"Your Song Presents: My Only Hope" premieres on Oct. 5.

Everything is ready for the new mini-series to watch out for every Sunday- "Your Song Presents: My Only Hope" premieres October 5 on ABS-CBN.

Based on the song popularized by Mandy Moore, cast members are Kim Chiu, Gerald Anderson, Alex Gonzaga, Nina Jose, Enchong Dee, Regine Angeles, David Chua, Be Bench model Carlo Guevara and fresh talent Xian Lim.

The cast had its taping in Boracay, and they also had their pictorial and workshop. This was followed by a taping session in Manila. The story revolves around love and knowing one’s true identity.

The cast went through “actor reinvention” (Gerald now sports a rugged look, Nina’s pretty face now has a scar, Enchong is “jologs” and we shall see a more mature Regine and Carlo). These new characters shall mirror the lifestyle and culture of the Filipino youth today.

Under the direction of Don Cuaresma and Jojo Saguin, watch out for other updates on “Your Song Presents: My Only Hope” which shall premiere this October 5 on ABS-CBN.

Source: abs-cbnNEWS.com

Judy Ann Santos stars on ‘Humingi Ako Sa Langit’ on ABS-CBN

Humingi Ako Sa Langit (other working title: Humingi Ka Sa Langit)is an upcoming drama series (teleserye) on ABS-CBN. This is the story of Jane Alcantara (played by Judy Ann Santos), a strong-willed nurse who undergoes family, career, and love challenges in the United States and in the Philippines. This project reunites Santos with Ysabella leading man Derek Ramsay and introduces newcomer Will Devaughn. Principal director is Andoy Ranay. Some scenes taped in San Francisco, California were megged by director Mark Meily.

Humingi Ako sa Langit is the first-ever nurse-serye--set in the dramatic setting of the medical world that mirrors life at its most intense.

Our heroine’s quest for love and truth unfold in the backdrop of our very own Filipino medical cases, resonating to every Filipino who has ever had a loved one in danger. Every Filipino’s life-changing moment happens here, in the world of our heroine nurse.

Our heroine’s kind of love--selfless, sacrificing and unconditional--heals the wounds of her past and breathes new life to the patients she takes to her embrace. If heaven listens to our heartbeats, then her heart drives heaven to grant miracles to her loved ones.

The woman with the power na humingi sa langit ng isang himala: that is the core of this unique nurse-serye..

"Iisa Pa Lamang" fans root for their favorite characters

Filipinos all over the globe continue to tune in to their favorite drama series, "Iisa Pa Lamang" as the scenes get hotter and steamier, weeknights on ABS-CBN's Primetime Bida.

Because of the fiery confrontations among Scarlet (Angelica Panganiban), Isadora (Cherry Pie Picache) and Catherine (Claudine Barretto) every night, fans cannot help but be swept away by their emotions!

Believing that their idol is the best, some even argue on online forums, debate, and group together to form allies.

Who will win as these three strong-willed women come face to face with each other?

Under the direction of Ruel S. Bayani and Manny Palo, find out in the heart-stopping scenes in "Iisa Pa Lamang," weeknights on ABS-CBN's Primetime Bida.

Source: www.abs-cbn.com.

Roxio Extreme Digital Makeover

I work on a company supporting products of an International digital imaging brand and everyday I get calls from customers asking assistance on how to setup multimedia presentations or even on how to edit pictures or videos. I can understand why Roxio has come up with an idea to help average folks with their digital needs.

Roxio Extreme Digital Makeover is a fun makeover show that helps people put together fun multimedia show for special occasions. I was able to watch an episode from their website called “Wedding Day Crunch” where they helped a couple to set up a multimedia presentation to entertain their guests at their wedding reception.

The good thing is you can even join the contest and have the opportunity to become the star of the show! You could even take home digital goodies like an HDTV, cameras and more. Join now!

A modern "Pieta" TV series soon on ABS-CBN.

