Gab Fab: Vhong, Toni triumph in new romcom

Cathy Garcia-Molina has fans and by that I don’t mean those people who don’t miss the movies of certain directors because they’re fans. Molina’s fans cheer and even bring their own streamers, as if the director is some much-hyped and much-photographed high-profile actor. I witnessed this myself during the recent premiere of My Only U

from Star Cinema.

Then again, such reaction shouldn’t be surprising. Cathy has been churning out fan-friendly films, from last year’s blockbuster One More Chance, which cemented John Lloyd Cruz’s rep as a bankable movie actor; and Close to You, which launched the movie career of Sam Milby; to, more recently, the widely popular A Very Special Love, which gave Sarah Geronimo movie-star bragging rights.

For her latest outing, My Only U, Cathy’s fans cheered her at the premiere of the comedy starring Vhong Navarro and Toni Gonzaga. The movie has been rated “B” by the Cinema Evaluation Board, allowing it to receive a 50-percent tax rebate.

The movie is a romantic comedy that tells the story of Winona (Gonzaga), a bitter person who has lost hope for the future—that is, until she meets Bong (Navarro). He has always had feelings for Winona but could never summon the courage to do anything about it. Until a ghost comes in to provide assistance. The movie packed with wild and wacky antics—and then, there’s the surprise ending which, of course, I won’t give away.

What I will say is that Vhong Navarro, as usual, is a comic genius. His comedy is very Pinoy—slapstick, very emotional, sprinkled with a bit of wit. He’s no Hugh Grant but Hugh is English and so while his movies will never muster lines at the box office of Starmall, Vhong’s will.

Vhong even shows a dramatic side in the movie and while that scene is filled with clichés, Vhong’s brilliant acting saves it—and according to Vhong, direk Cathy helped him fully understand his character. I won’t be surprised if Vhong brings his own streamer for Cathy at the premiere of her next project.

Meanwhile, another comedy I got to see recently is Pineapple Express (screened exclusively in Ayala Cinemas), from Judd Apatow and stars Seth Rogen and James Franco. It’s typical Apatow—nasty dialogue, scenes that are borderline obscene, but with a certain smartness informing the entire proceedings.

Pineapple Express is no different.

Denton (Rogen) is a mailman who spends his days delivering subpoeanas and buying dope from his trusted dealer Saul (Franco). The two try out the latest weed variety, called Pineapple Express, and then Dale witnesses a murder on his way from their pot session. Before long, the two are pursued by hitmen, cops and the whole world.

The movie zips along with abandon and it remains hilarious even if by the middle it gets loopier and disconnects with the plot. Apatow movies have never been about plot, after all. It has always been about witty dialogue, the sly ripostes between the characters. The movie is pointless but it’s so funny that you wouldn’t mind. There are a lot of laugh-out-loud scenes, such as the madcap car chase and an out-of-control ninja scene. But what is shocking is that, in some scenes, you’d even sympathize with the pothead characters.

What is also special about Pineapple Express is that it does what the three Spider-Man blockbusters failed to accomplish: make James Franco a star. Franco is a very talented but underrated young actor. He has always amazed me with his talent, but I’m now blown away by his range showing us his sterling comic skills in this movie.

There will be no Oscar nominations for this movie, I’m quite sure, but if you want to just laugh the days away, then watch Pineapple Express. You might be able to forget the horrors you’ve seen recently on TV...and I’m not talking about those lame Halloween specials over the weekend but the news about Bolante and de la Paz.

Vhong, Toni’s friendship blossoms in ‘My Only U’

At the presscon of their soon-to-be released movie "My Only U," Vhong Navarro and Toni Gonzaga admitted that they nearly fell in love in the past and they didn’t do it just for show.

"We became too close for comfort, sabihin na natin," said Vhong. "Yes, that was even before we started work on our first movie together, ‘D’ Anothers.’

"Kasi si Vhong ang una kong naging kaibigan when I first joined ABS-CBN," said Toni. "At sabihin na nating napaka loveable din naman niya."

But surprisingly, even with the big box office success of "D’ Anothers," Star Cinema didn’t pair them right away in another movie. Vhong instead was given his own solo movies such as "Supapalicious," where he had Valerie Concepcion for his leading lady. Toni, for her part, was teamed with other leading men. She, in fact, did two movies with Sam Milby, "You Are the One" and "You’ve Got Me" (which also starred Zanjoe Marudo).

Both Vhong and Toni admit they are happy working together in "My Only U." Star Cinema insiders said that this is different from the movies Vhong and Toni did before.

"Iba ang ginawang approach nila Vhong and Toni sa funny moments nila sa ‘My Only U.’ At tiyak maiiyak ka sa kanilang drama scenes," they said.

"My Only U," directed by Cathy Garcia-Molina, is about the friendship of Bong (Vhong) and Winona (Toni). Bong falls in love with Winona who only has a few moths to live.

"We all gave ‘My Only U’ our own unique touch," said Direk Cathy. "And that, I believe is the greatest asset of the movie."

Toni Gonzaga reunites with Vhong Navarro in "My Only U"

Nagulat si Toni Gonzaga nang makarating sa kanya ang pag-amin ni Vhong Navarro sa naging feelings nito towards her. Muntik na ring ligawan ni Vhong si Toni noon at hanggang ngayon ay hindi pa rin daw nawawala ang feelings sa kanya ng leading man niya sa My Only U ng Star Cinema.

