Here's the extended version of my first interview with Darren Criss (I also had a short chat with him at the Globes).
It's become so popular (almost 16 thousand views - thank you, Darren Criss fans!) that it's now one of my most-viewed videos, along with my interviews with Kris Allen, Venus Raj, Adam Lambert, Harry Shum, Jr., and Piolo Pascual.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Filipino American Students Dominate in Academic Competition
My exclusive report on Fil-Am decathlon champs.
Over 40 percent of those picked to be decathlon competitors are of Filipino descent, says Academic Junior High Decathlon director Jo Solomonson. Solomonson, a Filipina educator, saved the competition, one of the most popular in Southern California, four years ago when the program almost succumbed to budget cuts.
Over 40 percent of those picked to be decathlon competitors are of Filipino descent, says Academic Junior High Decathlon director Jo Solomonson. Solomonson, a Filipina educator, saved the competition, one of the most popular in Southern California, four years ago when the program almost succumbed to budget cuts.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
My Oscars reports
This past awards season I covered the three major awards: The Emmys, the Golden Globes, and the Oscars.
I was the first Filipina TV reporter to cover all three in one year so it's been a humbling and pinch-me-please-unbelievable experience.
I grew up in a small barrio in Batangas where I had to beg neighbors to open their window so I can watch with them when Hollywood awards aired. While at the Emmys and the Globes interviewing big stars, I had an "Am I really here?"moment of panic. I had to get over it quickly because stars were coming and I had a job to do.
People only see the glamourous side of it, but covering an awards show, especially these big ones, involves a lot of painstaking hard work and preparation behind the scenes. But it is fun, I'm not gonna lie.
ABS-CBN.com doesn't allow video embedding so please go to these links to watch my report on Fil-Am producers whose short film won an Oscar, plus Fil-Am nominees Matthew Libatique and Hailee Steinfeld:
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/video/entertainment/02/28/11/fil-ams-sweep-oscars-best-short-film
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/entertainment/02/28/11/shell-be-oscars-one-day-pinay-winners-dad
And here's the report I did for Balitang America. Go to the beginning part of this video to see my report. It's weirdly set at the end:
I was the first Filipina TV reporter to cover all three in one year so it's been a humbling and pinch-me-please-unbelievable experience.
I grew up in a small barrio in Batangas where I had to beg neighbors to open their window so I can watch with them when Hollywood awards aired. While at the Emmys and the Globes interviewing big stars, I had an "Am I really here?"moment of panic. I had to get over it quickly because stars were coming and I had a job to do.
People only see the glamourous side of it, but covering an awards show, especially these big ones, involves a lot of painstaking hard work and preparation behind the scenes. But it is fun, I'm not gonna lie.
ABS-CBN.com doesn't allow video embedding so please go to these links to watch my report on Fil-Am producers whose short film won an Oscar, plus Fil-Am nominees Matthew Libatique and Hailee Steinfeld:
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/video/entertainment/02/28/11/fil-ams-sweep-oscars-best-short-film
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/entertainment/02/28/11/shell-be-oscars-one-day-pinay-winners-dad
And here's the report I did for Balitang America. Go to the beginning part of this video to see my report. It's weirdly set at the end:
(Photo credit: Benjie Uy)
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Tagaytay's Enduring Charm
By Yong Chavez
www.FilipinOnline.com
One of the most invigorating things I did last year was visit the Philippines. Though it was only for 10 days, the break did my weary body and mind a lot of good.
In October, I went straight from the airport to One Tagaytay Place, which was highly recommended by my friend and kababayan Manny Ilagan of the Philippine Tourism office in Los Angeles.
Like anyone who's traveled the fatiguing LAX to Manila flight, I was crabby and sore by the time I arrived at the hotel.
But as soon as our group (I was joined by my mom, sister and niece) arrived, the staff starting with the concierge put me at ease with the kind of hospitality that us Filipinos are known for.
Juday Aniceto, my contact at the hotel, greeted me like a long-lost friend even though we've only met through email when I was making the reservation back in Los Angeles.
Chatting with her reminded me why we Filipinos make it anywhere we go: we're naturally friendly and supportive of every kababayan we meet. In America,no matter where I am, I break into the widest smile whenever I hear someone speaking Tagalog or talking about anything remotely Filipino.
When we got into our room, a basket filled with local fruits and pineapple drinks artfully stored in the fruit itself were waiting for us. As a kid, I had enough warnings about not eating different fruits at the same time. Fruits sold in U.S. stores taste bland in comparison to the kinds grown in the Philippines so I was tempted to inhale the whole basket in one sitting. Thankfully, mom stopped me before a tummy ache could ruin my already too-short trip.
The room was tastefully decorated. It had modern features but the native touches were endearing. I loved the soft bed with pristine white sheets. It was perfect for what I had in mind at that moment: rest my jet lagged body.
After grabbing a two-hour sleep, I was ready for the day's activities. I made arrangements to interview the hotel's general manager to talk about tourism in Tagaytay and visit noteworthy places in the area.
Here's my chat with Karl:
After, Juday took us to a chapel, a zoo, and a bee farm.
At the chapel, I saw a counter where you can write down your prayers and drop it in a box. Putting personal thoughts down on anything that will be read by another person is usually a no-no for me. But there's something so peaceful about the place that allowed my usually cynical self to let go. Faith is a very personal thing to me - I never publicly discuss it. But in the presence of other supplicants, I found myself not just able but liberated to bare my soul. Afterwards, I quietly repeated what I wrote when I kneeled down in front of a Mother Mary statue.
