Regine and Ogie to welcome a baby boy

YAHOO - A proud father for the third time, Ogie Alcasid announced that his wife, Songbird Regine Velasquez has given birth to their firsborn son, Nathaniel James.

Ogie told Yahoo! Philippines OMG! that the birth of his son is a "blessing from God" hence the name Nathaniel "which means gift from God."

Asked what he felt when Regine gave birth, Ogie simply replied "blessed".

Ogie also said that "mom and baby are safe" and that Regine's delivery was through Caesarian section.

In his Twitter post on Tuesday night, November 8, Ogie revealed, "At 7:47pm nov 8,2011. God gave us Nathianel James. Thank you for the prayers. God bless you all!"

The couple was married last December 22, 2010 at a beach resort in Punta Fuego, Nasugbu Batangas.

Ogie added in a separate tweet that Regine fully completed her 36-week term of pregnancy.

Ogie has two daughters from his first marriage with former Miss Australia, Michelle Van Eimeren.

Leo Dominguez, Ogie's talent manager, told Yahoo! Philippines OMG! that Regine giving birth on November 8 "was unexpected." He said they thought "next week pa."

Leo said he was "happy and excited na 'uncle' or 'tito' ulit" with Ogie's new baby.

Charice’s father was killed.

YAHOO PHILIPPINES - Ricky Pempengco, father of international singing sensation Charice Pempengco, was stabbed to death last Monday night, October 31.

The incident happened along A. Bonifacio Road, Barangay Laram, San Pedro, Laguna, where Ricky was having a drinking session, a report on the ABS-CBN morning program "Umagang Kay Ganda" said on Tuesday, November 1. He left to buy a cigarette when the suspect, whom local police identified as Angel Capili, Jr., approached him.

The suspect stabbed Ricky with an ice pick. According to the report, Ricky fled but the suspect returned and stabbed him again.

The suspect quickly left the scene. Ricky’s drinking buddies didn’t help him because they were afraid the suspect would hurt them.

Ricky and the suspect had a fight in 2005, the report added.

“Nung 2005 pa yun, yung biktima raw, parang naitulak nya yung suspect. Ngayon, siguro yun din yung dahilan at bumalik yung suspect,” a policeman said in an interview with “UKG.”

Separated

Ricky was separated from his wife Raquel and their two children many years ago. Raquel, a victim of domestic violence, left Ricky and brought Charice and her younger brother with her to search for a better life.

According to abs-cbnnews.com, Raquel was shocked by tragedy. Charice is currently in Jakarta for a concert with David Foster.

Raquel said she and Ricky have lost touch a long time ago.

"Hindi kami nagkausap at wala kaming koneksyon," she told abs-cbnnews.com.

'Masakit pa din'

She added that she has forgiven her husband.

"Kung bakit masakit pa din sa akin at kung mayroon pa din bang love para sa kanya, siyempre ama siya ng anak ko," Raquel added.

Charice, on the other hand, expressed her feelings over her dad’s death on Twitter.

“I loved him and I will still love him. He's still my Dad after all.”

Charice said on her Twitter that she was with someone yesterday who looked like her father, which could also be his form of premonition.

“Last night, may kasama ako pero sabi ko kamukha nya daddy ko. Di ko alam na nagpaparamdam na pala sya,” she said.

“Gusto ko lang malaman nyo, na we had a really great relationship bago nangyari lahat ng gulo. Sinabi niya sa akin nung ako'y bata pa na hindi actually alam ni mommy, gusto nya akong maging sundalo kasi sabi niya matapang daw ako. I loved him and I will still love him. He's still my Dad after all,” Charice added.

In an interview with “Umagang Kay Ganda” today, Ricky’s sister expressed her thoughts saying that Charice’s family might now be happy because of her brother’s death.

“Siguro masaya na sila kase wala na ang kapatid ko,” Ricky’s sister said.

Charice lashes back at father's siblings

Charice, meanwhile, expressed her resentment.

“Para sa mga kapatid ng daddy ko, wala kayong karapatang sabihin o hulaan ang nararamdaman ko. Sino kayo para sabihing masaya ako sa pagkawala ng SARILI KONG AMA? Kapatid lang kayo at ako ay ANAK,” she tweeted.

“Kung natatandaan nyo, KAYO MISMO ANG NAGSABI SA AMIN NA IWASAN ANG DADDY KO. Sinabi nyo pa na wag gamitin ang apelyido nya. Hindi pinagbawal ni mommy na dalawin ang daddy namin pero HINDI NYO KAMI PINAYAGAN. Wala kayong respeto sa PAMILYA NYA para sabihin nyo yan ngayon! Imbis na ayusin nyo, sinisira nyo pa! ,” Charice said on Twitter.

Charice shared that she admits feeling resentful towards her father before, but she didn’t disown him. She added that she is not afraid expressing her feelings, especially to those who don’t have respect.

“Alam ko na nagalit ako sa kanya! Pero hindi ko sinabing itinatakwil ko sya! matagal akong naging tahimik sa mga eskandalong ginagawa nyo. Pero ngayon, di ko na kaya pati sa pagkamatay nya GANYAN PARIN KAYO. Hindi ako takot. Lalo na sa mga taong walang respeto,” Charice said.

Charice is slated to do a concert in Singapore for “David Foster and Friends Concert Tour,” but due to the tragedy, she has canceled her appearance and apologized to her Singapore fans.

“I am very sorry to all my fans from Singapore. I am not going to be there to be part of David Foster and Friends concert. I have to go back to the Philippines as soon as possible to be with my family. I hope you all understand. I love you all and I will see you next year,” Charice said.

Ram Revilla killed in shooting and stabbing incident

YAHOO.PH - Ram Revilla, half-brother of Sen. Ramon “Bong” Revilla, was declared dead on arrival at the Paranaque Medical Center today past midnight after being shot and stabbed in his home in Paranaque City.

