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Jose Rizal Death Anniversary Honored by P-Noy

No less than President Noynoy Aquino led the nation's observance of the 115th death anniversary of our national hero Dr. Jose Rizal Friday, December 30.

A simultaneous flag-raising ceremony was done in various cities, municipalities and towns nationwide at around 7am in the morning.

P-Noy then laid a wreath at the Rizal Monument in Luneta, the place where Rizal was executed by the Spaniards in 1896.

The highlight of this year's commemoration of Jose Rizal's Death Anniversary was the unveiling of the Rizal Fountain historical marker at the Noli Me Tangere Garden in Rizal Park. According to reports, the fountain was a gift of the German government to the Filipino people on December 30, 1964. It was renovated in time for yesterday's commemoration.



Present during the event were Vice President Jejomar Binay, Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim, US Ambassador to the Philippines Harry Thomas, National Historical Commission of the Philippines Chairman Dr. Maria Diokno, Armed Forces Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Jessie Dellosa, and several members of the Rizal clan.

Photo Credit: Earl Bolivar of Suroy Pilipinas
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Media Noche is the Filipino Thanksgiving Feast

Media Noche is a Spanish term which means "Midnight Meal." It is a Filipino tradition wherein the whole family gather after midnight (or the dawn of the new year) to eat together for a thanksgiving feast just like what Americans do every fourth Sunday of November.

It's a Filipino belief that preparing a lavish dinner for the coming year will bring good luck.



The usual food being served in Media Noche are ham, keso de bola, chicken, noodles (pancit for long life), pork, beef, buco salad, leche flan and various rice cakes. Some Pinoys also serve at least 12 round fruits placed in a basket, not only for decoration but as a sign of prosperity for the next 12 months.

Happy New Year everyone!

Photo Credit: PanlasangPinoy.com
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Goodbye Paputok Launched by Department of Health (DOH)

"Goodbye Paputok" is the latest campaign launched by the Department of Health or DOH to in line with Republic Act (RA) 7183 or the law on pyrotechnic devices which prohibits the buying, selling and manufacturing of illegal firecrackers or "paputok."

Here is the list of banned firecrackers or paputok in the Philippines as released by the Philippine National Police (PNP):

1. Pacquiao
2. Goodbye Gloria
3. Ampatuan
4. Trillanes
5. Bin Laden
6. Goodbye Philippines
7. Goodbye Earth
8. Goodbye Universe
9. Watusi
10. Piccolo
11. Judah's Belt
12. Super Lolo/Lolo Thunder

Persons caught manufacturing, selling, distributing and purchasing these items may be imprisoned from six months to a year, with a fine of not lower than P20,000 and not higher than P30,000 pesos.
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Ram Revilla Murder Case is the Year's Most Shocking Showbiz News

Ram Revilla murder case is definitely the most shocking showbiz news of 2011 after the young actor's siblings--Ramon Joseph Bautista and Maria Ramona Bautista--became primary suspects.



Young actor and aspiring politician Ram Revilla was shot and stabbed to death on October 28, inside his house at BF Homes, Parañaque City. His girlfriend Janelle Manahan also sustained gun shots and stab wounds on the left side of her face and shoulder but she survived.

The 18-year-old younger brother of Ram--Ramon Joseph Bautista--was arrested last November 1 and now under police custody. Ram's 20-year-old sister Ramona, on the other hand, left the country last November 4.
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Tyron Perez Dies of Gunshot Wound on His Right Temple

Tyron Perez has sustained a gunshot wound on his right temple which is the cause of his death, according to police reports.

Tyron, whose real name is Jojo Malonzo Perez, was found dead at the back seat of a black Toyota Altis parked along the service road of the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) in Barangay Ugong, Valenzuela on Thursday night, December 29.

According to Senior Superintendent Wilben Mayor of Valenzuela police department, the Kapamilya actor died of a gunshot wound on the right side of his head from a caliber .22 gun which was found beside his lifeless body.

Based on this investigation, Perez most likely committed suicide but authorities still does not discount the possibility of a foul play.

In a report by ABS-CBNNews.com, Perez has been staying at the house of his friend Priscilla Salazar in Valenzuela because he and his wife were having problems.

"Basta ang alam ko lang may problema siya pero hindi niya masyadong dini-detalye, ano siya hindi masyadong madaldal," Salazar told ABS-CBNNews.com.

Perez' wife Liv, on the other hand, admitted that she and Tyron were having problems and that it was just normal for any relationship but she did not expect it to end this way.

Liv was talking to Perez before he died.

"Parang nahulog na phone. Narinig ko lang siya. Nag-struggle siya huminga. Nahulog na yung phone, hello ako ng hello wala na," she said.

The police department will still run a ballistics exam on the gun, while the actor’s cellphone will undergo a forensics exam at Camp Crame to confirm if Perez indeed committed suicide.

26-year-old Tyron Perez was best known for being one of the finalists of the first season of GMA-7?s reality based artista search “StarStruck.” He is now the second StarStruck alumnus who died in the month of December after Marky Cielo.

Six months after his manager’s death (Douglas Quijano), Tyron transferred to ABS-CBN.

He appeared in the now defunct ABS-CBN drama series “Momay,” “Imortal” and “Mula sa Puso.”

Perez’ last TV appearance was the December 3 episode of “Maalaala Mo Kaya,” where he played the love interest of Ejay Falcon’s character.

Star Magic has released an official statement over the death of Perez:

"Our deepest condolences to the family of Tyron. Let's pray for the eternal repose of his soul."

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Piolo Pascual to Transfer to TV5 this 2012?

Piolo Pascual is re-considering the 10-digit offer by TV5?



Piolo Pascual kept mum on rumors that he will transfer to TV5 next year.

The speculations about Piolo's TV5 offer that the heartthrob is considering resurfaced in the rumor mill after his ex-girlfriend KC Concepcion decided to stay and signed an exclusive contract with ABS-CBN.

According to an article on Journal Online, Piolo might be considering TV5's 10-digit offer because he wasn't happy with how ABS-CBN handled his breakup with KC, specially the controversial episode where "The Buzz" aired an interview with the mega-daughter dropping intriguing "hints" on why they got separated.

But how will Piolo become a Kapatid now that the Megastar Sharon Cuneta, KC's mom, is already with TV5?
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Segunda Mano Movie Fails to Win MMFF 2nd Best Picture Despite the 'A' Grade from CEB

Segunda Mano movie received the highest grade of "A" from the Cinema Evaluation Board (CEB) but it was trumped by the "B" graded "Enteng ng Ina Mo" for the 2nd Best Picture award.

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Sarah Geronimo, Vice Ganda and Anne Curtis Join Forces in an Ambitious 2012 Movie

Sarah Geronimo, Vice Ganda and Anne Curtis--the three biggest money makers of Viva Entertainment--will join forces in a 2012 movie that is aimed to shatter existing box-office records.

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My Binondo Girl: Kim Gets Married Twice?

After their secret marriage in China, “My Binondo Girl” characters Jade (Kim Chiu) and Andy (Xian Lim) are forced to get married again in the Philippines to fulfill the condition imposed by Andy’s father in order to get Andy’s 99% of inheritance and save their business.



Will the fake marriage be a blessing in disguise for Jade and Andy? Don’t miss the latest adventures of Jade in “My Binondo Girl,” weeknights, after “Budoy” on ABS-CBN. For more updates, log on towww.mybinondogirl.abs-cbn.com or follow @my_binondogirl on Twitter and like www.facebook.com/abs.mybinondogirl

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Manny Pacquiao and His New P25-M Yacht Stir Controversy

Manny Pacquiao is currently being criticized by netizens for buying a luxurious P25-million yacht as a Christmas gift to his family.

This is after the pound for pound king toured the media inside his new Italian-made yacht named "Sarangani's Pride"--considered to be the "Ferrari" of yachts.

Some netizens did not appreciate the way Pacquiao announced the procurement of the yacht while thousands are suffering due to damages caused by tropical storm Sendong.

But in fairness to Pacquiao, he slashed P1-million from his pork barrel to help Sendong victims.

In an interview by ABS-CBNNews.com, the Saranggani Representative shared that he sent in his staff to the badly-hit areas of Cagayan de Oro and Iligan City.

"Kinausap ko ang mga staff ko ngayon, magpadala ng relief goods para makatulong sa ating mga kababayan doon," Pacquiao said.
, is Pacquiao's surprise treat to his family following his successful bout against Mexican champion Juan Manuel Marquez last November 12.

"Regalo ko sa pamilya ko at sa mga kids ko, wife ko after ng fight," he said.

It carries 3 jet skis, worth P1 million each, and it can travel from Sarangani to Manila in a day-and-a-half.

Pacquiao's wife, Jinkee, said they had been dreaming of owning a yacht for sometime now.

