Noontime shows have always been a staple in the Filipino culture. I have seen noontime shows come and go - some of them I appreciate (especially Lunch Date just because of Randy Santiago) and some of them I wrinkle my nose at (Wowowee). But they exist because there's a market.

Eat Bulaga is an institution in the noontime show niche. They've come a long way from being just a variety show. Although there are times that they leave a bad taste in my mouth (such as the innuendos JDL often gives) I still respect them because of the human stories they try to show the people. They help people who need it without exploiting them. Sometimes, they go a bit over the top with the drama but I understand it completely. After all, it's still television.

Now, although Willing Willie is not in the noontime show category, it does have the same formula as its predecessor did (Wowowee). They have the games, the mini variety show and the money that's being given away. People watch the show in the studio for a chance to get a spot at the games and bring home some money. Again, I understand that. who wouldn't want to bring home at least 5 thousand pesos just by jumping up and down the stage floor while having your 15 seconds of fame? Madaling trabaho nga naman.

You can make fun of them, poke fun at these contestants, have half naked women gyrate to every single drum and bass beat to the simple catchy tunes you play in the background. Hell, you can have your half hour to an hour's worth of tirade and phone calls to erstwhile friends on air - I really don't care. Sabi ko nga, kung sino ang may hawak ng mikropono ay siyang may kapangyarihan. That is, until the audio guy cuts your mike off. Hey, do whatever you want to do in the name of ratings and whatever justification you can conjure up. I just don't like it when you start bringing in kids into the mix.

I read somewhere that we are all judged as a civilization on how we treat the smallest of all creatures. We are judged on how we treat our children and all children for that matter. When you force a child who is CLEARLY uncomfortable with what he/she is doing, then no justification can ever suffice. You just end up looking like a bigger asshole than what you already are. When the production team behind the show allows this to happen to a child on live national television, no explanation can every justify the shameful act. When the network in which the show airs at keeps its silence about the matter and shrug it off as just "showbiz", it's downright criminal. You just taught a child the basics of prostitution - "Do this and you get money to bring home to your parents". Brilliant. absolutely brilliant. (In case you missed it, that was sarcastic)

What is MTRCB doing about this? Will the DSWD say anything? *scoff and sigh* Honga pala, money talks. Sorry, nakalimutan ko.

I'd rather be where I am - a D-list actress who takes taxis, buses and jeepneys; a support actress with no fanbase, but I'm good with myself in knowing that I treat EVERY SINGLE PERSON as a PERSON. Sa iyo na ang pera, endorsements, mansion at yacht mo. Di yan madadala sa afterlife at lalong di yan magiging batayan kung ikaw ba ay papasok sa Utopia.

Update: As of 5:11 PM, I have received this link that shows the full press release of DSWD regarding "Janjan", the 6 year old contestant on Willing Willie.

IMHO, they really should persecute to the full extent of the law - not just Willie but the staff, the producers and the station.

I got a new gig with the highest rating primetime soap, Magkaribal. Thank you so much Miss Ana And Vaughn for this opportunity. I really appreciate it.



I play a Divisoria girl who was asked to be a model for a high fashion show. Out of friendship and love for a former Divisoria girl herself (Gelai - Bea Alonzo's character), I and other women agree.

Things get a little awkward and laughable when you see the stark contrast of the two worlds. Though both in fashion, one caters to the opulent and high brow society while the other side is as raw and rough and ragged as can be.

Magkaribal stars Bea Alonzo, Gretchen Baretto, Angel Aquino and Derek Ramsey.

Somewhere along 7:09 is proof that I've worked with her. This is for the movie "Bulong" Starring her, Vhong Navarro and directed by Chito Rono.

Sometimes I find it amusing how people think that actors and actresses have it going. The big stars, yes...or maybe. But we who fall under the "support" or "minor" roles live as normally as you guys. Take for example last night: It was the 4th annual Star Magic Ball and all those who are under Star Magic were invited. I looked like this:

I had my make up, false lashes, and hair done. I was wearing a gown that the generous Julius Tarog lent me for the event. I wined, dined and chatted with some of the other stars in the industry and was indulged in some photographs.

