FIRST CIRCLE.

This is my first PEP blog entry after a year of being so busy as a media manager and producer and consultant— and I just woke up one morning and the writer in me told me to create something new!

Yes, last year, at around this time, I was caught in the flurry of things in mounting what was for me, a significant turn in my life— as I took charge of the production of LIGO NA U, LAPIT NA ME for Cinemalaya 2011.

It was such a good experience, the public support, the awards and citations, the lessons learned, and the new opportunities.

Like full circle, the official video of the movie is already available in the market (thanks to Regal Films!) and within the next few days, we are launching the sequel of Eros Atalia’s best selling novel.

Easter in Baguio has passed, a major life lesson just struck me, it got me into thinking of a resurrection/rebirth of sorts in another aspect of my life.

After a very colorful year-long journey, I just arrived from a rare surprise reunion with family members in the U.S. which gave me time to come to a firm, resolve to keep me back on track into what I may have overlooked — WRITING — not just for me or any particular person — but for a public that may find wisdom and importance in what I have to say.

Thus, the new FIRST…a comeback piece of sorts…

So, aside from my occasional alerts on PEP, here is again, THE FIRST NOEL.

FIRST CLASS MOMS.

Like a rebirth, no language can express the power and beauty and heroism of a mother’s love.

As we celebrate Mothers Day, allow me say state my THANK YOU piece to top showbiz personalities who are moms worthy of our admiration.

1. ZSA ZSA PADILLA. Thank you dear, Zsazshing, for showing us that your love is very selfless. Your being a mom extends to people whom Tatang Dolphy sired with other partners—and that you have so lovingly shared yourself to them. Thank you for always being so real and good-natured!

2. SHARON CUNETA. The billboards say that she has a big heart, and indeed she does. I have worked with and for her, and she has since become what I consider as a “wounded healer.”

3. JUDY ANN SANTOS. She is the young superstar who is very grounded and not concerned about titles as she just lives her life the way she knows best. And yes, I only have the highest respect for this young mom and very dedicated wife. Juday is a very good inspiration to young moms who continuously evolve and becomes even better—yet still so unassuming, humble and yes, genuinely happy.

4. VILMA SANTOS. She is not only Mother to his boys including her husband but a Mother of the province of Batangas. And shed has done well in both.

5. NORA AUNOR. She had to catch up on lost bonding time with her children but very sincerely you would feel her concern for them. She is also mother hen to her very loyal fans. And now, the process should start where her supporters should organize their bid for her to be a Mother of Film Art as she is being considered for the National Artist honors.

Aside from my biological mom Connie Directo-Ferrer, and my other mom Shayne Nograles-Lumbera, and my industry moms Mel Tiangco, Jullie Yap-Daza, and Nanay Cristy Fermin, I would like to thank all the mothers for molding, nurturing and understanding us… to the persons that we have become.

FIRST QUOTE.

“Hindi ko siya nakilala. Maganda ang mukha niya. Pero mukhang matrona. Mataba. Nalaos nang artista.” — MON TULFO on Claudine Barretto

FIRST-RATE RESTOS.

Perfect for Mothers’ Day… here are two new restaurants worthy of our support. I assure you, they prepare really good food and good ambiance.

1. WOODEN SPOON in Katipunan, infront of Ateneo’s Gate 3 and Miriam College’s entrance—and owned by Sandy Daza. Great appetizer: crispy pancit with crab-egg; Best main courses: Kare-Kare, Dinadakang Lechon, Bingagoongan & Stuffed Pechay.

2. BASIL at the end of White Plains near the Mormon Temple. Very good Thai food, courteous and attentive staff.

Happy Eating! Happy Mothers Day!

SEXY YOUNG COMEDIENNE PREGNANT WITH HER MODEL ACTOR BF

Who is this sexy young comedienne who temporarily stopped her budding showbiz career and went abroad to hide her being in an “interesting stage”?

A few months back, her manager told production executives that his ward had to leave for abroad because her visa, which she has long waited for, has already arrived.

(Her father is said to be a US citizen and that she has been petitioned to join him abroad.)

It turned out that this sexy young comedienne had to hide her “situation” and deliver her child in the land of milk and honey.

Just who is the father of her “would-be” baby? Some say he was a basketball player. Some say he is a model. Some say he is an actor. The answer could just be: All of the above.

I wonder how her former actor-boyfriend feels about her rumored pregnancy.

Well, never mind him now—he has successfully moved on and has maintained a good relationship with the daughter of a hot mama.

