Planet Philippines (Edmonton Edition) July 2011 Issue

Edmonton Edition

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Ted managed to survive his greatest personal crisis in 2009 by going back to his “comfort zone and best friend— the microphone.”

A ‘PROMDI’S’ DREAM COME TRUE ‘I never imagined that I would make it this big. My dream was only simple - to be heard on radio in our province. I never wanted anything else because hearing myself talk on air was enough for me.

When I finally did, I used to record my own audio clip and listen to it at home.’

BY JOEL M. SY EGCO

E WAS a battered young dreamer who frequently got a beating from an illiterate father who only aspired to see his son become one of the best auto mechanics in a sleepy little city down south.

He stowed away to escape the wrath of an angry father, went to nearly a dozen schools and took on some of the oddest jobs before deciding to jump into the rat race in the big city.

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“My life as a young adult was wayward. My father was a driver who didn’t know how to read and write. My mother was a market vendor. It was my older sister who watched over me. I learned to smoke in my first year in high school and eventually learned to drink alcohol. My father and I often argued because he wanted me to become a mechanic which I never really liked. He used to beat me up real hard so I had to leave the house in numerous occasions and escape,” recalled Ted Failon, one of giant network ABS-CBN’s most successful radio and television anchors, about his ordeal in the hands of an unforgiving father.

Up until he became one of the most popular media personalities in the country, Failon carried this burden of having to disobey his old man in pursuit of his own small dream of becoming a broadcaster, armed only with nothing but his God-given gift: his voice.

“I never imagined that I would make it this big,” he said. “My dream was only simple - to be heard on radio in our province. I never wanted anything else because hearing myself talk on air was enough for me. When I finally did, I used to record my own audio clip and listen to it at home.”

“To become a famous broadcaster was farthest from my mind.

I never planned it,” said the 49year-old Failon, whose full name is Mario Teodoro Failon Etong.

He co-anchors ABS-CBN’s flagship news program TV Patrol and dzMM’s Radyo Patrol Balita: Alas Siyete with former Vice President Noli De Castro. He also hosts a weekday morning commentary program over dzMM entitled Tambalang Failon at Webb with Pinky Webb. This show is the successor of one of ABS CBN’s top raters, Tambalang Failon at Sanchez with Korina Sanchez, wife of former Senator Mar Roxas.

As a high school junior, Failon was already working as a fulltime hotel room boy in Tacloban City, Leyte. He also worked as a waiter, construction worker and tricycle driver.

Failon managed to attend col-

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“To become a famous broadcaster was farthest from my mind. I never planned it.” lege with the help of his sister, Teresa. He took up AB Economics at Colegio de San Juan de Letran while working as a disc jockey (DJ) in a small joint along EDSA in Cubao, Quezon City.

Ted moved back to Tacloban in 1980 and enrolled in AB Mass Communications at the Divine Word University.

He continued working as a DJ at different local discos. In 1982 he was hired at DYPL-AM, a local radio station, as a driver/reporter, which officially started his career in radio broadcasting.

In 1983, at 21, he married Trinidad Arteche with whom he has two daughters—Katrina and Karishma Tedrina. “We eloped and got married’” he shared. “Necessarily, I had to quit school.”

While working at DYPL-AM, he met the owner of DWGV-FM, a local station in Angeles City, Pampanga, who convinced him to work as a program and production director for the station while he was looking for a job in Manila. He accepted the offer and

Ted, Korina Sanchez and Noli de Castro, co-anchors of ABS-CBN’s flagship news program TV Patrol. a truck. relocated to Pampanga.

“I really planned for that trip.

However, Failon kept going back to Manila to apply at differ- I wanted us to be together. Just ent networks. “I never lost hope. the two of us. It was only then Slowly, I made a name for myself that we were able to talk man to until eventually my father began man,” he recounted. “I released to appreciate what I was doing. all my angsts and frustrations. I Time came when he would boast told him how hard it was for me to everyone that I am his son. to live with such a heavy burden.

Wherever he went, he always an- After that, all went well. Our relanounced that Ted Failon is his son. tionship as father and son became Maybe he finally realized that this smooth. It was the happiest day stubborn son of his can be of good of my life’” Failon never lost sight of the use anyway,” he said.

Failon finally mended his sev- importance of education. In 1994 ered ties with his father when, he enrolled at the Polytechnic prior to the latter’s death in 2000, University of the Philippines he treated him to an all-expenses where, in 1996, he graduated with paid trip abroad and bought him a degree in Broadcast Communications. He also took up Law at the Arellano Law Foundation in Manila but his tight schedule and heavy workload did not permit him to continue on.

