army general Armando Soriano in the GMA primetime series “My Husband’s Lover,” was spotted this morning inside a studio at the GMA Network Center donning a habit (religious vestment) similar to the vestment worn by Dominican priests during the Spanish colonial era of this country’s history.

The action star has always been negatively typecast because of his past roles as drug lord, rapist, corrupt public official, criminal with a calloused conscience, among others.

Roi will be part of a yet confidential TV program, which will air this October.

Details of the said project will yet be revealed but from what we know so far, the cast will include a relatively new kapuso actor who is a relative of another popular actor from a different network and an established young actor who has been creating buzz lately in the independent film arena. The said actor is a member of a clan of revered actors although he uses a different family name.

Watch out for this TV program soon!

Meanwhile, as “My Husband’s Lover” nears its finale week, viewers are getting more and more hooked on the series.

Will Vincent end up with Lally, Eric or neither of the two? Watch “My Husband’s Lover” for the answer to this question from Monday to Friday, 9:30pm on GMA-7. The show’s finale episode will air on October 11 and a thanksgiving concert will be held the following day, October 12, at the Araneta Coliseum.

Tickets to the “One More Try: The MHL Concert” are available at all Ticketnet outlets and may also be purchased online at the Ticketnet website.

Actress Rhian Ramos shared how happy she is to be part of the new GMA primetime series, “Genesis,” which is top-billed by Primetime King Dingdong Dantes.

Genesis began production barely a few months after Rhian’s previous series “Indio” aired its grand finale.

“Every one on the set of ‘Genesis’ does his job really well. Every one is helping each other. ‘Pag nasa eksena ka, you feel that you are in a team,” said Rhian.

Apart from working on the series, Rhian is also seriously preparing for a motor sports/car racing event on Saturday, October 12, at the Clark International Speedway in Pampanga. It is organized by a popular automobile manufacturer. Aside from Rhian, kapuso hunk actor Aljur Abrenica is also joining the competition.

Rhian said she was drafted from around thirty celebrities who were given several tasks to complete during a press event. The final celebrity racers were selected by the organizers based on how they performed the tasks.

To prepare for the race, Rhian enrolled in a five-week course at a popular racing school. The actress said it is a requirement for the race. She said that all racers were required by the organizer to undergo at least five weeks of intensive training.

It is the first time for both Rhian and Aljur to join a car race although Rhian said that Aljur has tried motor races in the past.

The actress is not expecting to land first place but said she is hopeful that she won’t end at the bottom.

The “Genesis” star is getting hooked on the sport and she feels that the October 12 race won’t be her last.

Although the actress’ boyfriend KC Montero is not so much into cars, Rhian divulged that she has influenced him to like motor sports.

Meanwhile, in “Genesis,” the actress portrays a physically abused wife who will eventually be saved by a long lost love – Isaac (Dingdong Dantes) – who is the real father of her child.

Rhian said in an interview with GMANetwork.com that she did a bit of research to prepare for her role in “Genesis.” She said she read articles and stories about women who experienced domestic violence.

Apart from Rhian and Dingdong, also starring in the series are Ms. Lorna Tolentino, TJ Trinidad, Jackie Lou Blanco, Irma Adlawan and Ronnie Henares. Completing the cast are Carlo Gonzales, Luanne Dy, Albert “Betong” Sumaya and child stars Sasha Baldoza, Rainier Gisin and Anette Samin.

Directed by Bb. Joyce Bernal and Mark Reyes, “Genesis” will air its pilot episode on Monday, October 14 on GMA Telebabad.

Beauty queen, actress and The 700 Club Asia co-host Miriam Quiambao and fiancé, author and Salt and Light Ventures co-founder Ardy Roberto, are gracing the set of The 700 Club Asia on Monday, October 14, 11:00 p.m. on GMA News TV.

Want to know how their love story started? What were the qualities that Ardy liked about Miriam? What did Miriam liked about Ardy? How did they found out that they were meant to be together?

Watch the first exclusive interview of the newly-engaged couple with The 700 Club Asia co-host Kata Inocencio and find out, as they share how they found love in each other and fell in love with one another on Monday, October 14, 11:00 p.m. on GMA News TV.

Plus get a chance to get Ardy’s latest book, “Real Men Are POGI.” Like our Facebook fanpage www.facebook.com/The700ClubAsia for more information or visit www.cbnasia.org/mediacenter.

GMA’s newest primetime program “Genesis,” aired its pilot episode on Monday (October 14). The ground-breaking series promises to take the audience on an emotional and inspiring ride towards a new beginning. Set during the end of times, it will test the endurance of the human spirit and prove that when hope falters, love is the greatest refuge.

Primetime King Dingdong Dantes portrays Isaak Macalintal, a morally upright military man who is entrusted with the welfare and safety of the country’s vice-president.

The story of “Genesis” begins when a series of cataclysmic events happen in Baguio City during the celebration of the annual “Panagbengga Festival.” The festive occasion turned tragic when an asteroid hit the city, followed by a powerful earthquake and several landslides.

In the middle of the chaos, Isaak saves the vice president’s daughter Sandra (Ms. Lorna Tolentino) and takes her to the presidential chopper. He then returns to ground zero to rescue the vice president. However, the president, Ramona (Jackie Lou Blanco), orders the immediate take off of the chopper even if the vice president is still in grave danger.

Isaak finds the vice president, hanging on to the ground at the edge of a wide and deep crack on the ground which resulted from the earthquake. He desperately tries to save him but it was too late. The incident leaves Isaak devastated and feeling dishonored because he failed in his mission.

When Isaak returned home, he finds out that his parents perished in the disaster and his fiancée, Raquel (Rhian Ramos) was the only one who survived among his loved ones.

As the days go by, Isaak continues to mourn the death of the people dear to him. Aware of the danger that comes with it, Raquel convinces Isaak to quit his job. She wants them to get married and start life anew in their quiet hometown.

Back in the country’s capital, Sandra still doesn’t know that his father’s death was partly due to President Ramona’s decision. She and Isaak are both unaware that Ramona had wanted the vice president killed because he was a roadblock to her political career.

