TFCU Talks Heads to San Jose State University, Breaking Through to Greatness

After the successful TFCU Talks at the CSU Dominguez Hills last October 21, TFCU Talks is now coming to San Jose, California on Saturday, November 4, 2017 from 3:00-5:30 P.M. Doors open at 2:30 P.M.

An affiliate of ABS-CBN International, TFCU Talks San Jose will feature a lineup of top industry leaders to connect, inspire, and empower college students and young professionals to help them realize their full potential.

The event takes place at the Student Union Ballroom at San Jose State University. TFCU Talks San Jose is an exclusive free event with limited seating - first come, first served. For all ticketing information, and to reserve your spot today, please visit tfcusanjose.eventbrite.com.

Two of ABS-CBN’s premier stars will take on different roles as Star Cinema introduces a new film genre in Last Night

Two of the Philippines’ largest and leading multi-media conglomerate, ABS-CBN’s brightest stars Piolo Pascual and Toni Gonzaga reunite in Star Cinema’s latest movie offering, “Last Night”, which will screen outside the Philippines starting October 6 via TFC@theMovies in key countries worldwide.

The film, directed by hitmaker Joyce Bernal, is the reunion project of Pascual and Gonzaga after their box-office film “Starting Over Again” in 2014. This also serves as the big screen comeback of Gonzaga after her last film “You’re My Boss” in 2015.

In the film, Gonzaga will give life to Carmina, a bright-eyed, idealistic young woman who has given up on life. “Sometimes you feel na you always have it together but in reality, you are really broken in the inside”, she shares.

Pascual plays Mark, a businessman who has lost the will to live. Pascual identifies with the humanness of Mark.  He understands how Mark was at the end of his rope and opted for his last resort to end all his worries.

Mature Play "Solo Para Adultos" Is Here To Seduce You

One of the new theater groups in the country called Red Lantern Production is staging an original Filipino three-act sex-comedy play titled ‘Solo Para Adultos’ (For Adults Only in English) or ‘SPA’ on October 20, 8pm at the Music Museum in Greenhills, San Juan City.

‘SPA’ is inspired from the works of Pedro Almodóvar is a Spanish Oscar-winning director and screenwriter known for films like ‘All About My Mother’, ‘Talk to Her’, ‘Bad Education’,‘Volver’ and ‘I'm So Excited’. However, its concept is entirely different and is a social commentary about what’s happening about the Philippine entertainment setting.

Five lead characters intertwined together to make this production an experience that will both entertain and make the audience think about the way celebrities on television and in films manage to survive in complicated situations. 

The Filharmonic and Geneva Cruz Headline Kick-off of Filipino American History Month Celebration in Carson on October 7

As October approaches, the City of Carson, California prepares to kick off the month-long celebration of Filipino-American History Month with an impressive showcase of Filipino talent. 

The kick-off festivities on Saturday, October 7th, will be held at the Congresswoman Juanita Millender-McDonald Community Center starting at 9:00 a.m. located at 801 E. Carson Street.  This event is open to the public and admission is free.

TFC sets the world stage for the biggest Filipino experience in Dubai, “One Music X” this November

The “Rakrakan” concert series from 2006 to 2009.  The groundbreaking “FilExpo” in 2008. The first “It’s Showtime” outside the Philippines in 2011. The thrilling “JadIne In Love” in Dubai in 2016.  The milestone “ASAP in Dubai” in 2014.  The record-breaking “Birit Queens in Abu Dhabi this year.

From concert series, trade fairs to franchised events, ABS-CBN The Filipino Channel (TFC) has been delivering the most epic Filipino events to the Middle East that bring together Filipinos to celebrate as one community and which have come to be the most anticipated in the region.

This year, as ABS-CBN  Middle East celebrates its 20th anniversary, the network that delivers content beyond information and entertainment, brings it a notch higher as it paves the way for the biggest Filipino music experience to date --- “One Music X” on November 3 at the Dubai Media City Amphitheater.

New American Media Honors Excellence in Journalism among California’s Ethnic Media Journalists and News Organizations; ABS-CBN International’s BA Wins for Outstanding Coverage of Voter Engagement Excellence

BA Team w Sandy Close
ABS-CBN International The Filipino Channel’s (TFC)
 daily news program, BA (Balitang America) won for
Outstanding Coverage of Voter Engagement. The BA Team
(L-R) Production Coordinator Jon Cana, News Desk Editor
 Henni Espinosa, Executive Producer Troy Espera, and Video
 Journalist Rommel Conclara shown here with
NAM Executive Director Sandy Close (center).

“If we work together, we could do better. That’s the spirit that has driven New American Media from the start,” says NAM Executive Director and Executive Editor Sandy Close at the 2017 NAM California Ethnic Media Awards Ceremonies held recently at the PG&E Auditorium in downtown San Francisco.

Twelve winners were awarded in different categories that comprised of Immigration, Health Care, Education, Politics, Gender Issues, the 2016 Elections, among others.