We went to the zoo next. I've been to the Los Angeles zoo and I have to admit, this zoo was very small in comparison. But my visit to the LA zoo was missing a major component: I didn't go there with a child. I experienced the Tagaytay Zoo with my adorable niece, an urban girl whose dealings with animals are limited to cats and dogs. She was so ecstatic to see the animals up close that we jaded adults found ourselves enjoying the visit as well. The monkeys were especially entertaining as they gracefully swung and interacted with each other in their cage as if mounting a choreographed stage production.
Lastly we went to a bee farm where personal care products are made. Entering the simple shop, I'm reminded how much it differed from my favorite Bath and Body Works branch back home, but they share the same vibe and scent. They both offer simple bliss in a bottle. I bought several items and smelled lovely the whole time. I snuck a peek at their back area and saw young women happily chatting away while mixing ingredients.
On our way back to the hotel, I saw an image that for me encapsulates Tagaytay's appeal: an old woman with a makeshift cane casually walking into the woods like she probably has been doing all her life, oblivious to the hustle and noise of passing cars and the modern yet quaint hotels housing busy people just a few feet away from her. Through the years, Tagaytay has managed to retain its old-world charm yet it's able to provide world-class amenities for tourists.
Back at One Tagaytay, the final appointment in my packed arrival day schedule was waiting. I couldn't be happier. All day, as soon as I deplaned, I was aching for this: a full-body massage guaranteed to take away all the stress that I've put my body through.
After an hour of being kneaded by a pair of professional in-house massage therapists, I was boneless and satisfied. And extremely sleepy. The massage knocked me out faster than any sleeping aid I've ever had. But before I nodded off, I remember asking the therapists to come back with me to Los Angeles. We all laughed and I wished wasn't just kidding.
The following day, I woke up refreshed and hungry. Before we checked out, my family enjoyed the hotel's sumptuous breakfast buffet. I skipped the Continental breakfast selections and filled my plate with Filipino food. Sarap-to-the-bones. In all my years in the U.S., there's one part of me that will always be 100% Pinay - my tummy still belongs to Philippine food.
After, I said my reluctant goodbyes to the friendly staff. I wish I had a week, at least, to stay in the hotel but I had appointments to get to.
I don't know when I will be going home to the Philippines again, but this I know for sure: when I do, a stay at One Tagaytay Place is a must.
www.FilipinOnline.com
One of the most invigorating things I did last year was visit the Philippines. Though it was only for 10 days, the break did my weary body and mind a lot of good.
In October, I went straight from the airport to One Tagaytay Place, which was highly recommended by my friend and kababayan Manny Ilagan of the Philippine Tourism office in Los Angeles.
Like anyone who's traveled the fatiguing LAX to Manila flight, I was crabby and sore by the time I arrived at the hotel.
But as soon as our group (I was joined by my mom, sister and niece) arrived, the staff starting with the concierge put me at ease with the kind of hospitality that us Filipinos are known for.
Juday Aniceto, my contact at the hotel, greeted me like a long-lost friend even though we've only met through email when I was making the reservation back in Los Angeles.
Chatting with her reminded me why we Filipinos make it anywhere we go: we're naturally friendly and supportive of every kababayan we meet. In America,no matter where I am, I break into the widest smile whenever I hear someone speaking Tagalog or talking about anything remotely Filipino.
When we got into our room, a basket filled with local fruits and pineapple drinks artfully stored in the fruit itself were waiting for us. As a kid, I had enough warnings about not eating different fruits at the same time. Fruits sold in U.S. stores taste bland in comparison to the kinds grown in the Philippines so I was tempted to inhale the whole basket in one sitting. Thankfully, mom stopped me before a tummy ache could ruin my already too-short trip.
The room was tastefully decorated. It had modern features but the native touches were endearing. I loved the soft bed with pristine white sheets. It was perfect for what I had in mind at that moment: rest my jet lagged body.
After grabbing a two-hour sleep, I was ready for the day's activities. I made arrangements to interview the hotel's general manager to talk about tourism in Tagaytay and visit noteworthy places in the area.
Here's my chat with Karl:
After, Juday took us to a chapel, a zoo, and a bee farm.
At the chapel, I saw a counter where you can write down your prayers and drop it in a box. Putting personal thoughts down on anything that will be read by another person is usually a no-no for me. But there's something so peaceful about the place that allowed my usually cynical self to let go. Faith is a very personal thing to me - I never publicly discuss it. But in the presence of other supplicants, I found myself not just able but liberated to bare my soul. Afterwards, I quietly repeated what I wrote when I kneeled down in front of a Mother Mary statue.
We went to the zoo next. I've been to the Los Angeles zoo and I have to admit, this zoo was very small in comparison. But my visit to the LA zoo was missing a major component: I didn't go there with a child. I experienced the Tagaytay Zoo with my adorable niece, an urban girl whose dealings with animals are limited to cats and dogs. She was so ecstatic to see the animals up close that we jaded adults found ourselves enjoying the visit as well. The monkeys were especially entertaining as they gracefully swung and interacted with each other in their cage as if mounting a choreographed stage production.
Lastly we went to a bee farm where personal care products are made. Entering the simple shop, I'm reminded how much it differed from my favorite Bath and Body Works branch back home, but they share the same vibe and scent. They both offer simple bliss in a bottle. I bought several items and smelled lovely the whole time. I snuck a peek at their back area and saw young women happily chatting away while mixing ingredients.
