Philippines' newest television game show "Bet on your Baby" host Mrs. Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo still sexy and fab during the show's presscon

"Totoo pala 'yung sinabi nila na, when you become a mother, nagiging selfless ka, una 'yun... pangalawa,  hindi ka nawawalan ng energy basta gising ang anak mo, gising ka din, ura-urada ka magluluto, maglilinis ng bahay, makikipaglaro sa kanila. Pag tulog na sila, dun mo lang mare-realize na... pagud na pagod pala ko (she laughs)! Pero mas 'yung pag umuuwi ka, you look forward to going home because you want to check on your kids, you want to see them before they go to sleep, totoo 'yun eh, 'yung wala kang ibang gustong gawin kundi bahay-trabaho, trabaho-bahay. Hangga't maaari, kung pupwedeng 'yung building mo nasa paligid lang ng bahay n'yo, kung pupwedeng kakatukin ka na lang sa bahay mo, dun na tyo magmiting para di na ko umalis. Ahm... you just become 100%, 'yung pagiging instinct mo bilang isang ina, lumalabas lang pala talaga 'yun, akala ko aaralin mo pa, hindi pala. Iba- iba tayo ng experiences sa mga mommies natin, mga kaibigan natin na naging mommies, hindi pwedeng i-compare, ako, ang nangyari sa'kin nang naging nanay ako, mas naging energetic ako, napapansin ko 'yung mas madalas ako nakangiti para sa mga anak ko... hindi dahil kailangan ako nakangiti, pero ano lang, you're just happy complete when you're a mommy," Mrs. Judy Ann Santos- Agoncillo sincerely shared when asked about the things she's learned about being a mother during "Bet on your Baby" presscon held at the 9501 14th floor, ELJ building in ABS-CBN compound, Quezon City. 

"Bet on your Baby," is ABS-CBN's newest game show and family treat, hosted by well loved, highly acclaimed tv personality and hands-on mom, Judy Ann Santos- Agoncillo that will have its pilot episode this Saturday, October 19, 2013 after TV Patrol. Judy Ann is so proud of this show as it shares both education and enjoyment to the televiewers, the participating kids and their respective parents or families. 

Ms. Judy Ann was so excited to tell that during one of the newest game show's tapings, she had her son, Lucho, who's now almost three years old,  played in one of the challenges there. Juday was so proud of her son because they succeeded in that particular task, Lucho had to put all the towers down except for the yellow ones. Too bad, they weren't able to record it, but I can see on Ms. Juday's eyes and reaction how she really enjoyed and was so thrilled about her upcoming game show, "Bet on your Baby," and will be the first of its kind here in the Philippines, since it was originated from United States that premiered on ABC just last April 13, 2013. 

Judy Ann, having a great time while on the "Bet on your Baby" set

A lot were curious and asking, why did they choose the age group of 2-3 1/2 years old to be the required age for the babies to qualify for the show, Ms. Juday has explained very well that, during that age of our kids, they get to listen to their parents and at the same time, curious of the things happening around them. It is the stage wherein they are at their most active mode or in other words, super hyper. They do things because they like to, doesn't matter if it's right or wrong, and those characteristics are the best requirements for the show. Kids love colors, when they see different colors, they all feel they're already in Disneyland. She also said that, this is the most "innocent" moment of their lives. 

Still about the show, there's a portion there where Juday gets to converse with the parents that join the show, Juday admitted that she was able to relate with them and she immediately took a liking to the kids she has met on the show, "It's easy to love the program because you're dealing with babies, and you can't go wrong with that," according to the host. The connection that she formed with the families that she has met on the show so far is one that she hopes will branch out to inspire other Filipino families, especially with the show presenting techniques that parents and children can take into their own homes. 

"I'm just hopeful that we can inspire people to enjoy having their kids around. 'Bet on your Baby' is here to help parents enjoy their kids more. Besides, being a parent, I learned that, when it comes to your children, you don't want to miss any moment. It's important to be beside them in whatever they go through. I think when you come to that point, it's true that you become selfless. It's true that you smile without reason. All of a sudden there's so much more value in your being alive," according to Juday. 

Another great reason to look forward to every Saturday night for us, dear readers. But wait! We can also expect some dance moves from Ms. Judy Ann :-), isn't it so exciting?! Miss her 'That's Entertainment" days! Well definitely, "Bet on your Baby," is Judy Ann's newest bet!!!

