Miss Universe PH 2025 candidates share the celebs they want to meet

BY CARISSA ALCANTARA

Mar 25, 2025 09:52 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Hosted at Las Casas Acuzar in Quezon City, the Miss Universe Philippines 2025 candidates responded to questions from the press about their preparations, advocacies, and more. 

The candidates of Miss Universe Philippines 2025 

The 69 official candidates representing various regions in the Philippines had the chance to showcase themselves as they competed for the prestigious crown during the two-day media event hosted by BingoPlus recently.

Hosted at Las Casas Acuzar in Quezon City, the Miss Universe Philippines 2025 candidates responded to questions from the press about their preparations, advocacies, and more.

To make the event enjoyable for the ladies, they were asked which celebrities they would like to meet. 

Jeanne Nicole Perez Lipa (Miss Universe PH Ilocos Sur): ''I've always wanted to meet Rihanna because of how great she is, and ever since she dropped her 'Anti' album, I've been waiting for her to release another album."

Valerie Claire West (Miss Universe PH Ifugao): "As a musician, I've always dreamt of meeting John Mayer and telling him what a great artist he is."

Jazzle Taga Iba (Miss Universe PH Dipolog City): "For me, it's Pia Wurtzbach because I want to know the secret of being a beauty queen and a winner is." 

Angeleyh Pasco (Miss Universe PH Davao): '" For me, I would choose Damien Chazelle. He is not very familiar with other people. He is the director of Lalaland, which is one of my favorite films, and he inspires me as a director because of his creativity. I would like to dig into his mind and learn from him."

Chella Farconer (Miss Universe PH Cebu Province): ''I've watched a lot of Netflix during the pandemic. I was like up until 7 a.m. by let me just say that I would love to meet Ian Somerhalder from Vampire Diaries he is amazing and If ever I would to him in person, I'd kiss him."

Gabriella Carbalo (Miss Universe PH Cebu City): ''I know everyone here has seen 'Wicked.' I want to meet Ariana Grande because I look up to her. Since she was a kid she dreamed of playing either Elphaba or Glinda, and she really got it, so every time I watch videos of her singing, even all the phases of her career, you could see that she manifested it and never let go of that dream. I look up to people who never gave up on something."

Jezreal De Ocampo (Miss Universe PH Cavite): '' It would be Anne Curtis. You know she is a powerful woman, and I think she can do anything. She's also a philanthropist, and I believe that I can learn a lot from her.

Bianca Ysabella Ylanan (Miss Universe PH Quirino): ''Not a celebrity but a fellow beauty queen, Dia Mate who recently won the Reina Hispanoamericana crown and I want to meet her mainly because being in this journey is tough and her being one of my inspirations is what keeps me going." 

Ahtisa Manalo (Miss Universe PH Quezon Province): ''I would like to meet Jameela Jamil because she's an activist, and she is someone who is very outspoken and I think that I kinda need that skill being able to say what's on my mind and what I feel. I hope to meet her one day."

Millien Joy Cabigas (Miss Universe PH Siargao): "I really look up to Catriona Gray, because she is the epitome of beauty, grace, and brains."

BingoPlus has been a key sponsor of the MUPH organization for the past two years. Last year, the brand supported Chelsea Manalo on her journey from the national to the global stage. Nevertheless, BingoPlus remained at the forefront of supporting the dream-making pageantry.

The ladies also demonstrated sisterhood and what female empowerment looks like. Emphasizing that although they are competing with each other, they value the bond they have created. In this manner, the queens are engaged in healthy competition, aiming for one goal: the crown.

Supporting the Miss Universe PH 2025, the candidates were also asked what makes them #SobrangFilipina as part of BingoPlus official hashtags. 

Sasha Lacuna (Miss Universe PH Tarlac): ''I guess one thing that really represents a Filipina for me is the cuisine. Personally, my favorite dish is sinigang because it has all the nutrients that keeps us energized throughout this journey that's why I believe that Filipino cuisine makes us sobrang Filipina."

Yllana Marie Aduana (Miss Universe PH Siniloan, Laguna): "I think what makes us 'Sobrang Filipina' is because we are the representation of women who are really committed, passionate, and purposeful."

Chelsea Fernandez (Miss Universe PH Sultan Kudarat): "I would say, we are not afraid of embracing changes and I could also say that Filipinas are like butterflies that even though we fly so low, we can still soar forward."

Angela Cabel (Miss Universe PH Tacloban): "I believe what makes us 'Sobrang Filipina' is having the capability of balancing responsibilities. I'm a mother and a teacher, and now a beauty queen. I can balance these responsibilities."