On our way back to the hotel, I saw an image that for me encapsulates Tagaytay's appeal: an old woman with a makeshift cane casually walking into the woods like she probably has been doing all her life, oblivious to the hustle and noise of passing cars and the modern yet quaint hotels housing busy people just a few feet away from her. Through the years, Tagaytay has managed to retain its old-world charm yet it's able to provide world-class amenities for tourists.
Back at One Tagaytay, the final appointment in my packed arrival day schedule was waiting. I couldn't be happier. All day, as soon as I deplaned, I was aching for this: a full-body massage guaranteed to take away all the stress that I've put my body through.
After an hour of being kneaded by a pair of professional in-house massage therapists, I was boneless and satisfied. And extremely sleepy. The massage knocked me out faster than any sleeping aid I've ever had. But before I nodded off, I remember asking the therapists to come back with me to Los Angeles. We all laughed and I wished wasn't just kidding.
The following day, I woke up refreshed and hungry. Before we checked out, my family enjoyed the hotel's sumptuous breakfast buffet. I skipped the Continental breakfast selections and filled my plate with Filipino food. Sarap-to-the-bones. In all my years in the U.S., there's one part of me that will always be 100% Pinay - my tummy still belongs to Philippine food.
After, I said my reluctant goodbyes to the friendly staff. I wish I had a week, at least, to stay in the hotel but I had appointments to get to.
I don't know when I will be going home to the Philippines again, but this I know for sure: when I do, a stay at One Tagaytay Place is a must.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Filipino talents, generous spirit shine at the Golden Globes
A "Global" Coup
Filipino talents, generous spirit shine at the Golden Globes
By Yong Chavez
www.FilipinOnline.com
Millions of television viewers worldwide were once again treated to the glitz and glamour of the Golden Globes. The Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA) throws the glitziest, most fun party during the awards season. Every year, every star and their agent clamor to get the coveted Globe invite.
HFPA is an elite group of foreign journalists reporting from Hollywood.
Ruben and Janet Nepales, veteran journalists, are its only Filipino members.
They play big roles during the Golden Globe award ceremonies, but they say the most challenging work happens before the awards night: dealing with celebrity demands.
Though the day's tasks can be daunting, they admit that working with the biggest stars to stage one of the biggest nights in Hollywood is a nice job perk.
They also get to observe these A-listers, warts and all, behind the scenes.
The husband-and-wife team, well-known in the Los Angeles Fil-Am circle, generously shared the rare experience of mingling with the stars with community members.
Through their work with the Golden Globes, they also promote Filipino talents such as fashion designers Carlyn Nuyda-Calloway, Alan del Rosario, and Oliver Tolentino. The three joined Monique Lhuillier in the elite list of Fil-Am designers whose creations were worn by Golden Globes attendees. Amber Riley. Glee actress, wore a stunning Oliver Tolentino gown while Alan del Rosario, a 2009 Oscars Designers Challenge contender, custom-created the dress of a former Miss Universe.
Filipino talents, generous spirit shine at the Golden Globes
By Yong Chavez
www.FilipinOnline.com
Millions of television viewers worldwide were once again treated to the glitz and glamour of the Golden Globes. The Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA) throws the glitziest, most fun party during the awards season. Every year, every star and their agent clamor to get the coveted Globe invite.
HFPA is an elite group of foreign journalists reporting from Hollywood.
Ruben and Janet Nepales, veteran journalists, are its only Filipino members.
They play big roles during the Golden Globe award ceremonies, but they say the most challenging work happens before the awards night: dealing with celebrity demands.
Though the day's tasks can be daunting, they admit that working with the biggest stars to stage one of the biggest nights in Hollywood is a nice job perk.
They also get to observe these A-listers, warts and all, behind the scenes.
The husband-and-wife team, well-known in the Los Angeles Fil-Am circle, generously shared the rare experience of mingling with the stars with community members.
Through their work with the Golden Globes, they also promote Filipino talents such as fashion designers Carlyn Nuyda-Calloway, Alan del Rosario, and Oliver Tolentino. The three joined Monique Lhuillier in the elite list of Fil-Am designers whose creations were worn by Golden Globes attendees. Amber Riley. Glee actress, wore a stunning Oliver Tolentino gown while Alan del Rosario, a 2009 Oscars Designers Challenge contender, custom-created the dress of a former Miss Universe.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Fil-Ams at the Oscars
Five or six years ago, I did a story for Philippine News, wherein Hollywood insider and Fil-Am talent supporter Winston Emano talked about the possibility of one day seeing Filipinos take the Oscar trophy.
Well, that day appears to be nearer than ever. Here's my TV Patrol report on this exciting news. ABS-CBN videos don't allow embedding (sorry, I hate that, too) but here's the link: Yong Chavez reports: Fil-Ams kasama sa mga nominado sa Oscars: http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/video/entertainment/01/26/11/half-pinoys-among-academy-awards-nominees
Well, that day appears to be nearer than ever. Here's my TV Patrol report on this exciting news. ABS-CBN videos don't allow embedding (sorry, I hate that, too) but here's the link: Yong Chavez reports: Fil-Ams kasama sa mga nominado sa Oscars: http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/video/entertainment/01/26/11/half-pinoys-among-academy-awards-nominees
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
My Recent Reports
I feel bad that I haven't had the time to update my blog, but here are some of my recent TV reports:
I have about 20 more stories to post!
