Kapusong Totoo

Lone gunman kills Italian priest in North Cotabato

noreply@blogger.com ("Serbisyong Totoo" lang po) — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 08:54:00 +0000

by: Malu Cadelina Manar

(UPDATED 4:00 p.m.) KIDAPAWAN CITY – An Italian priest was gunned down inside the compound of the Mother of Perpetual Help parish church in Arakan, North Cotabato at around 7:30 a.m. on Monday.

Father Fausto Tentorio of the Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions (PIME) was preparing to go about his duties for the day when he was shot and killed by a lone gunmann.

File photo of Fr. Fausto Tentorio from PIME-Philippines blog

Arakan municipal councilor Leonardo Reovoca, a former parish worker of the Diocese of Kidapawan, said the prie
st was a staunch anti-mining advocate.

“I am a witness to Father Fausto’s strong stance against mining and other projects which are unsustainable and would harm the indigenous peoples in particular," said Reovoca.

Reovoca said the priest was about to board his pickup truck when the gunman shot him twice in the head.

Witnesses said the suspect was wearing a crash helmet and walked away casually from the scene of the crime to a motorcycle, parked just a few meters away from the church compound.

Reovoca said "since the suspect was wearing a helmet, nobody was able to recognize his face."

The victim was supposed to attend on Monday the regular clergy meeting of the Diocese of Kidapawan at the Bishop’s Palace in Kidapawan City when the incident happened.

The police are still determining the identity of the killer and the motive for the crime.

Meanwhile, Italian ambassador to the Philippines Luca Fornari expressed his shock over the incident.

"An Italian priest was shot at daytime while doing his duties. I can not understand why. I have not met him but I heard good things about him, he’s doing extraordinary work there and he has been giving a lot of help to the indigenous people and the poor people there, providing them with opportunities for education, livelihood and agriculture," Luca said of the victim.

Luca said the Italian embassy in the Philippines has been reminding Italian priests and missionaries to be very careful when traveling to Mindanao.

He said the police have been very helpful and have done their best to protect the priests and missionaries.

"We have an existing travel advisory in the Philippines. We have been asking our nationals not to go to Mindanao, specifically in dangerous areas. We have been discouraging the priests and the missionaries, but most of the time they disregard this because for them their mission and helping the people is more important," Luca said.

Killing of another Italian priest

In the 1980s, the killing of another Italian priest, Father Tullio Favali, in the same province also made the headlines.

Data from GMA News Research shows that on April 11, 1985, Edilberto Manero shot dead Favali in Tulunan, North Cotabato.

Father Tentorio 3rd Italian PIME priest murdered in PHL
The Italian priest Father Fausto Tentorio, who was gunned down in North Cotabato on Monday, was the third priest in their congregation who was murdered in the Philippines.

Tentorio, a member of the Pontificio Instituto Missioni Estere (PIME or Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions), was shot and killed by a lone gunman inside the compound of the Mother of Perpetual Help parish church in Arakan at around 7:30 a.m. on Monday.

According to the PIME Philippines blog, two other Italian members of their congregation were murdered before Tentorio — Father Tullio Favali and Father Salvatore Carzedda. Read more
Earlier that day, the Manero brothers -- Edilberto, Norberto Jr., and Elpidio -- had conspired to kill a number of suspected communist sympathizers.

Among those whom the group suspected of having links with the communist movement was Fr. Peter Geremia, an Italian priest.

They agreed that should they fail to kill Geremia, they would kill another Italian priest in his stead.

Hours later, the group spotted Favali, who had just arrived on his motorcycle. Like the latest victim, Geremia and Favali also belong to the PIME Fathers.

When Favali entered a house, Norberto Jr. dragged the motorcycle to the center of the highway and set it on fire.

This prompted Fr. Favali to approach him but Edilberto reportedly cut in and shot the priest.

Edilberto trampled on Favali's body and fired again, shattering the priest's head. Norberto Jr. picked up the victim's brains and mockingly displayed them to horrified spectators.

The rest of the gang, including a third Manero brother, Elpidio, stood by, laughing and heckling.

On January 25, 2008, Norberto Jr., the convicted priest-killer, walked out of minimum security compound after almost 23 years of incarceration.

A report of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) in February 2008 said priests and nuns welcomed Norberto Jr. at a prayer service in the chapel of the Bishop’s House.

Norberto Jr. renewed a 2005 pact he signed with the diocese of Kidapawan vowing that he would not return to the violent life he led in the 1980s.

“I must be the happiest now that I have been welcomed and forgiven," Manero said in the CBCP report. - with GMA News Research

GMA Kapuso Foundation calls for donations for families affected by Typhoon “Ondoy”

noreply@blogger.com ("Serbisyong Totoo" lang po) — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 04:11:00 +0000

The following donations are needed:
Monetary Donation
Rice
Canned Goods
Noodles
Clothing

you may drop your donations at:
GMA KAPUSO FOUNDATION, INC.
2nd Floor GMA Kapuso Center
GMA Network Drive cor. Samar Streets
Diliman, Quezon City 1103
Philippines

Telephone Nos.: (632) 982.7777 loc. 9901 & 9905
Telefax: (632) 928.9351 / 928.4299

E-mail: gmaf@gmanetwork.com

Donate

Deposit cash and cheque donations at any branches of the following:

WARNING: Please ignore emails instructing you to send donations to various bank accounts. There have been fraudulent users who send emails instructing people to send donations to specific bank accounts which are not owned by GMA Kapuso Foundation. For a list of legitimate bank accounts, please refer to this list:

METROPOLITAN BANK & TRUST COMPANY (METROBANK)

Peso Savings
Account Name : GMA Kapuso Foundation, Inc.
Account Number : 3-098-51034-7

Dollar Savings
Account Name : GMA Kapuso Foundation, Inc.
Account Number : 2-098-00244-2
Code : MBTC PH MM

UNITED COCONUT PLANTERS BANK (UCPB)

Peso Savings
Account Name : GMA Kapuso Foundation, Inc.
Account Number : 115-184777-2
: 160-111277-7

Dollar Savings
Account Name : GMA Kapuso Foundation, Inc.
Account Number : 01-115-301177-9
: 01-160-300427-6
Code : UCPB PH MM

BANCO DE ORO (BDO)

Peso Savings
Account Name : GMA Kapuso Foundation, Inc.
Account Number : 469-0022189

Dollar Savings
Account Name : GMA Kapuso Foundation, Inc.
Account Number : 469-0072135

Code : BNORPHM

PHILIPPINE NATIONAL BANK (PNB)

Peso Savings
Account Name : GMA Kapuso Foundation, Inc.
Account Number : 121-0032000-17

Dollar Savings
Account Name : GMA Kapuso Foundation, Inc.
Account Number : 121-0032000-25
Code : PNB MPH MM

OR

BY CREDIT CARD

For comments and suggestions, send email to gmaf@gmanetwork.com or visit www.kapusofoundation.com

More than 62K evacuated in Luzon; 2,676 stranded in Bicol due to 'Pepeng'

noreply@blogger.com ("Serbisyong Totoo" lang po) — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 03:56:00 +0000

At least 2,676 people were stranded while more than 62,000 people had been preemptively evacuated due to typhoon "Pepeng" (Parma), the National Disaster Coordinating Council said Saturday.

The NDCC's 2 a.m. report said "Pepeng" also stranded 116 trucks, 32 cars, 47 passenger buses, 31 vessels, and 23 motorized bancas.

Of the 2,676 people stranded in the Bicol region, 1,520 were from Matnog (Sorsogon) and 265 from Tabaco (Albay).

In its report, the NDCC said 14,224 families or 62,057 people in Luzon, including Bicol, had been preemptively evacuated.

Among those evacuated were 136 families or 548 people in six villages in Aringay, Bauang and San Fernando City in La Union.

In Cagayan Valley, 1,542 families are ready for evacuation to 23 centers. Some 622 families in Isabela had been evacuated while 1,920 families are to be evacuated in Batanes. Some 35 families in Quirino had been evacuated.

In Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon), preemptive evacuations were conducted in the area.

In Bicol, 13,431 families or 61,509 people were evacuated, in areas including Albay, Camarines Sur, Sorsogon, Camarines Norte and Catanduanes.

Roads in Catanduanes rendered impassable included sections of Catanduanes Circumferential Road including Dariao-Caramoran; Panabananon, Caramoran; Paraiso, San Miguel; and Puting Baybay, San Andres, due to landslide; Bocon spillway, Caramoran; Kanlanka
Spillway, Viga due to floods; and Paturok Spillway, San Andres; Imalmasinan Spillway, Caramoran due to washed-out embankment.

Impassable Albay roads include Legzapi-Punta de Jesus Road; Libon-Pantao Road Paclas Section underwater; Albay West Coast Road impassable due to landslide; Naga-Calabanga Balongay Road passable only to large vehicles. - GMANews.TV

MISSING PERSONS DATABASE now online

noreply@blogger.com ("Serbisyong Totoo" lang po) — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 03:48:00 +0000

Update 3, 5:45 a.m. Oct. 2) The MISSING PERSONS DATABASE is back online with an improved report form. The public can now resume browsing through the database or filing reports.

People have asked us whether any of the missing persons and families listed in our database have been found. We are glad to say that as of 10:30 pm of Oct. 1, seven families and seven individuals have been reported as found alive and safe. Their records in the database have been set in bold type and highlighted in yellow.

We ask those who have posted missing-person reports in this database to please file update reports if new information about the said missing person or family comes up. We are also mobilizing volunteers to make follow-up inquiries in this regard.