According to a report from ABS-CBN News, Bong told DZMM that his brother was shot and stabbed by a gunman who entered their house in BF Homes. Ram’s girlfriend, Janelle Manahan, sustained a gunshot wound and is under observation.

Ram, 22, is the son of former Senator Ramon Revilla Sr. and Genelyn Magsaysay. He is also an actor and has appeared in ABS-CBN’s “Tonyong Bayawak” and GMA’s “Kamandag.”

Bong cited a police report saying that Ram was gunned with a 9 mm or a .45 caliber gun and was stabbed.

No enemy

“Wala akong alam na may kagalit ito. Ang alam ko, gusto niya...nagaambisyon siya na tumakbo na konsehal sa bayan ng Imus," he said.

According to his Facebook page, Ram plans to run as councilor in Imus, Cavite. Bong described Ram as a kind person.

“Mabait na tao ito, wala akong masabing masama. Paborito ng daddy ko 'to,” he said.

Bong said they don’t know how to break the news to their father, who is currently sick. Bong also noted that robbery is not the motive as nothing has been taken from the house.

"Sobra ang galit para gawin ito," Bong said. The Revilla family wants to seek justice for the heinous crime.

ZANJOE MARUDO AND BEA ALONZO CURRENT RELATIONSHIP STATUS.

dailypinoyshowbiz.com - Zanjoe Marudo publicly admitted his romantic relationship with Bea Alonzo. He revealed their relationship in an interview with Toni Gonzaga in The Buzz.

The shy type actor need not to verbalize it but he said that he is very much in love with Bea. He also made the crowd excited by saying that he sees Bea as the woman whom he wants to spend the rest of his life with.

When asked about his relationship with the beautiful actress, he said,” “Ako nandoon na ako. [Siya] malapit na yata, malapit na.” He expressed that he is scared of losing Bea and he admitted that he already told her how much he loves her.

Their sweetness started last year and was already known to public but it was just now that Zanjoe admitted their true status. It was last month when they were spotted in Tagaytay, playing golf. They were seen having a nice time and they were not ashamed to show it to the public.

Just recently, the two flew to Paris to work for a while but they were able to take a trip and spend more time together in the city of love. It was Bea’s first time in Paris, while Zanjoe already went there when he taped Lover’s in Paris with KC Concepcion and Piolo Pascual. Zanjoe served as her tourist guide. The sweethearts stayed there for two weeks.

Zanjoe also shared that he took Bea to a garden restaurant but he said that it could have been more romantic if it wasn’t for the sun still up at 9 in the evening.

Meanwhile, both are busy with their careers and respective commitments. Bea is the leading lady of Robin Padilla in Guns and Roses while Zanjoe is back in Banana Split and is busy promoting his movie with Toni Gonzaga and Euene Domingo, Wedding Tayo, Wedding Hindi.

Many showbiz followers admire them for their honesty. Unlike other rumored but very obvious showbiz couples there, they don’t deny the special thing that they have because there’s nothing wrong in being in love in the first place.

'Backroom fired Erik,' says Boy Abunda

INQUIRER.NET - TV personality Boy Abunda, who used to head the talent management company Backroom Inc., said he was disappointed with his former ward, singer Erik Santos, and wanted to “set the record straight” on why the artist transferred to Star Magic.

“Erik didn’t leave Backroom. He was released,” Abunda told Inquirer Entertainment in a phone interview on Sunday night. “We gave him a formal letter explaining why we had to let him go. This was because he badmouthed Backroom and lied to some of our common friends.”

Abunda was reacting to a story published Sept. 21 in Inquirer Entertainment, in which Santos said he left Backroom because “there were a lot of changes in its management” since Abunda left it to focus on caring for his ailing mother.”

In the same story, which quoted Santos during a media gathering for his new album, “Awit Para Sa ’Yo” (Star Records), the singer explained: “I’m not saying I didn’t like the changes. It’s just that I have other considerations, both personal and professional.”

Santos ended his seven-year business relationship with Backroom Inc. in August, and is now comanaged by ABS-CBN’s Star Magic group and Cornerstone Talent Management Center headed by Erickson Raymundo.

“I nurtured him, although he also worked hard,” Abunda said. “I think Erik has forgotten this. It’s sad that he has disregarded the contributions of Backroom to his career.”

Abunda said he felt bad when he found out that Santos had spoken to people about how he felt Backroom had neglected him. “Erik also said he disliked some of the people in the office. I just want to remind Erik to slow down. He should give credit where credit is due.”

Abunda, however, is open to talking with Santos. He added that he understood how difficult it must have been for the singer to answer questions in a press conference. “I still think he should have spoken the truth, or he could have just said, ‘I don’t want to talk about it anymore’ when reporters tried to grill him. He had a choice not to go into details.”

He may not be a perfect manager, Abunda admitted, “but I know I deserve respect. I still love him (Erik). I consider this just a crack in our relationship. I just want him to learn a lesson.”

Camille Prats' husband passes away

Camille Prats’ husband Anthony Linsangan died of nasopharyngeal cancer Friday morning, September 23 at St. Luke‘s Medical Center Global City. He was 32.

Camille was by her husband’s side when he passed away, a year after he lost his battle with cancer.

Nasopharyngeal cancer involves the presence of malignant cancer cells in the nasopharynx, the passageway at the upper part of the pharynx (throat).

The wake will be at Heritage Park, Fort Bonifacio. The family has not yet decided on the interment date.

Camille and Anthony have a three-year-old son named Nathaniel Caesar. They had a church wedding on March 5, 2010, two years after they got married via civil rites in Los Angeles, California.

By Maridol Ranoa-Bismark

'Ang Babae sa Septic Tank' is Philippines' entry to the Oscars Best Foreign Language Film Category next year

By Jamie Ortega, Photo Courtesy of Star Cinema

After bagging five major awards at the 7th Cinemalaya Awards Night and grossing 20 million pesos in its first five days of nationwide screening, the critically-acclaimed Indie-comedy Ang Babae Sa Septic Tank is now attempting to make it in the international film festival circuit.

