Fearless forecast: Viva Entertainment's Vic del Rosario says Jayda will be a big multimedia star

 

By Robert Requintina

Published May 30, 2025 07:34 am

Jayda Avanzado, the talented daughter of OPM icons Dingdong Avanzado and Jessa Zaragoza, radiated happiness on May 27 as Viva Artist Agency officially signed her during a grand media conference held at Viva Cafe in Araneta City.

What excited Jayda the most was the presence of Viva Boss Vic del Rosario at the launch. Boss Vic is known in the entertainment industry for rarely attending showbiz events.

Boss Vic supported Jayda and delivered a brief speech for the young star, who looked surprised by his impromptu talk. Jayda was on stage while Boss Vic was accompanied by other Viva officials who sat with the audience and members of the entertainment media.

The full speech of Boss Vic to Jayda:

"Jayda, welcome to Viva!

"Ngayon lang uli makikisama ang Viva sa isang record company. Ang Universal (Record) is the biggest musical label in the world. It's a privilege to partner with them. (This is the first time Viva will partner with a record company. Universal (Record) is the biggest musical label in the world. It's a privilege to partner with them.)

"Ako ay natutuwa na pumayag silang maka-partner ang isang local company. Sixty years na kami rito pero magsasama kami for the first time because of you. (I'm glad they agreed to partner with a local company. We've been here for 60 years, but we're coming together for the first time because of you.)

"Matagal ko ng gusto si Jayda bata pa. Sabi ko sa magulang niya sana pag nag dalaga na makuha na namin. Pero I waited for 12 years. First time ko siyang nakita mga nine years old. Sabi ko gusto ko man lang siyang mahawakan bago ako mag retire. (I've known Jayda for a long time, ever since she was little. I told her parents that when she got older, we could sign her. I waited for 12 years to make that happen. The first time I saw her was when she was about nine years old, and I expressed my desire to sign her before I retired.)

"Kapag magaling na singer at babae, magaan ang loob ko na tulungan. Palagay ko marami kaming magagawa like Sharon (Cuneta), Donna Cruz, Regine Velasquez, and Sarah Geronimo. (When a woman sings well, I feel we can help her. I believe we can nurture Jayda into an artist like Sharon Cuneta, Donna Cruz, Regine Velasquez, or Sarah Geronimo.)

"Jayda will be a big star. Ang interest ng Viva sa kanya is beyond her voice. I feel she will be a multimedia star."Viva will be using Jayda as an actress, host, and probably she'll get endorsements in the future. So congratulations, Jayda. Salamat sa press, sa pagpunta ninyo.

"The reason I am here is because I believe in Jayda," the Viva boss said.

Turning 22 on June 1, Jayda said she was so grateful for Boss Vic's inspiring words. Reacting to the statement of the Viva executive, Jayda said, "I feel so blessed in this position right now to be working with Viva. Thank you so much, Boss Vic, and to my Viva family."

Jayda is ready to begin a new chapter, having joined the Viva family. Together with Universal Music Group (UMG) Philippines, Jayda enters a publishing and recording contract with Viva Records, as well as a co-management contract with VAA (Viva Artists Agency) for potential movies, series, and brand deals.

She launched her showbiz and music career in 2017. She has since then worked with brands, she released her debut EP "In My Room" (June 2018), became a regular on ASAP, and held her first major digital solo concert entitled "Jayda in Concert.

Following this milestone, Jayda released more music between 2021 and 2024, including “No Way But Up,” which served as the official soundtrack for the TV series Teen Clash—a show that also marked her acting debut—and “Right Lover, Wrong Time,” which she co-wrote with her father, Dingdong.

In 2023, Jayda also signed with Republic Records Philippines, a subsidiary of UMG Philippines. Jayda’s passion for music has earned her notable accolades early in her career, including Best Female Recording Artist at the 32nd Awit Awards in 2019 and Female Pop Artist of the Year at the 13th PMPC Star Awards for Music in 2022 for her song “Sana Tayo Na."

