KAPAMILYALOGY

Sarah Jessica Parker Commends Boy Abunda's Interview

2013-05-20T20:16:00.002+09:00

Sarah Jessica Parker thanked Boy Abunda for asking interesting questions during her interview who visited the Philippines last week to grace the opening of SM Aura. Abunda said he was given seven to 10 minutes for the one-on-one interview with Parker during the opening of SM Aura Premier. Parker even promised Abunda to have a longer interview next time.

Abunda said he was coming from Laguna for an event and went straight to Bonifacio Global City, checking in at the nearby F1 Hotel so he won't late for the interview. He also related that the interview schedule was moved to an earlier time and they had to run from the hotel to the mall because “I didn’t want to miss it. It was worth it. What a genuine person,” he told guest co-hosts Toni Gonzaga and Gretchen Barretto in The Buzz last Sunday.

Abunda pointed out that when Parker refused to be picked up by a limousine from the airport, and instead rode in the van together with her staff. The "Sex and the City" star also requested to eat at a “turo-turo,” but was taken to a Filipino restaurant instead. According to Gonzaga, Parker tried the classic Pinoy cold treat, halo-halo, at the Milky Way Café in Makati City.

The interview was done in a good taste that it distanced away from the usual questions that Filipino reporters/journalists ask to foreign artists which is directed for the interviewee to praise the Philippines. This is very far from the irksome interview done by Ricky Lo with Anne Hathaway. We hope to see more international stars being interviewed by Tito Boy in the future.

Lea Salonga in Martin Late @ Night

2013-05-16T23:37:00.001+09:00

Philippine TV’s ‘Big Mouth’ Martin Nievera is set to give TV viewers world-class entertainment this Friday (May 17) as he reveals the ‘dark side’ of Broadway Diva and “The Voice of The Philippines” coach Lea Salonga in “Martin Late @ Night.” What are the things about Lea’s personality that most people don’t know about her? Behind her beautiful and soothing voice, is it true that she likes things associated with violence? Meanwhile, Martin will make the night even more thrilling as he and Lea hold a ‘blind auditions’ in “Martin Late @ Night” featuring world singing champion Jed Madela and the ‘Kalokalikes’ of her “The Voice” co-coaches Apl de Ap and Sarah Geronimo. Don’t miss “Martin Late @ Night,” every Friday night, after “Bandila” on ABS-CBN. For more updates, log on to www.abs-cbn.com or follow @abscbndotcom on Twitter.

Director Rahyan Carlos in The Bottomline

2013-05-16T23:35:00.000+09:00

Explore the art of acting this Saturday (May 18) as Star Magic artists’ training head and TV-film director Rahyan Carlos shares his expertise in “The Bottomline With Boy Abunda.” Is performing an in-born talent or is it a skill that can be learned over time? What is the main secret of celebrities who are able to maintain their status in the showbiz industry? With the growing number of popular personalities today, who among the young stars does Direk Rahyan believe have the potential to reach the success of veterans such as Dolphy, Vilma Santos, Nora Aunor, and Sharon Cuneta? Don’t miss the 2012 Golden Screen TV Awards Outstanding Celebrity Talk Program “The Bottomline With Boy Abunda” this Saturday, 11:30 pm, after “Banana Split.” For more updates, just log on at www.abs-cbn.com or follow @abscbndotcom on Twitter.

PGT4 Semi-Finals Kick Off This Saturday

2013-05-16T23:33:00.000+09:00

The race to the grand finals finally begins as ABS-CBN’s biggest and grandest talent-reality show “Pilipinas Got Talent” kicks off its semi-finals round this Saturday (May 18) where the top 12 semi-finalists will compete in an intense live talent showdown to take one of six grand finalist slots. Expect leveled up performances and leveled judges power as the Big Three judges Kris Aquino, Ai Ai Delas Alas, and Freddie “FMG” Garcia will now choose two acts to make it to the grand finals. The act voted by viewers via text and online will again automatically take a grand finalist slot while the judges pick their top two bets among the acts that will rank 2nd, 3rd, and 4th in the nationwide votes. First up to compete this week are quick mask artist Tito Cris Castro, twin dance group Symmetry, unconventional acoustic band Mp3, YouTube sensation Roel Manlangit, flairtender Chaeremon Basa, and black light dancers Zilent Overload. Just recently, folk dancers Bughaw Folkloric Dance Group and car drifters Lateral Drift Productions completed the roster of semi-finalists during the 6th and last quarterfinal match. Who will become the first three grand finalists of season four? Don’t miss the first live semi-final performance night this Saturday (May 18) after “MMK,” and watch the first live semi-final results night on Sunday (May 19), after “Rated K” on ABS-CBN. Tweet your thoughts on the show using the hashtag #PGT4.

“Be Careful With My Heart” Concerts Draw Thousands in Los Angeles and Kissimmee

2013-05-16T23:29:00.000+09:00

Social media was crawling with photos and comments the past weekend following the back-to-back concerts of the Philippines’ number one daytime show, “Be Careful With My Heart”, at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, California last Friday and at Silver Spurs Arena in Kissimmee, Florida on Mothers’ Day.

“Super saya talaga! 3 hours akong tumatawa (It was super fun! I was laughing for three hours),” posted Nelly Sugabo on Facebook.

“It was one of the best Filipino concerts I’ve been to. It was really ka-familia,” echoes Lorna G. Torres.