Aiai delas alas with son Sancho

Judy Ann with broadcast journalist Anthony Taberna

Benjie Paras and wife Lyxen

How can you say you've found "the one?" And if you haven't found the one yet, have you tried looking closely around instead of searching for someone you never know? If in case you fall for someone and that someone falls for another person, would you fight for your love? Would you rather stay on the side and keep the "feelings" to yourself and just wait for the perfect time (you hope)? What if there won't be a second chance anymore? Remember that, regrets always happens in the end. 

In love and friendship, there's always a struggle, a conflict, an overthrow, a sacrifice and a compromise. In the case of Cat (Bea Alonzo), because of the love for her family, she's devoted most of her precious time with them and for them. Cat is a very responsible and empowered woman who, on her part, doesn't need a man to do things for her, she's a very independent gal who had lost her youth in order to serve her family and be in charge of everything. The only time she can be herself and act herself is when she's with one man... her best friend, Joaqui (Dingdong Dantes).  

Bea Alonzo smiles during "She's the One," blogcon

While on the other hand, Joaqui, in his thirties, a successful host of a local tv program has always been so generous with girls. He's so generous of his love and attention to a lot of girls, he doesn't even notice this one girl... his best friend Cat. He never realize that "the one" that's always been there for him and rendering him an unconditional love and attention might be taken away from him in such a brief occurrence. This is the portion in the movie when viewers can relate and learn to appreciate someone who's always taken for granted. Life is so short, find the courage to speak up and share what you feel. You may never know if that someone would still be there when you finally realize that "She's the One" or he's the one you've been looking for all these years, and that he/ she's been there all along. 

It's Dingdong Dantes' third movie with Star Cinema :))

Then comes David (Enrique Gil), a young, vibrant, courageous, persuasive, idealistic, liberated, happy-go-lucky type of guy. He can never forget what he witnessed and couldn't believe his eyes, when he saw Cat, a very hot chick, as strong and as empowered like a real man, changing the tires of her car while being under the rain, clueless of her identity, he called her, "The Girl in the Rain." David being so interested of "the girl in the rain," launched his search for her via the video he recorded from that one rainy night. It went viral until it had reached Joaqui's attention. As the host of a morning show, he became interested in guesting David to attract more viewers for the said show, not realizing that his daring move, would put him into a different spot that he would later regret. 

"King of the Hill," Enrique Gil, has a lot to give... 

In our real world, this kind of characters and setting really exist right? I hope you would agree with me, it may not happen to you personally but somehow, you've heard stories similar to Cat, Joaqui and David's. And believe me, I know some real stories too ;)). Today, we can see women who fall for guys much younger than them. And in the case of Cat and David, we could see that Cat was also attracted to David despite their age difference. You see, Cat has lost her youth which she feels she never had the time to enjoy it; until this young man showed up who praises and adores her so much, gives her the utmost importance and appreciation, love her for what she is. 

The scenario: Joaqui feels very uncomfortable every time he sees the couple (Cat and David). It's very obvious that he feels for his best friend Cat and that he's very jealous of their relationship. You see, it took the presence of a young man (David) for him to realize that Cat is "the one" for him and that she's been always there for him all along. The question is, if Joaqui was able to find the courage and speak up for his feelings towards Cat, will he be able to achieve and win back Cat's heart? What if it's too late? What if there's no second chance? Will fate favor Cat and Joaqui's love angle after all? 

Please do watch this movie and find out for yourselves the answers to all of those questions. :)) 

During the two separate bloggers conferences for "She's the One" movie held at Wangfu Chinese Resto in Tomas Morato cor Roces Ave., in Quezon City, we asked the lead actors Bea Alonzo, Dingdong Dantes, Enrique Gil and upcoming teen star, Liza Soberano, this question: "Have you found the one?" 

Bea: "Ang sarap talaga pakinggan kapag may nagsasabi na 'I've already found the one.' Sana masabi ko rin 'yan one day, and I hope he's the one."

Liza: "I think when I'm older probably, I mean everyone wants to find "the one," and wants to be happy with someone when they're older so, probably when I'm older. Quen (Enrique Gil) is a nice person so I couldn't see why he couldn't be." 