ABS-CBN is all set to give Carlo J. Caparas' "Pieta" a modern appeal by producing a television series with the same title. This classic was a widely followed komiks series more than two decades ago, which eventually led to two blockbuster movie adaptations.
Topbilled by Ryan Agoncillo as the troubled son Rigor and Cherie Gil as the loving mother Amanda, "Pieta" will soon air on the Kapamilya station’s afternoon block.

The TV series will explain further a man was changed by unfortunate events. Will the love of a mother be enough to change her son's ways?

The first "Pieta" film earned five major trophies in the Film Academy of the Philippines Awards and established its lead star Ace Vergel as the country's original "bad boy."

"Kalye: Mga Kuwento ng Lansangan" on ABS-CBN.

In the midst of current national issues that Filipinos face everyday, there are stories that are often neglected but need utmost attention because they have a direct impact on ordinary citizens.

These are the stories that ABS-CBN news reporters Atom Araullo, Sol Aragones, and DZMM commentator and veteran radio reporter Anthony Taberna will tackle in the new weekly documentary "Kalye: Mga Kuwento sa Lansangan" on ABS-CBN every Monday night after "Bandila."

"Kalye" is a current affairs magazine show that features three stories that the reporters find on the streets every week. The show intends to dissect what is happening in the streets, put them into context and show what our society has become, and compel viewers to action.

It will tackle not-so-ordinary street stories, underground activities, or stories that come out at night. There will be a wide range of stories like demolition of shanties, cutting down of trees, vehicular accidents, or babies thrown in garbage cans.

"There are stories that do not make the headlines, but are equally important and in fact, they are nearer to the heart of ordinary citizens," said Taberna, who received the Benigno S. Aquino Jr. Fellowship for Professional Development for Journalism given by the Embassy of the United States of America this year.

"Kalye" is anchored by three young and active journalists who are experts in covering crime stories and general news assignments.

Taberna, who started as a radio reporter before crossing over to TV as anchor-commentator in "Umagang Kayganda," said they represent the voice of the youth and would like to make young Filipinos more critically aware of issues that matter to society and their lives.

Araullo, who started as a morning show host on Studio 23, has been patrolling the city to report about police stories in "TV Patrol World" and "Umagang Kayganda" to give viewers important information that will arm them against crime.

Aragones added that the show will not only present action-packed footage shocking street footage that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats, but also include short segments or bumpers about survival techniques in the urban jungle.

Watch "Kalye: Mga Kuwento sa Lansangan" MOndays after "Bandila" on ABS-CBN.

Source: abs-cbnNEWS.com

Lorna T. moving to Kapamilya station?

Lorna Tolentino is now reportedly moving to ABS-CBN network after she purportedly finally told her decision to move to executives of GMA-7.

A reliable source said that Tolentino formally told bigwigs of ABS-CBN’s rival network of her decision to leave and to move back to Kapamilya network in a meeting.

The report said that aside from the inspirational CD that Tolentino will record for ABS-CBN’s Star Records, the actress is set to make a television series with controversial actor Gabby Concepcion.

Tolentino however has not yet announced publicly the reported decision although she had previously confirmed a contract for an album with ABS-CBN’ Star Records.

In a previous interview, Tolentino told DZMM's Laila Chikadora that she just signed a contract for Star Records’ H.O.P.E 2 album and confirmed that ABS-CBN pitched a new television series for her. She said however that she was not yet signing a contract for the series nor a contract that will formally say that she is now part of ABS-CBN.

Source: abs-cbnNEWS.com

Sharon’s Documentary Special to air on Kapamilya station.

The country’s one and only Megastar, Sharon Cuneta will be honored for her contribution to the showbiz world as she celebrates three decades of being an icon in the industry. ABS-CBN offers her and Filipino viewers worldwide a documentary special dubbed as “Mega Tatlong Dekada” which will be aired on September 21, Sunday at 8:45 pm.

“Mega Tatlong Dekada” is a two hour documentary special that will chronicle the 30 colorful years of Sharon’s journey in show business. It will showcase the highlights of her life including the low moments, both of which are a part of her and have contributed to making her the person she has become now.

