


This might not be the typical expat blog, written by a German expat, living in the Philippines since 1999. It's different. In English and in German. Check it out! Enjoy reading! Dies mag' nun wirklich nicht der typische Auswandererblog eines Deutschen auf den Philippinen sein. Er soll etwas anders sein. In Englisch und in Deutsch! Viel Spass beim Lesen!













OPM icon Louie Reyes, who was a member of the popular '70s vocal group The New Minstrels, has passed away.
Louie's demise was confirmed by her husband, Cesar dela Fuente, in one of the tribute posts for the Filipino jazz singer.
"Today I lost the love of my life," wrote Cesar on Oct. 26. The cause of Louie's death was not disclosed. No interment details for Louie have been announced.
Following her death, colleagues in the entertainment industry — Odette Quesada, Ivy Violan, and Leah Navarro — offered condolences and prayers.
Singer-songwriter Odette Quesada wrote on Facebook, "Bodjie and Iran into Louie Reyes at IKEA in Burbank, California, 24 years ago. She had heard that we had recently relocated to Los Angeles and welcomed us with open arms, telling us to call if we ever needed anything.
"Through the years, we saw Louie Reyes and her husband, Cesar, at every Filipino event in L.A. and grew a kinship most musicians have with each other, born of mutual respect and camaraderie.
"She was always so encouraging, always so gracious, always so kind. Louie Reyes,you will always be missed. My condolences to your family and friends," Odette said.
Lea Salonga and child Nic Chien (Instagram)
By Robert Requintina
Published Jul 3, 2025 08:27 am
Filipino Broadway star Lea Salonga will be honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in the US in 2026.
This is the first time a Filipino celebrity will receive a star on the famous landmark in California since the first star was installed in 1960.
Lea, 54, is one of two stars from live theater who will be honored in the coming year. The other one is Gabriel 'Fluffy' Iglesias.
Her remarkable career began when she was cast in the hit musical 'Miss Saigon,' which was performed in the West End and on Broadway. At just 17 years old, she won the auditions for the award-winning show. Since then, she has appeared in various other musicals and television series abroad.
Lea has received a Tony Award and a Laurence Olivier Award. She has been nominated for the Grammy Awards. In 2011, Lea was honored as a Disney Legend.
Aside from Lea, other stars are also scheduled to be honored in the coming year, according to the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, as announced during a press conference on July 2.
Other awardees include Demi Moore, Molly Ringwald, Miley Cyrus, Timothée Chalamet, Air Supply, Emily Blunt, Gordon Ramsay, and Shaquille O'Neal.
The honorees were chosen by the Walk of Fame selection panel from the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, which received “hundreds” of nominations during a meeting on June 20. These selections were ratified by the Chamber’s board of directors on June 25.
“We are excited to announce the newest selections of 35 esteemed individuals who will be enshrined on the Walk of Fame as part of the prestigious Class of 2026,” Peter Roth, former CEO of Warner Bros. Television and chairman of the Walk of Fame selection committee, said in a statement. “These talented individuals have made significant contributions to the world of entertainment, and we are thrilled to honor them with this well-deserved recognition.”
Dates for these star ceremonies have not been scheduled yet. Recipients have two years from the date of selection to schedule star ceremonies before they expire.
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is located on the blocks of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street in Los Angeles, California. The embedded stars in the sidewalks are made up of terrazzo and brass.
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."
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"
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.

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

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."
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.

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.