In May 1990, he applied at ABS-CBN News for the third time and was finally accepted as a desk editor. A few months later, he was given a break on dzMM where he became anchor of the 2-4 a.m. show, Gising Pilipinas!

Soon he became a regular anchor of DZMM, co-hosting Bayan Ko, Sagot Ko and Bahay Kalinga, apart from hosting Mission Exposé and Wanted on TV Patrol.

Failon got his biggest break at Ted with fellow ABS -CBN news anchors Julius Babao (left) and Karen Davila. his home network when he cov-

JULY 2011

ered an incident where an entire coastal village was wiped out by a huge wave in Leyte. Back in Manila to air his material, he was asked by the late Frank Evangelista and Rolly Cruz to fill in for Noli de Castro who failed to report for work that day.

That fortuitous event was the start of his television career. “The first time I was asked to do live TV reporting, I couldn’t believe it,” he recalled.

In 2001, he entered politics by running as an independent candidate for the first congressional district of Leyte. He bested Alfred Romualdez, scion of the wealthy and influential Romualdez clan and nephew of former First Lady Imelda Marcos. After serving for only one term, he realized that politics was not for him and returned to his first love - broadcasting.

Failon faced a severe personal crisis in April 2009 when his wife committed suicide in their home in Quezon City. At one point the police suspected him of being the gunman.

Asked how he managed to survive the tragedy, he replied: “I went back to my comfort zone and best friend—the microphone. Two months after the tragedy, I came back to the station and began airing again. That helped me recover.

Doing what you love the most will help you survive such an ordeal.”

To young aspiring broadcast journalists and writers, Failon has this advice: “Read, read and read.

Read everything, even the Bible.

Read it over and over. The voice is just a tool, an instrument. What comes out of that voice is different. What you’re saying is much more important than how you say it. . . Keep on dreaming. Consider yourself lucky for having a talent.

Always think ahead of the competition as you continue to pursue that little dream. Most importantly, if you have to give anything to your family then, by all means, give them what is due to make them happy. You will never know when life will be over until it is over. In this world, everything is borrowed.” (Manila Times) n

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BY TESSA MAURICIO-ARRIOLA

ARIAN RIVERA has quite an extreme reputation in show business. She has one of the sweetest faces on TV and the silver screen, but is also said to have an attitude that is quite the opposite. Many a write up has talked about her snubbing a fan or confronting a fellow actress who happens to be linked to her handsome and hunky boyfriend, Dingdong Dantes. Long story short, the message has always been: Don’t mess with Marian.

It was therefore a refreshing surprise to meet the-26-yearold actress for the first time recently, and actually enjoy her company and conversation. She was gracious, funny and unassu-

ming—yes, the perfect fit to her beautiful face. None of it, to be honest, seemed to be contrived.

“I’m just usually misunderstood,” she smiled and shrugged her shoulders. “This is the real me—masayahin, maloko, magaan lang kasama. Bakla ako!” she added with a roar of laughter.

Marian opines that the negative stories written about her stem from the fact that she doesn’t embrace new acquaintances as long

Marian and boyfriend Dingdong Dantes.

‘REAL TALK’ WITH MARIAN It was a refreshing surprise to meet the26-year-old actress for the first time recently, and actually enjoy her company and conversation. She was gracious, funny and unassuming—yes, the perfect fit to her beautiful face. None of it, to be honest, seemed to be contrived.

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time friends so suddenly, which many showbiz personalities tend to do.

“I’m just being real. Hindi ko lang talaga kaya na best friends agad tayo when we just met, just like any regular person. But in time, naka-kaibigan ko naman lahat. Parang sa SOP, ‘ate’ na lahat ang tawag nila sa akin doon,” she related, referring to the GMA-7 Sunday noontime variety show of which she is part.

According to Marian too, those who know her best would describe her as a tireless joker, always ready with a quip or to poke fun at herself.

“Kaya nga enjoy na enjoy talaga ako sa Show Me Da Manny—yon ang natural ko,” she said of her sitcom with the People’s Champ, boxer, actor and congressman Manny Pacquiao. “Pag nag dradrama nga ako, mag-te-text yung mga kaibigan ko to say, ‘Hoy, sinong niloloko mo?’,” she giggled.

Marian headlines GMA-7’s grandest production to date, the “epic-serye” Amaya. (The new show premiered on May 30.) In the period soap opera, she plays a noble princess who turns into a slave before becoming the greatest female warrior of her time. Cast to fight for her affection are newly awarded Gawad Urian Best Actor Sid Lucero and modelturned-actor Mikael Diaz.

“Maraming pag-iyak, pero napakadami din ng action scenes,” revealed the touted Queen of Primetime TV. Her most notable projects for TV include grand remakes of Marimar, Dyesebel and Darna. This time, she is ecstatic to star in an original story.

