Winning tandem of James Yap and Mic Cazzola

I’m so delighted that the PBA team that I root for, San Mig Coffee Mixers (SMC), is now leading in the Governor’s Cup eliminations after they clobbered the undefeated Ginebra Gin Kings last Sunday.

I cheered them on at the Big Dome. In true championship form, SMC will take it all the way to a grand-slam finish.

The team is way hotter on court than the coffee that they endorse. The sweet smell of victory and the aroma of coffee go well together.

I was supposed to meet my Ilonggo bud, James Yap, and his tres belle Italian girlfriend, Mic Cazzola, after the game but something came up.

I’ve been wanting to give Mic the Ilonggo-English dictionary that I promised her. She asked me to teach her James’ language (Hiligaynon), which I speak fluently, since Iloilo is my second home. I also enjoy brushing up on my French with Mic.

Via SMS, Mic shared her thoughts on James’ MVP award and SMC’s three-peat victory in the 2014 PBA Commissioner’s Cup, as well as her budding friendship with James’ son, Bimby.

GABBY Concepcion reveals secret of eternal youth.

Here goes: “I am so proud of James. He went through a hard time during the Commissioner’s Cup, with people trying to pull him down. And look, he won a well-deserved finals’ MVP. It’s so true that a real champion emerges during challenging times. The hard work, discipline and focus paid off, along with proper food intake. I’ve been cooking for him. He’s kind enough to eat whatever I make, even if I fear those dishes aren’t yummy.

“As for Baby James, we had dinner a couple of times. First time was Japanese because he loves tempura. Second was Italian. He likes pizza! I must say that we’re still both shy. I can see that he’s trying to figure me out, though.

“He’s so cute when he laughs at jokes. He’s very bright and articulate for his age. I feel grateful that I was given a chance to meet him. It makes me feel closer to James. It’s an important step in our relationship.”

The fab Italian is becoming more Filipino for the love of James. As James does what he does best on the hard court, Mic is his lucky charm and official cheerleader.

Ageless wonder

Gabby Concepcion doesn’t seem to age. He claimed that his secret was to hydrate well, not to be a worrywart and to smile from the inside so that it would show in the aura.

Gabo relished the sense of fulfillment that he got with the success of his medical mission in Lobo town, Batangas province, last month.

“Two barangays were our beneficiaries: Banalo and Masaguitsit,” said Gabs. “It was my way of saying, ‘Thank you,’ for all the blessings.”

His pride in being dad to KC Concepcion (who’s taking acting classes in the United States) remains strong.

“My unsolicited advice to KC when it comes to her career and love life is to take her time,” he said.

How’s that for some “Daddyism” in time for Father’s Day?

Daddy Gabby will forever be “Papable,” even when he’s already a grandfather.

Bubbly babe

Julie Anne San Jose is the new face of Careline makeup, which is designed for teens.

The 19-year-old singer-actor’s bubbly personality suits the beauty brand.  She’s not just pretty; she’s smart, too. “I value education,” Julie Anne said. “Despite my hectic schedule, I am still taking up AB Communication Arts in Angelicum College. After graduating, I want to try my luck on Broadway, like my idol Lea Salonga.” The teen star knows where she wants to go and is having fun getting there.

Daddies in Dubai, Abu Dhabi

To all my Pinoy readers in the Middle East, catch “Daddy’s Home Live” in the UAE Concert Tour (mounted by Eventologist Dubai and produced by Laila Iglesias).

It will be on June 6 (10 p.m.) at Kitakits Kafe & Klubb at Marco Polo Hotel Dubai and on June 7 (10 p.m.) at Arkadia Bar in Marina Club Abu Dhabi. (For tickets: 050-539498.) “Daddy’s Home” will surely make our OFWs (overseas Filipino workers) less homesick.

Personal

Super thanks to Coney Reyes and Paul Mata of TV 5 AKTV for their kind assistance every time I feel like watching PBA live.