Senator Grace Poe is urging the Executive Branch to provide another round of social amelioration to families amidst rising food prices and the economic downturn due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Families have been hit hard not once but twice. First it was the pandemic-induced lockdowns and economic burnout. Now they are hit by rising food prices. No matter how we look at it, another round of cash aid is really necessary,” said Poe.

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, household spending on food grew by 5% while spending on health and education were slashed by 1.9% and 11.9 % respectively. Inflation also rose to 3.8 % for the 4th quarter of 2020, driven primarily by spikes in food prices.

“No family should be forced to choose between food and other necessities, especially amidst this pandemic,” Poe stated.

Poe specifically noted that cash aid would be helpful for the bottom 30% of families, which allocate around 50% of their income on food expenses.

“This will be a huge help for poor families who spend nearly half of their budget on food alone. If we subsidize their food, then they will have extra cash to spend on other necessities,” said Poe.

Previously, over P115 billion in cash subsidies of social amelioration was provided to 20 million beneficiaries under the Bayanihan to Heal as One and Bayanihan to Recover as One laws.

However, the Department of Budget and Management and the Department of Finance are hesitant to support another round of aid due to the potential price tag. Bills filed in the House and the Senate vary as to the cost of pandemic relief, which ranges from P250 billion to P800 billion.

“The cost of passing another round of aid is less than the catastrophic impact to poor families if they are allowed to starve or go bankrupt due to rising food prices. It’s time for us to give and not count the cost,” said Poe.

 

GMA Network finally started revealing the actors who will play the characters of Voltes V Legacy. GMA unveiled the first three (3) characters. 

The best and effective way to portray a couple role is to take a real-life couple like this real-life couple Loisa Andalio and Ronnie Alonte, who find themselves falling in love but doomed to stay apart as they play step-siblings in iWantTFC’s special Valentine treat and LoiNie’s first original series titled “Unloving U,” which begins streaming this February 8 (Monday).

Having to live under one roof after their parents’ marriage, Fiona (Loisa) and Alfie (Ronnie) are forced to learn how to live together as step-siblings. With completely different personalities, the two are disgusted with each other as Fiona vents to her father (Ariel Rivera) how she cannot stand Alfie’s snobbish personality.

Alfie, on the other hand, bares his feelings to his mom (Gelli de Belen) about how he wants Fiona out of the house.

Fiona and Alfie’s constant bickering, however, leads her to secretly fall in love with him as their interest in music also allows them to grow closer and develop a deep bond. 

 

Created by RCD Narratives, the production behind hit series "A Soldier's Heart" and the "Killer Bride," "Viral" revolves around a simple family whose life gets disrupted when a scandalous video involving their eldest daughter, Rica (Charlie Dizon) goes viral.

What is the story behind Rica's viral video? What are the secrets that will unfold because of the video?

Also joining this star-studded series are Jameson Blake, Vance Larena, Karina Bautista, Aljon Mendoza. Markus Patterson, Kaila Estrada, and Ria Atayde.

Watch out for this series that will captivate Kapamilyas soon on A2Z Channel, Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live, iWantTFC, and TFC.

For updates, follow ABS-CBN PR on Facebook (fb.com/abscbnpr), Twitter (@abscbnpr), and Instagram (@abscbnpr).

 

Elha Nympha, is coming and assert more about confidence, finesse, and maturity on “Do It,” her comeback single under MCA Music Inc.

Now exploring a more sophisticated take on R&B, pop, and neo-soul, the former champion of The Voice Kids Season 2 reasserts confidence and sass in delivering a romantic confession that appeals beyond her particular demographic.

When she sings, “Come on over a little closer / Take me where I’ve never been,” she takes full control of the quiet storm brewing: her voice fluttering effortlessly over dreamy arrangements and soft keyboard tones, taking the spotlight with ease.

“Do It” is a suave R&B jam that tackles the beauty of taking bolder steps when it comes to love. Upon hearing the song for the first time, Elha got excited to record the material as it barely sounds like anything she’s recorded in the past. “I’m happy with where the direction of my music is going,” the 16-year-old star said in a statement. “Do It unravels a more vulnerable side of my artistry, and this is exactly the kind of music that I want to keep making—something that is young and current, but very much me.”

