Vivamax reaches another milestone with 11 million subscribers

BY MANILA BULLETIN ENTERTAINMENT

May 16, 2024 11:07 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• To celebrate this 11-million milestone, the spotlight is on 11 new artists to heat Vivamax even more!

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Vivamax has reached another milestone! In just one year, Vivamax subscribers have grown to 11 million, up from 7 million in June 2023. Launched in January 2021, Vivamax is still the fastest-growing video-on-demand service in the country.  In three years, Vivamax’s content has vastly grown. To date, it has close to 500 titles, and the original productions are already nearing 200. Every week there are brand new releases, proving that Vivamax keeps pushing its limits in giving the audience immense satisfaction. To celebrate this 11-million milestone, the spotlight is on 11 new artists to heat Vivamax even more!Dyessa Garcia was first seen in “Tuhog” and “Araro” in 2023, then started playing a major role in “Dilig” in January of this year, followed by “Kabit” in February. Most recently, she played a character who explored her sexuality in the movie “Sweet Release”, opposite Vivamax Princess Ataska.  It enjoyed the top spot in Vivamax movies upon its release this past April. 

Rica Gonzales made it easy for the viewers to go crazy over her from the time she showed off her alluring beauty in “Hibang” last year. Her follow up movies this year showed her versatility as an actress. She’s a manipulative bride in “Dilig”, a carefree girlfriend in “Mapanukso”, a sickly and weak wife in “Kapalit”, and a sexy dancer seeking a new life in “Dayo”.  

Christy Imperial was already in the company of today’s brightest actors in her first projects on Vivamax. She was part of the cast of “The Rain in España”, “La Querida”, “Dirty Ice Cream”, and “Asintado”. Even as she enters showbiz, Imperial still keeps up with her studies and other interests. She is good in swimming and volleyball, and can do ramp modelling. 

Arah Alonzo’s first two Vivamax movies were “Araro” and “Sex Games” in 2023. This year, she had lustful encounters in “Kalikot” and “Stag”. Alonzo had acting workshops as a child. Much later, she joined pageants and became part of “Sexy Babe”, a segment on It’s Showtime. She was then referred to the management of Jojo Veloso, which opened up opportunities for her.

Vern Kaye can sing and dance in real life. In reel life, she sure can play an unfaithful wife. In “Kasalo”, she hops in bed with Albie Casiño whom she met in a car sharing app. In “Salitan”, she gives in to temptation with a complete stranger even as she is married to the character of Nico Locco. Viewers should see what more Kaye has to offer in Vivamax. 

Athena Red is of Filipino, Spanish and Kuwaiti descent. She is a culinary student, and has done modeling gigs. She describes herself as funny, but serious about making it in showbiz. Vivamax is cooking up something where her acting skills will be showcased. First on the list is “Ang Pintor at ang Paraluman”. 

Alessandra Cruz is completely new to the industry, but being here has been her dream since she was little. Discovered through talent agencies, Cruz says that she is eager to learn and is very grateful for the opportunity Vivamax is giving her. “Nurse Abi”, her first movie project, is coming out in July. 

Jenn Rosa was part of the series “Araro” in 2023. This May, she is one of the three lead stars in “Kulong”, a movie about three friends who aim to write a great screenplay. To get them inspired, they go on a sexual adventure. She also stars in “TL”, now streaming on Vivamax. Rosa’s beautiful and fit figure could be attributed to her love for vegetables. 

Candy Veloso hails from Pagadian City, Zamboanga Del Sur. She moved to Manila just last year. Veloso admits that getting into showbiz was not in her plans, but her appearance in It’s Showtime segment Expecially For You went viral, and soon after she was discovered by Jojo Veloso. Her first acting experience was in “Kapalit”, and now she’s starring in “Dirty Ice Cream.”

Mariane Saint has attended different workshops to prepare her for the challenging and titillating Vivamax movies in store for her. First on the list is “Top 1”. Keep tuned in for the release date, and find out if she’ll be a saint or a sinner. In an Instagram post, Saint has expressed her gratitude to her manager Lito De Guzman, and her excitement for her professional growth.

Skye Gonzaga is one of the metro’s hippiest DJs, and has just signed a contract as the official DJ artist under Viva Artist Talent Management. If you enjoy listening to her, you’ll also love watching her. Her voluptuous body is a sight to behold in her upcoming Vivamax movies, “Only Friends”, and “Ang Pintor at ang Paraluman.”  

