Talking about history, culture and heritage, I believe that this topics or stories are shown and describe by the Kapuso Network fairly based on facts and information. And this coming March 18, a celebration of knowing parts of our identity and heritage will be airing as the Entertainment Group of GMA Network fulfils its commitment to bring viewers world-class entertainment with its newest primetime spectacle, Sahaya.

This extraordinary epic-drama series is top-billed by one of this generation’s brightest and hottest love teams - Bianca Umali and Miguel Tanfelix together with sought-after Kapuso leading man Migo Adecer.


Sahaya is the inspiring story of a determined and special Badjaw who rises above all difficult circumstances in life that will challenge her resiliency as she maps her path towards self-acceptance, success, and admiration.

In her titular role as Sahaya, Bianca breathes life into a beautiful Badjaw lady blessed with extraordinary abilities which will lead her to inspire her family and her people, including Ahmad, her simple childhood friend who has always been in love with her, portrayed by Miguel.

Adding a twist to their story is Jordan, played by Migo, the wealthy Manileño who will compete with Ahmad for Sahaya’s love.
 

Joining them in this intriguing series are talented actors and actresses: Eric Quizon as Hubert, Jordan’s father whose business is coral mining at Sahaya’s village in Tawi-Tawi; Zoren Legaspi as Harold, Sahaya’s father who abandons her mother before he knew that they were about to have a child; Mylene Dizon as Manisan, a Badjaw who fell for Harold and ended up raising and teaching their daughter, Sahaya, resiliency and good values; Pen Medina as Panglima Alari, Manisan’s father and the panglima (leader) of the Sama Dilaut; Debra Liz as Babu, Sahaya’s cheerful grandmother; Juan Rodrigo as Bapa, older brother of Panglima Alari; Ana Roces as Irene, Harold’s loyal wife who will do anything to protect her family; Ashley Ortega as Lindsay, Jordan’s spoiled cousin and the school’s queen bee; and Ms. Snooky Serna as Salida, a loving yet vengeful mother who will be the reason why Manisan and Sahaya will be separated.

Playing very special roles in the pilot week are Benjamin Alves as Aratu, Salida’s son and Manisan’s husband; Gil Cuerva as the young Harold; Karl Medina as young Alari and Jasmine Curtis-Smith as the young Manisan.

To shed light on the culture of our Badjao brothers and sisters, GMA 7 hired consultants and recreated an entire set reminiscent of a real Badjao village in Calatagan, Batangas that will bring viewers a realistic vision of their community—a surprising feat only the Kapuso Network delivers in a remarkable manner. Likewise for this program, the Network sets the bar even higher as it uses for the first time a high-end cinema camera to create clean, sharp and cinematic images.

Sahaya is created through the visionary minds of writers Marlon Miguel and Jonathan Cruz. Aloy Adlawan is the Creative Director and Suzette Doctolero headwrites the show. This grand production is under the helm of esteemed director Zig Dulay.

This original series, created by the GMA Drama group, is headed by the SVP for Entertainment Group Lilybeth G. Rasonable, VP for Drama Redgie A. Magno, AVP for Drama Cheryl Ching-Sy, Senior Program Manager Helen Rose Sese, Executive Producer Milo Paz.

Join Sahaya as she brings pride to her culture through her captivating adventures beginning March 18, after Kara Mia, on GMA Telebabad.


Kapuso viewers from across the globe can also catch their favorite Kapuso shows via GMA’s international channels GMA Pinoy TV, GMA Life TV, and GMA News TV International. For the program guide, visit www.gmapinoytv.com.

FWD is the sponsor of the "World's Coolest Marathon"! Yes, it is the coolest, literally, because the marathon is happening in one of the below zero degree places in the world. Where else but the North Pole, the "FWD North Pole Marathon".