Ramona knows that the vice president’s blood is on her hands and she wants to pass the blame to someone else. She is well aware that her political ambitions could be over once someone finds out what she has done. Someone should answer for the vice president’s death and that someone is definitely not her. And so, she devices a plan which will incriminate the slain politician’s security detail, Isaak.

Being a military man, Isaak’s case was unjustly tried in a military court martial. Soon, a verdict is reached and the court finds Isaak guilty of not performing his duty. Consequently, he is sentenced to life imprisonment. Later on, the president announces that Isaak died in prison. This of course, isn’t true.

Thinking that the love of her life is dead, Raquel tries to move on and later marries Paolo (TJ Trinidad) who promises to give her and her baby a better life.

Seven years later, Sandra runs for the presidency and wins the race. But right after her inauguration, she immediately faces a very big problem which involves not only her country but the rest of the world as well. She discovers that the world is about to end and realizes that what happened seven years ago in Baguio (which killed his dad) was a warning sign of the imminent doom.

Thankfully, the governments of the world have come up with a plan to save mankind – but not all of it. In light of the impending destruction of the Earth, the unified governments roll out “Operation: Genesis,” a modern-day Noah’s Ark type of plan wherein selected people from every country of the world will be whisked in a spaceship to a different and much safer world in the hope of propagating the human race once more. In order to preserve only the best human genes, only those who are in very good health condition will be eligible for “salvation” via “Operation: Genesis.”

Sandra, being the president of the Philippines, must quickly assign someone to scour the country for potential candidates, and she knows who has both the agility and courage to do the job — Isaak. She discovers that Isaak is still alive in prison and so he gives him presidential pardon and offers him the Herculean mission. In return for the favor, Isaak is assured by the president that he and Raquel can come along.

In the course of doing his job, Isaak crosses path with Raquel and finds out that she is already married to Paolo and has a daughter, 7-year old Osie. Through her innocence and charm, Osie unwittingly brings back the hope and optimism in the heart and mind of Isaak. His years of imprisonment have hardened his heart and made him cynical about life. Isaak later finds out that Osie is not Paolo’s daughter but his. Apparently, he had impregnated Raquel before he was thrown into prison.

In his search, Isaak meets different people from different parts of the country. He realizes that in the midst of destruction, love is the greatest salvation and that when chaos strikes, love will be their greatest strength.

While “Operation: Genesis” seems promising, will it be successful in guaranteeing the future of humanity? Will Isaak be able to find all of those who are on the list? Will he be able to save himself, Raquel and their daughter Osie not only from the impending apocalypse but from Paolo who will do everything to keep Raquel away from Isaak? Could Sandra do something to save as many people as possible? Could she save her own family from her archrival Ramona?

Helmed by directors Bb. Joyce Bernal and Mark Reyes, “Genesis” will showcase the basic goodness of mankind and show that we are all capable of love, hope, faith, forgiveness and sacrifice. It seeks to remind us that when we are faced with adversities, there is a future to hope for if we have love in our hearts because love sees no end.

“Genesis” is top billed by Primetime King Dingdong Dantes with Rhian Ramos and Ms. Lorna Tolentino.

Playing equally vital roles are versatile actor TJ Trinidad as Paolo de Guzman, the controlling and almost tyrannical husband of Raquel and seasoned actress Jackielou Blanco as Ramona Escalabre, the cruel, manipulative and dishonest former President.

Completing the powerhouse cast are Irma Adlawan as Tiya Fely, Raquel’s auntie who plays a second mom to Raquel; Ronnie Henares as Emil Trinidad, Sandra’s supportive and committed husband; Carlo Gonzalez as Waldo, the warden that will make Isaak’s life miserable; Betong Sumaya as Tolits Dimagiba, an ex-convict who will be Isaak’s friend; Luane Dy as Jill Galvez, a resilient, audacious and persistent journalist who will investigate everything about Operation: Genesis; Sasha Baldoza as Osie de Guzman, the smart, charming and loveable love child of Raquel and Isaak; Rainier Gison as MJ Trinidad, the eldest son of Sandra and Emil; and Annette Samin as Summer Trinidad the daughter of Sandra and Emil who has Down Syndrome.

Aside from the stellar ensemble, there will also be a special participation of respected TV and movie stars: Robert Arevalo (as the Vice President and Sandra’s father), Bembol Roco, Gardo Versoza, Snooky Serna, Shamaine Centenera, Mark Anthony Fernandez, Angel Aquino, Pauleen Luna, Lauren Young, Lito Legaspi and Laurice Guillen (as Isaak’s parents) among others.

Don’t miss the much awaited premiere of “Genesis” tonight (Monday), October 14. The series airs from Monday to Friday, after “24 Oras” on GMA Telebabad.

October 18, 2013 (Quezon City, Philippines), basketball heartthrobs Kobe and Andre Paras signed an exclusive contract today with GMA Network Inc.

Present in the contract signing were GMA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Felipe L. Gozon, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Felipe S. Yalong, Officer In-Charge of Entertainment TV Lilybeth G. Rasonable, Vice President for Entertainment Marivin T. Arayata, Vice President for Drama Redgie A. Magno, Assistant Vice President for Alternative Productions Gigi S. Lara, Assistant Vice President for Corporate Communications Angel Javier – Cruz; Assistant Vice President for Talent Branding and Imaging Simoun S. Ferrer, Program Manager Charles Koo, and father of Kobe and Andre, Benjie Paras.

During the contract signing held at the 16th floor Boardroom of GMA Network, GMA’s OIC of Entertainment TV Lilybeth Rasonable expressed her happiness as Kobe and Andre join the stable stars of the Kapuso Network. “I’m so glad na pinagkatiwala nila ang kanilang mga sarili at ang kanilang mga tv careers sa GMA.”

Being given a warm welcome from GMA executives, Kobe and Andre feel very honored and excited about this new chapter in their lives.

Kobe shares “It feels great because alam ko naman pong maraming gustong magkaroon ng ganitong opportunity, sobrang masaya po kami.”

