Dennis Trillo Honored as Movie Actor of the Year and Male Star of the Night at PMPC Star Awards

At the 41st Philippine Movie Press Club (PMPC) Star Awards for Movies, Dennis Trillo earned the prestigious Movie Actor of the Year accolade for his performance in "Green Bones." Additionally, Trillo expressed excitement over receiving the Male Star of the Night award, highlighting the significance of this recognition after more than two decades in the industry. Sharing a photo on Instagram, the Kapuso star showcased his Best Actor trophy alongside the sash denoting his Male Star of the Night title. Dressing up with the help of AJ Alberto and Christopher Ian Vinarao, Trillo humorously described his ensemble as that of a "fabulous honest politician." He remarked, "It feels great. I've been putting in effort for over 20 years, and this is the first time I’ve won Male Star of the Night!" In a jovial tone, he added, "What a night! Luckily, several attendees were absent tonight." Elsewhere in the awards, Will Ashley took home the New Movie Actor of the Year award for his role in "Balota." Meanwhile, Alden Richards and Kathryn Bernardo were honored as Takilya King and Queen, respectively, for the phenomenal success of their film "Hello, Love, Again," which became the highest-grossing Filipino movie to date, surpassing P1 billion in box office revenue. Dennis Trillo currently stars in the series "Sanggang Dikit FR," featuring his wife Jennylyn Mercado. The show airs on GMA Prime during weeknights at 8:50 p.m.

Backstage Turmoil at Pasig Music Festival Sparks Public Rift Between Paolo Valenciano and Rico Blanco

The recent Pasig music festival on December 6 was marred by significant behind-the-scenes disruptions, culminating in a public dispute between event director Paolo Valenciano and renowned musician Rico Blanco. Paolo Valenciano took to Facebook to explain how he lost control of the event, which suffered substantial delays and caused extended stress for the crew. According to Paolo's post, the chaos ensued after unexpected last-minute changes to the performer lineup. Insiders revealed that Blanco’s team allegedly requested his set be moved to the coveted closing slot, initially reserved for the emerging band Cup of Joe. This sudden reshuffling forced the organizers to scramble, with Cup of Joe reportedly being rushed through Metro Manila traffic to reach the stage on time. Paolo recounted the frantic efforts to manage the upheaval, noting that the group was picked up in a "mad dash" to the venue. While the audience remained unaware of the backstage turmoil, the production crew was left scrambling to mitigate the disruption. Despite issuing a formal apology to fans, artists, and the crew for the event’s problems, Paolo’s message took a sharper turn when he addressed Rico Blanco directly. He called Blanco his "hero" but concluded with a pointed remark: "I’ve learned that we’re simply not meant to work together again." This statement sparked widespread attention online, dividing fans and industry insiders. Supporters commended Paolo for his candidness amid pressure, while critics argued that publicly naming Blanco amounted to an unfair attack without offering the musician a chance to respond. Rico Blanco has yet to comment on the incident, and his silence has only intensified speculation. Whether this marks a misunderstanding, a breakdown of a long-standing partnership, or the emergence of a significant industry conflict remains to be seen. While the festival itself concluded, the ramifications of this dispute continue to unfold, highlighting the complexities and tensions that can arise behind the scenes in the music industry.

