Rumored Survivor Philippines Celebrity winner Moi Marcampo is the luckiest yaya ever!

So probably you have heard already the Twitter buzz that Piolo Pascual's former "yaya" Moi Moi Marcampo is the alleged winner of GMA 7's Survivor Philippines Celebrity Showdown.

And the name of the winner leaked on the day of the show's pilot episode last Monday, August 30.

Interestingly, the leakage on Twitter came from two celebrity users who are identified from the Kapamilya network. Hahaha giyera na 'to!

Oh well, Moi Moi Marcampo, win or lose, is already such one lucky "yaya". She started being known as a "yaya" to Piolo (she got to dress up, undress and touch Papa P - see picture!) and then made her debut as an actress in the 2009 box office hit "Kimmy Dora" as Yaya Elena.

Then she had a solo feature on ABS-CBN's Rated K and appeared with Piolo in the latter's Speed Babad TVC.

And now, Moi is among the 18 celebrity castaways on GMA 7's Survivor Philippines. Wow, what do you think is next for her? Winning the said show is not far from being possible. Let's just wait and see!

Photo taken from Facebook

Shirtless Johan Santos does self-shots

PBB ex-housemate Johan Santos is joining many celebs who love to do self-shots...

So hot!!! But it could have been hotter if he was in boxer shorts with no underwear...just like Joross Gamboa HERE. Try it again Johan plzzz? :)

Johan Santos will grace the Cosmo Bachelor Bash this September 9 at the World Trade Center along with other PBB ex-housemates Paul Jake Castillo, Hermes Bautista and Tom Rodriguez. Johan, Paul Jake and Hermes are among the Cosmo 69 Bachelors while Tom is one of the 10 Celebrity Centerfolds.

It's already Johan's 2nd time to be part of the Cosmo 69. He was already part of it back in 2005 before he joined GMA 7's Starstruck. So pwede palang umulit? He should have been in the Celebrity Centerfolds already for this year just like Tom.

On TV, Johan will also be part of Wansapanataym's initial offering entitled "Inday Bote" with Melai Cantiveros, Rayver Cruz, Jon Avila and Cathy Remperas. It will premiere on September 11.

Beauty Queens reign supreme in August 2010

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Heart Evangelista admits dating Daniel Matsunaga

Heart Evangelista has officially admitted that she's dating Brapanese model Daniel Matsunaga.

Last month, Heart broke up with businessman/politician boyfriend for two years Ian Dy and Daniel reportedly caused the breakup.

But just 2 weeks ago, Daniel strongly denied the accusation in an interview.

And just minutes ago, Heart made a tweet confirming that she's dating someone else now and she finds him very nice.

"Yes we are dating :) It's nice :) He is very nice," she said.

(Sagutin mo na agad Heart!)

Heart and Daniel are co-stars on GMA 7's "Langit Sa Piling Mo".

Matteo Guidicelli among the Cosmo Centerfolds for 2010 | Who else?

You'll be reading here first the (complete) 10 celebrities who made it to Cosmo Centerfolds 2010 by Cosmopolitan Magazine.

And one of them is "Agua Bendita" star Matteo Guidicelli.

If you're an avid fan of "Agua Bendita", you should have a copy of Cosmo Mag September 2010 issue because Andi Eigenmann is the cover girl while Matteo is among the centerfold hunks. It's also in perfect timing for "Agua Bendita" which is about to air its finale this Friday.

Joining Matteo in the Cosmo Centerfolds are Asiansation Christian Bautista, Brapanese model Fabio Ide, "Equus" star Marco Mañalac, PBB's Tom Rodriguez, model Bryann Foronda, actor Joross Gamboa, Starstruck's Rocco Nacino, actor Carl Guevarra and rockoustic heartthrob Sam Milby (the cover guy).

The guys are so much hotter than ever! They have unleashed their wild side as they pose with their "pets". (Yes, they're not alone in their shots!)

After doing frontal scenes in "Equus", Marco Mañalac has no frontal exposure here but he's totally naked!

Now I'm so much excited for the Cosmo Bachelor Bash 2010 this September 9 at the World Trade Center and I expect a perfect attendance from the 10 centerfolds. No more Derek Ramsay and Sid Lucero! No more excuses pleases!

Survivor Philippines Celebrity Showdown: Who went naked?

Did you watch the pilot episode of Survivor Philippines Celebrity
Showdown last night? It was already exciting and the castaways were
indeed so much prepared for an island drama in Thailand.

Karen delos Reyes is already showing her bratty personality while Aubrey Miles is starting to unlike 40-year-old Mykah Flores. "Di ko
maintindihan kung innocent sya o ignorant," she said.

Michelle Madrigal is indeed very kikay while Solenn Heussaff is still reserved for now.

As for the boys, Ervic Vijandre is lookin' so great on TV. He has this "animalistic" stance that Dingdong Dantes also has. Now we know what Marian Rivera likes in a boyfriend.

Akihiro Sato is not in his best form but he's adorable as always while
Jon Hall looks so tough and hard. (I can imagine he's so wild in bed)

Doc Ferdz Recio is effortlessly sexy! Looking forward to more shirtless scenes of Doc Ferdz. Ahron Villena has a killer bod. (Pang-romansa daw!)

A teaser was shown last night and Pretty Trizsa is well-prepared to seduce the boys and she started it by asking a kiss from Ervic.

It's also exciting to know who among the hunky castaways whose undies got pulled down and went accidentally naked in one of the challenges. Can you guess who among these 7 hunks?

Ahron Villena, Akihiro Sato


Ian Batherson, Doc Ferdz Recio,


Jon Hall, Ervic Vijandre, Mico Aytona

Chin Chin Gutierrez survives another house fire

The house of actress Chin Chin Gutierrez in Quezon City was on fire last night, but thanks God, no one was hurt.

And it's the same house which burned down in December 2006.

Maybe Chin Chin should leave that house already and look for another one.

Chin Chin's neighbor Jim Paredes shared the news on Facebook early morning today. According to the OPM icon, he was celebrating his birthday when it happened.

"We were celebrating my birthday when we smelled smoke before we knew it, it was a conflagration. We shouted loud to wake up neighbors. They would have died. Firemen responded in 15 minutes. What a way to start my year," Paredes said.

ABS-CBN News reports that faulty electrical wiring caused the fire.

Sam Milby leads Cosmo Centerfolds / Bachelors for 2010

I'm so much happy to know that Sam Milby is among the 10 Cosmo Centerfolds for 2010.

This September 2010 with Andi Eigenmann as the cover girl,
Cosmopolitan Philippines is treating us again with the Cosmo Men supplement with Sam Milby as the choice cover.

Before entering PBB house in 2005, Sam was already among the 69 Bachelors and finally, after 5 years, he's among the Top 10 Centerforlds and even chosen to be on the cover.

I've been wishing for it for 3 years already and finally, it happened.
I thought he's going to be like Piolo Pascual and Diether Ocampo who have already closed their doors for it.

Aside from Sam, also interesting to see among the Cosmo Centerfolds is
Christian Bautista. He's getting hunkier as time goes by!

The other centerfolds are Fabio Ide, Joross Gamboa, Carl Guevarra, Marco Mañalac, Bryann Foronda and Rocco Nacino. While the 69 Hottest Bachelors include Mark Orosa, Nico Ibaviosa, Kiko Matos, Paul Jake Castillo, Hermes Bautista and Johan Santos.

Get a copy of Cosmopolitan Magazine (Philippines) September 2010 issue
to see who else made it!

Poll: Venus Raj - Kapamilya or Kapuso?

Two TV networks reportedly have their offers ready for Miss Universe 2010 4th Runner Up Maria Venus Raj as soon as her contract with the Binibining Pilipinas Charities, Inc (BPCI) expires 3rd quarter of 2011.

They still have to wait for so long, but it's quite interesting to know where Venus will sign an exclusive contract with.

During the time she was dethroned as Binibining Pilipinas-Universe 2010, Venus first had a live interview on ABS-CBN's The Buzz, then she later guested on GMA 7's Startalk and Showbiz Central. The Kapuso station's public service program "Wish Ko Lang" even had a special episode featuring Venus and her simple life in CamSur.

