Regine Velasquez admits singing is harder at 56: 'It's not like before anymore'

By Neil Ramos

Published Sep 25, 2026 07:53 pm

At A Glance

• Regine Velasquez opens up about the changes in her voice and the challenges of staging major concerts as she prepares for "FINALE," her final major solo concert series.   

For Regine Velasquez-Alcasid, “FINALE” does not mean she is saying goodbye to music.

It does, however, mark the end of an era.

After four decades in the OPM industry, Asia’s Songbird is ready to scale back on the kind of massive concert productions that have long been part of her career.

But is it really a finale for her?

“Yes and no. For major concerts yes, but I'm not going to stop performing altogether. I will still perform siguro sa mga smaller, intimate venues,” she said.

The decision comes as Velasquez acknowledges that staging huge concerts has become more demanding, especially with the preparation and physical pressure that come with each production.

“More than anything, I can't handle na talaga yung pressure na mag-stage ng huge concerts because of everything that comes with it, you know, what it entails. Mahaba ang preparation kasi kailangan bongga diba, it will eat up too much of my time, my schedule, and it's hard because I'm also a mom and wife.”

Age has also changed the way she approaches performing.

“I am not the same singer that I used to be like 10, 20 years ago. Kasi may mga pagbabago as you age talaga. But don't get me wrong. I could still sing. It's just that, it's not like before anymore.”

Her decision comes after years of demanding performances, including periods when health problems forced her to slow down.

In 2012, she lost her voice during her “Silver” 25th anniversary concert at the Mall of Asia Arena after coming down with a viral infection, forcing her to cut the show short.

The following year, she took a one-month break from television and live performances to address acid reflux, which she believed had also contributed to the problems with her voice. Doctors advised vocal rest and discussed treatment options with her.

She has continued performing through the years, but the demands of mounting major concerts have changed.

Still, the decision to stage one more major concert proved that the audience remains eager to see her on a big stage.

“Yeah, I was mildly surprised kasi ang bilis, I mean, alam ko naman bebenta pero hindi ganoon kabilis na in a matter of minutes, sold out na.”

The sold-out shows will also give Velasquez a chance to thank the audience that has followed her career.

“This concert is not a farewell, it's a thank you concert. It's for all those that supported and loved me through the years, I just want to show my appreciation by giving them a huge concert.”

Fans can also expect plenty of singing, but not necessarily the elaborate stunts she used to do.

“Naku, hindi ko na kaya,” she said laughing. “I've done that already and you know, I can't do na mga buwis-buhay na pasabog. But expect a whole lot of singing talaga.”

“Iba-iba ang setlist ko gabi-gabi,” she added.

Velasquez will stage “FINALE,” her final major solo concert series, on Oct. 17, 18, and 19, 2026, at 8 p.m. at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

SexBomb Girls feud? Aira Bermudez, Jopay Paguia break silence on Rochelle Pangilinan issue

 

By Neil Ramos

Published Sep 20, 2026 06:52 pm

Aira Bermudez defended SexBomb Girls leader Rochelle Pangilinan, while Jopay Paguia resurfaced an old interview denying any rivalry between them amid renewed talk of a rift within the iconic dance group.

The renewed talk of a supposed rift within the SexBomb Girls has drawn reactions from two of its members, Aira Bermudez and Jopay Paguia.

Aira came to the defense of their leader, Rochelle Pangilinan, while Jopay appeared to push back against the idea that there is a rivalry between them.

On Facebook, Aira shared an art card from the group’s recent guesting on “Fast Talk with Boy Abunda,” where they were asked what kind of leader Rochelle is.

“May mga taong ginagawang bossy ang pagiging matatag, at tinatawag na control freak ang pagiging deretso magsalita. But what they don’t see is the heart behind it all. Rochelle is the kind of leader who will always put the group’s growth above her own career,” Aira wrote.

She acknowledged that Rochelle can be strict, but said it comes from wanting the group to maintain a certain standard.

“Strict sya kasi mataas ang standards niya, and she pushes us to have this level of discipline so we can give our absolute best sa lahat ng naniniwala sa talent namin,” she said.

Aira also pointed to what she described as the sacrifices Rochelle has made for SexBomb.

“She just wants to share the blessings, wisdom, and success na pinaghirapan nya. People love to embrace the wins without seeing the silent sacrifices she makes to get us there and that’s okay,” she added.

“I know her heart, I see her hard work, at buong-buo ang respeto ko sa kanya. A true leader who carries us all with pure love.”

