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At first brush, Star Circle's Diana Marie "Dimples" Romana comes on as friendly and warm. And true enough, she is! Anyone so young thrust in the limelight might have behaved differently, but not Dimples.

She finds comfort and joy in the littlest things. Says Dimples, "Siguro hindi lahat would find a Polaroid, for example, interesting. But to me it is something really nice… It just makes me feel happy, it makes me feel good."

Having a two-hour bath is all it takes to make her day complete. Dimples, a Tourism student who co-stars in the intriguing film Dekada '70, admits: "Yes, yes. It sets me in the mood for the whole day… parang something psychological lang na walang nakakasira ng araw mo."

Is there anything she can't be happy about? She thinks for a while before replying: "I have this insecurity about my tummy… I've always dreamed of having that perfect tummy, 'yung hindi naman may mga abs, gusto ko lang 'yung firm."

Then she says candidly, "Eh mukhang walang chance, mukhang hopeless 'yung tummy ko. But you know, you have to be happy about that you have." She smiles:" You can't have everything." Which is probably the great thing about this girls: she just grins and caries on.

Dimples On Smelling Good
"For me it's not about feeling good lang eh, you smell goos also, at saka 'di ba parang uba 'yung impression sa 'yo ng tao pagpasok mo ng room, five miles away naaamoy mo na 'tong taong ito. Parang wow ang bango-bango! That title will be tagged along with your name. I think being happy is about setting your expression for the whole day. And Smelling good is one way to achieve that and confidence."

ACTRESS Lorna Tolentino doesn't hide the fact that yes, she and her family were also affected by the recent economic crisis that has befallen our daily lives. And as a housewife running a household with burly kids and yes, that oh, so handsome hubby, she really has to keep a wise way of managing the home as far as that is concerned.

The reason why, when she's not in front of the cameras, you will see the actress attending to the businesses that she has gotten herself into - the Cogeo Wet and Dry Market in Cogeo, Marikina City, Crystal Clear Distilled Water, Gal's Bakery (with two branches in Novaliches, one in Marikina Shoe Avenue in Marcos Highway, Antipolo City, another in Libertad Pasay and one more in Hermosa, Tondo).

"Am a bit more engrossed with our recent involvement in the bakery. And we realized that it's the most profitable business these days. So, next month, another branch will be put up and maybe more. We took the time to study and learn the business from the original Gal's bakery in Cebu City. Kasi naman, masarap talaga ang mga produkto nila. Kaya, it just popped into my mind. Na if there's another business that I would want to get involved with, siguro, ito na 'yun instead of a restaurant or a bar.

"When we had the opening, sold out lahat ng tinda naming tinapay. Rudy (Fernandez) helped me out in selling the different kinds of bread that we had for the people to buy and get to taste that day. And the day wasn't over yet pero wala na kaming maitinda dahil nasimot na!

"Let's face it, times are hard these days. It's a good thing na earlier pa lang in our lives, we already knew the value of money. And with the career that we have in showbusiness, even before, we knew na we cannot really depend on it solely. We've got two kids, Renz and Rap-Rap and there's Mark Anthony also. It's our responsibility as parents to give them a good education. And that's the reason we decided to get into these kinds of business."

It cannot be denied that up to now, Lorna can still be considered one of the most bankable actresses that we have in the business. So, more often than not, she will be in the movies as well as television.

"I think, it's television that's making it now. So, you'll see more of the senior stars doing their stuff sa mga soaps. Almost two years ago, I was already offered by ABS-CBN to portray the role of Amor Powers in Pangako Sa 'Yo. But i had to beg off that time because I was busy doing Abakada...Ina for Viva FIlms and Sugatang Puso in Regal. Kaya, my schedule won't really fit. And about that time, Rudy was starting na rin with his campaign to run as Mayor in Quezon City.

"GMA-Channel 7 also gave me an offer, in Kung Mawawala Ka. In fact, I even attended its story conference. But a call from Channel 2 came reminding me na I still have a commitment with them pa pala. So, hindi ako natuloy du'n sa kabila. Fault ko rin naman because I forgot about it. Kaya, i had to beg off naman from Channel 7.

"Now, am doing another soap, Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay. And am being challenged with the roles that they gave me here (3 characters -Lorrea, Lorinda and Red Butterfly). As early as 3:00 a.m. am up on my toes so I can be on the set in Sariaya, Quezon. The cameras usually start to grind by 4:00 a.m. Kaya, I don't want to be the cause of delay with all the traffic na we can encounter along the way. And we usually end the taping at 9:00 a.m. the following day. So, if you will count that, siguro mga thirty hours akong nagwo-work."

According to Ms. LT, in her role in Kay Tagal... she feels she's doing almost all of the roles she has done in the more that 87 movies that she did.

"We're still dealing with the first character, that of Lorrea who has lost her son whom she loves dearly. She eventually gets into jail. And when we were doing the taping na sa jail, something happened to me na I couldn't even explain. When we were there, nag-self-pity ako with what I was doing. So, all I did was cry.

"I had this scene kasi na nasa bartolina ako. After that scene, i got sick. So, two days na I was not able to work. But I had to be up and about kaagad. It's a good thing direk Olive Lamasan helped me out so mailalabas ko talaga the feelings that she wants to see in the character. The thing that I realized then, it became a humbling experience for me. Kasi, naisip ko the fate of those people being held there. Alone, dirty and how would you really feel being so alone there."

Lorna wishes that the tele-serye be up to a year only as per her contract so that she can do more things. And have all the time as well to attend to her businesses.

"And am also set to do a movie for Star Cinema. They're doing the sequel of "Moral" and Marilou Diaz-Abaya will direct it again. Imagine, after twenty years, we'd be able to work together again. There are more offers coming but with the time and effort I have to give to the taping, those may have to wait pa rin. Isa-isa lang muna."

Yes, after all, she's still a wife and a mother to a household filled with burly kids and an ever loving husband!

According to Ms. LT, in her role in Kay Tagal... she feels she's doing almost all of the roles she has done in the more that 87 movies that she did.

Lorna wishes that the tele-serye be up to a year only as per her contract so that she can do more things. And have all the time as well to attend to her businesses.

Yes, after all, she's still a wife and a mother to a household filled with burly kids and an ever loving husband!

Dimple’s hair sense

Dimples almost became a Lux Shampoo model but missed out on a few trainings. But that did not stop her from taking good care of her hair even when she is not in the spotlight.

Kyla, her character in Kay Tagal always has her hair in a ponytail that's why it doesn't need that much hair products and also does not get stressed out with too much blow drying.

She goes to the salon twice a month for a hot oil treatment and have her hair trimmed for split ends.

Dimples avoids having her hair cut above the shoulder. "My hair is too thick kaya pag maigsi umaalsa siya and tumitikwas. I had to wear a cap always Hung nagpagupit ako ng ganun. Disaster!"

For Dimples, it also helps to shampoo and use a conditioner everyday. She says, "It helps in maintaining my hair's healthy appearance." -

Bea Alonzo, bagong superstar ng Dos?

Ni Raymond Lombos
INGAT Claudine. Ingat Kristine. Mukhang mayroon nang maaaring pumalit sa inyong mga trono bilang mga superstars ng ABS-CBN sa katauhan ni Bea Alonzo. Si Bea na mapapanood ngayon sa top-rating soap opera na Kaytagal Kang Hinintay, ay unti-unti nang sumisikat at nakikilala ng madla.

Bilang isang tuklas ng ABS-CBN Talent Center, si Bea ay nakakapareha ngayon ni John Lloyd Cruz sa nasabing soap opera. Masasabing ang dalawa na nga ang isa sa mga pinakasikat na love teams ngayon. Bagay na tila naghihikayat sa mga nakatataas sa Dos na mas lalo pang pasikatin si Bea maging sa pinilakang tabing.

Sa katunayan, ang galing sa pag-arte ni Bea ay napansin na rin ni direktor Marilou Diaz-Abaya. Impressed ang dakilang direktor sa akting ni Bea dahil sa nagagampanan na nito ang papel ng isang abugado sa kanyang soap opera, kahit na sabihin pang 15 anyos lamang ito! Sa kasalukuyan, sinasabing si Bea ay napili na ng direktor na gumanap sa isang mahalagang papel sa pelikulang Moral 2.

Hindi rin naman nagpahuli ang Star Cinema at isang proyekto na yata ang niluluto ng studio na pagtatambalan nina Bea at ka-love team na si John Lloyd Cruz. Masasabing si Bea na yata ang isa sa busy na aktres sa kasalukuyan. Bukod sa kanyang pang-araw-araw na soap opera at mga ginagawang pelikula, product endorser na rin ito. Ang magandang kapalaran nga naman kung dumating ay talagang sunud-sunod ang naibibigay na biyaya.

May 3, 2003

LATEST actual print interviews of Bea Alonzo and Alwyn Uytingco, this interview was from Teen Star Magazine's New issue and were scanned by me. So pls. be kind enough to credit the mag and our site if you wishes to used them. Thanks. Click the links below.

