'Pilipinas Got Talent Season 4' Semi-Finals To Kick Off This Saturday

The semi-final round of the "Pilipinas Got Talent Season 4" will begin this Saturday, May 18.

"Pilipinas Got Talent Season 4" Semi-finals Start

The twelve semi-finalists have been divided into two groups. Three acts in each group will qualify for the grand finals, with the number 1 on voting taking a sure spot. The remaining two will be determined by the judges from the next three highest vote-getters.

The first group to perform this week is comprised of quick mask artist Tito Cris Castro, twin dance group Symmetry, unconventional acoustic band Mp3, YouTube sensation Roel Manlangit, flairtender Chaeremon Basa, and black light dancers Zilent Overload.

Who will become the first three grand finalists of season four? Don’t miss the first live semi-final performance night this Saturday (May 18) after "MMK," and watch the first live semi-final results night on Sunday (May 19), after "Rated K" on ABS-CBN. Tweet your thoughts on the show using the hashtag #PGT4. FULL STORY...

'Smash' Cancelled: NBC Axes Musical-Drama After Two Seasons

Once NBC president Bob Greenblatt's pet project, the musical drama, as he would consider calling, is an "unqualified success."

Smash canceled (Photo: NBC)

The Broadway-focused musical drama, which stars Katharine McPhee and Megan Hilty, opened its second season with a huge flop compared to the first one as it only had a 1.1 demo rating with only 4.5 million viewers. Unfortunately, it has not gained more than that since then.

The show's potential cancellation became even more imminent when its airtime was moved from its original Tuesday slot to every Saturdays. This has always been a bad sign especially for those who knew the trend.

The ratings have gotten worse since then and if there is one episode that survived with a higher rating than the rest, it wasn't high enough to save the show. Needless to say it didn't even reach the already-reduced targeted mark.

It continued to dip down further from having 3 million viewers to less than 2 million when its schedule was moved.

Even winning the Save One Show campaign because of some loyal followers didn't do much to save it from the "ax."

Recently, NBC has confirmed that the show will have its two-hour season finale on Sunday, May 26 but the network cannot give it another 'go' for another season. FULL STORY...

Cancelled TV Shows 2013 List: ABC, CBS, CW, Fox, And NBC

The list of cancelled TV shows for 2013 is now out.

Cancelled TV Shows 2013 List Released

Major TV networks in the US, including  ABC, CBS, CW, Fox, and NBC, have revealed the shows that will not be renewed for another season or will be airing their series finale this year.

Check out the list of cancelled US TV programs for 2013 below:

ABC: Private Practice, Don’t Trust the B– in Apt. 23. 666 Park Avenue, Last Resort, Zero Hour, How To Live With Your Parents, Red Widow, Body Of Proof, Malibu Country, and Happy Endings;

Fox: Ben & Kate, The Mob Doctor, Touch, and Fringe;

CBS: Made In Jersey, Partners, Vegas, The Job, Rules of Engagement, Golden Boy, and CSI: NY;

NBC: Deception, Animal Practice, Do No Harm, 30 Rock, Guys with Kids, The Office, Smash, Up All Night, Whitney, 1600 Penn, and Go On.

The CW: 90210, Cult, and Emily Owens, M.D.

Which cancelled shows are you going to miss the most? FULL STORY...

Roel Manlangit, Frankendal Fabroa Enter 'Pilipinas Got Talent' Semi-finals

YouTube sensation Roel Manlangit and metal ring dancer Frankendal Fabroa advance to the semi-finals of the country's biggest and grandest talent-reality show, "Pilipinas Got Talent", after winning the public’s and the judges’ votes respectively.

Roel Manlangit and Frankendal Fabroa (Photo: ABS-CBN)

Roel, who became popular online after his video singing the Whitney Houston classic “I Will Always Love You” garnered more than a million hits on video-sharing site YouTube, was voted by most viewers and got 37.53% of the combined online and text votes.

Frankendal, on the other hand, was unanimously chosen by judges Kris Aquino, Freddie “FMG” Garcia, and guest judge Vice Ganda after his breathtaking contemporary dance routine using a metal ring that blew them away. Kris and Vice even gave him a standing ovation for his unique performance.