FIRST CUT. DIREK JEFFREY JETURIAN’S FILM COMEBACK

I have always been a fan of Direk Jeffrey Jeturian’s works. For me, aside from Direk Lav Diaz, he is the best director of his batch. I remember how he made such a big entry in the industry with a small and heartfelt film via “Sana Pag-Ibig Na” by the late great Nida Blanca with Angel Aquino and then newcomer Gerald Madrid.

I also liked his films, like “Pila-Balde,” “Tuhog,” “Minsan Pa,” and “Kubrador.”

I also awaited for “Parangal,” which could have been his film directorial comeback—but unfortunately, television has gotten the best of him.

Now, after quite a long time, he is slated for a film directorial comeback in a material so unique and supervised by the great Armando “Bing” Lao and written by very able writer Paul Sta. Ana. Bisperas, is it!

In a nutshell, here is the gist of this gem of a movie: On the eve of Christmas, the Aguinaldo family’s residence is burglarized, causing its members to identify stolen items and uncover lingering sentiments they have hidden from each other.  Amidst the tension brought about by the burglary, the Aguinaldo family realizes how treasured sentiments have been lost. Relationships have also evolved as they arrive from church to a house in shambles.

The film stars Tirso Cruz III, Raquel Villavicencio, Julia Clarete, Jennifer Sevilla, and Edgar Allan Guzman, ably supported by Aryanna Santiago, Jen Donaire, Kimmy Maclang, and Troy De Guzman.

The good news is that, Bisperas is part of the Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival 2011. For all those who may want to catch it, here is the screening skeds.

16 July/Sat, 9:00PM at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute

17 July/Sun, 1:30PM at the Greenbelt 3 – Cinema 5

17 July/Sun, 3:30PM at the Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo (CCP Main Theatre)

18 July/Mon, 12:45PM at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute

19 July/Tue, 6:30PM at the Greenbelt 3 – Cinema 3

20 July/Wed, 3:30PM at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute

21 July/Thu, 6:15PM at the Bulwagang Pambansang Alagad Ng Sining (CCP MKP Hall)

22 July/Fri, 9:00PM at the Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo (CCP Main Theatre)

23 July/Sat, 10:00AM at the Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino (CCP Little Theatre)

24 July/Sun, 6:30PM at the Greenbelt 3 – Cinema 3

FIRST READ. BEST-SELLING BOOK, NOW A CINEMALAYA ENTRY.

Quite a breakthrough in this year’s Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival is the film based on a popular novel with a very unique title, Ligo Na U, Lapit Na Me.

It is based on the story of Eros Atalia, screenplay by Palanca Award winning writer Jerry Gracio, and under the direction of Erick C. Salud, who also directed the Betty La Fea and Mutya, and was recently hailed as best director in the recent Guillermo Mendoza Scholarship Foundation awards.

The story is about Karl Vladimir Lennon J. Villalobos, a.k.a. Intoy, who is secretly in love with his friend Jenny, the most beautiful girl in the campus.

Jenny is rich and quirky;  Intoy is street-smart and ordinary.  But this friendship is not simple, since Jenny has bestowed on Intoy some perks and privileges, including going to bed with her on the condition that they will not fall in love with each other.

Before graduation, Intoy feels that he has to shed his pretensions of being astig and finally profess his love for Jenny.

But he is devastated to learn that Jenny is pregnant.  Worse, Jenny tells him:  “Don’t worry, this is not yours.”

Ligo na U, Lapit na Me is an examination of postmodern relationship and the way this generation deals with their love and fear.

With lead stars—great indie finds—now indie prince Edgar Allan Guzman and indie princess Mercedes Cabral, the film also inlcudes Mel Kimura, Simon Ibarra, Tolyts “Shalala” Reyes, Evelyn Vargas, Beverly Salviejo, Malouh Crisologo, Jojo Saguin, Joseph Bitangcol, Lucky Mark Mercado, Joe Vargas, Christian Tan, Ian Lazibal, Alex Tiglao, Ardie Bascara.  Introducing Victor Medina, son of the great character actor Pen Medina, with a special guest appearance of Luis Alandy.

Catch this great story of star-crossed love on these follow time and dates.

16 July/Sat, 1:30PM at the Greenbelt 3 – Cinema 5

17 July/Sun, 3:30PM at the Bulwagang Pambansang Alagad Ng Sining (CCP MKP Hall)

17 July/Sun, 6:15PM at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute

18 July/Mon, 3:30PM at the Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo (CCP Main Theatre)

19 July/Tue, 6:15PM at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute

20 July/Wed, 4:00PM at the Greenbelt 3 – Cinema 5

21 July/Thu, 9:00PM at the Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo (CCP Main Theatre)

22 July/Fri, 6:15PM at the Bulwagang Pambansang Alagad Ng Sining (CCP MKP Hall)

23 July/Sat, 12:45PM at the Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino (CCP Little Theatre)

24 July/Sun, 11:00AM at the Greenbelt 3 – Cinema 5

FIRST UNIQUE AWARDS. SILING LABUYO AWARDS

Tired of the usual, boring, politically-driven and envelopmentally-charged award giving bodies?