1. FILE A REPORT OR INQUIRY ABOUT A MISSING OR 'FOUND' PERSON

2. VIEW THE GMANEWS.TV MISSING PERSONS DATABASE

View Typhoon Ondoy Missing Persons in a larger map

Why this database, and how it works

Do you have a relative, friend, classmate, workmate, neighbor, or acquaintance that went missing during the chaotic weekend of Sept. 26-27 as storm “Ondoy" wreaked havoc on Metro Manila and the rest of Luzon?

Or maybe you happen to be in touch with Ondoy-displaced or stranded people in the process of rescue, evacuation and relief operations, and you want to send word that they are safe and sound?

To fill this need, GMANews.TV is offering an interactive “missing-persons" database (MPD). This resource can help close the information gap between those who are looking for missing persons, and those persons themselves, or people who know their whereabouts and condition.

The MPD works this way:

First, go to the GMANews.Tv website, to its Missing Persons Database page (as for now, this page), and click on the “File a report or inquiry about missing or ‘found’ persons." A response form will be displayed. Fill in the blanks as accurately as you can.

A drop-down menu will allow you to select from five options; this is required.

* Select choice 1 if you want to merely inquire about people that you’ve lost contact with. This would be particularly helpful to overseas Filipinos worried about their loved ones in Ondoy-affected areas that they haven’t heard from since.

* Select choice 2 if you’ve already made efforts to search a person and they are clearly missing.

* Select choice 3 if you “found" a missing person, and want to inform those looking for them.

* Select choice 4 if you want to inquire about something else.

* Select choice 5 if you want to report about something else.

Then you will be asked for other details such as the current date and time; and the last name, first name, physical description and other known information about the person.

Next, you will be asked about the source of the information, including name of the person filing the report, and cellphone number or email. We require these so we can check the veracity of the report.

You can either skip the last box, or write down any action already done on the case, and the results if any.

For now, the resulting MPD looks like an Excel spreadsheet. GMANews.TV will also make the MPD viewable to the public in various other ways.

About the Typhoon Ondoy Missing Persons map

The Google map shown on this page represents the geographic location and distribution of missing-person cases. It was created by Franklin Naval and maintained by him and several others, and makes use of GMA MPD data and other missing-persons sources.

Other missing person resources

The following are missing-person resources offered by other sites, which you will also find useful:

* The Ateneo Task Force Ondoy - Missing People Directory

Pacquiao: Video of ‘transfer’ wasn’t supposed to be shown

noreply@blogger.com ("Serbisyong Totoo" lang po) — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 11:22:00 +0000

MANILA, Philippines – Apparently, it was a statement and video that weren’t supposed to be released at all.

Manny Pacquiao on Monday clarified that he did not give his go-signal for ABS-CBN to air the footage announcing his controversial decision to rescind his live contract with Solar Entertainment Corp. and hook up with the network.

In a phone patch from LA, the boxing superstar claimed he only agreed to do the video for ABS-CBN and issue the statement of transfer on condition they would only be made public if he were to find contractual violations on the part of Solar.

But the thing is: he didn’t find any.

“Ang usapan kasi namin ng ABS ay huwag muna tayo maggawa ng footage o video. Susuriin ko muna ang kontrata ng Solar kung may breach of contract at saka tayo maglabas ng ganoong videos. And then sabi nila sa akin, itatago muna namin, hindi namin ipapalabas, gawin mo na lang ito, sasabihin namin pag papalabas na, kaya ginawa namin," he narrated.

As it turned out, Pacquiao found nothing that would merit the rescinding of his contract with Solar.

“Wala namang nakitang breach of contract at wala namang kasalanan, wala namang nilabag ang Solar so dapat hindi maipalabas ang video na iyon na hindi naman karapat-dapat.," he said.

The recorded video was shown on ABS-CBN last Wednesday, drawing protests from Solar, which reiterated its legal rights to air Pacquiao’s fights. The contract of Pacquiao’s MP Promotions and Solar is still good up to May 6, 2011, which covers the May 2 title fight with Ricky Hatton.

In a letter to Solar, Pacquiao had cited the company’s “failure to fulfill its financial obligations." Solar officials had denied such allegation and maintained all financial matters have been settled.

Pacquiao bared that it was ABS-CBN itself that prepared the contents of what he said on the video. “Yung statement na iyon actually hindi naman ako ang gumawa nun; ang gumawa nun mga abogado rin ng ABS. Sila ang nagturo sa akin, sila ang may idea nun na gawin ko ang sasabihin ko," he disclosed.

Pacquiao eventually retracted the controversial video and statement he made on ABS-CBN after meeting personally with Solar executives over the weekend.

“Ang pinagbasehan lang doon (video) ay breach of contract, pero wala namang naganap at siguro mali yung naging desisyon ko nun na padalos-dalos ako. Pero ako naman ay talagang umaamin na nagkamali dun sa ginawa ko. Pero sana ay itigil na natin yung pagpapalabas sa video na yun," the world’s top pound for pound fighter said.

Solar officials were shocked by this new revelation from Pacquiao. “These come as a shock to us," said Solar chairman William Tieng.

Tieng refused to give further comments on ABS-CBN’s alleged actions but said “we’ll study our options."

Pacquiao cleared the air during a press conference attended by Solar officials Tieng and chief operating officer Peter ChanLiong and GMA Network, Inc. chairman, president and chief executive officer Felipe Gozon and executive vice president and COO Gilberto Duavit.

During the same press con, Pacquiao apologized to everyone who was confused and inconvenienced by his actions, including his legions of fans, and vowed to fully concentrate on his training for the Hatton. The Pac Man and Hatton are slated to slug it out on May 2 in Las Vegas, with the fight to be aired locally on Solar and GMA in the morning of May 3. –GMANews.TV

Ex PBB housemate now a Kapuso and Geoff Eigenmann signed an EXCLUSIVE Contract with GMA Network

noreply@blogger.com ("Serbisyong Totoo" lang po) — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 07:36:00 +0000

From ABS-CBN ay nasa GMA-7 na ngayon ang panganay na anak ng aktor na si Tirso Cruz III - si Bodie Cruz. Mahigit isang taon ding nagtagal si Bodie sa bakuran ng Kapamilya network mula sa pagiging housemate sa Pinoy Big Brother (PBB) Season 2.

"I stayed there for a little over a year. Bale yung contract ko with them is one year. My contract with ABS ended March last year," pagbibigay-impormasyon ni Bodie sa PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal).

Ngayong nasa GMA na siya, paano niya ito ikukumpara sa isang taong ipinamalagi naman niya sa ABS-CBN?

"Before kasi, sumas ama na kami sa mga taping... Sina Tita Redgie Acuña Magno [GMA-7's senior program manager], nakakasama ko na. Masaya ako dito kasi parang pamilya na yung turing nila sa akin. Kakulitan ko na sila nung lumalaki ako. Masaya po ako dito."

Exclusive ba ang contract ni Bodie sa GMA-7?

"Per project po ako dito," sagot niya.

Bakit per project siya at hindi exclusive?

"Siguro pag-uusapan po 'yan in the future. Pero ngayong bago pa lang, per project muna."
Bakit siya umalis sa ABS-CBN?

"They have more projects po dito [sa GMA]," mabilis niyang sagot. "And tulad po nung nasabi ko kanina, sina Tita Redgie, sina Tita Winnie Reyes, nakakasama ko na before."

Pero gustong linawin ni Bodie na wala siya kahit na kaunting sama ng loob sa ABS-CBN.

"Wala naman pong galit," aniya. "I'm very thankful sa chance na ibinigay nila sa akin. I think it's just time to move on to more projects, and I think ibinibigay po sa akin yun ngayon ng GMA."

THEN DECISION. Ang ina niyang si Lyn Ynchausti-Cruz ang tumatayong manager ni Bodie. Ang ina rin niya ang nagma-manage ng career ng ama ni Bodie na si Pip.

Pinag-usapan daw nila ng kanyang mga magulang ang tungkol sa paglipat ni Bodie sa GMA-7.
"We talked about it, kami po ng parents ko. And yun, sabi nga po nila, it would be nice to try out other stuff kaya po nandito ako ngayon."

Kung talent fee naman ang pag-uusapan, halos pareho lang daw ang natatanggap niya mula sa dalawang giant networks.

Samantala, ganap na uling Kapuso ngayon ang heartthrob na si Geoff Eigenmann matapos itong pumirma ng exclusive contract sa GMA Network.

Naging mainit ang pagtanggap sa pagbabalik ni Geoff sa GMA Network kung saan kabilang sa mga dumalo sa contract signing niya sina GMA Chairman, President at COO Atty. Felipe Gozon; GMA EVP and COO Gilberto Duavit, at SVP for Entertainment TV Wilma Galvante.

Nandoon din sa contract signing ang manager ni Geoff na si Perry Lansigan at ina niyang si Gina Alajar, na isang premyadong aktres.

“I’ve been waiting for this day talaga. So, it's good to be back finally, ready to do best, ready to prove that I belong here,” pahayag ni Geoff sa Chika Minute portion ng "24 Oras" nitong Huwebes.

Unang magiging project ng guwapong aktor ang drama anthology SRO cinema serye kung saan makakasama nya sina Marvin Agustin, Maxene Magalona at Sheryl Cruz. - Fidel Jimenez, GMANews.TV

ABS-CBN STATEMENT ON PACQUIAO TURN AROUND

noreply@blogger.com ("Serbisyong Totoo" lang po) — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 07:31:00 +0000

ABS-CBN has released a statement after Filipino boxing superstar Manny Pacquiao announced through his lawyer Franklin Gacal that he was honoring his contract with Solar Entertainment Corp. to air his fights in the Philippines.

