PHILIPPINES IN FULL FORCE AT HONGKONG FILMART ONLINE AND HAFF 2020

 

MANILA, PHILIPPINES, AUGUST 26, 2020 — Fourteen companies from the Philippines are part of the 24th Hong Kong International Film & TV Market (FILMART) while four Filipino film projects are included in the 18th Hong Kong-Asia Film Financing Forum (HAF).

The virtual Hong Kong FILMART will take place from August 26 to 29 and the online HAF will be held from August 27 to 29. The Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) will have a Country Session webinar at the HK FILMART upon the invitation of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC).

The FDCP has sponsored production companies for the Philippine Pavilion in the HK FILMART to provide them opportunities to find project collaborators, seek project funding, pursue sales and distribution possibilities, and expand their network of contacts in the international film circuit. 

This year, the FDCP's Virtual Philippine Pavilion will have 11 production companies: Philippine Film Studios, Inc., Project 8 Projects,  Betsy D. Film Productions, Epicmedia Productions Inc., Atom & Anne Mediaworks Corp., Indiego Productions, CMB Films, Sisu Productions, Beginnings At Twenty Plus Inc., VY/AC Productions, and Blindwill Pictures. 

Pavilion meetings will take place on all four days of the FILMART, and these will be concluded by the FDCP’s “Let’s Create Together!” webinar on August 29. Through the live one-hour event, the FDCP will promote three FilmPhilippines incentives to international productions. These are the Film Location Incentive Program (FLIP), International Co-production Fund (ICOF), and Film Location Engagement Desk (FLEX).

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat and FDCP Chairperson and CEO Liza Diño-Seguerra will lead the “Let’s Create Together!” presentation together with the FilmPhilippines Office. The Country Session will premiere two video collaborations of the DOT and FDCP for the “Let's Create Together!” campaign. The 11 companies in the Philippine Pavilion will also be introduced during the webinar.

Department of Education Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones will be in attendance together with Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Export Marketing Bureau (EMB) Assistant Director Anthony Rivera, Metro Manila Development Authority Chairman Danilo Lim, and League of Cities of the Philippines National President Evelio Leonardia.

Other attendees are Consorcio Olivan of the Bureau of Internal Revenue and Maria Teresa Loring, Rodrigo Aguilar, and Gliceria Cademia from the DTI. Representatives from the DOT include Woodrow Maquiling, Jr., Sharlene Batin, Howard Lance Uyking, Elisa Jane Camunggol, Ernesto Teston, and Dee Mandigma. National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) Chairman and Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) President Arsenio Lizaso and NCCA National Committee on Cinema Head Rolando Tolentino are also confirmed attendees. 

The Film Academy of the Philippines will be represented by Director General Vivian Velez, Director for Business Development & Communications Ed Totanes, Director for Programs and Events Peter Serrano, and Harlene Bautista and Njel de Mesa of the Project Advisory Committee. Meanwhile, other participating companies in the HK FILMART are GMA Network, VIVA Communications, and Rocketsheep Studio. 

As for the HAF, “Zsa Zsa Zaturnnah Vs. The Amazonistas of Planet X” by Avid Liongoren and “Some Nights I Feel Like Walking” by Petersen Vargas are among the 24 fiction projects featured alongside nine documentaries. Liongoren and Vargas wil get to seek international support and cooperation for their projects at the HAF. 

Other projects in the HAF lineup are productions or co-productions from Taiwan, China, Canada, Hong Kong, Afghanistan, South Korea, Israel, Mexico, Bangladesh, Thailand, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Vietnam, Singapore, the Netherlands, and France. 

The Filipino-French project “Zsa Zsa Zaturnnah Vs. The Amazonistas of Planet X” is fresh from its success at the Open Doors Locarno where it won the Development Support Grant. The project is co-produced by Liongoren of Rocketsheep Studio and Franck Priot of Ghosts City Films in France. 

The action-comedy animated full length feature is about a shy gay hairdresser who transforms into a flamboyant female superhero after he swallows a magical space rock. In July, it won the B.I.G (BIFAN Industry Gathering) Award from the Network of Asian Fantastic Films (NAFF) Project Market of the Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival (BIFAN) in South Korea.

The Philippine project “Some Nights I Feel Like Walking” by Vargas is a drama about a wealthy teenage runaway who joins street hustlers on a road trip. The street hustlers want to fulfill the final wish of their friend who passed away, which is to go home. At the 2019 Southeast Asia Fiction Film Lab (SEAFIC), the project bagged the SEAFIC Award and SEAFIC-HAF Award. “Some Nights I Feel Like Walking,” produced by Alemberg Ang and Jade Francis Castro, is under VY/AC Productions.

Two more Philippine projects made it to the HAF in the Works-in-Progress (WIP) platform that aims to help filmmakers get post-production funds, sales agents, and film festival support. These are the documentary project “Last Days at Sea” by Venice Atienza, who is also the producer alongside Wu Fan, and fiction project “The Double” by Adolf Alix, Jr. The project with elements of drama, horror, and suspense is produced by Alix, Jericho Rosales, and Kim Jones. There are 12 documentaries and 10 fictions in the WIP.

The HK FILMART and HAF were supposed to take place early this year concurrent with the 44th Hong Kong International Film Festival slated from March to April. The latter was cancelled due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, while it was decided for the HK FILMART and HAF to proceed online.

FDCP'S FULL CIRCLE LAB PHILIPPINES ANNOUNCES UPCOMING ONLINE EDITION THIS SEPTEMBER

 

MANILA, PHILIPPINES, AUGUST 24, 2020 -- Full Circle Lab Philippines, a collaboration between Film Development Council of the Philippines and Matthieu Darras, current director of Full Circle Lab and former Artistic Director of the internationally renowned Torino Film Lab will take place via an online edition. Full Circle Lab Philippines will push through with its expanded program featuring four different film labs to benefit 20 projects from the Philippines and the rest of Southeast Asia.

Initially scheduled for April until it was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s edition of Full Circle Lab Philippine will take place from September 15 to September 30 as we celebrate the official closing of the Philippine Cinema Centennial . During this period, it will hold three film labs for projects in development across the genres of fiction, series, and animation. 16 projects will be supported through these development labs, with eight projects under fiction and four projects each under series and animation. Additionally, Full Circle Lab Philippines will hold First Cut Lab which targets feature films at the editing stage. Four projects in the editing stage will participate in this year’s edition of First Cut Lab.

The Full Circle Lab Philippines will also be featured in online masterclasses and public sessions preceding the two-week film lab through the FDCP Film Industry Conference (FIC). The Full Circle Lab joins FIC in its aim to bring together international experts and stakeholders to share and discuss the latest trends, opportunities, platforms, and cooperation that Filipino producers and filmmakers can explore for the development, production, and distribution of their projects with the intent of crossing over beyond local borders. Scheduled from September 12 to 14, FIC will feature various mentors from Full Circle Lab as they share their areas of expertise and how the international film industry is adapting to the new normal in light of the pandemic. 

Discussing the new platform and participants of FCL, FDCP Chairperson and CEO Liza Diño said, “We are proud that as a continuation of the First Cut Lab last year, the Full Circle Lab this September pursues its empowerment and development of Filipino projects and filmmakers, while also expanding the participation of Southeast Asian filmmakers as well. This is in fulfilment of our commitment to our ASEAN partners to encourage collaboration in the region among our filmmakers as supported by the government’s film commissions that would lead to stories and narratives that are proudly our region’s own and can be shared among our countries’ markets and audiences.”