Event-filled May 10 had the defending Stanley Cup champions Los Angeles Kings going up against St. Louis Blues for Game 6 of their nail-biting Western Conference Quarterfinals series at the famed Staples Center. Award-winning film director Baz Luhrmann’s much publicized, lavish Jazz Age drama “The Great Gatsby” starring superstar Leonardo DiCaprio also opened on the same day. But the City of Los Angeles declared May 10 as “ABS-CBN TFC Be Careful With My Heart Kapit Bisig Day” via a Proclamation signed by no less than Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and the entire City Council.

The Proclamation was presented by Mayor Pro-Tem of Walnut, California Antonio Cartagena, Filipino-American Service Group, Inc. Executive Director Susan Dilkes, and Philippine Consul General Maria Hellen Barber De La Vega of Los Angeles to Be Careful With My Heart Business Unit Head Ginny Ocampo, ABS-CBN Head of Ad Sales, Trade Marketing & Events Ricky Resurreccion and ABS-CBN North America Managing Director Olivia De Jesus. It honored the commitment of ABS-CBN, TFC and the show to promote Filipino participation in the recently held Philippine elections and the May 21 municipal election in Los Angeles County. Consul General Barber De La Vega praised the Philippine government partnership with TFC by saying that voter registration for overseas absentee voting increased five-fold as a result of TFC support.

The fans trooped to the landmark Shrine Auditorium and filled it to the rafters, making the concert among the most attended events in the venue. On Mothers’ Day, May 12, Florida fans of the show also came in full force to the Silver Spurs Arena to profess their love for Sir Chief, Maya, Abby, Tart, Sabel – beloved characters of the popular TFC teleserye – with world-class singing champions Yeng Constantino and Jovit Baldivino.

Both concerts – the U.S. leg of an ongoing world tour of the show that already took them to the Middle East and will take them to Canada next – played on the strengths of the top-rating teleserye: it highlighted segments that were light, breezy, feel-good, wholesome (with an acceptable dose of impish humor) and generally upbeat. Stage Director John-D Lazatin and Musical Director Lorrie Ilustre mixed high-energy musical dance numbers with light romantic songs, acting contests, laugh-a-minute dating games that involved the audience, and showstoppers from Constantino and Baldivino.

Rosario “Tart” Carlos (Doris) and Vivieka Vivieka (Sabel) displayed their comic genius and onstage chemistry with their Madonna-Lady Gaga song-and-dance-off layered with a trade of witty barbs and retorts delivered with perfect comic timing. The two comediennes also backed up Jodi Sta Maria (Maya) in the “Be Careful With Your Acting” portion that brought the house down with three gentlemen participants from the audience reenacting a favorite scene between Sir Chief and Maya.

Sta Maria was a beautiful vision on stage, elegant, poised and charming, drawing admiring stares and public declarations of “I love you, Maya” from the audience as she serenaded the crowd with songs like Kaba andTorete from the show’s gold-selling soundtrack.

Mutya Orquia (Abby) had a cute exchange with TFC Barangay USA’s Gelo before doing an even cuter Call Me Maybe number with Carlos, Vivieka and the dancers.

The decision to intersperse musical segments with video clips from the show that took the audience to a journey of love of Sir Chief and Maya was wise, eliciting swoons and excited screams and shouts from the crowd.

The ear-shattering shrieks, as expected, were reserved for the touring cast’s central male figure, Richard Yap(Sir Chief). As soon as he sang the opening lines of This Thing Called Love, camera flashes flooded both venues as fans tried to capture frame-by-frame the Philippines’ phenomenally popular 40-something matinee idol.

The dating games with Yap concluded with passionate hugs and kisses for him from the chosen candidates to the delight (and perhaps a tinge of envy) from fans in the audience.

Shrieks reached record decibels anew when Yap and Sta Maria performed their much awaited duets, showcasing their indubitable chemistry as one of the country’s top love teams.

The party atmosphere in the house was at its peak when the entire cast did an OPM disco medley for its finale. By this time, the entire audience was on its feet, applauding, cheering, singing along and snapping photo mementos to capture historic moments of the U.S. visit of their most beloved family teleserye from TFC.

“We wanted to deliver the quality entertainment experience that people have come to expect from TFC and we are overjoyed by the positive comments that validated our intention,” said Resurreccion. “We want to thank everyone who supported the event – the cast and crew, our partners and sponsors, the media, the fans, our government officials, and the entire Filipino community for making all these happen.”

“These successful back-to-back concerts mark the beginning of a TFC events season in 2013 that promises only the best for our valued customers all over North America,” said De Jesus.

For more information on the “Be Careful with My Heart” U.S. concerts, please visit tfc-usa.com/events or visit and like TFCUSOfficial fan page on Facebook.

Kevin Balot's Story in “MMK”

2013-05-16T23:24:00.002+09:00

ABS-CBN’s longest running drama anthology “Maalaala Mo Kaya” will share this Saturday (May 18) the inspiring life story of Miss International Queen 2012 Kevin Balot. One of the most promising Kapamilya actors Martin Del Rosario will portray the role of Kevin. Being the only boy in the children of three, Kevin tried to hide his real identity and fulfill his father’s dream for him to become an engineer. However, Kevin and his father’s relationship began to change when he eventually decided to come out of the closet. How will Kevin prove himself to his family? What will he do to show to everyone that his gender is not a hindrance to achieve his own dreams? Also featured in the “MMK” episode this Saturday are Al Tantay, Shamaine Centenera, Kokoy De Santo, Kristel Fulgar, Toby Alejar, Emmanuelle Vera, Cheska Billones, Louise Bernardo, Princess Freking, and Dax Bayani. It was researched by Agatha Lee Ruadap, written by Benson Logronio, and directed by Mae Czarina Cruz. Don’t miss another memorable heavy family drama episode of “MMK” this Saturday, after “Wansapanataym” on ABS-CBN. For more updates, log on to www.mmk.abs-cbn.com, and follow @MMKOfficial on Twitter and visit the official Facebook page: www.facebook.com/MMKOfficial.