And then, I went home and looked like this, surrounded by my captured fans who can't live without me - my children.

It's back to trying to stop world war 3 from erupting (which mostly involves me shouting at the boys to stop hitting each other even in jest, preventing a little brother from chopping the hair off his sister's favorite barbie and more), working on my website, trying to market myself and my website, checking the kids' homework, signing diaries and everything else in between.

Trust me, my life isn't glamorous but I'm still grateful. I'm grateful that I can attend these kinds of parties and be welcomed by friends and co-workers. I'm grateful that I have friends in the industry who'd lend me stuff. I'm grateful that I have some sort of anonymity that allows me to ride a trike or go to the palengke without being mobbed. I'm grateful that I have a job that allows me to do other things that I love.

So, I may not be a big star. I don't aspire to be. I'm happy where I am but I do welcome more projects and more shows. As long as I have my family right here at the crook of my arm or right beside me, I'm good.

So, Wowowee is gone. I almost breathed a sigh of relief but then held it again because the show's going to be replaced by a game show hosted by Kris Aquino. I immediately did a resounding facepalm.What we need is a noontime show that does not exploit the sad state of affairs the masses have. What we need is a show that is informative, helpful and is hosted by someone that does not have a voice affectation ( Di ba Bwoy?)



*Sigh* I guess it's a universal constant...

The official book launch will be in October.

***

I'm getting emotional and choked up just looking at it. It's a dummy copy but still - the feeling of having it in my hands and realizing the tangibility of my dreams just can't compare.

We'll be doing the rounds soon for promotion. The Universe and I are finally on the same page. Teeheehee...

That's Janna, my co-actor in the soap "Only You" (Weekdays at 8PM, right before "Tayong Dalawa" on ABSCBN) Yes, ladies and gents, I'm back in the acting circuit and I've just shot my first day's worth of scenes yesterday.

Honestly, I was nervous, excited and anxious. I've not done this in a long time and I was kind of scared to do so. What if they don't like me anymore? What if I can't act anymore? What if I mess up? What if I end up flat on my face. A lot of "what if" scenes were playing in my head like a fast forward scan on a DVD player.

Then, it was just like riding a bike. Issues and home front related stress notwithstanding, I did have fun yesterday. It was great! Like a breath of fresh air, like something in my blood stirred. Of course there were times when the director had to call my attention to get back on track with the character or to make modifications, but it's something that's normal. I've just met the character and I'm still groping to understand who she is. China - the character's name, is one fun personality. I've got to make sure I've got her down pat, for the next filming day.

Now, I was sharing the AC tent with the lead actors of the show (Angel Locsin and Sam Milby). A lot of people would be starstruck. I was, honestly, for a little bit. They're actually pretty decent and nice people. I don't want to pass any kind of judgment here so early on in the game but in my initial assessment, they're pretty nice and cool people.

You'd think I'd have my photo taken with them (knowing that I'm a closet fangirl at heart) but nooo...I, instead, chose to have my photo taken with Buttcheeks - Angel's dog.

He's a sweetheart! A cute fluffy dog with the personality of a diva cat! How amusing is that?

Soon, I'll have updates and photos worth looking at. For now, I'm enjoying the simple pleasures and joy of having a well meant kiss from a cute guy - Buttcheeks.

Women has always had it much worse than men. I mean, sure, getting kicked in the nads hurts more than getting punched in the boobs but try giving birth to a watermelon from your urethra, then we'll start talking.

This going back to the limelight business has gotten me panicky and a bit unsure of myself. I mean, it was a great idea in my head. Then again, my head is a very curious and dangerous place. First order of business was to "upgrade" my looks (or what's left of it). So, I chickened out for the first couple of weeks - sticking to my tried, tested and true fashion of looking like a demon slathered in classic rock and leather. Yeah... that's cool and all but not during the summer and not when you're trying to show people your depth and range as a person and an actor. Because, hello? Stereotyping and typecasting ring any bells? Inevitably, the wardrobe was the first to go.

