It is the general impression that a sailor has a girl in every port. While this might be true in limited cases, Allen Dizon, who plays a sailor in the movie “Marino,” said that “I would be a hypocrite if I say otherwise. But that is just my role in the movie. In real life, I am a good man. My family is my priority.”

Ara Mina, who plays a plain housewife, is the wife of Allen in the movie. “We do not have any passionate, romantic scene,” Allen said. “Practically our meeting scenes were through the videos she sent to me.”

“Marino” is based on true-to-life experiences of sailors and the family they leave behind. “There is so much sacrifice involved,” Allen said. “Imagine leaving your loved ones behind while you are away for so many months or even years.”

Allen further explained: “My role of a loving polygamous family man is just that – a screen role, to the award-winning actress Ara Mina,” who plays the wife of a philandering seaman. Krista Ranillo and Bangs Garcia play Allen’s other women.

Those who saw the advanced screening of the movie at SM Pampanga agree that both Allen and Ara acquitted themselves well in “Marino” with their subdued acting.

“Marino” is quite a film. The emotions are heartfelt and as tempestuous as the sea. “I’m pleased to have worked with Ara,” Allen said. She is very good in this movie. Its story is told from our view-point. We are a couple separated by the sea, who have to sacrifice and fell the loneliness of separation. Had I not become an actor, I would have been a seaman myself. I once dreamt of boarding the ship, inspired by a successful neighbor-seaman I know in Pampanga.”

Aside from Allen and Ara, the other members of the cast are Emilio Garcia, Marco Alcaraz, Bangs Garcia, Victor Basa, Mike Tan, Rico Barrera, Jan Nieto and Krista Ranillo. Giving support are Lui Manansala, Benjie Felipe, Raymund Cabral and Nella Marie Dizon.

CDP Events and Entertainment Production headed by Mrs. Carina D. Pagcu produced the movie in cooperation with ATD Entertainment Productions.

The movie was shot in various Philippine seas, Malolos and Paombong, Bulacan, and some parts of Asia, particularly Bangkok, Thailand.

“Marino” is scheduled for several screenings this September, being the “Maritime Month.”

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Singer Jan Nieto makes new plans for his career

“SOP” mainstay Jan Nieto will be heard once again on the airwaves as he prepares for the release of his second single, “Sana Naman.” The song is taken from his self-titled debut album produced by Ogie Alcasid. This time, Jan mellows down in this acoustic pop song composed by award-winning film musical director, Von de Guzman. The song has a simple message that is very Pinoy – a silent love waiting to be told, but is kept a secret. Of late, Jan’s distinct vocals gave life to the theme song of GMA-7 afternoon soap, “Ngayon At Kailanman.” He has also began his path in acting through the soon to be released movie, “Marino,” starring Allen Dizon, Emilio Garcia, Bangs Garcia and Ara Mina. Incidentally, the theme song of the movie is “Bakit Kailangan Pang Lumayo” which was the carrier single of his album. Another good news for Jan is that he was recently nominated in the forthcoming Star Awards for music for the category Best Male Pop Performer for his debut album. He is the only newcomer to make the list and he is pitted with the likes of Gary Valenciano, Martin Nievera and Ogie Alcasid. Just a few months ago, Jan won the Guillermo Mendoza Memorial Award for most promising Male group for his group with “SOP” You’ve Got Male. Jan is also having a concert at Teatrino Greenhills on Oct. 16 together with Lovi and Chris Cayzer. Watch out for Jan’s mall shows to promote “Sana Naman,” as well as the music video that will be shot in the coming weeks. Jan Nieto’s debut album is released through IndiMusic, the label owned by Ogie and Regine Velasquez, and distributed by Universal Records.

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Christine Love’s fabulous birthday celebration

Singer Christine Love’s fabulous birthday celebration was definitely an affair to remember. It was held recently at Aquaknox Makati.

With two towering and eye-popping cakes, a sumptuous five-course dinner, and a carpet of red roses all over to step on, one could not help but say “wow!”

Heartthrob Diether Ocampo greeted Christine happy birthday by way of his song “If I Could.” The audience swooned on how adorable the two looked on stage.

Atong Ang surprised everybody when he started to sing “Just Once,” joined in later by Arthur Manuntag who didn’t seem to like staying in the background. Arthur gave his rendition of song “She.”

Rupert Jacinto, photographer of the Philippines elite, got the crowd singing with him to the song “My Girl,” a song for the birthday girl.

Christine Love had her own little gift to her friends when she amazed them with her interpretation of “And I Am Telling You.” And the best of Michael Jackson hits.

Talking of Michael Jackson, seven-year-old Chenza Chrisabela almost stole the show when she took the stage and danced “Billie Jean” so perfectly and amazingly cute that held the audience in awe for some breathless minutes.

Chenza again mesmerized the audience when she dished out the Miley Cyrus hit song “The Climb.” Surely Chenza is a girl to watch in the music industry.

Other well wishers were top designer Jun Escario, Tina Jacinto, Junjun Ablaza, Natasha Morse, David Lim, Rima Ostwani, and Mario Dumaual.

Christine Love’s brand new album under Viva Records will be released this September. By the way, Christine has been nominated in two categories in this year’s Aliw Awards: Best in a Concert Performance and Best New Female Artist. Congratulations, Christine!

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Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings on Sept. 2 go to Gen. Alexander Aguirre, Gus Aldeguer, PJ Abellana, Chit Havier Timbang, Ronnie Villar, Amado Tan, Neneng Abaquin, Nona Panlilio, Estelita Madlansackay, Steffi del Rosario, Prof. Noel de Guzman, Fannie Blanco, Atty. Tony Abanilla, Jessica Casas, Erlinda B. Perez, Ernesto “Bang” Aquino, Donna Bayota, Angelita Angelada and Carlo Guevara, BeBench grand winner... Happy wedding anniversary to Roberto and Marcela Tabor.