Mark Neumann strikes gold with ‘Wattpad Presents’ performance

Now he can really be called “Mr. Popular”.

Since making his showbiz debut on TV5’s “Artista Academy” two years ago, Mark Neumann has been taking on one challenging project after another in his bid to prove to everyone that there’s more to him than just his pretty boy features.

After “graduating” from the reality talent search, the 19-year-old Filipino-Croatian lad who grew up in Germany immediately played against type when he took on the role of Fuego, one of the villainous superpowered characters in the 2013 fantaserye “Kidlat”.

He followed that up with the May-December TV movie “The Lady Next Door” where he played a troubled teen who fell in love with an older woman portrayed by Alice Dixson.

Mark was then included in the cast of the comedy soap “Confessions of a Torpe” where he first rekindled the “Shark” love team he started with Shaira Mae dela Cruz on “Artista Academy”. Despite the fact that Shaira went public with her relationship with Edgar Allan Guzman, fans continue to accept their onscreen team-up.

So it comes as no surprise that when the two headlined the “Wattpad Presents” mini-series “Mr. Popular Meets Ms. Nobody”, it turned out to be the biggest hit of the eight Wattpad stories adapted by TV5 to date as well as the only one to merit a sequel.

“We didn’t expect our story to rate that well. I was both surprised and happy with the good feedback but Shaira and I could not have done it without Direk Jay Altarejos, the rest of the cast and everyone who worked behind the scenes,” Mark told InterAksyon during the recent story conference for the latest batch of “Wattpad Presents”.

Aside from his chemistry with Shaira, which was pretty much a given, a big part of what made “Mr. Popular Meets Ms. Nobody” was Mark’s performance as Kyle, the most popular guy in school who made life very difficult for Chelsea, a little known girl who made the mistake of standing up to him. The young actor said it was not easy playing a character who is the exact opposite of who he is in real life.

“Ako yung binu-bully sa school noon,” he recalled. “Hindi rin ako mayabang kaya maraming nagsabi na hindi ako bagay sa role ni Kyle. So I really had to push myself and I kept thinking, ‘Mark, ang puso, laban dapat!” and I’m glad people I performed convincingly in this role.”

It was so convincing that Mark is now doing a double take on the same character. Although it seems that Kyle is now humbled by his love for Chelsea, their relationship is not without its share of challenges.

In “Mr. Popular Meets Ms. Nobody 2: Still in Love”, one of those challenges come in the form and shape of Mandy, Kyle’s ex-girlfriend portrayed by Yassi Pressman. As if that does not complicate matters enough, there’s also Kyle’s father (Lander Vera Perez) who wants him in an arranged marriage.

And then there’s also Adrian (Diego Loyzaga), the best friend of Kyle who still has the hots for Chelsea. He is still around and ready to take his place if the two young lovers don’t pan out.

“Unlike the first series na medyo pa-tweetums pa kami, dito mas mature na ang characters. Marami pa ring kilig moments pero I think mas medyo drama na siya compared to the first book,” Mark pointed out.

This also means that Mark once again finds himself in familiar territory of facing new challenges. But that is something that’s no longer news for him. Even as he already improved on his Tagalog, he continues to accept projects that will allow him to continue his mastery of the national language.

Recently, Mark was invited to be reader in the Inquirer Read-Along series along with Jasmine Curtis-Smith and Gilas Pilipinas and Talk ‘N Text Tropang Texters forward Ranidel De Ocampo. As a first-time reader, he said the experience was very memorable to him in more ways than one.

“I’m happy and thankful to be reading for kids. But when they showed me the book, I found it to be malalim, Tagalog na Tagalog, so I practiced it repeatedly before I faced the kids and I’m glad that it went well with them,” he admitted. “Yes, I was nervous but since I’m always looking forward to experiencing new things, I’m glad I was able to do this.”

Again written by Pinkyjhewelii, “Wattpad Presents: Mr. Popular Meets Ms. Nobody 2: Still in Love” airs on TV5 every weekday this week at 9:30PM.

source: interaksyon.com

Alice Dixson says showing skin at 44 ‘part of taking my career to a different level’

Alice Dixson says the secret to anything is just being happy.

“When you’re happy with what you’re doing, happy with your family life, it will show,” she told InterAksyon during a recent photo shoot for an upcoming issue of a popular magazine.

The shoot also highlights what “For Love or Money” co-star Derek Ramsay fittingly describes as “a better body than most teenagers”. When asked what her secret is for staying fit, the 44-year old actress said there’s really no secret.


“For me, it’s just being active. Just enjoy what you do, drink lots of water, get a lot of sleep, eat a lot of good food,” she replied.

“In terms of fitness, I do a lot of different things. Archery is one of them. I also used to do horseback riding. I’ve been diving for quite a while and recently, somebody told me how to wakeboard, so nakakatayo na ‘ko. Introduction to new things is always good for the soul,” she added.

While her flattering figure has something to do with why Alice is showing a little more skin on TV, film and photo shoots these days, it’s also because she admits to being more confident about herself these days.

“I’ve been very shy and conservative in the past but lately I’ve realized I’m not a teenager anymore. The roles that I accept have a certain level of maturity and I don’t find going sexy is something that I should be shy about anymore,” she pointed out.

Alice also thinks that doing these things is a good example to women who belong to her age bracket.

“Women of my age should be proud that we can maintain our fitness to a certain degree. By showing what I have, I thought I can be a good example for women of my age to exercise, to keep fit and stay healthy”.

And yes, she insists she’s just really happy these days. When asked if that happiness includes dating since she is very much an eligible bachelorette once again, Alice first giggled and laughed before turning serious and answering in the negative.

“I’m not really looking, I think that thing will just come and surprise you. Wala, hindi ako naghahanap ngayon,” she stressed. I’m really happy now and enjoying simple joys. Tahimik ang buhay ko and I hope it stays that way.”

There are two things that are putting a big smile on Alice’s face these days. One is the positive feedback she’s been getting for her performance in “For Love or Money”, the weekly drama series on TV5 that she topbills along with Derek Ramsay and Ritz Azul.

Everybody has been tweeting me really good comments. They say it’s their second favorite show of mine after ‘Babaeng Hampaslupa’. Our bosses at TV5 have all expressed their contentment about the show. I heard one of the bosses say that our show is very outstanding. Everybody from our director to the production staff to the artists are very happy with how people have received us,” she enthused.

Alice said she’s astonished that many found her portrayal of wealthy millionaire Kristine Almonte so effective that she is now referred to by the name of her character in social media posts.

“Most of the tweets are actually for Kristine, not me. They say Kristine is really gorgeous and sexy in their tweets and they just tag Alice Dixson in their tweets. They also refer to Derek as his character Edward so I’m glad people could relate to our characters.”

Do these same people think she is actually that rich? Alice said she does get that impression as the show has also attracted some unlikely viewers in only its second month on the air.




