Issue 14: March 31, 2010

‘The Heartthrobs & Friends’ Rocks San Jose
(The Gang is Back, Bigger and Better with Kim Chiu & Gerald)

SEEN IN THE CITY
Almost 5,000 screaming fans filled the San Jose State University’s The Events Center last Saturday night, March 27th, coming from all over the United States to witness ‘The Heartthrobs’ (originally composed of Piolo Pascual, Sam Milby, Bea Alonzo with Pokwang, later joined the succeeding shows by John Lloyd Cruz) biggest concert crowd to-date (according to one of them, Sam Milby as per performs his opening number), this time with the rock-solid love team of the hit ABS-CBN ‘Tayong Dalawa’ – Kim Chiu and Gerald Anderson.

Philippine Airlines Cares For The Environment as they sponsor round-trip tickets of the reigning Miss Philippines Earth USA (West Coast) 2010, Melissa Sokukawa, 19, a Half-Japanese Filipina 5’8" stunner from Union City, CA, shown here being wished well by PAL Country Manager, Joanne Sarmiento, left. The beauty queen left for Manila last Sunday, March 28th to compete in Manila for a chance to represent the country in the international pageant to be held in Vietnam in November.

The Lady Luck. Some girls have all the luck as Fremont's Lucky Line Producer, Nanette Labrador keeps getting it right, as her shows keep on making money, sandwiched here by Bea Alonzo, left and Kim Chiu before their 'The Heartthrobs & Friends' show started last Saturday night in San Jose, CA

Pokwang opened the show proper with a high-spirited ‘Bad Romance’ number, complete with a ‘Cleopatra meets Lady Gaga’ outfit and backup male dancers. She then followed up with a performance number never been seen on San Jose stage before – her ‘Luha’ song number where she used an anatomically-correct young male audience to be her ‘human microphone stand’, with strict instructions to follow her every move, her every hip bending and her every rolling on the floor. Imagine this scene – beamed across two giant screens on the opposite side of the stage – Pokwang grabs her ‘microphone’ positioned midway across the guy’s body and then they roll together on stage for several minutes. The audiences were satisfactorily entertained right at that point of the evening.

'My Papa Piolo' is what Tracy-based Concert Producer, Ms. Filipinas Achocoso seems to exclaim as she stopped The Ultimate Heartthrob, Piolo Pascual in the middle of her performance, in the middle of stage, in the middle of close to other 5,000 screaming fans, so she can get a souvenir shot with him.

The Heartthrob & his Friend. John Lloyd Cruz befriends Kim Santos Macaraig, 19, daughter of Power Broker, Thez Santos of South San Francisco at the SJSU backstage last Saturday night.

Then came Balladeer Richard Poon who sang ‘Portrait of My Love’ and ‘Wowowee medley of songs’. The venue burst in deafening cheers when ‘Tayong Dalawa’ loveteam, Kim Chiu and Gerald Anderson came out on stage singing Taylor Swift’s ‘You Belong With Me’ followed by the theme song of their hit movie ‘Paano Na Kaya’.

Post 'Lupang Hinirang' Brouhaha. Journeys' Lead Singer, Arnel Pineda (shown here during his Dallas Pacquiao-Clottey fight appearance wherein he was criticized and threatened by some sectors for allegedly maligning the sanctity of the Philippine National Anthem by changing its tempo, among others), will perform with The Zoo Band on July 03, 2010 either in Reno or the Bay Area in a yet-to-be-named venue, announced by Lighthouse Entertainment's Archie Mendiorro.

The 'Heartthrob' Producer. All's well that ends well, as months before last Saturday night's show, Producer Archie Mendiorro (2nd left) was nervous of slower ticket sales only to be quickly relieved upon seeing the almost 5,000 people that showed up to watch 'The Heartthrobs & Friends' (L-R) John Lloyd Cruz, Piolo Pascual, Gerald Anderson, their new friend, Richard Lao of Manila Mail and Sam Milby).

Pokwang then introduced Sam Milby who sang ‘Crazy Thing Called Love’ with much gusto, dancing, bouncing perkily on stage, visibly amazed by the very enthusiastic large crowd. He then sang ‘And I Love You So’ which segwayed Bea Alonzo’s entrance who sang the duet ‘I’m Yours’ with him. She sang a solo number – ‘The Song’.number.

Bea signaled John Lloyd Cruz’s entrance with her singing ‘Miss You Like Crazy’ followed by John’s ‘You’ll Be Safe Here’ and ‘I’ll Never Go’ solo numbers.

Ultimate Hearththrob Piolo Pascual with Levi Baranda owner of San Francisco limo, the official limo service of the Hearththrob 2010 us tour in San Jose.

Iris Garcia celebrated her 23rd Birthday last March 17, 2010, with her in photo from L-R: Larry Lontoc, Lyod Reyes, Ardes Reyes, Jay-R Reyes and Iris Garcia.