Enrique: "Still searching." He elaborated on the qualities he looks for a girl: "Gusto ko 'yung malambing, kahit di marunong magluto basta malambing busog ka na di'ba, 'yun ang importante eh (he giggles), mahilig sa aso, sa animals. Basta malambing, 'yun ang pinakaimportante sa akin."

Dingdong: "Ako tingin ko, oo, pero... I hope I'm right and I'm pretty sure I am." 

Bea and Liza 

Direk Mae Cruz (third from left), Bea Alonzo, Liza Soberano and Vanessa Valdez during one of the movie's blogcons

The two leading men, Dingdong and Enrique of Bea in "She's the One" movie

Miss Vanessa Valdez, screenwriter and Star Cinema's Creative Director wanted the moviegoers to realize and achieve the message of the story which is: "It's not just a best friends story, a lot of people think it's a best friends story but direk Mae and I were discussing that, this is also an epiphany story, a second chances story kasi, it's Cat's second chance at youth, Cat's second chance at finding love, but at the same time it's also about Joaqui's second chance, you know finally manning up and being brave." 

Whereas Liza expressed,"I want them to be more appreciative of the people around them and 'yung pahalagahan po talaga nila kung ano 'yung meron sa kanila and what they taught one another." On the other hand, Bea shared, "It's a story about courage, or being brave about love, na what if wala ka nang second chance di'ba? Parang life is too short, I mean kung meron kang gustong sabihin, sabihin mo. Life should be simple." And finally direk Mae Cruz said, "Love knows no age and no time. Kasi you know, parang Joaqui wasn't ready nung earlier part ng life n'ya, but there is a perfect time for it. Love knows no age because we cannot see when it's gonna happen, how it's gonna happen." 

Congrats direk Mae Cruz for a job well done! 

"She's The One," movie is graded B by the Cinema Evaluation Board and is now showing in over 100 theater nationwide. This is still another movie offering in line with Star Cinema's 20th anniversary this year. Other casts include, Maricar Reyes, Tony Mabesa, Perla Bautista, Pinky Amador, Guji Lorenzana, RS Francisco, Marc Solis. Erika Padilla, Garlic Garcia, Coleen Garcia, Daniel Matsunaga, LJ Moreno and Kerwin Garcia. 

It's been eights months since the tv premiere of "Juan dela Cruz" aired in Kapamilya network, ABS-CBN Channel 2. Coco Martin's character as "Juan" has inspired a lot of people most especially the kids and a lot of lives including Coco, himself. "Because of the show and our advocacy projects, I do not only delight people through acting, I also get the chance to get to know, bond, and help our viewers who are in need. It's a different kind of joy when people, especially the youth, tell me that I inspire them, Coco explained. 

"Sa trabaho talaga namin, bilang artista at sa hirap ng ginagawa naming soap ngayon, honestly napapabayaan namin 'yung personal namin na buhay, ganun kabigat 'yung trabahong pinasok namin. Pero sabi ko nga, never kong pinagsisihan dahil alam ko nung pinasok ko 'tong trabahong 'to, alam kong kaakibat at kasama 'yun, sa trabahong ito. Basta ang importante, para sa'kin, sa bawa't soap opera na ginagawa ko, alam ko na napapaligaya ko 'yung mga manonood at masaya ako, kung ano ang dahilan kung bakit mahilig ako mag- mall show, pumunta sa iba't- ibang probinsya para mag- show dun, kasi gusto ko magpasalamat sa mga tao sa pagtulong nila at sa pagtanggap nila sa mga soap opera na ginagawa ko. Yun 'yung paraan ko para makapagpasalamat sa kanila "direct" kasi di'ba pwede akong magpasalamat sa kanila sa tv, pero iba kasi kapag nakita at narinig mo sila sa personal eh. Kumbaga, mas ramdam mo 'yung pagmamahal at suporta nila sa'yo," Coco said in his most sincere tone. 

The Drama King Coco Martin, who's now the "most- loved actor of the masses," has a never failing goal to help the less fortunate students in different parts of the country by actively participating in several "Juan Fun School Day" activities at the same time entertaining them and giving his most genuine and heartfelt "thank you." These main characteristics of Coco in real life-  his humbleness, being grounded, a very greatful person, helpful and always thinking of others ahead of him had also reflected to his character as Juan in his top-rating tv series, "Juan dela Cruz." And this contributed to the success of his soap which will soon bid farewell to the loyal viewers, followers and supporters and finally come to an end on October 25. 

