Tension Heats Up Between Gary V and Martin Nievera in 'The X Factor Philippines'

Tension heated up in the country’s biggest musical event of the year, “The X Factor Philippines” last Saturday (July 7) after judge-mentors Martin Nievera and Gary Valenciano got into a small debate whether to put through an auditionee or not. 

After Allen Sta. Maria of Cabanatuan City performed her piece, Gary and fellow judge Charice instantly voted yes while Martin said no. 

Gary argued that the young girl has strong potential and her voice quality is current with what teenagers nowadays listen to but Martin remained unconvinced and thought that her performance fell short. 

In the end, Pilita Corrales casted the deciding vote and sided with Gary and Charice. Martin was dismayed and argued with the judges once more while Allen went backstage and rejoiced with her family. 

The task of spotting the ‘x factor’ is indeed getting tougher week by week. A single vote from the judge-mentors can make or break the chances of the country’s next singing superstar. 

Don’t miss the country’s biggest and grandest musical event of the year, “The X Factor Philippines,” with KC Concepcion as host, every Saturday, after “MMK,” and every Sunday, after “Sarah G Live” on ABS-CBN. Follow the show’s official Twitter account at @thexfactorphil and tweet your thoughts and reactions using the hashtag #XFactorPH.

For more Kapamilya updates follow/like BIDA KAPAMILYA on Twitter and Facebook.

4th PMPC Star Awards for Music 2012 Nominees Announced

The Philippine Movie Press Club (PMPC) has announced the list of nominees for the 4th PMPC Star Awards for Music 2012. 

ASAP performers lead the pack of nominees in the PMPC Star Awards for Music 2012 including "Natatanging Alagad ng Musika" awardees Gary Valenciano and Martin Nievera. More than 70 OPM artists are nominated in the 27 categories of the 4th PMPC Star Awards for music 2012.

The awarding of winners will be held on September 9 at the Meralco Theater in Ortigas, Pasig and will be aired on September 16 on ABS-CBN's Sunday's Best.

Here is the complete list of nominees for the 4th PMPC Star Awards for Music 2012:

ALBUM OF THE YEAR
Araw Oras Tagpuan /Sponge Cola/Universal Records
Awit Para Sa’Yo/ErikSantos/Star Records
Breathe Again/Jed Madela/Universal Records
Forevermore/Juris/Star Records
No Water, No Moon/Bamboo/PolyEast Records
Outbound/Christian Bautista/Universal Records
Stay Alive/Nina/Universal Records

SONG OF THE YEAR
Breathe Again/Jed Madela/Universal Records
Hindi Kita Iiwan/Sam Milby/Star Records
I’m Already King/Christian Bautista/Universal Records
Kahit Di Mo Sabihin/Juris/Star Records
Kulang Ako Kung Wala Ka/Erik Santos/Star Records
Questions/Bamboo/PolyEast Records
Tambay/Sponge Cola/Universal Records

FEMALE RECORDING ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Aiza Seguerra/Songs from The Vault/Star Records
Angeline Quinto/Fall In Love Again/Star Records
Iveron Violan/In Love/Universal Records
Jaya/All Souled Out/Universal Records
Juris/Forevermore/Star Records
Lea Salonga/The Journey So Far/Ivory Music
Yeng Constantino/Yeng Versions Live/Star Records

MALE RECORDING ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Basil Valdez/Self-titled album/Vicor Records
Christian Bautista/Outbound/Universal Records
Erik Santos/Awit Para Sa’Yo/Star Records
Gary Valenciano/With Love/Star Records
Jed Madela/Breathe Again/Universal Records
Martin Nievera/Mga Awit at Damdamin/PolyEast Records
Noel Cabangon/Panaginip/Universal Records

DUO/GROUP ARTIST OF THE YEAR
J Brothers/Jamming/Jbrostudios
Mocha Girls/18+Restricted/Bellhaus Entertainment/Playboy Fragrances
MYMP/The Unreleased Acoustic Collection/Galaxy Records
Side A/Side A 25/ Warner Music
Sponge Cola/Araw Oras Tagpuan/Universal Records
The Company/Lighthearted 2/Viva Records
Wonder Gays/Blind Item/D’Concorde Records & LDG Prod. & Ent. RecordingCo.

POP ALBUM OF THE YEAR
Awit Para Sa’yo/ErikSantos/Star Records
In Love/Iveron Violan/Universal Records
Outbound/Christian Bautista/Universal Records
Self-titled Album/BasilValdez/Vicor Records
Side A 25/Side A Band/Warner Music
The Journey So Far/Lea Salonga/Ivory Music
With Love/Gary Valenciano/Star Records

MALE POP ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Basil Valdez/ Self-titled Album/Vicor Records
Christian Bautista/Outbound/Universal Records
Dingdong Avanzado/Download 25th Anniversary Songbook/Viva Records
Erik Santos/AwitParaSa’Yo/Star Records
Gary Valenciano/With Love/Star Records
Jed Madela/Breathe Again/Universal Records
Sam Milby/Be Mine/Star Records

FEMALE POP ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Angeline Quinto/Fall In Love Again/Star Records
Iveron Violan/In Love/Universal Records
Jaya/All Souled Out/Universal Records
Lea Salonga/The Journey So Far/Ivory Music
Nina/Stay Alive/Universal Records
Rachelle Ann Go/Unbreakable/Viva Records
Sitti/Sessions/Warner Music