“Nakakagulat din yung laki ng production,” she continued. “Tulad kahapon, yung shi-noot naming scene sa karakoa (a huge warship built by 50 local artisans and reportedly worth millions) ay gumamit ng 100 extras, maliban sa aming mga artista. Kaya masasabi ko talaga na ang kagandahan ng Amaya ay hindi lang dahil sa bida pero sa effort ng napakaraming tao,” she said diverting the attention from herself.

While Marian has given her mother studio blockbuster TV shows and movies, she acknowledges that she is extremely humbled and honored to have been entrusted with this big-budgeted production.

“Hindi lang sa budget nag allout ang network for Amaya; because it is a historical piece, may mga experts pa silang kinuha from UP [the University of the Philippines] to make sure na accurate ang mga gamit, damit kultura at pananalita naming lahat. Hindi ito regular Tagalog. Malalim na Tagalog ang gamit namin dito kaya talagang challenging siya para sa isang artista. Bawal ang adlib!” she enumerated.

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With boxing champ Manny Pacquiao in the comedy program Show Me Da Manny.

“I’m just being real. Hindi ko lang talaga kaya na best friends agad tayo when we just met, just like any regular person.”

Marian plays a noble princess in the “epic serye” Amaya.

If Marian were truly a prima donna as her critics accuse her to be, would her mother studio give her such an important project six years into her career? The choices in show business are always aplenty.

The actress just smiled and answered the question using a different tact: “Ito lang yung pangalawang beses in my six-year career na sasabihin ko ulit na bago ako nag-artista, I graduated from BS Psychology [at De La Salle Cavite]. Nakapag-trabaho pa nga ako sa Mental Hospital kaya lang iniyakan ako ng lola ko kung bakit doon ko pa piniling mag-work!

“What I’m trying to say is that mayroon akong sapat na alam kung paanong mag-isip ang mga tao, pero alam ko na hindi ko naman sila makokontrol. Pero para sa sarili ko, ang ginagawa ko na lang pag may mga taong dina-down ako, iniisip ko na dalawa, tatlo o apat lang sila sa gitna ng lahat ng magagandang nangyayari sa akin. Kaya nandito pa rin ako.”

Such an attitude, coupled with the talent she has honed through the years with her fellow actors and directors, makes Marian Rivera a coveted star to this very day. It will certainly take so much more to put this girl down. Really.

(The Manila Times) n

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COCO MARTIN FROM INDIE TO MAINSTREAM STAR Coco was recently awarded the prestigious Gawad Urian’s Dekada Award as Actor of the Decade for his extraordinary body of work in his young career. He says he’s willing to take on worthwhile projects even for free so long as they help improve his craft.

BY PEPPER MARCELO

SUALLY, THE path of a would-be star in local TV or film goes like this: Join a networksponsored talent group; get bit or cameo roles in soaps or movies; ingratiate yourself to network executives and the media; gradually get bigger and better parts; and, with the help of fate, get that one, unlikely lucky break and be anointed “the next big thing.”

The path to stardom for actor Coco Martin took a more non-traditional, circuitous route; taking him everywhere – from down-and-dirty low-budget films, to glitzy red carpets and critical acclaim abroad, to eventually becoming a bonafide, popular leading man at home.

Although the 29-year-old Pampanga native (born Rodel Nacianceno) was part of ABS-CBN’s Star Circle Batch 9 in 2001, and had a bit part in a minor Judy Ann Santos film, he didn’t immediately climb the ladder to fame. Instead, he turned to commercial modeling and, impatient and uncertain with his career, contemplated quitting the business altogether. However, with the sudden explosion of the local independent film scene, Coco was able to get challenging roles that showcased his dramatic skills and versatility.

Coco holds the Gawad Urian trophy for Best Actor of the Decade.

Most notably in the films of acclaimed director Brillante Mendoza, Coco starred or played significant supporting roles in highlypraised works such as Masahista, Kaledo, Foster Child, Tirador, Serbis, and the Cannes Film Festival-winning Kinatay.

With appearances in over a dozen films by o t h e r up-andcoming directors, Coco was bestowed the nickname “The Prince of Indie Cinema.”

Being a niche actor, however, had its share of setbacks. Coco felt he was oftentimes relegated to daring or gay roles that explicitly, some might says exploitatively, focused on his

JULY 2011

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JULY 2011

good looks and physique, instead of acting ability.

Despite lingering doubts if he would be able to break into the mainstream, he persevered. “Ito naman talaga ang gusto kong gawin, pero alam mo ‘yun, you get to that point na nagiging mainipin ka rin,” he says.

