BY LEIZEL TRINIDAD, EIC
LAS VEGAS, NV – October 9, 2025
– Emotion and history converged this morning inside the Boulevard Mall as local officials and community leaders gathered to officially unveil the "Filipino Town" Cultural District sign, marking a monumental milestone for Southern Nevada's vibrant Filipino American community.
The indoor ceremony, held at one of the community's most frequented gathering spots, culminated years of dedicated advocacy and solidified the identity of the cultural corridor along Maryland Parkway between Flamingo and Desert Inn Road. The atmosphere was electric with pride, reverence, and the palpable energy
of a community seeing its efforts officially recognized.
The featured moment captured in the photo shows a group of key leaders—dressed in elegant traditional Filipino attire like the Barong Tagalog and the Filipiniana dress—pulling away a red cloth to reveal the distinctive brown and white sign. The sign clearly reads: "Clark County Cultural District, Filipino Town," a permanent symbol confirming the district’s new status. Flags from the Philippines and the United States, visible in the background, underscored the dual heritage celebrated by the district.
A Victory Years in the Making
The push for a formal cultural desig-
nation was the result of a collaborative effort by numerous dedicated Filipino American organizations and community leaders. These groups collectively recognized that the Maryland Parkway corridor, anchored by staple Filipino businesses, had long functioned as the community's heart and deserved official recognition.
Clark County Commissioner Tick Segerblom was present to acknowledge the significance of the designation, noting that it recognizes the economic, social, and cultural contributions of the nearly 200,000 Filipino Americans who call Nevada home. The Commissioner
FIESTA – FROM PAGE A-1
emphasized that establishing "Filipino Town" will not only serve as a cultural anchor but will also stimulate small business growth and tourism.
Leaders on stage, moments before the unveiling, articulated a shared sentiment: that this day honored a community that has profoundly built Southern Nevada. They collectively hailed the sign as a beacon – an invitation to celebrate, to connect, and to invest in a place where heritage is not just remembered, but actively lived.
More Than a Sign: A Cultural Anchor
For community members, the sign is far more than a street marker; it is validation of their enduring presence and a powerful anchor for future generations.
The Boulevard Mall itself has become an important venue for Filipino events and commerce, making the location of the unveiling highly symbolic.
For those dedicated to bringing this vision to life, the moment was deeply personal. One could see the pure joy on the faces of advocates visible in the photo as the sign was revealed, a profound sense of accomplishment shining through. It was clear that this recognition was fought for not just for
the current generation, but for our children and grandchildren – so that when they drive down Maryland Parkway and see this sign, they will inherently know: "This is our place. This is where we belong."
The creation of the Filipino Town Cultural District is expected to have a tangible impact on the area's economic landscape. Experts predict that the formal designation will enhance property values, attract targeted commercial development, and encourage further community investment along the corridor. New businesses focused on Filipino cuisine, arts, and professional services are likely to be drawn to the area, creating a self-sustaining cultural and commercial hub.
The ceremony concluded with rousing applause and celebratory music, officially kicking off Filipino American History Month (FAHM) with a momentous achievement. The unveiling today ensures that FAHM 2025 will be remembered as the year the Filipino American community of Southern Nevada officially planted its flag on the map.
Remulla sWorn in as Ombudsman
MANILA, Oct 10 (Mabuhay) -- Om-
budsman Jesus Crispin Remulla formally took his oath of office before Acting Chief Justice Marvic Leonen at the Supreme Court session hall on Thursday.
In an interview after the ceremony, Remulla said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has directed him to “iron out” the current controversies facing the government.
“Wala siyang marching order sa akin. Sabi niya nga, ayusin natin itong gusot na to, kasi nga, it’s a mess (The President has no marching orders. What he said was to iron out this mess. We have to fix this mess). We have to figure out how to get out of this as a better country than anything else,” Remulla said.
Remulla also dismissed the misgivings being raised by his critics.
“Kasi they operate on a political sphere, ako I operate in a legal sphere. Ito para sa taumbayan. Kahit ano pa ang political leanings mo, let’s all work for the country (They operate on a political sphere, I operate on a legal sphere. This is for the people. Whatever your political leanings are, let’s all work for the country),” he said.