I have about 20 more stories to post!
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Filipino Nurses Sue Over English-Only Policy
By Yong Chavez
Here's my exclusive report on Filipino nurses suing a California hospital for discrimination.
And here's the Tagalog, TV Patrol version.
Here's my exclusive report on Filipino nurses suing a California hospital for discrimination.
And here's the Tagalog, TV Patrol version.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
My Primetime Emmys report
By Yong B. Chavez
For the first time, a Filipino TV crew was at the Primetime Emmy's red carpet. Here's my Balitang America report featuring interviews with Glee stars talking about Charice and the Filipino fashion designers, Monique Lhuillier and Oliver Tolentino.
Below is the the Tagalog (TV Patrol) version.
I was also featured by Asiance Magazine in their photo spread of Asians at the Emmys. These photos were taken by Hollywood photographer and kababayan, Sthalee Mirador.
For the first time, a Filipino TV crew was at the Primetime Emmy's red carpet. Here's my Balitang America report featuring interviews with Glee stars talking about Charice and the Filipino fashion designers, Monique Lhuillier and Oliver Tolentino.
Below is the the Tagalog (TV Patrol) version.
I was also featured by Asiance Magazine in their photo spread of Asians at the Emmys. These photos were taken by Hollywood photographer and kababayan, Sthalee Mirador.
Monday, August 23, 2010
My Q&A with Miss Universe 2010 Jimena Navarette: "I love Venus!"
By Yong Chavez
www.FilipinOnline.com
Friday, August 20, 2010
Venus Raj: "No matter how poor you are, it's not a reason to give up"
By Yong Chavez
www.FilipinOnline.com
Miss Philippines-Universe Venus Raj, 22, is an interviewer's dream. She's open, smart, and gracious.
In the extended version of my one-on-one interview with her in Hollywood, Raj, talked about her plans after Miss Universe (politics, journalism, showbiz) and the childhood trauma that still affects her to this day. She also shared the challenges she faced being born out of wedlock as well as her desire now to inspire other Filipino children with similar background to believe that their dreams can come true. Venus also talked about the P-Noy policy she admires most, and her love life and celebrity crushes (JLC!).
And even though, she has experienced losses in life - one of them, an ill-advised run as a councilor in her town when she was a teenager, an experience that she says gave her valuable lessons - in the interview, she shows what many Filipinos already know: Venus Raj is a winner.
Below is the news report I did for Balitang America. My story about her also appeared on TV Patrol.
www.FilipinOnline.com
Miss Philippines-Universe Venus Raj, 22, is an interviewer's dream. She's open, smart, and gracious.
In the extended version of my one-on-one interview with her in Hollywood, Raj, talked about her plans after Miss Universe (politics, journalism, showbiz) and the childhood trauma that still affects her to this day. She also shared the challenges she faced being born out of wedlock as well as her desire now to inspire other Filipino children with similar background to believe that their dreams can come true. Venus also talked about the P-Noy policy she admires most, and her love life and celebrity crushes (JLC!).
And even though, she has experienced losses in life - one of them, an ill-advised run as a councilor in her town when she was a teenager, an experience that she says gave her valuable lessons - in the interview, she shows what many Filipinos already know: Venus Raj is a winner.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
ARNEL PINEDA: "I just want to give back"
Arnel Pineda's New Journey
Includes Philanthropy
By: Yong Chavez
www.FilipinOnline.com
I recently interviewed Arnel Pineda, the lead singer of Journey. His amazing voice is already well-known, but what not a lot of people know about him is that Arnel is doing a lot of charity work to help Filipino kids in need.
"It takes one person to care, to make a difference in another person's life," he said. "People helped me to be where I am today, so I want to help others, too."
The Arnel Pineda Foundation is funded mostly through Arnel's solo fundraising concerts. Once his Journey commitments start, he plans to auction off his memorabilia to keep the program running, with the help of other big-hearted kababayans.
In my extended interview above, he talks about his foundation and his upcoming Journey projects. Candidly, he also shares the price of his fame and he also talks about what he misses from his old life back in the Philippines.
And here's the news report I did about him which aired on The Filipino Channel in July.
Includes Philanthropy
By: Yong Chavez
www.FilipinOnline.com
I recently interviewed Arnel Pineda, the lead singer of Journey. His amazing voice is already well-known, but what not a lot of people know about him is that Arnel is doing a lot of charity work to help Filipino kids in need.
"It takes one person to care, to make a difference in another person's life," he said. "People helped me to be where I am today, so I want to help others, too."
The Arnel Pineda Foundation is funded mostly through Arnel's solo fundraising concerts. Once his Journey commitments start, he plans to auction off his memorabilia to keep the program running, with the help of other big-hearted kababayans.
In my extended interview above, he talks about his foundation and his upcoming Journey projects. Candidly, he also shares the price of his fame and he also talks about what he misses from his old life back in the Philippines.
And here's the news report I did about him which aired on The Filipino Channel in July.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Filipino American Costars in a Movie About Hollywood Ups & Downs
Q&A with DION BASCO
By Yong Chavez
www.FilipinOnline.com
LOS ANGELES-- Dion Basco comes from a showbiz family. Originally from Northern California, they moved to Los Angeles to follow the performing interests of the Basco siblings. Dion's first acting job at 8 years old was with the late great Michael Jackson in Moonwalker. His credits include NBC's City Guys, Biker Boyz, and The Debut.