The predominantly female crowd reserved their loudest screams when The Ultimate Heartthrob, Piolo Pascaul came out singing ‘Babe’ (the theme song of Sam Milby’s forthcoming movie, “Babe I Love You”. At this point of the night, I came to a realization, that in the years of watching his shows, that one of the main factors that he got the most fans is because of the fact that he doesn’t belong to anyone and he is theirs solely for their undivided adulation. He doesn’t have a permanent love partner, he is not married and never got permanently committed. He then shared the “Haven’t Met You Yet” song number with Sam Milby and Richard Poon.
All of them gathered and performed a medley of VST & Company’s ‘80’s disco hit songs.
To sum it all up, it was a highly entertaining show and everybody went home happy and inspired to go find their own heartthrob, their own friends.

The Heartthrob Sponsor. Mr. Henry Sy, right, back, owner of Profood USA Philippine brand (with offices in Cebu and Union City) is one of the very satisfied sponsors of Piolo Pascual's (seated, right) 'The Heartthrobs & Friends' US Concert Tour San Jose leg.

A Soldier Story. San Jose's Michael Christian Kuizon Young, 6, left and his 9-year old brother Gabriel Christian Kuizon Young's soldier father (Robert F. Young of the US Air Force) died just 3 years ago. Whenever they watch Gerald Anderson (back) who plays a soldier in 'Tayong Dalawa', they both can't help but cry and remember their dad and their happy times with him. So whenever Gerald has a show in town, they always make it a point to watch him in person, just like the recently concluded San Jose leg of 'The Heartthrobs & Friends' US Concert Tour, where they also asked Kim Chiu to finish the autograph on their soldier monkey toys. This is according to their San Jose-based almost-a-family, Marife Ronquillo (good friend of their mom, Jenille K Young).

Congratulations to Mr. Archie Mendiorro and his Lighthouse Entertainment team, which includes Line Producer, Ms. Nanette Labrador and Berce Productions’ Ms. Lerma and Cesar Cailles for another successful show.

Father of the Heartthrobs. Renowned Producer, Director and Star Magic Talent Manager, Mr. M himself, Johnny Manahan, right, with Aunt Betty Garfield and Commnity Leader Baby Byram, shown celebrating after the very successful 'The Heartthrobs & Friends' concert in San Jose last Saturday night.

The gang retired to the hotel rooms early for their 6:00 a.m. flight to San Diego , their next show the following day. Other cities lined up for ‘The Heartthrobs & Friends’ are the following:
New York, NY
March 31, 2010, 7:00 PM at Manhattan Center , 311 W. 34th Street , New York , NY . Ticket prices $68, $88, $148 (SOLD OUT) and VIP $168. A new section has been opened with $108 tickets and they still have a few $168 (VIP); Please call 201.886.1705 / 201.290.9245/ 917-513-5266 / 917-428-9078 / 989-492-1965 / 914-255-2137.
Los Angeles, CA
Saturday, April 3, 2010 at the Heritage Forum located at 201 East Broadway, Anaheim , CA 92805-3904 Phone (714) 776-7776 www.heritageforum.net. For tickets call 562-787-9030 or 562-964-3434
Dallas, TX
Sunday, April 4 at the Will Rogers Memorial Center , Fort Worth , TX located at City of 3401 West Lancaster Avenue, Fort Worth, TX 76107-3045(817) 392-7469 www.fortworthgov.org

TO-BE-SEEN IN THE CITY
Heart 2 Heart …A Journey of Love… Music to Remember
On May 29, 2010 (Saturday), 7:30PM at the Nob Hill Masonic Center, spend a romantic evening listening to different stories of love and life weaved together through the most beautiful songs of our time and interpreted by two of the Philippines’ most respected and talented artists – Ms. Regine Velasquez and Mr. Ogie Alcasid, Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera entitled “Heart 2 Heart”.

For ticket inquiries and sponsorships please call JS Camins Productions at 650-290-0542 ; 650- 290- 4457; Edwina 415-370-2802; Flor 415-205-0114.
Geneva Cruz & Rachel Alejandro Performs at Cache Creek
Catch the best of Geneva Cruz (reportedly separated from husband KC Montero recently) and Rachel Alejandro on April 17 at 8:00 p.m. at Cache Creek Casino Resort’s Club 88. Joe Alvarez guests.

Lighthouse Entertainment Signs Arnel Pineda and The Zoo Band
Reeling off from the success of their ‘The Heartthrobs & Friends’ show in San Jose, Archie Mendiorro of Lighthouse Entertainment shared us their latest undertaking – Journey’s lead singer, Filipino, Arnel Pineda will be having a concert with The Zoo Band on July 03, 2010. The venue is yet to be announced. Save the date – July 03 for it’s a long weekend.


PERSONAL NOTES
Belated Happy Birthday to the South City Business Woman Maria Ingco (March 20), President and CEO of Chanze, Inc. (a residential care home facility).
Belated Happy Birthday to the Ms. Aileen Fabros (March 24) of South San Francisco who is strong advocate for Health Care Patients’ rights.