CONCERT OF THE YEAR (new category)
In the Company of Side A/ The Company, Side A Band/ Viva Concerts
It’s Complicated / Jose Mari Chan, The Company/ Beginnings at 20 Plus Incorporated/ Star Express
Jose & Wally: A Party for Every Juan / Jose Manalo , Wally Bayola/ APT Entertainment Inc
Martin Nievera:Tribute/ Martin Nievera/ Viva Concerts
Mr. & Mrs. A/ Ogie Alcasid, Regine Velasquez/ Starmedia Entertainment
No Other Concert (Annebisyosa) /Anne Curtis/ Viva Concerts
What Love Is/ Martin Nievera, Sarah Geronimo/ Viva Concerts

FEMALE CONCERT PERFORMER OF THE YEAR (new category)
Charice (Infinity Tour/ Media Sync Production
Rachelle Anne Go /Seasons of Love/ Viva Concerts
Regine Velasquez/(Mr. & Mrs. A)/ Starmedia Entertainment
Sarah Geronimo /What Love Is) / Viva Concerts
Sharon Cuneta (Once in a Lifetime)/ Viva Concerts
Toni Gonzaga /Toni@10/ Star Events, Erase Plantcenta, Epic Entertainment, Tag Concept

MALE CONCERT PERFORMER OF THE YEAR (new category)
Jose Mari Chan /It’s Complicated/ Beginnings at 20 Plus Inc./ Star Express
Kean Cipriano /One Stage, One Night/ Cross and Arrow Events Management and Beginnings at 20 Plus Inc.
Martin Nievera /Tribute/ Viva Concerts
Ogie Alcasid /Mr. & Mrs. A/ Starmedia Entertainment
Piolo Pascual /Piolo Meets the Maestro, Ryan Cayabyab/ Xclusive Hits and Events,Inc.
Rico Puno (/The Best of Rico J/ Viva Concerts

DUO/GROUP CONCERT PERFORMER OF THE YEAR (new category)
Jose Manalo & Wally Bayola/Jose & Wally: A Party for Every Juan/ APT Entertainment Inc
Pop Girls /PPop Explosion/ Viva Concerts
Side A /In the Company of Side A/ Viva Concerts
The Company / In the Company of Side A/ Viva Concerts
XLR8 /PPop Explosion/ Viva Concerts

MUSIC VIDEO OF THE YEAR
Ako Na Lang/Zia Quizon/PolyEast Records/Directors: Nani Naguit & Pao Santiago Pangan
Disney/Tanya Markova/MCA Music/Director: King Palisoc
Dance/Nina/PolyEast Records/Director: Sean Lim
Kay Tagal Kitang Hinintay/Spongecola/Universal Records/Director:Yan Yuzon
Letting Go/Jamie Rievra/Star Records/Directors: Jeffrey Tan, Yeng Constantino
To Reach You/Anja Aguilar/Viva Records/Director: Monti Parungao
Where Do I Begin/Gary Valenciano/Star Records/Director:Cathy Garcia-Molina

NEW FEMALE RECORDING ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Anna Melissa/Anna Melissa her first album/Smashbox Productions, Inc.
Anne Curtis/Annebisyosa/Viva Records
Bunny/Self-titled Album/PolyEast Records
Ethel Rose/A Life Story/Ecclesiastes Entertainment
Paula Bianca/Self-titled Album/Vicor Records
Raia Quiroz/Raia Quiroz Tara Na!/D’Concorde Records & LDG Prod. & Ent. RecordingCo.
Sheng Belmonte/Self-titled Album/Sony-Ivory Records
Solenn Heusaff/Solenn/MCA Music
Zia Quizon/Self-titled Album/PolyEast Records

NEW MALE RECORDING ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Derrick Monasterio/Tween Academy Class of 2012/GMA Records
DJ Joph/Self-titled Album/D’Concorde Records
DK Valdez/It’s All About Love/BWB Records
JM de Guzman/Self-titled Album/Ivory Music
Khen Magat/Self-titled Album/BWB Records
Kristoffer Martin/Tween Academy Class of 2012/GMA Records
Marcelito Pomoy/Duet Yourself/Star Records
Robin Nievera/Robin Nievera Overwait/PolyEast Records
Vice Ganda/Lakas Tama/Vicor Records

REVIVAL ALBUM OF THE YEAR
Breathe Again/Jed Madela/Universal Records
Lighthearted 2/The Company/Viva Records
Mga Awit at Damdamin/Martin Nievera/PolyEast Records
Self-titled Album/BasilValdez/Vicor Records
Side A 25/Side A/Warner Music
The Journey so far/Lea Salonga/Ivory Music
With Love/Gary Valenciano/Star Records

DANCE ALBUM OF THE YEAR
18+ Restricted/Mocha Girls/Bellhaus Entertainment/Playboy Fragrances
Kendeng Kendeng/Willie Revillame/Viva Records
Solenn/Solenn Heusaff/MCA Music

ROCK ALBUM OF THE YEAR
Araw Oras Tagpuan/Sponge Cola/Universal Records
Dalawang Mukha ng Pag-ibig/Ebe Dancel/Warner Music
Kinse Kalibre/Slapshock/PolyEast Records
No Water, No Moon/Bamboo/PolyEast Records
Romantico/Kamikazee/Universal Records
Self-titled Album/Paula Bianca/Vicor Records
Yeng Versions Live/Yeng Constantino/Star Records

MALE ROCK ARTIST
Bamboo/No Water No Moon/PolyEast Records
Ebe Dancel/Dalawang Mukha ng Pag-ibig/Warner Music
Kamikazee/Romantico/Universal Records
Robin Nievera/Overwait/PolyEast Records
Slapshock/Kinse Kalibre/PolyEast Records
Sponge Cola/Araw Oras Tagpuan/Universal Records
Tanya Markova/Shock Pop 2Cd Edition/MCA Music