I said a temporary farewell to my favorite red bomber leather jacket and my beige one too. I lovingly folded and tucked my Lynyrd Skynyrd, Pink Floyd, Led Zep and AC/DC shirts in the bottom section of my drawer (still visible when I open the said drawer, as I have separation anxiety issues). I buffed, polished and stored my grungy boots away, with a little sob and a small kiss. Then, the panic started. What in Middle Earth was I going to wear now? *Gasp* I have to wear colors...

The wardrobe done and though I will not verbally admit to it, I felt relieved and satiated over the clothes I must wear now. Nothing near the borders of slutty or trashy. It was classy and respectable, actually. Plus, the accessories are awesome. Next on the list was a freaking makeover.

***

I can pride myself with the knowledge of putting paint on. I think I'm okay with that department. But sweetie, make up is just one aspect of the spectrum. So, I went to the nearest beauty salon and gave myself to the hands of the neighborhood gayster.

"A trim, manicure, pedicure, foot spa, facial, waxing and threading." He said in one breath. Now I know how lab rats feel.

The trim and manicure were tolerable enough. The foot spa was heavenly. The pedicure, facial, waxing and threading were ascending degrees of pain respectively. I had a mantra in my head to keep me calm and sane (and to prevent me from ripping the gayster's head off with my bare hands) "There is no beauty if there is no pain..."

***

An hour and a half later, I felt I was duped. There is no beauty, only pain...

Man! All that freaking pain for nothing? I still look like me with less hair, less skin and the ends of me are glazed shiny!

It's got to look better with make up tomorrow or I'm most definitely pulling out that AC/DC tour shirt and my crappy holey jeans just to make a point.

Went to the launch of the new Tommy Hilfiger fragrance last night over at Ascend at Bonifacio High Street. The atmosphere was relaxed and everyone was having a great time.

Dawnde was a great "wingman" as he never left my side and made sure I was doing okay. (Love yah man)

I'm pretty sure I can get the hang of this...

I'm back in the game and it's going to be one tough climb (or crawl, whichever applies more appropriately) but I'm ready for it now.

Maybe it's experience, maybe it's something else completely but I think I get the mechanics now.

Now I gotta PR like crazy.

I want to tell y'all a secret.

I miss acting.

I get these episodes every now and then when I watch Filipino Films. I was watching an old Tommy Abuel movie last night (the title evades me) but I found these 70's films to be wonderfully campy! Why can't we find actors like that anymore?

I miss acting because I know I give a little bit more depth to characters than these one dimentional interpretations of the young ones. Gawd! Why can't we find characters that actually have freaking talent rather than just good looks?

Acting used to be a craft - an art that you nurture and feed. Kaya wala nang gustong maniwala sa mga ibang networks kasi puro itsura na lang ang binebenta nila. Nasaan na ang mga Cherie Gil ng mundo? Nasaan na ang ang susunod na Ray Ventura? Saan nagtatago ang mga Cherry Pie Picache ng Pilipinas??

Sabagay, may sala din naman ang mga manunulat at mga producers eh. They can't come up with films or shows that can actually showcase the talents (if any) of actors. Kungdi puro sigawan, dapat magaling humagulgol - yung tipong may sipon pang natulo. Kungdi puro kunot ng noo eh puro api-apihan ang drama. Puede bah?

Oo nga, fiction ang pinalalabas ninyo, but there has to be some form of truth into it di ba? The difference between reality and fiction is that fiction needs to be credible. Lagyan niyo naman ng konting realism.

Gael Garcia Bernal is going to shoot part of his new film here in Manila come December.

Can I just say, nakakainis?

I actually can pass for the requirements they're asking for. Kaya ito, kaso nga lang, WALA AKO DITO SA DECEMBER!!!! Hindot...

***

I swore off showbusiness, permanently.

I know it sounds fickle since I've been wanting to go back and when I was given a chance, I actually give it up in favor of the corporate world again.

I love acting. I love being on television and I do love the fact that my being a bitch is such a comic factor whilst in character. The sad part is, acting won't feed my children and won't give them baon.

