Hello, PEPsters! I’m so definitely back on track…

So many good things had happened to me, and maybe to you as well, these past few months.

Yes, there were mishaps but why talk about them now?

Let’s give recognition to the good things around us, and the people who deserve it. I know there are a lot of them pero hero lang po ang kilala ko at alam ko kaya, pagbigyan niyo na ako.

I must say I am so impressed with the acting performance of Ms. Janice De Belen in Budoy. I am moved to tears by her sincerity. ‘Yan nga naman si Flordeluna!

I must say na tuwang tuwa ako sa Praybeyt Benjamin at ang tagumpay na inaani nito sa takilya bilang blockbuster.

Congrats to Direk Wenn, Vice Ganda, and the whole cast and production. Meron pa kayo chance manood, go na!

I must say that the anniversary presentation of Showtime was so memorable that I decided to include it on my list today.

Ang dami kong emotions na naramdaman sa mga performances nila, especially with the production number of Anne Curtis. I was amazed, afraid, excited, surprised, stunned, and tired—sobrang mixed emotions. All of the numbers were aliw.

I must say that traffic now is really bad.

I don’t know if it’s because of MMDA head’s present system. Nevertheless, I super appreciate their online presence on Twitter, where they answer you regarding traffic flow queries.

Each time my son has a requirement, I run to SM. I must say that SM truly got it all for you. The shooting incident got me really scared though. Thinking about it, e, ganun talaga, they got it all for you nga, e.

I must say na gumaganda si Ms. Kris Aquino sa paningin ko bilang tao and bilang babae.

I must say panalo ang line-up ng GMA News TV and shows. Very interesting at aliw talaga panoorin bilang loaded ng info ang mga ito.

I must say that I am enjoying my voice-over stint with GMA-7’s Daldalita as Mother Daisy.

I must say that the Ram Revilla case is scary.

It’s an eye opener and a mirror of what twisted values our youth has acquired. Whoever did it, alarming lang yung mga killings na ang involved ay kabataan.
Sabi ko positive lang pag-usapan, positive yung effect sa mga tao na bantayan ang mga ginagawa ng bagets. Let’s go back to basic and strengthen the smallest unit of society which is the family.

I must say the Oktoberfest celebration was a big hit!

I must say the death of Steve Jobs really shocked and moved a lot of people to tears.

I must say congratulations to Direk Ruel Bayani for the box office success of No Other Woman. Better late than never. The premiere night for this movie was cancelled due to typhoon. So what Direk Ruel did was invite me with some friends to watch one of the regular showings. I enjoyed the company, the movie, and the chika. Bawal magkamali sa group na yun, delikado sa lait!

I must say that the John Lloyd-Shaina-Ruffa love triangle is pretty interesting and at the same time tiring.

Hearing it once is enough. I’d like to give all parties the benefit of the doubt. And I’m sure each one of them knows what truly happened.

I must say that the declaration of an all out war in Basilan is tragic.

Personally, I never believed in war being a solution to anything. Nobody wins in a war. It’s a good thing that people are have been reacting and giving opinions regarding this. As they say, by your fruits you will be known.

I must say that I am anti-RH Bill.

I’m happy that there are more people realizing the real content of the bill. Let’s not just join the bandwagon. Let’s not just believe in it because of the church. Let’s read and get to know the bill.

I must say that I recommend the plain yogurt being sold at Centris tiangge every Sunday. It’s per order. It’s fresh, healthy and affordable.

I must say that COHEN diet is really hard.

I’ve been on it for four months. I have been cheating for four months. My gosh, I’ve been dreaming of the diet. I was given my personal dietary plan according to my blood chemistry. Everything I eat is weighed. I could only eat certain food at a specific time. I must say ang hirap magpapayat!

Sa susunod kong blog entry, ‘yan ang pag-usapan natin….. Diet!

I must say I miss writing blogs. Till the next…

Lately, I have been getting invitations to events that had opened my eyes about how talented the Filipinos are and how we all can help each other. I must say I feel so privileged. In fairness, nagiging makabayan ang mga gimmick ko.

SAVE ACT. It’s a trading law that is being passed by the US Congress to eliminate duties and taxes of textiles and thread that are being exported by our country.

What does this mean?

The Philippines have been locally manufacturing for brands like Gap, Nike, Ann Taylor, Polo Ralph Lauren, and Adidas for several years now.

There had been a decrease due to the more competitive cost of products manufactured in other Asian countries like India, Vietnam, and China.

If this law is passed, our exports will have a greater advantage due to the much lower total cost.  About 450,000 jobs will be offered to Filipinos, and five billion dollars will be potentially earned.

Ano naman ginagawa ko sa event na ito?

I was invited by my cousin Chuck Lazaro. And I met some people from the industry who are actually very nice. Hello? I’m looking forward to our gimmick.

What was even more touching was the fact that ABS-CBN gathered its resources to support the cause and mount the show, which was joined by KC Concepcion, Sam Milby, Jose Mari Chan, APO Hiking Society, Angeline Quinto, Bugoy Drilo, and Noel Cabahug—na super aliw ako sa song niya.

Sina Venus Raj at David Celdran ay nandun din.

Please support this bill. Spread the news to your FIL-AM friends. For more info, please visit www.saveourindustries.org

CHILI’S. I was with Direk Dante Garcia, who asked me to drop by Chili’s Greenhills. Meron palang bartending competition. Aliw! Ang huhusay naman ng mga bartenders natin. I was so entertained seeing how passionate they were with their work. Meron din pala tayong ganito sa Pinas. Kaya ng Pinoy!

PICO DE LORO. It’s a getaway in Batangas. There were plenty of pools to choose from, a playground for the kids, a game area, karaoke rooms, dining areas boasting of different cuisines, a lake and a beach, comfortable and beautiful rooms, a beautiful scenery, and a wonderful staff ready to assist you in your every need. It’s a land trip from Manila. Ganda ng Pilipinas!

LIPA. I went to Our Lady of Mediatrix in Lipa. I was surprised about how fast my trip was. There was this new SLEX that is connected to Star Toll that made our trip really fast. I was in Lipa within an hour and a half. There were a lot of foreigners who were there that came to pray at the miraculous Mediatrix. Yes! Kilala siya ng ibang lahi bilang marami na pong milagro itong napamalas. When I told my friends about it, not everyone knows about this miraculous place in Lipa.