“We are also grateful to the mentors of the Full Circle Lab who will be reaching a broader audience as they will participate in the FDCP Film Industry Conference masterclass and sessions so that they may share to more of our filmmakers, students, and enthusiasts the current state of the global film industry and how they envision it adapting to the new normal during and post-pandemic,” she added.

Speaking to FDCP, Full Circle Lab director Matthieu Daras discussed the program’s move to an online platform saying, “Most exciting with Full Circle Lab’s move to an online platform is the opportunity to involve a very large scope of industry advisors from different parts of the world, who would not necessarily be available in the case of a physical event. For instance, we will have the privilege to have the participation of Nashen Moodley, Sydney Film Festival director, or Mike Goodridge, artistic director of Macau FF, in the First Cut Lab for films at editing stage.”

Mentors from this year's edition of Full Circle Lab will also participate in the online edition of FDCP's Film Industry Conference.

This will be Full Circle Lab’s second year in the Philippines, where it aims to support local filmmaking talent by bringing in international film industry veterans to lead film labs meant to tap into a project’s creative potential. This year’s edition features 12 mentors across the four separate film labs. 

The mentors for the fiction lab will be script consultants Ayman El Amir and Helen Beltrame-Linne as well as producers Giovanni Pompili and Meiske Taurisia. Series lab will be led by script consultant Mmbatho Kau and producer Naomi Levari. Animation lab, by writer and script consultant Aleksandra Swierk and producer Juraj Krashonorsky. And First Cut Lab by Full Circle Lab director Matthieu Daras and editors Benjamin Mirguet, Matthieu Taponier, and Maya Maffioli. 

FDCP’S FILMPHILIPPINES AWARDS FIRST CYCLE OF APPLICATIONS TO ITS BRAND NEW FILM INCENTIVES

 

The first cycle of application of the Film Location Incentive Program (FLIP)and the International Co-production Fund (ICOF), since their launch in January 2020, leads to four awardees.

MANILA, PHILIPPINES, AUGUST 21, 2020 — Four international productions, with two shot in the Philippines and another two co-produced with a Philippine company, are the first recipients of incentives from the FilmPhilippines Office (FPO) of the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP).

Through the Film Location Incentive Program (FLIP), the Filipino line producers of “Almost Paradise” and “Survivor Russia” will receive a 20% cash rebate on their Qualified Philippine Production Expenses (QPPE). The minimum spending requirement is PHP 8 million. 

The US television/video on demand (VOD) series “Almost Paradise” is the first FLIP recipient. It wrapped up production in Mactan Island, Cebu province just before the community quarantine was imposed nationwide. Directed by awarded director/producer Dean Devlin (“Independence Day”, “Geo-Storm”, “Universal Soldier”, etc.), the action-drama on the adventures of a former US Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) agent who moved to the Philippines had 10 episodes that aired on WGN America. The US production under Electric Entertainment had Philippine broadcasting giant ABS-CBN Corporation as its line producer.

Even before the creation of FLIP, the Philippines is no stranger to the “Survivor” reality TV series, with several episodes and editions filmed in the Southeast Asian country’s pristine beaches. This year, “Survivor Russia” filmed 13 episodes in El Nido, Palawan province. Mastiff Russia, with Managing Director Anton Goreslavsky and General Producer Cyril Lounkevitch, partnered with Philippine Film Studios, Inc., which was involved in “Survivor Finland,” “Survivor Israel,” and “Born on the Fourth of July,” which won the Academy Awards for Best Film Editing and Best Director for Oliver Stone.

As for the select International Co-production Fund (ICOF), full length feature films can receive up to PHP 10 million. Filipino companies in a co-production agreement with international counterparts with at least PHP 5 million worth of QPPE are qualified to apply for the ICOF.

The supernatural thriller “Nocebo” by Lorcan Finnegan will get PHP 6.5 million from the ICOF. Set in Ireland and the Philippines, the film revolves around the revenge story of a Filipino helper against an Irish family. It is a co-production among Wild Swim Films from the UK, Epicmedia Productions, Inc. from the Philippines, and Lovely Productions from Ireland. Wild Swim’s filmography includes BAFTA Outstanding Debut by a British Writer winner “Under the Shadow” while Epicmedia produced the Venice Orizzonti Prize recipient “Engkwentro” by Pepe Diokno. Lovely Productions, which Finnegan set up with Steven Courtney and Brunella Cocchiglia, produced Finnegan’s “Without Name” and “Vivarium” which had a Cannes premiere.

Epicmedia is a co-producer for another ICOF recipient, “Kapag Wala Nang Mga Alon (When The Waves Are Gone)” by Lav Diaz, the acclaimed Filipino auteur recognized by the Berlin, Locarno, and Venice International Film Festivals. Snowglobe from Denmark and Films Boutique from France are also producers. Diaz’s latest film, a revenge drama with locations in Lisbon, Portugal and Manila and Tagaytay in the Philippines, will receive PHP 6 million. Snowglobe produced “BezBog” which made it to Locarno and Toronto while Films Boutique produced the Academy Awards-shortlisted film, “Bird of Passage.” Diaz and Epicmedia worked together on Berlinale Silver Bear Alfred Bauer Prize Winner “Hele sa Hiwagang Hapis (A Lullaby to the Sorrowful Mystery).”

FDCP Chairperson and CEO Liza Diño-Seguerra is grateful for the support of international production companies that took a chance on FilmPhilippines and trusted the Filipino film and audiovisual industry. “The goal of these incentives is to open up the industry for collaboration with the rest of the world, for people to discover how talented we are, how good we are in providing service, and how the Philippines can be a global creative hub for films,” she remarked.

“We need to highlight what sets the Philippines apart from the rest of Asia: English is a second language to us. That's a significant advantage. We are also flexible when it comes to accommodating sudden changes in production. We certainly make things happen,” added Diño-Seguerra.

On top of the financial incentives provided by FLIP and ICOF, the FPO has a third incentive called Film Location Engagement Desk (FLEX), which assists local and foreign productions in all government transactions. FLEX also endorses international productions to Filipino producers and production companies that are duly registered with FDCP’s National Registry.

Among the projects that have received assistance from the FLEX incentive are “Survivor Europe” and feature film “CounterPlay.” “Survivor Europe” is produced by Banijay with local line producer Philippine Film Studios, Inc. while the action thriller “CounterPlay,” directed by Pedring Lopez and starring Hollywood actor Sam Worthington, is produced by MAM Media (Pte.) Ltd. of the US with BlackOps Studios Asia, Inc. as the local line producer.

To be the next FilmPhilippines incentive recipient, enter the Cycle 3 application that will run from September 1 to November 27, 2020. The application period remains up and running amid the pandemic to provide support for filmmakers affected by the COVID-19 crisis. The Cycle 3 is the last chance for productions to apply for the FLIP, ICOF, and FLEX this year. Grab the chance to shoot or work in the Philippines or be in a co-production with a Filipino company, and experience the ease and wonder of filmmaking with the incentives of FDCP’s FilmPhilippines.

