The Kapamilya fever around the world grows even stronger as ABS-CBN programs prove to be a hit not only among Filipinos but among other nations as well.

Recently, “Pangako sa ‘Yo” aired on China’s national television and rated second over all local and foreign programs airing in the country. Ten years after Filipinos became so attached to the Kristine Hermosa-Jericho Rosales tandem, the classic teleserye still appealed to the Chinese audience and even hit the Top 30 list in the national weekly ranking, covering over 2,000 channels and capturing 1.3 billion viewers.

Prior to China, the love story of Angelo Buenavista and Yna Macaspac have mesmerized people in Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Cambodia and even Africa. As Cambodian Nai Hiu Mei recounts, “The teleserye, broadcasted here with Khmer dubbing, was so popular that many Cambodian babies are named Angelo.” The Times of Zambia writer Meluse Kapatamoyo wrote, “The series has become a topic of discussion among families, friends and even neighbors who daily ponder on how the show would end.” René Lötter of One Africa Television has even said, “When is Pangako sa’Yo coming back?’ I wish I could get a dollar each time I get that question. From teenager to grandma, from household organizers to tax consultant – it’s gripped people across all genders.”

Aside from “Pangako sa ‘Yo” (known internationally as “The Promise”), several other homegrown entertainment programs have been brought to a broader global audience through the pioneering efforts of ABS-CBN Global’s International Sales and Distribution (ISD).

Carried by the biggest state television broadcaster in mainland China, “Ikaw ang Lahat sa Akin” (a.k.a. “Only You”) aired on primetime, alongside “Pangako sa ‘Yo”. Meanwhile, “Sana Maulit Muli” (a.k.a. “Chances”), “Maging Sino Ka Man” (a.k.a. “More Than Love”) and “Gulong ng Palad” (a.k.a. “Stand for Love”) are expected to be aired in the Republic soon.

Also earning international recognition worldwide is the Angel Locsin-Piolo Pascual starrer “Lobo” (a.k.a. “She-Wolf: The Last Sentinel”). In the recently concluded 2009 International Emmy® Awards, “She-Wolf” was recognized for the stellar performance of Angel Locsin who received a nomination for Best Performance by an Actress. This recognition is second for the show, which won the Best Telenovela award at the 30th BANFF World Television Festival in Toronto, Canada last year. Currently, the program is enjoying wide viewership in Brunei and is anticipated to be released to other countries in Indo-China, Asia, Europe and Africa this year.

ABS-CBN shows are subtitled and dubbed in several languages, including English, Turkish, Khmer, Mandarin, and French.

One of the programs dubbed in French is “Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay” (a.k.a. “La Longue Attente” in French and “The Long Wait” in English) which will cater to French-speaking viewers in Africa and Europe. According to International Sales and Distribution Head Reena Garingan, ABS-CBN programs sell so well because they resonate to the African audience. “Our writers, directors and actors are able to capture real-life experiences on screen. Our stories show pain and suffering but in the end, give viewers a glimpse of hope. As we demonstrate that obstacles and fear may be overcome, we help mend the broken African spirit,” Garingan said.

For more than a decade, ISD has been the premier source of top quality programs from the Philippines, making ABS-CBN Global the first and the biggest Philippine content distributor in North America, Europe, Australia and Asia-Pacific and the leading Asian distributor in Africa.

Through ISD, Kapamilya shows have become so popular among non-Filipinos that ABS-CBN is now regarded as a market mover and thought leader in the field of broadcasting in Africa. In fact, Garingan recently attended a content and distribution forum to speak in front of leading journalists and broadcasters in Africa and discuss the social and ethical responsibilities of media professionals.

Indeed, ABS-CBN has made its mark in the global market. Through the efforts of ABS-CBN Global’s International Sales and Distribution group, homegrown Pinoy entertainment has been given a chance to shine on the global stage.

(Click here to see all ABS-CBN programs being aired in other countries)

Bong Osorio, head of ABS-CBN Corporate Communications, released a short statement regarding reports that Piolo Pascual is allegedly planning to transfer to GMA-7.

Osorio sent this short message to Starmometer this afternoon:

Piolo Pascual is happy as an exclusive contract artist of ABS-CBN. Star Magic is amused with stories of Piolo sending feelers to rival networks. He has a full line up of television projects with ABS-CBN and any movement is currently out of the question.

The full trailer of “Babe, I Love You” starring Sam Milby and Anne Curtis has been released.

In this Star Cinema and Viva Films co-production, Sam Milby will be playing the role of a teacher who will eventually meet and fall for a model-promo girl played by Anne Curtis.

Under the direction of Mae Czarina, “Babe, I Love You” will open in theaters on April 3, 2010.

