Xian Lim sends flowers to Bea Binene

Xian Lim sends flowers to Bea Binene

Xian Lim has sent a bouquet of flowers to young actress Bea Binene to apologize for controversially mentioning her name to refer to an impersonator of Kim Chiu during a recent episode of "Banana Nite."

Binene took to Instagram Tuesday to share a photo of the flowers with the caption: "I was surprised when I saw this when I got home. Thank you, [Xian Lim]! You don't need to give me these, but still, you did. God bless you!"

The photo, which had 2,700 likes as of writing, also showed a letter signed by Lim. It reads: "Hi Bea! I just want to apologize for what happened nung Chinese New Year. I want you to know na I didn't mean it as an insult nung binanggit ko pangalan mo. Thanks for understanding, and sorry for everything!"

Lim has also apologized to Charmae Viking, the former "Kalokalike" contestant known for her impersonation of Chiu.

The "Ikaw Lamang" actress, Lim's frequent onscreen partner, earlier said the actor was deeply affected by the criticisms he received over the incident involving Viking.

"Sobra siyang malungkot, hindi mo siya makausap," Chiu said last week, referring to Lim. "As in hindi siya kumakain, hindi siya nagpapagupit ng hair, ayaw niya."

During the January 31 episode of "Banana Nite," Lim repeatedly referred to Viking as Binene when she emerged on stage as a surprise performer. The actor was also seen to be evasive when interacting with the former "It's Showtime" contestant.

The show's director, Bobot Mortiz, admitted that neither Lim nor Viking was properly briefed about performing together, citing this as the reason for the apparent awkwardness on stage.

Prior to Lim's apology to her, Binene had already said on Twitter that she was not offended by the actor's remark.

"I don't take that personally," she said in a post on February 2. "I have nothing against the both of them. I even wanna thank Xian for mentioning my name. To the Kalokalike, you are pretty too and I'm happy na kahawig daw kita. Thank you."

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Why Toni Gonzaga says no to sex before marriage

Why Toni Gonzaga says no to sex before marriage

Toni Gonzaga, who has been open about plans to settle down with long-time boyfriend Paul Soriano, said sex should wait until after she gets married.

The 30-year-old actress got candid on the topic during a live interview on "Aquino and Abunda Tonight" on Wednesday.

She said there have been instances when it proved difficult to stick to her decision.

"Sobrang hirap, sobrang hirap panindigan. Honest lang talaga ako! Mahirap talaga panindigan. Hindi naman ako magsasabi ng napakabanal ko," she said.

Gonzaga shared that she never sleeps in the same room as Soriano during trips out of town, citing this as a way of "avoiding temptation," as advised by her mom.

"You do not put yourself in that kind of situation and temptation," she said.

"Nakakaloka 'yung mommy ko, pag nanonood kami (Soriano) ng sine, out of the blue, makakakuha kami ng text na, 'Please stay away from temptation.' Ano ba 'yung mommy ko? Loka-loka rin talaga si Mommy Pinty! So bago ka pa man din magbalak, soplak ka na kay Mommy Pinty!"

Asked if she is concerned that she and Soriano may not be sexually compatible once they get married, Gonzaga was quick with an answer.

"Ako kasi, ang paniniwala ko, atsaka kung paano rin ako pinalaki, I think that love should be greater than your lust for each other," she said.

"Naniniwala ako that love should be unconditional. Hindi porke alam mo ang isang tao, dapat ang kundisyon mo, 'Dapat sexually compatible tayo.' I think that love should be the strong foundation of the marriage, and I think that the trust and the commitment that you want to stay together in the marriage [weigh more]."

The "Starting Over Again" star, who had her first-ever love scene in the film that opened Wednesday, added she would be willing to "study" sex in order to improve on it, if needed.

"Ang bagay na 'yan, napagtatrabahuhan 'yan," she said, laughing. "May mga libro, may mga seminar! Naku, a-attend ako kung kinakailangan! Gagawin ko lahat 'yan!"

Noting there will eventually be challenges in a marriage, Gonzaga said, "At the end of it all, love really does conquer all. Iko-conquer lahat ng love 'yan. If your love is stronger than your lust for each other, there's nothing you can't surpass."

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What's next for Kathryn and Daniel?

What's next for Kathryn and Daniel?

Fans of the popular love team of Daniel Padilla and Kathryn Bernardo will be able to see their idols for three more years on ABS-CBN after the two teen stars signed a new contract with the network on Thursday afternoon.

Padilla and Bernardo, who currently star in the hit primetime series "Got To Believe," will next team up on the movie version of the teen novel "She's Dating The Gangster" written by Bianca Bernardino.

This will be their follow-up movie to the hit Metro Manila Film Festival entry, "Pagpag."

Bernardo admitted that she first learned about the movie project on the micro-blogging site Twitter.

"'Di ko alam na yun ang gagawin namin," she said. "Wala pang story con and everything. May book na ibinigay pero hindi ko pa nababasa," she said.

Padilla vowed to do justice to the popular book about a 17-year-old girl who pretends to be the girlfriend of a bad boy to make his ex jealous.

"Thank you naman doon sa writer at kami nakita niya para sa nagawa niyang character. So gagalingan namin para sa kanya," Padilla said.
Kathryn prepares for debut

In the interview, Bernardo also revealed that they are now starting preparations for her upcoming 18th birthday party.

"Actually nag-attend ako ng meeting before going to the premiere night (of 'Sa Ngalan ng Ama, Ina at Mga Anak') so medyo marami pang trabahong kailangang gawin," she said.

One thing's for sure is that Padilla will be part of her debut. "Siyempre pupunta din si DJ," Bernardo said.

She said her only request is to be with her family and friends on her special day.

