Archives For December 31, 2014

ANG PEOPLES POPE

ANG PEOPLES POPE

Pope Francis’ visit to the country has been a resounding success – providing an electrifying atmosphere in the five days that he was here and winning the hearts of Filipinos not only through his words and deeds but also because of his captivating smile and sincerity that communicate directly to the soul.

 

And just like in the past – during significant events that help shape the country’s history – more viewers nationwide trusted GMA Network as their primary source of news and information.

 

Pope Francis’ five-day apostolic and state visit to the Philippines, from January 15 to 19, is no exception as GMA-7 and GMA News TV’s joint special “Ang People’s Pope sa Pilipinas” emerged as the most watched coverage of the said Papal visit nationwide.

 

Based on household data from the industry’s widely-trusted ratings service provider Nielsen TV Audience Measurement, GMA-7’s “Ang People’s Pope sa Pilipinas” posted an average of 15% from January 15 to 19 (based on overnight ratings) in NUTAM (National Urban Television Audience Measurement). It led ABS-CBN’s11.7% by 3.3 rating points.

 

The Kapuso Network’s special coverage, which was bannered by GMA News pillars Mel Tiangco, Mike Enriquez, Vicky Morales, Arnold Clavio, Howie Severino and Jessica Soho, together with the full roster of GMA News and Public Affairs, registered even bigger leads in the viewer-rich areas of Urban Luzon and Mega Manila.

 

In Urban Luzon, which comprises 77% of the total urban TV households nationwide, “Ang People’s Pope sa Pilipinas” got 16.9%, very much ahead of ABS-CBN’s 10.4%. Likewise in Mega Manila, which accounts for 59% of all urban TV households in the country, the Kapuso special coverage was the most watched with18.2% versus ABS-CBN’s 9.2%.

 

“Ang People’s Pope sa Pilipinas” special coverage started with the arrival of Pope Francis on Thursday afternoon, followed by the Pope’s activities on Friday that included the state visit to Malacañan Palace, a Eucharistic celebration at the Manila Cathedral, and a special meeting with families at the Mall of Asia Arena.

 

On Saturday, various GMA News teams covered Pope Francis’ visit to Leyte, which was shortened due to typhoon Amang. Highlights of his Leyte visit included the Pope’s heart-touching impromptu homily at the Holy Mass held at the Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport in Tacloban.

 

And on Sunday, “Ang People’s Pope sa Pilipinas” continued its coverage of the historic visit as Pope Francis headed a youth gathering at the University of Santo Tomas and led the record-breaking Mass celebration at the Quirino Grandstand in Luneta, which was attended by approximately six million people.

 

“Ang People’s Pope sa Pilipinas” also joined the country as it bade farewell to Pope Francis on Monday morning.

 

GMA Pinoy TV, the Network’s flagship international channel, aired the live coverage overseas through its carriers in the US, Canada, Middle East, North Africa and Asia-Pacific region.

 

The Network’s special coverage, available online via GMA News Online’s official papal visit microsite(gmanews.tv/popefrancis), was also a big hit with web users.

 

The microsite, with its liveblog, livestream, Pope Tracker, and the #BlessedByThePope section, consistently provided breaking stories and heart-warming human interest articles including that of the girl who managed to get a selfie with the Pope, the story of the father who lost a child due to an accident after the Tacloban mass, the girl who cried during the UST event, the image of the smiling Pope in the rain, and how almost everyone was moved to tears during the Tacloban mass.

 

Moreover, GMA News’ hashtag #BlessedByThePope became a top trending topic in the Philippines and was also one of the trending topics worldwide for two consecutive days.  GMA News Online was also able to get noteworthy user-generated content, both photos and videos, through YouScoop. And its “The Filipino faith is waterproof” photo was shared by thousands.

 

The Network’s flagship AM radio station DZBB 594 kHz Super Radyo, on the other hand, also had its “Si Pope Francis sa Pilipinas” special coverage.

 

For more information on GMA Network’s artists, programs, international channels and events, visit the websitewww.gmanetwork.com/international.