After that, she was seen on The Bottomline with Boy Abunda in the Kapamilya network.

Before her reinstatement, Venus once guested on ABS-CBN's Wowowee along with other beauty queens, but during the time when BPCI already gave chance to Venus to win back her crown by providing a valid passport, she first guested on GMA's Startalk.

Wish Ko Lang had another episode for Venus when it gave its own send-off party for the beauty queen days before she left for Las Vegas.

ABS-CBN made a coverage of the Miss Universe 2010 pageant where Dyan Castillejo got to interview Venus many times even after the pageant. However, ABS-CBN only had taped interviews with Venus but it was 24 Oras which had a live interview with Venus the day she arrived from Las Vegas.

Last Saturday, Venus appeared on Startalk then she was in Party Pilipinas the next day, followed by a guesting on The Buzz and after a few minutes, she was seen on Showbiz Central.

Hosts of Showbiz Central even asked Venus if she's willing to be an exclusive contract star of GMA 7. Venus wasn't ready yet to talk about it but she said she's so much willing to be a Kapuso.

But days before her Showbiz Central interview, Venus told SNN that her ultimate crush is Kapamilya actor Coco Martin and she wants to work with him soon.

For sure, Venus is already weighing options as to where she will sign an exclusive contract with in 2011.

If you were to decide, where do you want to see Venus or what do you like best for her? Make a choice at the poll below:

Ervic Vijandre to reveal a secret of Marian Rivera? | Dingdong Dantes not open to working with Ervic

Basketball player and model Ervic Vijandre is among the 18 castaways on GMA 7's Survivor Philippines Showdown which is about to premiere tonight.

But before we know him now as a Survivor castaway, we already knew him so well as Marian Rivera's boyfriend for 8 years before Dingdong Dantes.

And now that Ervic is entering showbiz for real, he's not spared from facing intrigues and endless issues about ex-love Marian Rivera. But is Marian already his "ex-love" or does he still love her?

Ervic indeed has lots of issues to face. How true that Dingdong was the reason why he and Marian broke up? And how about the rumor that he was trying to win Marian back but the actress dumped him and chose Dingdong?

There's also this rumor that Ervic is going to reveal a secret about Marian. I don't think it's gonna or it should happen. If he's a true gentleman, he won't reveal anything against Marian.

But how about working with Marian and Dingdong in a teleserye or a movie? That's one good idea, but Dingdong is quick to disapprove on this one.

In an article by Mario Bautista published on Journal Online yesterday, it seems Dingdong doesn't like the idea. He also doesn't like Ervic to use Marian in his entry to showbiz. "Honestly, it won't be a good idea. Mas mabuti if he'd make it on his own talent so he won't be accused na he's just banking on a past relationship," he said.

Aside from issues with Marian, Ervic also has to face a malicious rumor that he allegedly caused the breakup of Paolo Bediones and Abby Cruz last year just because of the "cozy" photos of Ervic and Abby in Boracay? (Ervic and Abby were both finalists in the Century Tuna Superbods '09 held in Bora)

I remember those pictures. I once posted them here before. Ang babaw naman kung ganon!

Enchong Dee covers Men's Health Philippines this September 2010

What's next for Enchong Dee after recovering from dengue?

Here he is gracing the cover of Men's Health Philippines September 2010 to show he's very much back to being fit and healthy.

I almost did not recognize Enchong on the cover. Despite a simple
pose, the raw hotness is there.

***

The "Magkaribal" star is also part of Star Cinema's family drama
"Sa'yo Lamang" which opens in theaters this Wednesday, September 1.
According to people from Star Cinema, Enchong is at his best in the movie and might earn acting awards for that.

Enchong has also started filming "I Do" with Erich Gonzales.

Mutya ng Pilipinas 2010 winners crowned | Carla Lizardo, Barbie Salvador & Ashley McGarry

The Mutya Ng Pilipinas 2010 Coronation was held last night, August 28, 2010 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater in Resorts World Manila, Pasay City, Philippines.

And I super loved their winners!

Two Bicolana beauties walked away with the major titles and they were: Ashley McGarry (2nd from right) as Mutya ng Pilipinas - Asia Pacific 2010 and Carla Lizardo (2nd from left) as Mutya ng Pilipinas - Intercontinental 2010. (But Ashley McGarry represented East Coast-USA).

The other major title, Mutya ng Pilipinas - Tourism International 2010 went to Pangasinan's Barbie Salvador (center), another stunning beauty who was a Binibining Pilipinas 2009 Top 10 semifinalist.

All three of them will soon compete in international pageants: Ashley in Miss Asia Pacific International (meron ba this year?), Carla in Miss Tourism Intercontinental 2011 and Barbie in Miss Tourism International 2011.

Even the runners up were great choices, one of which will represent the Philippines in Top Model of the World 2011. (In the 2010 Top Model of the World, Ashley was a Top 15 Semi-Finalist).

Among the judges last night were Derek Ramsay, Angel Aquino, Rajo Laurel, Robby Carmona and Mikaela Lagdameo-Martinez while the performers were The Philippine All-Stars and O.N.E. It was hosted by Phoemela Barranda, RJ Ledesma and Sarah Meier.

It was a commendable job from the organizers. Indeed, new organizers means new prestige for Mutya ng Pilipinas!

Here's the full official results for the Mutya ng Pilipinas 2010 (thanks to Ms. Joyce Burton of ABQ):

MUTYA NG PILIPINAS - ASIA PACIFIC 2010: East Coast USA, Christi Lynn "Ashley" McGarry


MUTYA NG PILIPINAS - INTERCONTINENTAL 2010: Bicol, Carla Jenina Lizardo


MUTYA NG PILIPINAS - TOURISM INTERNATIONAL 2010: Pangasinan, Barbara "Barbie" Salvador
1st Runner Up: Batangas, Suzette Hernandez
2nd Runner Up / Top Model of the World : Lapu Lapu City, Cebu, Marie Sharon Grace Angel

TOP 10 SEMI-FINALISTS:
Bogo, Cebu, Ma. Tanchellie Ann Lobete
Bohol, Aileen Ella Dango
Manila, Carolyn Ty
Puerto Princesa, Cindi Madumma
Vigan, Anna Gabriella

Best in Figure - East Coast USA, Christi Lynn "Ashley" McGarry
Best in Long Gown - Bicol, Carla Lizardo
Miss Photogenic - Lapu Lapu City, Cebu, Marie Sharon Grace Angel
Best in Cultural Photo - Manila, Carolyn Ty
Miss Congeniality – Pampanga, Ruth Katherine "Ayi" Tanqueco
L’Oreal Paris Award - Pangasinan, Barbara "Barbie" Salvador
Maybelline New York Award - Bogo, Cebu, Ma. Tanchellie Ann Lobete
Discovery Suites Award - East Coast USA, Christi Lynn "Ashley" McGarry
Resorts World Winners - East Coast USA, Christi Lynn "Ashley" McGarry, Pangasinan, Barbara "Barbie" Salvador and Manila, Carolyn Ty
OPMB People’s Choice – Vigan, Anna Gabriella

NON-WINNING CANDIDATES:
Bulacan, Katherine Tapang
Caloocan City, Shihan Go
Cebu City, Karen Fatima Montañez
Guiginto City, Christine Marasigan
Laguna, Rochelle Cadiente
Makati City, Dominique Ignacio
Malolos City, Cheenie Sy
Marilao, Ronalyn Raymundo
Mid-West USA, April Mendoza
Olongapo, Jhayne Anne Mundo
Palawan, Cheysen Capuno
Quezon City, Marianne Camille Raconawa
Subic Bay, Kim De Guzman

The Mutya Ng Pilipinas 2010 Coronation Night will be telecast this September 5 on ABS-CBN's Sunday's Best.

Photos courtesy of @charmainegrace on Twitter and Monsters Productions

Bianca Manalo, Cesar Montano on FHM Philippines Cover for September 2010

After Maggie Wilson, Carlene Aguilar and Priscilla Meirelles, another beauty queen is gracing FHM Philippines and this time, it's Venus Raj's predecessor Bianca Manalo.

Binibining Pilipinas-Universe 2009 Pamela Bianca Manalo graces the cover of FHM Philippines for its September 2010 issue.