"Gusto ko maging hindi typical na debut na masyadong mahaba ang program. Gusto ko enjoy lang talaga lahat ng pupunta," she said.

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Angelica and Gerald will team up in drama film for the first time

Angelica and Gerald will team up in drama film for the first time

Prized ABS-CBN talents Angelica Panganiban and Gerald Anderson will co-star for the first time in a drama film that promises an "adult and restrained" take on romance on the big screen.

The untitled project, helmed by director Ruel Bayani ("No Other Woman," "One More Try"), was announced Friday by producer Star Cinema in a story conference attended by both lead stars.

No other cast members have been announced for the film, which is slated for release within the year. The first day of filming, according to Bayani, will start on Monday.

"It's a departure from my past two successful movies," the director told ABS-CBNnews.com, when asked to explain what he referred to as a "quiet" treatment to this upcoming film.

Bayani's last two directorial outings on the big screen were "No Other Woman" in 2011 and "One More Try" in 2012, both acclaimed films he described as "high-strung" and having "big, explosive melodrama."

"Mas quiet ito kaysa doon sa dalawang una kong pelikula," he said. "It's something na 'di expected of me, that's why mas challenging for the three of us (Anderson, Panganiban), mas challenging for me. Kasi 'yung pag-ho-hold back or pag-re-restrain, hindi siya madali."

"At the same time, [we want to keep] it cinematic, engaging, emotional, compelling. Napakahirap na itimpla no'n... [To me, this is a challenge to make a film that is] sexy, mature, quiet, and restrained. Iba 'yung gano'n, eh. Pag hinuhuli mo 'yung porma, hindi mo agad mapi-pinpoint, at 'yun ang challenge para sa'kin doon," he said.

Adult take

While Bayani refused to discuss the story, as well as the characters portrayed by Panganiban and Anderson, he offered that the movie will feature "a story of great love."

"It's not the easy kind of love. You'd say it's a mature kind of love, a different kind of love that will obviously appeal to a more mature audience," he said.
Asked if the film will show intimate scenes, Bayani said, "Yes, because when you talk about passion, when you talk about mature love, hindi naman maiiwasan 'yon."

"Of course anything mature, nando'n yan sa territory na may sex scenes," he added. "Kasi you're not young and confused anymore. Iba pag 'yung mature ka na. It's adult, I can say that. It's an adult kind of love story, adult kind of drama."

Panganiban and Anderson answered similarly when asked how they feel about doing intimate scenes for the movie, considering their respective high-profile relationships -- her with actor John Lloyd Cruz, and him with actress Maja Salvador.

"I'm just doing my job... And I have the convenience na the person I'm in a relationship with is also an actor, so nagkakaintindihan po kami," Anderson said.

"Once in character ka, ibang usapan na 'yon," Panganiban added.

Fresh team-up

While they have no qualms about being intimate on-screen, both stars admitted being only acquainted through their respective real-life partners, who were previously film co-stars.

Anderson said he is looking forward to learning from the 27-year-old Panganiban, whose career as an actress spans over two decades. "First time ko rin makakasama si Angelica, at tama si Direk (Bayani), si Angelica, wala siyang hindi kayang gawin. I would love to learn from her."

"I'm sure magiging madali rin kasama si Gerald," Panganiban said. "Kumbaga kino-consider ko na kami talaga mga paborito ni Direk Ruel. 'Diba, kung gusto niya si Gerald, at gusto niya ako, I'm sure meron kaming something in common."

Explaining he personally picked Anderson and Panganiban to star in the film, Bayani expressed confidence that both actors will do justice to their new roles.

He previously worked with Anderson in "Paano Na Kaya" in 2010, and "Budoy" in 2011; and more recently with Panganiban in "One More Try," which won Best Picture in the 2012 Metro Manila Film Festival.

"You see, this is not a rom-com. This is a drama movie. At kailangan sa drama ang mga artistang marunong mag-inhabit ng role, or pumasok sa mga masisilimuot na karakter na hindi natin madalas napapanood sa pelikula. And Angelica and Gerald are two actors na pinagkakatiwalaan at tinatayaan ng kumpanya pagdating sa gano'ng klaseng hamon," he said.

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Enchong and Erich reunite in 'Once A Princess' movie

Enchong and Erich reunite in 'Once A Princess' movie

Enchong Dee and Erich Gonzales are set to reunite on the big screen in the upcoming romantic-drama “Once A Princess,” a movie adaptation of the best-selling Precious Hearts Romances book.

In an interview with ABS-CBN News on Tuesday, Dee said he is elated to be paired with Gonzales again three years after they last teamed up in the movie "I Do."

“The last time I did a romantic film was also with Erich, yung 'I Do.' So ang tagal na rin kasi lahat ng pelikula ko either barkada film, family film, comedy film. Now it's time for me to do a romantic film again so it's exciting,” he said.
Dee said he will be playing the role of the class geek who will eventually turn out to be a successful scientist.

“Ako si Leonard. He's a scientist. Matalino kasi siya so outcast siya. As he grows older, naging mayaman siya kasi scientist siya eh,” he said.

Gonzales, on the other hand, will take on the role of a “princess,” who played around with Leonard's heart when they were younger.

"Once A Princess" is directed by the award-winning Laurice Guillen.

“Naku dapat attentive ka. Dapat tutok ka sa ginagawa mo because ganun siya eh. She’s focused on what she’s doing,” he said of Guillen, whose previous works include the ensemble drama "Tanging Yaman" and "I Love You, Goodbye."
But Dee is confident that he and Gonzales will be able to deliver since they have grown individually as actors since
"I Do."