“I actually have a couple of Chinese friends who own large companies here in the Philippines and never really watch TV. But they’ve been watching ‘For Love or Money’ and they’re asking me why I have to offer P10 million to Derek. Everybody else has their own comments about the show and I’m happy that the people talking about our show are not just your usual viewers,” she noted.

The other thing Alice is excited about is her new film, “When the Love is Gone”, which marks her first dramatic lead role on the big screen since 1999’s “Ganito Ako Magmahal”.

Although the film is an acknowledged remake of Danny Zialcita’s “Nagalit ang Buwan sa Haba ng Gabi”, Alice said the script is actually different from the original.

“The theme is similar but it’s really not the same. I now consider it as one of my favorite films and that’s a big thing considering I’ve done so many films,” she exclaimed.

One thing that the remake retained from its original source is the witty dialogue that Zialcita’s films were known for. This include the famous line, “Nandiyan ba ang asawa ko na asawa mo na asawa ng boung bayan?” immortalized by Laurice Guillen which Alice gets to deliver in the new version.

As firsts go, 2013 has seen a lot from Alice Dixson: the first time she wore a two-piece bikini in a TV show, her first ever sexy photo shoot, her first time to have numerous kissing scenes again (mostly with Derek) in a long time. The actress said it’s all part of taking her career to a different level.

“I have to be open to doing new things so yeah, people can expect more different and new things from me,” she concluded.

source: interaksyon.com

‘Wowowillie’ bows out with 4-hour farewell show; Willie Revillame vows to return soon

Almost five months after Willie Revillame announced that his noontime show on TV5, “Wowowillie”, will have its last show on October 12, the popular but ofent-controversial comedian and TV host made good on his promise with a grand four-hour “farewell party” at the Delta Theater.

Despite the heavy rains, the place was packed with a standing room only audience, many of whom came from places like Bataan, Cavite, Bulacan, Pampanga, Tarlac, the United States, Kuwait and Japan. Upon acknowledging the crowd, Willie immediately hollered that each one be given P5,000 each.

Yes, lots of money were given away throughout the show as Willie and co-hosts Mariel Rodriguez, Rufa Mae Quinto, Grace Lee, Ava Jugueta, Joy Viado and Cacai Bautista conducted the usual contest portions.

Randy Santiago, who had filled in for Willie for several days leading up to the final show, was also on hand to help out in the hosting chores and even performed a song number with rapper and Saturday mainstay Abra.

Other musical numbers were provided by soul siren Nina as well as by Mariel, Ava, Joy, Cacai and former co-host Camille Villar, who departed last February to pursue masteral studies in Spain.

Former co-hosts Arci Muñoz and Lovely Abella were also around to join the celebration while Camille’s parents and long-time Willie allies, former Senator Manny Villar and wife Senator Cynthia Villar, were among those Willie acknowledged in the audience.

Reflecting not only on the 10-month run of “Wowowillie” on the air but also on his three years with the Kapatid network as host of previous shows “Willing Willie” and “Wil Time Bigtime”, Willie asserted how his shows were able to connect with the masses though the countless prizes they were able to give away.

“Dito po ang pinapansin ang mga hindi pinapansin. Ang importante po dito binibigyan ng halaga kahit sino ka lalo na ang mga taong kapuspalad,” Willie intoned during his final speech to close the show. “Yung mga tao pong akala nila wala nang pangarap pero merong pag-asang binibigay ang mga programang katulad nito. Nandito kami hindi lamang po maging masaya kami, nagiging masaya kami kapag nakapagbibigay kami ng kasiyahan sa inyo sa araw-araw.”

In thanking the Villars in particular, Willie noted that his shows were able to give away a total of 28 houses and lots from Camella Land and Vista Land. “Sina Senators Manny at Cynthia Villar, parang 911 yan. Isang tawag lang namin, bigay agad ng bahay yan,” he stressed.

Like his previous shows, the 10-month run of “Wowowillie” was not without its share of controversies.

Co-host Ethel Booba had a falling out with Willie that she said had started as early as the show’s initial broadcast last January 26 when he jokingly blamed her for the two power failures that marred the show. Ethel said the last straw came when he berated her and fellow co-host Ate Gay on the air the following month after allegedly complaining on the result of a costume contest won by choreographer Anna Feliciano.

Ate Gay himself left the show in April after he felt slighted when then newly hired co-hosts Cacai Bautista and Joy Viado took his usual place as the finale act of the show’s mini-concierto segment.

Another former co-host, Lovely Abella, was reportedly dismissed after she accepted an out-of-town engagement without the show’s consent.  Unlike Lovely, Ethel and Ate Gay were not present during the final show on Saturday. Still, Willie acknowledged their contributions while stressing that he harbors no hatred and bitterness towards anybody.

Then there was the show’s run-in with the Movie Television Review and Classification Board who conducted a gender sensitivity seminar for the show’s cast and crew after the bountiful cleavage of dancer Charm went on full display during the show’s “Tutok to Win” segment, which also took place last April.

But after Willie’s announcement last May that the show’s days are numbered and will formally say goodbye this October, “Wowowillie” was devoid of controversy and ran smoothly, if uneventful, in its final months.

In his final speech, Willie thanked everyone who helped him in his career, from ABS-CBN executives Charo Santos-Concio, Cory Vidanes and Gabby Lopez who gave him his first break on “MTB” and “Wowowee” to TV5 COO Bobby Barreiro, former president CEO Atty. Ray Espinosa, president and current CEO Noel C. Lorenzana and Chairman Manny V. Pangilinan.

“Ngayon lang po ako umalis ng network na binigyan pa ako ng handa,” he quipped as he also revealed that MVP hosted a farewell dinner for him the night before his last show.

Reserving his most heartfelt gratitude to the masses who helped who brought him to where he is now, Willie promised that he and his team will soon return on the air.

“Pag natapos po ang mga usapan,” he assured without giving away any details. “Dito na po magsasara ang aming pinto, sa pagbukas po muli nito, sana ay tayo-tayo pa rin ang magkikita.”

source: interaksyon.com

Amy Perez leaves TV5 ‘due to personal reasons’, network wishes her well

Amy Perez will no longer be a part of “Face the People”, TV5′s revitalized reformat of “Face to Face”, the hit show she had resigned from in July.

When the upcoming show was announced last month, the network said it will bring together Amy and Gelli de Belen, who had hosted “Face to Face” during Amy’s lengthy maternity leave till early this year.

Instead, “Face the People” will now be hosted by Gelli and Tintin Bersola-Babao.

“TV5 Management and Ms Amy Perez have mutually agreed to part ways. TV5 respects the decision of  Ms. Perez to leave the Network due to personal reasons.  She had been a valuable talent of TV5 and we wish her well and the best of luck in her future endeavors,” TV5 said in an official statement on Saturday.

Amy had quit “Face to Face” in July after a falling out with members of the production staff. She will no longer be seen in any TV5 show, including “The Good Morning Club”. She has likewise left her radio program on Radyo Singko DWFM 92.3FM.