Beloved Comedian and Voice Actor Jeff Garcia Passes Away at 50

Jeff Garcia, a renowned American stand-up comedian and voice actor, has passed away at the age of 50. The news was shared by his son, Jojo Garcia, via an emotional Instagram post featuring photos of the two together. Jojo described his father as an irreplaceable figure, praising his authenticity, compassion, and relentless drive. He wrote, \"My father was a unique soul. He was unapologetically himself and I will always admire the love, compassion, and drive that he had. He taught me so much and gave me advice that I live by every single day.\" He further expressed the profound bond they shared, adding, \"He was a Father, Son, Uncle, Cousin, Brother, but most of all, he was my best friend. I would call him every day. I would tell him about the plans I had in comedy and my life. He believed in me, in a way that nobody else did.\" Jojo called his father both his hero and idol, emphasizing Jeff's exceptional talents from his quick wit and bold humor in stand-up comedy to his distinctive voice acting roles. \"[He] shined with his quick wit, brash humor, and charm. He has made such an impact on people’s lives internationally, whether you grew up watching 'Jimmy Neutron,' or shared a laugh with him at one of his shows.\" He added that Jeff’s legacy will endure through his family, friends, and the countless lives he touched. \"I know you’re in heaven smiling down and you’re in a better place now. No more pain. I’m going to make you proud pops. Fly high, Rocket Man,\" Jojo wrote. Jojo also requested privacy for the family during this difficult period and expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support. Reports indicate that Jeff Garcia had previously suffered a cerebral aneurysm and recently experienced a stroke. He passed away in a Southern California hospital after life support was withdrawn. Born on May 3, 1975, in La Puente, California, Jeff began his career as a stand-up comedian before gaining fame primarily for his role as the voice of Sheen Estevez, Jimmy Neutron’s eccentric best friend. His work included the 2001 film "Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius," the Nickelodeon series "The Adventures of Jimmy Neutron, Boy Genius," and the spinoff "The Planet Sheen." Aside from these, Jeff lent his voice to characters such as Rinaldo in "Happy Feet" and Pip the Mouse in both "Barnyard" and "Back at the Barnyard." His on-screen appearances included roles in "Caroline in the City" and "Dangerous Minds." Jeff Garcia’s unique contributions to comedy and animation have left a lasting imprint that will continue to be celebrated by fans and colleagues alike.

Zao Wou-Ki’s Experimental Prints Debut in Asia at Hong Kong’s M+ Museum

An exhibition featuring the pioneering works of Franco-Chinese artist Zao Wou-Ki opened on Saturday at Hong Kong’s M+ museum, marking the debut of his print collection in Asia. The display highlights Zao's experimental prints, offering a comprehensive look at his artistic progression from early figurative pieces to bold, abstract compositions. Recognized as a leading figure in lyrical abstraction, Zao Wou-Ki’s works command significant attention in the global art market. The exhibition is organized both chronologically and thematically, allowing visitors to trace his creative journey beginning with early pieces influenced by Chinese calligraphy. These are followed by a striking series inspired by natural elements such as earth, wind, and water, rendered in vibrant colors. Also on view are Chinese ink works and engravings Zao created to accompany poems by his contemporaries Henri Michaux and Rene Char, underscoring his collaborative spirit and multifaceted talents. This extensive collection was made possible by a generous donation of over 200 prints and bibliographic materials from the artist’s widow, Françoise Marquet-Zao. Born in 1920 in a prosperous Chinese banking family, Zao’s passion for art was nurtured through his grandfather’s calligraphy. His formal education at the Hangzhou Fine Arts Academy sparked an interest in European painting styles, which later deepened during his move to Paris in 1948 where he integrated into the French art community. Yann Hendgen, art director at the Zao Wou-Ki Foundation, explained, \"He did not want to be labeled simply as a Chinese painter or to rely on chinoiserie motifs. In Paris, he aspired to be regarded similarly to Pierre Soulages, a leading French painter and graphic artist.\" Zao Wou-Ki maintained a strong connection with Hong Kong, a city known for its fusion of East and West. M+ curator Mo Wan noted, \"In 1958, Zao taught in Hong Kong for one semester and his impact on the region’s cultural scene has been long-lasting.\" This visit was Zao’s first return to Asia since relocating to Paris, providing a renewed engagement with his cultural roots. The period following his stay in Hong Kong marked a pivotal shift towards abstraction in his artistic style. Zao Wou-Ki passed away in 2013, but this exhibition continues to celebrate his legacy and the transcendence of cultural boundaries through art.