Yung pagiging Kapuso, given this title. You’ll be able to do projects also and to make people happy and to entertain as well,” adds Andre.

Benjie Paras, Kobe and Andre’s father, is confident that the Kapuso network will give his good-looking sons projects that will develop their skills on camera. “Masaya ako, I started in show business with GMA. I’m happy na andito na rin sila and likewise with GMA. Ngayon, ma-ma-maximize yung talent nila for hosting and acting. And as early as now, they can save na.”

‘TomDen,’ the team-up of Tom Rodriguez and Dennis Trillo from the groundbreaking Kapuso primetime series “My Husband’s Lover,” conquered the music scene as their album from GMA Records topped the iTunes Philippines music chart.

When the smash pairing of Tom Rodriguez and Dennis Trillo broke primetime TV convention to steal the hearts of millions of Filipinos, history was rewritten. Not only did this unlikely twosome made their characters Eric and Vincent one of the most adored couples on national TV, their welcome arrival on the scene comes at a time when the hotly contested issue of gay marriage continues to rage on. The My Husband’s Lover tandem confronted stereotypes to open up the overlooked idea that love is universal in whatever form it takes. And it manifests even on their new record, TomDen.

Crafted with the intent to tell Eric and Vincent’s story in a format that is just as authentic on the screen, the duo exhibits a generous helping of romance through tender tunes under the guidance of seasoned producers and songwriters.

Opening track “One More Try” sets the tone throughout the album. It shows the duo’s resolve underneath the delicate ballad, harmonizing and intertwining their warm vocals to complement the lovely musical arrangement.

More than just a straightforward record, TomDen feels like Eric and Vincent’s storyline, trading love song after emotional love song. The plot is bright and clear with the musical trimmings taking a backseat to emphasize chapters of a love story taken from the pair’s individual perspectives.

Immediately after the initial duet, Tom and Dennis exchange emotionally honest songs that appear to be meant for each other if taken from the My Husband’s Lover context. “Ikaw Ang Sagot” finds Tom displaying an underlying ability to be a promising singer. His distinctive range shows restraint without getting overwhelmed by the striking musical accompaniment. Dennis, meanwhile, holds his own on the equally romantic “Kailan Man” where he allows himself to be vulnerable without sounding soft: “Kailan man, ikaw ang iibigin ko/kailan man sa ’yo ay di magbabago,” he croons with his cool-as-ice vocals.

Most of the tunes share a classic ballad arrangement, but they are infectious enough and dripping with sugary ode to love to engage even the straightest of men. “Photograph” signals a change in direction of the lyrical themes. Its sparkling guitar and piano combo belies the ballad’s allusion to a lost love filtered convincingly through Tom’s beautifully restrained vocals.

Following in a similar vein is “It’s Over Now”, one classic effort with a choral background and a plaintive Dennis belting about heartbreak and coming to terms with the reality of a love that has since burned out. Much like the effective actor he is, Dennis seems to emote more when pushed to his boundaries—evident by the high notes he hits. One of his best moments on the album.

While the songs’ arrangements throughout the record appear to be cut from the same cloth, they make up for it with emotionally direct and rich themes. “Hey It’s Me” and “Stay” are both engrossing, merging lyrics about chance encounters and crossing paths with fantastic adlibs and memorable hooks.

Clearly, the finest tracks are the duets but in the closing number “Forever” written by Louie Ocampo and Martin Nievera, Tom and Dennis are at their most ambitious. Delivering a confident performance, the duo play up the bright melodies and enigmatic chorus with spirited voices that sound even better when they feed off each other’s lines.

It’s a satisfying finale to a tale of two men out for a happy ending. This collection of ballads feels genuine, focusing on matters of the heart to take listeners on Eric and Vincent’s journey. But at the same time, constructing Tom and Dennis’ identities as promising singers in their own right.

Just a day after TomDen the album was made available on digital format, it debuted at the 9th slot on iTunes Philippines’ Top Albums chart, based on full album downloads. The following day, it already topped the chart!

TomDen, the album, is now available on CDs nationwide thru Astroplus, Astro Vision, Odyssey Music and Video, The Landmark and SM Music and Video outlets. It is also available on digital format worldwide thru iTunes, Amazon, Spotify and OPM2GO. Ringback tones will soon be available. Standby for further announcements through GMA Records’ Facebook account.

Leave it to a set of young good-looking men to shake the foundations of primetime television.

When the smash pairing of Tom Rodriguez and Dennis Trillo broke primetime TV convention to steal the hearts of millions of Filipinos, history was rewritten. Not only did this unlikely twosome made their characters Eric and Vincent one of the most adored couples on national TV, their welcome arrival on the scene comes at a time when the hotly contested issue of gay marriage continues to rage on. The My Husband’s Lover tandem confronted stereotypes to open up the overlooked idea that love is universal in whatever form it takes. And it manifests even on their new record, TomDen.

Crafted with the intent to tell Eric and Vincent’s story in a format that is just as authentic on the screen, the duo exhibits a generous helping of romance through tender tunes under the guidance of seasoned producers and songwriters.

Opening track “One More Try” sets the tone throughout the album. It shows the duo’s resolve underneath the delicate ballad, harmonizing and intertwining their warm vocals to complement the lovely musical arrangement.

More than just a straightforward record, TomDen feels like Eric and Vincent’s storyline, trading love song after emotional love song. The plot is bright and clear with the musical trimmings taking a backseat to emphasize chapters of a love story taken from the pair’s individual perspectives.

Immediately after the initial duet, Tom and Dennis exchange emotionally honest songs that appear to be meant for each other if taken from the My Husband’s Lover context. “Ikaw Ang Sagot” finds Tom displaying an underlying ability to be a promising singer. His distinctive range shows restraint without getting overwhelmed by the striking musical accompaniment. Dennis, meanwhile, holds his own on the equally romantic “Kailan Man” where he allows himself to be vulnerable without sounding soft: “Kailan man, ikaw ang iibigin ko/kailan man sa ’yo ay di magbabago,” he croons with his cool-as-ice vocals.