In her Twitter account, Amy told her followers that she has moved to another radio station, 106.7 Energy FM.

“I will forever be grateful. Thank you for the memories,” she tweeted without directly referring to TV5.

source: interaksyon.com

‘Misibis Bay’ star Ritz Azul debuts high on FHM’s 100 Sexiest Women list

Not too many people were surprised to see Marian Rivera regain the top spot in FHM Philippines’ 100 Sexiest Women poll.

That doesn’t mean there are no pleasant surprises in this year’s list. There are. One of them is the debut of TV5 primetime princess Ritz Azul, who debuted at a very impressive No. 28 overall in the final tally.

“That is pretty high for a new entry,” FHM Editor-In-Chief Allan Madrilejos told InterAksyon.

Madrilejos added that Ritz garnered a total of 549,696 votes out of over 16 millions votes—online, SMS, and print ballots—that were amassed during the 65-day polling period. Majority of the votes garnered by all the 100 winners came from online votes. FHM.com.ph was visited by 1.7 million unique users, generating 62 million page views for the duration of the campaign that ran from April 1 to June 5.

As new entries go, Ritz, who was on the cover of FHM’s November 2012 issue, is also the second highest-ranked newcomer in the list after April 2013 cover girl Empress Shuck (No. 10).

What makes Ritz’s achievement even more remarkable is that she is actually ranked ahead of more established names and fellow lead young actresses like Bianca King (No. 33), Erich Gonzales (No. 34), Carla Abellana (No. 35), KC Concepcion (No. 40), Shaina Magdayao (No. 44), Bea Alonzo (No. 48), Andi Eigenmann (No. 49), Toni Gonzaga (No. 53) and Julia Montes (No. 57).

Now dubbed as TV5’s virgin bombshell in reference to her famous declaration that she hasn’t had a boyfriend since birth, Ritz is expected to show more skin as the lead star of TV5’s sexy drama mini-series, “Misibis Bay”.

Ritz said she is now ready to show her sexier, bolder, and mature side as she plays the role of Maita Ramirez, an ambitious and driven woman who hopes to provide a comfortable life for her ailing grandmother even as she one day dreams of avenging her parents’ murder.

One of the show’s early highlights shows Ritz performing a lap dance for Christopher de Leon, who plays the tycoon who falls for her.

Aside from Ritz, fellow “Misibis Bay” cast member and former Viva Hot Babe Andrea del Rosario also made FHM’s Most Sexiest List (No. 63). Other Kapatid stars in the list are Niña Jose (No. 70), Danielle Castaño (No. 72), Erika Padilla (No. 87) and Arci Muñoz (No. 99).

Meg Imperial, who started her career with TV5, is also a newcomer in the list at No. 37 while Rufa Mae Quinto, who was one of the leads of the fantaserye “Enchanted Garden”, remains a staple at No. 74.

The complete list will be showcased in a supplement of the magazine’s July 2013 issue, due out this weekend.

Ritz, along with everyone else featured in the poll, is expected to grace the FHM 100 Sexiest Women in the World 2013 Victory Party scheduled this coming July 10 at the World Trade Center where Marian Rivera will be officially crowned as the Philippines’ Finest.

source: interaksyon.com

Tough competitors, intriguing personalities round up ‘Boracay Bodies’ cast

Ethel Booba and Krista Miller may have gotten the lion’s share of attention during the recent press conference that launched TV5’s newest primetime reality series, “Boracay Bodies”.

But that does not necessarily mean that they’re already the odds-on favorites to win the competition and won’t be facing stiff challenges from Luke Jickain, Joross Gamboa, Brent Javier, Wendy Valdez and Helga Krapf.



Following the program’s format, all contestants need to complete specific daytime tasks, party at night and gain points to help determine who wins and who loses each task.

At the show’s ultimate grand party, the last male and female contestant left standing will emerge as the Ultimate Party Boy and Ultimate Party Girl, who will take home P500,000 each courtesy of sponsor Boracay Rum.

As we already know a lot about Ethel and Krista, who both have been hogging headlines as of late, let’s take a look at the other contestants and see what they bring to the table.


JOROSS GAMBOA, ‘The Jester’
Outside of Ethel, Joross is the life of the party among the boys as he likes to make everyone laugh. No stranger to reality competitions, Joross was a member of the star-studded first batch of ABS-CBN’s “Star Circle Quest” that produced the likes of Roxanne Guinoo, Melissa Ricks, Michelle Madrigal, Sandara Park and the comebacking Hero Angeles.

And don’t let his clowning demeanor fool you, Joross is as serious as they come when it comes to his craft. Now a sought-after character actor, he won the Cinemalaya 2012 New Breed Best Supporting Actor award for “Intoy Syokoy ng Kalye Marino” and was recently in the cast of the John Lloyd Cruz-Sarah Geronimo romantic comedy blockbuster “It Takes A Man and A Woman”.


WENDY VALDEZ, ‘The Righteous’
Another reality show veteran, Wendy started out as the most hated housemate in the second season of “Pinoy Big Brother”.

Surprisingly, she managed to parlay her initial bad girl image to a third place finish on the show and even went on to headline her own teleserye, “Margarita” before finding her niche in supporting roles that showcases more of her range and depth.

Now a born-again Christian, the once feisty and sassy lady has mellowed down and exhibited a more pious attitude. As evidenced in most of her conversations with all of the cast members in this reality show, she would always preach the messages of the Lord through Bible verses to guide her co-actors to be morally upright. Hence, the title, “The Righteous”.


 HELGA KRAPF, ‘The Sweet Girl’
Not too many are aware of it, but Helga was also a part of the first batch of “Star Circle Quest” where she made it as far as the top 50. Since then, she has never been out of projects and in addition to sitcoms and teleseryes has appeared in the romantic comedies “Forever and a Day” and “I Won’t Last a Day Without You”.

Her sweet and naïve image on the show might actually work to her advantage as it would be a mistake for anyone to underestimate her, even as her fellow contestants consider her as the baby in the group.

Regardless of what happens to her on “Boracay Bodies”, making it as one of the contestants might just give her the career boost that she needs and may lead to the lead roles that has eluded her all throughout her nine years in the business.





Although he won prestigious competitions such as the Mossimo Bikini Summit and MTV Best Model of the World-Philippines Manhunt and was a finalist for the MTV VJ Hunt batch won by Kat Alano, Andi Manzano and Sib Sibulo, Brent said his inability to speak Tagalog well has somewhat stalled his showbiz career.

He also attributed his laying low for a relationship that lasted for five and a half years. But now that that’s over and done with, Brent is ready to pick up where he left off and “Boracay Bodies” just might be the ideal starting point to resume his career.

Still regarded as one of the country’s most beautiful and sexiest men, what makes him more attractive is his quiet and reserved personality — something that could propel him to win this competition.


