Carla Abellana

Kapuso Primetime Queen Carla Abellana signed a recording contract with Universal Records last August 29, 2013. Present in the event are Talent Manager Arnold Vegafria, Record Producer Ito Rapadas, General Manager Kathleen Dy-Go, Carla, and UR Operations Manager Peter Chan. 

She immediately proceeded to the recording of her first single – a cover of Toni Daya’s hit 'Kung Alam Mo Lang' which happens to be one of my favorite OPM classic songs!

Carla is regularly seen on the hit Teleserye 'My Husbands Lover' every night on GMA7's Telebabad with Dennis Trillo and Tom Rodriguez as her co-stars. Other than the show getting positive reviews, Carla is being praised on her stunning performance both by critics and c0-actors.

I've been watching the soap since day 1 and this is by far Carla's best delivery. She deserves a 'Best Actress for TV' award on this drama series.

Watch out for the details of her album soon here on Morgan Magazine.

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Martin Nievera

In celebration to the concert king’s 30 anniversary in the music scene, Polyeast Records would like to announce the vinyl release of two collections of Martin Nievera’s most-loved hits and covers over the years. With the titles “Under The Covers” and “Off the Record”, these two special anniversary package is now available in the market nationwide.

The re-mastering and quality of the vinyl is the same as the CD format, pressed on a 150 gram virgin vinyl plate made in Czech Republic and spans singles and album tracks recorded between 1982 to present.

“Off The Record” collects few of the most recognizable songs like “Forever”, “You Are My Song”, “Kahit Isang Saglit”, “IKaw Lang Ang Mamahalin”, “Before You Say Goodbye” among others to get us reacquainted with the analog side of the Martin’s  30 year-old success.

Comprised mostly of hit singles and key album tracks from Martin’s 30-year-old catalogue, “Under The Covers” however wraps with Martin’s remake of the most notable love songs through the years. Included in the cd is Martin’s version of Kenny Loggin’s “Forever”; “Right Here Waiting For You” originally by Richard Marx; “You’re my Everything” borrowed from The Santa Esmeralda’s 70s hit; “Maybe This Time”, Martin’s version of Michael Murphy’s classic love song; a duet with R&B Princess, Kyla in the song “How Do You Keep The Music Playing” and a lot more.

 “Under The Covers” and “Off the Record” are now available in the market nationwide released by PolyEast Records. For Martin Nievera’s mall shows, details are available on https://www.facebook.com/PolyEastRecords and https://twitter.com/PolyEastRecords.

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Christian Bautista

Asia’s Romantic Balladeer Christian Bautista has renewed his contract with Universal Records last August 14 at Romulo’s Café, Quezon City. Present during the signing are (L-R) UR Operations Manager Peter Chan, STAGES President Audie Gemora, UR General Manager Kathleen Dy-Go, Christian, UR Executive Vice President Ramon Chuaying, STAGES Head of Talent Management Carlo Orosa and UR Music Production Head Ito Rapadas. 

Christian is soon to start work on his next album, set for release next year. The multi-awarded singer has done his bestselling albums with Universal Records – Romance Revisited (4x Platinum), A Wonderful Christmas (Diamond), First Class (Platinum).

Christian is currently seen on GMA’s musical variety show Sunday All Stars, series With A Smile and will soon play Prince Charming in Resorts World’s Cinderella, opposite Karylle.

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Trumpets

The Bluebird of Happiness follows the unforgettable adventure of poor kids Mytyl and Tyltyl search of a mythical creature called the bluebird of happiness. They are accompanied by their dog, their cat, and a candle in human form named "Light" who help them on their journey. Together, they explore wondrous and mysterious lands and meet interesting and enchanted characters in their quest for true happiness.

They visit "The Land of Memory" where they encounter their long dead grandparents, "The Palace of Night" where nightmares and horrors creep from dark corners, "The Forest" filled with trees who have a grudge against humans, "The Land of Luxury" that holds all kinds of riches and bounty, and "The Land of the Future" where sadness is unknown and “The Graveyard” where they must face their worst fears. Despite of all the places they visit they end up where they started and find that the "Bluebird of Happiness" is right in their own home. 

