Get a chance to win the following DVDs from MagnaVision: “Jack Reacher,” “Mama” & “The Man with the Iron Fists.” Be one of 3 winners!

MAMA

Guillermo del Toro presents “Mama,” a supernatural thriller that tells the haunting tale of two little girls who disappeared into the woods the day that their parents were killed. When they are rescued years later and begin a new life, they find that someone or something still wants to come tuck them in at night.

Directed by Andy Muschietti, “Mama” stars Jessica Chastain, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Megan Charpentier, and Isabelle Nelisse.

JACK REACHER

Based on best-selling author Lee Child’s wildly popular series of novels, Jack Reacher was adapted for the screen and directed by Academy Award®-winner Christopher McQuarrie (Best Original Screenplay, The Usual Suspects, 1995) and starring Tom Cruise.

THE MAN WITH THE IRON FISTS

“The Man with the Iron Fists” is a martial arts film directed by RZA and written by RZA and Eli Roth. The film stars RZA as Blacksmith, Russell Crowe as Jack Knife, Cung Le as Bronze Lion, Lucy Liu as Madame Blossom, Byron Mann as Silver Lion, Rick Yune as The X-Blade, David Bautista as Brass Body, and Jamie Chung as Lady Silk. Set in 19th century China, the story follows a series of lone warriors who are forced to unite to defeat a common foe and save their home of Jungle Village.

HOW TO JOIN THE RAFFLE:

1) Open to any resident of the Philippines.

2) Must have a Twitter and/or Facebook account. More raffle entries for those who have an Instagram account.

3) Promo ends on June 24, 2013, 12:01am.

4) Winners will be chosen via electronic raffle and contacted via Facebook or E-mail. Winners will also be announced on starmometer.com, Twitter (@starmometerblog) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/starmometer).

5) Earn raffle entries by doing the following tasks below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The nominees for the 26th Awit Awards have been revealed by the Philippine Association of the Record Industry, Inc. (PARI).

Here is the list of Awit Awards 2013 Nominees:

Best Performance by a Female Recording Artist

I’ll Be There – Julie Anne San Jose
On My Own – Lea Salonga
With A Smile – Aiza Seguerra
Saan Darating Ang Umaga – Angeline Quinto
Tao – Sarah Geronimo

Best Performance by a Male Recording Artist

Piso – Joey Ayala
Kontrabida – Sam Concepcion
Ipadarama – Martin Nievera
Hanggang Sa Dulo Ng Walang Hanggan – Gary Valenciano
Tuwing Umuulan at Kapiling Ka – Noel Cabangon
In Your Eyes – Gary Valenciano

Best Collaboration

Himig Ng Panahon – Duncan Ramos, Luke Mejares, Loonie, Thyro & Yumi
Lipad Ng Pangarap – Angeline Quinto and Regine Velasquez
Sirena – Gloc 9 featuring Ebe Dancel
XGF – Sponge Cola featuring Chito Miranda & Los Magno
With A Little Help From My Friends – Tria Bascon with The Company

Best Performance by a Group Recording Artists

Love You Like A Love Song – Stephanie & Kim
12:51 – Krissy & Ericka
Minsan – Callalily
Pick Your Poison – Sponge Cola
Buksan – Where’s the Sheep?

Best Performance by a New Female Recording Artist

I’ll Be There – Julie Anne San Jose
Ayaw Na Kung Ayaw – Cathy Go
That Time of Year – Shiela Valderrama
Wag Ka Nang Umiyak – KZ Tandingan
Inseparable – K-La

Best Performance by a New Male Recording Artist

Kesa – Daniel Grospe
Maria – Jason Fernandez
Biglang Liko – Ron Henley
Grow Old With You – Daniel Padilla
Kung Ako Ba Siya – Khalil Ramos

Best Performance by a New Group Recording Artists

Bigtime – Baihana
KPL – The Oktaves
Got to Be Real – Aka Jam
Dying To Meet You – She’s Only Sixteen
Alive – Never The Strangers

Album of the Year

Julie Anne San Jose – Julie Anne San Jose
Find My Way To You – Cathy Go
Tuloy Ang Biyahe – Noel Cabangon
MKNM Mga Kwento Ng Makata – Gloc 9
Pure OPM Classics – Sarah Geronimo

Song of the Year

Ayaw Na Kung Ayaw – Mike Villegas
12:51 – Krissy Villongco
Paboritong Tag-ulan – Jonathan Manalo and Jericho Rosales
Sirena – Aristotle Pollisco
Magkikita Pa Rin Naman Tayo – Moy Ortiz

Best Ballad

I’ll Be There – Julie Anne San Jose
12:51 – Krissy & Ericka
Hanggang Sa Dulo Ng Walang Hanggan – Gary Valenciano
Tuwing Umuulan At Kapiling Ka – Noel Cabangon
Tao – Sarah Geronimo

Best Rock/Alternative

Tayo-Tayo Lang – Ebe Dancel
Maria – Jason Fernandez
KPL – The Oktaves
Better Days – Franco
Halik – Kamikazee