This week, the top 12 semi-finalists will finally be completed as dance group VMA; folk dancers Bughaw Folkloric Dance Troupe; synchronized swimmers Rosenrei Synchro Sirens; car drifters Lateral Drift Productions Philippines Drivers; motor stuntmen Gensan Stunt Team; and the Balungao Robotic Dancers compete for the last two slots.

Who among them will advance to the next round of competition? Don’t miss the 6th and last live quarterfinal performance night this Saturday (May 11) after “MMK,” and watch the 6th live quarterfinals results night on Sunday (May 12), after “Rated K” on ABS-CBN. Tweet your thoughts on the show using the hashtag #PGT4. FULL STORY...

'Survivor' Season 27, 28 To Film In Palaui Island, Cagayan

The CBS reality television show, "Survivor," will once again feature the beauty of the Philippines in their next two new seasons.

"Survivor" host Jeff Probst (Photo: CBS)

While the current and the previous seasons were filmed in the Caramoan Islands, Season 27 and 28 of "Survivor" will be shot on an island on the northern part of the Philippines, specifically in the Palaui Island located in the province of Cagayan which has pristine white beaches surrounded by lush forests and mesmerizing mountains.

Cape Engaño, a beach with a lighthouse built in the late 1800s, will reportedly be closed for exclusive use of the show along with two other beaches. The show will also use Puzo Robo beach on the northeastern tip of the mainland.

The show is believed to start filming in the new Philippine location on May 19, a week after the current season's finale.

Season 25 was named "Survivor Philippines," while Season 26 was called "Survivor Caramoan." We're guessing that the upcoming seasons may be titled "Survivor Cagayan" and "Survivor Palaui." FULL STORY...

Filipino Joseph Apostol Passes 'The Voice UK' Blind Auditions

After Arixsandra Libantino's successful audition in "Britain's Got Talent," another singer of Filipino roots is making waves in another hit TV talent competition in the United Kingdom.

Joseph Apostol (Photo: Youtube, BBC)

Joseph Apostol, a 21-year-old church choir member, tried out the "blind auditions" for BBC's "The Voice UK", singing his own rendition of "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow." Just before the song ended, judges Jessie J and Tom Jones turned around and praised his performance.

"I think you will be a huge asset to my team. I think I want to make sure I am representing people that really know how to tell a story when they're singing and that's exactly what you did. Congratulations!" said Jessie J.

"I've been waiting, and waiting, and waiting. But when I heard you, I heard the passion from you and the range that you have, and there's a lot of fire there and you didn't copy anybody, you have an original sounding voice. I know there's a lot of great Filipino singer because I've been to the Philippines and I've heard them sing. You really do have a great voice and I'd love to have you on my team," said Tom Jones, who needed one last member for his team.

It was not easy for Apostol to choose between two great artists but in the end, he decided to join Tom Jones' team.

"I respect the two of you because obviously you're amazing with what you do. But I'm gonna choose Tom," Apostol said.

Will.i.am, one of the other two judges who didn't turn around during Apostol's performance was excited upon knowing he was a  Filipino but later explained to Apostol why he chose not to turn around by saying, "You are really fantabulous. But when Jessie turned around I was like 'Wow, you're in good hands'."

During an interview after the show, Apostol revealed just how ecstatic he was to be in Jones's team.

"I was really excited because you know, he is one of the most iconic persons ever in the music industry, so it was really great to have him turn around," he said.

Apostol dedicated his victory to his mother who has worked in the UK as a nurse for more than a decade.

"Being in a different country was a difficult time for me. I was used to being with my family, friends back in the Philippines. Looking back helped me with my confidence," he said. "I just want to make them proud. I'm just gonna bring my best. Hopefully, that’s enough."

Check out Apostol's "The Voice UK" audition below:
FULL STORY...

Lazaro Arbos Eliminated From 'American Idol'

Lazaro Arbos, the last remaining male contestant in the twelfth season of "American Idol," has been eliminated from the competition, paving way for an all-girl Top 5.

Lazaro Arbos Eliminated (Photo courtesy of Fox)

Arbos' survival performance did not persuade the judges to use their only save vote this season.

"Lazaro, we love you, you've been a treasure to the show," Randy Jackson said, "but we're not going to use the save."