When asked about her first project for Viva, Jayda said: "This early I can't reveal too much, but I am excited for the adaptations of the young adult series. I am looking forward to it. I'm just over the moon because I can come back to acting." With hints that acting would be her first project, Jayda also said: "Potentially."

Jayda also revealed her birthday wish. She said: "Growth sa aking career. I am excited about the partnership of UMG and Viva with me. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I hope that this partnership bears fruit. I wish for more success and experiences to learn."

'As the Moth Flies' director Gayle Oblea dedicates victory to people who suffer in silence

 

By Robert Requintina

Published May 28, 2025 07:15 am

Director Gayle Oblea holds the trophies won by the short film 'As the Moth Flies' at the inaugural Famas Short Film Festival held in Greenhills, San Juan, recently. (Facebook)

"As the Moth Flies," a movie about mental illness, recently won big at the first Famas Short Film Festival 2025 in Greenhills.

The film received accolades for Best Picture, Best Actress, Mina Cruz, and Best Editing, Gaylde Oblea, and Noah del Rosario.

Gayle, writer and director for "As the Moth Flies," accepted the trophy for Best Picture during the award ceremony. She dedicated her victory to people who suffer in silence.

"'As the Moth Flies' was born from a place we spent years running from. In making it, we were forced to face every buried fear, every unspoken wound, every inner demon I thought I had silenced. And through that confrontation, we found something greater than healing—we found purpose," said Gayle as she received the award.

Gayle added: "This film is not just a story. It’s a bridge. A bridge for those who suffer in silence and those who’ve never understood what that silence feels like. Because cinema has the power to do what words alone cannot— it makes people think.

"This award is not just a celebration. It’s a responsibility. A reminder that storytelling is a calling — and that films shouldn’t just be made to entertain. It should be a medium to inspire and open topics that people fear discussing.

"Getting this award, we promise to continue to create films that make people feel. Because feeling is where understanding begins. And understanding is where the stigma ends.

"To my team who stood by me, who believed in this vision even when it was heavy — thank you. You reminded me that filmmaking isn’t just about talent. It’s about trust. It’s about courage. It’s about community.

"To the cast, Boo (Gabunada), Mina (Cruz), and Tito Epy (Quizon) who believed in this story— thank you for holding this vision with me. You didn’t just help make a film. You helped build a movement.

"To my producers, Rav and Happy, thank you for believing in this film and standing with me like brothers. You carried this vision with strength, faith, and loyalty through every high and heartbreak. I couldn’t have done this without you.

"And to my boy and the rest who see the world differently. Who feels the world differently? I dedicate this to you, and I hope this serves as a reminder that our compassion, imagination, and sensitivity are not weaknesses — they are superpowers.

"Above all, I dedicate this award to God, who authored this story long before I could write it," said Gayle.

Mina could not attend the ceremony but thanked the award-giving body in a post on social media. 

"It is humbling to be nominated alongside Ms. Via Antonio, Ms. Irma Adlawan, Ms. Sherry Lara, the young actresses Ms. Maricar Bojos, and Ms. Juvy Ann Clarito, who also directed her film.

"I hope more people get to see our work and appreciate that as actors, we continue to nurture our skills, and we work just as hard," Mina said.

The 1st Famas Short Film Festival, organized by the Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences and presented by REMS Entertainment, was officially launched by festival director Gabby Ramos and FAMAS president Francia Conrado.

Gabby created the short film festival because he believes that short filmmakers will be the next generation of Filipino cinema filmmakers.

The complete list of winners:

Best Picture: "As The Moth Flies"

Best Actress: Mina Cruz (As The Moth Flies)

Best Actor: Soliman Cruz (Ang Huling Liham)

Best Child Performer/Actor: Earl Quintana (Parapo)

Best Director: Jhonny Bobier (Parapo)

Best Screenplay: "Kita Mo 'To?'

