When Alden Richards recently celebrated his 26th birthday on Jan. 2, the “Pambansang Bae” had only one wish.
“I really hope and pray that hate will no longer prevail in the hearts of people. I do believe that when we remove hate in our system, things will become bright and positive. Especially that it’s a fresh start for all of us, we should be grateful for all the blessings that we received the previous year and of course, in the coming days,” he says.
The prized Kapuso heartthrob looks forward to a fruitful Year of the Dog.
“I feel that 2018 will be big for everyone. We just have to remain focused and positive. Our happiness depends on our actions. Actually, I received a timely text message, which is related to this thought. It said: ‘Do more of whatever makes you happy!’ Makes sense, right?”
In spite of this positive stance, the handsome lad couldn’t help but get emotional when he remembers his late mom during his birthday.
“She passed away in 2008. As a holiday present, my cousin gave me an old video of one of my Christmases with my mother. I think it was 20 years ago. Of course, I felt happy because it was the first time ever that I saw that video since her demise. In fact, my dad uploaded it on social media. It definitely brought warmth into my heart.”
In remembering his late mother Rosario, it’s obvious that the popular matinee idol is very close to her.
“Every day, I always talk to her. I pray and tell her that how I wish she were still here to witness and experience whatever success I enjoy right now. I’m grateful that she has given me life. Because of her, I am able to touch many people’s lives by entertaining them. So, every day, I never fail to communicate with her and tell her that I love her as she is part of all these,” ends Alden.
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At 84 years old, Gloria Romero is so grateful that she’s still active in show business.
“Oh, yes I am!” she avers. “I’m very thankful to God for giving me a fulfilling life as an artist. I’ve been in the ‘biz for more than six decades already. Not every actor is given this rare opportunity. I’m just happy that at this point, I remain as your Gandang Lola. Ha-ha-ha!”
As 2018 ushered in, the quintessential movie queen is visible on screen with her two currently running shows for GMA.
“First, I have Daig Kayo ng Lola Ko, which is doing well. I’m also in the cast of Kambal Karibal with Bianca Umali and Miguel Tanfelix.
“It’s heart warming to know that they still don’t want me to retire. I thank the Kapuso management for always including me in their programs. I’m grateful that despite my age, I can still memorize long lines. It’s such a blessing really.
“For one, I still want to work with old colleagues and the new blood as well, like Carmina (Villaroel) whom I worked with in Palibhasa Lalake for the longest time before. I think she was only 12 then. Look at her now! She has a happy family with Zoren (Legaspi) already. It’s a joy to work with her again in Kambal Karibal now.
“This also holds true in the case of Miguel and Bianca. I worked with them in Niño years ago. They were just babies then. But now, they’re grown-ups. I feel happy to be working with them again in this show.”
Apart from television, Tita Glo was also seen in the recent 2017 MMFF entry Ang Panday top-billed by Coco Martin.
“Actually, I was surprised to learn that Coco originally had me in mind to play the role of his grandmother in the said flick. He really went out of his way to get my services and adjusted to my schedule since I have regular taping loads. I enjoyed our set mainly because Coco is so respectful to his co-workers especially a veteran like me. I admire him for that.”
At this point, the award-winning actress couldn’t ask for more when it comes to her showbiz life.
“I’m simply blessed! I just wish that I’ll continue to be healthy in order to continue being active in the scene,” Tita Glo states.