Vivamax has built up the careers of many talented artists such as Angeli Khang, Azi Acosta, Yen Durano, Christine Bermas, Robb Guinto, Angela Morena, Micaella Raz and AJ Raval. Through the 2023 reality show,“Pantaxa (extreme 4play)”, Vivamax has also paved the way for beautiful, brave, and determined young women like Aiko Garcia, Apple Dy, and Angelica Hart to become the VMX Crushes that they are now. That said, the 11 new artists are definitely in good hands. 

Alisah Bonaobra gets PMPC's Star Award nod for inspirational song

BY MANILA BULLETIN ENTERTAINMENT

May 5, 2024 08:46 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Now residing on the US West Coast, Alisah has been visible in the Fil-Am community events, performing in intimate shows and sold-out concerts, some of them being promoted by RJA.

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Alisah Bonaobra

US-based Filipina singer Alisah Bonaobra won a trophy at the prestigious Philippine Movie Press Club (PMPC) Star Awards for Music, with her single "Do You Have A Miracle For Me" named the Inspirational Song of the Year.

The track, released in late 2021, was penned by A-list songwriter Cecile Azarcon-Inocentes and produced by the San Francisco Bay Area-based RJA Productions.

"I'm so honored for this recognition, considering the reputation of PMPC as an award-giving body. Sobrang laking blessing nito para po sa akin," expressed Alisah, who moved to northern California in 2022 to continue her singing career.

The said song is a moving ballad reminiscent of classic inspirational pop songs that have gone beyond being just a traditionally preachy piece to something of an earworm with a universal touch. Thanks to Alisah's impassioned vocal delivery that does not overpower the calming message of the song and is guided by the able hand of vocal coach Arnie Mendaros.

Of course, credit is due to the magic touch of a songmaker who wrote Original Pilipino Music (OPM) classics bannered by one of the greatest inspirational tunes ever: "Lift Up Your Hands" (Basil Valdez). 

"Do You Have A Miracle For Me" is more than just a creation from a seasoned talent in Azarcon-Inocentes whose major hits include Kuh Ledesma's "I Think I'm In Love," Gary Valenciano's "Reaching Out," Chiqui Pineda's "How Did You Know," and Martin Nievera's "Ikaw Ang Lahat Sa Akin" which Alisah revived herself. It is also a record arranged by household name Homer Flores and mixed and mastered by studio specialist Dante Tanedo.

The spiritually vocal Alisah noted, "We're thankful for Ms.Cecile for trusting us with her songs. This award from PMPC is a big boost to my profile. Ibang klase po talaga magbigay ng blessing si God." During the height of the Covid pandemic, the Voice of the Philippines Season 2 runner-up and X Factor UK scene-stealing finalist first recorded a song penned by the songwriting icon, called "Faithful."

Alisah's recording career took a turn for the better after she was found by Rosabella Jao-Arribas, a Filipino-born advertising professional-turned-talent manager who put up RJA Productions and managed her, along with other talented but underrated Filipino singers. The partnership has resulted in a steady release of her singles since "Ginto Ang Sandali" back in April 2020.

Now residing on the US West Coast, Alisah has been visible in the Fil-Am community events, performing in intimate shows and sold-out concerts, some of them being promoted by RJA. 

She is scheduled to do a major concert this coming July 20 with RJA's "Emerge," to be staged at the Empress Theatre in (330 Virginia Street) Vallejo, California. 

The show will feature as special guests the Philippines' King of R&B, Jay R, and balladeer Bryan Termulo, among other rising stars in the music scene.

"Since I arrived in the US, I've been doing a lot of shows, and I always feel excited when I see people appreciate my presence," she said. 

On the side, one of the Philippines' remarkable singing contest stars volunteers in an animal shelter, as she loves dogs and cats. She is likewise a Catholic church choir member.

Alisah recently started living independently as she navigates to being a Pinay celebrity singer in America. She reflected, "I feel blessed to have a roof on my head while adjusting to life away from the Philippines. You have to be strong, especially when the only choice is to be strong. You need to live in the present."

  It's no wonder Alisah is a perfect fit for singing inspirational songs. Her life is an inspiring story in itself, having been raised through humble means and going through the singing competition circuit in the most difficult of situations. 