As an FHM cover girl, it affirms Bianca as a promising star in showbiz today, after conquering television via "Magkaribal" and an episode on "MMK".

I hope Sandra Seifert will be the next beauty queen to cover FHM.

Back-to-back with Bianca in the same issue of FHM Philippines is the mag's special men of style edition. Last year, it was Robin Padilla who was the cover guy, but for this year, it's Cesar Montano.

FHM Philippines Septemer 2010 issue is now available in newsstands and magazine stores nationwide.

Paris Hilton arrested in Las Vegas, still for drug possession

During the FIFA World Cup 2010 last month in South Africa, Paris Hilton was arrested for drug possession but she was wrongly accused.

But this time around in Las Vegas, Paris Hilton is arrested for the same reason and unlike that in South Africa, this one's for real.

According to Fox News, Paris was arrested late Friday night after a police checkpoint in Las Vegas where she was caught in possession of cocaine.

Paris was with a friend who was driving the car when the police noticed a smoke, suspected to be a marijuana, coming out from their vehicle.

They had to be stopped by the police and there Paris' nightmare in Las Vegas happened.

Paris was arrested and detained at Clark County Detention Center but was later released, at 2:30 Saturday morning.

UAAP Season 73: DLSU beats FEU | UP loses again for the 12th time

Nothing much exciting happened today in UAAP Season 73 Men's Basketball, except that De La Salle University (DLSU) Green Archers scored a major win against Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws.

FEU is currently the leading team, previously with 9 wins and just 1 loss, but after losing to DLSU today, FEU's new record is 9-2.

It was a major major win for DLSU, who scored 80 points as agains FEU with 66 points.

Meanwhile, UP Fighting Maroons still could not score a victory for this season. They faced UST today but only to have their 12th loss.

Here's the latest standing:
FEU Tamaraws 9-2
Ateneo Blue Eagles 8-3
Adamson Falcons 8-3
La Salle Green Archers 7-4
NU Bulldogs 4-6
UE Red Warriors 4-7
UST Growling Tigers 4-7
UP Fighting Maroons 0-12

"100 Candy Cuties to Fall For" on Candy Magazine's Double Cover for September 2010

Candy Magazine has a double cover for its September 2010 issue as it features its annual 100 Candy Cuties list.

In one cover is Nick Jonas of the Jonas Brothers (I super love his eyes!) while "Percy Jackson" Logan Lerman (Cute smile!) is on the other side.

Who else are part of the "100" list?

So many, but included in there are Justin Bieber, David Archuleta, Joe Jonas, Zac Efron, Twilight's Robert Pattinson, Taylor Lautner and Boo Boo Stewart, The Vampire Diaries' Ian Somerhalder, Glee's Cory Monteith and Mark Salling, Sonny With a Chance's Sterling Knight and K-Pop sensations Kim Bum and Lee Donghae.

As for the local celebs, Sam Concepcion is of course part of it. The Candy Mag September 2010 issue has a mini-mag inside which features 40 new crushes and the cover boys are Elmo Magalona and Martin Del Rosario while Atenista Daniel Velasco is among them and a bunch of Starstruck Survivors.

It's kinda sad that no James Reid and Bret Jackson there. Why kaya?

Get your own copy now!

Popularity Poll: Survivor Philippines Celebrity Showdown

Just like in the 2nd season of Survivor Philippines where Marvin Kiefer was the top favorite castaway on Mykiru's Poll, Mykiru is conducting once again a poll for the Survivor Philippines Celebrity Showdown.

The poll will determine who among the 18 castaways are the online favorites or the most popular castaways among Mykiru's blog readers.

Vote for your favorite castaways now...

Movie Trailer: "White House" - a horror flick from Regal Films

Three days after "Mamarazzi" opened in theaters, Regal Entertainment, Inc. has already released the movie trailer of its next offering, entitled "White House", topbilled by Gabby Concepcion.

Though it's like a combination of some of Regal's horror films in the past, "White House" is still interesting to watch. The trailer is already terrifying and freaky intense.

Is this Gabby's first ever horror film? If yes, then it's extra exciting!

Joining Gabby in the film are Iza Calzado, Lovi Poe, Joem Bascon, Janus del Prado, Megan Young, Mo Twister, Sarah Lahbati, Jairus Aquino, Lui Villaruz, Angel Jacob and Maricar Reyes.

Is it DJ Mo's first ever movie? Oh well, he's still speaking so much English here.

"White House" opens in October in time for Halloween 2010 and is directed by Topel Lee, who helmed "Ouija", "Sundo" and three episodes in "Shake, Rattle & Roll" movies.

Watch the movie trailer:

Survivor Philippines Celebrity Showdown premieres Aug. 30 right after 24 Oras

GMA 7's Survivor Philippines Celebrity Showdown premieres this Monday, August 30, 2010, on GMA Telebabad.

The network's publicist Dinno Erece shares on Twitter that contrary to some reports, Survivor Philippines Celebrity Showdown will be shown not after "Endless Love" but right after "24 Oras".

Though I'm feeling happy that GMA 7's Survivor Philippines Celebrity Showdown won't be clashing against my fave show on ABS-CBN, PHR: Kristine, I also feel sad about it. Why?

It's a timeslot for the kids and therefore, the show will be carefully edited so as not to be offensive to young viewers.

That would be boring!

As everyone's hoping to see lots of skin from the castaways, some of them are hunky men and sexy babes, they will be limiting the scenes to make it suited for an early primetime.

I wonder how they're gonna do it when for sure most of the time, the girl castaways are wearing swimsuits and the boys are probably half-naked in some instances.

We'll see this Monday how it's going to be.

***

Vote for your favorite castaway at Mykiru's Popularity Poll.

Folded and Hung Streetcast Fashion Show 2010 Go-See

Folded and Hung is looking for 100 models for its Streetcast Fashion Show 2010 this October.

The said event will feature Folded and Hung's 2011 Summer Collections
and models are needed to ramp off those collections.

Qualifications: 16 to 25 years old, stands atleast 5'8 (for female) or 5'10 (for males) and has a lean toned body.

Just get an application form now available at F&H stores and you have until September 13 to submit filled application back to them.

Applicants will then receive a call from an F&H rep for a go-see schedule.

Join na kayo dali!

Vice Ganda covers Reader's Digest Asia September 2010 issue | Plus Vice's statement on the issue that he's leaving Showtime!

After Charice this August 2010, Vice Ganda is the next Filipino celebrity to be on the cover of Reader's Digest Asia.

For its September 2010 issue, Reader's Digest Asia features Jose Mari
Viceral, his life and about how he becomes Vice Ganda, the newest gay
icon in the Philippines.

For sure, Vice's story will be an inspiration to the magazine's readers.

Included in the magazine are some of Vice's old pictures, when he was
still Jose Mari Viceral, during the time he hasn't "outed" yet. Here's a sample photo:

September 2010 will be indeed Vice Ganda's month. Aside from the
Reader's Digest Asia cover, his debut movie "Petrang Kabayo" will be
shown in cinemas and his first ever TVC will be out, it's for Globe Supertext20.

Meanwhile, on Facebook where he now has more than 2 million followers,
Vice posted his official statement about the issue that he's leaving, as in quitting as Showtime judge. He said, "Hindi totoong aalis ako sa Showtime! Hindi ko iiwan ang Showtime! Ito ang pamilya ko at mahal ko ang programang ito. Mananatili akong Hurado at patuloy akong magpapasaya para sa inyong mga Madlang People at mga Kapamilya ko!"

Good decision Vice!

Ateneo Blue Eagles suffers "major major" loss to UE Red Warriors

The Ateneo Blue Eagles has suffered a major major loss to UE Red Warriors during their game held 4PM today in Araneta Coliseum.

It was a very close fight that UE's final point lead over Ateneo was only 2 points: 62-60.

Ateneo now has 3 losses with 8 wins and is tied in 2nd place with Adamson Falcons, who also now has 8 wins and 3 losses after they beat UP Maroons during the 2PM Game.

It was indeed a major major loss for Ateneo because they could have qualified already for the semis if they won in the said game against UE.