"Andaming blessing na dumating atsaka 'yung yate, iniisip lang namin dati na kelan kaya kami magkakaroon ng ganyan? Tapos ngayon, eto na," she said.

Pacquiao said he and his family will have plenty of bonding time while riding the yacht.

Check out Pacquiao's P25-M yacht from
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Maligayang Pasko Mula sa Pinoy Power!

Maligayang Pasko sa inyong lahat!

Have an ideal Christmas; an occasion that is celebrated as a reflection of your values, desires, affections, & traditions...

May the good times and treasures of the present become the golden memories of tomorrow. Wish you lots of love, joy & happiness.
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Marian Rivera and Bong Revilla Jr Topbill the MMFF Entry 'Panday 2'

Marian Rivera and Bong Revilla Jr. lead the cast ofGMA Films and Imus Productions' “Panday 2,” the sequel to the top-grosser of the 2009 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF).

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Robin Padilla is the Leading Man of Kris Aquino and Anne Curtis in Upcoming Teleserye?

Robin Padilla is now being speculated as the leading man of Kris Aquino and Anne Curtis in the 2012 Kapamilya teleserye titled "Kailangan Ko’y Ikaw."



This is after Kris Aquino herself gave a clue on her Twitter account on who is being considered by the management for the leading man role.

“Umoo na sa amin in principle kung sino ‘yung magiging leading man namin. Pero inawat ako ng ating mga kapamilya na i-announce. Pero bigyan ko kayo ng clue. His first name starts with an ‘R,’ and his last name starts with a ‘P.’ Mag-isip kayo. Siguro alam n’yo na kung sino ‘yun. So excited na excited talaga ako kasi sabi ko nga, alam ng Diyos kung ano ‘yung tamang panahon so binigay n’ya sa ganitong panahon na sa 2012, I am a mother, I am an actress and I am a producer.”

Shan Cruz Rivera is a YouTube Sensation for the Wrong Reasons

Shan Cruz Rivera is a YouTube Sensation for the Wrong Reasons

Shan Cruz Rivera became a YouTube sensation in the last couple of days not because of his talent or special abilities but because he made fun of one foreign customer while on duty as a call center agent.



Call center agent Shan Cruz Rivera recorded himself while talking to a foreign customer on the phone hoping that he would be famous. And he did! Because after he uploaded his video, he became talk of the town and his full name became one of the most-searched in Yahoo! lately.

This is because the video features himself making fun of the customer
by asking ridiculous security questions like "what was your high school mascot," "how many bones do you have," and "what is your favorite food." His fourth question was "what is the biggest bird?" The customer answered "eagle." Rivera said it was "wrong" and gave him the correct answer--"big bird."

His fifth question--"Who stole the cookie from the cookie jar"--made the caller laugh. The customer answered "you." Rivera revealed that the correct answer is "your wife."

Watch the video here:



Rivera is now considered by netizens as a "disgrace" to the call center industry. Contrary to his dream of becoming famous, he ended up being infamous.

And because many people expressed their dismay to his video, a "Shaun Cruz Rivera" fan page was created on Facebook. It's unknown if Shaun himself created the page but there's a Christmas message posted on its wall accepting the "consequences" the uploaded video might have caused.

MY PRE-CHRISTMAS MESSAGE FOR ALL: i shall face the consequences of these "lousy", "cheap", "papansin", "katangahan", "kabobohan" and [place-your-derogatory-term-of-choice-here] actions. i am after all an adult. and i hope that you people will also do the same---be responsible for the consequences of the choices you make, big or small. Merry Christmas everyone!

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Mo Twister Releases Statement on 'Kissing Video' with Rhian Ramos

Mo Twister aired his side on the leaked video of him and ex-girlfriend Rhian Ramos making out. The said video surfaced the net on Tuesday via the video sharing site YouTube.

The said "kissing video" clearly shows Rhian Ramos, 21, and Mo Twister, 34, making out on the bed with their clothes on. Take note that Rhian and Mo are aware of the recording which lasted for more than 4 minutes.



This is the second scandalous video pertaining to the past relationship of Mo and Rhian that has gone viral. The first was the "RepairedMovie" video, which was leaked earlier this Month, featuring Mo Twister recording himself on a video diary crying about the alleged abortion that Rhian is about to commit (or had committed).

When the said video surfaced the net, Mo Twister quickly denied hand in the upload saying that it was taken from his stolen laptop.

And regarding the new video titled by the uploader(s) as "Mo Twister and Rhian Ramos Scandal," the DJ/host denied once again that he had a hand on its leakage.

But contrary to the first video (RepairedMovie), Mo said that this one did not come from him.

“This latest video was not one in my possession. It was not recorded on my laptop,” he wrote.

Here is the full statement of Mo Twister as posted recently on his Tumbler account:

"I hope this all ends soon. I don't even know how we are getting to this point. I know so many theories are out there on how these videos are being uploaded online. I hope I can be as clear as possible that this is not my doing. This latest video was not one in my possession. It was not recorded on my laptop. Actually, at this point, it doesn't even matter what your opinions are or who you put to blame for this. These files are amongst some of our more private and intimate moments and right now, it looks like even though I ask/beg the person to stop uploading these videos, it will not make a difference. I hope this will all end soon."

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Celine Acut Becomes Infamous Overnight Over Insensitive Facebook Post About Sendong Victims

Celine Acut has been the subject of hatred among Filipino netizens over the past 24 hours after she posted an insensitive statement on Facebook about the typhoon Sendong victims.



It's not yet confirmed if Celine Acut is a real person of just a dummy account but according to her alleged Facebook profile, she's a Filipino living in France.

The above screen capture of her supposed Facebook posts have gone viral angering Filipino netizens around the world.

She said "almost all of the victims are poor families" based from what she saw in the news. She opined that that the said typhoon victims are "better" dead because according to her, "whats the point of living a life which is full of hunger, at least they are now resting with peace..they are worthless, they are unproductive and their lives has no value at al.. they are just making more problems to the society so as i said its better that they have died this early.. they don’t desserve a chance to live because they are poor, they are not VIP anyways."

And here is her follow up post:

“I even wish sendong to come back and flash away those remaining poor families over there.”

As of this posting, there are several Facebook pages created to criticize and condemn Celine Acut. One Facebook page has the title "Celine Acut Must Be Burned Alive!! Yawa Ka."
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Jovit Baldivino Wins Top Honors at 24th Awit Awards

First Pilipinas Got Talent (PGT) grand winner Jovit Baldivino clinched two of the most coveted trophies in the recently concluded Awit Awards—‘Best Male Performance by a New Male Recording Artist’ and ‘Best Selling Album of the Year’ for his album, “Faithfully.”



Aside from Jovit, other talents of Star Records were also honored in this year's Awit Awards.

Juris took home the ‘Album of the Year Award’ with her “Now Playing by Juris” album; while “Sa’yo Lamang” by Jamie Rivera with the Hail Mary the Queen Children’s Choir was hailed ‘Best Inspirational/Religious Recording.’ PGT finalist Ezra band was honored with the ‘Best Performance by a New Group Recording Artists’ award.

Star Records ruled even in the ‘best dance’ and ‘best song for movie’ categories. The “Move” album by Gabriel Valenciano featuring her sister Kiana, was named ‘Best Dance Recording;’ while the song “Kaya Mo!” for “RPG Metanoia” took home the ‘Best Song Written for TV/Movie/Stage Play’ award.

Awit Awards is annualy organized by PARI (The Philippine Association of the Record Industry, Inc.) to honor Filipino performing artists and people behind the making of Filipino recorded music.
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Sendong Victims Receive Condolences from US President Obama

No less than US President Barrack Obama has sent his condolences to Sendong victims.

In a statement issued by the White House, Obama extended his sympathies to the relatives of more than 1,000 who died during the flashfloods brought about the typhoon Sendong in parts of Cagayan de Oro and Iligan last weekend.

Here is an excerpt of the statement:

"On behalf of the American people, I wish to express my deep condolences for the tremendous loss of life and devastation caused by recent flooding in the Philippines. In the spirit of our long history of friendship and cooperation with the Philippines, the United States stands ready to assist the Philippine people and government should humanitarian assistance and recovery efforts be needed."



Aside from the United States, other countries and international organizations like Japan, Taiwan, Australia, the European Commission are also sending aid for Sendong victims.
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Gwen Zamora is the New Apple of Vic Sotto's Eye?

Gwen Zamora and Vic Sotto an item?



The rumors about Vic Sotto allegedly dating his Eat Bulaga! co-host Pauleen Luna were not yet confirmed nor denied, and there's another rumor linking "bossing" to his Enteng ng Ina Mo co-star Gwen Zamora.

In a report by Pinoy Parazzi, Vic Sotto and Gwen Zamora were seen "sweet" to one another during the shooting of "Enteng ng Ina Mo" where Gwen plays the role of Faye.

