Kirk Bondad is all set to conquer Mister World!

 

Finally! After more than two years of waiting, Kirk Bondad is all set to conquer the Mister World stage this November!

27-year-old Kirk is a professional model in the Philippines, he was appointed as Mister World Philippines back in June of 2022 and has been actively present in various events involving his mother org, the Miss World Philippines Organization. 

Kirk is set to fly to Vietnam today, November 5 and will be competing along with 68 other candidates in the Mister World pageant this coming November 23. 

Mister World was last held in the Philippines back in 2019 and has been inactive during the pandemic, the last winner of the pageant was Jack Heslewood from England.

Best of Luck Kirk! 

Do You Still Remember April Boy Regino?

DO YOU STILL REMEMBER IDOL APRIL BOY REGINO?

In a recent special screening of IDOL (The April Boy Regino Story), somebody asked: ""Who's the target audience of the biopic IDOL (April Boy Regino Story)?"

He cited that today's popular entertainers are the likes of SB19, BINI, Arthur Nery etc... Idol April Boy Regino and his songs are already things of the past.

Premiere WaterPlus Productions Executive Producer Marynette Gamboa replied: "Clearly, we've always had in mind the fans of Idol April Boy Regino-- or whatever remain of them. To be fair, these veteran adorers of ABR might not have heard of SB19, BINI, Arthur Nery... So, there's no contest. To each his own taste.... and era...

"The.fans of Idol April Boy have grown older and, maybe, richer, and probably have the  capacity to buy cinema tickets. 

"Wouldn't it be best if these young peeps get a chance to hear April Boy's iconic songs and watch his life and love story?

"There's a huge number of moviegoers in the demographics of different ages.... who knows we might be able to interest the younger set. 

"They may get curious, in the same manner that an ancient song KISS ME, KISS ME of then child actor-singer Efren Montes got revived by.Sarah Geronimo in a Korean film version of hers.

"Or this MAYBE THIS TIME which Sarah G's cover 'accidentally' made it viral, thanks to some crazy dance moves of a high school- uniformed teener...

"So it's also possible to revive the gold and platinum-awarded hit songs of Idol April Boy, once his biopic gets shown on November 27. 

"By reintroducing the iconic songs, moves, and singing style of ABR, it's likely that the younger fans will take to the iconic melodies and cheesy moves of IDOL...

"Strongest points of our film are its content -- the family drama, the good traits of April Boy as a son, husband and father --  kindness, and love for family, never get out of style, as proven by the Thai blockbuster HOW TO MAKE MILLIONS BEFORE GRANDMA DIES and Rebecca Chuaunsu's acclaimed HER LOCKET," Ms. Marynette detailed.

#idol

#aprilboyregino

#premierewaterplus

#marynettergamboa

“Masanting Ka Pampanga”: The Search for the first Mister Pampanga is On!

Masanting, a kapampangan word that translate to handsome or good looking men. Being referred to as Masanting carries a positive connotation that emphasizes not only the physical attributes, but also about one's character and personality. 

This 2024, the province of Pampanga is on the look for their very first Mister Pampanga, that will not only carry the name of the province in the national stage, but will also define what a true “Masanting ka Pampanga”. 

Introduced in their press conference held last November 3 at the Provincial Capitol in San Fernando City, 21 mangasanting men from different parts of Pampanga showcased their wit and knowledge in answering the questions from some of the members of the press. 

It was a mix of pageant veterans that will be vying for the title of the very first Mister Pampanga, some who stood out in the press present were Jaime Kjel Panlilio of San Luis, Kennet Cruz of Apalit, John Eriq Bonifacio of Macabebe, Jomarl Pabalan of Guagua, Jose Paras of San Simon, and Raven Lansangan of Mabalacat City. 

The Winner of the Mister Pampanga 2024 will win a cash prize worth ₱150,000 and will have the chance to represent the province in a national pageant. 

Meet the 21 Official Candidates of Mister Pampanga representing the 21 cities and municipalities in the province below; 

Angeles City, Krishna Yasser Rodriguez

Apalit, Justin Gomez

Arayat, Kennet Cruz

Bacolor, JM Mamangun 

Candaba, John Eric Hernandez

Floridablanca, Rafael Guevara

Guagua, Jomarl Pabalan

Lubao, Clark Bautista

Mabalacat City, Raven Renz Lansangan

Macabebe, John Eriq Bonifacio

Magalang, Christian John Capio

Masantol, Paul John Usi

Mexico, Emer John Bondoc

Minalin, Patrick Albert Lumba

Porac, Mohammed Emam

San Fernando City, Carlo Ballesteros

San Luis, Jaime Kjel Panlilio 

San Simon, Jose Carlos Paras

Santa Ana, Jexter Cantor

Santa Rita, Paul Arthur Rivera

Santo Tomas, Sheen Meirwin Castro. 

The coronation night of Mister Pampanga is happening on December 5, at the Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center in San Fernando City. 

