GMA rocks the Ketkai crowd

Monday, September 1, 2008

As one of the major sponsors in the recent civic fiesta celebration of Cagayan de Oro, GMA rocked the house down for four straight days culminating in the mall show of Pinoy Idol first season second runner-up, Ram Chaves.

The GMA string of shows started with talent Angelika dela Cruz who was celebrity judge of Miss Kagay-an 2008 coronation night last August 26.

Another GMA talent, Mark Herras, likewise entertained the beauties with his rendition of Ako'y Sa Iyo at Ika'y Akin Lamang, although a few people in the crowd were disappointed and commented that he should have sung a livelier track.

But that was compensated two days later when the now-winning Miss Kagay-an 2008 Ma. Jennifer Precious Gaston and her court were serenaded by yet another GMA talent, Marc Anthony Fernandez.

Marc would later narrate in an interview with Sun.Star Cagayan de Oro that he enjoyed being with the Kagay-anons.

"Grabe talaga ang reception ng mga tao rito, so lively, so hospitable, I was so overwhelmed," GMA corporate communications staff Barbette Atienza shared a similar sentiment.

It was also Mark Herras who escorted Gaston and her court - first runner-up Joanne Galenzoga, second runner-up Hazel Mari Go, third runner-up Al Grace Mortola and fourth runner-up Sybil Sarte - at the Kapuso Float during the Golden Float Parade last August 27.

In the early morning of August 28, a segment in the early morning news/variety show Unang Hirit was broadcast from Cagayan de Oro City featuring outgoing Miss Kagay-an Tourism 2007 Diana Bagonoc and her court - first runner-up Dianne Galenzoga and fourth runner-up Natasha Mills - donning locally-crafted Puyo accessories.

Also on hand during the Kapuso night later in the evening were Jolina Magdangal and Ram Chaves.

Jolina said in a separate interview that she is grateful that at the age of 29, she looks younger.

"Maybe it comes with the blood. My mom also doesn't look her age at 50," she said.

Despite that, Jolina amazingly maintains a disciplined routine of waking up at 3:30 a.m. for three days in a week so she can prepare herself in a live segment of Unang Hirit.

Aside from Unang Hirit, Jolina can also be seen in the weekly shows SOP and Dear Heart.

She has a separate weekly program with the in-house television production of Malacañang, RTVM, which is aired in a state-run network.

Jolina's next movie is I.T.A.L.Y. where she shares billing with Dennis Trillo, Ruffa Mae Quinto, Mark Herras, Eugene Domingo and Rhian Ramos and directed by Mark Reyes.

I.T.A.L.Y. is the story about a group of Filipinos aboard a cruise ship plying the Italian waters.

Opening this September 17, I.T.A.L.Y. (I Trust and Love You) was shot in three continents, five countries and 13 cities, with cast and crew spending three days in Genoa.

The cruise ship segments were shot on a real cruise so real passengers often mistook Jolina as a real cabin attendant.

RP’s ‘Idol’

Sunday, August 31, 2008

“Pinoy Idol” winner Gretchen Espina is still in a euphoric state. “Bagging the title is a humbling experience,” she said. “I hope I live up to the expectations of the people who voted for me.”

Her grand prize worth P5.7 million includes a management contract with GMA Artist Center, a recording contract with Sony BMG, a condo unit at Avida Tower New Manila, 1 million cash from SM Supermalls and a Mitsubishi Lancer.

American Idol David Cook is coming for a concert. PI to do a duet with AI? Let’s hear it for some Fil-Am jam!

‘Pinoy Idol’ finals underwhelming

Friday, August 22, 2008

When “Pinoy Idol” presented its 12 finalists months ago, we noted that the girls were more promising than the boys. Thus, we fully expected that the tilt’s eventual winner would be female.

So, when the final three competed for the title last Saturday and Sunday, we weren’t surprised to see that two of them—Gretchen Espina and Jayann Bautista—were women, and only one male finalist, Ram Chaves, had managed to end up in the final troika.

Verdict

Expectedly, Ram was the first to be eliminated, leaving Gretchen and Jayann to await the viewing public’s “final-final” verdict. As everybody and his pet turtle know by now, Gretchen won and our expectations of a female winner were affirmed. Congratulations!

Strangely, however, the entire final phase of the GMA-7 competition didn’t excite us as much as “Philippine Idol” did last year. We watched “Pinoy Idol” regularly from week to week, but after a while, we found ourselves zoning out.

We tried to figure out why we were reacting that way, and decided that one of the major snooze-inducers was the fact that a number of the 12 finalists, especially the boys, weren’t really star material. So, what was there to idolize?

We wondered why, after auditioning thousands of talents—and non-talents—the production’s staffers hadn’t managed to come up with better finalists with greater star potential. Was it the audition process’ fault? If so, improvements definitely have to be made in time for next year’s tilt.

Support systems

Another turn-off was the fact that some of the better finalists were voted out early in the competition. Did their “vote-generating” support systems fail them? Were the survivors’ support systems simply bigger and better-oiled?

Did the majority of the viewing-voting public really believe that the survivors were better than the more promising finalists they didn’t vote for? If so, that’s truly unfortunate. If the viewing public doesn't vote the best talents in, what’s the entire process all about?

Some people say: It’s all about popularity, stupid—and popularity is what makes singing stars. Oh, really? We thought it all started with exceptional singing talent, looks and charisma, and then popularity was the result.

In any case, due to these and other factors, the “Pinoy Idol” tilt didn’t involve and excite us as much as we’d expected, so we simply sat back and watched it wind its desultory way to last Sunday’s “final-finals.”

Exposure

What’s up next for Gretchen, Jayann and Ram? The good news is that, unlike ABC-5, which produced “Philippine Idol,” GMA-7 has enough entertainment shows and sister companies to give its three “final-finalists” strong support and exposure as they now try to transform their success in the tilt into actual show biz stardom.

Conversely, however, we wonder if they are really talented and versatile enough to take full advantage of that strong support and make it all the way to the top.

As “Philippine Idol’s” Mau Marcelo and her co-final-finalists have shown, winning is only the first and by no means the toughest step in a talent’s long and arduous journey to genuine stardom.

Jayann: "I'm a better singer kumpara sa kanya!"

Thursday, August 21, 2008

Nagpapasalamat na lang si Jayann Bautista dahil kahit pumangalawa lang siya kay Gretchen Espina sa nakaraang Pinoy Idol competition.

"Simula pa lang ito. Hindi ko sila bibiguin. I won't stop," sunud-sunod na katagang namutawi sa bibig ni Jayann nang makapanayam siya ng PEP . "Kakanta pa rin ako. Hindi ako titigil hangga't hindi ko maabot ang mga pangarap ko. Four years ago, nag-struggle na ako as a singer. Mahabang panahon na ang ginugol ko. Ngayon pa ba ako aatras?

"Hindi dahilan ang pagkatalo ko para mag-stop ako. Ito pa nga ang magiging simula. Hindi naman sa disappointed ako talaga, kasi nirerespeto ko ang verdict ng mga tao through text votes. I feel bad, I really wanted the title," prangkang sabi ng pambato ng Pampanga.

Malinaw na ang kakulangan ni Jayann ay sa punto ng text votes.

"Wala akong malakas na impluwensiya, at hindi ko alam kung mayroong bang buma-backup talaga sa akin. But I always believe, I am a better singer kung iku-compare sa kanya [Gretchen].

"Pero makikita pa rin ninyo ako sa TV, for sure. Sasayaw pa rin ako sa production numbers ng mga Broadway hits!" at natawa na lang si Jayann.

Automatically, may management contract na si Jayann sa GMA-7. Pero hindi raw niya alam kung GMA Records ang mag-a-absorb sa kanya para sa recording deal.

May usapan pala sila nina Gretchen at Ram Chaves na ang magiging winner, bibigyan ang matatalo ng tigwa-P100,000.

"That's true, kaya may P100,000 pa rin ako," kumpirma ni Jayann.

Patuloy niya, "Tensiyonada talaga ako, kasi parang it was so close, yet so far. Ang lapit-lapit na, pero hindi ko pa rin nahawakan."

Nagpunta ang best friend ni Jayann na si Rachel Anne Go sa gabi ng competition to think na Kapamilya ito, obviously, para suportahan ang sinasabing look-alike niyang si Jayann.        

"Nasorpresa ako. Kasi galing pa siya sa isang commitment at akala ko hindi siya aabot," sambit ni Jayann.  

Hindi napigilan ni Jayann ang mapaluha nang makita niya ang ina niya sa audience na umiiyak na. Medyo disrupted ang pagkanta ni Jayann ng sinasabing final song na likha ni Ogie Alcasid, ang "To You." Ang mensahe pa naman nito ay mula sa inspirasyong bigay ng ina ng nabanggit na songwriter. 

"Naiyak ako kasi siya naman ang sumusuporta sa akin sa umpisa pa lang," sabi ni Jayann, at tumulo na ang luha ng Pinoy Idol runner-up. "Pumasok din sa utak ko yung mga kaibigan ko na lahat sila, naniniwala at sumusuporta. Mami-miss ko ang staff ng Pinoy Idol, pati yung pagkanta-kanta namin every week. Yung kaba every week, kakaisip sa kung sino ang mae-eliminate. Pati mga judges," napangit uli siya.      

Pero naniniwala si Jayann na she can still be a winner.
"Sana, totoo yung sinasabi nila na mas umaangat ang karaniwang runner-up. Maraming salamat na lang sa tiwala," at muling napaluha si Jayann.

A win worth P5.7M for the first Pinoy Idol winner

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Her experience with “Pinoy Idol,” in the words of grand champion Gretchen Espina, was “an eight-month battle with myself.”

It was a battle that paid off well then. Gretchen brought home a total of P5.7 million in prizes P1 million from SM Malls, a condominium unit, a brand new car, a P1-million recording contract with Sony BMG Music Philippines and a television contract with GMA 7 worth P500,000. The talent search was co-produced by GMA 7 and Fremantle.