Flood control
Remulla said the Office of the Ombudsman will prioritize the flood control corruption scandal and may file cases in the next few weeks when sufficient evidence is already available.
“Ang timeline niya, syempre, on the evidence. Pero marami na naman kami nang kukuha na evidence. Talagang sisikapin lang namin na mabuo ng husto kasi nga ayaw namin na kami maging cause ng delay (The timeline will depend on the evidence. We have received voluminous evidence and we will work to complete it because we don’t want to be the cause of delay),” he said.
“When they’re ready, we’ll file them within the next few weeks. Pag nag-file kami, ready kami for trial (Whe we file, we are ready for trial),” he added.
Remulla also said the flood control project investigations will spare no one, and they will look squarely at the avail-
able evidence.
“Our concern is building the case. Hindi sino, pero anong kaso, anong ebidensya. Kaya wala tayong sinisino rito (It’s not who is implicated, but what is case, what is the evidence. We will spare no one here),” he said, adding that they will be placing new standards at the Office of the Ombudsman.
“Pag may dumating na impormasyon na dapat imbestigahan, iimbestigahan natin. Tatawagin natin lahat ng merong poder para mag-disclose ang information tungkol sa mga kasong fina-file. At gagamitin natin ang informasyon pa sa korte para usigin yung mga lalabag sa batas at magmamanabis sa kanilang mga responsibilidad (Once an information comes in that needs investigating, we will investigate. We will call all those on power to disclose information on the cases being filed. And we will use that information in court to prosecute those who break the law and abuse their responsibilities,” he said.
Remulla said he will also review the Pharmally case which involves the procurement of overpriced Covid-19 supplies.
“Sisilipin natin ‘yan, kasi nga parang nalimutan na eh, naibaon sa limot, pero hindi dapat makalimutan talaga itong mga ganitong kaso (We will look into that, because it seems it has been forgotten, buried in oblivion, but cases like should not be forgotten),” he said.
Aside from prosecutorial duties, the Ombudsman will also make recommendations in particular to regulatory offices for measures to promote efficient service.
He also cited the apparent failure of regulatory agencies to compel telcos to cooperate with the government in the fight against child pornography and online abuse.
“Yung mga telco, i-ayos nila yung kanilang sistema para pwede natin mahuli lahat ng gumagawa at nag nagmimili, nakikihalahok sa child pornography (Telcos should fix their systems so that we can capture all those who create, buy or participate in child pornography),” he said. (MNS)
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n help p you u get t answers, , for r ex ample:
• What is Original Medicare?
• Are there other health care options?
• What do Medicare Parts A, B, C and D mean?
• Is Original Medicare enough health coverage?
• Are my prescriptions covered?
• How much will it cost?
• Do I have deadlines to enroll?
CBCP president opposes snap elections
MANILA, Oct 10 (Mabuhay) -- The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) is not in favor of the calls for a snap election and the supposed coup d’etat attempts amid the controversy on flood control projects.
According to an article posted on the CBCP News website on Thursday, CBCP president Cardinal Pablo David said the call for such activities is not the right way to fight irregularities in government.
“If a child gets dirty, we bathe the child, but we throw away the dirty water, not the child. The same goes for government. Even if it fails us, we must not throw it away. It’s something we have built together,” he said in his Homily Wednesday night.
“Let’s repair it, guard it, and make it work. Not through a coup, not through revolutionary government, not through
military rule, not through snap elections.”
The Kalookan prelate also said justice and accountability must be pushed by holding accountable all those involved in the anomalous flood control projects.
“We must help dismantle this culture of corruption. Let the rule of law work,” he said. “What we need is not a new election term, but long prison terms for the plunderers.”
There were reports of a coup d’etat and a military junta allegedly being pushed by a group of retired military officials during the anti-corruption protests last month.