Advanced Happy Birthday to Ichiban Library’s Ben Ramos (April 3rd) who will hold a semi-formal gathering at their lounge/restaurant located 2236 Westborough Dr., South San Francisco on April 3rd at 1:00 p.m.

Advanced Happy Birthday to Dr. William Christopher Soule (April 20) of Santa Clara , a practicing Radiologist for Valley Radiology, Inc.
Advanced Happy Birthday to Mr. Lyndon Canon (April 21) of San Mateo, President & CEO of Insight ARF, Inc.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK
"The pay-per-view performance of Pacquiao-Clottey significantly exceeded our expectations," by Mark Taffet, Senior Vice President for HBO PPV. “Manny Pacquiao's 12-round decision victory against Joshua Clottey on March 13 at Cowboys Stadium generated 700,000 HBO pay-per-view buys and $35.3 million in revenue, the network announced just last Tuesday. "It is a testament to the popularity of Pacquiao and the vitality of the sport.”

Pacquiao's 12 pay-per-view fights have generated 6.25 million buys and $320 million in pay-per-view revenue, according to figures quoted by USA Today’s Bob Velin.

This column also appears online at www.FilipinoVillage.com and http://sites.google.com/site/adkinsmmcevents/Home/ with readership in 68 countries now, according to the latest Google Analytics report.

Do you have any personal or community events you want announced or published? Just email them to bradford_adkins@yahoo.com

Issue 5: Janurary 27, 2010

“Paano Na Kaya”starring Kim, Gerald to
screen in San Francisco starting February 5th

Long-awaited “Kimerald” starrer is ABS-CBN International’s pre-Valentine film offering

By Bradford Adkins

Following the box-office success of the U.S. theatrical for I Love You, Goodbye in January, ABS-CBN International’s Starry Starry Store brings in February the much awaited pre-Valentine offering from Star Cinema: Paano Na Kaya, starring the number one love team in Philippine showbiz, Kim Chiu and Gerald Anderson.
Kim and Gerald have become such a hot item as an on-screen couple that thousands of fans and celebrity columnists have referred to them as one name: “Kimerald”. They are much sought after in commercials, magazine covers, films and television. The couple scored big in ratings and following with their hit ABS-CBN teleserye, Tayong Dalawa, aired here in the U.S. on The Filipino Channel (TFC).

Have you fallen secretly in love with a friend? That's the theme of the latest Kim-Gerald movie offering from ABS-CBN International - 'Paano Na Kaya', showing starting February 5th in San Francisco.

2009 Mrs. Agoo, Mrs. Jocelyn Tabora, paraded the Agoo town center atop a floral-adorned float with very proud husband, Matt of San Jose, CA.

The Town of Agoo, La Union crowned their latest Queen last month, in the person of San Jose's Mrs. Jocelyn Tabora, center, shown here with (L-R) Dr. Franny (former Agoo Mayor) and Mayor Sandra Eriguel, Sponsors Lina & Arthur Estoesta.

So much is going for Paano Na Kaya aside from Kimerald. Fans of the fast-rising young singer Bugoy Drilon, Pinoy Dream Academy Season 2 runner-up, will be thrilled to know that the movie was inspired from his hit song of the same title. It has a stellar supporting cast that includes seasoned actors like Ricky Davao, Rio Locsin, Melissa Ricks, Rica Peralejo and Zsa Zsa Padilla, plus highly watched new faces, Filipino American Guji Lorenzana and Robi Domingo, first runner-up of the reality TV show, Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition Plus. At the helm is no other than Tayong Dalawa director, Ruel Bayani.

The 2 Undisputed Concert Kings, Gary Valenciano and Martin Nievera, will return to the US stage (after sold-out performances last year in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Diego, Houston, New Jersey and Canadian Key Cities) on March 12th, Friday, 8:30pm at the Tuscany Ballroom of the Peppermill Resort Casino in Reno, NV. For tickets, call Silverscreen Productions at (510) 938-4064, (415) 370-2802 and (415) 205-0114.

Haiti-bound, Mary Jane Powell, left, of the Bay Area (shown here with daughter, Fashion Model, Brittany) will be shipping relief goods to help the tragic earthquake victims with the help of her Church and Pastor who raised more than $20,000. Others are more than welcomed to contribute online via http://jubilee.org/content/events/haiti-relief/

Paano Na Kaya is a romantic drama about best friends secretly falling in love with each other. Mae (Kim Chiu) has always been in love with her best friend, Bogs (Gerald Anderson). Bogs, on the other hand, is madly in love with his girlfriend, Anna (Melissa Ricks). When Anna breaks Bogs’heart, Mae has high hopes that her best friend will notice her romantically.

Team Ice Band from the East Bay, is composed of (R-L) Dennis Cariaga (Lead/Rhythm Guitar), Alex Rayo (Lead Vocals), Alain De Leon (Lead/Rhythm Guitar), Angelo De Leon (Drums) and Voltaire Lerm (Bass Guitar). Watch and listen them perform this Friday night at Hayward's Kenkoy Grill.