His persistence soon translated to bigger and better parts in mainstream television, with beefier supporting roles in shows such as Ligaw Na Bulaklak, Maalaala Mo Kaya, Tayong Dalawa, and Kung Tayo’y Magkakalayo.

Coco’s dedication paid off when he was chosen for the lead role in the dramatic series Minsan Lang Kita Iibigin. He was happy to finally be the star of a major network project, believing that management noticed his commitment as an actor.

“Nagkataon lang po siguro na kumbaga, nagampanan ko nang maayos ang mga role ko sa nakaraang soap opera na ginawa ko. At siguro nabigyan lang siguro ako ng oportunidad at nakitaan ako ng potential kaya nagkakataon na magaganda ang proyekto ko at nakakasama ko ang magagaling na artista,” he said.

In the show, Coco plays twin brothers: A soldier and an NPA rebel, who both fall in love with women on opposite sides of the ongoing conflict. His soldier character romances a rebel girl (played

by Maja Salvador), while his NPA rebel character becomes infatuated for a soldier (played by Andi Eigenmann). Since its premiere last March, the show has been a consistent top-rater for the network.

Despite his newfound mainstream popularity, Coco says he has not left the independent scene entirely, saying he is willing to take on projects as long as the role and story pass his stringent standards. “If ever may magandang proyekto at alam kong maayos ang mga katrabaho ko, never kong hihindian ‘yan. Hangga’t makakakaya ko at maisisingit ko sa schedule ko, gagawin at gagawin ko,” he says.

Financially sufficient with his soap opera salary, he even says he’s willing to forgo money for a project he believes in. “May mga projects na pino-propose sa akin pero pinag-aaralan ko pa nang maiigi. Kung maganda naman talaga, bakit hindi ko gagawin?

Kahit hindi pa ako bayaran.”

Bottom-line, Coco understands the necessity of being in

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Appearing in over a dozen films by upand-coming directors, Coco earned the nickname “The Prince of Indie Cinema.” independent projects, not just to better local films, but the challenge they present to him as an actor, as well. “Kumbaga hindi mo ito ginagawa for the sake na kumita ka, ginagawa mo ito dahil gusto mo ang trabahong ito at nirerespeto mo ‘yung propesyon mo.”

Recently, he was awarded the prestigious Gawad Urian’s Dekada Award as Actor of the Decade for his extraordinary body of work in his young career. “Walang kapantay po ang sayang nararamdaman ko ngayon,” Coco said.

There was talk that Mendoza, who initially gave Coco the opportunity to shine not only locally but on the world stage, was not too happy that the young actor chose to do a television show over his new film, Prey, starring French star Isabelle Huppert.

According to Coco, he consulted Mendoza, whom he considers his mentor, on whether to do TV or film, and that he simply couldn’t let such a great opportunity pass him by, especially with many people depending on him.

“Sinabi ko na sa kanya na ayoko namang mawalan ng trabaho ‘yung mga kasamahan ko sa teleserye dahil lang umaalis alis ako para gumawa ng ibang pelikula. Ayokong natitigil sila o naghihintay. Alam ko naman na mahirap ang buhay ngayon.”

He feels that there will be another opportunity for him and Mendoza to work together again in the future. “Siya na agad ‘yung nagsabi na ibang pelikula na lang ‘yung gawin namin.”

Coco has a major movie slated for later this year co-starring Judy

Coco plays a dual role – one as a soldier and the other as a rebel – in the TV series Minsan Lang Kita Iibigin.

Ann Santos. In what seems like coming full circle, he will not be a minor supporting player but her leading man.

“Sana matuloy, mas sobrang excited ako siyempre Ms. Judy Ann Santos yun,” he said. “Kumbaga dati noong di pa ako nag-a-artista, kumbaga isa ako sa mga tagahanga niya tapos ngayon makaka-trabaho ko na siya. Hindi ko alam kung anong preparasyon at kung anong mararamdaman ko if ever na magkaka-trabaho na kami.”

Despite his success, Coco has not been left unscathed by controversy and behind-the-scenes intrigue, and being romantically linked to his attractive co-stars.

He says that gossip is just part of business, adding that, unlike other people though, he does not look for intrigue as a way to boost his popularity or ego. “Kasama ‘yun.

Pero kanya-kanya rin naman ng mga sitwasyong napapasukan. Hindi ko naman itinago ang mga nangyari sa personal na buhay ko, eh.”

For sure, Coco’s had to make certain adjustments from being a regular fixture in independent films to becoming a certified mainstream star, but he promises to continue working just as hard.