Well, very soon, you’ll hear of the SILING LABUYO AWARDS—possibly our local counterpart to the U.S.’s Razzies.

The difference of the SILING LABUYO is that, it both has green and red variations—meaning, they will award both the best and the worst of television, film and music.

You’ve heard it first here on THE FIRST NOEL.

Email us which film, TV, and music (recording) projects should be in consideration for the best and the worst: thefirstnoel@gmail.com.  Or follow me on twitter @iamnoelferrer. Or log on to noelferrer.com.

FIRST SHOT

They are the epitome of a cool, active, happy young couple.

They are the loving parents of the precocious Yohann, who just graduated from kinder school.

They are the hands-on parents of Lucho, who is such a happy kid enjoying his happy family life.

Their household is just full of laughter, love, and yes, food!

Family and friends would often troop to their place for a cozy chit chat and relax catching up.

Very recently, they have just been signed up as endorsers of Samsung Home Appliances, which promotes advance and worry-free home needs.

She has been recently tapped to endorse Lactum, a popular milk brand among many other companies wanting to get her Midas touch.

He is the new endorser of a new creamer, a major detergent, and a brand ambassador of a fuel line.

Indeed, they are a power couple just by being cool, relaxed, and naturally-happy individuals, and together, they spell magic.

They just came from a second honeymoon in Shanghai, China—a post-Valentine gift of Ryan—full of surprises and lovely adventure that they fondly refer to as “Project: the Tourist.”

They are quick to admit that they don’t practice family planning—well, not yet—as they plan to grow their family the soonest.

But one thing good about this couple, they have their hearts and minds on the right places. Very few people know about how they responded to a Facebook post about a sick lola whose dying wish was just to meet them. And how they made her happy!

And they will continue to make us happy…effortlessly…just by being who they are—a smart, simple happy couple! Way to go, Ryan and Juday!

FIRST HEARD

After “UNLEARN” of Jimmy Bondoc and “DI LANG IKAW” of Juris, here is my current favorite song, which I first heard on 103.5 WOW FM. I understand it’s also being played on 89.9 MAGIC and 99.5RT and WAVE 89.1.

It’s “STUBBORN LOVE” that is bound to be the anthem of such an underrated talent, Luke Mejares, whom I vowed to help especially with this very heartfelt song.

STUBBORN LOVE

music & lyrics: JUDE GITAMONDOC

arranged by: BENJAMIN PATING JR.

vocals: LUKE MEJARES

vocal coach: THOR

produced by: Luke and Benjie

HOW MANY TEARS MUST I CRY?

HOW MANY LIES MUST I FACE TO REALIZE

THE ONE UNMISTAKABLE TRUTH

I’LL NEVER BE WITH YOU

STILL MY HARDHEADED HEART CAN’T BE FAZED

STILL I CAN’T LOOK AWAY FROM THE SMILE ON YOUR FACE

STUBBORN LOVE

ARE YOU GONNA FALL FOR THE SAME MISTAKE?

IS MY HEART GONNA BREAK?

STUBBORN LOVE

DAMN YOU, WON’T YOU LEARN FROM THE HURT AND PAIN

‘COZ I’M GOIN’ INSANE

AND I KNOW I CAN’T TRUST YOU

I’VE GOT TO LET GO

BUT MY HEART HAS A MIND OF ITS OWN

STUBBORN LOVE

HOW MANY WALLS MUST COME DOWN

BEFORE I’D CONVINCE YOU TO FINALLY COME AROUND

BUT YOU’D RATHER GO ON YOUR WAY

AND THERE’S NONE I CAN DO TO CONVINCE YOU TO STAY

STILL MY HARDHEADED HEART CAN’T BE FAZED

STILL I CAN’T LOOK AWAY FROM THE SMILE ON YOUR FACE

STUBBORN LOVE

ARE YOU GONNA FALL FOR THE SAME MISTAKE?

IS MY HEART GONNA BREAK?

STUBBORN LOVE

DAMN YOU,WON’T YOU LEARN FROM THE HURT AND PAIN

‘COZ I’M GOIN’ INSANE

AND I KNOW I CAN’T TRUST YOU

I’VE GOT TO LET GO

BUT MY HEART HAS A MIND OF ITS OWN

BUT MY HEART HAS A MIND OF ITS OWN

STUBBORN LOVE

CHANGE YOUR WAYS……

STUBBORN LOVE

ARE YOU GONNA FALL FOR THE SAME MISTAKE?