Jopay, meanwhile, chose a different way of addressing the issue.

Rather than make a new statement, she recently reshared a clip from her December 2025 appearance on “Toni Talks,” where she was joined by fellow SexBomb members Sunshine Garcia and Yvette Pabalan.

In the interview, Jopay was asked directly about the supposed rivalry between her and Rochelle.

“Wala po talagang issue sa amin,” she said.

Jopay admitted that disagreements happen, especially among members who have spent so many years together, but said these should not be mistaken for competition.

“Syempre kami sisterhood, may mga pagtatalo kami, may pag-aaway kami pero pagdating doon sa kung ano ‘yung sikat si Rochelle, sikat si Jopay, si ganyan, si ganito, pantay pantay kami e,” she said.

“Syempre ayun din ‘yung sinasabi namin na wala sa amin kung sikat ka or sumisikat ka, wala e.”

“Hindi malaki ang ulo namin.”

Their reactions come days after Rochelle herself addressed the talk surrounding the group, acknowledging that misunderstandings can happen among the members but stressing that these can be resolved if both sides want to make things right.

She also explained that getting the entire group together has become more difficult as the members now have families, businesses and individual careers.

CinePanalo 2026 lineup bets on unusual Filipino stories to bring audiences to cinemas

By Neil Ramos

Published Sep 18, 2026 12:50 pm 

A ghost comes back from the dead to confess his love.

A farmer and his carabao take a magical road trip to Manila.

A manicurista accidentally becomes a hitwoman.

A college student joins a pageant to figure out who she really is.

These are not exactly the movies audiences see every weekend at the mall.  

And that is what makes the latest CinePanalo lineup, ermm, intriguing.

The festival brings together 26 films spanning comedy, horror, romance, drama, coming-of-age stories and political satire. Some are tender, some are bizarre, and a few sound almost too strange to explain in one sentence.

But at a time when getting people to choose a Filipino film over everything else competing for their attention is a challenge, perhaps strange is not such a bad place to start.

Take “Multwoh (Patay Na Patay Sa’yo),” a supernatural queer comedy directed by Rodina Singh and starring Sassa Gurl and Joao Constancia.  

A college student dies suddenly, returns as a ghost and, instead of seeking revenge, comes back with one unfinished mission: finally saying “I love you.”

Then there’s “Beast,” directed by Lawrence Fajardo and starring John Arcilla, about a farmer and his loyal carabao embarking on a magical journey to Manila while chasing the ghost of a niece the years stole from him.

“Patay Gutom” puts Khalil Ramos, Ian Pangilinan, Agot Isidro and Cris Villanueva in a supernatural story involving a shut-in, a lonely ghost and an accidentally opened third eye.

Yes, a third eye.

“Stuck on You,” directed by Mikko Baldoza and starring Xyriel Manabat and River Joseph, follows a heartbroken manicurista who accidentally takes on a hitman’s job and finds herself caught in a deadly conspiracy.

Meanwhile, “Wantawsan,” directed by Joseph Abello and starring Joross Gamboa, Rita Daniela and Zion Cruz, follows a cash-strapped father whose encounter with a newly elected mayor sends him into an unexpected adventure.    

Mind, not everything is deliberately offbeat.

“Apol of My Ai,” directed by Thop Nazareno and starring Zanjoe Marudo, Zion Cruz and Rochelle Pangilinan, deals with first love, family and growing up.

“Mono No Aware,” directed by BC Amparado and starring Juan Karlos Labajo and Perry Dizon, follows a Filipino worker in Japan who meets an elderly widower asking him for one final favor.

The student shorts are equally adventurous, with stories about a queer archivist preserving memories of the Philippines’ first Pride March, a young lawyer searching for her estranged activist mother, a transgender student entering a campus pageant and a father fighting bureaucracy after his daughter’s death.

The bigger question is whether these unusual stories can translate into something every film festival ultimately needs: people actually showing up.

“Every film in this year’s CinePanalo carries the passion of its creators,” says Ivy-Hayagan Piedad, festival chair. “Giving these stories a platform where audiences can experience and celebrate them is our way of supporting Filipino artistry and contributing to the continued growth of Philippine cinema.”

CinePanalo is, in effect, making a case for Filipino movies by offering films that don't necessarily look like the usual multiplex fare. For audiences, that could mean discovering something they didn't know they wanted to see. For filmmakers, it means putting distinctly Filipino stories, including some wonderfully odd ones, on the big screen.