Most of the tunes share a classic ballad arrangement, but they are infectious enough and dripping with sugary ode to love to engage even the straightest of men. “Photograph” signals a change in direction of the lyrical themes. Its sparkling guitar and piano combo belies the ballad’s allusion to a lost love filtered convincingly through Tom’s beautifully restrained vocals.

Following in a similar vein is “It’s Over Now”, one classic effort with a choral background and a plaintive Dennis belting about heartbreak and coming to terms with the reality of a love that has since burned out. Much like the effective actor he is, Dennis seems to emote more when pushed to his boundaries—evident by the high notes he hits. One of his best moments on the album.
While the songs’ arrangements throughout the record appear to be cut from the same cloth, they make up for it with emotionally direct and rich themes. “Hey It’s Me” and “Stay” are both engrossing, merging lyrics about chance encounters and crossing paths with fantastic adlibs and memorable hooks.

Clearly, the finest tracks are the duets but in the closing number “Forever” written by Louie Ocampo and Martin Nievera, Tom and Dennis are at their most ambitious. Delivering a confident performance, the duo play up the bright melodies and enigmatic chorus with spirited voices that sound even better when they feed off each other’s lines.

It’s a satisfying finale to a tale of two men out for a happy ending. This collection of ballads feels genuine, focusing on matters of the heart to take listeners on Eric and Vincent’s journey. But at the same time, constructing Tom and Dennis’ identities as promising singers in their own right.

Within three days of being made available on digital format, the album already reached the #1 spot on iTunes PH Top Albums chart! The album’s carrier single “Forever” is currently enjoying favorable airplay in pop radio stations in Metro Manila and key provincial cities nationwide. Meanwhile, “Ikaw Ang Sagot” has been chosen to be the theme song of the evening primetime Koreanovela “A 100-Year Legacy” which begins airing on Nov. 4 on GMA.

TomDen, the album, is now available on CDs nationwide thru Astroplus, Astro Vision, Odyssey Music and Video, The Landmark and SM Music and Video outlets. It is also available on digital format worldwide thru iTunes, Amazon, Spotify and OPM2GO. Ringback tones will soon be available. Standby for further announcements through GMA Records’ Facebook account.

This November, GMA Network presents Villa Quintana, a heartwarming love story that became a phenomenal hit series in the mid-90s. Mothers today are definitely sentimental when they reminisce the love between Isagani and Lynette, originally portrayed by Keempee de Leon and Donna Cruz.

Kapuso teen heartthrob Elmo Magalona and promising Kapuso actress Janine Gutierrez reprise the roles, driving strong anticipation among fans of the original series, reaffirming that their first team-up on-screen is one of this year’s most exciting casting coups.

As they breathe life into the characters of Isagani Samonte and Lynette Quintana, they retell a great love story in a way that best represents how sweet young love can be. Women, young and old, would definitely fall in love once again with Villa Quintana’s triumphant celebration of love amidst challenges.

Isagani (Elmo) is the lovechild of Robert and Lumeng but will grow up knowing his father is Felix. He lives a simple life in the farm together with his parents. He eventually falls and fights for his love for Lynette. Meanwhile, Lynette (Janine) will be mistaken by Don Manolo as the child of Robert and Lumeng. Thus she grows up living a very comfortable and affluent life. She requites Isagani’s affection. And their love for each other will once again become television’s finest romantic tale.

Villa Quintana is not only an acting piece for the new team up of Elmo and Janine but also the show’s love triangle of bankable stars: Raymart Santiago, Sunshine Dizon and Paolo Contis.

Raymart plays the role of Felix Samonte. He stood as the father of Isagani when Robert abandoned Lumeng and because he always loved Lumeng, he married her to save her from disgrace. He is a kind, understanding and patient person but he also fights for what he believes in. Paolo portrays the role of Robert Quintana, the only son of Don Manolo and the real father of Isagani. He falls in love with Lumeng but Don Manolo is against it because Lumeng is not from a prominent and landed family.

Lumeng Samonte, the mother of Isagani is portrayed by Sunshine. Robert was her first love but she eventually married Felix. She is smart, fearless and has a strong and positive outlook in life. She focuses on possibilities rather than life’s challenges and will stand up and fight for her family and for what they rightfully deserve.

Villa Quintana is inspiring as it fulfills every woman’s aspiration for a good family life, characterized by unwavering love for each and every member. The show also upholds every viewer’s pursuit of love and self-significance that affluence nor poverty could ever scorn.

The series is a modern-day Romeo and Juliet, their family’s tension against the brewing romance that’s driven by past hurts and offenses. Lumeng is not in favor of the relationship because of how the Quintanas treated her when she was younger. But Isagani will continue to fight for his love for Lynette, despite his mother’s objections and while the Quintanas betroth Lynette to a young man who also comes from a wealthy and influential clan. Being educated abroad, Lynette affirms her independence and upholds her right to choose the man she loves, which results to a bitter struggle with her family, particularly her grandfather Don Manolo who is against any type of modernization.

Nothing can separate Isagani and Lynette, not even the manipulative pressures from the Quintanas.

Everything changes when Lumeng discovers a secret of the Quintanas that overturns odds, a detail from the past that affects the fate of the young couple’s love for each other.

Will the revelation affect the love between Isagani and Lynette? Or will their love for each other prevail? How will their families accept the truth?

Under the direction of Ms. Gina Alajar, the remake of the 90’s hit series Villa Quintana will not only tackle love but also family values, relationships and principles worth fighting for.

The show also stars Roy Alvarez as Don Manolo Quintana, Maricar De Mesa as Stella, Tanya Garcia as Amparing, Kyla as Ruby, Marky Lopez as Chito, Juancho Trivino as Jason and Rita de Guzman as Patrice.

The creative team is composed of Creative Director Jun Lana; Afternoon Prime Head Roy Iglesias; Creative Consultant Des Garbes Severino; Concept Creator and Headwriter RJ Nuevas; Writers Leilani Chavez and Marlon Miguel; and Brainstormers Gilda Olvidado, Ma. Christina Velasco, Borgy Danao and Jake Somera.

