YouTube collaborates with ABS-CBN in launching Super Stream

MANILA – YouTube has collaborated with ABS-CBN and other media partners to give netizens free access to video content across a variety of genres for a limited time.

Through Super Stream, YouTube users can watch over 300 hours of binge-worthy content including local blockbuster movies, hit shows, romance flicks, historic sports matches, inspiring documentaries and more, the video platform said in a statement.

Super Stream will run from Aug. 30 to Sept. 26.

“Every day, Filipinos go to YouTube to learn, share their passions, or be entertained. As people limit going out to remain well, we want to make staying safe at home better by introducing Super Stream so everyone can access movies, TV shows and more--for free until September 26,” said Gabby Roxas, Marketing Head of Google Philippines.

“Whether it is a box office hit, classic TV show, sports event, or documentary, there is Super Stream content for entertainment needs on top of the YouTube videos from favorite creators,” he added.

For its first week from Aug. 30 to Sept. 5, the following movies from ABS-CBN will be available on YouTube’s Super Stream channel:

    Ang Pagdadalaga ni Maximo Oliveros
    The Gift
    Everybody Loves Baby Wendy
    Allergy in Love
    Barbara Reimagined
    Agawan Base
    Mamu and a Mother, Too
    Baka Bukas
    Tisay
    Happyland
    The Reunion
    SPARK
    Apple of My Eye

Meanwhile, daily full episodes of “Pangako Sa’Yo,” “Lovers in Paris,” “All of Me” and “Dolce Amore” will also be available for streaming.

The following digital series cutups and 25-minuter supercut movies will be on the Super Stream channel:

    A Second Chance
    The Unmarried Wife
    All Times Seph Was The Reliable Friend
    All Times Junjun Was The Wise Friend
    Listen To Love: The Four Bad Boys and Me (EP 1, 2 and 3)

Under the variety show genre, netizens can watch “Love Out Loud with Kaorhys” and the first and second episodes of “Hello Stranger Finale FanCon.”

Lastly, the 17th episode of Toni Gonzaga’s “I Feel U” and “We Rise Together’s” 62nd,63rd and 64th episodes will also be available on Super Stream.

Aside from ABS-CBN, YouTube has also collaborated with GMA and TBA Studios for this new project.

news.abs-cbn.com

Health workers pay tribute to ABS-CBN

Health workers at Quirino Memorial Medical Center's intensive care unit pay tribute to ABS-CBN on Wednesday by wearing personal protective equipment in the broadcast network's colors . ABS-CBN was forced to go off air Tuesday night, following a cease and desist order by the National Telecommunication Commission due to the expiry of the network’s franchise on May 4. 

news.abs-cbn.com

ABS-CBN shares on trading halt after regulator forces sign off

MANILA -- Shares of ABS-CBN Corp were placed on trading halt on Wednesday, after the Philippines' telecommunications regulator ordered it to sign off.

The National Telecommunications Commission issued a "cease and desist" order against ABS-CBN despite a request from lawmakers to grant the company provisional authority to operate beyond the expiry of its franchise on May 4 as they need more time to deliberate on its renewal.

"I think it was fair also to have a halt, otherwise it could spiral down because of uncertainty and that could also be bad for investors," BDO Capital President Ed Francisco told ANC's Market Edge.

"I still think there’s great intrinsic value in that and I’m hopeful it will be, Congress will fix it and they’ll get their temporary license or even a permanent franchise soon," he said.

The broadcast shutdown order also came as ABS-CBN sustained its broadcast and public service works, raising up to P300 million, to help those in need during the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting lockdowns.

The NTC order covers 42 ABS-CBN television stations, including the flagship Channel 2, 10 digital broadcast channels, 18 FM stations and 5 AM stations, including DZMM radio.

"We trust that the government will decide on our franchise with the best interest of the Filipino people in mind, recognizing ABS-CBN’s role and efforts in providing the latest news and information during these challenging times," the company said.

"ABS-CBN remains committed to being in the service of the Filipino and we will find ways to continue providing meaningful service to them," it said.

ABS-CBN signed off past 7 p.m. Tuesday, at the end of its flagship newscast, TV Patrol. It will continue streaming programs on its websites and on its official Facebook and YouTube channels. Cable channels will also continue operating.

news.abs-cbn.com

Dingdong Dantes stands with ABS-CBN amid franchise challenge

MANILA — Actor Dingdong Dantes, a prized star of GMA-7, has expressed support for its rival network ABS-CBN amid the challenges to its franchise renewal.