The movie is the country's official entry to the Academy Awards Best Foreign Language Film Category next year. The selection committee of the Film Academy Of The Philippines was in charge of choosing which film to send to the Oscars.

Directed by Marlon Rivera and starring Eugene Domingo, JM De Guzman, Kean Cipriano and Cai Cortez, Ang Babae Sa Septic Tank is a mockumentary that chronicles a day in a life of three ambitious, passionate and misguided filmmakers who are dead set on producing an internationally-acclaimed indie film. The movie, which satirically depicts the present situation of our local indie film industry, was also recently nominated for the Young Cinema Award in the Vancouver International Film Festival.

Shalani Soledad and Rep. Roman Romulo engaged.

MUKAMO.COM - Valenzuela Councilor and TV host Shalani Soledad is now reportedly engaged to Congressman Roman Romulo of Pasig City.

The engagement happened at the Our Lady of Fatima church in Valenzuela where Romulo gave Shalani a diamond ring. Their wedding is set for next year. The 44-year-old Congressman also revealed that he first asked permission from Shalani’s mother, Evelyn Soledad. Meanwhile, Shalani’s uncle Mon Soledad believes it’s about time that she gets married. “She is already 31, dapat may pamilya na siya at mga anak.” he said.

Mother of Phil and James Younghusband finally laid to rest

PEP - Inihatid na sa kanyang huling hantungan ang mga labi ng ina ng magkapatid na Phil at James Younghusband na si Mrs. Susan Placer-Younghusband, kaninang hapon, September 15, sa Heritage Park, Taguig City.

Sumakabilang-buhay si Mrs. Younghusband noong Sabado, September 10, pagkatapos nitong atakihin sa puso. She was 49.

Bago ang interment ay nagkaroon muna ng memorial mass sa chapel ng Heritage Park na dinaluhan ng ilang mga kaibigan at kamag-anak.

Sa misa ay nagsalita sina James, Phil, at ang bunso at nag-iisa nilang kapatid na babae na si Keri.

Nagpalabas rin ng AVP presentation kunsaan ipinakita ang mga larawan ng mag-anak noong nabubuhay pa ang ina ng dalawang Azkals players.

Kabilang sa mga nakidalamhati sa magkakapatid ang ilang miyembro ng Azkals na sina Anton del Rosario, Aly Borromeo, at Misagh Bahadoran.

Naroon din ang rumored girlfriend ni Phil na si Angel Locsin, kasama ang kaibigan nitong si Bubbles Paraiso.

Kitang-kita ang pagsuporta ni Angel kay Phil sa mga oras na iyon.

Habang ibinababa ang mga labi ni Mrs. Younghusband sa huling hantungan nito ay magkahawak-kamay at nakaakbay si Angel kay Phil.

Namataan din ng PEP sa libing ang dancer na si Gab Valenciano, na kaibigan nina Phil at James.

Matapos ang libing ay sinubukan ng media na makunan ng pahayag sina Phil at James, at maging si Angel. Ngunit tumanggi ang mga ito na magpa-interview.

Bagkus, ang family friend ng Younghusbands na si Jojo Durian ang tumayong spokesperson ng magkapatid na Phil at James.

Narito ang kanyang pahayag:

"Phil and James Younghusband would like to extend their thanks to all the friends and visitors who visited them.

"Maraming salamat sa lahat ng prayers ninyo. Kasi alam n'yo naman na ito yung pinaka-lowest time nila na malungkot sila.

"We would like to thank also the press for understanding and not stepping in.

"Thank you so much! Thank you so much!

"Yun talaga yung message na gusto iparating ng magkapatid na Younghusband."

Kinumusta rin ng media kay Jojo ang magiging practice ng magkapatid na Younghusbands para sa susunod na laban ng Azkals sa Taiwan. Maaapektuhan ba ito?

"Hindi maaapektuhan 'yan," paniniguro ni Jojo.

Hilary Duff Is Pregnant

Hilary Duff and husband Mike Comrie, 30, who are celebrating their first wedding anniversary this weekend, are expecting their first child, the singer-actress announced on her official website.

In the post, Duff, 23, reflected on her marriage– she and Comrie wed on Aug. 14, 2010 – and then made her big announcement.

"We also want to share the exciting news that… BABY MAKES THREE," she wrote. "We are extremely happy and ready to start this new chapter of our lives."

Hilary Duff with her husband Mike Comrie

Rebecca Black Left School After Endless Bullying

BY STEPHEN M. SILVERMAN

aunting by classmates forced 14-year-old YouTube sensation Rebecca Black to withdraw from her Anaheim Hills, Calif., school – to be homeschooled by her mother.

"When I walk by they'll start singing 'Friday' in a really nasally voice," the teen told ABC News. "Or, you know, they'll be like, 'Oh hey, Rebecca, guess what day it is?' "

Her mother, Georgina Marquez, said the move to homeschooling also permits Black to focus on her career. "She certainly did not need that kind of pressure," said Marquez about the teasing on campus.

When it debuted on YouTube in March, the video for "Friday" received 167 million views – roughly half of the population of the United States, ABC News notes.

But it was also harshly criticized by listeners, though Simon Cowell staunchly defended Black, telling PEOPLE, "I love her [and] the fact that she's gotten so much publicity. People are so upset about the song, but I think it's hysterical."

Black has now released her latest single, "My Moment." As of Thursday morning, the new video has gotten nearly 22.5 million views, as well as 276,581 likes and 492,489 dislikes.

Nora Aunor, now a KAPATID.

German Moreno has confirmed that Nora Aunor is finally returning to the Philippines on Tuesday, Aug. 2, after eight years of living in the United States.