FEMALE ROCK ARTIST
Cathy Go/Find My Way To You/Mayumi Records
Paula Bianca/ Self-titled Album/Vicor Records
Yeng Constantino/Yeng Versions Live/Star Records

ACOUSTIC ALBUM OF THE YEAR
Forvevermore/Juris/Star Records
I Love Acoustic 4/Sabrina/MCA Music
Mad About Acoustic/Davey Langit/Viva Records
Panaginip/Noel Cabangon/Universal Records
Saktong Akustik New Interpretations of OPM’s Certified Hits/Universal Records
Songs from The Vault/Aiza Seguerra/Star Records
Today’s Favorite Love Songs Unplugged 7 (An Acoustic Must-Have)/Ava Santos/Ivory Records

FEMALE ACOUSTIC ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Aiza Seguerra/Songs from the Vault/Star Records
Ava Santos/ Today’s Favorite Love Songs Unplugged 7 (An Acoustic Must-Have)/ Ivory Records
Barbie Almabis/Goodbye My Shadow/12 Stone Records
Juris/ Forvevermore/Star Records
MYMP/ The Unreleased Acoustic Collection/Galaxy Records
Nozomi/Before I Reach Sixteen/PolyEast Records
Sabrina/I Love Acoustic 4/MCA Music
Stephanie Dan/Love to Love Acoustic/Ivory Music

MALE ACOUSTIC ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Davey Langit/Mad About Acoustic 2/Viva Records
Jay Perillo/Self -titled Album/Viva Records
JM de Guzman/ Self -titled Album/Ivory Music
Noel Cabangon/Panaginip/Universal Records
Paolo Santos/How Sweet It Is/Ivory Records

ALBUM COVER DESIGN OF THE YEAR
Breathe Again/Jed Madela/ Universal Records
Mga Awit at Damdamin/Martin Nievera/Poly East Records
No Water, No Moon/Bamboo/Poly East Records
Outbound/Christian Bautista/Universal Records
With love/Gary Valenciano/Star Records
Yeng Versions Live/Yeng Constantino/Star Records
Zia Quizon/Self-titled/PolyEast Records

COMPILATION ALBUM OF THE YEAR
40 Most Requested Love Songs/MCA Music
Original Artist OPM I Love/Viva Records
Pinoy Alternatib/Ivory Music
Pinoy Senti Hits All Original Artists/ Ivory Music
ThePearlCollection, 30 Years of the Most Memorable Theme Songs/ Viva Records
Toni Gonzaga Greatest Hits/ Star Records
Walang Hanggan/Star Records

NOVELTY ALBUM
Blind Item/Wonder Gays/D’Concorde Records & LDG Prod. & Ent. RecordingCo.
Kendeng Kendeng/Willie Revillame/Viva Records

NOVELTY SONG OF THE YEAR
Blind Item/Wonder Gays/D’Concorde Records & LDG Prod. & Ent. RecordingCo.
Kendeng Kendeng/Willie Revillame/Viva Records

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Jose Mari Chan

SPECIAL AWARD: NATATANGING ALAGAD NG MUSIKA
Boy Christopher (Composer)
Gary Valenciano
Kuh Ledesma
Lea Salonga
Lito Camo (Composer)
Martin Nievera
Ogie Alcasid
Pops Fernandez
Regine Velasquez
Sharon Cuneta
Vehnee Saturno (Composer)
Zsa Zsa Padilla

For more Kapamilya updates follow/like BIDA KAPAMILYA on Twitter and Facebook.

"The X Factor Philippines' Pilot Wins in TV Ratings, Trends on Twitter Worldwide

Most Filipinos joined celebrity judge-mentors Martin Nievera, Gary Valenciano, Charice, and Pilita Corrales last Saturday (June 23) in spotting the ‘x factor’ among Pinoy singers in the pilot episode of the biggest musical event “The X Factor Philippines.” 

The show, hosted by KC Concepcion, hit a national TV rating of 25.1% beating its rival “Kapuso Mo Jessica Soho” with only 15.6%, based on Kantar Media’s data that covers urban and rural areas across the country. Kantar Media also reported that “The X Factor Philippines” won the ratings game last Sunday (June 24) scoring a national TV rating of 20.3% vs GMA’s “Pare & Pare” (10%) and TV5’s coverage of the 2012 Miss World-Philippines pageant (3.8%). 

When it comes to the online world, “The X Factor Philippines” was the talk of the town and was among the top trending topics in famous microblogging site Twitter, including judge-mentor Charice who earned various reactions from netizens worldwide for her emotional moments in the show. The crowd just cant wait for other breathtaking talents they are going to witness and for possible tensions that may build up amongst the judge-mentors. 

Don’t miss the country’s biggest and grandest musical event of the year, “The X Factor Philippines,” every Saturday, after “MMK,” and every Sunday, after “Sarah G Live” on ABS-CBN.

For more Kapamilya updates follow/like BIDA KAPAMILYA on Twitter and Facebook.

The X Factor Philippines Reveals the Road to P4 Million Grand Prize

The country’s biggest and grandest musical event of the year kicks off this Saturday (June 23) as ABS-CBN premieres the much-awaited Philippine adaptation of the worldwide phenomenal hit ‘X Factor’ franchise, “The X Factor Philippines,” with KC Concepcion as host and Martin Nievera, Gary Valenciano, Charice Pempengco, and Pilita Corrales as celebrity judge-mentors.