ZONTA. Opo, maliban sa mga bagay na alam niyo sa akin, ako rin po ay member ng ZONTA, a non-government socio-civic international organization that aims to empower the women.

I was invited to be a moderator for a workshop entitled Education and Job for Women. It was a discussion about the jobs available for women and the discrimination they experience in the workplace.

To sum it up, maliban sa nakasanayan na lalakeng tubero o lalakeng karpintero, there was little or no discrimination, according to study.

Would you believe the Philippines is leading in terms of advocating equal rights for men and women?

Dito ko ang nalaman na meron palang Single Parent Law, Anti-night law for women, etc.

Yes! Meron po tayong ganyang batas. Other than the Magna Carta Law na bonggang bongga talaga para sa babae at sa mga bata, ang gaganda ng batas natin lalo na kung maipapatupad sila.

I had the honor to people who are highly respected in their fields—Dr. Patricia Licuanan, chairperson of CHED; Mr. Bong Austero, educator, columnist and head of HR department organization; Dr. Brawner, science and technology expert; and Dr. Concepcion, educator and award-winning psychologist, and guidance counselor.

Mga Pilipino po sila at matiyaga nilang pinag-aaralan at tinuturuan ang mga Pilipino para maging kapaki-pakinabang na mga mamamayan at tao.

Gusto mo ba yung statement na yun? The Zontians have been sincerely doing and looking for ways to uplift the lives of Filipino women. Nakakatuwa lang kasi dati, naririnig ko lang na merong ganitong mga tao at industry na willing to help. Now I have met people who are actually helping. Nakakatuwa!

We have everything here in the Philippines, we just need to find the right avenue and the right people to approach.

Ganun nga ba talaga? E, bakit ang daming wala work?

Dito rin naman yung binibigyan mo na ng bahay para umalis sa squatters’ area pero babalik at babalik pa rin dun. Bibigyan mo na ng pera para magsimula ng negosyo at nang hindi na mamalimos, pero mas type nila ang mamalimos. Bakit? Nakasanayan na, e. I think we have to get out of what we’re used to and not get stuck with our concerns.

When we focus our energies in helping others, our problems become small and eventually they are not a problem anymore. So, anong problem? Hahaha…Yun na!

Today is the last airing day of ABS-CBN’s top-rating telenovela, Minsan Lang Kita Iibigin.

I am so proud to be a part of this beautifully-crafted masterpiece. But more than that, I am so blessed to be part of this family.

I was surrounded with talented and seasoned actors, and got to work with the dedicated production staff Deo Edrinal. Saan ka pa?

Nagse-senti ba ako? Yes.

At lubos din akong nagpapasalamat sa lahat ng bumubuo ng nasabing soap, kung saan nagkaroon ako ng bagong kapatid at ate.

May bago akong kaibigan na nagngangalang “Ms. Lorna Tolentino.”

Mabait ba si Lorna Tolentino? Opo. Mabait na tao, simple. Maalalahanin. Professional. At isang mapagbigay na actress.

What do I mean by a giving actress? She is someone who knows how to interact and give you the so make you shine in your own scene.

In other words, di ka niya kakainin sa mga eksena. Kakausapin ka at ipapaintindi sa iyo kung ano at paano gagawin ang eksena.

I got reunited as well with Ms. Amy Austria, whom I had the chance to work with in Walang Kapalit. Though I only had a few scenes with her, I got a lot of help and tips from her.

Both stars are thinking actors. Kaya nga naman, ganun na lang ang pagmamahal ng mga manonood sa kanila.

I remember during one of my lowest moments, I still went to the set.

I arrived at the dressing room, wearing my shades.

Sabi ni Ms. LT, “Sa bagyong ito, naka-shades ka talaga?”

I took it off.

I saw the shock on their faces after seeing my puffy eyes.

Sabi talaga ni Ms. LT, “Kerokerpi?”

Like my ates, they both stretched their arms around me.

Then, I poured my heart out. No questions asked, only hugs were given. That’s my two ates off cam.

Siyempre, ang parati kong kabiruan ever since nagkatrabaho kami ay si Mr. Ronaldo Valdez.

Dati pa ay parati akong natutulala pag kaeksena ko si Tito Ronaldo. Nakakalimutan ko talagang umarte at nanonood na lang ako.

Alam niyo kung ano ang meron si Tito Ronaldo na wala ang ibang artista? PRESENCE.

He has the power to draw you into his character. Nakakahawa, ako rin tuloy, in character na rin.

Mr. Dante Rivero is another seasoned actor that has so much talent. Does it come with age? Iba rin ang drawing power niya.

This is the first time I have worked with Mr. Tonton “Intense” Gutierrez.

Aside from his good looks and captivating eyes, he is definitely an outstanding actor…an underrated actor of his generation.

Professionalism is synonymous top his name. Another thing I discovered about him, he’s a good buddy.

As for Mr. John Estrada, I had worked with him in the past. But this project seems to be one of his best portrayals.

John has showed brilliance and consistency in terms of attacking his character.

Let’s not forget Ms. Boots Anson-Roa’s luminous acting. Luminous because she does shine in whatever she does. Off cam, she is really a mother to all of us.

The Rebel Camp was also composed of great actors.

No questions asked about Ronnie Lazaro’s intensity in acting. And his rapport with fellow actors—Jojit Lorenzo, Lloyd Zaragoza, gto name a few—was very good.

For his part, Martin del Rosario is a revelation.

And of course, Maja Salvador is such a delight to watch and to be with. Napakagaan kasama at katrabaho. I only had one scene with Maja but watching her, I know she’s going to make it big in showbiz.

Andi Eigenmann has the versatility and vibrance. She never complained despite her current delicate condition. She was always on the go. Mahusay na bata.

And here comes the impassioned, committed, talented, and fiery Coco Martin.

On the set, he is quiet, simple, and he loves to goof around with anyone.

But once he hears the word, “Action,” he becomes a different person.

In Minsan Lang Kita Iibigin, he played the dual role of Javier and Alexander. Kaya nga, ang tawag ko sa kanya dito ay “the most tired actor.” But still, he did not disappoint.

There were a lot of tweets that commending my dramatic scenes. Some people were actually shocked that I can do drama. I have to thank the writers, my two directors (Direk Darnel and Direk Avel), and creative head Rondel Lindayag for giving me the opportunity to shine in such scenes, for having the confidence that I could pull it through.

