Twenty-four years old registered nurse Gregory Paulo Llamoso surprised everyone when he entered the PGT stage with his striking resemblance to the international singing sensation. He may have Billy’s looks but does he have Billy’s world class talent? This season, PGT went to almost 80 cities and municipalities in search for distinct, world-class Pinoy acts.

Find out if Gregory makes the cut this Saturday (Aug 27) in “Pilipinas Got Talent,” 9 PM, hosted by Luis Manzano and Billy Crawford, on ABS-CBN. It also airs Sundays at 8:30 PM.

Billy Crawford Look-Alike Auditions on ‘Pilipinas Got Talent’ originally appeared on Starmometer on August 27, 2011.

A blind girl playing the piano, brothers tapdancing on regular leather shoes, a girl circling hoola hoops simultaneously around her body, and a brass band composed of 70 members altogether on one stage.

These are only some of the acts to watch out for as Pinoys once again show the world what they’ve got in the highly-anticipated second season of the biggest nationwide talent-reality show “Pilipinas Got Talent” premiering this Saturday (Feb 26) on ABS-CBN.

The search is on once more for that world-class act worthy of winning the P2 million cash prize and getting that once-in-a-lifetime shot at stardom just like PGT season one grand winner Jovit Baldivino, who is now living the dream and making a mark in the industry with his music.

As PGT returns on air, so are its wacky hosts Luis Manzano and Billy Crawford’s who are both very excited to get back on stage and do the show all over again.

“I am extremely happy. We all know how much people supported the first season so it’s a good feeling doing the same thing all over with Billy boy,” said Luis.

Big 3 judges Queen of all Media Kris Aquino, Comedy Concert Queen Ai Ai Delas Alas, and former ABS-CBN President Freddie M. Garcia a.k.a. FMG are also back to decide who makes the cut and who among the acts deserve to be in the grand finals.

When asked what advice they can give to season two hopefuls, Kris said “This is a God-given chance. It’s a chance to perform for the entire nation. Ibigay mo na ang lahat dahil minsan lang dumadating ang ganito kalaking oportunidad.”

“Mataas ang pressure ngayon dahil dapat kabugin niya ang season one. Kung dati binuhay niyo ang katawang lupa ko, ngayon mas buhayin niyo pa ang kaluluwa ko,” added Ai Ai.

FMG also encouraged hopefuls to be braver and bolder than ever and prove that they are truly the best as he expects the competition to be on the next level this time around. “Mas technical ang judging ngayon. It’s a totally different show because it’s a variety show. You really don’t know what to expect. I think that is the beauty of PGT.”

“Pilipinas Got Talent” is indeed one of the most successful and most watched talent-reality show on Philippine TV that catapulted its first ever grand winner Jovit to stardom. Since he won June last year, Jovit already released two albums under Star Records, the first one hitting the Platinum record mark, and was able to stage his first major concert at the Music Museum.

More doors also opened for other PGT season one grand finalists who are also doing well on their respective fields.

Don’t miss the much-awaited return of “Pilipinas Got Talent” this Saturday (Feb 26) and Sunday (Feb 27), 8:45 PM on ABS-CBN.

Pilipinas Got Talent Season 2 Premieres this Saturday originally appeared on Starmometer on February 25, 2011.

The funky dance moves and hot performances from Billy Crawford will fill three nights of September (11, 18 and 25) with oomph as the International RnB/Pop singing sensation heats up Music Museum with his concert entitled “25 B.C.” in celebration of his 25th anniversary in the entertainment industry.

Billy has reached heights some performers have not yet set foot on. He has topped international charts in Holland, Belgium, France and Switzerland, selling almost two million records and also bagged the “International Male Artist of The Year” last 2003 in the NRJ Music Awards in Cannes, France. As he celebrates his 25th year in show business, Billy is still in pursuit for excellence in everything he does.

Currently an ASAP XV mainstay, ‘Panahon Ko ‘To’ host, and a certified multi-awarded recording artist with seven successful albums and dozens of hit songs, Billy is indeed ready for a full blast concert. Produced by ASAP Live!, “25 B.C.” will take you to a non-stop groovin’ and bumpin’ experience as Billy ignites the stage with his signature moves and chart-busters songs.

Billy’s latest album entitled “Groove,” recently reached the gold-record benchmark.

Billy’s early steps to stardom started when he was discovered at the age of three and instantly became part of a popular variety show at that time.