On the other hand, Senator Alan Peter Cayetano on Sunday called on all elected officials to resign from their posts and give way to a snap election. (MNS)
Palace backs lifetime blacklisting of corrupt contractors, suppliers, project consultants
MANILA, Oct 10 (Mabuhay) -- In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to eliminate corruption in government projects, Malacañang on Thursday called for the lifetime disqualification of contractors, suppliers, and consultants involved in anomalous public infrastructure projects.
“Pagpapataw ng lifetime blacklisting sa mga pasaway na contractors, suppliers at consultants, isinusulong alinsunod sa adhikain ni Pangulong
Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. na tukuyin at puksain ang korapsyon sa mga proyekto ng pamahalaan,” Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer and Claire Castro said during a Palace press briefing.
Castro said based on the President’s directive, Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman pushed for the strict implementation of the blacklisting provision under Republic Act (RA) No. 12009.
RA No. 12009, also known as the New Government Procurement Act of
2024, provides for the perpetual disqualification from government bidding of contract implementors who repeatedly violated the procurement regulations.
The new law aims to keep the procurement process transparent and promote accountability in the use of public funds, Castro said.
The DBM also wanted to increase the severity of penalties against private individuals and companies found to have neglected or violated government contracts, Castro said.
Castro said contractors, suppliers and consultants who have committed at least three violations of the procurement regulations will be penalized with a lifetime disqualification and banned from transacting for any government project.
“Inaasahang mabisang deterrent ang bagong probisyon ng batas upang wakasan ang paglustay sa kaban ng bayan at proteksyunan ang kapakanan ng mamamayan,” Castro said. (MNS)
Integrity, ethical standards, meticulous attention to detail and strong organizational skills are some of the important qualities to perform effectively as a public administrator. The position also requires compassion, sensitivity and fairness, decisiveness and sound judgment.
MINDDIE LLOYD exhibits such qualities needed to exercise her administrative capacity as future Clark County Public Administrator. The position serves a four- year term.
The Clark County Public Administrator (also sometimes known as County Probate Administrator or Register of Probate/Public Administrator) performs specialized and important role in estate and probate law, particularly when a decedent has no executor or next-of-kin willing or available to administer their affairs. The Public Administrator may be appointed to administer an estate by doing inventory, protecting and safeguarding all property - real and personal- of the decedent. The office secures assets, manage storage and maintain records. The office also verifies legal entitlements and authenticity, among others.
When elected as Clark County Public Administrator, MINDDIE LLOYD will lead the office staff to coordinate with courts to follow appropriate probate procedures and arrange for disposition (burial or cremation) if required, satisfy decedent’s debts and taxes and manage ongoing costs on real property until a final resolution is reached. The office also manages unclaimed estates or property distributions when heirs are unlocated.
Since this is an elected position, the Public Administrator oversees administrative functions: hiring staff, budgeting, policy guidance, liaising with county legal and other agencies.
MINDDIE LLOYD has been a strong supporter of the Las Vegas community. She has a strong connection to law enforcement families, fundraising and nonprofit advocacy. She has been active in Nevada politics and is a staunch advocate for str ngthening communities, improving education, supporting first responders, and upholding constitutional rights. She is the widow of Lieutenant Erik Lloyd of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. She has been actively Involved with the injured Police Officers, serving as project director, and helps raise funds and provide support to officers and their families. She also co-founded a nonprofit called Bamboo Bridges which helps support survivors of sexual assault and human trafficking.
In her very own words: “I believe in compassion, dignity and justice, especially for those who can no longer speak for themselves. For years, I stood proudly beside my late husband, a Metropolitan Police Officer, who dedicated his live to serving others. His devotion to duty shaped our family and our values.
Though he passed, his legacy of service continues through me, and in the work I do for our community everyday. I have also spent many years working with Bamboo Bridges, supporting survivors of abuse and trauma. That experience taught me the power of listening, the courage it takes to speak up and the responsibility we share to protect and honor every individual.
In addition, I have had the privilege of serving for more than a decade alongside Judge William Kephart in both criminal and civil courts. That work gave me firsthand insight into our justice system, and showed me the importance of fairness, compassion and accountability.
The office I am seeking is about more than managing estates. It is about honoring lives.