Another great news FWD Philippines brings is its campaign "Fearless in the Arctic". At a media event held few days ago, FWD Philippines introduced its representative runner for the FWD North Pole Marathon, Ms. Joyette Jopson.  During the media event, full support were showed to Ms. Joyette, from the squad member to FWD Philippines executives, to members and supporters. Ms. Joyette is a triathlete, 2014 Ironman 70.3 Philippines Filipino Elite Champion, and FWD Financial Wealth Officer. She will be flying to the northernmost point on Earth to represent the Philippines in the forthcoming FWD North Polo Marathon. Imagine the cold weather, the terrain, and the challenge.

“FWD is extremely proud to continue our support for this challenging and one-of-a-kind event, as it resonates our core values of empowering people to pursue their passions and explore a lifetime of limitless possibilities,” said FWD Life Philippines President and Chief Executive Officer Peter Grimes said. “Moreover, as a Pan-Asian insurer, we are a strong supporter of Asian achievement, endurance, and excellence.”

Jopson will be joined by FWD representative runners from Hong Kong, Japan, Vietnam, and Thailand, collectively called FWD Team Asia, as well as runners from around the world, in what is dubbed as one of the world’s most challenging and grueling sporting events.


“We chose Joyette as the Philippines’ representative to the FWD North Pole Marathon this year because of her indomitable spirit, something that will help her conquer the North Pole. As the first Filipina who is set to conquer the marathon, she will proudly bring both FWD and Filipino Pride to the world stage,” Grimes added. “Joyette has broken her own barriers as a triathlete, competing with the most experienced athletes in the world, and this is why we believe she is perfect to be the country’s representative this year.”

“As an FWD Financial Wealth Officer, I take to heart our mission to take care of our customers’ financial future and change the way people feel about insurance,” Jopson said. “I am truly grateful to have been chosen to represent FWD and the Philippines in the North Pole Marathon as this really will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for me! Inspired by the FWD’s Get Ready to Live brand spirit, I will bring with me relentless courage and determination against the world’s harshest conditions as I aim to make my country proud.”

How extreme is the "World's Coolest Marathon"? Well, as what the Guinness World Record recognize it the "Northernmost Marathon on Earth" is a very unique and extreme marathon, it is run on a small 4.22-kilometer (2.62-mile) loop about 10 times, over hard snow or ice. This marathon is recognized by the Association of International Marathons & Distance Races (AIMS). Adding to its uniqueness, it is the only certified marathon that is run entirely on the frozen water of the Arctic Ocean.


Toughest marathons it may seems but we know Filipinos can conquer everything and Joyette, she'll the first Filipina to conquer the "World's Coolest Marathon".

One of the most liked little girl on social media, Scarlet Snow Belo, was crowned as the Jollikids Ambassador. Yes you read it right. The royalty princess of beauty and cuteness has finally became the ambassador of the country's fast food chain pride, Jollibee.

Now, Scarlet Snow shares the joy to many more as Jollibee’s newest JolliKids Ambassador. With her fun-loving and imaginative personality, she perfectly represents the traits and values of a true JolliKid.


“There’s really no better example of a JolliKid than Scarlet Snow. She’s kind, smart, and a real bundle of joy, making her the perfect fit for Jollibee. We’re very excited to welcome her to the family and we hope that she enjoys growing up with us as a JolliKid,” shared Charisse Sumulong, Jollibee Senior Marketing Manager and Head for Channels and Kids Marketing.

As a JolliKids Ambassador, Scarlet Snow encourages her fellow youngsters to experience countless jolly moments with Jollibee, whether it’s through celebrating their special birthdays through a fun-filled Jollibee Kids Party, learning and making new friends at the Jollibee Kids Club, or enjoying the yummy meals and collectible toys that come with every Jolly Kiddie Meal.

When asked about Scarlet’s new role as JolliKids Ambassador, Hayden Kho said, “Nearly every Filipino kid has grown up with Jollibee. Now, Scarlet is also experiencing that same fun and engaging childhood too and what better way to spend it with than Jollibee. This is a brand that has always brought joy to children and a place where families can enjoy great memories at and for Scarlet to become a JolliKids Ambassador is really a perfect match.”