IS MY HEART GONNA BREAK?

STUBBORN LOVE

DAMN YOU,WON’T YOU LEARN FROM THE HURT AND PAIN

‘COZ I’M GOIN’ INSANE

AND I KNOW I CAN’T TRUST YOU

I’VE GOT TO LET GO

BUT MY HEART HAS A MIND OF ITS OWN

THOUGH I KNOW THAT IV’E GOT TO LET GO

STILL MY HEART HAS  A MIND OF ITS OWN

STUBBORN LOVE

STUBBORN LOVE

(Oh well, don’t we all have Stubborn Hearts? Buhuhu! If you have any compelling things to share, please email them to me at thefirstnoel@gmail.com or follow me at twitter – d_1^st_noel.)

Take This.

1. Semi-retired singer songwriter Joey Bennin (composer of the hit song “Forevermore”), who is now an entrepreneur/farmer in Bacolod, would go to Manila to reunite with his band Side A.

2. Former vocals Luke Mejares and Vince Alaras would join South Border (missing in action still: Brix Ferraris).

3. Joshua of Party Pilipinas with Mike Luis and, yes, Top Suzara join Freestyle once again.

Witness this rare reunion and the first time that all these three bands performing all together for the first time on Sunday Jan 2, lunchtime on television.

TOP 11 IN 2011. Here are our bets for Artists/Performers to look forward to in 2011.

1. Xyriel Manabat. She was so adorable in Ang Tanging Ina Mo, Last Na ‘To that she deserves more exposure. She won the Best Child Performer Award.

2. Jillian Ward. After her famous line “Nandyan Na Po” in Trudis Liit, she was given  her own Krismaserye Namamasko Po, which showcases her exceptionally cute talent and charisma.

3. Jasmine Curtis. A refreshing face, touted to be the Look of 2011 in the Kapatid Network.

4. Shalala. After his hit hosting chore in Juicy, he will soon have his own radio program and hopefully, a launching movie!

5. Empoy. His Magic Gimik program is rating very well. And in 2011, he will be the lead of what could be a breakthrough comedy show.

6. SAKTO. Rodjun Cruz, Edgar Alan Guzman, and Lucky Mark Mercado—three very talented guys who have launched their recording album via a remarkable front act stint in David Archuleta’s concert. They will have more opportunities to shine on television, the concert stage, and the movies in 2011.

7. Mart Escudero. A launching movie and, hopefully, better shows to prove his mettle.

8. Paolo Avelino. May his reinvention succeed even after the reality of fatherhood sets in.

9. Atty. Mike Templo. A young Immigration Lawyer who has hit TV newscast, and has been learning the ropes the hard way. But this guy has so much more to offer. Stay tuned!

10. Julia Abueva. A young singer destined to capture the hearts of not only Filipinos but the audiences abroad.

11. Atom Araullo. He may have been taken out of Umagang Kay Ganda, which needs major revisions soon. But Atom will definitely be a reporter/ anchor to watch for.

If you have any compelling things to share, please email them to me at thefirstnoel.pep@gmail.com or follow me at twitter – d_1^st_noel.

FIRST UP: THANK GOD FOR MR. T!

This is a rather belated piece for a man whom we regard highly and whom we hold dear. I was supposed to come up with this tribute in time for his awarding of the Philippine Movie Press Club Star Awards “Ading Fernando Lifetime Achievement Awards.”

But several things transpired: Lucho was baptized; Wyngard Tracy passed away; and another great lady, Malou Choa-Fagar celebrated her birthday.

These events and rituals that we have to go through make us reflect on our lives and how we are living it.

And as I got into that Christmas mood, I began to get my inspiration from a man who has had a well-lived life, not without struggles, not without pains¾but one that is marked with a lot of love, excellence, generosity and genuine concern for people and worthy causes. He’s someone I will always look up to and love dearly!

ANTONIO “Tony” TUVIERA, better known as Mr. T¾or to my kapatids Mike and Jojo¾they refer to him as “Chairman.”

He is someone who rose from the ranks, learned from hard work, maintained his goodwill, and now, he should be reaping the fruits of his well-lived life.

He has such an inspiring, calming, and happy effect on me that even if we don’t see each other often, I would easily reconnect and feel at ease. Although I’m still very much “nahihiya” when I see him as I always feel unworthy of his outpouring of love.

My dad passed away last June, but I am happy to have Mr. T as my tatang in the industry.

FIRST THING: A CHRISTMAS TREE from a WHOLESALE STORE.