Don’t miss this once in a lifetime experience with all the show’s highlights plus surprise special guests. The “Mega Tatlong Dekada” will be airing on September 21, Sunday at 8:45 pm with her "Mega 30 Concert" airing the week after, September 28 only on ABS-CBN.

Disney DVD Bingo

Everyone knows how much kids love Disney movies and characters, and not only kids but adults too. I personally would spend time with my niece and nephews watching Disney movies. And when it comes to gift, they all prefer toys with Disney characters or CD/ DVD of Disney movies or songs. I could come up with a long list of Disney movies that we’ve watched on cinemas or on DVD but below is just a list of my Top 15 favorite Disney songs and movies. I did get a lot of help from my nephews completing the list.

1. A Whole New World from the movie Aladdin.
2. Under The Sea from Little Mermaid.
3. Hakuna Matata from The Lion King.
4. Reflection from the movie Mulan.
5. Lilo and Stitch
6. Tarzan.
7. A Bug’s Life
8. The Jungle Book.
9. Toy Story
10. Ratatouille
11. Robin Hood
12. Monsters, Inc.
13. Hercules
14. 101 Dalmatians
15. Atlantis

The movies should be familiar to you if you’re a Disney fan. Now it’s your turn to list your Top 5 Disney songs, character or movie. Is your Top 5 on my list?

Well, do you know that Screenlife has released a new game for kids and adults who adore Disney? This is a welcome news to all Disney fans and another good thing is the characters are incorporated on a Bingo game. After all these years, the game of Bingo is still so popular and I absolutely loved playing it as a kid.

The Disney Bingo offers a high-tech twist on an old favorite past time, it will let kids learn numbers, colors and matching skills with everyone’s favorite Disney characters and movie clips. The game is simple. Just match the numbers on the board to the ones given by the caller and whoever fill in the pattern and shout out Bingo first wins.

This is a perfect gift and a perfect game for kids ages 4 and above, and even for adults, too. The game can be purchased online from Amazon.Com or Drugstore.Com and I encourage you to pick it up today. It doesn’t cost any more than just buying a regular DVD so you will get your money’s worth.

ABS-CBN rules NUTAM for August.

ABS-CBN programs once again dominated the NUTAM ratings for August 2008. The Singing Bee, Wowowee and Pinoy Dream Academy are the no. 1 shows on different categories last month according to AGB Nielsen Philippines.

The karaoke game show hosted by Cesar Montano was able to beat Dyesebel for the second month-in-a-row in the nationwide ratings. Dyesebel lost again to The Singing Bee with a difference of just 0.1%, The Singing Bee got 33.2% while Dyesebel only garnered 33.1% for the month of August. Anne Curtis’ Dyosa was on third place.

In the weekend ratings, Pinoy Dream Academy managed to bag the top spot in the primetime race. PDA was also the leader in Mega Manila primetime weekend ratings so it’s no surprise that the reality talent show was able to dominate NUTAM as well.

Here are the Top 10 weekday and weekend programs for the month of August 2008, based on a survey conducted by AGB Nielsen among NUTAM households:

Top Weekday Programs (Daytime)

1 . Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 22.6%
2 . El Cuerpo Del Deseo (ABS-CBN) - 22.3%
3 . Magdusa Ka (GMA-7) - 19.4%
4 . Gaano Kadalas Ang Minsan (GMA-7) - 19.1%
5 . Ligaw Na Bulaklak (ABS-CBN) - 18.6%
6 . Pilipinas, Game KNB? (ABS-CBN) - 18.1%
7 . Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 17.8%
8 . Daisy Siete (GMA-7) - 16.9%
9 . Marimar (GMA-7) - 15.8%
10 . Cinderella (ABS- CBN) - 13.2 %

Top Weekday Programs (Primetime)