In the song cited by the PMPC Star Awards, she asked if there was a miracle for her. Her continuing story of triumph through the power of her singing voice and innate charm appears like a heavenly miracle, showing for and urging audiences to hold on to and savor.

BY MANILA BULLETIN ENTERTAINMENT

May 3, 2024 10:24 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Leading the Best You Ever campaign, Kathryn started her fitness journey with her trainer, Mauro Lumba, who is also the Century Tuna Superbods 2014 Grand Champion.

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Kathryn Bernardo

Asia’s Superstar Star Kathryn Bernardo continues to make waves as she brings out her best self this year with Century Tuna, the number one tuna brand in the Philippines.

Flaunting her well-toned physique, Kathryn Bernardo is ecstatic to be part of the Century Tuna Superbods campaign, which is a dream that has become a reality since her teenage years, according to the star.

“I’ve always found the Century Tuna Superbods to be inspiring and being a part of this campaign feels like a dream come true. It’s an honor to become part of the Century Tuna Superbods and through this campaign, I hope that I’ll also become an inspiration for every Filipino to let them enjoy full, happy, and healthy lives,” said Kathryn Bernardo.

Leading the Best You Ever campaign, Kathryn started her fitness journey with her trainer, Mauro Lumba, who is also the Century Tuna Superbods 2014 Grand Champion.

As the Century Tuna Ambassador steps into a new phase of her life, she aims to inspire Filipinos to embody Century Tuna’s belief that everybody can be a superbod through the Best You Ever campaign.

“Anyone can achieve the best version of themselves with the right discipline and determination, proper exercise and nutrition, and a good support system. So I encourage everyone to take that first step towards your 'Best You Ever' and join me in Century Tuna Superbods 2024! Let’s redefine fitness by embracing self-love, challenging growth, and inspiring others," Kathryn added. Launched in 2006, Century Tuna's Superbods campaign has been a trailblazer in promoting health, fitness, and an active lifestyle. This year, their "Best You Ever" movement takes it a step further by advocating for self-love and holistic self-improvement.

Dawn Zulueta on embracing aging gracefully

BY MANILA BULLETIN ENTERTAINMENT

May 2, 2024 08:45 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• When she turned 55 on March 4, Dawn made a pact to pursue aging naturally with grace and confidence.

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Dawn Zulueta

Dawn Zulueta-Lagdameo may be considered one of the most beautiful actresses ever to grace local showbiz.

When she turned 55 on March 4, Dawn made a pact to pursue aging naturally with grace and confidence.

She attributes her timeless beauty to a healthy lifestyle, a peaceful outlook in life, and regular skincare treatments. “Aging is representative of all the wisdom one gains through the years,” says Dawn. “I am not afraid of it. Instead, I embrace it.” 

The mother of two and wife of the Special Assistant to the President, Anton F. Lagdameo Jr., juggles a busy lifestyle managing family and social affairs, including jetting back and forth to the East Coast where her eldest son is currently taking up college.

Dawn Zulueta and husband, Special Assistant to the President, Anton F. Lagdameo Jr.

“I am an advocate of aging gracefully and naturally. But that is only possible if one keeps healthy, happy and at peace.”

“Peace of mind is very important and reducing stress. Also, when you are happy and you give back to the people, the feeling you get from there is something you cannot equate from receiving luxuries or getting external validation such as an acting award.”

“I also take skincare seriously by eating healthy, keeping fit and active, having a positive outlook in life, and of course going to Dr. Issa Cellona regularly.” Dawn prefers going to renowned Dermatologist, Dr. Clarissa V. Cellona whose discreet and unassuming practice located in Forbes Park Makati is said to be the favorite of society’s crème dela crème. “Issa is my most trusted skincare and anti-aging specialist.”

 Dr. Issa Cellona 

“What I like about Dr. Issa is that she works with me to ensure that all my health and beauty goals are met, without having too much done. Her light-handed touch when it comes to beauty is discreet and flawless.”

For her part, the Celebrity Dermatologist describes Dawn as one who “exudes beauty and confidence on and off screen.”

Dr. Issa says, “I am constantly in awe of her commitment to maintaining her youthful appearance through non-invasive treatments that have allowed her to age with grace and elegance while looking effortlessly stunning.”

“Her swan-like neck remains smooth and supple and can rival even the young stars of today."

Dawn serves as an inspiration to women that youthful beauty can be achieved without looking overdone, overfilled , or overstretched. Truly, her ageless beauty is grace and poise unmatched.