Sean Enriquez of San Ramon, doing his best 'Santino' imitation here, celebrated his 6th birthday last Tuesday, Jan 19th. He got his wish - dinner at his favorite The Cheescake Factory, twice!

The best friends become a couple. But could it be just a rebound relationship? What happens when Anna returns to Bogs’ life? Can best friends really become lovers? Can rebound love finally become true love?

“For some time now, there has been a clamor for a Kimerald movie to be shown in the U.S. We had to wait for the perfect showcase vehicle starring this love team to present to Filipinos here and we believe we’ve found it in Paano Na Kaya. We have high hopes for this pre-Valentine film offering for our kapamilya in the U.S. , especially for the Kimerald fans” said Kerwin Du, ABS-CBN International’s Head of Theatricals.

The schedule of screenings for Paano Na Kaya in the U.S. is as follows:

February 5-11, 2010
SAN FRANCISCO
UA Stonestown Twin
501 Buckingham Way
San Francisco, CA 94132

SAN DIEGO
UA Horton Plaza
475 Horton Plaza
San Diego, CA 92101

LAS VEGAS
Regal Village Square Stadium
9400 W Sahara Avenue
Las Vegas, NV 89058

HONOLULU
Regal Dole Cannery Stadium 18
735 Iwilei Road #B
Honolulu, HI 96817

SEATTLE
Parkway Plaza Stadium 12
5910 South 180th Street
Tukwila, WA 98188

JERSEY CITY
AMC Loews Newport Center
30 Mall Drive West
Jersey City, NY 07310

LOS ANGELES-CERRITOS
Cerritos Stadium Cinema
12761 Towne Center Drive
Cerritos, CA 90701

February 12-18, 2010

CHICAGO
The Pickwick Theatre 1
5 South Prospect Avenue
Park Ridge, IL 60068
For more information, please visit www.abs-cbnglobalmovies.com or call 1.800.227.9676.

SEEN IN THE CITY

Models And Dancers, Wanted!
Wynn Enterprise is looking for 4 to 6 backup dancers, ages 16 years and up and Fashion Show Models, Male and Female, ages 16 and older.
This search is Open to both new and experienced models.
Audition Date: Sunday, January 31, 2010
Time: 12:00 pm
Location: Pilipinas Cafe - 100 Dixon Rd Milpitas , CA 95035
Open to all Ethnicities
Models and Dancers will perform for GMA LifeTV Concert on Feb 27, 2010 at the Holiday Inn San Jose - Meditteranean Center .
Interested dancers and models please e-mail GMALifeTVConcert@yahoo.com for more information and any additional questions.
Or call Joy Guzman (408)219-7099 / Roxanne Guzman(510) 415-3075.

TO-BE-SEEN IN THE CITY

“Heartthrobs & Friends” Concert Now On March 27th
Lighthouse Entertainment’s Archie Mendiorro is very happy to announce, that due to insistent public and sponsors’ demands, the “Heartthrobs & Friends’ Concert featuring Piolo Pascual (close your mouth, Mitos Enriquez!), Sam Milby (leash your ‘Got Milby’ flocks now, Kuya Vil!), John Lloyd Cruz (control yourself, Tita Sunny Tila!), with Bea Alonzo, Kim Chiu, Gerald Anderson, Pokwang and Richard Poon, will be coming two weeks earlier – Saturday, March 27th at 7:30pm! There will be no ‘meet-and-greet’ as the artists will be flying in on a very tight schedule.

The new venue will be The Events Center Arena of the San Jose State University .
Sponsors to-date include, Filipinas Productions, Lechon, Manila, Tancinco Law Offices, Goldilocks, BPI Express Remittance, Dr. Roberto Espejo, Jr, DDS, Gerry's Grill, SJ Formal Wear, Atty Melba Espartero-Cawit, Philippine Fiesta, Manila Mail, Philippine Headlines among forthcoming others.

For group tickets and sponsorships, please call 510-552-1546 / 510-648-7278 / 415-553-0924 / 510-828-4792 /415-370-2802/ 415-205-0114.
Presenting… East Bay ’s Team Ice Band…In Concert – Friday, Jan 29th
East Bay-owned, Team Ice, an ‘80s & ‘90s Music Cover Band is performing at Kenkoy's Grill this Friday, January 29th at 9PM.

Da Who is Team Ice Band? TEAM ICE – “Unity of Cool People”, is a rock band, composed of five Filipino guys based in San Francisco Bay Area, who share the same love and passion for music. They are Dennis Cariaga, Alain De Leon, Angelo De Leon, Voltaire Lerma and Alex Rayo.

Dennis met Alex where they worked together. Dennis invited him to join his organization, SFC, for a CLP evening.

Dennis played guitar at CLP. They both met Voltaire and Alain, who was Alex’s fellow CLP participant. Voltaire is an excellent bass player. Alain plays a mean guitar; and during that time, frequently jams with his brother Angelo, who plays drums. Alex showed a lot of interest in singing.