Blessed by the Pope Special

Blessed by the Pope Special

Twenty years after the last papal visit in Manila, Pope Francis blessed Filipinos with his presence, his wisdom, and his empowering and comforting words that renewed and strengthened the faith of approximately 80 million Catholics in the Philippines.

 

On Monday, January 26, GMA News and Public Affairs presents Blessed by the Pope, a one and a half hour special showing the highlights of Pope Francis’ historic visit – from his arrival at Villamor Air Base, to his meeting with families and the youth, to his touching trip to Leyte, to his momentous concluding mass in Luneta before record-breaking crowds, until his departure.

 

Presented by award-winning broadcast journalist Ms. Jessica Soho, Blessed by the Pope features special interviews with the pilot who flew Pope Francis to Tacloban, the chef who cooked for the Supreme Pontiff, as well as personal insights from various individuals who encountered the Pope.

 

Blessed by the Pope also reveals a special interview with one of the families of the Yolanda survivors who had lunch with the Pope in Leyte. The private lunch was attended by invited families who were survivors of super typhoon Yolanda and the Bohol earthquake.

 

Relive the Pope’s inspiring messages of hope, faith, love, mercy and compassion in Blessed by the Pope, a GMA News and Public Affairs Special, premiering this Monday, January 26 on GMA Pinoy TV, with a replay on January 31.

 

For more information on GMA Network’s artists, programs, international channels and events, visit the websitewww.gmanetwork.com/international.

German Moreno

German Moreno

Contrary to the recent news regarding the cancellation of the late-night variety talk show Walang Tulugan with The Master Showman of German “Kuya Germs” Moreno, GMA promises that the show will still continue to air and delight viewers all over the world.

 

After more than two weeks of confinement due to mild stroke, Kuya Germs has been officially discharged from the hospital last Saturday (January 17). Meanwhile, he continues to undergo therapy.

 

Aside from the program hosts John Nite, Jackielou Blanco, Sharmaine Santiago and Shirley Fuentes, the promising stars Hiro Peralta, Ken Chan, Jak Roberto and Jake Vargas will continue to bring shine to the show. Also, don’t miss the chance to get to know the guest hosts of the show that will be coming in while Kuya Germs is still regaining his energy.

 

Be updated on the latest scoops about your favorite showbiz personalities on Celebrity Talk with the entertainment journalist, Aster Amoyo.

 

There’s no stopping Walang Tulugan with The Master Showman. For more information on GMA Network’s artists, programs, international channels and events, visit the website www.gmanetwork.com/international.

Heart and Chiz

Heart and Chiz

Heart Bridal Shower

Heart Bridal Shower

Heart and Chiz Kissing

Heart and Chiz Kissing

Heart Evangelista

Heart Evangelista

Despite being with the bride-to-be Heart Evangelista every week, her Startalk family still managed to throw her a surprise Hollywood-themed bridal shower last January 13 at Fernbrook Gardens in Las Piñas City.

 

With TV host-eventologist Tim Yap and Tessa Prieto-Valdes as hosts, the shower was attended by GMA Network executives together with Heart’s loved ones, colleagues, and  closest friends in the industry including Lovi Poe, Alessandra De Rossi, and Carla Abellana.

 

Kris Lawrence serenaded Heart with a soulful rendition of All of Me while GMA Senior Vice President for Entertainment Lilybeth G. Rasonable, Donita Rose, Iza Calzado, Kylie Padilla, and Rhian Ramos gave their gifts and well-wishes.

 

Sending their love through video messages were Heart’s closest friends, including Solenn Heussaff, Jennylyn Mercado, Sarah Lahbati, Iya Villania, Camille Prats, and GMA Kapuso Foundation EVP and COO Ms. Mel Tiangco.

 

Aside from the presence of Heart’s sister Camille Ongpauco, Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero also made the night more special by surprising his wife-to-be.

 

Heart and Chiz will be married on February 15 at Balesin Island Club, Quezon Province.

 

Catch updates on Heart’s wedding preparations and more of the latest entertainment buzz on Startalk, only on GMA Pinoy TV.