Ma. Katrina Llegado (Miss Universe PH Taguig): "Filipinas are powerful representations across the universe, we have business women here, we have women in science, and we have people in the entertainment industry. It just shows the power of women that anything is possible, anything that we dreamed of with the power of hard work is very achievable."

Danelle Ann Catalan (Miss Universe PH Tandag City, Surigao Del Sur): "What makes us 'Sobrang Filipina' is the bravery. Because when you get to see a Filipina they always stand out, they are never afraid of taking and facing the challenge, and through that bravery, we are also able to showcase our beauty, talent, and the rich qualities of a Filipina."

The MUPH 2025 grand coronation will be held at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on May 2, where one winner will be crowned to represent the Philippines on the global stage in Thailand on Nov. 21.

 

LOOK: Mariah Carey brings 'The Celebration of Mimi' world tour to Manila

BY CARISSA ALCANTARA

Mar 24, 2025 12:21 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• InadditiontoManila,MariahwillgotoKobeandYokohama in Japan, Bangkok in Thailand, and Shanghai, China. 

Mariah Carey (Facebook) 

It's time!!!

Grammy award-winning singer Mariah Carey is returning to the Philippine stage for a one-night concert on Oct. 14 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. 

The global superstar announced via social media Monday morning (Manila time) as she shared the venues for "The Celebration of Mimi" world tour.

"We’re taking The Celebration of Mimi worldwide! I can’t wait to see you all during this special anniversary year of the Mimi album," Mariah wrote in her post.

"More dates to be announced soon!" she added. 

In addition to Manila, Mariah will go to Kobe and Yokohama in Japan, Bangkok in Thailand, and Shanghai, China. The upcoming concert is presented by Willbros Live.

Mariah last performed for her Filipino fans in 2018, during her "Mariah Carey: Live in Concert" tour. 

Mariah is known for her hits "Emotions", "One Sweet Day," "Without You," "We Belong Together," and more, making her one of the most successful female performers of all time.

She also recorded "All I Want For Christmas Is You," one of the celebrated holiday songs in history.

Katrina Halili on being mom to daughter Katie: 'Medyo dragon ako'

BY CARISSA ALCANTARA

Feb 24, 2025 03:47 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Although she was strict with her daughter, Katrina observed that such situations rarely occur. 

Katrina Halili 

Every day is a learning process for celebrity mom Katrina Halili as she navigates motherhood with her daughter Katie. 

In her upcoming series, "Mommy Dearest," Katrina shares her experiences, highlighting both the joys and challenges of being a mother.

During a press junket interview with the cast, Katrina shared that she's a bit strict regarding her daughter.

"Medyo dragon ako, kasi hindi pwedeng hindi tayo maging dragon sa mga anak natin pero kasi hindi maiintindihan ng iba so kailangan ipaliwanag talaga natin sa kanila. Kaya ngayon, dragon pero may paliwanag sa anak kasi ayun yung natutunan nung lumaki ako. 
(I often feel like a dragon, not because I want to be fearsome to my children, but because I need to explain my behavior to others who may not understand. While I may come across as strict or tough, I've learned that it's important to provide my child with context and explanations about my choices, much like how I was taught when I was growing up.)

"Dati nagawa ko patulan si Katie, pero narealize ko na hindi siya pwedeng ganun. Ang kanya mas more on tinatanggalan ko siya ng gadget or bawal siya manood ng TV kung ano yung mga gusto niya gawin aalisin ko, sabihin ko one week siya grounded. Mas sumunsunod siya sa ganun. (I used to be able to beat Katie, but I've realized that she can be more stubborn than I thought. She's more compliant when I take away her gadgets or prevent her from watching TV — things she really enjoys. When I impose these restrictions, I tell her she's grounded for a week. She tends to follow my rules more closely when I do that)," Katrina added.

The celebrity mother openly shared that having a child on the autism spectrum made her change her approach to discipline.

"Mali rin talaga na nagsasakitan kaming dalawa tapos siya nagiging wild siya, grabe yung tantrums niya kasi may ASD siya kaya hindi ko siya pwede patulan. Kaya mas effective talaga for me is yung alisin yung mga gusto niya gawin. (It’s really unfair that we both end up hurt and then she becomes unruly. Her tantrums are difficult to manage because she has ASD, so I can’t resort to hitting her. Instead, it’s more effective for me to take away the things she wants to do)," Katrina shared.  

Although she was strict with her daughter, Katrina observed that such situations rarely occur. 

Katrina's relationship with mom

Katrina acknowledged that she has had a complicated relationship with her mother since childhood.