The former National Youth Commission head, 39, released his statement in support of the Kapamilya network, a day after the Office of the Solicitor General filed a quo warranto petition asking the Supreme Court to void its franchise.


"Magkaiba man ng bakod, we are one in the media industry," Dantes wrote on Twitter on Tuesday.

"We have one love for the many talents and crafts under this Network, the products and output of which, directly or indirectly, benefit the lives of millions of Filipinos," he said.

Dantes then quoted a portion of Buhay Rep. Lito Atienza's privilege speech on the ABS-CBN's franchise renewal the day prior.

"Inaction will only spell the weakening of the foundations of our democratic system... This Congress is really paralyzed with inaction; and we should not be deserving to be called representatives of the people," Atienza had said, as shared by Dantes.

The lawmaker was referring to the pending bills before Congress seeking to renew the franchise of ABS-CBN, which will expire at the end of March.

"In the end," Dantes added, "I pray that the true interests of the people, under the rule of law, will prevail over any other political agenda conveniently veiled as a countermeasure against alleged abuses."

"I pray too that the government, thru Congress, will hear out its constituents. After all, Congress is supposed to represent our 'voice.' #NoToABSCBNShutDown," he wrote.

Dantes, while an exclusive TV talent of GMA-7, has been a frequent collaborator of ABS-CBN Films' Star Cinema. He most recently starred in the Kapamilya project "Fantastica" in 2018.

source: news.abs-cbn.com

Atom Araullo leaves ABS-CBN

MANILA – Atom Araullo is leaving ABS-CBN after working for the network for over a decade.

While he considers his time with the organization an "amazing adventure," Araullo said the time has come for him to explore emerging opportunities and challenges.

"Although I am taking a new path, I have nothing but respect and gratitude for the company that helped me become the journalist I am today," he said in a statement. "To all the hardworking men and women of ABS-CBN, maraming maraming salamat.”

In a statement, ABS-CBN wishes Araullo the best in his future endeavors.

"ABS-CBN has allowed journalist Atom Araullo to explore new interests in film, broadcast and digital media outside of the company," the network said in a statement.

"Atom says the training and exposure he got from the network as reporter and TV host have equipped him to try out other opportunities in the media industry here and abroad," it added.

Despite his decision to leave, ABS-CBN said Araullo will always remain a Kapamilya.

During his stay at ABS-CBN, Araullo earned several accolades including a bronze world medal at the New York Festivals Awards for his documentary “Warmer” in April this year.

The same documentary earned a nod at the 38th Catholic Mass Media Awards.

In May 2017, he was also hailed by the University of the Philippines Los Baños community as the Best Public Service Program Host for his show “Red Alert.”

In 2014, Araullo was proclaimed as one of the winners in the SUPER (Salute to Unparalled People, Endeavours and Resources) Awards for risking their lives while covering the wrath of super typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) in November 2013.

 Just recently, Araullo tried his hand at acting for the upcoming film "Citizen Jake.”

The movie, billed as the comeback movie of acclaimed auteur Mike de Leon, will be Araullo’s acting debut.

source: news.abs-cbn.com

ABS-CBN seeks $40M in damages from pirate websites

MANILA - ABS-CBN said it sought $40 million in damages from 22 websites that were blocked and shut down for showing the network's content.

The Philippines' largest media and entertainment network has "zero tolerance" for pirates, said ABS-CBN Global chief operating officer Raffy Lopez.

"We know that over ninety percent of these pirate sites contain malware which can harm people by stealing the banking and personal information from their computers or phones," Lopez said.

"We will continue to shut down these pirate sites to protect the public from harm. There is only one genuine ABS-CBN internet subscription service that is safe for our fans to use and that is TFC and TFC.tv,” said ABS-CBN assistant vice president and head of global anti-piracy Elisha Lawrence.