“The X Factor Philippines” is searching for undiscovered talent 16 years old and above that will be divided into four categories: Girls, Boys, Adults and Groups. They should be willing to brave the panel for a chance to win the biggest prize in a Philippine singing competition, a whopping P4 million worth of prizes, and become the next Pinoy multimedia star.

After months of auditions in 70 cities across the country, more than 20,000 hopefuls flocked to the audition venues in hopes of fulfilling their dreams. But it wasn’t an easy ride for each and every one of them as they underwent a tedious screening process.

As early as the audition stage, the hopefuls must instantly impress the judges and at the same time an audience of thousands that can be a potential legion of fans. The auditionees need at least three yes’s from the judge-mentors to be able to proceed to the next stage— the Boot Camp.

In the Boot Camp, selected contestants will go through a series of performances that will further test their ‘x factor.’ This will enable the judge-mentors to select and trim them down to 20 contestants divided in four categories— five solo male contestants aged 16-25 or the “Boys,” five solo female contestants aged 16-25 or “Girls,” five solo contestants over 25 years old or the “Adults,” and five group contestants aged 16 and above or the “Groups.”

Before advancing to the Judges’ Homes stage, “The X Factor Philippines” producers will then reveal which category judge-mentors Martin, Gary, Charice, and Pilita will be mentoring. The judge-mentors then take the contestants to their respective “Judge’s Home” where they will select the best performers to take to the live show.

Only three contestants from each category will complete the final 12 contestants who will proceed in the last and final stage of the competition. At this point, the finalists must face the fifth and final judge who has the sole power to turn their dream of becoming a star into reality— the viewers.

Who will become the first grand winner of “The X Factor Philippines” and win about P4 million in prizes? Will the winner come from the Boys, Girls, Adults, or Groups? Who among the mentors will coach the country’s next singing superstar?

Watch out for jaw-dropping performances from auditionees and unexpected tensions among the celebrity judge-mentors. More surprises are also coming your way in weeks to come.

First introduced in the UK, “The X Factor” has conquered more than 30 countries as of mid-2011 and produced more than 50 winners around the world. Its UK format gave birth to multi-platinum album selling artists Leona Lewis, Alexandra Burke and the newest group hitting the charts, One Direction. To date, it is considered to be UK’s biggest talent search.

Meanwhile, in the US, the second season of “The X Factor USA” will soon hit TV screen with Britney Spears and Demi Lovato joining the judges table. Together with Simon Cowell and L.A. Reid, they are about to search the successor to first “The X Factor USA” grand winner, Melanie Amaro.

Don’t miss the much-awaited premiere of the country’s biggest and grandest musical event of the year, “The X Factor Philippines,” this Saturday (June 23) after “MMK,” on ABS-CBN. The show also airs on Sundays after “Sarah G Live.”

For more Kapamilya updates follow/like BIDA KAPAMILYA on Twitter and Facebook.

The X Factor Philippines Premieres June 23, Cheesa Laureta in Manila for the Franchise

It's coming! The biggest, the grandest and most awaited musical event of the year, The X Factor Philippines will premiere this Saturday, June 23 on ABS-CBN.

After conquering 30 countries, United Kingdom's No. 1 program is now ready to shake Philippine grounds! Hosted by KC Concepcion, Kapamilyas get to showcase their singing prowess on The X Factor Philippines before millions of viewers and in front of four respected industry icons - Martin Nievera, Gary Valenciano, Charice and Pilita Corrales.

Get ready as the winner will be going home with P4 million pesos plus the pride and fame of being the very first The X Factor Philippines champion.

The Voice 2 finalist, Cheesa Laureta also revealed in her Bandila interview on June 15 that she was in the country for X Factor without revealing any details. This will add excitement to the premiere of The X Factor Philippines and the succeeding episodes as we guess what will be her role in the singing reality competition franchise.

Watch the latest teaser of The X Factor Philippines below:

For more Kapamilya updates follow/like BIDA KAPAMILYA on Twitter and Facebook.

OPM Icons Unite in Historic One-Night Concert at SM Arena this June 16

The biggest names in the Philippine music industry come together in a once-in-a-lifetime one-night grand concert titled “Icons at the Arena: Masters of OPM” to celebrate the greatness and ingenuity of Original Pilipino Music (OPM).

World-class concert artists from various generations take part in the show including Lea Salonga, Gary Valenciano, Martin Nievera, Jose Mari Chan, ZsaZsa Padilla, Ogie Alcasid, Regine Velasquez, Basil Valdez, Freddie Aguilar, Christian Bautista, Erik Santos, Juris, Jed Madela, Piolo Pascual, Bamboo, Arnel Pineda, and the singing group, The Company.

Hosted by Jim Paredes and Pops Fernandez, “Icons at the Arena: Masters of OPM” will also be graced by comic TV personalities Pokwang, Jose Manalo, and Wally Bayola, Staged ABS-CBN’s Star Events, this will be held on June 16 (Saturday), 8pm at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, with Johnny Manahan as director, and Ryan Cayabyab as musical director. 

TICKET DETAILS: PATRON VIP – Php 4,670 (Reserved Seats) PATRON – Php 4,160 (Reserved Seats) LOWER BOX – Php 2,640 (Reserved Seats) UPPER BOX – Php 1,630 (Reserved Seats) GENERAL ADMISSION – Php 610 (Free Seating)

For ticket inquiries, call 470-2222 or log on to www.smtickets.com. For more information, visit Star Record’s official fan page at www.facebook.com/starrecordsphil or follow @starrecordsph on Twitter.

