Event covered by Angelyn Demo

It was a Thursday Morning and thank God it wasn't raining. The day was just right for the event and for travel but as usual traffic has always been there that caused me to be late on the designated meeting place! Then were off to the festival.

It was the celebration of Las Piñas' 7th Water Lily Festival. A celebration that has become more popular every year because of the livelihood products produced out of Water Hyacinth led by the Managing Director of the the Villar Foundation, Cynthia Villar.


We arrived early but it seems that the celebration started much earlier. The festivity commenced already and people are in tune with the celebration. People were pretty eager to watch the pageant perhaps because of their bet candidates and of course most of them are really lovely. Many people were present during the festivity and the only thing that is not pleasant was the weather. Though it was not raining it made a not so good condition because it made us look tired and haggard because of that hot weather. Perhaps the heat also flared up because of the number of guests and participants present.

I did try to ask people around to know what they think of the celebration and one of the person I've interviewed was a “kagawad” (councilor) of the barangay. She said that they were lucky that projects like these were conceptualized and helped the communities a lot. After the interview she even introduced me to their barangay captain.


The Water Lily Festival was conceptualized in order to promote the water hyacinth-based livelihood products made by the residents of Las Piñas living along the river. Before these water lilies or water hyacints were treated as aquatic pests that clog the river but now are useful raw materials. Products made from these water lilies are baskets, trays, slippers and other functional and ornamental items.




The festival highlighted for this year the Miss Las Piñas Water Lily which was a pre-pageant that was held on Tuesday (July 17) and last Thursday (July 19) the winner was crowned as this year's Miss Las Piñas Water Lily. Since the water lily is the highlighted ingredient of this festival, gowns made of this material were created by known designers like Noli Hans and as well the barangay residents themeselves. Other highlights of the 7th Water Lily Festival are the fluvial parade, street dancing, musical performances from Manunugtog Kawayan and other local bands, water lily weaving demonstrations and of course, a display exhibit of various handicrafts made out of water lilies.


According to Mrs. Villar “We can do it if we want to”, she also explained that there are lots of improvements needed for next year's festival like the cheering squads should train hard and they were also planning to conceptualize a river cruise in Las Piñas. Mrs. Villar also mentioned that “cleaning a river is really a challenge and the Las Piñas was praised for cleaning the river.” It is indeed one of the good efforts that the Villar Foundation have done to Las Piñas and to its communities.

This festivity is really good in promoting local tourism and locally made products. Other places should also strive to do the same for the future generation. Just what Mrs. Villar said “we can do it if we want to”.

Do you want to visit this festivity next year? If you're planning to, just visit the Villar Foundation website to see the details of their programs and activities.

Music lovers if you didn't get a chance to watch the Philippine Popular Music Festival and wasn't able to know who won this encouraging songwriting competition, well some of our friends from there was able enough to provide us the list of songs, singers, and songwriters who made it in this prestigious competition.   So here it is, just read more and memorize the names and songs.

The million-peso champion of the first ever Philippine Popular Music Festival (or PhilPOP) has been crowned! Last Saturday, July 14, 2012, held at the Philippine International Convention Center, the grand prize honor went to former Akafellas member Karl Vincent Villuga and his song “Bawat Hakbang”. The composition was interpreted by Villuga along with his former groupmates and crooner Mark Bautista. Villuga said that the song was about overcoming personal crisis.

First runner-up position went to Soc Villanueva with his R&B song “Kontrabida” sung by Sam Concepcion. Toto Sarioso won the second runner-up prize for his composition “Tayo Tayo Lang” performed by former Sugarfree frontman Ebe Dancel.

None other our country’s prominent songwriter, musician and academic Mr. Ryan Cayabyab is the Executive Director of the competition. The first Philippine Popular Music Festival is a songwriting competition which “aims to celebrate the talent of Filipino songwriting and to glorify the contributions of songwriters and composers to the Filipino music industry.” The event is the brainchild of chairman Manny V. Pangilinan and organizing committee chairman Ricky Vargas’ desire to help revive the Philippine music industry.

All of the winning songs plus the rest of the 11 top notch entries were compiled into one must-have album “Philippine Popular Music Festival 2012”. Mr. Cayabyab remarked, ““The CD is wonderful.  Ang gaganda ng mga kanta! I have never heard anything so uniformly, highly musical in performance.  The arrangements themselves are excellent.  I believe there will be several hits that will be spawned by this collection.  I am thrilled by the fact that these new Pinoy songs are fresh, new sounds with new lyrical concepts, or even if they are not new concepts, the approach is definitely new and the performances of the interpreters are indeed gems!  Hindi pa man contest proper, panalo na tayong lahat.  This is a major collection and I am very proud to be a part of the Philippine Popular Music Festival.”