Bea Alonzo: "Bea Alonzo Brings it on" PART 1: CLICK HERE & PART 2: CLICK HERE

Alwyn Uytingco: "Alwyn Uytingco talks about anything under the sun" PART 1: CLICK HERE & PART 2: CLICK HERE

If the links doesn't work, try clicking to this link INTERVIEWS

ITO ANG L8ST NGAYON! ni Eric John salut
Pilipino STAR Ngayon 04/23/2003

Nasa kabilang table ako habang iniinterbyu ni Mr. Ricky Lo sina John Lloyd Cruz at Bea Alonzo sa Cork Grill sa The Loop, 9501 before Holy Week. Inilabas ni Tito Ricky ang nasabing interbyu sa The Philippine Star noong Sunday sa kanyang Conversations column. Talaga palang nakakakilig pagmasdan nina John Lloyd at Bea kahit off-cam. I bet, kahit si Tito Ricky had a great time sa kanyang interbyu.

Dahil iba ang ginawang style ni Tito Ricky sa kanyang interbyu, may ilang personal questions ang mga fans kina John Lloyd at Bea na hindi natanong. Gusto nilang malaman kung posible raw bang magka-in love-an din ang dalawa in the future? Ito ay kung pagbabasehan ang sweetness nila sa kanilang teleserye.

Sina John Lloyd at Bea ang isa sa mga malakas na pwersa ng Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay. Talk of the town talaga ang tambalan nila. Ako mismo ay inuulan ng text messages para ipaalam kung gaano nila ina-adore ang Yuri-Katrina loveteam. Isang text message na natanggap namin mula sa isang young professor ay tungkol sa isang class niya kung saan ang topic ay sina John Lloyd at Bea. Updated sila sa developments sa Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay.

Dahil sa lakas ng kanilang team up, isang episode ng Maalaala Mo Kaya ang nakatakdang pagbidahan nina John Lloyd at Bea. Anytime this week ay magti-taping na sila. Sina John Lloyd at Bea ay parehong celebrity endorsers ng Outland Comfort Sandals.

from: http://www.philstar.com/philstar/Pinoy200304237303.htm

04/18/2003
Outland Shoes signs up John Lloyd Cruz and Bea Alonzo as image models

What else could fit the feet of both active and laid-back people? There’s probably none but Outland Shoes. And it’s definitely just right to put them on by celebrities that follows a hectic lifestyle. For Outland Shoes, young stars John Lloyd Cruz and Bea Alonzo are the perfect choice to wear their brand.

Last Mar. 13, a contract signing was held at the Regency Marketing Corp. office making John Lloyd and Bea their official models. These two rising stars were chosen for their good background and showbiz status as up and coming loveteam via the primetime soap opera “Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay.”

Newcomer Bea was launched with ABS-CBN’s Star Circle Batch 9. She was welcomed in the now–defunct teen show “K2BU!” She has starred in many TV specials and has rightfully proven her acting ability. Playing the role of Katrina Argos in the newest soap “Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay” is so far, one of her showbiz achievements. She has gained a horde of followers and has endeared fans from all walks of life for her unique charm and talent. Bea admits she’s an introvert type of person and prefers to stay at home in her free time.

Meanwhile, John Lloyd is already an established young actor being in the showbiz for many years. He is one of the mainstays of “Tabing-Ilog” playing the part of Rovic. Aside from these, he has also been featured in drama shows of ABS-CBN such as “Maalaala Mo Kaya,” “Star Studio” among others. His soap opera include “Sa Puso Ko Iingatan Ka” and the latest “Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay,” where he is known as Atty. Yuri Orbida, with Bea as his love interest. Fans have seen him grow into a fine young man and a role model to his age, having to deal with minimal intrigues.

These shining stars were found at the foot of one of the country’s most trusted labels when it comes to active footwear – Outland Shoes. It boasts of high quality materials guaranteed to support our outdoor lives everyday.

And good thing these people crossed paths. Now they have found the perfect. In the contract signing, Board of Directors David Lim and Jose Ng Lim were present in the event.

Watch out for Bea and John Lloyd as they sport Outland Shoes.

Loyal ako kay CIARA at seryoso ang relasyon namin kaya imposibleng ma-link ako kina BEA o KAYE… -John Lloyd

Type-up by: Louise
By: Archie De Calma
Movie Star April 8, 2003

Alam ng marami at mahirap ikailang very talented as an actor si JOHN LLOYD CRUZ. Isa lang sa kokonting nakakaganap nang buong epektibo, ni halos walang ka-effort-effort.

“May mga nagsasabing I’m too young daw to play the role of a lawyer. Yun kse ang role ko sa “kay tagal kang hinintay”, yung soap opera namin. But I must admit, to be more credible, alam kong mas matanda sa age ko ang dapat I-portray ko.

“So far, OK yung feedback, lalo na sa team-up namin ni Bea Alonzo. Very fresh ‘yung combination, walang halong gimik, pero gusto ng mga tao”, napapangiting lahad ni John Lloyd. Pero naaalangan si John Lloyd dahil kahit pang-loveteam lang talaga sila at di pwedeng magkatotoo, so far, sa tunay na buhay ang romansa sa kanila ni Bea, masyado raw bata itong babae para sa kanya.

“Yun nga lang, sa soap namin, ang roles namin, mas matanda talaga sa kung ano ang age namin in real life.

“Nineteen years old na ‘ko, Bea is only 15. Imagine, although young pa rin ang projection ko, iba talaga kung iisiping kinse anyos lang ang ipinapareha sa akin,”natatawang pahayag ni Lloyd.

Wala sa age yun kung tutuusin. Ang talagang isyu riyan ay ang real score sa lovelife ni Lloyd. Hantad sa publiko ang lovelife nila ni CIARA SOTTO.

“I don’t deny the fact that we have a thing going on, seryoso ‘yung relationship namin”, diretsong pahayag ni Lloyd.

“Ako kasi kapag nakikipagrelasyon, hindi ko inaalis sa isip ko na balang araw, ‘yung girlfriend ko ang makakatuluyan ko. ‘Pag nakikipagrelasyon ako, may commitment. Pero napakaaga pa para pag-usapan ang tungkol sa kasal.

“Hindi ibig sabihin na kapag may girlfriend ka, pakakasalan mo siya agad-agad.

“I’m so blessed to have a girlfriend like CIARA. Katulad nitong tungkol sa loveteam namin ni Bea, okey lang sa kanya, hindi siya nag-o-oppose. I mean, she can advise me, pero ang lagi lang niyang sinasabi, supportive siya sa career ko.

“May sarili rin siyang career na iniintindi, hindi ko rin mapanghihimasukan ‘yun. Pero hindi mo maiaalis sa mag-boyfriend ‘yung maging open sa feelings nila tungkol sa ganyang bagay”.

“Pero mabait si Ciara, at okey lang sa kanya. Hindi siya nagtatanong tungkol sa career ko, unless ako ang magtatanong. Doon lang siya sumasagot,” paliwanag ni John Lloyd.

Tungkol kay Bea, imposibleng di makaramdam ng selos si Ciara lalo na’t sa pagbuo ng ilusyon, mas marami ang nakaka-relate kina John Lloyd at Bea dahil sila ang madalas napapanood na magkasama.

“Sa totoo lang, hindi ko naiisip ‘yung ganyang bagay,” ani John Lloyd. “Iba ang trabaho sa personal na relasyon, ‘di ba? I can say that I’m the type who can still separate one from the other.

“Hindi ko na isinasama ang trabaho doon sa time na nagkakasama kami ni Ciara. Iba na kasi ‘yun, kaya hindi pwedeng magka-conflict.

“As much as possible, I just tell Ciara about the major plans, pero kung hindi naman talaga kailangang malaman pa niya ang tungkol sa career ko, unless magtatanong siya, hindi ako nagsasalita.

“Lalo kung wala akong dapat pang sabihin. Pero pagdating sa trabaho, kami ni Bea, masaya palagi. Talagang professional lang.

“Sorry talaga pero loyal akoas a boyfriend. Mahirap lagyan ng intriga,” sey ni John Lloyd.

Sa nangyayari, mukhang nalilito ang mga tao kay John Lloyd. Sa Tabing-Ilog, sila ni KAYE ABAD ang ipinapareha. Sa KAY TAGAL KANG HININTAY, sila naman ni Bea. Sa tunay na buhay, sila ni Ciara.

“Noong una, ‘yun din ang naiisip ko na baka ‘yon ang pagsimulan ng conflict,” paliwanag ni Lloyd.

“Pero habang tumatagal, may kanya-kanyang audience ‘yung dalawang soap opera eh. Magkaiba talaga. Mayroong mga nagkakagusto sa amin ni Kaye dahil ‘yun ang laging nakakapanood sa Tabing-ilog. Sa amin ni Bea, sa Kay Tagal, nagki-create na rin ng impact.

“Ang maganda ring nakikita ko sa ganyang set-up, okey, may loveteams. Para hindi ako identified sa isa lang. Talagang ‘yung characters lang ang nalilink, ‘yung combination.

“Maayos ang personal relationship namin ni Ciara, and I don’t see any problems para magka-conflict ‘yun sa pair namin ni Kaye o sa team-up namin ni Bea,” naipaliwanag pa ni Lloyd.

