Man behind Ariella’s smile

ERVIC Vijandre and Ariella Arida. “I’m very proud of her,” he says.

Ariella Arida’s swimsuit and evening gown in the Miss Universe pageant were “sponsored,” but her winning smile was courtesy of her inspiration, cager-actor Ervic Vijandre.

And he is overjoyed that she placed fourth (third runner-up) in the pageant.

“I admire her character and kind heart,” says Ervic, “and her willingness to inspire others to achieve their dreams. I’m very proud of her.”

Any congratulatory  gift for her?

“It’s her birthday next week. I’ll just give her one gift,” he says.

What’s the real score?

“Let’s just wait for her to come home,” he replies. “We were able to talk after she won. Kulitan lang. I’m not expecting a pasalubong  (gift) from Russia because she’s kuripot (stingy). Hahaha! I can’t wait to see her.”

With or without a crown, Ariella will always be a queen to Ervic.

Encore for Martin

Some things are worth repeating. Just like Martin Nievera’s 30th anniversary concert.

“Martin 3D2” will be go onstage on Nov. 22 at the Big Dome. (For tickets, call 911-5555.)

What can the audience expect?

“A flashback/throwback concept with the ABS-CBN Philharmonic Orchestra, Louie Ocampo and a couple of new surprises, plus my hits through the years,” Mart points out.

“I didn’t want to change it too much since it’s a repeat, but I think we have enough to  keep things entertaining for those who have not seen it, as well for those who have. I also hope to turn it into a fundraiser for our brothers and sisters who are suffering because of Supertyphoon ‘Yolanda.’”

After 30 years in the biz, where is he headed?

“My journey is endless. I am constantly searching for ways to stay in the game. That’s a never-ending process,” he says.

Kudos Mart, for never running out of songs to enchant us with.

Let’s celebrate three decades of the one and only Concert King the second time around  in “3D2”!

Atomic Rain Man

Kim Atienza is proud of his ABS-CBN news colleague, Atom Araullo, a.k.a. “The Rain Man,” for a daring coverage of Supertyphoon Yolanda in Tacloban.

Since Kim does the weather coverage in “TV Patrol,” how does he feel that Atom was assigned to cover Leyte, and that a CNN anchor described  Atom as a “brave man”?

“He is like a younger brother to me, and I’ll always look out for him,” Kim explains. “I wish him all the success in the world. Being assigned to Tacloban was dangerous. He was able to broadcast clearly despite the threat to his life. I salute him!”

How would he have handled the story if he were in Atom’s place?

“I would have done it exactly the way he did,” Kim says. “I just don’t know if I would have kept my hat on with 235 kilometers per hour maximum sustained winds. Or maybe I would.”

What’s his message for Atom?

“Stay steadfast in bringing information the best way you can. While in the field, dead-tired broadcast journalists may feel unappreciated and isolated but people really appreciate what we do. The whole nation thanks you, my brother, for your selfless dedication.”

Bravo, Atom! You took the nation by storm. And the rest of the world watched in awe.

Shamcey’s space

Beauty queen Shamcey Supsup will get to share her knowledge as an architect, as host of Lifestyle Network’s design digest show, “Interior Motives,” which premiered its second season on Nov. 7.

The show aims to be the country’s ultimate source of design inspiration, tackling interior principles and elements .

The quirky Almario sisters, Cynthia and Ivy, will be working their magic in their segment, “Project: Makeover.” The design duo will turn empty spaces into ideal places every week.

Joel’s jewel

Congratulations to my good friend, Joel Cruz, for winning the 2013 Silent Hero: Most Outstanding Philanthropist award from Gawad Amerika.

It is his third recognition from the same award-giving body. (He won outstanding entrepreneur in the perfume industry in 2011 and for philanthropy in 2012.)

Keep soaring, Joel!