 

PRIMA DONNAS STARS THRILLED TO BE BACK ON

 

Due to insistent public demand and in celebration of its first anniversary, GMA Network brings back to Filipino homes the favorite and well-loved drama series ‘Prima Donnas’ beginning Monday, August 17, on the Afternoon Prime block.

The all-star cast gifts its loyal fans and followers with a recap of the heartwarming series which they have consistently followed since its pilot airing. 

As the top-rating drama airs anew, the cast members expressed what they feel about the recap, their unforgettable experiences on set, and what’s in store for the Kapuso viewers in the coming episodes.

Veteran and award-winning actress Ms. Chanda Romero, who breathes life into the sophisticated matriarch Lady Primarosa Claveria, believes that the recap will reintroduce the show back into the viewers’ lives, “Because of this pandemic, parang the whole world stopped. Our taping had to stop. The telling of the beautiful story of Prima Donnas stopped. Ngayon, with the airing of the recap, we can refresh everyone's memory. So this is our way to reintroduce our show to the viewers, bring back to mind what some may have forgotten bago namin ituloy ang kwento na naging part na of their everyday life.”

Multi-awarded and one of the industry's formidable actresses Ms. Aiko Melendez who portrays Kendra, the main antagonist in the series, is delighted with their return and teases fans on what to anticipate in the series, “Happy and excited that we are finally airing again. We know our viewers have missed us so much. They should look forward sa mangyayari sa kasal ni Kendra kay Jaime pati na rin kung saan hahantong ang bangayang Kendra at Lilian.”

On the other hand, excellent character actress Katrina Halili who plays Lilian Madreal, mother of the Donnas, is also elated with the retelling of the story, “Happy ako kasi mari-refresh ang aming viewers para maka-keep up sila kapag may fresh episodes na. Hindi dapat palampasin dahil mapapalapit na ang Donnas sa mga Claveria at mapapatunayang sila ang totoong nawawalang mga tagapagmana.”

Bannering the show and playing equally vital roles are three of GMA's brightest and sought-after teen stars: Jillian Ward as Donna Marie, Althea Ablan as Donna Belle, and Sofia Pablo as Donna Lyn. The three of them shared what their fondest memories are while taping for the soap.

“I think it’s whenever Direk Gina (Alajar) and our acting coach guide us for each scene. I learned so much as an actor and as an individual, and that alone, is unforgettable for me po,” says Jillian.

“I had a hard time with my character during our first taping day and I’m very thankful to our director, acting coach and co-actors for giving me tips hindi lang sa pag-arte pati na rin sa personal life. I’m very blessed and honored dahil part ako ng show na ito,” adds Althea.  

“Syempre po, ‘yung first taping day namin. Nag-aadjust pa po kami sa kanya-kanya naming character since kailangan namin masundan kung paano ‘yung naging attitude at kilos ng mga younger Donnas,” shares Sofia.

Elijah Alejo, who has done justice to her kontrabida role as Brianna, is also grateful for the memories she shared with her co-stars, “’Yung tips po na binibigay sa amin ng senior stars para po magampanan namin nang mas maayos ‘yung characters namin. Ang hinding-hindi ko po makakalimutan is ‘yung lagi po kaming nagpe-pray before we start the day po.”

Take a trip down memory lane and don’t miss the highly-anticipated recap of ‘Prima Donnas’ – under the helm of esteemed director Gina Alajar – beginning August 17, weekdays at 3:25PM, only on GMA Network.

JOHN REGALA, NAKALABAS NA NG HOSPITAL

 

Nakalabas na ang veteran actor na si John Regala sa National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI) pagkatapos na ma-confine ito nang walong araw. Ito ay ayon sa post ng kanyang friend/publicist Aster Amoyo sa Facebook.

Si John ay nagkaroon ng severe gout at liver cirrhosis kaya siya dinala sa hospital noong August 4, sa tulong na rin ng mga kasamahan niya sa industriya, ni Raffy Tulfo at ng religious group na kinaaaniban niya.

Bagama't hindi pa totally recovered ang aktor, inuwi na siya sa bahay para doon na lamang magpagaling habang patuloy na umiinom ng kanyang mga gamot.

Gusto pa sana nina Aster at mga kaibigan niya na mag-stay pa si John sa hospital subalit nag-insist daw ang huli na lumabas na siya. Kaya noong August 12 ay nag-checkout sila.

Si John ay nakakuha ng sympathy mula sa mga kasamahan sa trabaho  at mga supporter pagkatapos na  maispatan siya ng isang netizen na humihingi ng tulong at ipost ito sa FB page. Ni-rescue siya Pasay City kung saan siya nakita na hilong-hilo at nanghihina dahil ilang araw nang walang laman ang tiyan dahil bawat kainin nito ay isinusuka at bunga na rin sa pagbagsak ng sugar.

Sa interview sa kanya, sinabi nitong nagiisa na lamang siya sa buhay pagkatapos na layasan ng kinakasama. At simula nang mamatay ang kanyang inang si Ruby Regala ay nawalan na siya nang komunikasyon sa kanyang mga kamag-anak.

Sina Amoyo, Chuckie Dreyfus at Nadia Montenegro ang nag-initiate ng fundraising para sa aktor upang matulungan ito sa medical bills at iba pang expenses.

SHERATON MANILA BAY NOW OFFERS DUCK A 1' ORANGE AND CHICKEN POT PIE

 

Sheraton Manila Bay offers classic French cuisine Duck a l’orange and savoury Chicken Pot Pie on its Gourmet Takeaway menu.

While traveling, as we know it, may still be limited, you can still embark on a gastronomic journey around the world with our Culinary Courier. Sheraton Manila Bay’s new food-to-go offers brings the classic and familiar flavors of French cuisine with Duck a l’orange and all-time family favorite Chicken Pot Pie to the comfort of your homes.

A delightful and filling treat for those working from home or celebrating special occasions with your loved ones, our crispy and tenderly roasted  Duck a l’orange available in whole portion at Php 2800 net and in premium breast cut at Php 2900 net is served with luscious, sweet, and tangy orange sauce come with steamed rice and good for sharing up to 4 persons. Meanwhile, our classic Chicken Pot Pie available in medium size at Php 950 net and large at Php 1400 net, is baked to perfection with its flaky, buttery crust, creamy sauce and hearty mix of chicken.

Tempting as it is to save these gustatory offering for only special occasions, we make it easy for foodies at home order these for your daily indulgence by calling +632 5318 0788, 09175837294, 09175837326 or email sh.mnlsb.fnb@sheraton.com.

24 hour advance order is required. Diners shall arrange pick-up with their courier of choice. Cash and credit card payments are accepted. The hotel will strictly implement a No Mask, No Pick-up Policy and has designated a pick-up point at the hotel main entrance canopy area to ensure social distancing measure are followed and health and safety precautions are met.

For a full listing of gourmet takeaways menu, please visit http://bit.ly/ccmnlsb

Sheraton Manila Bay is located at M. Adriatico cor. Gen. Malvar Streets, Malate, Manila. Like us on Facebook and Instagram @sheratonmanilabay and Twitter at @sheratonmnlbay.