‘Yung relasyon nila ni Ciara, hindi raw ganoon ka-lenient.

“Okey lang na may restriction, like sa pagdi-date, dapat na mayroon kaming kasamang kahit isang bodyguard. Syempre, anak ng senador ang girlfriend ko, understandable ‘yon. It doesn’t bother me.

“Pero doon sa relatives ni Ciara, lalo na sa parents niya, walang problema. Very understanding sila, very cool. Hindi sila mahirap kausapin.

“Matagal ko na rin namang crush si Ciara bago ko siya naging girlfriend. Kaya malakas ang attraction niya sa akin, even before na nagkakilala kami at naging close,” nasambit na lang ng binata.

John Lloyd Gets His biggest Break
Inquirer News Service

WHEN well-regarded film and TV director Olivia Lamasan (who's at the helm of "Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay," along with Laurenti Dyogi) was asked, during the presscon for Channel 2's new teleserye, "Kay Tagal Kitang Hinintay," why she chose John Lloyd Cruz to essay the role of the lost son of Lorna Tolentino's Lorrea character, she replied with certainty that the young actor was a fine actor.

"Gusto kong maiyak sa tuwa," recalls John Lloyd about how he felt at that moment. After all, Lamasan, who's fondly called Inang by her coworkers, has worked with some of the country's best performers, including Aga Muhlach, Richard Gomez, Sharon Cuneta and Christopher de Leon.

Roster

As part of the think tank of ABS-CBN's film outfit, Star Cinema, she's also familiar with the network's extensive roster of young talents. Lamasan was the first to challenge the thespic talents of Marvin Agustin and Piolo Pascual (who were then stuck in teenybopper roles) when she directed them a few years ago on Star Cinema's TV production of "Sa Sandaling Kailangan Mo Ako."

John Lloyd shares that he never imagined being this close to stardom. In fact, he didn't want to be an actor when he was younger.

Talent scout

Five years ago, however, a talent scout approached him while he was in a mall with his mom. He wanted to turn down the invitation to appear on TV but his mother got excited and he eventually said yes.

He soon found himself playing a role in a drama segment of "Compañero y Compañera." More acting chores followed, but he recalls not being happy with TV work.

One particular taping day for a drama program tested his patience. "Umalis ako sa set sa sobrang tagal (for his scenes to be shot)," John Lloyd shakes his head in disheartened recollection.

However, before he could hoist the white flag of surrender, ABS-CBN's Talent Center held an audition. After two months, John Lloyd signed up with Johnny Manahan's group as a member of Star Circle, Batch 5, and his fate dramatically changed.

Depressed

He also made a few movies with his Koolits colleagues like Baron Geisler. However, when his latest film outing, "Mahal na Kung Mahal," didn't do well at the tills, the young star got depressed.

John Lloyd was reportedly about to join Channel 7 when the offer to move to the star-studded and expensive "Kay Tagal Kitang Hinintay" came.

He therefore points out that bagging the biggest break of his life is not a fluke. He believes that it's the product of his hard work and perseverance. "I've gone through a lot of struggles," he says in reflection. "I just held on tightly."

Though he's now feeling the pressure of proving that he is indeed Channel 2's perfect choice, John Lloyd tries to parry off the negative vibes and just "seizes the moment."

Love entanglements among
the young and the middle-aged

Do you know who’s being tagged now as “the youngest sugar mommy” in the country?

Ciarra Sotto, that’s who. Ciarra, the daughter of Sen. Tito Sotto and actress Helen Gamboa.

And who’s the “gigolo” supposedly victimizing Ciarra?

Young actor John Lloyd Cruz, that’s who.

Poor guy. Just because he is known to be from a middle-class family and he has the luck and the charm to have for sweethearts girls from well-off families, he is now portrayed as a young gigolo.

But, thank you, the guy earns his keeps. He has at least two regular TV shows and a lot of raket (meaning, personal appearances and endorsement jobs).

Ciara Sotto

He doesn’t need to be supported by any girl—as far as we know. In fact, he is known to be the family breadwinner.

Of course, the talks are saddening, too, for the senator’s daughter. She is lovely as she is. She doesn’t need to buy a boyfriend.

John Lloyd had a brief relationship with Krista Ranillo, daughter of actor-in-hibernation Mat “Archie” Ranillo III and his well-off wife Lynda Tupaz. She’s the same Krista who was once linked, believe it or not, to the middle-aged Michael de Mesa whose kids (by estranged wife Gina Alajar) are even a few years older than Krista.

We’re not sure if young star Kaye Abad is also from a moneyed-family, but she has also been linked to John Lloyd. Actually, showbiz press had always thought it was with Kaye that the young actor was playing sweet music after he drifted away (or was driven away?) from Krista. Or is John Lloyd as much of a young two-timer as Paolo Contis had been when in the past he had Desiree del Valle and Carol Banawa as girlfriends at the same time? Was the cute guy namamangka sa dalawang ilog all along?

Kaye is in the cast of the forthcoming Star Cinema fantasy-romance Kung Ikaw Ay Isang Panaginip (topbilled by Jolina Magdangal, Leandro Muñoz, and Rafael Rosell III), and at the recent press huddle for the film, Kaye couldn’t explain to the press how it happened that Ciarra is suddenly John Lloyd’s girl.

John Lloyd is a mainstay in the nightly ABS-CBN 2 soap opera Sa Puso Ko, Iingatan Ka (starring Judy Ann Santos and Piolo Pascual) and the weekly youth drama Tabing Ilog in the same network on Sunday afternoons (and it’s in the latter that he is teamed up with Kaye).

Ciarra is not even with ABS-CBN 2 and was in fact with the rival network, GMA 7. Which is why everyone is shocked that she has mysteriously and suddenly become John Lloyd’s girl. It’s Ciarra’s mom who is with ABS-CBN, specifically on the soap Sa Dulo ng Walang Hanggan.

Going back to Kaye, she wasn’t mum only about how the John Lloyd-Ciarra romance came to be but also on whether Desiree del Valle was pregnant or not when she hurriedly left for the US on the pretext of staying for good with her supposedly sick dad. She said she wasn’t in touch at all with Desiree in the US and it could be that it’s only Paolo who has access to her. Of course, if Desiree is indeed “infanticipating,” Paolo is the supposed “culprit.”

Paolo is still with Tabing Ilog while Desiree has sailed away from it.

A break for Dimples

Another potential Metro Manila film fest entry is Star Cinema’s Dekada ’70. Directed by Chito Roño based on the novel of Lualhati Bautista, Dekada ’70 is a movie about a middle-class family during the Martial Law era.

The movies reunites drama king Christopher de Leon with Vilma Santos. Christopher, I was told was the only choice for the role of a stern, straight-laced father. "We heard direk Chito say, ‘Wala na akong maisip pa to take on this role but Boyet.’ And we agree with him totally. Christopher is brilliant in this movie!" says a Star Cinema insider.

Dekada ’70 also stars Piolo Pascual, Marvin Agustin, Carlos Agassi and Danilo Barrios and was shot in a for almost three years.

Many people say this is another potential commercial and critical hit for Star Cinema. Besides the poignant storyline, magnificent direction and wonderful acting from the stars, a lot say that Dekada ’70 would serve as the big break for young star Dimples Romana. "Two years ago, it was Janette Mc Bride who was noticed in Tanging Yaman. While last year it was Jodi Sta. Maria Bagong Buwan. And now, we think Dimples, as a young wife in this movie, finally found her breakthrough role," says my friend from Star Cinema.

We hope so too. In the meantime, good luck Dimples!

2002 4th Quarter Top 10 PROGRAMS
GMA’s and ABS-CBN’s top primetime shows remain dominant in this quarter’s top 10 programs. Local drama series continue to be the most watched programs as 5 slots in the list are occupied by soap operas, “Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay” (1), “Sa Puso Ko Iingatan Ka” (2), “Bituin” (3), and “Sa Dulo ng Walang Hanggan” (4) from ABS-CBN and “Sana ay Ikaw na Nga” (10) from GMA.

Top 10 PROGRAMS 4th Quarter 2002 RANK PROGRAMS CHANNEL AMR AMR%

1 KAY TAGAL KANG HININTAY (TV Series) ABS-CBN 2,415,579 16.3
2 SA PUSO KO IINGATAN KA ABS-CBN 2,359,129 15.9
3 BITUIN ABS-CBN 2,359,129 15.8
4 SA DULO NG WALANG HANGGAN ABS-CBN 2,311,329 15.6

5 GAME KNB? ABS-CBN 2,120,942 14.3

6 MAALAALA MO KAYA ABS-CBN 1,957,354 13.2

7 WANSAPANATAYM ABS-CBN 1,899,144 12.8

8 MAGANDANG GABI BAYAN ABS-CBN 1,867,528 12.6
9 BUBBLE GANG GMA 1,713,885 11.5

10 SANA AY IKAW NA NGA GMA
1,669,129 11.2

Base Target: Total Mega Manila Individuals

fr: http://www.agb.com.ph/monitor/primetime/top10_programs.htm

Lorna's Tears

here's If someone was to collect all the tears that Lorna Tolentino have shed in her movies, it would probably be enough to fill up an Olympic-size swimming pool. At least, that's how it felt after listening to LT discuss the roles she's played in 87 movies after 33 years in the business. (She's one of the few actresses who actually lists her filmography and they're all encoded in a hard disk with the help husband Rudy Fernandez.)