CinePanalo 2026 runs from Sept. 23 to Oct. 4 at Gateway Cineplex 18, TriNoma, Fairview Terraces, Ayala Malls Feliz, Ayala Malls Circuit, Ayala Malls Manila Bay and Market! Market!

The festival is spearheaded by Puregold. 

Pinoys shine at 2026 Emmys

By Neil Ramos

Published Sep 15, 2026 07:50 pm

Filipino talents Isa Briones and Lena Hall were among the stars at the 2026 Emmys, highlighting the growing Filipino presence in Hollywood.

Filipino talent had a notable presence at the 2026 Emmy Awards, with several Filipino and Filipino-American stars among the guests at television’s biggest night Monday (U.S. time).

For Isa Briones, the celebration came with a major win. “The Pitt,” the medical drama in which she stars, took home best drama series for the second consecutive year.

The Emmy win also gave Briones a platform to talk about the real-world issue at the heart of the series: healthcare.

In remarks to ABS-CBN News, the Filipino-American actress called access to healthcare “a human issue,” urging audiences to look beyond the politics surrounding it.

“The Pitt” follows the people working inside a Pittsburgh emergency department and the patients who come through its doors.

Lena Hall, meanwhile, brought a more personal Filipino connection to the Emmy night.

The “Your Friends & Neighbors” actress, whose real name is Celina Consuela Gabriella Carvajal, gave a shoutout to her family in the Philippines.

“I want to meet you one day, the Carvajals,” she said, according to ABS-CBN News.

Briones and Hall are just two of the Filipino talents making their mark in Hollywood, where Filipino representation has become increasingly visible in recent years.

Michelle Dee, Rhian Ramos score legal win as Makati prosecutor dismisses complaints

By Neil Ramos 

Published Sep 15, 2026 10:06 am

At A Glance

• Michelle Dee, Rhian Ramos, and Samantha Panlilio are no longer facing complaints for alleged physical abuse and unlawful detention after the Makati City Prosecutor's Office found insufficient evidence to support the cases.

The Makati City Prosecutor’s Office has thrown out the complaints filed against Michelle Dee, Rhian Ramos, and Samantha Panlilio over allegations of physical abuse and unlawful detention.

The dismissal was based on insufficient evidence, according to the prosecutor’s resolution dated Sept. 1.

The complaints were filed by a man identified as alias “Totoy,” who accused the three celebrities of slight physical injuries, maltreatment, and unlawful arrest.  

Among his allegations was that he had been kept inside a condominium unit against his will. The prosecutor, however, found that Totoy failed to establish that he had been forced to remain there.

The dispute dates back to January, when Totoy accused Michelle, Rhian, and Samantha of assaulting and mistreating him. He also alleged that the incident was connected to an “angpao” he had reportedly taken, which was said to contain private and sensitive photographs.

The three celebrities have denied the allegations.

The latest development does not end the legal dispute between the parties. Separate complaints involving theft and perjury filed by Michelle and Rhian against Totoy remain pending.  

Meanwhile, the group assisting Totoy has indicated that it intends to challenge the prosecutor’s dismissal.

'Filipiñana' to represent PH at 2027 Oscars

By Neil Ramos

Rafael Manuel’s feature film “Filipiñana” has been selected as the Philippines’ official entry for the 2027 Academy Awards, where it will compete in the Best International Feature Film category.

Rafael Manuel’s feature film “Filipiñana” has been selected as the Philippines’ official entry for the 2027 Academy Awards, where it will compete in the Best International Feature Film category.

The Film Academy of the Philippines (FAP) announced the decision of its National Selection Committee on September 13, choosing “Filipiñana” from a field of eight shortlisted Philippine films.

The other shortlisted titles were “58th,” “All the Things I Leave You (Patawid),” “I’mPerfect,” “Manila’s Finest,” “Quezon,” “Silenced Nights,” and “Sisa.”

“Filipiñana” is an expansion of Manuel’s award-winning short film of the same name. The feature centers on Isabel, played by Jorrybel Agoto, who works as a tee girl at an exclusive country club.

The film uses the country-club setting to explore issues involving social class, power and labor. Its story also examines the relationships between people occupying very different positions within an unequal social environment.

Much of the story unfolds during a single day at the country club, where Isabel gradually encounters the tensions and hidden histories beneath its privileged surroundings.

No Philippine film has yet received a nomination in the Academy’s International Feature Film category.

“Magellan,” the Philippines’ previous submission, was regarded as a particularly strong contender for advancing to the Academy’s first cut.