 

ENCHANTED KINGDOM PAYS HOMAGE TO THE UNSUNG HEROES IN THE TIME OF PANDEMIC

The spotlight will gleam on the tireless individuals who are working above and beyond the call of duty in these challenging times as Enchanted Kingdom officially announces the opening of nominations for the 6th Enchanting Heroes of Change: You’re my Hero.This year, the premier and word-class theme park is paying tribute to these unsung heroes of today who are selflessly devoting efforts on the frontlines and continuously making positive impacts in many lives during the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

For kids ages 4-12 years old, this is your chance to show your support and give cheers to the real-life superheroes. If you know an individual, a friend or a family member that you consider a hero, nominate them by sharing a photo as well as their inspiring story. Enchanted Kingdom wants to hear about them.Terms and Conditions:Like Enchanted Kingdom’s official Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/enchantedkingdom.ph/).Nominate your hero by posting his/her photo with a description of his/her incredible deeds to the community and tell us why he/she deserves a trip to EK.Post the photo entry at EK Heroes of Change 2020: You’re My Hero FB post’s comment sectionTag your hero on the post (if they have an FB account).Use the hashtags: #EKHeroesOfChange2020, #iloveEK and #EKatHome.Submission of entries is until August 28, 2020 and winners will be announced on August 31, 2020 (National Heroes Day). Five (5) chosen heroes will win three Regular Day Passes each, and the kids who submitted the winning entries will also receive two Regular Day Passes each plus a special Eldar Doll!Enchanted Kingdom is excited to read different stories of hope and inspiration from all you, EK Kids, as the invaluable services from these extraordinary people deserve honor and are worthy of celebration.For more information, visit Enchanted Kingdom’s official website and Facebook page at www.enchantedkingdom.ph and www.facebook.com/enchantedkingdom.phor check on https://www.facebook.com/notes/enchanted-kingdom/6th-enchanting-heroes-of-change-youre-my-hero/3860612573955040/ to know the complete contest mechanics.

DESCENDANTS OF THE SUN PH WINS BIG IN 15TH SEOUL INTERNATIONAL DRAMA AWARDS

 

GMA Entertainment Group’s Pinoy adaptation of one of the world's most well-loved drama series,  ‘Descendants of the Sun’ (DOTS), brought honor to the Network after winning the Most Popular Foreign Drama of the Year in the 15th Seoul International Drama Awards.DOTSPh is the very first Philippine TV program to receive this recognition from the annual global festival. 

The primetime series was included in the list of winners together with two other foreign dramas ‘Snowpiercer’ produced by US broadcaster TNT and ‘The New Pope’ produced by Sky Atlantic and HBO. 

The prestigious award ceremony selected GMA’s Pinoy version among several remakes that originated from the KBS drama aired in South Korea in 2016, highlighting the infuence of K-drama not only in Asia but also around the world.

DOTSPh, which premiered last February 10, is headlined by Kapuso Primetime King Dingdong Dantes and Ultimate Star Jennylyn Mercado as alpha team leader Captain Lucas Manalo and cardio-thoracic surgeon Dr. Maxine Dela Cruz, otherwise dearly known as ‘Big Boss’ and ‘Beauty’ respectively.

Completing the star-studded cast are Rocco Nacino, Jasmine Curtis-Smith, Antonio Aquitania, Ricardo Cepeda, Paul Salas, Jon Lucas, Lucho Ayala, Prince Clemente, Pancho Magno, Renz Fernandez, Chariz Solomon, Andre Paras, Nicole Donesa, Reese Tuazon, Jenzel Angeles, Bobby Andrews, Neil Ryan Sese, Ian Ignacio, Rich Asuncion, Carlo Gonzales, Roi Vinzon, Hailey Mendez, Marina Benipayo, among others. The series is under the helm of esteemed director Dominic Zapata. 

For the remake, the Entertainment Group inked a partnership with the Armed Forces of the Philippines which sealed the Network’s commitment to accurately represent the country’s military forces.

Seoul International Drama Awards is a festival that brings together all professionals in the field of TV drama production and media industry and global audiences who enjoy television dramas. 

This year’s festival will be held on September 10 at MBC Media Center Public Hall without an audience.

RASH JUZEN, IN HIS NEW SINGLE, “ SA AKING PAG-IISA”

 

WHEN you look at Rash Juzen, the first thing that will come to mind is that he has attractive eyes and a pointed nose, with a good taste in fashion and can carry himself really well. He also looked a bit quiet, but you'd be surprised to know that he is a multitalented guy; he can sing very well while connecting to audience lively, and he is also excellent in acting. In fact, he had showcased his singing and acting skills on GMA 7, PTV4, Net 25, Indie Films, TV Commercials and many FM and AM Stations. Indeed, he is one of those Bachelors that a lot of girls are giggling about.

When we met at a coffee shop at a certain place in Manila just recently for some business discussions and also to conduct this short interview, I noticed that he looked a bit slimmer than before. I complimented him and he answered smilingly that he just started to workout few weeks ago. I grabbed my pen and memo pad, and started throwing him random questions one by one. Here are some of the highlights of our conversation:

■ I heard you have a New Single, can you tell me something about it?

Well, yes. I just released my new Single entitled, "Sa Aking Pag-iisa" few weeks ago. It's officially one of the nominees in Awit Awards. The song is under Praise Music Incorporated and was composed by a legendary hitmaker, Michael De Lara. 

■ What can you say about this new Single of yours?

I like it. It has both modern and oldies kind-of-vibe, in one song. I think the composer of the song had just created another masterpiece that'll be relatable to Millennials and Feelennials.

■ Aside from Singing, what keeps you busy right now?

I have a two-storey milktea house business located in Sta. Rosa City, Laguna. Also, I am a voice talent on radio drama programs on DZRH 666 kHz. Before this pandemic struck, I already shot TV Commercials for Payless Pancit Canton and Moneymax, and a Digital Ad Project for Easy Rock Manila. My Print Ad Project for Mitsubishi Electric Air-conditioner (for Billboard, brochure and online ad) was also released.

■ How do you maintain your voice and good physique?

I usually sing random songs on my videoke at home. Also, I spend more time working out these past few weeks since I have my gym full of workout equipments at home.

■ We discovered that you already received awards and nominations in your Physical album under PolyEast Records before? Can you tell us what are those?

I got a nomination for the category of recording artists under PolyEast Records from PMPC Star Awards for Music in 2018. In that same year where I also received, "Most Promising Recording Artist" award from Gawad Filipino.

■ Have you heard any feedback from people who had just listened to your song?

Yes, a lot. They claimed this new Single of mine as relaxing and has 80's vibes yet with a twist of modern feels. At saka may recall daw, kaya I'm so flattered.

■ Where can we hear your song?

"Sa Aking Pag-iisa" can be heard regularly on DZRH, DWIZ, DXUP Maguindanao, Pinas FM 95.5, etc. It can now be requested in radio stations through their textlines.

■ Let's talk about your lovelife. What's your current relationship status?

I am Single right now.

■ Last question: What are your plans for the next few days or months?

I have just talked to a producer who offered me to shoot my Official Music Video. Hopefully, if things get safer we will start the shoot real soon. But of course, safety protocols such as social distancing and wearing of masks must be strictly observed. And when things get back to its usual normal, we will resume the shoot of the remaining scenes of my Indie Film.