These days, LT can be seen in another tearjerker, ABS-CBN's teleserye Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay, as a mother who loses her son to the bad guys and spends the entire series looking for him. After reading the script, LT says, "Parang pinagsama lahat roles ng ginampanan ko sa 87 movies. Ganun katindi ang istorya. No'ng nagsimula ang shooting, walang araw na hindi ako umiyak."

Lorna considers crying as a gift. She's got it down to a system: "Meron 'yung namumula lang ang mata mo, meron namang naluluha ka pero ayaw bumagsak, may hikbi at mero'n ding hagulhol." She's done it all. she can even let the tears fall from either eye on the director's cue, say, as the camera zooms in on her face.

There are times when Lorna doesn't feel like crying. "Hindi mo alam kung saan mo huhugutin. So it's the situation that you concentrate on. I study my lines at titingnan ko sa linya kung alin ang tatama sa puso. Pagdating sa dialogue na 'yun, alam ko na."

In the teleseye, there were many cases where she didn't need that much emoting for the tears to fall. "May mga eksena na talagang maiiyak ka, hindi mo na kailangan ng motivation. Halimbawa, 'yung scene ko sa bat na naghiwalay kami. 'Yung 'itsura na lang niy na humahagulhol at kawawang-kawawa, hindi ko na mapigilan ang sarili ko."

It helped, of course, that the kid was insecure when his real parents were not around. All the director had to do was to tell him that his mom and dad were gone, and he would break down. She and the kid also had great rapport. "Darling siya talaga," said LT.

What complicates matters is that she's playing more than one character. "Minsan nalilito ako. Yesterday, pinawisan ako ng malapot dahil hindi ko magawa 'yung dapat kung gawin. I'm used to playing Lorrea, the suffering mother. 'Yung Lorinda, hindi ko ma-pin down because kasi exact opposite siya.?

In another scene which was shot in the bartolina of areal jail, she used self-pity to bring out the helplessness of her situation. This was a really difficult sequence to shoot because they had to do five sequences one after the other, what call "tuhog" in the business. "Ang hirap talaga," recalls Lorna. "Ang init-init lalo na with the lights. Tapos the place really smelled awful. It was depressing talaga. So awang-awa ako sa sarili ko. Maganda naman lumabas ang mga eksena."

The bartolina scene was actually shot in the men's section and all the prisoners were watching. When LT was done, she heard thunderous applause as she left. "Nawala talaga lahat ng pagod at sakit ng katawan ko," she said. That feeling of satisfaction is something that LT will not trade for all the money in the world.

It's the same satisfaction she gets when she wins acting trophies from the different award-giving bodies. The last one was particularly special-Best Actress for Abakada… Ina because the last award she received was handed out in 1992. awards are important because of the recognition bestowed on her.

She's getting plenty of that because when it comes to drama, LT is one of the best in the industry, a far cry from her early days in the business when she accepted bold roles that depended more on skin exposure that acting talent. "That was the time people hated me. I was unapproachable. May star complex daw ako noon. I was antipatika because I didn't like what I was doing. Hindi naman ako makaalis dahil I was the breadwinner of my family. Wala akong alternative."

Lt admits though that the bold roles helped her develop her sensual side and she did have outstanding movies where she bared not only her body but her superior acting talent. Init sa Magdamag directed by Laurice Guillen was one such movie.

She also considers Marilou Diaz Abaya's Moral, her first significant movie. It was the first time she was ever nominated for an acting award and tough she didn't win, it was enough to make her feel that she could be an effective actress, after all.

Today, after setting an impressive track record, LT can have her pick of what movies she wants to do. What makes Lorna a director's delight is her ability to convey the essence of a scene without resorting to distracting mannerisms or trite facial expressions. Her use of restraint in even the most dramatic scene is admirable.

LT feels very lucky because she's been handled by the country's top directors - Lino Brocka, Ishmael Bernal, Marilou Diaz-Abaya, Laurice Guillen, Chito Roño, and Olivia Lamasan. That's the edge she holds over other actresses, the wealth of experience she has gained from working with the best.

There was a time in LT's life that she considered being a director herself. Now she prefers to concentrate on acting. "Direct? Hindi ko na gagawin 'yun. Baka atakihin lang ako sa puso." That's fine for her many admirers who look forward to seeing her in more memorable performances.

Kaye Abad, magaling magdala ng broken heart
(Febuary 13, 2002)

Okey palang kausap si Kaye Abad.Ismarte. Bibo. Masayahin. May sense of humor. Pero mas masarap kayang kausap si Ciarra Sotto?

At yon kaya ang dahilan kung bakit parang biglang tinalikdan ni John Lloyd Cruz si Kaye at ibinaling ang puso at isip niya sa dalaga nina Helen Gamboa at Sen. Tito Sotto?

Kung nagdurugo man ang puso ni Kaye, napakagaling n'yang magdala.
Nakakaharap siya sa press nang buong ningning. Smart siya, sweet, attentive, at higit sa lahat may sense of humor nga. Ni hindi nga siya naiinis sa paulit-ulit na pagtatanong sa kanya ng press tungkol sa damdamin n'ya sa pagkawala n'ya sa puso ng binatang mukhang may pagkasalawahan kundi man mapaglaro.

Halos dalawang buwan na rin ang usap-usapang sina John Lloyd na at Ciarra pero hanggang sa pagharap ni Kaye sa press nung Lunes ng tanghali, wala pa rin siyang sinasabing masama tungkol kay John Lloyd o kay Ciarra man.

Kasali siya sa latest movie ni Jolina Magdangal na Kung Ikaw ay Isang Panaginip, at nung huling press-con para sa nasabing pelikula halos isang buwan na ang nakararaan, wala siyang sinabing masama tungkol kina John Lloyd at Ciarra nung tinanong siya tungkol sa kanila. Kung ibang batang artista na ang breeding ay hindi kasing ganda ng kay Kaye ang tinanong tungkol sa mistulang panloloko sa kanya ng boyfriend n'ya, malamang na kung anu-anong kasiraan sa ex-boyfriend n'ya ang ikakatsang nito.

Inaamin ni Kaye na nami-miss n'ya ang mga pagdalaw-dalaw sa kanya ni John Lloyd sa bahay nila sa Cavite. Inaamin n'yang naaalangan siya pag may eksena silang romantiko ni John Lloyd na patuloy pa rin n'yang katambal sa Tabing Ilog, ang sikat na sikat na serye tuwing Linggo ng hapon sa ABS-CBN 2.

Pero hanggang ganu'n lang ang sinasabi ni Kaye. Ni pasaring kina John Lloyd at Ciarra ay walang umaalpas sa bibig n'ya kahit na mukhang nature n'ya ang pagiging matabil.

Pero mukhang dinaramdam din n'ya ang biglang pagtalikod sa kanya ng binata. Kamakailan ay nagsimula na siyang mag-dialog na balak n'yang mag-quit sa showbiz. Pero hindi ang pagkakaroon ng broken heart ang idinadahilan n'ya.

Gusto raw n'yang mag-aral sa regular school. Hanggang ngayon daw kasi na 19 years old na siya, third year high school pa lang siya sa special school na nasa loob mismo ng ABS-CBN compound. Inabutan na nga raw siya ng kababata n'yang kapatid na dati ring actress: si Sarah Jane Abad.

Actually, hindi pa siya sigurado na gusto nga n'yang mag-quit. Nag-iisip pa lang siya. Hinihintay kaya n'yang pigilin siya ni John Lloyd? Pigilin at balikan?

Oo nga pala, ipina-press conference ng Talent Center si Kaye hindi para magsalita tungkol sa kanila ni John Lloyd (na mina-manage din naman ng Talent Center), kundi para pag-usapan ang involvement n'ya sa pelikulang Batas ng Lansangan na pinagbibidahan ni Fernando Poe Jr. Big deal ang pagkakasali n'ya sa pelikula dahil, well, Da King of Pinoy Movies pa rin si FPJ.

Anak ni FPJ ang papel ni Kaye sa pelikula na si FPJ din ang nagdirek sa pangalang "Ronwaldo Reyes." May mga maiigting na eksena sila, lalo pa't bilang anak ay galit siya sa kanyang ama dahil ipinagkatiwala siya nito sa isang tiyahin nang yumao ang ina n'ya sa istorya.

Si FPJ mismo ang kumuha sa kanya para sa nasabing papel at ito'y batay sa rekomendasyon ng misis ng aktor na si Susan Roces. Halos regular na nanood pala ng Tabing Ilog ang dating Reyna ng Pelikula , kaya't nung nabanggit ng mister n'ya sa kanya na naghahanap siya ng gaganap na anak n'ya sa Batas ng Lansangan, binanggit ni misis ang pangalan ni Kaye at iminungkahi kay mister na panoorin nito si Kaye sa Tabing Ilog.