Is this just a misinterpretation of Vic Sotto's charm or perhaps it's for real?!

What do you think?
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Kapamilya stars appeal to help Sendong victims in Cagayan de Oro have a 'Merry Christmas'

While most celebrities are busy with their Christmas shopping and Holiday escapades, Kapamilya stars Kris Aquino, Vice Ganda, Angel Locsin, and Anne Curtis chose to spend a night sharing their blessings with the families in the different barangays of Cagayan de Oro City who were all recently affected by typhoon Sendong.




Kris, Vice, Angel, and Anne personally visited the typhoon-stricken areas of CDO and handed out food, water, and toiletries to the residents who mostly have lost everything including their properties, livelihood, homes, and even their loved ones.



Aquino said that made sure they seized the chance to help. “It’s nice to know that even my househelps joined us in the relief operations. They were up until four in the morning preparing our packed goods,” she said.



Vice Ganda, on the other hand, expressed that this is the time for Filipinos to show compassion and to extend a helping hand to each other. He said, “We all know that many were devastated in Cagayan de Oro and Iligan. We have to do something. It would be heartless of us to spend time just shopping while knowing that there are other people in our country suffering."

Locsin and Curtis further appealed to the public to take part in helping the victims of typhoon Sendong.

“We are not here just to show that we are ‘giving.’ We want to urge our kababayans to share their blessings especially now that its Christmas time," Locsin explained.



Curtis reminded that ‘clean potable water’ is an urgent necessity of the people in CDO and Iligan.

Meanwhile, “ABS-CBN Sagip Kapamilya: Operation Sendong” is continuously seeking for in-kind and cash donations to aid the families affected by the tragedy.



In-kind donations like canned goods, rice, noodles, biscuits, coffee, sugar, clothes, blankets, mats, and medicines can be brought to Sagip Kapamilya, ABS-CBN Foundation Inc. Mother Ignacia cor. Eugenio Lopez St. Diliman, Quezon City; ABS-CBN Cagayan De Oro, Barangay Bulua, Cagayan De Oro City; and to ABS-CBN Davao, Shrine Hills, Matina, Davao City.

For cash donations, interested parties may send it to Banco de Oro (Sct. Albano, Quezon Ave., Quezon City Branch) under the account name ABS-CBN Foundation Inc.-Sagip Kapamilya with account number 393-011-4199. For international cash donations, Sagip Kapamilya’s BDO dollar account number is 393-008-1622 with a ‘swift code,’ BNORPHMM.

The public can also deposit their donation through PNB at BPI which both carry the account name ABS-CBN Foundation Inc.-Sagip Kapamilya. The account number in PNB is 419-539-5000-13; while in BPI (West Triangle, Quezon City Branch) is 3051-1127-75. The BPI Dollar Account is under the name ABS-CBN Foundation Inc.-Sagip Kapamilya with the account number, 3054-0270-35.
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Carla Abellana is Now Allowed to Promote Her MMFF Movie 'Manila Kingpin'

Carla Abellana is now free to promote her Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) movie "Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story" despite being an exclusive contract artist of Regal Films.



This is according to her leading man, Laguna governor E.R. Ejercito, who said Mother Lily Monterverde is now allowing Carla Abellana to promote the Non-Regal produced movie.

“Okay na. I talked to Mother (Lily) twice already, pumapayag na siyang mag-promote si Carla (ng film). Dapat nandito siya ngayon. May taping lang siya,” he said via an interview by Yahoo! Philippines during the red carpet premiere of "Manila Kingpin" at SM Manila Cinema 1 last Dec. 17.

Carla Abellana is also one of the lead stars of the Regal Films MMFF entry "Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow," hence, the controversy sparked.
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Typhoon Sendong Claims 652 Lives and Counting

Typhoon Sendong, which caused flashfloods in Mindanao, has already surpassed the death toll of 2009's Typhoon Ondoy.

According to online reports, Typhoon Sendong already claimed 652 lives and rendered 35,000 people homeless and now huddled in evacuation centers.

Floods in Mindanao

A 20,000 strong military force were sent by the government to help with the evacuation of the victims and recover more bodies from the cloying mud.

23 barangays were reportedly inundated by the overflowing Cagayan River which now put Cagayan de Oro City and Iligan City under the State of Calamity.

We are about to celebrate Christmas in just a few days with lavish foods on our table. Perhaps we can share some to the typhoon Sendong victims who are all spending the Christmas and New Year at the evacuation centers by making a donation.

Here's how (courtesy of Showbiznest.com):

Philippine Red Cross via text:
RED space AMOUNT send to 2899 for Globe subscribers or 4143 for Smart subscribers.

The denominations for the amount are the following 5, 25, 100, 300, 500, and 1000 for Smart or 1000 for Globe.


Gawad Kalinga "Operation Walang Iwanan in Mindanao" (Cash Donations)
Gawad Kalinga Philippine Peso Current Account # 3101 0977
56 BPI EDSA Greenhills at Gawad Kalinga

US$ Savings Account # 3104 0162 34
BPI EDSA Greenhills Swift code: BOPIPHMM


ABS-CBN Foundation Sagip Kapamilya (Cash Donation)
BDO Peso Account
Account name: ABS-CBN Foundation Inc.-Sagip Kapamilya
Account Number: 39301-14199
Swift Code: BNORPHMM

PNB Peso Account
Account name: ABS-CBN Foundation Inc.-Sagip Kapamilya
Account Number: 419-539-5000-13
Swift Code: PNBMPHMMBPI Peso Account

Account name: ABS-CBN Foundation Inc.-Sagip Kapamilya
Account Number: 3051-1127-75 (West Triangle, Quezon City)
Swift Code: BOPIPHMM

Drop off center in NCR c/o StartArt Project: 10A Alabama st New Manila Quezon City. Tel. No. (0926) 711-2450


GMA Kapuso Foundation
BDO Peso Savings
Account Name:GMA Kapuso Foundation, Inc.
Account Number:469-0022189

Dollar Savings
Account Name:GMA Kapuso Foundation, Inc.
Account Number:469-0072135
Code: BNORPHMM PNB

Peso Savings
Account Name :GMA Kapuso Foundation, Inc.
Account Numbe:121-003200017

Dollar Savings
Account Name:GMA Kapuso Foundation, Inc.
Account Number:121-003200025
Code:PNB MPH MM

Drop off center in NCR: 2/F Kapuso Center, GMA 7, EDSA Diliman, Quezon City


News5 Aksyon Center (Cash Donation)
BDO Peso Account
Account name: TV5 Kapatid Foundation Inc.
Account No. 005310-410164

BPI Peso Account
Account name: TV5 Kapatid Foundation Inc.
Account No. 1443-05333-2
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Valerie Concepcion on PNoy's Partying in the Midst of Tragedy: 'I Don't See Anything Wrong With That'

Valerie Concepcion is on the hot seat after tweeting last Sunday that President Noynoy Aquino is having a great time during the Presidential Security Group's (PSG) Christmas party where she was invited to perform.

Valerie Concepcion

Here is Valerie Concepcion's tweet after her performance:

“Done w/ work.. Tnx for having me.. It was nice to see Pres. P-Noy laughing at my jokes & enjoying my performance..ü #Malacañang #PSGNight”



The said tweet ignited violent reactions from netizens who criticized the President for the "inappropriate" act in the midst of the tragedy in Mindanao that claimed more than 500 lives.

Valerie deleted the controversial tweet and posted a new message in defense of the President:

“I do not see anything wrong with that since its his obligation and responsibility being the head of Malacañang to be present and show his support for his hardworking employees and their respective families. But I believe that it doesn’t mean that the president is not thinking of ways to help our kababayan(s) in Mindanao. It doesn’t mean that the president is disregarding the plight of our fellow Filipinos”



On her next tweet, the actress appealed to the people not to judge the President. She also apologized for the people who got offended by her previous message:

“Let’s not be too quick to judge. But if I, in any way, offended you guys and sounded insensitive, I am very sorry. It wasn’t my intention to do either. I can’t imagine how difficult life is for the people affected in Mindanao and how difficult it is to be the president of the Philippines at this moment. Once again, I am very sorry for all those people I have offended. May God bless us all”



Meanwhile, Presidential Communication Development and Strategic Planning Office (PCDSPO) head Ricky Carandang said on Monday that “the President dropped by the PSG party for a few minutes.”

He added that the PSG Christmas party was supposed to be cancelled because of the situation in Mindanao but they decided to push through with the party because their relatives from the province already traveled to Manila just to attend.
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Protege Winner Krizza Neri is Now a GMA-7 Contract Artist

Protege GMA-7 update: Aiza Seguerra's protégé--Krizza Neri--of Cagayan de Oro City was declared winner of GMA-7's Protégé: The Final Battle held at the SM Mall of Asia Centerstage on Sunday, December 18. (Click here to watch the video)

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Kim Jong Il of North Korea is Dead

Kim Jong Il (birthname: Yuri Irsenovich), the supreme leader of People's Republic of Korea, has reportedly died on December 17 according to the state television of Pyongyang on Monday. He was 69.