“It will be an unforgettable, magical adventure for all families,” says Trumpets President Audie Gemora on why he chose this project to mark Trumpets’ musical comeback. “Trumpets prides itself with productions like The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe, Joseph The Dreamer,Little Mermaid, among others. Now, we’ve found an apt material for our comeback and have assembled an artistic team composed of the finest artists in the local musical theater scene including director and librettist Jaime Del Mundo, composer Rony Fortich, musical arranger Mon Faustino, scenographer Mio Infante, lighting designer John Batalla, and choreographer Nancy Crowe.

Audie promises that The Bluebird of Happiness will have all the elements that made audiences love previous Trumpets productions.

The Bluebird of Happiness will start enchanting families at the Meralco Theater from September 27 to October 20, 2013. For tickets, contact the Trumpets office at 901-4364 or TicketWorld at 891-9999 or www.ticketworld.com.ph. For more details, Like the Official Facebook Page(https://www.facebook.com/BluebirdbyTrumpets) and Follow the Official Twitter Account– (@TheBluebirdMNL)

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Accessories for Sale

A month ago, I was annoyed with all these online stores taking over Instagram. They moved out to that venue when Multiply website closed and ended its operation. Now the story is different. I Love them! I’m actually more than willing to promote their products. They make shopping easier for us. We don’t need to be in crowded malls just to get the items we need. All you have to do is:

1.       Set-up an Instagram account.

2.       Check out the accounts Celebrities mention together with the photo of the item they received from online sellers.

3.       Browse the items they sell.

4.       Viber or Message the owner about the products you want to buy.

5.       Pay them by depositing money to their accounts or through online transfers.

6.       Wait for the products to be delivered at your door-step.

There are items that will have free shipping especially those amounting to P1000 and above. Regular rate for products ship within Manila is from P60-P90 while for provincial delivery it’s around P90-P150. You can also buy wholesale and get big discounts or become a reseller yourself.

Initially, for people who is not used to shopping online, they will be hesitant to send out money to sellers they’ve never met same as with the sellers not willing to send the items first without receiving payment. This is perfectly understandable. Online Shopping requires trust since sellers are not verified and the medium of payment is not through credit card.

Some online stores are irresistible making us materialistic. An example of that store is @kuwintaspulserasatbp. I'm inlove with their shop! They have the nicest collection of bracelets, watches, necklaces, bags, shoes and even jewelry boxes and organizers. I have one of their customized bracelets (photo above). Their products are actually of very good quality plus they are affordable! They can even customize your order to fit your size and personality. Here are some of the products they sell online. The pictures are enough to make you want them!. Go and check their Instagram Account or You text them at 09175810015 or email them at pulseras.atbp@gmail.com.

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Sharon Cuneta

I was born and raised as a Sharonian. My birth date is a day before KC's.

I grew up watching Sharon Cuneta on TV and Movies. I would sing her songs and memorize her lines like that of Madrasta. I would take her roles in school play. Everyone in our family loves her. I even have an aunt who would defend her whenever she hears anything bad thrown against Sharon.

As a loyal Kapamilya, I didn’t want her to transfer to TV5. For a fact she’ll get lesser audience and her career may go down. But I forgot that her Star is well-positioned. Regardless if the sun will shine or it will rain, her brightness as the Megastar wouldn’t fade and forever will stay. It will just temporarily face a certain part of the earth and will still soon be seen on the other side after sometime.

I have always believed that once a Sharonian, forever will be a Sharonian. Not because she transferred station would mean I would love her less. Not because she is with another network would make me stop supporting her. Loyalty should never be to an institution but to people. It is important to never let go of the people we love by the choices they make in life. 

Also I want to address the bashing she gets because of her weight and as a protective mother. 

I’m also big like her but who cares! It is rude and disrespectful to look at people on how they look outside. Yes! Sharon is big, but one thing is for sure, her heart is bigger than what we see. She has so much to give and need not prove anything to anyone. If Greatness comes in sizes, She’s multiple XL!

