What Isko did to survive; Alden matches Kathryn’s intensity

Isko Moreno

Since people are raving about the changes Mayor Isko Moreno is making in Manila, I suddenly remembered my interview with the actor-turned-mayor when he was still active in showbiz. Here are some of the revelations that Isko shared with me back then:

“When I was still living in the slums and had nothing to eat, I used to go to wakes even if I didn’t know the ones who died just so I could get food that was served there. Sometimes, I even ate ‘pagpag’ (leftover food from restos thrown in garbage cans).

“In our house, there’s a huge painting of families in squatter areas. That’s because I don’t want to forget where I came from. It also serves as a reminder to my kids of my humble beginnings so they will also strive to reach their goals.”

Grade A for ‘KathDen’ starrer

The surprise team-up of Kathryn Bernardo and Alden Richards (KathDen) in “Hello, Love, Goodbye” (HLG) clicks in all aspects. It almost made me forget that it’s their first time to work together. We, at the Cinema Evaluation Board, gave HLG a grade of A.

Alden turns in a better portrayal in HLG than in his movie with erstwhile screen partner, Maine Mendoza. Perhaps, it’s because Kathryn’s forte is drama, while Maine is more into comedy. That’s why Alden had to match Kath’s intensity.

Kathryn Bernardo (left) and Alden Richards

Even if they portrayed lovers, the Kapamilya princess and Kapuso heartthrob had no kissing nor love scenes. Yet they were able to pull it off.  The KathDen onscreen tandem was limited to just “giddy” scenes, out of respect for the true-to-life KathNiel (Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla) love team.

Tito Eddie’s 40th

Tomorrow, July 30, is the 40th day since Tito Eddie Garcia’s sudden demise. There will be a Mass at the chapel of a posh subdivision and dinner at the clubhouse. Manoy’s longtime partner, Lilibeth, has been traveling a lot to help her move on. May the time come when the beauty of the memories will make Lili forget about the pain. And only the love will remain.

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PERSONAL: Daghang salamat to my “Davao adoptive family,” Jane and Roy Trinidad, for such a fun BoraVacay.