Joining the 22-year-old ice cream scooper from Naples, Florida in the bottom two was Texas native Amber Holcomb.

It is the very first time in "American Idol" history for the Top 5 to be comprised of all females, which will end the 5-year white male winning streak.

Next week, Holcomb, Angie Miller, Kree Harrison, and Candice Glover, will once again battle it out on stage. Who do you think will go home? FULL STORY...

The Miss Tress, Chaeremon Basa Enter 'Pilipinas Got Talent' Semifinals

Transgender singing trio The Miss Tress and flair tender Chaeremon Basa ruled the first quarterfinals results night and advanced to the semi-finals of the country’s biggest and grandest talent-reality show "Pilipinas Got Talent 4."

Chaeremon Basa and The Miss Tres of Pilipinas Got Talent

The singing transgenders from the Bulacan won the unanimous judges’ votes after competing against The Security and Escort Battalion Combo of the Philippine Army in the battle for survival round.

On the other hand, the 16-year-old talent from Bacolod, who showcased his leveled up flair tending skills during the first quarterfinal performance night last Saturday, topped the nationwide votes with 28.09%, thereby securing the first out of 12 semi-finalist slots. 

The Miss Tres and Basa will advance to the semi-finals and battle ten other semi-finalists who have yet to be named in the coming weeks.

"Pilipinas Got Talent 4" proved to be the biggest edition yet as it welcomed more diverse acts, conducted auditions online and abroad, and created a quarterfinal round that will further intensify the screening process. The show created a buzz online recently after The Miss Tres and All in One Crew trended worldwide on micro-blogging site Twitter.

This Saturday (April 13, 2013), black light dancers Zilent Overload, flagtwirlers Si.Co.Gu., acrobats Eyx-Point, boy crooner John Neil Roa, singer Eumee Lyn Capile, and belly dancer with sword Sundee Viñas will battle it out for the viewers’ and judges’ votes in the second quarterfinal performance night.

Who will join Chaeremon and The Miss Tres in the semi-finals? Don’t miss the "Pilipinas Got Talent 4," hosted by Luis Manzano and Billy Crawford, every Saturday, after "MMK," and every Sunday, after “Rated K” on ABS-CBN. Tweet your thoughts on the show using the hashtag #PGT4. FULL STORY...

Pilipinas Got Talent Season 4 Top 36 Contestants

The Top 36 contestants of Pilipinas Got Talent Season 4 have been selected and were announced during the March 31, 2013 episode of the show.

The quarter-finalists will be divided into groups of six. Each week, six contestants will perform live and only two acts will be chosen based on text votes and will move on to the next round of the competition.

The names of Pilipinas Got Talent Season 4 Top 36 contestants are as follows:

1. Tahanang Walang Hagdan Wheelchair Dancesport and BMG Dancers, 18 - 36 — Wheelchair dancesport group, Cainta, Rizal
2. The Can Can Group of Regidor Elementary School, 6 - 20 — Can-Can dance troupe, Manila
3. Chaeremon Basa, 15 — Flair tricks act, Bacolod
4. Sundee Viñas, 28 — Sword balancer and belly dancer, Cebu
5. Marvin Orquero, 32 — Magician
6. MP3 Band, 22 - 24 — Acoustic trio, Manila
7. All n' One Crew, 10-34 — Light dancers, Cavite and Laguna
8. Zilent Overload, 23 - 30 — Blacklight dance crew, Manila
9. Frankendall Fabroa, 29 — Dancer, Manila noypistuff
10. Philippine Gymnastics and Athletics Academy — Gymnastics group, Manila
11. John Neil Roa, 12 — Singer, Cebu
12. Eumee Lyn Capile, 23 — Singer, Valenzuela City
13. Cris Bernardo, 28 — Singer, Dubai, United Arab Emirates/Calamba City
14. Russell Figueroa, 28 — Singer, Canada
15. Miss Tres, 30 - 32 — Singing trio, Quezon City
16. Secur1ty and Escort Batallion Combo, 24 - 37 — Band, Taguig
17. Crewckattz Danc3rs, 13 - 28 — Puppet dancers, Isabela
18. Balungao Robotic Dancers, 12 - 17 — Robotic dance crew, Pangasinan
19. Gensan Stunt Team, 22 & 36 — Stunt motorcyclists, General Santos City
20. Lateral Drift Production Team, 21 - 35 — Car drifting act, Manila noypistuff
21. Bughaw Folkloric Dance Troupe, 16 - 36 — Cultural dance troupe, Mendez, Cavite
22. Symmetry — Synchronized dance crew, Manila
23. Segutier Triplets, 12 — Martial arts trio, Iloilo
24. Randy de Silva, 20 - Singer, Olongapo
25. Cris Castr0, 54 — Mask change artist, Hong Kong/Manila
26. EYX Point, 20 - 29 — Acrobatics trio, Surigao
27. VMA Cultural Arts, 18 - 24 — Dance troupe, Bacolod City
28. The Fluma Viron of Cuerdas, 14 - 18 — Violin ensemble, Bulacan
29. Roel Manlangit, 13 — Singer, Valencia, Bukidnon
30.  Lumina, 15 - 20 — Aerial acrobatics trio, San Carlos City, Negros Occidental
31. Sinag Color Guards, 15 - 28 — Flag twirling group, Pasig
32. Rosenrei Synchro Sir3ns, 11 - 22 — Synchronized swimmers, Manila
33. D' Intensity Breakers, 14 — 28 — Dance crew, Lipa City, Batangas
34. Florendo Macalma, 63 — Dog tricks act, Quezon City
35. Michael "Mifer" Fernando, 28 — Magician, Manila
36. RMMC Dance + Site Project, 24 & 28 — Contemporary dancing duo, General Santos City

Congratulations! FULL STORY...

Pilipinas Got Talent Season 4 February 24, 2013 Episode Features Outdoor Acts

The February 24, 2013 episode of "Pilipinas Got Talent Season 4" featured outdoor acts, a first in the show.

Pilipinas Got Talent Season 4 February 24, 2013

The "Big Three" judges Kris Aquino, Ai Ai Delas Alas, and Freddie "FMG" Garcia went out of the usual theater venues and adjudged acts outdoors such as car drifting, parkour, motorcycle stunts, and walking on high wires.

Meanwhile, many viewers have noticed some major improvements in the show this season. The episodes have been edited quite well. So far though, there has been no Marcelito or Jovit-like audition that got the whole nation talking and went viral online.

By the way, do you remember Roel Manlangit, the street kid who sang Whitney Houston's "I Will Always Love You"? NoypiStuff was informed he auditioned this season. We can't wait to see the talented boy's audition.

Hosted by Billy Crawford and Luis Manzano "Pilipinas Got Talent Season 4" airs every Saturday and Sunday night on ABS-CBN. FULL STORY...

Lea Salonga Among 'The Voice Philippines' Judges?

A teaser video for the third judge of "The Voice of the Philippines" has made its way online.

Based on the video, the third personality that will be joining the elite judging panel is another female. This means that the Philippine version will be somehow different from the hit US franchise as there are three male judges in the latter.

"Popstar Princess" Sarah Geronimo was the first to be revealed as one of the judges of the first season of "The Voice of the Philippines." A week later, it was announced that "Prince of Rock" Bamboo Manalac will be a judge in the show, too.

The clue given in the new teaser was that the female judge has "The Voice That Conquered The World." Most of those who commented said it is no other than celebrated theater actress/singer Lea Salonga. Other names that came out include Vina Morales, Charice Pempengco, and Regine Velasquez.

Check out the said video below:
Do you think it's Ms. Lea Salonga?

There are no information yet about the fourth judge but among the names that have surfaced in rumor mills are Billy Crawford, Arnel Pineda, Ely Buendia and apl. de ap.

The judges will also serve as coaches of the contestants and they will perform with them, as well. The US version also features group performances by all the four judges. FULL STORY...

Pilipinas Got Talent Season 4 February 16, 2013 Episode Recap

Pilipinas Got Talent Season 4 Logo (Courtesy of ABS-CBN)

The fourth season of Pilipinas Got Talent (PGT 4) premiered on ABS-CBN on Saturday, February 16, 2013.

Billy Crawford and Luis Manzano, who returned as hosts, kicked off the show singing Francis M's "Tayo'y Mga Pinoy."