***

I'm a very firm and avid believer of the saying "everything happens for a reason". And I know there's a reason somewhere in the midst of all this.

I just hope it doesn't suck.

Got another show for ABS-CBN! This time, it's a fantaserye (Fantasy Series) and I am a third of a group of evil witches!

Initially, I was apprehensive since there are certain stereotypes attached to the word"witch" - black clothes, pointy hat and a wart on an ultra bulbous nose comes to mind. However, I wanted to take the part just for my friends who are the producers of the show.

When I came in for the costume fitting, I immediately patted myself on the back for a good decision made. Can I just say... AYELAVIT!!!!

Prepare for laughter....

Define "stuck in the 80's"

We had our photo shoot and AVP shoot yesterday, so we had to don our full regala. The problem was, we got parched for coffee. Would you believe we trekked all the way to Starbucks in ELJ in these outfits? Don't believe me? I have proof!!

You should've seen the looks and repressed guffaws the people were giving us. We didn't care! It was a hoot!!!

You can take the chick away from rock but you can't take rock away from the chick. YEAH!!!
With Angelu de Leon and our Executive Producer, The one, the only.... Arnelli!!!

I love my hair now. I finally decided to fuck everything and have it fixed. Enter XS hair styling StudioThis beautiful salon sits in a nondescript area of Timog. Seated between David's Teahouse and a bank, you can hardly notice it's there. I believe that adds to the sophistication of the salon, it's like a delicious well kept secret where only the chosen few can go.


So far, they've had good reviews from me. The senior stylist, Mister Leonard, was friendly, courteous and knows what he was doing. The small talk was not superficial, and I felt that I was really being taken care of.

May, the junior stylist, I think is an empath because she talked when I felt like I needed to chat and shut up when I felt like I just wanted to be alone with my thoughts. I love her!

Plus, XS does boast of extra service (ergo XS). They provide you with drink (your choice of hot tea, iced tea, coffee and juice), a massage and excellent customer service.

This is not a paid ad! I just love this salon so much (and the people too!) You should really try it. I promise you an excellent time and a wonderful look.

Plus, smokers can rejoice because you can smoke in an area in the salon.

And having company isn't bad too. hehe... labya kuya ader

First taping day yesterday. Call time was at 6:30 am at Loyola Grand Villas. Nothing pretty exciting...hehehe..truth was, I was on set an hour and a half early. Di masyadong excited.

Early morning look. Complete with uniform

Pre wig face sans coffee.

Sige ate, i ayos mo ang wigwam

The finished product.

Walang pagbabago.

letche.

I've always told people that nothing is ever too lateuntil you say it is...

I have been thinking about what I really want in life. I mean, I want to be this and I want to be that. Realistically speaking, I can't really be a doctor now. Yet, I think about what I can still do.

I mean, there's supposed to be a shelf life to what your career should be, or as everyone says. But I've always told people that nothing is ever too late until you say it is, then it is too late. Why can't we start a career at 34? Most people in the US do that. Some women don't become parents until they're in their late 30's.

In a world where younger meat sells more and earns more... I will never get a leading role ever...

So, why can't I start my entertainment industry career at a ripe young age of 30 something? I think I've become more mature now, more patient (thanks to my kids) and more tolerant to other people's faults. I find some of them even endearing and entertaining.

Although, this is a gamble. In a world where younger meat sells more and earns more, I've become a character staple. I will never get a leading role in a movie nor in a soap. But then, you think about it and realize that even if your (non-existent) boobs sag, you will always have a role somewhere.

Hanging out in Talent Center

With Direk Trina Dayrit

With Direk Lyan Suiza

***

It's official.

I got a new soap.

It's the one with Sarah Geronimo and Jericho Rosales.

Of course, yaya na naman ako. However, I was touched when they said they couldn't find one actress the same caliber as mine.

I need exposure muna before I get other roles.

Dadating din yun.

For now, I am happy.

***

It was inevitable.

How can I teach my kids how to follow their dreams if I don't follow mine?