Best World

Muli – RJ featuring Sitti
Pinoy Na Krismas – The Company

Best Novelty

Pusong Bato – Alon
Brown – James Leyte
Kesa – Daniel Grospe with No Problems
Mahal Kita Kasi – Kedebon Colim
Kape Ka Ba? – Boy Pick-Up (Ogie Alcasid)

Best Dance

Kasayaw – Luke Mejares
Your Name – Young JV
Pinoy Ako 2012 – Toni Gonzaga
Matinik – Matinik
Sayaw – Rico Blanco

Best Inspirational/Religious

Bawa’t Hakbang – Mark Bautista & The Akafellas
Liliwanag – Acel Van Ommen
Lipad Ng Pangarap – Angeline Quinto & Regine Velasquez
‘Wag Ka Nang Umiyak – KZ Tandingan
Buksan – Where’s The Sheep?

Best Christmas

This Christmas – The Morning Episodes
The Morning Episodes – Chan-Parpan & Franco Chan
Paskong Puno Ng Kasiyahan – Juris
Pasko Na Sinta Ko – Basil Valdez
Kumukutikutitap – Rachelle Ann Go

Best Rap

Biglang Liko – Pow Chavez
Tao Lang – Loonie featuring Quest
Rock This Town – Young JV featuring Laze & Yumi
Sirena – Gloc 9 featuring Ebe Dancel
Bagsakan – Parokya Ni Edgar featuring Gloc 9 & Frank Magalona

Best Jazz Recording

Big Time – Baihana

Best R & B

Enough – Julie Anne San Jose
Himig Ng Panahon – Duncan Ramos, Luke Mejares, Loonie, Thyro & Yumi
Dota O Ako – Aikee featuring Sabrina
Dance With Me – Liezel Garcia

Best Regional Recording

Basi Pa Lang – 3BU
Usahay – Noel Cabangon

Best Song Written for Movie/TV/Stage Play

Nag-iisang Bituin from the teleserye “Princess and I” – Angeline Quinto
Growing Up from the teleserye “Growing Up” – Yeng Constantino
Dahil Sa’Yo from the teleserye “E-Boy” – Juris

Best Musical Arrangement

Piso – Krist Melecio
Makita Kang Muli – Jimmy Antiporda
Send In The Clowns – Homer Flores
Tonight – Bobby Velasco
With A Little Help From My Friend – JD Villanueva

Best Vocal Arrangement

Bawat Hakbang – Karl Villuga
December 25 – Robert Delgado
Got To Be Real – Cezar Aguas & Jimmy Antiporda
Overjoyed – Mon Faustino
With A Little Help From My Friend – Moy Ortiz

Best Engineered Recording

Alipin Ako – Dante Ta?edo, Bellhaus Recording Studio
Roll The Dice – Pat Tirano, Pocket Universe Studios
Send In The Clowns – Willy Villa, U.R. Recording Studio
I’m Old Fashioned – Dominic Benedicto, Asiatec Pink Noise
Amats – Rico Blanco

Best Album Package

Moonstar 88 – This Year
3D Tatlong Dekada
Piolo Pascual, Decades III
Doin’ It Big, Young JV
First Class: Outbound Expanded Edition (Book Bound)

Music Video of the Year

Ligaw – Moonstar 88
Sirena – Gloc 9 featuring Ebe Dancel
Halik – Kamikaze
La Belle Vie – Tria Bascon
Amats – Rico Blanco

Yahoo! has revealed the full list of nominees for the 2013 edition of “Yahoo! OMG! Awards” in the Philippines.

Below is the full list of nominees in various categories:

Celebrity of the Year

Angel Locsin
Anne Curtis
Marian Rivera
Jodi Sta. Maria and Richard Yap
Sarah Geronimo

Actor of the Year

John Lloyd Cruz
Coco Martin
Dingdong Dantes
Derek Ramsay
Dennis Trillo

Actress of the Year

Anne Curtis
Angel Locsin
Marian Rivera
Bea Alonzo
Jodi Sta. Maria

Breakthrough Actor of the Year

Richard Yap
Edgar Allan Guzman
Enrique Gil
Daniel Padilla
Alden Richards

Breakthrough Actress of the Year

Andrea Torres
Kathryn Bernardo
Jessy Mendiola
Jasmine Curtis-Smith
Bianca King

Child Star of the Year

Zaijan Jaranilla
Mona Louise Rey
Xyriel Manabat
Ryzza Mae Dizon
Mutya Orquia

Comedian of the Year

Vice Ganda
Wally Bayola and Jose Manalo
Ogie Alcasid
Michael V.
Jason Gainza

Comedienne of the Year

Maureen Larazabal
Pokwang
Ai Ai delas Alas
Melai Cantiveros
Eugene Domingo

Male DJ of the Year

King DJ Logan (Wave 89.1)
Sam YG (Magic 89.9)
Papa Jack (Love Radio 90.7)
Chico (RX 93.1)
Mo Twister (Magic 89.9)

Female DJ of the Year

Jessica Mendoza (Magic 89.9)
Nicole Hyala (Love Radio 90.7)
Tracy Abad (Mellow 94.7)
Delamar (RX 93.1)
Jinri Park (RX 93.1)