Ellen Adarna Announces Plans to Sell Bentley Gifted by Derek Ramsay

Actress Ellen Adarna has disclosed her intention to sell the Bentley Bentayga luxury SUV that was previously gifted to her by actor Derek Ramsay as an anniversary present. In a recent interaction on Instagram, Adarna was questioned if she took the vehicle with her after their separation. She responded, \"Of course! I drove it only once when it first arrived at the village, but I never used it afterward. I don’t enjoy driving and I am not fond of expensive cars, as I consider them liabilities.\" The 37-year-old actress also revealed that the money earned from selling the car will be placed in a trust fund dedicated to their child, Liana. Additionally, Adarna shared that when she initially picked up the vehicle from the dealership, she personally covered the service charge of P65,000.

New York Knicks Secure 2025 NBA Cup with Victory Over San Antonio Spurs

In a thrilling showdown at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, the New York Knicks emerged victorious against the San Antonio Spurs, securing the 2025 NBA Cup with a 124-113 win. OG Anunoby spearheaded the Knicks’ offense, contributing 28 points and nine rebounds. His teammate Jalen Brunson was pivotal, registering 25 points and eight assists, earning him the NBA Cup MVP award. The Spurs were led by rookie Dylan Harper, who posted 21 points, while Victor Wembanyama added 18 points along with six rebounds. Despite a strong performance from San Antonio, the Knicks’ balanced attack and key plays in the second half proved decisive. The event showcased high-caliber basketball and marked a significant achievement for the Knicks in the 2025 season. "I’m proud of our team’s effort and resilience," Brunson said after the game. "Everyone stepped up when it mattered most, and this victory is a testament to our hard work." The win adds momentum for the Knicks as they look ahead to continuing their successful run in the upcoming NBA season.

Renowned Music Critic Kim Young Dae Dies at 48

Kim Young Dae, a prominent music critic known for elevating K-Pop criticism into a significant cultural discourse, has died at the age of 48, his family confirmed through his official social media channels.\n\nIn a statement, his family expressed, \"We respectfully inform you of the passing of Kim Young Dae. We apologize for not being able to contact you individually.\"\n\nHis funeral wake was conducted at Chung-Ang University Hospital, with his final resting place planned at Seoul Memorial Park.\n\nThe news of his passing came as a shock, as Kim had recently appeared on a prerecorded segment of \"Kim Hyun Jung's News Show\" and remained active on Instagram, with his last post dated December 23. On the day the announcement was made, the broadcast aired featuring Kim discussing Christmas carols.\n\nBorn in 1977, Kim Young Dae was a graduate of Yonsei University and earned his Ph.D. in music anthropology from the University of Washington. Over the years, he gained recognition for his insightful analyses and deep understanding of the music industry.\n\nKim played a vital role in transforming K-Pop criticism from mere appreciation into a broader cultural phenomenon. Since 2023, he had served as a panelist for the Grammy Awards broadcasts and was the domestic live commentator for both the Billboard Music Awards and American Music Awards. Additionally, he contributed to the Korean Music Awards selection committee and served as a judge for the MAMA Awards.\n\nHis influence stretched beyond critique, shaping perceptions of Korean music on the global stage and enriching the discourse around contemporary music culture.

Pinoy Big Brother Stars Carmelle Collado and Anton Vinzon Featured on Billboards in PH and US

Carmelle Collado and Anton Vinzon, popular housemates from "Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition 2.0," have been prominently featured on digital billboards in both the Philippines and the United States. The billboards, located at EDSA Guadalupe in Metro Manila and the renowned Times Square in New York City, highlighted memorable clips of their charming interactions inside the PBB house, known as Bahay ni Kuya. Widely recognized by the fan base as "CarTon," the duo quickly became one of the early fan-favorite couples in the current season. Their chemistry captivated audiences, particularly a moment when Anton heroically shielded Carmelle from a horror clown, creating a buzz among viewers and social media users alike. The show continues to air weekdays at 9:40 p.m., with weekend episodes on Saturdays and Sundays at 6:15 p.m., broadcast by GMA Network. This visibility further underscores CarTon's rising popularity and the strong engagement from the PBB viewership.