I received affirmations for a job well done. I felt good.

People would always say that I’m funny and I make them laugh. Now they were saying how touched they were. It felt different.

THANK YOU to those wh fervently and passionately watched, cried, and laughed with us everyday. Thank you very much for your support.

I will miss this show, this ensemble, but I thank this the opportunity.

According to Oxford Dictionary, the word “groupie” means a young woman, who regularly follows a pop music group or other celebrity in the hope of meeting or getting to know them.

Personally, I use the word “groupie” for my different set of friends.

I’m sure you also have different sets of friends, where you share your different interests.

I was browsing through my albums and realized that I have “groupies” pala.

And does the groupie represent the different areas of one’s life and personality? Parang, e…

Here are my “groupies”:

Everyone knows about my Apat na Sikat group—which is composed of Gelli De Belen, Carmina Villarroel, and Aiko Melendez.

There are some things that we can talk about only among ourselves. We have a common denominator. We are all from show business, but I would like to believe na hindi kami “showbiz.”

I’m not saying that real friends in the biz are hard to find. Actually, it’s easy to make friends but it’s hard to maintain it. Why? Because of the work schedule, lifestyle, pressure, outside forces, shootings and tapings, pati na rin ribbon-cutting events, upcoming typhoons, traffic, politics, etc. Basta ganun talaga, hirap explain. Pero ganun talaga and maiintindihan niyo siguro ako kahit papaano.

Parang work ka ng isang company, pag transfer ka to another company, hirap naman to find time to connect with old officemates. Parang ganun.

Other than we all are from the biz, we are all mothers and have different responsibilities towards our families. Malalim yan, maniwala ka. In this groupie, no words are needed.

Madaling kausap. We understand and have accepted each other.

Meron din naman akong kababata friends/ community friends.

These are the people that I practically grew up with. Our families are intertwined by affinity and faith. We meet once a week for prayer meeting. Some of us have not shown up for the longest time, just like me before. Pero pag bumalik, no questions asked basta welcome back and back to normal.

We are bound by faith. Iba din naman ang tightness nito. There are some things that we only understand among us and others might find it weird.

I also have my theater groupie.

My UP College friends, whom I started to dream with, had worked with blood and sweat for the passion for arts and theater.

I can say they are also like family to me. They know me so much. They know me when I am okay and when I am not. I usually have my night-outs with them. I learned to drink and to stop drinking with these people.

This is actually a big group that’s also subdivided to mini-groupies. Parang ganun.

Part of this group is Direk Andoy Ranay, Peter Serrano, theater actress Frances Makil (who plays Adel in Minsan Lang Kita Iibigin), stage actor/make-up artist Ricci Chan, Eugene Domingo, John Lapus, Harlene Bautista, Direk Dante Garcia, Joel Saracho, and marami pang iba. Kung di kita nabanggit, napagod lang ako mag-type, kaya wag kang magtampo. Meron kaming mga pinagdaanan and naranasan na talaga namang nagkakaintindihan kami.

I also have my “ampons family.”

My friend and hairstylist Celeste Tuviera is my link to the “ampons,” then eventually, I became close to the entire Tuviera family.

There is some kind of warm, comfy, and secure feeling whenever I am with them. Mother Madz always comes up with wonderful gatherings that never fail to make me smile.

I will never forget the time I found myself in the middle of a controversy. I was given a surprise dinner that surely lifted lift my spirit.

Hindi ako umiyak dun. Pero napahagulgol ako pauwi after the gathering because I felt so much loved.

I don’t see them often, but whenever I do, it seems like we were just together yesterday.

I would usually pretend to be alright each time I am in front of them, but they seem to know me well. I cry to them. I complain. And they’re like a breath of fresh air. I have known my sibling here for years, even before we all got married. I know I can always run to them.

How weird that I don’t want them to worry much about me that’s why I pretend. Does that mean I’m not real to them? Hindi rin eh. Kasi nga they know everything. They know why I work, how I earn, whom I go out with, and etc. They are my other family apart from home.

I also have my Library groupie na parang nagko-cross over din sa Tuvieras and UP peeps.

The library people have also been my friends for more than a decade now. They knew me when I was single, got married, annulled, engaged, and cancelled. Hahahahaha!

Nothing seems to have changed. They are still the fun loving people. Of course ka-join dito sina Mamu, Philip Lazaro (kasama rin sa Ampons), Louie, Anton Diva, etc.

I also have this group of friends who don’t belong to any category. They are Direk Wenn Deramas, Thess Antonio, Ricky Rivero, Agot Isidro, Kuya Danny, DJ, Chokoleit, Uge, Sweet, Biboy Arboleda, Joel Mercado, Jon Santos, Direk Ruel Bayani, etc.

Kung di kita nabanggit, wag na magtampo at mahaba na ang entry ko.

Nag-cross over na naman kasi mga casting na tao. Kaibigan ko sila. Alam ko lang yun.

Meron din naman kaming mga topics na enjoy kami pag-usapan. We don’t often see each other pero tight kami. Meron kaming bonding na ang mapikon—out!

I also have my blacksheep groupie. Dito naman, kasama sina Lito Camo, Direk Willy Cuevas, and Aiko Melendez. The friendship started with the Yes Yes Show and to this day, we meet up to laugh, update and scold each other.

I also have a Fab 5 group, which includes my sister and three friends.

I also have this groupie from Manila. We also do business and pray together. Iba rin yun naman.

Maliban sa mga ito, meron pa akong ibang groupies and mini-groupies from a big groupie.

Dami ko palang friends and groups. I feel so blessed!

All of them are my real friends, and I have also been a true friend to them.

Ibig ba sabihin nun meron akong multiple personality?

Life is simply like that. We have different sets of friends. We just don’t realize how important is such fact. Different groupies, different nature, different gimmicks, different interests—the common denominator is ME.

P.S. As promised, here are more videos from Hong Kong.

What happened?

In one of “AS” (apat na sikat) dinner meetings, the idea of an out-of-the-country trip popped up. Carmina Villarroel, Gelli de Belen, and I eagerly agreed that this should happen the soonest.

Sadly, Aiko had to beg off due to taping sked of Reputasyon. Basta naman trabaho and pamilya ang dahilan, no questions asked, excused and understood agad.

Carmina Villarroel wasted no time and booked us a flight to Hong Kong, which happened last weekend.