The presenter announced that Kim Jong Il had died two days earlier of a heart attack while travelling via train to an area outside Pyongyang. His son, Kim Jong-un, was announced as his successor in the same broadcast.



South Korea's military was immediately put on alert after the announcement and its National Security Council convened for an emergency meeting, out of concern that political jockeying in North Korea could destabilize the region. Asian stock markets fell soon after the announcement, due to similar concerns.
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Tim Tebow Announces the Tebow CURE Hospital of the Philippines

Tim Tebow, an American football superstar who was born in Makati City, has announced the Tebow CURE Hospital of the Philippines, the first project of the partnership between the Tim Tebow Foundation and CURE International.



“Our first project together will be a new children's hospital in the Philippines,” Tebow announced in his foundation’s website http://timtebowfoundation.org/.

“I've always have a special place in my heart for the country in which I was born and I'm very excited about this project,” he added.

The Tebow CURE Hospital is about to rise in Davao City. Construction begins on January 2012 and expected to finish by mid-2013.

The NFL superstar, known for praying during football games, was born to American parents who were serving as Baptist missionaries in the Philippines.

Watch the video here:

Tim Tebow Announces the Tebow CURE Hospital of the Philippines from Tim Tebow on Vimeo.



Photo Credit: TimTebowPictures.com
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Floods in Mindanao Kill Nearly 500 People

Floods in Mindanao which was brought about by tropical storm "Sendong" have killed around 500 people, according to online reports on Sunday.

The flashfloods also rendered 35,000 people homeless and now huddled in evacuation centers.

Floods in Mindanao

A 20,000 strong military force were sent by the government to help with the evacuation of the victims and recover more bodies from the cloying mud.

23 barangays were reportedly inundated by the overflowing Cagayan River which now put Cagayan de Oro City and Iligan City under the State of Calamity.

According to a report by Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) spokesman Col. Leopoldo Galon said most of the victims were asleep when the floodwaters rose.

"Most of the missing persons were swept by the floodwaters along with their houses towards the sea," he said.
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UP Oblation Run is Now Done for a Cause

UP oblation run is an annual and traditional event in the University of the Philippines where members of the Alpha Phi Omega (APO) fraternity run naked around the UP campus.



The event first organized in 1977 at University of the Philippines Diliman to promote Hubad na Bayani (Tagalog for Naked Hero), a play. It draws its name from the Oblation, a statue of a nude man located in every University of the Philippines (UP) campus, which symbolizes "a selfless offering of one’s self to the country."

Now on its 34th year, the UP oblation run was done with an ecological purpose - for the protection of Philippine rivers!

Themed “A Run for Philippine Rivers,” APO members did not only run wearing just a mask and exposing their private parts but they also brought placards with them calling for the protection of rivers in the Philippines.

Photo Credit: ABS-CBNNews.com
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Tropical Storm Sendong PAGASA Weather Update for Dec. 18, 11:00am

Tropical Storm Sendong, according to the latest bulletin (December 18, 11:00 a.m.) of Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Service Administration or PAGASA, continues to move westward in the west Philippine sea and is expected to exit Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) tonight.



At 10:00 a.m. today, the center of Tropical Storm Sendong was estimated based on satellite and surface data at 230 km West Northwest of Puerto Princesa City (10.4 °N, 116.8 °E).

It has a maximum sustained winds of 65 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 80 kph.

Sendong is now moving westward at 24 kph and is expected to be at
470 km West Northwest of Puerto Princesa City outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility tonight.

Photo Credit: PAGASA
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Angel Locsin Boosts Nationwide Rating of 'Toda Max'

After Angel Locsin was launched as an official member of “TODA Max,” the sitcom has become a trending topic on Twitter. Netizens in other social networking sites also talk about the actress’ flare for comedy.

Cockroach That Jumps: New Species 'Leaproach' is a Jumping Cockroach

Cockroach That Jumps: New Species 'Leaproach' is a Jumping Cockroach

Cockroach that jumps is a species of cockroach that has just been discovered according to a report by Biology Letters on December 14.

The cockroach is called "leaproach" with the scientific name Saltoblattella montistabularis and it has been discovered in South Africa. The jumping cockroach can jump 50 times the length of its body which makes it special from other species of the dreaded pest insect.

The leaproach's hind legs are twice the length of its other legs and make up 10 percent of their total body weight. Its sturdy antennae, on the other hand, help stabilize the insect at it leaps.

Zoologist Mike Picker is the one responsible for the discovery of the cockroach that jumps while he was hunting for a fly larvae in the Table Mountain nature reserve.

Check out the video of the jumping cockroach here:

iPad 3 Rumors: Netizens Believe iPad 3 is More Sophisticated Based on
Rumors

iPad 3 Rumors: Netizens Believe iPad 3 is More Sophisticated Based on Rumors

iPad 3 rumors are making gadgets aficionados crazy and coming up with speculations about Apple's upcoming tablet.

Rumors about a higher resolution camera and faster processor than iPad 2 are already expected by consumers but some exaggerated rumors like the iPad 3 would allegedly have a rimless body and thunderbolt docking port are expected to remain rumors.

iPad 3 rumors

Here are some speculations about the specifications of the upcoming iPad 3:

1. As the gadget improves every time a new model is released, expect the price will increase specially right after the launch. Since iPad 2 costs around $500 to $550, the iPad 3 will probably sell between $600 to $650.

2. Camera was introduced in iPad 2 but gadget aficionados have noticed that some camera phones capture better pictures compared to the iPad's. Just like the iPhone 4, the iPad 3 is expected to have at least an 8 megapixels camera.

3. If iPad 2 is lighter than the original iPad, then expect iPad 3 to break the weight record. Rumor has it that the upcoming iPad could be encased in a lightweight carbon fiber casing which will not just make it lighter but also stronger.

4. As far as cellular data connections are concerned, the iPad 3 is expected to improve its connection speed and multi-tasking capabilities with the introduction of the 4G LTE (Long Term Evolution) that will increase data downloads to broadband speeds. This innovation will definitely break the record when it comes to mobile internet and it's highly possible that the new iPad will get this update.

5. If mobile connectivity will become faster, then the processor will not be left behind. So techies believe the iPad 3 will improve the dual-core A5 chipset of the iPad 2. Perhaps a compact Quad-Core A6 processor and it could possess a hybrid OS, perhaps part IOS and part computer operating system?

6. Since the iPhone 4 already sports a super-high resolution retina display which gives great clarity to its screen, then this should be the improvement for iPad. According to analyst Richard Shim at DisplaySearch, the resolution of the display panels for the upcoming iPad 3 will be 2048 x 1536.

7. Another rumor for the upcoming iPad is that it would have a thunderbolt port which means transferring date via USB will be 20 times faster.

8. And for the craziest rumor of them all, iPad 3 was said to become rimless and transparent. A viral video uploaded by a certain "Dakota Adney" made this claim which is somehow absurd.

It's expected that the new iPad model will become thinner, lighter, faster and better display but for it to become transparent and rimless are too much of a hype already.

Now that these iPad 3 rumors are circulating in cyberspace, Apple Inc., on the other hand, is getting anxious that it might affect that sales of its current iPad 2

The rumor about the alleged release of iPad 3 originated from the Taiwanese technology website “Digitimes” last Monday and it's now threatening the holiday sales of the tech giant.

A similar incident that happened before could also happen now. Fortune Magazine’s Philip Elmer-Dewitt pointed out that what happened to the sales of iPhone 4 last summer could happen to iPad2 this holiday season. When rumors about the release of iPhone 5 peaked last July, sales of iPhone 4 took the downward spiral since customers waited for the fresh version of the gadget.

The same thing could happen to the iPad 2 this holiday season since rumors about the release of iPad 3 on the first to second quarter of 2012 are now circulating the net.

According to the Digitimes report, the iPad 3 is expected to be a major upgrade over previous models, with twice as much screen resolution, a faster processor, and an updated version of the sensational Siri.

Here is a concept video on the rumored iPad 3:



So if you are set to purchase the iPad 2 as a gift for yourself this Christmas, will you turn it down and just wait for the rumored iPad 3?
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iPad 3 Rumors to Affect iPad 2 Holiday Sales?

iPad 3 rumors are now circulating in cyberspace that Apple is getting anxious that it might affect that sales of its iPad 2

The rumor about the alleged release of iPad 3 originated from the technology website "Digitimes" on Monday is threatening the holiday sales of the tech giant.

A similar incident that happened before could also happen now. Fortune Magazine's Philip Elmer-Dewitt pointed out that what happened to the sales of iPhone 4 last summer could happen to iPad2 this holiday season. When rumors about the release of iPhone 5 peaked last July, sales of iPhone 4 took the downward spiral since customers waited for the fresh version of the gadget.