 

For more information on GMA Network’s artists, programs, international channels and events, visit the website www.gmanetwork.com/international.

DongYan Wedding (1)

DongYan Wedding (1)

DongYan Wedding (2)

DongYan Wedding (2)

DongYan Wedding (3)

DongYan Wedding (3)

DongYan Wedding (4)

DongYan Wedding (4)

DongYan Wedding (5)

DongYan Wedding (5)

Bear witness to the much awaited union of the well-loved couple Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera and be part of the momentous wedding celebration of 2014 as GMA Network gives Kapuso viewers an exclusive pass via a two-part special on January 18 and 25 on GMA Pinoy TV.

 

Dingdong and Marian’s love story is a testament that true, genuine love exists. Their commitment to each other was finally sealed and sanctified by the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony as they said their vows before God and were united forever in love.

 

On January 18, get a glimpse of the church ceremony, from the bride and groom’s wedding attire, the bride’s magical entrance, up to their first kiss as a married couple. Dubbed as “Dingdong and Marian Wedding Special THE CEREMONY,” this is the first of the two part special.

 

The first part will feature the preparations and fun moments of Dingdong and Marian hours before they walk down the aisle. The couple’s close friends and families also share their thoughts and wishes.

 

It will likewise give viewers an exclusive access to the people behind Dingdong’s success in fulfilling Marian’s dream wedding – including his live TV proposal to Marian, their prenuptial shoot and Marian’s meeting with her wedding gown designer in Dubai, and the gathering with their principal sponsors.

 

Viewers should watch out for Dingdong and his dramatic entrance to the Immaculate Conception Cathedral but most importantly, as the most anticipated highlight of the ceremony, the stunning bride as she finally walks down the aisle in her fairytale wedding dress. Get an exclusive look at the couple’s exchange of vows as they profess their absolute love for each other and the long-awaited magical kiss.

 

Meanwhile on January 25, the network airs the second part of the special dubbed as “Dingdong and Marian Wedding Special THE CELEBRATION.”

 

This time, viewers will witness the celebration of love, joy, family and friendship with the Spanish-themed wedding reception held at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

 

The special will feature a never-before released pre-wedding interview of the couple, their friends, celebrity guests, as well as details from the creative team behind the  reception.

 

Viewers will hear the couple’s fairytale love story from their dearest friends and loved ones – Marian’s Maids of Honor Roxanne Barcelo, Ana Feleo and Joy Santos; and Dingdong’s Groomsmen Marvin Lanuza, Harvey Camposano and Angelo Dantes while Marian’s father, Francisco Javier Alonso Gracia, gives a touching message to his loving daughter.

 

Also, watch as the couple present their 3D-mapped wedding cake featuring the different pre-nuptial videos shot in Pampanga and Dubai, as well as the special short films made by one of the couple’s ninangs and their good friend, Bb. Joyce Bernal.

 

Part two will similarly show Marian’s surprise for her groom while Dingdong surprises Marian with a special gift – an original song and a special performance by Marian’s favorite band, Aegis.

 

The program was hosted by the couple’s closest friends; Gabby Eigenmann, Bettina Carlos, KC Montero, Tim Yap, Janno Gibbs and Ogie Alcasid, and featured inspiring performances by Jaya, Christian Bautista, Noel Cabangon, Julie Anne San Jose, Gloc-9, Marc Abaya, Jay Durias and Regine Velasquez-Alcasid.

 

Don’t miss this rare TV event and be part of the memorable milestone in the lives of Dingdong and Marian with the two-part wedding special on January 18 and 25 only on GMA Pinoy TV.

 

For updates on GMA Network’s artists, programs, international channels and events, visit the websitewww.gmanetwork.com/international, Facebook pages www.facebook.com/GMAPinoyTV,www.facebook.com/gmalifetv, and www.facebook.com/gmanewsinternational, Twitter pages @gmapinoytv, @gma_lifetv, and @gmanewstvintl and Instagram account @gmapinoytv.

Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai - Kapuso Royal Couple Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes at Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai. Photo courtesy of The Filipino Times

Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai – Kapuso Royal Couple Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes at Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai. Photo courtesy of The Filipino Times

Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai - Kapuso Royal Couple Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes at Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai. Photo courtesy of The Filipino Times

Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai – Kapuso Royal Couple Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes at Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai. Photo courtesy of The Filipino Times

Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai - Kapuso Royal Couple Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes at Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai. Photo courtesy of The Filipino Times

Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai – Kapuso Royal Couple Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes at Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai. Photo courtesy of The Filipino Times

Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai - Kapuso Royal Couple Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes at Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai. Photo courtesy of The Filipino Times

Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai – Kapuso Royal Couple Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes at Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai. Photo courtesy of The Filipino Times

Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai - Kapuso Royal Couple Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes at Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai. Photo courtesy of The Filipino Times

Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai – Kapuso Royal Couple Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes at Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai. Photo courtesy of The Filipino Times

Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai - Kapuso Royal Couple Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes at Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai. Photo courtesy of The Filipino Times

Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai – Kapuso Royal Couple Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes at Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai. Photo courtesy of The Filipino Times

Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai - Kapuso Royal Couple Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes at Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai. Photo courtesy of The Filipino Times

Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai – Kapuso Royal Couple Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes at Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai. Photo courtesy of The Filipino Times

Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai - Kapuso Royal Couple Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes at Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai. Photo courtesy of The Filipino Times

Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai – Kapuso Royal Couple Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes at Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai. Photo courtesy of The Filipino Times

Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai - Kapuso Royal Couple Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes at Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai. Photo courtesy of The Filipino Times

Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai – Kapuso Royal Couple Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes at Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai. Photo courtesy of The Filipino Times

GMA International marked another banner year in 2014 with a series of successful events held in key regions around the globe.

 

Driven by its goal of strengthening the Kapuso equity among its viewers in ways beyond television, GMA’s international business unit gave Filipinos abroad a taste of home through various on-ground events featuring the Network’s top artists.

 

As GMA Vice President for International Operations Joseph T. Francia notes, “More than providing quality programs and services through our international channels, these events are an opportunity for our artists to interact with the viewers, which is integral to extending the Kapuso experience to our audience overseas.”

 

In the first half of the year, GMA participated in several well-attended events held in various cities worldwide for the annual celebration of Philippine Independence Day.

 

Last year’s festivities saw Kapuso prime artists Tom Rodriguez and Heart Evangelista gracing the Philippine Independence Day Parade in New York City while Kapuso leading man Geoff Eigenmann joined fans in Carson City, California.

 

Over in Kuwait, Asia’s Pop Sweetheart Julie Anne San Jose and singer-comedienne Gladys Guevarra were featured inMusika at Tawanan 4, which gathered more than 3000 overseas workers in the region.

 

And finally, the Independence Day celebrations culminated with Kapuso Primetime King Dingdong Dantes joining his kababayan in Bolingbrook, Chicago for the Philippine Fest Piyesta Pinoy 2014 and Kapuso Premier Actress Lovi Poe delighting over 7000 Filipino-Canadians who came to the Pinoy Fiesta and Trade Show sa Toronto.

 

Apart from these, GMA also celebrated the vibrancy of Filipino culture as it brought Kapuso stars Benjamin Alves and Steven Silva to the Flores de Mayo Festival in Hawaii, which highlighted iconic Filipino traditions, while Kapuso Soul Diva Jaya headlined the third Vancouver OPM Festival in Canada, commemorating decades of great Filipino music.

 

Moreover, the country’s longest running noontime show brought its trademark “isang libo’t isang tuwa” to the Filipino community in Canada with the much-awaited Eat Bulaga Live in Toronto concert led by the renowned comedic trio of Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto and Joey de Leon, who were joined by the rest of the Dabarkads Pauleen Luna, Ruby Rodriguez, Jimmy Santos, Allan K., Julia Clarete, Keempee de Leon, the “Sugod Bahay Gang” of Jose Manalo, Wally Bayola, and Paolo Ballesteros, as well as the show’s well-loved Aleng Maliit, Ryzza Mae Dizon.