For more Kapamilya updates follow/like BIDA KAPAMILYA on Twitter and Facebook.

The X Factor PH Judges Now Bound for Cebu, Davao and Manila Auditions

The celebrity judge-mentors of  “The X Factor Philippines” will soon tour the country together with host KC Concepcion. KC joined “The X Factor Philippines” team during the first round of auditions and shared how she was blown away by the contestants.

The X Factor Philippines judges and host -
Martin Nievera, Pilita Corrales, Charice, KC Concepcion and Gary Valenciano

“They are really good. You will be surprised to see all of them. It is true that we have the best performers. For example, there is one carenderia vendor, wearing a simple duster, whom you wont believe can sing like Whitney Houston,” KC shared.

KC and the judge-mentors will first go to Cebu on Wednesday (May 16) and on Thursday (May 17) for the Visayas leg of auditions to be held in Hoops Dome, Cebu City.

They will then go to Davao Del Sur Coliseum in Davao on May 23 and 24 to see if Mindanao hopefuls have the ‘x factor.’

Manilenos and auditionees from the rest of Luzon will be adjudged last as the team goes to its final stop at the PAGCOR Theater this May 30, 31, and June 1.

Live auditions are open to the public. Keep tuning in on ABS-CBN to know how to claim free tickets.

If you want to watch auditions in Davao, get your tickets at ABS-CBN Davao on May 19, 1 PM on on May 21 at the audition venue at the same time.

For tickets to auditions in PAGCOR Theater, just line up at the ABS-CBN audience entrance on Saturday (May 26) at 1 PM.

“The X Factor” is a world-renowned musical franchise by Simon Cowell that started in the UK. ABS-CBN bagged the exclusive rights to localize the program with KC Concepcion as host. The show will also give away P4 million in prizes— the biggest prize for a talent search in the history of Philippine TV.

Watch out for biggest musical event of the year, “The X Factor Philippines,” with host KC Concepcion, airing soon on ABS-CBN.

Text  by ABS-CBN

For more Kapamilya updates follow/like BIDA KAPAMILYA on Twitter and Facebook.

‘The X Factor Philippines’ Begins Search for Next Singing Superstar

The X Factor Philippines brings together four of the country’s biggest names in the recording industry across generations, Concert King Martin Nievera, Mr. Pure Energy Gary Valenciano, international singing sensation Charice, and Asia’s Queen of Songs Pilita Corrales, as celebrity judge-mentors who will start touring the country this week and begin the search for the next Pinoy singing superstar.

“It’s such an honor to be part of the show. I’ve been there. I joined singing contests and I know how they feel. So, as a judge-mentor, I’m just going to be kind but honest to them,” said Charice who is the youngest ‘The X Factor’ judge-mentor in the history of the international franchise.

Martin also expressed his excitement to work with his fellow “The X Factor Philippines” judge-mentors.

“Gary and I have a great working relationship. Tita Pilita is my mentor. Not too many people know it though, but she was the one who discovered me and said that I have a future in the industry. Charice is the youngest with most experience so I’m sure she has a lot to bring so I am just excited to work with all of them,” he explained.

Gary, on the other hand, is just as excited as Martin to start the show especially on mentoring the contestants. He also shared his stand on the possible competition that may happen among the judge-mentors.

“I am that kind of guy that if I challenge anyone— it’ll be myself. It will not be for the other judges because the other judges have their own idea on who’s going to be the next big thing. Whether I get to mentor the Boys, the Girls, the Over 30s, or the Groups, I hope that in the end it’ll be one from my group who will win. But knowing the judges we have, it will not be a challenge to put down anybody but rather bringing out the best in whomever the contestant is,” said Gary.

Meanwhile, Pilita, who is not new in judging talent searches, admitted she is quite challenged because the show is entirely different from the past shows or judging she did.

“There is mentoring involved here. We are not just looking for the voice. We are looking for a personality you can sell worldwide. If we are looking for someone who sings well, there are thousands in this country, on every corner of the street but they need to have that ‘x factor.’ We can’t even define it but once we see it on someone, we would know,” said Pilita.

The celebrity judge-mentors will soon tour the country together with host KC Concepcion. 

Text and photo by ABS-CBN

For more Kapamilya updates follow/like BIDA KAPAMILYA on Twitter and Facebook.

Pilita Corrales Now Officially an X Factor Philippines Judge/Mentor!

Popular singer-songwriter and "Asia's Queen of Songs" Ms. Pilita Corales will seat as one of the judge-mentors of the biggest singing-reality competition “The X Factor Philippines.”

Ms. Pilita Corrales is the 4th Judge-Mentor of The X Factor Philippines

Pilita joins the Concert King Martin Nievera, Mr. Pure Energy Gary Valenciano and International singing sensation Charice in searching and training the next singing superstar to hit the local music scene.

Ms. Pilita holds the distinction of being the first female artist to top the Australian pop music charts long before Helen Reddy, Olivia Newton-John and Kylie Minogue. She also recorded at least 3 LPs in the late 1950s early 1960s: Pilita with Arthur Young :Pilita tells The Story of Love, I'll Take Romance and This is Pilita under Astor Records. Being one of the pioneers of Australia's early television years, a street was named after her in Victoria. The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) featured the veteran singer and several pioneering female artists in Australia in the 2nd episode of the highly acclaimed TV special, Love is in the Air. Her multiawarded TV program at ABS-CBN, An Evening with Pilita (1965–1972), is widely considered as one of the benchmarks in Philippine broadcasting history.