The shuttered websites include:

    cinesilip.net
    pinoychanneltv.me
    pinoytambayantv.me
    pinoytambayanreplay.net
    drembed.com
    embeds.me
    fullpinoymovies.com
    lambingan.ph
    magtvna.com
    pinoye.com
    pinoyteleserye.org
    pinoytvnetwork.net
    pinoytopmovies.info
    teleserye.me
    watchpinaytv.com
    wildpinoy.net
    pinoy-hd.com
    pinoytvreplay.ws
    pinoychannel.co
    wowpinoytambayan.ws
    pinoytelebyuwers.se

News.abs-cbn.com is the official news website of ABS-CBN Corp

source: news.abs-cbn.com

Fil-Am's artwork in New York reaches Philippine rural communities

NEW YORK — Filipino-American David McQueen is a sculptor and installation artist in Brooklyn. His art is all about impulse: hopes, dreams, and desires.

His works have been shown at spaces and galleries in New York, including the Delaware Center for Contemporary Art, and the Bronx Museum of Art.

“I really love bonsai that gets shaped into these objects, and I wanted to do a 20-year project where I go out in the woods and shape a tree into the ribs of a boat, and then plane it down so that it looks like it's growing out of a tree,” McQueen told Balitang America.

Much like a tree that provides food, McQueen’s art helps feed hungry children in the Philippines through Advancement for Rural Kids, or ARK, an advocacy led by Ayesha Vera-Yu that provides opportunities for children in rural communities in the Philippines — through feeding programs, arts initiatives and economic investment.

“We use art and music as a way to help our partner communities in the Philippines heal after Haiyan, and so we saw the power of how art enabled all these kids and their parents and their communities reach and dream beyond what’s in their villages,” said Vera-Yu.

Through the ARK program, $15 dollars can a feed a child for a year, and a $50 donation can put one kid through school in a scholarship program.

McQueen worked with the kids to build their dream home. Kids get to write their dreams on a bamboo wall, and are inspired to work hard on making these dreams come true.

“Only the students are allowed inside and the students are allowed to graffiti the interior,” McQueen shared. “They’re meant to write their hopes and dreams for themselves.

“As soon as one person wants something, everyone wants, so everything builds in this really beautiful way, like imagination and dreaming build.”

ARK’s goal is to re-build 3 classrooms that were destroyed by typhoon Haiyan in 2013.

To date, the organization has benefited six villages with 10,000 residents in Cartero, Dumarau, and Capiz.

Read more on Balitang America.

source: news.abs-cbn.com

ABS-CBN News reporter Atom Araullo resigns from reportorial duties

Netizens have different reactions to the said news.

Some rumors said that Atom opted to resign mainly because of his strong opinions about the controversy surrounding the burial of former President Ferdinand Marcos in which some people accused him of being a biased reporter, thereby affecting the integrity of the News Department.

Unfortunately, it is true. Atom has decided to drop all his duties as a reporter for TV Patrol, Bandila, and ANC to explore opportunities and pursue his other interests.

According to Ging Reyes, head of ABS-CBN News and Current Affairs:

“Atom Araullo had filed his resignation from his reportorial duties but will remain an on camera talent of ABS-CBN News and Current Affairs as an anchor in Umagang Kay Ganda and Red Alert. He said he arrived at this decision to be able to pursue other endeavors that would also help him grow as a journalist and as a host. He is aware that the news organization has included him in its future plans and will continue to assign him stories, coverage and events, befitting his position as a journalist.”

Araullo became a segment producer for ABS-CBN then eventually became a field reporter a couple of years after.



(Sandra Agno)

source: mb.com.ph

Why Marco, Christian fought inside 'PBB' house

MANILA - It all started with what seemed like a harmless prank.

After previously being at odds with housemate Rita Gabiola, 15-year-old Christian Morones had another argument with a fellow housemate, this time over a simple gag.

While working on their second task, the male housemates noticed that Morones, who was supposed to be working with them, was sleeping. Gallo then decided to pour some water on Moriones to wake him up.

What he thought would be a joke turned out to be more complicated after Morones stopped talking to his housemates. In an attempt to appease him, Gallo apologized, but Moriones continued giving him the cold shoulder.

"Ang mga problema, dapat pag-usapan, hindi shut up lang. At 'pag nag-uusap ako, gusto ko sa mata, at klaro," Gallo told Morones.

"Ang tanong ko, sinong nagsimula?" Morones said, adding, "O tingnan mo, tapos ikaw pa 'tong may ganang magalit sa akin?"

"Bakit mo ako tinitingnan ng ganyan? 'Di ba nagsorry na ako?" Gallo said before he walked out.

Edward Barber, who is the oldest among the male housemates, went over to Gallo and advised him to just let it go.