We were a group of four?with Gelli De Belen-Rivera, Carmina Villarroel, Janice De Belen, and myself. The three left earlier and took the first flight out last Friday, June 10.

I had a show to finish so I took the last flight, and that’s when my journey began. Why? My show ended at 5:00 p.m. and my flight was at 6:40 p.m.

Thank God! There was no traffic on a Friday rush hour.

My friends have been texting, sending messages via BlackBerry Mobile, and calling me about my whereabouts. They only stopped pestering me when I told them I was already on cue for the immigration line.

At that moment, the bad news of others was my good news. The flight was delayed. The stressful rush was eliminated. I even had the chance to visit the Mabuhay Lounge to drink water and eat some fruits. Lovely!

What better luck do I have than to meet some friends who were at the same flight as mine—debonair Edu Manzano and a pretty lady celebrating her birthday…Uy, what a lovely couple!

My friends called again and told me if I could just take a cab from the airport to our hotel. The adventurous part of me agreed with much excitement. But I must admit I was nervous at the same time.

Where do I get a cab? Where do I exit? Shall I go down or turn where? Just before I could figure out all the answers to the questions floating around my head, the good-hearted Edu Manzano insisted that he brings me to the hotel when he found out that I was going to take a cab. What a blessing from the lovely couple! Thank you once again Edu Manzano and beautiful long-legged birthday girl.

Finally I was at my hotel lobby. No sign of Gelli, Carmina or ate Janice though.

Candy: Asa’n na kayo?

Gelli:  Hotel lobby.

Candy: Ako rin kaya.

Gelli:  Sa’n banda? Nandito ako. Heto ako, naglalakad-lakad para makita kita.

Candy: Ako rin. Nagpapaikot-ikot ako dito.

Gelli:  (A bit irritated) Nasa’n ka ba? Lumapit na ako sa bellboy by the door. Canton Road, ha?!

Candy: (Impatient and tired) Yes. Canton road nga. Lumapit din ako sa may door. Kadikit ko na talaga yung bellboy by the door. Asa’n ka?

Gelli:  Impossible! Heto na ako, e. Bakit di kita makita?

Candy: Ano naman makukuha ko pag nagsinungalling ako na nandito na ako?

We were both exhausted, trying to find each other. I could hear Carmina commenting in the background, “Ask her if she’s at Marco Polo.”

I quickly answered, “Oo naman!”

“That’s weird. Nasa Marco Polo daw talaga siya,” Gelli relayed the message to Carmina.

“Isa lang naman ang Marco Polo Prince dito, e.” Carmina said.

“Prince? Wala kayong sinabing Prince.” I replied. “Tinext ko sa kanya yung Prince. Check kaya niya…” Carmina defended. “Mamaya na ‘yan. Okay na. Important na makita na muna natin siya. Nasa’n ka? Wag ka nang gagalaw diyan. Puntahan ka namin.”

Finally, we met. We forgot all about our heated exchange and were simply happy to see each other.

“Where’s Ate Janice?” I asked. “She’s at the room. She’s dead tired,” Carmina answered.

Tired on the first day? This is another story to tell.

The minute we entered the hotel room, Carmina showed me the spot for my things. We had a very spacious hotel suite. As I settled down inside the bedroom, I could hear them complaining about their aching feet at the living room. What a sight to behold!

And because of that night, I was inspired to write this

O, Salonpas! Ginhawa ka sa muscle na matigas!

Ikaw ba ay gamot o tagasabi ng totoong edad at oras,

Dahil kabataan di ko naman nakitaan

Salonpas ay kasama sa baunan.

Kahit ‘sang dikit ka mang itago

Ang amoy po ay umaalingasaw kahit nandito ako

Ang sa iyong paggammit ay parang nakakahiya

Pero para kay Flordeluna, mas mahusay ka pa sa masahista sa Spa.

Till my next entry. To be continued ang HK trip na ito.

Hopefully, I’d be able to figure out how to upload the videos. Be safe, PEPsters. Follow me at twitter: @candypangilinan.

Hello, PEPsters, Facebookers, Tweeps, and all the social networks all over the net.

It’s been such a long time since I had the courage to share my thoughts with everyone. Ayos ba?! Di na lang umamin na busy at pagod.

All alibis are half-meant in a way. Ang drama, di ba…Nahawa na yata ako kay Ms. Lorna Tolentino na parati kong kasama lately because of Minsan Lang Kita Iibigin.

I am truly blessed to be part of such a powerful cast with an interesting storyline, which is about love and family. But how is it different from the others?

The characters are very relevant. The Armed Forces of the Philippines and the rebels, as we call them, play a pivotal role in the plot. It is very timely with all the controversies and investigations happening to our military. But would you believe everything was coincidental? I can attest to this. Even before the issue boomed, we were already taping the soap.

What a coincidence!

I always say there are no coincidences in life. Every thing is part of the plan. Why? We may not understand it now, but one day it will all be revealed.

Recently, I accidentally bumped into a colleague at one of my meetings. I used the term accidentally simply because it was an accident. I would rather not see it as a coincidence. It’s not part of a plan, and that eventually, the reason will be revealed to me in the future. Why? Wala lang. Basta!

I really believe in the circle of life.

Do you guys remember when I was just a newbie in the industry? I used to impersonate Ms. Lorna Tolentino, and I must say I was doing it well. I was scouted by Boyong Baytion of ABS-CBN to portray Lorna Tolentino for the chop-chop massacre spoof for the defunct TV sitcom Abangan ang Susunod na Kabanata.

They phoned me the night before to ask if I can impersonate Ms. LT while Joy would do Kris Aquino.

The chop-chop massacre had two versions with the two actresses as leads.

That was the major-major start of every thing for me. I used to tell my friends that one day, I would approach Ms. LT and thank her for it.

My first encounter with the grand slam queen was in Robinson’s Galleria— Gourmet Café, to be exact.

I approached her, gave her a rose, and simply said thank you. I was with Eugene Domingo that time and we were there to watch a movie when we saw Ms. LT and her friends enter the café.

Who would have thought that one day, I would be working side by side with the very person I used to impersonate. What an astonishing coincidence!  God really works in mysterious ways.

Here’s another trivial coincidence. The hairstylist of Ms. LT for MLKI is the same person that fixed my hair during my own wedding.

When I was starting the business, I got to work with a lot of people from different movie outfits.