“Siguro para sa akin ito na ‘yung time para makapag-adjust kasi iba naman ang indie at mainstream,” he said. “Ito ‘yung blessings at ayoko namang tanggihan. Basta lagi ko na lang iniisip na dapat pagbutihan ko kasi baka mamaya ito na ‘yung last ko eh.” n

SUDOKU RULES: Place a number from 1-9 in each empty cell. Each row, column and 3x3 block bounded by bold line (9 blocks) contains all the numbers from 1-9

SOLUTION ON PAGE 26

EDMONTON EDITION MARIA PERCY JAVELOSA .................................. Publisher/Advertising Manager (780) 328-7006 JASMIN DICLAS ............................................ Managing Partner (780) 710-6739 STEVE TARZWELL ............................................ Contributors Published by: Edmonton Pinoy News and Media Ltd. 16722-113 Ave. NW, Edmonton, AB T5M 2X3 Tel: (780) 328-7006 or (780) 710-6739 • Fax: (403) 474-9041 Email: planetphiledmonton@yahoo.ca

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PLANET PHILIPPINES, the global newsmagazine for overseas Filipinos, is published and circulated in various cities and countries around the world. Each edition of PLANET PHILIPPINES is published by authorized individuals and companies under an exclusive licensing arrangement. We welcome inquiries from anyone interested in becoming a publisher of PLANET PHILIPPINES in their territory. Contact us at planetphilippines@gmail. com or visit our website at www.planetphilippines.com.

PLANET PHILIPPINES Worldwide LEANDRO MILAN ..................................................................................

PEPPER MARCELO ...............................................................................

ARNEL RIVAL........................................................................................

ROMY FLORANTE..................................................................................

DIANA PAMELA TRISTE ........................................................................

Editor-in-Chief Assistant Editor Art Director Photographer Editorial Assistant

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JULY 2011

CELEBR TY MARICEL WANTS TO SETTLE ROW WITH MAIDS

MARICEL

ANGEL, LUIS END RIFT

ANGEL Locsin said she and her former boyfriend, Luis Manzano, have already mended their rift.

Angel said Luis has already apologized to her.

“Okey na, huwag na nating pag-usapan ‘yan. Nag-sorry na siya kaya okey na. Okey na okay na kami,” she said.

Earlier, Angel warned an unnamed ex-boyfriend that she would reveal something about him if he would not stop bothering her.

In her official Twitter account, Angel posted: “Dear ex, stop texting, stalking & fighting me if you’re over na. Pinrotektahan kita pero pag di ka tumigil magsasalita na ko sa pinaggagagawa mo. Respeto pls.”

Although the actress did not mention any name, a number of her Twitter followers surmised it was Luis, her most recent boyfriend, she was referring to.

Meanwhile, in his own Twitter account, Luis publicly apologized to the actress for what he had said to her.

“With the harsh words I said earlier, im sorry, hope we let bygones be bygones, we have moved on but sorry sa sinabi ko kanina,” he told Angel.

Last October Luis disclosed that he and Angel had split. He also earlier confessed he had done things that hurt Angel, which he regretted.

Angel is currently dating football player and Azkals heartthrob Phil Younghusband. Luis on the other hand, revealed that he is dating Jennylyn Mercado.

MARICEL Soriano has reached out to her two housemaids who filed an abuse complaint against the actress.

Complainants May Cachuela, 22, and Camille Acojedo, 18, said Maricel’s assistant, Inday Castillo, called them last July 1 offering to settle the dispute.

“Noong July 1 pa lang po, yon tumawag sa amin si Inday. Ang sabi ay kung pwedeng pag-usapan na lang po natin,” Cachuela told reporters after the first barangay hearing conducted at Barangay Poblacion, Makati on July 6. “Sabi nila, pag-usapan ang kaso para daw po matapos na.”

The complainants said they just want Maricel to apologize.

They said they were hurt by speculations that they just fabricated their stories so they can get money from the actress.

They said that if Maricel won’t appear before the barangay hear-

ings, they will definitely bring the complaint to higher authorities.

“Alam niyo po, walang dahilan para matakot kami, nasa tama kami. Kung galit? Hindi maiiwasan yon kasi minaliit niya ang pagkatao namin hindi porket katulong kami ay ganoon na lang ang gagawin sa amin,“ Cachuela said.

Cachuela and Acojedo worked for Maricel for only two weeks. They accused the actress of physically and verbally abusing them. Cachuela said Soriano even threatened to shoot her.

They complained that Soriano would constantly hurl expletives at them.

“Naranasan ko kay ma’am talaga ‘yong pagmumura niya.. hindi namin masikmura ‘yong pagmumura niya… kung gaano kalutong, parang pinapakain sa amin ‘yong mura niya,” Acojedo said.

The final straw, they said, happened on June 29 when Maricel allegedly kicked Cachuela.

SAM IS FHM’S SEXIEST PINAY

FIL-AMERICAN model-actress Sam Pinto is this year’s FHM›s Sexiest Woman.