In response, ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corp. said it has a signed contract with Pacquiao for the airing of his next fights in the Philippines, but that it would respect his decision if he changes his mind.

Below is the statement by ABS-CBN:

"Manny Pacquiao approached ABS-CBN to be his media partner in airing his next fights. We thank him for trusting us. He signed a contract with us, but we will not stand in the way if he decides to change his mind," ABS-CBN Corp. said. "We respect it, wish him good luck and we wait to hear from him."

Pacquiao back to Solar Sports Agreement

noreply@blogger.com ("Serbisyong Totoo" lang po) — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 07:19:00 +0000

MANILA, Philippines – Now Manny Pacquiao can get back to training after he finally came to terms with Solar Entertainment Corp. on the issue of who has the right of airing his May 2 (May 3 in Manila) bout against Ricky Hatton.

Pacquiao, in a GMA "Flash Report," ended his four-day stand-off against Solar in Los Angeles on Friday (Saturday in Manila) saying that he would honor his contract with the sports network.

Solar Sports holds the exclusive rights of airing Pacquiao’s fights in Manila and buys block time from GMA Network. Pacquiao, on Tuesday, announced that he was rescinding the last two years of his contract with Solar Sports and was giving ABS-CBN the rights to air his match against Hatton.

Pacquiao’s decision to change media partners prompted Solar Sports president and chief executive officer Wilson Tieng and chief operating officer Peter Chanliong to fly to Los Angeles to meet with Pacquiao.

After the meeting, Pacquiao’s lawyer, Franklin Gacal, read a statement in which the Filipino boxing icon apologized to the public for the confusion brought out by the misunderstanding between him and Solar.

In a statement read by his lawyer, Pacquiao said:

"Ang inyo pong lingkod, si Manny Pacquiao, ay nais iparating sa lahat na matapos ang masusing pag-aaral at pagtimbang-timbang namin ng Solar Entertainment Corporation napatunayan na ang kontrata tungkol sa TV rights ng aking mga laban ay valid and binding at hindi nilabag nino man.

"Dahil po dito ay taos puso akong humihingi ng paumanhin kung kayo man ay naguluhan kung saan ipapalabas ang aking darating na laban kay Ricky Hatton. Ito po ay resulta lang ng hindi pagkaka-intindihan sa pagitan ng Solar Entertainment Corporation at MP Promotions. Sana ay maunawaan ng lahat."

[Yours truly, Manny Pacquiao, wants everyone to know that after our close study and consideration with Solar Entertainment Corporation we have proved that the contract over TV rights of my fight is valid and binding, and nobody violated anything. In light of this, I'm asking with all my heart for forgiveness from anyone who might have been confused as to which network would air my coming fight with Ricky Hatton. This was merely the result of a misunderstanding between Solar Entertainment Corporation at MP Promotions. May everyone undertstand.]

Pacquiao then asked for his fans support and prayer as he set out to intensify his training for his May 2 fight against Hatton.

"Simula sa araw na ito ay nais kong mag-concentrate nang husto na lang sa aking training para sa aking darating na laban ngayong Mayo 2 [From this day on I wish to fully concentrate on my training for the May 2 bout]," he said.

Gacal added that GMA would remain as Solar’s media partner in the Pacquiao-Hatton fight.

"Yan po ang mangyayari po. Ang laban po ay nanatili sa Solar Sports at ipapalabas sa GMA 7 [That's how it's going to be. The bout would remain with Solar Sports and GMA 7 would air it]," he said. - GMANews.TV

GMA-7, nag isyu ng statement sa pagtalikod ni Pacquiao sa Solar

noreply@blogger.com ("Serbisyong Totoo" lang po) — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 12:37:00 +0000

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GMA Network disappointed over Pacquiao’s decision to ditch Solar

noreply@blogger.com ("Serbisyong Totoo" lang po) — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0000

MANILA, Philippines - GMA Network said in a statement Thursday that “it is very disappointed with the reported decision of Manny Pacquiao to transfer from Solar Sports to ABS-CBN the rights to broadcast his fight with Ricky Hatton on May 2, 2009 and his other fights."

The network also clarified that the existing contract for the airing of Pacquiao’s fights in the Philippines is between the boxer and Solar Sports and not between Manny and GMA Network.

It said Solar Sports just enters into blocktime agreements with GMA Network for the airing of Pacquiao’s fights in the country.

GMA Network also cited Beth Celis column in the Philippine Daily Inquirer last March 18, 2009, which revealed, “The network (ABS-CBN) is said to have offered Manny full media support in the next election to ensure victory in the next year’s congressional elections."

GMA Network said it did not offer the same to Pacquiao because the Omnibus Election Code prohibits television networks from doing so. Section 95 of the code states that “no contribution for purposes of partisan political activity shall be made directly or indirectly" by grantees of franchises such as television networks.

It was also reported that Pacquiao favored the other network because of ABS-CBN’s dominance in Sarangani and the international presence of their reporters. GMA Network’s news teams and existing contributors in key areas worldwide adequately cover important events like those of Pacquiao’s activities. GMA also has superior signal quality in General Santos City and environs.

The network said that aside from Pacquiao’s two existing programs, “Pinoy Records" and “Totoy Bato," GMA Entertainment offered projects to Manny as soon as his schedule allows. These include his own sitcom, a drama series, concerts in Las Vegas and Los Angeles in the United States and in key cities in Canada and boxing clinics around the Philippines. The network may have to review these now in light of the recent developments, the statement said.

Moreover, according to GMA’s legal counsel, Dick B. Perez, Manny Pacquiao has a separate contract with GMA Network, which prohibits the boxing icon from appearing on “any television program, show, promotion or event of any other broadcast media entity other than GMA and its subsidiaries and affiliates without the written consent of GMA." GMA has not given him its consent to appear in ABS-CBN. - GMANews.TV

GMA Network's TV ratings still leads over Mega Manila

noreply@blogger.com ("Serbisyong Totoo" lang po) — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 09:48:00 +0000

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UPDATE: GMA Pinoy TV, GMA Life TV now available in US East Coast

noreply@blogger.com ("Serbisyong Totoo" lang po) — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 07:56:00 +0000

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GMA - 7 covers Golden Globe Awards

noreply@blogger.com ("Serbisyong Totoo" lang po) — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 12:13:00 +0000

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Ara Mina moving back to Kapuso network?

noreply@blogger.com ("Serbisyong Totoo" lang po) — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 06:33:00 +0000

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MANILA, Philippines - Magbabalik Kapuso nga ba si Ara Mina? Ito ang umuugong na usap-usapan ngayon matapos ang sunod-sunod niyang guestings sa iba’t ibang Kapuso programs tulad ng “Family Feud" at “Showbiz Central."

Sa panayam ni Lhar Santiago sa Chikka Minute portion ng “24 Oras," hindi na itanggi ni Mina na magiging masaya siya kung magbabalik GMA Network siya lalo na raw at nami-miss niya ang kanyang mga dating katrabaho sa gag show na “Bubble gang."

"Almost 10 years ako sa ‘Bubble Gang.’ Siyempre… Doon na ako nagdalaga, doon na-heartbroken at nakapag-move on, kaya talagang ‘yung ‘Bubble Gang’ pa rin ang nasa puso ko," ani Mina.

At habang naghihintay ng bagong proyekto, abala naman ang seksing aktres sa kanyang bagong bukas na perfume business.

Last week, pinagkaguluhan si Mina sa isang mall kung saan pormal niyang binuksan ang stall ng iba’t ibang perfume line tulad ng kanyang kapwa aktres na si Snookie Serna at Maui Taylor.

“Siguro it's time for me na magkaroon ng sariling kong pabango dahil talagang ang collection ko ay perfume. I think I have 300 bottles already," aniya.

Tinawanan rin ng aktres ang mga usap-usapan na nagli-link sa kanya sa kung sino-sinong lalaki. Aniya, nagugulat na lang daw siya sa mga balita na may bahay siya na binigay ng mga lalaking ito.

Ngunit hindi naman itinanggi ni Mina na may dine-date siya ngayon na “young businessman" na sabi niya ay nagbibigay sa kanya ng inspirasyon.

RCN includes GMA Pinoy TV, GMA Life TV in channel lineup

noreply@blogger.com ("Serbisyong Totoo" lang po) — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 10:37:00 +0000

MANILA, Philippines – GMA Pinoy TV and GMA Life TV – the international channels of leading Philippine TV station GMA Network – have recently joined the second phase of all-digital television-provider RCN’s Global Passport.

GMA Pinoy TV's entertainment programs feature the biggest and hottest primetime shows in the Philippines which include "Luna Mystika," "Gagambino," and "Lalola."

Popular Pinoy stars like Richard Gutierrez, Dennis Trillo, Heart Evangelista, and the hottest love team in the country today – Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera – are all GMA Kapuso talents.

In addition, the channel offers award-winning news and public affairs programs bannered by its flagship newscast "24 Oras" and public affairs programs "I-Witness," "Emergency," "Imbestigador," and "Wish Ko Lang," among others.

Leading the roster of its highly credible broadcast journalists are the five pillars of GMA News – Mike Enriquez, Mel Tiangco, Jessica Soho, Arnold Clavio, and Vicky Morales.

GMA Life TV, on the other hand, offers such shows as "The Sweet Life" (Lucy Torres-Gomez, together with Wilma Doesnt); "Proudly Filipina" (Charlene Gonzalez-Muhlach); "Chef to Go" (Chef Rob Pengson); "Day-off" (Carmina Villaroel and Pekto); and many more.

With the RCN launch, GMA Pinoy TV continues to expand its reach in the United States. RCN currently services the following states: Boston, Chicago, New York, Philadelphia, and Metro D.C.