ABS-CBN International The Filipino Channel’s (TFC) daily news program, BA (Balitang America) won for Outstanding Coverage of Voter Engagement. In a post event article released on their website, New American Media wrote that “judges praised the breadth and depth of reporting, noting BA’s team took ‘the most divisive and unpredictable’ election in recent memory ‘by the horns.’” 

Sunshine Cruz Joins ALV Talent Circuit

Versatile dramatic actress Sunshine Cruz is the latest addition to ALV Talent Circuit’s roster of  illustrious talents headed by respected talent manager Arnold Vegafria, who made headlines recently for his trendsetting and epic production of the 2017 Miss World Philippines pageant.

Currently starring in ABS-CBN’s top-rating primetime series Wildflower, the flawless beauty is excited about her latest career move. She says, “I just feel and know that I will be in good hands with Arnold. I know that I have so much more to offer and ALV can bring that out in me.”

Glaiza De Castro unravels new album “Magandang Simulain” with a special concert

Multi-talented artist Glaiza De Castro returns to the music scene with the release of another distinctly aesthetic OPM album titled, “Magandang Simulain” distributed by PolyEast Records. Glaiza’s new album will be launched with a special concert for her fans on October 27, 2017 at the Music Museum. 

Expect a night of Glaiza’s tribute to the musicians all the way back in the 70s thru a concert titled “Kun[g]diman” produced by Glaiza herself together with PolyEast Records. Glaiza’s special guests will include rock icon Mike Hanapol and rapper Gloc-9. 

“Sa panahon kasi ngayon all of us have our own issues to think about, sometimes we forget how truly blessed we are. So through my songs I want our elders to remember what it felt like noong bata pa sila. ‘Yung pakiramdam ng walang problema at umasa sa mga kababataan.” she shares.

Christian Bautista Launches Much Awaited album “Kapit” on September 29 at the Music Museum!

“This album is a journey to find my next music path, a challenge to write more songs and to continue writing songs for others,” revealed Asia’s Romantic Balladeer, Christian Bautista, as he was in the process of concocting yet another masterpiece.

This September 29, Christian Bautista is poised to unveil his 7th album under Universal Records entitled Kapit, duly named after his famed song. The Kapit album launch, happening at the Music Museum, will also serve as a concert treat for his listeners. For only PHP 500, fans can get their hands on Kapit while watching Christian Bautista and renowned performers like The CompanY, plus other surprise guests, live!

The single, Kapit’s success, bolstered by constant radio airplays and a spot as Koreanovela Innocent Defendant’s theme song, led Stages and Universal Records to produce the event for the OPM icon’s latest album. “[Kapit is] a song about holding on despite the many hardships of any relationship,” shares Asia’s Romantic Balladeer, Christian Bautista.

TFC supports Martin Nievera's historic September concerts in Las Vegas and Honolulu this Labor Day weekend

It’s rare for any artist to have almost back-to-back concerts in two of the biggest cities for entertainment – Las Vegas and Honolulu.  Moreover, it’s even rarer for artists to hold such concerts in premier venues like the M Resort Spa Casino and Blue Note Jazz Club Restaurant.

But trust Philippine Concert King Martin Nievera to pull off such a feat.  After all, he has several records of being first in his colorful career as a live concert performer, recording artist, musician, composer, actor and producer. Martin was the first Goodwill Ambassador of ABS-CBN The Filipino Channel (TFC), the leading Filipino media and entertainment network. He was also the first Ambassador for the Bantay Bata Program of ABS-CBN Foundation which has become a model for child care, rescue and protection services. Most recently, Martin became TFC’s first artist to perform the U.S. national anthem ahead of a Golden State Warriors game at the Oracle Arena in Oakland, California back in March of this year. And these are just a few to mention because he also set records in terms of platinum record sales and concert attendance.

Save The Date: September 8 The Stars of Julia Barretto and Joshua Garcia Align to bring you this Heavenly Romantic Comedy

All of terra firma and the heavenly bodies are about to line up just right to bring us the hottest teen love team this side of the universe: Joshua Garcia and Julia Barretto, better known to fans as JoshLia. Garcia and Barretto star in Antoinette Jadaone’s romantic comedy “Love You to the Stars and Back,” opening in theaters across the U.S. and Canada next Friday, September 8, 2017. 

“Love You to the Stars and Back” tells the story of Mika (Barretto), a socially awkward girl who decides to go on a road trip to look for aliens. Mika accidentally bumps into cancer-stricken Caloy (Garcia), who despite his illness, manages to remain positive and cheerful.

Julia Barretto plays Mika, an eccentric and socially awkward girl who decides to go on a road trip with a very strange goal – to look for aliens.  (Photo courtesy of Star Cinema.)

Love in the time of traffic gridlock in 1:43's comeback single "Trapik Tralala"

Love in the time of traffic gridlock in 1:43's comeback single "Trapik Tralala"

TRAFFIC congestion wastes your precious time. And it may also cost you your love life.

This is the bittersweet theme of revitalized Filipino boyband 1:43’s comeback single titled “Trapik Tralala,” which speaks of a young man’s growing exasperation as he finds himself stuck in traffic on his way to see the girl of his dreams.

