When love, deceit and revenge get in the way of friendship, the blinding hatred that follows can lead a person to hurt those who are closest to his heart. This is the premise of a timeless story that captivated millions of Filipino viewers who tuned in to the most successful afternoon soap that first aired on Philippine TV 20 years ago –- Valiente.


After a successful run that spanned five years on two major networks, Valiente makes a grand comeback to capture once more the hearts of Filipinos who grew up watching the series as well as the new generation of viewers who would surely relate to the classic story two decades after.

Now airing on primetime for the first time and helmed by multi-awarded director Joel Lamangan, TV5’s Valiente recounts the epic tale of two families whose lives are intertwined by their desire to claim what they believe is rightfully theirs. The compelling story is given new life by a powerhouse cast of this generation’s most bankable actors, including Kapatid stars Oyo Sotto, Nadine Samonte, Niña Jose and JC De Vera.

In Valiente, viewers will witness how the admirable friendship of Theo Braganza (Oyo Sotto) and Gardo Valiente (JC De Vera) is torn by the vicious schemes of Theo’s ruthless mother, Doña Trining Braganza (Jaclyn Jose). Doña Trining manipulates the Braganza family and their business empire which resorted to labor and land disputes.The rivalry that follows between the two families is further sparked by the relationship of Gardo with Maila Braganza (Nadine Samonte). Theo and Maila’s cunning sister Leona (Niña Jose) will do everything to get in the way of this relationship in her desire to have Gardo for herself.

Joining the new generation of Valiente cast are the most-respected and highly acclaimed actors in the industry: Mark Gil, Jaclyn Jose, Gina Alajar and the original Valiente himself, Michael de Mesa.

Valiente also introduces a new set of promising young stars who will endear themselves to the viewers: Ross Pesigan (young Gardo), Liane Valentino (young Maila), Czarina Suzara (young Leona) and Arvic Rivero (young Theo). Also part of the cast are fine actors John Regala (Peping), Jim Pebanco (Ariston) and Toni Mabesa (Victorino Penitente). Moreover, Valiente proudly presents an exceptional rendition of its original theme song as performed by its original singer, Vic Sotto. The story of Valiente was originally written by highly acclaimed scriptwriter Gina Marissa Tagasa. Primetime viewing will be spicier, more exciting and more intense as the most successful teleserye premieres this February 13 on TV5.

For exclusive Valiente updates, be a fan on Facebook and follower on Twitter: http://www.facebook.com/TV5Valiente | https://twitter.com/#!/Valiente2012

Yes you've heard it right people our very own Asia's Acoustic Sweetheart has already on the top 2 of the TOP 5 BEST SELLING ALBUMS CHART IN ASIA for the week #4 January 27, 2012.  It was astonishing that of our OPM Artist was able to top the chart.


Her latest Album "I Love Acoustic 4" has indeed hypnotized lots of listeners.  I think  more Asians are preferring the sweet lovely voice of a Filipino Artist.  Congratulation to SABRINA!



How can the back crawl?

Madonna has been one of the great icons in the music industry.  She has been good in remaking herself into someone new and making herself and songs still stand out in a crowd of different generations.

Here's something about her that most of the Madonna fans will love.

Madonna will be releasing her new single “Give Me All Your Luvin’’ featuring Nicki Minaj & M.I.A. on February 3rd, three days before her highly anticipated Super Bowl halftime performance, it was officially confirmed by Interscope Records. “Give Me All Your Luvin” was written by Madonna, Martin Solveig, Nicki Minaj and M.I.A., composed by Martin Solveig and Michael Tordjman and produced by Madonna and Martin Solveig.

“Give Me All Your Luvin’” is the first single from Madonna’s upcoming album MDNA, her 12th studio album and follow up to 2008’s Hard Candy which debuted at No. 1 in 37 countries.

iTunes will offer an exclusive global pre-order of an 18 track Deluxe Edition of MDNA including one exclusive remix from Madonna’s new album and will be available from Friday February 3rd through Monday February 6th only. During this time period the album will be available for £7.99 and fans will also receive the digital single "Give Me All Your Luvin” immediately. The single is also exclusive to iTunes during this limited time. At launch, the offer can be found at www.iTunes.com/Madonna .