Here's the current team standing for the UAAP Season 73 Men's Basketball, with FEU already qualified for the semis:

FEU Tamaraws 9-1
Ateneo Blue Eagles 8-3
Adamson Falcons 8-3
La Salle Green Archers 6-4
NU Bulldogs 4-6
UE Red Warriors 4-7
UST Growling Tigers 3-7
UP Fighting Maroons 0-11

"Petrang Kabayo" movie trailer released

After the hit comedy "Hating Kapatid" and the drama film "In Your Eyes", Viva Films shifts back to comedy as "Petrang Kabayo" hits theaters this September.

"Petrang Kabayo" is the launching movie of Vice Ganda after doing support roles in his past 3 movies.

It's a remake of the 1988 film of the same title with Roderick Paulate in the title role.


Hunky men in the film are Tom Rodriguez, who in real life loves horses, and Luis Manzano, who had a wardrobe malfunction while shooting the film. His private part went out of his boxers while filming a shower scene, but of course, we're not gonna see that in the movie. How sad! (Totoy Mola at pang-kabayo pa naman daw!)

Eugene Domingo has a special participation in "Petrang Kabayo" which also stars Sam Pinto, Candy Pangilinan, DJ Durano, John Arcilla, Makisig Morales, Ricky Rivero, Joy Vidao, Eagle Riggs and Ms. Gloria Diaz.

It's directed by Wenn V. Deramas.

Watch the movie trailer:

ABS-CBN's Miss Universe 2010 telecast wins ratings both in Mega Manila and Nationwide

The telecast of the Miss Universe 2010 pageant on ABS-CBN last Tuesday ruled both in AGB People Ratings (Mega Manila) and Kantar Media Ratings (Nationwide).

The 2010 Miss Universe Pageant shown in the Kapamilya Network was the most watched daytime program last Tuesday as the Filipinos were hoping for Miss Philippines Venus Raj to win the crown but she finished as 4th Runner Up.

And I think, for 4 years that ABS-CBN has been airing the Miss Universe Coronation, it's the first time that the network's telecast of the pageant placed #1 in Mega Manila.

Check out the ratings last Tuesday, August 24: (Top 10 only)

DAYTIME (AGB PEOPLE RATINGS IN MEGA MANILA)
1. 2010 Miss Universe Pageant (ABS-CBN) 10.6%
2. Eat Bulaga! (GMA) 8.5%
3 & 4 Trudis Liit (GMA) & Basahang Ginto (GMA) 6.0%
5. Showtime (ABS-CBN) 5.8%
6. Hole in the Wall (GMA) 5.6%
7. Yaman Ni Lola (GMA) 5.5%
8. He's Beautiful (ABS-CBN) 5.2%
9. Kapuso Movie Festival (GMA) 4.4%
10. Pilipinas Win Na Win (ABS-CBN) 4.3%

PRIMETIME (AGB PEOPLE RATINGS IN MEGA MANILA)
1. 24 Oras (GMA) 16.4%
2. Agua Bendita (ABS-CBN) 15.5%
3. Pilyang Kerubin (GMA) 14.5%
4. TV Patrol (ABS-CBN) 14.4%
5. Noah (ABS-CBN) 14.2%
6. Ilumina (GMA) 13.1%
7. Endless Love (GMA) 13.0%
8. Magkaribal (ABS-CBN) 11.9%
9 & 10 Momay (ABS-CBN) & PHR: Kristine (ABS-CBN) 9.6%

DAYTIME (KANTAR MEDIA NATIONWIDE RATINGS)
1. 2010 Miss Universe Pageant (ABS-CBN) 29.4%
2. Showtime (ABS-CBN) 17.9%
3. Eat Bulaga! (GMA) 15.8%
4. He's Beautiful (ABS-CBN) 14.8%
5. Impostor (ABS-CBN) 13.9%
6. Rosalka (ABS-CBN) 13.8%
7. Basahang Ginto (GMA) 12.8%
8. Hole in the Wall (GMA) 12.3%
9. Pilipinas Win Na Win (ABS-CBN) 12.0%
10. Trudis Liit (GMA) 11.9%

PRIMETIME (KANTAR MEDIA NATIONWIDE RATINGS)
1. TV Patrol (ABS-CBN) 37.1%
2. Noah (ABS-CBN) 35.7%
3. Agua Bendita (ABS-CBN) 34.6%
4. Momay (ABS-CBN) 26.5%
5. 24 Oras (GMA) 26.3%
6. Magkaribal (ABS-CBN) 23.0%
7. Pilyang Kerubin (GMA) 21.8%
8. Ilumina (GMA) 17.9%
9. Endless Love (GMA) 17.8%
10. PHR: Kristine (ABS-CBN) 17.4%

Figures courtesy of Kantar Media & AGB via PEP

K-POP Alert! Korean Pop Night 2010 Concert in Singapore | Performers line-up revealed!

Korean Pop Night Concert will be staged once again in Singapore on October 23, 2010.

That was confirmed by Proof Label Singapore, the K-pop Night 2010 concert organizer, last Sunday on its Facebook Page.

And just last night, Proof Label has revealed the line-up of performers, which include 6 K-pop groups. They are:

1. Big Bang
2. F.T. Island
3. Girls' Generation (SNSD)
4. Infinite
5. SHINee
6. ?

They're still keeping the 6th group a secret, which could mean, the last group to be revealed will be the main attraction or the highlight of the K-Pop Night 2010 concert.

Proof Label promises to reveal the 6th group very soon as well as the ticket details and the concert venue.

Now who do you want to be that 6th K-Pop group? Many are guessing it's 2NE1!

[Just last Friday, Aug. 27, Proof Label revealed that the 6th group is Dae Guk Nam Ah (D-NA)]

The Korean Pop Night Concert was last held in 2008 also in Singapore at the country's Indoors Stadium but had 4 K-pop groups (V.O.S (Voice of Soul), 2PM, U-Kiss, Wonder Girls) and 3 solo K-pop artists plus 2 local singers from Singapore.

Intensity: Rain, U-Kiss & Christian Bautista in one concert on September 11

Korean pop artist and Hollywood actor Rain aka Jung Ji-Hoon / Bi Rain will be having a concert in the Philippines on September 11, 2010.

Rain's Live in Manila concert is billed "Intensity", to be held at the
SM Mall of Asia Open Ground, 8PM on September 11th. That's a Saturday!

The "Ninja Assassin" star will be joined by another K-Pop artist, the group U-Kiss who will be performing in the Philippines for the 3rd time already. They were here just last March and June.

Adding excitement to the "Intensity" concert is the inclusion of the
Philippines' very own Christian Bautista, also a very popular singer
in Indonesia, as the special guest in the concert.

According to Christian's manager Carlo Orosa, Rain's Intensity concert in Manila is extra special because it will be Rain's last concert before he submits himself to the Korean Military Service.

Rain will enter the military on September 28 and render 2-year service as a mandatory requirement for all male citizens in Korea.

The "Intensity" concert tickets are priced P500, P1,500, P3,000 and P4,500 plus 3% service charge.

For tickets, call Ticketworld at (02)8919999 or SM Mall of Asia at (02)4702222.

Photos courtesy of Carlo Orosa and UKISSMEFRANCE

Venus Raj Question and Answer Portion in Miss U continues to make headlines

A day after Miss Philippines Maria Venus Raj won as 4th Runner Up in the Miss Universe 2010 pageant, the Filipina-Indian beauty continues to make headlines worldwide.

That's still in connection with her controversial answer during the "question and answer" or the Q&A portion of Miss Universe 2010 where she was asked to cite one big mistake that she made and how did she fix it.

Yesterday, Venus Raj's answer already created buzz on Twitter as among the top 10 trending topics. (Read: Venus Raj "Major Major" answer in the Ms Universe 2010 Q&A Portion is trending on Twitter). Until now, "Major Major" is still trending at #5 with Venus in #10 and that's almost 36 hours already after the pageant night.

The search term "Miss Philippines 2010 answer" even placed 10th in Google Hot 100 Trends worldwide and that's aside from the queries such as "venus raj", "venus raj question and answer", "major major" and "miss philippines" which also among the top trends on Google but were ranked lower.

At one point, Venus was also in the banner story of Yahoo! Homepage.

