Recently, Maria (Erich) and Luis (Enchong) just let go of their fears and shared a night together, reliving their love for each other. After cancelling her flight abroad with Vladimir (Aaron Villaflor), will Maria finally go back to the arms of her former lover Luis? Can Sabrina (Jewel Mische) get in the way and stop her husband’s feelings for Maria? Don’t miss “Maria La Del Barrio” every night, before TV Patrol on ABS-CBN’s Primetime Bida.

For more updates log on to www.abs-cbn.com or follow @abscbndotcom on Twitter.

Maria and Luis, Together Again in ‘Maria la del Barrio?’ originally appeared on Starmometer on February 7, 2012.

Featured in the first leg of the Kapamilya Karavan, which will be held this Saturday (January 14) at Ayala Mall Terraces, are the Kapamilya network’s biggest stars such as Gerald Anderson of “Budoy,” Enchong Dee of “Maria La Del Barrio,” Kaye Abad of “Angelito,” and Jason Francisco, Melai Cantiveros, Jason Gainza, Ryan Bang and Pooh of “Banana Split.”

Gerald Anderson shared that he considers the show in Cebu’s Sinulog Festival as a thanksgiving for the ever supportive Cebuanos who watch his teleserye and look forward to his new Star Cinema movie with Sarah Geronimo.

“I’m really grateful to my fellow Visayans for supporting me in “Budoy.” To perform in front of them is my way of saying thank you,” Gerald said.

Enchong, on the other hand, would like to offer a prayer at the Sinulog feast. He said he’s really indebted to the Lord for the blessings he has received throughout the past years.

“I know that the purpose of festivals is to give thanks for the bountiful life of a particular place. That’s why I’d like to take this opportunity,” Enchong said.

The Sinulog Festival is one of the biggest and most colorful annual festivities in the country. Derived from the Sinulog, which means thanksgiving dance, it gives honor to the Sto. Niño or the child Jesus.

Also this January, the Kapamilya Karavan is set to hit the Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo City.

Budoy, Enchong and Other Kapamilya Stars to Join Sinulog Festival originally appeared on Starmometer on January 13, 2012.

The said episode gave Dee his ‘Best Single Performance by an Actor’ recognition from the 2011 PMPC Star Awards for TV; while Gamboa was awarded with ‘Best Single Performance by an Actress’ by the 8th Golden Screen TV Awards.

Witness in the story how Toto (Dee), despite his blindness, inspired his whole family to win their challenges and face their lives with high hopes. Joining Dee and Gamboa in the small screen were Nanding Josef, Philip Nolasco, Boboy Garovillo, Kenjie Garcia, Dominic Ochoa, Daisy Reyes, Ina Fileo, Cherry Lou, Angeline Urquico, Neri Naig, Jommy Teotico, Jerome Ventilla, and Gigi Posadas. The ‘Parol’ episode was researched by Alora Ramos, written by Maan Dimaculangan, and directed by Dado Lumibao. Don’t miss the continuing 20th anniversary celebration of the longest running drama anthology of Asia, “Maalaala Mo Kaya” (MMK), every Saturday night, after “Junior Master Chef Pinoy Edition” on ABS-CBN. For more updates, log on to www.mmk.abs-cbn.com, follow @MMKOfficial on Twitter, and “like”www.faceboook.com/MMKOfficial.

‘Maalaala Mo Kaya’ Inspires Filipino Families this Saturday originally appeared on Starmometer on December 26, 2011.

One of today’s hottest loveteams, Erich Gonzales and Enchong Dee, signed a fresh contract with ABS-CBN. ABS-CBN Channel 2 head Cory Vidanes and ABS-CBN president and COO Charo Santos-Concio were present during the signing.

Erich and Enchong Renew Contract with ABS-CBN originally appeared on Starmometer on October 25, 2011.

In his recent contract signing held at ABS-CBN, the Primetime Bida actor shared his career plans. “I still have so much to do and explore. I want to be host, to star in a comedy movie, stage a solo concert and learn how to sing,” said Enchong.

As an actor, he shared that he is dedicated in honing his craft. “I always think that I still have a long way to go. I always aim to improve myself even more in terms of acting. So everytime I get to work with great actors and directors, I always keep in mind the new lessons I learn from them,” he uttered.

When asked about the success of “Maria la del Barrio” in the national TV ratings game, Enchong is filled with gratitude for the loyal viewers of the teleserye.