During the event, Scarlet Snow Belo is introduced to members of the media as the brand ambassador and to make it more princess-thing-like they made Jollibee a Fairytale land with the grand coronation.

The royalty theme of the event is just one of the many themed party of Jollibee. Kids will definitely enjoy celebrating their occasions at Jollibee.

Nonoy Zuniga, the icon and hitmaker who have dedicated himself in giving music fanatics great music and quality songs will be staging be a concert at Newport Performing Arts Theater in Resorts World Manila entitled "Nonoy Zuniga... Through the Years" on March 13, 2019.

After being in the music industry for more than three decades, from being a folk singer to the hitmaker, Nonoy Zuniga is still up for more. During the press conference held in Pamana, he shared to the members of the media and bloggers that he still dreaming to give more and one of his dream concert of which he considered very expensive to do but he still dreams of it. He also shared that he's very open with collaboaring with different singers and artist. He even goes to the level of hoping to collaborate with a rapper.


For people who still doesn't have a hint of Nonoy Zuniga's hit songs some of it are "Doon Lang", "Kamusta ka?", "Magandang Gabi" and "Never Ever Say Goodbye".

Another interesting fact about Nonoy Zuniga is that he is also a Doctor of Medicine. He graduated from the University of Sto. Tomas. Being a skincare specialist, together with a professional esthetician, Ms Sylvia Cancio who owns Piel Acne and Skin Clinic in New York they established Piel Skincare Center in Cebu City. Currently, Nonoy enjoys his life travelling Las Vegas to Manila and Cebu singing and managing Piel Skincare Center.


Nonoy shared that the concert will be introducing a new artist or an upcoming talent during the concert and her name is Jeselle Kempis. Jeselle revealed that "I am a trained pop singer. I've been training since childhood and singing in private events. Iy has hardly ocurred to me that I can perform in aprofessional concert for which people have to buy tickets. I'm both happy and nervous to perform at 'Nonoy Zuniga... Through the Years."

The concert will guests seasoned artists like the South Border, Nyoy Volante, and Mitch Valdez, with Andrew de Real as stage director and Bobby Gomez as musical director with the Brothers Unlimited.


The concert "Nonoy Zuniga...Through the Years is produced by OGK Entertainment Production for the benefit of the Calamba Doctors Medical Educational & Science Foundation, Inc. (CDMESFI) and Manila East Medical Educational & Science Foundation, Inc. Tickets available at Ticket World.

Have you a seen a mermaid? Well, this story has been a talk since it was foretold long before and there are different stories about it. We have long been entranced by the idea of these mermaids, from the sailors and fishermen of old to modern-day enthusiasts. In 2018, to the delight of fans everywhere, the producers of Siren declared March 29 as International Mermaid Day! Clearly, people remain fascinated by the very idea that they exist but, as with all fairy tales, there is a much darker story that goes farther back.

The age-old story of human-mermaid interaction is retold in Siren, which takes place in a coastal town called Bristol Cove. According to its lore, it was once home to mermaids and strange newcomer named Ryn triggers a series of events. Befriending marine biologist Ben and girlfriend Maddie, Ryn and her brethren turn the sleepy neighbourhood on its head and bring to light jaw-dropping revelations about Ben’s ancestors and the town’s shameful past.

In the second season, tensions flare as the battle between man and sea continues, confirming some of their more sinister aspects:

1. Mermaids are superior in strength and ferocity than humans. Any creature that lives in the depths of the ocean has to be fierce and strong, or they won’t survive. Predatory instincts and tribal loyalty run strong and wild in mermaids as demonstrated by Ryn and her brethren, so it’s no wonder that some of them look at weaker, tail-less humans with disdain.

2. Mermaids are highly intelligent! Many people equate savagery with brainless brutality but this doesn’t apply to mermaids. On the contrary, they are highly intelligent and have the ability to observe, reason and conspire, as Ryn’s sister Donna demonstrated when she escaped from captivity in Season 1. Coupled with their strength and ferocity, this is bad news for anyone who stands in their way.