Villa Quintana, created by the GMA Drama Group, is supervised by the Executive In-charge of Production Lilybeth G. Rasonable; VP for Drama Redgie Acuña Magno, AVP for Drama Cheryl Ching-Sy, and Program Manager Camille D. Hermoso.

Villa Quintana premieres November 4 on GMA Afternoon Prime.

Check out 59 publicity photos for GMA Network’s remake of the phenomenal hit series in the mid-90s, “Villa Quintana.” the new series is topbilled by Elmo Magalona and Janine Gutierrez.

Photos provided by GMA Network to Starmometer

Bacolod City-Brimming with her down-to-earth personality, Kapuso Primetime Queen Marian Rivera greeted thousands of Bacoleños with a warm smile during a Kapuso Fans’ Day held on October 18 at the North Transport Hub of SM City Bacolod, as part of the annual celebration of the Masskara Festival.

“Hindi ko alam kung paano ako tatanggapin ng mga tao sa mall show ko,” was her sentiment hours before the program. But as she ascended the stage, she was astounded to see the happy faces of her supporters who were screaming and cheering, with some even bursting into tears at the sight of her-signs that she was more than welcome to be there and that her visit has long been waited for by the Bacoleños.

Marian admitted she had second thoughts on whether she would push through with the mall show or not after a massive earthquake hit some parts of Visayas on October 15.

“Pagkatapos kong mabalitaan ‘yung naging effect ng lindol, nag-text kaagad ako kay Kuya Oli (Oliver Amoroso, Asst. Vice President of GMA Regional TV) kung tutuloy pa ba kami dahil baka kailangang maka-recover muna ng mga tao or may ayusin sa lugar nila, baka pwede naming i-delay or i-postpone. Ang sabi naman nila, ‘hinihintay ka ng mga tao dun, kailangan ka nila, at least kahit papaano maging masaya naman sila,’” she shared.

It was Marian’s first time to witness and celebrate Masskara. “Masasabi ko na first time ko lahat dito sa Bacolod except I remember nag-radio tour ako before for Marimar pero that was super quick lang. Ito talaga ‘yung pinakamatagal na nakilala at nakantahan ko sila on stage,” she said.

Deeply overwhelmed, Marian assured her supporters that she’ll come back saying, “Nakakatuwa talaga dito sa Bacolod, ang sasaya ng mga tao. Parang ayaw ko na nga umalis, kung pwede dito na lang ako. Promise, babalik ako.”

In the said Kapuso Fans’ Day, Marian was joined by stand-up comedian Boobay, who amusingly added delight to the audience.

Next event was the Kapuso Electric Dansskara Finals and Charter Day Countdown held at the Bacolod City Government Center at 8pm of the same day featuring Mark Herras, Rochelle Pangilinan, and Andrea Torres as celebrity guests. The following day, October 19, the Bacoleños had the chance to meet more Kapuso stars via the Charter Day Parade and a back-to-back Kapuso Mall Show.

First group who endeared the fans were the cast of Genesis-Rhian Ramos, TJ Trinidad, and Betong Sumaya. At 1pm, they participated in the parade that cruised along the main streets of the city down to the Bacolod Public Plaza, then at 4pm, they performed in a mall show held at the Robinson’s Bacolod fountain area together with one of the hottest love teams in show business, Alden Richards and Louise delos Reyes.

It was followed by another exciting show held at the mall’s City Walk at 7pm that featured the cast of Pyra Babaeng Apoy-Thea Tolentino, Jeric Gonzales, Polo Ravales, and Angelu de Leon-plus the country’s Pop Diva Kuh Ledesma.

On October 20, GMA Bacolod’s News and Public Affairs offered a special live coverage of the Masskara Street Dancing that took place at the Bacolod Public Plaza. Said live coverage aired via GMA TV Bacolod on the same day.
Highlights of GMA Network’s participation in the Masskara Festival can be seen in Let’s Fiesta TV Special airing on November 10 in all nine regional stations in Cebu, Davao, CDO, Iloilo, Bacolod, Bicol, Ilocos, Dagupan, and GenSan.

Celebrate the Christmas spirit of giving as The 700 Club Asia features “Buti Na Lang May Pasko” special live episodes from November 11-15 at 11:00 p.m. on GMA News TV.

The special live TV series is aimed at raising P15-M to help support the projects and outreach of the CBN Asia Family of Ministries which include The 700 Club Asia, Superbook, CBN Asia Prayer Center, Operation Blessing, and the Asian Center for Missions.

“This is the perfect opportunity for people who want to help our kababayans who have lost loved ones, lost their homes and are almost losing hope after the fierce battle in Zamboanga, the flashfloods in Zambales and the 7.2 magnitude earthquake that rocked Bohol and Cebu,” says Peter Kairuz, President and Chief Executive Officer of CBN Asia and host of The 700 Club Asia.

Kairuz explained that the theme “Buti Na Lang May Pasko” is an appropriate reminder to everyone, especially to the calamity victims, that with the birth of Jesus Christ, there is always hope and deliverance.

The 700 Club Asia’s live broadcasts generate massive support from Filipinos here and abroad who unselfishly help and share their blessings with our less fortunate kababayans.

LET YOUR GIVING SPIRIT SHINE! Be a part of the “Buti Na Lang May Pasko” live TV special and help us bring hope and an early Christmas cheer to our kababayans in need.

For more information please visit www.cbnasia.org. Visit and like our Facebook page www.facebook.com/the700clubasia to receive the latest information on how you could be a part of “Buti Na Lang May Pasko.”

GMA Network celebrates our Redeemer’s birth in its 2013 Christmas Campaign dubbed, “Sundan Natin Ang Bituin Pabalik sa Kanyang Piling,” inspiring viewers to be reminded of the real meaning of the Yuletide Season.

“At the heart of the Christmas celebration is God’s gift to us, the birth of His only begotten Son,” says GMA Chairman and CEO Atty. Felipe L. Gozon. “Through this campaign, we hope to enjoin every Kapuso to rejoice in this most precious and significant demonstration of love ever bestowed on mankind,” he adds.