Move to the beat as International Pop/RnB Sensation Billy Crawford celebrates his 25 prolific years in the industry via ASAP Live and ALV Events International-produced concert, “25 B.C.” For tickets, call Ticket World at 891-9999. Tickets prices are Php 2,000, Php 1,600 and Php 800.

Billy Crawford Heats Up Music Museum originally appeared on Starmometer on August 26, 2010.

…But one thing not many people know about him is that he is an ardent volunteer in a foundation for street children.

Catch Billy wear his heart of gold in his sleeve to talk about his secret passion to help this Saturday (August 7) on “Kulilits.”

Like Billy, the kids of “Kulilits” Bugoy Cariño, Chacha Cañete, and Izzy Canillo will also show how kids can show initiative to help others by signing up for Red Cross, volunteering in their communities, and taking care of animals.

Join your children in another fun and lesson-rich episode on “Kulilits,” this Saturday (August 7), 9:30pm before “Showtime” on ABS-CBN.

Billy Crawford Reveals a Secret originally appeared on Starmometer on August 6, 2010.

“Panahon Ko ‘To! Ang Game Show ng Buhay Ko” is an all-original Filipino trivia game show conceptualized by the creative team of ABS-CBN.

Luis and Billy are excited for this game show because it’s new and it’s Philippine-made.

Billy said that the game show will cover eras from 1960s to 2000. On the other hand, Luis revealed that the game show will have group contestants whose members have different ages.

“‘[The Game Show] Very versatile. [Para] sa buong pamilya at mga barkada din. It’s reminiscing the old times at saka historical din,” Billy added.

“Para sa amin nakakatuwa kasi it brings back the memories,” Luis said.

Panahon Ko ‘To! Ang Game Show ng Buhay Mo is set to premiere this month. The teasers for the game show are currently being shown from time to time.

Luis Manzano and Billy Crawford to Host ‘Panahon Ko ‘To! Ang Game Show ng Buhay Ko’ originally appeared on Starmometer on June 18, 2010.

It’s “Youth Power” in Meg Magazine’s June issue featuring Meg’s Young Achievers Chris Cayzer, Nico Salva, Christine and Angelo Patrimonio, Rosanna Aranaz and more. Hot topics covered this issue are Teen Pregnancy, Open Relationships and One Night Stands.

The 12th year anniversary issue of MEG has Pilipinas Got Talent hosts Luis Manzano and Billy Crawford on the cover together with their co-Human endorser Belle Daza.

MEG June 2010 issue is now available nationwide wherever magazines are sold.

Billy Crawford, Belle Daza & Luiz Manzano – MEG June 2010 originally appeared on Starmometer on June 2, 2010.

NO. 36: SAM YG – a Magic 89.9 DJ and host of tv programs “Diz is it,” “Tweet Biz” and “Eat Bulaga!” He is of Indian descent but 100% Filipino at heart. He is a new entry in our Top 100.

NO. 37: RAFAEL ROSELL – a Filipino-Norwegian kapamilya actor and model. He recently appeared in the tv soap Precious Hearts Romances Presents The Substitute Wife and the movie Working Girls 2010. He will soon star in Precious Hearts Romances Presents Midnight Phantom and Kristine Series. He ranked no. 13 in 2007, no. 22 in 2008 and no. 30 in 2009.

NO. 38: JC TIUSECO – a kapuso actor, basketball player, TV host & model. He became a household name, when he made the selection for the final 16 castaways and more so after being hailed as the “Sole Survivor” in the very first season of the Philippine version of the reality television series Survivor. He is set to star in the soap “Langit sa Piling Mo.” He ranked no. 7 in 2009.

NO. 39: BILLY CRAWFORD – A Filipino international recording artist and host. He is currently seen on ASAP XV and Pilipinas Got Talent. He ranked no. 10 in 2007, no. 43 in 2008 and no. 38 in 2009.

NO. 40: RYAN AGONCILLO – He is an actor, model, and TV host who conquered the kapamilya, kapuso and kapatid networks. He is currently seen in the top-rating “Talentadong Pinoy,” “P05″ and “Eat Bulaga!” He ranked no. 36 in 2007, no. 51 in 2008 and no. 36 in 2009.