Composed by OPM icon Jim Paredes and arranged by Sonic State Audio Studio’s Jonathan Ong, “Trapik Tralala” was originally a part of the APO’s 1996 album Dating Alternatib but which was not released as a single, then.

Jay-R, Kris & Billy's "Soul Brothers" Concert At Kia Theater On Sept 15

RnB royalties Jay-R, Kris Lawrence and Billy Crawford reaffirm their brotherhood of soul with their much-awaited SOUL BROTHERS concert at the Kia Theater on September 15.

Aside from showcasing their Original Music Only hits, the show serves as a delightful throwback to the timeless catalog of soul, Motown and other RnB classics that are enjoying a resurgence in this digital age.

Among their guest performers are their close friends Daryl Ong, Sam Concepcion, Jay Durias and Gloc 9.

With their combined prowess as acclaimed singers, songwriters and producers, the three continue to enthrall their fans with their magnetic stage dynamism and commanding presence; Jay-R with his regular A.S.A.P. Soul Sessions, Kris with his HomeWorkZ gigs and recordings, and Billy with his regular It’s Showtime, Little Big Shots and forthcoming Pilipinas Got Talent Season 6 hosting stints.

Myx TV General Manager Miguel Santos Joins New Members of PGA

Recently named among the 10 emerging executives of color in NAMIC’s 2017 Luminaries Class, Myx TV General Manager Miguel Santos was also welcomed and highlighted as a new member of the Producers Guild of America (PGA) in the August-September 2017 issue of its official magazine, PRODUCED BY. Santos oversees Myx TV network’s strategy, programming, production, marketing, ad sales and business development, with the goal of elevating the narratives of one of the most under-represented minority groups in media. Myx TV is owned and operated by ABS-CBN International.

Most recently, Santos joined ABS-CBN North America Managing Director Olivia De Jesus and Project Manager Keesa Ocampo as executive producers of the “Discovering Routes,” the newest original series from Myx TV and produced by ABS-CBN Global Studios in association with Go Button Media. The exciting, new show follows fast-rising YouTube travel vlogger Garrett Gee of “The Bucket List Family” and his sister, Miristi, from Utah as they travel to the Philippines, the land of their ancestry. Broadcast episodes will air Tuesdays on Myx TV’s cable channel starting September 12 at 8/7c, and webisodes will air Mondays and Thursdays on www.myxtv.com and www.discoveringroutes.com starting September 7.

My Korean Jagiya Is All Set To Claim It's Ways Into Viewers' Homes!

GMA Netrowk marks history once again as it proudly presents its first-ever Filipino-Korean romantic comedy series, My Korean Jagiya.

Headlining this newest primetime spectacle is no other than Philippine TV's Sweetheart Heart Evangelista-Escudero as Guadalupe Immaculada Asuncion or Gia.

Talented kids capture the hearts of viewers in Philippine version of “Little Big Shots”

ABS-CBN Corporation, the Philippines’ largest and leading Philippine multi-media conglomerate, has started airing its local version of the hit international kids’ talent-talk show “Little Big Shots” that features extraordinarily talented, witty, and charming Filipino kids from all over the country and around the world, including young internet sensations.

On its pilot telecasts last August 12 and August 13 Philippine time, the local edition of “Little Big Shots” showcased amazing Filipino kids such as a nine-year-old pole dancer; sibling kiddie acrobats; a three-year-old geography genius; and a six-year-old boy with six pack abs.

“Finally Found Someone” is Still Letting Out the Feels on its 2nd Week in Theaters across the U.S. and Canada

UrbanDictionary.com describes “the feels” as the feeling you get and can’t quite explain, making you go crazy when that certain someone looks at you just the right way, or really, does anything.”

This is exactly what “Finally Found Someone” is making viewers experience while watching the Sarah Geronimo-John Lloyd Cruz starrer. Some came out of the theaters saying “It was really great! I really love the movie and I think it’s amazing!” “I’m so kilig! Cute nila pareho.” “It’s a wholesome movie. We Filipinos like this kind of story.” “For those who can’t find their true love yet, this movie is perfect for them.” “It has everything. May romance, may drama, and may comedy.” Sumasabog sila sa screen!” (They blow up the screen!)

Ogie Alcasid celebrates 50, dedicates concert to Filipino music and World Vision

The country’s respected Original Pilipino Music (OPM) singer-composer and hitmaker Ogie Alcasid celebrates his 50th birthday with a one-of-a-kind concert dubbed “NakakaLokal!” based on his recently launched album of the same title.

Happening on August 25, 2017 at the KIA Theatre, the awaited musical event will also feature a star-studded line-up including  Angeline Quinto, Basti Artadi, Davey Langit, Erik Santos, Iñigo Pascual, Jaya, Kyla, Lara Maigue, Leila Alcasid, Lovi Poe, Men and Music, Solenn Heussaff, and Yeng Constantino. 