Favorite Male TV Host of the Year

Vhong Navarro
Vic Sotto
Willie Revillame
Ryan Agoncillo
Luis Manzano

Favorite Female TV Host of the Year

Bianca Gonzalez
Pauleen Luna
Amy Perez
Toni Gonzaga
Kris Aquino

Male Performer of the Year

Abra
Gloc-9
Christian Bautista
Jovit Baldivino
Elmo Magalona

Female Performer of the Year

Sarah Geronimo
Angeline Quinto
Charice
Rachelle Ann Go
Julie Anne San Jose

Movie of the Year

The Mistress
Thy Womb
It Takes a Man and a Woman
Sisterakas
One More Try

Best Radio Station of the Year

Tambayan 101.9
Magic 89.9
Barangay LS 97.1
RX 93.1
Mellow 94.7

Best News and Public Affairs Show of the Year

TV Patrol
24 Oras
AKSYON

Best Noontime Show

It’s Showtime
Eat Bulaga
Wowowillie

Best Teleserye of the Year

Walang Hanggan
Ina, Kapatid, Anak
Indio
Be Careful With My Heart
One True Love

Fan Club of the Year

Popsters (Fans of Sarah Geronimo)
KathNiel Kadreamers World (Fans of Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla)
JuliElmo Pexers (Fans of Julie Anne San Jose and Elmo Magalona)
Cocoholics (Fans of Coco Martin)
Angels (Fans of Angel Locsin)

Best Radio Show of the Year

Boys Night Out (Magic 89.9)
Morning Rush (RX 93.1)
The Wake Up Show (Mellow 94.7)
Good Times with Mo (Magic 89.9)
Tambalan (90.7 Love Radio)

Love Team of the Year

Kim Chiu and Xian Lim
Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla
Richard Yap and Jodi Sta. Maria
Alden Richards and Louise delos Reyes
Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes

To vote, log-in to your Yahoo! account. Then proceed to: http://ph.omg.yahoo.com/omg-awards/

Filipino singer Joseph Apostol advanced to the live shows of “The Voice UK” after receiving standing ovation from all vocal coaches during the show’s knockout round.

The 21-year-old Filipino college student mesmerized the four coaches namely Tom Jones, Danny O’Donoghue, Jessie J, and will.i.am of England’s version of the hit reality singing competition with his soulful performance of Leon Russell’s “A Song For You.”

Apostol will compete against 11 remaining contestants for the first live show of “The Voice UK” next week.

Watch the video here:

Cross-published in Starmometer

To kick-off its grand 20th anniversary celebration, Star Cinema, the country’s largest film production company producing most of the highest grossing Filipino films of all time, is set to release a powerhouse movie titled “4 Sisters and A Wedding,” featuring four of this generation’s top caliber actresses–Toni Gonzaga, Bea Alonzo, Angel Locsin, Shaina Magdayao.

Directed by box-office director Cathy Garcia-Molina, “4 Sisters and A Wedding” also features award-winning actor Enchong Dee who will play the role of CJ the baby brother of the Salazar sisters, namely Teddie (Toni), the eldest, who works in Spain; Bobbie (Bea), who is now successful in New York; Alex (Angel), the third child who is a Manila-based independent film assistant director; and Gabbie (Shaina), a school teacher who lives at home together with their mother (Connie Reyes).

After a few years of not being together as a whole family, they find themselves reuniting when CJ announces his plan to marry his three-month girlfriend. As they interact with each other for the wedding, the Salazar siblings also face the feelings and issues they’ve tried to keep for the longest time.

“Four Sisters and a Wedding” is scheduled to open in theaters nationwide on June 26, 2013.

Watch the full trailer here:

Pinoy singer Joseph Apostol performed “Your Love Keeps Lifting Me Higher” on the first live show of “The Voice UK.”

Joseph received a fast pass to the semifinals from his coach Tom Jones after this performance.

Watch Joseph’s winning performance here:

Pinay girl Arisxandra Libantino performed Christina Aguilera‘s “The Voice Within” during the finale of Britain’s Got Talent. Did she win?

Although Libantino delivered an impressive performance on the finale of “Britain’s Got Talent” season 7, she only placed 8th among the 11 finalists based from the percentage of votes received from the televiewers.

Shadow theater Group Attraction bagged the title. Comedian Jack Caroll was second and opera duo Richard and Adam, the act where Simon was egged, took 3rd place honors.

Watch Arisxandra’s performance here:

Vic Sotto, Vice Ganda, Piolo Pascual, Eugene Domingo, Bong Revilla, Robin Padilla and KathNiel-starrers lead the 15 entries to the 39th Metro Manila Film Festival.