The 20-year-old former member of the UP Singing Ambassadors bested two other hopefuls Jayann Bautista, 21, and Ram Chaves, 25.

“Pinoy Idol” debuted on April 5 on the Kapuso network after a series of nationwide auditions for singers. Contenders performed in live programs and faced weekly eliminations via public SMS voting.

“We all fought hard,” said Gretchen. “I will show my supporters that I deserve their confidence. I will strive to become the Idol that they want me to be.”

Happy runner-up

After the tilt finals on Sunday at the SMX Convention Center of the Mall of Asia in Pasay City, runner-up Jayann told Inquirer Entertainment that she was happy for her roommate. Jayann said they became close to Gretchen after “Hell Week,” which ushered in the competition’s most difficult phase.

Cameras at the 8,000-seat hall started rolling at 5 p.m. The opening number featured “Idol” finalists Daryl Celis, Kid Camaya, Warren Antig, Penelope, Toffer Rei, Sue Ellen, Robby Navarro, Mae Flores, and Jeni Rawolle, with guests Hajii Alejandro, Luke Mejares, Jett Pangan, Duncan Ramos and Vernie Varga.

"Pinoy Idol" winner Gretchen Espina accepts criticisms about her victory

Sa loob ng SMX Exhibition Hall kung saan ginanap noong Linggo, August 17, ang Final Results Night ng Pinoy Idol, karamihan was cheering for Jayann Bautista. But is was Gretchen Espina's name who was announced as the very first Pinoy Idol. Obviously, rumatsada si Gretchen over Jayann dahil sa text votes.

"Before I joined Pinoy Idol, I'm very much aware about the criticisms," sabi ni Gretchen sa PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal). "Alam ko namang may mga taong ayaw rin sa akin para manalo, pero wala naman akong magagawa kung ako yung nanalo, at may procedure namang sinusunod talaga para sa contest.

"Hindi pa nga ako nananalo, nag-uumpisa pa lang nga, grabeng criticisms na ang napala ko. Pero talagang ganoon sa ganitong klaseng competition. Kailangang harapin kong lahat yun. Handa ako sa pamimintas, sa kung ano ang sasabihin ng mga tao, kasi given na 'yan. Kasi ang unang-unang pupunahin sa akin, yung pagkakaroon ko ng amang politician."         

Ang ama ni Gretchen na si Mr. Rogelio Espina ay ang gobernador ng Biliran, at nariyang akusahan ang ama niyang pati ang pera ng gobyerno ay nilustay na diumano para lang bumili ng text votes. Pero natural lang na ang ganitong mga akusasyon ay deadmahin na lang ni Gretchen.

GRETCHEN'S BODYGUARD. Ang isa pang isyu, maski sa auditions pa lang, accompanied na siya ng grupo ng bodyguards provided by her dad.

"Aminado po akong may ipinasamang bodyguards sa akin ang father ko noon, pero nasa labas lang sila naghintay. Hindi ako puwedeng bantayan sa loob mismo ng venue kung saan ginawa ang auditions.

"But I don't usually go out naman with bodyguards. In some occasions kasi, for security na lang talaga because my dad nga is a politician. Pinasasamahan ako kasi baka sakaling magkagulo lang. My bodyguards naman don't get in the way, I suppose," paliwanag ni Gretchen.

THE POWER OF TEXT VOTES. Ano ang reaction ni Gretchen na sa loob mismo ng SMX, pangalan ni Jayann ang todong ipinagsisigawan ng maraming naroroon?

"Kanya-kanya naman kasi tayong supporters, di ba?" sabi niya. "Nagpapasalamat lang ako sa marami, sa televiewers at yung mga taga-Biliran na talagang sumusuporta sa akin sa umpisa pa lang. Hindi nila ako pinabayaan.

"They may not show up sa SMX o sa Centerstage, pero noong bumalik ako sa Biliran, alam kong naroroon yung mainit na welcome nila, at alam kong through text votes, hindi talaga nila ako pinababayaan. Sobrang overwhelmed talaga ako."          

Nasabi nga ng Pinoy Idol judge na si Ogie Alcasid, from the very beginning, ang contest ay malinaw na paramihan ng text votes. Ang publiko ang maghuhusga rito at kung magpapabaya mismo ang contestants, kung talent lang nila ang pagbabasehan nila, mukhang uuwi talaga silang talunan.

"Nagkampanya talaga ako, at wala namang masama doon," pag-amin ni Gretchen. "Lahat kami, kailangang gawin yun. Constant 'yan. Text brigade. Sa mga kaibigan ko, maski ako mismo, nagte-text ako sa kanila para tulungan nila ako. Walang sawa yun. Kung gusto ninyo ang isang bagay at isa yun sa paraan para makuha yun, bakit hindi mo na gawin ang lahat ng magagawa mo?

"Lagi ko na rin namang sinasabi, bola or kidding aside, kung talagang nararapat ako, iboto nila ako. Kasi ayoko ring magtagal sa kumpetisyon na wala namang naniniwala sa akin. Hindi rin tamang manatili ako sa contest at manalo ako dahil lang sa may pera ako. Yung masabi ko naman, lumaban ako, may karapatan din ako pagdating sa kantahan," pagtatapos ng first Pinoy Idol.

Gretchen Espina is first 'Pinoy Idol'

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

The 20-year-old pride of Biliran, Gretchen Espina, was named last Sunday as the first-ever "Pinoy Idol," garnering the highest text votes.

Gretchen bested Jayann Bautista from Pampanga in the final two while the Rocker from Cagayan de Oro Ram Chaves ended up third.

Since the beginning of the singing competition, Gretchen was supported by the power of text votes as she managed to maintain her spot until the end. She was also the only Idol who was not included in the bottom list during the elimination.

But Gretchen's spot in the final three was tainted with controversy as many had contested that she only got the place not because she deserves it but due to her father's influence, who is the governor of Biliran Province.

Reports also said Gretchen is one of the top finalists in the local version of "Vote for the Worst," which is a campaign for the worst contestant to win the "Pinoy Idol" show.

Ignoring all criticisms, Gretchen tried to prove last Sunday that she deserves the title as she gave her best performance during her Final Showdown with Jayann.

The three judges of the show - Ogie Alcasid, Jolina Magdangal, and Wyngard Tracy - who were earlier not convinced with Gretchen's singing talent, even said she was a "revelation" and a "champion" that night.

Gretchen went home with the biggest prize package in the history of local singing competitions including: P1 million in cash from SM Supermall, a recording contract from Sony BMG, a management contract from GMA Artist Center, a brand new car courtesy of Mitsubishi, and a house and lot courtesy of Avida Towers.

The final results night were held at SMX of the SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City.

For their final performance, the top 24 finalists were grouped in fours and performed with Hajji Alejandro, Jett Pangan, Vernie Varga, and Duncan Ramos.

Other rock bands like Pupil, Callalily, and Rivermaya also rendered special performances for the devoted followers of "Pinoy Idol".

Pinoy Idol: Talent, not connections, got me here

“The viewers chose me as their idol. I hope everyone would respect their decision,” declared Gretchen Espina, a 20-year-old Biliran native and winner of “Pinoy Idol,” the talent search co-produced by GMA 7 and FreeMantle, which is behind the hit reality show “American Idol.”

The Philippine Daily Inquirer sought the reaction of Espina because of comments she bagged the title with her father’s “political connections” and not because she deserved to win. She is the daughter of Governor Rogelio Espina of Biliran, one of the smallest provinces in eastern Visayas.

“I have the talent,” said the former member of the UP Singing Ambassadors. “I probably would not have lasted long in the competition if people were not impressed with how I performed. I knew this issue would come up before I joined the contest, but I assure everyone that I fought fairly. Anyway, I was able to prove that I deserved to be here.”

Espina’s closest competitor was Jayann Bautista, 24, a Pampanga native and former Viva recording artist. Ram Chaves, 25, of Cagayan de Oro, placed third.

“Pinoy Idol,” which debuted on April 5 on the Kapuso network, seeks to discover the best singer or “idol” in the country through a series of nationwide auditions and live performances, which is determined by public voting through SMS.

“Show biz can be really nasty. I’m ready for it. It’s not any different from politics,” Espina told the Inquirer on Sunday shortly after the final results show at SMX Convention Center at the Mall of Asia in Pasay City. She admitted that her parents were against her joining the contest. “They wanted me to finish my studies first,” said the European language student at the University of the Philippines.

Espina, who gave impressive renditions of “For Your Eyes Only,” “Stand Up for Love” and “Ngayon” during the final performance night on Saturday, will receive P1 million, a condominium, a new Mitsubishi Lancer, a P1-million recording contract with Sony BMG Music Philippines and a television contract with GMA 7 worth P500,000.

Espina added: “I will share a portion of my winnings with the two other finalists. Napagkasunduan na namin ito (We agreed on this).” Bautista and Chaves will each receive P100,000 from her.

From over a thousand aspirants, 179 made it to the next round of auditions. Tryouts were held in key cities like Cagayan de Oro, Batangas, Iloilo, Cebu, Davao, Pasay, Dagupan and Angeles.

For the Pasay auditions, Ida Henares, head of GMA Artist Center (the talent arm of GMA Network), took over Jolina Magdangal’s seat in the judges’ panel, as the latter had left for the United States. Danny Tan is the show’s musical director.

This is the second “Idol” franchise in the country, after “Philippine Idol” that was shown on ABC 5 (now TV 5) in 2006. GMA 7 does not recognize “Philippine Idol” and its winner Mau Marcelo.

Biliran lass named ‘Pinoy Idol’

Monday, August 18, 2008

Gretchen Espina, a 20-year-old Biliran native, bested two other hopefuls and was declared winner of GMA-7 and Fremantle Media’s “Pinoy Idol” Sunday at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

Espina, who gave impressive renditions of “For Your Eyes Only,” “Stand Up for Love” and “Ngayon” during the Final Performance Night Saturday, will receive P1 million, a condominium unit, a brand new car (Mitsubishi Lancer LXi 2008 series), a P1-million recording contract with Sony BMG Music Philippines, and a television contract with GMA 7 worth P500,000.
Her closest competitor was Jayann Bautista, 24, a Pampanga native and a former Viva recording artist. Ram Chaves, 25, of Cagayan de Oro, placed third.