The concert will benefit child-focused humanitarian agency World Vision and its advocacy campaign, “It Takes a World to End Sexual Exploitation against Children”. For years, Alcasid has been a staunch advocate and ambassador for World Vision, an NGO which currently assists over 75,000 children nationwide. One of World Vision’s successful sponsored children and now a tenor singer Richard Supat, formerly with FORTEnors, will also join Alcasid in a number offered for the children, especially those living in poor and vulnerable conditions.

“ASAP Live in Toronto” Keeps It Lit on Social Media

As summer nears its tail end in Toronto, dubbed one of the top five ‘most livable cities in the world’ according to publication The Economist’s Intelligence Unit Livability Survey, Filipinos continue to feel the sizzle left behind by the spectacle that was “ASAP Live in Toronto.” 

Two weeks after the concert, social media netizens continue to show love for the four-hour, sold-out extravaganza. Heart-warming feedback continue to be posted on the officialFacebook page of TFC in Canada, TFC Live North America and personal accounts.   A group of solid Kapamilyas' video on TFC Live's official facebook page shared: “It’s always nice to see these Kapamilya stars and we’re happy to see them again. We’re proud of Filipino talents”. 

Bianca Gonzalez is an influencer. She opinionates. She endorses. She tells stories.

Bianca is adept at using social media and is one of the most followed and watched in the online world in the Philippines. She has also put the power of social media to good use.

On social media, she bills herself as a storyteller. Bianca currently has 6.3 million followers on Twitter, 1.8 million followers on Instagram, and 2.7 million followers on her Facebook page. Her feed shows a mix of her family life with husband JC and their 21-month old daughter Lucia, her thoughts for the day, her home and travel tips, her observations on topics big and small. She is also known to post about issues that affect all of us: traffic, climate change, education, government, even food, beauty and or parenting. Sometimes she gets into a testy twitter exchange with netizens like when a twitter user tweeted: "So what if there is martial law"? An irked Bianca shared a video of martial law survivors who recounted their experiences on the regime. She admonished netizens not to joke about it, but also educated them on the difference of martial law then, and martial law now, under the 1987 Constitution. This, among many other topics she gets into, and sometimes gets into trouble with, all to share what she believes in.

DZMM Teleradyo launches “Good Vibes” and “On the Spot” as part of 10th year anniversary

 As art of its 10th anniversary, DZMM TeleRadyo recently launched two new daily programs: “Good Vibes” with Niña Corpuz and “On The Spot” newscast anchored by Vic Lima and Toni Aquino, both airing outside the Philippine via TFC platforms in key countries worldwide.

For ten years now, DZMM TeleRadyo has been striving to provide Filipinos with timely and relevant information for their everyday lives.  As part of this thrust, the top-rating radio channel launched programs that ensure its audience is updated about what is happening around them.

Drew Arellano Explores The Countryside

Drew Arellano is having the time of his life visiting the countryside. For Drew, to travel is to learn: learn from people, learn of their history and culture.

On a recent episode of Biyahe Ni Drew, Drew was brought to a little known town called Capul in Northern Samar. As viewers travel with him, they get to know that Capul is a shortened word for Acapulco, a trading post in Mexico, because that particular town in Northern Samar served as guidepost for the Acapulco-Manila Galleon trade. There still stands the lighthouse that served as guide to ships plying that route. Audiences also learned that though Samar speaks  the Waray dialect, Capul has a distinct language only known to them called Inabaknon with influences from Austronesian language, a language spoken among coastal places in Southeast Asia. 

The Philippines’ Soul Diva Jaya and Unkabogabol Sidekick Negi spread good vibes at “Kapamilya Fun Day” in Australia

“Music is to the soul as food is to the body” and “laughter is the best medicine” are two of the most popular adages that agree on one thing --- that both music and laughter can be therapeutic.  Two of ABS-CBN’s most-loved artists showed that rhythm and comedy can truly both nourish and heal at the three-night, three-city musical experience “Kapamilya Day” early June which did not only bring back memories from home for the audience but also moved the performers themselves.

The “Kapamilya Fun Day”, an annual event which just started in Australia last year and has been giving an opportunity for global Filipinos in the cities of Australia to meet and interact personally with their favorite Kapamilya stars, first brought “Queen of RnB” Kyla, “World Champion” Jed Madela, and comedian Negi to the “Kapamilya Fun Day” in 2016.  This time TFC shared the music of “Soul Diva” Jaya with a second serving of “Unkabogabol Sidekick”, Negi.

Wattpad Season Ender - Just the Strings

After a brief hiatus, former PBB sweethearts Cora Waddell and Luis Hontiveros will team up, once again, for the season ender of WATTPAD PRESENTS entitled, Just The Strings.  Based on the Wattpad novel by Beeyoch, this is the second book of the author’s “Just” series that has captured millions of Wattpad readers and is, in fact, the most-awaited TV adaptation this year. 