“Buti na lang binigay din ng management sa amin 'yung chance na mag-grow … [Between me and Erich], it's really the friendship [that makes our love team works]. Walang halong showbiz. Whatever we've been through, away, bati, okay kami,” he said.

A production of Star Cinema and Skylight Films, “Once A Princess” is set to hit theaters in mid-March.

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Coco Martin and Sarah Geronimo team up in drama film

Coco Martin and Sarah Geronimo team up in drama film

Prized ABS-CBN talents Coco Martin and Sarah Geronimo will co-star in a drama film produced by Star Cinema, the actors confirmed Thursday, marking the second time they will be paired onscreen after the TV musical "1DOL."

The project, directed by Jerry Sineneng ("Walang Hanggan," "Imortal"), will start filming this month, according to Geronimo.

While the actress refused to divulge the film's story, co-star Ruffa Gutierrez offered that she will portray a public relations executive who will mentor Geronimo's character.

"Challenge 'to kasi hindi siya 'yung genre na ginagawa ko before na rom-com," Geronimo told reporters shortly after a story conference for the project. "Light drama na po ito, pero siyempre, love story pa rin. Mas drama po ito."

Geronimo's most recent movies were the "A Very Special Love" trilogy co-starring John Lloyd Cruz, whose entries all rank among the 10 highest grossing films in the Philippines.

Martin, who has earned international recognition for his roles in several independent films, admitted he feels apprehensive about being paired with Geronimo anew, noting she comes from "the mainstream world" and that her last three movies were massive box-office successes.

"Natatakot!" Martin said, laughing, when asked what his initial reaction was when the project was offered to him. "Siyempre pag sinabi mong Sarah Geronimo, mataas ang expectation ng mga tao."

"Ako naman kasi, sanay ako sa mga indie. Kumbaga, ito 'yung nakasanayan kong mundo. At ngayon, papasok ako sa mundo ng mainstream at si Sarah Geronimo pa 'yung makakasama ko. Honestly, napakalaking pressure po para sa akin!"

The actress is similarly "pressured" by the prospect of sharing the big screen with Martin, saying she is far less experienced in acting compared to her leading man.

"Kilala si Coco bilang magaling talaga na aktor ng generation na 'to. So kung anuman 'yung pinagtrabahuhan namin sa '1DOL,' may pressure na rin sa akin nung time na 'yun, e, kasi anggaling-galing niya talaga. So dapat talaga sa pagakakataon na ito, makahabol talaga ako sa kanya.

"Siyempre alam naman ng mga tao 'yung experience ko as an actor at 'yung experience niya as an actor, talagang ang layo, 'diba po? So sana mapagtrabahuhan ko talaga nang husto," she said.

The title and other cast members of the film have yet to be announced. It is expected to be released in 2014, as part of the continuing celebration of Star Cinema's 20th anniversary.

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Roy Alvarez died on Tuesday due to cardiac arrest

Roy Alvarez died on Tuesday due to cardiac arrest

Veteran actor Roy Alvarez died on Tuesday due to cardiac arrest. He was 63.

Alvarez is survived by his wife, Nieves Campa-Alvarez, and daughter, Miren Alvarez, who confirmed the actor's passing with ABS-CBN News.

TV co-stars Maricar de Mesa and Gina Alajar were among the first to share the news on Twitter on Tuesday night, expressing condolences to the family of Alvarez.

Alvarez, whose career spans over 40 years, starred in several TV series, including ABS-CBN's "Juanita Banana" in 2010 and "Guns N' Roses" in 2011.

His last TV project was GMA-7's "Villa Quintana," which is still ongoing.

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Actor Roy Alvarez Died at 63 due to Cardiac Arrest

Actor Roy Alvarez Died at 63 due to Cardiac Arrest

Febuary 11, 2014,  Veteran actor Roy Alvarez died on Tuesday due cardiac arrest. He was 63.

Alvarez is survived by his wife, Nieves Campa-Alvarez, and daughter, Miren Alvarez, who confirmed the actor's passing with ABS-CBN News.

TV co-stars Maricar de Mesa and Gina Alajar were among the first to share the news on Twitter on Tuesday night, expressing condolences to the family of Alvarez.


Just received a really sad sad news. RIP Tito Roy Alvarez aka Don Manolo Quintana. @villaquintana7

— Maricar de mesa (@msMaricarDemesa) February 11, 2014


With sadness and grief, my heartfelt sympathies to the family of Mr Roy Alvarez, a good actor, a friend and a great person. I will miss you.

— Gina Alajar (@ginalajar28) February 11, 2014

Alvarez, whose career spans over 40 years, starred in several TV series, including ABS-CBN's "Juanita Banana" in 2010 and "Guns N' Roses" in 2011.

His last TV project was GMA-7's "Villa Quintana," which is still ongoing.
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Iza Calzado shares weight loss journey

Iza Calzado shares weight loss journey

Iza Calzado seems the perfect fit to host the reality show “The Biggest Loser Pinoy Edition: Doubles,” with the actress experiencing first-hand how it feels to be obese and going through the process of losing all those unwanted pounds.

In an interview on the ANC program “Headstart” on Monday, Calzado opened up about her weight-loss journey, recalling how she was bullied and teased as a child.

“It’s difficult because growing up, you get teased by boys. Girls are a little nicer, but boys can be tough and rough,” she said.

“When I got older pa, you know, the street kids were calling me ‘baboy.’ I had that experience na I wanted to die [because of the embarrassment], na sana kainin na lang ako ng lupa ngayon na. Gusto mo nang umiyak pero siyempre, ayaw mong magpatalo,” she added.

All those name-calling, Calzado said, caused a “pileup of insecurities even if I was a happy or a positive person,” which led to more binge eating.

