After the critical and commercial success of his movie Die Beautiful (one of the top-grossers in the recently-concluded Metro Manila Film Festival and won for him the Best Actor plum), Paolo Ballesteros said that he has numerous movie projects for 2017.
“I’m really happy with this turn of event. Die Beautiful opened doors of opportunities for me. I’ll forever be grateful to said project,” he said.
Many say he became more popular because of the movie.
“Well, thank you! I tend to think that my role as Trisha made the viewing public rediscover my acting side. That apart from my wacky antics in Eat Bulaga’s ‘Kalye-serye’, I can also be a serious actor. So, if I became more popular due to the movie, it’s my honor.”
Personally, is there a particular type of movie that he wants to appear in?
“Actually, there’s a lot I want to venture into. For one, I love to do a musical or anything that has singing in it. I really want to perform. I would also like to try news-casting. I think it’s challenging to do. I know that there’s still a lot that I can offer or give the audience so, I hope and pray that there will be projects like that in the coming days.”
Pao admits he has already chosen his next big screen project.
“Yes! I’ve already accepted an offer. I like the material, but as of now, I cannot spill out the details. In the coming days, you guys will know.”
In spite of this, the talented star reiterates that “Eat Bulaga” remains to be his top priority.
“Of course! I have to report daily to ‘EB’ before I can shoot. I told the producers who are interested to get my services that we have to work our way around that,” ends Paolo.
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Kris Bernal confirms her decision to remain as a Kapuso following her earlier pronouncement that she wants to have a new manager and move to another network.
“Actually, we had a one-year negotiation of my contract, the reason why I wasn’t visible and didn’t have a regular show then. During this period, I had the chance to talk with other managers, networks and people for advice,” she says.
People are curious as to what made her think of leaving her mother studio initially.
“Well, it’s like I’m 27 years old and I thought I was already in the position to make decisions for myself including my career. I wanted to try other options to maximize my artistic capabilities. But eventually, I chose to stick with GMA mainly because I believe in them. In my heart, there’s that certainty that they’ll still be the one to bring out the best in me.”
The petite actress wants to clarify that she didn’t announce her plan to move to another station in an attempt to ask for a higher talent fee.
“That’s not true! To be honest, I’m not really after the money nor the fame. They’re just bonus factors. My main consideration is to improve my craft since acting is my passion. That’s it.”
Based on what she knows, her next project for GMA is an afternoon drama series.
“Yes! From what I’ve heard, it’s a fantasy drama where I will play a dual role. This early, I’m already excited to start with the project!” Kris states.
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The Kapisanan ng Mga Artista sa Pelikulang Pilipino at Telebisyon (KAPPT) has a new president in the person of Asia’s Sentimental Songstress Imelda Papin. She replaces Rez Cortez.
“This is a new challenge for me,” says Mel. “It’s an honor to be the first woman president of the Actors’ Guild. I know that it’s not an easy post but I’m up for it armed with the confidence from my colleagues when they voted for me.”
The veteran singer is aware that there are some who don’t like her for the position, citing that she’s not active anymore as an actress.
“Well, it’s just normal. I’ve been Vice-Governor of Camarines Sur, remember? Things like this are inevitable in politics. But of course, you should prove your detractors wrong and show them your real worth. At the end of the day, it’s still your good and clean intention to serve that would matter.
“When it comes to my qualification, I would like to point out that before I made it big as a recording star, I was already acting in movies, like Tagisan ng Lakas, King of the Dragon, They Call Me Trinity and Batang Bicol. At the height of my singing career, I did Mahal, Saan Ka Nanggaling Kagabi with showbiz royalties Ms. Susan Roces and the late Fernando Poe, Jr.. I also starred in Pag-ibig, Bakit Ka Ganyan? along with then ‘70s matinee idol Roel Vergel de Dios.”
Asked about her immediate programs for the guild, Imelda reveals, “I would like to introduce the cooperative for our stars. It will be a big help especially to those small players. Also, I would like to push for the members to have SSS contribution and Health Card for their protection. To promote camaraderie among the stars, I plan to revive as well the Star Olympics.”