Dion's latest movie is Why Am I Doing This?, a comedy depicting the trials and tribulations of struggling actors. Making it in Hollywood is a tough thing to do for anyone, but more so for Asians. In the movie, the subject is deftly handled with a comic touch and infused with realism as many of the scenes are based on the actors' and the filmmaker's experiences in La-la-land.
"That scene where (writer/director/lead actor Tom Huang) was being asked by the casting director to say the lines in an Asian accent? That happened to me," Dion says with a laugh.
Dion and I talked recently about his movie, his dream role, and his upcoming trip to the Philippines.
Yong Chavez: Your movie asks, Why Am I Doing This? -- as an actor, do you ever ask yourself that?
Dion Basco: (Laughs.) Of course. All actors ask themselves that. But I have an answer: "I'm not good at anything else. I love it. I can't stay away from it." So I'm even more determined to grow as an artist. I'm going into writing and producing.
You're writing scripts?
Yeah. Basically, like our director Tom (Huang), it comes to a certain point, especially if you're a Filipino actor or an Asian actor, when the roles that come your way are for things like "Sidekick #7"... I've been fortunate to have played a lot of roles but I've never had a lead role. So I'm, like, if I want it I'm gonna have to write it for myself. I wanted to have a role that's not the stereotypical Asian smart guy or the best friend.
What's your most memorable audition so far?
I've had a lot of good auditions. One was in Race The Sun which starred Halle Berry and Jim Belushi. They already hired an actor but they got me after my audition. There's also another one, in City Guys, where the role was originally for a Puerto Rican. So I had my test and there was this Asian young executive. He told me he thought to himself when I came in, "Oh, he'd better be good, I don't want him to ruin my people." (Laughs.) I'm glad I didn't because I got the part.
Auditioning is tough.
Yeah, but sometimes you're just not right for a part. I'll tell you a horror story. I went to this dance movie audition. So they asked me to dance, but then my shoes were sticking to the carpet so I felt like the most uncoordinated person. Then they said they're actually gonna see me for another role, the older wise guy. They wanted like an Asian Morpheus-type. They asked me to read in an Asian accent, and I did a Filipino accent. They said, "That's not the kind of Asian accent we're looking for." Then they said, "We're gonna put a long, white wig on you and a Fu Manchu mustache. And you're gonna be blind. So read this like you're blind." (Laughs.) They asked me to return several times, each time asking me to do a bunch of other crazy things. And I didn't get the job! But honestly, at that point, I didn't want the job anymore. (Laughs.)
I recently interviewed your brother (Dante Basco, who was the voice of Prince Zuko in Avatar: The Last Airbender cartoon series). We talked about the Last Airbender film, the casting controversy. What's your take on it?
I haven't seen the movie, but someone told me recently that even in the (script) breakdown, they even specified "Caucasian" for the roles, so that's interesting that they totally switched it around from the cartoon. Some of the Asian parts were made into East Indian, which is part of Asia, so I can't hate on that totally. (Director) M. Night (Shyamalan) is Indian so I could see why he did that, but I haven't seen the movie so I can't say if it's a bad choice. It's just tough to see things that are definitely Asian and they have a big, wide audience, and then Hollywood makes it a white version and they don't give the Asian actors a chance to do it. Unless you're a Jackie Chan or a Jet Li, but that's different.
There was a really funny line in Why Am I Doing This? that goes something like: "The cool Asian roles come only once a year, and John Cho usually takes the first pass at it."
Yeah. It's tough. Plus, casting-wise, John Cho is different from me. He's more strait-laced than I am... I have more of an edge. So they're writing roles for John Cho, and I'm not like him, so it's tough.
Your movie is sort of a funny cautionary tale. It might inspire and warn aspiring actors. What would you tell someone who wants to go to Hollywood?
You better love acting. It's "either you're gonna do this or you're gonna die" type of love. There are so many hardships, so much rejection, so this better be something you really love. And you better be good.
What's your dream role?
A lot. I'd love to play a doctor, a bad guy, a love interest in a great movie, like The Notebook-type character. The guy who falls in love, goes to war, struggles, becomes a man... It's a really good role. I'd also love to do a romantic comedy, an Asian leading role. We don't always have to be the best friend. We could be the guy that the girl wants. It happens in real life. (Laughs.) I have very good-looking Asian friends. We do get the women in real life so why can't it happen in Hollywood? (Laughs.)
I heard you're also shooting a documentary about a trip to the Philippines.
Yes. My brothers and I are going together for the first time. The project could be about our social lives there. Also, my grandmother is, like, the head person in a community in the middle of nowhere. I don't even know the name of the place but I wanna see that, and I wanna go to the beaches.
==========================================================
"Why Am I Doing This?" is now available on DVD at Amazon.com, Target.com, BestBuy.com, and WalMart.com.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Kobe Bryant Sponsors Filipino Kids to Attend His Basketball Academy
Here's my TV report on a wonderful project by Kobe Bryant, Fil-Am bag designer Gina Lopez Alexander, and the Black Card Circle Foundation.
Monday, June 28, 2010
What Jane Monreal Knows For Sure
Fil-Am TV Personality Competes to Become Reality Show Host
- Getting fired from TV job got her fired up to pursue her true passion: hosting her own travel show
- She's asking kababayans to vote for her entry, See Jane Run, a contender for Oprah Winfrey Network's contest for aspiring TV show hosts. To vote for her: http://myown.oprah.com/audition/index.html?request=video_details&response_id=10268&promo_id=1
By Yong Chavez
www.FilipinOnline.com
Los Angeles, CA-- Jane Monreal, 39, was laughing while apologizing for a technical glitch during an interview.