Embarking A New Era, Julie Anne San Jose is Ginebra's 2025 Calendar Girl

A New Era is coming, Julie Anne San Jose sheds off Maria Clara image as she becomes Ginebra San Miguel's Calendar Girl for 2025

In a press launch held last October 30, the Asia's Limitless Star was formally introduced as the liquor brand's newest face for 2025. Six calendar layouts were launched at the event that showcased Julie Anne sizzling hot in different lingerie. 

Julie Anne said in an interview portion of the launch that this move of posing sexy as a calendar girl to showcase a different side of her, a more confident, stronger, and braver Julie Anne. "This feels like a rebirth as a woman" she added. 

Julie Anne is currently one of The Voice Kids Philippines coaches. 

Newcomer John Arcenas stars in the April Boy Regino biopic 'Idol' in cinemas on November 27th.

Four years after his untimely demise, April Boy Regino's biopic, titled "Idol," is all set to premiere this November 27. 

"Idol" captures the life and journey of the beloved Filipino singer-songwriter who made a huge impact in popular culture with his popularly known ballads like "Paano ang Puso Ko", "Umiiyak Ang Puso Ko't Sumisigaw", and of course "Di ko Kayang Tangapin", whom all became popular theme songs of 90's movies and cemented April Boy Regino's star in the entertainment industry.  

The movie highlights his rise to fame, from his humble beginnings living in a rail side in Caloocan, working overseas, and finally hitting the charts with his songs. "Idol" highlights Regino meeting the love of his life Madelyn, the personal challenges he faced, including battles with health issues and the loss of loved ones. 

Playing the role as April Boy Regino is newcomer, John Arcenas. Arcenas, a 21-year-old stage actor and singer under Tyronne Escalante Artist Management was the one chosen among the 27 auditionees who vied for the role. 

John shared that part of his preparations he did for the role was to really get to know April Boy beyond being a music icon, he watched several video clips and movies to get to know more of him. John also shared he had extensive trainings when it comes to singing to familiarize and to replicate April Boy's unique way of performing and singing.  

"Idol" also stars another newbie in Kate Yalung who will be playing as Madelyn Regino, the viuda of April Boy, also starring in the movie are Rey PJ Abellana, Tanya Gomez, Dindo Arroyo, Irene Celebre, and introducing Jaudencio Yago as the young April Boy. JC Regino also took a special part in his father's biopic.

Written and directed by Efren Reyes Jr., produced by WaterPlus Productions headed by Ms. Marynette Gamboa.

The movie pays homage to April Boy Regino's classic hits that resonates love, hope, and resilience, celebrating the legacy of a true musical idol. 

"Idol" The April Boy Regino Story is coming to cinemas November 27!

Watch the Trailer Here: 

Mister Grand Philippines sets a new Coronation Night on November 13.

The Mister Grand Philippines Organization has set a new date for their grand coronation night. It will be this coming November 13, Wednesday, 6pm still at the Metrotent, Ortigas, Pasig City. 

For those who bought their tickets already through ticketmelon, your tickets will still be valid on the new date of the coronation. You can still buy your tickets for the coronation night just visit ticketmelon.com

Ticketmelon - Mister Grand Philippines 2024: Grand Coronation Night

As typhoon Kristine ravages the island of Luzon earlier last week, the MGPH Org was forced to cancel their original grand coronation date that was supposed to happen last Friday, October 25. 

PH's Bet CJ Opiaza finished as the First Runner Up in Miss Grand International 2024.

 

The Golden Crown of Miss Grand International is still elusive for the Philippines as the country's bet for the 12th edition pf the pageant, Christine Julianne Opiaza from Zambales finished as first runner up to India's Rachel Gupta in the pageant held at the MGI Hall in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday evening. 

CJ gave an astounding performance from her high-octane introduction, to her sultry and feisty swimsuit presentation, and her picture-perfect evening gown performance, and of course her impactful speech, and answer to the question in the final Q&A. Definitely with her flawless performance, CJ took Thailand by storm earning her the third first runner up crown for the Philippines in MGI after Samantha Bernardo in 2020 and Nicole Cordoves in 2016. 

Rounding up the top 5 are Myanmar's Thae Su Nyein who finished as second runner up, Safietou Kabengele of France was crowned as third runner up, while Brazil's Tatiana Hartmann finished as fourth runner up. 

Rumor has it that the Philippines is one of the choices to host the 2025 edition of the pageant along with Brazil and India. 

#MMFF50 has announced the final five entries for the December festival.

 

The Metro Manila Film Festival has finally named the last five entries that will be competing in the 50th edition of the film festival this December, these five movies were chosen based on the finished films category. 

The first entry to be announced was an entry from Regal Entertainment Inc., starring Francine Diaz and Seth Fedelin, "My Future You", directed by Crisanto B. Aquino. Coming from the newbies the next film entry to be announced stars veterans Vilma Santos and Aga Muhlach, in a Dan Villegas movie entitled "Uninvited" from Mentorque Inc. 