"Simula bata talaga ako, hindi ako okay sa mama ko kasi masyado siyang strict, so during that time laging akong umaalis hindi ko siya pinakikinggan. Pero mahal niya ako, syempre nung nag anak ako dun ko narealize na pagmamahal pala yun. (Since I was very young, I struggled with my relationship with my mom because she was quite strict. During that time, I often ignored her and walked away. However, I now understand that her actions came from love. When I became a parent myself, I truly realized what love really means)," Katrina shared.

The cast of 'Mommy Dearest' 

Ever since Katrina became a mom, the relationship between her and her mother has grown and matured.

"Ngayon sobrang okay na kami simula nung nagka anak ako, dati talaga inisip ko na hindi na kami magbabati, siguro kapag matanda na lang ako. Pero ngayon lola na siya dun na siya nabawi sa pagiging spoiled sa kanila. (Now we've been doing very well since I had a child. I used to think that we wouldn't be okay, maybe when I was old. But now she's a grandmother, and she's the one spoiling her grandkids)," she said. 

Prepare to witness an out-of-the-box story about family, mother’s love, and self-discovery that is sure to keep the viewers on the edge of their seats in “Mommy Dearest.”

The series is headlined by "StarStruck" alumni who are now some of the brightest stars in the industry–Katrina Halili, Dion Ignacio, and Shayne Sava–and award-winning actress Camille Prats in her first-ever villain role.  

Also joining the cast are Winwyn Marquez, Prince Carlos, Mel Martinez, Riel Lomadilla, Viveika Ravanes, and Ms. Amy Austria.

Directed by Ralfh Manuel Malabunga, "Mommy Dearest" is produced by the GMA Entertainment Group, headed by Senior Vice President Lilybeth G. Rasonable, Vice President for Drama Cheryl Ching-Sy, Assistant Vice President for Drama Ali Nokom-Dedicatoria, Program Manager Arnel T. Nacario, Executive Producer James Ryan Manabat.

The show’s creative team consists of Creative Director Aloy Adlawan, Senior Creative Consultant Kit Villanueva-Zapata, Head Writer Brylle Tabora, Writers Luningning Interino-Ribay, Jimuel Dela Cruz, and Brainstormers Patrick Ilagan, Carlo Ventura.

Catch “Mommy Dearest” beginning Feb. 24, Mondays to Fridays, at 3:20 p.m. on GMA Afternoon Prime and Kapuso Stream.

Bianca Umali on sharing a scene with Nora Aunor: 'It was magical'

BY CARISSA ALCANTARA

Feb 10, 2025 04:26 PM

  

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Bianca Umali 

Bianca Umali couldn't help but smile as she recalled one of the many memorable moments she shared with the one and only Superstar Nora Aunor on the set of ''Mananambal."

During a media conference held at Viva Cafe last Feb. 6, Bianca related how "magical" it was filming their final scene together.

"I was very nervous to do that scene and it was one of those days na kaming dalawa [Nora] lang po yung magkasama nun on set. It was not a comfortable situation to be in pero being there with her and seeing her acting as if she was as young as she used to be, it was magical," Bianca said. 

She added, "Ayun yung sinasabi ko na masterclass because I dream of being like that."

Apparently, Bianca wants to be an inspiration to others very much like Nora.

"No matter how cruel this world is you hold on to what you love doing and you do it to inspire people and to be kinder to the people around you," Biance said.

Bianca also shared how she learned to trust her co-actors through Nora. 

"The level of kung paano po siya magtiwala sa mga katrabaho niya, regardless kung ano po ang posisyon. Isa po kasi yun sa mga learnings ko as one of the new generation of actors dito po sa industriya, kung gaano po kahalaga ang healthy and collaborative working environment and isa po yun sa nakita ko kay Ate Guy," Bianca mentioned.

"Mananambal" follows a group of ambitious content creators in search of Lucia (Aunor), the “mananambal” whose extraordinary healing powers have recently gone viral. 

Their pursuit leads them to Alma (Umali), Lucia’s strong-willed daughter, who refuses to follow her mother’s path and is eager to live life on her own terms. 

The group’s persistence to use Alma as their way to Lucia crosses dangerous lines, leaving Alma broken and betrayed.

Upon returning to Manila, the content creators find themselves engulfed in a nightmare of inexplicable and horrifying events, with death relentlessly chasing them.

Directed by Adolfo Alix Jr, the riveting new horror masterpiece also stars Kelvin Miranda, Edgar Allan Guzman, Jeric Gonzales, and Martin Escudero. 

It hits cinemas nationwide on February 19.