Asked what was the character of "Juan" that had really put a great mark on him, he answered, "Bawa't soap na ginagawa ko, nilalagay ko kasi talaga 'yung kung ano ko, 'yung pagkatao ko, kung mapapansin ninyo sa bawa't soap opera ko lagi akong may lola, kadalasan nga 'yung leading lady ko, hindi 'yung leading lady ko eh, ang lola ko lagi akong may lola. Kasi nga lagi kong sinasabi na ako 'to, hindi character lang 'yan kumbaga, pinapasok ko 'yan, kung bakit ako part ng creative kasi nag-iinput ako, kung ano 'yung kaalaman ko o kung anuman 'yung totoong pagkatao ko dun sa bawa't character na ginagampanan ko. Kumbaga si "Juan dela Cruz" at ako, ako 'yan, iisa 'yan, hindi dahil karakter lang 'yan, kumbaga kung ano 'yung napapanood n'yo, hindi ko sinasabing hero ako ha (he giggles), pinapasok ko 'yan dahil ako 'yan, merong parte ng pagkatao ko na nilalagay ko dun sa karakter ko." 

Coco Martin during "Juan dela Cruz" blogcon

Coco still admitted that, as an actor, he is also a fan until now and still idolizes Piolo Pascual. He hopes to do a movie or project with Ms. Kris Aquino, Marian Rivera (as Kris' suggested in Kris TV) and his idol Piolo Pascual. Coco in his younger years, remembers idolizing Pinoy superheroes like "Panday," FPJ, and "Captain Barbell." He also hopes that "Juan dela Cruz" will have a comics version someday since Juan's life story and character is very interesting. He's very thankful to the legendary works of the late FPJ (Fernando Poe Jr.) who had greatly contributed to Philippine Cinema in giving life to the "Panday" character. He's also looking forward that someday, "Juan dela Cruz" will also have a place in local showbusiness and that be remembered by the Filipino people. 

As for me, "Juan dela Cruz," is already there. The character and the life story of Juan may be fictional but for most of us, especially the kids, had considered Juan to be their modern superhero. A superhero that represents such positive characters which is very inspiring for them. Juan exemplifies what a true Pinoy should be, strong, helpful, has the willingness to learn and accept mistakes, family- oriented, chivalrous, humble, God- fearing and God- loving and most of all selfless. Juan is the epitome of what a true human should be. Coco Martin is very thankful he was chosen to do this character which had made him a better actor and more responsible Filipino citizen. 

Don't fail to watch remaining two weeks of "Juan dela Cruz" after "TV Patrol" on Primetime Bida. A lot of struggles and revelations will be showcased in the last few nights of this very successful tv action/ drama series. Will Juan succeed in the battle against Peruha (Diana Zubiri) to save the world from the dangers of other mythical creatures? Will Juan and Rosario have a happy ending after all? There are a lot of reasons to stick to "Juan dela Cruz," the tv series that had been part of our nightly routine for more than half of the year (8 months to be exact), Juan, being one of the most well-loved characters/ superheroes in Philippine television, deserves a "Hero's Farewell" from all of us. 

Bye for now, Juan... our Pinoy Superhero...

But definitely we'll be seeing each other again soon, Papa Coco! ;-)

Check out more pics here!!!

Watch video of Coco Martin interview during his conference with the bloggers

While others are having reviews about their cameraphones or smartphones on their blogs, I've opted to have my own discoursed in a lifestyle way... not too techie, not too difficult... I'd be using terms in simplest forms as much as possible so that almost everybody can relate to

 "My Nokia Lumia 1020 Story." 