Best Cinematography: "Parapo"

Best Editing: "As The Moth Flies"

Best Music & Sound Design: "Kiyaw"

Best Production Design: "One Day, Three Autumns"

Best Advocacy Film: "Hello, Mr. Jenkins" and "Benepisyo"

Best Regional Film: "Pagtaghoy sa Hangin"

Best Documentary Film: "No Man Left Behind"

Actor Ricky Davao passes away at 63

BY ROBERT REQUINTINA

May 2, 2025 07:11 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• News about his death made the rounds on social mediaon May 1. But it was only on May 2 that his family confirmed his death.

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Ricky Davao

Award-winning actor Ricky Davao, who was Frederick Charles Caballes Davao in real life, has passed away at the age of 63.

Newbie actress Ara Davao, daughter of Ricky, confirmed his demise in a statement issued on May 2. The full announcement: 

"It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Ricky Davao. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by his children and loved ones, after bravely facing complications related to cancer.

"For more than four decades, he dedicated his life to the craft of acting and directing. His remarkable body of work and award-winning performances have left a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire. Most of all he was a loving father, brother, son, and friend.

"We are deeply grateful for your prayers, love, and kind messages during this difficult time. Details about his memorial service will be shared soon," Ara wrote.

News about his death made the rounds on social media on May 1. But it was only on May 2 that his family confirmed his death.

The full statement: 

On March 25, Ara Davao, Ricky's daughter, said his father was recovering and resting. She did not elaborate.

Born on March 23, 1961, Ricky, son of legendary actor Charlie Davao, started in showbiz as a member of the famous dance group the Vicor Dancers. Then he became a theater actor before appearing in TV series and movies.

In 1989, Ricky married actress Jackie Lou Blanco. They have three children Arabella, Rikki Mae, and Kenneth. But they separated. 

Last April 12, Ricky's mother-in-law, Asia's Queen of Songs Pilita Corrales passed away.

Ricky was last seen in the movies Sosyal Climbers and Sinagtala. His last television stint was for the "Love Before Sunrise" series in 2023. 

The actor was supposed to appear in the much-awaited fantasy series "Encantadia Chronicles: Sang'gre" scheduled to be shown in June.

Kyline Alcantara breaks silence on controversy

BY ROBERT REQUINTINA

Apr 29, 2025 11:03 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Kyline addressed the controversythrough a statement released by Sparkle GMA Artist Center on April 29.

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Kyline Alcantara (Instagram)

Kapuso star Kyline Alcantara has broken her silence on the issue involving her former boyfriend, Kobe Paras.

Kyline addressed the controversy through a statement released by Sparkle GMA Artist Center on April 29.

No specific names or events were mentioned in the statement, but fans believe it referred to her recent breakup with Kobe. 

Jackie Forster has confirmed the breakup of her son Kobe with Kyline in a video message. 

The full statement of Kyline issued via the Sparkle GMA Artist Center:

"Kyline would like to move on with this issue. She has chosen to keep her peace and maintain respect for the people who have been part of her life. She hopes we can all move on and put this issue to rest," the statement read.

Fans praised Kyline for choosing to remain silent. Here are some of the comments:

"Enjoy life being single. No stress, no drama."

"Good move Kyline. Less talk less mistake. There’s no perfect relationship. Past relationships can make you a stronger woman. Just focus on your goal. Pray and wait for God’s perfect choice for you. Don’t be in a hurry. Great revenge is be better and love yourself. God bless you."

"Indeed, you're handling this situation with professionalism and class! Keep moving forward!"

"She handled it very well than the two adults."

"I'm so proud of you talaga Kyline. Stay healthy and positive lang."

Christopher De Leon pays last respects to ex-wife Nora Aunor at Heritage Park in Taguig City

BY ROBERT REQUINTINA

Apr 19, 2025 09:12 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Boyet was accompanied by his wife, actress Sandy Andolong. He was greeted by his son, Kristoffer Ian De Leon, whom he had with Nora. Ian is the only child of Boyet and Nora. 

Actor Christopher De Leon (right), accompanied by his son Ian De Leon, at the wake of National Artist and Superstar Nora Aunor at Heritage Park in Taguig City on April 18.