25TH ASIAN TV AWARDS FESTIVAL OPENS CALL FOR ENTRIES

 

After the success of this year’s first-ever Manila-hosted 24th Asian Television Awards (ATA) last January 10 to 12 at Resorts World Manila, the region’s most celebrated TV awards show opens its Call for Entries for the 25th Asian Television Awards. The 25th ATA is slated to happen on January 15 to 17, 2021 at Nagaworld, Phnom Penh, Cambodia with Bayon TV as official broadcast partner. 

Gearing for its 25th silver anniversary in 2021, ATA continues to recognize the best of on-screen and off-screen talents in Asia with over 56 categories vying for prestigious television awards in Digital, Performance Category, Technical and Creative Category, and Programming. 

Martin del Rosario won the 'Best Leading Male Performance' award at last year's Asian Television Awards. Photo courtesy of Rappler.com

Launched in 1996, Asian Television Awards is the Asian TV industry’s most significant and celebrated event, recognizing hundreds of Asian actors, directors, producers, hosts, programs and TV networks. It is the most widely watched awards show in the region, televised live to 500 million homes across 22 countries by its network of broadcast partners and streamed live online.

The ATA entries are evaluated by an expert panel of over 60 judges from across the region. The winners are only announced during the Awards Ceremony.

Atthaphan Poonsawas won Best Supporting Actor at last year's Asian Television Awards. 

The 24th ATA in Manila saw the gathering of Asia’s best and brightest TV icons, giving accolades to the region’s top talents including Filipino personalities like Martin del Rosario winning the Best Leading Male Performance in the series “Born Beautiful,”and Catherine Yap- Yang besting Best News Presenter or Anchor for ANC show “Market Edge with Cathy Yang” among others.

SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS NI ANGEL GUSTONG I-HACK

                                                                     

Target ngayon ng mga hacker ang mga social media account ni Angel Locsin. Obviously ang gustong mang-hack sa kanya ay mga hindi pabor sa kanyang  ipinaglalaban. Ayon sa aktres, ilang beses nang nagbigay ng warning sa kanya ang mga pamunuan ng Facebook, Twitter at email sa ilang beses na pagtatangkang pasukin ito ng mga intruder.

Bago pa ipasara ng kongreso ang ABS CBN ay aktibo nang nangangampanya para sa franchise renewal ng network si Angel at hanggang ngayon na sarado na ito.

Pati nga raw ang personal na buhay nito ay napapabayaan na. Yong kasal nila Neil Arce na nakaplano ngayong taon ay hindi na napagu-usapan. Ang sabi'y kahit may pandemya ay tuloy ito. Susunod na lamang daw sila sa health protocol.

As of of today, ang laging nababalitaan natin sa kanya ay ang mga pagtulong na ginagawa niya sa mga kababayang hirap na hirap na dahil sa pandemya at ang kanyang mga pagbabatikos sa mga kapalpakan sa gobyerno.

Eniwey, isa lang ang napapansin namin kay Angel, wala pa kaming nababalitaang nagbigay-tulong siya sa kapwa niya mga artista sa pamamagitan ng ayuda. Kahit sa mga manunulat wala pang nagsasabi sa amin na inayudahan niya.  Hindi ba't charity begins at home?

GARI ESCOBAR, VERY VISIBLE SA SOCMED PARA SA ADVOCACY

Kapansin-pansing laman ngayon ng social media ang very humble singer, Ivory recording artist, PMPC Star Awards for Music: New Male Recording Artist of 2019 and most awarded DSAP-Direct Selling Association of the Philippines and 4Life Research USA entrepreneur Gari Escobar Gabrinao. Bakit kaya?

Sa kabila ng napaka-limited ng galawan natin ngayon because of Covid-19 pandemic, talagang super busy pa rin siya.

Well, successful entrepreneurs maximize their time to make each day as productive as possible. But as a singer, paano niya mina-manage ang lahat ng ito dahil sa lahat ng social media flatforms (from Facebook, Instagram, Youtube to Twitter) ay visible siya. Lahat ba ito ay para sa singing career mo Gari?

"May assistant po ako na naghahandle ng Social media accounts ko, pero merong dalawa na ako mismo. Halos lahat ay para sa advocacies ko at kasama na po rito ang aking singing career," bungad na sagot ng magaling na singer.

Sa Fb ay araw-araw kang nakikita ng mga fans mo. Ano ang purpose ng FB Lives mo?

Sinimulan ko ito nung kalagitnaan ng ECQ nang nabalitaan ko na tumaas ang suicide rate sa US due to the pandemic, at ayokong mangyari yun sa Pilipinas, kaya para makatulong sa mga kababayan natin as many people as I can reach, I share positivity and values sa lives ko para malagay sa tamang disposisyon ang mga tao," esplika ni Gari.

Is this your preparation for a TV Show in the future?

"As of now po ay wala pang ganung plano."

Anway, maiba ako. Sa FB lives mo ay kapansin pansing isa kang maprinsipyong tao. Ano ang stand mo sa pagpapasara ng Kongreso sa ABS CBN?

"Malungkot din ako para sa mga nawalan ng trabaho, at may mga program sila na gusto ko tulad ng the Voice at Banana Sundae. Yung dalawa lang na yun, pero sa YouTube lang ako nanonood.

"This is a compliance case so sa tingin ko pag nag-comply na ang ABS CBN ay maaayos din ito. Dapat sumusunod tayo sa batas, maliit man o malaking negosyo and I would like to believe na susunod naman sa batas ang ABS CBN," sagot pa rin ng singer na nagpasikat ng awiting "Baguio". Sobrang nalulugkot siya sa pagkakasara ng Kapamilya network. Pero positibo si Gari na magbubukas din ito in due time.

Ano ang masasabi mo sa mga artista na nagrarally para sa ABS CBN?

"Kung wala pong pandemya ok lang po, that's their freedom, pero sa panahon ngayon ay napakadelikado ang lumabas ng bahay kaya wag sana sila manghimok ng mga tao para samahan sila unless na willing sila na sagutin ang hospital expenses ng mga mahahawa sa CoVid dahil sa naging exposure sa maraming dikit-dikit na mga tao."

Pa'no ka magre-react kapag nagkaroon ka na ng bashers?

"Maybe I'll explain my side to straighten things out para hindi na lumaki kung sa tingin ko ay may kailangang ituwid. Kung wala naman, i'll Just keep quiet."

Pano mo hinaharap ang pandemya at ano ang maipapayo mo sa mga nadedepress sa sitwasyon ng mundo ngayon?

"Laging manalangin dahil sa Diyos ay walang imposible. Maging mapagpasalamat sa Diyos para lapitan ng swerte."

Very well said Mr. Gari Escobar Gabrinao!

Gari would like also to thank his supreme partners, family, friends, supporters, 102.7 Star FM Bombo Radyo and to Channel 31! Please like and subscribe his social media accounts:

FB Page: Gari Escobar

YouTube: Gari Escobar

Instagram: @gari.escobar

Twitter: @gariescobar

Listen Gari's singles "Baguio", Tama na" and "Masisisi mo ba?" at 102.7 Star FM Manila from Mondays to Saturdays.

These songs are also available at Spotify, iTunes, Amazon Music, Deezer, and all digital platforms worldwide.