“You just turn to food. Parang you want to lose weight but then it’s so difficult, so kakain na lang ako. It’s the only thing you know, so you just keep eating,” she said. “I was a junk food girl… everything was processed.”

Starvation diets, pills, surgery

It was during high school when Calzado became more conscious about losing weight, with the actress turning to extreme measures such as starvation diets to remove the excess pounds.

“Mahilig ako sa boys kaya lang type nila ako as a friend. Tuwang-tuwa sila sa akin as a friend. I wanted to win them over pero hindi ako ‘yung nagugustuhan nila. Or kung may nagkagusto, they then back off. So you think either pinagtripan lang or they realized… nabagok ‘yung ulo or something,” she said.

“So I started starving myself. The first part of my journey was really bad. I started from three sandwiches a day to one. Then I started eating… three packs of crackers a day, to two and then to one. There was this time when I was eating one packet of crackers a day and I was just drinking water. Several times, I almost collapsed in school.

“So please, I have to remind everybody to not do this because I had to learn it the hard way, that I was ruining my body in the process. I was 16 at that time… I lost about 80 pounds in a year.”

Realizing that starvation diets are not a good idea, Calzado then turned to other “shortcuts” such as weight loss pills.

“I think I took Ionamine… mga two weeks ‘yun,” she recalled. “Noong college ako, kain na naman ako so I gained 20, 30 pounds. Nag-yoyo ako so I took Bangkok pills and all those things. Desperate measures, ‘di ba?”

Things got worse for her, she said, when she joined show business, citing the pressures usually associated with the industry.

“I tried those fat burners, everything I could get my hands on na shortcut… I would binge, starve, binge, starve just to maintain the weight. I was exercising pero maling-mali pa rin lahat,” she said.

Eventually, Calzado resorted to cosmetic surgery, something that she is not very proud of.

“There was this role I was supposed to do so they said I had to do this and that. So I did cosmetic surgery… Eh parang tumaba pa ako after.

“And then another cosmetic surgery, so parang sabi ko, ‘enough.’ I had lipo in 2006 and then by 2008, chubby na naman ako because I was just drinking, kain nang kain. Parang sabi ko, nakakapagod na ‘to. You know what, I might die,” she said.

When asked why she opened up about undergoing cosmetic surgery, which celebrities usually deny in interviews, Calzado said: “I’m telling you my story, it can’t be incomplete. I have to tell you that I did this, I did that. I made mistakes, I made wrong decisions for myself. I suffered the consequences of that but I had to stand up and keep my head up high.”

Proper diet, exercise

After learning the hard way that there is no shortcut to a fit and healthy body, Calzado then tried doing regular exercises and having a well-balanced diet.

And the rest, she said, is history.

“I met a guy whose family is very into health and fitness also, and they inspired me. I started working out a lot and I got into running and I started choosing healthier alternatives,” she said.

“I’m always active, I try to work out whenever I can. And the food choices are healthier. Once in a while I will cheat, of course,” she added.

So far, Calzado has tried swimming, yoga, crossfit and 360 fitness, among others. The actress-host said she is planning to join an aquathlon soon.

While she has achieved the body she has always dreamed of, Calzado admitted that she still has bouts of insecurity once in a while.

“I still have my insecurities sometimes. You know, I work out so much and I still don’t have the body of Anne Curtis. It’s not fair,” she said in jest.

Meanwhile, Calzado hopes to inspire more people through “The Biggest Loser,” where 14 pairs will embark on a journey to fitness.

The show will premiere tonight after “The Legal Wife” as part of ABS-CBN’s primetime block.

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'Bride For Rent' surpasses P300-million mark

'Bride For Rent' surpasses P300-million mark

The second big screen team-up of Kim Chiu and Xian Lim continued its strong showing at the box office as it surpassed the P300-million mark in terms of ticket sales.

The figure was announced by Mico del Rosario of Star Cinema, which produced the movie “Bride For Rent.”

Chiu also took to the image-sharing site Instagram to thank everyone who has watched the film.

“good morning friends, romans, countrymen!!!!!! WOW!!!!! a GGGOOOOODDDDD MORNING indeed! maraming maraming 1,000,000,000x salamat po sa supporta nyo sa bride for rent!!!!:) unbelievable! overwhelming! basta lahat na! salamat po sa inyong lahat!!!:) #thankyoupapaGOD,” she said.

Chiu also mentioned that the movie is now showing in selected theaters in the United States and Canada.

Meanwhile, movie director Mae Cruz also took to Instagram to express how grateful she is for the success of “Bride For Rent.”

“Feeling so blessed! Thank you God!!! And thank you to all the wonderful people you chose to be part of #brideforrent! thank you too to all who watched and will watch the movie,” she said.

Aside from Chiu and Lim, the movie also features Pilita Corrales, Tirso Cruz III, Dennis Padilla, Matt Evans, Martin del Rosario and Empoy.

The film centers on Rocky (Chiu), whose frantic search for a job leads her to an audition called by Rocco (Lim), who is looking for a woman to pretend to be his wife, in the hope of accessing his trust fund.

With the burden of preventing her family's eviction from their rented home, Rocky takes up the role which soon developsinto a long-term act.

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Vhong Navarro beaten up and threatened inside Fort condo

Vhong Navarro beaten up and threatened inside Fort condo

"It's Showtime" co-host Vhong Navarro is currently recovering after he was allegedly tied up and attacked by a group of men inside a condominium unit in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig on Wednesday (Jan. 22), according to his manager.

In a statement given to ABS-CBN News on Friday, Navarro's manager, film director Chito Rono, said the comedian was invited by a female friend to visit her in her condominium unit.

Several men allegedly blindfolded Navarro and beat him up when he got in the premises of the condominium.