"You have to be the bigger man, because Christian, yeah, he's acting like a baby. That's true. You have to let it go," he said.

An emotional Gallo explained that he wanted to talk to Morones about their rift because he did not want it to get worse.

"Everything has to be done, right now, in this day. Because you cannot be a family if you do not talk about the problems. I don't want to repeat that... started from my dad. Because me and my family, we don't talk about the problems," he said.

After a few minutes, Gallo calmed down. Talking to Kuya, the runner of the show, Gallo explained that he just wanted to apologize to Morones.

Kuya, on the other hand, advised Moriones to wait for things to cool down before talking to Gallo.

This is the second time that Morones got into an argument with a housemate. In an episode aired August 13, Gabiola broke down after Moriones stopped talking to his housemates.

At that time, Morones, who admitted to anger management issues, decided not to speak with the other housemates after their task.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

Christmas gift idea: UAAP watches, pendants

MANILA – Do you have a friend or a relative who is a die-hard fan of the UAAP games? Here’s a gift that he or she will surely love.

Just in time for the Christmas season, ABS-CBN and UniSilver launched a collection of pendants and timepieces showcasing the designs of seven participating schools of the UAAP.

UAAP fans can choose from the logos of the Adamson Soaring Falcons, Ateneo Blue Eagles, Far Eastern University Tamaraws, National University Bulldogs, University of the East Red Warriors, University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons and the University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers.

De La Salle University is not part of the tie-up.

“ABS-CBN is proud to showcase a timeless collection of pieces that very well represent the premiere university sports league, UAAP, which students and fans will surely love. We are happy to be in partnership with UniSilver, one of the country’s leading brands of jewelry and watches,” said Karen Coloma, head of ABS-CBN Licensing.

The UAAP watches and pendants are available at UniSilver stores and on the brand’s website. Timepieces are priced at P1,595 each, while the pendants with chain range from P840 to P1,690.

 source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

ABS-CBN launches YouTube network for 'online sensations'

MANILA - Do you want to be the next YouTube sensation?

ABS-CBN has launched a multi-channel network on the video-sharing site to boost its online content and build a roster of individuals sharing exclusive content.

The multi-channel network, called "Chicken Pork Adobo," currently has 90 creators whose channels on YouTube tackle a variety of topics such as toys, fashion, comedy, music, lifestyle, vlogs, entertainment, arts and crafts, food, parenting, and inspirational.

"'Chicken Pork Adobo' is the platform where we empower creators who may not have a chance to go on TV. 'Chicken Pork Adobo' democratizes it for everyone by harnessing and gathering all of them, and for them to leverage on each others' strengths. We want to showcase the Filipino talent to the world, not only to Filipino audiences," said Donald Lim, head of ABS-CBN Digital Media Division.

ABS-CBN said the initiative aims to help online creators make a mark in the digital space and help them become superstars "in whatever way or form."

"They have different niches, personalities, and material that won't make it on TV, but on YouTube they are popular, spectacular, fascinating, and have their own following," Lim said.

Several Kapamilya stars are among those featured in the YouTube network, including Melissa Ricks and Eric 'Eruption' Tai of 'It's "Showtime."

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

Jay R brings sexy back as Justin Timberlake

MANILA -- RNB singer Jay R showed off his dance moves as he transformed into international pop star Justin Timberlake on "Your Face Sounds Familiar."

Jay R kicked off Saturday's episode with a performance of Timberlake's hit song "Sexy Back."

A constant top scorer, Jay R earned praises from the judges for his performance. All judges noted that unlike his previous performances, the singer is now in his "comfort zone."

"This is your music, this is your sound, this is your groove, 'di ba? Since ikaw ang front-runner ngayon, we just want to tell you that we're going to be more critical sa'yo, mas mataas ang expectations namin sa'yo...so now if you ask me, you did. Congratulations," Jed Madela said.

"This is the first time na nakita kita sa video na pinapawisan. I feel na kahit comfort zone niya, it was a challenge for you pa rin. I think the challenge also was how do you erase the voice of Jay-R, dahil 'yun ang style mo eh, and have the style of Justin Timberlake come to the front. So even if you did 'Sexy Back', you brought that sexiness to the front, and you did it in a great way, my friend," Gary Valenciano added.