"Eto naman si Vhong, kung anu-ano ang pinagsasabi!" natatawang umpisa ni Toni sa PEP. "Ano yung kay Vhong, siya kasi yung unang-unang naging close ko sa ABS-CBN. Kasi nung nasa ABS na ako, siya na yung unang-una kong nakakasama dito. Sa kanya pa kumuha ng number si Luis [Manzano]. Oo, totoo yun. Talagang siya yung  pinaka, kapag may nanliligaw noon dati, kay Vhong muna nila itatanong.

Was there a time ba na na-in love din siya kay Vhong?

"Dahil super close namin na parang, ‘Ay, gumagaan ang loob namin sa isa't isa.' Pero kasi yun ang lagi kong sinasabi na kapag si Vhong ang kasama  mo, parang hindi ko maseryoso yung mga pangyayari. Parang nakakatawa lagi. So, magtatawanan na lang kayo. Hanggang eventually, lumapat kami doon sa stage na ano, friendship talaga," lahad ni Toni.

Kung niligawan ba siya ni Vhong ay sasagutin ito ni Toni?

"Ah, hindi marunong manligaw si Vhong, e. Ang alam ko, hindi siya marunong manligaw!" pambubuko ng dalaga.

Kumusta naman ang working relationship nila ni Vhong after three years na huli silang nagkasama sa D' Anothers?

"Ay, hindi nagbago! Ganun pa rin kami ni Vhong. Hindi nagbago dahil lagi kaming nagkikita sa ASAP."

May  pagdududa ang iba na kaya raw ibinalik ang tambalan nila ni Vhong dahil masyado nang involved kay Anne Curtis ang leading man niya sa three consecutive movies na ginawa niya na si Sam Milby. Ano ang masasabi ni Toni rito?

"Hindi kasi, ganun naman talaga yun, di ba? Hindi naman kailangang lagi kang ma-identify sa isang love team. ‘Tsaka hindi rin naman din natin masasabi kasi, baka who knows in the future, gumawa ulit kami ng movie. Pero for now, nagko-concentrate muna kami with Vhong. ‘Tsaka si Vhong naman ang original na naka-partner ko," paliwanag niya.

Pero matagal daw bago sila pinagtambal ulit ni Vhong, unlike Sam na sunud-sunod ang pelikula nila.

"Oo, dahil kasi siguro talagang nagustuhan ng tao yung ano namin ni Sam," sabi ni Toni. "Na meron talaga kaming malaking ano, fan-based. So, ‘ayun, nagustuhahn talaga nila and we're very thankful for that. Hindi naman namin kinakalimutan ang suporta nila."

Kumusta naman sila ng boyfriend niya na si Direk Paul Soriano?

"Ay, okey naman, direktor pa rin siya!" biro ni Toni. "Naku, huwag na nating pag-usapan si Direk. Hindi siya kasali sa movie. Nung My Big Love, hindi ko rin siya pinag-usapan. Kasi ayaw ko nung may pelikula ako, nadadamay siya kasi hindi naman siya kasama sa pelikula."

Sino ang My Only U sa buhay niya?

"Sa pelikula si Vhong. Sa personal, ay, kilala mo na ‘yon! Alam mo na ‘yon!" sabi sa amin ni Toni.

Kakabugin ba nila ni Vhong ang tandem nina John Lloyd Cruz at Sarah Geronimo, na huling idinirek ng direktor ng movie nila na si Cathy Garcia Molina sa A Very Special Love? May sun dance portion din ba siya sa movie?

"Hindi ko nga alam, baka tribal dance!" tawa niya. "Hindi, hindi ko alam. Siyempre, wala naman kaming gustong taubin na kung ano dahil iisang film outfit lang kami. Isa lang ang pinagtatrabahuan namin, which is Star Cinema. We're just really thankful na nabibigyan kami ng opportunity ni Vhong na kahit papano masimulan ang movie namin this year."

May pressure ba sila na napi-feel dahil galing sa isang blockbuster movie ang pinagsamahan nila ni Vhong at box-office director naman si Cathy?

"Si Direk Cathy, I think sa dalawang pelikula na ginawa namin—and this is my third with her—she knows kasi how to handle pressure."

What about her?

"Oo, siyempre ganun na rin. Nasanay ka na rin dahil hindi lang naman sa pelikula, e. Kahit sa mga shows na ibibigay sa ‘yo, may pressure talaga ‘yon. Ano siguro, instead of focusing sa pressure, ini-enjoy na lang namin yung trabaho, yung working relationship, yung camaraderie. Kasi magaan sa set, masaya, walang iringan, walang tensiyon masyado," pagtatapos ni Toni.

Toni Gonzaga on Faces, Voices & Bodies @ Zirkoh

Zirkoh Timog together with Lucida-DS, Vaniderm and CardioPlus present a night of Faces, Voices & Bodies @ Zirkoh on Thursday, August 14, 2008, 10:00pm. Catch Gabby Concepcion and Toni Gonzaga live with the special participation of Valerie Concepcion and Joross Gamboa.

The show will also feature the following performers: Baywalk Bodies, Raphael Martinez, Eleoner G., Lex Lopez together with Yellow Milano, Trisha Gayod, Kobe Bryant Yulo, Kaye Hiñola, Jmore, Camille Tarray, Mo Jack, Garry Esguerra, Princess Mampusti and Pinky Fernandez.

For ticket inquiries, please call 09236491784 & 4674088. Tickets are available @ Zirkoh, Timog.