“A lot of people watch the show for its patent ‘kilig factor.’ The story of Maria and Luis is so relatable that even at times it gets to a point of being corny, it still charms the audience. I am so happy with the show’s consistent high TV ratings and thankful to our fans and loyal viewers,” shared Enchong.

Meanwhile, “Maria la del Barrio” fans will surely be glued to their TV sets with the recent turn of events in the lives of Maria (Erich Gonzales), Luis (Enchong), Fernando (Ian Veneracion), Victoria (Angel Aquino) and Sandra (Assunta de Rossi). Will the horror of the past shake up the budding romance of Luis and Maria? Can Victoria handle the vengeance of her former best friend Sandra?

Under the direction of Rory B. Quintos and Richard Somes, “Maria la del Barrio” sets TV screens on fire, Weeknights, after “Reputasyon” on ABS-CBN.

Enchong Dee, Grateful to Fans’ Warm Support for ‘Maria La Del Barrio’ originally appeared on Starmometer on October 11, 2011.

Based on the latest Kantar Media/TNS, Maria la del Barrio, topbilled by Erich Gonzales and Enchong Dee, remains on top in the national TV ratings game versus rival program.

Last Monday (Sept. 26) Maria la del Barrio garnered a national TV rating of 24.9% while GMA7’s ‘Futbolilits’ only registered 15.8%. The next day (Sept. 27), the hit teleserye got a 20% national TV rating versus 10.2% of the rival program.

Viewers will surely get hooked even more especially now that the plot is getting more exciting. Now that the furniture expo is bound to conclude, will Maria (Erich) and Luis (Enchong) reap the rewards of their hardwork? Or will Victoria (Angel Aquino), as one of the expo judges, will get in the way?

Under the direction of Rory B. Quintos and Richard Somes, never miss the hot revelations and dramatic scenes in Maria la del Barrio, weeknights, after Reputasyon on ABS-CBN.

Maria La Del Barrio Continues to Dominate Pre-Primetime Slot originally appeared on Starmometer on September 30, 2011.

Under the direction of Rory B. Quintos and Richard Somes, “Maria La Del Barrio” delve into the lives of Maria (Erich Gonzales) and Luis (Enchong Dee) as they search for true love, even amidst their pasts and their conflicting present lives.

Sharing the limelight is Angel Aquino, who was part of the hit soap opera “Magkaribal. She will portray the role of Victoria Montenegro-Dela Vega, mother of Luis Fernando. Ian Veneracion plays as her husband who has a past with Assunta de Rossi who plays Maria’s mother.

Comedy Queen Aiai delas Alas takes on a very special role as Casilda, Maria’s adoptive mother.

“Maria La Del Barrio” also serves as a comeback for Paw Diaz on the television scene. She will portray Soraya’s character, the woman who will stand between Maria and Luis’ romance.

Watch the character trailers here:

Maria La Del Barrio premieres Monday, August 15, under the Primetime Bida block of ABS-CBN.

Maria La Del Barrio – Character Trailers originally appeared on Starmometer on August 14, 2011.

“Maria La Del Barrio” will feature two of the hottest stars in the industry today, Erich Gonzales and Enchong Dee, as they give life to the characters of Maria Hernandez and Luis Dela Vega.

Under the direction of Rory B. Quintos and Richard Somes, “Maria La Del Barrio” delve into the lives of Maria and Luis as they search for true love, even amidst their pasts and their conflicting present lives.

Sharing the limelight is Angel Aquino, who was part of the hit soap opera “Magkaribal. She will portray the role of Victoria Montenegro-Dela Vega, mother of Luis Fernando. Ian Veneracion plays as her husband who has a past with Assunta de Rossi who plays Maria’s mother.

Comedy Queen Aiai delas Alas takes on a very special role as Casilda, Maria’s adoptive mother.

“Maria La Del Barrio” also serves as a comeback for Paw Diaz on the television scene. Paw, a batchmate of Erich and Arron Villaflor in Star Circle Quest, will portray Soraya’s character, the woman who will stand between Maria and Luis’ romance. Arron, on the other hand, plays the role of Vladimir who has a soft spot in Maria’s heart.

Other cast members include Jake Roxas, Katya Santos, Gio Alvarez, Atoy Co, Jane Oineza, Badjie Mortiz and K Brosas.