Queen of All Media Kris Aquino, Comedy Queen Ai Ai Delas Alas, and "The Expert" Freddie "FMG" Garcia were also back in their roles as judges and voted for the acts that showcased true talent.

The pilot episode featured the auditions held in Cebu, which saw quite a variety of talents. Below is a list of auditionees who received the judges' yeses and moved on to the next round of the competition.

Navida Twins - Dancers
Felizardo Cedene Jr. - Contortionist
Edgar Sabang - Folk Musician
Vertigo - Ballet Dancers/ Wall Climbers
RMMC Dance Project - Basketball Players/ Jazz Dancers
Joy Carbonell - Singer
Tito Cris Castro - Bian Lian Performer
Tahanang Walang Hagdan Wheelchair Dancesport And BMG Dancers - Dancers

Were you able to watch the February 16, 2013 episode of PGT 4? Which act was your favorite? FULL STORY...

The Amazing Race Season 22 Cast Revealed

The cast of the 22nd season of reality TV show have been revealed Wednesday, January 23, 2013.

The Amazing Race Season 22 Cast (Photo Credit: CBS)

The 11 competing teams include a pair of roller derby moms, country singers, hockey brothers, YouTube hosts, firefighters and twin doctors.

Check out below the names of the cast of The Amazing Race Season 22:

Twin Doctors
Idries Abdur-Rahman, 35, Chicago, Ill., OB/GYN Physician
Jamil Abdur-Rahman, 35, Chicago, Ill., OB/GYN Physician

Newlyweds
Max Bichler, 30, Buffalo, N.Y., Cigar Sales
Katie Bichler, 24, Buffalo, N.Y., Pharmacist

Roller Derby Moms
Mona Egender, 33, Castle Pines, Colo., Captioner/Roller Derby Player
Beth Bandimere, 36, Arvada, Colo., Tech Support/Roller Derby Player

Hockey Brothers
Bates Battaglia, 36, Raleigh, N.C., Former Professional Hockey Player (Played for the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes, Colorado Avalanche, Washington Capitals and Toronto Maple Leafs)
Anthony Battaglia, 33, Raleigh, N.C., Professional Hockey Player
(Currently plays for the Huntsville Havoc)

Married Couple
Chuck McCall, 46, Daphne, Ala., Retail Manager/Taxidermist
Wynona McCall, 49, Daphne, Ala., Cosmetologist/Hairstylist

Father/Son (Both Cancer Survivors)
David O’Leary, 58, Salt Lake City, Investment Properties
Connor O’Leary, 21, Salt Lake City, Professional Cyclist

Friends/Country Singers
Caroline Cutbirth, 29, Austin, Texas, Singer/Songwriter (Band Member of “Stealing Angels,” a direct descendant of Daniel Boone)
Jennifer Kuhle, 30, Nashville, Songwriter (Band Member of “Stealing Angels,” granddaughter of John Wayne)

Best Friends
Pamela Chien, 29, Los Angeles, Art Director and Fitness Instructor
Winnie Sung, 29, Los Angeles, Senior Project Manager

Dating
Jessica Hoel, 26, Huntington Beach, Calif., Account Manager
John Erck, 27, Huntington Beach, Calif., Entrepreneur/Computer Programmer

Best Friends/Firefighters
Matthew Davis, 25, Gaffney, S.C., Firefighter
Daniel Moss, 24, Gaffney, S.C., Firefighter

The Phil Keoghan-hosted adventure game show returns on CBS on February 17, 2013 at 8p.m. ET.

It was earlier revealed that the Double Your Money prize introduced in the previous season would not be included in season 22. Instead, the first team to arrive at the initial pit stop would again receive an Express Pass for themselves, but in a new twist, an additional express pass to be given to another team of their choosing before the fourth leg

This season, the contestants reportedly visited 9 countries in 5 continents, including French Polynesia, New Zealand and Switzerland. FULL STORY...

J.R. Ewing Funeral To Air On 'Dallas' Remake

A J.R. Ewing funeral is set to air on TNT's remake of "Dallas."

Larry Hagman as J.R. Ewing (TNT)

The second season of "Dallas" will kickoff in January. TNT said the upcoming season will hold a funeral for the iconic character portrayed by the late Larry Hagman, who died of cancer complications in November at the age of 81.

