Category: That’s Entertainment

Cita Astals Needs Help!

March 23, 2010

That’s Entertainment

Articulate.
Outspoken.
Smart.
That was how I thought of Cita Astals.

To the younger generation, Cita was a good comedienne back in the 90’s. She played Dolphy’s lady boss in his top-rating sitcom, Home Along Da Riles. Cita endorsed a brand of cough syrup, too. Benadryl, if my memory serves me right.

She ran as Manila councilor in the late 90’s (?) and won. Oh, I remember her feud with then co-councilor Ishko Moreno. Ishko was a total nobody then in the field of politics. Fast-forward to several years later, he became a lawyer and a vice-mayor!

Cita was probably not one of the best councilors in Manila but in her heart, she knew it was her calling. What caused her depression from losing the 2007 election was probably due to severe emotional stress. Money could play second factor. Drugs? I don’t think so unless somebody would tell me that she was hooked on it.

Wish Ko Lang host Vicky Morales mentioned that Cita lives alone; her electric supply was cut by the electric company because she could no longer afford to pay her bills. I wonder how a woman so friendly and warm would not even have a partner with her. Maybe a good partner with her would mean a lot; there would be somebody with her to cry and laugh.

It’s good to see Claudine Baretto, Nova Villa and Lou Veloso showing concern over their former colleague. I just hope that their concern is for real; not a gimmick or plain publicity. Or I just hope that their concern is continuous because it’s pretty hard to always understand a person in Cita’s position who obviously needs psychiatric help.

Cita’s case is a good reminder that even strong people need emotional support from family and friends. She needs help. She needs love. She needs support.

Update: December 30, 2014 at the Philippine Arena
I’m happy to see Cita Astals in better shape now. She’s one of the hosts of today’s event at the Philippine Arena. She’s back to her old wacky and smart self. Wait, do I hear it right that she will have a TV program at Net25?
Sarah Labhati and Steven Silva Made It!

February 22, 2010

That’s Entertainment

Starstruck V is the only Starstruck that I watched and followed from start to finish. There is something new from this 5th batch that the other batches don’t seem to have. More star-material? More mass appeal? More talents to show? More determined contestants? I dunno. This batch is just the best batch for me when it comes to talent, beauty and attitude.

As I mentioned in my previous post, a week before the finals night, I was torn between my original bet Diva Montelaba and classy beauty Sarah Labhati. Diva is the total performer, one who can sing, dance and act. She was a model and TV segment host before she joined Starstruck. Wearing an orange gown last night that accentuated her “modellish” physique, Diva was very tensed before the announcement. She lost the Ultimate Female Survivor title to Sarah Labhati. But don’t worry, Diva. With your talent and exotic beauty, you’ll go places. 😉

Sarah looked more of a beauty queen than a winning contestant last night. The yellow gown was just perfect for her. A good singer, she can embark on a singing career besides acting.

Rocco Nacino was confident throughout the night. He was crowned 2nd Prince. Actually, I didn’t expect that he would be 2nd Prince as I thought that that should belong to Steven Silva. Rocco’s family seemed affluent. His mom was right in saying that it doesn’t matter if Rocco win or lose. What is important is how he enjoyed his Starstruck journey.

Enzo Pineda was crowned 1st Prince. I still believe that Enzo and Sarah should be paired together. Diva should go solo and Steven should be paired with Nina Kodaka.

Half-white and half-Filipino Steven Silva made it as Ultimate Male Survivor. It was unexpected and I’m sure that he charmed his fans and the Starstruck council with his boyish good looks, right attitude and determination to win.

Two to three years from now, who among the Final Five will make it big on local showbiz? It is important to hone their talent at this early point in the showbiz career. They must have the right attitude and they must always keep their feet on the ground.
Starstruck Final 5

February 15, 2010

That’s Entertainment

Sarah Lahbati
Rocco Nacino
Enzo Pineda
Steven Silva
Diva Montelaba
………………….they are the final five.

Nina Kodaka was obviously very tensed before the announcement. Judging from the text votes and the council votes, she was the weakest contender among her peers. I believe that Nina can still make it on showbiz though. With her cute oriental looks, she can make it; she just have to polish her Tagalog.