1st.One Announces Landmark UNA Asia Tour 2026, Expanding the Reach of P-pop

The six-member Filipino pop group 1st.One is set to make 2026 a groundbreaking year for the P-pop industry, unveiling their inaugural major regional tour: the UNA Asia Tour 2026. Comprising Ace, Max, Alpha, J, Joker, and Jayson, the group has recently garnered international acclaim, further establishing their presence on the global stage. Announcing the UNA Asia Tour generated significant excitement across social media platforms, highlighting the group's rise since their 2020 debut. The tour will include confirmed performances in Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Singapore, with additional cities yet to be disclosed. The band hinted at forthcoming details to maintain anticipation among their devoted fanbase, known as For.One. Before embarking on their ambitious regional journey, 1st.One will honor their local supporters with the All 1N Finale concert on January 18, 2026, at the SM North EDSA Skydome. This event will serve both as a celebration at home and a prelude to the international tour. This announcement follows their acclaimed appearance at the 2025 ASEAN-Korea Round Music Festival in Kuala Lumpur, where 1st.One demonstrated their capability to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Asia’s leading musical acts. Since launching their career with the hit single "You Are The One," 1st.One has steadily climbed the ranks, combining refined pop elements with a unique Filipino identity. Their upcoming tour signifies more than a series of concerts; it embodies the Philippines’ growing impact and ambition within the Asian music scene during this P-pop "Golden Era." **Key Dates and Information for Fans:** - **Local Concert:** All 1N Finale on January 18, 2026, at SM North EDSA Skydome - **Asia Tour Destinations:** Confirmed stops in Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore; more cities to be announced - **Updates:** Fans are encouraged to follow @1stoneOfficial for ticket announcements and tour news.

Bagets the Musical Revives Iconic ’80s Film with Contemporary Themes

The iconic 1980s film "Bagets" will be reimagined in a stage musical debuting on January 23, 2026, at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, offering audiences a fresh take on the coming-of-age tale. Centered on five boys—Adie, Arnel, Gilbert, Tonton, and Topee—the play promises to explore their friendship and individual journeys from a contemporary perspective. Notable cast members include Noel Comia Jr. and Tomas Rodriguez as Gilbert, KD Estrada and Ethan David as affluent Arnel, Milo Cruz and Migo Valid portraying the daring Tonton, Jeff Moses and Sam Shoaf in the role of Topee, and Mico Hendrix Chua alongside Andres Muhlach as the charming Adie. What distinguishes this adaptation is its enhanced focus on the relationships between the boys and their mothers. Actress Carla Guevara-Laforteza, who plays Virgie, Adie’s quintessential "80s working mother," explained, "While the original film concentrated on the boys, this version delves into the dynamics between the sons and their mothers. Our goal is for both mothers and children in the audience to grasp why each acts the way they do." Carla highlighted the play’s exploration of misunderstandings within family relationships, saying, "The audience will witness the complexities of miscommunication, gaining insight into both sides—why the mother might get upset and why the child might not understand her instructions." Other actresses portraying maternal figures include Neomi Gonzales as Anna, Topee’s driven single mother; Ring Antonio as Luz, Gilbert’s hardworking mom; Mayen Bustamante-Cadd as Ditas, Arnel’s affluent mother; and Kakai Bautista and Natasha Cabrera sharing the role of Delia, Tonton’s loving yet nagging mom. Playwright J-mee Katanyag and director Maribel Legarda emphasize the importance of updating the story to resonate with today’s audiences amid evolving social and cultural contexts. J-mee noted the inclusion of a female perspective alongside the original male narrative, aiming to address universal themes of growth and identity across generations. Director Maribel expressed a vision of blending humor and heartfelt storytelling, stating, "I believe a play should entertain and engage without overwhelming the audience. We want them to enjoy, laugh, and connect emotionally while reflecting on the themes presented." This updated rendition incorporates additional scenes that highlight the mothers’ roles, reflecting on contemporary values and political correctness. Maribel added, "Our challenge is to balance the cherished elements of the past with necessary adjustments for the present." "Bagets the Musical" is a collaborative production by Newport World Resorts, VIVA Communications, and others. Tickets are now available through the Newport World Resorts box office, Ticketworld, and Ticket2Me, with prices ranging from P1,000 to P4,000 across various seating options. For inquiries, patrons may contact 7908-8888.