Just The Strings is the story of Imo (Cora Wadell), a quintessential “emo” girl whose life evolves around books and underground music.  Her so-called miniscule world becomes large in all proportions when she accidentally rode on the wrong car, thinking it was her UBER ride, which is being driven by the school heartthrob and basketball star, Saint (Luis Hontiveros).  This chance meet-up leads to a blossoming romance despite Imo’s eternal infatuation with her childhood best friend Parker, who is played by Starstruck finalist, James Teng.  Imo is also ruptured by the fact that both Saint and Parker are linked with other girls but in some such way, also baited by Imo’s kindness and whimsical character.  

Filipinos in Japan shower Vice Ganda with love in “Pusuan Mo si Vice Ganda sa Japan”

It felt like Valentine’s Day all over again for the Philippines’ Unkabogabol Star Vice Ganda as the Filipino community in Japan warmly welcomed him mid-year at the “Pusuan Mo si Vice Ganda sa Japan: Nagmahal. Nasaktan. Nag-concert” held last July 2 at the Ichikawa City Cultural Hall, in Chiba Prefecture.

Loud cheers from the audience filled the venue as soon as Vice Ganda shared his TV home “It’s Showtime’s” signature greeting “What’s up, madlang people?!”.  

Download the App to Level Up the ASAP Live in Toronto Experience!

Ticketholders are counting down the days to ASAP Live in Toronto where more than 35 of the biggest, brightest celebrities in the Philippines will gather at the Ricoh Coliseum on July 29, 2017 for four hours of superb entertainment.

Viewers can bring their ASAP experience to the next level by downloading the TFC Live Events App.  The app is the official mobile app for TFC (The Filipino Channel) global events, and allows one to get the latest updates and exclusive insider information about ASAP in Toronto.

ABS-CBN Launches “KAPAMILYA, THANK YOU” Program To Reward And Show Love To Kapamilyas

ABS-CBN, the country’s leading media and entertainment company, is rewarding Filipinos who patronize its products and services through its newest customer loyalty program called “Kapamilya, Thank You.”

Those who sign up for a “Kapamilya, Thank You” membership may earn points and get rewards such as a meet and greet with a Kapamilya star, tickets to ABS-CBN Studio Tours and shows like “ASAP” and “It’s Showtime,” freebies from ABS-CBN Store, free access to ABS-CBN TVplus’ KBO and SKY Pay-Per-View, and free SMS, data, or calls via ABS-CBNmobile.

Miss World Philippines 2017 Kicks Off To An Epic Start

It’s open season for Miss World Philippines 2017!

Miss World Philippines National Director Arnold Vegafria promises to make this year’s pageant more epic and trendsetting, fusing the best elements from Filipino culture with a dash of showbiz pizzazz—the better to promote local tourism and generate goodwill among all contestants.

He says, “I am deeply honored and privileged to have been given this challenge. I am looking forward to continuing our mission of uplifting the image of the Filipina in the global pageant circuit, but even more importantly, it has always been our priority to perpetuate the Miss World Organization’s noble advocacy of Beauty With A Purpose.”

Boy Abunda Speech Wows World-Class Speakers

He is not called The King of Talk for nothing.

But with a foreign audience composed of the best and the brightest in public speaking in attendance, the applause - and the standing ovation - was a moment to remember even for talk show host par excellence Boy Abunda.

Simply put, Boy took the spotlight during his scheduled speech at the Asia Professional Speakers Convention held in Singapore last month. He owned the moment, seizing it like a hungry man at an all-you-can-eat convention.

The theme of his talk, Don’t Just Be A Speaker, Be A Star, provided him the perfect platform to share his thoughts on his decades of experience and wisdom as a talent agent, star maker, and television personality. It was a moment of perfect timing - the time, the place, the topic, and the speaker came together to create a fitting debut for Boy‘s public speaking career.

Breakout team-up of ABS-CBN stars Gerald Anderson and Arci Muñoz reunite on the big screen via “Can We Still Be Friends”

In this day and age when traditions are challenged and new norms arise, it comes as no surprise that the on-screen, unconventional team-up of Kapamilya stars Gerald Anderson and Arci Muñoz hit it off at first collaboration via “Always Be My Maybe”.” 

Since their first on-screen performance which is both a blockbuster and social media sensation, the team-up has been called “Team Lablab” and is now back in the mid-year offering of Star Cinema, “Can We Still Be Friends,” screening outside the Philippines via TFC@theMovies in the U.S. and Canada starting June 23 and in Papua New Guinea starting June 29.

For their reunion movie, they will give life to the characters of Digs (Anderson) and Sam (Muñoz).

Digs and Sam are a couple happy with their relationship which has lasted for eight years, that is until they decide to amicably end their relationship.

Top 8 Civil Engineer Board Passer receives 1 million

The Manuel L. Quezon University (MLQU) gave one (1) million cash reward to Mr. Archimedes Martinez as a token of recognition and appreciation for ranking Top 8 in the recent nationwide professional licensing exam for Civil Engineers at Success the MLQU Way event held at the Victoria Sports Tower Station 2, last June 6, 2017.

Engr. Martinez, a BS Civil Engineer graduate from Manuel L. Quezon University, ranked 8th with a rating of 92.65 percent based on results posted by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) last May 11, 2017.