Soul siren Nina: Love really matters

BY CARISSA ALCANTARA

Jan 29, 2025 08:53 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Despite the changing sound of music in this generation, Nina stated that every day is a learning process for her, not only in music but also in personal growth.

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Soul siren Nina (Facebook) 

With the romantic season fast approaching, Asia's beloved Diamond Soul Siren, Nina, is gearing up for an enchanting evening of heartfelt melodies at her highly anticipated concert titled "Love Matters." 

Set to take place at New Frontier Theater in Araneta City on Feb. 7, the show promises to celebrate love through various timeless and contemporary love songs. 

Fans can look forward to an exciting atmosphere where Nina will sing with a soulful voice. She will share stories about love and passion, encouraging everyone to feel the emotions that come with love.

During a recent Zoom interview, Nina radiated enthusiasm as she spoke about the upcoming event where she would perform several of her beloved classic hits. 

She explained the careful preparations she was doing, like listening to the original recordings again to capture the essence of each song.

Nina was excited about the performance and shared her plans to connect with fans. She wanted to make the event a special experience for everyone involved.

"I always look forward to my concerts because of the audience's enthusiasm for the classic songs I will be performing. At the same time, I’ll be introducing some new songs from emerging artists, which adds an exciting element to the experience." Nina said. 

The singer also mentioned her experience working with John Prats for the third time.

"Direk John is so easy to work with kasi he works around the creativity of the artist. Kumbaga hindi siya 'Ako lang, my own, my own.' Tatanungin ka niya, 'Gusto mo ba ito? Mayroon akong isu-suggest sa 'yo pero if you're not comfortable with it, let me know. (Director John is so easy to work with because he works around the creativity of the artist. He's not 'Just me, my own, my own.' He will ask you, 'Do you like this? I have something to suggest to you, but if you're not comfortable with it, let me know)," Nina added.

Nina also ensured that the audience would still feel the intimate vibes of her songs while performing in a big venue.

"Trying to talk to the audience, first of all. And siguro, the songs I chose for my concert, are so personal to me. And I think they are also personal to the audience. And I'm just singing songs I know I like and songs I know the audience will like. That, for me, is something," Nina shared.

"Love really matters because it brings kindness and selflessness. Love is everywhere," Nina said about why love is important to her. "Love is always important; hate doesn't matter. Happiness and positivity are present when there is love."

Love for fans and music 

Having been in the music scene for a long time, Nina shared that there was a period when she felt she had lost her opportunity. However, with the support of her fans and the magic of singing, she took a leap of faith.

"It's always for the audience and the fans. I always say this. There's so much magic when I sing on stage, and I see the faces of the people in the audience and the reactions and, even after the show, your comments. I want to share the music and, you know, make them happy with my music," she said.

Despite the changing sound of music in this generation, Nina stated that every day is a learning process for her, not only in music but also in personal growth.

"I try to stay true to myself. I put a modern touch on my music. I won't stop learning new songs, music techniques, and whatnot," said Nina.

Many Filipino celebs are devotees of Jesus Nazareno

BY CARISSA ALCANTARA

Jan 8, 2025 05:44 PM 

Every January, hundreds of thousands of people from various backgrounds gather to see the ebony statue of Jesus Nazareno.

Among the devotees are several well-known personalities from the entertainment industry. As the image of Jesus Nazareno celebrates its 419th year, these celebrities, each with their unique stories of devotion, provide insight into how the Nazareno has influenced their lives.

Former vice president and veteran news anchor Noli De Castro.

Noli De Castro

Former vice president and veteran news anchor Noli de Castro, 75, believes that the Jesus Nazareno intentionally guided him in his journey of faith. Since his college days, Mr. De Castro had a habit of making a quick trip to Quiapo Church and saying his prayers.

For many years, during the Traslacion, he actively participated in the procession, carrying the image of the Nazareno and offering prayers for his intentions.

Although he has not joined the procession in recent years, Noli shows his devotion through his reporting of the live happenings of the parade at the Quiapo Church.

Kapamilya actress-singer Angeline Quinto.

Angeline Quinto

Spending her childhood in the bustling streets of Sampaloc, Manila, Kapamilya actress-singer Angeline Quinto, 35, grew up with the tradition of participating by carrying an image of Jesus Nazareno during the procession to Quiapo Church together with her adoptive mother, Sylvia Quinto, whom she lovingly calls Mama Bob.

“Nag-start siya kasi lumaki po ako sa Sampaloc. Ang Mama Bob ko at yung buong street namin sa Marzan, may imahe po kami na every year dinadala sa Quiapo Church (It started because I grew up in Sampaloc. My Mama Bob and our entire street in Marzan, have an image that is brought to Quiapo Church every year),” Angeline recalled in an interview.