To start enjoying the programs on GMA Pinoy TV and GMA Life TV, call RCN at 800.RING.RCN or visit www.rcn.com for more information.

Viewers may also visit the channel’s website at www.gmapinoytv.com for more information on the exciting and informative shows from GMA Pinoy TV.

Other international channels that are part of RCN’s Global Passport Tier Second Phase are tvK24, MYX, C1R, Bollywood Hits ON DEMAND and Filipino ON DEMAND. -

RP: From Analog to Digital TV

noreply@blogger.com ("Serbisyong Totoo" lang po) — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 05:49:00 +0000

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippines may shift to digital broadcast from the current analog setup in two to three years, GMA Network, Inc. president Felipe L. Gozon said.

The migration, however, will not be easy as replacement of television sets and the additional set-top box for access to digital content may be costly for consumers, Gozon told reporters.

He added local broadcasters will also have to adopt to the technology but the transition will "not be in the immediate future."

Digital broadcast would allow multiple content transmission to a digital television, a laptop and even to handheld devices like mobile phones or personal digital assistant units.

It gives viewers a variety of options in selecting services and programs that they prefer to watch.

GMA Network already has a pending application with the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) for the use of digital broadcast. It aims to convert its channel 27 UHF (ultra high-frequency) station to digital television.

The migration will cost the broadcast giant an estimated investment of P35 million.

Of the capital requirement, GMA Network said P22.33 million will be allocated for the transmitter, P6.58 million will be used for the antenna system, P3.34 million will finance the electrical support system, P2.15 million will cover the cost of peripheral equipment. The rest of the amount will be used for tower improvements, commissioning and installation, and other electro-mechanical equipment.

“The introduction of digital tv broadcast would allow network operators to conceptualize new revenue streams that were not possible in analog TV. But the more immediate benefit to the network operators is that the transmission operating expenses per program can significantly be reduced due to the efficient of DTV (digital television) transmission techniques that would result into less capital and operational expenses in the long run," GMA Network said.

Ratings: Luna Mystika rules on primetime

noreply@blogger.com ("Serbisyong Totoo" lang po) — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 11:14:00 +0000

Luna Mystika maintains its supremacy in the weekday primetime race while Eat Bulaga! grabs the lead in the daytime race.

Luna Mystika, starring Heart Evangelista and Mark Anthony Fernandez, consistently held the No. 1 spot, while three shows occupied the No. 2 slot: La Lola on Friday (Nov. 28), 24 Oras on Monday (Dec. 1), and Gagambino on Tuesday (Dec. 2).

Survivor Philippines, on the other hand, remained steady at No. 5.

ABS-CBN premiered its new primetime series Eva Fonda, starring former Kapuso star Cristine Reyes, last Monday. Eva Fonda opened strongly with 26.8 percent to place sixth overall and, more importantly, lead all Kapamilya shows. However, it was not able to sustain its high rating and dramatically dropped to No. 9 last night with 21.7 percent.

Aside from Eva Fonda, Cristine is also a supporting role in another ABS-CBN primetime drama series Kahit Isang Saglit.

Weekend viewing was topped by Eat Bulaga! and Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho last Saturday (Nov. 29) and by SOP and Rated K last Sunday (Nov. 30).

Here are comparative TV ratings of ABS-CBN and GMA-7 shows from November 28 to December 2 based on the overnight ratings conducted by AGB Nielsen Philippines among Mega Manila households:

November 28, Friday

Non-Primetime:

SiS (GMA-7) 8.1%; Boy & Kris (ABS-CBN) 7.1%

Rosalinda (GMA-7) 13.4%; Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) 15.5%

Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) 22.1%; Wowowee (ABS-CBN) 15.7%

Una Kang Naging Akin (GMA-7) 21.4%; Saan Darating ang Umaga? (GMA-7) 18.3%; Pieta (ABS-CBN) 15.6%

Daisy Siete (GMA-7) 16.5%; La Traicion (ABS-CBN) 9.5%; Las Tontas (ABS-CBN) 7%

Primetime:

Family Feud (GMA-7) 18.6%; Kapamilya Deal Or No Deal (ABS-CBN) 18%

24 Oras (GMA-7) 28.5%; TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) 24.1%

Luna Mystika (GMA-7) 34.1%; Dyosa (ABS-CBN) 21.8%

Gagambino (GMA-7) 29.2%; I Love Betty La Fea (ABS-CBN) 24.1%

La Lola (GMA-7) 30.4%; Kahit Isang Saglit (ABS-CBN) 19.7%

Survivor Philippines (GMA-7) 28.1%; Pinoy Fear Factor (ABS-CBN) 20.3%

Bubble Gang (GMA-7) 23%; Daboy Sa ABS-CBN (ABS-CBN) 10.2%

Saksi (GMA-7) 8.9%; Bandila (ABS-CBN) 5.1%

November 29, Saturday

Non-Primetime:

Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) 9.8%; Takeshi's Castle (GMA-7) 13.8%

Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) 21.2%; Wowowee (ABS-CBN) 14.2%

Startalk (GMA-7) 12.2%; Entertainment Live (ABS-CBN) 7.4%

Wish Ko Lang (GMA-7) 16.7%; Cinema FPJ: Da King on ABS-CBN (ABS-CBN) 9.7%

Pinoy Records (GMA-7) 19.1%; Komiks Presents Mars Ravelo's Tiny Tony (ABS-CBN) 15.8%

Primetime:

Kakasa Ka Ba Sa Grade 5? (GMA-7) 23.2%; The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) 17.8%

Bitoy's Funniest Videos (GMA-7) 28.4%; Maalaala Mo Kaya (ABS-CBN) 20.9%

Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (GMA-7) 28.8%; Banana Split (ABS-CBN) 16.9%

Imbestigador (GMA-7) 22.6%; XXX (ABS-CBN) 16.6%

Nuts Entertainment (GMA-7) 12%; TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) 10.1%

Sine Totoo (GMA-7) 9.3%; Sports Unlimited (ABS-CBN) 3.9%; Walang Tulugan With Master Showman (GMA-7) 2.6%

November 30, Sunday

Non-Primetime:

Matangalawin (ABS-CBN) 10%; Takeshi's Castle (ABS-CBN) 12.5%

SOP (GMA-7) 15.3%; ASAP ‘08 (ABS-CBN) 14%

Dear Friend (GMA-7) 11.7%; Your Song: My Only Hope (ABS-CBN) 11.5%

Showbiz Central (GMA-7) 13.9%; The Buzz (ABS-CBN) 12.9%

Primetime:

Kap's Amazing Stories (GMA-7) 26.6%; The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) 17.8%

Family Feud: Celebrity Edition (GMA-7) 25.4%; Goin' Bulilit (ABS-CBN) 22.1%

Mel & Joey (GMA-7) 22.9%; Rated K (ABS-CBN) 26.7%

All Star K (GMA-7) 18.3%; Sharon (ABS-CBN) 20.9%

Ful Haus (GMA-7) 18.9%; TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) 15.9%

SNBO (GMA-7) 12.4%; Sunday's Best (ABS-CBN) 8.3%

December 1, Monday

Non-Primetime:

SiS (GMA-7) 9.4%; Boy & Kris (ABS-CBN) 6.6%

Rosalinda (GMA-7) 13.8%; Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) 14.1%

Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) 21.9%; Wowowee (ABS-CBN) 15.5%

Una Kang Naging Akin (GMA-7) 17.4%; Saan Darating ang Umaga? (GMA-7) 15%; Pieta (ABS-CBN) 12.3%

Daisy Siete (GMA-7) 11%; La Traicion (ABS-CBN) 7.7%

Primetime:

Family Feud (GMA-7) 20.2%; Kapamilya, Deal Or No Deal (ABS-CBN) 15.1%

24 Oras (GMA-7) 31.2%; TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) 21.2%

Luna Mystika (GMA-7) 35.2%; Dyosa (ABS-CBN) 22.7%

Gagambino (GMA-7) 30.9%; I Love Betty La Fea (ABS-CBN) 25.7%

La Lola (GMA-7) 28.8%; Eva Fonda (ABS-CBN) 26.8%

Survivor Philippines (GMA-7) 28.1%; Pinoy Fear Factor (ABS-CBN) 22.4%

My Husband's Woman (GMA-7) 24.9%; Kahit Isang Saglit (ABS-CBN) 14.3%

Ripley's Believe It Or Not (GMA-7) 15.1%; Bandila (ABS-CBN) 7.6%; Saksi (GMA-7) 8.8%

December 2, Tuesday

Non-Primetime:

SiS (GMA-7) 8.5%; Boy & Kris (ABS-CBN) 7.4%

Rosalinda (GMA-7) 13.8%; Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) 14%

Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) 20.4%; Wowowee (ABS-CBN) 12.9%

Una Kang Naging Akin (GMA-7) 18.4%; Saan Darating ang Umaga? (GMA-7) 17.2%; Pieta (ABS-CBN) 9.8%

Daisy Siete (GMA-7) 15.2%; La Traicion (ABS-CBN) 7.6%

Primetime:

Family Feud (GMA-7) 22.6%; Kapamilya, Deal Or No Deal (ABS-CBN) 14%

24 Oras (GMA-7) 30.6%; TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) 21%

Luna Mystika (GMA-7) 35.1%; Dyosa (ABS-CBN) 21.6%

Gagambino (GMA-7) 33.3%; I Love Betty La Fea (ABS-CBN) 24.7%

La Lola (GMA-7) 31.4%; Eva Fonda (ABS-CBN) 21.7%

Survivor Philippines (GMA-7) 28.8%; Pinoy Fear Factor (ABS-CBN) 20.7%

My Husband's Woman (GMA-7) 24.9%; Kahit Isang Saglit (ABS-CBN) 14.3%

Full Force Nature (GMA-7) 18.4%; Bandila (ABS-CBN) 8%; Saksi (GMA-7) 9.7%

GMA-7 is this year's Best Station

noreply@blogger.com ("Serbisyong Totoo" lang po) — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 07:26:00 +0000

GMA-7 bested eight local channels, including fiercest rival ABS-CBN, to clinch the Best Station award in the 22nd PMPC Star Awards for Television. The event, held annually by the Philippine Movie Press Club (PMPC), was staged last night, November 30, at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

But ABS-CBN was also a “runaway" winner, in terms of individual awards. A total of 26 categories by the Kapamilya programs and stars, and some 21 awards went to Kapuso network's banner shows and performers.