"I guess because Justin Timberlake is Justin Timberlake, parang dancing to him is second nature eh, pero everything else, Jay R, 'yung steps niya nakuha mo to think na hindi ka naman talaga sanay sa choreo. The voice, kuhang-kuha mo, 'yun lang siguro ang hinahanap ko. Siguro kasi we're medyo a little more strict now, gusto ko ng second nature pa pero, kuhang-kuha nevertheless," Sharon Cuneta said.

Jay R is currently the show's top scorer, with 158 points.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

Sarah Meier is new Metro editor-in-chief

MANILA - Former MTV VJ and culture columnist Sarah Meier is the new editor-in-chief of fashion magazine Metro, publisher ABS-CBN has announced.

Meier will debut her first Metro issue as editor-in-chief in April.

Of the career milestone, Meier said: "What I am most excited about in joining the Metro team is that there is no other platform as unique and primed for growth and greatness in the Philippine fashion magazine arena.

"Our potential to make a significant impact in empowering women is massive — the undeniable assets that we possess within the ABS-CBN family, the unpretentious relationships we have in the fashion industry, and most importantly, a humble and hungry team that is head over (designer) heels in love with what they do."

A professional model since she was 14, Meier became an MTV VJ for Southeast Asia for six years until 2007. For a time, she was also the host of "Philippine Fashion Week TV" and "Super Model TV" on Studio 23.

In 2012, she completed a publishing course in Columbia University's School of Journalism. She also finished a short course on advertising in Duke University.

Currently, Meier maintains a weekly column in the Arts and Culture section of the Manila Bulletin. She is also the general manager and creative director of e-commerce site Pormada.com.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

WATCH: Anatomy of the Mamasapano clash

The sequence of events on the night of the fateful clash in Mamasapano, Maguindanao as told to ABS-CBN reporter Chiara Zambrano by the men of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

'Pinoy Big Brother' returning for 10th year

MANILA - "Pinoy Big Brother" (PBB), the pioneering reality television series in the Philippines, will return for a new season to mark its 10th year, a televised teaser announced on Wednesday.


The ABS-CBN program, which is based on the Endemol-owned format that premiered in Netherlands in 1999, has so far produced 12 "big winners" in the Philippines since August 2005.

Apart from the regular editions, which feature housemates 18 years old and above, celebrity and teen editions were also held in the past decade.

Among the past winners are Kim Chiu, James Reid, Ejay Falcon and Melai Cantiveros. Notable former housemates include Gerald Anderson, Sam Milby, Bianca Gonzalez, Jane Oineza, John Prats and Rustom Padilla.

"PBB's" latest iteration, which was won by Daniel Matsunaga, marked a first across franchises of "Big Brother" internationally, as it combined adult, teen, and celebrity housemates in one season.

No further details about the 2015 season have been announced.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

What was the high point of 2014 for Alex Gonzaga?

MANILA – With several TV shows, a book and a hit film under her belt, Alex Gonzaga has much to be thankful for this 2014.

Speaking on “The Buzz” on Sunday, Gonzaga said this past year has been an eventful one for her, noting that she did not expect to be this blessed when she returned to ABS-CBN.

“May mga pinag-pray po ako kay Lord. Pero kung ano man 'yung mga dumating, hindi naman po talaga' yun 'yung mga winish ko. [Sobra pa 'yung dumating],” she said.

Gonzaga said she always does her best in every project given to her.

“Kapag may binigay sa akin na trabaho, laging sinasabi sa amin ni daddy na gawin lang 'yung best. Lagi rin sinasabi sa akin ni ate (Toni Gonzaga) na ‘You’re only good as your last performance so kapag lumalabas ka, dapat binibigay mo yung best mo para maipakita mo na deserving ka sa ibinigay sa ‘yo,’” she said.

Asked what was the highlight of her 2014, Gonzaga said: “Nung pumasok po ako sa ‘PBB.’ Lagi kasi nila akong bine-baby sa family. Bawal akong mag-decide, laging 'yung kung ano lang ang sasabihin nila. Nung pumasok ako sa ‘PBB’, parang 'yung maturity ko biglang nag-kick in.”

Despite all the blessings, Gonzaga believes the best is yet to come.

“For me, 2014 is very unforgettable and memorable kasi ang dami kong natutunan sa career, buhay, religion. But the best is yet to come,” she said.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

After over 2 years, 'Be Careful With My Heart' airs final episode

MANILA - It was indeed a happy ending for the hit daytime series "Be Careful With My Heart", which aired its final episode on Friday (November 28) after running for over two years on ABS-CBN.