While Tutuban, 168, Dapitan, and now 999 are reliable shopping places, I have always taken fancy on a store called UNIQUE NOVELTIES & TOYS CORPORATION located at #15 Zorra St., Barangay Paltok, San Francisco del Monte. QC.

The store has practically everything at low prices¾sans the department store charge because they are the ones supplying the major shops such as Landmark, SM, National Bookstore, and the likes.

I am just overwhelmed at the collection of toys and Christmas decors. I was able to get a Christmas tree with the standard 20% discount!

Try this UNIQUE store, which has become the favorite of production designers and art directors in the TV and film industry.

FIRST-RATE CAKE: YEMA CAKE by Freska

It is really the decadent local version of the classic sans rival using loads of premium cashew nuts that give the thin wafers a sweetish, nutty flavor.

The Philippine Daily Inquirer was right in naming it as one of their 25 best desserts in 2010. Everything about this cake is deliciously executed, from the meringue to the yema fillings that spread evenly and generously through each layer. It looks dangerously sweet, but on the contrary, it’s not.

Take it from me, I tried it already! But take note, you have to order in advance! I had to wait for 2 weeks before I can get my order.

Go to the 2nd floor of the Promenade Mall in Greenhills now!

FIRST HONORS. Congratulations to:

JOHN LLOYD CRUZ & TONI GONZAGA for their box-office hit movie My Amnesia Girl.

What I admire about this tandem is that they really are able to bring out the lightness and sense of wonder in each other and in the material. They both deserve the successes they are experiencing now. Kudos to Direk Cathy, too!

GING REYES, the new ABS-CBN news and current affairs head who rose from the ranks and has tried to harmonize all the existing groups in her turf.

Ging has certainly a lot of things on her plate now, but she is enjoying the support of her peers and superiors as well. Despite her stature, she has remained cool and well-grounded. Expect a lot of good changes in the newsroom soon!

REGINE VELASQUEZ, whose FANTASY album has a good mix of new compositions and old ones. We were among the first ones to play her music in 103.5 WOW FM!

And what a packaging!

I have always admired Reg for her dedication and excellence in her craft. And yes, she is one of the easiest people to work with!

LUGANG CAFÉ. If you see long lines in Greenhills beside POW Resto, it is the new Chinese restaurant with a very friendly staff and first rate food.

Try it, and you’ll be lucky if you are able to reserve a table. It opens at 11:00 a.m. for lunch and 5:00 p.m. for dinner.

FIRST CRACK at the CINEMALAYA 2011’s new breed of finalists. Congratulations, batch mates!

• Amok by Law Fajardo
• Ang Babae sa Septic Tank by Chris Martinez
• Ang Sayaw ng Dalawang Kaliwang Paa by Alem Ang & Alvin Yapan
• Baby Factory by Edwardo Roy & Jerome Zamora
• Chuchera by Joseph Laban & Janice O’Hara
• E-Libing: Your Loss, Our Luck by Rommel Sales
• Ligo na U, Lapit na Me by Noel Ferrer, Jerry Gracio & Direk Erick Salud
• Nino by Loy Arcenas
• Teoriya by Zurich Chan
• The Dog Show by Ralston Jover

For the Director’s showcase:

• Bisperas by Jeffrey Jeturian
• Busong by Auraeus Solito
• Isda by Adolfo Alix, Jr.
• Patikul by Joel Lamangan
• Henerala by Mario O’Hara

You’ve got it first here…Merry Christmas!

FIRST CRACK:

Word is out on Bohol Avenue that after a week, major major changes shall be made in the ABS-CBN newscast (as expected)!

Although people may deny this but, the move may be the Star Network’s reaction to Willie Revillame’s show—which is fast closing in on TV Patrol’s ratings—and the logical progression when Maria Ressa left the newsroom.

The news and current affairs bosses have talked to Julius Babao and Karen Davila that certain reformats will be made in TV Patrol and that certain personalities will be put in their place. Although they haven’t been directly assured, the evening slots of Bandila have been reserved for them.

So who are likely to go back to primetime news?

Since the old guards are back, it won’t be hard to understand the return of broadcasters-on-extended leaves Noli de Castro and Korina Sanchez to be back to work (along with fellow old guard Ted Failon, whom we heard is also not too happy with his position in the network, too).

How will this impact on Julius’ and Karen’s careers? Oh well, they must have felt earlier on that they will be the sacrificial lambs in this whole circus. After all, ratings result is god in the television industry. But don’t you think they deserve better?

Dear PEPsters, what do you think?

FIRST HAND APPROVAL!