The tandem of Angel Locsin and Piolo Pascual was a big winner for the primetime series Lobo, which won for Piolo the best drama actor award. Angel Locsin won her very first first acting award, the Best Single Performance By An Actress, for the "Pilat" episode of Maalaala Mo Kaya?, which was voted Best Drama Anthology.

Likewise, Lobo won as Best Primetime TV Series.

"Lord, aktres na ako!" exclaimed a stunned Angel Locsin. It was a tight contest as Angel had to contend against senior drama heavyweights like Helen Gamboa, Cherry Pie Picache, Susan Roces, and Gloria Romero—who were also nominated for their performances in Maalaala Mo Kaya.

Young star Joshua Dionisio bagged the Best Single Performance by an Actor for Maalaala Mo Kaya's "Sako" episode. Like Angel, Joshua's victory was impressive considering the other nominees—Gabby Concepcion, Dolphy, Eddie Garcia, and Gary Valenciano—vying for the same honor.

Piolo's counterpart, as best actress for a primetime TV series, was Sunshine Dizon, who won the award for her lead role in GMA-7's Impostora. It was Sunshine Dizon's nth time to win the award from the PMPC, who also gave awards to first-time winners, like New Female TV Personalities Kylie Padilla (of Joaquin Bordado), and Patricia Gayod (of an MMK episode), and New Male Tv personality, Robi Domingo (introduced to the public, via Pinoy Big Brother; now a MYX videojock).

For the comedy series, it was Ful House of GMA-7,and comedian Vic Sotto was voted best Male Host of Eat Bulaga!. Again, Eat Bulaga! won in the Best Variety Show category, but with a co-winner in ABS-CBN-2's Wowowee. For the best female variety show host, the award went to Valerie Concepcion of Wowowee.

Ogie Alcasid won anew as Best Comedy Actor, while Rufa Mae Quinto was voted Best Comedy Actress, for GMA-7's Bubble Gang.

Bitter rivals Eat Bulaga! and Wowowee shared the Best Variety Show award. TAPE Inc. (Television and Production Exponents) lady boss Malou Choa-Fagar received the award in behalf of the entire Eat Bulaga! staff while ABS-CBN's Head of Corporate Communications Bong Osorio represented Wowowee.

For best game show, ABS-CBN's Pilipinas, Game KNB? and its host Edu Manzano were both heavy favorites. But it was Edu's son, Luis Manzano, who won the special award as Male Star of the Night; and Rufa Mae Quinto, the Female Star of the Night.

GMA-7's Unang Hirit beat ABS-CBN's Umagang Kay Ganda for Best Morning Show. But the Kapamilya show's lady host, Pinky Webb, was indeed a "winner" herself when Edu Manzano, in his speech, acknowledged and thanked her presence. This somehow confirmed the status of their relationship.

Ditto Angel Locsin and Luis Manzano, in one of their rare togetherness, which proves they're really on (or, as in, "more than just friends").

The award won by Ruffa Gutierrez, as Best Female Showbiz-Oriented Talk Show Host for The Buzz was significant, in that she won the award more than a decade after an "infamous scam"; and in a tie with Cristy Fermin also of The Buzz, who's currently serving a suspension from her radio and TV hosting. In her acceptance speech, Ruffa dedicated her award to her daughters, Lorin and Venice.

Ruffa and Cristy's male counterpart is Boy Abunda, another perennial winner, for The Buzz, which also won Best Showbiz-Oriented Talk Show, and Boy and Kris, Best Celebrity Talk Show/Hosts. But Kris Aquino didn't show up at the awards night.

GMA-7's other awards include: Best Children Show/Hosts (Art Angel, with Pia Archangel, Tonipet Gaba, Krystal Reyes); Best Travel Show (Pinoy Meets World), Best Morning Show/Hosts (Unang Hirit); Best Youth-Oriented Program (Boys Next Door); Best Daytime Drama Series (Sine Novela Presents: Kaputol Ng Isang Awit); and Best Musical Variety Show (SOP Rules).

ABS-CBN, on the other hand, also won awards for the following: Best Educational Program/Host (Kim Atienza, of Matanglawin); Best Travel Show Hosts Katherine de Castro, Uma Khouny, Franzen Fajardo, Kian Kazemi, and Jason Gainza (Trip Na Trip); Best Magazine Show/Host (Korina Sanchez of Rated K); and Best Gag Show (Goin Bulilit).

Other shows, not aired on either Kapuso nor Kapamilya stations, which won this year's Star Awards for TV trophies include: UNTV37's Bitag and Ben Tulfo, for Best Public Service Program and Host; ABC-5's Shall We Dance and Lucy Torres-Gomez (escorted by husband, Richard Gomez), Arnell Ignacio and Dominic Ochoa, for Best Talent Search Program and Host; Q11's Gandang Ricky Reyes: Parlor Game for Best Reality Competition Program and Host; Q11's Living It Up and hosts Raymond Gutierrez, Issa Litton, Sam Oh, and Tim Yap, for Best Lifestyle Show; Studio 23's Y Speak (Best Public Affairs Program); Q-11's Hot Seat, Best Host, Jessica Soho.

For the special awards, Ms. Rosa Rosal, of the Philippine National Red Cross and best known for hosting the public service programs, Damayan and Kapwa Ko, Mahal Ko , and the comedy show, Iyan Ang Misis Ko, received the Ading Fernando Lifetime Achievement Award. Ms Rosal was joined by fellow veteran actresses of LVN Pictures, Ms. Delia Razon and Ms. Lilia Dizon, as they reminisced some "good 'old days" wayback when.

Another special awardee was Sen. Loren Legarda, who received the Excellence in Broadcasting Award, and, together with Rosa Rosal, was serenaded onstage by singer-comedian, Ogie Alcasid.

Presented by the Philippine Movie Press Club (PMPC), the 22nd Star Awards for Television is produced by M. R. Productions, in cooperation with Airtime Marketing, Inc. Overall direction is by Al Quinn with Lito Calzado asstage director. It was hosted by Paolo Bediones, Judy Ann Santos, Anne Curtis and Gabby Concepcion, with Dingdong Dantes and Iza Calzado as trivia hosts.

A delayed telecast on primetime TV-5 is scheduled tomorrow, December 2, from 8 to 11 pm.

Here are the complete list of winners and the corresponding categories:

Best Children Show - Art Angel (GMA-7)

Best Children Show Host - Pia Arcangel, Tonipet Gaba, and Krystal Reyes (Art Angel, GMA-7)

Best Educational Program - Matanglawin (ABS-CBN)

Best Educational Program Host - Kim Atienza (Matanglawin, ABS-CBN)

Best Travel Show - Pinoy Meets World (GMA-7)

Best Travel Show Host - Katherine de Castro, Uma Khouny, Franzen Fajardo, Kian Kazemi, and Jayson Gainza (Trip Na Trip, ABS-CBN)

Best Reality Competition Program - Gandang Ricky Reyes: Parlor Game (Q11)

Best Reality Competition Program Host - Ricky Reyes (Gandang Ricky Reyes: Parlor Game, Q11)

Best Lifestyle Show - Living It Up (Q11)

Best Lifestyle Show Host - Raymond Gutierrez, Issa Litton, Sam Oh, and Tim Yap (Living It Up, Q11)

Best Morning Show - Unang Hirit (GMA-7)

Best Morning Show Host - Arnold Clavio, Susie Entrata-Abrera, Lyn Ching-Pascual, Rhea Santos, Jolina Magdangal, Rhea Santos, Jolina Magdangal, Winnie Monsod, Oscar Orbos, Regine Tolentino, Drew Arellano, Eagle Riggs, Love Anover, and Lhar Santiago (Unang Hirit, GMA-7)

Best Public Affairs Program - Y Speak (Studio 23)

Best Public Affairs Program Host - Jessica Soho (Hot Seat, Q11)

Best Magazine Show - Rated K (ABS-CBN)

Best Magazine Show Host - Korina Sanchez (Rated K, ABS-CBN)

Best Documentary Program - I-Witness: The GMA Documentaries (GMA-7)

Best Documentary Program Host - Kara David, Howie Severino, Sandra Aguinaldo, and Jay Taruc (I-Witness: The GMA Documentaries, GMA-7)

Best Documentary Special - Signos: Ang Banta ng Nagbabagong Klima (GMA-7)

Best Public Service Program - Bitag (UNTV)

Best Public Service Program Host - Ben Tulfo (Bitag, UNTV 37)

Best News Program - TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN)

Best Male Newscaster - Julius Babao (TV Patrol World, ABS-CBN)

Best Female Newscaster - Vicky Morales (Saksi: Liga Ng Katotohanan, GMA-7)

Best Youth-Oriented Program - Boys Nxt Door (GMA-7)

Best Horror or Fantasy Program - Volta (ABS-CBN)

Best Talent Search Program - Shall We Dance (TV5)