In a live phone patch interview direct from Los Angeles, Nora said, “Nakaempake na po ako. Naka-ready na lahat. Excited na rin po ako makabalik matapos ang walong taon. Sa wakas makakabalik na rin. Nagpapasalamat ako sa inyo sa pakikapag-usap sa mga tao para matupad 'to at sa TV5."

The announcement was made official by Kuya Germs in his radio program last Wednesday, July 27. This ends speculations on whether or not Nora will indeed return to Manila following several rumored arrivals.

Kuya Germs also confirmed that Nora will do projects for TV5, her official network while she's in the country. Nora will topbill an upcoming series slated to air on TV5. Several preparations are also in the works for Nora’s fans day.

Perci Intalan, TV 5 Head of Creative and Entertainment Production said they had long wanted to get Nora’s services. They consulted details of the agreement with her, working around her available schedule, consulting with Kuya Gerns and getting her approval for the concept of the series they tailor-made for her.

Intalan added that Nora signed the deal with TV 5 while she was in the US and is set to have a formal contract signing when she arrives here for a three-month stay.

The network executive said the agreement was between Nora’s NCV Productions and TV5.

“We have been working with artists based abroad, like Alice Dixson, Jasmine Curtis and Leandro Munoz. Alice, for instance, will still be doing a project with us even if she goes to Canada,” Intalan goes on.

They can do the same thing with Nora.

“We’ll play it by ear,” he reveals. “We will be announcing details about Nora’s work with TV 5 through a press conference.”

It will be recalled that Nora was first rumored to be returning to the Philippines last Thursday, July 21. But she didn’t board the Manila-bound plane from the US, even if her name appeared in the passenger’s list.

Dolphy’s health getting better on 83rd birthday

Dolphy was in high spirits on Monday, July 25, when he celebrated his 83rd birthday since all signs show his health is improving.

He is looking forward to doing away with his oxygen support system a few weeks from now.

An interview with ABS-CBN's “TV Patrol” showed Dolphy celebrating his birthday with family and friends in his home in Marina, Parañaque. Dressed in red sweater and denim jeans, the Comedy King looked healthier and in better shape as compared to late last year when he was promoting his Metro Filmfest movie "Father Jejemon." Dolphy revealed last December that he was having weak lungs and that pneumonia forced him to be on oxygen tank support.

“At least nag-i-improve ako,” Dolphy said when asked about his health. “Halata naman e, tignan niyo dito oh, lumulusog na eh,” Zsa-Zsa Padilla said while touching Dolphy’s tummy.

Dolphy even joked about it. “Bumalik na naman 'yung kutis natin, medyo gumanda-ganda. Dati talagang bangkay na eh,” he said in jest.

Zsa Zsa thanked those who prayed for Dolphy’s health. “Maraming-maraming salamat sa lahat ng nagdarasal para kay Dolphy,” she declared.

Dolphy also commented about the supposed win of his friend Fernando Poe, Jr. in the 2004 presidential elections.

“Dapat naging presidente talaga yun eh. Kaya Garci, lumabas ka na. Please naman. Nasa iyo ang susi eh,” Dolphy pleaded.

He also asked everyone to give President Noynoy Aquino, who delivered his SONA on Dolphy’s birthday, more time and consideration.

“Pagbigyan natin. Nag-aapura tayo eh. Iisang taon pa lang naman. Siyam na taon tayong medyo tagilid,” Dolphy said.

Eric Quizon, Boy2 Quizon and Vandolph were also at their dad’s birthday celebration.

Ely Buendia died of ruptured aneurysm: NOT TRUE!

A rumor circulated through SMS announcing the death of one of Filipino music legends and Pupils’ lead vocalist, Ely Buendia. The rumor reached the internet via social networks, Twitter and Facebook. The message which says “We Love You Ely.. Ely Buendia pass away, at exactly 12:17am july 26, 2011 due to cardiac arrest bcoz of ruptured aneurysm. He arrived critical in St. Lukes, emergency department, E. Rodriguez Ave. QC. After a Gig party for an advertisement of a bottling company. Pls. Pass to all fans.” quickly upset fans, sending their condolences to his family and friends.

But contrary to what has been spreading, Ely Buendia is still alive. This was confirmed by Ely himself in his Twitter account. “Next time na may magkalat pa na patay na ‘ko di na talaga ‘ko maniniwala.” A message was also posted on the official Facebook website of Pupil, saying that he is still alive.

Did Jennifer Lopez Cheat On Marc Anthony?

By: OfficialMagicPG

Did on on screen romance entice Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony to end their marriage? Some say that ‘J-Lo’ hit it off with ‘The Cuban Brad Pitt‘ William Levy on the shoot of her video ‘I’m Into You‘. Hmmm.. coincidence in the name of the song much?

Reps for William Levy told ‘TMZ‘

“The only relationship there was or is, is a professional relationship. That’s all there’s ever been.”

Take a look at the Video for Jennifer Lopez’s song ‘I’m Into You‘ and make your own assumption. Sometimes ‘things’ can happen when professionals tend to work with each other for awhile. Bonds are created, secrets are shared and sometimes romances do occur.

Telenovela star, William Levy separated from his wife shortly after the completion of the video as well. Did his wife think something was up? Did William confess to his wife? The world may never know. I’m sure everyone will be on the look out to see if ‘J-Lo‘ and Levy show up anywhere together.

Amanda Coling is the Fashion Model Azkal Rape Victim?

MESSAGE: to everyone who has been sending me messages of Love and Support, Thank You so much... going thru such ordeal is so much easier because of u... I love you all... God bless! and i am proud of each and everyone of u.... Thank You God for blessing my heart with wisdom,strenght,love,compassio​n and FORGIVENESS...

A model was reportedly kicked out of one of the special segments in the FHM’s 100 Sexiest victory party held on July 14 because of her purported involvement in the Philippine Azkals’ rape controversy---as the alleged victim.