To those people who bashed her because of protecting her children from the harsh world of twitter. I feel so sorry for you guys that you don’t have a mother willing to defend you and would fight for you when everyone else seems to be against you. May you all find comfort and peace as you realized your mistakes.

Anyway, after 30 years in showbiz and a seven-month hiatus from television, Megastar Sharon Cuneta is back via her first ever Tawa-Serye, ‘Madam Chairman’ as Bebeth de Guzman written by Jose Javier Reyes and directed by Joel Lamangan.

It’s called Tawa-Serye, different from the usual Teleserye that has a lot of crying and heavy drama. It’s a light series that is not only filled with laughter but also heartwarming and with sense. It has a running social commentary but not hard core and will have relevance and shall be inspiring.

To prepare herself for the role of a Barangay Chairman, (who in real life has no plans of entering politics), she immersed herself in actual barangay activities and participated in the deliberations of problems faced by the lowest unit of the country. Sharon is particularly interested in how a barangay chairman settles issues in community.

‘Madam Chairman’ airs this September on TV5. You can check their Facebook page here.

By the way, Sharon is also currently looking for a Movie Script that will hit her like that of ‘Crying Ladies’. Writers are invited to send their scripts to megascripts2013@gmail.com. Winners will get a cash prize. Megastar is also open to do Indie Films.

P.S. I Love You Mega! (",)

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Atom Araullo

I have always wanted to do a sit-down interview with ABS-CBN’s most handsome news personality, Atom Araullo. But everytime I see him it’s either it’s not an appropriate place or just a wrong time. I think around few times in the washroom of Starbucks, a lot of times in the hallway walking fast or sometimes during Presscons.  Hopefully this year he’ll grant me that. (“,)

Atom is an inspiration and he knows that.  One time I went to watch him play soccer in University of Makati for the Adobo Cup. I brought with me this little banner that says ‘I Love Atom’. He was so nice that he signed it. You can just imagine how happy I was then! By the way, Atom is an athlete just so you know guys. He has trained in tennis, volleyball, taekwondo, mountaineering and platform & underwater diving.

There was also this instance when I tweeted him asking who’s his fave author. When he responded Neil Gaiman, I hurriedly went to FullyBooked, bought him 2 graphic novels and went to ABSCBN hoping I get to see him. Fortunately, he was just in Starbucks having merienda. Heaven was so in my favor!  I gave him the books and had a very little conversation. Then after few minutes I became speechless and my knees started shaking so I bid goodbye right away.  

Atom projects a reserved aura. I’m not sure though if it’s required for News Men. That’s how I see him; mysterious and strictly holding back. But definitely he is not a snob or ‘suplado’.  I remember reading an article where he said he is an introvert, shy and a home-buddy. He is not anti-social but would just rather stay at home; sleep or read books. His fave authors are Ernest Hemingway and Ian Mc Ewan.

Atom is proud that he was once an activist and that he joined protest marches when he was younger. But I think now, he doesn’t like it anymore. Again, I just think.. For today’s time there are other ways to voice out your opinions and your disappointments. 

Atom’s real name is Alfonso Tomas Araullo and turning 31 this October 19. He graduated at UP with a degree in B.S. Applied Physics. He stands 5’10, weighs 155 lbs, wears a medium size briefs, medium size shirts and size 9 shoes.  He knows how to play the guitar and flute. He used to teach Introductory Journalism course in De La Salle Dasma. If it was just near to me I would have enrolled then.

He studied elementary at Ateneo and was a scholar at the Philippine Science High School. He did a stint as a co-host of GMA7’s ‘5 & Up’ with Chynna Ortaleza and Maxene Magalona. He pursued theater after his first year in college. Then after graduation, he co-hosted Studio 23’s Breakfast with Ryan Agoncillo, Bianca Gonzales and Bam Aquino. Currently he is hosting ABS-CBN’s “Pinoy True Stories : Hiwaga” every Friday at 4:15 p.m., which tackles paranormal phenomena, mysteries and the unexplained. He is also a field reporter of ‘UKG’ and TV Patrol.