"Show biz can be really nasty. I'm ready for it. It's not any different from politics," said Espina, daughter of Biliran governor Rogelio J. Espina.

Espina, a former member of the UP Singing Ambassadors, said she would share her winnings with her co-finalists. "I will share a portion of my winnings to the two other finalists. Napagkasunduan na namin ito," Espina on Sunday told the Inquirer shortly after the Final Results Show at the SMX Convention Center of the Mall of Asia in Pasay City.

Bautista and Chaves will receive P100,000 from Espina.

On Saturday, "Idol" fans started queuing at the 8,000-seater SMX Convention Center as early as noontime to watch Bautista, Chaves and Espina compete for the last time.

The opening number featured the Final 3 along with contestants Daryl Celis, Kid Camaya, Warren Antig, Penelope, Toffer Rei, Sue Ellen, Robby Navarro, Mae Flores, and Jeni Rawolle singing "Salamat Musika" with the UP Chorus Chorale and the Magnificat.

Videos of the finalists' homecoming were shown prior to each of their performances. Bautista represented Central Luzon. Espina, Eastern Visayas and Chaves, Mindanao Region.

The "Idol" hopefuls competed in three rounds—the first set of songs was picked for them by the three judges, the second, by their favorite mentors and the third, by themselves.

Bautista first sang "I'll Never Love This Way Again," a song chosen for her by judge Tracy. Alcasid picked "Bridge Over Troubled Water" for finalist Chaves, while Magdangal selected "For Your Eyes Only" for Espina.

The second round featured Bautista singing "You'll Never Walk Alone," a song picked for her by mentor Regine Velasquez. Chaves performed "I Don't Wanna Miss A Thing" and Espina, "Stand Up For Love" for their favorite mentor Jaya Ramsey.

For the third round, Espina chose to sing the Basil Valdez original "Ngayon" with the UP Chorus Chorale. Chaves did his version of Florante's "Handog" alongside guitarists Noel Mendez and Tats Suzara.

Bautista concluded the program with her interpretation of the Tina Turner song "Proud Mary" with the Speed Dancers.

The finalists also joined Valdez in a production number that featured his hit song "Let The Pain Remain." Near the end of the hour-long show, they sang the inspirational song "Go The Distance" with Velasquez. Local bands South Border, Itchyworms, Freestyle and Cushe showed support by singing their own tunes.

While on a break, hosts Gutierrez, Karylle and Ramos asked the judges on how they thought the finalists fared. Alcasid replied on the positive: "They're much better now, unlike last week when they all sang so blandly, as if they're not in competition. Tracy, too, was impressed. He commented: "Hindi sila magaling... dahil saksakan sila ng galing."

When the show got back on air and it was time for the judges to say their parting shots, Tracy commented that Bautista had a "powerful voice." He added, however, that it was obvious in her first two songs that the "Idol" hopeful had been nervous. She failed to hit the right notes, he added. "But with your third song, you proved you're not only a good singer but also a good performer," Tracy declared.

Magdangal said Chaves was "suave" in all of his performances, but added that Tracy had expected more from the rock singer. "In general, you did a very good job," she concluded.

According to Alcasid, Espina's performance was that of a "real champion." He said Tracy regarded it as a "revelation." "Last week, I was disappointed with your performance because I felt you were too emotional. But tonight, you're a champion. You deserve to be where you are now," the judge said.

"Pinoy Idol," which debuted on April 5 on the Kapuso network, is a Filipino interactive reality-based singing competition. It seeks to discover the best singer or "idol" in the country through a series of nationwide auditions and live performances, which is determined by public voting through SMS.

From over a thousand aspirants, 179 passed through the next round of auditions. Try-outs were held in key cities like Cagayan de Oro, Batangas, Iloilo, Cebu, Davao, Pasay, Dagupan, and Angeles. For the Pasay auditions, Ida Henares, head of the GMA Artist Center (the talent arm of GMA Network), took over Magdangal's seat in the judges' panel. Magdangal had left for the United States. Danny Tan is the show's musical director.

This is the second "Idol" franchise in the country, after "Philippine Idol" that was shown in ABC 5 (now TV5) in 2006. GMA 7 does not recognize "Philippine Idol" and its winner Mau Marcelo.

Pinoy Idol tops weekend primetime race

The Final Showdown and Results Night of Pinoy Idol topped the daytime race last weekend. The Final Showdown of the remaining finalists: Jayann Bautista, Ram Chaves, and Gretchen Espina last Saturday, August 16, tied with Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho at No. 1 with identical 29.9 percent rating.

The Results Night where Gretchen was declared winner, the following night, August 17, raked in a total rating of 28 percent.

August 16 (Saturday)

Primetime:

Pinoy Idol (GMA-7) 29.9%; Varga (ABS-CBN) 23.3%

Bitoy's Funniest Videos (GMA-7) 29.7%; Pinoy Dream Academy (ABS-CBN) 27.2%

Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (GMA-7) 29.9%; Maalaala Mo Kaya (ABS-CBN) 20.8%

Imbestigador (GMA-7) 20.9%; XXX (ABS-CBN) 12.2%

Nuts Entertainment (GMA-7) 10%; TV Patrol World (ABS-CBN) 6.3%

Sine Totoo (GMA-7) 5.9%; Sports Unlimited (ABS-CBN) 3.4%; Walang Tulugan With Master Showman (GMA-7) 2.5%

Pinoy Idol, nagkabentahan nga ba ng boto?

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• Isang baguhang bold star ang makakalaban ni Annabelle Rama sa pagka-best actress!

• Nagkabentahan nga ba ng boto sa Pinoy Idol; Gretchen Espina deserving sa title ng first Pinoy Idol o hindi?

Alamin ang totoo sa mga balitang ito at ang iba pang maiinit na chika sa Bandera. Para sa mga taga-Metro Manila, maaari kayong bumili o mag-subscribe ng Bandera. Tumawag lamang sa 8902351

Pinoy Idol: Talent, not connections, got me here

“The viewers chose me as their idol. I hope everyone would respect their decision,” declared Gretchen Espina, a 20-year-old Biliran native and winner of “Pinoy Idol,” the talent search co-produced by GMA 7 and FreeMantle, which is behind the hit reality show “American Idol.”

The Philippine Daily Inquirer sought the reaction of Espina because of comments she bagged the title with her father’s “political connections” and not because she deserved to win. She is the daughter of Governor Rogelio Espina of Biliran, one of the smallest provinces in eastern Visayas.

“I have the talent,” said the former member of the UP Singing Ambassadors. “I probably would not have lasted long in the competition if people were not impressed with how I performed. I knew this issue would come up before I joined the contest, but I assure everyone that I fought fairly. Anyway, I was able to prove that I deserved to be here.”

Espina’s closest competitor was Jayann Bautista, 24, a Pampanga native and former Viva recording artist. Ram Chaves, 25, of Cagayan de Oro, placed third.

“Pinoy Idol,” which debuted on April 5 on the Kapuso network, seeks to discover the best singer or “idol” in the country through a series of nationwide auditions and live performances, which is determined by public voting through SMS.

“Show biz can be really nasty. I’m ready for it. It’s not any different from politics,” Espina told the Inquirer on Sunday shortly after the final results show at SMX Convention Center at the Mall of Asia in Pasay City. She admitted that her parents were against her joining the contest. “They wanted me to finish my studies first,” said the European language student at the University of the Philippines.

Espina, who gave impressive renditions of “For Your Eyes Only,” “Stand Up for Love” and “Ngayon” during the final performance night on Saturday, will receive P1 million, a condominium, a new Mitsubishi Lancer, a P1-million recording contract with Sony BMG Music Philippines and a television contract with GMA 7 worth P500,000.

Espina added: “I will share a portion of my winnings with the two other finalists. Napagkasunduan na namin ito (We agreed on this).” Bautista and Chaves will each receive P100,000 from her.

From over a thousand aspirants, 179 made it to the next round of auditions. Tryouts were held in key cities like Cagayan de Oro, Batangas, Iloilo, Cebu, Davao, Pasay, Dagupan and Angeles.

For the Pasay auditions, Ida Henares, head of GMA Artist Center (the talent arm of GMA Network), took over Jolina Magdangal’s seat in the judges’ panel, as the latter had left for the United States. Danny Tan is the show’s musical director.

This is the second “Idol” franchise in the country, after “Philippine Idol” that was shown on ABC 5 (now TV 5) in 2006. GMA 7 does not recognize “Philippine Idol” and its winner Mau Marcelo.

And the Sour Taste of Victory...

Sunday, August 17, 2008

It's finally over.

I would like to thank all of you guys who visited this site... with all the little love and a lot of bashing that came with it.

I would like to congratulate Gretchen Espina and her relatives for their accomplishment. Perhaps, that's how much they badly wanted to win the title. And with all their efforts that paid off, Gretchen probably deserves the win. But that was indeed the most bitter contest finale I've ever witnessed. No thrills.. nothing.

VFTW was right, a crappy show deserves a crappy winner. But Gretchen is not so bad... cut her some slack. She's just not the best singer. It would've been worst if Sue or Warren won. 

No thanks to GMA 7 for ruining the number 1 reality show on earth.

So what will happen to this site? I mean, I wouldn't follow the career of the so - called Pinoy Idol or the runner ups, even if they pay me...

Who’s your bet to be the first Pinoy Idol?

Saturday, August 16, 2008

Tomorrow, the Philippines will have its first-ever Pinoy Idol, as the top three contenders try to outperform each other in the show’s finals on GMA-7.

Witness as they vie for the incredible grand prize, which includes a management contract with GMA Artist Center, a recording contract with Sony BMG, a condominium unit at Avida Tower in New Manila, P1 million cash from SM Supermalls, and a brand-new car.