Best Talent Search Program Host - Lucy Torres-Gomez, Arnell Ignacio, and Dominic Ochoa (Shall We Dance, TV5)

Best New Male TV Personality - Robi Domingo (ASAP '08, ABS-CBN)

Best New Female TV Personality - Patricia Gayod (Maalaala Mo Kaya, "Dagat" episode, ABS-CBN 2) and Kylie Padilla (Joaquin Bordado, GMA-7)

Best Celebrity Talk Show - Boy and Kris (ABS-CBN)

Best Celebrity Talk Show Hosts - Boy Abunda and Kris Aquino (Boy and Kris, ABS-CBN)

Best Game Show - Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN 2)

Best Game Show Host - Edu Manzano (Pilipinas, Game KNB? ABS-CBN)

Best Gag Show - Goin' Bulilit (ABS-CB)

Best Showbiz-Oriented Talk Show - The Buzz (ABS-CBN)

Best Male Show-Oriented Talk Show Host - Boy Abunda (The Buzz, ABS-CBN 2)

Best Female Showbiz-Oriented Talk Show Host - Cristy Fermin (The Buzz, ABS-CBN 2) and Ruffa Gutierrez (The Buzz, ABS-CBN)

Best Comedy Show - Ful Haus (GMA-7)

Best Comedy Actor - Ogie Alcasid (Bubble Gang, GMA-7)

Best Comedy Actress - Rufa Mae Quinto (Bubble Gang, GMA-7)

Best Daytime Drama Series - Sine Novela Presents: Kaputol Ng Isang Awit (GMA-7)

Best Primetime TV Series - Lobo (ABS-CBN)

Best Drama Anthology - Maalaala Mo Kaya (ABS-CBN)

Best Variety Show - Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) and Wowowee (ABS-CBN)

Best Musical Variety Show - SOP Rules (GMA-7)

Best Male TV Host - Vic Sotto (Eat Bulaga! GMA-7)

Best Female TV Host - Valerie Concepcion (Wowowee, ABS-CBN 2)

Best Drama Actor - Piolo Pascual (Lobo, ABS-CBN)

Best Drama Actress - Sunshine Dizon (Impostora, GMA-7)

Best Single Performance By An Actor - Joshua Dionisio (Maalaala Mo Kaya "Sako" episode, ABS-CBN)

Best Single Performance By An Actress - Angel Locsin (Maalaala Mo Kaya "Pilat" episode, ABS-CBN)

Best Station - GMA-7

Annual Special Awards:

Ading Fernando Lifetime Achievement Award - Ms. Rosa Rosal

Excellence In Broadcasting Lifetime Achievement Award - Sen. Loren Legarda

Ramiele Malubay to join Ogie's concert in the Philippines

noreply@blogger.com ("Serbisyong Totoo" lang po) — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 10:58:00 +0000

Filipinos avidly watched American Idol Season 7 to monitor the progress of the 20-year-old singer Ramiele Malubay. Being the seventh Fil-Am to enter the Top 24 of American Idol, she earned the support of her kababayans but she was cut from the competition last April 2008.

Ramiele was born in Saudi Arabia to Filipino parents but she grew up in Miramar, Florida. Her father is Roger Malubay, a native of Polilio, Quezon province, while her mother is Alicia Macrowon, who worked in Saudi Arabia. When Ramiele arrives in the Philippines on December 12, she plans to visit Polilio and be familiar with her father's hometown.

The AI finalist used to sing as the front act of performers such as Kuh Ledesma and Martin Nievera during American tours but this time, she will topbill the concert dubbed as The Idol Experience: Ogie Sings with the Idols.

The two-night concert will take place at the Aliw Theater in Pasay City on December 20 and 21.

Three-time Aliw Awards' Entertainer of the Year and Hall of Famer Ogie Alcasid joins forces with Ramiele, alongside the first Pinoy Idol singing stars, and indie rock outfit Menaya in this groundbreaking concert.

How does Ogie feel about performing with American Idol finalist Ramiele? "I heard her recording and I think she is a very clean singer. Although R&B ang genre niya, magaling siya sa mga pop ballads, which is very Pinoy na Pinoy. I'm excited to meet her."This is the first time that a concert will feature one of the country's pop icons together with the different singing champions. The concert will also serve as Ramiele's homecoming, and a reunion for Pinoy Idol winner Gretchen Espina and the 11 finalists.

The producers are also in the process of finalizing the details so that AI Season 7 finalist Danny Noriega will be able to join Ramiele when she arrives here for the concert.

Ogie Sings with the Idols is being produced by a new production company called TheUnderGround Studio, Inc (TUGS) under the supervision of Brian Sombero, vocalist/ guitarist of Menaya.

The idea of bringing together the Pinoy and American Idols came about when Brian noticed that a lot of Filipino-Americans around the world are hurdling through tough auditions, and making it to the top slots.

The concept of the concert only materialized when GMA-7 got the franchise for Pinoy Idol.

As the show was simultaneously running with American Idol, another Filipino-American in the guise of Ramiele managed to reach top nine in its seventh season.

"Ramiele's father is a close friend of my dad," Brian explains. "I asked him to accompany me to Miami, Florida to discuss and formalize the plan with Ramiele's dad. And since Ogie is a certified idol himself and a good friend of ours, I thought of putting all of them together in one show dubbed as The Idol Experience.

"The concert's repertoire will revolve around a uniting theme but Brian refuses to reveal what the audience would be treated with at this point.

With Marc Lopez as the musical director and Rowell Santiago as the overall director, it is enough to say that there will be several highly entertaining and innovative musical arrangements customized for the depth and range of the performers.

ABS-CBN talent Diether Ocampo soon to be a Kapuso star?

noreply@blogger.com ("Serbisyong Totoo" lang po) — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 02:02:00 +0000

Let Diether make his own announcements soon."

This was what Ms. Wilma Galvante, GMA-7 SVP for Entertainment TV, told PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal) in a text message Wednesday, when we asked her if Diether Ocampo is really transferring to the Kapuso network.

Entertainment editor and columnist Ricky Lo reported in Philippine STAR on Wednesday that Diether "has jumped ober da bakod" from ABS-CBN to GMA-7. According to his report, the actor already signed a "maximum of four-year contract" with the Kapuso network last November 17.

Ricky also reported that Diether's first project as a Kapuso star will be the Pinoy adaptation of the hit Koreanovela All About Eve, which will be topbilled by Sunshine Dizon and Iza Calzado. Also in the cast are former Kapamilya stars Jean Garcia, Eula Valdes, and Richard Gomez.

Ricky added that Diether "very kindly informed his bosses at ABS-CBN" before inking a deal with GMA-7. The actor was last seen in the ABS-CBN primetime soap Iisa Pa Lamang, where he played the leading man of Claudine Barretto.

Diether started his career in ABS-CBN as a member of Star Circle Batch 2. As far as we know, he is still being managed by Star Magic, the Kapamilya network's talent arm headed by Mr. Johnny Manahan. In fact, Diether is included on the cover of the 2009 Catalogue of Star Magic, along with the other bigger stars of ABS-CBN.

If Diether has really transferred to the Kapuso network, he will join other former homegrown Kapamilya stars who also made the big switch. The list includes Jolina Magdangal, Marvin Agustin, Paolo Contis, Camille Prats, and Heart Evangelista, to name a few.

Diether is still considered one of the top leading men in ABS-CBN, so if this report is true, then his decision to move to GMA-7 is a big surprise.

What prompted him to leave ABS-CBN after more than 13 years and transfer to GMA-7? These questions will soon be answered when Diether finally makes his announcement, as Ms. Wilma told PEP.

PEP also tried getting additional information from other GMA-7 executives, but they still have to return our calls and text messages. We will keep you posted as soon as we get a report. -

Philippine Entertainment Portal

Mega Manila: TV ratings from Oct. 27-30 2008....

noreply@blogger.com ("Serbisyong Totoo" lang po) — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 11:11:00 +0000

GMA-7's Telebabad lineup continues to dominate the ratings game in Mega Manila in a sweeping manner even without the Dingdong Dantes-Marian Rivera tandem. Although Gagambino still leads the pack, Codename: Asero tied with Gagambino at least one night while La Lola was able to overtake the lead also once.

Coming from a fourth-place finish last Friday, October 24, Richard Gutierrez's Codename: Asero tied with Dennis Trillo's Gagambino last Monday, October 27, with identical 33.3 percent.

La Lola took the second place with 30.2 percent; followed by 24 Oras (29.7 percent), Survivor Philippines (29.1 percent), and ABS-CBN's Iisa Pa Lamang (28.3 percent) to complete the Top 5.

TV Patrol World came in sixth place while Dyosa and I Love Betty La Fea tied at No. 7. My Husband's Woman finished at 8th while Kapamilya, Deal Or No Deal and Kahit Isang Saglit tied at ninth place. Taking the last spot is Three Dads & One Mom.

Gagambino regained the solo top spot last Tuesday, October 28, with 33.1 percent. La Lola maintained its second-place finish with 32.2 percent while 24 Oras jumped to third place with 31.5 percent and Codename: Asero dropped to fourth place with 31.3 percent. Completing the Top 5 is Survivor Philippines with 30.1 percent.

Occupying the rest of the Top 10 were Iisa Pa Lamang (No. 6), I Love Betty La Fea (No. 7), TV Patrol World and Dyosa (tied at No. 8), Family Feud (No. 9), and My Husband's Woman (No. 10).

Rhian Ramos's La Lola, posted its highest rating of 36.3 percent, so far, last Wednesday, October 29. It also became the No. 1 primetime program for the second time since its debut; the first time was during its pilot episode on October 13.