In the annual poll conducted by the local edition of the foreign men’s magazine FHM, the former Pinoy Big Brother housemate, who ranked 32nd in the 2010 balloting, beat Marian Rivera and last year’s title holder, Angel Locsin.

At the press conference for FHM’s 100 Sexiest Women last July 2, Sam declared herself “fresh,” saying her body is “all natural,” unlike others in the FHM list who resorted to cosmetic enhancements.

Reminded that she might get into trouble for her statement, Sam replied, “A, totoo naman, di ba?

Bakit sila magi-guilty about it if that’s true? I mean, kung pinagawa mo nga, you should be more proud of it. Kasi, mas maganda naman tingnan.“ She added: “Well, I was really talking about myself. Kasi, I’ve nothing done talaga and I’m just saying, I’m really proud of it that I didn’t do anything with my body. Wala naman akong pinu-point out na anyone.”

Sam shrugged off reports linking her to Marian’s boyfriend, Dingdong Dantes.

“Marian, dapat masaya ka na,” she said.

“You have a very, very beautiful face, a beautiful body. What else can you ask for? And you have Dingdong all for yourself. So, ano pang hinihingi mo?”

But she revealed that Marian has been avoiding her. “I tried to smile pero she looks away na. I guess, ayaw mo, sige. You don’t really control me. . . Honestly, wala talaga akong paki sa kanya! She’s doing her own thing and I’m doing my own thing. That’s about it.”

VICKY WANTS NAME FOR VAGINATIGHTENING MACHINE VICKY CELEBRITY dermatologist Dr. Vicky Belo set Twitter on fire on July 6 after she asked for people›s advice on naming a new machine bought by the Belo Group.

The device allegedly tightens a woman’s vagina.

“Just got a new machine at belo medical group. It tightens Vajayjay and prevents trickling.

It uses only magnets. Need a name for it help!” Vicki said.

She offered P5,000 worth of gift checks to the top three best name suggestions.

Suggestions started coming in moments after Vicki’s tweet, among them: CoochTite, VATIGHTNA, Vagitite, Happy Hymen, Kegel Keps, Vagneto, Vagina Halili, Electric Flower, SIKIPEX, Rose-

budanator, Vagina Magdayao, Vagina De Venetia, Vulva Seal, Love Ya Minora, V-Shut Bacani, GyneTight, PEKTITE, VagiMight, Fasten 2b Happy, VaJAJANINE, TWATinator, SEXY FLOWERS, MARKUS ANGELO, DIONNE MARGARETTE, Vortex, CELINE, Sikeps, V-tite, Madonna, Miracle Magnet, Flower Power, VATIGHTNA, REVIRGINIZER, Miracle Chastity Procedure, RENASCENCE, O-vagi, Tightenator, VATIMA, Magnetite, TightenKho, Virginity, Bermuda Triangle, Vagitight, Vaginew, Magneta V, Sweet Oasis, Like-A-Virgin, V-Tite, Petite Pepay Producer, Vagnet, Femme Fatite, Tight-minator.

In the end Vicki narrowed down her choices to three: V-Tight; LAV, Like A V, Like A Virgin; and VAGNET. Vicki, 55, and her boyfriend, Hayden Kho, 31, recently announced their engagement.

MOM CONFIRMS ANDI IS PREGNANT AWARD-WINNING dramatic actress Jaclyn Jose has confirmed rumors that her daughter Andi Eigenmann is almost five months pregnant.

“I just want to tell everyone that yes, it’s true, my daughter’s pregnant,” Jaclyn said in an interview on June 29 on TV Patrol.

Jaclyn, tears falling on her cheeks, said, “Hindi madali, pero kailangan kong tanggapin. Kasi mahal ko siya at anak ko siya. Wala namang ibang tutulong sa kanya kundi ako at ang kanyang pamilya.”

She said the father of Andi’s child is her former boyfriend whom she did not name. She said the two have since split.

“First boyfriend,

ANDI wala na sila no’n. Iniwanan siya nung nabuntis siya,” said Jaclyn.

She said her family is fully supportive of Andi. “She decided to keep the baby, na naging proud naman ako sa anak ko. Mahal namin ‘yan, e. Mahal ng lahat ng pamilya ko si Andi.“ Andi had been linked to another Star Magic talent, Albie Casiño, who was in the cast of Mara Clara.

After their breakup, Albie accused Andi of being a “cheater.”

Andi is the daughter of multiawarded actors Mark Gil and Jaclyn Jose. She was introduced in the TV series Prinsesa ng Banyera in 2007 and was later promoted to leading role in Agua Bandita in 2010.