During one of their friends’ birthday party, Dennis and Alain thought of performing acoustic night for the celebrant. The didn’t expect it, but it was a blast! They played so well together that they pondered on putting up a band: Alain and Dennis on guitars, Voltaire on bass, Angelo on drums, and Alex on vocals. That moment was dream-come-true for everyone. It was Hollywood in the making. It was whipped cream on top of a banana-split ice cream at Fenton’s.
It was hard to decide on a name for the band, until Alex saw someone’s car plate name, TEAM ICE. He was moved as he strongly suggested using TEAM ICE as the band name - “TEAM” for “Unity” and “ICE” for “Cool People”. The rest is history. TEAM ICE had been playing music and performing in various events and venues ever since.

TEAM ICE is going strong on its 5th year and is busy doing gigs and shows around East Bay area. They play 80’s and 90’s rock music covers and also Original Pilipino Music (OPM).
The future looks bright for TEAM ICE as they continue to captivate the audience with their music. But, they remained humble and kept their feet on the ground. Indeed, TEAM ICE is the Unity of Cool People (www.youtube.com/user/TeamIceBand).
Check it out for yourselves and visit this Friday night, Kenkoy’s Grill located at24973 Santa Clara St , Hayward , CA 94544 .

PERSONAL NOTES

Belated Happy Birthday to Sean Enriquez, who came back twice to the Cheesecake Factory at the Stoneridge Mall as his 6th birthday celebration with family and friends. Sean can sing and dance to Michael Jackson songs with ease to the delight of his equally-talented older brother, Christian, loving parents Mitos and Dino Enriquez and proud grandparents, Gary and Flora Enriquez of San Ramon, CA.
Happy Birthday on Thursday this week (January 28th) to the happy and very contented, Mrs. Gina Cunanan-Salazar of Pleasanton, CA who was surprised by her family and friends with a gathering at their house in Pleasanton, CA. Husband Henry Salazar, the former Pelotari Superstar, took the day off from golf tournaments, to be with her on her special birthday weekend.

Quote of the Week – “Learn to say 'no' to the good so you can say 'yes' to the best." - John Maxwell as quoted by once a Ginoong Filipinas Grand Winner, Christopher Sean Friel.

This column also appears online at http://sites.google.com/site/adkinsmmcevents/Home/ with readership in 52 countries, according to the latest Google Analytics report.
Do you have any personal or community events you want announced or published? Just email them to bradford_adkins@yahoo.com

Consul General Marciano A. Paynor, Jr. with the SFPD officers and delegate members during the send-off reception.

San Francisco Police Department Conducts Its 7th Philippine Exchange Program In Manila

Consul General Marciano A. Paynor, Jr. hosted a send off reception for the officers of the San Francisco Police Department who will conduct their 7th exchange training program with the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Manila from 20 January to 5 February 2010.

The fourteen-member delegation, headed by Lieutenant Eric Quema, will join law enforcement officers from the Philippine National Police and other local training agencies like the National Police College and the Philippine National Police Academy for a two-week training and education exchange program to be conducted in different training venues around Metro Manila. This will include symposiums, seminars, and lectures on tactical skills, industrial security, transit security, crime scene investigation, terrorism awareness and other technical matters given by expert instructors from both countries.

During the reception, Consul General Marciano Paynor said, “the continued success of the police exchange program between the PNP and the SFPD is a visible proof of the strong bilateral cooperation between the Philippines and the United States in such key areas as counter-terrorism, defense security as well as law enforcement. It also works to further strengthen the professional ties, mutual learning opportunities, and promote friendship and camaraderie among peacekeepers from our two countries.”

Full-time San Francisco Police Department officers, most of whom are of Filipino ethnicity, conceptualized the program ten years ago to establish a continuing training program with counterparts from the Philippine National Police (PNP). Over the years the PNP has also sent delegations to San Francisco.

This year’s delegation is the biggest contingent ever to visit the Philippines, which include representatives of San Francisco’s multi-racial and multi-cultural communities. Adding a new dimension to the program, a number of BART transit police officers will be going to Manila and joining all aspects of the training program. Consul General Paynor noted that, “the continuing development in the Philippines requires improving the way we secure vital infrastructures, especially our transit systems and road ways. The participation of transit police officers and other field specialists will definitely create important learning experiences that will greatly benefit members of both law enforcement agencies,” he said.

Feast of Santo Nino

Baby Byram of Hard Hat Bar and Restaurant in Daly City celebrated her birthday last Saturday at her restaurant. With her in photo is California State Commisioner Ray Satorre and Daly City Councilman David Canepa.

Feast of Santo Nino was celebrated by the Parish of San Agustine Church in South San Francisco attended by the parishioners and officers of San Augustine Church.