Gagambino slipped to second place with 36.3 percent; followed by Survivor Philippines (34.5 percent), Codename: Asero (31.3 percent), and 24 Oras (30.1 percent).

My Husband's Woman made it a top-six sweep for the Kapuso network while the next four slots were taken by the following ABS-CBN shows: I Love Betty La Fea, Iisa Pa Lamang, Dyosa, and TV Patrol World.

Gagambino once again took the lead Thursday night, October 30, with 36.7 percent while La Lola went back to its second position with 35.4 percent. It was followed by Codename: Asero (33.4 percent), Survivor Philippines (32.2 percent), and 24 Oras (31.6 percent).

Two more GMA-7 programs made it in the Top 10: My Husband's Woman (No. 6) and Family Feud (No. 9). The rest of the Top were occupied by ABS-CBN shows Iisa Pa Lamang, I Love Betty La Fea, and Dyosa.

Eat Bulaga! ruled the daytime race from October 28 to 30, but Una Kang Naging Akin was able to grab the top spot Monday, October 27.

Ryan Agoncillo's ABS-CBN afternoon soap Pieta debuted last October 27 at No. 8 with 14.4 percent. It held the same position Wednesday and Thursday but dropped to No. 9 Tuesday. Pieta replaced Roxanne Guinoo's Ligaw Na Bulaklak.

Here are the comparative TV ratings of ABS-CBN and GMA-7 shows from October 27 to 30, based on the overnight ratings conducted by AGB Nielsen Philippines among Mega Manila households:

October 27 (Monday)

Non-Primetime:

SiS (GMA-7) 12.2%; Boy & Kris (ABS-CBN) 8%

Marimar (GMA-7) 18.7%; Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) 14.1%

Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) 23.2%; Wowowee (ABS-CBN) 16.9%

Daisy Siete (GMA-7) 20.7%; Pieta (ABS-CBN) 14.4%

Una Kang Naging Akin (GMA-7) 23.7%; El Cuerpo del Deseo (ABS-CBN) 15.4%

Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan (GMA-7) 21.4%; Las Tontas (ABS-CBN) 9%

Primetime:

Family Feud (GMA-7) 16.4%; Kapamilya, Deal Or No Deal (ABS-CBN) 20.1%

24 Oras (GMA-7) 29.7%; TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) 27.3%

Codename: Asero (GMA-7) 33.3%; Dyosa (ABS-CBN) 26.7%

Gagambino (GMA-7) 33.3%; I Love Betty La Fea (ABS-CBN) 26.7%

La Lola (GMA-7) 30.2%; Iisa Pa Lamang (ABS-CBN) 28.3%

Survivor Philippines (GMA-7) 29.1%; Kahit Isang Saglit (ABS-CBN) 20.1%

My Husband's Woman (GMA-7) 22.8%; Three Dads With One Mom (ABS-CBN) 17.5%

Ripley's Believe It Or Not (GMA-7) 16.2%; Bandila (ABS-CBN) 7.4%; Saksi (GMA-7) 9%

October 28 (Tuesday)

Non-Primetime:

SiS (GMA-7) 12%; Boy & Kris (ABS-CBN) 10.1%

Marimar (GMA-7) 17.2%; Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) 16.3%

Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) 26%; Wowowee (ABS-CBN) 17.4%

Daisy Siete (GMA-7) 20.5%; Una Kang Naging Akin (GMA-7) 21.8%; Pieta (ABS-CBN) 13.6%

Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan (GMA-7) 21.7%; El Cuerpo del Deseo (ABS-CBN) 14.8%; Las Tontas (ABS-CBN) 8.8%

Primetime:

Family Feud (GMA-7) 24%; Kapamilya, Deal Or No Deal (ABS-CBN) 18%

24 Oras (GMA-7) 31.5%; TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) 24.9%

Codename: Asero (GMA-7) 31.3%; Dyosa (ABS-CBN) 24.9%

Gagambino (GMA-7) 33.1%; I Love Betty La Fea (ABS-CBN) 26.5%

La Lola (GMA-7) 32.2%; Iisa Pa Lamang (ABS-CBN) 26.7%

Survivor Philippines (GMA-7) 30.1%; Kahit Isang Saglit (ABS-CBN) 17.7%

My Husband's Woman (GMA-7) 21.4%; Three Dads With One Mom (ABS-CBN) 18.2%

World Records (GMA-7) 14.5%; Bandila (ABS-CBN) 7.3%; Saksi (GMA-7) 8.8%

October 29 (Wednesday)

Non-Primetime:

SiS (GMA-7) 12.5%; Boy & Kris (ABS-CBN) 8.4%

Marimar (GMA-7) 15.7%; Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) 17%

Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) 21.8%; Wowowee (ABS-CBN) 17%

Daisy Siete (GMA-7) 17.1%; Una Kang Naging Akin (GMA-7) 18.9%; Pieta (ABS-CBN) 14%

Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan (GMA-7) 21%; El Cuerpo del Deseo (ABS-CBN) 15.6%

Primetime:

Family Feud (GMA-7) 19.1%; Kapamilya, Deal Or No Deal (ABS-CBN) 15.8%

24 Oras (GMA-7) 30.1%; TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) 21.4%

Codename: Asero (GMA-7) 31.3%; Dyosa (ABS-CBN) 22.8%

Gagambino (GMA-7) 34.5%; I Love Betty La Fea (ABS-CBN) 25.1%; Iisa Pa Lamang (ABS-CBN) 24%

La Lola (GMA-7) 36.3%; Kahit Isang Saglit (ABS-CBN) 16.5%; Survivor Philippines (GMA-7) 33.5%

My Husband's Woman (GMA-7) 25.8%; Three Dads With One Mom (ABS-CBN) 19.1%

Masquerade (GMA-7) 19.5%; Bandila (ABS-CBN) 10.7%; Saksi (GMA-7) 12.5%

October 30 (Thursday)

Non-Primetime:

SiS (GMA-7) 9.8%; Boy & Kris (ABS-CBN) 8.3%

Marimar (GMA-7) 18.9%; Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) 15.6%

Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) 25.2%; Wowowee (ABS-CBN) 16.1%

Daisy Siete (GMA-7) 18.7%; Una Kang Naging Akin (GMA-7) 22%; Pieta (ABS-CBN) 13.8%

Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan (GMA-7) 23.5%; El Cuerpo del Deseo (ABS-CBN) 13%; Las Tontas (ABS-CBN) 9.4%

Primetime:

Family Feud (GMA-7) 23.9%; Kapamilya, Deal Or No Deal (ABS-CBN) 18.5%

24 Oras (GMA-7) 31.6%; TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) 22.1%

Codename: Asero (GMA-7) 33.4%; Dyosa (ABS-CBN) 23.5%

Gagambino (GMA-7) 36.7%; I Love Betty La Fea (ABS-CBN) 24.7%; Iisa Pa Lamang (ABS-CBN) 25.6%

La Lola (GMA-7) 35.4%; Kahit Isang Saglit (ABS-CBN) 16.8%

Survivor Philippines (GMA-7) 32.2%; My Husband's Woman (GMA-7) 27.7%; Three Dads With One Mom (ABS-CBN) 18%

Obra (GMA-7) 23.3%; Bandila (ABS-CBN) 11%; Saksi (GMA-7) 9.5%

DTI - WILYONARYO segment of Wowowee violates Republic Act 7394

noreply@blogger.com ("Serbisyong Totoo" lang po) — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 11:02:00 +0000

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) on Monday formally released the results of its investigation on the administrative charges filed against a defunct segment of ABS-CBN noontime show.

In its 11-page decision, the DTI found the defunct "Wilyonaryo," segment of the noontime show Wowowee, to have violated Republic Act 7394 or the Consumers Act of the Philippines, a report of GMANews 24 Oras’ Susan Enriquez said.

"A reasonable assessment of the existing game mechanics and procedures implemented at the time of the subject 20 August 2007 Wilyonaryo episode reveals that the game show segment allowed a reasonable likelihood of error and provided the host and organizers significant latitude in controlling the outcome of the contest," the decision said.

With such developments, the bureau ordered the ABS-CBN to pay the P290,000 fine and come up with an execution of written undertaking, the report added.

GMA News tried to get the side of ABS-CBN regarding the issue Monday but they were told that ABS would not be able to give its side for the meantime.

It was on August 20, 2007 that "Wilyonaryo" became controversial because the violet "jackpot" wheel contained two numbers "0"and "2," a report from Philippine Entertainment Portal said.

A letter of support: Email the BBC and the Producers

noreply@blogger.com ("Serbisyong Totoo" lang po) — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 03:01:00 +0000

Dear Friends and Supporters,

First and foremost, our heartfelt-thank you for expressing your support and signing the On-line petition and campaign for the Dignity and Respect for the Filipino Overseas Worker, as a response for the culturally insensitive and offensive comedy sketch Harry and Paul aired by BBC UK.

At present, the BBC or the producers of the show have still not offered their public apology as demanded by the Filipino Community in the UK and by the various Filipino sectors worldwide despite the massive tri-media attention.

We are now again soliciting your support as a show of solidarity and to get our common message across to those concerned. May we request you or your community organization to directly send a brief email of complaint to those concerned?