I am torn between my original bet, Diva Montelaba and classy beauty Sarah Lahbati. Diva is the total performer, one that can easily be mold into a concert-performing artist. I don’t see her making it big on TV or the silver screen. She’s not a ham actress but I don’t see her being paired with any guy for a loveteam. She is simply not loveteam-material. A very emotional Diva was seen when she had a one-against-eight interview with the avengers. Princess Snell was rather bitchy than frank as an interviewer. Is she eyeing for a contravida assignment? Going back to Diva, the Cebuana beauty is not yet ready to go hard-core on showbiz, judging on how she got emotional from the bitchy questions of her former colleagues. Is she really a snob now? Is she trying to get close to those who will benefit her? Is she turning into a swell-head? These were the questions that made Diva emotional that night.

Sarah sings well and registers well on TV. She should avoid heavy make up because she is prettier with a lighter one. Her face is actually “malleable” depending on the kind of make up she uses. She can be sweet, daring, regal and girlish depending upon the make up application. It is obvious that the avengers are supporting Sarah: no controversial questions, no bitching, no bashing and she didn’t receive any black rose from the avengers that means that they (avengers) don’t want the survivor to be included on the final five.

Steven Silva got a black rose from Ian Batherson. From Ian’s point of view, their Tagalog-“defect” is something that is more of a liability than an asset when it comes to acting. Hmmmm…. but Sam Milby does not speak the language well, too and yet he’s doing it well in the other station.

Rocco Nacino is my bet among the male survivors. He can sing, dance and act well. He’s serious when it comes to joining showbiz and can handle controversial questions well. Is her conceited? Did he make face when he was paired with Rox Montealegre? Rocco answered them all, emotionally prepared.

The boy who was born with a silver spoon on his mouth wants to prove that he can make it on showbiz. Enzo Pineda’s coming from a buena familia has always been the major source of controversy in Starstruck: his family can buy votes for him. His family has good showbiz connections. Judging from his performances, he is a good dancer but not as good an actor as Rocco. Just like Rocco, he was emotionally-prepared when he faced his former peers for a one-against-eight interview.

Would it be Diva & Rocco and Sarah & Enzo for the finals? My guess is it would be a Sarah & Rocco. 😉
Top 7 Songs of My Heart

February 12, 2010

That’s Entertainment

I associate people with songs. I can remember people through songs. I can make or break my mood through songs.

1. Fallen- this song is dedicated to my husband. I met him at the lowest point in my life. I met him when I stopped believing in love.
“I can’t believe it you’re a dream coming true. I can’t believe how I have fallen for you. I was not looking, was content to remain. And it’s ironic, to be back in the game.”
It made me believe that love is something that will come at the least expected time. A whirlwind courtship, we’re still on the process of getting to know each other. Our first wedding anniversary will be next month.

2. Wonderful Tonight- my first boyfriend loved to accompany me to the ball. He was proud of me. He was a good dancer and I just loved those romantic dances with him.

3. Of All The Things- dedicated to my 2nd boyfriend. Just when I thought that our love was “You and Me Against The World,” it proved that love is not forever six and a half years later.

4. Muntik Na Kitang Minahal- Yes, I almost loved him! This is dedicated to one of my bestfriends. The physical attraction was intense; I mistook it for love. Good thing, he never got the chance to know how I felt for him before.

5. First Love (by J-Pop Utada Hikaru)- he was not my first love. I met him when I was lost and unhappy with one of my relationships. It was a brief “love affair” that ended just when it was about to start.

6. Sad to Belong- he was married, I was looking for marriage. He thought that the feelings were mutual. It was not. I was just being friendly to him. And we were not friends for benefit! Excuse me!

7. Bato sa Buhangin- my parents’ love story. This song makes me feel nostalgic. I miss my late mother very much.
The Jason Ivler Case

January 29, 2010

That’s Entertainment

The case of Jason Aguilar Ivler is something that fits http://www.crimelibrary.com. First, Jason is affiliated with the Aguilars of the local entertainment. Uncle Freddie’s song “Anak” gave the local song industry honor and prestige when it was recognized abroad and translated into different foreign languages. Cousin Megan almost made it in the local TV industry. Maybe that Aguilar connection provided him the opportunity to be a TV star on his own right. Several years back, he was casted as “Bullet” in GMA-7’s now defunct teen-oriented show, the TGIS (Thank God It’s Sabado) At that time, he was a big nobody. Not even TGIS fans recognize the screen name behind the character he portrayed in TGIS. (Refer to http://tgisaturday.tripod.com/history.htm. Opposite the character Bullet was a “?” )Call it déjà vu or coincidence but the screen name (BULLET) that he used in TGIS would seal his fate in the future as he is the prime suspect for the shooting of Renato Ebarle Jr.