Atom is currently single and likes girls who are critical thinker, confident and independent. He has been offered to act in Indie Films. But as much as he would want to try it, the station won’t allow him. It’s a rule of ABS-CBN for journalists not to cross over to entertainment. Good thing Atom loves documentary making. He can explore film in that aspect just like the North Korea documentary he made. (click here to watch videos and previous entry) He also loves photography. Check out his Instagram! @atomaraullo to see the photos he took.

This September, Atom Araullo will be joining Anthony Pangilinan, Francis Kong and Miriam Quiambao for a Talk entitled “Excellence in the Work Place, Becoming the Best You can Ever Be” at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay. 1pm-5pm. You can call Ticketworld for tickets 891-9999 or visit their website www.ticketworld.com.ph. Prices Inclusive of Service Charge are: Gold – P1560, Silver P1040 and Bronze P520.

I’ll end this entry with this quote from Atom:

“Journalism is supposed to be scientific. Being scientific is important in journalism, because we need to break down problems to more manageable portions and we need to be systematic in answering many of life’s ills.”

Note: Credits to The Philippine Star for some of the info I read about Atom.

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JC De Vera

27-year old and 6-pack Matinee Idol JC de Vera (John Carlo in real life) recently signed a 2-year contract with ABS-CBN last July 29, 2013. He is no longer with Annabelle Rama and now being handled by Leo Dominguez, (same manager of Paulo Avelino) and will be co-managed by Star Magic under Kate Angela Dolino (same group with Jason Abalos and Arron Villaflor).

JC has been one of the most promising leads in GMA7 and TV5 before transferring to the Kapamilya Network. He had around 30 TV Shows and 10 Films. He started Showbiz 10 years ago on GMA7’s ‘Joyride’ & ‘Click’ with Jake Cuenca, Valerie Concepcion and Iya Villana. His last project for TV5 was Cassandra, the Angel Warrior with Eula Caballero.

I was actually one of the happiest knowing he is now with ABS-CBN. Most of my friends as well as my co-bloggers and press people know that I am his avid fan. He is one of the few celebrities that I have supported outside the Kapamilya Network. For sure this move will give him a bigger opportunity to grow and a larger audience.

JC first appeared on ASAP then was welcomed on The BUZZ and GGV where he showed his exaggerated well-toned abs. Obviously based on JC’s tweet, he was very happy knowing he was welcomed with open arms by both the Kapamilya Stars and Fans. As a proof, he trended on Twitter the whole of Monday. He also became a guest judge on Showtime for a week.

Now, he is preparing to star on his first MMK and a grand drama series ‘Hanggang Kailan Kita Mamahalin’. He will be paired with his long time crush Maja Salvador who also won on the 2-day poll my blog surveyed (Who Do You want JC De Vera be paired with?) with around 500 votes followed by Sarah Geronimo. Jericho Rosales, Angel Locsin, Mark Gil, Christopher de Leon, Rio Locsin, and Bernard Palanca will also be his co-stars on the soap.

JC has already proven himself as a bankable and versatile actor from the many soap operas he has had. He was even tagged as drama prince when he was still with GMA7. Be it drama, action or comedy I know He can deliver! He has impressive skills!

By the way, I’d like to believe one of JC’s fave hang-outs is Basty’s at Fort BGC. I see him there sometimes with friends. I’m just too shy to go near him and say “Hey I’m your #1 Fan!”.

To the girls out there. Let me leave you with this line from JC’s interview on Phil Star: (“,)

“I have kissed girls in the past on the first date, but it depends on the girl. I’m usually shy on first dates but if she makes a move for it, I don’t see why not.”

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Ali Khatibi

It’s hard to write about someone you haven’t really met much more who has limited info on Google Search. But if that someone has the most well-toned and muscular abs, then your search is over!

Newbie celebrity Ali Khatibi (@alijoshua on Instagram) debuts on ABS-CBN’s Gameshow #MinuteTowinIt hosted by Luis Manzano early today.

At first, I wanted to ask ‘How in the world did Ali get that to-die-for-abs despite loving Behrouz and the non -stop eating of Kirkland's Peanut Butter Filled Pretzels, Banana Bread and Häagen-Dazs Ice Cream?’