It is about ensuring that no one is forgotten, and that every person is treated with dignity, even in death. I want to bring transparency, integrity and heart to this office, because I know how much these matter.
I am not running against anyone. I am running for something. I am running for fairness.
I am running for families. I am running for the values that have guided me my entire life. Thank you for believing in community. Thank you for believing in healing. And thank you for believing in me!”
Please visit the link for your donations to help her campaign get started: https://secure.numero.ai/contribute/smlloyd
WHY NADINE LUSTRE JOINED ANTI-CORRUPTION PROTEST:
‘IT’S MY RESPONSIBILITY AS A FILIPINO’ MANILA, Oct 3 (Mabuhay) -- Actress Nadine Lustre said taking part in the September 21 protest against alleged flood control corruption was not about celebrity but about responsibility, as she stood with fellow Filipinos — and backed her “Call Me Mother” costar Vice Ganda for speaking out.
Lustre was among the several celebrities who attended the September 21 national protest against flood control corruption.
“I think it’s my responsibility being Filipino to be one with everyone else,” she said.
“September 21 po kasi I really wanted to be there not as a celebrity, not as a public figure, but as a Filipino. Sobrang ganda ng experience, parang na-feel ko lahat nang nandoon sa Ortigas, ‘yung nandoon sa EDSA, I felt like I was part of everyone,” Lustre said.
Lustre said it was really good to see Filipinos fighting for the same cause like her “Call Me Mother” co-star Vice Ganda, who also expressed her anger against corruption during the Trillion Peso March program at the People Power Monument along EDSA.
“I understand naman talaga sina Ate Vice. Grabe sobrang napabilib ako nang lahat ng mga public figures na pumunta roon. Kasi this time, we really have to fight, fight for our rights, fight for our country and for our fellow Filipinos. It’s just so nice to see everyone to be out and fighting for the same thing, for the same cause,” Lustre sid.
“It’s such a memorable event for me kasi I got to experience everything. Nakapunta ako sa Shrine naglakad talaga like from sa dulo ng Temple Drive. May mga kasama po kasi ako, tapos naglakad po talaga kami. Nakita ko ang speech ni Ate Vice, nakita ko ‘yung mga nagra-rally, ‘yung mga magkakasama na naglalakad din. ...It was so beautiful to see everyone coming together,” she added.
In the interview, Lustre also ex-
pressed her support to Vice Ganda who was criticized by some people for swearing during the September 21 protest.
Vice also called for the death penalty for government officials allegedly involved in anomalous flood control projects and urged Filipinos to speak out and make their anger felt. The “It’s Showtime” host also asked President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to punish everyone accountable for the corruption.
“I mean sa lahat nang mga nangyayari, mapapamura ka naman talaga. Hindi naman ako nag-iisa doon at hindi naman nag-iisa si Ate Vice. You know I really commend Ate Vice kasi ‘yung ginawa niya she opened herself up for criticisms and she did that because she really loves the Filipino people,” Lustre said.
“I think few days after the rally nagsabi talaga ako sa kanya na ‘Ate Vice. ang ganda ng speech mo.’ Even my friends were so moved and na-feel talaga ng mga tao roon na may kakampi sila. Parang na-rile up nga sila roon, parang nagkaroon pa sila ng more passion to fight. So ako, okay lang ‘yung ginawa. Nakakagalit, mapapamura ka talaga sa lahat nang nangyayari,”she said. (MNS)
“HAPPY MID-AUTUMN FESTIVAL 2025!”
“Wishing You a Harvest Full of Happiness and a Sky Full of Dreams On this Mid-Autumn Season!”
October 4, 2025 — Craig Ranch Regional Park, North Las Vegas
What a Glorious Day of Gratitude and Unity!
A resounding THANK YOU to everyone who made the 11th Annual Armed Forces, Veterans, Military Personnel, and First Responders Appreciation Day a shining success!
Your presence, energy, and unwavering service created a space filled with honor, compassion, connection, and celebration.
We salute our Beloved Veterans, Military Heroes, Law Enforcement Officers, and First Responders — the brave souls who protect, serve, and sacrifice every day. You are seen. You are loved. You are celebrated — not just today, but always.