And up to now, Miss Philippines 2010 Venus Raj continues to make headlines as some foreign news and gossip sites continue to tackle her "question and answer" portion during the Miss Universe 2010 Finals. Read these articles:

(Associated Content) Did Miss Philippines 2010 Answer Cost Her Miss Universe Crown?
(The Blemish) Miss Philippines needs to pay attention
(ABC News) Miss Philippines Said She'd Never Made a Major Mistake, Ruining Chance of Winning Beauty Pageant
(Examiner)Miss Philippines makes biggest mistake of her life at 2010 Miss Universe Pageant
(Zap 2 It) Miss Philippines 2010 vs. irony: The answer that cost her Miss Universe
(Jack Times) Miss Philippines 2010 Answer Made Her Lose Crown
(Best Week Ever) Miss Philippines Has Never Made A Mistake. Except For This Answer
(The News of Today) 2010 Miss Philippines, Venus Raj’s Answer Costs Her Crown
(The Epoch Times) Miss Universe 2010: Miss Philippines Venus Raj Stumbled on Question
(News Provider) Miss Philippines 2010: Wrong Answer, No Crown!

I liked best the article from ABC News. According to the writer, the question to Miss Philippines was actually a difficult one that even former US President George W. Bush was also asked the same question but answered nothing.

It also said that even the smartest people find the question tough.

However, it suggests that just like in a job interview, one must always be prepared to answer a question like that. It can actually be asked not only to Venus but to everyone at any time.

I must admit, if I were in Venus' situation, I would also have a hard time pinpointing one big mistake especially when asked on the spot, thus I would just end up answering "nothing" just like what she did.

And also, the question was to cite a big mistake, and not simply a mistake, so it's kinda believable that Venus indeed never had a "big" mistake or in her own terms, "major, major problem".

But those write-ups all boil down to the fact that Miss Philippines Maria Venus Raj could have won if only she gave an impressive answer.

I believe though that even if she answered well, she'll end up as high as 2nd Runner Up only because the winner, Miss Mexico, and the 1st Runner Up, Miss Jamaica, were already the top favorites by the judges.

During the swimsuit round, Jamaica was 1st, Mexico in 2nd and Philippines was 3rd while in the evening gown, Mexico was 1st, Jamaica 2nd but the Philippines was only 5th. That means, the judges (and possible Miss Universe owner Donald Trump) were already eyeing on Mexico and Jamaica as the potential winner.

Yog Closing Ceremony tomorrow, August 26 | Philippines wins no medal

The 12-day Summer Youth Olympic Games (YOG) is about to end tomorrow, August 26, 2010 via a closing ceremony at The Float in Marina Bay, Singapore.

It's the culmination of the 2 weeks that more than three thousand young athletes from over 200 countries competed in various sport events and showed the true "youth spirit".

Just like in the opening ceremony, the YOG Closing Ceremony will have fireworks and a celebration concert was prepared for the YOG participants and spectators.

The Yog Closing Ceremony starts at 7:30 PM.

The Philippines is among the participating countries with 10 delegates in the first ever Youth Olympic Games and unfortunately, the country will have no medal to bring back home.

The countries with the most number of medals won are China, Russia and Ukraine.

Venus Raj "Major Major" answer in the Ms Universe 2010 Q&A Portion is trending on Twitter

Miss Universe 2010 4th Runner Up Maria Venus Raj has been trending for hours already on Twitter along with Miss Mexico Jimena Navarrete, the new Ms Universe titleholder.

But also trending is Venus Raj's "Major Major" answer during the Top 5 Q&A portion of the Miss Universe 2010 pageant.

"Major Major" has been trending there as some people making fun of Venus Raj's answer in the said pageant.

According to some, Venus made a major major mistake in answering the question: "What is one big mistake you've made and what did you do to make it right?" She could have been the Philippines' 3rd Miss Universe if she answered it right, they say.

Others suggest that Venus should have answered her mistake in not fixing the details on her birth certificate which brought major major problems to her.

Oh well, whatever they say, Venus Raj has definitely brought major major glory and pride to the Philippines 12 hours after the Manila hostage crisis that put the country into big shame.

It was just unfortunate that the 4 other ladies in Top 5 answered better but how do we know? 2 of them used translators and their answers sounded so good especially when translated.

And remember we were only hoping for a semifinal placement for Venus to end the 10-year drought of the Philippines in Miss Universe. Thus a 4th Runner Up honor is already a major major bonus. Let's just all be proud of her.

Venus meanwhile isn't affected with it. In a phone patch interview with GMA 7's 24 Oras, she just laughed at it and said, "O atleast di ba? 'Yung
major major ko nagbigay ng karangalan sa Pilipinas."

Relive Venus Raj's major major moment...

Video uploaded on Youtube by MrWattatoe

Swimsuit Photos of Miss Mexico Jimena Navarrete, Ms. Universo 2010 winner

Miss Mexico Jimena Navarrete, 22, is Miss Universe 2010, only the 2nd from Mexico to win Miss Universe.

The first was Miss Universe 1991 and now Belleza Mexico National Director Lupita Jones, who was crowned also in Las Vegas. Wow! Las Vegas indeed loves the Mexicans, just like in boxing where Mexicans fought and won in Vegas.

My wish to see Philippines and Mexico as the last 2 women standing in
Miss Universe 2010 wasn't granted but it was all just fine. Jimena Navarrete was #2 on my list next to Philippines, who finished only as
4th Runner Up.

During the swimsuit round, Jimena scored the 2nd highest with 9.276 and for the evening gown, she got the highest score of 8.913.

Check out swimsuit photos of Jimena Navarrete:

Photos courtesy of Miss Universe Organization

Miss Universe 2010 Official Results: Mexico wins crown, Jamaica in 2nd

MISS UNIVERSE 2010
Official Results
August 23, 2010
Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino
Las Vegas, Nevada

MISS UNIVERSE 2010: Mexico, Jimena (Ximena) Navarrete Rosete
1st Runner Up: Jamaica, Yendi Phillipps
2nd Runner Up: Australia, Jesinta Campbell
3rd Runner Up: Ukraine, Anna Poslavska
4th Runner Up: Philippines, Maria Venus Raj

TOP 10 FINALISTS:
6. Albania, Angela Martini
7. Ireland, Rozanna Purcell
8. South Africa, Nicole Flint
9. Guatemala, Jessica Scheel
10. Puerto Rico, Mariana Paola Vicente

TOP 15 SEMI-FINALISTS:
11. Russia, Irina Antonenko
12. Colombia, Natalia Navarro Galvis
13. France, Malika Ménard
14. Belgium, Cilou Annys
15. Czech Republic, Jitka Válková

SPECIAL AWARDEES:
Best National Costume - Thailand, Fonthip Watcharatrakul
Miss Photogenic - Thailand, Fonthip Watcharatrakul
Miss Congeniality - Australia, Jesinta Campbell