Iza Calzado Lauds Zanjoe Marudo's Performance in 'Bromance'

2013-05-15T23:52:00.001+09:00

Actress Iza Calzado lauded Zanjoe Marudo for pulling off his dual role -- one gay, the other straight -- in the movie “Bromance.”

Calzado is among the celebrities who graced the special screening of the Skylight Films project on Tuesday night.

In an interview with ABS-CBN News, Calzado said she is amazed that Marudo was able to distinctly convey his two characters.

“Maganda 'yung pelikula. Nakakatawa ang mga scene, ang galing ni Zanjoe mag-play ng isang homosexual. Ang hirap din kasi he’s playing two characters and alam mo na mahirap iyon pagtuuanan ng pansin kung paano niya madi-differentiate ang dalawa,” she said.

After the screening, Calzado extended her congratulatory message to the entire cast and crew of “Bromance,” which opens in theaters nationwide on Wednesday.

“Congratulations kay Zanjoe, kay Cristine (Reyes) at sa lahat ng bumubuo ng ‘Bromance’ lalo na sa inyong director na si Wenn Deramas. Mabuhay kayong lahat,” she said.

Deramas is also the director behind the blockbuster comedies "The Unkabogable Praybeyt Benjamin", "This Guy's In Love With U Mare!" and "Sisterakas."

Vice Ganda's 'Karakaraka' Music Video Premieres

2013-05-15T23:44:00.002+09:00

Local celebrity athletes get goofy in a bus rave in the music video for Vice Ganda's hit single "Karakaraka," which was released online Wednesday by ABS-CBN's Star Records.

Directed by Raffy Francisco, the music video features appearances from campus cagers Kiefer Ravena, Jeron and Jeric Teng, as well as Philippine Volcanoes members Eric Tai, Andrew Wolff and Chris Ervingham.

The group, along with Vice Ganda, are seen partying inside a bus as they perform the "Karakaraka" dance moves as popularized by the comedian on the noontime variety program "It's Showtime" and his comedy talk show "Gandang Gabi Vice."

"Karakaraka," which also features rapper Smugglaz, is the first single from Vice Ganda's recently released self-titled album, his first under Star Records.

Ahead of the album's release, "Karakaraka" became the No. 1 most-downloaded track in the online music portal MyMusicStore.com.ph, when the song was released last month.

Aside from "Karakaraka," Vice Ganda's new album features the tracks "Manhid Ka," "Hindi Siya Kundi Ako," "Dahil Mahal na Mahal Kita," "Akin Ka Na Lang," and remixed versions of the songs.

The 37-year-old comedian is also gearing up for his third major solo concert, "I-Vice Ganda Mo 'Ko sa Araneta," which will be held at the Big Dome in Cubao, Quezon City on May 17.

Vice Ganda will be joined on stage by Kapamilya stars Daniel Padilla, Enrique Gil, Paulo Avelino and Dawn Zulueta, singer Regine Velasquez and his "Sisterakas" co-star Ai Ai delas Alas.

Caloy Faces Miguel's Revenge in "Little Champ"

2013-05-15T23:37:00.000+09:00

Lucas (Jhong Hilario) finally forgives and reconciles with his father, Amang Leon (Lito Lapid) after the latter accidentally abandoned him when he was a child. Caloy (JB Agustin) along with his father, Lucas and mother, Helen (Lara Quigaman) are also happy now that their family is complete.

Meanwhile, the happiness of the family will be interrupted by Miguel (Jake Roxas) as he has found Caloy’s whereabouts. In this week’s episodes of the hit fantaserye “Little Champ,” Caloy faces Miguel’s anger and revenge because of his son’s death, which he blames on Caloy.

How will Caloy and Helen survive Miguel’s wrath? Will Lucas be able to save his son and wife? Will the superhero horse, Chalk, finally return to fight Miguel and save his best friend and his family’s?

Find out this week in “Little Champ” on ABS-CBN Channel 2 weeknights before “TV Patrol.” For more updates and feedback about the show, like the official Facebook fanpage of “Little Champ” at http://www.facebook.com/LittleChampOfficial and follow @LChampOfficial on Twitter. Little Champ toy horses, costume accessories, and other official merchandise are now available at leading toy stores nationwide.

Izzy Canillo is "My Little Juan"

2013-05-15T23:31:00.001+09:00

From the expanding universe of the primetime drama series “Juan dela Cruz,” the cute and fun-loving character of the young Juan is back as Kapamilya child wonder Izzy Canillo topbills ABS-CBN’s newest Kapamilya Gold teleserye “My Little Juan.”

After showcasing his remarkable talent in the reality search “Star Circle Kid Quest Season 3,” and programs such as “Ikaw Ay Pag-ibig” and “Goin’ Bulilit,” Izzy quickly won the hearts of everyone with his recent portrayal as the young Coco Martin in “Juan dela Cruz.”

With the premiere of “My Little Juan” this Monday, Izzy will return as the extraordinary boy Juan who is the son of the Tagabantay Amelia (Mylene Dizon) and King Samuel (Albert Martinez).

“My Little Juan” features the story of Juan’s whole childhood and his exciting adventures with Fr. Cito (Jaime Fabregas) before he became a full-fledged superhero. It is directed by Darnel Villaflor.