Special Thanks To:
Sy Nielson, for a reverent and powerful Opening Ceremony — the perfect way to begin the day.
Sydney Knott, whose explanation of the Riderless Horse ceremony in honor of our Fallen Heroes was deeply moving.
Jeff Leach, our delightful, hilarious, and heartfelt Emcee — thank you for bringing the incredible Piff the Magic Dragon! You bridged generations and created space for both reflection and joy.
Laura Coleman, co-founder and beacon of unwavering dedication to this cause.
Our incredible volunteers, sponsors, vendors, benefactors, and supporters — thank you for breathing life into this event year after year.
The Las Vegas Twin Lakes Lions Club, in partnership with the Los Prados Lions Club, for providing free vision screenings to over 80 attendees — truly living the Lions’ motto: “We Serve.”
And to our youth — from Jr. ROTC to our youngest attendees — thank you for showing up with heart and curiosity. You are our future, and it is vital that we teach the importance of honoring those who serve.
Whether it was reconnecting with old friends or forming new bonds, the sense of love, unity, and camaraderie was undeniable.
Eleven years strong — what a powerful testament to our shared commitment, community, and compassion.
Let us continue to Engage, Educate, Empower, and Inspire, celebrating both our diversity and our common mission of service.
Chie Filomeno appeals for privacy amid breakup rumors with Jake
ing speculations with businessman
MANILA, Oct 3 (Mabuhay) -- Chie Filomeno took to social media to urge the public to stop spreading rumors about her personal life. This came amid her reported breakup with actor Jake CuenCa and rumors linking to businessman Matthew Lhuillier of the prominent Lhuillier clan of Cebu.
“I’ve been reading and hearing a lot these past few days, and I ask that my past relationship, my present life, and the Lhuillier family be left out of this issue,” she posted on her Instagram Story. “They don’t deserve to be dragged into something that has nothing to do with them.”
Chie then asked the public to stop speculating about her private life. “No further statements will be made at this time, and I kindly ask that people refrain from speculation or intrusions into my private affairs. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation,” she remarked.
The actress also left a reminder for the public, saying: “I may be a public figure, but I am not public property. I ask that my private life remain private.”
Chie confirmed that she was dating Jake back in August 2023. “You can say dating, of course, yes. ‘Yung maganda kay Jake ay he knows where my heart is. Alam niya ang priority ko and hindi niya ako minamadali,” the actress said at that time during an interview at the media conference of A Very Good Girl.
Meanwhile, in an interview with Philstar Global in March 2024, Jake described Chie as her TOTGA (The One Who Got Away) and revealed that they actually already dated before.
“She is my TOTGA. We dated already before. She was with It’s Showtime at that time, so this is the second time around,” he revealed at that time.
On why their romance did not push through the first time around, the actor relayed: “To be honest, there were so many things going on in my life at that time. I was 29. I was living out the last few months of my 20s. I was wilder. But I think at this point in my life, I’m more well-balanced… I think the timing this time is perfect,” he said. (MNS)
Charlie Fleming says she’d love to play ‘Marimar’ one day
MANILA, Oct 4 (Mabuhay) -- Charlie Fleming just revealed her dream role.
In an interview, Charlie was asked, “What GMA show, old or new, do you wish to be a part of?”
The Kapuso star answered that she “would love to be part of” the classic Pinoy teleserye, “Marimar.”
“I’m also a kulot queen, a by the island girl. I love the beach, actually and I love to sing and dance,” Charlie said.
“[‘Marimar’] is one of the roles that I could definitely try to play. And it’s an iconic role that I think everyone loves and would love to see,” the actress added.
“Marimar,” now a classic Filipino series, was famously portrayed by Marian Rivera in 2007, then by Megan Young in 2015.
Meanwhile, Charlie finished her “Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition” stint as the Third Big Placer along with her Kapamilya duo Esnyr.