NON-WINNING CANDIDATES:
Angola, Jurema Ferraz
Argentina, Yesica di Vincenzo
Aruba, Priscilla Lee
Bahamas, Braneka Bassett
Bolivia, Claudia Arce
Botswana, Tirelo Ramasedi
Brazil, Débora Moura Lyra
British Virgin Islands, Josefina Nunez
Canada, Elena Semikina
China, Wen Tang
Costa Rica, Marva Wright
Croatia, Lana Obad
Curaçao, Safira de Wit
Cyprus, Demetra Olympiou
Denmark, Ena Sandra Causevic
Dominican Republic, Eva Arias
Ecuador, Lady Fernanda Mina Lastra
Egypt, Donia Hamed
El Salvador, Sonia Cruz
Finland, Viivi Pumpanen
Georgia, Nana Gogichaishvili
Germany, Kristiana Rohder
Ghana, Awurama Simpson
Great Britain, Tara Hoyos-Martinez
Greece, Anna Prelevic
Guam, Vanessa Torres
Guyana, Tamika Henry
Haiti, Sarodj Bertin
Honduras, Kenia Martinez
Hungary, Tímea Babinyecz
India, Ushoshi Sengupta
Indonesia, Qory Sandioriva
Israel, Bat-el Jobi
Italy, Jessica Cecchini
Japan, Maiko Itai
Kazakhstan, Assel Kuchukova
Korea, Kim Joo-ri
Kosovo, Kështjella Pepshi
Lebanon, Rahaf Abdallah
Malaysia, Nadine Ann Thomas
Mauritius, Dalysha Doorga
Netherlands, Desirée van den Berg
New Zealand, Ria van Dyke
Nicaragua, Scharllette Allen
Nigeria, Ngozi Odalonu
Norway, Melinda Elvenes
Panama, Anyoli Abrego
Paraguay, Johana Benitez
Peru, Giuliana Zevallos
Poland, Maria Nowakowska
Romania, Oana Paveluc
Serbia, Lidija Kocić
Singapore, Tania Lim Kim Suan
Slovak Republic, Anna Amenová
Slovenia, Marika Savšek
Spain, Adriana Reverón Moreno
Sri Lanka, Ishanka Madurasinghe
Sweden, Michaela Savic
Switzerland, Linda Fäh
Tanzania, Hellen Dausen
Trinidad & Tobago, LaToya Woods
Turkey, Gizem Memiç
Ukraine, Anna Poslavska
Uruguay, Stephany Ortega
USA, Rima Fakih
US Virgin Islands, Janeisha John
Venezuela, Marelisa Gibson
Zambia, Alice Musukwa

MYKIRU'S LIST AGAINST OFFICIAL RESULTS
1. Philippines - 4th RU
2. Mexico - Ms. Universe 2010
3. Venezuela
4. Ireland - 7th
5. Russia - 11th
6. USA
7. Colombia - 12th
8. Puerto Rico - 10th
9. Trinidad & Tobago
10. Jamaica - 1st RU
11. Albania - 6th
12. Thailand
13. Haiti
14. Dominican Republic
15. Brazil
16. France - 13th
17. Peru
18. Indonesia
19. South Africa - 8th
20. Guatemala - 9th
21. Australia - 2nd RU
22. Spain
23. Korea
24. Ukraine - 3rd RU
25. Curacao
26. Japan
27. Canada
28. India
29. Paraguay
30. Bolivia
31. Uruguay
32. New Zealand
33. Belgium, Cilou Annys - 14th
34. Greece
35. Poland
36. Netherlands
37. Switzerland
38. Sweden
39. Czech Republic - 15th
40. Malaysia

Miss Mexico Jimena Navarrete wins Miss Universe 2010

Heavy favorite Jimena (Ximena) Navarrete Rosete has been crowned Miss Universe 2010.

Miss Universe 2010: Mexico, Jimena (Ximena) Navarrete Rosete

1st Runner Up: Jamaica, Yendi Phillipps

2nd Runner Up: Australia, Jesinta Campbell

3rd Runner Up: Ukraine, Anna Poslavska

4th Runner Up: Philippines, Maria Venus Raj

Special Awards:
Miss Photogenic - Thailand, Fonthip Watcharatrakul
Best National Costume - Thailand, Fonthip Watcharatrakul
Miss Congeniality - Australia, Jesinta Campbell

*That was also their ranking during the Evening Gown Competition.

*The Miss Universe crown stays in the Americas for the 3rd straight year after Venezuela both in 2008 and 2009.

*Miss Mexico and Miss Jamaica were already the clear favorites by the telecast judges since the swimsuit round. Jamaica topped the swimsuit round followed by Mexico and then Mexico ruled the long gown competition with Jamaica in close 2nd.

*It took 19 years for Mexico to have its 2nd Miss Universe titleholder. The last time was in 1991 when Lupita Jones won also in Las Vegas.

*Philippines' 4th Runner Up placement is the country's only and highest placement during the 2000s and the 2nd highest in the last two decades. Miriam Quiambao was 1st Runner Up in 1999.

*It's the 2nd consecutive Most Photogenic award for Thailand.

*It's very rare that a recipient of the Miss Congeniality award enters the semis and even placed 2nd Runner Up.

Photo courtesy of Miss Universe Organization

Top 5 - Miss Universe 2010: Philippines was almost left out of the Final 5

Miss Mexico topped the evening gown competition in the Miss Universe 2010.

Miss Philippines almost didn't make it to the Top 5 because her score was only 0.021 higher than Miss Albania.

Miss Ireland who was predicted to win by some pageant sites and the top favorite by the bookies unfortunately failed to make the final cut.

Here are the Top 5 finalists of Miss Universe 2010:

1. Mexico, Jimena (Ximena) Navarrete Rosete 8.913
2. Jamaica, Yendi Phillipps 8.884
3. Australia, Jesinta Campbell 8.841
4. Ukraine, Anna Poslavska 8.743
5. Philippines, Maria Venus Raj 8.714


ELIMINATED:
6. Albania, Angela Martini 8.693
7. Ireland, Rozanna Purcell 8.548
8. South Africa, Nicole Flint 8.420
9. Guatemala, Jessica Scheel 8.286
10. Puerto Rico, Mariana Paola Vicente 7.971

It's interesting that the Top 5 come from different continents.

Miss Universe 2010 Top 10 finalists revealed after the swimsuit round

The Miss Universe 2 10 Top 15 semi finalists competed in their swimsuit and the 5 candidates with the lowest scores were eliminated.

While the Top 10 advanced to the next round, the evening gown competition.

Here the are Top 10 finalists:

1. Jamaica, Yendi Phillipps 9.426
2. Mexico, Jimena (Ximena) Navarrete Rosete 9.276
3. Philippines, Maria Venus Raj 8.957
4. Ireland, Rozanna Purcell 8.784
5. Australia, Jesinta Campbell 8.543
6. Puerto Rico, Mariana Paola Vicente 8.443
7. Ukraine, Anna Poslavska 8.333
8. South Africa, Nicole Flint 8.229
8. Albania, Angela Martini 8.229
10. Guatemala, Jessica Scheel 8.071

ELIMINATED:
11. Russia, Irina Antonenko 7.843
12. Colombia, Natalia Navarro Galvis 7.641
13. France, Malika Ménard 7.586
14. Belgium, Cilou Annys 7.571
15. Czech Republic, Jitka Válková 7.429


Wow the Top 10 is very favorable. All of them are in my Top 25.

*I hope the Top 5 will be Philippines, Mexico, Ireland, Puerto Rico and Jamaica

Miss Universe 2010 Top 15 semi finalists announced | No Miss USA

The Miss Universe 2010 final is happening right now in Mandalay Bay
Resort & Casino, Las Vegas.

And the Top 15 semi finalists have just been announced. They include:

(in order of announcement)

Puerto Rico, Mariana Paola Vicente
Ukraine, Anna Poslavska
Mexico, Jimena (Ximena) Navarrete Rosete
Belgium, Cilou Annys
Ireland, Rozanna Purcell
South Africa, Nicole Flint
France, Malika Ménard
Australia, Jesinta Campbell
Jamaica, Yendi Phillipps
Russia, Irina Antonenko
Albania, Angela Martini
Colombia, Natalia Navarro Galvis
Guatemala, Jessica Scheel
Czech Republic, Jitka Válková
Philippines, Maria Venus Raj

*Breakdown: 3 from the Americas, 7 from Europe, 1 from Africa, 2 from the Carribean, 1 from Oceania and 1 from Asia

*Biggest "Misses" or the Heavy Favorites who were left out of the semis: Venezuela, USA and Trinidad & Tobago

*It's the 4th consecutive semifinalist for Czech Republic, 3rd consecutive for South Africa and Australia, and 2nd straight year for Puerto Rico, Belgium, France and Albania

*It's Philippines' first in 11 years, Ireland's first after 12 years and Guatemala's first entry in the semis since 1984.

*Mykiru's Final Top 15 Predictions / List of Favorites only got 8 of the official 15 semifinalists but 11 of them are in Mykiru's Top 20, 13 are in Top 30 and 15 are in Top 40. I'm generally happy with the results coz there's no huge surprises and the official Top 15 appeared in almost everyone's favorites list.

Miss Universe 2010: Mykiru's Fun Poll Results - Philippines, Venezuela top choices by the voters

A total of 3,612 votes were cast on Mykiru's Fun Poll for the 83 candidates of Miss Universe 2010.