SANYA LOPEZ BANNERS NEW EPISODE OF WISH KO LANG!

Sanya Lopez banners the fresh episode of Wish Ko Lang! this Saturday, August 1.

Together with Sue Prado, Allan Paule, and Ayeesha Cervantes, Sanya brings to life the story of Kathleen and Khaycee (Ayeesha)—two sisters from Laurel, Batangas who were struck by lightning during a storm.

Kathleen and Khaycee only wanted to provide for their family especially since their father is slowly losing his vision. To make matters worse, he was retrenched after the lockdown. Their mother tried to make ends meet by making suman that Kathleen and Khyacee sold. But they got short on capital so their mother went to the mountains to get ingredients such as coconuts.

Their mother told them not to join her but Kathleen and Khaycee were worried about her safety and insisted on going with her. It was raining hard and the sisters decided to take shelter inside a hut while their mother continued sourcing for other fruits. Nobody expected what would happen next— lightning struck Kathleen and Khaycee.

Ever since the sisters’ death last July 12, their family has been trying to pick up the pieces and start life anew. Kathleen and Khaycee's dream included getting their father treated, putting up a business for their mother, and sending their two siblings to school. Now, the family wishes they would be able to make Kathleen and Khaycee’s dreams come true.

Sanya shared that she is honored to be part of this heart-warming episode. “I was so excited when I found out na I’ll be part of a new episode of Wish Ko Lang. Lalo na yung story nag dalawang magkapatid na involve sa isang tragic event sa buhay nila. Ang ganda ng story nilang magkapatid.”

As TV production is still limited these days, Sanya says she is grateful how the Wish Ko Lang! team took care of her and her co-actors. “Siyempre ang first challenge dyan is how would you stick sa safety protocols. I was lucky that I was with professional actors and production team kaya everything went smoothly.”

The reenactment portion of Wish Ko Lang! is directed by Rommel Penesa, second unit director of Descendants of the Sun (The Philippine Adaptation). Sanya only has good words about Direk Rommel.

“Direk Rommel has always been my favorite director. Parang tatay ko na ‘yan. Alagang alaga ako n’yan sa set at alaga rin nya mga scenes ko. He’s very good at his craft."

Watch the compelling story of Kathleen and Khaycee this Saturday in Wish Ko Lang! with host Vicky Morales, after Tadhana on GMA-7. 

BEAUTY TIPS YT CHANNEL NI ALICE DIXSON, NAGING HORROR CHANNEL

Ang Youtube channel ni Alice Dixson na supposed to be ay about beauty tips ay naging horror channel nang biglang maglabas siya ng video about urban legend tungkol sa taong-ahas na kamuntik na umano siyang lamunin ng buhay.
Umaabot na sa 343k ang episode na 'to na pinamagatang "Robinsons Galleria, Taong Ahas | Finally... the TRUTH told // Alice Dixson" and still counting at mayroon ding 1,269k comments.
Sa mahigit 100 videos na in-upload ni Alice sa kanyang channel, hindi pa umabot ng 150k views ang isang episode niya sa isang buwan, pero itong palabas niya tungkol sa urban legend ay nakahamig na agad ng 343k sa loob lamang ng isang araw. Tagumpay ang kanyang gimik!
May mensahe pa siya sa lahat ng mga Pilipino tungkol sa kanyang pagbuhay sa isyung ito na tatlong dekada nang nanahimik sa lumang baul.
Mahal kong kababayan...hindi ko gustong buhayin ang chismis; that is the farthest from my intention. Nais ko lang linawin ang mga naganap sa Robinson’s Galleria nun dalaga pa ako.
"I made promise to a dear friend - I said I would tell my side of the story this year at dahil 30 year anniversary na this month, it is NOW time.
Yes, 3 decades na! And I’ve never said a word or explained my side. Kaya if you are one of the many na gusto nyo malaman ang totoo, panoorin nyo itong kwento ko."
Eniwey, nagsimula ang kwentong ito noong dekada 80 sa Robinson's Galleria Department Store. Magso-shoot noon si Alice for the movie at night effect iyon. Nung kailangan niyang mag-change outfit, itinuro raw siya ng production na sa bathroom sa labas ng department store sa 4th floor para doon magbihis.
"Natatandaan ko nga may nag-uusyoso sa labas and for some reason, while I was inside the bathroom, I said, 'Tuklaw! Tuklaw!'
"Now, I don't really know kung bakit ko iyon ginawa. Siguro kasi, I was just being funny? I was trying to get a laugh sa mga kasamahan ko? I was being young and silly.
"And also because iyong time na iyon, iyong kasamahan ko sa pelikulang Dyesebel [1990] na si Richard Gomez, he had a movie that came out called Tuklaw, at uso iyon noon," pagbabalik tanaw ni Alice.
"A few days later, lumabas iyong balita or gossip na kinakagat ako o kinain ako ng malaking sawa sa loob ng mall.
"Lumabas pa ito sa headline ng tabloids and news," sabi pa niya.
May representative raw from Robinson's na gusto siyang kausapin nang lumabas ang mga tsismis pero deadma niya.
"Siguro they wanted to ask me if I made these comments and these accusations, but I dismissed it. I dismissed it and went on with my business.
"However, the news didn't die down."
Ang daming nagtatanong sa kanya, wala raw siyang sinasagot. Nanatili siyang tahimik.
Ang paniwala ng beteranang aktres, nagsimula ang kwento sa mga estudyante.
"Meron kasing Mass Communication curriculum ang isang school, that it had a particular project to disseminate information, to see how far, how convoluted, and how long information could spread.
"And I believe they used this story.
"I know because Mass Communication graduate din ako, and we studied these kinds of case studies."
Marahil ang pananahimik na rin ng aktres sa isyu ang nagpalala lalo ng tsismis at aminado rin siya rito.
Hindi niya sinagot yong tungkol sa trap door, tumakbo siya sa corridor palabas papunta sa hotel, at kesyo binayaran siya ng
850 million para lamang tumahimik at na-cut pa raw iyong pagsasalita niya sa isang TV show when she was trying to explain herself.
Sino ba yung snake-man na sinasabi sa kwento?
Ang tsika, ito raw ay anak ng may-ari ng Robinson's malls na sina John Gokongwei Jr. at Elizabeth Yu-Gokongwei at twin brother umano ni Robina Gokongwei-Pe. Susme!
Natatawa na lang daw si Robina sa kwentong ito. Aniya, ang sinasabing snake-man na kambal nya ay ginawa na nilang handbags at nabenta na 30 years ago pa. Hahaha!

STATEMENT NG FDCP SA AKUSASYON NI CELINE PIALAGO

 

GMA AFFORDABOX, MABENTA AT PATOK SA NETIZENS

Successful ang naging launch ng Kapuso Network ng sarili nitong digital TV receiver – ang GMA Affordabox.

Marami ang natuwa sa kakaibang features ng GMA Affordabox lalo na ang pagkakaroon nito ng personal video recorder kung saan maaari nang ma-record ang mga programa ng GMA.

Sabi sa Facebook comment ni Hermeliza Urbano, “Pedeng-pede mo pang ulit-ulitin mga shows na gustong-gusto mo, irecord mo lang siya. Galing talaga pag GMA ang nagrelease. Love it!”

