Trivia:
Many were surprised, awed when after decades of absence erstwhile singer-actress Helen Gamboa who was better known as the Dancing Queen of the ‘60s performed anew. That was at the tribute of TV show Eat Bulaga for her husband senator Tito Sotto’s birthday. Helen amazed the viewers with incomparable terpsichorean forte while belting ditties with the Broadway Boys, the singing group of the said program.
Did you know that prior to her showbiz life Helen was a coed at Santa Isabel College? Fate altered her path when she joined, bagged the title Miss Press Photography of the Philippines. Subsequently, Larry Santiago Productions and Lea outfit handed Helen lead roles in musical comedy films where she displayed her skills in singing and dancing. Among her blockbuster starrers were Operation Discoteque and Bang Shang Alang.
In passing, Helen’s closest writer-chum the late Ched Gonzales happened to be my intimate friend. Oftentimes, Ched tagged me along on going to Helen. Her digs then at Macopa st., La Loma, Q.C. was a stone’s throw from my place in Don Manuel st. From that time, Helen impressed this writer not only by her talents but more so, out of her inherent goodness as a person. Both of us eventually opened up with our personal problems.
Later, Helen and song writer-composer and actor Tito became lovebirds. One time, my pal who was Tito’s neighbor at his old digs near the Manila Medical Center area contacted me. He excitedly reported about the news that Tito and Helen eloped which I wrote as a scoop in my tabloid column.
Actually, Helen did not take it against me but Tito seemed disappointed, having treated me coldly, ignored my presence every time we bumped into each other. Whatever, their romance ended with marriage, harmonious relationships. At times. Helen still appeared in the movies. She got the chance to prove her prowess in heavy dramatic roles that paved a way for her best actress award and acting nominations.
Truth to tell, when political career tapped Tito, Helen called me up with these words. “I know you have a gap with Tito but for my sake, I hope you would vote and campaign for him.” Of course, our endearment to each other prevailed.
Through Helen, this writer met for the first time her niece Sharon Cuneta who was then in her pre-teen years. Helen requested Sharon to show her singing acumen to us. At her tender age, we augured Sharon would reach the top level which she achieved as the phenomenal megastar.
Carlo, Angelica: Renewed Lovers?
Diehard followers of Angelica Panganiban and Carlo Aquino advert to the duo as lovers anew. They claim that aside from being seen together after years of break up, Carlo even brought his parents at the digs of Angelica. When he was abroad, Carlo left his pet car under her care which is tantamount to renewed closeness.
However, Angelica emasculates such expectation by telling the press people Carlo has yet to court her. She simply grinned if she anticipates love for him to ignite. Nevertheless, Angelica’s loveless these days, so she avers
Nora, Gina Mourn Director’s Demise
TV, Movie director William Thayes jr. passed away at the age of 49. The star of his Onanay TV series Nora Aunor and his co-director Gina Alajar mourn his untimely death. It was Gina who rushed him at the Capitol Medical Center when he collapsed at the set.
To recall, William had unexpected accomplishment then when the Hollywood producer of Bourne Legacy chose him to be its assistant megger during the movie’s filming in the Philippines. Thus, William became in demand both in the flicks and boob tube programs.
Negative Comment on Willie
Some critics contravene the statement of Willie Revillame about a certain syndicate scamming people from all places who crave to watch his TV show Wowowin. The victims could join the contests in the said program, surely to get prizes in exchange of a certain amount of money. Willie denounced it, saying there’s investigation undergoing.
In this light, the negative comment on Willie boils down to this accusation. “nagpapabango lang ng image kasi he’ll enter politics or simply a put on action to impress voters.” However, Willie’s camp replied with audacity. “Frankly, because of the misdoing in Wowowin, Willie has changed his mind. He will no longer fight in the political arena. He would stick to Wowowin to protect it from any scam for that matter.” Oh well, let’s see what transpires come 2019 election.
Aga, Charlene Proud of Alyssa
Whether Alyssa Muhlach Alvarez wins or loses the Miss World Philippines title, her uncle Aga Muhlach’s so proud of her. Alyssa’s mom Almira is Aga’s sibling. Her dad Bong Alvarez used to be a famous basketball player. For Alyssa the best advice to her came from Aga’s wife Charlene Gonzales who was a Miss Universe runner up.
“She keeps telling me to be myself and to speak what’s in my heart and mind. I’m thankful to the couple for their support as ever.” Alyssa was quoted to say.
Incidentally, many prod Alyssa to join showbiz for pellucid beauty and talent. At the moment she seems not focus about it, with other priorities to ponder about.
Richard Joins Politics
Reportedly, after six years of pondering actor Richard Yap finally decided to try politics. Latest news has it he’ll run for congressman in Cebu city North District 2019. Richard who’s a successful businessman gained fame as Jodi Sta. Maria’s love team in the TV series Be Careful with my Heart and reunited in the just concluded romantic-drama Sana Dalawa ang Puso.
Heard that Richard has always handed bulwark act to co-Cebuanos, especially to the needy ones and thankful to politician-pals who abet him to serve the government. If ever, Richard won’t close the door to showbiz life.
Veteran Singers Inspiring Stories
During the press con for their concert in Toronto, Zsa Zsa Padilla, Kuh Ledesma, Mitch Valdes and Nanette Inventor shared the ups and downs that beckoned them. Their stories of struggles, coping with tedious challenges and eventually emerging victorious are truly inspirational, especially to new crop of warblers this generation. Their bottom line, patience and determination would be the key to success.
Incidentally, thanks to Beverly Vergel and Chiqui Pineda for inviting me in the confab. Congrats also to the talented singers and the people behind the show for making the huge crowds to truly enjoy the concert to the hilt.
Fil-Canadian Singer A Viva Records Artist Now
Former vet writer-line producer Lita Francisco who’s based in Calgary relayed that Fil-Canadian Annie Lux, a song writer singer is now Viva Records artist. Annie successfully launched her song-video titled Honey for Viva. Her mom used to be the personal nurse of Lita. Among the movie outfits Lita was line producer then were ABS-CBN’s Star Cinema and Viva Films.
Blind Item:
Since a lovely personality quit as a co-host of a TV show, ditsy speculations went around the bush. Allegedly, the main male host got irked because she jilted him which caused her sudden exit from the program. Others surmised that her co-workers found her unpleasant to deal with and made the move to oust her.
In retaliation, she quipped all the talks are egregious, untrue. “I had nice relationships with all of them. I’ve to settle personal difficulties so I decided to leave the show. But happy to know, they would welcome me back.” She buttressed.
Spicy Tidbit:
The pernicious tiff of Jake Cyrus (Charice Pempengco) and his (or her?) mom Raquel resurfaced out of the content of Jake’ book I Am Jake. Raquel was described as evil queen and abusive mother. Raquel replied via her facebook that only mentally deranged would buy the book for the author is out of her mind too. People around the two, however, haven’t given up for the mom-child reconciliation.
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