VICTOR SILAYAN, ‘The Lover Boy’
The grandson of the late, great actor Vic Silayan and the nephew of late beauty queen Chat Silayan, Victor is one of TV5’s Primetime Princes and best known as Eula Caballero’s love interest in “The Sisters” and “Third Eye”.

His boy-next-door looks, quiet and accommodating charm and gentlemanly demeanor make him similar to Brent except Victor seems to be more fun-loving and easygoing and has a propensity to try out just about anything.

Although he chose Wendy as the hottest among the girls during the press conference, Joross suggested that something seems to be brewing between her and Krista. Whether that will help or hurt his chances in the competition remains to be seen.


Brother of model-turned-chef Martin Jickain, Luke is a Filipino-French model who has branched out into acting in recent years, having appeared in the teleseryes “Maria La Del Barrio” and in “Imortal” as an uncredited vampire.

A man of literally few words, Luke’s quiet and sometimes brooding persona may come off as too serious.

That seems to have changed on “Boracay Bodies” as has shown that among all the others, he had the strongest desire to understand the members of their group. During the tense moments, it was always he who acted as the peacemaker and showed a willingness to sacrifice himself in order to help his group members.

“Boracay Bodies” airs every Saturday at 9PM on TV5 starting April 6.

source: interaksyon.com

After only a month, Ethel Booba out as ‘Wowowillie’ co-host?

Ethel Booba and Ate Gay were conspicuously absent on “Wowowillie” on Friday, prompting speculation that the two had been axed from the one-month-old show following a row with main host and co-producer Willie Revillame.

During Thursday’s program, Willie reported that he had castigated Ethel and Ate Gay in the dressing room for being “unprofessional”. He said the two comedians had vehemently complained to him after they lost to choreographer Anna Feliciano in the show’s “Mini-Concierto” segment.

“Nagalit sila dahil hindi sila nanalo sa costume… Ang lalaki na ng ulo n’yo!.. If you want to resign right now, go! Hindi ko kayo pipigilan,” Willie said.

He questioned their sense of gratitude and reminded them that he was their boss: “Mag-isip kayo dahil ako ang nagpapasuweldo sa inyo!”

He was particularly angry at Ethel whom, he said, he had hired despite the misgivings of many.

On Friday Ethel’s Twiter account was bombarded with questions about her fate as a co-host on “Wowowillie”.

She poked fun at a couple of queries, which mistakenly referred to the show with  the names of Willie’s defunct programs, “Wowowee” and “Wiltime Big Time”.

source: interaksyon.com

Valerie Weigmann is Derek Ramsay’s new love interest on ‘Kidlat’

Things are heating up on “Kidlat”.

TV’s most popular primetime superhero (Derek Ramsay) may have lost his first love Lara (Nadine Samonte) to her current comatose state but just when Joey (Ritz Azul) is beginning to warm up to his alter ego, Voltaire, in comes another mysterious woman who is dead set on coming between Kidlat and his current object of affection.

That mystery woman is Natasha, a sassy and sophisticated fashion designer from South Africa who will be later revealed as the villainess Enigma.


Played by 21-year old Filipino-German “Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition” alumna Valerie Weigmann, the witchcraft-practicing Enigma is the latest evil character to join Kidlat’s increasing rogues gallery.

Though a little nervous to be part of a successful series, Valerie admits that she’s more than excited to meet everyone—particularly her new leading man.

“Excited at kahit paano kinabahan din ako. I’ve heard so many good things about Derek, like how he’s a gentleman. And it’s true, napakabait n’ya at very supportive to everyone. He’s easy to work with and we also got a chance to talk on the set kasi he has also been to Germany,” Valerie said during the press conference that introduced Enigma and the other new villains of the series, namely Warla (Paolo Ballesteros), Frosta (Shaira Mae) and Fuego (Mark Neumann).

Her name may not ring a bell to some people, but Valerie is a sought-after ramp and commercial model that has graced many print and television commercials since her “PBB” stint. Born and raised in Germany, the towering beauty said she has been based here in the Philippines for the last four years. She also co-owns Manila’s first German-Turkish restaurant named “bamm”, located at The Collective, Makati.

Even with her whistlebait and statuesque figure, Valerie admits that she’s not yet ready to do “super daring roles” or even to pose sexy for the popular men’s magazine, FHM, for that matter.

“As of now, I don’t feel like I’m ready to go sexy. For men’s magazine pictorials? Maybe in the future and depending on the peg. My answer would be no right now but I could be open to doing it someday. Never say never,” she insisted.

What she is ready, however, is to do an independent film, something she’s happy to announce she’s already doing with no less than “Ang Babae Sa Septic Tank” director Marlon Rivera at the helm.

And yes, aside from the “Kidlat” actor, the young actress is quick to name also Piolo Pascual and John Lloyd Cruz on her wish list of leading men someday.

“Piolo in particular, is the typical leading-man type that any actress would love to have,” she quipped.



But even as her character Natasha/Enigma hopes to turn the world of Derek’s character upside down and inside out, Voltaire is not going to be easy pickings for her. She still has to contend with the strong-willed Joey who seems to be winning his heart as of late.

And then there’s Nadine’s character, Lara, who, in a shocking twist, is set to come back to life this week.

“Honestly, I don’t know why my character is back so soon. Dapat mga around week 9 pa ako babalik,” Nadine admitted during the same press conference. “I guess it’s something that the fans really wanted.”

When asked how she feels about the development of Joey’s character as well as the introduction of Natasha/Enigma, Nadine, who has been romantically linked with Derek as of late, said that she has no problem with it.

“Kahit sino naman ang i-love interest sa kanya, mas mabuti ‘yun for his character and for the development of the series as a whole,” she pointed out.

As for Valerie herself, yes, she is well aware of Derek’s reputation as a ladies’ man. When asked if she’s ready to be linked to Derek, she just coyly replied, “Tingnan na lang natin kung ano ang mangyayari.”

“Kidlat” airs weeknights at 6:45PM on TV5.

source: interaksyon.com

Willie Revillame says new show has blessings of Joey de Leon, Sharon Cuneta

A mellow and relaxed Willie Revillame told media on Wednesday that “Wowowillie” has the blessings of Joey de Leon and Sharon Cuneta — two colleagues who might have something to say about his new variety show on TV5, set to debut on Saturday.

Joey, of course, is one of the pillars of “Eat Bulaga”, Philippine television’s noontime champ for over three decades, with whom Willie famously feuded in 2007 when he was still hosting “Wowowee” on ABS-CBN.


The two have since mended and enriched their friendship, so Joey’s sentiment was one of Willie’s first concerns when TV5 president and CEO Atty. Ray Espinosa first broached the idea of a return to the noontime slot (11:30AM to 2:30PM).

“Nasabi ko naman ‘yun kina Atty. Ray. Ayoko kasi na may masabi rin sa akin sina Joey. Yes, there was a time, nabanggit ko nga, hangga’t maaari hindi kami magsasalubong sa same time slot,” Willie told media at a press conference on Wednesday at his nightclub Wil’s Events Place.