The same thing could happen to the iPad 2 this holiday season since rumors about the release of iPad 3 on the first to second quarter of 2012 are now circulating the net.

According to the Digitimes report, the iPad 3 is expected to be a major upgrade over previous models, with twice as much screen resolution, a faster processor, and an updated version of the sensational Siri.

According to speculations, some interesting characteristics of the upcoming new version of the iPad will be "transparent" and "rimless."
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Fernando Poe Jr. to be Proclaimed President?

Fernandeo Poe Jr.'s family is hoping that he will be proclaimed winner of the 2004 presidential elections following the filing of electoral sabotage case against former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, ABS-CBNNews.com reported.

Fernando Poe Jr. had died seven months after GMA's proclamation as President in a controversial election that many believes FPJ should have won.

FPJ's wife Susan Roces said in an interview by Mornings@ANC that the proclamation is something "that has to be set right."

"Ipokrita ako kung sasabihin kong hindi ko hinihintay na maproklama siya. I wish it for those who supported him wholeheartedly," she said.
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Sandusky Trial Update: Jerry Sandusky Determined for Trial, Waives Hearing

Sandusky Trial Update: Jerry Sandusky, the former football coach charged with 52 counts of child sex abuse, has waived his right to a hearing on Tuesday and moves toward the trial.

The 67-year-old Sandusky is being accused of molesting 10 boys in a span of more than 10 years. The said scandal has ended the career of renowned football coach Joe Paterno who was fired on November 9 along with the Penn State University's president. Both of them were charged in an alleged cover-up of Sandusky's sexual activities.

But Sandusky maintains his innocence as his lawyer, Joseph Amendola, assailed the credibility of the alleged victims and witnesses.

Amendola said his client opted against forcing his accusers to make their claims of child sex abuse in a packed courtroom.

"There will be no plea negotiations. This is a fight to the death," he said, claiming it's a tactical measure and that it's not in any way conceding guilt.

There's no date yet for the trial but Sandusky will return to court on January 11 to have the charges against him formally read by the judge.

According to online reports, 11 witnesses including some alleged victims are ready to testify against Sandusky.

One of the victims is a 10-year-old who claims Sandusky assaulted them in swimming pools, the basement of his home in State college, hotel and in the locker rooms.

Sandusky, on the other hand, told The New York Times that his relationship to these boys who are accusing him was like that of an extended family. Sandusky claims his relationship with the boys didn't involve abuse and the physical aspect of his bonding with them "just happened that way."
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GOP Polls Say Newt Gingrich is US Presidential Frontrunner

GOP Polls are currently favoring Newt Gingrich instead of Mitt Romney leaving traditional republicans baffled.

GOP polls


Former House speaker Newt Gingrich receives overwhelming support from GOP voters despite that fact that he doesn't share their values. Even traditional republicans are scratching their heads why Gingrich are topping the GOP polls and getting support from evangelical Christians even though he was known to have been unfaithful to his two wives, paid $300,000 in House ethics fines and converted to Roman Catholicism.

Rep. Steve King from Iowa, one of Congress' most conservative members, is questioning Gingrich's lead in the GOP polls.

"I've had a little trouble figuring it out, too," he said.

The three independent polls of Iowa Republicans show Gingrich in the solo lead garnering around 50% of the votes making him the frontrunner for the 2012 U.S. presidential race.

Gov. Mitt Romney from Massachusetts and Rep. Ron Paul of Texas are battling for second.

According to a report by the Associated Press, one school holds that Gingrich articulates conservative positions with conviction that he attracts hard-right voters willing to overlook his record of inconsistencies.

Another theory suggests Gingrich is skilled at synthesizing and expressing conservatives' goals and anger. It's one possible reason why the attacks being launched against him by Romney's camp have backfired.

Image courtesy of NNDB
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Karen Davila Fights for Kids with Rare Diseases

Only one of 20,000 people is afflicted by rare or “orphan diseases” such as Gaucher disease, Cornelia de Lange syndrome, and osteogenesis imperfecta. Because of their low incidence and unfamiliarity, they receive insufficient support and attention from the government.



This Thursday (Dec 15) in “Krusada,” Karen Davila will introduce us to two kids who suffer from these unusual and aggressive disorders in order to seek support from public and private sectors.

Meet 13-year old Raprap who is diagnosed with osteogenesis imperfecta and doesn’t play and go to school. He shouldn’t be nudged because his fractured and sensitive bones fracture easily.

As a mother and a Youth Ambassador who was awarded by UNICEF for her campaign for children’s rights, Karen continues her campaign for children’s health and well-being by bringing these diseases to light.

“It’s difficult to be a parent of a child who suffers from a very serious illness. If we don’t understand them, who will?” she said.
Because it takes more than words to make a stand, listen, take part and be one in Karen’s crusade this Thursday (Dec 15) in “Krusada,” after “Bandila” on ABS-CBN or watch it earlier on DZMM TeleRadyo (SkyCable channel 26), 9:15 PM.
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Miriam Santiago Wins Judge Position in International Criminal Court (ICC)

Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago has been elected judge of the International Criminal Court (ICC), according to the Department of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday.



Santiago unanimously won the highly powerful seat in the elections held last Monday, December 12, in New York City. She was reportedly the first to be elected out of 18 candidates vying for six seats on the ICC, garnering 79 nods out of 104 valid votes.

The stint makes Santiago the first woman from an Asian developing state to join as a judge in the Netherlands-based international court that tries persons accused of the most serious crimes of international concern.

DFA Secretary Albert del Rosario considers Santiago's election a "day of pride" for the country.

"We are pleased that the international community has listened to us. Indeed, it is a new day for the Philippines, a day of pride for our country and a day of honor, knowing that this is a tremendous responsibility and mandate placed upon our compatriot," he said.

Meanwhile, Senator Santiago shared via an interview that she would resign as senator before she take her oath in March next year.

"I’ll have to resign [as senator]. Isn’t that good news for my enemies? I would have to live in The Hague. I will look like a European and speak like a European and I will be as snooty as a European when I come back," she said.
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Fil-Am Robin Lim Named 2011 CNN 'Hero of the Year' at CNN's Fifth Annual CNN Heroes: An All-Star Tribute

In a star-studded ceremony Sunday night at The Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, Robin Lim was named the 2011 CNN Hero of the Year.



Christy Turlington Burns introduced Lim as one of the Top 10 CNN Heroes while host Anderson Cooper announced her name as the CNN Hero of the Year at the end of the evening. Each of the Top 10 CNN Heroes received $50,000, and Lim’s nonprofit, Bumi Sehat Foundation, will receive an additional $250,000 grant.

In Indonesia, women are 300 times more likely to die in childbirth or from pregnancy-related complications than women in developed countries. After Lim’s younger sister died from pregnancy complications, she became professional midwife and dedicated her life to offering free prenatal and birthing services to low-income Indonesian women.

Since 2003, Lim’s “Yayasan Bumi Sehat” (Healthy Mother Earth) clinic has provided medical assistance to thousands of women in Bali and Aceh, Indonesia.

The star-studded ceremony included celebrity participants Jerry Seinfeld, Sofia Vergara, Mary-Louise Parker, Ice Cube, Laura Dern, J.R. Martinez, will.i.am, Christy Turlington Burns, George Lopez and Kurt Warner.

Miley Cyrus, Chris Colfer and Emma Roberts presented to youths who were recognized and honored by CNN as “Young Wonders.” Miley Cyrus also performed her triple platinum hit “The Climb”, while Kid Rock performed a powerful version of “Care” from his platinum selling album, “Born Free.”

Now in its fifth year, CNN Heroes is a multi-platform campaign that shines a spotlight on individuals who go to extraordinary lengths to serve others. This year, the campaign received over 10,000 submissions from more than 100 countries.

(CNN Press Release)


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CNN Hero of the Year is Fil-Am Robin Lim

CNN named it's 2011 Hero of the Year and she's none other than Fil-Am midwife Robin Lim!



Filipino-American midwife Robin Lim was named the 2011 CNN Hero of the Year during the awarding ceremony held Sunday evening at The Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, U.S.A.

54-year-old Lim, born to a Filipino mother and an American father and was raised in the Philippines, bested 9 other finalists from around the world.

According to CNN, Lim, whose mother is a Filipino-Chinese, put up “birthing sanctuaries" for Indonesians in need of maternal and general health care.

In her “Meet the Hero" interview, Lim said it is common in Indonesia to hold babies in the hospital until the bills have been paid.

Lim said mothers should only worry about delivering their babies safely and not about how they should pay the hospital where they gave birth.

Lim brought home $250,000 for being named the 5th CNN Hero of the Year in addition to the $50,000 that she received after making it to the Top 10.