Martinez is the only graduate from MLQU to make it to the top 10. Out of 6,998 examinees, only 2,514 passed the exam conducted simultaneously in 12 cities in the country.

With this achievement Martinez has brought honor and pride to his alma mater. And in return, MLQU celebrates this victory through Success the MLQU Way event by rewarding him one (1) million pesos and a job offer from New San Jose Builders, Inc. (NSJBI).

Comedian Wacky Kiray crosses the ‘finish line’ as the first ‘Greatest Entertainer’ of “I Can Do That” Philippines

Relive Wacky Kiray’s heart-pounding performance at the “I Can Do That” grand finals via TFC online (www.TFC.tv) and TFC IPTV in key countries worldwide until July 4

Quezon City, Philippines (June 7, 2017) - Kapamilya comedian Wacky Kiray impressed both the judges and viewers with his death-defying wire balancing act and emerged as the first Greatest Entertainer in ABS-CBN’s talent-variety show “I Can Do That,” which aired outside the Philippines via TFC and which streamed simulcast its Philippine airing via TFC online (www.TFC.tv) in key countries worldwide.

Richard Gutierrez is ABS-CBN’s Newest Kapamilya

“I’ve always been curious how it is to work in ABS-CBN… finally, I’m here” - Gutierrez

From left, Finance Head for Broadcast and News and Current Affairs Cat Lopez, ABS-CBN COO for Broadcast Cory Vidanes, Richard Gutierrez, Star Creatives COO Malou Santos and talent manager Annabelle Rama at Richard’s contract signing with ABS-CBN.

Newest Kapamilya Richard Gutierrez returns to television as he joins the cast of ABS-CBN’s highly-anticipated epic action romance series “La Luna Sangre.”

Paw Patrol Live in Manila!

Everyone is excited to see PAW Patrol Live in Manila. The furry pals are here to bring joy and excitement to kids who love the canine group. From the successful Nickelodeon kid series, it now comes alive and more interactive with PAW Patrol Live in Manila!

Catch PAW Patrol Live! Race to the Rescue from June 2 to 4 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater in Resorts World Manila. For tickets and information, go to www.pawpatrollive.ph.

Vanessa Hudgens and Ludacris Set To Host the 2017 Bilboard Music Awards

Dick clark productions confirmed that Platinum-selling recording artist, Ludacris, and actress and singer, Vanessa Hudgens will co-host the “2017 Billboard Music Awards”! This will be Ludacris’ fourth consecutive year hosting, and Vanessa’s very first! The seasoned vet and the newcomer made a simultaneous announcement this morning across their social media pages.

The “2017 Billboard Music Awards” will broadcast LIVE from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on Monday, May 22 at 8:00 a.m. (7:00 a.m. JKT/BKK) exclusive on RTL CBS Entertainment. This year’s show will showcase big performances, unexpected collaborations and pop culture moments that will have everyone talking! 

HOOQ celebrates success with new partners, new TVOD service and a slew of new Asian and Hollywood shows

HOOQ – the largest Video on Demand service in South-East Asia—has had a productive and successful two years since its inception, delivering the best of both Asian and Hollywood entertainment to homes across Asia.  HOOQ has subscribers in the millions, all of whom can enjoy over 30,000 hours of quality entertainment, and this will be increased with new partnerships from Paramount Pictures, BBC Worldwide and Endamol Shine.  Further to this, HOOQ today announced a new service that delivers movies fresh from the cinema to your home – Transactional VOD (TVOD).  This allows blockbuster movies to hit the service within three months of their theatrical release.  To top it all off, customers subscribing to the current Subscription VOD (SVOD) service will be able to enjoy one movie from the TVOD library each month as part of their SVOD subscription at no additional cost! 

“Securing new partners such as Paramount pictures, BBC and Endemol Shine are a testament to the fact that HOOQ has the right formula to deliver quality entertainment to Asian homes, with a balance of the best Asian films and dramas alongside solid Hollywood blockbusters and series.  We have never been more elated and will continue to push boundaries to evolve and stay committed to delivering the best entertainment to our customers with new services such as TVOD that bring movies to your homes quicker than ever before – even as part of your SVOD subscription,” said Chief Executive Officer of HOOQ, Mr Peter Bithos.

A FORMULA FOR SUCCESS

Built in Asia for Asia, HOOQ’s formula has been to be a subscription video-on-demand service, which continuously innovates and delivers the best quality entertainment.  Whether it is HOOQ’s world first download capability for Hollywood, its weekly pricing or its ad-free freemium model, HOOQ has continue to evolve its business model for Asia.  This has proven successful, with the platform securing millions of subscribers across Asia.  This success comes from HOOQ’s strategy of combining the best Asian and Hollywood content with a solid distribution partner network of the top telcos and broadband providers in the region including AIS, Airtel, Globe Telecom, Telkom, and Telkomsel, just to name a few.

“In the Philippines, we made sure to put together the best Filipino content for our subscribers with a combination of the top local studios and independent filmmakers. This combined with HOOQ’s strategy of serving premium Hollywood content, as well as our key distribution partnership with Globe has contributed to making HOOQ the regional leader,” says Ms. Jane Cruz-Walker, HOOQ Philippines Country Manager.