The Associated Press reported that the J.R. Ewing funeral will be aired at some point in the 15-episode season but it hasn't been filmed or scheduled yet. 

The producers of the show are now crafting a proper sendoff but are mum on how J.R. Ewing will die in the series.

Hagman, who reprised his role for the TV reboot, was able to finish filming six episodes in "Dallas Season 2" prior to his sudden passing.

Season 2 of "Dallas" will premiere on TNT on January 28, 2012. FULL STORY...

TNT Cancels Leverage

TNT announced Friday that it has decided not to renew its drama series "Leverage" for a sixth season. It added that the series finale will be aired on Christmas day.

TNT Cancels Leverage

"TNT’s Leverage has thrilled audiences with its delightfully intricate plots, its 'stand up for the little guy' attitude and its terrific performances from stars Timothy Hutton, Gina Bellman, Christian Kane, Beth Riesgraf and Aldis Hodge," TNT wrote. "But after five wonderful years, it’s time to say goodbye. Leverage will come to a close on Christmas, Tuesday, Dec. 25, at 10 p.m. (ET/PT), with a series finale that stands as one of the show’s best episodes."

It further stated: "We are honored to have worked with executive producer Dean Devlin, Electric Entertainment, creators John Rogers and Chris Downey, and all the cast and production crew on Leverage. We look forward to exploring new opportunities to work with them again in the future. We also want to thank the passionately devoted fans of Leverage, who have been the driving force behind its success."

TNT's announcement came shortly after "Leverage" executive producer Dean Devlin posted the following on the LeverageFans.com website.

"The Long Goodbye is our final goodbye," Devlin wrote. "It has been decided today that this Tuesday’s episode of 'Leverage,' 'The Long Goodbye Job' will be the series finale as TNT has decided not to renew the show for a sixth season. I want to take the opportunity to thank TNT for five amazing seasons and 77 episodes of a show that has been so good to me. I’m incredibly proud of the show and what we’ve accomplished. Throughout this journey TNT have been the most amazing partners. Their support and collaboration I will cherish forever."

During the past couple of years, the series has reportedly been on the bubble but has managed to secure last-minute renewals. FULL STORY...

'Masterchef Pinoy Edition' Top 14 Contestants

The road to the crown as the first ever Pinoy Masterchef and the P1 million grand prize has officially begun for the top 14 contestants of "MasterChef Pinoy Edition," the Philippine franchise of the popular British cooking show, "Masterchef."

Making the cut is Betty, the Loyal Kusinera of Cebu, who has been working as a house help since she was 18 to provide for her siblings and take them to school. Her employers, who have treated her as family for 15 years now, have been enthusiastic about her stint in the kusina-serye.

Carla, the Negosyante Kusinera of Bulacan, married at such a young age that she needed to learn how to cook for her family. She refined her skills in the kitchen and eventually began accepting orders from friends to prepare crispy pata and roast chicken, which are both her specialties.

Next on the list is Cons, the Kitchen Siren of San Juan, who once auditioned in Pinoy Dream Academy to become a recording artist. A disease, however, damaged her voice and deterred her from reaching her dreams. This set off her love affair with cooking and has since then vowed to master cooking.

The Biba Kusinera of Davao, Gian, has struggled with his own insecurities and his family’s expectations from him as the first born son. Gian, who is also the youngest finalist in the competition at 20, grew up believing his father never approved of him because of his homosexuality.

Ivory, a nurse, has always been pushed by her parents to become a doctor. Her love for cooking proved potent enough that she abandoned the medical field to pursue her culinary passion.

For band vocalist JR, winning the Pinoy MasterChef title also means winning his dream wedding with his girlfriend. The Rakistang Kusinero of Benguet also wants to use the cash prize to support his child from a former partner whom he has not seen in years.

Lilibeth has struggled to make ends meet as a housemaid ever since she separated from her live-in partner and the father of her two children. She joined the kusina-serye to provide a better life for her and her family.

Also striving to work hard for his family is Mac, the Kitchen Mac-Kulit of Tarlac, whose marriage and relationship with his children ultimately suffered while he worked as a seaman abroad. Now separated from his wife, Mac has returned home for good to take care of his kids.