She was just talking about her show, which she proudly dubbed "high-tech," when the snafu occurred. "Ugh, forget high-tech now," she laughs.
But she quickly recovers, gathers her thoughts, and completes her story. She's good with recovering, a master adjuster who can quickly make the most out of every situation. Naturally she's in entertainment.
Monreal's family moved from the Philippines to the U.S. when she was 7. Her engineer-dad pursued good work opportunities where he could find them so the Monreals moved a lot. This, Monreal says, instilled in her a love for traveling. For her, the adventures and the people she gets to meet at each place make any travel inconvenience worthwhile.
This willingness and capacity to embrace change helped her when, a year ago, she was let go by KABC-TV Eyewitness News. Monreal became one of the casualties of the U.S. recession and the changing media landscape, now a far cry from the traditional broadcast journalism world where she came from. Her departure came as a shock to her and to fans, especially Filipino-Americans, who used to tune in to ABC-7 to see her traffic and features reports everyday.
She admits that she broke down and grieved for the job loss, "for a day, I think."
"I thought, 'This moment is making me; it's not breaking me.'"
The next day, she made plans to launch her new venture, enCompass Entertainment, LLC, which "specializes in the creation, development, production and packaging of original content for multimedia distribution, including network, cable, syndication, radio, and online media." In effect, she was embracing the emerging media world that cost her her job.
"I think a healthy amount of grieving was necessary, but I was really pragmatic about it. I said, 'Let's go, let's do something else.' Life moves on. Someone gave me an analogy, and it made me go, 'That's what happened to me,'" she says. "When you're coming up the stairs, you always have one foot ready to take the next step. Sometimes, that bottom step needs to be taken away so you can literally step it up. I needed to step it up."
So for her next employer, she decided to dream big.
How big? Try the biggest: Oprah.
When Monreal learned that the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN) has launched "Your OWN Show Reality Competition", she submitted her 30-minute show, See Jane Run.
See Jane Run is currently an online show self-produced by Monreal and her enCompass team. Its tag-line, "Passport to Life," aptly describes what it is: "all about life’s adventures: the joy of being a passenger, pedestrian and voyager," and making cultural connections, using social media to encourage their participation in each journey. As its website declares: "This is Eat, Pray, Love – in Jane’s high-tech world."
Monreal has big hopes but she remains realistic. Going after your dreams is never easy, she says.
"The shoots can be grueling... I use a skeleton crew, and I'm currently using my own funds to finance the show, and let me tell you, it's becoming more and more challenging as the days go by," she says, momentarily sounding pensive. But she quickly recovers her verve. "But I am doing what I love!"
For See Jane Run, she travels to places, local and international, and features interesting stories and people. "I don't think there's a place I won't go. Or something I won't do. Oh! I won't jump out of a plane! Or eat a snake. That's Fear Factor. That's something I won't do, for sure."
To celebrate her Oprah bid, Monreal shares the other things she knows for sure.
5 Things JANE MONREAL Knows For Sure
1. There is nothing more powerful in human life than faith. Faith guides our decisions in all things from business to matters of the heart. Faith enables us to openly receive and give love. And faith keeps us focused and on our feet when life throws us a curve ball.
2. In time, people always show their true colors. They may not show you who they are right away, but the truth will eventually emerge.
3. Something I’ve learned through my yoga practice: Clarity is a very good thing. If we can tune out the noise and find clarity in our lives, we will make wiser choices.
4. We don’t have to travel 10,000 miles or spend a ton of money to experience the world. We can discover, learn and live an adventure in our own backyards, simply by stepping out of our comfort zone and trying something new.
5. We have only this one, short life on earth. We must make the most of it!
To VOTE FOR JANE, follow the link below. DEADLINE is JULY 3. Five participants with the highest number of votes will become finalists to be considered for the program.
Copyright © 2010 FilipinOnline.com. All rights reserved.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Kobe Bryant and Filipina Businesswoman to host charity event for Philippine kids
KOBE BRYANT, GINA ALEXANDER AND THE BLACK CARD CIRCLE FOUNDATION TO HOST UNDERPRIVILEGED CHILDREN AT KOBE BRYANT BASKETBALL ACADEMY
Los Angeles , CA-- For the first time, the Kobe Bryant Family Foundation and the Gina Alexander Philanthropy Project will host 10 underprivileged children from the Philippines with scholarships to attend the Kobe Bryant Basketball Academy in Santa Barbara, California next month. In a special event to raise funds for this partnership, the Black Card Circle Foundation, a volunteer-run organization created to assist other non-profit groups, will spearhead a special Reception on July 5, 2010 at the Americana in Glendale along with Nike.
“We are so excited and honored that Kobe Bryant has provided us with this opportunity” beamed Gina Alexander. “The kids that we are bringing over from the Philippines will actually get to interact with Kobe Bryant daily and will have the once-in-a-lifetime chance to learn the leadership skills that has brought Kobe 5 NBA Championship rings and distinguishes him as probably the greatest basketball player of all time.” Part of the mission statement of the Kobe Bryant Family Foundation is to raise leaders and teach children to be champions.