“The X Factor” is a world-renowned musical franchise by Simon Cowell that started in the UK. ABS-CBN bagged the exclusive rights to localize the program with KC Concepcion as host. The show will also give away the biggest prize for a talent search in the history of Philippine TV.

“The X Factor Philippines” showdown begins June 23, 2012 on ABS-CBN.

For more Kapamilya updates follow/like BIDA KAPAMILYA on Twitter and Facebook.

Pilita Corrales is the 4th Judge/Mentor of 'The X Factor Philippines!'

Asia's Queen of Songs Pilita Corrales will be joining other big names in the music industry as judges/mentors in the upcoming ABS-CBN talent-reality search The X Factor Philippines. 

Earlier, ABS-CBN had already confirmed that 'Concert King' Martin Nievera, 'Mr. Pure Energy' Gary Valenciano and international singing sensation Charice Pempengco will be taking on the judges' seats. Now, it is confirmed that Ms. Pilita Corrales will be the 4th judge-mentor of The X Factor Philippines.

Pilita Corrales had been one of the judges in Philippine Idol (Philippines' Idol franchise) together with Maestro Ryan Cayabyab and Master Rapper (the late) Francis Magalona. This stint led her to be chosen as one of the judges of the very first Asian Idol competition held in Indonesia in 2007 (joined by Mau Marcelo) which was eventually won by Singapore's Hady Mirza.

After conquering 30 countries, United Kingdom's No. 1 program is now ready to shake Philippine grounds! Hosted by KC Concepcion, Kapamilyas get to showcase their singing prowess on The X Factor Philippines before millions of viewers and in front of million viewers and in front of four respected industry icons - Martin Nievera, Gary Valenciano, Charice and Pilita Corrales.

“The X Factor” is a world-renowned musical franchise by Simon Cowell that started in the UK. ABS-CBN bagged the exclusive rights to localize the program with KC Concepcion as host. The show will also give away the biggest prize for a talent search in the history of Philippine TV.

The X Factor Philippines will premiere this June 23, a week after the PBB Teen Edition 4 Big Night and will air during weekends..

For more Kapamilya updates follow/like BIDA KAPAMILYA on Twitter and Facebook.

Charice Now Officially an X Factor Philippines Judge/Mentor

International singing sensation Charice Pempengo returns to the country to be one of the judge-mentors of the biggest singing-reality competition “The X Factor Philippines.” Charice joins the Concert King, Martin Nievera, and Mr. Pure Energy, Gary Valenciano, in searching and training the next singing superstar to hit the local music scene. 

Charice is the 3rd judge/mentor in The X Factor Philippines. Who is the 4th judge?

The 19-year-old singer came a long way from being a runner-up in ABS-CBN’s 2005 singing competition “Little Big Star.” Her YouTube video, viewed by more than one million netizens worldwide, catapulted her to international stardom which paved way for her to guest in hit US talk shows Oprah, Ellen, and Good Morning America and share a duet with world-renowned music icons Celine Dion, Andrea Bocelli, and Josh Groban. She also made her first acting stint on US television via hit musical-drama “Glee.” Charice was also part of the David Foster and Friends concert tour by her mentor David Foster and just recently, she performed in various countries with her Infinity world tour. With her experience as a certified international music artist, Charice will find another Pinoy talent that can be the next big star in the music industry. 

“The X Factor” is a world-renowned musical franchise by Simon Cowell that started in the UK. ABS-CBN bagged the exclusive rights to localize the program with KC Concepcion as host. The show will also give away the biggest prize for a talent search in the history of Philippine TV. 

Who is the last judge-mentor to complete the panel, joining Gary, Martin, and Charice in the show? Find out in the next few days as ABS-CBN reveals the last big name in the music industry who will be on the lookout for the next big thing in Philippine singing-reality competition. Watch out for biggest musical event of the year, “The X Factor Philippines,” airing soon on ABS-CBN.

Text by ABS-CBN

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Gary Valenciano Now Officially an X Factor Philippines Judge/Mentor

Mr. Pure Energy, Gary Valenciano, will help the country search for the next singing superstar after being named the second judge-mentor in the biggest singing-reality competition “The X Factor Philippines.”

Gary will utilize his 29 years of experience as a concert performer, endorser, host, and actor to spot who among the auditionees have the ‘x factor.’ Select contestants will be mentored and trained by Gary himself to better prepare them for the last and final stage of the competition. From vocal quality, image, projection, stage presence, and many more, Gary, alongside other judge-mentors, will be tasked to turn finalists to total performers.

ABS-CBN earlier announced that Concert King, Martin Nievera, is one of the four judge-mentors. “The X Factor” is a world-renowned musical franchise by Simon Cowell that started in the UK. ABS-CBN bagged the exclusive rights to localize the program with KC Concepcion as host. The show will also give away the biggest prize for a talent search in the history of Philippine TV.

Who are the two remaining judge-mentors joining Gary and Martin in the show? Find out in the next few days as ABS-CBN reveals the other big names in the music industry who will be on the lookout for the next big thing in Philippine singing-reality competition. Watch out for biggest musical event of the year, “The X Factor Philippines,” airing soon on ABS-CBN.

(Of course, we all know that Charice is the 3rd judge/mentor. But, who is the 4th one. It's a female based on the picture above. Let's find out soon.)