LATEST MOVIES FROM THE CINEMAS NOW FOR RENT ON HOOQ

HOOQ’s new TVOD service not only gives access to movies from the cinemas to your home, HOOQ subscribers will get access to watch any 1 TVOD movie per month as part of their current subscription, while additional movies can be rented for just P125.00 each.  There will be new movies uploaded each month from studios such as Sony Pictures, Warner Bros., Disney, Dreamworks and Pixar with titles such as Arrival, Underworld: Blood Wars, Fantastic Beasts and How to Find Them, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, just to name a few.  With this  new feature, HOOQ customers can now enjoy the largest library of Hollywood and Asian hits, TV series same day as the US, as well as the latest movies fresh off the cinemas! 

WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD TO ON HOOQ

In the Philippines, HOOQ has inked exclusive deals with Regal Entertainment and Viva Communications for digital rights to their new movies within 3 months of theatrical release.  Recent hits such as Camp Sawi, Bakit Lahat ng Guapo May Boyfriend & I Love You to Death have already debuted on HOOQ and are consistently in the top 10 list of most watched content by subscribers.  Mano Po 7, Die Beautiful, The Escort, and My Rebound Girl will be on HOOQ within the next quarter, with newly released movies to follow throughout the year.

In addition, HOOQ is bolstering its line-up of Hollywood studio partnerships consisting of Sony Pictures, Warner Bros., Disney, Dreamworks, Lionsgate, Miramax, Starz and over a hundred Asian studios. New hit series are now available from Endamol Shine and BBC including Secret Diary of a Call Girl, Mistresses and Wolf Hall.  The full catalog of DC shows are now also on HOOQ, including Legends of Tomorrow, Arrow and Gotham.  Meanwhile Supergirl, Lucifer and Powerless are available to stream within 24 hours of US airing. 

HOW TO GET HOOQ

It’s easy to get HOOQ’d.  Customers can simply download the HOOQ app from Apple Store or Google Play, sign up or log in, to access HOOQ’s library of top Hollywood and Asian hits anytime, anywhere and on any device include computers, smartphones, tablets, set-top boxes, smart TVs via Google Chromecast and all Apple devices. 

Globe At Home customers can get up to 6 months access to HOOQ with plans P1,299 and up, while Globe mobile customers can also get up to 6 months trial on selected prepaid and postpaid plans.   You may also visit www.hooq.tv to sign up for a 7-day free trial. 

Awra Briguela hailed first “Your Face Sounds Familiar Kids” Grand Winner

Breakout Child Star Awra Briguela was hailed the first “Your Face Sounds Familiar Kids” grand winner after garnering the highest combined scores from the jury and Philippine text votes at the program’s two-night Grand Showdown last April 8 and 9 (Manila time), which were seen outside the Philippines via TFC and which will continue to be seen via TFC online (TFC.tv) and TFC IPTV in key countries worldwide.

On the VTR interview with host Billy Crawford shown before Briguela went on the stage, he candidly told Crawford “Ako ang nagsimula, ako rin ang magtatapos. Awra!” pertaining to his transformation on the first week of the show as Dionisia Pacquiao, when he was hailed first weekly winner of the show.

TFCU brings talk series to Manila, ties up with ABS-CBN University for 1st international event

Gauging from the vibe and the reaction of the nearly 200 young Filipinos at the heart of ABS-CBN compound on March 27, one would think that a rock concert was in progress.   In truth, ABS-CBN University and TFC, ABS-CBN’s global media network, just launched its first Philippine leg for TFCU Talks entitled “Make Your Mark” at the iconic Dolphy Theater in Quezon City.

TFCU is TFC’s outreach to Filipino college and university students worldwide, primarily through a series of interactive exchange of ideas and discourses. Launched only in November last year, its TFCU Talks through its “Dare to Dream (San Francisco) and “Breaking the Mold” (Los Angeles) events, has since been creating a buzz for successfully gathering young Filipinos who are positively impacting their hometowns in North America and the world:

TFC Brings ABS-CBN Star Magic 25 Celebration to Canada and U.S. this April

Today, when the words, “ABS-CBN Star Magic”, are heard, an electric feeling of excitement and energy shoots up quickly among multitudes of fans around the world.  And with very good reason. 

What began in 1992 as the ABS-CBN Talent Center – a stable of new stars in training and development for ABS-CBN – has grown to be the leading source of global Filipino pride with the rise of its world-class TV and film actors and actresses, recording artists, concert and stage performers, and commercial talents whose collective body of work has entertained several generations of Filipinos in the past 25 years.

On the occasion of its Silver Anniversary, ABS-CBN Star Magic is poised to deliver its biggest and brightest year ever in its history.  After its star-studded kick-off on the longest running Filipino weekly variety show, “ASAP”,  last February, #StarMagic25 is raring to go around the world – in cooperation with ABS-CBN The Filipino Channel (TFC) -- to thrill millions of its fans abroad as a way of thanking them for their enthusiastic support for a quarter of a century.