1. “3 AM” (Music & lyrics by Keiko Necessario, Interpreted by Marie Digby)
2. “Bawat Hakbang” (Music & lyrics by Karl Villuga, Interpreted by Mark Bautista, Karl Villuga & The Akafellas)
3. “Big Time” (Music & lyrics by Trina Belamide, Interpreted by Baihana)
4. “Brown” (Music & lyrics by James Leyte, Interpreted by Brownman Revival and James Leyte)
5. “Dulo Ng Dila” (Music & lyrics by Noah Zuñiga, Interpreted by Jay R and Deejay Poblete)
6. “Himig Ng Panahon” (Music & lyrics by Thyro Alfaro, Interpreted by Duncan Ramos, Luke Mijares, Loonie, Thyro & Yumi)
7. “Kesa” (Music & lyrics by Edwin Marollano, Interpreted by Daniel Gorospe)
8. “Kontrabida” (Music & lyrics by Soc Villanueva, Interpreted by Sam Concepcion)
9. “Minsa’y Isang Bansa” (Music & lyrics by Gary Granada, Interpreted by Gary Granada)
10. “Negastar” (Music & lyrics by Mike Villegas, Interpreted by Cathy Go)
11. “Piso” (Music & lyrics by Krist Melecio, Interpreted by Joey Ayala)
12. “Slowdancing” (Music & lyrics by Kennard Faraon, Interpreted by Nyoy Volante)
13. “Takusa” (Music & lyrics by Byron Ricamara, Interpreted by Rocksteddy)
14. “Tayo Tayo Lang” (Music & lyrics by Toto Sorioso, Interpreted by Ebe Dancel)

PhilPOP content can also be downloaded direct to your mobile. Just text PhilPOP to 3456 for Smart and Talk ‘N’ Text PhilPOP to 2346 for Sun. Standard rates apply. To download content online, visit MyMusicStore.com.ph or iTunes.

“Philippine Popular Music Festival 2012” album in stores nationwide, distributed by Ivory Music and Video.

PhilPOP is presented by Maynilad and Smart and it is co-presented by Meralco, PLDT, Resorts World Manila and TV5. It is sponsored by Metro Pacific Investments Corporation, NLEX, PICC and Sun Cellular as well as by the First Pacific Leadership Academy, KBP, Philex and media partners Inquirer, Ivory Music & Video, Philippine Star, Radio High and Radio Republic.

Our favorite singer-songwriter and actress Aiza Seguerra signs a new contract with ABS-CBN!

As launched a few weeks ago, Aiza plays the part of Jodie Sta. Maria's sister in "Be Careful With My Heart" and will continue to be part of ASAP 2012!!! Stay tuned to ABS-CBN and watch out for more shows featuring Aiza Seguerra!



Aiza Seguerra is represented by MediaNation Inc. For bookings and inquiries, contact Annabelle Regalado-Borja at +63.917.589.6284 or email annabelle.regalado-borja@medianationinc.com

A good way to entice shoppers in hunting for their best outfit was a short and stylish fashion show.  Yup!  During the first day of the Great Northern Sale of SM City North EDSA a fashion show was held at the The Block.  It was called "The Block Fashion Runway".   Shoppers were treated fro a free viewing of what's the latest trend and what's new in some of the boutiques inside the mall.





Different looks and with extra twists of the our daily clothing were showcased on the runway.  The ramp clothing were items from some of the boutiques that can be visit inside the mall.  Of course models give justification on this clothes as they walk the runway.  For sure people were already thinking of what to buy during that time.



It was a short but great time to think and let shoppers have an inspiration on what to grab for themselves.  Great show!

Event covered by Jefferson Montas aka Justin.

The ABS-CBN Foundation's Kapit Bisig Para sa Ilog Pasig (KBPIP) will be staging it s fourth advocacy run to clamor for cleaner rivers and esteros in Metro Manila via "09,30.2012 Run for the Pasig River" to be held in Quezon City on September 30, 2012.

After the success of last year's 11.20.2011 Run for the Pasig River, KBPIP is again urging groups and individuals to join the eco foot-race, which will help raise awareness and funds for the rehabilitation of the waterways of Quezon City-San Juan-Mandaluyong-Makati.