Don’t miss the grand premiere of “My Little Juan,” on Monday, 2:45pm, after “It’s Showtime” in ABS-CBN’s Kapamilya Gold. For more updates, log on to www.abs-cbn.com, or follow @abscbndotcom on Twitter.

Why Rufa Mae Quinto is Frequently Seen on ABS-CBN

2013-05-15T23:30:00.001+09:00

After nearly 20 years in showbiz, Rufa Mae Quinto is looking to further "explore" the industry, with her recent Kapamilya guest appearances marking her first steps.

The 34-year-old sexy comedienne appeared in the May 11 episode of the ABS-CBN sitcom "Toda Max," which stars Robin Padilla, Angel Locsin, Vhong Navarro and Pokwang.

"Feeling ko nga regular na ako sa 'Toda Max.' Pangalawang beses ko na last month lang, tapos bumalik ako, same character as Weida," Quinto told reporters on Tuesday.

"Masaya ako kasi parang ngayon lang ako nakapag-summer special sa ABS, sa Kapamilya," she said.

Quinto, a talent of Viva Artists Agency, is largely identified with rival network GMA-7, where she is seen as a regular cast member of the long-running gag show "Bubble Gang."

Referring to her projects in both rival networks, Quinto said, "Kasi freelancer naman ako, kaya kahit saan, kahit kailan, maaasahan niyo po ako, I'll be there. Iyon ang dahilan."

She added: "Sa tagal na natin sa industriya, gusto ko naman ma-explore ang lahat ng tao, lahat ng kamera, lahat ng direktor."

"Gusto kong makipagtrabaho sa ibat-ibang klaseng tao, mga artista. Gusto ka naman ng iba naman. By choice ko naman [ito], not by force," she said, laughing.

Apart from her Kapamilya guestings, Quinto's move to expand her showbiz career will see her topbill an action-comedy film set for release in July.

Directed by Marlon Rivera ("Ang Babae sa Septic Tank"), "Miri: Ang Huling Henya" features Quinto in a "serious role" as an agent out to combat crimes.

To mark her birthday on May 28, Quinto is also set to be featured in a "goddess-themed" photo exhibit on May 30 at Opus Restaurant and Lounge in Pasay City.

"Wish ko for my birthday," she said on Tuesday, "is long life to live, at saka health is wealth, 'di ba, at beauty is in the eyes of the beholder, so I want to hold the beauty, myself."

Turning Chairs on The Voice of The Philippines

2013-05-15T23:19:00.002+09:00

With less than a month before its anticipated premiere, the Philippine edition of "The Voice" is sharing a peek at the big, red turning chairs which have made the contest format a global franchise.

In a trailer released Tuesday on the Facebook page of "The Voice of the Philippines," the four superstar coaches -- Lea Salonga, Sarah Geronimo, Francisco "Bamboo" Mañalac and Allan "apl.de.ap" Pineda -- are seen "turning" in their chairs to face the singing hopefuls.

As in the original competition, "The Voice of the Philippines" will have the coaches recruiting contestants in the "Blind Auditions."

In the first phase of the competition, the coaches will screen the auditionees with their backs turned to them. Only the voice will be the determining factor in prompting the coaches to push their button and turn their chairs around to signal their intention to recruit the contestant.

In the event that two or more coaches choose a particular contestant, they will have to convince the auditionee to pick them.

Each team will be trimmed down, however, as "The Voice of the Philippines" start the "Battle Rounds."

After mentoring and training their artists, each coach will pit two of their own team members in a "sing-off." The winning contestants will advance to the next round -- the live performance shows.

Meanwhile, on micro-blogging site Twitter Wednesday, Salonga addressed comparisons between the appearances of the chairs as seen in the local edition of "The Voice" and its counterparts in over 50 other countries, specifically the popular United States version.

The same red chairs, as seen in the United Kingdom edition of "The Voice," were also recently the subject of headlines when online publication The Sun reported about a "wacky rule" of the multinational franchise.

According to the report, the coaches on the show are prohibited from referring to the famous chairs as "spinning."

"One of the most important ones is they must never say that their red chairs spin — they only turn... The red chairs only go round 180 degrees so the creators of the show say they can’t be described as spinning, even though that’s what most viewers say," it said.

Set to air in June on ABS-CBN, "The Voice of the Philippines" will feature as hosts celebrity sisters Toni and Alex Gonzaga, and former "Pinoy Big Brother" housemate Robi Domingo.

"Mommy-Nappers" in "Wansapanataym"

2013-05-15T23:07:00.002+09:00

ABS-CBN’s top-rating fantasy-drama anthology “Wansapantaym” will teach kids and families about the importance of giving appreciation to mothers this Saturday (May 18) in the special episode ‘Mommy Nappers.’ In the episode, Kapamilya child star Lance Lucido will portray the role of Tyrone, a young boy who spends most of his time researching about aliens rather than helping his Mommy Agnes (Yayo Aguila). Will Tyrone finally learn to appreciate his mother more when the aliens in their neighborhood kidnap his mom? Together with Yayo and Lance in the ‘Mommy Nappers’ episode are Kit Thompson, Ingrid dela Paz, Nanette Inventor, Gerald Pesigan, Bea Basa, and Casey de Silva. It was written by Ferdinand Aguas and directed by Erick Salud. Don’t miss the storybook of Pinoy kids, “Wansapanataym” special this Saturday, after “Kapamilya: Deal or No Deal” in ABS-CBN. Also, watch out for the reruns of its past episodes ‘Hair There Everywhere’ on Thursday (May 16), and ‘Flores de Mayumi’ on Friday (May 17) in “WansapanaSummer,” weekdays, 10:15am in ABS-CBN. For more updates, just log in at www.abs-cbn.com or follow @abscbndotcom on Twitter.