Text by ABS-CBN

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Martin Nievera Now Officially an X Factor Philippines Judge/Mentor

ABS-CBN today announced that Martin Nievera is joining its biggest singing-reality competition “The X Factor Philippines” as one of the four judges who has what it takes to spot the x-factor among the thousands of Filipinos who have auditioned.

In his 30 years in showbiz, Martin has proven himself as a multi-awarded singer and concert performer, songwriter, and TV host. Martin will not only serve as a judge during eliminations, but he will also serve as a mentor to select finalists as he helps them unleash their talent and grooms them for the last and final round of the competition.

“The X Factor” is a world-renowned musical franchise by Simon Cowell that started in the UK. ABS-CBN bagged the exclusive rights to localize the program with KC Concepcion as host. The show will also give away the biggest prize for a talent search in the history of Philippine TV.

Who are the other judges joining Martin in the judges seats? Of course, we already know that Gary Valenciano and Charice will also be joining Martin as X Factor Philippines judge/mentors. But, who is the 4th judge/mentor? As we can see in the photo above, the remaining unknown judge will be a female.

Find out in the next few days as ABS-CBN reveals the other big names in the music industry who will be on the lookout for the next big thing in Philippine singing-reality competition. Watch out for “The X Factor Philippines” airing soon on ABS-CBN.

For more Kapamilya updates follow/like BIDA KAPAMILYA on Twitter and Facebook.

Confirmed: Gary Valenciano is the 3rd Judge/Mentor of The X Factor Philippines

Mr. Pure Energy himself, Gary Valenciano confirmed that he is one of the judges in the forthcoming reality talent competition, The X Factor Philippines. The said competition is a franchise of Simon Cowell's The X Factor.

Joining Gary V. in the judges' table are Concert King, Martin Nievera and international singing sensation, Charice Pempengco.

In an interview with abs-cbnNEWS.com, Gary Valenciano shared his excitement to be part of the hit talent competition in a press conference for his upcoming concert series which will start this April 12, Thursday at the Music Museum.

"I'm flattered talaga na pinili ako bilang isa sa mga judges. X Factor kasi iba din yon. Yung X factor na yon, kaya siya X di mo masasabi kung sino ang may X na yon. Maaaring sasabin ng tao what does the X stand for? We don't know but it's all going to be seen. It's going to be experienced and interpreted in the contestant's own way and the judges will see that. Yung tipong di ko alam pero ang galing noon, yun ang x-factor." 

Gary said ABS-CBN really found the right judges for the show.

"They chose the right judges. You even have Charice. Some people say: 'What? Charice?' But Charice is international. Isnt' that what every artist want to be – international?"

He also said he will be firm in finding the contestant who deserves to win.

"I will be looking at everything because it's not just the talent, because a person can have a lot of talent but if that person doesn't have a right character that person comes and goes. Especially now, nandiyan na yung Twitter at Facebook you can know the artist in a very personal way. So it's not just the talent that I will look at and I will be very firm," 

The Philippine version of The X Factor will be hosted by actress-singer KC Concepcion, who has been going around the country for the show's auditions.

Source: ABS-CBN News

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Sam Concepcion and Tippy Dos Santos Kiss for A Movie

Actor-singer Sam Concepcion had his very first big screen kissing scene with Tippy Dos Santos for the upcoming musical film, I Do Bidoo Bidoo. Tippy and Sam are long-time friends and theater colleagues, working together in several musicals including the much celebrated Peter Pan where Sam played the title role and Tippy played Wendy.

Sam revealed in his Push.com.ph interview that there is the feeling of awkwardness when he and Tippy did the kissing scenes for the movie. Since he and Tippy had known each other for a long time, the first on-screen kiss would feel different even though they are very close friends.

In the movie, Tippy will get impregnated by Sam at the age of 21, the jumping point in the story. Since Tippy came from a well off family and Sam from a middle class one, the struggles between the two different families will keep the vibe of the musical film.

Sam and Tippy will work with big actors/singers like Eugene Domingo, Ogie Alcasid, Zsa Zsa Padilla, Gary Valenciano in I Do Bidoo Bidoo. The film is a sort of a tribute to APO Hiking Society since all the songs that will be used are APO songs.

I Do Bidoo Bidoo is directed by award-winning writer/director, Chris Martinez under Straight Shooters Media.


Photo courtesy of Sam Concepcion

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ASAP 2012 Welcomes an Easterrific Sunday This April 8

Welcome and celebrate Easter with “ASAP 2012″ this Sunday (April  as some of the biggest music icons of the country Gary Valenciano, ZsaZsa Padilla, Vina Morales and Martin Nievera lead the celebration with stellar and world-class performances.

Enjoy the superb thrilling treats from the charming Kapamilya leading men Piolo Pascual, Jericho Rosales, Luis Manzano, Sam Milby, Enchong Dee, Rafael Rossel, Jake Cuenca, Gerald Anderson and John Lloyd Cruz; as girl power takes over the ASAP centerstage with the gorgeous and stunning ASAP leading ladies Toni Gonzaga, KC Concepcion, Cristine Reyes, Iza Calzado, Nikki Gil, Kim Chiu, Shaina Magdayao, Erich Gonzales, Maja Salvador, Karylle, and Julia Montes.

Experience the best of the best with the unstoppable and jaw-dropping concert experience from Sarah Geronimo, Angeline Quinto, Arnel Pineda, Billy Crawford, Erik Santos, Jed Madela, Christian Bautista, ASAP Sessionistas, ASAP BOYS ARE BOYS and the ASAP Pinoy Champs.