25 Stars including Toni pay tribute to Gary Valenciano

The finest singers in the industry are giving tribute to the man who has been considered the embodiment of a total performer, Gary Valenciano, also known as Mr. Pure Energy.

The artists have come together through the album "GV25 All-Star Tribute Collection" under Star Records, featuring the greatest hits of Valenciano.

Respected artists from the music industry were honored to take part in the GV25 album, rendering their own version of Gary V.'s timeless songs in celebration of the artist's 25 years in the industry.

Some of the artists include Jericho Rosales (Di Bale Na Lang), Martin Nievera (Narito), South Border (Laughter All The Time), Bituin Escalante (Take Me Out Of The Dark), Christian Bautista (After All), Sarah Geronimo (Kailangan Kita), Toni Gonzaga (Wait Forever), Zsa Zsa Padilla(Ikaw Lamang), Kuh Ledesma (Could You Be Messiah), Sam Milby (Each Passing Night), Erik Santos (Gaya Ng Dati), Jed Madela (Until Then), Randy Santiago (Eto Na Naman), Piolo Pascual (How Did You Know), Aiza Seguerra (Fool 'Til The End), Vina Morales (Natutulog Ba Ang Diyos) and Sharon Cuneta (Sana Maulit Muli).

"Gary V. is the epitome of excellence! He is an inspiration. It's an honor to be a part of his 25th anniversary album and to sing "Could You Be Messiah", one of his biggest hits," Kuh Ledesma said.

"Gary is such an inspiration to millions and his music has touched so many hearts including mine. It is such an honor to be a part of this tribute album for an icon of music & inspiration," said Jed Madela.

"I am truly inspired of what Kuya Gary has achieved throughout his 25 years in the business. I was full of love and inspiration when I was recording "Gaya Ng Dati", my favorite GV song. Truly, Gary V. is one of the most effective performers in our country, for me he's one of the greatest icons of this generation," said Erik Santos.

"Gary V. is the most dedicated artist in the business. His musicality is unmatched. He memorizes every beat and every lyric and if you're not careful, he will memorize your beats and lyrics too. It's an honor to share the stage with him, but an even bigger honor to sing one of his classics. Gary is more than a friend, he is our spiritual hero," said Concert King, Martin Nievera.

"I can't imagine the Philippine music industry without Gary Valenciano. He's really the only one that does best with what he does. That's why when you say Mr. Pure Energy, that really means so much more that what it initially seems to mean.

"Gary is an institution at such a young age. He's a huge, huge superstar and has brought our country many honors," said the Megastar, Sharon Cuneta.

In showbusiness, there are many stars who have lost their shine over the years. After 25 years, Gary V. still stands strong, making music that continues to appeal to people.

GV25 All-Star Tribute Collection is now available under Star Records. Hear the new versions of Gary V.'s best hits, available in all record bars worldwide.

Cathy Garcia Molina to direct Toni Gonzaga and Vhong Navarro’s reunion movie

After the successful team-up of Sarah Geronimo and John Lloyd Cruz in A Very Special Love, Director Cathy Garcia-Molina has a new film project coming up with Toni Gonzaga and Vhong Navarro. Director Cathy Garcia-Molina was assigned by ABS-CBN Film Productions Inc. to direct the big screen reunion of Toni Gonzaga and Vhong Navarro.

The Toni Gonzaga and Vhong Navarro team-up was last seen on the 2005 movie, D’ Anothers. This follow-up movie of the Toni-Vhong love team only proves that the love team has a great number of followers.

Director Cathy Garcia-Molina is truly very blessed career-wise. Watch out for this movie!

Toni Gonzaga is MEG’s Cover Girl!

The famous and talented multimedia star, Toni Gonzaga graces the cover of MEG August 2008 issue! Despite her very busy schedule, she took time to pose for MEG’s cover this month. Not only did she pose for the cover, she was also interviewed by the MEG team about love, relationships and career. Although her schedule is occupied with television guesting, hosting gigs, pictorials, shoots, and other commitments, she doesn’t forget to go to church because of her great faith in God.

Even at 24, she achieved a lot of things in her chosen career — numerous acting awards, gold and platinum records, box-office movies and many more. Toni is kept grounded by her faith in God, a positive disposition, and untainted dedication to her craft.

Here is an excerpt of her interview with the MEG team:

What to you is the most important ingredient of a successful relationship?

I don’t know the secret actually, kasi siyempre hindi ko pa rin naman alam what’s going to happen, all I know is that I’m just really blessed to have this wonderful relationship with someone who I know is on the same track and is heading in the same direction with me. I’m just really thankful, but hindi ko pa masasabi na success story na ang love story namin kasi hindi pa naman natin malalaman yan.

But how do you keep things interesting for both of you?

Kasi we don’t have the same kind of job, so I think it’s interesting for him and for me cause we get to learn about each other’s craft, kasi when he asks me something, may explanation, this is how it’s done. It’s also good to be with someone who’s not really doing the same thing that you’re doing… everyday we learn from each other.

What advise can you give to girls about relationships?

I guess you have to first obey your parents and trust the discernment of your parents. Pray about it and keep God in the center of the relationship so it will never go wrong. I think that’s very important with me. Nakakita ako ng isang tao na pareho talaga kami ng priorities in life, pareho kami ng values, which is hard [to find]. So I feel really blessed that we were able to cross paths.