“How would you feel kung nadawit ka, or 'yung anak mo or sister mo 'di ba? So you can just imagine how I feel, 'di ba?” the model, whose face was not shown on camera, told “TV Patrol” in a taped interview aired on Thursday.

However, she refused to talk about the controversial issue at hand as she and her lawyer are still looking into the case.

“I already referred that matter to my lawyer and he advised me not to be out in the open until we have studied the case thoroughly including all its ramifications. So for now, no comment on that issue.

“'Pag na-rape ka ba mapu-prove mo ba agad sa 'kin 'yun or whatever? 'Di ba? So no comment on that [rape allegation],” she stressed.

In a separate report by PEP, published also on Thursday, the model related that she was already informed of her status in the FHM 100 Sexiest victory party. Still, she came to the venue to “insist to be still in the show” and was still able to join the morning rehearsal.

“GMA-7 was able to record it na I was rehearsing for the show, [but] two people talked to me again and told me that they really have to pull me out from the show,” she was quoted by PEP as saying.

She also admits to feeling harassed, saying, “Why is my job being taken away from me? This is my job.”

Asked by PEP if her being pulled out of the show was in any way connected to the Azkals issue, the model replied, “You tell me, do you think it has something to do with the Azkals? Would you be here interviewing me if my name was not being linked to the Azkals?”

Apollo Sangalang, the model’s lawyer, also sent in a text message, as shown in the same “TV Patrol” report, saying that they “have yet to decide on the next step to take re the case.”

Sangalang cited the issue’s complicated and personal nature as their reasons for doing so, adding that “because [girl's name edited out] is a model, she doesn't want this issue to appear like a publicity stunt.

“And next she also doesn't want to downgrade [or] put in a bad light or pull down the entire Azkal team and the entire Phil football. She doesn't want to do that,” he insisted.

More, the report said that based on the model’s Facebook profile, she is currently a Physics major studying at the University of the Philippines.

FHM, in its statement published in abovementioned PEP article, confirmed that the model was indeed pulled out from the show but clarified, “it's the brand's prerogative because it's their segment buy in the show... We just want to make it clear, hindi FHM ang nagpa-pull out sa kanya.”

In the midst of rigorous training for their upcoming World Cup qualifying match vs. Kuwait on July 23, four members of the Azkals – namely Neil Etheridge, Jason Sabio, Simon Greatwich and Anton del Rosario – were accused early this week by a certain Paul Weiler, allegedly a self-proclaimed Philippine Football Federation consultant, of raping a woman the players allegedly met at a bar.

As of this writing, all the accused, except for Etheridge, have already personally disproved these allegations through interviews aired in “24 Oras” and “TV Patrol.”

Sexy actress Michelle Madrigal, who apparently was also being speculated in blogs and Internet forums as the yet-to-be-named alleged rape victim, also reacted on the issue on July 12.

However, she did not clarify in her statement whether she’s addressing just the rape allegation as a whole, or if she’s also answering the rape victim rumor.

“Morning!don't believe everything u read online or on the papers.its all rumors n accuzation.thanks to all my fans for being on my side and for the narrow minded people,may god bless u.let's stay positive everyone! Think 1st sa tingin nyo ba kung nangyari talaga yun will be active on twitter? The boys don't need this right now.lets pray that they win the game vs kuwait!” Madrigal’s tweet read.

Recall that Madrigal was rumored a few weeks back to have been dating Etheridge. She later on disproved this through Twitter and said that she is just good friends with the striker.

“People should stop assuming..I'm friends with neil,simon n anton.wala naman kayong alam kaya sana wag kayo gumawa ng kwento.don't hate coz I'm cool w them!to all the fans I'm NOT dating neil etheridge.I don't normally care about what people say but your words are hurting me deeply.thank u n godbless!” she posted on July 4.

Etheridge, in a separate exclusive interview with PEP, likewise denied dating Madrigal.

In related news, Azkals’ team manager Dan Palami laments that some of his team members are being accused of rape at such a crucial time.

“It is unfortunate that as we prepare for one of the most important matches, issues that are based on sources that have been proven to be non-credible are being used to malign several members of the team,” Palami’s exclusive statement sent via text message to PEP on July 14.

Palami further stated that he “will never tolerate actions such as those being alleged and would certainly take disciplinary action on erring players” as manager.

However, like what he already claimed in a live interview with “24 Oras” on Monday, Palami maintained that he “need[s] more than an internet blog, and a statement of a purported PFF [Philippine Football Federation] Consultant that has been officially disowned by the PFF itself, before i can take action."

In a separate phone interview, also with PEP on Wednesday, the team manager stressed that Weiler “is not in any way related to the team."

In his SMS statement, Palami went on to say that the team is “trying to focus on the job we have to do..."

More, the same PEP report cited two unnamed sources close to the Azkals who told them that the rape accusation is “not true.”

Kobe Bryant in Manila Today

NBA superstar Kobe Bryant of the NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers flashes the victory sign as he arrives at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport last night. Bryant hopes to inspire the youth to continue aspiring for their hoop dreams. The Manila visit kicks off a six-city tour that includes stops in Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Shanghai. RUDY SANTOS

Los Angeles Lakers star guard Kobe Bryant kicks off his six-city Asian tour in Manila today and is expected to mesmerize his legion of Filipino fans during two events where he will meet young ballers from Gawad Kalinga communities and conduct a clinic for promising elite youth cagers.

Bryant, 30, is no stranger to Asia, a destination of choice the last four years. This is his third Manila visit after 1998 and 2007. Bryant knows how popular the game is here and how passionate Filipino fans are in embracing their favorite sport.

What makes Bryant’s trip more significant is it comes on the heels of his spectacular MVP performance in the NBA Finals this past season. Bryant won his fourth NBA title with the Lakers and established his dominance on the court by averaging 32.4 points, 5.6 rebounds and 7.4 assists against Orlando.

Now a veteran of 13 NBA seasons, Bryant has two years left in his Lakers contract which expires in 2010-11. He inked a seven-year deal in 2004 and earned a salary of $21.3 million last season.