41. Matteo Guidicelli
42. Jason Abalos
43. Victor Basa
44. Will Devaughn
45. Paul Jake Castillo
46. Rocco Nancino
47. Tom Rodriguez
48. Jay-R
49. Drew Arellano
50. Polo Ravales
51. Mark Bautista
52. Guji Lorenzana
53. Robin Padilla
54. Kiko Rustia
55. Atom Araullo
56. Wendell Ramos
57. Mark Herras
58. Carl Guevarra
59. AJ Perez
60. Johan Santos
61. Steven Silva
62. Paulo Avelino
63. Alfred Vargas
64. Ian Batherson
65. Richard Poon
66. Dino Imperial
67. Joross Gamboa
68. John Estrada
69. Enzo Pineda
70. Rico Blanco
71. Manuel Chua
72. Van Victor Leano
73. Oyo Sotto
74. James Yap
75. Paolo Bediones
76. Geoff Taylor
77. Simon Atkins
78. John Prats
79. Marvin Kiefer
80. Borgy Manotoc
81. Marco Alcaraz
82. Marvin Agustin
83. Chris Cayzer
84. Raph Almeda
85. Bong Revilla
86. Hermes Bautista
87. Marco Morales
88. Rovilson Fernandez
89. Alvin Alfonso
90. Jason Francisco
91. Andre Endique
92. Jiro “Kenji” Shirakawa
93. Ivan Dorschner
94. Adel Tamano
95. Jaco Benin
96. Lem Pelayo
97. Rocky Salumbides
98. Markki Stroem
99. Michael Manansala
100. Alvin de Joya

The finals of RP’s Sexiest Men 2010 are ongoing. 16 male celebrities are left vying for the title. To vote, click HERE.

RP’s Sexiest Men of 2010 – Nos. 36 to 40 originally appeared on Starmometer on May 1, 2010.

True to his title Asian Pop Idol, Christian Bautista recently wowed top-level executives from Southeast Asia’s leading broadcasting companies after he sung the song “Please be Careful with my Heart” in Bahasa (Indonesian language) together with singer Karylle.

Their remarkable duet capped the appreciation dinner sponsored by ABS-CBN, led by chairman and CEO Eugenio Lopez III and president and COO Charo Santos-Concio, for visiting members of the SMART Alliance, an organization of Southeast Asian networks intended to collaborate on content, sales and marketing, and technology.

Other than Christian, international sensation Billy Crawford and real-life girlfriend Nikki Gil also graced the night and rendered a duet singing the classic hit “You’ve Got a Friend.” The two also served as hosts for the event.

Meanwhile, Aiza Seguerra performed her cover of the song “I Cant Make You Love Me” from her first international album “Open Arms,” which ranked number one in Singapore.

Members of the SMART Alliance convened in Manila recently to formally sign an Equipment and Facilities Rental Agreement that aims to share facilities among member companies to reduce operational and equipment costs; and its website agreement that aims to create an online portal that will provide information on the alliance to its different stakeholders.

To showcase Philippine advancement in the media industry, ABS-CBN also took delegates coming from BBTV (Thailand), International Media Corporation (Vietnam), Media Nusantara Citra (Indonesia), Media Prima (Malaysia), and MediaCorp (Singapore) to the studio to watch its top-rating noontime variety show “Wowowee” and toured them around its post-production facilities where delegates marveled at the state-of-the-art technology the Kapamilya Network is currently using.

Though it is not part of their original agenda, the group also signed an agreement formalizing the joint sales package launched by the group in line with their objective of driving regional revenue through a common led strategy and new target markets to enable the alliance to gain sustainable competitive advantage.

“These are just early steps to realize the tremendous potentials from the synergy brought about by the Smart Alliance. We are looking forward to developing more projects which will be beneficial among our members and increase the competitiveness of Asian media,” said Paolo Pineda, Head of ABS-CBN Business Development and member of the Smart Alliance Secretariat.

SMART alliance turned a year old this month. The alliance aims to create and deliver commercial benefits to its members, and deliver marketing and promotional solutions on a regional platform to its customers.

Kapamilya Stars Impress Southeast Asian Broadcasters originally appeared on Starmometer on March 26, 2010.

Hopefuls of hit talent-reality show ‘‘Pilipinas Got Talent’’ keeps getting better every week that some of them actually deliver at par with famous artists and celebrities. One of them is 17 year old Albert Labacar who fired up the dance floor with his fine grooves just like his idol Billy Crawford. Even Billy was amazed of his talent and even had a showdown with him after his audition piece. Judge Freddie “FMG” Garcia was also wowed by his performance and jokingly said “You are a threat to Billy’s career.” Will he be the next international sensation? Keep watching the country’s biggest talent-reality search “Pilipinas Got Talent,” every Saturday at 7:30 PM, and every Sunday at 8:30 PM AND “Pilipinas Got More Talent,” weekdays, 4:45 PM.