ABS-CBN’s First Quarter Income Up by 66%

2013-05-15T23:05:00.001+09:00

The consolidated net income of ABS-CBN Corporation (“ABS-CBN” or the “Company”) (PSE: ABS, ABSP), the country’s largest media and entertainment company , registered P508 million in net income for the first quarter of 2013, a significant increase of 66% compared with P306 million in the same period last year. The growth in income was fuelled by strong regular advertising revenues as well as election-related ads. Consumer sales also grew at a significant rate.

ABS-CBN generated consolidated revenues of P7.9 billion from advertising and consumer sales, a 21% increase compared to last year.

Advertising revenues reached P4.4 billion, an increase of 22% from a year ago. Consumer sales amounted to P3.5 billion, posting an 18% increase. Sky Cable continues to be a major driver of growth with revenues increasing by 43% to P1.6 billion. The growth in revenues is partly attributable to the acquisition of Destiny Cable.

Total costs and expenses increased by 17% to P7.2 billion brought about by increases in production costs, cost of sales and services , and general and administrative expenses.

Capital expenditure and film and program rights acquisition amounted to P1.1 billion which was the same level of spending last year.

ABS-CBN led in national audience share and ratings for Urban and Rural audiences with prime-time audience share averaging 46% in the first three months of 2013, a 16 percentage point lead over GMA’s, based on Kantar National TV Ratings.

For the first quarter, the top 15 programs for Total Philippines (Urban and Rural) were from ABS-CBN, with the following occupying the Top 10 slots: Juan dela Cruz, Ina Kapatid Anak, Juan dela Cruz Ang Simula, Wansapanataym, Princess and I, MMK Ang Tahanan Mo, Pilipinas Got Talent Saturday, TV Patrol Weekday, Be Careful with My Heart, and Aryana.

ABS-CBN Film Productions, Inc. released 6 films in the first three months of 2013. Three of them–One More Try, Sisterakas and It Takes a Man and Woman grossed more than P200 million each.

Wynn Andrada Inks Recording Deal with Star Records

2013-05-15T23:02:00.001+09:00

Acoustic singer and composer Sherwin ‘Wynn’ Andrada, a finalist in the recently concluded songwriting competition ‘Himig Handog P-Pop Love Song,’ inked a recording deal with Star Recording Inc. recently. The 18-year-old music artist is set to release his first solo album, which will include his P-Pop love song entry titled “Tamang Panahon.” “I’m so overwhelmed by this opportunity. Most of the songs to be included in my album are my original compositions that are mostly love songs,” he said. Wynn also shared how he inspires himself to write songs. He quipped, “In songwriting, I’m getting my inspiration from my personal experiences, from my crushes or sometimes from my friends’ stories.” When asked who among the Kapamilya female stars “inspires” him, Wynn named Kim Chiu as his celebrity crush and said that he would even be willing to write a song just for Kim. Aside from his singing and songwriting skills, Wynn also knows how to play several musical instruments such as drums, bass guitar, acoustic guitar, and many more. He is also open to doing acting projects in the future. Present at the contract signing were Star Creatives head Malou Santos, Star Records head Roxy Liquigan, Star Songs head Marivic Benedicto, and talent managers Don Don Monteverde, Rex Belarmino, and Chinie Go.

ABS-CBN to Raise PhP4 Billion in New Equity

2013-05-15T22:57:00.002+09:00

Capital International Private Equity Fund VI, L.P. and affiliated funds (collectively “CIPEF”) agreed to subscribe to P2.5 billion worth of new Philippine Deposit Receipts (“PDRs”) to be issued by ABS-CBN Holdings Corporation (“ABS-CBN Holdings”) (PSE: ABSP), which will in turn subscribe to the same number of newly issued common shares of ABS-CBN Corporation

(“ABS-CBN”) (PSE: ABS). Lopez, Inc. has also agreed to subscribe to P1.5 billion worth of new common shares of ABS-CBN. This allows ABS-CBN to raise P4 billion.

The new PDRs to be issued to CIPEF have been priced at P43.225 per PDR. The new shares to be issued to Lopez, Inc. have also been priced at P43.225 per share. The price represents 2.1% discount to the 45-day volume-weighted average price for ABS-CBN PDRs and 3.2% premium to the 45-day volume-weighted average price for ABS-CBN common shares as of May 14, 2013.

The PDR subscription and the share subscriptions are expected to be completed within 2013.

ABS-CBN Holdings is expected to complete its share subscription on or before June 10, 2013 to allow it to subsequently issue the new PDRs to the CIPEF. At the completion of the share subscriptions and the PDR subscription, Lopez, Inc. will hold 56% of the outstanding common shares and will retain voting control of 79% of all outstanding shares.

The PDR issuance by ABS-CBN Holdings and the issuance of new common shares by ABSCBN take advantage of the favorable performance of Philippine Stock Exchange in general and particularly, ABS-CBN PDRs and shares.

The funds raised from this exercise will be used towards initiatives to further expand the distribution of ABS-CBN content to the widest array of platforms available, including Digital Terrestrial Television.

ABS-CBN Chairman Eugenio Lopez III remarked, “We are glad to have earned the support of our controlling shareholder and one of the world’s largest investment management and private equity firms in our pursuit to deliver enhanced value to all of ABS-CBN’s stakeholders.” ING Bank N.V. acted as financial advisor to ABS-CBN for the transaction.