45th Wedding Aniversary

Ramon and Ella Del Rosario celebrated their 45th Wedding aniversary last Jan 15, 2010. In a simple ceremony, Father Padraig Green, of the Catholic Community of Pleasanton, officiated their renewal of vows in the presence of many close friends from the Bay Area. Ramon and Ella will soon be permanently retiring in the Philippines, after having spent 44 years in America, where Ramon had a successful career with Bechetel retiring as VP Engineering and Construction. For many years Ramon was involved with the De La Salle Alumni Association Norcal, where he served as President for four terms.
Pictured with friends: seated first row: Cara Subijano, Beng Silva, Marilou Lacambra, Allan Silva, Art Dancel, Chona Dancel, Maite Duncan. Seated second row; Father Green, Ramon Del Rosario, Ella Del Rosario, Rose Salgado, Willy Salgado, Bing Lacambra. Standing behind: Thelma Magtoto, Concepcion Caballero, Tina Estrella, Tina Gutierrez, Jerry Gutierrez, Allan Estrella, Jojo De La Fuente, Joe Batto, Mike Cullen, Stanley Lacambra, Eva Cullen, Joel Lacambra, Julius Salud, Manolo Relova.

Issue 49: December 2, 2009

THE OTHER MANNY
Wowowee host Willie Revillame and Comedy King Dolphy formally endorse Manny Villar for President

By Bradford Adkins

If plans do not miscarry, Nationalist Party presidential candidate, Manuel ‘Manny’ Bamba Villar, Jr. will visit the Bay Area this December, courtesy of his cousin, the International Beauty Impressario Ferdinand Syquia Villar’s invitation to face his throngs of supporters personally, namely, the State Commissioner Ray Satorre, Club Royale’s Mrs. Jett Viray-Navarro, Dorie Paneza, among others.

The Next President of the Philippines. Nationalista Party's Presidential bet, Manny B. Villar will be turning 60 on December 13th and have plans of personally thanking his Bay-area based supporters this holiday season, if his busy schedule permits.

TRUE COLORS. Thousands showed their support to Nationalista Party Presidential Candidate, Manny Villar in Tondo, Manila a few days ago where Wowowee host, Willie Revillame and Comedy King, Dolphy also jointly appeared to formally show their true colors - Orange (for Manny Villar!).

After filing his Certificate of Candidacy, the ‘Mr. Sipag at Tiyaga’ proceeded to his proclamation rally in the very same place where he was born 60 years ago – Tondo, Manila a densely-populated area for the poor, the sick and the hungry. Wowowee host Willie Revillame and Comedy King, Dolphy, both idols of the masses, formally endorsed his candidacy.
He worked as a student at the University of the Philippines, the country’s top school for the intellects and future leaders.

SANTINO DIES. 8-year old Zaijian Jaranilla aka Santino of 'May Bukas Pa' will die in the series, if the script will not change, and will resurrect as Piolo Pascual's movie partner in February, 2010.

The self-made man, who found the magic formula to mix both business and politics, before serving as a Senator, worked at SGV, the number one accounting firm in the Philippines.
Long before CNN Hero Efren Penaflorida pushed his first Kariton Klasrum, Manny Villar has pushed housing initiatives, building 100,000 houses for the poor and middle-class families. He won innumerable business awards for excellence and his life story was featured in numerous international publications.

The Pork Chop Duo, 'Ang Huling Vaudaville' (Choppy, left, and Leonardo Obal) premiered at Ichiban Library last Sunday night.

With his education, skills, training, experience and strong background, he is The man, the Hero ng Masa, the deserving next President.
People of the Philippines, your choice is clear, please vote Manny Villar for President!

SEEN IN THE CITY

ABS-CBN Wins it all – well, almost at the Star Awards for TV
The Kapamilya Network, ABS-CBN just won the lions share of the awards at stake, including the Best TV Station, which it so deserve, at the recently concluded 23rd Star Awards for TV. With its international arm, The Filipino Channel broadcasting most of its top-rated shows here in the US, the award is noteworthy as it signifies the high level of quality of TV programming our immediate families are also watching here.

Among the winners, one of my personal favorites is the miracle boy, Santino, aka Zaijian Jaranilla of ‘May Bukas Pa’ for Best New Male TV Personality. His show won the highly-coveted Best Primetime TV Series, majority of the credit should go to him. Not discounting all the efforts put behind it, the show succeeded mainly because the boy’s portrayal of Santino succeeded. The boy is barely out of infancy and there are still traces of baby talk in his delivery of lines but boy, he can act and is being credited for single- handedly influencing this generation of kids to be behaved-to-the-max. To my mind, the best ‘May Bukas Pa’ episodes showing his display of acting range, were the ones featuring a fellow boy acting genius, Nash Aguas who then played an autistic boy kidnapped by his nanny, Bea Alonzo and sought by his father. The screens showing both kids acting in one single frame, portraying complicated roles are a gem of show, more especially a TV show. Nash, the more experienced one, with multiple awards to his credit, was expectedly competent, brilliant, employing ‘method acting’ styles but Santino is younger, fresher to the eyes, his acting so innocent, natural and uncorrupted, more endearing in his approach, and therefore shone brighter.

Balitang Amerika's Gel Santos-Relos, celebrating her birthday on Tuesday this week, left, poses with Dandin Ranillo of 'Green Card' after the show at Ichiban Library last Sunday.