Shot in scenic Tagaytay and Cavite, and with a script led by Denise O’Hara and Henry Quitain’s team, “Maria La Del Barrio” promises a whole new viewing experience. “Pinaghirapan po namin ang bawat eksena at mas pinaganda pa para mas lalo ninyong ma-enjoy ang panonood,” Erich expressed.

“When I learned that I’ll be working with Erich again, sobrang natuwa ako siyempre. Masarap siyang katrabaho,” Enchong shared.

Witness how fate and love twist the life of Maria and Luis in “Maria La Del Barrio,” premiering on August 15 on ABS-CBN Primetime Bida.

‘Maria La Del Barrio’ Heats Up the Rainy Season originally appeared on Starmometer on July 27, 2011.

After 37,698 votes, young Kapamiya actor and star of the upcoming teleserye “Maria la del Barrio” Enchong Dee emerged as the winner in this year’s edition of “Sexiest Men in the Philippines” poll. Enchong got a total of 5,372 votes.

“Minsan Lang Kita Iibigin” star and Prince of Indie Films, Coco Martin, finished second with 5,167 votes. Coco is last year’s winner by the way.

Finishing 3rd is this year’s highest new entry. “Mula sa Puso” star JM de Guzman, who is a showbiz newcomer, bested some of the country’s well-established actors by capturing the bronze position.

Kapamilya Golden Boy Gerald Anderson finished 4th while 2007 winner Sam Milby, settled for 5th, and 2008 winner Piolo Pascual finished 6th.

Rounding off the Top 10 are Derek Ramsay (#7), Jericho Rosales (#8), Jake Cuenca (#9) and Diether Ocampo (#10).

This is the first time in 5 years that the Top 10 slots are all being occupied by Kapamilya stars. 2009 winner and top Kapuso vote-getter, Aljur Abrenica, finished 11th in the race.

100 SEXIEST MEN IN THE PHILIPPINES FOR 2011

1. Enchong Dee
2. Coco Martin
3. JM de Guzman
4. Gerald Anderson
5. Sam Milby
6. Piolo Pascual
7. Derek Ramsay
8. Jericho Rosales
9. Jake Cuenca
10. Diether Ocampo
11. Aljur Abrenica
12. Zanjoe Marudo
13. Luis Manzano
14. Christian Bautista
15. Xian Lim
16. Matteo Guidicelli
17. JC de Vera
18. Richard Gutierrez
19. Dingdong Dantes
20. Dennis Trillo

81. Gabby Concepcion
82. Bong Revilla
83. Renz Fernandez
84. Oyo Sotto
85. Hayden Kho
86. Rich Herrera
87. Joross Gamboa
88. Manuel Chua
89. Alvin Alfonso
90. Arron Villaflor
91. Rovilson Fernandez
92. Alex Castro
93. Geoff Taylor
94. Rodjun Cruz
95. Polo Ravales
96. Guji Lorenzana
97. Jaco Benin
98. Atom Araullo
99. Kiko Rustia
100. Dominic Rocco

100 Sexiest Men in the Philippines for 2011 – The Full List originally appeared on Starmometer on April 24, 2011.

A champion swimmer. A model. An actor. Now, Enchong Dee is voted the Sexiest Man in the Philippines for 2011!

In 2007 it was Sam Milby. In 2008 it was Piolo Pascual. In 2009 it was Aljur Abrenica. And in 2010 it was Coco Martin. This year, the people have decided….

THE SEXIEST MAN IN THE PHILIPPINES FOR 2011 IS NO LESS THAN KAPAMILYA YOUNG ACTOR ENCHONG DEE!

His full name is Ernest Lorenzo Velasquez-Dee and he was born in Naga City, Camarines Sur, on November 5, 1988. The 22-year-old La Sallista is a popular actor, model and a champion swimmer (he has won more than 400 medals so far).

He is known in showbiz as Enchong Dee, a young Kapamilya actor who became popular for his TV roles in “My Girl,” “My Only Hope,” “Boystown,” “Katorse,” “Tanging Yaman,” “Magkaribal” and soon to star opposite his on-screen partner Erich Gonzales in the Philippine version of the hit Mexican telenovela “Maria la del Barrio.”

Enchong also starred in films like “Paano Ko Sasabihin?,” “Sa ‘Yo Lamang,” “Best Friends Forever (BFF),” and “I Do.”