In a report by PEP.ph, the 15 entries vying for the coveted 8 slots in this year’s MMFF are the following:

1. Kaleidoscope World (Melcor Enterprises)
Starring Sef Cadayona and Yassi Pressman

2. 10,000 Hours (Phil Film Studio)
Starring Robin Padilla

3. Ibong Adarna (Gurion Entertainment)
Starring Rocco Nacino, Joel Torre, Angel Aquino, Leo Martinez, Ronnie Lazaro

4. San Pedro Calungsod, Batang Martir (Hubo Productions)
Starring JM de Guzman, Christian Vasquez

5. Boy Girl Bakla Tomboy (Viva Films and Star Cinema)
Starring Vice Ganda and Maricel Soriano

6. Be Careful With My Heart (ABS-CBN Productions Inc.)
Starring Richard Yap and Jodi Sta. Maria

7. Pagpag (ABS-CBN / Skylight / Regal)
Starring Daniel Padilla and Kathryn Bernardo

8. Sa Ngalan Ng Ama, Ina at Mga Anak ( Kuratong Baleleng )
Starring Robin Padilla, Daniel Padilla, and Mariel Rodriguez

9. Kimmy Dora prequel (Spring Films)
Starring Piolo Pascual and Eugene Domingo

10. My Super Kap (Imus Production)
Starring Bong Revilla, Ogie Alcasid, and Toni Gonzaga

11. Torky And My Little Bossing (OctoArts / MZET /APT / Kris Aquino
Production)
Starring Vic Sotto and Kris Aquino

12. Hope In A Bottle (Quantum)
Starring Ruffa Gutierrez, Maja Salvador, Angeline Quinto

13. Everybody Loves (Gung Ho Films Manila)
Starring Jake Cuenca, Jericho Rosales, Megan Young, and Maja Salvador

14. Boy Golden (Scenema Concept Intl.)
Starring Jeorge Estregan Jr. and KC Concepcion

15. Kulay Abo Ang Langit (Hubo Productions)
Starring Carla Abellana, Diether Ocampo, Cherie Gil and Matteo Guidicelli

Cross-published in Starmometer

GMA Network has released an advocacy plug that promotes recognition to the Philippine National flag.

Ipakita natin ang pagmamahal para sa ating bansa. Iwagayway natin ang ating watawat mula May 28-June 12.

Watch the TV plug here:

The first Filipino global runner and the “Father of Ultramarathon” in the Philippines Cesar Guarin is back from his successful Middle East run, which lasted 30 days from April 15 to May 17, and covered a total distance of 932 kilometers.

After running in six countries in the Middle East, Guarin continues to bring pride to his countrymen through his global pursuit to join the ranks of elite global runners numbering less than 10 worldwide.

GMA International, the international arm of leading broadcast company GMA Network, has been a staunch supporter of the veteran distance runner since his Australian leg last year and has once again renewed their partnership with Guarin and The Global Run (GR) team for this ME leg.

“We are proud of Mr. Cesar Guarin for successfully completing his Middle East run, which was deemed as his most challenging global run stage of all,” said GMA Vice President and Head of International Operations Joseph T. Francia.

“We admire his passion and determination, and consider it an honor to play a significant role in his quest to become the first Filipino and Asian to finish a solo run across the globe” he added.

Guarin kicked off his ME run in Bahrain, where he conquered desert roads and oil pipelines for two days along with local female ultrarunner, Dunya Elias. Prior to his 110-km run, Guarin covered 22 kms within Bahrain’s capital and its largest city, Manama.

From Bahrain, Guarin endured major highways on desert roads and extreme temperature in Qatar to complete 209 kms in 5 days despite such challenging condition. Guarin and his GR Team Joon Malicse (project head and consultant) and Lester Fernandez (former handler and GRT volunteer) also attended the Emir Basketball Cup, where they met Sheikh Saoud Bin Abdul Rahman Al Thani, the Qatar Olympic Committee Secretary General and member of the royal family, and even joined a fun run in Doha.

Guarin marked the third leg of his ME run in Kuwait, where he was met by over 1,000 spectators – his biggest crowd in ME. The global runner ran 110 kms, which he finished in just 5 days.

Guarin then continued his run in Saudi Arabia on May 1 as a fitting tribute to OFWs in the country. From an initial target run of 500 kms for 7 days, it was trimmed down to a 1-day, 43-km run due to unforeseen delays in the approval of their visa. Still and all, Guarin is the first Filipino runner to be given a permit from the Saudi government to do a solo run in the Eastern province of Saudi.

According to Guarin, his run in Oman was the most difficult of all legs. But even the mountainous region of Oman did not stop Guarin from finishing the race what with his decades’ worth of experience running across the globe. He completed this stage in 6 days covering 175 kms.

The Filipino ultamarathoner capped off his ME run in UAE, where he covered a total running distance of 285 kms. For his longest leg, Guarin ran along major highways from Abu Dhabi going to Dubai for 9 days.

In between runs, Guarin and his team made their rounds in each of the country’s Philippine Embassy, where they were met by local officials and fellow Pinoys wanting to lend their support.

Guarin noted on the generous support provided by the Philippine embassies, Ministry of Sports of each country and from our kababayan working in the Middle East.

With this new achievement in place, Guarin is even more determined to finish what he started and become an inspiration to more Filipinos across the globe.