I've been one of the fortunate ones who was invited by co- blogger and fellow Paconian (Paco Catholic School) Ferds Bondoy of www.foydi.blogspot.com to witness the grand launch of NOKIA LUMIA 1020 here in the Philippines which was held at the Ayala Museum in Makati Ave., Makati City last October 1, 2013. The place was filled with media people (online, print and digital), photographers (pro and non-pro), techie peeps, gadgets afficionados and people who come from different fields such as fashion, arts, entertainment and business. Everyone felt ecstatic most especially when Mr. Gary Chan, Nokia Head of Marketing, Pan Asia had explained everything about Nokia Lumia 1020's features as the latest and hippest cameraphone to beat. According to him, "Consumers want to capture and share memorable experiences with their smartphone. We want to take people on a journey from capturing pictures to recording and sharing their lives. The Nokia Lumia 1020 brings new meaning to pictures and continues to strengthen Nokia’s leadership in imaging. The Nokia Lumia 1020 is the first smartphone to exceed many standalone digital cameras in terms of image quality capture ensuring users always have that perfect photo – day or night."

Mr. Gary Chan during Nokia Lumia 1020 grand launch

Nokia Lumia 1020 Storytellers, (L-R) Yukie Sarto, much sought-after fashion photographer; Giannina Gonzalez, noted food stylist; Nina Sandejas, favorite concert photographer; Aaron Mendoza, award-winning documentary director, with Karel Holub, General Manager, Nokia Philippines (far left) and Gary Chan, Head of Marketing, Pan Asia, Nokia (far right)

Fashion photographer, noted food stylist, favorite concert photographer and award- winning documentary director all joined forces and shared their testimonies regarding the best features that Nokia Lumia 1020 have, which provided great ease for each of their respective profession. Nokia has a new application called Nokia Pro Camera, now they have let the consumers have the chance and experience capture better photographs and videos and at the same time learn how to do it like a PRO as they say since it has a beautiful interface, not to mention that it has also a re-invented ZOOM! And how's that? Well, when you're done with your shot, focusing mainly on your subject, you get to zoom it the nearest visual as it could reach your sight, then you'll be amazed by what you'll re-discover after discovering Nokia Lumia 1020's amazing specs and features. It's a smartfone and a DSLR rolled into one!!! Believe me! :))

During the launch, everyone had a chance to try the Nokia Lumia 1020, here, you can see me checking out the Nokia Lumia 1020 on a tripod with a no light subject, and if you're going to take a closer look, I was able to capture the subject (basket of fruits) clearly with proper camera settings. That was so cool!

I'd just like to share with you dear followers and readers, that before entering the venue, something "not so good" had happened... I cannot say that it was bad or a misfortune on my part huh, you see, I accidentally missed one of the sidewalks near the area of the venue causing my right shoe to collapse (good riddance!) instead of my right ankle hahaha! At first of course my natural reaction was I got  irritated, bothered, worried and annoyed. As time passed, I was able to recover my mood and had unintentionally joked, telling my friends that, "I'd a big problem... they would be calling my name to come up the stage to claim my prize. How would I get up there if I can't even walk since my other shoe was broken?' And I even asked my friend that I would borrow her shoes if ever they call on my name. So, it was all a joke for me and all of us, just to make my odd situation lighter. 

This time I took a brief shot of what's happening on stage while their revealing the third and last winner of the Nokia Lumia 1020...

The last thing I remembered was, I couldn't believe what I heard when Mr. Karel Holub, Nokia's General Manager called out my name!!! There was a moment of pause on my part, it seemed like the world was all over me, all eyes were glued on my direction and they were calling me and waiting for me to get up there! Mixed emotions came over me, OMG fate has really played a big joke on me. A positive joke indeed! What options do I have? There was none! I hurriedly removed my pair of shoes and proceed on stage.. while everyone was clueless why this blogger was "shoeless?" I know some of them would even thought that maybe it's because of my excitement, right? Well, if you were on my shoe hehe, what would you prefer? ;-)

That's me at the center, the "shoeless" lady who won the Nokia Lumia 1020!!! Thank you so so much Nokia! To God be the Glory!!! 

Karel Holub, General Manager, Nokia Philippines and Gary Chan, Head of Marketing, Pan Asia, Nokia

To make thee long story short, I was able to pick-up my most coveted prize, just the other day just in time for me to explore it and enjoy my Nokia Lumia 1020 amazing experience and before it gets out in the market today, October 11, 2013, in select GMA stores, and the rest of the country soon after. Nokia Lumia 1020 comes in yellow, black and white at a priceof PHP 35,650 with the free Nokia Camera Grip (valued at P4,000 but will not be sold separately) through Nokia Stores, authorized retailers and local operators with attractive data plans.