There will be three major event categories for the advocacy run: the 15K Ride & Roll with 4:00 a.m. gunstart; the 15K Commonwealth Challenge Run with 4:10 a.m. gunstart; and the 5K Morning Madness Run with 6:00 a.m. gunstart.  This time, there will be one starting line in the Quezon City Memorial Circle (QCMC) going straight to Commonwealth Avenue then back again to QCMC for the finish.

ABS-CBN Foundation's Kapit Bisig Para sa Ilog Pasig has a track-record of organizing three successful runs for the Pasig River.  The 2009 Philippine International Marathon: A Run for the Pasig River, which had an estimated 23,000 participants, helped fund the inital phase of rehabilitation of Estero de Paco, a 2.9-kilometer tributary of the Pasig River in Manila.

The historic 10.10.10 Run for the Pasig River, meanwhile, broke the Guinness World Record for the "most participants in a racing event" with 116,087 runners.  It helped rehabilitate the second phase of the Estero de Paco clean-up.

Last year's 11.20.2011 Run for the Pasig River was the largest foot race joined by 86,547 runners, are currently being used to rehabilitate Estero de San Miguel and foru other esteros behind the Malacanang Palace.

KBPIP's seven-year rehabilitation program involves cleaning up all the esteros that drain into the Pasig River in order to thoroughly clean it.  To date, the project has resettled 1,216 families to Calauan, Laguna, introduced remediation technologies for water quality improvement, trained community volunteers for the River Warriors program and shared sound waste management practices with communities.

The 10.10.10 Run for the Pasig River won a Bronze anvil and an Award of Excellence at the 45th Anvil Awards given by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines, while the Estero de Paco clean-up earned an Award of Merit from the 2012 Philippine Quill Awards given by the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Philippines.

Registration for the 09.30.2012 Run for the Pasig River opened on July 16, 2012 in SM North EDSA, 2nd Floor Cinema C Lobby (near IMAX Theater) and on July 20 in SM Megamall, Lower Ground Level, Building A (near The Event Center and Food Court) and SM Mall of Asia, Ground Floor Main Mall (near Music hall and SM Bowling Center).  Aside from the registration, there will also be merchandise available in the booths, in which part of the proceeds will also go to river rehab.  For updates on this advocacy run, visit www.runforthepasigriver.com.

Myrtle Abigail Sarrosa, a 17 years old cosplayer was named as the Teen Big Winner of "Pinoy big Brother Teen Edition 4" at the "BFF at the Big Night" Saturday night (July 7) after garnering the highest average of combined of save and evict votes against her fellow Big Four housemates.

Despite gaining the highest percentage of 'vote to evict' votes, the 17-year old "Cosplay Cutie of Iloilo" garnered a massive 33.92% of net votes and triumphed over Karen (11.91%), Roy (9.38%), and twins Jai and Joj (9.26%).

Karen of Mindoro, meanwhile, was proclaimed the Second Teen Big Placer and won P500,000 and an appliance showcase.  Trailing behind were Roy, the season's Third Big Place, and Jaj and Joi, the Fourth Big Placers and the First twin to ever reach the phenomenal reality show's grand finale.  Roy and Joj and Jai got P300,000 and P200,000 respectively and an appliance showcase.


A few week ago PBB Teen Big Winners held a press conference meeting most of the media people.  One of my correspondent, Jefferson Montas aka Justin was thrilled enough to meet the Teen Big Winners.  According to him or her or whatever, they were really great, joyful, accommodating and lovely.  He event got some cool pictures with them.  Also, Myrtle commented on his hat.  He was wearing a character hat during that time.  I'm sure my son was looking for that hat.  Hahaha!



Anyway the successful Big Night was heavily discussed on micro-blogging site Twitter with hashtag #PBBTeensBigNight which topped the list of worldwide trending topics.

The "BFF at the Big Night" was held at the Malolos Sports and Convention Center looked back on the camaraderie formed and nurtured inside the walls of the famous house by gathering former housemates Kim Chiu, Gerald Anderson, Melai Cantiveros, Jason Francisco, Beauty Gonzalez, Yayo Aguila, Ryan Bang, and many more.  It was also marked with appearances from Kapamilya celebrities Iza Calzado, Kathryn Bernardo, Matteo Guidicelli, JM de Guzman, Jessy Mendiola, and "PBB Unlimited" Big Winner Slater Young.


"PBB Teen Edition 4," the fourth teen edition of the local version of the international TV franchise from Endemol, made 15 housemates live inside the PBB house to spend the summer of their lives carrying out tasks from Big Brother for 13 weeks.  The program also took on hosting duties from former PBB housemate and actor John Prats, who headlined the program with Toni Gonzaga, Bianca Gonzales, and Robi Domingo.

