DOT Stands Firm on 'Love the Philippines' Campaign Amidst Controversy

The Department of Tourism (DOT) in the Philippines has decided to retain its "Love the Philippines" campaign despite the recent controversy surrounding the use of stock footage from other countries in the promotional video. Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco confirmed the department's commitment to the campaign during the Philippine Tourism Satellite Accounts and Tourism Statistics Dissemination Forum. However, Senator Nancy Binay has called for the DOT to abandon the campaign in order to protect the integrity of Philippine tourism. Binay emphasized the importance of moving forward from the failure and preserving the brand. In her speech at the event, Secretary Frasco did not directly address the video controversy but mentioned the "Love the Philippines" campaign several times. She highlighted the beauty of the country and its recent recognition in various international travel awards. Earlier this week, the DOT terminated its contract with the advertising agency responsible for the campaign and logo, DDB Group Philippines, which took full responsibility for the oversight. The agency has pledged to cooperate with the DOT's investigation.

Unforgettable Pairing: Julia Barretto Joins Aga Muhlach in 'Forgetting Canseco'

Julia Barretto is set to star alongside Aga Muhlach in an upcoming film titled "Forgetting Canseco." The news was announced during a story conference held on July 4, 2023. Julia expressed her excitement and nervousness about working with Aga, whom she considers a legend and a heartthrob. She revealed that it has always been a dream of hers to collaborate with him. This will be the third time an actress from the Barretto family will be paired with Aga in a movie. Aga previously worked with Julia's aunt, Gretchen Barretto, in "Miguelito, Batang Rebelde" (1985) and "Akin Ka... Magdusa Man Ako!" (1991), and with Julia's aunt Claudine Barretto in the blockbuster film "Kailangan Kita" (2002). Julia expressed her admiration for Aga's past films and considers it a great honor to work with him. She is eagerly looking forward to seeing how their collaboration will unfold and is excited to learn from the experience.

Jessica Soho Allegedly Declines Vice Ganda's Appearance on her show

In the latest episode of "CristyFerMinute" on One PH, celebrity reporter Cristy revealed that Jessica Soho allegedly doesn't want Vice Ganda to appear on her show. Cristy cited a reliable source who claimed that he or she is a cousin to Jessica's makeup artist, confirmed this information.

During Vice Ganda's concert at the Araneta Coliseum in May 2013, he made a controversial gang rape joke involving Jessica Soho. The joke received significant backlash, prompting Jessica to release a statement emphasizing that rape should never be used as comedy material.

Vice Ganda publicly apologized to Jessica on "It's Showtime," expressing regret for his offensive remark. He initially wanted to apologize personally over the phone but was told by Jessica's assistant that it wasn't the right time to talk. As a result, he made his apology public to reach Jessica and her fans.

Kim Chiu hopes to work with more Kapuso stars

Kim Chiu is thrilled about It's Showtime's transition to GMA Network, Inc. The actress expresses her excitement over the move, stating, "It's interesting, it's something you really want to watch and look forward to. Our reach has become wider, and we're just very happy and thankful that we can be seen on many platforms. We will bring joy to more viewers." Kim says with a smile.

According to Kim, the collaboration between ABS-CBN and GMA in various projects is a positive sign for the entertainment industry. She adds, "We can never really predict what will happen tomorrow, so we just have to enjoy what's happening now. Let's live the experience, embrace the change, and be happy."

Kim hopes to have more Kapuso stars as guests on their noontime show.

For the actress, they will do everything they can to entertain their avid viewers. "Of course, that's exciting for the madlang people viewers. Everything we do is for the madlang people. At least we give them a different taste," Kim concludes.

Meanwhile, starting today, Kim can also be seen in "Fit Check: Confessions of an Ukay Queen" through Amazon Prime Video. The 8-episode online series features Kim alongside Jake Ejercito, Angel Aquino, Kylie Verzosa, Frenchie Dy, Kaladkaren, Liza Lorena, and Christopher de Leon.