Being designated as the Philippines’ official submission does not guarantee “Filipiñana” a place on the shortlist or among the eventual nominees. The film will have to advance through the Academy’s selection process before it can compete for an Oscar nomination.

Barbie Forteza gets gloriously messy in 'Saving Cherry'

 

By Neil Ramos

Published Sep 3, 2026 05:16 pm

At A Glance

• Barbie Forteza takes on her boldest role yet in "Saving Cherry," a raunchy sex-dramedy that lets her swear, tackle sexual situations and showcase a wider emotional range.  or years, Barbie Forteza has been the kind of actress you could almost imagine having a “good girl” clause in her contracts.

Her roles have generally been wholesome. The language is clean. Sexual innuendo? Rarely, if ever. So, there is something genuinely amusing about watching Forteza in “Saving Cherry,” a Regal Entertainment sex-dramedy, and seeing her throw much of that image out the window.

Well, almost.  

There is no nudity here, but Forteza swears, gets herself into increasingly ridiculous sexual situations and even does an orgasm scene. For an actress whose screen persona has been closely associated with propriety, this is quite a detour.

Her fans don't seem to mind.

Some of them watched the movie with us and were more than happy to cheer Forteza on from the get-go. There was no shock. If anything, they seemed pleased to see their favorite actress taking on something this different.

“Saving Cherry,” however, isn't simply about a good girl getting naughty.  

Cherry is a bride-to-be who has some very traditional ideas about being a woman, particularly the notion of saving herself for the man she intends to marry.

That's about where the traditional part ends.

She is otherwise a modern woman, a go-getter with dreams, passions and plans of her own. She is also stubborn and, at times, pretty self-centered.

An injury ends her career as a track athlete, followed by the death of her mother. Cherry loses herself and leaves, supposedly to figure things out. Josh, the boyfriend she leaves behind, is left hanging.

Years later, Cherry decides to come back and pick up where they left off. She agrees to marry Josh, only to discover him with another woman on their wedding night.

Cherry goes berserk.

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She cannot accept what has happened and wants revenge. Her solution is to sleep with another man, partly to spite her husband and partly because, well, this is a sex comedy.

Her friends, played by Mikee Quintos, Mika Salamanca, AC Bonifacio and Sassa Gurl, are more than willing to help.

The result is a series of increasingly absurd situations that turn Cherry's heartbreak into a running joke.

And it works.

The language is unrestrained, the mood is loose, and the movie is comfortable with its own silliness.

The sexual jokes come fast, but it doesn't feel like the movie is trying too hard to shock. Sex is simply part of the comedy and, in this case, the source of quite a few laughs.

Forteza carries it.

She gets to play furious, pathetic, horny, funny and vulnerable, sometimes within the same scene. There is one moment when she packs so much emotion into a single expression that you are reminded just how much acting she has had to leave on the table in some of those good-girl roles.

The supporting cast is good, too. Quintos, Salamanca, Bonifacio and Sassa Gurl, as well as Khalil Ramos, Joey Marquez and Kokoy de Santos, all know what they are there to do, and they do it well.

If you're into raunchy comedy, lots of swearing and a heroine who can be messy, impulsive, this one should work for you.

It isn't high art.

It's a good time.

Now in theaters.

BINI, HANA, 4EVE unite for 'Asia Pop Girl Fest 2027'

 By Neil Ramos

Published Aug 29, 2026 03:42 pm

Girl groups BINI of the Philippines, HANA of Japan and 4EVE of Thailand are coming together for “Asia Pop Girl Fest 2027,” a three-city concert series bringing the three acts to Japan, Thailand and the Philippines.

The shows will kick off at LaLa arena TOKYO-BAY in Chiba on Jan. 22 and 23, 2027, followed by a Feb. 13 show at BITEC Live in Bangkok.

The series will make its way to Manila on Feb. 19 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Each group will perform its own set, with the concert also featuring special stages that bring the three acts together.

HANA, 4EVE and BINI have each built strong followings in their respective countries while expanding their presence across Asia, making the concert series a rare meeting of three rising girl groups from different Asian pop scenes.

Ticket details and further information on the Bangkok and Manila shows will be announced at a later date.

Katrina Llegado comes home a winner after years of chasing the crown

 

Katrina Llegado returns to the Philippines as Miss Supranational 2026 after winning the international crown in Poland on July 31.

By Neil Ramos

Published Aug 28, 2026 06:54 pm

The newly crowned Miss Supranational 2026 arrived in Manila on August 27 and was welcomed by supporters and representatives of the Miss Philippines Organization.