Meanwhile, prepare for an explosive dance showcase from John Prats, Gab Valenciano, Rayver Cruz, Iya Villania, Enrique Gil, Empress, Jessy Mendiola, Sam Concepcion, XB Gensan, Nielbeth, Velasco Brothers, and G Force on Supahdance.

Celebrate the ‘Easterrific’ Sunday with 2012 Gawad Tanglaw Best Musical Variety Show, “ASAP 2012”  12:15 noon, on ABS-CBN. For updates, photos and to hang out live with the stars at ASAP Chill-Out, simply visit http://asap.abs-cbn.com/, follow @ASAPOFFICIAL on Twitter, or ‘like’ http://facebook.com/asapofficial.

Text by ABS-CBN

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GGV 'The Trending Birthday Concert' This April 1 and 8

The Unkabogable Vice Ganda celebrates his birthday in a 2-part Gandang Gabi Vice episode to be aired this April 1 and 8. Dubbed as the 'Trending Birthday Concert', the said birthday concert of Vice was attended by his closest friends from showbiz.

The birthday concert of Vice Ganda was taped last March 25 in front of a live audience at the SM Skydome. Guests in the said concert include heartthrobs (and Vice's crushes) Xian Lim, Kean Cipriano, Jake Cuenca, Enchong Dee, Enrique Gil, and Jon Avila.

Also present are funny Angelica Panganiban, Bangs Garcia and comedian Ethel Booba. High-profile personalities Raymond Gutierrez, Georgina Wilson, and Liz Uy also graced the said event.

All-time favorite jukebox band Aegis will render their own 'octave' performance of Super Bass (Vice's favorite dance step). The country's top rock bands Kamikazee and Parokya ni Edgar will also rock the skydome with award-winning Pinoy rapper Gloc-9. Mr. Pure Energy, Gary Valenciano will also add fun and excitement to this unkabogable show.

Watch the GGV Trending Birthday Concert teaser here:

Don't miss the most unkabogable birthday party-party of Vice Ganda this April 1 and 8 after Sarah G Live!


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Gary V 'On Higher Ground' Concert Series to be staged this April and May

Mr. Pure Energy Gary Valenciano will hold a series of concert at the Music Museum, Greenhills, San Juan this coming April and May. The said concert, entitled On Higher Ground will show the 'pop icon Gary V ascending to new heights as he performs his most beloved songs with ground breaking visuals.'

The concert series will take place on April 12 and 13, 19 and 20, 26 and 27 and on May 9 and 10. The concert will be directed by Gary V himself together with son Paolo Valenciano and under the musical direction of Mon Faustino.

For tickets and inquiries, you may contact TICKETWORLD at 891-9999, MUSIC MUSEUM at 721-6726, 721-0635 or GENESIS at numbers 706-2170-71, 0915-497-5225 or 0908-887-1397 

Ticket prices (TicketWorld)

VIP - PhP 3,605.00
Orchestra A - PhP 2,575.00
Orchestra B - PhP 1,545.00
Orchestra C - PhP 1,030.00
Balcony - PhP 515.00

Reserve your tickets now!

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ASAP Summer 2012 Opening Billboard (Video)

ASAP 2012 had released their summer 2012 opening billboard. Featuring ASAP mainstays led by Mr. Pure Energy Gary Valenciano, ASAP 2012 beats the summer heat while enjoying on top of a roof deck to the tune of Lou Bega's Sweet Like Cola.

Feel the beat of the summer heat with this ASAP Summer 2012 Music Video:

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ASAP 2012 Beats The Summer Heat This March 18

ASAP 2012 heats up the best summer season this Sunday (March 18) with blazing and sizzling world-class performances by the ASAP Kapamilya lead by Mr. Pure Energy Gary Valenciano’s another moving and heartfelt number in ‘With Love, Gary V.’

Indulge with some of the industry’s most enchanting beauties including KC Concepcion, Cristine Reyes, Nikki Gil, Erich Gonzales, Kim Chiu, Maja Salvador, and Venus Raj as they sizzle and fizzle with special summer treats.

Relax with the soothing summer sounds from ASAP’s most in demand concert artists Angeline Quinto, Christian Bautista, Erik Santos, Jed Madela, Anja Aguilar, Boys R Boys, and the ASAP Pinoy Champs as they fill the air in another unforgettable and astonishing musical performance.

Also be updated with the latest happenings on the ASAP centerstage as multi-awarded rock diva Yeng Constantino receives her newest platinum award; and ‘Favorite New Artist’ and rising music sensation Zia Quizon launches her newest single.

Don’t miss the grand royal birthday bash of phenomenal primetime princess Julia Montes and the special birthday treat of ASAP Sessionista Juris. “ASAP 2012″ will also pay tribute to OPM luminaries Karl Roy and Bodjie Dasig on ‘aTunes,’ while ultimate leading man Piolo Pascual launches the “Dahil sa Pag-ibig Official Soundtrack” album.

Meanwhile, dance to the summer beat with Rayver Cruz, Gab Valenciano Iya Villania, John Prats, Jake Cuenca, Jessy Mendiola at Sam Concepcion on ‘ASAP Supahdance.’

Don’t miss the sizzling summer beat this Sunday and watch 2012 Gawad Tanglaw Best Musical Variety Show, “ASAP 2012” this Sunday, 12:15 noon, on ABS-CBN. For updates, photos and to hang out live with the stars at ASAP Chill-Out, simply visit http://asap.abs-cbn.com/, follow @ASAPOFFICIAL on Twitter, or ‘like’ http://facebook.com/asapofficial.

Text by ABS-CBN

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