What has been the biggest learning experience you’ve had so far?
[That] “everything works for good for those who love God,” Romans 8:28. That has been my life verse ever since. Lahat ng mga rejections ko sa VTRs, commercials, everything that I tried out before na hindi nag-work, I always think na, everything has a reason. May isa pang verse about that says, “For I know the plans I have for you to prosper, to give you a good future,” Jeremiah 29:11.

What’s your advise to young people who want to follow your footsteps?

I was once a fan too when I was younger and I would always dream of being a part of this industry, just like them. Keep on visualizing what you really want and have a vision of what you want to achieve in the future, and what you want to be. And be determined, be focused, pray about it. And obey your parents— that’s very important.

Toni Gonzaga hosted Pilipinas, Game Ka Na Ba?

The Much Needed Vacation

After the success of Game Ka Na Ba’s new format, the actor, TV host and head of the Optical Media Board, Edu Manzano took a much needed but short vacation in Mexico and Los Angeles. During his vacation in Mexico and Los Angeles, the actor-host was overwhelmed because of the warm welcome he received from the Filipinos abroad.

“Salamat kasi kahit saan tayo magpunta ay parang pag-aari ng Pilipino,” Edu Manzano said in an interview conducted by ABS-CBNnews.com. He also added that the Filipinos abroad would talk to him about his famous dance steps, the Papaya dance.

He was surprised and happy about the fact the Filipinos outside the country are familiar with the show he is currently hosting.

The Temporary Hosts

During Manzano’s short vacation outside the country, the award-winning actress, singer and TV host, Toni Gonzaga replaced and took care of the hosting chores of the show, “Pilipinas, Game Ka Na Ba”. The veteran comedian, Brod Pete, joined Toni Gonzaga in hosting the said show. Avid viewers of the show were happy about the Toni and Brod Pete tandem.

When Edu Manzano, the real host of the show came back from his vacation, he thanked Toni Gonzaga and Brod Pete for taking care of the show and its viewers.

“I would like to thank of course Toni Gonzaga and Brod Pete for taking over while I was away,” Manzano said on the same interview conducted by ABS-CBNnews.

'Direk' Paul Soriano hopes to marry Toni Gonzaga

Actress, singer and TV host Toni Gonzaga and director Paul Soriano have been an item for only a year, but they're already setting their sights on settling down not soon, but eventually.

In separate interviews with The Buzz, both Toni and Paul expressed their desire for their present relationship to culminate in marriage, even as they revealed the gifts they exchanged to mark their first year anniversary.

Paul said he gave Toni a Tempur-pillow, it's a pillow made from high-tech "memory foam" that was once developed by NASA for its astronauts. Basically, pillows and mattresses made from memory foam mould themselves to the shape of the body or object placed on it. As a result, there's less pressure to the user who will sleep very well on the memory foam.

He must really want Toni to have very sound sleep wherever she goes after all, she's one of the busiest ABS-CBN talents with tapings and shows that last well into the early morning hours.

Toni on the other hand gave Paul a scrapbook filled with magazine clippings and other odds and ends that are souvenirs of the most memorable moments of their relationship in the past year.

The lovers only had good words about each other during their interviews. Toni described Paul as 'sweet. Marami syang ginagawa na unexpected". Paul on the other hand said that he appreciates Toni's efforts to see him despite her busy schedule.

"She finds ways to make time for me, for dinner, coffee, hang out," he said.

Paul also said that their shared Christian faith is a big help in keeping their relationship strong, despite the issues and intrigues local showbiz throws at them.

Remember when rumors spread about how Paul was supposedly one of the "suspects" who fathered the child of actress Camille Pratts? That proved to be false after the Pratts family announced that the father is Camille's childhood sweetheart, Anthony Linsangan.

Toni hasn't been spared: some very nasty remarks and accusations by still unidentified people were posted on her own Multiply blog.

Paul shared the secret of why their relationship is still going strong: "We pray a lot together. I think that's something her dad and mom taught us, we cannot do anything just the two of us, we need to put God at the center of the relationship."

Paul also said that he would want his relationship with Toni to go on for a lifetime.

"I definitely want this to lead to marriage obviously, that's why I put so much time and effort into this. I think she's the one for me, if you ask me, this is the direction I wanto to go," he said.

Toni, progressively sexy

Toni Gonzaga, the singer, is now tagged as the Most Certified Platinum Star. During the launching of her third studio album under Star Records, “Love Is…Toni Gonzaga” CD, Managing Director Annabelle Regalado-Borja explained Toni is now one of the highest selling recording artists with the platinum performance of her second CD. Her third CD is expected to be another platinum performer with its carrier single “Incapable,” as written by hitmaker Christian Martinez. Feeling a bit naughty, I asked Toni the following questions during the open forum as presided by Eric John Salut.

Which title do you prefer, Most Certified Platinum Star of The Ultimate Multi-media?

Ay! Hindi ko alam. Parang hindi ko alam kung alin ang type ko. Ang hirap namang mamili.

Most Certified Platinum Star refers to your recording career while The Ultimate Multi-media Star refers to your total career.

Hindi ko talaga alam. It’s not for me to decide, dahil hindi ba, ang mga tao naman ang nagbibigay ng mga title sa mga artista. Kung ako ang papipiliin, kahit ano, okey sa akin. Huwag lang Bomba Star! Kahit anong star, huwag lang ‘yon. Huwag ding sexy star, hindi po bagay. Parang comatose na ang level ko kapag ganu’n na ang title ko.