 

“Through our continued presence abroad, GMA hopes to remain instrumental in cultivating the Filipino spirit outside our home country,” Francia explains.

 

Capping off the year’s successful endeavors, GMA International brought some of its brightest stars to Los Angeles, Dubai and Singapore for the much-anticipated Kapusong Pinoy concert series.

 

As one of the hottest love teams on television, Carla Abellana and Tom Rodriguez thrilled the crowd in the sold-out concert titled Kapusong Pinoy sa LA with their undeniable chemistry. They were joined by Julie Anne San Jose, Kapuso teen star Miguel Tanfelix and actor-comedian Betong Sumaya who portrayed his popular character Antonietta from the country’s longest running comedy show Bubble Gang.

 

This was followed by the equally successful Kapusong Pinoy sa Dubai which brought the Kapuso Network’s now-married Royal Couple Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera and Julie Anne San Jose to Dubai’s Global Village. Over 7000 spectators witnessed GMA’s Primetime King and Queen’s romantic duet and each artist’s individual performances.

 

GMA completed the concert series and concluded 2014 with a tribute to its loyal Kapuso fans abroad. Drama King Dennis Trillo along with the Fearless Diva Jonalyn Viray and Betong as Antonietta topbilled Kapusong Pinoy sa Singapore, giving their audience an entertainment-filled night to remember.

 

As another year commences, GMA International remains committed in the service of its overseas audiences, effectively bridging Filipinos all over the world to their home country.

 

For updates on GMA Network’s artists, programs, international channels and events, visit the websitewww.gmanetwork.com/international, Facebook pages www.facebook.com/GMAPinoyTV,www.facebook.com/gmalifetv, and www.facebook.com/gmanewsinternational, Twitter pages @gmapinoytv, @gma_lifetv, and @gmanewstvintl and Instagram account @gmapinoytv.

Broadcast giant GMA Network (GMA) ended 2014 on a strong note as it ruled over competition in full year Urban Luzon and Mega Manila ratings, according to the industry’s widely-trusted ratings service provider Nielsen TV Audience Measurement.

 

Based on full year 2014 ratings (with the dates of December 21 to 31 based on overnight data), GMA reaffirmed its total day household shares supremacy in the viewer-rich areas of Urban Luzon and Mega Manila, while leading across all dayparts including the highly contested primetime slot in both areas.

 

In Urban Luzon, which accounts for 77 percent of the total urban TV households nationwide, GMA recorded an average total day household audience share of 36.4 percent, surpassing ABS-CBN’s 31.3 percent by 5.1 points, and TV5’s 10.1 percent by 26.3 points.

 

GMA also posted a commanding 37.6 percent in Mega Manila, higher than ABS-CBN’s 28.8 percent by 8.8 points, and TV5’s 10.9 percent by 26.7 points. Mega Manila represents 60 percent of all urban TV households in the country.

 

Moreover, GMA scored higher nationwide shares than rival networks in the daytime blocks based on data covering the entire year. In the morning block, GMA registered 31.7 percent against ABS-CBN’s 29.9 percent and TV5’s 12.9 percent; while in the afternoon block, GMA posted 34.8 percent versus ABS-CBN’s 32.5 percent and TV5’s 11.1 percent.

 

GMA’s Pacquiao-Algieri: Hungry for Glory and Pacquiao-Bradley 2 Vindication grabbed the top 1 and 2 slots in the list of top programs (including specials) in Urban Luzon and Mega Manila in 2014. Other top rating GMA shows include Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (KMJS), Magpakailanman, My Destiny, Niño, Celebrity Bluff, Strawberry Lane, Marian, 24 Oras and Pepito Manaloto.

 

For the month of December, GMA significantly reduced ABS-CBN’s nationwide margin to 0.5 percent driven by its lead in the daytime blocks. GMA also scored higher ratings across all dayparts in Urban Luzon and Mega Manila.