1 . The Singing Bee (ABS-CBN) - 33.2%
2 . Dyesebel (GMA-7) - 33.1%
3 . Dyosa (ABS-CBN) - 31.9%
4 . TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) - 30.5%
5 . Iisa Pa Lamang (ABS- CBN) - 30.2%
6 . Codename: Asero (GMA-7) - 30%
7 . My Girl (ABS-CBN) - 27%
8. 24 Oras (GMA-7) - 24.8%
9 . Ako Si Kim Samsoon (GMA-7 ) - 22.3%
10 . Kapamilya, Deal or No Deal (ABS-CBN) - 21.7%

Top Weekend Programs (Daytime)

1 . Wowowee (ABS-CBN) - 22%
2 . ASAP ‘08 (ABS-CBN) - 20.2%
3 . Eat Bulaga! (GMA-7) - 18.9%
4 . Cinema FPJ Da King On ABS-CBN (ABS-CBN) - 17.4%
5 . Your Song (ABS-CBN) - 15.8%
6 . Dragon Ball Z (GMA- 7) - 15.8%
7 . Wish Ko Lang! (GMA- 7) - 15.2%
8 . SOP (GMA-7) - 14%
9 . Pinoy Idol Extra (GMA-7) - 13.5%
10 . The Buzz (ABS-CBN) - 13.4%

Top Weekend Programs (Primetime)

1 . Pinoy Dream Academy Live Gala Nights (ABS-CBN) - 31.1%
2 . Pinoy Dream Academy Little Dreamers (ABS-CBN) - 29.4%
3 . Komiks Presents Varga (ABS-CBN) - 29.4%
4 . Goin’ Bulilit (ABS- CBN) - 26.7%
5 . Bitoy’s Funniest Videos Yari Ka! (GMA-7) - 25.4%
6 . Maalaala Mo Kaya (ABS-CBN) - 25.1%
7 . Pinoy Idol (GMA-7) - 24.2%
8 . Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (GMA-7) - 22.8%
9 . Tok! Tok! Tok! Isang Milyon Pasok (GMA-7) - 22.8%
10 . Rated K (ABS-CBN) - 22%

Figures courtesy of AGB Nielsen Philippines via PEP

Pinoy Fear Factor teaser.

Pinoy Fear Factor is an upcoming franchise reality show that will soon air on ABS-CBN which will be hosted by Ryan Agoncillo. The location of the show is in Argentina, South America. Watch the teaser of this much-awaited reality show.

Laarni is the Grand Star Dreamer of Pinoy Dream Academy Season 2

Laarni Lozada, a 22-year-old working student from Sultan Kudarat, was voted winner of ABS-CBN's top-rated talent show Pinoy Dream Academy Season 2 Sunday night.

Laarni, who was dubbed the show's "Independent Woman" for her quicksilver temper and amazing vocal range, garnered a total of 651,696 votes or 35.21 percent to beat Jay "Bugoy" Bogayan, a canteen janitor and farm hand from Camarines Sur, who placed second with 547,760 votes.

It was an emotional victory for Laarni who struggled in the early part of the contest and was in danger of elimination in her very first week in the academy. She also got in spats with fellow scholars because of her moods but always impressed the audience and the judges week after week because of her performance.

After being declared Grand Star Dreamer, Laarni was in tears as she sang the show-stopping "Manalig Ka", which was included in the scholars' compilation album "Pinoy Dream Academy Season Two Scholars Sing Cayabyab." Her prize package includes a laptop computer, component and LCD television from Sony, kitchen showcase from Whirlpool, P1.5 million worth of Crystal Clear purified water store franchise, a brand new house and lot from Globe Asiatique and a check worth P1 million from ABS-CBN.

Second-placer Bugoy sang "Climb Every Mountain" and gave an emotional speech to his supporters for bringing him one step closer to his dreams. "Mangarap po tayo. Kahit simpleng tao pwedeng mangarap!" he said as his fans cheered.

Balladeer and former Philippine Idol finalist Miguel Mendoza placed third with 13.69 percent or 253,402 votes. Mendoza, who entered in the academy with his girlfriend Bea Munoz, had been in danger of elimination several times but was always saved through text votes.