She is set to appear in the upcoming Kapuso series “Master Cutter”
alongside Dingdong Dantes and fellow housemate Shuvee Etrata. Charlie is also part of the upcoming horror movie, “Huwag Kang Titingin,” with a cast led by Sofia Pablo and Allen Ansay. (MNS)
Gladys Reyes shares her secret to 4 decades in the industry
MANILA, Oct 6 (Mabuhay) -- Kapamilya actress Gladys Reyes shared how much passion she has for acting–– one of the secrets as to why she’s still in the entertainment industry.
During the recent episode of The B Side where the Star Magic artist was a guest, she explained the importance of loving the craft of acting and keeping the fire for it alive.
Gladys has been in the entertainment industry for four decades already as she began her career as a child actress. Since then, she has starred in several hit series and films where she has won multiple awards.
“Because I love what I do. For me, hindi lang siya yung profession na pinagkakakitaan–– this is my passion,” she shared.
The Kapamilya star recalled the time when she was growing up, she already knew that she was destined to become an actress as she wasn’t like the other children.
“Sabi ko nga, kinder pa lang ako alam ko na gusto kong umarte. Gusto ko yung nag rorole playing. Bata pa ako instead na the usual kid na nakikipaglaro ng patintero sa labas o nagtataguan, gusto ko nirerecord ko yung boses ko na iba’t-ibang boses sa cassette tape,” she recalled.
Gladys then asserted how excitement plays a key factor as well in keeping the fire alive as she makes sure
that all the roles she portrays, viewers will feel the authenticity. Despite being known as an antagonist in several shows, the seasoned actress revealed that she still decides if she’ll accept the role.
“I guess importante yung nadoon lagi yung fire, lagi nadoon yung excitement mo in every role na pinoportray. Hangga’t maari, talagang pinipilit ko na dapat makatotohanan yung lumalabas. Kapag pinanood nila, yung hindi sila mabibigo na yung pinortray ko, maniniwala sila,” she added. For her, the passion when it comes to acting doesn’t stop even if she’s four decades in the industry already.
“Parang laging binubuhasan ng gasolina kaya lalo siyang nagliliyab ika nga,” she said. (MNS)
Award-winning Author / Journalist Carlos Palanca Awardee & Professional Host/Emcee Author website: www.marylaineviernes.com
When the Saints come marching in: awe-inspiring Santa Cruzan at the NaFFAA Fiesta Filipino 2025 Of heavenly hosts and adorable angels, the Fiesta Filipino by NaFFAA Nevada led by Gloria Caoile along with President Jaque De Joya, President and Doc Mike Sta Juana, Vice President was an undisputed roaaring success and many were blown-away by the Sagala processing organized by Ms. Chel Mendoza with community leader and stalwart sponsor and supporter, Cin-cin Landeros of Transpacific Multiservices as the beautiful Reyna Elena. I am thankful for your trust in letting me serve as master of ceremonies and for letting my daughter, Brooklyn Mackenzie Viernes Moraes serve as one of the Ave Maria Angels. Here is a look at that unforgettable Procession. Thank you Chel’s Kitchen for the delectable and healthy, yummy lunch! What a beautiful event it was! Congratulations to all especially to NaFFAA officials and volunteers for your success!!!
CMC Fashion Show at NaFFAA Fiesta Filipino
The fashion show by CMC Boutique has one model truly standing out because of the way she carried her Filipiniana, her poise and projection. Let’s keep an eye on Auriel Imani Stewart who may soon be a pro. She is also turning 18 on October 15. She was born and raised in Vegas, currently in her senior year, Congratulations to your proud parents, Camden and Daniel Stewart as well as grandparents Swins and Julita Fontanelle. Her mom is originally from Purok 13, Tibanga Iligan City Mindanao. Happiest birthday to you, Auriel! May all your dreams come true! And of course, congratulations to Sonny, Mila and Cirimille of CMC on your astounding fashion show in the successful NaFFAA Fiesta! Founded in 1997, CMC began as a Karaoke and Home Furniture store. When the economy took a turn, Mila and Sonny needed to find a way to keep their dream business alive and so they embarked on a journey of bringing Filipino culture to the USA through showcasing Filipino clothing and fashion. More power to your family and CMC!!!