“I’ve seen Cesar ran in 14 countries already in 3 years but it still amazes me to see him every time he run each day on the road,” shared Malicse. “His determination and stamina to run under the scorching heat of the sun in the Middle East from sunrise to sundown is unbelievable. And at the end of the day he can still manage to smile genuinely and still take time to wash his clothes and do other stuff. I hope a lot people get the chance to see him run the way we do. He truly is inspiring.”

Guarin is set to take on his next stage – his 2,500-km solo run in North America, covering Alaska, Vancouver, and other key cities in the West Coast – from October to December this year bringing him closer to the fulfilment of his ultimate dream.

Cross-published in Starmometer.com

Philippines is the ultimate haven for festivities. There is no doubt that this country is the bastion of the most colorful, fantastic and blithesome festivals in the world! It only proves how rich our culture is and how our nation works hand in hand to preserve the tradition of our forefathers. Amidst the challenges that we face, the Filipino people continually thrive to show to the world what we are made of. Our various festivals are testaments as to how firm the foundation of our culture is.

On that note, Starmometer presents the top festivals in the Philippines:

1. SINULOG

Photo Credit: www.inkengine.wordpress.com

With the dazzling and flamboyant costumes displayed on its world-renowned parade; with the lively sound of drums, gongs and other numerous musical instruments that echoes in the city during the festivity; with the streets filled with enthusiastic dancing locals; truly, Sinulog is the best festival in the country! This festival devoted to Sto. Niño has a rich religious cultural history, which amplifies its beauty and significance. Sinulog happens every January. The traditional two steps forward and one step backward dancing routine of the devotees while chanting ‘Pit Señor!’ is a main attraction that tourists emulate during their annual visit! But more than anything else, the unity and hard work that the Cebuanos demonstrate in making this tradition historic every year, is what makes Sinulog truly astonishing!

2. PANAGBENGA

Photo Credit: www.jeffwasthere.com

February is the time of the year when Baguio is transformed into an enormous garden filled with various flowers which are being decorated everywhere! It’s the season when people celebrate the blossoming of flowers; the season when Baguio is enveloped in exceptional floral designs – from attires, to booths, to floats. Panagbenga is undeniably a celebration of what nature can do in bringing the best out of a place. Additionally, it’s a festivity which aims to restore the tradition of the indigenous people, while allowing the younger generation to discover such a rich culture embedded in the city’s history. More than the floral parades and the floral presentations, Panagbenga is a testimony to the ever blossoming culture of Baguio and its people.

3. KADAYAWAN

Photo Credit: www.kadayawan.com

Everything is good in the city of Davao! With the abundance of agricultural products in the region, it has become one of the top importers and exporters in the country, paving the way for income-generating endeavors for the Davaoeños! And to celebrate such bountiful blessings that are continually pouring to this region in the Philippines is Kadayawan! This festival that happens on August celebrates anything that’s good through a street dance competition where groups showcase various ethnic dances; through a parade of designed gigantic floats; and through various exhibits of the city’s agricultural products. It is also the time of the year when indigenous people are hailed for their contribution in the community! Kadayawan is a way to recognize the many tribes whom have enriced the heritage and culture of this bountiful city for many years!

4. MASSKARA

Photo Credit: Somewhere in the World Today on Flickr

The people of Bacolod certainly know how to smile it off all the way! Every October, in the city of smiles, Masskara festival is being celebrated! This festivity showcases the most beautiful and the most vibrant masks worn by the locals while dancing on a street parade! You can’t help but be pleased as to how colorful the masks and as to how it exudes joy and optimism! With sports events, concerts, carnivals and beauty pageant, Masskara is a festivity that you will make you beam perpetually! Masskara is a great reminder to all of us that no matter how imperfect the world is there is always a reason to be jubilant!

5. HIGANTES

Photo Credit: www.journeyofaCapricornian.com

Also known as the Feast of San Clemente (patron saint of the fishermen), this festival is as gigantic as it gets! Alongside a procession in honor of the patron saint, is also a parade of the Higantes (gigantic paper mache’)! During the festivity, the men in Angono also wear colorful fishermen clothing while carrying boat paddles and walking on wooden shoes. It’s the perfect execution of their love for their patron saint! During procession, numerous participants of Higantes splash water from bottles, pail, drinking glasses, etc. to passersby. Higantes is a celebration of prosperity and bliss that’s continually pouring over the people of Anggono.

Here are the other top festivals in the Philippines…

6. ATI-ATIHAN

Photo Credit: www.byaherosnapshots.com

Every January, Ati-Atihan is being celebrated in honor of Sto. Niño. The locals of Aklan organize parade and street dances and paint their bodies black. As they navigate around town, they dance to a distinct beat while chanting ‘Hala bira!’.

7. OBANDO FERTILITY RITES

Photo Credit: www.expatinthephilippines.com

A festival held in honor of San Pascual Baylon (St. Paschal), Santa Clara (St. Clare) and Nuestra Señora de Salambao (Our Lady of Salambao), childless couples dance on the streets of Obando, Bulacan to ask for children and good fortune. They wear traditional costumes while dancing to the tune of bamboo-produced tunes and chanting a song titled ‘Santa Clara Pinong-Pino’.