Five-time Star Scholar Liezel Garcia placed fourth in the contest with 13.36 percent or a total of 247,346 votes. Garcia, an early favorite in the contest, thanked the mentors for the training while inside the academy.

Van Roxas placed fifth with 6.06 percent or a total of 112,065 votes. The 18-year-old Roxas (real name Van Louelle Pojas) had revealed early in the contest that he did not tell his mother about how long he would stay inside the academy since he had to skip school to join. He was later prevailed upon to stay in the academy by the PDA mentors.

In last place was Cristina Pastor, 21, with 36,487 votes.

Lozada is the second PDA scholar to win the top prize. The first was Yeng Constantino in 2006.

Source: abs-cbnNEWS.com

John Prats, as Tiny Tony in “Komiks Presents”

After signing a contract with the Kapamilya Network, John Prats now appears as the newest superhero in “Komiks Presents Mars Ravelo’s Tiny Tony”.

John’s role as the small but powerful superhero suits him perfectly.

The cast recently had acting workshops and pictorials for the mini-series. John wore his orange costume and will don blue hair.

Tony (John Prats) is a nerd who dreams of making a difference in society. One day he meets an accident which literally causes him to become small.

Will Tony ever return to his normal size? Or will he forever be Tiny Tony?

John Prats has had many projects lined up, such as his mini-series with Aiko Melendez in “Your Song”, a special appearance in “I Love Betty La Fea” and his job as mainstay host and performer in “ASAP ’08”.

Watch out for other updates of the newest superhero in “Komiks Presents Mars Ravelo’s Tiny Tony”, soon on ABS-CBN.

Source: abs-cbnNEWS.com

Maricel Soriano shines bright as she returns to TV

Maricel Soriano, the country’s “Diamond Star” once again takes center stage via the new TV series “The Susan Roces Cinema Collection: Florinda” soon to air on ABS-CBN.

Multi-awarded and respected, Maricel is most known as a dramatic actress but she now returns to television in her best element as she plays Susan Roces’ role as Florinda, a woman who loves unconditionally and who will do anything to fight for what she believes in.

Joining her are some of the brightest veteran TV personalities such as Cherry Pie Picache, Jay Manalo and William Martinez. The series also stars promising young celebrities Roxanne Guinoo, Nikki Gil and Zanjoe Marudo.

"Florinda" revolves around the story of love and desire, lies and deception. In the middle of all these is a house enveloped in mystery and secrecy.

What secrets will Florinda reveal in her own home?

Returning to your TV screens and invading your homes, watch out for other updates of the upcoming "Susan Roces Cinema Collection: Florinda", scaring you soon on ABS-CBN.

Source: abs-cbnNEWS.com

ABS-CBN is still number 1 nationwide.

ABS-CBN is still the most-watched television channel in the country according to the AGB Nielsen Media Research on National Urban Television Audience Measurement (NUTAM). The figure was based on a survey on Channel Household Shares Week 33.

ABS-CBN got 42.2% while GMA-7 is on the second spot at 37.3%.

The television channel formerly known as ABC 5 is now the number 3 most-watched station nationwide.

RPN 9, which is now consolidated with Crime and Suspense Channel on cable tv, is at fourth at 2.7%.

Premiere of "I Love Betty La Fea" is talk of the town

“I Love Betty la Fea” recently premiered on ABS-CBN’s Primetime Bida and viewers had only praises and positive comments for the teleserye. Some shared that the cast members’ acting was brilliant, with Bea Alonzo, Vhong Navarro and John Lloyd Cruz effectively getting the laughs.

They said veteran TV personalities Ronaldo Valdez, Ai-ai delas Alas and Ruffa Gutierrez are also very competent in their respective roles. Of course, who could forget the young actors Megan Young, Sam Concepcion and Joem Bascon as they brought fun and drama to the series?

Viewers are already laughing their heads off with just the first few episodes of the series. People are also talking about the brilliant script and delivery of the cast.

