BRIONES. Cast as The Engineer in “Miss Saigon.”
Badette Lim, office employee: “I just watched the trailer of the current ‘Miss Saigon’ production in London and felt proud watching Jonjon Briones as The Engineer! Based on what I saw, he’s a good musical-theater actor whose success all Filipinos should celebrate!”
Other notes:
Gene dela Cruz, businessman: “It’s a relief to hear that Richard Gomez is finally putting his political plans to rest. He can always serve the public as a private citizen. Some show biz people who become politicians aren’t known to perform well. Worse, some are even involved in high-profile cases.
“Here’s hoping that other show biz denizens follow Richard’s example. They should realize that politics isn’t a fall-back career for actors who have no clear idea what public service is all about.”
Other notes:
Raul Gutierrez, retail store owner, Las Vegas: “As someone living out of the country, I try to do my part in supporting local films by sending e-mails and Facebook messages to my friends back home. As a Nora Aunor admirer, I told some friends to see ‘Hustisya,’ and one response I got was, ‘Saan ba palabas?’ The ads are disappointing. Artists are reminding televiewers and radio listeners to watch Cinemalaya, but they don’t mention when and where. And, there are no printed articles in the papers.
“Younger people automatically know where to get that information—online! Or, just use an app to find it. But, older people do not like doing that. They still prefer to read the ads on a printed page.”
Positive programs
Icko Gonzales, televiewer: “Some religious groups are quick to ban television shows and films they find distasteful. Many times, however, their action causes curiosity, resulting in increased viewership. I hope they’ll be as quick to endorse the positive programs that come our way.”
Geraldine Tan, student: “I believe that Elmo Magalona is going to make it big—if his handlers chose the right projects for him. He should establish his own identity if he wishes to make a mark in the biz. His latest Cinemalaya project is a good move.”
Margie Mejia, housewife: “Could a concert producer make my wish come true? I have always imagined what a great show it would be if Regine Velasquez and Lani Misalucha were to perform together in a concert. I’m sure their respective admirers would agree!”
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