All three are pumped up and ready to showcase the best performances of their lives as they battle it out tonight at the final performance at the SMX of the SM Mall of Asia, which will be aired after Pinoy Records, while the ultimate finale will be shown on Aug. 17 right after Kap’s Amazing Stories.

Performing with the idols today are Regine Velasquez, Basil Valdez, Cueshé, Freestyle, Itchyworms, Southborder, Hajji Alejandro, Vernie Varga, Luke Mijares, Duncan Ramos, Jett Pangan, Pupil, Callalily, and the UP Concert Chorus.

Likewise, Pinoy Idol fans may get their tickets on Aug. 13, 1 to 5 p.m. at the GMA Network Center. Take part of this momentous event and watch the finals of the biggest reality talent search on Philippine television, Pinoy Idol only on GMA-7.

Was Gretchen Able to Redeem Herself?

Is it already pretty obvious that after tonights final showdown, Gretchen Espina would be the first GMA 7 Pinoy Idol?

Hands down, her performances and presence were the best last night. It is as if she's telling everyone that, "Hey, I deserve the title regardless of what you say about me!"

Ram's take on Don't Wanna Miss a Thing was such a refreshing version that it was even better than David Cook's version during the last few episodes of AI. 

But it is Gretchen's For Your Eyes Only (by Sheena Easton)  and Stand Up for Life that  really gave her the edge. Jolina's pick for her was the best song choice last night. It is relatively a fresh song for a singing competition, and she gave it justice with her raspy and soothing voice.

Jayann was visibly nervous and somehow lacked the confidence all throughout the night. Her performances remind me of Beyonce Knowles at times. She still deserves the title, as much as Ram and Gretchen do.

With all the flak Gretchen has received, was she able to redeem herself?

At this point in Pinoy Idol, anyone could win and I couldn't care any less. The previous eliminations of the true good singers have already diminished any credibility left for the show. 

At the end of day, if Gretchen wins, she just became 5.7-million-peso-richer. Just like winning a small-time lottery ... It's plainly because, she got lucky.

Idols unlike the Songbird

Friday, August 15, 2008

Actually, they didn't try to sing like the songbird, Regine Velasquez. If there is something almost refreshing and positive about Pinoy Idol, or the Idol Hopefuls is that nobody sounds like Regine.
Of course, the Regine-signature-belting-style has become the staple of singing contests, gay impersonators and diva-wannabes. She has somehow become the benchmark of vocal range, the likes of Sarah Geronimo, Rachel Ann Go, Sheryn Regis and many others tried to follow her footsteps, vocally. And I am just glad that finally, PI decided to have an actual “theme” last night because I’m just tired of the “random-song-choices-dedicated-to-myself” theme for the past weeks.So it is a fairly good and fresh attempt for the Idol hopeful last night to sound totally different with the songs popularized by GMA’s prized diva. But who has outdone everyone else? Who gave the best twist on the most familiar songs? Here my take on last night’s performances.

1.“Sa Piling Mo” by Daryl Celis
2.“Kung Maibabalik Ko Lang” by Gretchen Espina
3.“Urong Sulong” – Warren Antig
4.“Narito Ako ” – Kid Camaya
5.“Tuwing Umuulan” by Ram Chavez
6.“Pangarap Ko ay Ibigin Ka” by Jayann
7.“You Made Me Stronger” by Toffer Rei
8.“Dadalhin” by Sue Ellen
9.“What Kind of Fool I Am” by Penelope

Vote ‘Idol’ bets wisely

Thursday, August 14, 2008

“Vote for contestants not because they’re friends, but because they’re globally competitive,” pleaded singer-actress Jolina Magdangal, one of three judges in the talent search “Pinoy Idol” which has entered its final round.

Jolina expressed her frustration because Kid Camaya, 24 - a Top 12 finalist whom she believed deserved to win, was booted out of the competition on Sunday night’s elimination at the Centerstage of the Mall of Asia (MoA) in Pasay City.

Another finalist, Daryl Celis, 21, also lost out that night.

This means that only Jayann Bautista, 21, Gretchen Espina, 20, and Ram Chaves, 25, will slug it out at the finals on Aug. 17 at the SMX in MoA.

“We can say all we want, but it’s still the viewer’s decision that prevails in the end,” Jolina told Inquirer Entertainment the day after the last elimination. “It could really get exasperating sometimes.”

Jolina had hoped that Camaya, Bautista, Chaves, Robbie Navarro, 28, and Penelope Matanguihan, 16, would complete the Final 5. “Pero may sariling gusto ang mga tao,” she said. “I realized that viewers don’t just go for contestants who sing well. Looks are also important.” Navarro and Matanguihan were eliminated in the early rounds.

Another judge, Wyngard Tracy, said they have done their part trying to convince the audience to vote wisely and could not think of anything else to do. “We respect their decision,” he declared.

The third judge, Ogie Alcasid, said commending a performance does not always translate to votes for an “Idol” hopeful. “This is why mediocre performers still make it among the top,” the singer-songwriter pointed out.

Wyngard said that, among the last three contestants, he hoped Bautista would bag the title because “she personifies the qualities of a ‘Pinoy Idol.’”

Wyngard continued: “With the proper training and a major makeover, she might win in the international competition. I just hope she would absorb everything she would be taught.”

For Ogie, an “Idol” winner is a combination of many characteristics. “He or she should not be too emotional, but that was how Gretchen came off when she performed last weekend,” Ogie observed. “We really didn’t think she could deliver.”

'Pinoy Idol' down to final 3

The final face off of "Pinoy Idol" hopefuls has now outnumbered the boys.

It is now down to two girls and one boy after several weeks of showdown of 24 hopefuls to become the first ever "Pinoy Idol."

Jayann Bautista, Ram Chaves, and Gretchen Espina are the three remaining idols who will battle for next week's finals.

Before the elimination last Sunday, "Pinoy Idol" host Raymond Gutierrez asked the three judges -- Jolina Magdangal, Wyngard Tracy, and Ogie Alcasid -- whom they think should enter the Top 3. They unanimously said Ram, Jayann, and Kid Camaya.

But the judges' choice failed to match that of the audiences as Kid ended his Idol journey at that night. He then sang "Careless Whisper" before his final exit.

Daryl Celis's supporters also fell short in texting for their idol's survival as he was also eliminated from the competition. He repeated his performance of "Forever" as his last piece for his fans.

Meanwhile, aside from their Top 3 finalist, the judges also aired their individual choices. Ogie voted for Kid, Jolens chose Ram, and Wyngard picked Jayann.

Will Wyngard and Jolina's choice become the first ever "Pinoy Idol"?

Watch the final performance night of the three idols this Saturday while the grand finals night will be on Sunday live over GMA-7. It will be held at the SMX Convention Center in Mall of Asia.

Top 5 Pinoy Idol to face last elimination night

Monday, August 11, 2008

After surviving chains of elimination nights and showcasing an amazing amount of talent, five hopefuls live on to clinch their fate of being crowned as the very first "Pinoy Idol."

"Pinoy Idol" is now down to the wire of choosing who among Daryl Celis, Gretchen Espina, Kid Camaya, Jayann Bautista, and Ram Chaves will move on to the last leg of the competition.

The stakes are high at this point. The Idol stage neither breaks nor defines their chances of gaining foothold in the music industry.

This Saturday, the five hopefuls will have to take their courage in both hands as "Pinoy Idol" holds its last elimination night. Two more contenders are about to end their journey in the Idol arena.

The performance of their life is about to happen and only three spots remain in the finals.

The five hopefuls should double their efforts, in choosing the perfect song, connecting with the audience and scraping up enough votes to surpass the elimination.

It will be a tense Sunday night, as the viewers wait to see who will emerge as the final three.

The competition among the five idols is getting more intense as the finale draws nearer.

Predictions are growing as to who among the idols would break each other's necks in the grand showdown. Only three will take the final show and it will definitely be an exciting and extreme battle.

The race is getting nearer to the finish line and each contender is poised to give their best piece before the judges and the voting viewers.

Who will be the top three finalists of the very first Pinoy Idol?

"Pinoy Idol" performance night is on Saturday after "Pinoy Records," and the last elimination night will be held on Sunday after "Kap's Amazing Stories."

Pinoy Idol says goodbye to Daryl and Kid; Top 3 revealed

Sunday, August 10, 2008

pinoy_idol_02 pinoy_idol_01 Tonight, two of Pinoy Idol’s Top Five Finalists are sent home. Despite giving the best performances last night, the voting public decided to send Daryl Celis and Kid Camaya home.

The Top Three finalists are Jayann Bautista, Gretchen Espina and Ram Chaves who will battle it out to be the very first Pinoy Idol.

Pinoy Idols pick own songs

Saturday, August 9, 2008


Kid Camaya, 24, says he’s a bit scared of the possibility of bagging the “Pinoy Idol” title.

Fellow hopeful Daryl Celis, 21, will consider it a miracle if he wins.

Ram Chaves, 25, admits he joined the reality talent search in the hope of meeting a producer who would be interested in his original compositions.

Gretchen Espina, 20, says she was content just to be in the Top 12, while Jayann Baustista, 21, admits she didn’t think she’d even pass the pre-casting auditions.

Kid, Daryl, Ram, Gretchen and Jayann are the talent show’s Final 5. Two of them will conclude their “Idol” journey tonight in a show at Centerstage of the Mall of Asia in Pasay City.

Is it going to be an All-Male Battle for the Finals?

And the most important showdown to date has come to an end and tomorrow, two will surely be eliminated. The 5 idol hopefuls delivered their "Best Idol Performances", or didn't they?
 
Who deserves to be on the top 3:
 
Kid Camaya - no doubt is on top. People (other than his shocking 24 siblings and all of Pampanga who happens to be his relatives...) should vote for him. (His late father is not in anyway related to the Revillas, right?)
Although, I just don't think Careless Whispers is a song for anyone's greatest performance. And it's true what Jolina said,(yes, she makes sense from time to time), Kid should've exuded some sexy appeal to pull that song off... I mean, it's your classic sexy - stripper routine song... (kiddin')... His falsetto was weak, the beginning was too low but he ended the song with a bang.
 