What other “funny moments” will happen in the Bettyful character’s life? Will Daniella and Armando make her life a living hell in Eco Moda Manila?

Under the direction of Erick Salud and Don Cuaresma, don’t miss “I Love Betty la Fea,” weeknights on ABS-CBN’s Primetime Bida, right after “Dyosa.”

Source: abs-cbnNEWS.com.

“Super Inggo” makes a big comeback

Due to insistent public demand, the ABS-CBN superserye “Super Inggo” is all set to make a big comeback this month as it premieres this September 22, before “Boy and Kris”. The new show is dubbed as “Super Inggo: The Director’s Cut.”
“Super Inggo” captured the hearts of children when it first aired in 2006, making it one of the ABS-CBN’s highest-rated shows.

Topbilled by Makisig Morales, "Super Inggo" is an innovative drama-love story-fantasy superserye about Budong, a 10-year-old kid who dreams of becoming a superhero.

Unknown to him, he possesses superhuman strengths and abilities - traits he inherited from his superhero father. In his search of his parents’ true identities; he will learn that he is destined to become a superhero himself.

Unfortunately, this is only one side of his clouded past. He will soon discover that along with his father's extraordinary gifts, he also inherited his mother's evil powers. As he discovers his true self, he will meet colorful characters that will make his journey more interesting.

Aside from the impressive special effects and stunts, “Super Inggo” also boasts heartwarming, sometimes heart-wrenching scenes that would surely make fans empathize more with the characters of the show.

PDA Scholars' concert for a cause a success

The Pinoy Dream Academy Top 6 Scholars’ Dream BIGayan Concert for a Cause last Saturday was a huge success after it accumulated P266, 400 from tickets and merchandise sales.

The show was part of the Top 6 scholar’s mission to raise funds for their chosen charity institutions while showcasing show-stopping performances that the viewers loved.

The scholars’ hosting abilities were also put to the test when each of them got the opportunity to introduce a fellow scholar. They also got to answer intriguing questions from Toni Gonzaga in a mini-talk show part of the show.
Voting for the Top 6 Scholars is still very much open.

To support your favorite, key in PDA space BUGOY, PDA space LAARNI, PDA space MIGUEL, PDA space LIEZEL, PDA space VAN, or PDA space CRIS on your cellphones and send to 231 for Smart and Talk & Text, and Addict Mobile subscribers and 2331 for Globe, TM, and Sun subscribers.

You can also vote online thru www.pinoydreamacademy.com.ph.

Voting officially ends on September 14, 1 PM, on ASAP '08.

Be sure to catch the back-to-back Grand Dream Nights of Pinoy Dream Academy Season 2 on September 13 and 14 at the Cuneta Astrodome. The Performance Night will be on Saturday while the Awards Night will be on Sunday with both live specials starting at 7:45 PM.

Source: abs-CBNnews.com

Charice on the Oprah Winfrey Show the 2nd Time

Singing wonder Charice will once again grace the Oprah Winfrey show this coming Tuesday (Wednesday in Manila) September 9, 2008. Her life story will be featured in the famous Hollywood talk show.

The first time that the singing sensation made her appearance on the show was just a part of the segment about kids with great talents but this time, it was told that the whole episode is about her.

Watch the TV plug of the Oprah Winfrey show below:

Betty makes history all over the world

The entertainment press was treated to a special preview of what’s to be shown on the first week of “I Love Betty La Fea”. Here’s a review of the TV series from Remy Umerez on her column A Little Bit on the Journal Online:

THE local version of “BettyLa Fea” hits local TV screen starting September 9 on Kapamilya’s Primetime Bida. The entertainment press was treated to a special preview of what’s to be shown on its first week— minus commercial breaks of course—at the Dolphy Theater (formerly Studio One) of ABS CBN.

The overall reaction is indeed favorable. The choice of Bea Alonzo to play the role of the ugly duckling with a heart of gold is a stroke of genius. Bea breezed through the part with much enthusiasm and warmth you cannot help but love her. She must have gone through a workshop, watched the American version a hundred times and internalized. Her shift from drama to comedy is awesome and incredibly very believable. Bea’s performance is almost fulfilling to the brilliant acting of actress America Ferrera, the Ugly Betty in the US version.