The voters were asked to choose their Top 15 favorites or the 15
candidates who they want to see as semi-finalists of the Miss Universe 2010 pageant, which is about to happen in a few minutes.

And the most common choice by the voters is Miss Philippines with
17.86% of the total votes while in far 2nd is Miss Venezuela with 5.12%.

Here's Mykiru's Miss Universe 2010 Fun Poll Results: (The Top 15)

1. Philippines, Maria Venus Raj 17.86%
2. Venezuela, Marelisa Gibson 5.12%
3. USA, Rima Fakih 4.54%
4. Mexico, Jimena (Ximena) Navarrete Rosete 4.01%
5. Puerto Rico, Mariana Paola Vicente 3.77%
6. Russia, Irina Antonenko 3.16%
7. Colombia, Natalia Navarro Galvis 3.13%
8. Thailand, Fonthip Watcharatrakul 2.74%
9. Brazil, Débora Moura Lyra 2.69%
10. France, Malika Ménard 2.30%
11. Haiti, Sarodj Bertin 2.21%
12. Australia, Jesinta Campbell 2.21%
13. Dominican Republic, Eva Arias 1.94%
14. Ireland, Rozanna Purcell 1.91%
15. Trinidad & Tobago, LaToya Woods 1.85% - tie
15. Jamaica, Yendi Phillipps 1.85% - tie

Super thanks to those who participated in the poll and made smart choices.

Miss Universe 2010 Winner | Results Predictions

FINAL LIST OF FAVORITES FOR MISS UNIVERSE 2010
(Based on Mykiru's scores and Poll Results)
[This is already the predictions of the Miss Universe 2010 winner or the official results]

MISS UNIVERSE 2010 WINNER:
Philippines, Maria Venus Raj

1st Runner Up:
Mexico, Jimena (Ximena) Navarrete Rosete
2nd Runner Up:
Venezuela, Marelisa Gibson
3rd Runner Up:
Ireland, Rozanna Purcell
4th Runner Up:
Russia, Irina Antonenko

TOP 10 FINALISTS:
6. USA, Rima Fakih
7. Colombia, Natalia Navarro Galvis
8. Puerto Rico, Mariana Paola Vicente
9. Trinidad & Tobago, LaToya Woods
10. Jamaica, Yendi Phillipps

TOP 15 SEMI FINALISTS:
11. Albania, Angela Martini
12. Thailand, Fonthip Watcharatrakul
13. Haiti, Sarodj Bertin
14. Dominican Republic, Eva Arias
15. Brazil, Débora Moura Lyra

***

CLOSE SHOTS:
16. France, Malika Ménard
17. Peru, Giuliana Zevallos
18. Indonesia, Qory Sandioriva
19. South Africa, Nicole Flint
20. Guatemala, Jessica Scheel


STRONG ALTERNATES:
21. Australia, Jesinta Campbell
22. Spain, Adriana Reverón Moreno
23. Korea, Kim Joo-ri
24. Ukraine, Anna Poslavska
25. Curaçao, Safira de Wit
26. Japan, Maiko Itai
27. Canada, Elena Semikina
28. India, Ushoshi Sengupta
29. Paraguay, Johana Benitez
30. Bolivia, Claudia Arce

HONORABLE MENTIONS
31. Uruguay, Stephany Ortega
32. New Zealand, Ria van Dyke
33. Belgium, Cilou Annys
34. Greece, Anna Prelevic
35. Poland, Maria Nowakowska
36. Netherlands, Desirée van den Berg
37. Switzerland, Linda Fäh
38. Sweden, Michaela Savic
39. Czech Republic, Jitka Válková
40. Malaysia, Nadine Ann Thomas


TRAILING BEHIND
41. Argentina, Yesica di Vincenzo
42. Ghana, Awurama Simpson
43. Romania, Oana Paveluc
44. Slovak Republic, Anna Amenová
45. Egypt, Donia Hamed
46. Bahamas, Braneka Bassett
47. Ecuador, Lady Fernanda Mina Lastra
48. Turkey, Gizem Memiç
49. Croatia, Lana Obad
50. Denmark, Ena Sandra Causevic

***

THE REST OF THE CANDIDATES:
78. Angola, Jurema Ferraz
73. Aruba, Priscilla Lee
64. Botswana, Tirelo Ramasedi
67. British Virgin Islands, Josefina Nunez
58. China, Wen Tang
66. Costa Rica, Marva Wright
63. Cyprus, Demetra Olympiou
53. El Salvador, Sonia Cruz
51. Finland, Viivi Pumpanen
79. Georgia, Nana Gogichaishvili
69. Germany, Kristiana Rohder
59. Great Britain, Tara Hoyos-Martinez
68. Guam, Vanessa Torres
74. Guyana, Tamika Henry
60. Honduras, Kenia Martinez
70. Hungary, Tímea Babinyecz
56. Israel, Bat-el Jobi
65. Italy, Jessica Cecchini
75. Kazakhstan, Assel Kuchukova
55. Kosovo, Kështjella Pepshi
57. Lebanon, Rahaf Abdallah
83. Mauritius, Dalysha Doorga
54. Nicaragua, Scharllette Allen
77. Nigeria, Ngozi Odalonu
62. Norway, Melinda Elvenes
52. Panama, Anyoli Abrego
71. Serbia, Lidija Kocić
72. Singapore, Tania Lim Kim Suan
80. Slovenia, Marika Savšek
81. Sri Lanka, Ishanka Madurasinghe
61. Tanzania, Hellen Dausen
82. US Virgin Islands, Janeisha John
76. Zambia, Alice Musukwa

Previous Lists:
081910: 1. Philippines 2. Mexico 3. Venezuela 4. Puerto Rico 5. Russia 6. Colombia 7. Trinidad & Tobago 8. France 9. Thailand 10. USA 11.
Ireland 12. Indonesia 13. Jamaica 14. Brazil 15. Albania

081510: 1. Philippines 2. Mexico 3. Venezuela 4. Colombia 5. Puerto
Rico 6. Trinidad & Tobago 7. Russia 8. France 9. USA 10. Brazil 11. Ireland 12. Albania 13. Thailand 14. Indonesia 15. Jamaica

On CNN: Manila Vice Mayor Isko Moreno defends the Philippines

Former sexy actor and now Manila City Vice Mayor Isko Moreno was interviewed on CNN regarding the hostage crisis which happened earlier.

I wasn't able to watch it, but ABS-CBN reporter Niña Corpuz shared on Twitter an interesting post about the CNN interview with Isko Moreno.

Niña's tweet says: "CNN asked VM Isko Moreno what will he tell those who are now having 2nd thought of visiting the Philippines? Ans: This can happen anywhere in the world."

GMA News TV also on Twitter has a post related to that and Isko Moreno reportedly told CNN: "Generally speaking, I can honestly say, everyone is welcome in Manila, everyone is safe in Manila. This is an incident that could have happened anywhere in the world."

He also said that he's proud of how the Manila police handled the hostage crisis.

For some, VM Isko Moreno sounded like a beauty queen who failed in a Q&A portion while others defend him that he has no other intention but to defend the Philippines.

And just because of his statement on CNN, people have been talking about Isko Moreno that it made him one of the top trending topics on Twitter tonight.

Filipino-related terms are actually dominating Twitter right at this moment following the hostage drama. Six out of the 10 Trending Topics are about the Philippines: Quirino Grandstand, Isko Moreno, Rolando Mendoza, Venus Raj, Hostage Taker, Filipinos.

Manila, Philippines hostage drama on board Hong Thai Travel bus

The TV programming both on ABS-CBN and GMA were affected by the hostage drama that happened at the Quirino Grand Stand in Manila, Philippines on Monday, August 23, 2010.

The airing of some primetime TV series had to be moved to a later timeslot while other shows for the day also had to be cancelled to give way for the networks' news programs which had an extensive live coverage of the hostage drama.

ABS-CBN's TV Patrol even had a live video streaming online and was watched by people around the world, including the international news organizations who were picking up and reporting the story live and straight from the Philippines.

As seen on television, the hostage drama happened onboard a Hong Thai Travel bus, which had 25 Chinese tourists from Hong Kong.