Dary Celis - like what Ogie and Wyngard said deserves to be on the top 3. He probably got the best song choice (The Promise) for the night. It's a power-ballad, although it would pale in comparison with Martin Nievera. Still, his presence shows conviction and sincerity. There were off notes especially the growling effect, but he could get away with his falsetto better. Aside from Kid, it's only Daryl who got the direct nod from the judges becoming one of the top 3. As for his idol surprise, you just got to sympathize for this seemingly kind hearted guy for having no parents around all throughout this competition. I mean, why would any parent practically abandon a child like that? It's a good thing he grew up a fine lad despite his family situation.
 
Ram Chaves - Is it possible for a three-way all-male battle for the finale next week? The judges didn't like Ram's take on Francis M.'s Bahay Yugyugan... simply because it lacks that much needed personal - heartwarming - emotional connection - singing competition feel - to the audience. I also think that it is a rip-off of POT's Yugyugan na (Sige na Pipol). However, Ram's performance was energetic, his voice is really great and his song choice was fresh and exciting. I wouldn't mind if the three guys remain next week for a fierce - testosterone charged battle!
 
As for our pretty girls...
 
Gretchen Espina ... did okay. Her voice showed power but I just don't know the song that much to really appreciate it (I'm Here - Fantasia). I think the judges didn't want her to end up at the final 3. And I second that.
 
the babe Jayann  took Fergie's Finally. It was a clear - simple and smooth performance. Although, I felt kinda bored. Yea, she tried to be hip and cool, but I just didn't quite get it. Still, if one girl needs to remain on top 3, it's Jayann.

Top 5 Pinoy Idol to face last elimination night

Friday, August 8, 2008

After surviving chains of elimination nights and showcasing an amazing amount of talent, five hopefuls live on to clinch their fate of being crowned as the very first "Pinoy Idol."

"Pinoy Idol" is now down to the wire of choosing who among Daryl Celis, Gretchen Espina, Kid Camaya, Jayann Bautista, and Ram Chaves will move on to the last leg of the competition.

The stakes are high at this point. The Idol stage neither breaks nor defines their chances of gaining foothold in the music industry. This Saturday, the five hopefuls will have to take their courage in both hands as "Pinoy Idol" holds its last elimination night. Two more contenders are about to end their journey in the Idol arena.

The performance of their life is about to happen and only three spots remain in the finals.The five hopefuls should double their efforts, in choosing the perfect song, connecting with the audience and scraping up enough votes to surpass the elimination. It will be a tense Sunday night, as the viewers wait to see who will emerge as the final three. The competition among the five idols is getting more intense as the finale draws nearer.

Predictions are growing as to who among the idols would break each other's necks in the grand showdown. Only three will take the final show and it will definitely be an exciting and extreme battle. The race is getting nearer to the finish line and each contender is poised to give their best piece before the judges and the voting viewers.

Kid and Penelope, Made Their Dads Proud!

Wednesday, August 6, 2008

Penelope and Kid are on top of their game with their "Father's day" song performances. Kid's "Gone Too Soon.. " was thoroughly heartfelt. And it was a travesty and an outright disrespectful of Wyngard Tracy to say that "Hindi naman nakakaiyak" when Ogie is apparently trying to hold back tears and Jolina just couldn't bear it anymore.

It was quite a smack on Wyngard's face when Jolina told her "Wala kang emosyon".. and the ever too-proud-to-be-an-actual-human Wyngard declared "Wala talaga." Wow, how heartless can you get.

Penelope once again did a very clean performance for a very difficult "Papa, can you hear me."

Toffer Rei ends his Idol journey tonight

Monday, August 4, 2008

pinoy_idol_05 Toffer Rei one of the rockers in the group ended his journey tonight. Daryl and Ram joined him in the bottom three.

The left seven finalists - Penelope, Jay Ann Bautista, Gretchen Espina, Warren Antig, Daryl Celis, Ram Chaves and Kid Camaya.

Warren Antig, booted out of Pinoy Idol

Sunday, August 3, 2008

pinoy_idol_03 The fans of Pinoy Idol expected that two of the remaining finalists would be eliminated tonight. In fact, an article came out on a newspaper stating that two of the finalists would be sent home tonight.

“Tomorrow night, there’ll be a huge shock that will change the competition forever,” said Pinoy Idol host, Raymond Gutierrez during the Basil Valdez Gala Night. However, all were disappointed that only one was eliminated a while ago.

Nevertheless, the voting public of Pinoy Idol made the right decision tonight. Tonight, Warren Antig ended his Idol journey after giving a not so good performance. During last night’s gala performance, he received a very negative comment from judge Wyngard Tracy. The elimination of Warren came out as a relief because many people think that he should have left the competition long ago.

Next week, two of the remaining finalists would be eliminated from the competition. Come August 17, we will have our first Pinoy Idol.

The remaining finalists are Kid Camaya, Jay-ann Bautista, Ram Chaves, Gretchen Espina and Daryl Celis. In the end, three finalists would be competing for the Pinoy Idol title. The Pinoy Idol Finale would commence on August 17, 2008 at the SMX Convention Center, SM Mall of Asia.

The first Pinoy Idol would be receiving a recording contract from Sony BMG, a talent contract from GMA Artist Center, a brand new car worth 1 million pesos, 1 million pesos cash from SM Supermalls, and a condominium unit from Avida amounting to 2.2 million pesos.

Warren Out, Finals on Aug 17!

As most of you already know, Warren bowed out of the competition and gave his all for his final performance last night.. Next Sunday, 2 will be eliminated and there's going to be a three-way battle for the finals on Aug. 17.
 
And once again, Pinoy Idol came up with one of their "dedication" songs theme, this time with "My greatest Idol performance." Didn't they already have "The greatest performance of my life" theme...  Lame as ever.
 
It also appears that what I read on some tabloid is true that the Idol will have their finals night on MOA instead of Araneta Coliseum, since they could hardly get enough audience to fill up the place at the mall.

Kid Owns Basil Night; Warren, Kinawawa!

Saturday, August 2, 2008

Kid Camaya is hands down the best of the night after one of the most challenging themes for Pinoy Idol as they choose the classics of the legendary and one of the most loved balladeers and composers of all time, Mr. Basil Valdez.

Although Jolina Magdangal sort of made a huge mistake for implying that Kid was even better than the original who is sitting right beside her. Oops.. can't take that back anymore.

Raymond by the way said at the beginning that the show is 2 weeks away from the finals night... meaning, it's most probable that the bottom 3 would be booted out tomorrow altogether.

Here's the ranking:

2. Gretchen Espina - very clean with Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan. She's classy, beautiful and clean.

3. Daryl Celis - very sincere and heartfelt once more with Hanggang sa Dulo ng Walang Hanggan. It's just that, singing a Basil song would be very difficult for any singer, hence, the obvious struggle. Nonetheless, it was a gallant move.

4. Ram Chavez - was good enough with Ngayon at Kailanman. I just don't get why do they need to make a weekly reggae versions of songs. I mean, who listens to reggae? I don't get it man!

5. Jayann - was all over the place. You is such a classic that should retain it's simplicity.

6. Warren - like what Basil said.. Nakakalungkot lang, yun lang ang masasabi ko. It's his time to go, it's been long delayed in fact.  Pero bagay sana ung arrangement na rock sa Kung Ako'y Iiwan Mo.

Up Close with Ram Chaves

Friday, August 1, 2008

Even when Ramon Chaves III placed third in the very first season of Pinoy Idol, he remained a very down-to-earth person.

Ram, as fondly called by loved ones, was surrounded by his wife and kid (named Ramon Chaves IV) and by friends at the lobby of Mallberry Hotel prior to this interview last Thursday.

Ram spoke fluent Cebuano throughout the interview with Sun.Star Cagayan de Oro, as well as the succeeding one with a Davao-based GMA variety show.

It would be a surprise for many to note that the now 26-year-old Ram started learning how to sing only at the age of 21, immediately after graduation.

After finishing his BS Business Management course at Xavier University in 2003, Ram joined his dad in Dubai to work as a kargador. His father is a limousine driver there at Burj al-arab, the hotel famous for its distinctive dhow shape.

A year later, Ram returned back to Manila where he worked at PeopleSupport as a call center agent.

When this writer told the Pinoy Idol first season second runner-up that he was also a former employee of PeopleSupport at its Cebu site, the mood became even more relaxed and casual.

"Aw, PS diay japon ka? Unsa ka nga account bai, EarthLink o Expedia," Ram high-fived this writer.

Ram also spent his secondary education days in Cagayan de Oro, graduating at Jesuit-owned Xavier University High School in March 1999.

Theirs was the last batch when XUHS was strictly an all-male institution.

When it became clear to him that singing was his passion, Ram formed a band in Manila called Sutil.

The band performs in bars, corporate events, even weddings.

"Kung naay gig, absent sa trabaho," he confessed.

Ram, whose mom is in the United States, has two younger siblings living at RER Subdivision, a brother in college and a sister in the elementary level.

"I'm thankful for what I have achieved. Everything I am now is because of God," he said.

Ram auditioned at the SMX for Pinoy Idol and confessed that he knew about his singing talent only while videoke-ing with his drinking buddies in Manila.

Aside from singing, he also loves playing basketball.

Among his influences is Matchbox 20 frontman Rob Thomas.

The Pinoy Idol second runner-up counts his wife as his own idol. They've been married for barely nine months only since December 2007.

Expected to be welcomed into the GMA Artist Center fold, Ram can next be heard as the singer for the theme of the upcoming telenovela Una Kang Naging Akin.

"I never expected this. It's really an honor. Wow!" he said.