“Raising leaders is a sentiment we echo with each of our projects,” says Black Card Circle Foundation Founder and Chairman Lotay Yang. “We are honored to be able to part of this endeavor to help Gina and Kobe with their goals.” The Black Card Circle Foundation exists to attract influential donors, supporters and corporations to promote and spotlight non-profit organizations who empower individuals who otherwise may not have access to opportunities and resources to reach their full potential in life. “Charity is the backbone of BCCF. We want to emphasize that giving back to the community or helping philanthropists and worthy causes is our priority,” says Yang.
The event will include appearances by some of Hollywood ’s top celebrities, a gourmet selection of foods and live entertainment and proceeds will go directly to the Gina Alexander Philanthropy Project. To purchase tickets and for further information, please log on to www.BlackCardCircleFoundation.org.
*****
BLACK CARD CIRCLE FOUNDATION
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
KOBE BRYANT FAMILY FOUNDATION AND GINA ALEXANDER PHILANTHROPY PROJECTS and NIKE
PRESENTS
“A Reception for Underprivileged Children”
MONDAY, July 5, 2010
6:00 pm – 10:00pm
Katsuya at the Americana
589 Americana Way, Glendale, CA. 91210
Ticket prices: $300, $150, $75
Available only at www.BlackCardCircleFoundation.org
No tickets available at the door. This is a pre-sale event.
Los Angeles , CA-- For the first time, the Kobe Bryant Family Foundation and the Gina Alexander Philanthropy Project will host 10 underprivileged children from the Philippines with scholarships to attend the Kobe Bryant Basketball Academy in Santa Barbara, California next month. In a special event to raise funds for this partnership, the Black Card Circle Foundation, a volunteer-run organization created to assist other non-profit groups, will spearhead a special Reception on July 5, 2010 at the Americana in Glendale along with Nike.
“We are so excited and honored that Kobe Bryant has provided us with this opportunity” beamed Gina Alexander. “The kids that we are bringing over from the Philippines will actually get to interact with Kobe Bryant daily and will have the once-in-a-lifetime chance to learn the leadership skills that has brought Kobe 5 NBA Championship rings and distinguishes him as probably the greatest basketball player of all time.” Part of the mission statement of the Kobe Bryant Family Foundation is to raise leaders and teach children to be champions.
“Raising leaders is a sentiment we echo with each of our projects,” says Black Card Circle Foundation Founder and Chairman Lotay Yang. “We are honored to be able to part of this endeavor to help Gina and Kobe with their goals.” The Black Card Circle Foundation exists to attract influential donors, supporters and corporations to promote and spotlight non-profit organizations who empower individuals who otherwise may not have access to opportunities and resources to reach their full potential in life. “Charity is the backbone of BCCF. We want to emphasize that giving back to the community or helping philanthropists and worthy causes is our priority,” says Yang.
The event will include appearances by some of Hollywood ’s top celebrities, a gourmet selection of foods and live entertainment and proceeds will go directly to the Gina Alexander Philanthropy Project. To purchase tickets and for further information, please log on to www.BlackCardCircleFoundation.org.
*****
BLACK CARD CIRCLE FOUNDATION
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
KOBE BRYANT FAMILY FOUNDATION AND GINA ALEXANDER PHILANTHROPY PROJECTS and NIKE
PRESENTS
“A Reception for Underprivileged Children”
MONDAY, July 5, 2010
6:00 pm – 10:00pm
Katsuya at the Americana
589 Americana Way, Glendale, CA. 91210
Ticket prices: $300, $150, $75
Available only at www.BlackCardCircleFoundation.org
No tickets available at the door. This is a pre-sale event.
Charice Will Be on GLEE Next Season!
By Yong Chavez
www.FilipinOnline.com
It's official - Charice will be joining the cast of Glee next season!
The international star - who had to deny premature announcements that she will be on the hit show a few weeks ago - has confirmed that she will be harmonizing with TV's most popular show choir.
"Charice will have a recurring role. Multiple episodes," said Karen Moss, Charice's press agent in the U.S. The star's mother, Racquel Pempengco, also confirmed the good news via text.
Charice is currently in London. She has been performing all over the world and promoting her chart-topping album.
Earlier this month, no other than singing legend Patti Labelle called her "phenomenal" and "will be the biggest artist in the world."
Entertainment Weekly reports that Charice will be playing a "foreign exchange student" with killer vocals. She's expected to give Rachel, New Directions' resident diva, some competition!
Picture: from charicemusic.com
Stay tuned for more Charice news - Glee's scripts will be written in July. More information about Charice's role will be available then.
Copyright © 2010 FilipinOnline.com. All rights reserved.
www.FilipinOnline.com
It's official - Charice will be joining the cast of Glee next season!
The international star - who had to deny premature announcements that she will be on the hit show a few weeks ago - has confirmed that she will be harmonizing with TV's most popular show choir.
"Charice will have a recurring role. Multiple episodes," said Karen Moss, Charice's press agent in the U.S. The star's mother, Racquel Pempengco, also confirmed the good news via text.
Charice is currently in London. She has been performing all over the world and promoting her chart-topping album.
Earlier this month, no other than singing legend Patti Labelle called her "phenomenal" and "will be the biggest artist in the world."
Entertainment Weekly reports that Charice will be playing a "foreign exchange student" with killer vocals. She's expected to give Rachel, New Directions' resident diva, some competition!
Stay tuned for more Charice news - Glee's scripts will be written in July. More information about Charice's role will be available then.