The video for “Give Me All Your Luvin,” directed by Megaforce is football and cheerleader themed - inspired by her upcoming Super Bowl appearance. A one-minute exclusive video preview of the single “Give Me All Your Luvin,” featuring Nicki Minaj and M.I.A. will air in the US during American IDOL on Thursday, February 2 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. The full video for “Give Me All Your Luvin’” will premiere on Madonna’s YouTube channel on February 3rd at 2pm (9am EST). www.youtube.com/Madonna

MDNA, recorded in New York and LA, reunites Madonna - multi Grammy Award winning artist, songwriter and producer – with former collaborator William Orbit (“Ray of Light”) who co-wrote and co-produced several cuts on the new album. Other co-producers include Martin Solveig, The Demolition Crew, Marco “Benny” Benassi and Alessandro “Alle” Benassi, Hardy “Indigo” Muanza, Michael Malih and Madonna.

P.T.O

The Golden Globe Award winning song “Masterpiece” from the Madonna directed Weinstein Company film “W.E.”, currently on general release in the UK, is also included on MDNA as well as on W.E. – Music From the Soundtrack which is released on January 30th digitally and February 13th physically on Interscope. The score was composed, orchestrated and produced by Abel Korzeniowski.

It was one of those nights where I enjoyed having time with some of the OPM Artists.  One, it's because it gives me a little rejuvenation after a whole day work at the office and two, hey it's our OPM artist getting to know them more, the better.  Since one of our advocacy is to support OPM Artist, this is really a good event to enjoy their music and know more of their craft.


Last Monday, for this specific night, I get a chance to be part of a pool of bloggers who get a chance for a greet and meet of one of the bubbliest female acoustic artist that I know, her screen name is SABRINA.   Beautiful, sweet and the most part "Kalog".  It's very rare to meet an artist like her.  Just what I have wrote on one of my tweets that "It was really great knowing a singer like you who praises God above all."

The evening was great for a much more intimate and interactive chat with Sabrina plus the place at Red Box: Rock, Dine, Roll was much comfy and private, so we get more chance to hear about Sabrina's background and her lovely voice.

For those who doesn't know who Sabrina was, well here's a little background about her.  Her real name is Roli Alexandra Ngo Orial or known as Xanxan.  Born in 1989 under the zodiac sign Capricorn.  Hey here's something that I'm sure everybody would normally ask why SABRINA when her name is Roli Alexandra, well according to her it was given by the previous management and since her voice were inline with bossa nova songs.  A latin feel for the voice and for the name.

Here are a portion of the video during the chat with Sabrina.








Well for the benefit other readers who doesn't know Sabrina, she's an acoustic sweetheart in Asia and Sabrina releases her follow-up single from her highly successful "I Love Acoustic 4" album her own version of the hit "Moves Like Jagger".








Another news is that last November the "I Love Acoustic 4" turned GOLD in Indonesia and this month, it is certified PLATINUM in that country.  This makes Sabrina one of the few Filipino singers to have multi-platinum success in Indonesia which other singers have tried but failed to penetrate.  The "I Love Acoustic 4" was also released in Thailand and soon in Singapore and Malaysia.  Her previous albums "I Love Acoustic", "I Love Acoustic Too" and "I Love Acoustic 3" were multi-platinum success in those countries.  She's the only Filipino female singer to break in successfully in the South East Asian market,  Her huge following abroad is now translating locally as the album is still in retail charts where it debuted at #1 at Astroplus and #9 at Odyssey upon its first week of release.  Because of her success abroad, she became a recipient of the "International Achievement Award at the recent Awit Awards where she also took home the I-Geteway Mobile Philippines, Inc.'s Most Downloaded Artist for 2010.

The album also includes the tracks "Price Tag", "Who Says", "Edge of Glory", "On the Floor", "Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)", "California King Bed", "Hold It Against Me", "Rolling In The Deep", "The Lazy Song", "Back To December", "that should Be Me", "Marry Me", "Rockeeter", "Just The Way You Are" featuring Indonesian singer Calvin Jeremy and "Lucky" featuring multi-platinum crooner Richard Poon.

Catch Sabrina as she serenades SM Pasig on February 17 (Friday) at 4 pm.  those who will buy her album "I Love Acoustic 4" will get to have their CDs autographed by Sabrina herself after the show.