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CELEBRITYFILES

DEREK

REPORT: DEREK IS MARRIED

DEREK Ramsay is married to his ex-girlfriend, according to an exclusive report on TV Patrol last June 29.

According to an official marriage certificate obtained

by TV Patrol from the National Statistics Office, Derek Arthur Ramsay and 21-year-old Mary Christine Jolly, an Indian-Filipina

model from Las Piñas, were married on April 3, 2002.

The civil rites were held at the Mayor’s Office of Balagtas, Bulacan, officiated by former Balagtas Mayor Reinaldo Castro.

Two persons signed the marriage contract as witnesses.

Atty. Jean Ferry, a family lawyer, said the marriage is still valid.

“Their certificate of marriage has no annotation that is required. Then on its face, the marriage is still subsisting and still valid... He is still married,” said Ferry.

Confronted by the report, Derek said, “My lawyer will be the one to take care of that. This is a very personal matter which I will share to everyone and have to face in the coming months.”

He said he draws strength from his girlfriend, Angelica Panganiban, who was beside him during the interview.

“For me, just like all the other intrigues that happen every month, I’m gonna focus on my work and for those who have been very supportive, I want to say, thank you, and let you know that she stands by me and our relationship is very very strong,” Derek said.

MARIAN REVEALS RIFT WITH HEART

MARIAN Rivera said she is confused and shocked to learn that her GMA7 colleague Heart Evangelista harbors ill feelings toward her.

“Akala ko maayos kami, yun pala, para sa kanya hindi,” Marian told reporters when asked about her reported rift with Heart, her co-star in the movie Temptation Island.

She said the cast, staff and crew of the movie were close and had fun shooting the movie. She stressed that she and Heart were okay the whole time when they were shooting the movie.

“Lahat ng cast, staff and crew, pati yung direktor—maayos kaming lahat. Sobrang nag-usap kami, naging okay kaming lahat... Nag-usap kami, wala naman kaming pinagawayan. . . Yun na nga lang, pagdating doon sa airport, nagulat ako… parang na-shock ako na. . . Alam

MARIAN n’yo na ‘yon kung ano ang nangyari,” Marian narrated.

The airport incident Marian referred to, as reported in a tabloid, went this way: Upon arrival of the cast and crew at the Manila domestic airport on June 13 from Ilocos Norte, Marian reportedly approached Heart to bid goodbye but was accosted by Heart’s mother,

who, aided by five bodyguards, allegedly told Marian, “Stay away from my daughter!”

Some reports said the conflict stemmed from Marian’s alleged adverse reaction to Heart’s excited pronouncement of her imminent team-up with Dingdong Dantes, Marian’s boyfriend.

Reports said Marian didn’t like it and she made it known to Heart in no uncertain terms. Heart probably told her mom about it and that’s why the incident at the airport happened.

Heart and her boyfriend, Brazilian-Japanese model-actor Daniel Matsunaga, are currently vacationing in Brazil.

Heart and her mother have not commented on the issue as of press time.

BOY TO RUN FOR GOVERNOR IN 2016 TV host and talent manager Boy Abunda says he is eyeing the gubernatorial post of Eastern Samar in 2016. He hails from Borongan City, the capital of Eastern Samar province.

Boy formally announced his intention to enter politics in a press conference where he was named senior political adviser of Ang Ladlad party-list, which seeks to advance

the interests of gays, lesbians, homosexuals and transgenders.

“We have to intensify the fight for the rights of the gay, lesbian, transgender, and bisexual community,” Boy said. “We need to boost its chances to win in 2013, otherwise, we will lose official accreditation.”

Ang Ladlad was accredited as a party-list group last year and fielded

candidates in the May 2010 elections but was unsuccessful in getting the required votes to land a seat in the House of Representatives.

Two of Boy’s close friends in showbiz, Kris Aquino and Ai Ai de las Alas, have also expressed interest in joining politics in 2016 when the term of President Benigno Aquino III ends.

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BY HENRYLITO D. TACIO

REMOTE, unspoiled paradise” is how All-Asia Travel Guide describes Camiguin, an island-province approximately 90 kilometers north of Cagayan de Oro City.

The province is literally “born of fire” as it has more volcanoes than municipalities. Camiguin has only five municipalities (Catarman, Guinisiliban, Mahinog, Mambajao, and Sagay) but it has seven volcanoes (Mount Vulcan Daan, Mount Mambajao, Mount Karling, Mount Uhay, Guinisiliban Peak, Tres Marias Mountain, and Mount Hibok-Hibok). Not surprisingly though, it has earned the distinction of having the most number of volcanoes per square kilometer than any other island on earth (it has a total land area of 238 square kilometers).