But your image has turned sexier?

Wow! Kailangan ‘yon. It comes with the time. Maturity rin. Nagma-mature na rin ang body ko, habang nagma-mature ang mga songs ko.

Did you discuss with (boyfriend) Paul Soriano the change in image?

Hindi naman talaga ako nagpapa-sexy. Kaya ko lang naman ginawa ‘yung mga leg showing, dahil concert ko ‘yon, para naman maiba sa mga ginagawa ko sa TV.

What does Paul think about it?

When it comes to that, hindi naman namin dini-discuss, kasi alam naman niya na hindi ako gagawa ng isang bagay na hindi ko pinag-iisipang mabuti, na alam kong makakasira sa akin. At saka, ‘pag nagsusuot ako ng mga seksing damit, ano naman, not to the point na mababastos na ako!

Did you wear stockings in the image behind you? (Note: It shows Toni kneeling while wearing a gown in paisley print, her back showing and her right leg exposed.)

Wala talagang stockings diyan, promise! Tanong niyo po sa photographer ko, si Ronnie Salvacion, wala talaga. Kaya namin ipinakita ‘yan, kasi ‘yun ‘yung time na may hinanakit ako, dahil hindi ako nakapag-summer vacation. So, nu’ng summer si Mariel (Rodriguez) and Bianca (Gonzales) tan, ako lang ang maputi. Sa opening ng “PBB Teen Edition Plus,” nag-spray-spray ako ng pang-tan. Peke ang tan ko. Maputi talaga ako.

Toni Gonzaga to host Pinoy Dream Academy Season II

After her hosting stint with Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition Plus, actress and host, Toni Gonzaga will join the dreamcredible team of Pinoy Dream Academy Season II. Toni Gonzaga joins Nikki Gil and Billy Crawford in hosting the said show.

Toni Gonzaga will host the primetime edition of Pinoy Dream Academy Season II while Nikki Gil will give periodic updates on the show throughout the day. The newest Kapamilya, Billy Crawford will take care of the hosting chores for Pinoy Dream Academy Uberture, the counterpart of Pinoy Big Brother’s Uber.

The 32 hopefuls will be introduced on the public starting June 9, 2008 on PDA Season 2: The Dream BIGins. The program will air from Monday to Friday, after My Girl.

After PDA Season2: The Dream BIGins, a grand live premiere will be held on Saturday, June 14, 2008 at the Pinoy Dream Academy Concert hall where we get to know who would be the scholars.

Aside from her hosting and singing career, Toni Gonzaga is set to do a movie with Vhong Navarro within the year.

Toni Gonzaga on Star Studio Magazine

Toni Gonzaga is the cover girl of the latest issue of Star Studio Magazine! Star Studio Magazine gives us an update on the relationship of Toni Gonzaga and Direk Paul Soriano as they celebrate their first anniversary as a couple.

Also in the same issue is Kim Chiu, Mario Dumaual, Phoemela Barranda, Ginger Conejero, and Marie Lozano.

Grab StarStudio’s June 2008 issue, out now for only P85.

Toni & What Love Is

Toni Gonzaga shows some sexiness on the back cover of her third album titled Love is… Toni Gonzaga but her music remains sweet and is never sappy. After all, it’s Toni’s easy-listening kind of music that has made her songs reach the charts. She doesn’t have to strain her voice to make another gold or platinum album.

“I’m trying to be bolder with this album,” refers Toni to her daring, edgy image on the promotional photos for her latest album. She is in a backless dress revealing her flawless skin and legs.

“The album, on the other hand, is a combination of original and cover songs. I also had a say in the song choices. I think my music depends on time and trends. I have to go with the flow like what the listeners want. If they prefer covers, we will give them that. As the title of my album implies, it is all about love and the listener will define for himself what love is.”

Love is… Toni Gonzaga is the follow-up album to You Complete Me and Toni Gonzaga Falling In Love. Both reached gold status with the record sales of more than 25,000 sold copies. The latter was certified platinum. Toni’s music has a market of its own that’s why Star Records is never afraid to take a gamble on her. They think Toni always delivers.

For a recording artist whose debut album started on the right foot and who surpassed the sophomore jinx, there’s no other way for Toni but to come up another one and explore her range musically.

“I’m thankful that they have entrusted me this one,” says Toni, winner of MYX Most Downloaded Artist award. “(My) success, to quote actor Anthony Hopkins, is 80 percent luck, 10 percent talent and 10 percent attitude. I think it also comes with hardwork and patience. You have to visualize what you want and focus on it. Whatever respect and success I’m enjoying now, it is something I have earned for the past years. I still have a lot more to prove myself. I have to do it year after year.”

Love is… Toni Gonzaga will show that the singer-actress can make a kill not only on original compositions but also on the songs of the other artists. If you grew up in the ‘80s and ‘90s, you will have a blast listening to the carrier single One Hello, If Ever You’re In My Arms Again with Sam Milby, Take Me, I’ll Follow You, Insensitive, Steep and Someone’s Always Saying Goodbye. You can’t help but sing along the songs with Toni. Besides, these ditties are familiar tunes. But if you’re looking for the real sounds of Toni just the way she did in chart-topping singles We Belong and Catch Me I’m Fallin’, she serves you up songs like Incapable, If I Give You My Heart and I’ve Been Waiting.

What else do we look forward to in Toni’s career aside from her hosting stints on ABS-CBN’s Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition 2, Entertainment Live and ASAP? A lot.