Enchong Dee has been figuring very well in the annual “100 Sexiest Men in the Philippines” poll being conducted by Starmometer for five years now.

He ranked fifth (#5) on the first edition of the said poll in 2007 when Sam Milby won. He ranked 18th (#18) in 2008, the year when Piolo Pascual finished on top. He ranked 15th (#15) in 2009, the year of Kapuso hunk Aljur Abrenica. And last year 2010 when Coco Martin captured the title, Enchong finished second (#2).

After 37,698 votes, here are the results of this year’s Final 20 poll which was conducted on Facebook:
(poll was closed at exactly 12:00 midnight)

Images courtesy of ABS-CBN, Bench, Enchong Dee Facebook Page. Artwork courtesy of Comeon.

Enchong Dee is the Sexiest Man in the Philippines for 2011 originally appeared on Starmometer on April 24, 2011.

In 2007 it was Sam Milby. In 2008 it was Piolo Pascual. In 2009 it was Aljur Abrenica. And in 2010 it was Coco Martin. Who will be the Sexiest Man in the Philippines for 2011? You will decide.

Last April 7, we revealed the Final 20 male celebrities vying for the title “Sexiest Man” in the country. The poll is now open and you don’t need to spend a single centavo to cast your vote!

HOW TO VOTE

1. Go to Starmometer’s Facebook Page (www.facebook.com/starmometerblog).

2. Proceed to the “Photos” section and click the album entitled “100 Sexiest Men in the Philippines for 2011 – THE FINALS“. The pictures of the 20 finalists will be displayed.

3. Click the image of your favorite celebrity to enlarge the photo.

4. Under the photo, click on the word “like” to vote.

5. Please take note that you must be logged-in to your Facebook account and you must be a fan of Starmometer’s Facebook Page in order to cast your vote. If you’re not registered as a fan, the word “like” below the image will not appear.

6. You can vote for one celebrity or more than one if you have many favorites in the Final 20.

7. The poll will close on the midnight of April 23, 2011. The ranking of the Final 20 will be revealed on April 24 when this year’s winner of the title “Sexiest Man in the Philippines” will be announced.

100 Sexiest Men in the Philippines for 2011 – The Finals! originally appeared on Starmometer on April 12, 2011.

Kim was also named Choice Female Icon, while Enchong also won the Choice Breakthrough Artist.

Sarah Geronimo ruled the Pinoy music scene among Kabarkadas as she bagged the Choice OPM Artist of the Year award as her leading man in the hit movie “Catch Me, I’m in Love” Gerald Anderson also took home his first Barkada Choice Award for the Choice Male Icon category.

When it comes to sports, Team Azkals dominated as they won the Choice Sports Celebrity. Brothers Phil and James Younghusband accepted the award in behalf of the team to the delight of the screaming fans.

Meanwhile, Anne Curtis proved she is the queen of Twitterverse as she was named the Choice Tweet Idol. Robi Domingo also proved to be the public’s favorite Studio 23 personality when he bagged the Choice Kabarkada of the Year.

Kabarkadas also made their choices for the international entertainment scene with Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens winning the Choice Hollywood Loveteam; Angelina Jolie as Choice Holywood Star; David Archuleta as Choice Teen Idol; Justin Bieber as Choice Music Artist; and SS501 as the Choice Asian Pop Band.

David Archuleta thanked his Pinoy fans on his Twitter and tweeted, “Wow! Thank you so much Pinoy fans for the Barkada Choice Award for Teen Choice Icon!!! That is so neat!!! You guys are awesome!”

Winners were determined based on text votes. The event was hosted by Gretchen Fullido, Sam Concepcion, and Aaron Atayde. Jessy Mendiola, Charee Pineda, Bret Jackson, and Ivan Dorschner also graced the event as presenters while Angeline Quinto gave a goosebumping rendition of the song “I don’t want to miss a thing” and Arron Villaflor and Fretzie Bercede gave their respective dance numbers.

The 1st Barkada Choice Awards was organized by Studio 23 and aims to recognize local and international personalities that made a mark among its viewers. Watch it in two-parts on Monday and Tuesday (April 18 and 19), 6:30 PM, on Studio 23.

Kim Chiu, Enchong Dee & Sarah Geronimo Led Winners in 1st Barkada Choice Awards originally appeared on Starmometer on April 8, 2011.