In 2009, Filipino Efren Peñaflorida was named CNN Hero of the Year for his Kariton classroom project, which brought the classrooms to children in the streets.
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Lunar Eclipse Heralds the End of the World?

Lunar Eclipse, in some cultures, is often associated with something bad or evil. And last Saturday's total lunar eclipse is believed by some superstitious groups as the "silent alarm" that signals the beginning of doomsday come 2012.



A very rare total lunar eclipse happened around midnight of December 11 (December 10 in the US) accross Asia which supersized the moon and made it appear bloody red.

Scientist calls the effect the "Rayleigh scattering" in which the moon showed an unpredictable range of different colors until it darkens into bloody red.

Watch the simulation of this phenomena below:


(Video courtesy of zl2cwa)

The New Age movement believes that the bloody-red moon that was seen recently around the world as the result of the lunar eclipse is the signal for the 2012 phenomenon where a range of cataclysmic or transformative events will occur from now until December 21, 2012.

2012 is also regarded as the end-date of a 5,125-year-long cycle in the Mesoamerican Long Count calendar. Various astronomical alignments and numerological formulae related to this date have been proposed.

A New Age interpretation of this transition is that this date marks the start of time in which Earth and its inhabitants may undergo a positive physical or spiritual transformation, and that 2012 may mark the beginning of a new era. Others suggest that the 2012 date marks the end of the world or a similar catastrophe. Scenarios suggested for the end of the world include the arrival of the next solar maximum, or Earth's collision with a black hole, passing asteroid or a planet called "Nibiru".

On the other hand, scholars from various disciplines have dismissed the idea of such cataclysmic events occurring in 2012. Professional Mayanist scholars state that predictions of impending doom are not found in any of the extant classic Maya accounts, and that the idea that the Long Count calendar "ends" in 2012 misrepresents Maya history and culture. Astronomers and other scientists have rejected the proposed events as pseudoscience, stating that they are contradicted by simple astronomical observations.

Christians, however, believes that there's indeed what we call "doomsday" or the end of the world as stated in the Bible but it will come like a "thief in the night" so no single soul on earth can predict when it is going to happen.
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Boom Boom Bautista KOs Miguel Angel Mendoza

Our very own Rey "Boom Boom" Bautista knocked out Miguel Angel Mendoza of Mexico during the 6th round of "Pinoy Pride 10" on Saturday.



Charismatic Filipino featherweight fighter Rey “Boom Boom” Bautista defended his IBF featherweight title against Mexican fighter Miguel Angel Mendoza during the main event of "Pinoy Pride 10" on December 10, Saturday, at the Hoops Dome in Lapu-Lapu City.

Bautista knocked out Mendoza by a left hook during the sixth round and served as the Mexican's first career loss.

Bautista's boxing record improved to 32-2 (24 knockouts), while Mendoza dropped to 17-1-1 (17 knockouts).

The scores are 69-65, 68-65 and 68-65 in favor of the Filipino boxing champ.
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Pepsi HIV Hoax Hits Facebook, Pepsi Says It's 'Absurd'

Pepsi HIV hoax are currently circulating through SMS, email and now on social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter.

Pepsi HIV Hoax

The hoax message warns people from drinking Pepsi Cola and other Pepsi products for it could be contaminated with HIV (Human immunodeficiency virus), allegedly.

One text message, which believed to have originated from India, is a very obvious hoax. It says:

Important message....for d next few days, do not drink any product from pepsi company like pepsi, tropicana juice, slice, 7up , coca cola, etc,,as a worker from the company has added his blood contaminated with HIV. watch NDtv ...please 4ward this 2 every 1 u care about.....please spread!



What gave it away was that Coca-Cola is not a product of PepsiCo but a rival brand.

Another hoax message from Facebook warns people not to drink Pepsi products as an HIV positive "factory worker" was said to put his blood in some of the bottles.

PepsiCo's marketing vice-president Hemalatha Ragavan said the Pepsi HIV rumor is not true. She urged people not to believe such claims because Pepsi products were produced according to the "strictest safety standards."

"This SMS started circulating in India in July and even there, no one believed it," she said on Friday.

"It is scientifically proven that HIV cannot be transmitted via food or drinks anyway," she added.

PepsiCo also announced on its website that there's no truth to the story that Pepsi bottles and Tropicana packs were contaminated with HIV infected blood. They consider the viral message “an attempt to malign the company’s reputation.”
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Three Stooges Movie Sneak Peek (Video)

Three Stooges movie trailer released!

Three Stooges Movie

The Three Stooges is an upcoming slapstick comedy film adapted from the mid-20th century TV show of the same name. It was produced, written and directed by the Farrelly brothers and co-written by Mike Cerrone. It stars Chris Diamantopoulos, Sean Hayes and Will Sasso as Mo, Harry and Larry respectively.

The Three Stooges (2012) reportedly has a budget of $30 million. It was shot in downtown Atlanta, Georgia and e at Stone Mountain Park, also in Atlanta.

Also starring in the movie are Jane Lynch as Mother Superior, a nun who runs the orphanage the trio grew up in, Larry David as Sister Mary-Mengele, a nun who runs the orphanage; Sofía Vergara as Lydia; Jennifer Hudson as Sister Rosemary; Lin Shaye as Nursery Nurse; Stephen Collins as Mr. Harter, the trio's adopted father; Carly Craig as Mrs. Harter, the trio's adopted mother; Craig Bierko as Mac, "one of the heavies trying to exploit the Stooges"; Kirby Heyborne as Teddy; and
Dwight Howard as Himself.

Here is the synopsis of the movie:

While trying to save their childhood orphanage, Moe, Larry, and Curly inadvertently stumble into a murder plot and wind up starring in a reality TV show.


The film is scheduled to be released on April 4, 2012 by 20th Century Fox.

Watch the trailer here:

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Words With Friends Mobile Game Gets Alec Baldwin Kicked-Off American Airlines

Words With Friends, the Scrabble-like game for mobile devices, gets actor Alec Baldwin booted from an American Airlines flight from Los Angeles to New York on Tuesday.

According to reports, Alec refused to turn off his phone because he's in the middle of playing "Word with Friends" that's why he was booted out from the flight and had to switch to a different flight.

Here is Alec's tweet on Tuesday regarding the incident:

"Flight attendant on American reamed me out 4 playing WORDS W FRIENDS while we sat at the gate, not moving. #nowonderamericaairisbankrupt,"



Meanwhile, the manufacturers of "Word With Friends" has released a photo to TMZ in support of their celebrity fan. The photo spells out the phrase “Let Alec Play.”



The score on the game reads: A Baldwin 1, American Air 0.

Words With Friends was released in 2009 by Newtoy, a scrabble-like game, which can be played on the iPhone, iPad, Android and even on Facebook. It consists of multiple players taking turns to build words on a crossword-style board. Up to 20 games can be played simultaneously.

Another celebrity who boosted the popularity of "Words with Friends" is singer John Mayer who tweeted in 2009 that it is the "new Twitter."

In November this year, the game apparently had 4.4 million daily active users.
$99 Tablet Computer: Novo7 Tablet Computer is Selling Like Hotcake

$99 Tablet Computer: Novo7 Tablet Computer is Selling Like Hotcake

$99 tablet computer, otherwise known as the Novo7 Android 4.0, has just been launched in China but it's now the second fastest-selling tablet computer in the market next to Apple iPad.

The MIPS Technologies and Ingenic Semiconductor launched the sensational Novo7 sandwich tablet recently and it only costs $99 or just around Php 4,250.00.

The said tablet computer was described senior vice president of mobile at Google Andy Rubin as a “low cost, high performance tablet” that's also a "big win" for mobile consumers following the Novo7 Android 2.3 which was launched last September.

Check out a demo video below to give you an idea on what to expect in the new Novo7 Ice Cream Sandwich tablet:

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Erin Andrews vs Michael Barrett/West End Marriot Over 'Peeping Tom' Case

Erin Andrews, the ESPN reporter (who also appeared in the reality show "Dancing with the Stars"), has filed a $10 million lawsuit against stalker Michael Barrett and West End Marriot Hotel.



It can be recalled that in 2008, Erin Andrews was videotaped nude through a peephole of her hotel room at West End Marriot in Nashville, Tennessee.

The suit was originally filed last year and was refiled on Wednesday. Andrews is asking for $4 million from her stalker Michael Barrett, who plead guilty and sentenced in 2010 to 2 and a half years imprisonment, and another $6 million from the West End Marriott for negligence.

The 33-year-old ESPN reporter said the surveillance and the posting of nude images of her still causes her "great emotional distress and embarrassment."
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Political Analyst Adel Tamano Sheds Light on the Issue of Constitutional Crisis in 'The Bottomline'

President Noynoy Aquino’s recent controversial bashing of the Supreme Court and Chief Justice Renato Corona remains a hot topic in the news and social networking sites.