Piolo Pascual aims to raise social awareness through action film ‘The Ride’
MANILA, Sept 27 (Mabuhay)
-- Kapamilya star Piolo Pascual expressed his hope that his latest action film, The Ride, co-starring Kyle Echarri, will bring awareness to viewers about the current social issues.
During the film’s advanced screening, Piolo shared that he wanted to convey a message about taking responsibility for the choices we make in life to achieve better outcomes.
“While I was watching it, of course I’ve seen the film many times na when we’re doing post-production, but seeing it for the first time on a big screen, and realizing the impact it might have on our audience, you have to be responsible. And I guess that’s really what I was just thinking about the whole time I was watching it,” Piolo said.
“I hope we were able to send a message across, because it’s really important nowadays, when it’s very timely with what’s happening around the world, the chaos, the violence. So ito yung parang nanood ka ng pelikula magninilay-nilay ka. Tama ba yung mga choices mo bilang tao, bilang tatay, bilang anak?” he added.
Piolo emphasized his desire to create a project that is not only entertaining but also a meaningful one that encourages viewers to reflect on important societal issues.
“Napaka-sensitive ng society, not just in the Philippines, so sana itong pelikula manalamin sa nangyayari sa paligid natin. Magkaroon tayo ng awareness na may mga ginagawa tayo mga bagay na sana hindi natin nagawa or sana mas pinili natin yung mas magandang route para mas mapabuti yung outcome,” Piolo explained.
He also shared why it took years for The Ride to be released.
“This was during the pandemic pa and at that time we wanted a theatrical release. It’s hard because you know kailangan mo muna balansehin or kailangan mo munang i-test kung ano ba ang kalagayan ng industriya natin
sa film industry ngayon and we didn’t wanna risk it because hindi naman siya typical romantic comedy. It’s not your mainstream kind of film. So it’s gonna be risky so we had to wait,” Piolo revealed.
As both the lead actor and producer (under Spring Films), Piolo stressed the importance of waiting for the right time to release the film in local cinemas.
“Gagapangin mo talaga and then you wait for your right time. And I believe na lahat naman ng bagay ay may tamang panahon na mailabas. It’s not about kailangan mo yung palabas. Polished mo muna, we went through a lot. So many post production stuff talaga na kailangan kasi kailangan to last second to the last peek kailangan alam mo yung binibigay mo,” he expressed.
In the film, Piolo plays Barry, a father estranged from his son Leo (played by Kyle Echarri), who is involved in illegal activities. The story follows their unexpected journey trying to escape danger while unfolding their painful past.
Piolo expressed: “Bilang taga-industriya, hindi ako titigil hangga’t hindi natin maibigay sa tao yung tama sa panlasa natin kasi maganda ang film industry natin. That’s what I want to champion, the Philippine cinema and for us to show what we have.”
The Ride, directed by Thop Nazareno and produced by Spring Films, Cornerstone Studios, and MQuest Ventures is showing exclusively in SM Cinemas. (MNS)
Janella Salvador opens up about balancing her passions for singing and acting
MANILA, Oct 1 (Mabuhay) -- In showbiz, one of the clear signs of a celebrity’s versatility is when they not only headline a series or a movie but also lend their voice to its official soundtrack—a feat that perfectly defines Janella Salvador’s rise to stardom.
Apart from her supporting stint in the hit Kapamilya morning series Be Careful with My Heart, Janella cemented her name in the industry as Sophie Z. Cepeda in the youth-oriented drama Oh My G!, her first-ever lead role on television.
Born to acclaimed West End musical actress Jenine Desiderio and Awit Award-winning songwriter Juan Miguel Salvador, Janella naturally showcased her multi-talented artistry in the series, performing its official theme song—her rendition of “I Can.”
Her career further soared when she top-billed Born For You, where she once again flexed her vocal prowess by singing the series’ official soundtrack alongside leading man Elmo Magalona.
These back-to-back milestones proved Janella’s prowess not only in acting but also in music, leading to another major achievement—becoming a Disney singer when she recorded the Philippine-exclusive version of Moana’s anthem, “How Far I’ll Go.”