The hostage taker was a former police officer identified as Rolando Mendoza, 55 years old, and was demanding to be reinstated to his job.

Mendoza reportedly hijacked the Hong Thai Travel Bus between 9am to 10am and the hostage drama lasted for almost 12 hours. It was resolved only after the hostage taker was killed by the assaulting team.

It's so unfortunate that 8 hostages died in the incident, reportedly killed by the hostage taker.

The tourists were already on their last day touring Manila, Philippines and were scheduled to return to Hong Kong 7PM the same day.

The said hostage drama was kinda shameful. It isn't good for the image of the Philippines and I just hope it would not affect the tourism industry of the country.

Piolo Pascual at the 2010 Ironman 70.3 Philippines in CamSur

Despite a busy schedule, Piolo Pascual managed to spend 3 straight
days in CamSur for the 2nd Ironman 70.3 Philippines triathlon events last weekend.

Piolo arrived last Friday and stayed at the CamSur Waterspors Complex (CWC). He had a motorcade around the Camarines Sur Provincial Capitol on the same day.

The next day, he had a short conference with the local press, as
organized by his sponsor Timex, who's also a main sponsor and the
official timer of the Cobra Ironman 70.3 Philippines event.

Then yesterday was the big day for the 2010 Ironman 70.3 Philippines and Piolo was among the athletes who participated in the event.

The triathlon events, composed of swimming, running and cycling, was
participated in by hundreds of athletes from around the world.

Over-all winners for the Male Division were Australia's Pete Jacobs (1st), New Zealand's Terenzo Bozzone (2nd) and Sweden's Fredrik Croneberg (3rd). As for the female category, Canadian Magali Tisseyre
was in 1st Place while Michellie Jones and Rachael Paxton both from Australia came in 2nd and 3rd respectively.

Piolo was among the relay runners and successfully finished the race. In 2011, he plans to take part in all three events and possibly, wins
a medal for himself.

Check out Piolo's pictures during the Ironman 70.3 Philippines 2010:

Piolo during his Day 2 at CWC [Nice sight on Piolo's shorts. At sino naman kaya 'yang girl at nag-ala KC Concepcion?]


In his great athletic form, Piolo runs as fast as he could. ['Yung girl in yellow talagang yumuko pa to see Piolo's butt while the guy in yellow ay napanganga kay Papa P]


Piolo after the race. [Tired and sweaty but still yummy!]

Photos courtesy of Diana Marpuri, Yuri Lirag and Suzette Francia

Sam Milby and the Da Vince Code band

Aside from "One Harmony", ABS-CBN's iDOL is also introducing a fresh new band called "Da Vince Code".

Launched on ASAP XV earlier, Da Vince Code will also make their debut
on iDOL beginning September 6 on Primetime Bida.

As seen in the picture, Da Vince Code will be performing with Sam
Milby most of the time in the show.

The band is composed of 5 mestizo-looking cuties (also hotties). Meet them...

Lamar Brothers: DJ and Micah


Micael Caldito


Kyle Alandy Amor


James Torres

Photos courtesy of Cornerstone Talent Management, Lamar Brothers, Mica
Caldito & Kyle Amor

Miss Philippines Maria Venus Raj cries during rehearsal for Miss Universe 2010 finals

Miss Philippines Maria Venus Raj reportedly cried during rehearsal for the finals of Miss Universe 2010.

Miss Philippines talking to Miss Venezuela Marelisa Gibson at the Ms. Universe 2010 rehearsal

Three days before the Miss Universe 2010 finale, Maria Venus Raj from the Philippines received a bad news from her hometown in CamSur,
Philippines.

Her bestfriend and mentor Melody Gersbach, who's also a Binibining
Pilipinas titleholder, died in a vehicular accident on Saturday
morning in the Philippines (Friday evening in Las Vegas).

The accident happened at Bula, CamSur, one hour away from Bato,
CamSur, hometown of Venus Raj.

Venus was on rehearsal in Las Vegas for the Miss Universe 2010 pageant when she learned about it.

According to Binibining Pilipinas 2010 2nd Runner Up Nicolette Henson, who's there with Venus in Vegas, she didn't know how to tell Venus
about what happened to Melody 'coz it might affect her focus in the pageant. But it turned out though that someone already texted her and
as a beauty queen with grace, Venus remains strong and focused.

Nicolette wrote on her Facebook Page: "Met with Venus earlier...di namin alam pa'no sasabihin dahil ang saya-saya naman niya onstage.
During their break, she broke the ice and said nalaman nya from her Ate. We hugged and cried. But she is well-focused sa pageant. Strong
and motivated!"

OPMB Photographer Jory Rivera, who's also there covering the event, shared on Facebook that Venus is deeply saddened with Melody's passing and she has always regarded Melody as an angel to her.

Jory remembers how wonderful person Melody was. "Melody was such a sweet and soft-spoken lady. You will be missed. We will draw strength from you. Guide Venus in her journey to win the crown."

Both Bicolanos, Venus and Melody were longtime friends. They both competed in Miss Tabak 2008 in Tabaco City, Albay and later went to different beauty pageants. Venus became Miss Philippines Earth-Eco Tourism 2008 while Melody went on to become Binibining Pilipinas-International 2009.

This year, Melody encouraged Venus to join Binibining Pilipinas 2010 and even recommended Venus to her trainor. Venus walked away with the Binibining Pilipinas-Universe title and Melody was behind her all
throughout, even standing as a mentor and coach to Venus.

Melody and Venus were last seen together at the latter's send-off
party to Miss U pageant last August 2.

Mutya ng Pilipinas 2009 Jane Riel Bañares, another Bicolana beauty and friend of Venus and Melody, also recalled how supportive Melody was to her. "Ate Mel thanks
everything for watching my pageants, for giving me advices and for all
the support. Lam mo namang tayo ang magkapareho ng kakulangan pero
nasobrahan ng balakang. I'm gonna miss you," Jane's FB status said.

According to Jane, it's Venus who described Melody as someone "na paa pa lang, pang-Dyosa na."

Melody was truly a goddess and an angel, and will always be.

Photo courtesy of Jory Rivera

Beauty Queen Melody Gersbach dead in car accident

Filipino-German beauty titlist Melody Adelheid Gersbach has died in a horrible car accident today, August 21, 2010.

I'm actually having a hard time blogging about this 'coz I love her a lot.

A fellow Bicolano, Melody was going to Naga City this morning when the accident happened.

According to ABS-CBN News, Melody with make-up artist / fashion designer Alden Orense and two others were on their way from Melody's hometown in Albay to Naga City when their car collided with a passenger bus going to Legazpi City.

The crash happened at Sitio Banasi, Brgy. Pawili, Bula, Camarines Sur, that's 15 minutes away from the famous CamSur Watersports Complex (CWC) and 30 minutes away from Naga City, where she was about to judge in the screening of applicants for the Peñafrancia Festival's Miss Bicolandia 2010.

The report said that she was also about to meet her boyfriend in Naga City. Gersbach, Orense and the driver were dead on the spot while the other is in critical condition.

Melody Gersbach was only 24 years old and she died on the day the Philippines is commemorating the 26th Death Anniversary of National Hero Ninoy
Aquino.

Melody was Mutya ng Magayon 2008, Miss Bicolandia 2008 and Binibining Pilipinas-International 2009. She won those titles in just less than a year. (More Pictures of Melody)

She later competed in the Miss International 2009 pageant held in China where she was a huge favorite and placed as a Top 15 semifinalist.

Just this year, Melody was about to be in a love triangle with Aga Muhlach and Ai-Ai delas Alas on ABS-CBN's sitcom "M3: Malay Mo Madevelop". She already did a pictorial with Aga and Ai, but for an unclear reason, Melody's appearance in the show didn't push through.

Last May, Melody participated in the BPCI's Grand Santacruzan at the Araneta Center and just last August 2, she attended the send-off party for Miss Philippines Universe 2010 Maria Venus Raj. It was already her last time to take part in a Binibining Pilipinas event.

You'll forever be remembered Melody.

Melody with boyfriend Toti Rocha:

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News about Melody Gersbach's death have reached all parts of the world that it made her among the Google Search Hot 100 Trends, at #12 worldwide.