With over 20 years of experience, CIPEF is the dedicated emerging markets business private equity business of Capital Garoup, one of the world’s largest investment management firms.

ABS-CBN Corporation is a Philippine media and entertainment company. ABS-CBN creates a wide variety of entertainment and information programs that are aired on free-to-air TV via Channels 2 (VHF), 23 (UHF), on a regional network of TV and AM/FM radio stations nationwide and on nine cable and satellite TV channels. The Company also owns the leading film, music production and distribution outfit in the Philippines. It delivers various ABS-CBN channels and products to audiences all over the world via ABS-CBN Global as well as through its international sales and distribution efforts. ABS-CBN has a controlling interest in Sky Cable – the Philippines’ largest MSO. Sky Cable delivers cable TV and broadband services to homes and offices across the Philippines. ABS-CBN delivers content across multiple platforms through various online and mobile products. ABS-CBN is also engaged in various other businesses including print publishing, live events and experiences and licensing and merchandising.

“May Isang Pangarap" All Set for a 'Dream Come True' Finale This Friday

2013-05-14T23:46:00.000+09:00

Tension between Kare (Vina Morales) and Nessa (Carmina Villaroel) heats up even more in ABS-CBN’s afternoon family drama series “May Isang Pangarap” as they fight for their right as Lara’s (Lara Claire Sabroso) mother. What will Nessa do now that Kare has already taken Lara away from her? Will she still be able to get her adopted daughter back? In the end, who will still Lara choose—her real mother who abandoned her or the woman who took care of her while growing up? Don’t miss the ‘dream come true’ finale of the family drama series “May Isang Pangarap,” this Friday (May 17), 2:45pm after “It’s Showtime” on ABS-CBN’s Kapamilya Gold. For more updates, log on to www.abs-cbn.com or follow abscbndotcom on Twitter.

Vault Cries La Vita Italiana

2013-05-14T17:00:00.000+09:00

Vault Magazine, the luxury lifestyle magazine of ABS-CBN Publishing, finds inspiration in the words of famous author Ernest Hemingway who said “If you want to travel gaily, travel with good Italians.” La Vita Italiana—a life committed to the constant discovery of beauty and pleasure at every turn—is the focus of Vault’s annual travel issue now out this May. As such, the magazine features everything Italian, from fashion to cuisine, design, sports cars and more.

Fashion and style take center stage in this edition. Vault veers slightly from the global Italian brands and takes a closer look at the smaller, homegrown labels that still rely on local craftsmen who employ skills obtained from generations of artisans.

Likewise, Vault taps chefs who create traditional dishes with the help of inherited recipes plus techniques learned from grandmothers and self-taught cooks. The issue also presents the producers of the Barolo, a full-bodied red wine made in the northern Italian region of Piedmont.

Because the Italians are great inventors and engineers, the magazine celebrates the excellence of Italian ingenuity. A tradition of creativity thrives in the country’s sports industry and the legendary marquees of Lamborghini and Alfa Romeo. In Italy, the passion for beauty is all-encompassing reality embedded in the country’s DNA. This fact is evident in their products and modes of transportation like espresso machines, boats and high-speed trains.

In the May issue of Vault, readers will find Hemingway’s words ringing true. For those that can’t wait to travel with the Italians, Vault hopes that their latest issue provides the best alternatives to do so. Published quarterly by ABS-CBN Publishing, each issue of Vault has sections on automobiles, aviation, new establishments, equipment, travel, timepieces, art, style, grooming, property, and fine dining.

Vault is sold at all good book shops in the Philippines. Digital edition available on Zinio.com and the App Store. To download ABS-CBN’s magazines, users on Android devices must download the Zinio app from the Android Market. The app is also available through the iPad App Store. PC and Mac users can access Zinio at zinio.com.

Daring Film "Palitan" Hits Theater on May 22

2013-05-13T00:08:00.000+09:00

Finally hitting cinemas on May 22 is Ato Bautista’s award-winning erotic thriller “Palitan.”

Set in the gritty corners of Raon, Quiapo, “Palitan” shows that in desperate times, bargains are made in exchange for heavy sacrifices.

The leads are played by showbiz scions Mara Lopez and Alex Medina. Mara is the daughter of beauty queen-turned-actress Maria Isabel Lopez and a darling of local independent films. While Alex is the son of veteran actor Pen Medina and a mainstay of the top-rating ABS-CBN teleserye “Ina, Kapatid, Anak” where he plays the characterof Diego.

The script of “Palitan” required both young performers to do very sensitive scenes. “My character is my polar opposite. The film took a lot from me. It was truly the most challenging role I had to portray not just physically but emotionally,” said Mara. “It was my first time to go bold or daring. and it was harder than I thought,” Alex admitted. In spite of the challenges,both did extremely well in this film. Mara and Alex won Best Actress and Best Actor respectively at the Cinema One Originals Film Festival 2012.

The story begins with Nestor (Alex) who is heavily in debt to his boss Ramiro (Mon Confiado), an owner of an electronics shop. One of Ramiro’s dangerous cravings is aimed at Nestor’s young, lovely common-law wife, Luisa (Mara). The love-starved and porn-tired Ramiro proposes a deal with Nestor: secretly shoot Luisa’s naked body as she bathes and give the footage to him. If Nestor complies, his debt would supposedly disappear. “Palitan” is a film that pushes the characters into the limits of power play, love, lust, deceit, jealousy and pride.