Binahagi naman ng isa pang netizen na si Pee-Jay Vera kung ano ang nakapagpa-angat sa GMA Affordabox at bumilib sa features nito. "Saka importante, walang broadcast encryption ng signal at makakasagap ng FTA with stable signal."

Sa Twitter naman, sabi sa tweet ni @xmiledatcom, “Parang ang shala ng GMA Affordabox. May pa-recording na gaya sa US.”

Comment naman ng isang YouTuber na si Jayson Abad, “We’re very excited with this product, well researched, most comprehensive, and excellent digital transmitter as the country needs to shift from analog to digital TV. Kudos GMA!”

Five-star rating naman ang binigay ng mga nakabili na ng GMA Affordabox sa online shopping sites at puro positibo ang mga naging review nila.

"This is exactly what I was looking forward to GMA Network! Congratulations and happy 70th anniversary KAPUSO NETWORK. Sobrang linaw, sulit and affordable talaga. No glitches and no interruptions. More power and God bless!" sabi ni marklouie1996 na bumili sa Shopee.

Sa Lazada naman, review ni Crissen J, “Smooth scanning, no blank channels, mas mataas ang strength at quality ng mga channel…Sana magdagdag pa ng digital channels like for anime, music videos, and throwback channel for gma drama, comedy, and old documentaries from gma public affairs..thanks gma store, Lazada and Lex PH for delivery.”

Gaya ng pangalan nito, talagang sulit at abot-kaya ang GMA Affordabox dahil wala na itong dagdag na bayad pa matapos ang one-time purchase na P888.

Madali rin itong maikonekta sa isang analog TV upang makasagap ng digital broadcast kung saan mapapanood ang GMA, GMA News TV, at Heart of Asia nang mas malinaw at mas makulay kasama na rin ang iba pang free-to-air digital TV channels sa kanilang lugar.

Wala ring pay-per-view channels o shows ang GMA Affordabox dahil hindi ito gumagamit ng Conditional Access System (CAS).

Marami pang bonus features ang GMA Affordabox. Maaari rin itong maging multimedia player gamit ang USB port at may nationwide Emergency Warning Broadcast System (EWBS) na nagbibigay-babala sa bawat tahanan para mas maging handa sa anumang klase ng emergency sa kanilang lugar.

Mabibili ang GMA Affordabox sa appliance stores at online sa GMA Store na makikita rin sa Shopee at Lazada. Available ito sa Metro Manila, Benguet, La Union, Pangasinan, Bulacan, Pampanga, Nueva Ecija, Tarlac, Batangas, Cavite, Laguna, Quezon, Rizal, Bohol, Cebu, Leyte, Davao de Oro, Davao del Sur, at Davao del Norte.

Para sa karagdagang detalye, pumunta lang sa website na www.GMAaffordabox.com at official social media accounts ng @GMAaffordabox.

Para naman sa mga katanungan, tumawag lang sa hotline (02) 8857-4627 sa Metro Manila o sa 0961-252-9393 para sa mga outside Metro Manila mula 8AM hanggang 10PM. Maaari ring magpadala ng e-mail sa support@GMAaffordabox.com.

GMA Network's Statement on Actions Taken Upon Report of Positive Covid-19 Employee

GMA immediately took action when an employee informed the Network that she tested positive for COVID-19.

That same night, her permission was secured in compliance with the Data Privacy Act and which she readily gave so contact tracing was done swiftly and thoroughly.  Those who had come into direct contact with the COVID positive co-worker were immediately placed on 14-day quarantine with pay.  They shall also undergo rapid testing.  The work areas were thoroughly disinfected on top of the daily disinfection being done. 

Even if not required by government, GMA has conducted free rapid testing for field personnel and committed to shoulder the cost of the confirmatory RT-PCR test of anyone who tested positive due to exposure in their line of work.

To protect its employees, the Newsroom and other work areas are disinfected daily.  All News workers were given face masks while alcohol dispensers and footbaths were placed in strategic locations.  Social distancing and other safety protocols are mandated.  The work spaces were decongested to comply with this. Those who can were allowed to work from home.

GMA News also came out with COVID-19 coverage guidelines to guide field teams during coverage.  This was formulated following consultations with medical experts and Department of Health officials.  Field teams were also given protective gear such as face masks, face shields, gloves, alcohol, etc. 

When Metro Manila was under enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) GMA provided its workers with meals, both those in the office and in the field. This continued until our canteen was able to reopen to service our personnel. Hazard pay was also given pursuant to the provisions of our collective bargaining agreement (CBA). And with the lack of public transportation, GMA provided shuttle services to its workers which continues to this day.

'NEW NORMAL: THE SURVIVAL GUIDE"

Simula ngayong Lunes (July 20), mapapanuod na ang bagong mukha ng Serbisyong Totoo na handog ng GMA Public Affairs—ang “New Normal: The Survival Guide”— kung saan limang bagong programa ang mapapanuod gabi-gabi sa ganap na 8:30 pm sa GMA News TV.
Makakasama ng viewers mula Lunes hanggang Biyernes ang anim sa award-winning at veteran hosts ng GMA News TV: sina Winnie Monsod, Kara David, Susan Enriquez, Rovilson Fernandez, Tonipet Gaba, at Drew Arellano.
Tuwing Lunes, panuorin si Prof. Winnie Monsod sa “Newsmakers” kung saan hihimayin niya ang mga pinaka kontrobersyal na isyu kasama ang mga newsmakers na makakausap niya sa pamamagitan ng online video conference. Ipapakita rin ni Mareng Winnie kung paano siya gumagamit ng teknolohiya sa new normal—kasama ang pagkasa niya sa TikTok craze!
Good vibes naman ang dala ni Kara David tuwing Martes sa “Bright Side”. Itatampok niya ang mga kuwento ng bayanihan, mga taong nagbabahagi ng kanilang blessings, pati na mga frontliner na patuloy ang pag-alay ng kanilang oras para lang makapaglingkod—mga kuwentong nakakapagpataba ng puso sa gitna ng pandemya.
Tutulungan naman ni Susan Enriquez ang viewers kung paano makakapagtipid sa “Pera Paraan” tuwing Miyerkules. Ibabahagi ni Susan ang practical tips sa paghawak ng pera, pagkakaroon ng ekstrang pagkakakitaan, at kung paano magiging successful sa isang work-from-home environment. Itatampok rin sa “Pera Paraan” ang mga maliliit na negosyong naging patok pagkatapos ipatupad ang Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ).
Ang tandem naman nina Tonipet Gaba at Rovilson Fernandez ang makakasama tuwing Huwebes sa "Home Work." Tiyak na makaka-relate ang mga viewer na for the first time ay nasa bahay 24/7. Bukod sa life hacks sa panahon ng ‘new normal,’ ie-explore rin nina Tonipet at Rovilson hindi lang ang quarantine life kundi pati na rin ang kani-kanilang bahay upang bigyan ng ideas ang viewers kung ano pa ang pwede nilang magamit sa kanilang sariling mga kabahayan.
Extra fun naman ang Biyernes para sa pamilya kasama si Drew Arellano sa “Family Time”. Ipapakita ni Drew ang kanyang pagiging isang dad at family man, at ibabahagi ang kanyang journey bilang isang magulang sa gitna ng new normal. Bibigyang-diin din ng programa ang kahalagahan ng pamilya at relationship lalo na sa ngayon.
Panuorin ang bagong mukha ng Serbisyong Totoo sa “New Normal: The Survival Guide”, Lunes hanggang Biyernes, 8:30 pm pagkatapos ng 24 Oras simulcast sa GMA News TV.