We suspect that the role of a handsome boss which actor John Lloyd Cruz successfully essayed in “A Very Special Love” was in preparation for his Armando character in “Betty La Fea.” They kept everyone in suspense for the identity of the actor to play Armando and until the very last minute the production staffs were sworn to secrecy not to divulge the chosen one.

Armando is indeed a handsome man and womanizer. He also happens to be the boss, the newly- appointed president of Ecomoda Manila. He is the man most women cannot do without. Again, the choice of John Lloyd was a perfect one. He fits into the character splendidly. When the telenovela is over, John would have become the most bankable male talent in the Kapamilya compound.

The role of Vanessa Williams has been localized by Ruffa Gutierrez and you better start familiarizing yourself into her Daniela character. She is not only glamorous but very bitchy as well. Ms. Rufa proved that she is up to the challenge.

A male Betty in the story is played by Vhong Navarro who is a nerd descendant. For his part, Vhong said he studied the character by watching the Colombian version. His effort to play the role convincingly has not been put to waste. Betty and Nicolas provide some laughable moments in the tele-novela which the whole world has become familiar with.

As for the rest of the cast which includes Ai Ai delas Alas, Ronaldo Ruiz, Sam Concepcion (who is a very natural performer), Megan Young, Wendy Valdez, Thou Reyes, Kristel Moreno and Joem Bascon— they are all worthy of being handpicked in delineating their respective parts.

What a relief it should be for Kim Samsoon that she is already about to exit. This much is certain: Wala siyang laban kay “Betty La Fea” who is a lot younger, lovable and definitely not trying hard.

How well informed are you about Ugly Betty?

Studio Magazine in their August issue supplied the following:

The title of the original Colombian telenovela was “Yo Soy Betty La Fea” which in English means “I Am Betty the Ugly.” The title comes from a scene in the first episode in which Betty called the cafeteria extension to order coffee for a Beatriz Pinzon. No one knows who she is and is forced to tell the person on the other end of the line; I am Betty the Ugly one.

The India adaptation titled “Jassi Jaissi Ko Nahin (There’s No One Like Jasi),” Jassi’s character became so popular that a postage stamp with her likeness was produced.

In February 2008, as part of their Angelic Dreamz Inc. line, the Madame Alexander dolls created two dolls in Betty’s likeness.

The US version was the first Betty adaptation to air once a week. Called “Ugly Betty,” the setting is a publishing house.

In its local version, EcoModa Manila gets an upgrade; an actual office set was constructed on the 11th floor of ELJ Building where all the actions take place.

The version aired in Israel ran for 3 seasons and Betty was a policeman’s daughter.

In the Spanish version, Betty worked at a fashion magazine called Bulvar 21. Due to the success of the show, a magazine of the same name was launched in real life.

In the original Colombian version, lead actress Ana Maria Orozco and Julian Arango (who played Hugo) were married in real life but divorced during the run of the series.

Source: Journal Online

Three Dads with One Mommy premieres on Sept. 9 on ABS-CBN

Eugene Kim of "Save the Last Dance" and "Wonderful Life" is back with ABS-CBN's newest Koreanovela offering Three Dads with One Mommy.

Watch Korea's sweetheart as she plays Lizette, a girl who desperately wants a child but her husband Justin (Yun Sang Hyun of "Marrying a Millionaire") is unable to get her pregnant.

As their last resort, Justin then seeks the help of his best friends Ariel (Shin Sung Rok), Jayden (Jae Hee), and Jake's (Jo Hyun Jae) by convincing them to donate their sperms.

The three agreed to do it after a few shots of liquor, although they were hesitant at first. They even signed a contract to formalize things.

Lizette becomes pregnant and Justin assured his three friends that he didn't push through with his original plan.