Angeline won in 2011 on ABS-CBN’s “Star Power: Search for the Next Female Pop Superstar,” marking the beginnings of her beautiful journey through singing.

“Every Friday and Sunday, andoon po ako sa Quiapo nagdadasal. Bago ako sumali sa Star Power, dasal ko talaga magkaroon ng regular na trabaho sa pagkanta. Nag-try lang ako, hindi ko in-expect na magtutuloy-tuloy. Alam ko po na galing sa Kanya (Every Friday and Sunday, I would be in Quiapo praying. Before I joined Star Power, I really wished to have a regular singing job. I just tried, I didn’t expect it to continue. I know it’s from Him),” she said.

'Batang Quiapo' Actor-Director Coco Martin.

Coco Martin

Coco Martin, 43, also known as “Batang Quiapo” is another example of a Jesus Nazareno devotee. Since 2007, Coco has participated in the procession of Jesus Nazareno, asking for guidance and blessings. 

As a testament to his deep devotion, Coco received blessings and recognition when he started to make a name in the entertainment industry. It can be recalled that during the last Jesus Nazareno celebration, Coco did an actual scene at the parade filming for his series “FPJ’s Ang Batang Quiapo.”

“Walang hanggang pasasalamat sa Poong Jesus Nazareno sa lubos na biyaya, pagmamahal, at paggabay sa akin at sa aking pamilya. Higit pa sa hiniling ko ang binigay Niyo sa akin (Eternal gratitude to the Lord Jesus Nazareno for the grace, love, and guidance for me and my family. You gave me more than I asked for),” Coco wrote in an Instagram post.

Sam Versoza

Sam Versoza

Growing up on the streets of Sampaloc, Sam Versoza is affectionately referred to as “Batang Sampaloc” in his hometown. Since the Feast of the Jesus Nazarene is widely observed annually throughout the City of Manila, it is not new to him.

It was in 2009 when he first participated in the procession of the Jesus Nazareno. Since then, Sam worked hard to give his family the life they deserve.
Sam is known as one of the co-founders of a successful marketing company in the Philippines, he also gives back to his community through various outreach programs.

As part of the devotion, Sam walks the streets of Manila barefoot along with the other devotees during Traslacion.
One of the biggest influences for his unwavering faith in the Lord was his late father, Samuel Verzosa Sr.

Actor Mccoy De Leon

McCoy De Leon

Actor Mccoy De Leon, 29, is another devotee of the Jesus Nazareno who actively participates with his family. His devotion has been credited for his being blessed with a good career in showbiz, and building a family with Elise Joson.

McCoy introduced the tradition to his daughter Felize with the chant, “Viva Nazareno!”

On Instagram, De Leon shared his gratitude:

“Nasaan na siya (Poong Nazareno)?

“Yan ang linya lagi para makita mo siya at nung oras na nakita ko siya’t mahawakan ulit matapos ng maraming taon, wala ako masabi kundi ‘Salamat Poong Nazareno.’ Tanging nasa isip ko lang nung kaharap ko siya ang mga mahal ko sa buhay at ang pamilya ko (That’s the line you say to see Him and when I saw Him and held Him again after many years, I couldn’t say anything but ‘Thank you Jesus Nazareno.’ My only thoughts while I was facing him were my loved ones and my family).”

“Sa mga kapatid ko na deboto saludo ako sa tindi ng pananampalataya niyo, walang nagbabago. Viva Poong Nazareno (To my devoted brothers and sisters, I salute the intensity of your faith, nothing has changed. Viva Lord Nazarene)!”

Fashion Designer Renee Salud

Renee Salud

Renee Salud, 77, a well-known fashion designer, attributes his perseverance and ultimate success in life to his faith in the Jesus Nazareno.

“Parang may feeling ka na nandiyan Siya palagi at ibibigay Niya sa’yo,” Salud said, recalling how he would visit Quiapo Church every Friday to give thanks (You have this feeling that He is always there and He will give you what you ask).”

Rene also recalled how he used to go to Quiapo Church on his knees as a gesture of faith and devotion.

Comedienne-host Giselle Sanchez

Giselle Sanchez

Comedienne-host Giselle Sanchez, 49, has been a devotee of Jesus Nazareno for more than 15 years. In an interview with TV5, Giselle said that she was an accidental devotee at first.

“Parang pumasok ang Holy Spirit sa akin. Nakaramdam ako ng kagalingan (It was like the Holy Spirit came to me. I felt well),” Giselle said.

In a 2016 interview, Sanchez said she recovered from an illness after praying to Jesus Nazareno in 2009.