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Crystal Cox Case: Blogger Crystal Cox Fined $2.5-M for Defamation

Crystal Cox, an investigative blogger, has been ordered to pay a whopping $2.5 million after Obsidian Finance Group filed a lawsuit against her for defamation.

Crystal maintains several investigative blogs about finance and real estate. According to online reports, one of her blogs titled Obsidian Finance accused the Obsidian Finance Group and its executive Kevin Padrick of tax and govermental fraud and later sent her a cease-and-desist letter.

Cyrstal Cox, on the other hand, issued a statement saying she is a "self-proclaimed investigative blogger" and should be considered a journalist so she is not under Supreme Court Decisions.

"I am an Independent News Media. I am a Public Forum, my blogs do go out in news feeds and I am Legally Media," she said.

Judge Marco Hernandez disagreed with her plea saying that due to Cox's lack of education in journalism plus her failure to contact the other side to get both sides of the story, she's not covered by the "journalistic shield" or freedom of the press. And because of this, Cox has been ordered to pay Obsidian $2.5 million in damages.

Meanwhile, Cox plans to appeal the ruling because according to her, bloggers need to be recognized as journalists to protect them from this kind of legal action.

"A blogger is a journalist, or a reporting in my opinion, when they take interviews, get tips emailed, get and research documents, study cases and depositions, talk to those personally involved, and post their story just as a traditional reporter," she said.

"Oftentimes without the limitations of having to please your advertisers, or your local politician or corporate machine," she added.
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Eat Bulaga Maintains Daytime Leadership Nationwide

December 5, 2011 (Monday)



Daytime:

Gising Pilipinas (1.0%) / Kape't Pandasal (1.7%) vs. Tunay Na Buhay (Replay) (0.8%)
Umagang Kay Ganda (5.9%) vs. Unang Hirit (5.1%)
Spongebob Squarepants (5.2%) vs. Detective Conan (9.2%)
Inazuma Eleven (4.6%) vs. Hunter X Hunter (10.7%)
X-Men The Animated Series (4.9%) vs. Fairy Tail (10.7%)
Kris TV (7.3%) vs. Bleach (10.1%) / Knock Out (9.9%)
Showtime (11.5%) vs. Kapuso Movie Festival (10.6%)
Happy Yipee Yehey! (9.4%) vs. Eat... Bulaga! (22.4%)
Kokak (15.5%)
Helena's Promise (8.9%) vs. Ikaw Lang Ang Mamahalin (15.2%)
Angelito Batang Ama (12.3%) vs. Kung Aagawin Mo Ang Langit (14.1%)
Pinoy Big Brother Unliday (12.4%) / Reputasyon (14.5%) vs. Love You (8.4%)

Primetime;

Maria La Del Barrio (20.2%) vs. Daldalita (15.6%)
TV Patrol (27.4%) vs. 24 Oras (20.2%) vs. TV5 Wil Time Bigtime (11.3%)
Ikaw Ay Pag-Ibig (30.4%) vs. Amaya (18.3%)
Budoy (30.3%) vs. Munting Heredera (16.4%)
My Binondo Girl (26.1%) vs. Survivor Philippines Celebrity Double Showdown (14.7%) vs. Glamorosa (5.2%)
Nasaan Ka Elisa? (21.4%) vs. Inside Protege The Battle For The Big Break (11.4%) vs. Ps I Love You (2.8%)
Pinoy Big Brother Unlinight (16.0%) vs. Dongyi (9.2%) vs. TV5 Wanted (2.6%)
Bandila (6.2%) vs. Saksi Liga Ng Katotohanan (5.3%) vs. TV 5 Aksyon Journalismo (2.0%) / Juicy! (0.8%)
XXX (Exklusibong Explosibong Expose) (3.3%) vs. I-Witness The GMA Documentaries (3.7%) vs. TV 5 Jojo A. All The Way!!! (0.1%)

December 6, 2011 (Tuesday)



Daytime:

Gising Pilipinas (1.2%) / Kape't Pandasal (1.9%) vs. I-Witness The GMA Documentaries (Replay) (1.3%)
Umagang Kay Ganda (5.6%) vs. Unang Hirit (5.3%)
Spongebob Squarepants (4.9%) vs. Detective Conan (9.5%)
Inazuma Eleven (4.4%) vs. Hunter X Hunter (11.0%)
X-Men The Animated Series (5.1%) vs. Fairy Tail (10.5%)
Kris TV (7.6%) vs. Bleach (10.2%) / Knock Out (11.1%)
Showtime (12.1%) vs. Kapuso Movie Festival (11.1%)
Happy Yipee Yehey! (9.0%) vs. Eat... Bulaga! (23.8%)
Helena's Promise (9.8%) vs. Kokak (15.2%)
Angelito Batang Ama (13.5%) vs. Ikaw Lang Ang Mamahalin (14.8%)
Pinoy Big Brother Unliday (11.0%) vs. Kung Aagawin Mo Ang Langit (14.0%)
Reputasyon (12.6%) vs. Love You (8.4%)

Primetime:

Maria La Del Barrio (20.1%) vs. Daldalita (14.4%)
TV Patrol (26.8%) vs. 24 Oras (18.4%) vs. TV 5 Wil Time Bigtime (10.9%)
Ikaw Ay Pag-Ibig (29.2%) vs. Amaya (18.3%)
Budoy (29.7%) vs. Munting Heredera (16.0%)
My Binondo Girl (26.1%) vs. Glamorosa (4.7%) vs. Survivor Philippines Celebrity Double Showdown (14.3%) vs. TV 5 Ps I Love You (2.7%)
Nasaan Ka Elisa? (22.7%) / Pinoy Big Brother Unlinight (16.0%) vs. Inside Protege The Battle For The Big Break (11.2%) vs. TV 5 Journo (2.1%) / Dongyi (7.9%)
Bandila (7.0%) vs. Saksi Liga Ng Katotohanan (5.3%) vs. TV 5 Aksyon Journalismo (1.7%) / Juicy! (1.0%)
Patrol Ng Pilipino (2.5%) vs. Reporter's Notebook (3.3%) Jojo A. All The Way!!! (0.4%)

Source: Kantar Media
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Carla Abellana Goes Daring on Tanduay's 2012 Calendar

Carla Abellana is the new calendar girl of Tanduay!

Carla, known for her sweet image, shed some skin and joined the ranks of sexy Calendar girls like Katrina Halili, Ehra Madrigal, Bangs Garcia, Nina Jose and Iya Villania.

See some of Carla's Tanduay 2012 calendar photos below:



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A Runner's Haven Opens: Riovana at Bonifacio Global City and Katipunan

A different high was experienced by each and every visitor of the newly opened concept store Riovana, the brainchild of Rio dela Cruz, more popularly known as Coach Rio, a prominent figure in the running industry.

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Dodge Dart is Making a Comeback in the US

Dodge Dart, a compact car from the 1960s that gearheads turned into street racers, is making a comeback.

Chrysler revealed on Tuesday that they will revived the Dodge Dart for producing new compact cars based on Italian technology. This is their answer to the growing demand of compact cars in the US.

The Dodge Dart, which is set to be launched next year, is expected to get 40 miles per gallon (17 kilometers per liter) of gas on the highway.

Since young buyers in the U.S. generally pick compacts as their first new cars, research also shows they'll stick with a brand if they like their first vehicle, and the four-door sedan will handle and perform well, yet be efficient.
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World's Oldest Dog Dies in Japan at the Age of 26

World's oldest dog, Pusuke, died at the age of 26.

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[Pusuke - world's oldest dog - photo credit: Reuters]


The world's oldest dog, according to the Guinness World Records, died 1 year young younger when Amy Winehouse died - 26 years old! However in human years, Pusuke's age should be equivalent to 182-years-old!

He is Pusuke and he lived in Sakura, Japan for 26 years and 9 months. He died last Monday, December 5, 2011.

Usually, an average dog live around 8 to 9 years old. Large dogs may live up to 15 years. Pusuke defied the odds and lived 26 years, almost the same lifespan of Grammy Award winning artist Amy Winehouse! This is the feat why he is called "World's Oldest Dog."

Pusuke is a mixed breed owned by 42-year-old Yumiko Shinohara, who told ABC News that Pusuke had been acting and eating normally last week. All of a sudden, he lost his appetite last Monday and had difficulty breating.

"I think Pusuke waited for me to come home," she told ABC News.
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RepairedMovie is Mo's Way of Harrassing Rhian Ramos, Lawyer Says

RepairedMovie is the title of the controversial video featuring Mo Twister crying over an abortion allegedly committed by ex-girlfriend Rhian Ramos.

The video became viral over the weekend because of its scandalous nature.

Twister, last Sunday, released a statement saying he is not responsible for the video's leakage and claims that it was stolen from his computer.