Ogie Alcasid defends Pinoy Idol against critics

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

Naibalita ni Ogie na ibabalik din pala ang Celebrity Duets nila ni Regine. Magkakaroon ito ng Season 2 pagkatapos ng Pinoy Idol, kung saan isa sa judges si Ogie, at pagkatapos din ng Ako si Kim Samsoon na si Regine naman ang bida.

PINOY IDOL. Speaking of Pinoy Idol, kung anu-anong batikos na ang tinatanggap ng programang ito. Ano ang masasabi ni Ogie about it?

"I take all those things constructively," sagot niya. "Opinyon 'yan ng mga tao, na kailangang pinapakinggan din. Idol is such a huge franchise. A lot of expectations are going into it.

"Mayroon namang positive comments. Lately, medyo gumaganda na ang mga nasasabi, kaya ibig sabihin, we're taking the criticisms well. We're learning.

"Yung mga batikos kina Jolina [Magdangal] at Wyngard [Tracy], ang tingin ko kasi riyan, walang maling comments. Opinyon 'yan na dapat ay nirerespeto rin naman natin. Kung sinasabi rin ng iba na mali ang sinabi ni Jolens o ni Wyngard, rerespetuhin din namin yun. Marami rin kasing factors that we have to consider.

"Habang naroroon kami sa gala, iba yung tunog. Sa TV, iba rin yung tapon. May aspects na ganoon that we really have to consider. All in all, maganda ang resulta ng ratings namin, kaya happy na rin kami roon."

Very frustrated si Ogie kapag may napapatalsik na mas deserving contestants, na ma-retain sana sa Pinoy Idol.

"I can't hide the feeling," sabi niya. "Wala naman sigurong bayarang nangyayari, kasi malinaw naman 'yan na text votes ang pagbabasehan ng lahat. Nakakalimutan lang ng ibang contestants na hindi lang ito talent search. You really have to campaign. It's part of the mechanics.

"Ngayon, kung hindi ka nangampanya, matatanggal ka. Si Gian Magdangal sa Philippine Idol, binanggit niya 'yan sa akin, na on his own, kailangan niyang mangampanya. Ganoon din sa American Idol. Kung walang bumoboto roon sa magagaling, baka may kasalanan din sila. Hindi puwedeng mag-rely na lang sila sa galing nila," paliwanag ni Ogie.

Penelope Matanguihan now out of Pinoy Idol

Sunday, July 27, 2008

pinoy_idol_04 Warren’s supporters are not that visible in the Internet anymore. During the early stage of the competition, a lot of Warren’s supporters are visible in forums talking about Pinoy Idol.

Basil Valdez would be the finalist’s mentor next week. The Top Six Finalists are Jay-Ann Bautista, Warren Antig, Daryl Celis, Kid Camaya, Ram Chaves and Gretchen Espina.

Tonight’s result show is the ultimate shocker for me because I like Penelope Matanguihan. In fact, I’m rooting for her to become the next (or the first) Pinoy Idol. But sadly, she ended her Pinoy Idol journey tonight. Warren Antig joined her in the bottom two.

Biggest elimination and Warren issue

"Biggest Elimination" announcement, for the Basil Valdez week.

Fremantle and GMA7 have a fixed work schedule, and everyone is pressed for time. Aside from their contracts, GMA7 also has Celebrity Duets soon, so Idol and other projects might overlap. And with how things are running, if it keeps it's normal pace, Idol will not finish on time.

Half of the Top 6 will be eliminated next week. And the final 3 will battle it out for 3 more weeks.

Right after Raymond announced that Penelope is eliminated, Warren whispered to Raymond and wanted to be the one to be eliminated instead of Penelope. Word also has it that since Warren butchered Southborder's Kahit Kailan, he knew he was up for elimination, so he spent close to P30,000 just to keep himself from being eliminated. He wasn't expecting Penelope to be in the bottom 2 with him, and when Penelope was announced eliminated, his conscience couldn't take it, and wanted to take Penelope's place.

Sometimes You Just Know It's Over, Toffer

Wednesday, July 23, 2008

I don't know if it's really about time for Toffer Rei to go, simply because I just want Warren Antig to get kicked out. Hopefully, Warren's next. We just have enough David Cook wannabes in this competition. For a moment there, I thought Daryl is about to leave. You see, he is probably the most improved Idol hopeful.

The dilemma for Kid Camaya is that he has a naturally gifted voice, and the judges are being too nit-picky or perfectionist that they think he is deteriorating, unlike with Daryl, who despite a weak voice manages to give a sincere, heartfelt and simple performance. But definitely, Daryl would probably struggle a bit with next week's rock & roll theme.

 
Sayang Toffer, ironic isn't it? It could be the moment you're waiting for.

Say goodbye to Sue Ellen

Saturday, July 19, 2008

pinoy_idol_06 The voters of Pinoy Idol are now awake from a horrible nightmare and chose to vote out Sue Ellen Cubing from the competition. Catch the  8 remaining idols at Pinoy Idol Mall Show at SM.

Finally, Sue's Swan Song

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Finally, Sue bids goodbye to Pinoy Idol after trying to take on the Songbird songs.

And for the first time indeed, nobody cried when she left. Even Sue seems relieved and happy. Such a sport and giggly kid she is. I mean, she's gotten a lot of flak during her Idol conquest, deserving or not. Not every 16 year old could take that. 

It is almost a killer suspense that I actually thought it's Penelope's time to go. Did you notice Pen's shock? Sue appeared more at ease.

And, look... they're the bottom two, just like what my rankings said. And Ram picked the safe group, he knew it just like I did! haha (self-serving much).

Pinoy Idol on GMA’s Radio Stations

Saturday, July 12, 2008

Remember the days of Pinoy Dream Academy Season I wherein the gala performance nights are simulcast on ABS-CBN’s DWRR 101.9? I just don’t know why they aren’t doing the same thing with the second season. On the other hand, Pinoy Dream Academy rival show, Pinoy Idol would be doing the same thing starting today, Saturday, July 12, 2008! For those who won’t be home during the gala performance night of Pinoy Idol, you can still hear your Idols perform through GMA’s radio stations – Super Radyo AM dZBB and Barangay LS – DWLS FM.

You can also hear your Idols on the following radio stations throughout the country:

Barangay LS 97.1 Ayos! – Manila
99.5 RT – Cebu
103.5 Wow – Davao
93.5 Campus Radio – Dagupan
93.5 Campus Radio – Iloilo
107.1 Campus Radio – Bacolod
92.7 Campus Radio – Baguio
100.7 Campus Radio – Cagayan De Oro
102.3 Campus Radio – General Santos
90.1 Wow – Iligan
92.9 RU – Kalibo
96.3 Campus Radio – Legazpi
91.1 Campus Radio – Lucena
101.5 Campus Radio – Naga
97.5 Campus Radio – Palawan
89.3 Campus Radio – Tuguegarao

Gala performance nights are shown every Saturday after Pinoy Records while results shows are shown every Sunday after Kap’s Amazing Stories.

Robby is now out of Pinoy Idol, 9 are left

Monday, July 7, 2008

pinoy_idol_07 Last night, one of the strongest contenders of Pinoy Idol was sent home – Robby Navarro. Daryl and Sue joined him in the bottom three. It’s just sad that he was the one to be sent home. Although he’s just fine for me, I still firmly believe that Robby is better than Daryl and Sue. As I’ve said on my previous Pinoy Idol post, I don’t appreciate Sue’s talent at all. In fact, I’ve been praying to the high heavens that at least Sue or one of the rockers, with great emphasis on Ram would be eliminated last night. Unfortunately, that was the case last night and a lot of fans are disappointed.

Viewers of the show think that Robby Navarro got negative publicity on the recent Pinoy Idol Extra episode wherein the hopefuls were put into a “test”. Hence, he got the lowest number of votes this week. I guess the footages were shown on Pinoy Idol Extra to be able to generate some buzz for Pinoy Idol. Unfortunately, I didn’t generate some buzz. Instead, it caused the ouster of one of the best and strongest contenders of Pinoy Idol.

The nine remaining Pinoy Idol finalists are Penelope, Jayann Bautista, Gretchen Espina, Sue Ellen, Ram Chaves, Kid Camaya, Daryl Celis, Warren Antig, and Toffer Rei. Performance nights are every Saturday after Pinoy Records while results are delivered Sunday nights after Kap’s Amazing Stories.

Robby is Eliminated

Sunday, July 6, 2008

Travesty fell to a record low as arguably the most consistent, the most favored and the best Pinoy Idol hopeful got eliminated last night. The elimination of Robby Navarro left Ogie Alcasid and Jolina Magdangal in tears. And to add insult to injury, Robby was outlasted by the two bottom-dwellers, even with their lack of talent, Daryl and Sue.

Wyngard finally said something sensible and right, after weeks of having that "I don't care" attitude and that apathetic look on his face. To try to quote Wyngard's sweeping speech last night that echoed the sentiments of the general viewers and fans of the Idol franchise:

"Nakikiusap ako sa mga voters na maging objective, lalo na yung mga kamag-anak at mga kaibigan, alam ko na mahirap. Isipin nyo na ang very first Pinoy Idol ang magrerepresent sa ating bansa internationally, sa Asian Idol at World Idol. Huwag nyo kaming sisihin kung ang mananalo ay ayaw nyo, dahil kayo ang may kasalanan. Please makonsensya naman kayo."

Wyngard even said something like, Ayaw ko na linggo-linggo akong magiging luhaan or imbierna. And now, so many questions linger in the mind of the viewers left in distraught. Questions that we may never find the real answer, except for the blatant simple fact that Robby, supposedly, did not get enough votes. And why didn't he get enough votes?

Here are some possible reasons for the early eliminations of the better Idol hopefuls like Mae and Robby.

1. Mae, Robby, Penelope, Kid and Jayann probably have the same fans voting for any of them. These fans know that these 5 idol hopefuls (only 3 remains now) are really the best mong the contestants, that they cannot pick just one solid idol hopeful, because they are trying to be objective and just base their votes on performance. They probably think that since their bets are doing fairly good on their performances, their idols are safe. But they are wrong.