Her versatility soon translated into accolades, winning Best New Female Recording Artist of the Year at the PMPC Star Awards for Music and New Movie Actress of the Year at the PMPC Star Awards for Movies—both in 2016. Years later, Janella continues to embody that same versatility. When asked to choose between singing and acting, she admitted that it was difficult to pick.
“I really enjoy both, talaga. Singing, I always say that singing is my first love. Acting, I learned to fall in love with it, talaga. Pero recently, I’ve been doing—I want to say I’ve been doing more—No, I’ve been doing both,” she said during Star Magic’s Spotlight Presscon.
The actress-singer shared that she’s currently deep into her craft, working on two acting projects—including her highly anticipated queer film Open Endings, an official entry to the 2025 Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival.
Would Janella Salvador date a girl? Actress answers
MANILA, Oct 4 (Mabuhay) -- Would Janella Salvador consider dating a girl?
During her guesting in “Fast Talk With Boy Abunda”, the actress answered that it is something that she would like to keep for herself now.
“I guess the answer would have to stay with me muna,” Janella shared.
“But I love who I love,” she added.
Previously, Janella was linked to her “Open Endings” co-star Klea Pineda for their growing closeness. They both addressed the rumors, saying that they are just happy to be together.
Janella also denied that she was the reason behind Klea’s breakup with Katrice Kierulf.
Klea earlier shut down the rumors linking Janella to her split with Katrice.
“Open Endings” is a queer film that also stars Jasmine Curtis-Smith and OPM singer Leanne Mamonong. It is one of the entries for Cinemalaya 2025.
Carla Abellana gives clues about mystery date
MANILA, Sept 29 (Mabuhay) -- Carla Abellana shared some tiny bits about her mystery date on “Fast Talk With Boy Abunda.”
The Kapuso actress first clarified that the man she is dating is not a foreigner and that she has known him for a long time.
“I’ve been actually seeing him. Kita niyo naman, nakakadalawang post na ako di ba? Parang may pagka soft launch po. Pero matagal ko na po siyang kilala,” Carla said.
While she previously said that she doesn’t see herself getting married again after her divorce from Tom Rodriguez, Carla now says “ayoko na po maging close ‘yung aking pag-iisip na ganon.”
“Of course, I want to be open naman po into you know to enjoying myself, and you know falling in love and being in a relationship,” Carla continued.
In August, Carla confirmed that she is currently dating someone.
Previously, she intrigued netizens with her post featuring a cozy, can-
“Like I said, you guys see—like you guys can see, I’m working on two projects, done naman na ako sa Open Endings, pero I’m working on two acting projects. So, very, very busy lately,” she added.
As for music, Janella revealed she’s busy crafting a new album she hopes to release soon.
“I’m working on an album. It’s been a long process. Hindi siya—medyo tumatagal lang, pero binubuo ko siya, ‘yung album,” she revealed.
Determined to balance both crafts, she admitted that while she initially planned to focus on them separately, she now finds herself juggling both at the same time.
“And hopefully, magawa ko pa rin pareho ng maayos. Sabi ko kasi ayokong pagsabayin talaga pero nangyayari na rin siya. So, ayun, sabay ko siya ginagawa,” she stressed.
Before wrapping up the interview, Janella also shared the kind of project she wants to take on next.
“Gusto ko rin siguro, I’ve already said this, pero I wanna star in a period film. Parang gusto ko ng period na role. I think it would be interesting,” she revealed.
She likewise mentioned the stars she hopes to work with again, naming Jodi Sta. Maria and Julia Barretto.
“Gusto ko ulit makatrabaho either Miss Jodi Sta. Maria in a more mature project, siguro, it would be interesting, or one of the ‘It Girls,’ si Julia, siguro, kasi nagka-work na kami ni Julia before sa MMK, pero never kami nagkaroon ng project together. So yeah, it would be interesting,” she concluded. (MNS)
dlelit dinner with an unidentified person holding a menu. Carla was previously married to Tom. They revealed their divorce in 2022. In 2023, Carla said that she had moved on. (MNS)