I signed a six-year non-exclusive movie contract with Regal Films for two years.

I also had prior talks with Tita Mina Del Rosario of VIVA, but we never got to close the deal because she died the day before our set meeting.

Years after, I am now co-managed by VIVA with Manila Genesis.

I used to go to VIVA’s office near ABS-CBN. Wala lang. Pumupunta lang ako. Share ko lang. Coincidence?

It was something that was bound to happen no matter what although it was disrupted in the past. It’s a timely coincidence because just when the sky seemed so blue, the opportunity came along, putting a bit of sunshine into the horizons.

I am happy to be part of Bagets revival for TV5. Who wouldn’t remember such iconic film?!

I was still in school when it was released, and had a crush on Kuya Herbert Bautista. I also liked Raymond Lauchengco, Aga Muhlach, JC Bonin, and William Martinez. Crush ko pala sila lahat. How funny! Nag-abala pa akong gawing bright as day ang outfits ko, as influenced by Bagets’ layering style.

Now, I am a part of the cast as the mother of Aki, played originally by Herbert.

Mother na ako ng role ng crush ko. Here’s more. I can finally put into good use my addiction to Asian Drama.

In the show, I have three kids of different nationalities. I speak three foreign languages—Korean, Japanese, and American.

What a challenging coincidence!

My “I thought this is it love relationship” ended last December 1, 2010. Aiko’s four-year relationship with Mayor Patrick Meneses ended two months, February 14, 2011, after mine ended.

Now, we are both single again. Both men went live on Paparazzi for an interview. Tita Cristy Fermin criticized us both as well.

This is really a sad coincidence.

We are praying that we both find the right person God has prepared for us and our kids. But that would all be part of the plan, not merely a coincidence!

I recently celebrated my birthday with some friends. It was a biglaan sort of thing. Though mas nabigla ako sa dami ng pagkain na dinala ng mommy ko.

It rained during my birthday. It never fails to get included in my guest list. I was really expecting for it to happen, but I wasn’t expecting it to be a storm. Buti na lang, our theme was pambahay and tambay kaya okay lang.

Two years ago, I celebrated my birthday at the Taumbayan, and Gelli de Belen was the only one present among my four best friends.

This year, Gelli was the only one absent. I have to admit I missed some people who weren’t with me during my birthday. Pero kung sino ang dumating, kasama na yun sa coincidence. Kasama na yun sa plano. Madami din naman akong tinext kaso biglaan nga. Kung sino ang dumating, sila ang dapat na nandoon. It was what I just needed at the moment. Sapat. Sakto.

What a perfect coincidence!

Is there really such a thing as coincidence? I don’t think so. Everything that happens comes with a reason. It could be a consequence of an action, a choice, or God’s plan waiting to be unravelled.

Happy Birthday to all May celebrants: Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo, Ms. Cory Vidanes, Mommy D, Richard Arellano, Shalani Soledad, Marjorie Barretto, etc… Behold! Yun na!

Hello, PEPsters!

I’m really sorry for not updating my blog. I got too busy. I got caught up with so many things, stuck in a quandary, and occupied with motherly and fatherly duties. Siguro naman, nagkaintindihan na tayo at pinatawad niyo na ako sa late entry na ito.

I am truly touched by a lot of tweets reminding me to update my blog entry here. Kaya, heto na po. Happy New Year! Happy na, New Year pa!

I had experienced a roller-coaster ride of emotions last year. I still consider it a good year despite the pits and falls. I had made new friends. I got to know who my real friends are. I learned more about myself.

There are some things I thought I already knew, but surprisingly, hindi pa pala. I thought I already knew what and how to handle certain situations and yet, I was put in a tight corner leaving me compeletely baffled. People, situations, and adversaries camouflage themselves and come to us when we least expect it. In my case, nagulat na lang ako, heto na naman…Hahahaha!

2010 is a year that I will never forget.

I will never forget the lessons I learned. I will leave behind the pain and the hurt. I will carry on the beautiful memories and aspirations to 2011.

I will never regret the decisions I made, though some made my heart cry. I will never regret them because my choices came with the purest intentions. I admit that I am stubborn, but I am not hard-hearted. I am a hopeless romantic. Ay, hindi…I am simply romantic. Ayoko namang isipin na I am simply hopeless.

Let me borrow a few lines from the Broadway song “There’s a Fine Line” from the musical Avenue Q.

“There’s a fine, fine line between a lover and a friend./ There’s a fine, fine line between reality and pretend./

And you never know till you reach the top, if it was worth the uphill climb/ There’s a fine, fine line between love and a waste of time./

There’s a fine, fine line between a fairy tale and a lie./ There’s a fine, fine line between your wonderful and goodbye/

I guess if someone doesn’t love you back, it isn’t such a crime./ There’s a fine, fine line between love and a waste of your time.”

There were a lot of things I wasn’t able to do last 2010. Again, I have no one to blame but myself because I allowed myself to be bogged down. The rocks of life can either block us, or we can use them as stepping stones to the paqth leading to greatness. Decide! Choose! I choose to be happy. Life goes on…

I’m currently doing a movie for Viva, under the direction of award-winning director, Wenn V. Deramas. Who’s that Girl? ang title and it’s topbilled by Anne “sana kamukha ko” Curtis and Luis Manzano.

I am blessed to be closely working with Ms. Lorna Tolentino for her new soap opera in ABS-CBN, the Minsan Lang Kita Iibigin. I am privileged to do the momentous and historical grand celebration of UST’s Quadricentennial celebration on the 27th of January. I’m also organizing the UST’s Quadricentennial Film Festival awards night on the 25th.

At the same time, I am a mother to Quentin, who has been helping me see the beauty of life.

So, life goes on. I am not perfect but I can surely be better. Sabi ko nga: This year, ako ay magpapapayat, magpapaganda, at magpapayaman.

To all that I have unintentionally hurt last year, I am truly sorry. To all that have hurt me intentionally or unintentionally last year, thank you because you all make me want to live a good life. The greatest revenge is to live a good life.

2011 is my year and I claim it!

Hello, Pepsters!

Watching television can actually be so addicting. I remember our big AKAI TV that had a door like a cabinet’s. My mom would usually lock the “door” to prevent me from watching TV and make me study. My technique then was to cry until they’d all get irritated by my whimpering and finally, they’d switch on the TV.