Rono said Navarro was also threatened and was a victim of extortion, adding they have yet to find out the reason behind the attack.

According to the film director, Navarro will temporarily not be seen on "It's Showtime," which airs weekdays and Saturdays, and on his other television projects, as he continues to recover.

Navarro was absent from the noontime program on Thursday and Friday.

Speaking with ABS-CBN News, Rono added Navarro may undergo an operation due to his injuries. He said Navarro is unable to detail the incident as he cannot speak properly.

The 37-year-old actor is known to have a non-showbiz girlfriend, and has two sons from his previous relationships.

Here is Rono's full statement:

"Si Vhong Navarro ay naimbitahan sa isang condominium unit sa Fort ng isang kaibigang babae. At sa di pa malamang kadahilanan, siya ay piniringan, pinagtulungang bugbugin, ginapos, tinakot, at hinihingan ng pera ng isang grupo ng kalalakihan noong January 22, Miyerkules.

"Si Vhong ay kasalukuyang nagpapagaling at mawawala ng pansamantala sa 'It's Showtime' at iba pa niyang proyekto."

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Paulo Avelino confirms dating KC Concepcion

Paulo Avelino confirms dating KC Concepcion

MANILA – Actor Paulo Avelino took viewers of "Buzz ng Bayan" by surprise when he revealed that he is currently dating actress KC Concepcion.

Although he was initially hesitant to open up about his private life, Avelino nonetheless confirmed on national television that he and Concepcion are friends and that he likes the actress.

“Yes [we are friends]. Yes [I like her], we are dating. I just want to keep things private,” he said in a sit-down interview with “Buzz ng Bayan” on Sunday.

Asked how long have they known each other, Avelino said: “Matagal na kaming magkakilala. First work ko here sa ABS, ‘MMK’ with her. That was two years ago.”

Because of his admission, Avelino topped the local trending topics of Twitter as netizens expressed their surprise with the actor's revelation.

The “Honesto” actor added that he did not get jealous when Concepcion went out on a group date with NBA cager Chandler Parsons.

“Me as a person, hindi rin talaga ako seloso. I try to think about things first before I really say anything or just bring it out,” he said.

Furthermore, Avelino noted that it was Concepcion herself who said that she and the American athlete are just friends.

“Nasabi naman niya yung totoo, [na they are friends] so wala naman siguro problema,” he said.

Son with LJ

Meanwhile, Avelino opened up about his son with former girlfriend, actress LJ Reyes.

It was only recently when Avelino confirmed in a press conference that he and Reyes have already ended up their relationship although they continue to remain friends for their son.

“I want to protect the privacy of my son. I want him to have a simple life, a normal life. Kapag may sarili na siyang isip and sabihin niya na gusto niyang mag-showbiz or magtanong siya, choice niya na rin iyon,” he said.

Avelino said he treasures being a father and that he spends all his free time with his son.

“Kapag wala po akong trabaho, I don’t really think of it as my responsibilities as a dad. Siyempre kapag mahal mo ang anak mo, ginagawa mo na lang iyon kasi gusto mo makita anak mo, gusto mo siya makitang masaya, gusto mo siyang turuan ng values,” he explained.

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Andrei Felix breaks silence on breakup with Venus

Andrei Felix breaks silence on breakup with Venus

MANILA – For the first time, Andrei Felix spoke up about his breakup with 2010 Miss Universe fourth runner-up Venus Raj.

Raj confirmed their breakup last May without disclosing any details, only saying that their separation happened over the phone.

Speaking on “Buzz ng Bayan” where he was one of the guests on Sunday, Felix said he was initially confused as to why their relationship had to end.

“Hindi ko talaga alam. Hindi klaro. Nirerespeto ko 'yung mga dahilan niya, 'yung mga sinabi niya. She has her reasons,” he said.

In hindsight, Felix said he now understands that Raj just didn’t want her values, her family and her faith to be compromised.

“Noong time na iyon, hindi ko talaga maintindihan. It wasn’t clear but I understand,” he said.

Raj and Felix met as co-hosts of the ABS-CBN morning show “Umagang Kay Ganda” in 2011. In March last year, Raj admitted she was in a relationship with Felix.

In a previous interview, Raj slammed any chance for her and Felix to get back together, saying she regrets entering into a relationship with the TV host, which caused a rift in her family.

“Marami kasing taong nasaktan eh. Maraming taong nadamay, especially ‘yung pamilya ko. Umabot kami sa point na nag-away-away kaming magkakatapid. Umabot sa point na pinapapili ako ng mga kapatid ko kung sila or siya. Mas pinili ko siya. Hindi kami nag-usap ng mga kapatid ko for a few months. Na-miss ko ang pamilya ko doon,” she had said, without citing the reason behind the rift.

Realizing that she wants to return to her family, Raj decided to break up with Felix, ending their one-year relationship.

Felix, meanwhile, said he tried to fight for their relationship back then but he was not successful.

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Nikki Gil on split with Billy: 'I was a wreck, nadurog ako'

Nikki Gil on split with Billy: 'I was a wreck, nadurog ako'

Actress on ex-boyfriend Billy: We can't be friends

MANILA -- "Durog ka pa rin, durog pa rin ang pagkatao mo."

These were Nikki Gil's words in describing the heartbreak of separating from her boyfriend of five years, Billy Crawford, in her first interview addressing the controversial break-up at length.

The 26-year-old actress-singer was speaking with ABS-CBN News' Mario Dumaual shortly after a press conference held Wednesday launching her as the new endorser of clothing line Maldita.

Gil, earlier in the media gathering, referred to herself as a "wreck" as she recalled the time immediately after the split.