 

Including specials, majority of the top 30 programs in overall NUTAM, Urban Luzon and Mega Manila in December came from GMA with Magpakailanman taking the number 1 spot in both Urban Luzon and Mega Manila. The weekly drama anthology also emerged as the most watched Kapuso show in NUTAM.

 

GMA subscribes to the Nielsen TV Audience Measurement service, while ABS-CBN is the lone local major TV network that subscribes to Kantar Media, formerly known as TNS.

 

Nielsen data is gathered through a greater number of sampled homes nationwide in comparison to Kantar Media.

 

This 2015, the Kapuso Network is set to unveil a fresh batch of offerings with the recently launched primetime soaps Once Upon A Kiss, topbilled by the burgeoning love team of Miguel Tanfelix and Bianca Umali, and Second Chances featuring a stellar cast led by Jennylyn Mercado, Camille Prats, Rafael Rosell and Raymart Santiago, setting the pace for this year.

 

Also in the offing this first quarter are Healing Hearts starring some of GMA’s most promising young stars Joyce Ching, Kristoffer Martin and Krystal Reyes, and Kailan Ba Tama Ang Mali? headlined by Geoff Eigenmann, Empress Schuck, Dion Ignacio and Max Collins on GMA Afternoon Prime.

 

GMA programs can be seen worldwide on its flagship international channel, GMA Pinoy TV. For updates on GMA Network’s artists, programs, international channels and events, visit the websitewww.gmanetwork.com/international, Facebook pages www.facebook.com/GMAPinoyTV,www.facebook.com/gmalifetv, and www.facebook.com/gmanewsinternational, Twitter pages @gmapinoytv, @gma_lifetv, and @gmanewstvintl and Instagram account @gmapinoytv.

Beginning January 13, a compelling and encouraging series will captivate the hearts of Kapuso viewers as GMA Network presents the emotionally engaging primetime drama Second Chances.

 

The series will have its international premiere on GMA Network’s flagship international channel, GMA Pinoy TV.

 

Centering on the story of heartache and the love that heals it, the series depicts how an opportunity can change someone’s life while providing a powerful response to the viewers’ yearning for validation that, indeed, we all deserve a second chance. The series is topbilled by Jennylyn MercadoCamille PratsRafael Rosell, and Raymart Santiago.

 

Fresh from her success in winning the Best Actress Award at the recently concluded 2014 Metro Manila Film Festival, one of the Kapuso prime leading ladies Jennylyn Mercado once again delivers a remarkable performance as Lyra Bermudez whose life suddenly changes when a tragedy befalls her family and she loses both her husband and son.

 

Primed to show a new dimension to her acting ability is Camille Prats who portrays the character of Rebecca Villacorta, the childhood friend of Lyra and a bipolar who becomes addicted to drugs as she pines for the son she lost.

 

Returning to primetime is sought-after leading man Rafael Rosell as Jerome Padilla. He is a lawyer who has always loved Lyra even before she married her late husband.

 

Seasoned actor Raymart Santiago breathes life to the character of a single father and widower, Bernard Castelo. He finds the meaning of life and learns how to love again when he meets Lyra.

 

Under the helm of critically-acclaimed director Laurice Guillen, Second Chances also stars Roi VinzonMiriam QuiambaoGerard PizarrasFrencheska FarrDiva MontelabaMiggs CuadernoJoshen Bernardo, and Chynna Ortaleza with special participation of Luis AlandyJackie RiceGlenda GarciaAyen Laurel and Mr. Ricky Davao.

 

Don’t miss the much-awaited telecast of Second Chances beginning January 13, airing every Monday to Friday on GMA Pinoy TV.

Bianca Umali 3 Cris Villanueva 1 Gabby Eigenmann 1 image001 Keempee De Leon 1 Manilyn Reynes 1 Maricar de Mesa 1 Michael de Mesa 1 Miguel and Bianca 3 Miguel and Bianca 8 Miguel and Bianca 10 Miguel Tanfelix 1 Mylene Dizon 1 Nova Villa 1 Tessie Tomas 1GMA Network rings in the New Year with the launch of its newest primetime series that will captivate the hearts of Filipinos – Once Upon A Kiss. It is a retelling of a classic fairytale with a modern twist. The program premieres on January 6 on GMA Pinoy TV.