2. Sue, Warren and Daryl have die-hard fans. These fans, whether they are relatives, friends or persons that are totally oblivious-to-good-taste would stick to voting to their ONE and ONLY Idol hopeful. Regardless if their performance is great or if it sucks. They would vote many more times especially when their bet is at the bottom group.

3. Conspiracy theory? Do you think that the network would actually rig the results to stir controversy and interest? Why aren't they revealing the number of votes? Don't we have the right to know the figures?

4. Pinoys are just stupid voters. Plain and simple, just look at our politicians.

5.  Robby's tantrums on a recent episode of Pinoy Idol Extra could've affected his votes. I didn't catch the episode, where he almost wanted to quit because of some big-brother-like challenge. But i don't believe Extra got that much viewers to actually turn his votes away. Well, I'm sorry Robby... you would probably have a better career than whoever wins this contest. Tingnan mo na lang si Jonalyn Viray. Baka kunin ka pa ng Southboarder.

Pinoy Drama Anthologies

Thursday, July 3, 2008

Hold your horses, I am not trying to add fuel to the fire which is the network war you wish would just finally stop. But just for a respite, I’d like to write something about Pinoy Dream Academy; which is the so-called rival of Pinoy Idol.

I really don’t watch the PDA as much as I really don’t watch Pinoy Idol Extra. As much as possible, I just catch the “gala nights” of both supposed “talent” shows. I’ve only seen the first gala night of PDA and I think that they hit the jackpot with Liezel/Liezl, the soul - girl from Dubai. Van is also an instant  “It” boy, he’s got the looks and a pretty decent voice, with cool song choices. Of course, there are also some misses. I just won’t name one of them, because I already met him a couple of times, and he’s really a good kid, though, not really a kid anymore. (That’s like a “gigantic” hint already!)

I also thought that Ross got a great potential. He’s got that rocker demeanor without trying too hard and he’s got a clear voice. But his PDA journey ended with the dramatics that could outdo “Magdusa Ka” or any afternoon soap, for that matter. And the Uma-lookalike appeared to follow suit, even trying to outcry him over his dilemma. The exit of Ross sorta made viewers confused as to why after making it “inside”, he decided to leave. He kinda got homesick, insisted that he “served his purpose” (which is not really clear-cut), and confessed that he couldn’t handle “backstabbing” or the attitude of some of the scholars.

Even some of the pexers agree that PDA should not focus so much of the drama that it overshadows the talents the “scholars” are supposed to be honed inside the “Big Brother Academy”.

Surprisingly, the very much capable former judge of Philippine Idol and their current headmaster Ryan Cayabyab often gets flak for his unfelt presence over the academy, risking comparison with the charismatic and apparently well-loved season 1 headmaster Jim Paredes.

But of course, that’s how PDA works. Just like Big Brother, or America’s Next Top Model or Survivor,  it’s not enough for viewers to watch them sing or compete with each other; viewers also get to watch how they are doing on a daily basis.

But that doesn’t work for Pinoy Idol, or even American Idol for that matter. After watching PDA on that overly dramatic exit of Ross (not to mention the coincidental death of Miguel’s Lolo, geez, too much crying for a night!); I caught PI Extra as well.

And guess what? They are cooking up their own controversies even to those idol hopefuls that got out already. On that episode, they are raising issues between Gretchen against Bev Ejercito (remember her?); Kid vs. Jayann or whoever; and Robby vs. Toffer. Extra amplifies even the most mundane things, that people really didn’t want or need to know, just to present something interesting on the failed localize franchise.

Why? Is there not enough tears, or drama or backstabbing on Pinoy Idol? Did AI need that to become the number 1 TV show in the US?

Do we really need that on every freaking reality talent show on TV when the fictional shows are already full of it (not to mention our actual - real lives)? I just think that TV just went further down the drain.

Lea, Jose Mari at Regine, kukuning mentors ng Pinoy Idol

Wednesday, July 2, 2008

May balak palang kunin ng Pinoy Idol management sina Lea Salonga, Jose Mari Chan at Regine Velasquez para maging celebrity mentors ng finalists ng Pinoy Idol. Ito ang ipinarating sa showbiz press ni Hazel Abonita, production manager ng Pinoy Idol. Dagdag pa ni Hazel, perfect maging mentors ang tatlo dahil kilala internationally at approved pa ng Freemantle bosses.

Marami rin daw matututunan sa kanila ang Final 12, particular na sa style at tamang pagpili ng kakantahin.

Wala ring takot na sinabi ni Hazel na ipaglalaban niya ang galing sa pagkanta ng PI finalists laban sa Pinoy Dream Academy 2 scholars.

Kung may mentors daw ang PDA scholars, meron ding professional vocal coaches ang Pinoy Idol Final 12 na nagga-guide sa mga ito. May constant band rehearsals din para masanay sa live performance.

Mae Out, Ten are left on Pinoy Idol

Monday, June 30, 2008

pinoy_idol_08 Last night, a couple of fans were shocked because Warren Antig and Mae Flores are in the bottom two. During the performance night, the two received unfavorable comments from the judges.

Unfortunately, Mae Flores who sang “I Didn’t Love You” ended her Idol journey last night. Actually, she’s popular especially during the beginning of the semi-finals (the Top 24 stage).

The remaining 10 finalists of Pinoy Idol – Sue Ellen, Penelope, Jay-ann, Warren, Gretchen, Mae, Kid, Toffer, Robby, Daryl and Ram

A "Superstar" Fell : Mae Flores

I guess votefortheworstpinoy.tk truly has an influence over the voters of Pinoy Idol.

However, it is still a shocker that someone tagged just 2 weeks ago as a “superstar” would be eliminated after a less than stellar performance.
 
Especially when it’s really the fault of the band or the musical director for making song arrangement that sucks. I hardly recognized Penelope’s take on Ne-yo’s So Sick because of the sintonadong banda; just like what happened to Jayann’s Bleeding Love weeks ago.

Of course, these shocking vote results happen to American Idol as well (say, Michael Johns and Chris Daughtry). But at least, they don’t happen almost consecutively and almost all throughout the whole season. Walton, Meryl and Bev are just among the very early exiteers.

And despite being the Idol hopefuls people love to hate, Sue, Warren and Daryl remain.

It won’t be surprising anymore if Kid, Jayann, Penelope or Ram would be eliminated next week.

Toffer and Gretchen still remain at the middle or at the brink of being awful or perhaps, good enough.

As far as the 7 seasons of American Idol are concerned, 100% audience voting to determine the winner still works. After all, these American Idols truly deserve the title, at least as far as the competition is concerned (whether they have a career or none after the show is another matter altogether). Kelly Clarkson, Reuben Studdard, Fantasia Barrino, Carey Underwood, Taylor Hicks, Jordin Sparks and David Cook all deserve their Idol titles.

For our so-called “first Pinoy Idol” despite the dismal production, I still hope that the end result would still be, at least, as convincing and deserving.

Idols We’re Down to Eleven

Thursday, June 26, 2008

pinoy_idol_09 The Top 12 Idol Hopefuls sang their hearts out at the SM Mall of Asia Centerstage. The set was bigger and a lot better than that of the Semi-Finals stage. Of course, there are still technical glitches, which are evident throughout the show. A representative from Fremantle Media watched the first gala performance night live. I’m sorry but I failed to take note of the name. Dulce and some of the winners of Pinoy Pop Superstar were in the audience too.

The theme for the first gala performance night is the “greatest performance of their life” or something to that extent. The bottom three for this week are Kid, Jeni and Sue.

The Idol hopeful from Iloilo, Jeni Rawolle left and ended her Idol journey last Sunday night. Next week, we are down to 11 Idol hopefuls. The 11 contestants left are: Penelope, Jayann Bautista, Gretchen Espina, Mae Flores, Sue Ellen, Ram Chaves, Kid Camaya, Daryl Celis, Warren Antig, Toffer Rei, and Robby Navarro.

Don’t miss Pinoy Idol see your Idol hopefuls grace the Idol stage every week! Performance nights are every Saturday after Pinoy Records while results nights are every Sunday after Kap’s Amazing Stories. If you want exclusive backstage access to Pinoy Idol, catch Pinoy Idol Extra every Sunday after SOP and Mondays thru Thursdays after Babangon Ako’t Dudurugin Kita.

Aktres at ‘Idol’ finalist, nahuling naglalaplapan!

Tuesday, June 24, 2008

Sa sagot ng Final 12 ng Pinoy Idol sa Q&A portion ng presscon nila last Wednesday night, handa na sila sa gala performance nila bukas, Saturday, sa Centerstage (may nagsabing sa SMX) ng Mall of Asia.
   
Matira ang matibay kina Penelope, Jayann Bautista, Gretchen Espina, Jeni Rawolle, Mae Flores, Sue Ellen, Ram Chaves, Kid Camaya, Daryl Celis, Warren Antig, Toffer Rei at Robby Navarro at iitsa-puwera muna ang friendship.
   
Color-coded ang isusuot ng fans ng F12 para makilala sila. Orange for Gretchen, dark blue Mae, light blue for Penelope, pink for Sue Ellen, white for Jayann at yellow for Jeni. Sa boys naman, violet for Warren, black for Ram, red for Kid, gray for Daryl, green for Toffer at brown for Robby.
   
Nabanggit ni Hazel Abonita, program director ng Pinoy Idol, na may mall tour ang F12 sa malls ng SM at tuluy-tuloy ang TV guestings. May lawyer na ring magre-represent sa kanila at ang first Pinoy Idol winner ay ima-manage ng GMA Artist Center.
   
Inalam din namin kay Darling de Jesus, AVP for magazine/musical/variety formats, kung may balak silang imbitahan si Chris Daughtry na mag-guest sa Pinoy Idol.
   
Darating sa bansa ang American Idol 5 finalist sa July para mag-concert. “We’re trying to make arrangements” ang sagot ni Darling sa amin. So, keep your fingers crossed na makapag-guest ito sa show.