Visit the ABS-CBN Social Media Newsroom (SMN) at www.abscbnpr.com for the latest updates, photos, videos, interviews, and presscon podcasts.  Follow @abscbnpr on Twitter and "like" it on Facebook at http://facebook.com/abscbnpr.

We all know that the Great Northern Sale offers up to 70% off on selected item. Aside from that there are great finds, different sales and discounts that can be hunted down. All you need is a keen eye and a sense of thriftiness. A good sense of direction will for sure lead you to some of the great buys.


So for this Great Northern Sale I came up with the idea of what can a Dad can get for his family for a limited resources. Of course I shouldn't compromise the sense of fashion and design of the clothing. So the great hunt at the Great Northern Sale starts!
Since this is our Saturday bonding moment we all went to this sale event. Lunch time when we started to hunt. It was really a crowd and I think people from different walks of life where there searching for great buys. I even stumble to my Godparents while on my way to the information area to get some details. They were there also shopping for great items.


I was able to check most of the stores and there were really lots of great items to buy but since I'm hunting for some really thrifty, fashionable, and comfortable clothing, I still look around together with my family.

Since most of the stores were crowded with people searching for discounts and sales, we decided to head on inside the department store and hunt for more discounts. I get a push cart with a basket because I'm sure we're in for lots of great finds here.


First stop was for the kids. My wife and I hunted for something cool to wear during their sleep time. It was a sleep wear for my eldest and he sure love it.



Then it's my time to have something cool and fashionable to wear. Gladly I was able to find some. It can be for wear for night time or even day time. Matched with the right outfit it will turn out to be an interesting fashion statement. Hahaha.

Oh I forgot! We also got a gourmet card that can be use if we got hungry, unfortunately, we didn't got hungry yet because of that hunting. If you're into food that gourmet card is good for you to get discount from different food establishments.

So did I achieve my thrifty challenge? Yes indeed and we ended our day with our great finds. To some it up we made some few modelling and some snapshots.



If you're to hunt great finds get into the Great Northern Sale at SM City North EDSA.

Two proudly Pinoy companies namely the Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC), the country's largest restaurant chain, and Bank of the Philippine Islads (BPI),  ne of the country's leading commercial bank, have teamed up to introduce the first cashless payment rewards card in the country.  They've launched the Happyplus card which was held at the Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.  One of my correspondent, Jefferson Montas had witnessed that ceremony and was gladly to be there.

JFC Chairman and CEO Tony Tan Caktiong and BPI President Aurelio Montinola led the ceremonies of introducing the happyplus card to the public.

“This is another milestone for JFC as we have managed to consolidate easy and fast transaction for our customers ordering and paying for their favorite food in any participation JFC stores nationwide through the use of the happyplus card,” Tan Caktiong said.


The happyplus card is JFC's customer loyalty program that rewards its members points every time they eat in any participating Jollibee, Greenwich, Chowking, Red Ribbon and (soon to be) Mang Inasal establishments. These points are accumulated and can then be used as payment for any item sold in any participating JFC stores.

BPI, a foreplayer in cashless payment innovation, serves as JFC's technology and infrastructure provider for the happyplus program. BPI envisions this type of payment scheme, Offline contactless, to perpetuate in the next few years and they aim to take a lead at it.

“As one of the most trusted banks in the country that provides sterling banking services to millions of ustomers nationwide, we are proud that BPI is our partner in this endeavor,” Tan Caktiong added.

Aside from the convenience of cashless transaction in all participating JFC stores, customers will be given corresponding raffle entries when they use the happyplus card for their food transactions, which are eligible for monthly raffle cash prizes.

HERE SOME OF THE BASIC INFORMATION ABOUT THE HAPPYPLUS CARD

What is the happyplus card?
Happyplus card is JFC's customer loyalty program that rewards members with points every time they eat in Jollibee, Greenwich, Chowking, Red Ribbon (and soon to be) Mang Inasal establishments in Metro Manila. The points cn then be used as currency for any item sold in any of the participating stores.

How do I become a member?
Just buy a happyplus Membership Kit at any cashier counter of Jollibee, Greenwich, Chowking, Red Ribbon (and soon to be) Mang Inasal establishments in Metro Manila for only P100. Fill out the enclosed Membership Application Form and submit to the cashier counter of Jollibee, Greenwich, Chowking, Red Ribbon (and soon to be) Mang Inasal establishments in Metro Manila. You can also register online at www.happyplus.com.ph.

What is the duration of the membership?
Membership in happyplus is valid for three (3) years from date of application.