It was July 9, 2012 when the "kilig-serye" starring the love team of Maya (Jodi Sta. Maria) and Sir Chief (Richard Yap) first aired on the Kapamilya network.

On its last episode, Maya and Sir Chief remembered their "kilig" moments while enjoying their trip to Vigan, Ilocos Sur.

Sir Chief admitted to Maya that it wasn't an accident when he first said "I love you" to her, and that he kissed his phone when he got a photo of her at the prom of his son, Luke.

He went on to thank Maya for coming into his life, thinking that they would meet in another place if their first encounter at Jones Bridge did not happen.




"Sweetheart, we were destined to meet each other. So kahit ikut-ikutin mo pa ang nangyari sa past, magkikita at magkikita pa rin tayo," Sir Chief said.

After their Vigan trip, Sir Chief surprised Maya with a party for her 30th birthday, which gathered all the people who have been part of her journey.

Tears fell as Maya received good words from the people who are special to her like Kute (Aiza Seguerra), Nanay Teresita (Sylvia Sanchez), Abby (Mutya Orquia) and, of course, Sir Chief.

"Salamat sa lahat ng naki-celebrate sa amin. Thank you sa lahat. Siguro pagkatapos ng araw na ito, matagal-tagal bago tayo ulit magkasama nang kumpleto. Pero hindi man tayo magkita-kita, sa puso ko hindi kayo mawawala, dahil 'yon sa magkakapit-bisig tayo sa buhay. At hindi lang 'yon, parte na kayo ng pamilya namin. At 'yun naman ang importante, hindi ba?

"'Yun naman ang mahalaga. 'Yung mga taong mahal natin, 'yung itinuturing nating pamilya na kung anuman ang dumating sa buhay natin, naniniwala ako na 'yung magandang pagsasamahan natin, sapat na 'yun para magdala ng ngiti sa puso natin. Maraming, maraming salamat sa inyo," Maya said.

They all then emotionally performed the song "Kapit Bisig".




So what happened to the other characters of the series? Here's a quick list:

1. Isabel (Viveika Ravanes), one of the nannies of the Lim family, announced that she is pregnant.
2. Tatay Arturo (Lito Pimentel) asked Nanay Teresita to marry him again.
3. Maya's friend Simon (Paul Jake Castillo) now works in Singapore. He took a short break to attend Maya's birthday party.
4. Maya's friend Lino (Vandolph Quizon) ends up with Thea (Jopay Paguia).

The cast members of "Be Careful With My Heart" bade farewell on Friday in a live television special hosted by Toni Gonzaga.



"Sa lahat po ng taong sumuporta at tumangkilik sa 'Be Careful With My Heart", kung naging inspirasyon kami sa inyo, naging inspirasyon din kayo sa amin. Maraming, maraming salamat po sa inyo and God bless you all," Sta. Maria said.

"This is not goodbye, this is the beginning of something new and something better. Who knows, baka magkita-kita kami ulit, so we will see you soon. Hindi goodbye," Yap said.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

Beauty queen admits getting body enhancements

MANILA – Miss Universe-Philippines 2014 Mary Jean “MJ” Lastimosa believes there is nothing wrong with body enhancements, admitting that she went through these herself.

In an interview on the ABS-CBN show “Tapatan Ni Tunying” which will be aired on Thursday, Lastimosa revealed that she underwent some enhancements to improve her teeth and skin.

“My teeth and skin were enhanced. I had to undergo laser treatments and the like,” she said.

“If it does not give you bad effects, I don’t think there is something wrong,” she added.

Filipinos have high expectations from Lastimosa following the Philippines’ consecutive Top 5 finishes in Miss Universe since 2010 (Venus Raj, Shamcey Supsup, Janine Tugonon and Ariella Arida).

The country also produced a number of beauty titlists in 2013 – Bea Rose Santiago won Miss International, Megan Young won Miss World, and Mutya Datul won Miss Supranational.

When asked if she feels pressured by the achievements of her predecessors, Lastimosa said: “I think it’s an advantage. I need that pressure to unleash the best in my performance.”

Aside from Lastimosa’s interview, “Tapatan Ni Tunying” will also feature “Pinoy Big Brother” ex-housemate Beauty Gonzalez, who transformed from a chubby teenager to a sexy cover girl.