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CAMIGUIN: A REMOTE, UNSPOILED PARADISE

This tiny island has a lot of attractions, ranging from green forests and mythical volcanoes to eternal hot and cold natural springs, from pristine patches of black and white beaches, majestic waterfalls, exotic marine life and blue-ridge mountains, to serene surroundings.

Going around the island’s 64kilometer circumferential road on a motorbike is sheer fun — and highly recommended by locals.

Motorbikes may be rented at reasonable rates in the capital town of Mambajao.

Camiguin is number seven in the top diving spots in the world.

It is also famous for its craftworks.

Blessed with a natural artistry and abundance of a variety of

This island of fire has more volcanoes (seven) per square kilometer than any island in the world. Its second major attraction is the lanzones. And there are more: lush forests, hot and cold springs, pristine beaches, exotic marine life, majestic waterfalls.

Its pristine white granule beaches are one of Camiguin’s top three tourist attractions, the other being the volcanoes and the lanzones.

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PHILIPPINESthe BEAUTIFUL

The Lanzones Festival is celebrated in October with a weekend of street dancing, parade, and pageants in the town of Mambajao.

Camiguin boasts of majestic waterfalls, hot and cold natural springs, patches of black and white beaches, majestic waterfalls, and blue-ridge mountains. handicraft materials, the people have long been making baskets, pottery, metal works, and other products.

Camiguin is known for two activities: Lanzones Festival and Panaad.

Lanzones Festival — in honor of the tropical fruit that grows profusely in the island — is celebrated every year in October with a weekend of street dancing, parade, and pageants in the town of Mambajao.

Points of interest

Katibawasan Falls — Some five kilometers southeast of Mambajao at the foot of Mount Timpoong, the falls tumble down into a green pool; ideal for a refreshing swim. Giant ferns decorate the surrounding land, carpeting for

The island has seven volcanoes but Mount Hibok-Hibok is the only active volcano. With a 1,250-meter slope, the volcano has a crater lake and stream that serve as outlets in many places at the peak.

space with huge trees and dropping vines.

Tuasan Falls — Located six kilometers northeast of Catarman, the pool below the waterfalls is deep and clear. The surrounding scenery is unspoiled and perfect for a peaceful picnic; the only sounds around you are those of the tumbling falls and running water.

Bura Soda Water swimming pool — Located in Bura, Catarman, it’s only here where you can swim in a pool of soda water. It has great scenery over the fields and the seas as its cold water is refreshing to bathers and picnickers.

Ardent Hot Springs — A government-run resort located at the foot of Mount Hibok-Hibok, the place has a four-tiered pool of varying depths and warmth.

Tangub Hot Springs — Located 12 kilometers west of Mambajao, it is a volcanic hot spring below the sea bed. The small area is formed by a pool of sea stones and corals and is completely undeveloped. Water temperatures turn from cold to lukewarm, warm and hot as the tide changes.

Sto. Niño Cold Spring — Located four kilometers north uphill of Catarman proper, it has a pool measuring 25 meters by 40 meters and 1/2 meter deep of cold spring water sprouting from its sandy bottom.

Santo Rosario Church — An old church in Sagay town, built in 1882.

The sunken cemetery — Marked by a large white cross, this has a superb sunset and an ideal place for snorkeling and diving.

Ruins of San Roque Church — Located in Gui-ob, Bonbon, Catarman, this church was ruined by the eruption of Old Vulcan Daan in 1871. It is a monument with thick century-old walls, belfry, and convent reminiscent of the second Spanish settlement established in 1697.

Mount Hibok-Hibok — The only active volcano in the island, it has a 1,250-meter slope. A crater lake and stream serve as outlets in

many places at the peak. A clear view of the entire island and Bohol beyond can be seen on clear days.

White Island — Also known as Medan Island, it is located two kilometers across from the beaches of Agohay and Yumbing.

Aside from the fact that the island is purely white sands, it also vanishes during high tide.

Mantigue Island — This island, located three kilometers offshore across from Hubangon and San Roque in Mahinog, is only four hectares with evergreen forest, fringed with white granule sand beaches. A fishing village is found in the north of the island. One side of the island is a white sand beach with coral offshore, and the opposite side provides a deep drop-off for snorkeling and diving.

Taguines Lagoon — Located at Benoni, Mahinog, this is a manmade lagoon mantled by limpid water, large cliffs and gently rolling hills. The brackish water is engulfed by a century-old crater; ideal for boating and fishing.

Camiguin is accessible by air and sea from Cebu City; but trips are limited only. Most fly in to Cagayan de Oro City, which is 84 kilometers away from the port of Balingoan. For those who would like to bring their own vehicles to Camiguin, some of the ferryboats at Balingoan Port can transport cars, pick-ups, vans, and even large trucks to Benoni Port. (Manila Bulletin) n

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