Llegado’s Miss Supranational victory was her first major international pageant win.

She represented the Philippines at Reina Hispanoamericana 2019 in Bolivia, where she finished as Quinta Finalista, or fifth runner-up.

She later returned to national competition and placed in the Top 6 of Miss Universe Philippines 2025.

Llegado became only the second Filipina to win the Miss Supranational title, following Mutya Datul, who captured the crown in 2013.

During her arrival in Manila, Llegado thanked Filipino supporters who followed the competition and stayed up to watch her.

“Sa lahat ng sumuporta po, maraming maraming salamat! I wouldn’t be here without you guys. Maraming maraming salamat sa pagpupuyat at walang sawang suporta. Finally, nakamit na po natin ang korona,” she said.

“This is all for you and I’m so, so happy to celebrate this with you,” she added.

Llegado said she was still adjusting to the reality of winning the international title.

“It feels surreal. Hindi pa din po ako makapaniwala, and it’s a dream come true. And now it’s a reality, and now I’m so happy. Thank you so much,” she said.

Her homecoming activities will include various appearances and celebrations until September 7.

A homecoming parade is also expected to be held for the beauty queen.

Fyang Smith in hot water anew following Star Magic All-Star Games remarks

By Neil Ramos

Published Aug 25, 2026 06:50 pm

At A Glance

• Fyang Smith draws criticism after her remarks toward fans cheering for Team GMMTV Thailand during the Star Magic All-Star Games 2026 sparked backlash online.

Fyang Smith is facing another round of criticism after videos of her remarks during the Star Magic All-Star Games 2026 drew backlash from Filipino and Thai BL fans online.

The controversy happened during the Aug. 23 basketball game between Team Star Magic and Team GMMTV Thailand at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Despite the game being held in Manila, Team GMMTV had a strong following in the arena, with Filipino fans loudly cheering for the Thai stars.  

That did not appear to sit well with Fyang.

During a courtside interview with JM Ibarra, Fyang was asked to greet the crowd.

She initially refused, saying, “Ayoko! Sa ibang bansa nagtsi-cheer yang mga yan.”

After eventually greeting the audience, she turned toward the crowd as fans screamed and remarked, “Ang kakapal ng mukha niyo, ha!”

Later, while JM was being asked about the game, Fyang again reacted to the noise from the GMMTV supporters.

“Ang ingay niyo, teka lang! Ano ba kayo?! Grabe kayo. Hindi niyo man lang tsini-cheer yung bansa natin,” she said.

Another circulating video showed Fyang reacting to a missed shot by one of the GMMTV players while fans of the Thai team were behind her.

She was heard calling them “traydor” and repeating, “Ang kakapal ng mukha niyo.”

The clips quickly made their way around social media, prompting criticism from fans who felt that Fyang had crossed the line between friendly sports banter and insulting people who had paid to watch and support the team they wanted.

Some questioned why Filipino fans should be expected to support the Philippine team simply because the game was held in the country.

Others, however, defended Fyang, saying her remarks appeared to be part of the usual teasing and trash talk that happen during competitive games.

The incident has once again put Fyang under scrutiny, recalling previous occasions when her blunt remarks and behavior became subjects of online debate.

Queen of the Islands stirs curiosity with star-studded lineup

By Neil Ramos

Published Aug 25, 2026 04:21 pm   

It is easy to see why people are curious.

Among those reportedly joining are Miss Universe Philippines titleholders Ahtisa Manalo, Michelle Dee, MJ Lastimosa, Ariella Arida, and Gazini Ganados.  

Other beauty queens in the mix include Herlene Budol, Yllana Aduana, Tarah Valencia, and Alethea Ambrosio.

PBB Collab alumni Shuvee Etrata and AZ Martinez are also set to return to the pageant scene, putting the two in another beauty contest where they will once again face each other.

Fans are also looking forward to seeing Sanya Lopez, dubbed the “hot Maria Clara,” and Faith da Silva, known for her role as “Sang'gre Flamarra.”

Other Sparkle artists joining the lineup include Ashley Ortega, Skye Chua, Haley Dizon, Jade Tecson, and many more.   

With such a curious mix of names, questions have naturally followed.

Is “Queen of the Islands” a real beauty pageant? A reality show? A movie?

For now, the mystery appears to be part of the attraction.

The intrigue is only heightened by the announced P25 million grand prize and the long list of sponsors backing the competition.