Rhian Ramos, on the other hand, admitted that she was traumatized after learning about the "RepairedMovie" which was uploaded by a dummy account on YouTube.

Rhian's lawyer, Atty. Lorna Kapunan, is set to ask the court today for a temporary protection order against Mo Twister, whose public rant on the video they deem a form of harassment.

Rhian also issued a short statement yesterday.

“I think more than what the people have seen, I’ve been hurt over a longer period of time unnecessarily, and I think undeserved. I just hope to be able to put an end to that today so that hopefully I can move on,” she said.

Rhian refused to answer some questions asked by Sandra Aguinaldo of 24 Oras but she promised that she will release further statement in the coming days.

Atty. Kapunan added that allegations raised by Mo “will be answered in due course.”

“Hopefully without the tale and the lies,” Rhian added.

Aside from the case being filed by GMA Network against Mo Twister for “malicious and false imputations against the network” on his controversial video, Rhian is filing a case that will prevent the controversial dj from further demean the actress. The case is based from the Republic Act 9262 or Anti-Violence Against Women.
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Heisman Finalists Revealed, Andrew Luck is Favorite for the Heisman Trophy

Heisman finalists, five of them, have been revealed in one of the closest votes in the Heisman Trophy history, monday night.

The 5 Heisman finalists, vying for the 77th edition of the award and who are considered five of the top players in the country for the 2011 season, will travel to New York City for the ceremony. As announced by ESPN, here they are:


  • Wisconsin running back Montee Ball


  • Baylor quarterback Robert Griffin III


  • Stanford quarterback Andrew Luck


  • LSU cornerback Tyrann Mathieu


  • Alabama running back Trent Richardson



Among the 5 running for the Heisman trophy, Andrew Luck is considered the overwhelming favorite to win.

The Stanford quarterback will head to New York for the presentation of college football's most famous player of the year award having relinquished that status.

It's actually a return trip for Luck, the only repeat finalist this season.
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The David Beckham Experience in 'Patrol ng Pilipino'

Football fever hit the country again when our very own Philippine Azkals national team competed against the football icon David Beckham’s team Los Angeles Galaxy in an exhibition game last weekend.



ABS-CBN broadcast journalist TJ Manotoc covered the L.A. galaxy’s stopover in the country, from the football clinic they conducted for kids to their friendly match with the Azkals. Join TJ tomorrow (Dec 6) in “Patrol ng Pilipino” as he shares the Azkals’s personal anecdotes that unfold the connection and story between the two teams.

Meanwhile, reporter Francis Faulve will report on the extinction of coconut trees in the country, an alarming news that is equated with the collapse of our main source for export products, as well as the livelihood of coconut farmers. What can be done to save the trees and the coconut industry?

Catch the stories behind the news tomorrow (Dec 6) in “Patrol ng Pilipino” after “Bandila” on ABS-CBN or watch it earlier on DZMM TeleRadyo (SKyCable ch. 26), 9:15 PM.

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Rhian Ramos, Traumatized by Mo Twister's Revelations

Rhian Ramos has not yet issued an official statement as of this posting regarding the controversial leaked video showing Mo Twister lamenting about her alleged "abortion." The said video titled "RepairedMovie" which was uploaded on YouTube exploded on blogs and social networking sites over the weekend.

According to GMA News, Rhian was traumatized that's why she refused to grant an interview to the Kapuso showbiz talk show Startalk TX. However, Rhian said she will break her silence in the coming days.

Meanwhile, Mo Twister has released his "final" statement regarding the controversial video.

It was aired yesterday, December 4, on the radio program Showbiz Rampa 103.5 WOW FM which is a sister company of Mo Twister's Magic family.

The statement was a response to GMA-7's plan of filing charges against him because of his "malicious and false imputations against the network."

Here is the transcript of DJ Mo Twister's full and final statement as posted on Philippine Entertainment Portal:


"There are so many questions to be answered. I don't even know where to start. I guess I can only hope in time, the whole and accurate story will be the one told. It may be too long to write now, but I know a short statement is in order.

"Currently, I'm in disarray because of how fast and unexpected this has all become. I'm confused on whether I should do any interviews or just keep silent about the whole thing. One moment I think I should explain, the other I think I should shut up. I don't even know anymore.

"I am disappointed about the video. I'm saddened about the rumors of its upload. Most of all, I'm ashamed at myself for the loss of our child. It was something I never wanted to happen. It went against my every value and until this very day, it makes me breakdown in tears - something I never have moved on from - I don't think any parent can.

"Of course it was done with utmost regret and I still wonder if I did all that I can to prevent it from happening. I thought I did, but I ultimately sided with the decision of my girlfriend, because I was put against a wall, to a point where I had to choose between the safety of the person that I love and the life of our child.

"As you have heard or read in the video, I do not blame Rhian for our actions even though it was no one else's choice. The pressure on her was too great.

"Am I upset at her? No. However, I do feel sad about the opinions of the people who are closest to her. You see, I am pro-life. I know we all have a different stance about this sensitive topic, but I am and have always been such.

"You may ask why I still allowed for it to happen and my answer is, I don't know. I thought I tried and prayed enough for the circumstances to change but it did not. And I know I will pay for this for the rest of this life and beyond.

"To be completely honest, I am saddened by the reaction of her mom and manager. It has hurt me almost as much as the deed itself. I was shocked to learn of their stance regarding a future family member of theirs. When I went to them to seek their help and comfort, all the focus was put on her career and her body image.

"I was told that the baby wasn't even a baby, even though I was present during the ultra sound, heard the heartbeat of our 3 ½ month old child, saw it being formed into a young human being. I was even more shocked when she was being referred to as a 'brand' rather than as a daughter/niece.

"To be honest, I felt sick hearing this from people who are so openly Christian. They said, verbatim, 'Hindi naman ikaw yung tataba, hindi naman ikaw yung papanget, hindi ikaw ang magdadala at sasakit ang likod. It wasn't a baby.'

"These words were being screamed at me while I sat there in tears. I understand that this may possibly have a negative impact on her career, but it was our child - it was not an inconvenience that is more important than fame and money.

"After this intense ordeal last year, I recently found out this wasn't the only time. It was in this moment that I felt my world crash. I hope you don't find this as hypocritical of myself, but you cannot get away with killing children—I included.

"I made the video as a memento of this tragic event and that it should never happen again. It was meant for me to always remind myself that we paid an enormous sacrifice for this job and this relationship.

"I had no choice, I was not asked my thoughts - it was just going to be the way it went. So I made videos and I kept all the memories that I could hold onto.

"Rhian knew about all of this. To a point where months ago, when they thought a lawyer was needed to aid in our breakup, that I was asked to surrender all of this 'proof' (as they called it) to them for it to be destroyed.

"I naturally gave in to their request, because for the second time, I chose my girlfriend over the memory of our child. I specifically asked them to not destroy it, to please return it to me 50 years from now when all this showbiz priorities and 'branding' wouldn't mean so much anymore. Along with my files, they took my computer and erased it in front of me.

"This was all documented by her legal staff.

"Until this very day, I love Rhian very much. We had to lie to the public about our ongoing relationship and I understood why. I would never want to hurt her and I tried my best to protect her when rumors of past abortions would surface. I aggressively pursued bloggers and other people who had info of past incidents and told them to be quiet.

"They know who they are. Unfortunately, we find ourselves here today. People are in possession of these videos. I know that the copies in my laptop were not the only ones destroyed. In a brown envelope, I handed these files to the family and begged them to salvage them. My laptop may have been compromised. I really don't know. There will be rumors for a long time, I am aware of that, but it will not hurt as much as the memory of what truly happened - we lost our child and I have not moved on from it.

"I am aware that GMA would like to prosecute me for this. I would like to apologize to the network for putting them in a bad light.

"This decision to have an abortion was not something the network instructed us to do. I was shocked that one of their officers, Ida Henares, had an unfavorable opinion about the pregnancy, but I am aware that her opinion doesn't reflect the opinion of the network. I understand that and I am sorry if the words on my 'video diary' depicted otherwise.

"I'm sorry to Rhian that our rollercoaster relationship ended the way it did. There was much more going on than people know. But I love you. I always have. The few people who knew about us also knew how much we cared for each other. We talked about marriage, we almost bought a home together a few months ago, we were planning to have the family we lost.

"I don't have a message for the general public. This is the shortest explanation I can give for now. Maybe one day I can answer more, or whenever it is necessary. We all have a certain set of values. I will respect yours and I hope you will respect mine. This is me in the most honest and rawest form.

"I can only make one promise: I will never, ever agree to take the life of a child again. It doesn't matter if it isn't my body or my choice. I will not be put against the wall again. I should have stood my ground, fought harder, delayed it longer, encourage more people to talk her out of it.

"I regret being there. I regret it all."



Meanwhile, aside from GMA Network, Rhian's camp is also mulling to file a case against Mo Twister in the coming days.
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