Willie decided he needed to reach out to Joey. He spoke to him two weeks ago shortly after “Wil Time Bigtime” — his second TV5 show in the early evening slot — went off the air.

“I called him up. Out of respeto. Sabi ko sa kanya, I have to tell you, magkakaroon ako ng noontime show. And you know naman Joey, he’s very gentlemanly in every way. Okay naman sa kanya,” he related.

Willie said Joey — who is also a Kapatid because he co-hosts TV5′s Sunday noontime variety show “Game ‘N Go” — even quipped that they’re too old for petty rivalries and, who knows, they might even end up together in one show someday.

Willie had also been exchanging text messages with Sharon, whose talk show “Sharon: Kasama Mo, Kapatid” was terminated recently, paving the way for “Wowowillie” to take over its venue — TV5′s Delta Theater studio on Quezon Avenue.

“Magka-text kami ni Shawie. Wala pa siya ngayon dito, nasa Amerika pa ‘ata pero dapat kasama siya sa almost a hundred stars na guests sa Saturday. Kami, walang sama ng loob sa isa’t isa,” he said.

Willie noted that Sharon’s current negotiations for her own new program are a private matter between her and the TV5 bosses: “Sila ng TV5 ang nag-uusap. Kaya, hindi ko sila puwede panghimasukan.”

Ever since he transferred to TV5 in 2010 and hosted “Willing Willie”, he always found the remote location of its studio in Novaliches to be a liability.

“Ang mga matatanda o senior citizens nagbi-biyahe pa ng malayo para lang makapanood ng programa. Jeep-jeep, truck-truck nandiyan sila sa gilid ng studio, dun pa sa TV5. Nagpa-park sila sa SM Novaliches. Nakikita namin ang efforts nila,” he shared.

Needless to say, he is very excited about planting his roots on fresh ground. Willie said TV5 spent over P100 million and his own production company chipped in P35 million to expand and refurbish the theater. The result, he believes, should give the “Wowowillie” studio audience the illusion of being in a Las Vegas theater.

Willie said it was not his but TV5′s idea to return to noontime and go up against “Eat Bulaga” and “It’s Showtime”.

“Wala naman sa isip ko ang noontime. Kasi by October tapos na dapat ang kontrata ko. And now, they are asking me kung gusto ko pa itong ituloy ng three to five years. Saka ko na muna iisipin ‘yun dahil ang focus ko eh, nandito ngayon sa big day namin sa Sabado.”

That big day also happens to be his 52nd birthday. As he turns a year older and begins another chapter in his career, he does not feel the pressure of competition this time around.

“Kung sasabihin na pressured ako, wala. Sa akin, there is no competition right now. More on nakatutok ako sa content ng show. Hindi sa numbers game. Kailangan ko munang palakihin ang show, pagandahin at pasayahin ang mga taong manonood nito,” he said.

Willie vowed to give away more meaningful prizes to contestants, the kind that would have a lasting impact on their livelihoods. He also revealed his plan to provide houses to his own staff, many of whom placed their fortunes on his hands when they joined him when he left ABS-CBN for TV5.

And finally, he expressed his hope that “Wowowillie” would further boost TV5′s ascendant status in the ratings game, if only to make the network bosses, especially TV5 chairman Manny V. Pangilinan, happy.

“Siyempre, gusto nating matulungan din ang istasyon. Kasi dito naramdaman ko ‘yung pagmamahal. Imagine, big boss tine-text ka, kinukumusta ka, tinatapik ka sa balikat for a job well done. Very inspiring na amo. At sasabihan ka ni MVP ng ‘Your pain is our pain, your fight is our fight.’”

source: interaksyon.com

TV5 International continues expansion with Canada launch

TV5 International continues to expand with the recent launch of channels Kapatid TV5 and Aksyon TV International in Canada.

Held last November 3 during the PNT Singing Idol 2102 Grand Finals in Vancouver, the launch introduced to the Canadian public the availability of TV5’s channels through the Turbo TV bar, an IPTV (internet protocol television)-powered device that transforms regular TV into a smart TV.

The Turbo TV bar allows users the flexibility to download and install their favorite Apps from the Google Store. Viewers can enjoy both local Canadian programs and TV5’s news and entertainment shows while having the functions of a desktop computer on their television sets.

The Turbo TV Android Set top box also comes with a built-in camera, allowing users to surf the web and connect with their family and friends on Twitter, Facebook, Skype, and Youtube.

“Turbo TV is the first to offer this kind of cutting-edge technology to Filipinos living overseas, combining entertainment with almost everything one wants to do online,” said Claro Carmelo Ramirez, president of PGN, Ltd. “This is truly revolutionary and we are optimistic that our Kapatids in Canada will love this product.”

TV5’s Kapatid TV5 and Aksyon TV International are the only channels from the Philippines offered via the Turbo TV Filipino package, which is powered by Vancouver-based AEBC Internet Corp. and distributed by Reyfort Media Group all over Canada.

Plans are also already underway for a bigger launch in the country sometime next year, with hopes to reach more Filipinos living in other key areas in the region.

source: interaksyon.com

Wil Time Bigtime turns 2

MANILA, Philippines - TV5’s Wil Time Bigtime continues to give back to its loyal viewers two years after its host Willie Revillame began his top-rating reality-game show last October 2010.

The show recently added another lucky contestant to its list of mega jackpot winners. Zyra del Rosario, a finalist of Eat, Bulaga’s Little Miss Philippines back in 2000, emerged the winner of no less than P3.5 million worth of prizes recently. She became the show’s fourth winner of P1M, Camella house and lot and Foton van.

Meanwhile, for its anniversary month, Wil Time Bigtime launched the Two-Tok SMS promo where cash and house-and-lot packages will be given away. Felix Cañoneo Jr. of Bohol was the first to win a Camella house and lot in last week’s draw. Three more houses and lots are still up for grabs in the next three weeks.

To register in the SMS promo, text WILREG <full name/age/complete address> to 5656 (example: WILREG Juan Dela Cruz/26 /81 Ojeda St., Quezon City). Upon registration, viewers can start sending as many anniversary greetings for Wil Time Bigtime. Text WIL<anniversary greeting> and send to 5655 (example: WIL <Happy anniversary Kuya Willie!>. One anniversary greeting is equivalent to one entry. The more entries sent, the more chances of winning.

Three promo subscribers will win P20,000 cash and P300 load prize daily, while one lucky subscriber will win a house and lot every week. A Foton van will also be given away every weekend for the entire month.

Stay tuned to Wil Time Bigtime Mondays to Fridays at 7 p.m. and Saturdays, 5 p.m.

source: philstar.com

Shaira and Mark now the pair to beat on ‘Artista Academy’

With only six “Artista Academy” scholars comprising its Honors List, the competition in the country’s biggest and most intensive talent search takes a new twist as the show’s 9th live exam last Saturday focused on the importance of love teams.