Maureen, the Loving Nanay of Kusina, joined MasterChef to help in paying for her two kids’ medical bills. Both of them suffer from G6PD, a fatal disease that could cause hemorrhage to an affected person who eats certain foods he is allergic to. Maureen’s husband is their family’s sole breadwinner as she intends to look after the kids.

Melissa, 51, is the oldest among the finalists and is regarded by the group as their mother figure. Will the considerate Cooking Momma give way to others or will she fight for the grand prize until the end?

Also pulling out all the stops to become the first ever Pinoy MasterChef is Myra, a working class mom who wants to be recognized as an excellent cook. The Chef Accountant of Muntinlupa first worked her way around the kitchen when she was still little and cooked for her siblings and parents.

Also entering the Top 14 is Reggie, the Romantic Kusinero of Laguna, who admits he always gets dumped by girls. He says that he wants a girlfriend who is not so good at cooking so he could satiate her with his dishes and love.

Ronnel, meanwhile, grows vegetables in his backyard and cooks over an open fire using twigs. The Boy Labong of Pampanga’s family survives on income from his humble sari-sari store business.

Sorsogon’s Chief Cook of Police, Tolits, wanted to take up Fine Arts in college but was not able to because his family couldn’t afford it, and it was only in cooking where could express his passion for art. He eventually joined the police force and now aspires to put up a small restaurant to support his family.

Watch the Top 14 cooks fight their way to the top in MasterChef Pinoy Edition, Mondays to Fridays, 10:30 a.m. before Be Careful with My Heart on ABS-CBN’s Umaganda block and on Saturdays, 10 a.m. before Be Careful with My Heart Saturday Rewind. FULL STORY...

KZ Tandingan First 'X Factor Philippines' Grand Winner?

X Factor Philippines Grand Winner Poll Results

KZ Tandingan will be the first ever grand winner of "The X Factor Philippines," according to NoypiStuff readers who participated in the blog's fun poll.

As of 7pm tonight, 3,113 votes have been cast on the overnight poll which asked "Who do you think will be first 'X Factor Philippines' winner?"

A total of 1,625 (52.2%) said the title will go to the songstress from Digos City. One reader commented KZ is "a perfect singer beyond compare" while another stated she "has more X factor" than the other two grand finalists.

Gabriel Maturan of Dipolog City is not far behind and currently second with 1,358 votes or 43.62% of the total votes. One particular Noypi all the way from Ontario, Canada said that they love Gab for his "fantastic voice" and that he is "generally different" compared to the other two.

Meanwhile, Daddy's Home of Metro Manila only received 130 votes or 4.18% of the overall votes.

The first grand winner of the Philippine franchise of "The X Factor" will be revealed later tonight, October 7, 2012, at the PAGCOR Grand Theater in Paranaque City. The victor, who will be determined through the official text voting conducted by the show, will be receiving a total of P4 million in prizes including a recording contract and cash. FULL STORY...

X Factor Philippines Grand Finals (October 6, 2012 Episode)

"The X Factor Philippines" aired its much-awaited last performance night on Saturday, October 6, 2012.

After weeks of performing on the "X Factor" stage, the remaining 3 contestants, Gabriel Maturan of Dipolog City, KZ Tandingan of Digos City, and Daddy’s Home of Metro Manila, showcased their most crucial performances, witnessed live by thousands at the PAGCOR Grand Theater in Paranaque City and several viewers watching at home.

The show opened with a number featuring Asia's Nightingale Lani Misalucha and the grand finalists.

Daddy's Home, who had dodged a number of elimination episodes, then kicked off the showdown with their rendition of Gary Valenciano's "Gaya Ng Dati." The judges thought it was perfect to start the show but none of them said it was enough to win the whole competition.

Next to perform was Gabriel Maturan, who has never been in the bottom two. He did a version of the coronation song of "American Idol" winner Fantasia Barrino, "I Believe." Judge Gary V found "heart and soul" in his performance while judge Martin Nievera said it was his best performance, "vocally and in all aspects."