A highlight of his one-day visit is the introduction of the new Nike Dream Season shoe, a first-of-its-kind lightweight and durable basketball model for outdoors. The shoe retails for P6,995 and is available at all Nike stores nationwide.

Bryant himself had inputs in the shoe design. The shoe has his signature on the heel and the tongue shows his sheath logo. Small “81s” are etched in the outsoles to commemorate his 81-point game against Toronto on Jan. 22, 2006, at the Staples Center. In that explosion, Bryant shot 28-of-46 from the field, including 7-of-13 triples, and 18-of-20 free throws in 42 minutes as the Lakers won, 122-104.

Bryant is one of only five NBA players ever to score at least 70 in a game. The others are Wilt Chamberlain (who holds the all-time record high of 100 – he also netted at least 70 in four other games), David Thompson (73), Elgin Baylor (71) and David Robinson (71). Michael Jordan’s career-high was 69 points. Bryant’s eruption was the highest in NBA history since Chamberlain’s century feat in 1962.

The Dream Season features an upper that is constructed of spacer mesh and is similar to the Nike Zoom Kobe IV with a heel that is scooped low for more ankle movement. It is engineered with Nike Zoom and LunarLite foam in the forefoot. An outsole made of XDR (Xtra Durable Rubber) has a life that is two to three times longer than conventional rubber.

Bryant will be introduced to the press in an exclusive by-invitation-only conference at the Rigodon Ballroom of the Manila Peninsula Hotel in Makati at noon today. Then, he will visit Nike Park, The Fort, at 2 p.m. Bryant will meet with kids from Gawad Kalinga as an expression of his continuing support for deserving institutions in every tour, setting aside quality time to be with children who are interested in basketball “to encourage them to keep dreaming big.” The Nike Park event will be broadcast live over W.N.I.K.E. radio on 89.9 DWTM.

The main event of Bryant’s visit will be his personally-supervised workout session with the Nike Elite Campers, a group of up-and-coming youth players, at the PhilSports Arena. Some 3,000 tickets are to be distributed free to the public to witness the camp where Bryant will showcase his skills and share his basketball prowess with his “students.” The camp will start at 4 p.m. and the gates will be open an hour earlier. The camp will allow Bryant to work with young players to help them upgrade their level of play.

From Manila, Bryant will proceed to Singapore, Taipei, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Chengdu.

Bryant was invited to play in Singapore tomorrow but a source said he was not permitted by the Lakers to reinforce an Asean Basketball League (ABL) selection coached by Filipino Louie Alas in a 20-minute exhibition game against the Singapore Slingers. Bryant will reportedly watch the game. The ABL selection will include local players Jerwin Gaco, Al Vergara, Rico Maierhofer and Benedict Fernandez.

“Nike Philippines is proud to welcome Kobe back to Manila and we are excited to be the first stop of his Asia tour,” said country marketing manager Mae Dichupa. “Since his last visit, Kobe has further cemented his status as a basketball powerhouse, having been awarded the NBA’s 2007-08 MVP trophy. The Lakers’ clinching the NBA championship and Kobe being named the Finals MVP in the recently concluded season makes the timing of his visit doubly exciting and though brief, we know he will again touch many young lives, inspiring them to reach for their hoop dreams.”

Mga babae ni Pangulong Aquino

Clockwise: Grace Lee, Liz Uy, Patricia Ann, Barbie Paragos, Shalani Soledad, at Bunny Calica.

Maliban siguro sa kung papaano niya pinapatakbo ang gobyerno at lulutasin ang problema ng kahirapan sa bansa, ang love life ni Pangulong Benigno “Noynoy" Aquino III ang isang bagay na tinutukan ng publiko nang husto sa unang taon niya sa Palasyo.

Bakit nga ba sa mga babaeng naugnay sa kanya ay nananatiling binata ang ating 51-anyos na pangulo?

Para malaman ang kasagutan, ilang taong malapit kay Aquino ang tinanong ng GMA News Online. Pero dahil ilang beses nang nakiusap ang kauna-unahang binatang pangulo na ibalato na lang sa kanya ang kanyang privacy – lalo ang kanyang love life – nakiusap rin ang mga taong nakapanayam natin na huwag nang banggitin ang kanilang pangalan dahil sa pare-parehong pabirong katwiran na, “mayayari ako kay Presidente."

Sa magkakahiwalay na panayam, nagkakaisa sila sa paglalarawan kay Aquino na gentleman sa mga babae, hindi nagsasabay-sabay ng girlfriend, at higit sa lahat – hindi kiss and tell.

“Wala kang maririnig na kuwento sa kanya tungkol sa ex [girlfriend] niya," ayon sa isang aide ni Aquino. “Hindi makuwento ‘yan tungkol sa girlfriend niya. Kapag ayaw niyang pag-usapan yung ex (gf) niya, ibig sabihin may hindi maganda siyang nakita dun."

Kung anong bilis daw na mabighani sa babae ang presidente, siya rin daw bilis na tabangan ito kapag may nakitang hindi niya gusto sa babae.

Marahil isa raw ito sa mga dahilan kaya hanggang ngayon ay nananatiling binata si Aquino, ayon naman sa isang kaibigang pulitiko ng pangulo.

Hindi matukoy ng pulitiko kung ano ang mga partikular na bagay na ayaw ni Aquino sa babae, pero napapansin daw nila ito kahit noong kongresista pa lamang ang pangulo. May mga babae raw na kinikilala ng pangulo at inaayang lumabas pero hindi naman nito tuluyang liligawan.

“May standard siya sa babae na tinitingnan, at mukhang mataas," anang pulitiko. “ Siguro sa ugali rin ng babae. Kapag may nakita siya na hindi niya gusto hindi siya magta-take ng risk na makasama yung babae for the rest of his life."