Asked to expound on this, Gil told ABS-CBN News, "I would always say I can only really discuss my story, what I went through as a person. Of course a lot of girls can relate to it."

"Talagang at some point, I was [a wreck]. Because it's still five years, it's still a heartbreak. Durog ka parin, durog pa rin ang pagkatao mo," she said.

"Pero the challenge there," Gil emphasized, "is how fast you can pick yourself up and walk away."

Gil and Crawford started what would become an almost five-year relationship when they co-hosted the talent search "Pinoy Dream Academy" in 2008.

An emotional Crawford confirmed their separation on July 28 this year in a televised interview. He declined to reveal the reason behind the split, but said "it all boils down to me."

Explaining why she has managed to move on easily, Gil said, "Sabi nila, 'When you know what you deserve, you don't look back.'"

While already past the heartbreak, Gil nonetheless said she would prefer not to be friends with Crawford at this time. The two are frequently within each other's vicinity, as they are both mainstays on ABS-CBN programs.

"I'm not rude, you know," Gil said. "I can be civil. But I also don't want to be fake. I'm a very real person. I don't like lying. Instead of lying to press, I won't say anything nalang."

"If your question is if we can be friends or not, parang not now. Parang no. I'm just being real. You know, I... I can't. Not now, at least," she said.

On Coleen, Andi

On the topic of Crawford's "It's Showtime" co-host Coleen Garcia, who has denied any romantic ties with the singer-host, Gil had a quick answer.

"That's really none of my business," Gil said. "I have nothing to do with that. Everyone has their story to tell. I can just talk about what I went through, and that's really none of my business anymore."

Gil was also asked about her ties with actress Andi Eigenmann, who, at one point, emotionally denied being involved in the break-up.

"I bumped into Andi one time and I said hi. I'm an educated person, you know. I will not be rude like that," Gil said.

As to whether she is ready to hear of Crawford being in a new relationship, Gil maintained she has already moved on from the painful end of their five-year romance.

"I don't care. I don't like looking back. I just want to move forward. I'm done with that. I think I've wasted enough time and energy on it. And okay na ako. Parang tama na, okay na ako. Things have been said, and things have come out. It is what it is, so I'm... Hands off na ako diyan," she said.

She continued, "For me, everything happens for a reason. Kung anuman 'yon, I'm thankful that it happened because it saved me from the past, and now I can move forward and meet the person that was destined to be with me."

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Cristalle Henares spoke about his issues with Derek Ramsay

Cristalle Henares spoke about his issues with Derek Ramsay

Muling namataang magkasama sina Derek Ramsay at Cristalle Henares sa isang fund-raising fashion show noong nakaraang linggo.

Matatandaang naging maugong ang balita na nagkakamabutihan diumano ang dalawa, matapos kumalat sa Internet ang litrato nilang magkasama sa Boracay noong Mayo.

Pagkalipas ng ilang buwan, naging karelasyon ni Derek si Cristine Reyes, kaya’t namatay ang isyu sa pagitan ng aktor at anak ni Dra. Vicki Belo.

Tumagal lamang ng halos isang buwan ang relasyon nina Derek at Cristine.

Pero ngayong pareho pa rin silang single, hindi maiwasang magkaroon ng espekulasyon kung may posibilidad na magkagustuhan ang dalawa.

Sa panayam ng PEP.ph (Philippine Entertainment Portal) kay Cristalle nitong Miyerkules, October 29, iginiit niyang kaibigan lang ang turing nila ni Derek sa isa’t isa.

Bukod sa magkakilala ang kanilang pamilya, madalas daw silang magkasama dahil pareho silang aktibo sa iba’t ibang charity organizations.

Paliwanag ni Cristalle, “Wala yun. Derek and I are very, very good friends.

"As a matter of fact, sabay kami dito sa World Vision na naging ambassador at child sponsor.

“He's also with me when we go on outreach or when we have projects.

"Last year, we went to Iligan [for typhoon Sendong relief operation].

“This year, nagkita kami nung Sabado, unang-unang sinabi niya sa akin, 'Cristalle, kailan tayo pupunta ng Bohol?'

“So, yun ang bonding namin. And yung families kasi namin, very close.”

Ang lalawigan ng Bohol ay tinamaan ng malakas na lindol kamakailan lamang.

JUST LIKE A SISTER.

 Sa kabila nito, walang nakikitang masama si Cristalle kung sakali mang ma-misinterpret ng ibang tao ang pagiging malapit nila ni Derek.

Ang importante ay alam daw nila ang totoo at wala silang natatapakang ibang tao.

Sabi ng tagapagmana ng multi-million beauty business ni Dra. Vicki, “The good thing is nung time na nali-link kami ay single siya.

“Ngayon, single na naman siya.

"So, para sa amin, wala talagang masyadong apektado, so okay lang.

“But, of course, when he's in a relationship, that's when I'll mind.

"Sasabihin ko sa tao, ‘wag na talaga, kasi we have to respect the relationship he has.

“Now, pinagtatawanan na lang namin.”

Sadyang magkasundo lang daw talaga sila ng aktor, na ilang beses na rin niyang nakasama kahit sa Belo family out-of-town trips.

“Right now, Derek and I are super-super friends.

"Nothing more than that, just for the record.

“Walang nangyayari sa amin ni Derek.

"We’re very close and we have a lot of fun together,” pag-ulit niya.

Dagdag pa ni Cristalle, parang kapatid na rin ang turing sa kanya ni Derek.

“Actually, sinasabi niya sa akin na para akong isang sister.

“I’m very close to Derek's sister also.

"And the funny thing is, yung isang sister niya, more or less, pareho kami ng name.

“Kasi yung nickname nila sa akin is Tal. Yung name ng sister niya is Tala.