3. Mermaids are haunting, ethereal and alluring This is one point where popular mythology and modern retellings seem to agree – mermaids are irresistible. Traditionally, the song of the siren drove sailors mad and Ryn has this ability too; it’s a powerful addition to her physical strength.

4. Mermaids are skilled at shape-shifting Taking human form is another common theme when it comes to tales about mermaids, and what better way to hide among humans than in plain sight? However, every transformation comes at a painful, sometimes fatal, price. In spite of this anguish, Ryn seemed determined to stay and defend her human friends. But now, with her sister gone and her presence endangering her friends, where will she go?
As more mermaids come onto land, it’s no longer just a fight between human and mermaids – It has become a survival of the fittest within their own kind. Tune in to Siren season 2 mid-season catch up that will bring you up to date on all that’s happening in Bristol Cove from episode one to five on Sunday, March 3, from 3:30PM on Blue Ant Entertainment available on SKYcable channels 53(SD) and 196(HD), SKYdirect channel 35, Destiny Cable channel 53, and Cablelink channel 37.

One of the most awaited events in SM MOA that is loved and enjoyed by millions of Filipinos is the Philippine International Pyromusical Competition (PIPC). This happens annually and participated by different pyrotechnicians from different countries. Unfortunately, the said event was moved to a different venue due to environmental matters. We all know that for the past 9 years, the pyrotechnics have always complied with the international standards for environmental safety, at par with countries like Canada, Australia, Hongkong and famous theme parks around the world.

SM Supermalls, in full support with the ongoing Manila Bay Rehabilitation Program of the DENR, moved the 10th PIPC from SM Mall of Asia to SM City Clark in Angeles City, Pampanga. The Pyromusical Competition started last February 23 and will continue until March 30, 2019.


Always and have been expecting the PIPC every year and was able to witness its previous shows. Every year the PIPC program welcomes 10 competing countries who take on a battle of breath taking fireworks performances amid symphony of sounds.

On the opening day, February 23, Philippines's very own Platinum Fireworks Inc. took the sky to open the festivity together with an amazing drone exhibition show that surprised everyone. Unfortunately I wasn't there to witness it. First of the foreign contender is the CBF Purotechnics from Belgium made its first appearance.

On the second weekend of the PIPC, March 2, I was able to witness the sky glowing works of Germany's 9th PIP champs "Steffes-Ollig Feuerwerke" and the fantastic sky show of Portugal's "Pirotecnia Minhota". Of course this is the part where I enjoyed watching the sky. Aside from seeing the sky I was able also to see familiar faces from the judges table, one is James Deakin and the other one is BCDA's President and CEO Vicencio Dizon.

Following schedules of shows are March 9, where France's "Brezac Artifices" and Finland's "Oy Pyroman" fills the skies with their fireworks. March 16 is Italy's "Viviano S.R.L." and United Kingdom's "Pyrotex Fireworx", March 23 will be Canada's "Fireworks Spectaculars and China's "Polaris Fireworks.

Final and to cap off the competition and close a decade of giving the best pyromusical exhibition in the Philippines is Poland's "Surex Firma Rodzinna and the Philippines' own "Platinum Firworks Inc."

The annual PIPC Photo Contest will also highlight entries from amateur and professional photographers wherein winners will receive special prizes from PIPC's partners and sponsors.

To get your tickets on the coming shows visit www.pyrophilippines.com or through SM Tickets, SM Cinemas, SM Mall of Asia Ticket booths  and at SM City Clark ticket booths ranging from the Patron with dinner at Php1,800, VIP at Php600, Gold at Php350 and Silver at Php120. Ticket prices will be different on the closing day.


This magnificent family-friendly bonding experience is made possible with Platinum Fireworks Inc., the City of Angeles, Pampanga, the Department of Tourism, Tourism Promotions Board, Philippine Reclamation Authority and the many sponsors of PIPC.