  

Nokia Lumia 1020 unit comes with the complete accessories, charger, earphones, manual and the Nokia Camera Grip to ensure fun and easy photo-taking, Nokia created the Nokia Camera Grip, an accessory designed to perfectly fit the Nokia Lumia 1020 and making it easier to get the shot you want, especially single-handed. The Camera Grip includes a built-in, rechargeable 1020 mAh battery to capture up to 285 more photos. The versatile Nokia Camera Grip can attach to any standard camera tripod for those moments when you to take self-portraits or for setting-up the perfect long-exposure shot.

Top photo was taken from my Nikon Coolpix P90; Middle photo was taken from my Samsung S3 and the bottom photo was a shot from my Nokia Lumia 1020 in a Pro Cam mode. All gadgets used were set in auto mode with flash in an indoor scene against led light bulb which is situated on the ceiling. Nokia Lumia 1020 is leaving me no options but to use it, can't help but to admire its perfection! With 41 MP optical image stabilization (OIS)... it's such an awesome experience discovering and re-discovering the great photographs taken by this cameraphone. 

Let me take you to that experience...

Nokia Lumia 1020 photos in a Pro Cam auto mode without flash on the left picture of Nokia earphones, and with flash on the right picture, indoor scene, against the light of a led bulb on the ceiling. 

HP Ink Advantage 5525

Pinay Maria Mercedes Jessy Mendiola with co-stars Nikki Gil, Jake Cuenca and Jason Abalos during Maria Mercedes blog conference 

Way back the 90's era, a Mexican Telenovela was welcomed by most of the Pinoy televiewers and had received a very warm and great impact in its tv ratings, in short, it was a "trending" topic among households, offices, variety stores, establishments and among peers. I am talking about the well-loved "Maria Mercedes," originally played by Thalia, a Mexican actress, singer, songwriter, published author and businesswoman. The Filipinos, most especially the Pinays, were able to relate to Thalia's character in "Maria Mercedes," very sweet, loving daughter and sibling, responsible, cheerful, a girl with full of dreams for her family and at the same time, God-fearing. 

And today, as part of ABS-CBN's 60th anniversary, they are now offering the remake of "Maria Mercedes," with the very beautiful, sexy and talented actress Jessy Mendiola as the title-roler. ABS-CBN had conducted a series of audition for the main character but Jessy admitted that the role was directly given to her which she is very thankful and promises to give her best in this project. 

The 20-year old fresh and gorgeous actress shared that she had undergone several workshops with direk Chito Roño to be able to adapt and be the perfect Pinay Maria Mercedes. Being truthful to what she's promised, she really aims to be "in character" of Maria Mercedes, she even engaged in dance lessons to be able to move more gracefully like Thalia. 

"Happy ako na nabigay sa'kin ito... originally kasi dapat non-prime show ito, siguro napakita namin 'yung  gusto naming maiparating sa kanila na mahal namin 'yung project na'to, ginawa nilang primetime. Hindi lang 'yun kasi this October kasi is celebration of 60th anniversary of soap opera, so I'm really happy na, they consider our show to be one of their offerings so I'm actually really happy na it is more than what we were asking for... I feel like we are really blessed and the management really loves us," the Pinay Maria Mercedes said when I asked about her newest tv series being placed finally in a primetime slot (Primetime Bida). 

The perfect Pinay Maria Mercedes, Jessy Mendiola 

In my own opinion, and for sure, majority would agree with me, for claiming that Jessy Mendiola is the perfect if not the best Maria Mercedes our country could ever have! She is not just a pretty face, you know, Jessy is a smart, bubbly, very positive, friendly, family-oriented, dream-weaver, a fighter, so natural, humble and empowering kind of girl. Asked what does she think is the basic quality that she and Maria Mercedes have in common... she said, "Palaban ako, mas lalo na pagdating sa pamilya, sobrang lahat na gawin n'yo sa 'kin 'wag n'yo lang papakialaman ang pamilya ko. So ganun din si Maria Mercedes, kapag may umapi sa mga kapatid n'ya, sa pamilya n'ya, aawayin talaga n'ya. So kapag inaway talaga ang pamilya ko (she's giggling), aawayin ko and si Maria Mercedes kasi, s'yempre sabi nga nila maraming nagkakagusto kay Maria Mercedes... inaantay n'ya 'yung tamang panahon, kung kelan s'ya mai-inlove ng todo-todo, at ganun din ako in real life na mag-aantay ako ng tamang panahon hindi 'yung agad-agad. Sa ngayon, pamilya muna, kasi mahal ko talagang sobra 'yung pamilya ko at ganun din si Maria Mercedes, palaban pero pagdating sa pamilya mahina s'ya..." 