"So, very, very close.”

WAITING FOR THE RIGHT PERSON. 

Halos isang taon nang walang karelasyon si Cristalle.

Nobyembre noong nakaraang taon ay nakipaghiwalay siya sa boyfriend niyang si Jason Sabio—miyembro ng Philippine Azkals football team—dahil ipinagpatuloy ng huli ang pag-aaral sa Amerika.

Sa ngayon, hindi raw nagmamadali si Cristalle na magkarelasyon dahil lang 30 years old na siya, at sinasabi ng iba na panahon na para siya'y mag-asawa.

Aniya, “I believe in God and I believe in God's timing. So, hindi ko talaga nira-rush.

“I’m sure He'll bring it to me when he knows na ready na ako and ready na yung guy para sa akin.

“So, I’m not forcing anything at this time.” -- Christine Denny, PEP

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Parents of Freddie Aguilar's GF speak up

Parents of Freddie Aguilar's GF speak up

MANILA -- The parents of Freddie Aguilar's 16-year old girlfriend, Aling Violeta and Mang Joel, expressed their support for their daughter's controversial relationship with the OPM icon.

In an exclusive interview with ABS-CBN's "Buzz ng Bayan" on Sunday, the mother Aling Violeta admitted that she didn't approve of the relationship at first.

"Ang tagal naming pinagusapan 'yan. Pinagka-galitan pa naming mag-ina yan. Talagang pinagtatalunan namin," she said.

But after seeing how much her daughter wanted to be with Aguilar, she eventually changed her mind.

"Hindi ko na rin mapigilan. Kung pipigilan mo, lalo pong magwawala 'yan eh. Baka mas mapariwara ang buhay. Kaya sabi ko, kung ano ang gusto niya, 'sige, supportahan na lang kita," she said.

And much to the delight of Aling Violeta, she saw her daughter become more mature because of the relationship.

"Malaki po ang pinagbago. Ang ako po'y natutuwa sa pinagbago nang batang iyon. Mas mature na siya, mas may paggalang na siya sa amin ngayon," she said.

The couple, however, noted that they have become the subject of ridicule because of their support for the controversial May-December relationship.

"Kinukutsa kami ng kapwa tao. Ano ba kasi kaso ng anak ko sa gobyerno? Nangutang ba ang anak ko sa gobyerno?" said Mang Joel, the child's father.

"Ang tingin ng mga tao sa amin, mukhang pera kami. Na kaya ang anak namin ay nandoon dahil as pera. Hindi namin hinahangad ang pera. Parang insulto na rin sa kahirapan namin. Masakit po. Ayaw ko ng ganitong buhay," added her wife.

But despite the criticism, they assured their daughter that they still have their support and that they should prove to everyone what they already proved to them.

"Tibayan nila ang pagsasama nila. Pakita nila sa buong mundo na talagang nagmamahalan sila," said Aling Violeta.

source

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Dennis Trillo on Luis-Jennylyn split: 'Wala akong kinalaman diyan!'

Dennis Trillo on Luis-Jennylyn split: 'Wala akong kinalaman diyan!'

MANILA -- "My Husband's Lover" star Dennis Trillo denied causing the recent breakup of Luis Manzano and Jennylyn Mercado, with whom he had a nearly one-year relationship until March 2011.

Speaking with reporters shortly after a recent press conference for his new film "Sapi," which hits theaters on November 6, Trillo said he found rumors tagging him in the split amusing.

He noted this isn't the first time he was accused of being a third party in a former partner's new relationship.

"Ang masasabi ko lang, kailangan ba talagang madawit ako sa mga hiwalayan ng mga ex ko? Kasi bakit ako, 'di ba?" he said.

The 32-year-old actor was referring to earlier rumors saying he caused another recent breakup between a celebrity couple -- his former girlfriend, Cristine Reyes, and actor Derek Ramsay.

Turning serious, Trillo stressed that he had nothing to do with Mercado and Manzano's split. "Pero sa totoo niyan, hindi ko na lang pinapansin dahil wala naman talaga akong kinalaman diyan," he said.

"At sana, kung anuman 'yung problema nila, huwag na lang nila ako idamay dahil tahimik ako, masaya na ako, masaya ako sa nangyayari sa career ko. Wala, wala akong kinalaman," he said.

Manzano, in an interview on Wednesday, said he and Mercado had an amicable breakup.

The "Minute to Win It" host also stressed that there was no third party involved in the separation.

Past is past for Dennis

Asked how he feels about being repeatedly linked to his former partners, Trillo quipped, "Kawawa naman ako, ang tahimik ko na. Lalaki na nga inaatupag ko, eh!"

The drama actor was referring to his part in the recently concluded hit series "My Husband's Lover," where he was seen in a same-sex relationship.

"Lahat nung mga nakaraan, tinigilan ko na. Masaya na ako sa mga nangyayari sa akin ngayon, kaya hanggang doon lang ako," he said.

As to whether he feels angered by these negative rumors, Trillo said, "Natatawa na lang ako na bakit pa ako kailangan madawit sa mga problema nila?"

Now past the controversies involving his previous relationships -- Mercado, at one point, accused him of physical abuse -- Trillo said that, for now, he would prefer to stay single.

"Sa ngayon, ito 'yung nag-wo-work sa akin, na mas maging focused ako sa trabaho ko. At nararamdaman ko naman 'yon, na nag-wo-work talaga sa akin, so hindi ko muna inaatupag 'yon. Ayoko na magkamali. Hangga't hindi ko pa nakikita 'yung sigurado ako, ayoko munang sumugal doon," he said.

source

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Luis and Jennylyn Break-up!

Luis and Jennylyn Break-up?!