Whatever “Queen of the Islands” turns out to be, one thing is already certain: people are watching and waiting to find out who will ultimately be crowned.

Angelica Hart does an Azi Acosta, says goodbye to nudity

 

By Neil Ramos

Published Aug 23, 2026 02:28 pm

Angelica Hart says she is moving away from roles that require nudity, while clarifying that she is not giving up sexy roles altogether.

Another VMX star is saying no to nude roles.

Actress Angelica Hart, who made a name for herself disrobing in a number of VMX films, is now turning down roles that require nudity.

She said so during a recent appearance on “Fast Talk with Boy Abunda.”

Not that she would ever stop doing sexy roles.

“Maybe I can be a sexy comedienne or a sexy action star,” she said.

Her statement comes after fellow VMX actress Azi Acosta earlier announced that she was leaving sexy films behind.

It remains to be seen if Hart will stick to her pronouncement.

She currently appears on TV via the series “Taskforce Firewall.”

Meanwhile, when asked if, like most sexy stars, she had also received so-called indecent proposals, the sweet, innocent-looking nymphet answered in the affirmative, relating how some of these offers can involve millions of pesos.

There are also times, she said, when the person making the offer would tell her that he is willing to spend “kahit magkano” to be with her.

She maintained she didn't bite.

She went on to say that she is hurt by rumors claiming that she accepts such offers.

Pops Fernandez and the art of staying power

 

By Neil Ramos

Published Aug 22, 2026 12:30 pm

In an industry where last week’s sensation can quickly become this week’s has-been, longevity is not easy.

The question is always there when you enter show business: How long can you last?

And once you have lasted, how do you keep going when there is always someone new waiting to take your place?   

Pops Fernandez has been in Philippine show business for 40 years. 

Four decades in show business is a long time by any measure. Pops has seen trends come and go, watched new stars arrive and, at certain points, stepped away from the spotlight herself.

So what is the secret?

“I really don’t know. Maybe there’s a formula but I don’t know,” she said.  

Pops does have one thing figured out, though. She does not put too much pressure on herself.

“I think the reason I’ve managed to stay this long is I don’t pressure myself. But I’m quite aware of what’s happening and what’s in. I’m aware that there will always be someone new. Those are the realities of the business.”

She has also never been afraid to disappear for a while.

“I just consider myself blessed because sometimes I’d disappear for a while. And when I feel like doing a concert again, I’d resurface and, thank God, tinatanggap pa din ako ng tao.”

She is returning to the stage on Nov. 26 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater for a concert.

The show comes just weeks before her 60th birthday on Dec. 12. It will bring together music, memories and special guests.  

But for all the talk about age and four decades in show business, Pops is not treating the concert like a look back at everything she has done.

She is still very much interested in what happens when she gets onstage.

“Every performance is different. You can be singing the same songs, but it’s never the same. The viewers are different, they react differently.”

And for Pops, one thing remains non-negotiable.

“Lip-syncing is a big no-no for me.”

She wants the performance to be live. She wants to hear the audience and feel their reaction. That is part of what keeps performing interesting for her.

Se is turning 60, but Pops does not sound like someone particularly bothered by the number.

“Age is really just a number. It's how you feel about yourself. It's how you take care of yourself,” she said.

“And I never felt young the way I feel now.”

And that is what makes this stage of her career interesting. Pops is not trying to convince anyone that she is still the same performer she was decades ago.

She has changed. The industry has changed, too, and so has her audience.

But she still loves being onstage.

“I will keep doing it for as long as I can,” she said.

For her upcoming concert, Homer Flores is handling the musical arrangements, while Calvin Neria oversees the creative direction and stage presentation.

The concert is produced through the collaboration of DSL, EchoJham and Nexus Collaboration.

Tickets and inquiries are available through Gretch at 0932 404 9551.  

Jennylyn Mercado on returning to music: 'It's in my DNA'

By Neil Ramos

Published Aug 20, 2026 06:53 pm

At A Glance

• Jennylyn Mercado returns to music with "Jen Deluxe," opening up about her first love, her family, and why she chose to put her singing career on hold.

Jennylyn Mercado may have built a successful career as an actress, but she still wants to be known as a singer.

“Kasi nasa DNA ko na siya,” she told us. “Music is my first love and siguro, kahit saan ako dalhin ng kapalaran, I will always return to music. Ito ako e, ito ang passion ko.”

Long before she became an actress, Jennylyn was already singing in lounges and bars.  

“Parang sa pamilya kasi namin hindi puwede na hindi ka marunong kumanta,” she said.