Third movie is an action packed movie starring Julia Montes and Arjo Atayde called "Tropakk", directed by Richard Somes, produced by Nathan Studios Inc. and Strawdogs Studio Productio. Meanwhile, for the fourth finished film entry is a Julia Barretto and Carlo Aquino starrer with a title "Hold Me Close", directed by Jason Paul Laxamana and produced by Viva Films. 

The last finished film entry stars Judy Ann Santos, directed by Chito S. Rono, produced by Quantum Films and Cineko Productions, the movie is called "Espantaho". 

These five finished films will join the first set of movies based on scripts, namely Green Bone, The Kingdom, Strange Frequencies, Himala: Isang Musical, and "And the Breadwinner is". this coming 50th Metro Manila Film Festival, opening on Christmas Day. 

Aside from the last five movies, the MMFF and MMDA also unveiled the trophies for the 50th MMFF Gabi ng Parangal, also they announced that their will be a Summer Metro Manila Film Festival next year. 

TECNO Partners with Billboard Philippines for Year One Anniversary Celebration, Showcases the latest SPARK 30 Series

Reinforcing its presence in the country’s entertainment scene, TECNO has been named the official smartphone partner of Billboard Philippines’ highly anticipated "Mainstage - The Year One Anniversary" event, a celebration of music and entertainment. Held on October 15 at SM MOA Arena, the milestone event showcased local talent and brought together some of the Philippines’ top musicians, celebrities, and rising stars.

Bridging technology and entertainment, TECNO’s exclusive booth offered a sneak peak of TECNO’s latest SPARK 30 Series, the SPARK 30 and SPARK 30 Pro. Guests had the opportunity to experience the new devices ahead of the official public roll out, and checked out their entertainment-focused features. as well as their unique IP collaboration design with Hasbro’s TRANSFORMERS franchise. The booth was a crowd drawer, as visitors tried out the phones, experienced their smooth gaming and multimedia capabilities, and learned more about TECNO's vision for the future of mobile entertainment.

 

Positioned as an entry-level yet powerful smartphone range, the SPARK 30 Series is designed for users who want an all-around, durable device for gaming, entertainment, and everyday use. It creates an immersive entertainment space for users through vibrant audiovisual experiences. The 120Hz AMOLED Eye-care Screen has a TÜV Low Blue Light Eye certification. The SPARK 30 Pro is certified by TÜV Rheinland, and offers incredible five-year lag-free operation, standing out in its class as a must-have device for a seamless experience. 

The key features of the SPARK 30 include the up to 800 nits Bright Display 6.8’’ FHD+ smooth display, a 64MP ultra-clear camera with Sony IMX682 sensor and a G91 Gaming processor. The 5000mAh battery with 18W fast charging ensures users can enjoy long hours of seamless content consumption and gaming.  The SPARK 30 Pro adds to this experience with enhanced performance, powered by MediaTek’s Helio G100 processor, boasting an Antutu score over 420,000, adding to the fluid performance even more. Additionally, both models are water-resistant, with the SPARK 30 equipped with IP64 certification.

Adding to the excitement is TECNO’s partnership with TRANSFORMERS, which brings a unique, limited-edition design to the SPARK 30 Series, appealing to fans of both the franchise and of stylish, modern smartphone designs.

The SPARK 30 Series will officially launch in the Philippines on November 5, coinciding with the country's massive 11.11 sales event, where it will be available both on TECNO’s offline and online platforms. With its entertainment and gaming-centric features, the SPARK 30 series is set to capture the attention of young Filipinos looking for a high-performing yet affordable smartphone.

Get Ready! Mister Pilipinas Worldwide Set To Return This 2025.

On their official social media accounts, Mister Pilipinas Worldwide and its mother company, Empire TV has announced the return of currently the biggest male pageant in the Philippines when it comes to the number of crowns at stake.

For 2024, Mister Pilipinas Worldwide already saw the success of Daumier Corilla who won the first ever Mister Global title for the Philippines in Thailand last October 6, and although he didn't bag the title, Brandon Espiritu was able to reach the highest placement of the Philippines at the Mister Supranational pageant held in Poland last July 4, finishing as second runner up. 

Also, Kenneth Stromsnes from the 2023 batch was able to finish as second runner up as well in the Manhunt International 2024 held in Thailand last May 26. 

Next to compete in the Mister Pilipinas Worldwide Kings is Emmerson Gomez, he is set to compete in Korat, Thailand on October 28 for the Mister Cosmopolitan pageant. After Him, Anthony Cunningham is set to compete for the Man of the Year 2024 pageant that will be happening on November 19 in Chiang Mai, Thailand, and lastly Justine Ong will be representing the country to the Mister International competition in Bangkok, Thailand on December 14. 

The casting schedule for the Mister Pilipinas Worldwide 2025 will be announced soon! So, stay tuned to the official pages of the organization that is led by their National Director, 2022 Manhunt International first runner up, Joshua de Sequerra. 

Who are your #WishMisters to vie for the five titles at stake?