But when I checked his Instagram; I got the answer right away! He trains hard! Really hard like there is no tomorrow! I also melted seeing all his topless photos! I wonder why it took so long for him to join showbiz.

Anyway, Ali Khatibi is known to be a Fearless Fighter! He is into MMA, UFC & Motocross. His Sherdog profile shows He is 5’7, 145 lbs and has 1 win!

He also likes road-tripping, going to the beach, having buffet and partying with Jack Daniels, Chivas and bestfriends Roda King and former Hale Vocalist, Champ Lui Pio.

By the way Ali Khatibi is also in ‘Buy and Sell’ of Cars. Watch out for him this September as he joins the Cosmo Bachelor Bash! More of Ali on my next article once I get to have a sit-down interview.

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Resorts World

Luxe accommodation up for grabs at Resorts World Manila's Grand Hotel Giveaway.

Win overnight stays for two at Resorts World Manila’s hotels!

Fancy a weekend at Resorts World Manila? You’re just a few clicks away from a chance to stay at its premier hotels for free.

Check out the Grand Hotel Giveaway Facebook application on the fan page and join for a chance to spend one night at Remington Hotel Weekly and Maxims Hotel monthly. 

Joining is easy. Like Resorts World Manila on Facebook (www.facebook.com/rwmanila) click on the app and register. Every share, invite and tweet you make earns you one raffle entry, so the more you post, the grander your chances of winning.  

Maxims Hotel is an all-suite luxury hotel catering to guests with the most discerning tastes. This first-class city retreat is equipped with 171 spacious and lavishly-furnished suites.  Complementing the plush amenities is its impeccable, personalized service. Each room is assigned a butler to attend to the guests’ every need, from their itinerary to dining reservations, 24 hours a day.

Designed for the smart traveler, Remington Hotel offers superb accommodations at real value. Right across NAIA Terminal 3 and a few minutes away from NAIA Terminals 1 and 2, guests on their way to their next destination will appreciate Remington Hotel’s accessible location. Moreover, a 24/7 free airport shuttle service is available every hour, on the hour.

Join the Grand Hotel Giveaway now! Promo period is until September 3, 2013.

You can access the app directly here: https://www.facebook.com/rwmanila/app_648825595131140

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Online Stores

A month ago, I was annoyed with all these online stores taking over Instagram. They moved out to that venue when Multiply website closed and ended its operation.

Now the story is different. I Love them! I’m actually more than willing to promote their products. They make shopping easier for us. We don’t need to be in crowded malls just to get the items we need. All you have to do is:

1.       Set-up an Instagram account.

2.       Check out the accounts Celebrities mention together with the photo of the item they received from online sellers.

3.       Browse the items they sell.

4.       Viber or Message the owner about the products you want to buy.

5.       Pay them by depositing money to their accounts or through online transfers.

6.       Wait for the products to be delivered at your door-step.

There are items that will have free shipping especially those amounting to P1000 and above. Regular rate for products ship within Manila is from P60-P90 while for provincial delivery it’s around P90-P150. You can also buy wholesale and get big discounts or become a reseller yourself.

Initially, for people who is not used to shopping online, they will be hesitant to send out money to sellers they’ve never met same as with the sellers not willing to send the items first without receiving payment. This is perfectly understandable. Online Shopping requires trust since sellers are not verified and the medium of payment is not through credit card.

But that’s what I did. I trusted an online seller @BagsBunny_PH. She has the nicest collections of speedy, satchel & tote bags. These bags usually cost P1,000-P2,500 in the malls. I got the black speedy for only P710 including delivery charge. This is the same bag Dennis Trillo posted on his Instagram Account and he uses on his hit teleserye #MyHusbandsLover. Go and Check @BagsBunny_PH account on Instagram!. Start your shopping now. You can also contact Lara at 0917-832-5272. Just give her 2 days and you’ll get your item through LBC. Here are some of her products:

You can check my Instagram Account @supermorgy for the list of online stores I follow. 

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