I’ve always admired Imee Marcos. Even though she has such a commanding presence, she never makes you feel intimidated. With her warmth, candor, wit and charm, it’s impossible not to be drawn to her.
I fondly call Imee my imaginary sister-in-law, since her brother Bongbong is my ultimate crush.
As soon as I saw her at the gathering “Paoay Kumakaway,” which she hosted to promote her home province, Ilocos Norte, I teased her and asked about her love life.
She shot back, “Siyempre, in keeping with the tradition of your mom, you have to ask me that, in the same way that since I’m Imelda’s daughter, I should always wear nice shoes. Funny because Irene, Bongbong and I have sons and no daughters, so walang magmamana sa mga Imeldific shoes.”
We both had a good laugh.
She says she’s happy and content with her Singaporean beau, who gets along well with her kids.
Does she approve of model-host Georgina Wilson for her son Borgy? “I love her,” she gushed. “Our families are close.”
Aside from being a cool mom, Imee is also the godmother of indie films, which she started many fads ago via the Experimental Cinema of the Philippines (ECP). What can she say about the raging Cinemalaya controversy? “I hope they stop bickering and just continue making good films.”
Is she more fulfilled as a governor or as a movie producer? “I’m not a happy warrior,” she sighs. “It’s tiring to hear politicos badmouth each other. I’m for change, growth and positivity.”
She’s bullish about the future of film. “Filmmakers should look toward the next frontier, get into animation and brand merchandising.”
Pinay Power à la Imee … less I, less Me, more of We.
Her mother’s son
Borgy Manotoc was just as charming as his mom, Imee. He spoke highly of Ilocos, but regretted that he couldn’t speak Ilocano.
“There’s something for everyone in Paoay,” he said. “Sand dunes, historical sites, beaches, waterfalls, museums and, most of all, yummy food.”
He has taken girlfriend Georgina to Ilocos many times. Are they settling down soon? “That’s not in the immediate agenda,” he quipped. “We need more time to accomplish our individual goals.” If ever, would there be a prenuptial agreement? “No need,” he replied, “George makes more money than I do.”
Don’t they have unspoken professional rivalry, since they work in the same field? “None at all,” he stressed. “We are supportive of each other. Her success is mine as well, and vice versa.”
Borgy clarified the rumor that George went ballistic during a flight to Los Angeles. “The reports were exaggerated,” he explained. “We just talked to the airline staff about our concerns. George didn’t scream nor demand that we fly back to Manila so she could get the gifts she had bought prior to boarding. It’s a pity she wasn’t able to get the stuff anymore, even when we came home from the United States.”
Does his Lola Imelda like Georgina? “She always tells me that as long as my girlfriends are tall and beautiful, then that’s fine with her.”
Only Imeldific standards would do for Borgy.
Trending ‘teleserye’
The TV5 teleserye “Nandito Ako” has been consistently figuring on Twitter trending topics, not only in the Philippines but worldwide. It has also landed on the pages of international newspapers, magazines and on show-biz websites.
With the Kapatid network’s international expansion through Pilipinas Global Network (PGN), the drama series, top-billed by “American Idol” runnerup David Archuleta, has proven to be an effective vehicle in attracting more foreign viewers. It has also paved the way for homegrown talents Jasmine Curtis-Smith and Eula Caballero to be recognized in the international scene. Catch Archie fever on “Nandito Ako” week nights at 9 p.m. after “Wil Time Bigtime.”
Three McKnights
To make the “Back with Brian McKnight” concert on March 16 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum more exciting, the singer/songwriter will be joined by Brian Jr. and Nico McKnight of “Marry Your Daughter,” which has garnered more than 28 million views. Plus, of course, there’s special guest Angeline Quinto. It’s going to be one awesome (Mck)Night of music. Call 9115555.
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