Please send your email of complains to:

general@tigeraspect.co.uk (the company who produced the show)

complaints@pcc.org.uk (Press Complaints Commission)

contact@ofcom.org.uk (Office of Communications, Commercial TV Regulatory body)

You can also complete BBC's online complains form by clicking on this link: www.bbc.co.uk/complaints

Please have the following details as reference:

Name of programme: "HARRY AND PAUL SHOW"
Channel it was shown: BBC 1
Time and Date of Broadcast: 26 September, 9 p.m. / 29 September

Please refrain from sending any offensive/ vulgar/ insulting or provocative language as we do not want to generate any misunderstanding and dissidence. We simply would like to get the message across for BBC and the Producers of the show (Tiger Aspect Production) to publicly apologize to the Filipino community and to undertake that nothing of anything similar in nature will happen again with respect to every multicultural community in the UK. Please also send us a copy of your complaints letter for our records, at beu.london@gmail.com

We also encourage you to pass this message to friends and other kababayans who might wish to support the campaign. There are 8-million OFW globally and we are hoping for your full support.
Together we have a voice, and through our small voice we can show the world how to respect others and regulate our own actions.

Best regards,
Michael Duque

PNA UK
"Isang Bansa, Isang Diwa

TV Ratings as of October 3 to 5

noreply@blogger.com ("Serbisyong Totoo" lang po) — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 04:55:00 +0000

PEP: Here are the Top 10 daytime and primetime programs from October 3 to 5based on the overnight ratings conducted by AGB Nielsen Philippines among Mega Manila households:

October 3 (Friday)
Daytime:
1. Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan (GMA-7) - 24.2%
2. Una Kang Naging Akin (GMA-7) - 21.6%
3. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 20.4%
4. Marimar (GMA-7) - 19.1%
5. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 18.5%
6. Ligaw Na Bulaklak (ABS-CBN) - 17.4%
7. Daisy Siete (GMA-7) - 17.3%
8. El Cuerpo del Deseo (ABS-CBN) - 15.3%
9. Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) - 14.9%
10. SiS (GMA-7) - 10.9%

Primetime:
1. Dyesebel (GMA-7) - 40.6%
2. Codename: Asero (GMA-7) - 35.2%
3. Ako Si Kim Samsoon (GMA-7) - 34.1%
4. Sirvivor Philippines (GMA-7) - 30.7%
5. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 30.4%
6. TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) / Iisa Pa Lamang (ABS-CBN) - 26.5%
7. I Love Betty La Fea (ABS-CBN) - 26%
8. Bubble Gang (GMA-7) - 24.6%
9. Dyosa (ABS-CBN) - 23.5%
10. Kahit Isang Saglit (ABS-CBN) - 19.8%

October 4 (Saturday)

Daytime:
1. Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 24.9%
2. Wish Ko Lang (GMA-7) - 19.5%
3. Pinoy Records (GMA-7) - 19.1%
4. Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 18.9%
5. Takeshi's Castle (GMA-7) - 15.4%
6. Cinema FPJ: Da King on
ABS-CBN (ABS-CBN) - 15.2%
7. That's My Doc (ABS-CBN) - 14.4%
8. Startalk (GMA-7) - 13.9%
9. Entertainment Live (ABS-CBN) - 9.6%

Primetime:
1. Bitoy's Funniest Videos (GMA-7) - 30.6%
2. Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (GMA-7) - 29.8%
3. Celebrity Duets (GMA-7) - 26.9%
4. Imbestigador (GMA-7) - 26.1%5
. Maalaala Mo Kaya (ABS-CBN) - 23.2%
6. Pinoy Dream Academy Little Dreamers (ABS-C
BN) - 22.6%
7. Varga (ABS-CBN) - 18%
8. XXX (ABS-CBN) - 15.6%
9. Nuts Entertainment (GMA-7) - 14%
10. Sine Totoo (GMA-7) - 10.5%

October 5 (Sunday)
Daytime:
1. Showbiz Central (GMA-7) - 16.3%
2. Your Song Presents My Only Love (ABS-CBN) - 15.5%
3. SOP (GMA-7) - 15.1%
4. ASAP ‘08 (ABS-CBN) / Dear Friend (GMA-7) - 15%
5. Takeshi's Castle (GMA-7) - 12.4%
6. The Buzz (ABS-CBN) - 11%
7. Matanglawin (ABSPCBN) - 10.1%

Primetime:
1. Pinoy Dream Academy Little Dreamers (ABS-CBN) - 29.7%
2. Kap's Amazing Stories (GMA-7) - 22.7%
3. Mel & Joey (GMA-7) - 21.4%
4. Tok! Tok! Tok! Isang Milyon Pasok (GMA-7) - 20.3%
5. All Star K (GMA-7) - 20.2%
6. Rated K (ABS-CBN) - 17.5%
7. Goin' Bulilit (ABS-CBN) - 17.4%
8. Ful Haus (GMA-7) - 17.1%
9. SNBO: Pinoy Meets World (GMA-7) - 13%
10. Sharon (ABS-CBN) - 11.1% -

Philippine Entertainment Portal

GMA-7 prepares for their upcoming new shows

noreply@blogger.com ("Serbisyong Totoo" lang po) — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 04:44:00 +0000

Select members of the entertainment press, including PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal), had an intimate lunch with the lady executives of GMA-7 earlier today, September 26, at the 17th floor of GMA Network Center in Quezon City.

The five Kapuso lady executives present were Ms. Wilma Galvante, SVP for Entertainment TV; Ms. Marivin Arayata, VP for Entertainment TV; Ms. Lilybeth Rasonable, AVP for Drama; Ms. Darling de Jesus, AVP for Musical & Variety, and Ms. Janine Piad-Nacar, AVP for Games & Talk.They shared to the press their plans for the rest of the year and the first quarter of 2009. Before 2008 ends, six new shows will premiere and a new season of a game show will begin.

DRAMA SHOWS.
Three new primetime series are slated to replace three soaps that will end this year. First on the list is the Filipino version of La Lola, a hit comedy series that originated in Argentina. This Rhian Ramos-JC de Vera starrer will premiere on October 13 replacing Regine Velasquez's Ako Si Kim Samsoon.Next in line is Carlo J. Caparas's Gagambino featuring Dennis Trillo in the title role. It will premiere on October 20 replacing Dyesebel starring Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera.Mark Anthony Fernandez and Heart Evangelista will team up for the first time in Luna Mystica, a romance-fantasy.

This is scheduled to premiere on November 17 and will replace Richard Gutierrez's Codename: Asero, in which Heart is also the leading lady.In the Dramarama Sa Hapon block, Saan Darating Ang Umaga will replace Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan in mid-November. Based on a 1983 Viva films movie directed by Maryo J. de los Reyes, the TV version will star Lani Mercado in the role of Nida Blanca and Yasmien Kurdi playing the role originally portrayed by Maricel Soriano.

GAME SHOWS.
Three game shows are also lined up this year. One of the longest-running game shows around the world, Family Feud makes a return to the Philippines this time hosted by hunky actor Richard Gomez. This will premiere on October 13. Family Feud will occupy the timeslot of Arnell Ignacio's Gobingo.Janno Gibbs's educational game show Kakasa Ka Ba Sa Grade 5? will be back for its second season on November 15. It will take over the timeslot of Celebrity Duets, which will have its finals on November 8.Finally, a franchise of the reality TV sports show My Dad Is Better Than Your Dad, created by Survivor's Mark Burnett, is now in the Philippines. In this show, a number of dads will be paired with their kids and they will compete in each episode playing stunts and answering questions.

GMA-7 is still on the lookout for the show's host, but it is already set to premiere on November 23 after the second season of Tok! Tok! Tok! Isang Milyon Pasok ends.It was also announced that both Bubble Gang and Startalk will celebrate their 13th anniversary this year.

FUTURE PROJECTS.
Year 2009 promises to be a bigger year for the Kapuso network because of the gigantic projects lined up in the first quarter alone.

As reported earlier by PEP, Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera will still be paired together in their next primetime series. Ms. Lilybeth Rasonable revealed that Dingdong and Marian will star in the TV adaptation of the 1980 drama movie Ang Babaeng Hinugot Sa Aking Tadyang, which starred Vivian Velez and the late Eddie Rodriguez.

The lady executives of GMA-7 also confirmed PEP's report that Richard Gutierrez will don the mask of Zorro as his next project after Codename: Asero.

Another exciting project of the Kapuso network next year is the TV adaptation of Totoy Bato, which starred the King of Philippine Movies Fernando Poe, Jr. In the new version, the title role will be portrayed by action superstar Robin Padilla with possibly boxing champ Manny Pacquiao in the cast. But what really surprised us about Totoy Bato is Robin's leading lady—Regine Velasquez. This will be the follow-up project of the Asia's Songbird after the highly-successful Ako Si Kim Samsoon.

Speaking of Ako Si Kim Samsoon, another Koreanovela will be adapted for Philippine TV next year—the hit drama All About Eve. A story of two rival journalists, All About Eve will star Sunshine Dizon and Iza Calzado, who have worked together before in Impostora.

Aside from My Name Is Kim Samsoon and All About Eve, GMA-7 has also bought the rights of two other Koreanovelas: the romantic comedies Full House and Coffee Prince.

Ms. Wilma Galvante revealed that Full House is really intended for Richard Gutierrez and Marian Rivera, but the casting might change depending on the availability of the two major Kapuso stars. As for Coffee Prince, GMA-7 has yet to decide who will play the lead roles.

As for the highly-anticipated Captain Barbell Meets Darna, Ms. Galvante assured that it will finally push through next year; although she did not disclose whether Richard will reprise his role as Captain Barbell or who will play Darna.

NEW GMA BUILDING.
To top these exciting projects, GMA-7 is about to inaugurate its new building on October 17. The GMA Network Studios, which is located directly across the old GMA Building on Jamboree St., will house state-of-the-art studios.

This includes Studio 4, touted to be the biggest in the Philippines and can accommodate as 1,000 people.

This will soon be the house of SOP and other live shows of GMA-7.GMA-7 disclosed that they spent P1 billion for the new GMA Network Studios .