“Do It” has earned comparisons with the likes of SZA, Jhené Aiko, and H.E.R., embracing the fundamental agency of womanhood and young love in all its messiness and glory. While Elha is elated with the feedback that she’s been getting from her mentors and music listeners, she wants to forge a path of her own and make music that is distinctly a product of her own sense of style and adventurousness. The promising pop sensation admits, “As a fan, I can definitely see myself doing the same kind of music. But there’s more to my sound than being pigeonholed into a category. For now, I’m ready for where this journey would take me, musically. I’m definitely looking forward to creating something that is original and unique.”

Elha Nympha’s “Do It” is now out on all digital platforms worldwide via MCA Music Inc.

Cardo's (Coco Martin) life continues to face insurmountable trials as he mourns the death of his wife Alyana (Yassi Pressman) while having to deal with Jane de Leon’s new character in the action-packed episodes of “FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano.” 

Following the intense crossfire between Task Force Agila and the Black Ops Unit that took Alyana’s life, Cardo is yet to see the last of Pol. Capt. Lia (Jane) as she gets more involved in his life and starts to do more research about his past, adding to the challenges that Cardo will soon have to face.

Jane, in a media conference on Friday (February 5), thanked viewers for welcoming her character into the series and teased that Lia will add excitement to the story.

“I really like the role because Lia is a little rough. What I really look forward to is doing scenes with Coco. Viewers have a lot to look forward to. What will my role be, will I be a ‘kontrabida’ or an ally to Cardo Dalisay?” said Jane.

Jane, as a newcomer to “Probinsyano,” also said she attributes the long-running success of the show to Coco’s storytelling ideas and the strong bond that binds all of the people involved in the show. 

GMA Network, the Philippine media giant, introduces an innovation in Filipino TV viewing experience, as it officially unveils its mobile digital terrestrial television (DTT) receiver ‘GMA Now’ – a plug-and-play dongle that allows users to watch TV on the go for free and enjoy exclusive interactive features. 

ABS-CBN puts a twist on the BL genre with its latest PILIkula edition on Kumu, Youtube and KTX.PH, “Pa-Mine, Pare!,” giving fans the power to choose its lead stars and ending.

Between now and February 21, fans are given the chance to vote and choose among Star Magic and Star Hunt’s Gian Wang, Eian Rances, Shoichi Oka, Tan Roncal, and Ali Abinal whom they feel should be the episode’s two lead stars.

“Pa-Mine, Pare!” will revolve around two boys, Anton and Davie, who have been best friends and business partners for years. But a kiss will reveal something more about themselves—and their relationship.

Viewers on KUMU will also get to know the four boys better by tuning in to their live streams.

“PILIkula” is part of the growing list of digital content of OKS (Online Kapamilya Shows) and is only one of many ABS-CBN TV Digital Group (TVDG) offerings.

Since 2020, TVDG has been creating a series of exclusively online shows for Kapamilyas looking for fresh and original concepts and stories. Among its projects are the iWant Original "TNT Boys”, ”, the online anthology show "Stay At Home Stories", the interactive show "PILIkula", the digital documentary "Persona: Jake Zyrus", the online reality show "Starkada Battle," and the online talent search "Bida Star.”

Here are the different backgrounds of their candidates for the Pilikula - BL Series "Pa-Mine Pare!"

Justin De Dios portrays Alex Bruce’s love interest in this visual spectacle filled with incredibly surreal and romantic scenes. “It's a fun and creative concept,” De Dios said. “I really like the fact that the MV showcases both the ‘maangas’ and cute sides of Alex.”

Appearing like a P-pop charmer that Alex Bruce has been pining for in her dreams, De Dios was seen exchanging smiles with the young hip-hop sensation, sharing cute moments together as they engage in pillow fights, fake tattooing, and other onscreen activities. 

Janice is admired by many for her beauty and sense of humor but has no time for love as she has been more focused on managing her own eatery. Things suddenly change when a customer, Eddie, pursues her relentlessly. Their bliss as a couple would not be for long when Eddie’s own mother, Corsing (Malou de Guzman) enters the picture. 