Watch the full trailer here:

American Idol unveiled its twelve finalists last night, with a last round of four eliminations that TIME Magazine calls “questionable” and “insane.”

The four contestants who missed the cut were Todrick Hall, Katelyn Epperly, Lilly Scott and Alex Lambert. Todrick and Katelyn’s exit were kinda expected but the elimination of Lilly and Alex shocked Idol fans and critics. Many believed both Lilly and Alex were strong contenders for the title since they have something new to offer but now they’re gone.

But the show must go on. Here are your Final 12 America (and the rest of the world):

AARON KELLY

ANDREW GARCIA

CASEY JAMES

CRYSTAL BOWERSOX

DIDI BENAMI

KATIE STEVENS

LACEY BROWN

LEE DEWYZE

MICHAEL LYNCHE

PAIGE MILES

SIOBHAN MAGNUS

TIM URBAN

In celebration of its 10th year anniversary, FHM Philippines has come up with a list of 25 Sexiest Women of the Decade.

Considered in the list were all female celebrities who graced the cover of FHM Philippines from 1990 to 2010.

This month’s issue of FHM Philippines, Bangs Garcia and Iwa Moto are featured in the double cover and both girls made it to the list.

Here is the list of 25 Sexiest Women of the Decade (in random order):

1. Cristine Reyes
2. Katrina Halili
3. Angelica Panganiban
4. Assunta de Rossi
5. Dina Bonnevie
6. Bianca King
7. Iwa Moto
8. Diana Zubiri
9. Valerie Concepcion
10. Rufa Mae Quinto
11. Cindy Kurleto
12. Sunshine Cruz
13. Ehra Madrigal
14. Patricia Javier
15. Cristina Garcia
16. Angel Locsin
17. Eula Valdes
18. Jean Garcia
19. Joyce Jimenez
20. The Viva Hot Babes (Maui Taylor, Katya Santos, and Asia Agcaoili)
21. Francine Prieto
22. Maureen Larrazabal
23. Jackie Rice
24. Aubrey Miles
25. Bangs Garcia

GMA-7 aims to introduce a new trend in Philippine TV viewing with the premiere of Pepito Manaloto, its first reality sitcom that will air its pilot episode on March 20.

The first-ever reality-sitcom is an original concept of one of GMA-7’s prime comedians, creative director and Asian TV Awards three-time best comedy actor recipient Michael V, who will portray the amusing character of Pepito Manaloto.

Joining Michael V in this unique program are Carmina Villaroel, Manilyn Reynes, Ronnie Henares, John Fier and Joshua Pineda, with the special participation of veteran actor Freddie Webb.

Under the direction of Bert de Leon, this side-splitting reality-sitcom tells the story of Pepito Manaloto (Michael V), an poor man who simply dreams of providing a comfortable life for his wife Elsa (Manilyn Reynes) and only son Jonjon (Joshua Pineda). He is a cool and a trustworthy friend for his best friend Patrick (John Fier).

Just like everyone, Pepito dreams of becoming rich and famous. He dreams of winning the lottery and become an instant multimillionaire someday. So he religiously bets in the national lottery, hoping his dream would come true.

Little did Pepito know that his simple and underprivileged life significantly changes when he becomes the lone winner of P700 million in the national lottery!

The new multimillionaire then meets Maricar (Carmina Villaroel), an alluring and sophisticated woman who volunteers to manage Pepito’s new found wealth. Pepito’s new assistant will also introduce him to the glamorous world of the rich and famous. But who is Maricar? Can Pepito really trust this beautiful stranger? And what will be Pepito’s relation to financial analyst Tommy Diones (Ronnie Henares) who will end up being the multimillionaire’s enemy?

Undoubtedly, many Filipinos can relate to Pepito’s sudden reversal of fortune. Pinoys would certainly desire Pepito’s rags-to-riches story. But what does an instant multimillionaire do with his newly acquired wealth? Can Pepito handle the instant fame and fortune? Can they stand and live up to the glamorous lifestyle of the elite?

The hilarious reactions of Pepito and his family in situations, places and everything that are new to them will surely keep viewers laughing.

Welcome Pepito Manaloto into your homes beginning March 20 after Pinoy Records on GMA-7’s Sabado Star Power.

Star Cinema’s post-Valentine’s offering, “Miss You Like Crazy,” raked in P114.7 million in two weeks based on the latest report of Box Office Mojo.

The John Lloyd Cruz and Bea Alonzo-starrer is the first Philippine movie to surpass the P100 million bracket for this year.

According to Mico del Rosario of Star Cinema, they are hoping that the film will surpass the P150 million bracket in its entire run.