MANILA (2nd UPDATE) -- It's over. Luis Manzano and Jennylyn Mercado have ended their two-year relationship, the actor-host confirmed Friday.

The Philippine Star entertainment editor Ricky Lo in his column on Friday said there was no no third party involved in the breakup, and the two simply "fell out of love."

"The crack in the romance surfaced when, according to a travel agent, Luis has his round-trip ticket drastically changed to solo (minus Jennylyn, that is)," Lo said.

Sought for comment on the report, Manzano, in a text message to ABS-CBN News on Friday afternoon, confirmed the separation. He appealed, however, to be given privacy as to the reason of the break-up.

This was the same message Manzano gave to "KrisTV" head writer, Darla Sauler.

In his blog, Sauler quoted Manzano as saying, "We want to keep things private na lang."

Just last week, Manzano denied that he and Mercado have already called it quits -- as reported by Sauler in his blog on October 9 -- saying the rumor, which began as a blind item, was "not true."

According to Sauler, Manzano insisted that he wasn't lying when he denied the report last week, noting that he and Mercado were even together during that week's Aliw Awards, where the Kapamilya actor was named best male emcee.

Reports of a rocky relationship between the celebrity couple has persisted for several months now. And while Manzano has consistently defended their relationship, last month, he may have been hinting about their future when remarked: "Ang relasyon naman ay dalawa lang yan -- either magkakatuluyan kayo or maghihiwalay kayo. Masyadong 50-50," Manzano said.

According to an article published on showbiz website Push.com on Friday, Manzano supposedly got suspicious when Mercado's name was dragged as the alleged third party in the separation of actor Paolo Contis from his wife, EB Babes dancer Lian Paz.

source

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Willie Revillame leads top celebrity taxpayers

Willie Revillame leads top celebrity taxpayers

MANILA -- (UPDATED) Controversial TV host Willie Revillame is the top celebrity individual taxpayer of 2012, paying nearly P64 million in income taxes.

Revillame ranked second overall in the latest list of top individual taxpayers released by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR).

Actress-host Kris Aquino led the way for Kapamilya stars as she ranked No. 6 on the list. Aquino, the youngest sister of President Benigno Aquino, paid over P44 million in income taxes in 2012.

Aquino was the highest paid celebrity in 2010 and also its top celebrity taxpayer, with total taxable income of P101 million in 2010, for which she paid taxes of P32.3 million.

The BIR's list of Top 500 individual taxpayers for 2012, released on Monday, also included several other celebrities.

Actor John Lloyd Cruz ranked eighth with P42.7 million, inching ahead of veteran actress Sharon Cuneta at No. 9 with P42 million in tax payments.

Actress Judy Anne Santos was ranked 32nd (P24 million), while Piolo Pascual ranked 34th (P23 million).

Boxing champ Manny Pacquiao ranked 36th with P22 million in taxes, while Anne Curtis capped off the celebrities in the top 50, ranked 50th with P19 million in payments.

Singer-actress Sarah Geronimo was 59th in the list with P18.3 million, ahead of actor Robin Padilla (60th) with P18.2 million and Derek Ramsay (68th) with P16 million.

"Juan dela Cruz" star Coco Martin (No. 79) paid P15 million, while TV hosts Boy Abunda (110th) and Vice Ganda (137th) paid P13 million and P12 million, respectively.

Comedian Vic Sotto ranked 89th with P14.61 million, while fellow "Eat Bulaga" host Joey de Leon ranked 156th with P11.09 million.

Comedian Michael V. ranked 118th with P12.59 million.

News anchor and former vice president Noli de Castro was ranked 168th with P10 million in income taxes.

Actor DIngdong Dantes was at No. 216 with payments of P9.48 million, while his "One More Try" co-star Angelica Panganiban was at No. 226 after paying P9.06 million in taxes.

Former "Pinoy Big Brother" housemates Gerald Anderson (297th) and actress Kim Chiu (309th) paid P7.7 million and P7.2 million in paid taxes, respectively, while the reality show's host Toni Gonzaga ranked 390th with P6.63 million in income taxes.

Actress-model Solenn Heussaff also made the list at No. 327 after paying P7.23 million.

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Spotted: Angel Locsin lines up at MRT station

Spotted: Angel Locsin lines up at MRT station

MANILA -- Here's a rare sight: movie star Angel Locsin was among the hundreds who lined up for tickets to take public transportation on Wednesday night.

The 28-year-old actress, in a post on image-sharing service Instagram, shared her experience riding the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) from its station near Ayala Avenue in Makati City.

The photo shows Locsin in line, presumably to buy tickets, as she faces the camera smiling. Its accompanying caption read: "Pwede na pala mag-premiere night sa Ayala station!"

She also used the hashtag "haggardoversoza" in the caption. The colloquial term, which is commonly attributed to Pinoy gay lingo, is used to express feeling haggard or worn out.

As of writing, the photo already had over 6,000 likes. Locsin has over 442,000 followers on Instagram. Her posts on the image-sharing site is also seen by her over 3.7 million followers on micro-blogging service Twitter.

This isn't the first time Locsin, a prized Kapamilya actress, has been spotted at places which normally draw crowds. In August, she was seen personally visiting several evacuation sites housing displaced flood victims then.

Locsin's MRT ride follows several other local celebrities who have made headlines for taking public transport. Previously, the likes of Kris Aquino, Manny Pacquiao, Anne Curtis, Enchong Dee, Julia Montes, Piolo Pascual and Angelica Panganiban took MRT or LRT rides at different times.

Early this year, American action star Vin Diesel, who was in the Philippines then to promote his film, was spotted riding a jeepney as seen in a photo that similarly went viral.

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