Kapamilya artist Jona is ready to bring reimagined versions of well-loved OPM songs on the concert stage a week ahead of Valentine’s Day in the first “YouTube Music Night” event in the country dubbed “Love, Jona,” streaming live for free this Saturday (February 6) at 8 pm.

“This is the first time that I’ll have a digital concert,” she excitedly shared during the “Love, Jona” virtual media conference. “Because Valentine’s Day is coming soon, my lineup for the concert will be pure OPM and it makes me proud to be able to showcase some of the best songs in the industry, ranging from the late 80s, 90s, to the current hits.”

Aside from performing her own music, the ABS-CBN talent will also cover songs of Moira de la Torre and will likewise do a medley of Daniel Padilla hits. Viewers can catch the virtual concert exclusively on the YouTube channels of ABS-CBN Star Music, MOR, MYX, and One Music.

Jona feels overwhelmed to become the first Filipino artist to headline “YouTube Music Night.” “Nakaka-surprise, nakaka-happy! I feel honored because out of the many talented artists here, I'd pioneer this. The trust is overwhelming but I wanna enjoy the moment,” she revealed.

Joining the Star Music artist on this one-night show are special guests Bugoy Drilon, Jeremy G, and JMKO, who will render heartrending tunes as a pre-Valentine’s treat for viewers.

“Love, Jona” will be directed by Frank Mamaril and will be hosted by MYX VJ Ai dela Cruz and “Kwentong Barber” host Edward Barber.

The show officially kicks off the “YouTube Music Night” events led by leading video platform, YouTube, and produced by ABS-CBN Music. The first staging of the project in Southeast Asia is expected to deliver breathtaking performances amid top-level production.

It will be followed by a back-to-back “YouTube Music Night” concert led by Juris and Jed Madela entitled “Hearts on Fire: Juris and Jed,” happening on February 13 (Saturday).

Embrace all the feels in “YouTube Music Night’s” must-see concert, “Love, Jona” this Saturday (February 6) at 8 pm. Catch the show live on ABS-CBN Star Music, MOR, MYX, and One Music’s YouTube channels.

 

Whether you’re celebrating the occasion with a significant other or not, remember to show your appreciation to other loved ones as well. Let them know that they’re on your mind this special day. The world could always do with a little more love to go around!

On February 14, surprise them with the thoughtful gifts below. You can get up to 90% off on these gifts and more at Shopee’s Valentine’s Day Sale.

Cowin Wireless Sweatproof Earphones

Has your brother ruined several earphones while working out? Get him the Cowin Wireless Sweatproof Earphones. It touts water-resistant earbuds, superior sound quality, and up to six hours of playtime.

Xiaomi Mi Band 5

Encourage your dad to get started on his fitness journey with the Xiaomi Mi Band 5. This smartwatch tracks steps, distance, and calories burned. It also monitors the heart rate and sleep cycle. The battery can last up to 20 days on standby.

Pineng Powerbank

Is your sibling’s phone constantly running out of juice? Get them the Pineng Powerbank, which has built-in battery protection to prevent overcharging and short-circuiting. It runs on a capacity of 3.7V/20 000mAh 74Wh and can charge two devices at a time.

Sesame Street Sleepwear

Treat your pamangkin to cute new jammies. Each pajama set is made of cotton spandex, so it’s breathable and comfortable to wear. This also comes in adult sizes perfect for kids at heart.

Bling Light 3D Night Light 

P-Pop has found its bright new star as new boy group BGYO’S music video for its debut single “The Light” continues to rake in thousands of views and positive reviews following the group’s grand launch.

The music video already has a combined total of over 700,000 views from its official YouTube channel and Facebook page, which continue to grow.

Composed of Gelo, Akira, JL, Mikki, and Nate, the group was initially known as SHA Boys, which first got TV audiences and netizens’ admiration as the group made the rounds of television shows. Their “It’s Showtime” performance has over a million views and earned praises for its outstanding precision.

As the music video premiered at the launch, the group got the chance to show off their skills once more. For the boys, it was a result of many hours of hard work.

“All the hardwork was worth it, now that I’m seeing the video for the first time,” Akira said.