The full version of the Christmas plug premiered on November 12 in GMA’s noontime show, “Eat Bulaga.”

Featuring GMA’s Entertainment and News and Public Affairs personalities, the music video revisits the night of the Nativity with the Kapuso stars paying homage to the Child Jesus. Just as the shepherds and the Magi‘s travel to the manger, our Kapuso personalities take a similar journey as they follow the Guiding Light symbolizing the Star of Bethlehem.

“In the middle of the holiday rush and festivities, we hope that GMA, through this campaign, moves us to take pause and be reminded of the real reason why we celebrate Christmas. We wish to inspire every Kapuso to take that meaningful journey with us to our Lord Jesus in the manger,” shares Gilberto Duavit Jr., GMA Network’s President and COO.

The jingle, “Ang Tunay na Regalo ng Pasko”, a solemn hymn with a contemporary feel and pop blend, was brought to life by the Philippine Sandolphon Singers, members of which are alumni of UP Concert Chorus, who have been serving the EDSA Shrine for almost two decades.

Forming the team behind the Sundan Natin Ang Bituin Pabalik sa Kanyang Piling Christmas plug are members of the Network’s Program Support Department: Regie Bautista (First Vice President), Grace Feliciano (Assistant Vice President), Joy Comia-Ashipaoloye (Junior Associate Creative Director), BJ Camaya (Copy Director), Bobby Pagotan (Promo writer), Jason Faustino (Sr. Visualizer), Raymond Ignacio (Sr. Visualizer) and Hasmin Marable (Senior Project Manager); working hand in hand with representatives of the Post Production Department: Paul Hendrick Ticzon and Vince Gealogo (Directors), Edward Achacoso (Director of Photography), John Paul Arrojado (Assistant DOP), Neil Nanquil (Colorist/Master Edito/Edit Supervisor), Allyn de Ocampo (Main Cam/Arri Operator/Asst. DOP), Don Suratos and Van Sean Deato (Assistant Directors), Ingrid Navarro (Shoot Producer), Hazel Joy Raymundo (Post Production Admin), Joanne Valencia (Project Manager), Criselda Dacanay (Production Manager), Steve Salvador (Costume Supervisor), Cris Martin Marquez (Graphics Supervisor) and Don Carlo Suratos (Flame Supervisor).

The original jingle was created by Brian James Camaya (Lyricist), Edward Mitra (Composer), Gino Torres (Vocal Arranger), Philippine Sandalphon Singers (Vocals), Weena De Leon (Mixer) and Gideon Purugganan (Recording Specialist).

Watch the Christmas Station ID Here:

“Adarna” is the Kapuso Network’s newest fantaserye that was loosely based on the Filipino mythology of “Ibong Adarna. Topbilled by Kylie Padilla, the primetime series is set to premiere this Monday, November 18.

Here is the synopsis of “Adarna” from GMA Network:

Set in Pugad Sanghaya, there rules the despiteful Uwakro. One day, he gets seriously ill and orders Garuda to look for the group of healers known as Adarna. One of those is Larka, who is currently pregnant, and husband Kestrel. A prophecy will be declared that her baby will become the most powerful healer in Pugad Sanghaya. Due to unfortunate circumstances, Garuda’s troop chases them which causes Kestrel’s death. Larka, together with her daughter, decides to secretly enter the world of the mortals.

Still worried that Garuda’s troop might follow them; Larka changes her name to Lupe, covers her wings and never uses her healing powers. Instead, Lupe and Ada sell bottles of herbal medicines outside the Quiapo Church.

One day, Ada witnesses a car accident of a young boy named Migo. Ada sings to him and to the people’s surprise, Migo slowly wakes and stands up as of nothing happened. Thinking that Garuda might track them, Lupe decides to fly away by herself and leave Ada to her suitor Simon.

After years of longing for her mother, Ada now lives with Simon together with wife Jinky and stepdaughter Janelle. Ada crosses path with Migo and eventually develop feelings for each other. Migo reveals his mother’s sickness and asks for help from Ada. She agrees to sing to his mother not knowing that her voice reverberates in Pugad Sanghaya.

Unfortunately, one of the members of Garuda’s troop named Bok gets to know of Ada’s ability and tries to get close to her. Despite orders from Garuda, Bok keeps his bad intentions and instead, makes friends with Ada until he slowly falls in love with her.

On her 18th birthday, Ada’s wings will finally spread. Just right in time, Falco comes and explains to Ada her real identity. Ready to guard and fight her love for Ada, Falco will be the one to teach Ada to hold weapons and defend herself from Garuda and her troop.

Among the three men, who will truly love and accept Ada? Who will betray her? Will she be able to find her mother Lupe?

Supporting Kylie in the fantaserye are:

Run and help our kababayans in need with the first-ever Superbook benefit fun run dubbed “READY… GIZMO…GO!” happening on December 14, 2013 at the Bonifacio Global City. Warm up starts at 4:30 am and the official gun start for the 10K run is at 6:00 am.

Join Gizmo, the Superbook agents and other Superbook lovers as they make “every kilometer count” and contribute in raising funds for the disaster relief operations of Operation Blessing, the humanitarian arm of CBN Asia. Various OB Teams have now set up a base camp in the most hard-hit areas of Super Typhoon Yolanda distributing relief goods, doing medical missions and trauma counseling.

This event will also benefit the CBN Asia Prayer Center, the Asian Center for Missions and the CBN Asia Media (The 700 Club Asia, Superbook and Tanikala).

Run and Become Heroes of Change

Superbook takes the lead in the fun run with its phenomenal success in its first season drawing close to 20 million viewers.

And in this time when everyone is joining hands to help our kababayans in the Visayas, Superbook, through its “Bida ng Pagbabago Advocacy,” invites everyone, especially the kids to participate in this first ever “Ready… Gizmo… Go!” Fun Run and help raise funds for the CBN Asia Family of Ministries.