Stars gather on May 11 and 12 for Ryan Cayabyab’s 'Gen C' birthday musical tribute

BY MANILA BULLETIN ENTERTAINMENT

  

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AT A GLANCE

• The artists will be accompanied by the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO). 

Ryan Cayabyab

The biggest names in Philippine recording, TV, cinema and stage are converging at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater on May 11 and 12, 2024 for “Gen C” — a musical offering in honor of National Artist Ryan Cayabyab’s 70th birthday.

Topnotch artists are set to perform and collaborate with Maestro Ryan Cayayab a.k.a. Mr. C. for this once-in-a-lifetime extravaganza.

On May 11, the guests include Aicelle Santos, Arman Ferrer, Ateneo Chamber Singers, Basil Valdez, Belle Mariano, Bituin Escalante, Dilaw, Jed Madela, John Arcilla, Kakai Bautista, Karylle Tatlonghari, Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo, Mikkie Bradshaw-Volante, Nonie Buencamino, Nyoy Volante, Phi Palmos, Regine Velasquez, Sheila Valderrama-Martinez, Stell of SB19, The Company, and The Ryan Cayabyab Singers.

Returning for the May 12 show are Aicelle Santos, Arman Ferrer, Ateneo Chamber Singers, Basil Valdez, Bituin Escalante, Jed Madela, John Arcilla, Kakai Bautista, Karylle Tatlonghari, Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo, Mikkie Bradshaw-Volante, Nonie Buencamino, Phi Palmos, Sheila Valderrama-Martinez, The Company, and The Ryan Cayabyab Singers. On this date, they are joined by Ben & Ben, Bini, Janella Salvador, Juan Karlos, Julie Anne San Jose, and Vice Ganda.

The artists will be accompanied by the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO). 

The first birthday tribute of Mr. C was held in 1995 (a year after his 40th birthday) at the Cultural Center of the Philippines, and produced by Culturtain Musicat Productions, the company of singer Celeste Legaspi and talent manager Girlie Rodis. ABS-CBN would produce all-star tributes for the composer in the next two decades: “Musicman@50” in 2004 and “Mr. C@60” in 2014. 

In 2019, the year Mr. C became a National Artist and a Ramon Magsaysay awardee, the UP College of Medicine honored him through "SOAP Opera (Musika ni Ryan, Medisina ng Bayan").

Mr. C wrote on Facebook that Celeste Legaspi and Girlie Rodis were insistent on gathering his long-time and newfound friends in the industry for the 2024 tribute. He said, “Hindi pumayag sina Celeste and GR na palampasin itong taon without a musical offering featuring more of my songs.” Culturtain Musicat is spearheading "Gen C".

The title—which is obviously a play on the first letter of the composer's last name and in reference to today's youth—describes the broad appeal of Mr. C.'s genius.

Producer Dr. Melfred L. Hernandez explained, “Gen C is not a demographic group; it’s not about an age bracket but a mindset, a group bound by love for and influence of the music of this National Artist and treasure." 

Producer Aaron Veloso also disclosed, "It's heartwarming to know that teenagers and people from my generation, together with their parents and grandparents, have been our early and excited ticket buyers." 

The National Artist expressed utmost thanks to all those involved in this project to be directed by Rowell Santiago. Mr. C said, “Hindi siya ganun kadali... Pagmamahal, pagkakaibigan at respeto sa craft ang siyang nangagpapatakbo ng ganitong klaseng proyekto. Isa siyang hiwaga. Pramis.” 

“Gen C” is produced by Culturtain Musicat in cooperation with the Cultural Center of the Philippines, Samsung Performing Arts Theater, and Ayala Land, for the benefit of the Philippine General Hospital Medical Foundation. 

Sponsors include Metro Pacific Investments Coporation, American Eye Center, Avolution, Ayala Land Premier-Dasmariñas Group, Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant, CMB Film, Joey’s Place, RMA Studio Academy, and Dawns Rack Kasuotan At Iba Pa, with benefactors: MedInfinity, Inc, RAF Forwarding Phils, Inc, Shiphealth and PNB PGH Branch. 

"Gen C" showtime is at 7:30 pm. To purchase tickets, visit the Ticketworld website https://premier.ticketworld.com.ph/shows/show.aspx?sh=GENC24 

Filipinos love concerts, but ...