It was an emotional moment for award-winning actor Christopher "Boyet" De Leon, who paid his final respects to his ex-wife, National Artist and Superstar Nora Aunor, at the Heritage Park in Taguig City on April 18.

In an exclusive video shared by pep.ph, Boyet was accompanied by his wife, actress Sandy Andolong. He was greeted by his son, Kristoffer Ian De Leon, whom he had with Nora. Ian is the only child of Boyet and Nora. 

The adopted children of Nora and Boyet are Lotlot De Leon, Matet De Leon, Kiko Villamayor, and Kenneth Villamayor.

Nora and Boyet married in 1975. Later, they separated. Their marriage was annulled in 1996. 

Sandy and Boyet tied the knot in 2001. Nora was in a relationship with actor-musician John Rendez when she passed on.

Nora passed away on April 16, 2025. She was 71. Ian said her mother died from acute repiratory failure. 

The award-winning actress will be laid to rest at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City on Tuesday, April 22 followimg a state funeral.

Superstar Nora Aunor passes away at 71

BY ROBERT REQUINTINA

Apr 16, 2025 11:28 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Nora was last seen in the horror movie "Mananambal," produced by Viva Films. However, she was unable to promote the film. 

Nora Aunor

National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Nora Aunor, beloved singer and actress, has passed away. She was 71.

Nora's son actor Kristoffer Ian De Leon confirmed this sad news in a post on Facebook on April 16. Ate Guy is the mother of actors Lotlot De Leon and Matet De Leon.

"We love you Mom..God knows how much we love you.. Rest now, Ma... You are just here in our hearts and minds," Ian initially wrote on Facebook. 

Then Ian made a formal announcement of his mother's death.

"With deep sorrow and heavy hearts, we share the passing of our beloved mother, Nora C. Villamayor 'Nora Aunor' who left us on today April 16, 2025 at the age of 71.

"She was the heart of our family — a source of unconditional love, strength, and warmth. Her kindness, wisdom, and beautiful spirit touched everyone who knew her. She will be missed beyond words and remembered forever.

"Details to be announced tomorrow."

One of the stars who mourned Nora's death was her showbiz rival Star for All Seasons Vilma Santos-Recto. On social media, Ate Vi wrote: "Our sincerest condolences and prayers. Rest in peace, mare. Ms Nora Aunor! Our Superstar and National Artist ... Maraming salamat!"

Her passing sent shockwaves through the Philippine movie industry, which is still mourning the death of Asia's Queen of Songs, Pilita Corrales, last April 12.

Nora was last seen in the horror movie "Mananambal," produced by Viva Films. However, she was unable to promote the film. Only the younger cast members—Bianca Umali, Kelvin Miranda, Jeric Gonzales, EA Guzman, and Martin Escudero — handled the film's promotion. Prior to this, Nora also starred in the drama "Piyeta," directed by Adolf Alix Jr.

She was taking another shot at politics when she decided to run as nominee of the People's Champ Guardians Party-list for the mid-term elections. But she backed out.

'Namatay na ako eh'

In an interview in August 2023, Nora stated she was healthy, although she admitted to regretting her past smoking habit. "Okay naman ako."

"Naabuso ko noon ang sarili ko. Kaya kayo huwag kayong maninigarilyo," said Nora, adding that she became more health conscious now. (I used to abuse myself. So don't smoke.)

The one and only superstar added: "Hindi na talaga ako naninigarilyo. Namatay na ako eh. Ang laki ng pasasalamat ko andito pa ako. Palagay ko may misyon pa ako sa buhay. Marami pa tayong pasasayahin na tao. (I don't smoke anymore. I was dead. I'm so thankful I'm still here. I still have a mission in life. We'll make a lot of people happy.)"

In the past, doctors advised Nora to quit smoking after she was hospitalized due to difficulty in breathing.

Born in Iriga, Camarines Sur on May 21, 1953, Nora whose real name is Nora Villamayor rose to fame when she won the grand finals of Tawag Ng Tanghalan in 1967. 