Nanood nga ang hari at naibigan naman n'ya si Kaye.
"Mabait siya," papuri ni Kaye sa hari. "Lagi siyang nagtatanong kung ano'ng gusto kong kainin. Sabi ko nung minsan, 'sinigang na baboy po, Tito.' Nung sumunod na syuting namin, sinigang na baboy ang ulam namin sa tanghalian."

Mabilis daw magtrabaho ang hari. Hindi maarte. At hindi diktador bilang director. "Sinasabi lang n'ya kung ano ang punto ng eksena, tapos bahala na kami kung paano namin gustong i-execute," kuwento pa ng batang aktres.

Napaka-considerate din umano ni FPJ bilang director. "Kung alam n'yang may iba pa akong gagawin for that day, inuuna n'ya ang mga eksena na involved ako para makaalis ako agad."

Pero okey rin naman daw ang naging relasyon n'ya kay Dina Bonnevie na siyang leading lady ni FPJ. Wala naman daw siyang naramdaman na totoo ang usap-usapang mataray ang aktres. "Nakikipagkuwentuhan naman si Tita Dina sa akin pag break namin. Tinanong nga n'ya ako tugkol sa lovelife ko, tapos nung sinabi kong wala, sabi n'ya okey lang daw yon. Nagkuwento rin siya, siyempre pa, tungkol sa mga anak n'yang sina Danica at Oyo Boy."

Ayon sa mga taga-Talent Center, hahanapan nila ng maraming pelikula si Kaye sa taong ito. Siguro, para hindi nga n'ya maisip na ituloy ang pahaging na magku-quit siya. Sana naman major roles ang maikuha nila kay Kaye. Mukhang matalino, mahusay, at masipag naman siyang aktres.

At para makalimutan na n'ya si John Lloyd, sinisimulan na siyang itambal sa baguhang aktor na si Dennis Trillo na miyembro ng Star Circle Batch 10 ng Talent Center. - Alex Brosas

Jean Garcia is a soap vixen again

BUT, no, not in a new soap but in an already existing one. It’s Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay which airs on ABS-CBN at 7:30 p.m. Jean fills the slots vacated by Edu Manzano and Bing Loyzaga. Their characters are soon to be killed off.

Jean Garcia

Jean plays a vixen again. And if her character in Pangako Sa ’Yo had the honorific “Madam” affixed to her name, the new one has “Lady,” as in “Lady Diana.”

“I play Lady Morganna Frost, a widow of a duke from Paris, that’s why she has that title,” she blithely explained. “The dying Brigita (Loyzaga) is my sister, that’s why I’ve come home from my life of leisure in Paris. You know how cultured my character is? When she gets tense, she tries to calm down by dancing the flamenco. Just you wait and see, one day I’ll dance the flamenco in the show!”

Her character was already introduced last Friday. “I’ll make life miserable not just for Red (Lorna Tolentino) but for everyone!” she cheerfully warns.

But our Alex Brosas was right. Jean was initially sounded out by the network for a new soap. One day, though, the network’s production big boss, Malou Santos, called and pleaded with her to accept their offer. At that time, Jean’s manager, Manny Valera was in Beijing assisting in the filming of Mano Po. So she had to call him and ask him if she should accept the new offer and forget another previous offer. Valera gave his go signal.

“If in Pangako she was at war just with another villainess in the story, this time around she would be up against the central character, which means, it’s a promotion. I advised her to take it,” explains the astute Valera.

Before she joined Kay Tagal, there were talks that the network still owed her some talent fees for her stint in Pangako. The figure being floated was several hundred thousands. “It’s not the network that owes me. It’s actually Star Cinema, which produced Pangako. They’re also producing Kay Tagal, and they’ve started paying my talent fees for Pangako, so everything is all right between us now.”

“I did the stint in Pangako because it gave me a chance to be with my daughter Jennica all year round. Prior to that, I was going back and forth to Japan for singing engagements. I was earning more in Japan, though my talent fee was eventually raised. There were no regrets,” she revealed.

Jennica is Jean’s daughter by actor Jigo Garcia. She was only 19 when she gave birth to her. The girl is now 12 and very pretty. “Hey, I’m announcing to the world that I am making my daughter available for commercials lang muna, not for any regular show or the movies. She has to be in school,” she proclaims.

After Pangako ended, she gave birth to a baby boy. The father is her Japanese boyfriend, an advertising executive based in Japan. They’ve been on for five years now and they plan to marry next year.

It’s not just Kay Tagal that’s keeping Jean busy. She’s also in the cast of the sequel to Moral. The filmmakers of the original, director Marilou Diaz-Abaya and screenwriter Ricky Lee are also involved in the sequel.

JEAN PASOK SA KAYTAGAL

KUMPIRMADO na ang pagpasok ni Jean Garcia sa soap operang Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay na pinagbibidahan ni Lorna Tolentino na napapanood sa ABS-CBN.

Gaganap siya dito bilang isang sosyal na kontrabida na dating asawa ng Duke.

“Para akong si Lady Diana, pero bruha ako,” kuwento ni Jean.

Lady Morgana Frost ang name ni Jean sa Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay. Kapatid siya dito ng isa pa ring kontrabida na si Bing Loyzaga. Wish niya na sana’y mabura na sa isip ng tao ang papel niya sa Pangako Sa ‘Yo bilang Madame Claudia pag nagsimula nang lumabas ang karakter niya sa Kay Tagal...

“Oo nga, grabe ‘yung impact nung character ko do’n. Kahit sa US nu’ng nag-show ako, hindi na nila kilala ang pangalan ko. Mas Madame Claudia na ang tawag nila sa akin,” kuwento pa niya.

Ngayong si Jean na ang bagong kontrabida ni Lorna sa Kay Tagal, ano na kayang mangyayari sa role ni Bing Loyzaga? Hindi ba siya ganu’n kaepektibong kontrabida kaya kumuha pa ang Dos ng isang Jean Garcia? “Ayokong mag-comment tungkol diyan. Kinuha lang naman nila ako, eh.

Hindi ko alam kung ano pang magiging development sa soap,” sabi pa niya. Matagal na dapat papasok si Jean sa Kay Tagal... dahil nagdalawang isip siya sa offer ng Dos. “Nag-second thought akong tanggapin ang role kasi parang mahihirapan akong makahabol dahil hindi ko nasimulan ‘yung soap. Established na ‘yung program.

Pero very supportive naman sila sa akin nu’ng unang araw ng taping ko,” kuwento pa niya. Si Jean ay kababalik lang ng bansa mula sa Japan at sa US kung saan nagkaroon siya ng series of shows.

Isa rin si Jean sa major cast ng pelikulang Moral ni Marilou Diaz-Abaya na pinagbibidahan din nina Eula Valdez, Jericho Rosales at Dina Bonnevie. -

Alwyn & Shaina
by Lala Dimaano

As Budoy, he is the cute guy who tries hard to impress the girl he calls his friend. As Bullet, she is a sensitive girl beyond a strong and rough façade.

The K2BU fever is rapidly spreading, and Alwyn Uytingco and Shaina Magdayao are two of the main reasons why viewers just can't get enough of the newest teen show! So while we're all waiting for Saturday to come, let's all get into the youthful minds (and hearts) of the new screen partners who give thrill to our weekends.

What was your reaction when you found out that you were going to be paired off in the new show?
Shaina: Okay lang, kasi sa mga guestings namin, talagang kami 'yung pinapartner. Matagal na kaming nagkakatrabaho. Dati pa 'yon, Kaybol pa… kasama ko na siya non. So matagal na kami nagwowork na magkasama. I feel comfortable with him, kasi nga dati pa kami nagwowork together. Ang saya kasi kapag ka-close mo yung tao tapos ka-eksena mo, pwede kang mag-throw ng adlibs mo.
Alwyn: Okay lang. Masaya naman, kasi minsan makulit din 'yan, eh.
Shaina: Ano ka?
Alwyn: Baket? Makulit ka naman talaga eh!
Shaina: Ikaw nga eh. 'Yung tawa mo…

How do you feel now, knowing that the viewers really appreciate your team-up?
Shaina: Masaya. Ibig sabihin nagugustuhan nila na panoorin yung K2BU.
Alwyn: Masaya kasi hindi ko naisip na maraming nanonood ng K2BU. Pati nga 'yung mga kaklase ko na mga astig sa amin, nanonood din sila. Minsan inaasar pa nila ako… 'Shaina, uy, Shaina' gumaganon sila sa akin. Sinasabi ko sa kanila, 'Crush niyo rin 'yon ano?'

What do you like best about each other?
Shaina: Gusto ko 'yung tawa niya, swear. Ang panget talaga pag sobrang natatawa siya, para siyang stuffed toy na ewan. Kunyari malayo ako sa kanya tapos tatawa siya, sasabihin ko na lang na, 'Ano ba yon? Tawa na naman 'yon ni Alwyn!'
Alwyn: Nakakatawa din 'yung tawa niyan eh (imitates Shaina).
Shaina: Hindi ha! Hahaha! Minsan kasi sa taping, hindi ko na talaga mapigilan.

Physically…
Shaina: I don't know. Ano ba ang maganda… siguro 'yung lashes niya, long kasi. Diba bihira sa guys 'yung long 'yung lashes?
Alwyn: Hair, tsaka siyempre maganda siya.

