Star-studded comeback for Aliwan Fiesta

WHEN Aliwan Fiesta makes its much-awaited comeback today, July 13, Manila Broadcasting Company will make sure that the public gets treated to the cornucopia of sights and sounds that the Philippines’ grandest festival has been known for.

Apart from the eagerly anticipated national showdown of the best dance contingents from various parts of the country that will be held on the last day, master artisans will parade their intricately crafted floats bearing the bevy of beauties vying for the highly coveted title of Reyna ng Aliwan.

And because Aliwan Fiesta spells music to the max, this year's featured guest performers are sure to thrill audiences young and old. Pasakalye's

Spears rocketed to fame in her teens on hits like "...Baby One More Time," becoming one of the world's reigning pop stars at the turn of the millennium.

But she suffered a highly publicized 2007 breakdown, which included attacking a paparazzo's car at a gas station.

The conservatorship began in 2008. It didn't formally end until November 2021, after the pop phenom's father Jamie Spears was removed from his position in charge of her finances and estate at a hearing in September.

"I just want my life back," she told the court in 2021. Since gaining her freedom, Spears has married her boyfriend Sam Asghari and collaborated on a song with Elton John

Her forthcoming memoir is "a brave and astonishingly moving story about freedom, fame, motherhood, survival, faith, and hope," her publisher said in a statement. AFP

GMA Pinoy TV pays tribute to Filipino seafarers at 'Seafarer Fiesta'

GMA Network’s international flagship channel and the Home of Global Pinoys, GMA Pinoy TV, proudly served as the media partner of the recently concluded Seafarer Fiesta last June 24 in Sofitel, Pasay City – a day of celebrating the Filipino seafarers' undeniable contribution to the world’s economy. The Seafarer Fiesta, which gathered nearly 2,000 seafarers and their families, also highlighted the sacrifice of the maritime professionals for the country and their loved ones.

During the event, GMA Pinoy TV’s booth attracted a large number of seafarers who eagerly lined up for the chance to win exciting raffle prizes and complimentary giveaways and get exclusive Votes V: Legacy shirts. The enthusiastic response demonstrated the genuine appreciation and enthusiasm of the attendees towards GMA Pinoy TV’s involvement in the event.

In addition to the festivities, GMA Pinoy TV also organized a contest specifically tailored for the seafarers in attendance. The competition provided an opportunity for the participants to engage in thrilling games, fostering camaraderie and a lively atmosphere among the seafaring community.

Actor Dingdong Dantes, who banners GMA’s primetime series Royal Blood, led the celebrities who gave their heartfelt greetings to the seafarers. Also sharing their messages were the rest of the Royal Blood ensemble as well as the cast of Abot Kamay na Pangarap. Sparkle stars Kyline Alcantara, Sanya Lopez, Andrea Torres, and Rita Daniela imparted encouraging words as well.

Organized by the Propel Me app, the Seafarer Fiesta coincided with the International Day of the Seafarer, which emphasized the global significance of this noble profession. GMA

Pinoy TV’s participation in the event further underscores its commitment to championing the aspirations and well-being of the Filipino seafaring

“GMA Pinoy TV reaffirms its commitment to honoring the indomi table spirit and invaluable contributions of Filipino seafarers. We take pride in being the media partner for this remarkable event, which allowed us to amplify their stories and extend our support to the maritime community. Together, let us celebrate our modern-day heroes and their unwavering dedication to their families and our nation,” said GMA First Vice President and Head of International Operations Joseph T. Francia

GMA Pinoy TV's digital team also produced a series of inspiring videos, each focusing on a different aspect of the seafaring profession.

One #Spotted video showcased the stories of the seafarers who have gained popularity on Tiktok due to their entertaining and relatable online content. The video also underscored their significant contribution to the maritime industry.

Another empowering video celebrated the incredible achievements and contributions of female seafarers in a traditionally male-dominated field.

Additionally, a special graduation video also captured the joy and triumph of seafarers who successfully completed their studies and embarked on their maritime careers.

The inspiring story of Christopher Tuazon, a model turned seafarer and content creator, was also featured on the popular morning show Unang Hirit. Christopher's story epitomizes the resilience and adaptability of Filipino seafarers abroad while they embrace the challenges and opportunities of life at sea.

High-rating infotainment show Amazing Earth also featured the captivating story of Raul Deocadez Jr. whose heroic actions led to the rescue of two American citizens stranded at sea for nearly 10 days. His courageous efforts and quick thinking exemplify the extraordinary skills and compassion exhibited by Filipino seafarers around the world.

GMA Network, through GMA Pinoy TV, remains dedicated to supporting and uplifting the Filipino spirit, both at home and abroad

Bente Naman Jam happening today will feature Imago, Hey June, Grace Note, and Sunkissed Lola, along with Old Fantasy On pageant night, July 14, which will be hosted by former Reyna ng Aliwan and 2014 Miss Earth Jamie Herrell together with DJ Nick of 96.3 Easy Rock, Mark Carpio and Luke Mejares will croon and groove your hearts away.

And at the awarding ceremonies to be held at 9:00 p.m. on July 15, to be hosted by Nicole Hyala and Chris Tsuper, DJ Tom Taus will heat up the stage, together with Love Radio's Tanya Chinita and After Image frontman Wency Cornejo, followed by Banda ni Kleggy and 6 Cycle Mind capping the night's festivities.