TV 5 presents first primetime drama offering

Alex Gonzaga is unaware of the intrigue that says that she is not the first choice for the lead role of Grace in TV5's first primetime drama offering, Babaeng Hampaslupa.

"I didn't know about that kaya di ko alam kung paano ako magre-react," said the kid sister of TV host-actress Toni Gonzaga.

"Hindi ko naman po alam na may ganyan palang issue. But as far as I'm concerned, okay lang kahit na pang-third choice ako for the role. What is important is I got the part."

Alex further said she's feeling the jitters now that Babaeng Hampaslupa is nearing its telecast on February 7, with no less than movie queen Ms. Susan Roces and comebacking actress Alice Dixson among her co-stars. She also has two leading men in Alwyn Uytingco who plays her childhood friend Nato, and Martin Escudero, who plays Andrew, who falls for her in the series. When TV5 was relaunched two years ago, Alex was among its first contract stars.

She appears in the youth-oriented show BFGF, the sitcom LokomokoU, the variety-show P.O.5 and the gossip show Juicy. With four shows tucked under her belt, plus Babaeng Hampaslupa, Alex can stake claim to the title, Princess of TV5.

"Ayoko po ng ganyang label. Sa akin po, ayokong isipin ang ganyang label. Kahit na ang Ate ko po sinasabi iyan sa akin. Magpasalamat lang daw po ako kung ano ang dumating. Kapag may bagong artistang dumating, masasaktan lang daw po ako kapag inisip ko na ako ang princess or whatever. I 'd rather do my job and do it right. Basta, I am grateful with the shows given me by TV5. I am doubly grateful for the trust given me by the Kapatid Network," said Alex.

Babaeng Hampaslupa’s story is different from that of the movie version topbilled by Ms. Maricel Soriano. The title was just used but the story is no way similar to that of the iconic film that featured the Diamond Star.

“Maganda na rin na iba ang story ng TV series namin para mailayo rin ako sa comparison with Ms. Maricel Soriano. Pero alam ko po na hindi ito adaptation. Hindi ko rin po pinanood ang movie ni Ms. Maricel. Sinabi lang po sa akin na may ganitong movie si Ms. Maricel,” explained Alex.

Babaeng Hampaslupa premieres on February 7 on TV5. It is directed by Eric Quizon and Bb. Joyce Bernal.

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People are talking about Aljur Abrenica and his role as Machete in the newest teleserye on GMA 7 that started airing Monday night.

A lot of people are admiring Aljur's discipline when it comes to his workout and diet to enable him to possess that to-die-for body that is perfect for his role as the brave warrior in Machete, where he is paired with Bela Padilla and Ryza Cenon.

His fans are happy that GMA gave him this role, for which he would surely be remembered, in the same way Cesar Montano and Gardo Versoza got noticed and gained popularity when they made the film version of this creation of the late komiks novelist Pablo S. Gomez.

But Aljur's fans (as well as his detractors) are saying that while the young actor is putting an effort to maintain his good physique, they are also hoping that Aljur should also make an effort to better his craft by taking acting workshops. We believe so, too. While Aljur will surely mesmerize his fans with his sexy body, he should also realize that longevity in showbiz is measured, not by how good looking you are, but by how well he can deliver as far as acting requirements are concerned.

Honing his craft would redound to his own good. He'd be a complete package if he gets to hone his acting skills while lifting weights at the gym to keep himself fit.

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Erich Gonzales is the new image model of Careline cosmetics. At the presscon held Saturday, one of the things asked of her was the rumor linking her to "Shout Out" co-star Enrique Gil. But Erich denied the rumor, saying that she and the singer are just friends.

Besides, according to her, work is her priority. She'd rather concentrate on her career. "I have many dreams to fulfill and I'd like to focus my attention on achieving my goals in life," said Erich who's also in school despite her busy schedule.

It is because of hard work, dedication and determination that Erich was able to reach her current hot stellar status. What's impressive about Erich is her positive attitude and bright disposition in life. Amid the success she presently enjoys, she remains humble. She also knows how to value education as she's presently in school. Notwithstanding the hardships of combining her studies with showbiz, she succeeds in both worlds.

This makes her a role model among the youth of today. And her positive traits are what made the famous beauty line Careline Cosmetics tap Erich as its latest endorser. "I am happy and grateful to Careline for making me a part of their family. It's really an honor. All I can say is that their products are very good and effective for teens like me. And they are also affordable. I highly recommend it," she said.