She rose to fame after winning “StarStruck” in 2003. From there, she went on to become one of the country’s most successful actresses, starring in several hit films and series.

But she never really left music behind.

Jennylyn released several albums and scored hits including “Sa Aking Panaginip,” “Basta't Nandito Ka,” and “Kahit Sandali,” among many others.  

Then came a long lull.

It may have seemed like she was done with singing, until she announced “Jen Deluxe,” a new compilation under Star Music that will be released on streaming platforms on Aug. 21.

“Na-excite talaga ako dito kasi for the first time, hands-on talaga ako sa music ko,” she said. “Dati kasi yung process, pinapapili ka lang ng kanta then yung gusto mo, yun yung gagawin mo. With ‘Jen Deluxe,’ I was able to participate dun sa process, nakakatuwa.”

But why the long break?

“Naging busy rin talaga ako with so many things. Sunod-sunod ang naging trabaho and, of course, we got a new member of our family, Dylan. So, nag-focus ako sa family.”

“Para sa akin kasi ang music, gaya ng acting, andiyan yan e, puwede mong balikan. Pero yung panahon mo sa pamilya, lalo na sa mga bata, hindi mo na maibabalik yan e.”

Her family also became part of the inspiration for the new album.

“Because my new album is all about love, love for family, self-love, sa partner mo,” she said.

“Tsaka parang ano rin ito, reintroduction ko as a singer and performer na tipong ito na ako ngayon.”

For Jennylyn, music was never really something she left behind. It was simply something she knew she could return to when the time was right.

That time, it seems, is now.

Joy Barcoma closes door on pageantry

 

By Neil Ramos

Published Aug 20, 2026 10:20 am

Joy Barcoma says she has no plans to join another beauty pageant after her Miss Earth Philippines 2025 reign, choosing to focus on hosting and her career.

Joy Barcoma is officially closing the door on competitive pageantry.

The former Miss Earth Philippines 2025 titleholder said she has no plans to join another beauty pageant following her reign, choosing instead to focus on the opportunities she has found outside the pageant world.

“Wala na, tapos na ako sa pageantry. Ayoko na,” she told media during a recent gathering.  

As to her advocacies, she said, “E, feeling ko nagagawa ko naman na siya kahit outside pageantry.”

“Tsaka, okay na ako doon sa Miss Earth Philippines crown ko,” she added.

She expressed gratitude for the opportunities that came her way following her pageant journey, saying she is happy with where she currently is professionally.

“Very grateful na ako for all the opportunities. The doors that opened for me, even the windows, kung mayroon mang nagbukas.”

Barcoma added:

“Sobrang happy na ako doon. And I feel like I’m living the best life ngayon.”

Her decision to stay away from pageantry appears firm.

“Thankful na ako, kaya ayoko nang bumalik sa pageantry. Mag-host na lang ako.”

When asked what could convince her to compete again, Barcoma initially joked: “Siguro kung may million na prize.”

Maui Taylor on the Viva HotBabes being compared to the SexBomb Girls: 'It's inevitable'

 Maui Taylor isn't surprised that the Viva Hot Babes' upcoming reunion concert is being compared to the recent comeback of the SexBomb Girls.

By Neil Ramos

Published Aug 20, 2026 09:33 am

says comparisons between the Viva Hot Babes and SexBomb Girls are inevitable as the group prepares for its highly anticipated reunion concert on October 23.

The Viva Hot Babes are set to reunite onstage for “Bulaklak: Viva Hot Babes Reunion” on October 23 at the New Frontier Theater.

The reunion comes after the highly successful comeback of the SexBomb Girls, which has since generated attention from fans around the world.   

When asked if she was bothered by the inevitable comparisons, Taylor shrugged.

“Hindi mawawala comparison,” she told us.

She also acknowledged that the success of the SexBomb Girls' reunion helped inspire the Viva Hot Babes to mount their own comeback.

But Taylor made it clear that there is no competition between the two groups, noting that they are all friends.

According to the actress, members of the SexBomb Girls even reached out to congratulate them after learning about their reunion plans.

“The SB group, they are good friends of everyone. So when they found out, they sent a congratulations,” Taylor said.

She stressed that the Viva Hot Babes' October concert will have an identity of its own.

“The SexBomb Girls did their thing to make their fans happy, and we want to do something like that as well. But, of course, ours will be different from their show.”

For Taylor, the reunion isn't simply about recreating the group's past popularity. It is an opportunity for the members to look back on their shared experiences and celebrate the bond they have maintained through the years.