Superbook’s “Bida ng Pagbabago Advocacy” believes in empowering the children of today. As young as they are, they can already be of influence and become examples to their friends, families and community.

“The effect of Superbook on the family has been amazing. Through Superbook and the adventures of Gizmo, Chris and Joy, more and more children have developed the joy of Bible-reading and have become heroes of change by showing positive difference at home, in school and their community. Superbook also empowers parents to introduce positive values to their children in a fun way and it has become a catalyst for families to become closer and to grow in love and faith,” says Icko Gonzalez, Superbook Project Head in the Philippines.

How To Register

Participants may choose to join either of the following categories: 1K, 3K, 5K or 10K. Registration fees are P300 for the 1K; P400 for the 3K; P500 for the 5K and P600 for the 10K, inclusive of singlet, race bib, exclusive Ready…Gizmo…Go! ballers, and finisher’s shirt for 10K.

Registration is now open until December 9 or until supplies last.

To join the “Ready… Gizmo… Go!” Fun Run, visit any of the following venues during office hours for registration and payment and immediately claim your specially-designed race kit:

· CBN Asia Head Office Sagittarius Bldg., HV Dela Costa / Leviste St., Makati City

· House of Praise (HOP) Robinsons Galleria and St. Francis Square, Ortigas

· ADSTRATWORLD Holdings Inc. Head Office

· Brooks SM North EDSA

· Toby’s Sports Branches in Glorietta 2, Shangri-La Plaza and Trinoma

· RUNNR Branches in Alabang Town Center and Bonifacio Global City

Do not miss this chance to be a part of the first Superbook Fun Run and make a difference in the lives of thousands this Christmas!

For more event details, please visit our event page at www.batangsuperbook.com/readygizmogo

For updates and announcements, please visit and like our Batang Superbook Fan Page at www.facebook.com/batangsuperbook

Dalawang tulog na lang at masasaksihan na ng buong mundo ang muling pagbangon ng Pambansang Kamao!

In the spirit of giving, GMA Network will be giving away a special-edition Christmas Card signed by a Kapuso star to 500 lucky fans through its “Send-A-Smile This Christmas” online promo.

Just visit the promo website at www.gmanetwork.com/sendasmile and follow the following steps:

1. Like GMA Network’s official Facebook fan page at www.facebook.com/gmanetwork.
2. Register for the promo with your complete name, address and contact details.
3. Enter the name and mailing address of the person to whom you wish the signed Christmas Card will be sent and tell us why he deserves to receive one.
4. The winning registrant and the loved one he/she nominated will both receive a signed Christmas Card via mail.

The promo runs from December 1, 2013 until supplies last.

For more details, visit www.gmanetwork.com/sendasmile.

Fresh from its AnakTV seal award, The 700 Club Asia rallies Filipinos to level up their spirit of giving in “Wagas ang Bigayan sa CHRISTmas,” a series special live episodes on December 16-20, at 11:00 p.m. over GMA News TV.

The TV special hopes to raise more funds to be able to help more people through the CBN Asia Family of Ministries (CBN Asia Media that produces The 700 Club Asia and the top-rating Superbook, Operation Blessing, Asian Center for Mission and The Prayer Center).

“Many of our kababayans are still clamoring for our help and support. In this season of giving, we pray that God touches the heart of people so that they will be cheerful givers to their fellowmen who are needing help and hope. The 700 Club Asia special episodes would be a great opportunity for everybody to spread cheer and touch the lives of others this Christmas season,” says Peter Kairuz, President and Chief Executive Officer of CBN Asia and Operation Blessing and host of The 700 Club Asia.

Peter explained that the theme “Wagas ang Bigayan sa CHRISTmas” captures the generous spirit of Filipinos especially at this time when every opportunity to help counts.

DISCOVER the pure joy of giving and be a part of “Wagas ang BIgayan sa CHRISTmas. Help us help our kababayans so that like you, they will find hope and rest this Christmas season.

A story of love and deception revolves in the new GMA Afternoon Prime teleserye “The Borrowed Wife,” topbilled by Rafael Rosell, TJ Trinidad, Camille Prats and Pauleen Luna.

GMA Network Press Release:

May sapat bang dahilan para ipahiram mo ang iyong asawa?

Ngayong January, inihahandog ng GMA Network ang pinakabagong dramang aabangan sa hapon, ang The Borrowed Wife.

Pinangungunahan ito nina Camille Prats at Rafael Rosell kasama sina TJ Trinidad at Pauleen Luna.

Ang The Borrowed Wife ay isang kuwento tungkol sa love, obsession at kung paano magbabago ang buhay ng isang tao dahil sa isang pagtataksil. Iikot ang istorya sa buhay nina Maricar (Camille Prats), Richard (Rafael Rosell), Earl (TJ Trinidad), at Tessa (Pauleen Luna).

Sa kuwento, matalik na magkaibigan sina Maricar at Tessa ngulit dahil mas malakas ang personalidad ni Tessa at mabait at simpleng babae si Maricar, naging sunod sunuran ang huli kay Tessa. Nagtatrabaho sa spa and wellness business ni Tessa si Maricar. Ngunit nalamangan niya ang kaibigan nang siya ang niligawan at pinakasalan ni Richard, ang lalakeng pinakamahal at hinangad ni Tessa.

Mas pinili ni Maricar na maging isang full time wife at mother kay Richard at sa kanilang anak. Subalit magbabago ang lahat ng maghiganti sa kanila si Tessa. Mahuhuli ni Maricar ang pagtataksil ng dating kaibigan at asawa. Hindi naiwasan ni Richard ang panunukso at pang-aakit ni Tessa at huli na ang kanyang pag-sisisi dahil nawala na lang bigla ang asawa. Hindi na siya makawala kay Tessa, lalo na’t inakalang patay na si Maricar.