For group leader Gelo, it was the culmination of their long and daunting journey. “Nakakaiyak yung Makita mo yung journey naming leading to this,” he said.

Meanwhile, fan energy for the group was strongly felt at the launch as they stormed social media with tweets that showered the five young men with praises for their talent and refreshing presence in the music scene.

Rosa Diaz said, “Those vocals and choreo. Plus points their visuals! Complete package. ABS-CBN hit a jackpot here.”

"Madaming ibubuga. Yung charisma nila sa stage (ung swag) andoon. Their visuals are all superb. Good voice too. Hindi ko makalimutan ung sa Asap! Doon ako unang naamaze sa kanila. How well they performed despite their struggle w/ their lapels," @poreveryoung posted.

With an aim to create music that resonates with the youth today, BGYO’s debut single “The Light” is a song about empowerment, hope, and self-love. 

If you have been following the journey of these nine (9) singers with extraordinary voices, you'll definitely get a hard time choosing who will win in this season of Tawag Ng Tanghalan on "It's Showtime." So, from February 1 to 6 these singers will battle it out to become the grand champion of "Tawag ng Tanghalan". 

Like in the previous grand finals, the nine contenders will have to sing for the judges and the viewers because the score of each of their performances will come from the judges’ points (50%) and viewers’ text votes (50%).

The latest “Tawag ng Tanghalan” grand champion will win P1 million, a brand new house and lot from Lessandra worth P2 million, a recording contract with Star Music, a management contract with Star Magic, and a special trophy designed by Toym Imao.

The last slot in the “huling tapatan” was filled on Saturday (January 30) by Rachell Laylo of Lipa City, Batangas who secured her hold on the seat of power in the nerve-wracking “Resbakbakan.”

Come Monday, she will face off with fellow singing contest veterans, such as Rica Mae Maer of Villasis, Pangasinan, Emmar Cabilogan of Maasin, Leyte, and Nikole Kyle Bernido of Cagayan De Oro City.

Also remaining unfazed and ready for battle are Makki Lucino of Sorsogon, JM Yosures of Taguig City, Donna Gift Ricafrente of Sta. Cruz Laguna, Mara Tumale of Malolos, Bulacan, and Ayegee Paredes of Bukidnon.

On the first two days of the competition, the finalists will have to pull out all the stops in performing songs that depict their journeys. The one who will get the lowest combined score will be eliminated by the end of Tuesday’s episode.

The scores will be reset back to zero as the remaining finalists go all-out with their fight songs on Wednesday and Thursday, and “Now or never” songs on Friday. Again, one finalist per day will be eliminated on Thursday and Friday.

The fight reaches a critical stage on Saturday, as the remaining six grand finalists battle it out with their “Dream Songs” in order to escape elimination.

In the “huling tapatan,” the final three contenders will each perform a song medley by an artist in their bid to become the grand champion. In the end, the grand finalist who will record the highest combined score from the madlang people votes and judges’ scores will be named the grand champion.

Who among the nine grand finalists will become the fourth “Tawag ng Tanghalan” grand champion and follow in the footsteps of Noven Belleza, Janine Berdin, and Elaine Duran?

Don’t miss the “Tawag ng Tangahalan: Ang Huling Tapatan” on “It’s Showtime” from February 1 to 6 on A2Z channel on digital and analog broadcast. Digital TV box users can scan and look for A2Z channel in Metro Manila and in some parts of Cavite, Laguna, Quezon, Rizal, Bataan, Batangas, Bulacan, and Pampanga.

Viewers can also catch the show on Kapamilya Channel on cable and satellite TV (SKYchannel 8 on SD and channel 167 on HD, Cablelink channel 8, G Sat Direct TV channel 22, and most cable operator-members under Philippine Cable and Telecommunications Association), on Kapamilya Online Live daily on ABS-CBN Entertainment’s YouTube channel and Facebook page, and on the iWantTFC app (iOs and Android) and on iwanttfc.com. Viewers outside of the Philippines can also catch it on The Filipino Channel on cable and IPTV.

For updates, follow @abscbnpr on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram or visit www.abs-cbn.com/newsroom.