Ayon naman sa ilang mamamahayag na naging malapit kay Aquino, isa marahil sa mga dahilan kung bakit binata pa rin ang pangulo ay ang biglaang pagpanaw ng ama nito na si dating Senador Ninoy Aquino. Bente-tres anyos pa lang si Noynoy nang mapaslang ang kanyang ama noong 1983.

Mula nang mawala ang ama, si Aquino na ang nagsilbing tagapangalaga sa kanyang apat na kapatid na babae na sina Ballsy, Pinky, Viel, at Kris, at sa kanilang ina na si dating Pangulong Cory Aquino.

Nang makapag-asawa na ang lahat ng mga kapatid, siya ang naiwang kasama ng kanilang ina sa bahay nila sa Times Street sa Quezon City.

Bukod sa pagiging pihikan sa babae at mapagmahal sa kanyang pamilya, may isa pang nakikitang dahilan mga kaibigan ni Aquino kaya atubili itong mag-asawa – “trauma" sa karanasan ng mga kaibigang may-asawa na.

“Magandang ‘pases’ si ‘Noy," ayon sa isang kaibigan ng pangulo na nakapuwesto ngayon sa isang ahensiya ng gobyerno. “Kapag may gigimik na kaibigan at magdadahilan sa asawa na gagabihin o uumagahin, ang gagamiting alibi, kasama nila si ‘Noy."

Panatag umano ang mga asawa ng mga ni Aquino dahil wala itong bisyo at hindi mahilig sa mga night club, na malayo sa imahe ng mga pulitiko. Kapag nasa “gimikan" na kadalasan mga may tumutugtog na banda o kaya nama’y restaurant, paninigarilyo at pag-inom lang ng soft drinks ang ginagawa nito.

“Minsan may nasabi si presidente na parang mahirap ang may asawa na naghihintay sa ’yo pag-uwi. Kapag dumating ka ng alanganing oras, kailangan ipaliwanag mo bakit ka ganung oras umuwi," ayon naman sa isang mamamahayag na nakasama ni Aquino noong kongresista pa ito.

Pero kahit tila atubiling mag-asawa, sinabi ng mga nakausap ng GMA News Online na kilalang matuwain sa bata ang pangulo, lalo na sa kanyang mga pamangkin. Katunayan, halos sa poder ni Aquino lumaki ang pamangkin nitong si Joshua, anak ni Kris.

Type ni PNoy

Ano nga ba ang tipo ng babae na magpapatibok sa puso ng pangulo?Magmula noong kampanya ng May 2010 presidential elections, pitong babae na ang naugnay kay Aquino.

Matapos ang break-up nila noong Oktubre 2010 ni Valenzuela Councilor Shalani Soledad na mahigit isang taon niyang naging girlfriend, naugnay ang pangulo sa isang Barbie Paragos na nakunan kasama siya sa isang restaurant.

Napaulat din na naka-date ni Aquino ang kanyang dating stylist na si Liz Uy, ganoon din ang stock broker na si Len Lopez.

Nagkaroon din ng ingay ang tungkol sa isang Singaporean reporter na inimbitahan umano ni Aquino na pumasyal sa Malacanang.

Kahit ang TV5 reporter na si Patricia Ann Roque, 22 anyos at pinakabata sa lahat ng mga babae, ay na-tsismis din sa pangulo. Pero mabilis din naman itong namatay matapos kapwa nila sabihin na hindi pa nila nakikita ang isa’t isa.

Ang pinakahuli at sinasabing nakapunta na sa Bahay Pangarap na tinutuluyan ngayon ni Aquino ay ang 27-anyos na titser na si Bunny Calica.Una silang napag-usapan nang manood ng concert ng bandang Hotdog. Sa isang ulat, mismong si Kris ang nagkuwento tungkol sa ginawang pagdalaw ni Bunny sa Bahay Pangarap kung saan ipinakilala ng pangulo ang kanyang mga pamangkin na sina Joshua at Bimbi – mga anak ni Kris.

Sinabi ng isang taga-Malacanang na patuloy ang “friendly dates" nina Aquino at Bunny. “Si Presidente na rin naman ang nagsabi na pwede rin namang mag-date ang magkaibigan," paliwanag niya.

Sa isang panayam noon sa kapatid ni Aquino na si Ballsy, nakangiting ikinuwento nito na napuna nila na kung noon ay nalalapit sa mga ka-edad ni Kris ang mga nauugnay na babae sa pangulo, sumunod naman ay nalalapit na sa edad ng kanyang mga pamangkin.

Ayon sa isang local government official na kaibigan ni Aquino, napapansin nila na mahilig ang pangulo sa mga maputi at simpleng babae.“Si Presidente Cory, simpleng may-bahay. Parang ganun yung babae na hinahanap siguro ni Presidente (Aquino). Kahit nga si Presidente simple rin lang. Kaya kapag medyo may pagkamaarte yung babae at nagpapansin sa ibang tao, parang nate-turn-off yata siya," paliwanag ng opisyal.Dagdag pa ng lokal na opisyal, bukod sa maputi ang balat, malakas din umano ang dating kay Aquino ng mga babae na matalino, at mahusay makinig at magsalita. Ito raw marahil ang isang dahilan kaya malakas ang dating ng mga babae kay Aquino na nasa media.Sa inagurasyon ng isang coal power plant sa Cebu nito lang Hunyo 27, tila isa na namang taga-broadcast media ang nakabighani sa pangulo. Hindi nakaligtas kay Aquino ang kagandahan ng Kapuso host na si Grace Lee, na tumayong emcee sa naturang pagtitipon.

“Kaya pag inimbita ho ako sa Cebu, hindi ho talaga mahirap maimbita rito. Pati ang bisita nating si Miss Grace Lee, ‘kala ko tuloy Pinay e. Hindi nga pala, Korean. Pero pati yung mga Korean na dumarating talagang gwapa lahat" sambit ni Aquino.

Gimik nga lang ba?