“The love team is one of the most effective entry points in show business,” declared TV5 Talent Center head Direk Mac Alejandre as he and “AA” Principal Wilma Galvante explained how the grading system works at this stage of the contest.

“It’s all about chemistry. Kailangan pakiligin nyo kami ngayong gabi,” Galvante added. “From now on, it is neither about individual performance nor team effort. Our live exam is about love team effort. The grade of one is the grade of the other.”

With that the three pairs of Vin Abrenica and Sophie Albert (a.k.a. Sovin), Akihiro Blanco and Chanel Morales (a.k.a. Akinel) and Shaira Mae and Mark Neumann (a.k.a. Shark) proceeded to impress the critics with their respective showcases of chemistry.

Stumbling out of the gate, Vin and Sophie was chastised by Direk Mac for their shaky choreography and failure to memorize the lyrics of their duet, “I’ve Had The Time of My Life” from the movie “Dirty Dancing.”

“Sayang, you look so good together,” Alejandre lamented. “Ang kilig ay lumalabas lamang kung tama ang dialogue at sumusunod kayo sa blocking. Next time, kung mabibigyan kayo ng pagkakataon, make sure memoryado nyo na ang linya nyo.”

Gelli added that although the pair reminded her of Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes, she acknowledged that it was Vin who carried the loveteam even as she, LT and Principal Wilma added that Sophie looked really good in her outfit.

“Bagay kayong dalawa,” LT conceded.

“Hindi naman kayo bumitaw sa concept na kayong dalawa ay nag-iibigan,” Galvante observed.









Next up was Akinel. Inspired by the opening scene of “Grease,” their portion proved tricky because only talked about each other to their friends and would not meet eye to eye until the last part of their duet, “Summer Nights.”

“Kahit sa bandang huli na lang nagtama ang mga mata nyo, the payoff is worth it,” Direk Mac enthused.

“Nagkaroon kayo ng spark nung ending,” added LT.

For her part, Gelli took Akihiro to task for not memorizing the lyrics to their song while Galvante thought it was Chanel who carried the pair. “Chanel can really work up a crowd,” she pointed out.

Finally, it was Shaira and Mark’s turn to wow everyone and notwithstanding being handicapped with an awful medley of “Umbrella” and “Singing In The Rain” that could have been disastrous, their performance delivered kilig factor to the max.

“The music worked against you but you made it work. Nilunod ng kaguwapuhan ni Mark at kagandahan ni Shaira ang kanta nyo,” Direk Mac exclaimed.

Gelli went a little further and compared them to Kim Chiu and Gerald Anderson while host Cesar Montano went as far as comparing them to Nora Aunor and Tirso Cruz III and Lorna Tolentino and the late Rudy Fernandez.

LT reserved her best compliment to her favorite “cutie pie”, Mark. “Pati pagta-Tagalog mo, naiintindihan ko na sinasabi mo. Napalaki ng improvement n’yo at higit sa lahat kumakanta na kayo, ibig sabihin yung ginawa niyo tumalon dito sa amin at naramdamin naming ang kilig.”

And even as Principal Wilma expressed some reservations and told them that they still need to work on their emotional kilig, it was a successful “Shark” attack for Shaira and Mark who went on to win the Most Kilig Couple award of the night.

With their outstanding showing, it looks like Shaira and Mark have elevated their status from dark house contenders to emerging frontrunners as Vin, Sophie, Akihiro and Chanel need to reclaim some of their lost glory.

Will Shaira Mae and Mark continue their winning streak or will the former leaders bounce back and slay the “Shark” as the competition towards the P20 million grand prize for the best actor and best actress winds down to an exciting finale?

The only way to find out is to tune in to “Artista Academy” as it airs on TV5 every Monday to Friday at 9PM and every Saturdays at 9:30PM.

source: interaksyon.com

Ritz Azul stars opposite her dream leading man Derek Ramsay in ‘Kidlat’

All Ritz Azul knew last Monday was that she was going to a story conference. When she later found out that she was going to star in “Kidlat,” TV5’s new superhero fantaserye as one of two love interests of Derek Ramsey, she almost broke into tears.

“Dito ko lang talaga naman kung ano ang gagawin ko,” the elated TV5 Princess told Interaksyon after the story conference. “Pagkarinig ko ng story kay Direk Mike Tuviera, halos mangiyak-ngiyak ako sa tuwa.”

Ritz has plenty of reasons to be happy with her new project. Although the 18-year-old “Star Factor” alumna from Pampanga remains visible a presence on the Kapatid network as she is also a mainstay of the weekly sitcom “Kapitan Awesome” and the Sunday noontime game show “Game N’ Go” as part of the new Game N’ Go Gang, she’s been hoping to get a new teleserye after last year’s “Glamorosa.”

“Tama ‘yung paniniwala ko na naghihintay lang ang TV5 ng right time para bigyan ako ng bagong teleserye, and I’m glad it’s ‘Kidlat’ kasi even before ‘Glamorosa’ pa, madalas akong tanungin kung sino ang gusto kong maging leading man. Ang lagi kong sagot, Derek Ramsay. So this is a dream come true na rin for me kasi parang may nakarinig nung dasal ko,” she exclaimed.

In “Kidlat,” Ritz is also looking forward to working with director Mike Tuviera, a veteran fantasy director who puts a premium on the performances of his actors.

“I’m all about performance and I will only allow the best version of yourselves to be used on TV,” Direk Mike told his cast. Come on time, come prepared, know your lines, treat this seriously, and I promise you, you will all look good here.”

“Bigla akong na-pressure sa mga requirements ni Direk Mike,” Ritz admitted. “Pero tama naman sya, kailangan naman lahat namin yun, especially the discipline. I’m excited to meet all the challenges of this project.”

Ritz is not sure if she’ll be doing action scenes in the series since her character is a mortal with no superpowers but added that she’s prepared to do such scenes if her role calls for them.

“I’ve tried drama and I’ve also done comedy so okay din naman kung may konting action. Pero based on the story conference, mukhang it’s more drama ulit for me here,” she added.





Since becoming one of TV5’s primetime princesses along with Alex Gonzaga, Danita Paner, Eula Caballero, Arci Muñoz and Jasmine Curtis-Smith, Ritz’s efforts at working on her craft has not gone unnoticed.

Her unforgettable turn as Daisy Flores in last year’s “Mga Nagbabagang Bulaklak” won for her two awards, Outstanding Breakthrough Performance by an Actress from the Golden Screen TV Awards and the Amazing Female Newcomer from Yahoo! Philippines OMG Awards.

When asked if there is such a thing as “sibling rivalry” between her and her fellow Kapatid stars, Ritz laughed and quickly retorted.

“Ah, wala, kaya nga sa TV5, mga Kapatid kami kasi para talaga kaming magkakapatid,” she shot back.