Matt Tabora, leftmost, celebrated Thanksgiving Day with a lechon feast at their San Jose residence with family and friends.

TFC's Steve Angeles, right, attended the premiere presentation of the musical-comedy 'Green Card' at the Ichiban Libray last Sunday night, shown here with mom and 'Green Card' stand-out Louella Albornoz-Angeles.

This is a series spoiler, so do not read further if you don’t want to know. According to my online research, ‘May Bukas Pa’ is originally to-be-titled ‘Marcelino’ the name of the miraculous boy, based upon a very dated Spanish short story later turned into film. According to reliable sources, the creative think tanks of the show are sticking to its original ending – that is, Santino, the miraculous boy, hold your breaths now, will die in the end, a difficult choice he has to make, but his only chance to see his dead mother. All the parish priests will see him talking to Bro, who comes alive for the very first time in their eyes, except for one – Father Jose (Santino’s now adoptive father) who will die before the series ending as well. A new character will be introduced – that of Piolo Pascual’s, in time for the series to end, also in time for Santino’s movie with Piolo Pascual to be shown come February, 2010. (On a side note, the Ultimate Heartthrob, Piolo Pascual, is scheduled to appear again in the Bay Area this coming December 19th, 2009 for a show, venue to be announced.)

Another sentimental favorite Star Awards for TV winner is Coco Martin who won for his originally, a supporting role in ‘Tayong Dalawa’, unexpectedly stealing scenes and ultimately the Best Drama Actor award from his bigger and more popular co-stars, Gerald Anderson and Jake Cuenca. His role in the series is that of the unwanted and insignificant 3rd son. But even in the background scenes, he can be seen acting his best, that’s why his role was later explored and expanded and transformed into the biggest thorn in the family. The series’ ending belonged to him, with him being shown crying in jail, blind and still acting. Being under the radar all throughout and in the end winning it all, if that’s not best acting, I don’t know what it is.

TO-BE-SEEN IN THE CITY

Christian Bautista & Karylle to Perform at Cache Creek Casino Resort
I have just been informed by Ben Ramos of Ichiban Library last Sunday, that he already contracted, Christian Bautista & Karylle, to perform together on February 5 and 6th, 2010 at the Club 88 of the Cache Creek Casino Resort, based on the concept and direction of their manager Carlo Orosa.

Ichiban Library is on a roll as they presented last Sunday, in one night, 2 very successful premieres – that is the ‘Green Card’ comedy-musical starred in by the Ranillos (Suzette, Jojo, Dandin & Juni) and the ‘Pork Chop Duo’ (featuring Choppy ‘Romeo Vargas’ and Leonardo Obal). The star-studded night featured, among the audience, Balitang Amerika’s Gel Santos Relos, Adobo Nation’s Jaja Bolivar, Atty Lou Tancinco, Jackie Castillejo-Guingona, San Francisco Office of the Mayor’s Elsie McAteer, Multi-awarded Columnist Charito Benipayo, Atty Dennis E. Chua, Atty Aurora Vega-Buzon, Atty Jean Tinsay, among others.

PERSONAL NOTES

Advanced happy 60th birthday to presidential candidate Manny Villar (December 13th), who was born and raised in Moriones, Tondo, Manila where he held his proclamation rally last Monday.

Advanced happy birthday also to Ms. Gel Santos Relos (December 1st) of TFC’s Balitang Amerika, who is in my opinion, another beautiful case of ‘grace personified’, greeting us with a ready smile every time we meet her by chance.
Quote of the Week – "Everybody deserve a 2nd chance. " – by Anonymous.
This column also appears online at http://sites.google.com/site/adkinsmmcevents/Home/
Do you have any personal or community events you want announced or published? Just email them to bradford_adkins@yahoo.com

Issue 43: October 21, 2009

ASAP Sessionistas To Perform In San Jose Next Saturday, Nov 7th

Nina, Aiza Seguerra, MYMP, Richard Poon, Duncan Ramos & Sitti Headline San Jose Concert

Listen to them and watch them live, the ASAP Sessionistas, in San Jose this coming Saturday, November 7th at 7:30pm! The Sessionistas, of course, is composed of the "Soul Siren" and ‘Diamond-awardee’ NINA, Asia's acoustic sensation AIZA SEGUERRA, R' n 'B Master DUNCAN RAMOS, acoustic band MYMP, Michael Buble of the Philippines RICHARD POON, and Bossa Nova Queen SITTI NAVARRO.

ASAP Sessionistas, Diamond-awardee Nina, MYMP, Duncan Ramos, Richard Poon, Sitti Navarro and Aiza Seguerra will perform at the San Jose Civic Auditorium on Saturday, November 7 at 8:00 pm.

Noted Cosmetic Surgeon from Manila, Manny Calayan will also appear in the event.
The gathering not only combines the musical muscles of the industry, it’s also the big mix of different music genres — from R&B to acoustic, bossa nova to soul and ballads to standards.
Already show in Manila, the concert will be the biggest jamming affair of the year. It is an opportunity to watch them perform together in one big venue.