Can I renew my membership?
To renew for another three (3) years, simply go to any cashier's counter of Jollibee, Greenwich, Chowking, Red Ribbon (and soon to be) Mang Inasal and pay the P100 renewal fee using cash or points.

How do I earn points?
Just use your happyplus card in paying your bill in any participating Jollibee, Greenwich, Chowking, Red Ribbon (and soon to be) Mang Inasal store. For every P50 purchase you earn one (1) happyplus point. One (1) happyplus point = P1. No card. No points.

How do I redeem?
Just go to any participating store and after ordering, advise the cashier that you will be utilizing your happyplus points for payment of your food order.

How do I join the monthly raffle?
Raffle entries will automatically be awarded every tim you load.

How do I check my happyplus purse and points balance?
You may go to any participating store and tap your card in any card reader. It will automatically display your purse and point balance. Your happyplus points balance is also printed in your official receipt everytime yo do a load or payment transaction. You may also visit and log on to www.happyplus.com.ph to manage your account online, find out your lates transactions and card balance, and check all the pertinent information regarding yuour happyplus card.

What happens If I lose my card?
Your card is good as cash. All happy points and happy purse loaded in the card will be lost as well.

What happens if I damage my card? Can I have it replaced? 
For replacement of damaged card, surrender the card to the cashier counter of any particiapting store of Jollibee, Chowking, Greenwich, Red Ribbon (and soon) Mang Inasal.

Damaged cards will be validated and will be replaced for free if found defective within 15 days.

A damaged card caused by cardholder's mishandling will be considered a lost card. All happyload and happypoints will be forfeited.

Is there a maximum purse and reload limit?
Yes, P10,000.00 is the maximum purse and reload limit.

What is the minimum load amount?
The minimum load amount is P100 and in increments of P100.

What is the advantage of loading more in the happyplus card?
Aside from the convenience of cashless transaction in all participating stores, you would be getting more raffle entries.

Reload Amount and Raffle Entry
PhP100.00 - 1
PhP300.00 - 5
PhP500.00 - 10
PhP1,000.00 - 25

To be able for a customer to avail of a happyplus card and chck for more details about the happyplus card, he can just visit any participating JFC stores nationwide and buy a happyplus membership kit from the cashier or register online at www.happyplus.com.ph

Kwento Ni Toto is not only posting and showcasing local events and products but of course we will have foreign brands as well.  So for this particular post Kwento Ni Toto shares a world class event happening.  Read the details of the event from their press release.

8 JULY 2012: From July 8th – 12th the highly anticipated Diageo Reserve WORLD CLASS 2012 Global Final will take place against the spectacular backdrop of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. 50 of the world’s best bartenders from around the globe will compete to win the highly acclaimed award of Diageo Reserve WORLD CLASS Bartender of the Year attracting mixology luminaries, luxury aficionados and industry gurus who gather to watch the latest fine drinking trends emerge and immerse themselves in a world of red carpet events.

This year’s prestigious Global Final takes inspiration from the revival of Retro Chic – a global luxury trend which encapsulates the glamour and simplicity of the golden era of the 50s and 60s and has already infused the Maisons of fashion, design, art and stylized TV shows. With an innate understanding of the luxury industry, Diageo Reserve WORLD CLASS is leading Retro Chic within contemporary and experimental cocktail culture, paying homage to this nostalgic revival of the classics through the ambience and décor of the week.

Rudy Paoli, Managing Director, Global Reserve said, “Diageo Reserve WORLD CLASS is transforming fine drinking experiences and cocktail culture in the best bars around the world and in the home by discovering, inspiring and investing in talent within the mixology industry. Set to surpass all expectations, the 2012 Global Final Week brings together the best bartenders worldwide, captivating, star-studded events and will provide a forum for Retro Chic, a global luxury trend, set to unfold within mixology.”

AN EXHILARATING WEEK OF GLAMOROUS EVENTS AND THOUGHT-PROVOKING LUXURY SEMINARS

Additional highlights to the landmark week include Mahiki VIP after parties hosted by CÎROC vodka, the undeniably classic, crisp and smooth KETEL ONE® vodka House, an experience above the clouds with ZACAPA® rum, a celebration of legend by JOHNNIE WALKER® GOLD LABEL RESERVE™ Blended Scotch Whisky and an event set to change the game by JOHNNIE WALKER® BLUE LABEL™ Blended Scotch Whisky.