• THE COMPANY @ 25. This premiere musical group will have a repeat of their 25^th Anniversary Concert on Saturday at the Music Museum and I will not miss it! The first time they did the anniversary show, they were given three long standing ovations. I am sure The Company will make tomorrow’s show really memorable (as they always do)! Congratulations, mga kapatid!!!

• TITO BOY ABUNDA. Happy birthday! I am amazed at how he is able to juggle everything that he does—and he would do everything with passion and excellence and yes, generosity. Oh well, Tito Boy, good health and more blessings! Birthday greetings too to the feisty and kind-hearted (especially if you are on her good side) Tita Annabelle Rama!

• DISCOVERY SHORES & LA CARMELA DE BORACAY. Two of the most reliable places to stay in for a stress-free and truly enjoyable and relaxing Bora vacation.

• FM KA, AM AKO. This is the newest single of Bayani Agbayani and the very first recording of comedienne Eugene Domingo. It was composed by Rey Valera and is a tribute to radio and the people involved in it. Radio’s power is back and it is again a formidable tool for information and education. So, this song may be regarded as the new “Mr. DJ,” which was also from the same composer. Listen to this song under Sony Philippines.

• And, SHOWBIZ RAMPA. True to radio’s influence, I have been lured to try the medium. Since last Sunday, I will be regularly sitting in as anchor on 103.5 WOW FM at 10:00 am to 12:00 noon. Tune in to our show this Sunday and I’ll wait for your comments.

FIRST SECRET (for now)…

A hunk model actor—up for booking for 80 thousand pesos?

But before he gives in to a prospective customer, he would really screen them as they should not have any showbiz connection. Or else, his well kept secret may just be the talk of the town!

My God, it’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s…Hoy, guessing!!!! Hehehe!

If you have any compelling things to share, please email them to me at thefirstnoel.pep@gmail.com or follow me at twitter – d_1^st_noel.

My friend Jojo Gabinete said it very well—ROBIN, MARIEL: Look before you leap!

A lot of things have been said, a lot have been omitted, conflicting words circulated—and somehow, even if we would all want to wish them well and be inspired, there seems to be some dissonance that we cannot explain.

During the past week, people just gave their reactions on the issue—some favorable, others indifferent, a lot skeptical…Until Tito Boy Abunda, full of goodwill, finally came into the picture, putting into perspective the repercussions of Robin and Mariel’s union vis-à-vis religion and even, media manipulation.

Uttered a colleague from ABS-CBN, this has been Tito Boy’s role—to put things in order, to do damage control—sometimes to the point of being dragged to the issue whether he likes it or not.

So, another colleague, a columnist from a major publication said, “By virtue of Tito Boy’s affiliation—Mariel Rodriguez is now occupying the same spotlight once held by Keanna Reeves (and at a different  but parallel point— Kris Aquino).

So my dear readers, I would like to hear from you: WHAT DO MARIEL & KEANNA HAVE IN COMMON? AND WHAT SETS THEM APART?

Oh well, whatever your responses will be, both Mariel and Keanna (and again Kris Aquino) have to thank our beloved Tito Boy Abunda for always being on their side.

What do you think?

FIRST HAND APPROVAL!

1.    THE SPECIAL ERASERHEADS PACKAGE in Greenwich. 11 albums—complete edition, a collector’s item t shirt and a special E-heads handbook with a sumptuous pizza spaghetti meal. What more can you ask for?

2.    NOY—Our official entry to the next Oscar’s. I hope this time it shall bring home the prize.

3.    THE KENNY RANKIN CHRISTMAS ALBUM. For me, this is really one of the best Christmas albums around. Good to see some copies at the record bars once again, even if  Kenny Rankin has long been gone.

4.    THE MAGNOLIA RESIDENCES by Robinsons Land. I have to congratulate my batchmate Deck Go for his very efficient staff and for the great plans for this place which we can consider one of the havens of our youth—the Magnolia Ice Cream House compound. Check out their development plan—residential towers and a high-end mall. Truly impressive!

5.    and MR. FU—My God, his father is in a very critical condition in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. And as the eldest of three children, he bid goodbye in Tweetbiz and conscientiously attended to all his commitments during the past week: radio and TV programs, meetings  and personal appearances. He deserves all our admiration and support for being sooooo professional despite the personal crisis he is going through. Wow, Meganon pa talagang katatag na tao like Mr. Fu! God bless you and your family!

FIRST SECRET (for now)…

HOW TRUE is it that a major anchor on television has considered resigning from his post if his producer will not heed his request for better conditions in his hosting chore. This anchor meant well by requesting for a less stressful and strenuous set up—especially now that he still recovering from his recent hospitalization.