Second, Marlene Aguilar- Pollar, his mother, is a book writer and artist. Her influence, as far as her book and arts are concerned, is something that is never to be underestimated. In addition, Marlene could have connections in the political and business world. After all, she is married to Stephen Pollard, an economist working for the Asian Development Bank.

Third, Jason was a former US army, who at 20 years of age, was sent to Iraq by the US government. Is he suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome? How was his behavior months after he came back from Iraq?

Fame, money, connections; very “crimelibrary.”

Now Marlene is talking about conspiracy theory. The government that she accused of trying to harm her child is the very same government that she’s now asking for assistance since Jason is an American citizen.

Last November, we saw a mother who was suffering in great emotional pain for her son. She begged Jason to surrender himself because according to her, “the people are harassing the people that you love.” This is contrary to the witness’ cum tipster’s information that strange things were already happening in the Pollard residence in early December.

Mr. Pollard is obviously uncomfortable at the situation his family is dealing with. He is the exact opposite of his wife who cries before the camera and can beat any seasoned actress at that! Yes, Jason was not in her home, if a home to her does not include the basement. After all, the mansion is so big and thanks to the tipster; who could ever think that that house has a basement anyway? Had Jason did an Anne Frank who spent years living in the attic, I wonder if the tipster would have an idea that he was there and I wonder how the NBI agents would pursue him, given that he had a strategic position up there.

Jason’s case has garnered a following, including both male and female supporters who are attracted to his “bad boy” image. However, admiration based solely on his looks is not a justifiable reason to support him. Regardless, at this point, Jason is still innocent until proven guilty, and justice and divine guidance should prevail in his case, as well as the ongoing investigation involving the Ampatuans.
Kris Aquino:Love Her or Hate Her?

January 18, 2010

That’s Entertainment

Sino ba si Kris Aquino para sa ordinaryong mamamayang gaya ko? Dumating at umalis naman si Kris ay walang mababago sa buhay ko bilang Pilipino.

Kris is in the news again. Hiwalay na (muna daw) sila ng asawang basketbolistang si James Yap. Isang Mayen Austria ang tinuturong dahilan ng matinding away-selosan ng mag-asawa. Bago pa man nangyari ang insidente, nag-away na rin ang mag-asawa bago mag-Pasko.

Sige na nga, si Kris Aquino at sampu ng mga celebrities na pinapanuod ko sa TV at pelikula ay may entertainment value sa akin. Never mind kung wala silang economic value sa akin. Heck, nagtatrabaho ako ng otso hanggang dies oras kada araw kaya ibalato na ninyo ang showbiz sa akin sa freetime ko. Ano bang bago kay Kris ulit? Yung temporary o trial separation ba yan kay James? Sa totoo lang, si Kris ang tipo ng taong mamahalin mo at kamumuhian.

Kamumuhian mo sya sa kanyang pagiging taklesa. Masabi, masabi. Walang patumanggang magbigay ng komento o opinyon sa isang tao o bagay. Eh ang Pinoy pa mandin ay sensitive by nature, so madaming naiinis sa ugali nyang yun.

Kamumuhian mo sya dahil obvious namang spoiled brat sya at hindi nya na-outgrown yun. Wala yata sa bokabolaryo nya ang pagiging humble at simple just like her late parents. I don’t know if there’s some truth to this rumor that there was a time that she was very proud to purchase an expensive pair of jeans na “katas ng Luisita.” Okay, fine. Not everybody has hacienda and she should be aware that her very own Hacienda Luisita is plagued with controversy.

Kamumuhian mo sya sa kaaertehan nya. May maarteng cute at minsan naman, cute din ang kaartehan nya! Wag lang sosobrahan na parang nag-aastang 18 years old sya.

Mamahalin mo naman sya sa kanyang pagiging honest. Sya pa nga nangangalakan ng estado ng relasyon nya sa mga nakarelasyon nya, di ba? Hiwalay kung hiwalay! Keber ba kung ano sabihin ng tao. Nagka-STD, pinagtawanan, niyurakan—nagpakatotoo lang sya.