Do you see yourselves as the next John Prats and Heart Evangelista?
Shaina: Well, we are partners sa TV now. Pero young pa kami talaga eh, so hindi pa pwede 'yung sobrang loveteam. Okay na 'yung ganito lang, 'yung pakilig-kilig.
Alwyn: Baka isipin nila na, 'Ang babata pa nito ah! Tapos ganyan kaagad!'

How young are you?
Shaina: Twelve.
Alwyn: Fourteen.
Shaina: Kuya! Pero mas batang isip siya!
Alwyn: Mas batang isip ako. Ate ang tawag ko dyan eh!
Shaina: Aminado ka naman! Ang kulit niyan eh! Sobra!

Are you really fond of teasing each other?
Alwyn: Oo, matagal ko na siyang inaasar eh. Bata pa kami sa Kaybol. Kaming dalawa na 'yung laging nag-aasaran. Tapos dati, may taping kami, naka-lampin lang ako…
Shaina: 'Yan 'yung sa Wansapanataym! Genie ko siya.
Alwyn: Nakalampin lang ako don, kaya lagi niya akong inaasar.
Shaina: Nakabahag lang siya! Tapos ang laki-laki pa ng tiyan niya!
Alwyn: Ang taba ko pa non!
Shaina: Tapos iba pa siya magsalita non, nakakatawa. Hanggang ngayon, 'yun 'yung pang-asar ko sa kanya. Tapos sobrang ang takaw-takaw pa niya don sa taping na 'yon.
Alwyn: Hoy, hindi masyado ha!
Shaina: Hoy! Ano 'yung kinain mo non? Chicken pa nga yon! Basta 'yun na 'yung pinakapang-asar ko sa kanya, 'yung sa Wansapanatym…
Alwyn: Ang dami pa! Ang dami pa!
Shaina: Eh ikaw, nambabara!
Alwyn: Kelan ako nambara?
Shaina: Lagi naman eh!

Don't you get annoyed at each other? Walang pikunan?
Shaina: Minsan, nagkakapikunan kami. Minsan hindi ko talaga siya pinapansin.
Alwyn: Siyempre ako, magso-sorry ako sa kanya, kasi ako 'yung nang-aasar eh.
Shaina: Siyempre, pag nag-sorry na siya, 'Sige na' pero minsan, sa loob-loob ko naman, hindi naman talaga ako naiinis, eh. Kunyari lang na nagtatampo ako.

Tell us about your kilig moments on the set…
Shaina: Sa set, 'yung hinaharanahan niya ko sa isang episode.
Alwyn: 'Yung hinarana ko din siya. Kumanta nga ako non eh, hindi lang niya narinig.

What are your dreams for your show?
Alwyn: Sana maging tricycle naman 'yung akin, kasi pedicab lang eh. Hirap na hirap ako!
Shaina: Ang saya nga eh! Ako lagi 'yung nakasakay. Tinototoo niya… kahit cut na, tinutuloy niya. Ako, ang dream ko for the show, sana mapantayan namin 'yung G-Mik. Click talaga lahat ng loveteams nila, at sana tumagal din kami kaya ng G-Mik.

Do you have this fear of being compared with other television partners, like John Prats and Heart Evangelista?
Shaina: Well, if ever na mangyari 'yon, good, kasi, like kunyari, sina John and Heart, click talaga sila. Pero sana hindi naman kami ma-compare.
Alwyn: Challenge 'yon for me, for us. Challenge na sana malampasan pa namin 'yung nagawa nina Kuya John and Heart.

Are you looking forward to many more years of working together?
Alwyn: Sana.
Shaina: Sana. Sobrang kinakabahan kami, lalo na nung first episode namin, tanong kami ng tanong kung ano 'yung rating, eh mataas naman daw, kaya sobrang masaya kami.
Alwyn: Ako dati, iniisip ko, after G-Mik, baka manibago sila don sa show. 'Yung iba, nung una, hindi nila gusto na magkaron ng K2BU kasi ang gusto nila, John Prats and Heart Evangelista. Maraming natuwa sa loveteam nila, pero nung napanood naman nila 'yung mga episode ng K2BU, nagustuhan din naman nila, so okay naman.

What's your wish for each other?
Alwyn: Sana wag siya magbabago. Stay pretty.
Shaina: Sana maging mas successful pa 'yung partnership naming dalawa.

Shaina Magdayao comes into her own
Posted: 9:11 PM (Manila Time) | Jan. 05, 2003
By Mary Ann A. Bautista
Inquirer News Service

A FEW years back, Shaina Magdayao was billed as Vina Morales' kid sister; now, she has an identity all her own. She gained acceptance and recognition when she top-billed the soap "Marinella" with Camille Prats and Serena Dalrymple two years ago. Now, she's being paired with Jolo Revilla in "Agimat."

Studies

Though her show biz commitments take up much of her time, she prioritizes her studies. Shaina diligently attends her classes at Our Lord's Grace Montessori, where she's a freshman in high school.

She makes sure that she pays equal attention to her career and classes. All her show biz commitments are scheduled after school. If she has to tape for a TV show, she brings her assignments to the set. She also obediently follows the rules at home.

"I do my homework until 10 p.m., then I sleep and rest. I take care of my health because I'm also into sports." Swimming, golf, volleyball and chess take up her free time because she also competes in her school's sportsfests.

Respectful

Shaina doesn't have a star complex. She's just one pretty, ordinary girl -- even simpler, more humble and respectful than some other kids around. She doesn't forget to say "opo" and "po" when she talks to older people.

At home, she enjoys watching VCDs, DVDs and laser discs. Her favorite films are horror flicks, and she singles out "The Matrix," "Scream 3," and "Mission Impossible 2." as must-see films.

Being the youngest in her family, she admits that she's not comfortable in the kitchen-but she can prepare scrambled eggs for breakfast.

Noodles

"My sister Vina showed me how to cook noodles when we stayed in the States," she said. She'd like to learn how to cook her favorite dishes: porkchop, sinigang and adobo, though.

She idolizes Sharon Cuneta, Maricel Soriano, and Vilma Santos because they can portray any role given to them. "They can act. They can cry, laugh or even act as villains. I wish to follow their footsteps."

Shaina Magdayao: Not just Vina Morales’ sister anymore
Walden S. Sadiri

Twelve-year-old actress Shaina Magdayao has more than enough reasons to on keep on smiling these days. And one of these is her continuous ascent in the ladder of showbiz fame and finding her own identity. She has now become a byword, as herself and not anymore as the “younger sister of Vina Morales.” There are others who think she is now even more popular than Vina.

“No naman po,” she humbly said about her rising fame. “My sister is very happy sa mga nagsasabi ng ganoon and I know that she is proud of me. I’m also proud with what is happening to her career. But I hope I won’t always be compared to her.”

It was actually Vina’s showbiz life that had much influence on Shaina. Before becoming an actress herself, she was also a fan, who was star–struck with her sister’s achievements. And like any siblings wanting to emulate their elder brothers or sisters, she began thirsting for her own chance to be a star.

“I was very much inspired by my sister kaya gusto kong maabot ang naabot na niya. But if I could even do more then I would also be very happy,” she exclaimed, flashing her trademark smile.

Shaina’s joined showbiz when she was six years old as she was given her first break on television via the GMA–7 drama series “Lyra.” And true enough, like her talented sister, she showed a natural knack for acting that drew attention and predicted her future as an actress.

“My sister would read my scripts and show me how to act my roles out,” she said on how she learned how to act.

She soon found herself working for ABS-CBN after “Lyra” and she beccame one of televisions’ most promising young actresses. At a tender age she took on comedy in “Ang TV” and “Kaybol,” drama in “Mula sa Puso” and was one of the main stars in the once very popular afternoon soap opera “Marinella.”

To her credit are box–office hit movies like “Tanging Yaman,” “Wansapanataym,The Movie,” “Hinahanap-hanap Kita,” “Pagdating ng Panahon” and “Hiling.” And the fruits of her labor were nominations and awards she will always be proud of. These are: Most Popular Child Actress from the Guillermo Mendoza Award, Best Child Actress nomination from FAMAS, Best Child Performer from Parangal ng Bayan and Star Award¹s New TV Personality Award.

This year, adding to her growing impressive resume as an artist were two TV shows, a regular hosting and performance venue for her in “A.S.A.P.” and one of the stars of the newest ABS–CBN teen show entitled “K2BU.” She would also appear in the movie “Tanging Ina” with Ai Ai delas Alas.

Shaina Magdayao’s six years in showbiz wasn’t all smooth-sailing for the young lass. But one thing showbiz never did to her was tire her or even frustrate her. She has always welcomed every work as part of her growth as an actress and performer.

“I feel that I’m just starting especially kapag ka–work ko ang mga artistang senior sa akin like Christopher de Leon. It becomes more challenging for me because I can show them my best... I’m very happy with my life in showbiz because yung mga idol ko dati, I now work with like Camille Prats and Aiza Seguerra. I have also worked with the best directors in the industry,” she commented.

Shaina has also long accepted that she is not living a normal teenage-life. Her childhood wasn’t normal as well. Because she could not play “piko” outside of her house like the other kids.