Copyright © 2010 FilipinOnline.com. All rights reserved.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
DISNEY'S THE LION KING OPEN AUDITIONS IN LOS ANGELES FOR CHILDREN SINGERS
Seeking children ages 9–12, with a maximum height of 58”, who can sing, dance and act to play the African lion cubs Simba and Nala. We encourage children of all backgrounds to attend. No performance experience necessary.
Be prepared to be taught the last verse of Just Can’t Wait to be King. All children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Parents or guardians must remain at the audition site at all times. Be ready to wait.
WHEN:
Saturday, June 26, 2010
9:30am - Sign-in begins
10:00am - Auditions begin
11:00am - Sign-in ends
WHERE:
Screenland Studios
10501 Burbank Blvd.
North Hollywood, CA 91601
Casting children for the Broadway, Las Vegas and National Touring companies. Minimum weekly salary is $1,605. Payments subject to applicable state laws regarding trust funds for minors.
FOR AUDITION INFORMATION:
www.lionkingcasting.com • Audition hotline: (212) 827-5450
If you are unable to attend this audition, send a HEADSHOT and resume ASAP to: Binder Casting • Attn: The Lion King Kids 321 W. 44th Street • Suite 606 • New York, NY 10036 http://www.bindercasting.com/
Job Opening: UCR looking for Tagalog Lecturer
Temporary Academic Position
Tagalog Language Lecturer
University of California, Riverside
The Department of Comparative Literature and Foreign Languages at the University of California, Riverside invites applications for a part-time lecturer position in Tagalog language for 2010-2011 academic year. Candidates must have at least an M.A. degree in Tagalog, teaching experience at the college or university level, and a dynamic classroom presence. Duties include teaching five courses in beginning or advanced Tagalog, pending final funding. Salary per course is $4,959.56. The Fall Quarter begins September 23rd.
Please send cover letter, curriculum vitae, teaching evaluations, two or three letters of recommendation, and (optional but recommended) 20-minute VHS/DVD teaching demo to: Chair,
Tagalog Lecturer Search Committee, Department of Comparative Literature and Foreign Languages, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521-0321
Questions/inquiries please email: veronica.valenzuela@ucr.edu
Review of applications will begin June 4, 2010; the position will remain open until filled. The successful candidate must show proof of employment eligibility. The University of California, Riverside, is an AA/EEO employer.
[File photo: Ginang Oliva teaching Filipino classes at Cerritos]
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Hollywood Awards Show Host Picks Oliver Tolentino
“Dancing with the Stars” & “Clean This House” star Niecy Nash chose Filipino fashion designer Oliver Tolentino to dress her when she hosted the New Now Next Awards 2010.
The show will air June 17th on the Logo channel. The awards show, now in its third year, is about discovering today what will be trending next year. To that end, the New Now Next Awards gathers icons and stars-on-the-rise to crown the next "big things" in TV, music, film, print and new media long before they hit the mainstream.
Through its past discoveries, has proven it's one step ahead of the hype by calling out some of today's hottest pop culture phenoms long before they were on the mainstream radar. Highlights include Lady Gaga's first ever televised performance with a sizzling rendition of "Just Dance." Hit drama series "True Blood" received the "Best Show You're Not Watching" award months before its Emmy© nominations. Wendy Williams won "Best New Indulgence" before her daytime talk show "The Wendy Williams Show" went national. Leona Lewis received "The Kylie Award: Next International Crossover" as she was just emerging onto the U.S. music scene with her hit "Bleeding Love" and now she is a household name.
Niecy wore a black Oliver Tolentino stretchable beaded long gown for the red carpet arrival ceremonies and then changed into two other gowns for her on-air hosting duties. One was a champagne sequined gown and the other has been described as a “red cloud with shimmering, electric top.”
“Niecy told me she wanted a very dramatic entrance so I’ve tried to provide her with one,” Tolentino said.
Since launching his shop in the U.S., Tolentino has been making waves in Hollywood. His celebrity fans include Kimora Lee, who wore his dress on a cover shoot, Lea Salonga, and Patti Austin.
The show will air June 17th on the Logo channel. The awards show, now in its third year, is about discovering today what will be trending next year. To that end, the New Now Next Awards gathers icons and stars-on-the-rise to crown the next "big things" in TV, music, film, print and new media long before they hit the mainstream.
Through its past discoveries, has proven it's one step ahead of the hype by calling out some of today's hottest pop culture phenoms long before they were on the mainstream radar. Highlights include Lady Gaga's first ever televised performance with a sizzling rendition of "Just Dance." Hit drama series "True Blood" received the "Best Show You're Not Watching" award months before its Emmy© nominations. Wendy Williams won "Best New Indulgence" before her daytime talk show "The Wendy Williams Show" went national. Leona Lewis received "The Kylie Award: Next International Crossover" as she was just emerging onto the U.S. music scene with her hit "Bleeding Love" and now she is a household name.
Niecy wore a black Oliver Tolentino stretchable beaded long gown for the red carpet arrival ceremonies and then changed into two other gowns for her on-air hosting duties. One was a champagne sequined gown and the other has been described as a “red cloud with shimmering, electric top.”
“Niecy told me she wanted a very dramatic entrance so I’ve tried to provide her with one,” Tolentino said.
Since launching his shop in the U.S., Tolentino has been making waves in Hollywood. His celebrity fans include Kimora Lee, who wore his dress on a cover shoot, Lea Salonga, and Patti Austin.
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