On being a part of the recentt “Dolphy Alay Tawa” concert scheduled to air on the three major networks this Sunday, Ritz said she feels so blessed to be given a chance to be a part of such a momentous moment.

“I also got the chance to interact with the other networks talents like Enzo Pineda, Wynwyn Marquez, Aljur Abrenica, Rocco Nacino and Miss Pauleen Luna. Mababait naman silang lahat and very supportive,” she revealed.

With the way her career is going, Ritz said she could not ask for anything more right now. As for the prospects of having a love team, she leaves it up to TV5 to decide on what’s best for her career.

When told that her dream leading man, Derek Ramsay, is currently single, Ritz just smiled and said, “Oo nga, balita ko din, single nga siya.”

source: interaksyon.com

Mark, Shaira grab last 2 slots in ‘Artista Academy’ Final Six

Mark Neumann and Shaira Mae won the last two slots in the Final Six after quite possibly the most explosive and competitive Live Exams on “Artista Academy” on Saturday as the grand finals of TV5′s reality talent search draws near.

Mark and Shaira joined the four top scholars who had earned their slots in the honors list last weekend – Akihiro Blanco, Vin Abrenica, Chanel Morales and Sophie Albert – after a night of competition where every member of the Danger Four and the Tropang Kick-Out stepped up their game to the delight of the critics composed of “AA” Principal Wilma Galvante, director Mac Alejandro, Lorna Tolentino, and Gelli de Belen.

The TV5 studio at Broadway Centrum roared like thunder when fans of the students shared in the merriment as they cheered their idols till the announcement of the night’s two winners in the end.

The live exam started with a dance number prepared by Mark, Shaira Mae, Nicole Estrada, Chris Leonardo, and Malak SSo Shidfat. All five impressed the critics’ panel but Mark and Shaira Mae were pronounced as the standouts.

Next came the singing showcase featuring Brent Mazano, Marvelous Alejo, Benjo Leoncio, Stephanie Rowe and Jon Orlando as they took turns performing songs by Martin Nievera, Sharon Cuneta, Ogie Alcasid, Zia Quizon and Ric Segreto, respectively.

Direk Mac Alejandre was very proud of the improvements he witnessed with each one’s performance.

“You were able to put the discipline you learned into practice. Brent gave such control and was so in full control of the song. Benjo gave a fantastic performance,” he said.

Pleasantly surprised too were Gelli and Ms. LT.

“Kasi,” Gelli elucidated, “this is not always about trying your best. Kaya gulat ako sa limang ito. This time, alam na nila kung kelan nila ibibigay ang dapat at kung ano ang kailangan. Sakto lang. Brent showed that.”

Added Ms. LT, “Ramdam ko ‘yung galing na nagmumula sa kalooban. Paborito ko ‘yung song na ‘Bakit Ngayon Ka Lang’. Nawala na ‘yung punto (accent) at may kambyo na ang kanta ni Benjo.”

Ma’am Wilma mock-complained, “Nahihirapan na ako! Pero nakakatuwa. Ina-apply ninyo ang itinuturo sa inyo. Ginagamit niyo. And for this exam, congratulations to Jon and Marvelous.”

The final test was the acting challenge where all 10 remaining contenders took part under the tutelage of PETA acting coach Upeng Fernandez. Here, they were divided into three groups with each group tasked to convey a specific emotion.

Nicole, Jon and Mark took turns interpreting sadness; Shaira, Marvelous and Chris, fear; and Malak, Stephanie, Brent and Benjo, anger. Once again, the critics were pleased with all the performances.

Direk Mac extolled Brent and Nicole for their portrayals: ”Very mature, very deep, very intelligently acted.” Gelli praised everyone for knowing to calibrate their emotions and exhibiting a sense of timing. Both she and LT declined to identify who they thought were the best performers.

Principal Wilma said she bought into Nicole’s sadness, Chris’ fear, and Malak’s anger.

The total scores were tallied from the scholars’ performances in the Live Exams as well as their grades in their ongoing workshops at the Asia Academy of Television Arts, and their fans’ text votes throughout the past week.

“Artista Academy” airs weeknights at 9PM and on Saturdays at 9:30PM on TV5.

source: interaksyon.com

Court releases Willie Revillame’s P426-M bond over ‘Wowowee’ case

A Quezon City court has released the P426 million surety bond posted by TV5 host Willie Revillame in connection with a 2010 civil case he filed against his former employer ABS-CBN.

Judge Alexander Balut of Quezon City Regional Trial Court Branch 76 found the bond unnecessary and allowed its discharge.

Revillame posted the bond following an October 2010 resolution issued by then Branch 84 Judge Luisito Cortez for him to post P426,917,646.96 to answer for any damages that ABS-CBN may suffer while he was hosting a new show on TV5.

This was after he filed an P11-million damage suit against the network where he used to host the noontime show “Wowowee” and asked the court to make a judicial confirmation of the end of his contract.

ABS-CBN answered with a P426-million counter-claim and alleged that Revillame had reneged on his contract, which was set to expire in 2011.

In a six-page order, the court dismissed ABS-CBN’s application for preliminary injunction.

ABS-CBN also tried but failed to get a temporary restraining order against Revillame’s hosting of TV5′s “Willing Willie” show under Cortez’s court.

Last year, Revillame reformatted “Willing Willie” and changed its name to “Wil Time Bigtime”.

Balut also suspended the proceedings pending finality of a Court of Appeal’s decision of the case between TV5 versus ABS-CBN and Makati City RTC Branch 66 judge Joselito Villarosa.

InterAksyon.com is the online news portal of TV5.

source: interaksyon.com

TV5 to replay full London Olympics closing ceremony twice today

MANILA - TV5 will air the full closing ceremony of the London Olympics at 12 noon today on TV5 and also at 8 p.m. on AKTV on IBC.

The closing ceremony, showcasing the best of the world's athletes and the best of British music, was aired live on TV5 from 4 a.m. to 5 a.m. Monday and highlights were incorporated into its morning program, Good Morning Club.

Aptly called “A Symphony of British Music,” the celebration featured some of the country’s best artistic exports in the past half-century. More than 4,100 performers, including 3,500 volunteers and 380 schoolchildren will be present during the lavish gathering to cap off the quadrennial games.

Academy Award-nominated film and Tony Award-winning theater director Stephen Daldry is the creative director and executive producer for the closing ceremonies.

More than 10,000 athletes will also march together in a symbol of unity forged in the past two weeks of the games. Representatives from 2016 Olympic host country Brazil also received the torch in a formal turnover ceremony for the next Games.

Despite the unsuccessful mission to capture the first Olympic gold medal for the Philippines, the 11-member contingent competed alongside the world’s best in this year’s Olympics. This year’s performance only motivates the national athletes to do better in time for 2016, officials said.

source: interaksyon.com

TV5 airs spiced up London 2012 closing ceremonies Monday morning

The closing ceremonies of the London 2012 Olympics promises to be as star-studded as its opening a couple of weeks ago.