Mamahalin mo sya dahil para syang isang batang nangangailangan lagi ng masasandalan. At ang mga Pilipino ay natural na mapagkalinga. Hindi nyo ba napapansin na sa bawat pagkadapa ni Kris, nariyan ang mga taong umuunawa sa kanya? May mga kumokondena man sa kanya, marami at marami pa ring nagmamahal.

In my humble opinion, hindi na tamang ibalik pa kung ano ang ginawa ni Kris sa nakaraan. Noong panahong naging other woman sya ni Philip Salvador, madami ang nagalit. Pati pamilya nya, nagalit din. Very much married si Philip kay Sony Dabao at kahit dumating pa si Josh sa buhay nila Philip at Kris, hindi nakipag-divorce/annul si Sony. Ganti? Siguro. Noong panahong hiwalayan nya si Philip, madami pa rin ang nag-react. Bakit daw iniwan kung kelan baon sa utang si Philip? Ano ba talaga ang punto? Kinokondenang kabit si Kris pero hindi pwedeng layasan ang naghihirap na si Philip? Dalawang magkaibang argumento yun.

Mas malalang kontrobersya ang kay Joey Marquez at ang simpatya ng tao ay na kay Alma Moreno. Naging sila, naghiwalay, nagsumbatan sa TV at umamin pang may STD! Pero gaya ng nauna, pinatawad ng sambayanan si Kris.

Ngayong sya naman ang nasa posisyon nila Sony at Alma, kinokondena sya ng mga detractors nya komo “gawain” din naman daw nya yun dati. May ganun? So pag ang magnanakaw pala na nagbagong-buhay, hindi na pwedeng mag-report sa pulis pag sya naman ang nanakawan? Pag ang babaeng pa-abort nang pa-abort dati at ngayo’y handa na sa pagiging ina, di na pwedeng magpa-check up sa OB-Gyne?

Ang argumento ng karamihan sa galit kay Kris ay paulit-ulit at walang sustansya. Bakit hindi na lang sabihing, “Kris, ano pa mang estado o pagbabago mo ay walang kwenta sa amin. Maaalala pa rin namin na kabit ka nila Philip at Joey?”

Sabagay, si Kris Aquino ay Kris Aquino na. Love her or hate her, wag masyadong paapekto at hindi sya national issue. 😉
Ikaw Sana

December 8, 2009

That’s Entertainment

I’ve never been a fan of tele-serye until I got hooked on GMA 7’s “Ikaw Sana.” Let me just clarify that I am not a fan of Jennylyn, Mark and Pauleen; I just learned to love their tele-serye.

Pauleen, in “Ikaw Sana” plays the role of Sophia Montemayor-Olivares. She is Eliza’s (Jennylyn) wicked half-sister. Like a true tele-serye that’s full of drama, the two women fell for the same guy, Michael Olivares (Mark). I’ve never appreciated Pauleen Luna’s acting skill until she played the role of Sophia. Pauleen can internalize and feel her role well. I wonder why she was not given any heavy drama role before. I can’t think of any actress who fits the role of the evil socialite Sophia than the pretty Pauleen Luna.

Mark needs to look matured as he’s still baby-faced; he can still be paired with younger actresses like Ynna Asistio. There’s no question that the Jennylyn-Mark loveteam is one of GMA’s bankable team. The couple (Jen and Mark) has evolved from portraying teenybopper to matured roles. There is chemistry between Mark and Jen. I wonder why Mark and Jen didn’t end up with each other in real life!

Jennylyn has grown prettier since her Starstruck days. I no longer read bad publicities about Jen and I hope that her reported mood swings won’t happen again. She is lucky because GMA gave her another chance after that unplanned pregnancy that gave her a very cute Alex Jazz.

Tirso Cruz (Gener Montemayor,father of Sophia and Eliza) and Maritoni Fernandez (Loretta Montemayor, wife of Gener and mother of Sophia) are seasoned actors and I think everybody appreciates the way they deliver their character. But honestly, my favorite is Ms. Marissa Delgado as Amanda Montemayor, the grandmother of Sophia and Eliza. Marissa is one classy lady that can effectively portray the role of a high-society matriarch. I always wait for her tarayan scenes with Maritoni Fernandez, who is also a classy lady and a LADY in real life. She is a daughter of a British aristocrat, Lord Anthony Moynihan.

Love, revenge and family issues; that’s “Ikaw Sana.”