Aside from being a recording artist, Nora also became one of the most awarded actresses in Philippine cinema, having appeared in critically acclaimed movies such as "Himala," "Bona," "The Flor Contemplacion Story," "Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos," "And God Smiled At Me," "Bulaklak Sa City Jail," "Thy Womb," and more.

Following years of being nominated, Nora was finally declared one of the new National Artists for 2022.

Nora is the recipient of the prestigious honor for film and broadcast arts, along with screenwriter-novelist Ricardo "Ricky" Lee, and the late movie director Marilou Diaz Abaya.

She conquered the stage, performing in two major productions of the Philippine  Educational Theater Association (PETA).  

In 1992, Nora was elevated to the FAMAS Hall of Fame. She was given the FAP Lifetime  Achievement Award the following year. And in 1999, she was one of the recipients of the  Centennial Honors for the Arts, given by the Cultural Center of the Philippines to 100  Filipinos who have made significant contributions to culture and the arts in the 20th century.   

In November 2012, she won the coveted Best Actress Award from 6th Asia Pacific Screen  Award, and consequently became the first Filipino actor to be inducted as a member of Asia Pacific Screen Academy. She also won Best Actress at the 7th Asian Film Awards.  

Q&A: Miss Universe Philippines Ifugao 2025 Valerie West

BY ROBERT REQUINTINA

Apr 13, 2025 03:47 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• With determination coursing through her veins, she now proudly represents the picturesque Ifugao region in the prestigious Miss Universe Philippines pageant. 

Miss Universe Philippines Ifugao 2025 Valerie West

Valerie West, a vibrant 22-year-old freshly minted EMT from the bustling streets of New York, has embarked on an exhilarating journey that seems straight out of a fairy tale. 

With determination coursing through her veins, she now proudly represents the picturesque Ifugao region in the prestigious Miss Universe Philippines pageant. 

Her story is one of passion and resilience. She balances the demanding life of an emergency medical technician with the glitz and glamour of pageantry, captivating everyone with her spirit and strength. 

Valeria has her advocacy through the PUSO Foundation, founded by Robert Banez in 2017. Through various platforms, the foundation has the "purposeful unconditional service to others” in underserved communities in seven countries. 

“Through my partnership with PUSO, I spread the message of ‘paying it forward,’ and advocate for the importance of service work, especially amongst younger individuals. Through small and large acts of kindness and involvement in one's community, kindness multiplies, and lives can be changed globally. The message is simple: Give a little, change a lot!”

During a recent interview with entertainment media in Quezon City, Valerie enthusiastically answered questions related to pageants, her celebrity crush, and even politics.

Three things you will bring to a deserted island?

"I have to bring sunscreen. I am half-American, and I burn easily. I learned that lesson in Northern Samar and Boracay so that I will bring sunscreen. Second, I need first aid. I need to be prepared. Third, I'll get a firestarter because how will I survive without one?"

A moment in time you want to revisit?

"I would go back to the beginning of the pandemic. That's a weird answer because the world shut down on my 18th birthday that weekend. I was in a weird place because I was graduating that year. I was looking at a lot of things. And it was easy for many people to understand that the world was ending. But, there were many opportunities during the pandemic to explore and develop yourself. I will go back to that time and have a different mindset and be more positive about the future because many things are around the corner, especially If I knew I was competing in Miss Universe Philippines now, I think I would have been more positive and excited about what I could do in my free time leading up to the pageant."

The sexiest man alive?

"This one's hard. My first Filipino celebrity crush was Daniel Padilla. I'll say that for now. But there are many sexy men and women alive."

What is your message to President Marcos?

"You need to be a representation of your people. Listen. Any leader should be able to listen to the ones in need of the people they represent. So I recommend your genuine leader be an open and honest leader and a true representation of your people."

Famous person she wishes to help?

"This one is hard. None come to mind, but I think as a pageant queen, a leader in the community, or anybody famous or not who needs help and inspiration, I am willing to lend an ear. I am willing to help in any way I can to benefit and boost society."