Insightful luxury seminars lead by global trendsetters Dylan Jones, Editor of UK GQ, Tony Chambers, Editor of style magazine Wallpaper*, Mark Izatt of Vertu, Jason Beckley from Dunhill and LibertyLondonGirl Sasha Wilkins add another element to the week where the latest luxury trends and the role of luxury as a force for social good in today’s society will be discussed. Diageo Reserve WORLD CLASS winners will also impart their knowledge on the art of being a perfect host and how to create the epitome of a Retro Chic fine drinking experiences in the home.

MIXOLOGY LUMINARIES JOIN IMPRESSIVE LINE-UP OF WORLD CLASS GURUS

The internationally renowned Diageo Reserve WORLD CLASS judging panel, consisting of industry greats Salvatore Calabrese, Dale de Groff, Peter Dorelli, Gary Regan, Daniel Estremadoyro and Hidetsugu Ueno, will this year be joined by new judges Arturo Savage, Regional Brand Ambassador (Latin America and the Caribbean) for luxury whiskies, Steve Olson, one of America’s foremost experts and most sought-after lecturers in the spirits industry and Aristotelis Papadopoulos, 2009 Diageo Reserve WORLD CLASS Bartender of the Year. The highly respected panel will scrutinize the style, theatre and skill of the 50 finalists who have travelled from the most esteemed bars world-wide and earned a coveted place at the Global Final by competing against 15,000 other hopefuls eager to make their mark on the world’s stage.

LUXURY COLLECTION AT THE HEART OF EVERY FINE DRINKING EXPERIENCE

Diageo Reserve WORLD CLASS pushes the boundaries of mixology innovation and encourages bartenders to innovate and experiment using some of the finest spirits from the Diageo Reserve luxury portfolio – KETEL ONE® vodka, CÎROC® vodka, TANQUERAY® No.TEN™ gin, TANQUERAY® gin, DON JULIO® tequila, ZACAPA® rum, JOHNNIE WALKER® GOLD LABEL RESERVE™ Blended Scotch Whisky and JOHNNIE WALKER® BLUE LABEL™ Blended Scotch Whisky – to create the most exceptional rituals, perfect serves and fine drinking experiences the industry has ever seen.

Follow the competition on Facebook at the ‘Global WORLD CLASS Finals’ page www.facebook.com/GlobalWorldClassFinals. For live updates on Twitter follow @WorldClassLive and join the conversation with #WCRio; or, follow our boards at pinterest.com/WCSociety for our top selection of luxury photos from the 2012 finals.

Prince of Pop Erik Santos stands out among his contemporaries because of his ability to convey a whole array of emotions through his songs, making him the most sought-after interpreter of theme songs.

He has breathed life to around 30 movie and TV themes– May Bukas Pa, Now That I Have You, Miss You Like Crazy, If You Asked Me To, Lupa, It Might Be You, Maging Sino Ka Man, Say You’ll Never Go, I’ll Never Go, among others. This is a feat achieved only by the Prince of Pop, who seems to be John Lloyd Cruz’s lucky charm because most of his hit movies had Erik as the singer of the theme. And with such achievements he has become the most requested interpreter of Teleserye and movie theme songs.

Erik, aside from being a prolific singer, is also an accomplished concert performer with numerous hit concerts to his name. He had sold-out concerts at the Music Museum, Meralco Theater, Aliw Theater, and Araneta Coliseum.

This August 30 and 31 at the Meralco Theater, Erik highlights his love of singing theme songs and performing via the major concert The Greatest Theme Songs. In the concert, experience the power of Erik’s voice as he celebrates the magic of cinema and music through impressive production numbers and sincere singing.

“I am excited with the concept of this concert,” says Erik. “I have always been fascinated by great Theme Songs, be it movies, theater or teleseryes, so I am really happy that I was given this project.”


The concert will feature, aside from Erik’s live performance of his previously-recorded theme songs, the Prince of Pop’s favorite songs lifted from the big and small screens.

“It will be a night of good music and memorable moments,” adds Erik. “It will be a trip down memory lane, but I assure you, everything you’ll see onstage will be somewhat new. It is an exciting show.” Joining him in the concert are all female Classical Crossover Pop Trio Opera Belles and OPM legendary Icons Basil Valdez, Vina Morales and Gary Valenciano.

As a recording artist, Erik still remains to be one of the most bankable singers of his generation winning the 2012 Tambayan 101.9 Song of the Year award for his single Kulang Ako Kung Wala Ka, part of his latest album Awit Para Sa’yo.

This event is presented by Qualibet and Record Breaker Events in cooperation with Zenea Slimming and Body Sculpting and a production of Cornerstone Concerts. For tickets to The Greatest Theme Songs, please call SM Tickets at 470-2222 and Ticketworld at 891-9999.