8. DINAGYANG

Photo Credit: www.ExploreIloIlo.com

To honor Sto. Niño and to commemorate the arrival of the Malay settlers, the people of Iloilo City are dressed in the most colorful costumes and danced to the tune of drum beats every January for their festival called Dinagyang! The highlight of the festivity is the performance of various groups who represents the Ati tribe who paint their skin black and dressed in clothes out of native materials.

9. MORIONES

Photo Credit: www.expatch.org

During Holy Week, locals of Marinduque are dressed and masked as Roman soldiers and centurions. They reenact the journey of Longinus, a Roman centurion who was blind in one eye. The reenactment ends on his beheading. The festival is filled with colorful Roman attires, painted masks and vibrant colored robes.

10. METRO MANILA FILM FESTIVAL (MMFF)

Photo Credit: www.thepinoy.com

To strengthen the local movie industry, MMFF is being held beginning the 25th of December ‘til the first week of January. It’s the season when only local movies are shown in the theaters – from fantasy to horror, from romantic comedy to drama. It’s the time of the year when Filipinos learn to appreciate more our home-produced movies which stars our home-grown talents. It’s this time of the year also when Filipino movies score big in the box-office!

By Kristhoff Cagape

Kapamilya actor Guji Lorenzana auditioned in “The Voice of the Philippines” together with his sister Grace Lorenzana as a duo. They sang “Need You Now” by country group Lady Antebellum.

Coaches’ thoughts:

Sarah Geronimo said “Guji! Co-star in ‘It Takes a Man and a Woman.’ Gusto ko lang i-pinpoint yung mga konting konti lang naman, minimal lang naman na pitch problems lang ng konti. Siyempre kapag nakikinig ka ng duet napaka-particular niyan e, kailangan jive na jive kayong dalawa.”

Bamboo Manalac said “Congratulations! You have two coaches that will battle for you.”

Apl.de.ap said “I love the support system, you know I’m in a group also and when somebody’s down we pick each other up on stage or live. You guys are siblings, that’s great. I miss Ferg right now, I miss Ferg.”

Lea Salonga said “I have done duets with my younger brother a lot. Since we still work together a lot, masasabi ko lang ang experience ko bilang mangaawit na nagiging katrabaho ang kapatid siyempre mas malawak. So mas marami ang advice na maibibigay ko sa inyo.”

Watch the video here:

Lee Grane, a contestant of “The Voice of the Philippines,” trended worldwide Saturday night on Twitter after performing “Anak” and “Angel” during the blind auditions of the show.

The 29-year-old singer from Makati City trended at no. 1 on worldwide Twitter after moving “The Voice of the Philippines” coaches Sarah Geronimo and Bamboo Mañalac to tears. Both Sarah and Bamboo rooted for her while the other two coaches, Lea Salonga and Apl.de.ap, expressed their regret why they didn’t turn their seats.

Aside from Lee Grande, the show’s official hashtag #VoicePHBlinds and Bamboo also landed on the worldwide trending box.

The singer has chosen Bamboo as her coach.

Watch the video here:

It’s official! Topping FHM Philippines’ “100 Sexiest Women in the World for 2013″ is Kapuso Primetime Queen Marian Rivera.

This is the second time that Marian Rivera was hailed “Sexiest Woman” by FHM, the first was in 2008.

The Kapuso Primetime Queen garnered 890,490 text and online votes while her strongest rival, Sam Pinto, settled for 2nd place with 778,681 votes.

Rivera joined the ranks of Pinto, Angel Locsin, and Katrina Halili who won the title twice.

Here are the Top 10 Sexiest Women for 2013 by FHM Philippines:

1. Marian Rivera

2. Sam Pinto

3. Angel Locsin

4. Jennylyn Mercado

5. Cristine Reyes

6. Solenn Heussaff

7. Ellen Adarna

8. Anne Curtis

9. Jackie Rice

10. Empress Schuck

Photo Credit: Marian Rivera’s Instagram

Benjo Benaldo, Cagayan de Oro Representative and husband of Brazilian model-actress Daiana Menezes, was rushed to the hospital on Thursday night after he was discovered “drenched in blood” due to gunshot wound. There are speculations that the troubled lawmaker shot himself in the chest.

In a report by ABS-CBN primetime newscast Bandila, Benaldo was brought to the New Era General Hospital in Commonwealth Ave. from the House of Representatives in Quezon City Thursday night around 8 pm, after he was found “drenched in blood” with a a 9-millimeter pistol on his table.

Benjo Benaldo, a first-term congressman who lost in the May 13 elections, is the husband of Brazilian model Daiana Menezes, who recently created buzz after she posted “cryptic” messages on her social media accounts suggesting she is a victim of marital rape and domestic violence. The couple appeared on “The Buzz” on June 16 and addressed the issue, maintaining that no incident of domestic violence took place.

Menezes, in a previous interview, was quoted as saying that his husband became “unhappy” after his failed bid for re-election.

Marikina Rep. Miro Quimbo also rushed to the hospital to check on his colleague.

