KRIS Bernal
It was an early birthday treat for me, joining GMA 7 in Bicol for the recent Peñafrancia Festival. Just a month after further strengthening its reach in
“Oragon Country’’ with the launch of GMA TV Bicol last August 10, the Kapuso Network went all out to celebrate the Marian feast with Bicolano supporters by bringing Aljur Abrenica, Kris Bernal, Mark Herras, Benjamin Alves, Chariz Solomon and Rocco Nacino, who all gamely performed at the jampacked SM Naga Activity Center.
Before the extravaganza started, loads of prizes were given away during the fun games. There was also a Kapuso Barangayan at the Camaligan People’s Center. The festivities kicked-off with the participation of Gabby Eigenmann, Ynna Asistio, Marky Lopez, Jace Flores, Mikael Daez and Andrea Torres at the Civic Parade and Kapuso Barangayan at Calabanga People’s Center.
Oliver Amoroso, AVP for GMA Regional TV, said: “Our calendar would not be complete without this festival, the biggest Marian event. Our coverage will be featured in the “Let’s Fiesta” TV special airing on Oct. 7 via our regional stations. We have also launched news program in Bicolano, Baretang Bicol.”
ROCCO Nacino
Now that’s what I call “Bicol Express,” served hot and fresh on the air.
Second time
Hotter than Bicol’s famous sili, Aljur Abrenica told me he was raring to work with Kris Bernal again after two years. “We will do an adaptation of the Korean romantic drama, ‘Coffee
ALJUR Abrenica
Prince.’ Most of the scenes will be shot in Tagaytay to set the romantic mood,” he said.
Their love team was sidelined for a few years but their affection for each other has remained intact.
“We’re more mature now,” said Kris. “But I must admit may kilig pa din ako when it comes to Aljur. Even when we were linked to others, we still looked out for each other. Even now, when I have a suitor, Aljur must approve of him. When he has love problems, he runs to me for advice.”
In the case of Kris and Aljur, love teams are lovelier the second time around.
On Cloud 9
MARK Herras
Yummier than Bicol’s fave dish, laing, Mark Herras is on Cloud Nine with his girlfriend of four and a half years, Ynna Asistio.
“She’s the youngest GF I’ve ever had, yet she’s the most patient with me,” he said, beaming. “Our relationship works out because we clear up all the issues even before they hit the press. We always know the real score. That way, no intrigue can come between us.”
Does he try to interfere in the controversies hounding Ynna’s mom, Nadia Montenegro?
“Hands off ako dun,” he clarified. “What’s good about Tita Nadia and Ynah is that they don’t drag me into their battles. But of course I’m here for them.”
Mark is a boyfriend over and beyond the call of duty.
Just like Bicol’s pride, Mayon Volcano, GMA 7’s Peñafrancia fete was a blast; yet another reason to proclaim that it really is more fun to fiesta in the Philippines!
BENJAMIN Alves
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PERSONAL: Mabalos to my taipan Bicolano friend, Alan Rañola, for always pampering me when I’m in his turf; to my colleagues Nestor Cuartero and Jojo Aquino for that fun Bicol getaway.