Director Ato Bautista’s treatment is fearless. He said, “I always dare myself to do new things every time I make a film… For ‘Palitan, ‘I sought to shoot the longest and most steamy bedscene that I could.”

“Palitan” makes a daring move on May 22 as it opens at the following Metro Manila theaters Shangri-La Cineplex, SM Megamall, Robinsons Galleria, SM North EDSA, SM Mall of Asia, SM San Lazaro, SM Manila, SM Centerpoint, SM Fairview, SM Marikina, SM Southmall, and Eastwood Cinema. It opens on the same date at provincial theaters SM Bacoor, SM San Fernando, Robinsons San Fernando, SM Clark Pampanga, Robinsons Sta. Rosa, Robinsons Lipa, SM Cebu, SM Davao, Robinsons Iloilo, and Robinsons Bacolod. The film is rated R-16 without cuts by the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board.

For more details, follow CinemaOne channel @cinema_one on Twitter and ‘like’ it on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Cinema1channel .

Family of 'Infotainers' Wins "It's Showtime" Bida Kapamilya Finals

2013-05-12T15:00:00.000+09:00

For incorporating different talents into an explosive performance that effectively portrayed history, the Agravante family of Sta. Cruz, Laguna took home P1 million and was declared grand champion in the “Bida Kapamilya Round 2: The Finals” of ABS-CBN’s noontime show “It’s Showtime” yesterday (May 11). Mentored by actress-comedienne Giselle Sanchez, the Agravante family interpreted through singing, dancing, and acting how Filipinos fought for freedom during the Spanish occupation. The family earned the highest average score of 9.8 from the judges, beating other seven families, even though they were only given one day to conceptualize and practice a new routine after being selected winner in the wildcard round last Thursday. Host and judge Vice Ganda praised the performance and said, “I really liked what you did because you combined everything we saw in the other families’ performances. You sang, danced, performed stunts, and rapped. You did all of that and you did it well.” Meanwhile, watch out for the new segment called “Bida Kids” featuring talented kids aged three to 12 years old. Keep watching “It’s Showtime,” Mondays to Fridays at 12:30 PM and on Saturdays at 12NN on ABS-CBN. For updates on the program, follow @ItsShowtimena on Twitter or like www.facebook.com/itsShowtimena .

Sunshine Cruz Continues to Search for her Son in "Dugong Buhay"

2013-05-12T12:00:00.000+09:00

Fate brings a glimmer of hope back in Isabel’s (Sunshine Cruz) heart in ABS-CBN’s afternoon action-drama series “Dugong Buhay” as she continues to search for her first born son after learning that their old nanny Elena (Ana Capri) is still alive. Because of Isabel and Elena’s accidental encounter, Victor’s (Ejay Falcon) anger begins to fire up even more now that the De Laras have ordered the authorities to capture his mother. Will Isabel succeed in searching for her son? Or will she finally learn to accept that he is already gone? As he discovers Elena’s connection with the De Laras, how will Victor’s life change when he finds out that he is the long lost son of the family that he plans to destroy? Continue to follow the heart-pounding scenes in “Dugong Buhay” every afternoon after “May Isang Pangarap” in ABS-CBN’s Kapamilya Gold. For more updates, log on to www.abs-cbn.com or follow @abscbndotcom in Twitter.

Mother's Day Special in ASAP 18

2013-05-11T00:29:00.000+09:00

Moms all over the world are going to be in for a treat this Sunday (May 12) as “ASAP 18” leads the Mother’s Day celebration with the special surprises from Marjorie and Julia Barretto, Janella Salvador and Jenine Desiderio, and Daniel and Karla Estrada; and the returning Kapamilya actress Kristine Hermosa.

Also, watch out for the must-see concert performances of Kapamilya teen sensation Daniel Padilla together with his brothers Matthew, JC, at RJ; Pinoy rock icon Bamboo, rapper-songwriter Gloc 9, and Popstar Sarah Geronimo.

Witness another fun-filled string of surprises on the ASAP centerstage with the special visit of Star Cinema’s “Bromance” lead stars Cristine Reyes and Zanjoe Marudo; and the much-awaited production number of the 2013 Miss Earth Philippines candidates.

Feel the Filipino spirit and unity as Gary Valenciano, Martin Nievera, Jericho Rosales, Sam Milby, Erik Santos, Jed Madela, and Piolo Pascual lead the whole ASAP Kapamilya in their call for a clean and successful 2013 elections.

Join in the fun as “Be Careful With My Heart” star Janella Salvador celebrates her birthday with the other Star Magic Cirlce 2013 members Jerome Ponce, Julia Barretto, Marlo Mortel, Kit Thompson, Liza Soberano, Ingrid dela Paz, Jon Lucas, and Michelle Vito.

Meanwhile, get ready for the breath-taking dance showdown prepared by Kapamilya leading ladies Kim Chiu, Kathryn Bernardo, Empress, Meg Imperial, and Shaina Magdayao in ‘ASAP Supahdance.’

Prepare to be blown away with the world-class concert experience from Vina Morales, Toni Gonzaga, Angeline Quinto, Nikki Gil, KZ Tandingan, and ASAP Sessionistas.

Don’t miss the non-stop celebrations in the country’s longest-running, award-winning variety show, “ASAP 18” this Sunday, 12:15 noon, on ABS-CBN. For updates, photos and to hang out live with the stars at ASAP Chill-Out, simply visithttp://asap.abs-cbn.com/, ‘like’ http://facebook.com/asapofficial, follow @ASAPOFFICIAL on Twitter, and know the latest happenings in “ASAP 18” by tweeting the hashtag #ASAPShower.