Come Monday morning (August 13, Philippine Standard Time), the world will once again witness the best of the world’s athletes in a ceremony that showcases the best of British Music. Aptly called “A Symphony of British Music,” the celebration will feature some of the country’s best artistic exports in the past half-century. More than 4,100 performers, including 3,500 volunteers and 380 schoolchildren will be present during the lavish gathering to cap off the quadrennial games.

Academy Award-nominated film and Tony Award-winning theater director Stephen Daldry is the creative director and executive producer for the closing ceremonies. George Michael, Muse and Ed Sheeran have confirmed participation, while The Kinks’ frontman Ray Davies and the Spice Girls have been tipped as among the roster of performers.

The closing ceremonies will be broadcast live via TV5 starting at 4 a.m.

More than 10,000 athletes will also march together in a symbol of unity forged in the past two weeks of the games. Representatives from 2016 Olympic host country Brazil will also be introduced during the formal turnover ceremony for the next Games.

Despite the unsuccessful mission to capture the first Olympic gold medal for the Philippines, the 11-member contingent competed alongside the world’s best in this year’s Olympics. This year’s performance only motivates the national athletes to do better in time for 2016, officials said.

Aside from watching TV5’s live broadcast of the closing ceremonies on Monday, viewers can also catch it during its primetime replay at 8:30PM the same day on AKTV on IBC 13.

source: interaksyon.com

Nora, Derek Ruffa, ‘Bigtime’ girls meet TV5 fans in San Francisco

Although tired and sleep-deprived, TV5 heavy-hitters Nora Aunor, Derek Ramsay, Ruffa Gutierrez, and the “Wil Time Bigtime” girls gamely met with Filipino fans at a supermarket and a shopping mall in San Francisco on Friday, the eve of TV5 International’s The Big Launch in the city.

Filipino-Americans in Vallejo braved the sweltering heat for a meet-and-greet session with Nora, Derek, and the “Bigtime” girls near the entrance of the Island Paradise Supermarket.

Ruffa caught up with the group and gamely posed for pictures and gave autographs to grateful fans.

The Kapatid delegation’s next stop was the Seafood City Mall in Concord where a long queue of eager Filipinos were waiting to welcome them.

Virginia de los Santos was thrilled by the chance to kiss Derek and pose for pictures with the TV5 hunk.

“Aba’s siyempre masarap, parang anak ko lang siya. Aba’y siyempre pogi!” she enthused.

“Wil Time Bigtime” host Willie Revillame arrived in San Francisco past 11pm. He had cancelled his flight earlier in the day to get some rest.

Although he was feeling under the weather, he said there was no way he would miss this stop of the “Homecoming Tour” of “Wil Time” in California.

“Kahit na naka-wheelchair ako. O naka-kama ako may dextrose, darating ako diyan. Hindi puwedeng hindi,” Willie said.

“Wil Time” will lead the festivities for the second leg of TV5 International’s launch of Kapatid TV5 and Aksyon International in North America in a special show at the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium on Saturday night.

TV5 and Aksyon International programs can now be viewed across North America through Dish Network.

The first leg was held at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles on May 26.

source: interaksyon.com

TV5 gears up for international launch

Wil Time Bigtime is now on full-time preparation for its upcoming international tour in the United States. The tour coincides with the big launch of "KapatidTV5" Network and AksyonTV International this May 26 in Los Angeles and June 2 in San Francisco.

Even Willie Revillame himself can't help but feel the excitement too. He has prepared a special production number for fellow Filipinos abroad.

Besides Wil Time Bigtime, other Kapatid stars like Derek Ramsay, Aga Muhlach and Sharon Cuneta will also join the international launch of TV5.

source: interaksyon.com

PLDT allots P6 billion to grow TV5, Cignal; telco's 1Q profit down 6%

The board of Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co. (PLDT) has approved a multibillion-peso investment of its wholly-owned subsidiary in TV5 as the network aims to grow its market share by 30 percent by 2015.

Manuel V. Pangilinan, chairman of PLDT and ABC Development Corp. told reporters that its board approved a P6 billion investment by ePLDT, in the form of Philippine Depository Receipts (PDRs), in TV5 and Cignal TV.

ePLDT will subscribe to PDRs to be issued by MediaQuest Holdings Inc. and the proceeds from subscription will be invested by MediaQuest in TV5 and Cignal.

Of the total, P4.8 billion would be invested in TV5 to finance the state-of-the-art Media Center in Mandaluyong and the remaining P1.2 billion will be used to expand the operation of Cignal.

Pangilinan said TV5 expects to post a loss this year and smaller losses in 2013.

"By 2014, we expect to post a profit," he added.

Ray Espinosa, president and chief executive of TV5, said the network has grown its market share from 2.3 percent in 2007 to 18 percent at the end of 2011 for Metro Manila.

In addition, TV5's market share nationwide grew to 15.6 percent last year from 2.7 percent in 2007.

Espinosa said TV5's target market share nationwide is 30 percent by 2014 or 2015.

Cignal TV, the largest direct-to-home pay-TV operator in the Philippines has over 250,000 subscribers.

Investments in media had historically been made and managed through MediaQuest, a wholly-owned entity of the PLDT Beneficial Trust Fund.

PLDT's financial investment in the media industry is consistent with its overall strategy of evolving itself from a traditional telco into a multi-media service company.

With the direct investment, MediaQuest will serve as the anchor for the PLDT Group's media offerings through the creation of content, generation of new revenue streams and provision of direct access to overseas Filipino workers worldwide.

Group profit falls 6%

PLDT on Tuesday said its net income fell by six percent to P10.1 billion in the first quarter from P10.7 billion in the same period last year.

Its core profit, which excludes foreign exchange gains or losses and other non-recurring income, amounted to P9.3 billion, lower than the P10.6 billion in 2011.

Revenues rose by 13 percent to P42.8 billion.

The PLDT group’s total cellular subscriber base stood at 66.1 million with net additions of 2.4 million in the first quarter. Its broadband subscribers hit three million.

“Our first quarter results are in line with our expectations that industry stability would return in gradual but quite certain terms. As we continue the complex task of integrating Digitel/Sun Cellular into the PLDT Group, we are heartened by the opportunities for both synergy and growth we see arising. In the meantime, we are pursuing further rationalization measures, which may be somewhat adverse in the short-term but should produce sustainable, longer-term benefits. Similarly, the financial investment in media is important and expected to create value over a longer time frame but is one that is necessary for our growth and transformation,” Pangilinan said.

Napoleon L. Nazareno, president and chief executive of PLDT and unit Smart Communications Inc., said the company is beginning to see early signs of stability with the integration of Digitel.

"We expect a gradual improvement in product yields and overall profitability from the ongoing rationalization on both services and brands front. More importantly, we continue to push our network modernization program even as our subscribers are already experiencing the benefits of our ongoing efforts,” he added.

source: interaksyon.com