“We used to eat five times a day. So when I need to lose weight, it was really a challenge. I used to cry while running. I do Crossfit, I run, I swim, bike and everything. I have to be disciplined when it comes to eating,” she said.

“Tapatan Ni Tunying” airs every Thursday at 4 p.m. as part of ABS-CBN’s Kapamilya Gold afternoon block.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

Korina goes on leave from radio show

MANILA - Veteran broadcaster Korina Sanchez has taken a leave of absence from her daily morning show "Rated K" on DZMM to allow her more time to finish pending tasks.

In a statement, Sanchez said she is currently back in school, finishing her Master's Degree at the Ateneo de Manila University.

"Muntik na akong ibagsak ng dalawa kong propesor dahil sa absence at late submissions kaya talagang hindi ko mapagsabay," Sanchez said, adding that a post-graduate degree has been on her bucket list.

Last June, Sanchez said she asked permission from ABS-CBN management to allow her to take a leave from her top-rating radio program.

"Ang trabaho naman nariyan lang at ang sabi naman sa akin ng mga boss, kapag ayos na lahat ay makakabalik naman ako. Gusto ko na talaga itong iraos," she said.

Amy Perez and Marc Logan will take over Sanchez's timeslot in their new program called "Sakto," which will focus on stories mainly about family, but will also tackle current issues.

"Sabi ko kina Amy at Marc, basta sana i plug pa rin nila ang Tsinelas Campaign namin para sa mga bata. Cute ang show nila," said Sanchez, who has been giving away rubber slippers to poor children for several years.

"Sakto" will air Mondays to Fridays from 10 to 11 a.m. on DZMM Radyo Patrol 630 and DZMM Teleradyo.

Sanchez is scheduled to renew her contract with the Kapamilya network. She will continue her top-rating Sunday magazine show Rated K and co-anchor TV Patrol with 'Kabayan' Noli de Castro and Ted Failon.

The award-winning broadcaster earlier addressed speculations about her alleged suspension after being absent on TV Patrol. She said she had to work on a scheduled special on typhoon-hit areas for her TV show.

Meanwhile, Sanchez said 2013 has been a fruitful year for her after she got several awards including the Anak TV Award for Rated K, and Best Female TV Newscaster during the 3rd Makatao Awards for Media Excellence given by the People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP).

"New Year's wish ko na sana walang dumapo na kahit anong trahedya sa Pilipinas. At tuloy-tuloy na ang paghilom ng Kabisayaan. Sana matapos ko itong pag-aaral ko nang magagandang grades, ang hirap eh. May mga malalapit akong kamag anak na may sakit na sana gumaling na. Sana mabayaran ko lahat ng obligasyon ko. Maliban doon, puro pagpapasalamat na. I can't ask for anything more, sobra ang blessings ko na sana Ituloy lang ng Panginoon ngayong taon," she said.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com

'Pinoy Big Brother' opens online auditions

MANILA -- For the first time in "Pinoy Big Brother" history, aspiring housemates can now audition online.

In a televised announcement, the ABS-CBN said those who want to try out for its fifth season can audition through its official website, www.pinoybigbrother.com, until January 15.


"Pinoy Big Brother" is holding auditions both for its Regular Edition, for housemates 18 to 35 years old; and its Teen Edition, for housemates 12 to 17 years old.

The online audition includes sending in a one-minute video where the aspiring contestant will have to detail his or her name, age, residence, and job or level and course in school.

The auditionee will also have to answer the question: "Bakit ka karapat-dapat maging housemante ni Kuya? (Why do you deserve to be a housemate of 'Big Brother'?)"

On-ground auditions for the fifth season were earlier held in Davao and Cebu, where former "Pinoy Big Brother" housemates including Slater Young and Paul Jake Castillo interacted with hopefuls.

The hit reality show, which is based on the Endemol-owned format that premiered in Netherlands in 1999, has so far produced 10 "big winners" in the Philippines.

The upcoming season of "Pinoy Big Brother" marks the 11th edition of the program since it premiered in August 2005. Apart from the regular editions, which feature housemates 18 years old and above, celebrity and teen editions were also held.

The last iteration of "Pinoy Big Brother," its fourth teen edition, ended in July 2012. The fifth season of the program was officially announced in September this year during the finale week of "The Voice of the Philippines."

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com