Stars come out for ABS-CBN Ball 2025

BY ROBERT REQUINTINA

Apr 5, 2025 11:43 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Experience the magic of Filipino storytelling and see your favorite Kapamilya stars in their red-carpet looks by tuning in on ABS-CBN Entertainment’s YouTube channel, iWantTFC, and TFC-IPTV. Catch the replays on Metro Channel starting April 6 and on Kapamilya Channel and TFC-IPTV beginning April 13.

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Coco Martin and Julia Montes

It was a night of 100 celebrities or even more. Imagine a gathering of stars all in one place, and it felt like a big celebration of talent and fun.

The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as actors, musicians, and very important persons (VIPs) mingled and shared laughs. Everyone was dressed to impress, from stunning gowns to stylish tuxedos, creating a vibrant and glamorous vibe. It was one of those nights where everyone was having a great time, making it truly unforgettable. 

Stars and VIPs walked the red carpet at Solaire North in Quezon City on April 4. The ABS-CBN Ball, previously known as the Star Magic Ball, started in 2007 and has become one of the most anticipated events in the entertainment industry. 

This year, ABS-CBN celebrates the power of Filipino storytelling at the much-awaited "ABS-CBN Ball 2025: Brighter Together" by paying tribute to the stories that inspire, entertain, and uplift while reflecting the lives, hopes, and dreams of Filipinos worldwide.

Aside from honoring the stars and people who bring these stories to life, the ABS-CBN Ball also shines a spotlight on the dedicated individuals behind the scenes—employees and creatives—whose passion and talent help elevate Filipino storytelling, and industry partners—networks, digital platforms, and advertisers—who help bring meaningful stories to more audiences worldwide.

This year’s ball is an event with a cause: a portion of the proceeds will support the ABS-CBN Foundation’s programs.

Experience the magic of Filipino storytelling and see your favorite Kapamilya stars in their red-carpet looks by tuning in on ABS-CBN Entertainment’s YouTube channel, iWantTFC, and TFC-IPTV. Catch the replays on Metro Channel starting April 6 and on Kapamilya Channel and TFC-IPTV beginning April 13.

Check out some of the eye-catching looks from the ABS-CBN Ball 2025 in these snaps shared by Nice Print Photography and ABS-CBN:

Jane De Leon

BINI Aiah

BINI Maloi

BINI Stacey

BINI Gwen

BINi Colet

BINI Sheena

BINI Mikha

BINI Jhoanna

Janine Gutierrez

Andrea Bautista

Anne Curtis-Smith

Rep. Arjo Atayde

Ashley Ortega and Mavy Legaspi

Chai Fonacier and Jake Cuenca

Charo Santos-Concio

Annette Gozon-Valdes (Instagram)

Sharon Cuneta and former Sen. Kiko Pangilinan (Instagram)

Daniel Padilla

Darren Espanto

Cassandra Danielle B. Ynares and mom Andrea Bautista. Cassandra is the granddaughter of former Rizal Governors Casimiro 'Ito' Ynares and Rebecca 'Nini' Ynares, and the niece of Senator Ramon 'Bong' Revilla Jr. Carrying on her family’s legacy of public service, Cassandra is a passionate advocate for youth development and welfare, with a special focus on children’s mental health. She is committed to creating supportive environments where young people can thrive emotionally and intellectually.

Dimples Romana

Dominic Roque and Sue Ramirez

Donny Pangilinan and Belle Mariano

Elisse Joson

Seth Fedelin and Francine Diaz

Fyang Smith and JM Ibarra

Gary V and Angeli Pangilinan

Gerald Anderson and Julia Barretto

Heart Evangelista

Ivana Alawi

Kaladkaren

Kathryn Bernardo

KD Estrada and Alexa Ilacad

Kim Chiu and Paolo Avelino

Kyle Echarri

Direk Lauren Dyogi

Lovi Poe

Maris Racal

Maymay Entrata

Melai Cantiveros

Nadine Lustre

Regine Velasquez and Ogie Alcasid

Piolo Pascual

Richard Gutierrez

Samantha Bernardo

Sofronio Vasquez

Vice Ganda

JhaiHo