“It is not an ordinary concert. We want to celebrate our history, our friendship.”

Third date added to Regine Velasquez's 'FINALE' concert series amid overwhelming demand

 

By Neil Ramos

Published Aug 16, 2026 05:57 pm

More fans will get a chance to see Regine Velasquez celebrate 40 years in the music industry after a third date was added to her “FINALE” concert this October.

The additional show will be held October 19 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Tickets for the new date will go on sale on August 30, 6 p.m. through SM Tickets outlets and the official SM Tickets website.  

The third show comes after an overwhelming response to the first two concert dates.

Note the second “FINALE” show sold out in just nine minutes. 

Meanwhile, tickets for the October 17 show were gone within 45 minutes.

The strong demand prompted the addition of the October 19 performance. 

“FINALE” will feature Paolo Valenciano as stage director and Raul Mitra as musical director.

The concert is part of a celebration of Velasquez’s 40-year career.

Her upcoming documentary, “SONGBIRD,” will also give fans a closer look at her life, career and preparations for the milestone concert.

It is scheduled for release next year.

Glaiza de Castro gets emotional remembering the late Ricky Davao at '58th' screening

 

By Neil Ramos

Published Aug 15, 2026 02:00 pm

At A Glance

• Glaiza de Castro gets emotional while remembering late actor Ricky Davao after the Philippine premiere of "58th" at Cinemalaya.

Glaiza de Castro was visibly holding back tears as she talked about Ricky Davao after the special screening of “58th” at Cinemalaya Thursday night.

The actress had just watched the film with us at Shangri-La Plaza in Mandaluyong City, and she was beaming as she shared how proud she was to be part of such a meaningful project.

But when the questions turned to Davao, the night became personal for her.  

Davao plays her father in the film, but their relationship went beyond what viewers will see on screen.

“Lagi kong naaalala sa kanya, he’s just so jolly sa set,” De Castro told us.

She smiled as she recalled how they worked together on “58th” while also doing “Encantadia Chronicles: Sang'gre” and “Sinagtala.”

At one point, she even teased him about taking on so much work.

“Direk, ang sipag mo naman, parang lahat na ginawa mo,” she recalled telling Davao.

Then there's the belt.

Davao had given her one while they were shooting “58th,” showing her how to use it to secure her lapel microphone. It was something he had picked up from his theater experience.

She eventually misplaced it.

But when she finally found it again, it was also when she learned that Davao had passed away.

Davao died on May 1, 2025 at 63 after battling cancer.

De Castro also shared what Davao's daughter, Rikkie Mae, told her.  

She said De Castro was one of her father's favorite actors to work with.

That was when the actress started getting emotional.

“Naiiyak ako kasi special sa akin si Direk Ricky,” she said, noting how Davao had been her director in "Grazilda," her first  titular lead role.

“Naging director ko rin siya sa ‘Sang'gre,’” she said.

“Hindi lang siya co-actor for me, siguro siya yung natuturing kong tatay sa showbiz.”

It was ironic, considering that Davao's final screen role was that of her character's father.

In “58th,” Davao plays Reynaldo “Bebot” Momay, a photojournalist who was among those killed in the 2009 Maguindanao massacre.

His remains were never found.

His daughter, Reynafe, played by De Castro, continues the fight to have him recognized as the 58th victim.

The film has already been screened abroad, including at the International Film Festival Rotterdam and Doc Edge in New Zealand.

But De Castro had been waiting for the film to finally be shown in the Philippines.

“It’s different when it’s shown here in the Philippines. The impact is different,” she said.

“58th” is not an easy story.

The Nov. 23, 2009 massacre claimed 58 lives, including 32 journalists. But because Momay's remains were never recovered, only 57 victims were included in the court's murder convictions.

That is where the film gets its title.

De Castro knows some people may find the subject difficult to watch, but she believes that is also why it needs to be seen.

“I know it’s not a light story, but it’s one of those stories that we shouldn’t forget,” she said.

She is particularly proud that the film can introduce the tragedy to a new generation.

“I’m proud to have been part of it and to be able to share with the new generation what happened.”

“I know na telling this story served its purpose at bilang isang aktor, isa yun sa mga goals ko na makapagsabi rin kung ano yung totoo,” she added.

That is what made the Cinemalaya screening different for De Castro.

She was there to celebrate “58th” finally being shown to Filipino audiences, but she was also watching the final screen performance of someone she considered more than a co-star.

Someone she called her “tatay sa showbiz.”