 

Once Upon A Kiss is the story of a boy in coma who is awakened after being kissed by his childhood friend and how they fought for their love amidst the squabble between their families.

 

Set to portray the lead roles in the romantic drama series is the youngest loveteam of the Kapuso Network:Miguel Tanfelix as Prince Pelaez and Bianca Umali as Ella Rodrigo. Armed with their excellent onscreen chemistry and natural acting skills, Miguel and Bianca will make us believe once more how love can bridge gap between people, rich and poor, the powerful and the needy.

 

GMA Network is proud to present a stellar cast of the country’s most respected artists in film and television including Michael De Mesa, Cris Villanueva, Mariel Pamintuan, and Tessie Tomas.

 

This also marks Mylene Dizon’s comeback to the Kapuso Network as she portrays the character of Giselle Pelaez Almario, Prince’s mother and the main antagonist in the series.

 

Playing equally vital roles are Manilyn Reynes, Kempee de Leon, and Miss Nova Villa.

 

Adding star power to the program are Al Tantay, Maricar de Mesa, Frank Magalona, Betong Sumaya,Sabrina Man, Eunice Lagusad, Miggy Jimenez, Cai Cortez, and Gabby Eigenmann.

 

Both coming from poor families, Aurora (Manilyn) and Eric (Cris) used to dream of having a better life together. However, for material gain, Eric gives up his love for Aurora and pursues Giselle (Mylene), the daughter of the family that owns the rest house where Aurora’s parents work.

 

Later on, Aurora marries Jimmy (Keempee), Eric’s friend. Eric, on the other hand, regrets marrying Giselle because her family just treats him like a puppet in their company.

 

Prince (Miguel) is the son of Eric with Giselle, while Ella (Bianca) is the daughter of Aurora with Jimmy. Although their families are mortal enemies, they become childhood friends. But, they become separated when Prince leaves for the city.

 

They cross paths once again when Prince returns to their town as a teenager. However, the once kind and humble Prince is now an arrogant and egotistical kid. Will Prince and Ella be able to rekindle their friendship and relationship? Will their love story have a happy ending despite the complications and interventions of their respective parents?

 

Under the helm of acclaimed TV director Bb. Joyce Bernal, Once Upon A Kiss premieres January 6 at 4:15PM on GMA Pinoy TV.

 

Get the latest updates on Once Upon A Kiss from its official Facebook page www.facebook.com/7OnceUponAKiss and Twitter account @7OnceUponAKiss. For more information on GMA International events and updates, visit the website, www.GMANetwork.com/international.

I have attached the pictures of the wedding of the century and the reception that happened there after!DongYan Wedding Reception (32) DongYan Wedding Reception (31) DongYan Wedding Reception (30) DongYan Wedding Reception (29) DongYan Wedding Reception (28) DongYan Wedding Reception (27) DongYan Wedding Reception (26) DongYan Wedding Reception (25) DongYan Wedding Reception (20) DongYan Wedding Reception (21) DongYan Wedding Reception (22) DongYan Wedding Reception (23) DongYan Wedding Reception (24) DongYan Wedding Reception (19) DongYan Wedding Reception (18) DongYan Wedding Reception (17) DongYan Wedding Reception (16) DongYan Wedding Reception (15) DongYan Wedding Reception (10) DongYan Wedding Reception (11) DongYan Wedding Reception (12) DongYan Wedding Reception (13) DongYan Wedding Reception (14) DongYan Wedding Reception (9) DongYan Wedding Reception (8) DongYan Wedding Reception (7) DongYan Wedding Reception (6) DongYan Wedding Reception (5) DongYan Wedding (5) DongYan Wedding Reception (1) DongYan Wedding Reception (2) DongYan Wedding Reception (4) DongYan Wedding (4) DongYan Wedding (3) DongYan Wedding (2) DongYan Wedding (1)