Early favorite KZ Tandingan was last to take the stage, showcasing her rendition of The Carpenters' classic "Superstar." She received positive reviews from the judges, with judge Pilita Corales feeling sorry for her two opponents as she did "very good" once again.

First IKON ASEAN champion Vina Morales then featured a Jennifer Lopez medley before the finalists got back on stage for another set of performances.

For their second showdown, Daddy's Home was joined by Soul Siren Nina while KZ Tandingan had a duet with OPM icon Rico J. Puno. Gabriel Maturan closed the show with The Script's "The Man Who Can't Be Moved," which he performed with multi-awarded singer Bamboo.

The grand winner of the first season of "X Factor Philippines" will be declared tomorrow night. The winner will take home P4 million worth of prizes inclusive of a recording contract from Star Music.

Who do you think will be named the first "X Factor Philippines" winner? Cast your votes below:

FULL STORY...

'How I Met Your Mother,' 'Modern Family' Return To 2nd Avenue

Critically acclaimed TV series "How I Met Your Mother" and "Modern Family" are returning this September on 2nd Avenue.

Kicking off the eight season of "How I Met Your Mother" this September 28, Friday at 8:30PM on 2nd Avenue, we pick up with the gang of friends from New York who are discovering life as it comes at them. The last we saw of the gang was when Barney’s future bride was revealed to be Robin, Marshall made it back in time to see Lily give birth to their son, and Ted drove away with his ex-girlfriend Victoria into the sunset. This season prepare to learn more revelations into Ted, Barney, and Robin’s love life while Marshall and Lily deal with being first-time parents. No matter what this gang gets up to you know amusement is bound to rise. The comedy series that takes a look back at how a single guy meets his future wife stars Josh Radnor, Jason Segel, Alyson Hannigan, Neil Patrick Harris and Cobie Smulders.

Winning its third straight Emmy for Outstanding Comedy Series at the most recent Emmy Awards, "Modern Family" makes its comeback this September 30 at 8PM on 2nd Avenue. In the season opener we see the Pritchett-Dunphy-Tucker clan getting ready to celebrate Jay’s birthday. Known for not wanting to celebrate, that does not stop the family from having something prepared ready to surprise him with. Meanwhile Gloria struggles with how to break the news of her pregnancy, and Mitch and Cam cope with their failed attempt to adopt another child. Modern Family stars Ed O'Neill, Julie Bowen, Ty Burrell, Sofía Vergara, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, and Eric Stonestreet. Following three very different families and their various approaches to parenting, everyday life seems more interesting when seen through this zany comedy.

2nd Avenue is seen on UHF Channel 29, SkyCable Ch. 19, Global Destiny Ch. 29, Cignal Ch. 29 and Cable Link Ch. 35. FULL STORY...

'Survivor: Philippines' Premieres On Jack TV On September 20

"Survivor: Philippines" Cast (Photo: CBS)

Now on its 25th season, Survivor breaks ground on the white sandy beaches of Caramoan, Camarines Sur in Survivor: Philippines. Premiering September 20, Thursday via satellite at 4PM with a primetime telecast at 9PM on Jack TV. Watch as 15 new castaways and 3 returning castaways who never finished their Survivor journey as they were removed from the game due to medical emergencies, outwit, outplay, and outlast for a chance to win one million dollars. Kicking off with a special 90-minute premiere episode; who has what it takes to endure what nature and the competition throws their way?

For the first time in eight years, Survivor: Phillippines will divide competitors into three tribes named after animals that are common to the Caramoan region: Kalabaw (“Water Buffalo”), Tandang (“Rooster”) and Matsing (“Monkey”). Surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, this season of Survivor will mainly highlight marine-based challenges where the three tribes will battle for first and second place for immunity. The third-place tribe will then head to Tribal Council where they must vote for one of their tribe mates to be eliminated.

Made up of contestants from different walks of life each with the same goal—to be the sole survivor—tempers and characters are bound to clash as they are removed from their daily comforts and forced to live in the wild with little food and shelter. The 15 new castaways include a former professional Baseball player, an 80’s television star, a New York banker, and a former beauty queen. While the three returning castaways who exited from the show due to medical emergencies are back with a mission to prove that if it was not for their sudden medical emergency they could have gone all the way. Emmy award winner Jeff Probst returns as host. FULL STORY...