GMA AFFORDABOX GETS RAVE REVIEWS, SET TO EXCEED SALES PROJECTION

GMA Network’s Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) receiver GMA Affordabox was well-received by the public and garnered significant demand from the market following its successful launch last June 26.
The GMA Affordabox is the Kapuso Network’s 70th anniversary offering to Filipinos -- enabling millions of households to access high-quality and affordable digital TV, bolstering the country’s transition from analog to digital TV viewing.
Customers and netizens shared their thoughts about the latest Kapuso offering as many were impressed by its quality and unique features, particularly the personal video recorder.
On Facebook, Hermeliza Urbano commented, “Pedeng-pede mo pang ulit-ulitin mga shows na gustong-gusto mo, irecord mo lang siya. Galing talaga pag GMA ang nagrelease. Love it!” (Now you can definitely re-watch the shows that you really like as many times as you can by just recording them. GMA’s releases are indeed excellent. Love it!)
Another netizen Pee-Jay Vera also shared what sets GMA Affordabox apart specs-wise and appreciated its features. "Saka importante, walang broadcast encryption ng signal at makakasagap ng FTA with stable signal," he added.
Twitter user @xmiledatcom tweeted, “Parang ang shala ng GMA Affordabox. May pa-recording na gaya sa US.” (The GMA Affordabox seems classy. They now have a recording feature just like in the US.)
On YouTube, Jayson Abad commented “We’re very excited with this product, well researched, most comprehensive, and excellent digital transmitter as the country needs to shift from analog to digital TV. Kudos GMA!”
GMA Affordabox buyers from online shopping platforms likewise rated it five-stars and wrote great reviews. 
"This is exactly what I was looking forward to GMA Network! Congratulations and happy 70th anniversary KAPUSO NETWORK. Sobrang linaw, sulit and affordable talaga. No glitches and no interruptions. More power and God bless!" user marklouie1996 wrote about the unit he got via Shopee.
On the other hand, user Crissen J reviewed the GMA Affordabox she got via Lazada. “Smooth scanning, no blank channels, mas mataas ang strength at quality ng mga channel (the strength and quality of the channels are higher)...Sana magdagdag pa ng digital channels (hopefully more digital channels will be added) like for anime, music videos, and throwback channel for gma drama, comedy, and old documentaries from gma public affairs..thanks gma store, Lazada and Lex PH for delivery.”
GMA Affordabox stays true to its name as users need not worry for any additional charges after the one-time purchase of P888. The plug-and-play device can easily be connected to an analog TV to receive digital television broadcast where users can watch GMA, GMA News TV, and Heart of Asia in digital display, as well as all other free-to-air digital TV channels available in their area. It does not have pay-per view channels or shows as GMA Affordabox does not use Conditional Access System (CAS).
In addition to its personal video recorder feature, the device can also become a multimedia player through its USB port. It also has a nationwide Emergency Warning Broadcast System (EWBS) that receives alerts from the NDRRMC about any calamity warnings in their area as well as a functional auto-on alert feature.
Gaining higher demand as a result of numerous good reviews, GMA Affordabox’s sales are now set to exceed the Network’s initial projection of 600,000 units. 
GMA Affordabox is available in appliance stores and online via the GMA Store on Shopee and Lazada. It is for sale in the following areas: Metro Manila, Benguet, La Union, Pangasinan, Bulacan, Pampanga, Nueva Ecija, Tarlac, Batangas, Cavite, Laguna, Quezon, Rizal, Bohol, Cebu, Leyte, Davao de Oro, Davao del Sur, and Davao del Norte.
For more details, visit www.GMAaffordabox.com and its official social media accounts via the handle @GMAaffordabox. For inquiries, contact the hotline (02) 8857-4627 within Metro Manila from 8AM to 10PM or 0961-252-9393 for outside Metro Manila, or e-mail support@GMAaffordabox.com.

AKTOR-POLITIKO, NASA ILALIM NG ITIM NA KAPANGYARIHAN NG SUGAR MOMMY

Parang gustong paniwalaan nitong maganda at seksing dating misis ng actor-politician na kaya nilayasan silang magi-ina ng huli ay dahil sa mensaheng natanggap niya mula sa isang netizen na diumano'y ginamitan ng itim na kapangyarihan ang kanyang ex-partner ng kulakudidang nitong sugar mommy. 
"May netizen kasi na nag-message sa akin recently telling me na he knows what has been done to_______(pangalan ng aktor ) kaya sya nagkaganyan," bungad ng kausap namin. Ito raw marahil ang dahilan nang biglang pagbabago ng mister niyang aktor-politiko na dati nama'y super bait at mahal na mahal sila.
"Apparently this person has a firsthand encounter with the most powerful cult here in the Philippines and according to him, the sugar mommy is a very active member of such cult and________ was put under an evil spell."
Ito rin ang dahilan kaya hindi na nakawala pa ang aktor sa kanyang sugar mommy na nagbibigay sa kanya ngayon ng kanyang mga pangangailangan.
"Totoong madaming biglang pagbabago si____________ na ayon sa mesteryosong netizen ay dahil nga sa spell. Napaka sweet ni __________sa akin at masyadong mapagpamper at spoil sa akin. Lahat ng naiisip nyang magugustuhan ko binibigay kahit hindi ko hinihingi," ayon pa sa mabait na misis.
Hindi raw natitiis ni aktor na mawala sila sa kanyang tabi. Kaya kahit saan ito magpunta ay laging tumatawag o umuuwi agad sa kanila kahit pa taga-Quezon city sila at ang aktor naman ay nakatira at nagseserbisyo bilang politiko sa bandang south ng Metro Manila.
"Malambing at hindi nya noon matiis na malayo sa aming mag-ina. Never sya naging madamot pagdating sa pera na lubos na nakagugulat dahil lahat naging kabaliktaran nga ngayon na tumatama sa mga sinabi ng netizen.
"Sabi ko, nakakaawa naman ang asawa ko kung totoo na ganyan nga ang ginawa sa kanya. Pero ang logical explanation ko lang sa lahat ng nangyari, nabibigay lahat ng sugar mommy nya ang luho nya na hindi namin mauna noon dahil inuuna namin ang anak namin. At ngayon Mas pinili na lang nyang unahin ang pansariling comfort at enjoyment kesa makasama kaming pamilya nya na sinabi nya noon na mahal na mahal nya hindi nya iiwan. Ipagdadasal ko na lang sya dahil alam ko na kahit ano pa mangyari, Si God pa rin ang pinakamakapangyarihan sa lahat," pagtatapos ng katsikahan naming misis.
Pero teka, medyo maluwag yata ang sugar mommy dahil nagawa pa ng aktor na balikan ang dating girlfriend na seksing aktres at kumuha pa sila ng sariling lovenest na magiging tagpuan nila.
So, hindi totoo ang tsismis na nagli-live in silang dalawa dahil hindi papayag si 'mommy'. Susme!