Launched in ASAP’09 early this year, the very concept of ASAP Sessionistas is to bring together an all-star lineup of the hottest and most in-demand performers in various bars and restaurants in one jamming segment.
For tickets, contact ERIC @ (408)438-0470, EDWINA (415)370-2802, FLOR (650)580-7653and DENNIS (650)307-2823.

SEEN IN THE CITY

2nd Annual Raiders Mabuhay Fiesta, A Success!

Shown are Pastor Andy Antenor and the leaders of Crossroads Christian Center on its 21st anniversay on September 27. Shown also are guests Pastor Rene Canlas from the Philippines and Bro Abraham Santos (Pastor Antenor's father-in-law).

It was a huge successful event - the 2nd Annual Raiders Mabuhay Fiesta held last Monday, October 18, at the Oakland Coliseum. The highlights of the event, include:
• The Raiders Mabuhay Fiesta is the Oakland Raider's way of honoring the Filipino American community and celebrating Filipino American History Month.
• October 18 is a historic day because the earliest documented proof of Filipino presence in the Continental United States was on October 18, 1587.
• The pre-game entertainment at Raiderville, hosted by Franco Finn and Jason Mateo, included performances by:

DJ CMC, DJ B-Strut and DJ Steez-O
Lil Jordan
Divo Dayer
Soulciety
Trackacademics
Bwan, Mr. Rey and DJ Delrokz
Jern-Eye and DJ Icewater
Steps, Styles & Spotlights
Desi Arnez
Mike Dash E
DJ Samala and Jeremy John
Special appearance by Ana "The Hurricane" Julaton
• National Anthem sung by: Philippine Madrigal Singers.
• Video messages on the jumbotron throughout the game by: Manny "The Pacman" Pacquiao, Lea Salonga and Kuh Ledesma.
• Special half-time show by: Likha Pilipino Folk Ensemble, Parangal Dance Company and Kawayan Folk Arts. This was the very first time Filipino folk dance was presented at a National Footbal League half-time show. This was also the first time several Filipino folk dance groups in the Bay Area collaborated together to perform a combined folk dance showcase -- all in the inspirit of bayanihan, collaboration and unity.
• Part of the proceeds will be donated to the Typhoon Ondoy Relief efforts (via ABS-CBN Foundation)
• Approximately 1000 people purchased the special Mabuhay Fiesta ticket package, which included a commemorative Radiers Manny Pacquiao rally towel.
Congratulations to the Al Perez and this event’s organizing committee!

TO-BE-SEEN IN THE CITY

Journey’s Arnel Pineda To Appear In Oakland Next Saturday, November 6th!

Spend a Filipino Heritage Night with The Journey’s Arnel Pineda, together with the Golden State Warriors vs the Clippers on Saturday, November 6th at 7:30pm at the Oracle Arena in Oakland, CA.

Happy Silver Anniversary. Jesie and Erlinda Tabilangan (nee Macaraeg) recently celebrated their Silver Wedding Anniversary on September 19th, 2009 at The Embassy Suites in Milpitas, CA. The event was attended by over 200 relatives and friends, some coming from (Winnipeg) Canada, New York, Nevada and different cities of California. The couple, originally from Guimba, Nueva Ecija lives in San Jose.

With your paid admission, you will get a commemorative Filipino Heritage T-shirt, a cultural entertainment throughout the event, a post-game Q&A with Journey’s Arnel Pineda.

A portion of every ticket sold will benefit the Arnel Pineda Foundation (last seen donating a $25,000 check in The Buzz last Sunday). For further info on his foundation, go to www.ArnelPinedaFoundation.org or email Will Mallari at w.mallari@gmail.com
For ticket questions, contact Kristin Cantlin at (510) 986-5403 / kscantlin@gs-warriors.com.

PERSONAL NOTES

Lucky winners had been picked to David Foster & Friends FREE Concert (featuring our very own Charice, American Idol Finalist, Michael Johns, among others) tickets, and they are the following:

Marguerite Ro
415 Cornell Avenue
Albany, CA 94706

Evelyn Deluna
246 Dennis Drive
Daly City, CA 94015

Peter Manalastas
1123 W. Calaveras Blvd.
Milpitas, CA 95035


Teodorico Johnson
451 2nd Street
Redwood City, CA 94059

To the winners, to claim your tickets, kindly call the Manila Mail office between 9am to 4pm at (650) 991-1822 or go to the ‘will call’ counter of HP Pavilion Ticket Office in San Jose on Friday, November 6th before the show starts at 7:00pm.

Quote of the Week – “Be inspired.” By noted San Jose-based High Fashion Photographer, Mr. Eddie Cotillon, his response to all other professionals he mentored in the past on the secrets of his success. To those running after that dream, he highly endorses for a serious motivation and reading, the book ‘The Tipping Point’ by Malcolm Gladwell.

This column also appears online at http://sites.google.com/site/adkinsmmcevents/Home/
Do you have any personal or community events you want announced or published? Just email them to bradford_adkins@yahoo.com