"I Love Acoustic 4" by Sabrina is now out in CDs under MCA Music (Universal Music Philippines) and available for download at mymusicstore.com.ph. To download Sabrina's single "Moves Like Jagger" text JGR and send to 2728 for Smart and Talk N Text subscribers, text KL343 and send to 2332 for Globe/ TM or text 5493161 and send to 2300 for Sun Cellular subscribers.  For more of Sabrina's music, just text SABRINA to 3456 or check out www.facebook.com/mcamusic.

A Bloggers' Evening with Sabrina is brought to you by MCA Music in cooperation with Pinoy Magazine, Orange Magazine TV and Red Box: Rock, Dine, Roll.

Here's a little words from Sabrina to the bloggers.






Some pictures during the night.

Last January25, 2012 was one of the healthiest night I've ever attended.  First the event was initiated by AM Global Works Marketing Corporation who delightfully created the SOYAMI food snacks, second the events venue was known for their Slow Food advocates and it was called the Tourne which really provides the very best and nutritious food for us, and lastly I get to bring home healthy products for me and my family.

Calling all shopaholics around the metro!   I know for sure that a lot of you, shopping geeks, are waiting for this great event from SM City North EDSA.  Where lots of clothing, apparels, and other stuff are on sale but not just a simple sale but it's the Great Northern Sale with up to 70% on selected items.

The goods news is that it already started today and this sale will last until February 5, 2012.  So, shoppers will have more time to shop around and check out their favorite things to buy.  More days of discounts and more days of shopping!

Aside from this Great Northern Sale there are also great things and events going to happen this whole month of February.  Check out the dates below and mark your calendars.


 Enjoy the whole month of February as the love month lingers around!





Here's a simple tease for everyone!

Microscopic Image of Rotavirus vaccinenewsdaily.com

This is not a bug nor a malware in a computer but it's something that children should not have during their first 2 years of life.  It's a rotavirus which is the leading cause of diarrhea or pagtatae. According to information, diarrhea is the second leading killer of children aged less than 5 years old.  Everyday, 1,500 children around the globe die because of rotavirus-related diarrhea.  Parents should be alarmed and educated about this.

That's what we learned when we attended an event held in Mango Tree Bistro in Trinoma Mall.  Since it's high time of the celebration of the Chinese New Year it is also high time to celebrate that the Department of Health has announced to the media that they'll be including the Rotavirus Vaccination as part of the Expanded Program for Immunization (EPI) 2012.  The Philippines will be the very first Asian Country to implement Rotavirus Vaccination in the EPI.

This is really great news for those who don't have much access to expensive vaccines for parents to protect their children.  Also and maybe it's about time that DOH will do some campaign with regards to this rotavirus.  For sure if you're going to ask a simple house-wife if they know about this rotavirus, only few would respond to this.

To educate us more about ROTAVIRUS, here are some more information about the indirect and direct effect of the virus.

Image form mydochub.com

• Diarrhea leads to serious long term effects to a child's development in terms of height, energy levels and cognitive abilities.
• Diarrhea affects nutrient absorption.
• Growth shortfalls of up to 8.2 cm by age 7 years.
• Hospitalization due to acute gastroenteritis/diarrhea.
• Quality of life as well as their livelihood due to an income loss.

This disease is highly preventable through vaccination and with this there would be a better reduction of infant mortality rate.  ROTAVIRUS Vaccine is best given to babies from 6 weeks up to 8 months of age.  It is administered orally 2 to 3 doses depending on the brand of the vaccine.

Image from baby.families.com

Though Rotavirus vaccine have already been around for quite sometime there is still lack of proper campaign and education with regards to this vaccine.  Hopefully, the Rotavirus vaccine would be available soon on health centers and as part of the immunization programs.

Last Saturday, it was one of the earliest blogger's conference I have ever attended.  It was the My Cactus Heart Blogger's Conference.  Thank God that it is Saturday, no work.  The only hassle is that it's not easy waking up and prepare early morning.

Of course the usual thing, bloggers get to ask questions about the movie and their off cam life most especially about the relationship that Maja and Matteo have right now.  Most of us, bloggers, laugh and giggles as they show and tell some of their experiences with their relationship.