Over 3,500 Pirated DVDs Surrendered to ABS-CBN from Dragon Mart, Red Carpet Express and Other Stores in Toronto, Canada

ABS-CBN representatives, with the presence of Toronto Police Service officers, received yesterday a total of 3,590 pirated DVDs of copyrighted ABS-CBN movies surrendered by Dragon Mart, Tina Shop and Unit 16B of Dragon Centre and Red Carpet Express of Oriental Centre in Toronto, Canada.

This development followed the successful enforcement effort by ABS-CBN earlier this month that resulted in the confiscation of hundreds of pirated DVDs of ABS-CBN content from six stores in Montreal and Toronto.

ABS-CBN Involved in Enforcement Effort Against Sellers of Pirated DVDs of ABS-CBN Content

Six stores selling DVDs in Toronto and Montreal surrendered last March 7 and 8 over a thousand pirated DVDs of ABS-CBN content.  Included in the enforcement effort were the following stores: Bulacan Fashion, Bon-Bon, Waynes Collectibles, a store at 23 Glen Watford Drive in Dragon Centre, Universe Communication Ltd. in Oriental Centre, and a store located at 6057 Victoria Avenue in Montreal, Quebec.  

"Pusuan Mo Si Vice Ganda Sa Amerika" Kicks Off U.S. Tour This Weekend

What makes a great stand-up comedian?

Rolling Stone magazine adeptly described its criteria when it named this year its Top 50 Stand-Up Comics of All Time:

“In coming up with our version of a comic canon, we weighed artistic merit, technical proficiency and sense of timing, quality of their written material, their delivery and degree of influence — and often, their sense of what makes something, anything, funny. No disrespect to the foundational figures who shaped the earliest incarnations, but this list tiptoes past some of the early craftsmen and focuses on the unique voices who have helped to push stand-up forward in more recent days. These 50 stand-ups best embody what we have come to expect of our modern-day comedians: Someone who can wake us up to the weird, wonderful possibilities of the world around us, impel us to think differently about our own lives – and most of all, make us howl like blithering idiots.” 

Well, Jose Marie Viceral a.k.a. Vice Ganda is not in that list, maybe because his comedy appeals primarily to a singular but growing and fiercely loyal global audience: the Filipinos.  But that doesn’t mean that he is no less the “comic canon” or comedy powerhouse that he is today.  He does meet the criteria and more.

International news anchor Annalisa Burgos joins ANC’s newest program “Early Edition” / International news anchor Annalisa Burgos bahagi na ng bagong ANC news program “Early Edition”

 ABS-CBN’s News Channel, ANC, has a new news program entitled “Early Edition,” that will bring to you the latest news and business stories in the country and around the globe and which can be seen in key cities worldwide via The Filipino Channel (TFC).

Headlining “Early Edition” are anchors TJ Manotoc and Annalisa Burgos who deliver the latest news and financial updates.

Burgos, who is also the face of the program “News Now,” was welcomed and introduced on ANC through “Early Edition.”

ABS-CBN TFC’s Martin Nievera Ready To Sing U.S. National Anthem in Warriors’ Filipino Heritage Night Tomorrow, March 18, in Oracle Arena

From left, the Golden State Warriors team is celebrating its first Filipino Heritage Night for 2017 and no less than ABS-CBN TFC’s first goodwill ambassador, Martin Nievera, will sing the U.S. National Anthem tomorrow at Oracle Arena before the Warriors vs Milwaukee Bucks game.  ABS-CBN Foundation International will also have a presence at the event. Center, Martin is shown being interviewed by BA’s award-winning team, Henni Espinosa and Jon Santos.  At rightmost, ABS-CBN Global COO Raffy Lopez tours the Philippine Concert King around the new office of TFC in Daly City. (Images by Golden State Warriors, Nerissa Fernandez and Ricky Resurreccion)

At left, ABS-CBN Global Head for Events and North America Head of Ad Sales, Events, and Trade Marketing Ricky Resurreccion and ABS-CBN Global COO Raffy Lopez tour Martin around the new office of TFC in Daly City.  At right, General Manager James Lim of Omni Hotel in San Francisco which sponsored Martin’s hotel stay, is shown having a welcome breakfast with Martin Nievera, Ezequiel Soyangco and Erick Sta Maria at Bob’s Restaurant in the hotel. (Photos by Nerissa Fernandez and James Lim/Omni Hotel)

From left, Martin chatting with ABS-CBN Global Head of Business Development Enrique Olives at the new TFC office; center photo, fans getting their shots taken with Martin at the San Francisco International Airport; right photo, ABS-CBN Global Head of Corporate Affairs & PR Nerissa Fernandez joins Ezequiel Soyangco and young Warriors and Martin fans for a photo at SFO.  (Photos by Nerissa Fernandez and Erick Sta Maria).

Please visit http://www.nba.com/warriors/tickets/groupnights/filipinoheritage to get your tickets to the Warriors’ Filipino Heritage Night tomorrow presented by Cache Creek.