Yep, the true essence of a real and modern Filipina, Jessy Mendiola has it! Watch her and be inspired with the story of the Pinay "Maria Mercedes" in ABS-CBN Kapamilya network, nightly in Primetime Bida, right after "Got To Believe." Joing her are co-stars: 

Jake Cuenca as Luis Sancuevas 

Jason Abalos as Clavio Mondejar

Nikki Gil as Mistica

The cast of "Maria Mercedes" catch them in Kapamilya Primetime Bida

Senorita Jessy Mendiola, my sweet and lovable Maria Mercedes!

with the ever pretty and fashionable Nikki Gil

with awesome Jake Cuenca

with the hunk Jason Abalos

More pics from Maria Mercedes blogcon here!!!

ABS-CBN Foundation managing director, Ms. Gina Lopez (3rd from left) held hands in union with rest of the organizers and sponsors of the "One Run, One Philippines" for the Run for the Pasig River presscon held at the official hotel partner, Torre Venezia Suites in Timog, Quezon City.

"This is your country, this is your city. We can only have the country and the city that we dream and hope for, if we actively aspire for it. And we manifest that aspiration in actual action. So if you want a country which is clean and beautiful, communities in love, peace and harmony, and our rivers that are clean and beautiful and not smelly, come and run on that day. Make a statement, wake up early and run with the rest of us and say we want the Pasig River clean. and if you do this, we will clean that river, " the ever charming, supportive, brave and active Ms. Gina Lopez said. 

In relation to that, on October 6, 2013, Sunday, marks the 5th year of her dedicated hard-work to clean up the Pasig River, via another advocacy run entitled "One Run, One Philippines" which will take place not only in one venue but in 5 cities simultaneously. The event will have different environmental beneficiaries: 

Lanes that will be used for the race will be closed at 2 AM on the event day, while the two outermost lanes on both sides of Commonwealth Ave. will remain open. The motorists are advised to take alternate routes if possible as heavy traffic is expected. 

On the other hand, the three provincial legs will start at 4:30 AM  with its 21K category followed by the 5K and 10K at 5:30 AM. Starting line of Cebu leg is at SM City Cebu; Davao leg is at Abreeza Mall, while Bacolod leg is at the Provincial Capital Lagoon, whereas the Los Angeles leg, will begin at 7:30 AM with its 1K Kiddie Run, 5K and 10K categories at Burbank, California. 

You see, all these happenings wouldn't be complete without the presence and support of the Kapamilya stars, right? In Quezon City, the run will be headed by Anne Curtis, Kim Chiu, Karylle and model-blogger Erwann Heusaff; Paulo Avelino and Jayson Abalos will be at the Cebu leg; Maja Salvador, Aaron Villaflor, Bryan Termulo will be in Davao City while Joem Bascon, Paul Jake Castillo, Bangs Garcia and Jake Cuenca will lead the Los Angeles leg. 

The funds raised by the four consecutive advocacy runs that started since 2009, had aided in the rehabilitation of a total of 16 esteros in Manila and Quezon City to this date, under the ABS-CBN Foundation's Kapit Bisig Para sa Ilog Pasig and Pasig Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) with the help also of the supporters of the annual "Run for the Pasig River like the private donors and government agencies. Just wanna share you my article about the amazing results this campaign had made our metro, for further knowledge, hope you would care to visit this.

So you see, if you think rehabilitating Pasig River and bringing it back to its usual state as close as it was before is next to impossible... I don't think so :)) open your eyes, it's happening! And this will only continue if we share one goal and one spirit. Together, we can all do it! So, for our children and for the next generations to come, let's all do this, let's support "One Run, One Philippines" for the rehabilitation of not only the Pasig River but for the lives of the people... for our lives. 

More Important Reminders!!!