One of the country's leading microfinancial services company, Cebuana Lhuillier, recently introduced the Cebuana Lhuillier Micro Savings, enforced with their campaign  #KayaNa : Unbanked Filipinos No More Movement. This is a more convenient and affordable means to save the individual's hard-earned money.

This newest product of Cebuana Lhuillier will create the company to be the cash agent of the Cebuana Lhuillier Rural Bank (CLRB), a platform for Filipinos to overcome the barriers of saving.

This move of Cebuana Lhuillier is to encourage Filipinos to save the proper way, instead of opting to keep the savings at home. The lukewarm attitude of the masses towards opening a savings account is attributed to the barriers to saving in banks. The lack of access to banks among the country's many cities and municipalities remains as the top deterrent, according to a BSP study. In fact, only 33% or 551 cities in the Philippines have access to banking institutions. The numerous documentary requirements is a major turn off for many, along with the high cost of initial deposit, high maintaining balance, as well as , high dormancy charges.

To address this barriers, Cebuana Lhuillier's Micro Savings enables Filipino to open an account with only one valid ID and a minimal Php50 initial deposit as requirements. The good thing about Cebuana Lhuillier's wide network is that they have around 2,500 retail infrastructures that you can deposit.

During the unveiling of Cebuana Lhuillier's Micro Savings, Sen. Chiz Escudero gave a short talk and facts about savings with some few data about the financial situation of the Filipinos, most especially when it is about opening a savings accounts.

Few words from the President & CEO of Cebuana Lhuillier Jean Henri Lhuillier, "With BSP's basic deposit framework, Cebuana Lhuillier Micro Savings completes the full roster of our services, all designed and developed with financial inclusion in mind. We've come full circle - from offering collateralized loans or pawning, remittance service, micro insurance and now, micro savings - all of these products were designed with Filipinos from all walks of life in mind especially the unbanked and underserved, who would not have access to these financial services given their circumstances in life."


Aside from the Micro Savings product, Cebuana Lhuillier also launched their eCebuana app which allows micro savings users to check their balance and send money through remittance, as well as load prepaid credits to their phones, and pay their bills.  This app is just the first step in a long line of innovations connected to the micro savings product.

With developments Cebuana Lhuillier pushes to adapt a new philosophy, which is called the financial wellness. This allows more and more Filipinos to steer their own direction and be captains of their own ship.

For someone who have seen quite a number of action films, female action stars are really rare and only few actresses get into that kind of genre. It's really badass when female artist took that road. There are few actresses who venture into action, some of them are Angelina Jolie and Jennifer Garner, who kicks and fly into action that really made a huge impact. It's girl power! Specially now that it's Women's Month.

Recently, a media conference of the movie Maria was held in Playhub. An action film helmed by one of the great and internationally acclaimed director, Pedring A Lopez. Maria the movie is produced under Viva Films and I can say based on the trailer is that it's really good. I can compare it with some of the international movies, of course we'll have to watch the whole film to give our proper rating about the movie.  

The movie is about a female assasin named Lily who escaped from the wrath of her organizatuin after a failed mission. She flee to a distant province and completely changed her identity and life. She became Maria and build a family with Bert, a reapectable businessman, and their daughter, Mina.

Unfortunately, her past isn't over and her life as an assssin followed her. It led her back into violence after failing to protect her family.

Present during the media conference were, Cristine Reyes, Jennifer Lee, Cindy Miranda, Johana Tongcua (child of Cristine), Ronni Lazaro, Johnny Revilla, YZ Carbonell (writer), Sonny Sison (fighting director) and Direk Pedring Lopez.

Take note how badass Cristine Reyes came into the media conference with here colored short hair but it is not her look in the movie.