I had this habit of dourly reading the newspaper, and this made the people think I’m such a geek. But the truth: I was memorizing the TV guide, which listed all the shows of the five channels from first broadcast till sign off.

There were a couple of programs that I can still vividly recall to this day. I was a fan of channel 9 and 13, where all the great cartoons were shown. I cried each time the Voltes V couldn’t volt in, when Candy-candy couldn’t find her home, and when Aphrodite A of Mazinger-z couldn’t use her high-powered boobs for battle. There was also the all-time favorite Kulit Bulilit, where I auditioned but was advised that I was too young. I followed Flordeluna and fought with my classmates who were pro-Annaliza.

Disney was banking on Mickey Mouse and it sure was a hit. Popeye wanted me to eat vegetables. Sesame Street wanted me to know my neighbors and learn the basics.

I even joined in one of the contests on TV. My yaya brought me to the studio almost everyday, and dressed me up differently for each visit, so the show would let me join the contest. I was always a hit!

There was also Nino Muhlach, whose film reruns on TV never failed to excite me.

TV during my childhood was very simple. But I was not allowed to watch much of it. I couldn’t understand why then.

Now I see Disney, which scares me whenever I see teens hugging each other. I get to watch the channel’s teen shows and see what the kids wear and like, including how they act and react. Yikes! Eeew! Ano na ang nangyari sa TV?

When I see the girls dancing in their bikini outfits, I ask myself, “Is this normal?” When I watch cartoons and the characters that hurt each other, I wonder if that is all right. Aside from the TV airtime, there is also the Internet where people can watch all the shows they missed. How convenient!

Now, I am a believer of giving the kids the inconvenience of watching a show on a limited time because that way, they are being disciplined.

Times have changed. TV watching can no longer be part of one’s “hobbies” in a friends’ slumbook. TV has become dangerous to an extent. Ano na ba ang nangyayari? Where are the shows that molded the mind of the children to become better citizens? Why do most shows feature people who are in dire need and encourage everyone to be a star? I have nothing against it personally. I just wish that my kid can watch more good shows. Why do you think May Bukas Pa was a major hit? It was a major hit because the series gave people hope, highlighted the positive values, and underlined being and doing good. It was a good series.

Television is a powerful medium, which is also a major contributor to nation building. Parang bigla bang bumigat? Kasi totoo, e. TV is free. It’s for everyone. It can either bring hope or change the way viewers see life. It can open the eyes of people and make them see reality or distort truth.

I have to commend the program of Ms. CheChe Lazaro in the episode titled “Dalawang Mukha ng Hustisya.” It was a feature about the controversial Visconde Massacre case. It showed the lives and sentiments of the two parties involved: Mr. Vizconde and the Webbs. To this day, I am still bothered by that episode. It still makes me think, what if Hubert isn’t guilty at all?

It opened my eyes, which got emotionally blinded 15 years ago on how I perceived the case. It struck me how media can make or break a person. Grabe! You should watch that episode. Iba!

I saw The Correspondents episode about Maria Ressa, who shared her story and thanked Ms. CheChe Lazaro, who became her mentor. Kakaiba naman pala itong si CheChe. Hindi mo basta ma-Che!

I was surfing the TV channels when I stumbled upon TV5’s shows. Nakakatuwa din naman yung show na Oplan Zero Tambay, which aims to eradicate the street “tambays” by giving them work. How inspiring! The birth and aggressiveness of TV 5 challenge ABS-CBN and GMA-7 to give the viewers better shows. Wala naman akong sinasabing kailangan, e, ma-nominate ito sa CMMA (Catholic Mass Media Awards) para okay siya. Sana lang, maging more considerate ang lahat sa mga after effects ng ipinalalabas natin sa TV. The complicated plots should be shown at a latter time when kids are already asleep.

In the end, it’s not all about ratings. It’s putting up a good show. Ratings will surely follow. Daling magsalita, di ba. Alam ko naman mahirap gawin. Kapal ko, di ba, bilang alipin din naman ako ng ratingsgiven my line of job. Writing this blog, however, is the least I can do. It all boils down to the parents’ supervision whenever their kids are watching. We also have to practice what we preach. TV or not TV, it’s really a choice. Go!

Alam niyo ba yung pakiramdam na meron kayong sasabihin pero dahil sa sobrang daming nagsalita o biglang meron ibang pinag-usapan o kailangan gawin, nakalimutan mo yung dapat mong sabihin?

Yikes! I wanted to update my  blog earlier but then, I totally forgot what I wanted to write about. Hahaha! True!

I was right in front of my laptop, staring at the screen in confusion. What was I supposed to blog about? I couldn’t remember. It happened like twice before I decided to write about it. Guess why? Because I forgot again what I wanted to blog about. Hahaha! Scary indeed!

Is this because of age? My mom who is 72 years old still knows by heart the phone numbers of her friends. However, she often forgets where she left her mobile. Ouch! That is another major blur for me. I usually forget where my mobile is, my car keys, my jewelry, my, oh my…Why do I forget? Is it because there are too many things in my head? Am I doing so many things at the same time? Am I doing something that I am not supposed to do?

Did you ever call up someone on the phone and the minute the other party answers, you forget what the purpose of your call was. Hahahaha!

Nakalimutan na ng tao ang “Quirino Grandstand  Hostage” nang bonggang-bonggang nagpakitang gilas si Charice Pempengco sa Glee. Ang lahat ng Pilipino ay nakatutok kay Charice at nakalimutan na ang report ng IIRC.

Pinanood ko si RAIN sa MOA. Opo, nagbakasakali ako na meron akong kaaliw-aliw na mapapanood. Malayo naman ang inayos ng show na ito mula sa huling Korean star show na napanood ko sa Araneta. Ang boy band na U-Kiss ang unang nag-perform. Nakatatlong beses nang pabalik-balik ang grupong ito sa Manila. Nakalimutan yata nila magbaon ng bagong gagawin.

After the long wait ay lumabas na si Rain. Kumanta at sumayaw ito ka-join ang kanyang back-up dancers na parang mga mini-me niya, dahil pare-pareho sila ng itsura. After three songs, napagod si Rain at huminto sa kakatalon at kakaindak. Huminga at pumirmi, habang walang tigil ang pagtili ng madlang audience na naghihintay sa sasabihin ng Asian Pop Star. Kumaway, nag-flying kiss, ngumiti, at nagtanggal ng shades na lalo namang nagpakilig sa audience. Ayan at nakabwelo na si Rain para chumika at bumati nang maayos sa mga Pilipino.