PGT Contestant Challenges Billy in a Dance Showdown originally appeared on Starmometer on March 23, 2010.

ABS-CBN will tour around the nation to find the Philippines’ best singers, dancers, musicians, and other notable acts regardless of age and gender.

“Luis and I will serve as the contestants’ big brothers here. We will get to know them and their stories, which I think is something the audience should and will really look forward to,” said Billy, who admitted to be a fan of the Got Talent search in the US before coming to Manila last year to host “Pinoy Dream Academy” last year.

Luis and Billy will be the Philippine counterpart of Britain’s Ant and Dec. They will be using their wits, humor, and charm as they guide Got Talent hopefuls throughout their journey and perform before a set of judges.

“I am really excited to host ‘Pilipinas Got Talent’ and of course to work with Billy on a show for the first time. We do Kanto boys in ‘ASAP 09,’ we hang out outside of showbiz, and I think our chemistry is something everyone should watch out for, on we are going to spice up the show with our antics,” said Luis.

“Pilipinas Got Talent” will feature Filipinos in different acts. The show is open to all— regardless of age; be it solo, duo, or group— who got the talent in singing, dancing, acting, or even unique skills such as doing magic, juggling, and stand-up comedy.

Filipinos like Madonna Decena and Charlie Green already proved that Filipinos are talented as they made it to the semi-finals of Got Talent’s most popular format “Britain’s Got Talent.”

“Filipinos are very talented and these talents can be at par with the rest of the world. The burden on deciding who among the hopefuls lies on the judges now. It will not be an easy task for sure,” Billy said.

“And our judges’ credentials are impeccable. They have an eye for talent and the contestants will surely learn and grow as they go through the different stages of the competition. They just need to give it their best and enjoy what they will be doing,” added Luis.

If you think you got what it takes and if you got talent, catch the first leg of “Pilipinas Got Talent” auditions at the Lyceum of the Philippines in Batangas on Nov. 6, 7, and 8. Auditions will also be held on Cebu on Nov. 11, 12, and 13; Baguio on Nov. 19, 20, 21; Cagayan De Oro on Nov. 25, 26, and 27; Davao on Nov 30, Dec. 1 and 2 ; and Manila on Dec 5, 6, 12, and 13.

Watch Billy and Luis in the first and only nationwide reality and talent search “Pilipinas Got Talent” airing soon on ABS-CBN.

Click HERE for more PGT images.

Luis Manzano and Billy Crawford are Hosts of ‘Pilipinas Got Talent’ originally appeared on Starmometer on October 30, 2009.

After Martin Nievera, Lea Salonga and Gary Valenciano, the face(s) of ABS-CBN’s The Filipino Channel (TFC) are now Youtube sensation Charice and international pop star Billy Crawford.

Charice and Billy Crawford interpreted the theme song entitled “Dahil Tayo’y Pilipino” for the 15th year anniversary station ID of The Filipino Channel (TFC).

Video Link: Charice & Billy Crawford – ‘Dahil Tayo’y Pilipino’ – TFC Station ID

Charice & Billy Joe Crawford – The Filipino Channel (TFC) 15th Year Anniversary Station ID originally appeared on Starmometer on April 19, 2009.

Apl.de.Ap, a.k.a. Allan Pineda Lindo, collaborated with Billy Joe Crawford for the song “You Can Dream.” They performed a sample of the song on ASAP Sunday afternoon.

Video Link: Apl.de.Ap feat. Billy Crawford on ASAP

You Can Dream
(Apl.de.Ap feat. Billy Crawford)

I know a lot of things that you probably going through
And though nobody’s feeling like the way you do
And you won’t talk about it when I say wazzup
I guess that means that you’re down on your luck

No sunshine, just gray skies
And i know it’s so hard just to stay alive
When your whole life’s seems just one lie
But you could make it all, it takes just one try

It’s your life everything they know ain’t seem right
You don’t always have to be right
You don’t always have to be right
You gotta be strong sometimes in your life
If you fall down just know it’s alright
Alright…it’s alright
Alright…it’s alright

Chorus:

Just close your eyes
Remember those gray skies
Just dry your eyes
Coz you can make it baby
You can dream, you can dream, you can dream

Parang kailan lang ang mga pangarap ko ay nais abutin
Dahil sa inyo, napunta ako sa aking nais marating

Apl.de.Ap feat. Billy Crawford – ‘You Can Dream’ originally appeared on Starmometer on January 5, 2009.