“When I asked him what he wants to tell our colleagues who are all asking about him, he gives me the thumbs up,” Quimbo posted on Twitter.

The representative speculated that the bullet was intended for Benaldo’s heart but it hit his lung instead.

“Maybe, it (bullet) was intended for his heart but it hit his lung. His injury seems serious because bullet went through and through,” Quimbo told Yahoo! Philippines

Benaldo was transferred to St. Luke’s Medical Center in Quezon City late Thursday night. He is now in stable condition

The Superstar Ms. Nora Aunor topbills the CineFilipino Film Festival entry “Ang Kwento ni Mabuti.”

Directed by Mes De Guzman, “Ang Kwento ni Mabuti” is a morality tale about Mabuti, a healer who looks at life positively despite her poverty. Everything changes, however, when she accidentally finds a bag containing a huge stash of money. The five million pesos could bring an end to her family’s problems. But is the solution that simple or is it loaded with complications?

Filmed entirely in Nueva Vizcaya, the film marks the first time that Nora speaks Ilocano in the entire movie. Other cast-members are Arnold Reyes, Sue Prado, Mara Lopez, and Ama Quiambao.

“Ang Kwento ni Mabuti” is an official entry to the 1st Cine Filipino Film Festival which is happening on June 26 to July 2, 2013. The event was made possible by PLDT-Smart Foundation and Studio 5.

Star for All Seasons Gov. Vilma Santos stars in her first Indie film titled “Ekstra,” a Cinemalaya 2013 entry by director Jeffrey Jeturian.

“Ekstra” (The Bit Player) is Gov. Vilma Santos‘ first independent film. It’s helmed by multi-awarded filmmaker Jeffrey Jeturian, the director of the award-winning films “Pila Balde,” “Kubrador,” and “Tuhog,” and one of the three directors of the top-rating daytime teleserye “Be Careful With My Heart.”

The film features special appearances of Piolo Pascual, Eula Valdez, Cherie Gil, Ms. Pilar Pilapil, Richard Yap, and Marian Rivera.

Watch the trailer here:

Christopher Ad Castillo‘s “The Diplomat Hotel,” an official entry in the New Breed category of the 9th Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival.

“The Diplomat Hotel” is written and directed by Christopher Ad Castillo for the upcoming 2013 Cinemalaya. The film stars Art Acuña, Mon Confiado, Joel Torre, Sue Prado, Nico Antonio, Abe Pagtama, and Gretchen Barretto, and introducing Sarah Gaugler.

Gist: A disgraced reporter seeks redemption by leading his documentary crew to spend one night and tell the story of what really happened at the haunted and infamous The Diplomat Hotel (Baguio City).

Watch the two teaser trailers for “The Diplomat Hotel” here:

CINEMALAYA 2013:

DIRECTOR’S SHOWCASE

‘Amor Y Muerte’ – Cinemalaya 2013 – Movie Poster and Red Band Trailer

‘Burgos’ Starring Lorna Tolentino – Cinemalaya 2013 – Movie Poster and Trailer

‘Ekstra’ Starring Vilma Santos – Full Trailer

NEW BREED

‘Babagwa’ – Cinemalaya 2013 – Movie Poster and Trailer

‘Rekorder’ – Cinemalaya 2013 – Movie Poster and Trailer

‘Transit’ – Cinemalaya 2013 – Movie Poster and Trailer

“Bromance” star, “Cassandra Warrior Angel” leading man, “Kakambal ni Eliana” leading man, a basketball superstar and “Apoy sa Dagat” star, “Minute to Win It/PGT” host, young actor/model, rock star, “Maria Mercedes” leading man, and “Maghihintay Pa Rin” star comprise the ranking nos. 31 to 40 of “100 Sexiest Men in the Philippines 2013.”

No. 31 – Luis Manzano

No. 32 – Joseph Marco

No. 33 – Kean Cipriano

No. 34 – Rafael Rosell

No. 35 – Jake Cuenca

No. 36 – Zanjoe Marudo

No. 37 – JC de Vera

No. 38 – Enzo Pineda

No. 39 – James Yap

No. 40 – Diether Ocampo

Credits:

Zanjoe Marudo and Diether Ocampo – ABS-CBN
Enzo Pineda – Bench
James Yap – James’s Facebook Page
JC de Vera – JC’s Facebook Page
Jake Cuenca, Rafael Rosell, Luis Manzano – ABS-CBN
Joseph Marco – Bench
Kean Cipriano – Kean’s Facebook Page