Faces & Curves, a beauty clinic which offers cosmetic, plastic and reconstructive surgery, got her and sister Alex as its endorsers. The place, located at Suite 204 The Victoria Plaza, Annapolis St., Greenhills, San Juan, is staffed by board-certified plastic surgeons, anesthesiologists, internists and dermatologists.

Toni, a regular customer of Faces & Curves, was chosen because of her wholesome image, and her versatility as singer, actress and host.

“It was Faces & Curves that reconstructed part of my face when I met an accident while shooting a TV commercial,” says Toni. “Look, you don’t notice any difference anymore, do you?”

She goes on, “I will also make a movie with Vhong Navarro.” The Star Cinema project is Toni and Vhong’s big screen teamup after D‘ Anothers. Toni adds that she is in her best element as an actress in comedies and light romances like You Are the One and You Got Me. Many think she is also perfect for the title role of Betty La Fea which has given America Ferreira Golden Globes and Emmys. Toni is a funny girl in her own right.

With the many hats she is wearing, Toni wishes to be known as a singer “who sings from the heart, and in the future, (I hope) someone will make one of my songs a cover.”

Toni Gonzaga: ‘I’m just lucky’

Toni Gonzaga is the star of several hit movies, host of a number of hit shows, and singer with two platinum-award winning albums. But for all of her success, she believes that it’s all due to luck.

“I think sa business na ito, 80 percent ang luck, 10 percent ang attitude, at 10 percent ang talent. That’s it for me. I’m speaking for myself,” she explains during the recent launch of her third album, Love Is… Her third album contains her renditions of all-time favorites, such as You’re In Love, If I Give You My Heart, Take Me, I’ll Follow You, Insensitive, Steep, I’ve Been Waiting, and Someone’s Always Saying Goodbye. There’s also an original composition, Incapable, included in the album.

“I know that I can do so many things. But I also know that someone out there can do so much more and so much better than I do. I’m just so fortunate that I’ve been given the chances and the breaks and I was blessed with luck.”

Luck is definitely on her side. Toni is currently one of the bestselling local recording artists. Her second album, Falling In Love, is a big hit, selling a whopping 29,000 units–despite the music piracy problem. Her record label, Star Records, adds that the album is continuing to sell well.

While she is flattered with the platinum and multi-media star monickers that have been bestowed on her, she realizes that they also carry some pressure. “When you’re in the business and people start to appreciate you and recognize your abilities and how you do your work, it’s flattering and overwhelming. But at the same time, it’s something that you don’t want to put into your head,” Toni explains. “Gusto ko lang siyang i-embrace pero ayoko siyang ilagay sa sistema ko.”

She believes that these names mean she has to live up to them, to prove herself worthy. “You have to prove yourself more and more every year and it does not stop,” she ends.

Toni Gonzaga releases third album under Star Records

Right on the heels of her successful first solo concert Catch Me at the Aliw Theater, Toni Gonzaga has just released her latest album Love Is…Toni Gonzaga.

With her past two albums with Star Records accorded gold and platinum status, her recording label has no qualms in producing another album for the artist reluctantly dubbed as the The Ultimate Multimedia Star.

“Ang laki talaga ng pasasalamat ko sa Star Records dahil pinagkakatiwalaan nila ako with another album. Lahat ng kanta dito ay close to my heart at masaya ako nang i-record ko ang mga kanta,” says Toni.

According to Nixon Sy, Star Records’ promo unit head, “Her first album with Star Records, You Complete Me, was certified gold and her sophomore album, Toni Gonzaga Falling in Love, was awarded platinum. At such a young age, Toni is being recognized as one of the movers of the music industry and it’s a privilege for Star Records to produce another winner for her.”

In fact, her carrier single “One Hello,” is now enjoying heavy rotation in various radio stations nationwide. The other songs in her 11-track album are “Incapable,” “You’re in Love,” “If I Give You My Heart,” “Take Me, I’ll Follow You,” Insensitive,” “Steep,” “I’ve Been Waiting,” and “Someone’s Always Saying Goodbye.” Fans will be thrilled to know that Sam Milby has a duet with Toni for the album’s song “If Ever You’re In My Arms Again.”

Toni adds, “Special po para sa akin ang Love Is…Toni Gonzaga dahil alam naman po ng lahat ng aking affairs of the heart. Kaya po sa lahat ng mga in love o gustong ma-in love, para po sa atin ang album na ito!”

Toni launches new ‘Love Is’ album; calls Multiply posts ‘malicious’ rumors

One enduring lesson in local showbiz is this: no matter how popular you are, no matter how wholesome your image, there will still be people who hate you–and will try to spread that hate around. And yes, this is true even for popular and wholesome TV host, singer and actress Toni Gonzaga.

It would be very hard to describe two posts on Toni’s own Multiply social networking site as anything other than “hate posts”. The poster, who goes by the name “tonisuckz”, makes outrageous, unproven accusations against Toni.

These accusations include claims that the singer and actress has had not one but several abortions. Furthermore, “tonisuckz” calls Toni a “gold digger” and claims that she’s the mistress of a politician. Two other posters, “pangatoni” and “antitoni” make simiar claims.

When one clicks on these posters’ names however, one is informed by the Multiply system that “user does not exist”.