... venue infrastructure gaps is threat to the experience

BY MANILA BULLETIN ENTERTAINMENT

Apr 21, 2024 03:18 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Once that’s built, Filipinos won’t have to fly overseas because they can watch top-tier performances right from the comfort of their home country.

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Taylor Swift (Facebook)

Filipinos' love for concerts presents significant economic potential, but the existing venue infrastructure gaps threaten this thriving industry.

Countries with better, bigger, and more competitive concert venues have reaped economic benefits, especially with the massive and significant influence of popular international acts like pop superstar Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour and Coldplay’s World Tour in consumer behavior and spending.

Driving tens of thousands of ‘Swifties’ and concert enthusiasts, the success of these concerts was an economic stimulus for countries worldwide, including Southeast Asian countries such as Singapore and Japan.  

Filipino fans alike had to spend big and travel miles to watch the exclusive performance of superstar Swift in Singapore’s National Stadium. In contrast, others visited Japan’s Tokyo Dome and Sydney’s Accor Stadium in Australia. 

The massive concert gigs boosted the respective country’s economies, significantly benefiting the entertainment, hospitality, retail, and transport industries.

While Singapore’s strategy for a Southeast Asia-exclusive Swift performance piqued interest and likewise piqued its neighboring countries, the strategic move sparked conversations and brought to light what the Philippines can improve on in terms of concert venues.

1. Location is key 

The Philippines doesn’t lack in big venues. It boasts of venues rivaling Singapore’s National Stadium and Japan’s Tokyo Dome. Accessibility to the location, public transportation, and nearby commercial establishments is vital.

2. Concert experience

Photo credit to Stanley Quek. An empty Singapore National Stadium, viewed from the front stage.

Singapore’s pride, the National Stadium, has innovative features such as the world’s largest free-spanning dome, a retractable roof, and comfortable cooling technology for spectators’ convenience. Its innovation, strategic location, and efficiency bring positive and immersive experiences for enthusiasts and concert fans, making it a magnet for entertainment acts worldwide. A similar concert venue and experience is something that Filipino concertgoers are hoping the country can replicate.

3. World-class concert amenities and facilities

Accessing the venue's amenities and facilities should offer a premium music experience for a concert enthusiasts or convenience in a sporting event.

Architectural 'Eyecon' SM Mall of Asia Arena prides itself on having exceptional world-class
amenities unique in the Southeast Asia region. (Photo from SM MOA Arena official website)

FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 held at thw SM Mall of Asia Arena. (Photo from SM MOA Arena official website)

Take, for example, the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena – a flexible indoor arena developed in 2012 by leading integrated property developer SM Prime – which has been a top-of-mind venue for all sorts of events and offers a unique concert experience. With a full house seating capacity of 20,000, it has been a haven for thrilling sports events, remarkable OPM shows, and unforgettable international
superstar performances.

Meanwhile, the SMDC Festival Grounds in Parañaque City is likewise an enormous outdoor venue that can accommodate at least 50,000 people. Ed Sheeran’s Mathematics Tour and Rivermaya The Reunion were among the performers that have graced the stage recently.

4. Achieving Filipinos’ concert dreams

One of the most forward-looking plans of SM Prime is its 360-hectare smart city development which is envisioned to bring in a centerpiece to the country’s entertainment and sporting events – larger in capacity and a more enhanced venue infrastructure that would attract legendary icons in the entertainment scene and compete against Southeast Asia and the world’s best. It will feature an estimated 70,000-capacity stadium and concert arena connected to one of the island’s main destination paradises called Central Park. The sizable arena is envisioned to be the Philippines’ biggest concert venue, with world-class facilities and sustainable features comparable to other big concert venues worldwide. Once that’s built, Filipinos won’t have to fly overseas because they can watch top-tier performances right from the comfort of their home country.

An artist’s render, visual sketch of the proposed concert venue at Pasay 360 project.

Without a doubt, Pinoys live and breathe entertainment shows. According to the digital payments company Visa, Filipinos are Asia-Pacific's 4th top concert spenders, proving how passionate we are about concerts. By investing in developing modern, smart, and accessible concert venues, Filipino concert enthusiasts can continue to embrace and celebrate live performances with the convenience, comfort, and enjoyment they deserve. Beyond entertainment, well-curated, smart, and innovative concert facilities can benefit the Philippines’ national and local economies, including ancillary local retail, tourism, and hospitality spending.