Another music updates and press releases from Kwento Ni Toto.  This time is about Nicki Minaj.  Read the details below this paragraph.

Press Release
After her tremendous feat with “Super Bass”, NICKI MINAJ proves she's not slowing down anytime soon with the release of her latest single "Starships." The song lyrics aptly describes this single’s smashing success as it continues to soar high through the charts --- ‘Starships were meant to fly /Hands up and touch the sky / Can't stop 'cause we're so high /Let's do this one more time.’ It has broken through globally charting Top 20 at iTunes in over 40 countries and on its way to 5 million tracks sold. Her newest album, Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded, has also sold nearly 1.5 million albums worldwide.

Nicki Minaj’s 22-track second studio album, Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded (Deluxe Edition), is not a reissue of the original Pink Friday album -- despite its confusing title. It's an all-new release, led by its official first single, the club-ready anthem "Starships." For this album, Nicki worked with a variety of producers such as Hit-Boy, Dr. Luke, Ester Dean, Rico Beats, RedOne and Oak. She also collaborated with artists like Cam’ron & Rick Ross in “I Am Your Leader”, 2 Chainz in “Beez In the Trap”, Lil Wayne in “Roman Reloaded”, Nas, Drake & Young Jeezy in “Champion”, Chris Brown in “Right By My Side”, Bobby V in “Sex in the Lounge” and Beenie Man in “Gun Shot” plus the urban tunes “Roman Holiday”, “Come On a Cone”, “Hov Lane”, “Whip It”, “Automatic”, “Beautiful Sinner”, “Marilyn Monroe”, “Young Forever”, “Fire Burns”, “Stupid Hoe”, “Turn Me On”, “Va Va Voom”, “Masquerade” and the next official single, “Pound the Alarm”.


Nicki Minaj is a Trinidadian-born American rapper, singer, songwriter and voice actress. Her first album, Pink Friday, debuted in November 2010 where it peaked at number one on the U.S. Billboard 200 and is certified Gold in the Philippines. She became the first female solo artist to have seven singles on the Billboard Hot 100 at the same time. Nicki Minaj is set to have an exclusive concert at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on July 11, 2012.

Nicki Minaj’s new album PINK FRIDAY: ROMAN RELOADED STANDARD/DELUXE EDITION is out now in CDs exclusively under MCA Music available at Astroplus and Odyssey Music & Video or online via www.MyMusicStore.com.ph

Get Starships as your ringback tone for only Php 5.00 by texting the following codes: KC453 to 2332 (GLOBE), STARSHIPS to 2728 (SMART) and 5493743 to 2300 (SUN)

Okay, I'm sure Jessica Sanchez fans are expecting this so with no further ado Kwento Ni Toto shares this details of "Jessica Sanchez: American Idol Season 11 Highlights".  Check out the details below

Press Release
Fans of the sensational American Idol songstress JESSICA SANCHEZ will surely be delighted as MCA Music proudly debuts her album --- “Jessica Sanchez: American Idol Season 11 Highlights”.

The album takes us back to some of her memorable and brilliant performances in the reality television singing competition, American Idol. It features five unique tracks including Jessica’s breathtaking and nostalgic rendition of Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You”, her sultry cover of Beyonce’s “Sweet Dreams” and her soulful version of Jazmine Sullivan’s “Stuttering”. It also includes the duet “I Knew You Were Waiting for Me” --- a powerful collaboration with fellow AI finalist Joshua Ledet plus Jessica’s anthemic finale song, “Change Nothing”, which is also the lead track of this amazing EP.

Jessica Sanchez was the runner-up on the eleventh season of the reality singing show, American Idol. She is the first female and fourth recipient of the judges' ‘save’. At the same time, she is also the first recipient of the save to reach the finale. Prior to appearing on American Idol, Sanchez competed in the first season of America's Got Talent at the age of 11. She has a worldwide fanbase known as the “BluJays”. The album is simply going to be just the beginning of an incredible musical journey for this promising Filipino-American artist. That said, it is a must-have and collector’s item for all BluJays and American Idol fans alike.

JESSICA SANCHEZ: AMERICAN IDOL SEASON 11 HIGHLIGHTS ALBUM are now available in CDs starting July 9, 2012 exclusively under MCA Music available at Astroplus and Odyssey Music & Video

Ms. Eula Valdes plays the character Black Lily in the undisputed no. 1 TV program in the Philippines "Walang Hanggan".  As the shows newest chapters, Black Lily's mystifying characters enters in the scene of "Walang Hanggan".