One thing normal though with her was her education. Fortunately for her, her showbiz life was well–balanced with her academic life as her parents made sure that she kept her education a priority. She has now stepped-into her high school life as a freshman at the Our Lady of Grace Montessori in Quezon City. And one of Shaina’s life-goals would be to earn herself a college degree and probably pursue her dream to be a doctor someday.

The secret according to Shaina to her success in mixing showbiz with her education is proper communication between her handler (the person in charge of her showbiz activities) and her parents. Her limitations are also clearly stated out on her TV shows and acting career.

“For example in ‘OK2BU,’ my parents don’t like me to be in sobrang mature roles kasi pa-cute lang kami dito. And no serious love-team. Maybe when I grow older my parents would eventually allow me to,” she quipped.

Despite her growing popularity, Shaina also expressed that to be popular was never her goal in showbiz.

“I don’t really think about that at all. Basta sa ngayon my goal is maging maganda ang acting ko, to be successful in what I do and to make a good contribution in the shows that I do.”

With that kind of attitude in showbiz, especially at an early age, no wonder she is one versatile young actress ON THE RISE!

P.S.

She is also now honing her singing skills because she wants to have her own album someday!

Lorna Tolentino: An ACTRESS!

An actress. Lorna Tolentino gave life and meaning to the art of acting ever since she started at a very early age. Just like any other child wonder we have around, LT too has been the moviegoers’ apple of the eye.

LT already grew up in a world where everything is a drama, where everything is fiction, as she took upon her shoulders the directors’ instructions, the script she has to memorize and the set she has to engross herself with.

And with her efforts to develop her talent even more and her natural skill as well, she has gone a long way as far as acting and the industry is concerned. She has been a grand slam queen – taking away one major award from three distinct award-giving bodies. Apart from this, she too has secured numerous other recognitions and plums. A true actress in blood and in flesh.

A wife. It’s without doubt that LT is very supportive of his husband, Rudy Fernandez. Whenever she has time, she sees to it her husband gets her 100 per cent attention and care.

Now that Rudy’s mayoral candidacy is pushing through, Lorna promised her all-out support to his political campaign.

“Of course, kahit naman anong plano ni Daboy, nandu’n ako sa likod niya. Kailangan niya ang tulong ko and I’ll be here for him, siyempre,” says the loving Lorna.

Even in the movie Panfilo Lacson Story in which Daboy plays the role of the heroic Panfilo, Lorna took the backseat to support her hubby. She plays Panfilo’s wife, incidentally. And for her, the role doesn’t at all matter.

“Para sa akin, the role was beautiful. Hindi problema kung supporting lang e. What is important e, I gave justice to the role. And this is not my movie para magdemand ng mas malaking role. Movie ito ni Daboy,” describes the actress.

LT seems to assume the typical Sita in the Ramasita Indian play – a very supportive, caring and subordinate wife.

A mother. LT is a mother to 2 kids and she still finds time to take care of them. I suppose LT has forgotten all about herself now that she is too busy with all the stuffs at home and priorities outsode her own personal interest.

“Siyempre, ‘pag nanay ka na, responsibility mo ang mga anak mo and ang husband mo. First sila sa priority mo. And I could say na sila na lang muna bago ang sarili ko. Gano’n kalaki ang pagmamahal ko sa pamilya ko.”

A very nurturing mother. A very compassionate wife. A very talented actress. What more would you ask for LT?

Battle of the network soaps intensifies
(June 25, 2002)

It already has the top-rating Pangako Sa Iyo, Sa Dulo ng Walang Hanggan, Sa Puso Ko (Iingatan Ka), Recuerdo de Amor, and the recently-launched Tanging Yaman-The Series, but ABS-CBN 2 management doesn’t feel those soap operas are enough to keep them abreast with, or ahead of rival GMA 7, so it is all set to launch on July 1 another soap which has a cast bigger in name value than any of its already existing ones.

Lorna Tolentino

Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay has no less than Lorna Tolentino playing the central character, and after Vilma Santos and Sharon Cuneta, the actress fondly known by her initials LT is arguably the next most bankable drama actress in the country. In fact, some would not even put LT as just being next to Vilma and Sharon; some will simply rank her with them.

LT is teamed up with Ricky Davao and Edu Manzano, two very fine actors themselves, and for additional commercial value, young bold star Rica Peralejo and hot young TV idol John Lloyd Cruz are also lumped into the lead cast.

The network even has a gimmick for its forthcoming soap: Keep people in the dark as to its exact time slot. Thus, as of press time, and even as LT, Edu, and Ricky have been making guest appearances in the network’s variety shows to promote Kay Tagal, they simply announce the show’s launch date but not the timeslot.

For a while, some people thought one of the network’s existing soap operas was about to be cancelled and replaced with Kay Tagal. But, no, all the soaps will continue to bubble. That means, it’s from the line-up of the network’s other type of shows that are hardly rating anyway that management will pull off a timeslot for its LT-topbilled drama series.

And do you think rival GMA 7 is taking things sitting down?

Of course, not. It will soon also launch its own soap opera with the powerhouse cast headed by Christopher de Leon, Richard Gomez, and Alice Dixson. We hear that the forthcoming show’s title is Ang Iibigin Ko’y Ikaw.

The new show’s taping has begun, although GMA 7 has yet to officially announce its launch, regular timeslot, and complete cast.

Bernard Palanca is a good boy at heart
Posted: 8:57 PM (Manila Time) | May 17, 2002
By Mary Ann A. Bautista and Ricky T. Gallardo
Inquirer News Service

Bad boy roles

BERNARD Palanca usually plays bad-boy roles and gets snide remarks whenever he goes to malls, but he claims to be a good boy in real life.

"I'm such a baby. I can't even hurt a fly. But I think it's fun to play a bad boy because I play against who I am and what I stand for. I love life. After doing a mean scene, I really can't imagine someone being that bad! But I can get mad if anyone says something bad against my family and friends," Bernard shares.

Good actors draw from their own emotions and experiences to make a scene more realistic. How can he motivate himself to be so mean and cunning if he's not like that in real life? Where does he get his angst?

"I had a pretty rough childhood. When I was growing up, I had a lot of reasons to rebel. From 13 to 17, I was a bad boy! My friends influenced me then but I wasn't pressured to act that way. I chose to take the path of kalokohan. I grew up too fast. I didn't know what I wanted to do with my life.

"When I need angst, I don't look at my past. My experiences help, but to act well, I think I should just do a scene based on what I feel at that moment," Bernard says.

Bernard considers his grandfather, Armando Goyena, his role model but he wants to be as good an actor as his idols, Al Pacino, Marlon Brando and Robert De Niro.

He's also a poet. He writes his best verses inside the bathroom. He was so inspired one day that he wrote verses with a pentel pen on the bathroom walls. "When my mom saw it, she got mad. But I told her not to erase it.

"Poetry and singing with my band, Bisquit Factory, is my life. My youngest brother also cheers me up. I treat him like he's my son. He's the only one who can wake me up even if I'm puyat and I'll still be smiling," he grins.

BERNARD REVILLA PALANCA MELLOWS WITH LOVE

Manila, Dec. 17, 2001 (STAR) By Bot Glorioso - How Rica tamed Bernard.

He may be tough, he may be bad, but he is as meek as a lamb now that he is in love.

Bernard Palanca has changed his ways since Rica Peralejo came into his life. Their hearts started to beat as one while doing their first team-up, Sa Huling Paghihintay, months ago.

"She made the bad boy in me sleep," says the 25-year-old actor. "She made me look at things in a lighter way unlike before when I took matters too seriously. I am destructive emotionally," Bernard adds.

Born on Dec. 3, 1976, Bernard Gerard Revilla Palanca was barely three when his father was gunned down. Bernard, the eldest son, became the father figure of the house with the help of his lolo – ’50s matinee idol – Armando Goyena.

Bernard proudly assumed the "father" position to his siblings, Lisa and Miko until the arrival of his stepfather, Dr. Lorenzo Hocson.

Feeling that someone had taken his place, Bernard started getting into trouble and eventually created a bad boy image.

"I felt displaced kaya medyo nagwala ako," he says.

But that was then. Bernard has accepted the fact that he has a second father, whom he now calls "Dad". Maturity helped him in understanding life’s troubles. Most of all, the guidance and care of his lady love brought back his good self.

"Rica is an angel to me. She changed a lot of things in me and made me see things clearer and better," he proudly says.

Rica’s love for her family is another thing Bernard loves in her.

"I like the way Rica treats and values her family. She will probably be a good wife and mother because you can see how well she takes care of a family," he says.

Would he like Rica to be his wife? "Yes, but we’re too young to marry. Our parents advise us to take our time and not to rush into marriage," Bernard answers.

The identical rings on the couple’s fingers started the rumor that they got married in the States.

"I bought a pair of rings in the States but these are not wedding rings but commitment rings. We will definitely go public when that day comes," he explains.

Fact is, according to Bernard, jolly, sociable Rica has already been introduced to his family. They all approved of the relationship, especially his lolo who told him to keep her.

Does Rica’s being sexy onscreen affect Bernard?