However, an accident unexpectedly killed Justin that paved the way for them to find out that he lied all along, and indeed used their sperm donations to give Lizette the baby that she has always wanted.

Now, Lizette was left with her newborn baby girl without knowing who her daughter's real father is.

Can Ariel, Jayden, or Jake possibly fall in love with their dead buddy's wife?

Watch the exciting premiere of Three Dads with One Mommy on Tuesday (September 9), after Pinoy Dream Academy Season 2 on ABS-CBN. For now, let's watch the teaser:

Judy Ann Santos and Derek Ramsey in PDA Finals

After the success of the TV series “Isabella”, young Superstar Judy Ann Santos and Derek Ramsey are set to reunite and headline all Kapamilya guest artists in "Pinoy Dream Academy’s Grand Big Night", to be held on September 13th at the Cuneta Astrodome.

With her movie "Ploning" being chosen as the country’s official entry to the Oscars, Santos is in high spirits and this is evident in the work she is doing for her new ABS-CBN series, "Humingi Ako sa Langit".

Watch out for the return of Judai-Derek loveteam at the Big Night of "Pinoy Dream Academy Season 2" on September 13, only in ABS-CBN.

Kahit Isang Saglit (A Time For Us) teaser.

Another huge TV offering from ABS-CBN is set to air this September 15 on Primetime Bida. Kahit Isang Saglit (A Time for Us) is another groundbreaking project from ABS-CBN with its first major co-production with Malaysian production company Double Vision starring Jericho Rosales and Carmen Soo. Formerly entitled as A Time For Us, now Kahit Isang Saglit (A Time for Us) in honor of the late Gilbert Perez, the story of this drama/action series revolves around a law enforcer (Jericho) who is in hot pursuit of an alleged criminal (Albert Martinez) hiding in Malaysia. Carmen Soo plays a wealthy heiress who’s driven by her desire to find her Filipino father who went back to the Philippines when she was still young. The two will cross paths through unexpected circumstances and will be bound by the web of intrigues surrounding their lives. Will romance blossom between two strangers who come from completely different places and cultures? Will their love stay alive as they both go in search for truth, justice, and hope?

Watch the teaser of this much awaited TV series:

Three Star Cinema movies Lead 26th Luna Awards Nominees

“A Love Story” by Star Cinema, starring Aga Muhlach and Maricel Soriano leads the nominees in the recent announcement of nominees for the 2008 Luna Awards of the Film Academy of the Philippines. "One More Chance" and "Sakal, Sakali, Saklolo" are also nominated in the Best Picture category.

Here are the nominees on the major categories:

Best Picture
Banal (Comguild Productions, Inc.)
Faces of Love (Eddie Romero Foundation)
A Love Story (Star Cinema)
One More Chance (Star Cinema)
Sakal, Sakali, Saklolo (Star Cinema).

Best Director
Cesar Apolinario (Banal)
Joel Lamangan (Silip)
Jose Javier Reyes (Sakal, Sakali, Saklolo)
Maryo J. de los Reyes (A Love Story)
Eddie Romero (Faces of Love).

Best Actor
Paolo Contis (Banal)
John Lloyd Cruz (One More Chance)
Aga Muhlach (A Love Story)
Piolo Pascual (Paano Kita Iibigin)
Joel Torre (Ataul for Rent).

Best Actress
Bea Alonzo (One More Chance)
Judy Ann Santos (Sakal, Sakali, Saklolo)
Maricel Soriano (A Love Story and Bahay Kubo)
Regine Velasquez (Paano Kita Iibigin).

Best Supporting Actor
Alchris Galura (Batad: Sa Paang Palay)
Ronnie Lazaro (Ataul for Rent)
Pen Medina (Banal)
Wendell Ramos (Happy Hearts)
Dante Rivero (A Love Story).

Best Supporting Actress
Irma Adlawan (Ataul for Rent)
Eugene Domingo (Bahay Kubo and Paano Kita Iibigin)
Angelica Panganiban (A Love Story)
Gina Pareno (Sakal, Sakali, Saklolo).