“Nothing to hide”
Despite an attempt (perhaps, well-meaning) by one person from Toni’s camp to stop this reporter from bringing up the issue, the singer-actress was courageous and forthright enough to issue a denial to abs-cbnNEWS.com

“For someone to create such a lousy “chismis” and malicious na talagang gustong sirain ang buong pagkatao mo–I think that’s pathetic for someone…that’s terrible,” Toni said, adding that she’s challenging her accusers to make their claims to her face.

Toni added that she has “nothing to hide” and she’s confident that should anyone try to dig up dirt against her, she’ll still come up clean. The abortion rumor seems to have stemmed from her noticeable absence from her shows like ASAP’ 08 and Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition Plus.

“Yes I’ve heard that sa Multiply account ko maraming ganyan that I’d been through abortion and all that, you know what the truth will always prevail. They can research about it, they can research about my life… and they can check every hospital. I’m willing and I’m ready,” Toni said, reacting to the rumor that she stayed at the Medical City in Pasig to recover after an alleged abortion.

Toni said that she has already discussed the rumor with her boyfriend, director Paul Soriano. The rumor is that Soriano “supported” Toni’s decision to get an abortion.

“Naku! You know what it’s so funny because I discussed that with Paul last night (May 15) when someone wrote that in my Multiply account.

“And then he said, ‘you know what Tin, there’s so many things that’s already been said about you and iyan one big fat lie na gusto nilang i-spread na tingin nila will crack you. It shouldn’t bother you at all because you know it’s not true’,” said Toni.

“Eric” and the “politician”
Toni also denied the posters’ claims that she’s the mistress of a politician who owns a condominium unit in Araneta Avenue, and that her first boyfriend was a guy named “Eric” back when she was still a student at the Dominican School.

“They can search every politician they know na tingin nila associated with me. I’m not connected, I don’t know why I’m even answering this issue because I know it’s not true,” she said.

Toni also reaffirmed that her first and only boyfriend is Soriano. She added that she would never approve of any attempt to fabricate issues just to create a buzz about her latest album, “Love Is… Toni Gonzaga” under ABS-CBN’s music outfit Star Records.

“Kasi ako when it comes to my career it is better to prove yourself through your achievement rather than just coming up with the issues na hindi naman totoo,” she said.

She explained that resorting to rumors and gimmickry to promote her album would be bad for everyone in the long run.

“First, ang magsa-suffer iyong tao, ako as a person and my image to the public. Then, second, the people will not really see what you can offer them and your talent, kasi ang masi-i-focus nila iyong isyu mo, kaakibat ng bagong project na ginagawa mo,” she said.

Her latest album under Star Records follows two recent successes: her hit concert “Catch Me…Toni Gonzaga” and her blockbuster movie “My Big Love” with actor Sam Milby.

Gonzaga’s album features a mix of original songs and revivals, including: “Incapable,” “You’re in Love,” “If I Give You My Heart,” “Take Me, I’ll Follow You,”Insensitive,” Steep,” “I’ve Been Waiting,” and “Someone’s Always Saying Goodbye”.

Toni and Alex Gonzaga are the new faces of Faces & Curves

In a press conference and luncheon held at Little Asia restaurant in Greenhills’ The Promenade, last May 9, the program began with the exclusive premiere of the center’s stunning black-and-white billboard, featuring close-up shots of the Gonzaga sisters, as well as a short video documenting the photo shoot for the billboard.

After Toni was introduced, she serenaded the press people with her hit single, “Catch Me, I’m Fallin,’” before proceeding with the actual contract signing for her latest project.

When asked about how she felt being Faces & Curves’ new celebrity endorser, Toni said with a humble smile, “I feel very blessed, and very happy and thankful that I would get to endorse Faces & Curves na talagang I believe in and I trust.”

She even joked, “When I heard nga that they’re interested to get me, it felt right. I went with it right away. When I found out na hindi na ako magbabayad for facial, siyempre natuwa ako!”

Actually, Toni has been a long-time patron of Faces & Curves’ services, especially facial and body skin care, which she gets once or twice a month. But don’t get her wrong. She is quick to dispel any hasty generalizations that she’s vain.

“Hindi naman yung vain na super-vain. Siguro bilang isang artista, kailangan naming pangalagaan ang katawan namin, ang kutis namin. So, yung katamtaman na vain lang,” she clarifies.

SISTER ACT. When asked about how she felt working with her sister in a project for the very first time, Toni said, “Wala lang, para kaming nasa bahay. Mas comfortable nga ako kasi I’m with my sister.”

Toni has surely received a lot of blessings lately in her career, given her slew of successful movies, her numerous hosting projects, her two hit albums, a concert that led to a repeat last May 2 at the Aliw Theater, and several endorsement deals including her latest for Faces & Curves.

Toni says she’s thankful that she has even more projects slated for the rest of the year. “I’ll be in a movie, I’ll be hosting a new show, and yung iba pa, I can’t share the details yet. But for sure it’s going to be with ABS-CBN.”

Alex is also busy with projects of her own. After debuting in ABS-CBN’s teen-oriented sitcom Let’s Go! and its spin-off Gokada Go!, she is currently seen in ABS-CBN’s Sunday afternoon series Your Song Presents: Without You, opposite Joross Gamboa, Star Circle Teen Quest Batch 1 alumnus, and Victor Basa, Pinoy Big Brother Celebrity Edition Season 2 ex-housemate.

TREATING MOM RIGHT. Spotted during the presscon was Toni’s mom and manager, Tin-Tin Gonzaga. With Mother’s Day just around the corner, what are Toni and Alex’s plans for the special day?