No. 41 – Rayver Cruz
No. 42 – Benjamin Alves
No. 43 – Rodjun Cruz
No. 44 – Robin Padilla
No. 45 – Jason Abalos
No. 46 – John Lloyd Cruz
No. 47 – Robi Domingo
No. 48 – JC Tiuseco
No. 49 – Ahron Villena
No. 50 – Martin del Rosario
No. 51 – Ejay Falcon
No. 52 – Christian Bautista
No. 53 – Mike Tan
No. 54 – June Macasaet
No. 55 – James Younghusband
No. 56 – Ryan Agoncillo
No. 57 – Alex Castro
No. 58 – Kris Lawrence
No. 59 – Erik Santos
No. 60 – Steven Silva
No. 61 – Markki Stroem
No. 62 – Vince Ferraren
No. 63 – Brent Javier
No. 64 – Anthony Semerad
No. 65 – Jon Avila
No. 66 – John Prats
No. 67 – Will Devaughn
No. 68 – Neil Etheridge
No. 69 – Geoff Eigenmann
No. 70 – Atom Araullo
No. 71 – TJ Trinidad
No. 72 – Sid Lucero
No. 73 – Mark Herras
No. 74 – Joem Bascon
No. 75 – Edgar Allan Guzman
No. 76 – Bong Revilla
No. 77 – David Semerad
No. 78 – Andrew Wolff
No. 79 – John Spainhour
No. 80 – Sef Cadayona
No. 81 – Jeric Gonzales
No. 82 – Carl Guevarra
No. 83 – Hayden Kho
No. 84 – Mark Bautista
No. 85 – Vin Abrenica
No. 86 – Oyo Sotto
No. 87 – Marco Alcaraz
No. 88 – Mark Anthony Fernandez
No. 89 – Victor Basa
No. 90 – Paolo Paraiso
No. 91 – John James Uy
No. 92 – Victor Silayan
No. 93 – Joross Gamboa
No. 94 – Marvin Agustin
No. 95 – Chris Banchero
No. 96 – Aly Borromeo
No. 97 – Paolo Roldan
No. 98 – Jay Gonzaga
No. 99 – Luke Jikcain
No. 100 – Borgy Manotoc

Check out the ten male celebrities who comprise the ranking nos. 21 to 25 of “100 Sexiest Men in the Philippines 2013.”

No. 21 – Phil Younghusband

No. 22 – Mikael Daez

No. 23. Billy Crawford

No. 24. Piolo Pascual

No. 25. Dennis Trillo

No. 26 – Marlon Stockinger

No. 27 – Kiefer Ravena

No. 28 – Rocco Nacino

No. 29 – Richard Gutierrez

No. 30 – Erwan Heussaff

Photo Credits:

Richard Gutierrez – GMA Network
Rocco Nacino – Bench
Marlon Stockinger – Manila Bulletin
Erwan Heussaff – Erwan’s Facebook Page
Kiefer Ravena – Kiefer’s Facebook Page

Phil Younghusband – Del Monte
Mikael Daez – Cosmopolitan
Piolo Pascual – Health Today
Dennis Trillo – Dennis’ Facebook Page
Billy Crawford – Bench

No. 31 – Luis Manzano
No. 32 – Joseph Marco
No. 33 – Kean Cipriano
No. 34 – Rafael Rosell
No. 35 – Jake Cuenca
No. 36 – Zanjoe Marudo
No. 37 – JC de Vera
No. 38 – Enzo Pineda
No. 39 – James Yap
No. 40 – Diether Ocampo
No. 41 – Rayver Cruz
No. 42 – Benjamin Alves
No. 43 – Rodjun Cruz
No. 44 – Robin Padilla
No. 45 – Jason Abalos
No. 46 – John Lloyd Cruz
No. 47 – Robi Domingo
No. 48 – JC Tiuseco
No. 49 – Ahron Villena
No. 50 – Martin del Rosario
No. 51 – Ejay Falcon
No. 52 – Christian Bautista
No. 53 – Mike Tan
No. 54 – June Macasaet
No. 55 – James Younghusband
No. 56 – Ryan Agoncillo
No. 57 – Alex Castro
No. 58 – Kris Lawrence
No. 59 – Erik Santos
No. 60 – Steven Silva
No. 61 – Markki Stroem
No. 62 – Vince Ferraren
No. 63 – Brent Javier
No. 64 – Anthony Semerad
No. 65 – Jon Avila
No. 66 – John Prats
No. 67 – Will Devaughn
No. 68 – Neil Etheridge
No. 69 – Geoff Eigenmann
No. 70 – Atom Araullo
No. 71 – TJ Trinidad
No. 72 – Sid Lucero
No. 73 – Mark Herras
No. 74 – Joem Bascon
No. 75 – Edgar Allan Guzman
No. 76 – Bong Revilla
No. 77 – David Semerad
No. 78 – Andrew Wolff
No. 79 – John Spainhour
No. 80 – Sef Cadayona
No. 81 – Jeric Gonzales
No. 82 – Carl Guevarra
No. 83 – Hayden Kho
No. 84 – Mark Bautista
No. 85 – Vin Abrenica
No. 86 – Oyo Sotto
No. 87 – Marco Alcaraz
No. 88 – Mark Anthony Fernandez
No. 89 – Victor Basa
No. 90 – Paolo Paraiso
No. 91 – John James Uy
No. 92 – Victor Silayan
No. 93 – Joross Gamboa
No. 94 – Marvin Agustin
No. 95 – Chris Banchero
No. 96 – Aly Borromeo
No. 97 – Paolo Roldan
No. 98 – Jay Gonzaga
No. 99 – Luke Jikcain
No. 100 – Borgy Manotoc