It’s a very good record for John Lloyd Cruz because since 2007, he hasn’t starred in a movie that earned below P100 million. His films (except for cameos) “One More Chance,” “A Very Special Love,” “You Changed My Life,” “In My Life,” and now “Miss You Like Crazy” have all been box office hits.

Here’s the Philippine box office tally for the opening weekend of March 3-7, 2010 by Box Office Mojo (premiering movies are highlighted in yellow):

If Sam Milby topbills Folded and Hung’s 2010 summer collection for men, Angel Locsin on the other hand, heralds the release of the apparel’s Mediterranean-inspired collection for women.

Images courtesy of Folded and Hung.

Folded and Hung, one of the country’s trendiest apparel brand, released its Mediterranean-inspired 2010 summer collection for men with Sam Milby as model.

For high-resolution images, click here.

Images courtesy of Folded and Hung.

During the Point of View segment of The Buzz‘ this afternoon, Ruffa Gutierrez got pissed off by Kris Aquino’s tackless remarks about her transfer to TV5.

Right before they close the Point of View segment on The Buzz’ March 7 episode, Kris Aquino made a surprising remark on Ruffa.

“Ruffa, aminin mo. Ibang level ang saya dito,” Kris said.

Ruffa answered back, “Well, i know, you don’t have to rub it in Kris. Syempre I’m sad din, sana wag mo naman, you know, dagdagan.”

Boy Abunda butted in: “We run in circles, we run in circles, we don’t say goodbye.”

Then Kris made another remark: “Ruffa ano ka ba, we’re neighbors!”

Then Ruffa became speechless. As Boy hinted for a commercial break, Ruffa walked out from the table.

According to PEP’s scoopbox, Ruffa Gutierrez was not able to finish The Buzz because her mom, Annabelle Rama, pulled her out from the show.

Watch the video here:

UPDATE: Apparently, Ruffa’s mom Annabelle Rama issued a strong statement on Showbiz Central regarding the Ruffa-Kris incident on The Buzz. Watch the video here.

The coronation night of Bb. Pilipinas 2010 happened Saturday night at the Araneta Coliseum with slightly delayed telecast via GMA-7.

21-year-old Bicolana beauty, Maria Venus Raj (#10, center), was chosen as Bb. Pilipinas-Universe. She stands 5′9.

20-year-old former Miss USA-Philippines winner, Krista Mae Arrieta Kleiner (#11, 2nd from left), was selected as Bb. Pilipinas-International. Best known as Krissa Mae, this Psychology grad already appeared in various GMA programs such as Gagambino, Obra, Gobingo and Darna. She’s the girlfriend of RnB Prince Jay-R.

19-year-old Czarina Catherine Gatbonton (#11, 2nd from right) was assigned the Bb. Pilipinas-World title. Considered as the black horse among the finalists, Czarina was the only one who answered the question and answer segment in tagalog.

1st Runner Up honor went to Diane Necio (#22, rightmost) while the 2nd Runner Up honor went to Miss Photogenic Helen Nicolette Henson (#18, leftmost).

Images courtesy of OPMB.

Other contestants who made the cut were:

Mariella Castillo (#1), Gwendoline Ruais (#13), Mary Ann Ross Misa (#14), Rose Ann Aguilar (#17) and Kate Princess Alimurong (#19).

SPECIAL AWARDS:

Best in Swimsuit – Krista Mae Arrieta Kleiner
Best in Long Gown – Maria Venus Raj
Miss Photogenic – Helen Nicolette Henson
Best in Regional Terno – Maria Venus Raj
Best in Talent – Krista Mae Arrieta Kleiner
Miss Friendship (tie) – Maria Venus Raj and Kate Princess Alimurong
Miss Philippine Airlines – Helen Nicolette Henson
Miss Del Monte Fit ‘N Right – Helen Nicolette Henson
Manila Bulletin Readers’ Choice – Czarina Catherine Gatbonton
Texters’ Choice Award – Laurese Ann Caparas
Araneta Center Shoppers’ Choice – Selena Alexis Antonio

A spin-off from the MMFF box office movie “Ang Darling Kong Aswang” is about to air on TV5.

The sitcom is called “My Darling Aswang” and it’s Vic Sotto’s second program with TV5 after “Who Wants to be a Millionaire.”

Bossing’s leading lady in the said sitcom is Brazilian model Daiana Menezes. Daiana is one of the hosts of the noontime show Eat Bulaga!. She is well-known for her funny Tagalog accent, dubbed the “Brazilian Singing Sensation. She also appeared in Bitoy’s Funniest Videos and the TV5 teen drama Lipgloss.

Vic Sotto and Daiana Menezes will start shooting “My Darling Aswang” on Monday.