Walang sino mang nakakaalam sa desisyon ni Maricar na lumayo. Ngunit isang sunog ang makapagbabago ng kanyang buhay. Pagkagising niya mula sa aksidente, wala na siyang naalala. Iba na rin ang kanyang mukha at pagkatao, siya na si Sophia, ang girlfriend ni Earl, ang estrangherong nakilala niya bago ang aksidente. Sunud-sunuran siya kay Earl sa di maintindihang mundo bilang Sophia, hanggang higit siyang nalito nang muling makaharap ang di nakikilalang asawa at anak. Samantala, mahuhulog din ang loob ni Richard kay Sophia, ang hindi niya nakikilalang asawang nawawala.

Babalik pa kaya ang alaala ni Maricar? Ano ang gagawin ni Earl kapag nalaman niya na ang babaeng pinalitan niya ng mukha at pagkatao ay ang asawa ni Richard? Ano ang gagawin ni Tessa kapag nalaman niyang buhay pa ang dating karibal, na si Sophia at si Maricar ay iisa? Magagawa pa kaya ni Richard na mabawi ang asawang inakala niyang patay na?

Makakasama rin sina Ms. Caridad Sanchez, Yayo Aguila, Sherilyn Reyes at Kevin Santos. Mula sa direksyon ni Gil Tejada Jr., alamin ang kuwento ng The Borrowed Wife ngayong January sa GMA Afternoon Prime.

Ang creative team ay binubuo nina Jun Lana, Creative Director; Roy Iglesias, Afternoon Prime Head; Des Severino, Creative Consultant; Denoy Punio-Navarro, Headwriter; Ken de Leon, Christine Novico at Angeli Delgado, Writers; at Nehemiarey Dallego, Reynaldo Leoncito at Liberty Ribay, Brainstormers.

The Borrowed Wife, created by the GMA Drama Group, is supervised by the SVP for Entertainment TV Lilybeth G. Rasonable; VP for Drama Redgie Acuña Magno, AVP for Drama Cheryl Ching-Sy, Program Manager Hazel F. Abonita and Executive Producer Michele Borja.

The 700 Club Asia marks the season of love with its first series of special live episodes this year, dubbed “Luv 2 Give” on February 17-21, at 11:00 p.m. over GMA News TV.

“Luv 2 Give” marries the passion of love and selfless giving as it encourages more people to help our kababayans in need.

The TV special hopes to raise more funds to be able to help more people through the CBN Asia Family of Ministries (CBN Asia Media that produces The 700 Club Asia, the top-rating Superbook and Tanikala; the organization’s humanitarian arm Operation Blessing; Asian Center for Mission and The Prayer Center).

“We want more people to experience the joy of pure love that comes with selfless giving. We just need to look around to see that there are thousands of people who need our help. Luv 2 Give is a wonderful platform where we could all join together in expressing love for others this love month by being cheerful givers,” says Peter Kairuz, President and Chief Executive Officer of CBN Asia and Operation Blessing and one of the hosts of The 700 Club Asia.

Peter adds: “Luv 2 Give hopes to showcase two of the best virtues of the Filipinos—loving and giving. Giving is one of the best expressions of love and the Filipinos are known for their giving spirit.”

EXPERIENCE true love and be a part of “Luv 2 Give.” Share your love with others in need through giving this love month and experience pure joy!

Kramer Family invites you to watch “Luv 2 Give”:

Kuh Ledesma invites you to watch “Luv 2 Give”:

At long last, after 2 1/2 years of incessant demands from fans via Twitter and Facebook (and some direct mail threats), “Rakenrol” is finally out on DVD!

The film is director Quark Henares (“Keka”, “’Wag Kang Lilingon”) and co-writer Diego Castillo’s (guitarist of Sandwich and music video director) ode to the Philippine rock music scene, which both consider their home. In it, Irene (Glaiza de Castro, Temptation of Wife, Amaya) and Odie (Jason Abalos, Endo, Mara Clara) are outsiders who become best friends because of their common love for rock n’ roll. Odie eventually falls in love with Irene, and helps fulfill her dream of forming a band. They recruit an ex-punk-turned-barista named Mo (Ketchup Eusebio, Guns and Roses, My Amnesia Girl) and the school bully Junfour (Alwyn Uytingco, Imortal, Ang Tanging Ina movies), deciding to call their band HAPIPAKS. In the process, Irene is wooed by her “all-time supercrush”, the famous rockstar Jacci Rocha (Diether Ocampo). Will Odie’s love for music and Irene prevail, or will the one thing that brought them together end up destroying them? The supporting characters add color and humor to the cast, with Ramon Bautista as the music video director Flame Tigerblüden, Ricardo Cepeda as a samurai marketing guru, Jun Sabayton as Mo’s artist roommate, Hiyasmin Neri as Junfour’s pregnant girlfriend, and Matet de Leon as… Matet de Leon.

RAKENROL is Henares’s fifth film, the director having done everything from internationally-acclaimed cult films (Keka) to big-budget Metro Manila Filmfest movies (Super Noypi). This, however, is his most personal film, and he’s glad to collaborate with one of his closest friends on the project. “Diego and I have probably done everything music-wise together,” the young fimmaker says, “we’ve hosted radio shows, co-directed videos, we’ve written articles about music. We were even in a band together once!” Castillo reveals that the film is very autobiographical. “We’re both from and into the local music industry and I guess a lot of our mutual friends started off in the scene and we both thought it would be a good idea to chronicle the things that we’ve seen over the years,” he says.

RAKENROL is out now on DVD in Astro Vision, Astroplus, Odyssey, SM Music & Video and Landmark at P350.00 each. It’s packed with bonus features and easter eggs including a director and writer commentary, trailers, deleted scenes, music videos that inspired the look of the film and scenes from the RAKENROL “Spin-off” TV Show, RAKISTA. The official launch party is slated on February 8, and will kick off with a free screening and the first ever cast + crew Q&A at Fully Booked Bonifacio High Street at 7PM. It will be followed by an afterparty concert at Route 196 along Katipunan, featuring many of the bands from the film including Pedicab, Ciudad, Taken by Cars, Kate Torralba, Purplechickens and The Strangeness. Finally, everything winds down at Black Market Makati with the Diegos at around 1AM. Celebrate one of the most amazing and crazy subcultures in the Philippines with the Rakenrol DVD!