I hope his television shows will take into consideration his health and his process towards full recovery. After all, apart from ratings, awards and advertisers (which the TV host all seem to enjoy), human resource is the best resource, don’t you think?

If you have any compelling things to share, please email them to me at thefirstnoel.pep@gmail or follow me at twitter – d_1st_noel.

FIRST SHOT

Every celebrity needs a reinvention. This gives him a new dimension whereby the public may perceive him. It even gives him the spark and the impetus to explore new grounds and thread new paths in his quest to connect to a broader base of a more demanding, discriminating and discerning audiences.

FOLIO defines this new territory: documenting at how these men—band members, matinee idols, dancers, athletes, star search winners—become more desirable, interesting, exciting brands/celebrities/performers.

FOLIO offers the public the best collection of reinvented men as they transcend and move out of their comfort zones and shed off their inhibitions. To savor the big picture and the most daring photos (shot by Ronnie Salvacion) ever of Rainier Castillo, Marco Alcaraz, Luis Alandy, Kean Cipriano of Calla Lily, Tutti Caringal of 6CycleMind, Edgar Allan Guzman, and Rodjun Cruz, by grabbing a copy of FOLIO now!

Here is a preview of what’s hot in FOLIO. Send me your comments now…

The FOLIO

FIRST BLIND ITEM

Who is this former Kapuso who became a Kapamilya—who did some hosting chores, and is now part of a soap that is wrapping up this Friday—who is four months pregnant?

She doesn’t have any intention of revealing her condition just yet—so she contents herself with going to the hospitals for check-up with not just a blindfold, but something like a pashmina to cover her face…

Oh, well…careful, Momay might be able to get you a 3R photo.

Merry Christmas! If you have any compelling things to share, please email them to me at thefirstnoel.pep@gmail.com or follow me at twitter—d_1st_noel.

FIRST SHOT:

We were waiting at the lobby of the newly-renovated Manila Hotel last Monday, September 6, for the much awaited presscon of Korean superstar RAIN.

Along with the other members of media, we were made to understand that there was a failure in communication between the Korean management team of Rain and the Philippine organizers. RAIN was supposed to be in the said presscon with all the cast members of his INTENSITY concert slated on Saturday, September 11. But the cast was not complete yet so the presscon had to be postponed for Thursday, September 9, instead.

Oh well, we’ll give you more first-hand account of our RAIN encounter next time.

By the way, his Polyeast album (Philippine edition) will be available on September 9.

FIRST HAND:

While going around Manila Hotel—and while the press and the RAIN concert organizers are busy threshing out their stories for the presscon cancellation, lo and behold— guess who we saw at the Manila Hotel pool? RAIN himself. Yes, I was able to see RAIN along with three other friends who were seated at the lounging chairs at the poolside.

And guess who we saw…two promising young stars trying to inch their way to meeting their idol, the Korean superstar. The male young star contented himself with just seeing his idol. But the female young star? She had to buy a swimsuit so that that she can join RAIN in enjoying the pool, and see him up close.

Oh well, this female young star truly knows how to charm her way to her idol.

FIRST LIST:

1. 103.5 WOW FM – This newly-launched radio station truly entertains me. Thank you to Leila Chikadora and Mr. Fu, with assistant Emily, for starting my day right with their sunshiny disposition.

2. MANILA HOTEL’S HALO-HALO—Still one of the best in my list!

3. LIGO NA U, LAPIT NA ME – A best-selling Filipino novel by author Eros S. Atalla. I am amazed at his complex but very refreshing way of looking at relationships. I am just so excited to see this novel being mounted to the big screen.

4. The New FHM issue with CESAR MONTANO on the cover. The male profiles are very well conceptualized.

5. JUICY vs. TWEETBIZ vs. SNN. JUICY’s advantage is the inherent rapport of its hosts and their no-nonsense approach at giving comments. They have succeeded in being informational, bold, and really fun! Meanwhile, TWEETBIZ’ strength lies on Gorgy Rulla and Ronnie Carrasco. But the QTV show will be more competitive should they have a little more punch and more fun. Guys, these 2 shows are seemingly edging out SNN already because it has stuck to its P.R. stance, which in fairness, they do really well—production values and all.

If you have any compelling things to share, please email them to me at thefirstnoel.pep@gmail.com or follow me at twitter – d_1st_noel.

Merry Christmas!

Nagsimula na ang mga Christmas Countdowns. Pinatutugtog na ang mga Christmas songs. Bumabait at mas nagiging generous na sana ang mga tao…kaya, Pasko na nga!

Napakahirap mang ramdamin ang Christmas season sa panahon na bumabagyo at habang mahaba pa ang pag-uusap tungkol sa hostage crisis, there’s no denying that—tuluy tuloy pa rin ang Pasko!