Rain: Aahhh…Philippines…

Audience: We love you, Rain!

Rain: (Nilakad ang stage nang pabalik-balik ng dalawang beses, at di na siya nakapagpigil, biglang nagsalita…ng Chinese!)

Audience: Ano daw?

Nakalimutan yata ni Rain na ang audience ay Pilipino at hindi mga Chinese. Nakalimutan yata ng mga producers magdala ng interpreter para maintindindihan si Rain. Nakalimutan yata nila na importante ang communication. Nakakatawa dahil excited na nagsalita si Rain, habang nakanganga ang lahat sa sinasabi niya. Buti na lang, mabait din ang mga Pinoy. Noong natapos siyang magsalita ay nagpalakpakan at naghiyawan kasehodang hindi nila naintindihan ang sinabi ni Rain. Okay na rin…

Two weeks ago, sumama ako sa Red Cross sa Bagong Silangan, Quezon City. Meron kasing feeding for more than 180 children, ages 0-6 years old. Ito naman po ay fight against malnutrition. Ang mga batang ito ay mula sa mga pamilyang nasalanta ng Ondoy. Huh, Ondoy?! Last year pa yun, ha?! Last year pa nga, sabi ng taga Red-Cross, pero wala namang mga projects na nilunsad para tulungan sila makabawi. Binigyan lang ang karamihan ng clothesat food ‘tapos yun na yun. Nakalimutan na natin ang mga libu-libong pamilya, na nawalan ng bahay, kamag-anak, at ari-arian, na lubos na kailangan ng tulong na hindi one-time lang. Ayon sa Red Cross, karamihan sa mga batang nasalanta ang pamilya ng Ondoy ay merong malnutrition problems.

Alam niyo ba na one month bago ko nabalikan ang entry na ito…Opo, nakalimutan ko.

Showing na nga pala ang Petrang Kabayo ni Vice Ganda. Kasali ako dun at directed by Wenn V. Deramas. Pinapalabas na rin ang sa ABS-CBN, kasali din ako dun. Kaya wag niyo naman kalimutan panoorin.

One week na akong may sakit. Meron akong pesteng ehem. Pag may sakit ka pala ay mas maraming bagay ang naiisip ko, nagmuni-muni ako.Masama din naman pala ang sobrang pag-iisip bilang nalullungkot ako sa ilang mga bagay. Pero na-realize ko rin naman that worrying will not help. Even if I cry and whine, money will not fall down from heaven. The best option is to be joyful and live in joy so that blessings may come.

O di ba, a positive attitude attracts a multitude. Pauso ko lang ‘yan kasi magka-rhyme.

At the height of my fever, ongoing din ang preparations ko para sa birthday ni Quentin. Dapat go kami ng Hong Kong kaso nakakatakot at baka mad sila sa Pilipino. Di naman kami mestisahin at katangusan ng ilong para isiping Americans or Europeans. Kaya birthday party na lang here sa ‘Pinas. Wala ng special venue kasi last minute preparations nga. Voila! Mache Torres, owner of St. James College and co-member ko sa Zonta, ay pumayag na gamitin ko ang kanilang school gym. Panalo! Mabuhay ka, Mache!

I really wanted to meet the parents, teachers, plus the administration, security and maintenance people of the school. Bakit? Ganun talaga! I deliberately did not get an emcee that would continuously talk throughout the party, nor a magician, etc. Quentin will not enjoy sitting down and watching the magician and clown. Quentin will not enjoy joining the games. I rented out three huge inflatables, and made sure there was overflowing food for all. That’s it!

The party started at 3:00 p.m. with a celebration of Holy Mass. The principal of the pre-school, Mrs. Montealegre, was present. She was the commentator for the mass. After the mass, the kids couldn’t help but be kids. Mrs. Montealegre sternly asked the kids to sit down and be quiet. Para kaming military camp. All the kids quietly and obediently did so. Wow! She sure knows what she’s doing.

After a few minutes of silence, I decided to break it and just be Candy. I held the mic and announced, “It’s Quentin’s birthday…Kids, let’s eat, slide, and party!” They became like soldiers in a battle doing an assault, and they all shouted and ran to the huge slides. The rest is history. The slide was a winner. The kids really enjoyed.

As I was looking at the kids, parang ang dami. Naku, di ba, 21 kids lang sila sa classroom? Ang daming bata na hindi ko kilala at hindi ko man alam kung sino ang kasama. Pati pala sa children’s party, uso ang gatecrashers. Kaya pala nagbibigay ng stub para sa carts ang ibang party kasi OA sa pagka-get ang mga uninvited guests. Nakakatawa kasi huling-huli sa video na yung bantay ng dirty ice cream, kumuha ng mga five fun sticks sa Nestle. Kitang-kita ko rin naman na ang pabalik-balik pala ay mga gatecrashers.

Well, blockbuster ang party ni Quentin. Marami sa mga friends ko ang di nakarating…Ah…eh…nakalimutan nila…Okay lang naman at naiintindihan ko sila.  The point is, masaya si Quentin and that’s what matters. Habang ngitngit na ngitngit ang mga assistants ko dahil nakita nila kung paano in-ambush ang mga carts, deadma naman si Quentin. Slide lang siya nang slide!

To top it all Quentin wasn’t able to eat. The caterer packed up around 6:30 p.m. Quentin was the last to use the slides. Okay na rin. Ubos na ang food sa cart. Wiped out na ang buffet. Sininghot yata ang food sa pasta station. Pero okay lang, steady si Quentin. Sa laki ng binayad ko, heto si Quentin, get ng Fita na biscuit sabay-sabing, “Delicious…Thanks mom.”

It was indeed a day of celebration and thanksgiving. It’s a miracle how Quentin has slowly developed in seven years. It’s amazing how we survived seven years. As I look at Quentin now, I thank God and all the teachers, therapists, and friends who have showered us with their love and care.

Raising Quentin, raising a special child, I think, is one chapter of my life that I will never forget because it made me who I am now. It is continuously molding me to no end. Thank you Lord for the seven years and the years to come.

Marami pa akong gustonng sabihin pero ang haba na ng entry kaya gagawa na ako ng follow-up bago ko pa makalimutan. Go!

Hello, PEPsters!