Sa 75th anniversary ng Department of Budget and Management kamakailan na dinaluhan ni Aquino, ikinuwento nito sa kanyang talumpati ang ginawang paraan ni Sec. Florencio “Butch" Abad para mapag-usapan siya sa media noong una siyang tumakbong senador.

Si Abad ang nagsilbing campaign manager ni Aquino sa senatorial elections noong 2007 at presidential elections noong Mayo 2010.

“Noong araw, noong tayo’y nasa oposisyon at walang pera, nag-isip siya ng paraan, paano ba ako ipakikilala sa taumbayan? So ang ginawa po niya, mayroon pong isang sikat na artistang mang-aawit, at awa ng Diyos po ay naging laman kami ng mga ilang tabloid at diyaryo na hindi bababa ng walong buwan," kuwento ni Aquino.

“Ako po’y nagtataka, dahil minsan ko lang ho nakilala sa buong buhay ko itong tinutukoy na singer, at kinalabasan lahat raw ho ng concert pinanood ko, parang nagkakaigihan kami. Basta, walong buwan ho tumatakbo iyan, at ako’y nagtataka na talaga, paano pahahabain ang istorya na walang laman?" patuloy niya.

Dumating pa umano ang pakulo sa punto na may nagpapadala ng bulaklak sa singer at natatanggap naman. Ang lahat ay nangyari umano nang hindi alam ng pangulo.

Sa husay daw ni Abad na gumawa ng “fiction," natatawang sinabi ni Aquino na dapat naging manunulat ang kanyang kaibigang kalihim.

Wedding in the Palace?

Sa kabila ng ilang ulit niyang pakiusap sa media na bigyan ng privacy ang kanyang lovelife, ilang beses din naman niyang isinisingit sa kanyang mga talumpati ang kanyang pag-asam na makahanap ng magiging asawa.

Pinakahuli na rito ay ang pagbisita niya sa Cebu kung saan inilahad niya ang planong gamitin ang palasyo sa Cebu para maging madalas ang punta niya sa lalawigan. “Kailangan yatang buhayin ang Malacanang [sa] Sugbu. Baka dito na rin tayo magkatuluyan," ayon kay PNoy.

Kunsabagay, maging si Bunny na ipinakilala na niya sa kanyang mga pamangkin na sina Joshua at Bimbi ay tubong Cebu rin.

Sa isa pang pagtitipon, nabanggit din ng pangulo ang kanyang pag-asam na makapag-asawa bago matapos ang kanyang termino sa 2016, kaya naman marami rin ang naghihintay kung may magaganap nga kayang kasalan sa Palasyo sa unang pagkakataon.

Pero mukhang matatagalan pa ito. Ilang ulit na nag-text ang GMA News Online kay Aquino para makahingi ng update tungkol sa kanyang love life, partikular sa takbo ng kanilang “pagkakaibigan" ni Bunny, pero hindi ito sumasagot.

Gayunman, sinagot ng pangulo ang mala-Facebook na tanong tungkol sa kanyang “status" kung siya ba’y “single" or “in a relationship" sa ngayon.Maigsi pero malinaw ang naging sagot ng binatang pangulo: “SINGLE." - YA, GMA News

Rebecca Black's 'Moment' comes next Monday

Los Angeles (CNN) -- Rebecca Black hopes to step beyond her one-viral-hit-wonder status next week when she releases her second music video, which her publicist says is titled "My Moment."

Lady Gaga called Black, 14, a genius for her "It's Friday." The song and video became a viral internet sensation, getting more than 167 million viewings since it was posted on YouTube just a few months ago.

"It's Friday" celebrated the coming of the weekend and good times, but the follow up is "a fairytale story, but it happened in real life," a news release said.

The autobiographical "My Moment" will feature video from "a variety of real life events," including highlights of Black's life before her instant fame, it said. Director Morgan Lawley, whose resume includes Barbie commercials, also used Black's post-Friday highlights, including on movie premiere red carpets and at award shows.

The new video and single will be available for download next Monday night through Black's website, www.RebeccaBlackOnline.com, and on Tuesday at iTunes and other online retailers. Of course, it will also be posted on Black's YouTube channel.

While the first release was an independent vanity project that her mother paid $4,000 to a Southern California music studio to produce, her follow up is decidedly higher end.

The music was produced by Charlton Pettus, who's worked with Hilary Duff and Tears for Fears. His biggest success, though, might be the theme song for "The Sims 3" computer game.

Brandon "Blue" Hamilton, who penned a Justin Bieber tune, and Quinton Tolbert wrote it.

If you like "My Moment," then you can also look forward to more Black music next month when a five-song EP is released.

John Estrada confirms Priscilla is pregnant

Almost 5 months since they got married, John Estrada on Monday announced on ABS-CBN afternoon show “Happy, Yipee, Yehey!” that his Brazilian wife, 2004 Miss Earth Priscilla Meirelles, is pregnant.

Estrada said Meirelles had 3 pregnancy tests and the results were all positive. He said they will visit a doctor on Tuesday.

It is Meirelles' first pregnancy. Estrada has 4 children from his previous marriage to Janice de Belen.

“My wife just got back from Miami kaya bukas kami pupunta sa OB-Gyne,” he said. “Swerte ako, hindi maarte asawa ko pero maya-maya lang nag-uutos. Ako naman, okay babe. Spoiled ‘yon sa akin ngayon.”

Prior to his wife’s pregnancy tests, Estrada said he had suspicions that she is pregnant.

“Siyempre malalaman mo naman yan. Nakikita mo sa physical change, medyo lumalaki na,” he said.

Like other parents, Estrada’s only wish is that their baby will be healthy. But he did not deny the fact that he wants to have a baby boy.

He said he is inspired to work now that his wife is pregnant. Aside from “Happy, Yipee, Yehey,” Estrada is also part of hit teleserye “Minsan Lang Kita Iibigin.”

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