At bilang NOEL ako, at December born, bubuhayin natin ang essence (diwa) ng Pasko sa pamamagitan ng blog na ito.

At dahil THE FIRST NOEL ito, mauuna tayo sa paglalabas ng mga balita, opinion, (kahit) tsismis, mga listahan at kung anumang puwedeng pagkuhanan ng relevant, important, entertaining, mind boggling, kahit shocking revelation na puwedeng pagkuhanan at kapulutan ng knowledge, information at insight—na sana ay ma-appreciate ninyo.

So here it is: THE FIRST NOEL, my long overdue (and almost hastily done, but sincere pa ring) first PEP blog entry.

NOEL’S LIST. This one is simple. It’s MY LIFE in lists. Read on…

5 Showbiz Personalities Who Remind Me Of Christmas (God bless them. We may not see each other often…but I feel them.)

1.    Sharon Cuneta—She just has that Christmas spirit in her always that is so infectious.
2.    Dolphy and Zsa Zsa Padilla—This couple is blessed because of their simplicity and warmth the whole year through.
3.    Ogie Alcasid and Regine Velasquez— I’m amazed at the generosity (in mind, in heart, and in deed) of this loving pair.
4.    Lucy Torres-Gomez—She knows how to make people feel loved and important because she listens very well.
5.    Boy Abunda and Martin Nievera—Very generous, very open. I love them!

5 Favorite Local Christmas Songs

1.    ”My Favorite Time of the Year” by Neocolours—composed by my friends Trina Belamide and Marvin Querido
2.    ”Sana Ngayong Pasko” by Ariel Rivera—still the best Christmas ballad aside from Pasko na Sinta ko
3.    ”The Work of Christmas” by Bukaspalad—Norman Agatep and Jandi Arboleda, you are the best!
4.    ”Isang Taong Lumipas by the San Miguel Choir & The Company—this Ryan Cayabyab composition is destined to be a classic!
5.    ”Tuloy Na Tuloy Pa Rin Ang Pasko” by the APO—very inspiring! Get that Christmas spirit…fast!

I deliberately limited my choices to 5 because I may be able to add some more in the future. And yes, I didn’t want to be pressured to filling up a Top 10 list na medyo pilit…hehe! For you, have you thought about the people and songs you associate Christmas with? Think of them…and you’ll feel good.

NOEL’S PICKS. I shall also give a rundown of things or multi-media efforts that I want all of us to check out or support.  These are the things I just happen to come across with and are very noteworthy and deserving of our attention.

1.    JED MADELA’s new album The Classic Album. I always am among the first ones to support this great singer. He has a new album, with renditions of “What I Did For Love,” “Let Me Try Again,” “An Affair To Remember,” “Times Of Your Life” and many others.

2.    ONE DAY by David Nicholls. Recommended to me by Direk Joey Reyes. It’s about two people who have survived a once-a-year relationship in 20 years. A new take at my favorite “Same Time, Next Year.” I was also happy to know that they are already making a movie based on this book starring Anne Hathaway and our very own Joanna Ampil.

3.   LADY DADA by Bb. Joyce Bernal. Premiering on Wednesday September 8 (birthday of our dear Mama Mary) at 8:00 p.m. It shows how far a dad will go to bring back his good family life. Cast members include: Ryan Agoncillo in his most difficult role to date (waxing, shaving, dancing, you name it); and of course, Roderick Paulate, Mylene Dizon, Keempee de Leon, and Edgar Allan Guzman.

4.    The CHOCO SANSRIVAL ICE CREAM CAKE at CARAMIA. Simply delicious. Feels like Christmas!

5.    The BENTOSA MASSAGE TREATMENT at JANCEN. Very relaxing!

NOW, FOR THE FIRST SCOOP…Let the pictures tell the story of MO TWISTER and RHIAN RAMOS! Two people who deserve a big love! Now, tell me what you think?

Pero ito ang shot of the week para sa akin. Isa siyang spoof ng dating controversial photo nina John Lloyd Cruz at Ruffa Gutierrez habang papasok sa isang hotel sa Beverly Hills. The second photo was taken in the spirit of fun and charity!  At dahil dito, isang charitable institution ang makakatanggap ng 100 thousand pesos mula Ruffa Gutierrez, at karagdagang 10 thousand pesos mula kay DJ Mo Twister. Ang kabuuang kuwento sa TV5 showbiz talk show na PAPARAZZI!

Merry Christmas!

For juicy and earth-shaking items, you can email me at thefirstnoel@gmail.com and follow me on twitter at  d_1st_noel.