“Kasi for us, parang every day is Mother’s Day. We don’t treat our mom special just because it’s Mother’s Day. So, siguro this Sunday, after work, I’ll be spending time with her. Hindi naman kailangang isang araw lang sine-celebrate ang Mother’s Day. Every day is a celebration of Mother’s Day,” Toni said.

Toni Gonzaga declines “The Ultimate Multimedia Star” title

Nahihiya si Toni Gonzaga na ihilera siya kina Vilma Santos, Judy Ann Santos, Maricel Soriano, at Sharon Cuneta na may mga sariling titulo. Tinatawag kasi ngayon si Toni as “The Ultimate Multimedia Star,” pero hindi pa raw siya handang tanggapin ito.

“Eto naman, title kaagad! Teka lang, dadalawang concerts lang nagawa ko, may title na agad. Saka na ‘yang title, punuin muna natin yung mga susunod na venue,” naiilang na sabi ni Toni sa victory party ng kanyang Catch Me… The Repeat concert last May 7 sa Gerry’s Grill, Quezon City.

Pero marami ang nagsasabi na puwede siyang sumunod sa yapak ni Pops Fernandez bilang Concert Queen. Ano ang masasabi ni Toni rito?

“Ganoon? Hindi ko alam. Ay sobra! Maraming puwedeng sumunod sa yapak niya, siguro bago ako, marami pa. Hayaan na natin yung iba pa. Marami pa akong kakaining bigas. Every day, kailangan kong mag-aral. Marami pa akong dapat aralin,” reaksiyon ni Toni.

How true na nagtampo siya sa ASAP ‘08 dahil tinapatan yung concert niya ng concert ni Richard Poon na produced by ASAP Live?

“Wala, wala akong tampo sa ASAP,” tanggi ng singer-actress-TV host. “Hindi uso sa akin ang magtampo. Sa business na ito, hindi uso ang nagtatampo, for me. Ganoon naman talaga. Di ba, kahit sa pelikula, nagkakasabay ng playdate? Whether we like it or not, this business is really very competitive.”

Magiging abala ngayon si Toni sa kanyang U.S. tour. May pelikula rin siyang gagawin with Vhong Navarro titled Amnesia Girl. Isa rin siya sa mga host ng second season ng Pinoy Dream Academy (PDA).

Pinayagan ba siya ng ABS-CBN na mag-U.S. tour ngayong July samantalang may PDA siya?

“Hindi, kasi originally, hindi naman ako dapat magpi-Pinoy Dream Academy. Bigla nila akong iniligay for some reason. E, yung July, naka-book na yun. So either mag-absent ako o ginagawan nila ng paraan na maiurong ng September,” paliwanag niya.

Nang kumustahin naman namin si Toni tungkol sa kanila ng boyfriend niyang si Paul Soriano, sinabi niyang wala pa silang balak magpakasal kahit nasa hustong gulang na siya.

“Okey lang yun. Si Judy Ann [Santos] nga di pa nagpapakasal,” sambit niya.

Bakit ayaw pa niyang bigyan ng apo ang mga magulang niyang sina Mommy Pinty at Daddy Carlito?

“Dahil hindi pa naman panahon. May tamang panahon… Bukas!” biro niya.

Toni Gonzaga reveals true love

Good host and bankable TV and movie actress Toni Gonzaga revealed that her first love is not someone else but the big letter S - singing.

After her chart topper "We Belong" followed by "Catch Me, I'm Falling" and her revivals of "Kasalanan Ko Ba?" and "I've Fallen For You," Gonzaga is now ready to take her relationship with singing to a deeper level -- concert.

"I'm very excited and at the same time very, very thankful," Gonzaga told abs-cbnNews.com after her performance before the entertainment media for her upcoming concert entitled "Catch Me... Toni Gonzaga."

"I'm very excited with this concert and it is really a dream come true for me to have this," Gonzaga added.

Gonzaga will have her very first major concert in Aliw Theater on February 9, Saturday at 8 p.m..

Her special guests that she also considered as her good friends are actors Sam Milby and Vhong Navarro.

Gonzaga said that aside from the two actors and other special guests she personally chose the songs she will render for the show.

"I'm personally involved in choosing the songs for the show," she said.

The concert will be directed by GB Sampedro and directed musically by Marc Lopez with the Opera with Noel Ferrer as show's writer.

The concert is presented by Nitram Entertainment and Manio Events and promises to reveal Gonzaga as the recording and concert artist.

And with a smile, Gonzaga appealed to her fans to show their support to her by watching her first major concert.

"I'm expecting that my fans will come and watch the concert. This is the time to show their support for me so I really hope and pray that they will come."

Gonzaga started her musical career and joined singing competitions when she was just four-year-old. At age of 17, she performed as lounge singer in hotels and bars.

Her kind of music can be attributed to her influences like Soul Diva Jaya, Asia's Songbird Regine Velasquez and international singers Christina Aguilera and Celine Dion.

The public took notice of her talent in singing when she joined ABS-CBN's weekly variety show ASAP.

She then released her album under Star Records titled "Toni: You Complete Me."

The album was a certified gold which leads her to sing for her next album "Falling in Love.

Her "Catch Me I'm Falling" which was used in the network's 'Koreanovela' "Which Star Are You From" allowed Gonzaga to earn a Platinum Record Award, selling over 30,000 copies.