Patawad, paumanhin, pasintabi ng inyong bwiset sa dahilan na ako ay naging pabaya at hindi ako gumawa ng blog entry. Okay naman sana ako with my busy schedule, ngunit sa isang party na dinaluhan ko, meron akong nakilalang lalake na kay husay sa flower arrangement. Ang kanyang bungad sa akin, “Alam mo, noong hindi pa ako sobrang busy, binabasa ko ang mga blogs mo sa PEP, as in looking forward ako sa mga blogs mo.” Agad naman akong sumagot n, “So ngayon, hindi mo na binabasa?” Inosenteng nagtanong ito, “Sumusulat ka pa ba? When ka last nag-update?” Oo nga naman, paano nga naman siya magbabasa kung di ako sumusulat.

Sa birthday ng sister-sisteran kong parlorista na si Celeste Tuviera ito naganap. Ang layo ng celebration ni Celes. At lalo pang lumayo ito dahil mas malabo pa sa hostage investigation ang directions papunta sa rest house nila sa Cavite. Saan ka naman nakarinig ng directions na sa poste na may ilaw, na maraming tricycle na nakaparada at may tindahang busy, doon ka liliko. Only in the Philippines, di ba? But believe it or not, I found the place. Okay naman sana at nakarating ako sa party nang mas maaga, kung hindi ako nalito dahil nagsarado nang maaga ang tindahan na busy.

When I arrived at the party, totoo nga ang text: “Please be in white.”

The place looked like heaven, with everything neatly-arranged, furniture appropriately-harmonized, and the sumptuous food being served to the guests. To top it all, heaven was filled with angels, my friends.

Okay naman sana yung work, bahay, takbo, Quentin, work, family, GB, community, work…until that party, when I realized how much I missed my friends. Okay naman sana if I didn’t enjoy laughing with them, listening to their stories, and totally being curious on how life has been treating them. Thank God for friends. They didn’t ask what happened but they were simply happy I was there.

Okay naman sana ang negotiations nung hostage-taking sa Quirino Grandstand until nagwala ang kapatid ng hostage-taker kaya pilit itong dinadala sa camp.

Okay naman sana yung mga batikos na natatanggap natin mula sa Hong Kong after the hostage crisis. Pero yung magkamali tayo ng pinadalang bangkay sa kanila ay sobrang nakakahiya na talaga!

Okay naman sana ang last shooting day ng Petrang Kabayo kahit 5:00 a.m. ang call time on the set kasi, natapos naman kami before 10:00 a.m. Okay na talaga kasi kakaibang experience yung literal na hinahabol at hinihintay namin ang araw. Masaya and achieved naman ni Direk Wenn Deramas ang gusto niyang ma-achieve.

Okay naman sana kung kung type ikuwento at i-chika sa akin ng isang bagong komedyante ang tungkol sa isang mas senior na komedyante na meron daw itong bisyong casino. Sa shooting namin sa Hyprodome ito nangyari at lubos na nag-aalala ang acting niya. Cut to noong hapon, hinahanap namin siya, hindi namin makita. Asus! Nasa casino pala at naglaro. In fairness, nanalo naman siya. Binanggit ko kay bakla at binigyan ako ng ang daming ad-lib na sandali lang naman daw siya, slot machine lang naman daw, sinubukan lang naman daw ang blackjack. Okay naman sana kung hindi siya nagmalinis pero ginagawa naman pala. Tsk! Tsk!

Okay naman sana ang patuloy kong goal na pagpapayat, kaso, always na lang umuulan kaya parati akong hindi nakakatakbo. Hanggang sa dumating na ang oras na pag tatakbo ako ay hinihintay ko na ang ulan. Magandang excuse ang weather para sa katamaran.

Okay naman sana na mataba ako kung meron akong mga damit na kakasya sa akin, kung comfortable ako sa weight ko, kung di ako nabibigatan sa sarili ko…Sa dami ng reklamo ko, malamang hindi naman talaga okay ang damit.

Papunta ako ng party at handa na akong magbihis. Pagbukas ko ng cabinet ko, ang dami kong choices ng damit na susuotin. Amazing! I am free from black. Hindi na ako mukhang araw-araw ay nagluluksa. Hindi ko na kailangan magtiis sa long sleeves kahit mainit ang panahon. Ang payat ko na! Agad akong kumuha ng backless at jeans. Swak na swak sa panlasa ko. Walang tabang sumisilip at nagsisigawan na pumiglas sa sikip ng damit ko. Nakakahinga naman ako ng maayos. Nasarado ko ang butones. Humarap ako ng salamin at parang natuwa naman ako sa nakita ko. Nag-heels ako at hindi masakit ang paa ko. Hindi ako nabigatan sa sarili ko. Ayos ito! Ang bilis ko nagbihis. Hindi napuno ang dressing room ng papalit-palit na damit. Kasya ang damit. “Ma’am, 7:00 a.m. na po.” Boses ng assistant ko. Okay naman sana kung hindi pala ako nananaginip. Whew! Nagising ako sa truth! Mataba pa rin pala ako.

Okay naman sana ang indie film na ginagawa ko with Jake Cuenca entitled ? kung matapos namin ito bago magkaroon ng gamot sa HIV. Last shooting day na lang kami at hindi pa magkatugma ang mga schedule namin. Okay sana ang mga skeds namin. Okay naman sana.

Okay naman sana na lumipat ang artista sa kahit anong istasyon na gusto niya basta walang away at siraan. Wala akong pinariringggan, sad lang na ang daming magka-away ngayon.

Meron kaming show “UST ARTISTS FOR UST” on September 18, 2010, at 6:00 p.m. sa UST Medicine Auditorium. It is a show for all visual, literary, and performing artists of this university. I hope a lot of people come and watch the show. Okay naman…sana…

Nakakatuwa yung Juicy na show. Maliban sa mga juicy na blind items, masarap sila panoorin kasi magaan at masaya. Sobrang nag-e-enjoy ako panoorin na nag-e-enjoy ang mga hosts sa naturang show. Dahil enjoy sila, nag-e-enjoy din ako. Sana, walang mapikon sa mga artistang bina-blind item. Okay naman sana, di ba?

Kayo kamusta naman kayo? Okay naman…sana.

Okay naman sana itong entry na ito, kung naaalala ko kung saan papunta ang sinusulat ko. Pero dahil hindi ko maalala, tama na ito. Yun na!