Kapamilya Stars Goes to the Middle East for Independence Day Celebrations

2013-05-11T00:27:00.000+09:00

The Filipino Channel (TFC) Middle East drives the annual Independence Day celebrations this year with a parade of the best of homegrown entertainment via Kapamilya Kalayaan Karavan 2013. Kapamilya stars will make the rounds of celebrations in Kuwait, Dubai, Oman and Lebanon in the caravan this June which will be mounted by TFC in partnership with the Filipino community organizations in the Middle East (M.E.).

On June 7, Vhong Navarro and Pokwang will bring their signature music and brand of humor at the Musika at Tawanan 2 at Al Arabi Basketball Stadium, Mansouriya, Kuwait. In partnership with the Alliance of Filipino Organizations in Kuwait (ALLFIL-OK), TFC will bring two of the industry’s biggest names who managed to shift from comedy to other talents with success.

On June 14, Kapamilya hottie Paulo Avelino and Pinoy Dream Academy Grand Winner Yeng Constantino will jam with kapamilyas at the 115th Celebration of Philippine Independence in Dubai. This part of the celebration is made possible by TFC’s partnership with the Filipino Community in Dubai and Northern Emirates (FILCOM D-NE).

Day after on June 15 Paulo will travel to Oman for the Independence Day celebration of the Filipino Community Social Club (FILCOSOC). The heartthrob who became widely known as Nathan in Walang Hanggan is also a singer and will bring with him his own brand of music.

Finally on June 16, Paulo will continue to bring kapamilya fun together with organizer Filipino Workers’ Association in Metn (FILWAM) at the UNESCO Palace in Lebanon. Paulo will serenade candidates of the Ms. Earth FILWAM candidates in this leg.

In all days, TFC will also launch its newest service – TV Everywhere. With the promise, At Home Ka, Anywhere, Filipinos in M.E. will enjoy TFC wherever they may be through various gadgets. TFC will also launch its 60 on 60 Pasasalamat promo and other exciting items from the premier Filipino network in the world.

Every year, TFC and the Filipino community organizations in the M.E. join hands as one family to celebrate the story of our independence and to recognize our heroes both famous and lesser known like hardworking overseas Filipinos. This year’s TFC Kapamilya Kalayaan Karavan 2013 is brought to Filipinos in the Middle East through partnerships with ALLFIL-OK in Kuwait headed by Celerino Umandap; FILCOM D-NE in Dubai headed by Matilyn Bagunu; FILCOSOC in Oman under the leadership of Janette Daang; and the FILWAM, Lebanon under Celso delos Santos.

For more information, contact your nearest Filipino community groups or visit www.facebook.com/TFCMiddleEast

‘Annaliza’ Star Andrea Brillantes Burst into Tears

2013-05-10T22:00:00.000+09:00

Rising teleserye princess Andrea Brillantes suddenly burst into tears while walking on center stage when her first teleserye starrer Annaliza was introduced to advertisers at the recently held ABS-CBN trade event at the NBC Tent in Taguig. The ten-year old young actress wasn’t able to contain her emotions any longer when she realized that she is actually living her long-time dream of playing lead in a TV series. In her Instagram account, Andrea said, “I was already teary-eyed backstage, but when I came out on the stage and saw all the people clapping for me, tears instantly streamed down my face because it dawned on me that I am finally playing a lead role.” Andrea added that the show’s theme song, sung by Liezel Garcia, also touched her and moved her to tears. Apart from advertisers, Andrea’s fellow cast members also warmly welcomed her on stage that includes Zanjoe Marudo, Denise Laurel, Patrick Garcia, Kay Abad, Carlo Aquino, Khalil Ramos, Sue Ramirez, Kiko Estrada, Shy Carlos, Kyline Alcantara, Jillian Aguila, and Reign Tolentino. Annaliza is an endearing andheartwarming family drama that centers on the enduring love and fighting spirit of a child despite all the struggles and miseries in her life. For updates on Annaliza, stay tune to ABS-CBN, like itsFacebook page at www.facebook.com/Annaliza2013 or follow @Annaliza2013 on Twitter and share your thoughts using the hashtag #Annaliza.

Apl De Ap and Xian Lim Pay Tribute to Their Moms in Showbiz Inside Report

2013-05-10T20:00:00.000+09:00

International hiphop sensation Apl De Ap and Kapamilya heartthrob Xian Lim are set to pay tribute to the special women behind their success this Saturday (May 11) in the special Mother’s day episode of “Showbiz Inside Report.” Together with its hosts Janice de Belen, Ogie Diaz, Carmina Villarroel and Zoren Legaspi, get to know Apl and Xian more and discover how their mothers inspired them to reach and pursue their dreams. How hard was it for Apl to grow up without his mother beside him? What are the trials and problems that strengthened Xian’s relationship with his mom? Meanwhile, also featured in “Showbiz Inside Report” this Saturday are the ‘SIR-tified’ true stories about the much-talked about issue between Kim Chiu and Maja Salvador; and the hottest controversy involving actress-turned-politician Marjorie Barretto. Join Janice, Carmina, Ogie and Zoren once again as they continue to expose ‘SIR-tified’ in-depth and true stories in the no.1 showbiz talk show “Showbiz Inside Report,” every Saturday 2:30pm, after “It’s Showtime.” For more updates, log-on at www.abs-cbn.com, follow @SIRTVOfficial on Twitter, or like the Facebook fanpagewww.facebook.com/ShowbizInsideReport.AbsCbn.