Ayaw tigilan ng mga galit sa kanya ang young actress na ito’t lahat na yata ng klase ng tsismis ay ikinabit sa kanya. Ang latest ay ang pakikipaghalikan daw nito sa isa sa Final 12 hopefuls ng Pinoy Idol.
   
Sa Filmex studios daw, kung saan ginawa ang four- week competition ng Pinoy Idol, nakipaghalikan ang young actress at nakita pa sila ng staff ng talent search. Malabo ito’t super higpit ang staff sa F12 finalists, tapos pababayaan nilang nakikipaglaplapan ang isa sa kanila?
   
Saka, ang sinasabing kahalikan nito’y parang harmless at takot sa babae. Pero, tatanungin pa rin namin ang actress and as for the F12, ’wag na nating dagdagan ang stress nito sa paghahanda sa contest at sa ibang araw na natin siya pangalanan. Ang masasabi lang namin, masuwerte siyang ma-link sa young actress.

Pinoy Idol finalists nabubuwisit kay Wyngard Tracy

According to most of the top 12 Pinoy Idol contestants, si Wyngard Tra-cy ang kanilang ‘Simon Cowell.’
    
Ipinakilala na ang na-titirang top 12 contestants ng PI through  another concert but this time sa Music Museum na.
   
Nakatutuwa ang na-ging last question for the contestants noong paubos na ang mga tao.
   
Sino raw sa tatlong jud-ges na sina Jolina Magda-ngal, Ogie Alcasid  at Wyngard ang  pinakabuwisit si-lang mag-judge or pina-katakot sila. And almost half said it was Wyngard.
   
Hindi naman daw  inis, more on takot dahil grabe raw mag-comment si Wyngard sa  performances nila.
   
Siyempre, lahat ng nag-sabi na kay Wyngard nga buwiset  sila, may kabig din  na  ginagawa lang naman daw nito ang trabaho  for their good he he he!
   
Bale siya si Simon sa PI dahil sa American Idol naman, most dreaded din ang comments nito kahit sa  last winner na si David Cook.
   
In time though, maiin-tindihan nila why Wyn-gard is doing that.

Top 12 Pinoy Idol Gala Night Comments

Sunday, June 15, 2008

We expected a better show with the new set of Pinoy Idol. But I guess, expecting even a little improvement would just bring us more disappointment. The lighting sucks. I have never seen a singing contest with lighting that is so bad you can hardly see the faces of the contestants. It's like watching apparitions.

They shouldn't pay the ligthing director whoever he is... they shouldn't pay the director, Louie Ignacio at all.

The stage sucks. What kind of background screen is that? The lights are all over the place, sometimes even in front of the camera. Isn't that the number 1 rule not to shoot against the light? And the color schemes... such an eye sore
 
Why are the contestants walking from the stairs? Kitang-kita ang telon at mga kalat sa gilid ng hagdan. Isn't the stage big enough that they should sing from the stairs?

The judges' area sucks. Why are the judges so far up on their pedestals? We can't even see the audience behind them... all we can see are people walking around behind their dark platform.

The setup of the host sucks. Where the heck is Raymond while he is talking? It's like he is too far from the contestants..that after the judges comments, the contestants seem to look for him somewhere in the stage.

One minute performances? I beg to disagree Jolina, try mo ngang kantahin ang Paper Roses ng isang minuto kung may matuwa sayo. One minute for each song is not enough, especially with your awful musical director and arranger. Sobrang bitin ang mga kanta... parang mismong mga contestant nabitin, with the exception of a few.

Top 12...

1. Mae Flores - was obviously on top of her game last night. "You Oughtta Know" had a good arrangement, taking every bit and pieces of the highlights of the song. Mae's voice was very clear and controlled. That was very nice.

2. Penelope   - She did great with "Alone". She could sing the "phone book" (As Randy Jackson puts it.)

3. Robby Navarro - The level of difficulty of the song is enough to put him in the running. He should just lessen those "kulotations". But he still got a good falsetto. Robby should still work on his versatility and give a surprising performance, just like what he did with Wild Flower and What You Won't do For Love.

4. Kid Camaya - Bitin lang! But he still got the clear and strong voice. He also needs a minor makeover, the lighting doesn't flatter his face.

5. Jayanne Bautista - Such a hottie. She's really a Diva, truly a Natural Woman. haha!

6. Gretchen Espina - She's gorgeous last night. Her looks surpass her performance though. But her take on "Respect" is respectable.

7. Sue Ellen - Alright. It's probably her best performance. She's got to work on her movements though. Wag na syang mag-kuba kasi maliit na sya eh.

8. Ram Chavez - Ram did okay. I just don't get why he is insisting on the Bamboo motion.  

9. Warren Antig - His "Shout" was actually good. He practically nailed it. Justice served well.

10. Toffer Rei - He redeemed himself with his take on Honestly. Bagay sa kanya.

11. Jenni Rawolle - Too old fashioned and nothing really surprising or excellent. There's no spark unlike the Jasmine Trias' cover.

12. Daryl Celis - Masyadong pilit ang grrr factor sa pagkanta nya ng "Superstar". Poor kid. It's not his fault that the judges got him in the contest in the first place. A for effort.  

JJ at Daryl, Inu-okray sa PEx

Tuesday, June 10, 2008

May giyera sa thread ng Pinoy Idol sa PEX, dahil sa pagkaka-eliminate nina Walton Zerrudo at Meryl David sa third elimination ng talent search.
   
Inu-okray at talagang inaaway ng fans ni Walton at ng ibang PI hopefuls ang fans nina JJ Jr. at Daryl Celis sa paniwalang dapat mas unang naalis ang dalawa kesa kay Walton na mas magaling daw kumanta.

Kahit ang judges na sina Ogie Alcasid at Jolina Magdangal ay hindi happy sa resulta ng text votes at naniniwala silang dapat pang manatili sa contest sina Walton at Meryl.

Kaso, nagpabaya ang fans ng dalawa, kaya maaga silang na-out, kahit belong sila sa mas magagaling sa grupo.
   
Wish ng fans ng dalawa’y magkaroon ng wild card para makabalik sila sa contest at matsugi ang mga hindi dapat pumasok sa Top 12.
   
Ipinarating pala namin kay Ogie ang maraming reklamo ng viewers sa Pinoy Idol nang makita namin siya sa presscon ng Urduja.
   
Sabi nito, in-address na nila ang mga reklamo at kung napapansin ng viewers, iba na ang lighting at lilipat sila ng venue ’pag Top 12 na.
   
Sa tanong kung sino ang gusto niya sa natitirang hopefuls, agad ang sagot ni Ogie na “I like Robby (Navarro), he’s good. Hindi ko itinatago kung sino ang bet ko, pero hindi kami puwedeng bomoto. All we can do is encourage the viewers na iboto ang dapat pumasok sa Top 12.
   
“Kaya lang, ang ibang texters, alam lang nila kung sino ang maganda at guwapo at ’pag maganda o guwapong magaling, ’di sila maka-identify.”

Idol Song Choices of the Top 14

Monday, June 9, 2008

Here's the list of the correct song choices from Idol Mole.
 
Top 7 Boys
Toffer Rei- I Could Not Ask For More (Edwin McCain)
Robby Navarro- If Tomorrow Never Comes (Joose)
JJ Jr.- When I Need You (Luther Vandross)
Daryl Celis- Right Here Waiting (Richard Marx)
Kid Camaya- Gone Too Soon (Michael Jackson)
Warren Antig- Panaginip (POT)
Ram Jose- My Sacrifice (Creed)
 
Top 7 Girls
Jeni Rawole- You Raise Me Up (Andrea Joss)
Sue Ellen- Thank You (Dido)
Carol Leus- I Turn To You (Christina Aguilera)
Jayanne Bautista- I Am Changing (Jennifer Hudson)
Mae Flores- Angels (Jessica Simpson)
Penelope- You Light Up My Life (Leanne Rimes)

Gretchen Espina- Try It On My Own (Whitney Houston)

‘Pinoy Idol’ moves to new home, picks 12 finalists

From the Filmex Studio in Makati City, the show will move next week to CenterStage at the Mall of Asia, Pasay City, where the final 12 contenders will be picked.
Four contestants—Rye Estrada, 28, Sherwin Marquez, 26, Regene Ong, 20 and Vrenilyn Villaflor, 17—were eliminated last week, leaving only 18 to slug it out for a slot in the Top 12.

Estrada, who hails from Iloilo, is a band frontman and a Robbie Williams fan who became emotional after dedicating his solo piece to his mom Fanny during Hell Week.

Villaflor, a daughter of a retired police officer, is a Quezon City resident and alumna of the “Batang Kampeon” and PLDT “Tuklas Talino” tilts.

Ong impressed the judges by singing diverse tunes like those of Elvis Presley’s and Sarah McLachlan’s. She also stood out for her unconventional outfits, which she makes herself.

Marquez, Sherwin Bayangan in real life, is a son of a folk singer. He performs regularly at a friend’s bar in Tuguegarao, where he now lives with his parents.

Karylle, host of “Pinoy Idol Extra,” was the first person the contestants spoke with after getting the boot. “I was there right after they got off the stage. That’s the hardest part of being a host of this show,” she told Inquirer Entertainment on Tuesday. “My job is to introduce them to the viewers. I’m also there when they need to respond to controversial issues.”

But Karylle also gets to spend fun time with the contestants. “I went to a bar at The Fort with the Top 24. We all had a good time,” she said.

The job to host “Pinoy Idol Extra” was first offered to Karylle in May. “The producers said they saw how I work on SOP. They based their decision on my performance there and in every New Year’s Eve program I hosted for GMA 7,” she explained.

Karylle alternates with Rhian Ramos as host of the show. Unlike Karylle who was handpicked for the program, Rhian, had to pass a series of auditions.

Rhian also had to contend with detractors who say she only got the assignment because she is the niece of GMA Artist Center boss Ida Henares.