"If they think that they've finally reached their happy ending, they are wrong.  Because when Black Lily arrives, the live of the Montenegros and Guidotis will never be the same again," Eula bravely assured the thousands of followers of ABS-CBN's phenomenal TV drama.

As Black Lily enters the picture, witness the mind-blowing revelations that will surely shock everyone.  How is Black Lily connected with Daniel (Coco Martin)?  How will she affect the lives of Emily (Dawn Zulueta), Marco (Richard Gomez), Nathan (Paulo Avelino), Katerina (Julia Montes), Lola Henya (Susan Roces) and Doña Margaret (Helen Gamboa)?

Meanwhile, "Walang Hanggan" continues to prove its phenomenal success as it reign not only in the nationwide TV ratings but also in several popular social networking sites like Twitter and Facebook, and in the innovative projects launched by the drama series.  After its volume 1 reached the platinum record status, "Walang Hanggan" recently released the second volume of its official soundtrack.  The licensed "Walang Hanggan Infinity Ring," being sold by Karat World, also became a certified hit among avid fans.  Aside from its unique brands, an addition to "Walang Hanggan's" unparalleled success is its award-winning cast including Coco who was recently recognized as the Prince of Television by the Box Office Entertainment Awards, and Paulo who was awarded by the 2012 Gawad Urian as the Best Actor.

Plus, starting this Monday (July 9), avid fans can now get the latest scoops and exclusive behind-the-scene footages of their favorite teleserye through "Walang Hanggan TV" by simply logging in to http://walanghanggan.abs-cbn.com. Watch out for the grand launch of "Walang Hanggan" official soundtrack volume 2 this July 15 (Sunday) in "ASAP 2012," to be followed by a mall show in Trinoma.

Don't miss the explosive revelations of "Walang Hanggan," weeknights, after "Princess and I" on ABS-CBn's Primetime Bida.  For more updates, log-on to http://walanghanggan.abs-cbn.com/, like http://facebook.com/abs.walanghanggan, or follow @walanghanggan_ on Twitter.

Recently, Tipco, the best-selling juice brand in Thailand, launched their exciting new promo that will sure excite consumers.  One lucky grand prize winner will sure get a chance to visit Tipco's home, Bangkok.

Kwento Nit Toto's correspondent went to the said launched and witnessed this launching event.  Different people and personalities were present during the launched.  Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan, a proud mom was Tipco's celebrity endorser.

The “Tipco Tripaway” promo was announced by Transaxion Unlimited Corporation, which distributes Thailand's leading juice brand in the Philippines. With a view of encouraging Filipino fans to take the leap to healthy living, as well as to experience the joys of travel, Tipco’s latest promo also includes the chance to win two roundtrip tickets to popular destinations in the Philippines, complete with 3D/2N hotel accommodation, daily breakfast, airport transfers, and fun tours.


“We’re thrilled to have the opportunity of sending Filipino Tipco fans to the city and country where it all began,” said Mr. Kerwin Wong, CEO of Transaxion Unlimited Corporation. “We believe that the promo is also a great way of thanking everyone who has continued to support Tipco and made its arrival from Thailand to the Philippines a successful one.”

The promo will run from July 1 to September 30, 2012.  Tipco Tripaway promo will be bringing its lucky grand prize winner to Bangkok, Thailand.  Aside from it there will also be a monthly draw that will be held for three consecutive months, starting this August, with all-inclusive trips to Cagayan de Oro, Puerto Princesa, and Boracay.


Every single-receipt purchase of three 1-liter packs of Tipco 100% Juice from any supermarket or grocery nationwide entitles customers to one raffle entry. To submit the entry, customers can visit www.facebook.com/tipcojuicephils and enter the requested information. Deadlines for the submission of entries fall on August 5 for the First Monthly Draw (Cagayan de Oro) on August 10; September 5 for the Second Monthly Draw (Puerto Princesa) on September 10; October 5 for both the Third Monthly Draw (Boracay) and Grand Prize Draw (Bangkok) on October 10.

Since its Philippine launch over two years ago, Tipco has served as the nutritional partner of Filipino juice lovers everywhere, with flavors that include Tangerine Orange, Purple Carrot, Pomegranate, Medley Orange, Aloe Vera, Cranberry, 32 Veggie, Beetroot, and even Broccoli (the best seller!), among many others. Tipco's premium-quality juices are known not only for their natural fruit or vegetable taste, but also for the health benefits that each flavor carries. Tipco 100% is also made without any preservatives, flavorings, colorings, or sweeteners—setting it apart from other juice brands.