During the media conference Direk Pedring shared his respect for Cristine's dedication to her work. Also Sonny Sison, the fight director, disclosed that his really impressed of how fluid their movement during the fight scene. He was convinced that the fight scene of Cristine and Jennifer were real to the point that he asked if they were okay.  Cristine Reyes expressed that for the past 15 years, she has done a lot of comedy and drama films and a few horror movies, Maria is her favorite.

The filming of the movie Maria came easy because of the actresses background in martials. For the character Lily/Maria, it was given to Cristine because she's a mother and a martial arts enthusiast.

Maria also stars Ivan Padilla, KC Montero, Guji Lorenzana, Jennifer Lee, Andrea del Rosario, Cindy Miranda, Freddie Webb and Ronnie Lazaro. Opens in cinemas on March 27. This film is from Viva Films, BlackOps Studios Asia, and PsyOps.

• The movie ULAN is tagged as a romantic drama. 
• It is about the character Maya who was raised by her grandmother. 
• Maya believed and was aware of the mythical creature called 'Tikbalang' (half-horse, half-human).
• There's a superstition that when the rain pours in the middle of a sunny day, there are Tikbalangs being wed. 

Finalists of last year's singing competition, The Clash, from the Kapuso Network, are now creating their names in the music industry as GMA Music releases each of their singles. Jong Madaliday, Garrett Bolden, and Anthony Rosaldo, The Clash Boys, were given an opportunity to showcase their talents with the release of their singles.

In the short span of time after their nerve and voice racking competition, the artists are now comfortably sings their own genres. Original, new, and fresh are just the appropriate words for them. From genres like ballad, R&B, and Upbeat. Jong with an upbeat music, Garett with a soulful R&B like and Anthony that is of a ballad music.

Jong’s single, entitled “Ano Ba”, was included in the list of “Most Wanted Song of the Week” in Barangay LS 97.1's The Big Ten weekly countdown. It also hit the second spot of The Big Ten weekly countdown of Barangay LS 97.1 last February 16.

Known for his notable R&B musicality, Jong feels inspired to create more songs that would elicit a positive impact on people’s lives.

“Masaya ako na nagustuhan ng mga listeners yung kanta. Iba talaga yung feeling na naibabahagi mo ang sarili mo sa mga nakikinig through a song. Simula pa lang ito kaya sana suportahan pa nila ang mga gagawin naming kanta dahil para sa kanila lahat ng ito,” he shared.

Meanwhile, Garrett’s “Lilipad Na” was on #43 of iTunes PH chart. Helming his music video is Phillip Lazaro which showcases the works of abstract artist Nadine Ibay, Garrett's leading lady in the video. It premieres on GMA Music’s Youtube channel on Thursday (February 28).

He feels grateful for the opportunities coming his way and the immense support he has been receiving, “Sobrang overwhelming kasi sobrang dami nang nakaka-appreciate nang single namin. Sa totoo lang, mas na-inspire akong magsulat ng mga original at bagong kanta dahil nakaka-motivate ang messages galing sa listeners at sa appreciation nila sa kanta.”

Last February 6, Anthony launched his single “Larawan Mo.” On the day of its release, the song was part of Twitter’s trending topics and soared to the top spot on iTunes PH chart for three consecutive days. It also landed in the Top 7 of the Top 30 Singles Chart of Top 30 Asia Philippines.

The song tells a story that is relatable to the listeners. “Larawan Mo” tells a story about someone who fell in love with a person who is already taken. That your heart can’t choose who to fall in love with.

“Pinaparating nito na some love stories may not be bound to have a happy ending, pero you always have an option to choose the right thing to do,” explained Anthony.

Just recently, GMA Music opened a media conference for the Clash Boys to introduce their singles. Though new in the industry, the boys gladly and truthfully gave their responses to each of the questions asked by the bloggers and the media. Of course to liven a bit the conference they gave a taste of their performances. It was held at the GMA Network's Building, Executive Lounge.

If you like to watch our coverage of the conference check it out at Kwento Ni Toto's youtube channel.

Also if you would love to see the music video watch it below.