"Of course. I just don’t watch her movies. It’s hard to watch her movies," Bernard replies. "But I won’t stop her from making movies. It’s what she loves doing," he adds.

In their relationship, they try not to control one another because it might hinder whatever success would come their way.

While Rica is a sexy actress, Bernard is a hunk. And what does a hunk mean to him?

"I never thought of it as something physical. For me, being a hunk is staying true to yourself as an individual," he answers.

Bernard is the type who lives one day at a time, not worrying about tomorrow too much.

"I hate time because it is always the enemy. When you’re having fun, it goes by so fast. When you’re bored it’s so slow. It is never on your side," he explains.

Among the Hunks, Bernard is closest to Piolo. "I am close to all of them but I am more comfortable talking to Piolo about things medyo personal."

Is there professional jealousy among them? "None," he answers. "We’re always proud of each other. No lamangan because we always get equal exposure."

The Hunks are regularly seen every Sunday on ASAP. Being part of the group helped Bernard reach out to a lot of televiewers and revealing to them his other side – that of a singer.

The grandson of original Camay girl Paquita Revilla was into underground modeling before he was seen on television via two Close Up commercials and a series of San Miguel Beer ads.

The TV advertisements opened doors for Bernard in show business. ABS-CBN’s top honcho Johnny Manahan called him to be part of their Talent Center artists and become a member of Star Circle Batch 5.

Since then, offers came aplenty in and out of the station. His first regular TV series was Annakarenina, shown on GMA 7.

Recently, Bernard was cast in the Robin Padilla - Sharon Cuneta starrer, Pagdating ng Panahon, playing the role of Robin’s co-worker.

"It was flattering to find out that I was personally handpicked by Robin to play the role. I am looking forward to working with him again," Bernard says.

Having celebrated his birthday last Dec. 3, Bernard is giving a birthday concert with his band, Bisqit Factory tonight at 8 at the Hard Rock Café in Makati. Rica Peralejo is his special guest. It is sponsored by Jag Jeans.

As a singer and an actor, one can truly say Bernard has lived up to his family’s name.

RICA PERALEJO'S SEXY BEAT GOES ON!
By Jeffrey Gamil

Now that the skies have been clearing for Rica Peralejo, after she was rumored to have been allegedly doing a pot-session with boyfriend Bernard Palanca in a dressing room in the ABS-CBN Building, the actress is determined to pick up from where she has left off. The issue actually has muddled things up for the wholesome-turned sexy actress Rica. And wherever she goes, people have been asking her the same question all over again.
Everybody seems to have been blaming everything to her current boyfriend Bernard Palanca. They say the guy isn't a good influence upon the actress. However, Rica differs from it and says she and Bernard are just special friends.
She made it clear that first and foremost she isn't infkluenced by anybody that easily.
"Hindi ako 'yung tipong madaling maimpluwensiyahan to do bad things," she firmly says. "Kung anuman ang mga actions ko, good or bad, galling 'yun sa akin. Walang nag-utos o nagdikta sa akin."
For Rica, the issue was just a very simple intrigue, which almost everybody took seriously.
"Nagatungan lang talaga ng nagatungan," she adds. "Obvious naman kung ano ang purpose nila. May mga tao lang talagang gusting humila sa akin pababa."

return to 1716 cover

Rica is not at all blaming the press for the spiraling of the issue. She however says that she only blames one person whom she knew very much. She says this person is very much responsible for the sensationalism and exaggeration.
"Ayokong sisihin ang press people, kasi alam ko kung sinong kakampi at kaibigan sa kanila. The press is not out to destroy me. May tao lang talagang ewan ko kung dakit inggit na inggit sa akin na nagpasimuno rin ng pagkakalat ng poison letter laban sa akin."
Rica does no longer remember how and why such issue surfaced and grew. However, she adds that there were also other artists during that time who were said to have been doing some things in the dressing rooms.
"I didn't bother dahil wala naman talagang kakaiba akong nakikita," remembers Rica. "Pati 'yung ibang nasa loob, wala rin naming nakita."
She recalls that she had two friends fighting each other and she was helping to settle it over the phone. That was the reason why she was going in and out of the dressing room, she claims and she is not aware of what us happening around.
"Liban du'n, palabas-labas din ako para tingnan sa monitor kung ano na ang nangyari sa show. Hindi ko alam na may mga tao na palang nag-iisip sa akin ng masama.
"Anyway, I've said much already. Basta ako, malinis talaga ang konsensya ko kaya I don't even have to keep on explaining."
Presently, Rica will be starting filming Banyo Queen. Rica says that this time she will be in a comedy flick with rapper-comedian Andrew E.
"Ito talaga ang gusto ko, 'yung ma-cast ako sa different types of movies," mentions Rica. "This is precisely the reason kung bakit ako nagbago ng image.
"Ito rin ang gusto sa akin ng Viva; 'yung puwede akong isalang sa kung anu-anong pelikula. 'Yun hindi lang limited sa pagpapa-sexy kundi puwede rin sa action, sa comedy sa drama."
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John Estrada: 'I'm not a womanizer'
Posted: 9:56 PM (Manila Time) | Sept. 21, 2002
By Marinel R. Cruz
Inquirer News Service

DESPITE his reputation and the women linked to him, actor and TV host John Estrada refuses to be labeled "babaero."

For John a womanizer is a man who chases women but will not maintain a good and long-term relationship with any of them.

"A babaero is someone who has reached his forties but has never married," the 29-year-old says.

"You may not agree but I don't consider myself a babaero," adds the cause of many tearful nights for his former wife, Janice de Belen. "Maybe I was, but I've changed. I don't think I have to announce that to the whole world."

After more than a year since the breakup of his 10-year marriage to Janice, John still refuses to talk about the issue with the media even after his ex-wife has declared that she is way past grieving for the failed relationship.

"It's a personal thing," says John, who for the longest time has been the subject of many reports about his supposed affair with "Magandang Tanghali Bayan" co-host Vanessa del Bianco.

John, who is the cover story of the Sept. 29 Sunday Inquirer Magazine, says his four kids with Janice (Ina, 10, Moira, 9, Kyla, 6 and Yuan, 4) are still too young to ask about their parents' separation.

"But if they would ask (about the separation), I will answer them straight," he says. "I believe they deserve honesty."

After 11 years of being in show business, John says intrigues hardly affect him anymore, but he admits he worries about how his kids would take the intrigues. "I'm used to it already," he says. "I get affected only when I've really done something wrong. But as long as I can explain my actions, I don't care what other people say."

John says the one thing that would really hurt him is to be told he is not a good father to his children. He claims he really makes time for his kids.

Now that he is living alone in an apartment on Ortigas Avenue in Pasig City, he visits his children every weekend. "We usually go malling. I'm close to all my kids but I especially want to spend time with my son Yuan."

John says he is saving money to buy his own house. When nights become too lonely, he hangs out with close friends in the house of fellow actor Richard Gomez to "drink and talk."

"I open up to them about my problems," he says. "Pero hindi ako iyakin eh. I don't even remember the last time I cried."

There used to be times when John wished he was just a regular guy and not in show business. "At least I would have peace of mind and would not always be in the public eye," he says.

"But I believe that where you are is there you are. You just have to enjoy every moment and cherish every experience.

"I'm thankful to whatever comes my way," he adds.

John plays Boris in "Kay Tagal Kitang Hinintay," ABS-CBN's newest teleserye where he pits thespic skills with the likes of Lorna Tolentino, Edu Manzano, Johnny Delgado and Bing Loyzaga. The series is directed by Olive Lamasan and Laurenti Dyogi.

He is also a regular host of the daily noontime variety show "Magandang Tanghali Bayan" also on ABS-CBN Channel 2.

Back to soaps for Jean Garcia
12/20/02 - (MNS)

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Guess who’s back in the realm of soap operas? Jean Garcia, that’s who.

The latest episode of ABS-CBN’s "Kay Tagal Kitang Hinintay" saw the return of the very popular and effective actress in portraying soap opera villainess.

Onces the focus of attention of soap opera aficionados because of her scheming, atrocious and wicked ways as Madame Claudia in the now defunct "Pangako Sa ‘Yo," Jean comes back in "Kay Tagal Kitang Hinintay" as Lady Morgana Frost, the sister of Brigita, Bing Loyzaga’s character in the drama series.

She explained that Lady Morgana is the widow of a Duke in Europe. With all her wealth and power she decided to come home to the Philippines because of her sister.

Compared to her previous role as Madame Claudia, she is more feisty as Lady M. Coming from Europe’s high society, she would also exhibit a snooty and snobbish persona to people she would consider as lowlife.

"Like in a chess game, I would describe Lady M as someone who would just move her pieces to do the job for her. And compared to the fashionable Claudia, Morgana sets the trend, wearing whatever she feels like wearing however outlandish," Jean commented.

Star Cinema Executive Malou Santos expounded that Jean Garcia’s arrival in "Kay Tagal Kitang Hinintay" is very timely indeed. It needs to be said that the actress could easily portray the complex characters of Lady Morgana.

"She would be deadlier here as an enemy. We are confident that her scenes with Lorna Tolentino would be explosive and remarkable. It would be one hell of a battle," declared Malou Santos. (MNS)