With regards to the movie, My Cactus Heart and according to Enrico Santos, director of the movie, the chemistry of the stars were really great and did make the outcome of the movie a great romantic comedy.  The mixture of Maja's versatility, Xian's serious personality, and Matteo's innocent look make the movie something to watch out.

To give viewers, readers, and fans a tease, here's a portion of the blogger's conference that transpired in Max's Restaurant in Scout Tuazon, Quezon City.







Love is such a "thorny" issue! Nakakasakit, nakakasugat, nakakatinik.  Now if the one you love believes in that, can there still be a happy ending?

'Yan and kwento ng pinakabagong pelikula mula sa Star Cinema, ang "My Cactus Heart"!  It is top billed by the country's most exciting stars, Matteo Guidicelli, Xian Lim and Maja Salavador!  Tungkol ito sa isang babae  (Maja as Sandy) na mula sa magulong pamilya.  She doesn't believe in happily ever after.  Tanggap n'ya at naniniwqala s'ya na love only hurts kaya she is known to be a chronic mambabasted!  But what if someone comes along and will make her question what she believes in?  Ano ang gagawin n'ya?  Can that someone change her jaded heart?


"This is Maja at her best!" 'yan ang sabi ng mg anakapanoon na ng rushes ng "My Cactus Heart".  Not surprising at all since we all know that Maja is one of the most talented actresses we have around.  Maja is so versatile!  She can do drama, comedy, horror, romance.  Her teleseryes last 2011 were all top-raters ("Impostor", "Minsan Lang Kita Iibigin"), and she has another big teleserye for this year, "Lumayo Ka Man Sa Akin".  Kung talent ang pag-uusapan, hindi madedehado si Maja d'yan!  As for Matteo, "My Cactus Heart" is his first starring role.  We have all seen him in his past teleseryes too and he has indeed proven that he is more than just a pretty face.  As Karlo, we can now all see why Matteo could just be the next important male lead star!  Introducing naman sa pelikula si Xian Lim, one of the most promising new male stars of today.  Xian's brooding stance made us all notice that he's got the "it" and he deserves a second look!  He plays the role of Bene, one of the two men who will try to win over Sandy's heart.  Now, Karlo or Bene?  Sino sa kanila ang makakapagpabago kay Sandy?  Who can make her believe that there is "happily ever after"?


Exciting love story, fresh casting combination!  'Yan ang "My Cactus Heart" na ipinagmamalaking handog ng Star Cinema.  Directed by Enrico Santos, the movie opens nationwide in over 100 theaters on January 25.  Eto na "ang pinaka-matinik na love story" ngayong 2012!

As part of the celebration of the Chinese New Year, SM City North EDSA is showcasing the different Chinese Street Foods at their Sky Garden area.  Making every customers, passersby, and guests crave for those yummy and delicious foods.

The Chinese Street Food Festival has started last January 17 and it will end on 23.   So, if you're planning to have some food tripping this long weekend better get your friends or families and run to SM City North EDSA Sky Garden for that yummy and tasting experience.

To better get you more enthusiastic in getting there here's a sample of what you could expect at the Chinese Street Food Festival.  Below are some of the pics from the Chicken Deli stall participated in the said festival.  Aside from there are lots of other food stalls that offers tasty Chinese street foods.  Well, our correspondent Jefferson was lucky enough to experience that crave quenching and tummy filling event.


Chicken Deli is one of their stop over.  Chicken Deli provides a variety of chicken dishes for their consumers.  One of their best selling is the Chicken Inasal which was really known in Bacolod and was really a hit for the masses.  They also offers chicken barbeques and also they have this Special Batchoy.

Image courtesy of Aylin

Govby's Food Stall... not really familiar with this food stall but they are offering different tummy fillers.  Some of their hunger quenching foods are the Hong Kong Noodles which I think are fried noodles, mini siopaos, and some shabu-shabu.

Image courtesy of Aylin

Image courtesy of Aylin

My Red Basket offers a delightful list of pork and shrimp siomai, beef siomai and also marcon and siopao.  Some of the typical Chinese food that can be seen around in Chinese streets.

Image courtesy of Aylin

Siomai House is also one of those known siomai seller in the country and believe me their siomai is a hit.

Photo courtesy of Aylin

Photo courtesy of Azrael.

Better head on now to SM City North EDSA!