The StarStruck mania has begun anew and thousands from all over the archipelago have manifested interest in becoming the next stars as they came in droves last Sunday to file their applications to StarStruck V, chanting the popular “Dream, Believe, Survive” mantra of the longest-running, No. 1 reality-based artista search.

Almost six thousand people flocked to GMA Network Drive and at SM Cebu, SM Davao, SM Iloilo and Stadia in Dagupan for the nationwide simultaneous release of application forms.

During the show’s recent launch on “SOP,” the new “StarStruck V” hosts were introduced. Dingdong Dantes, internationally-acclaimed actor and original “StarStruck” host from Season 1 to 4, led the team together with the ravishing “Rosalinda” star Carla Abellana and maverick co-host Raymond Gutierrez.

Applicants braved the heat to try their luck in the ultimate route to stardom. The nationwide auditions are open to all male and female, 16-23 years old, Filipino citizen, and with talent in singing, dancing and acting.

Auditions are now being held on the following dates and venues: GMA Network Center (Sept. 7-11; Sept. 14-18; Sept. 21-25; and Sept. 28-Oct. 2); SM Cebu on Sept. 12-13; SM Davao on Sept. 12-13; SM Iloilo on Sept. 12-13; SM Cagayan de Oro on Sept. 19-20; SM Molino on Sept. 19-20; SM Bacolod on Sept. 19-20; and SM Naga on Sept. 25-27.

As the “StarStruck” invasion begins anew, the brightest and biggest Kapuso stars are set to join the grand launch in the abovementioned cities. StarStruck alumni Ryza Cenon, Rich Asuncion, Mike Tan, Rainier Castillo, Yasmien Kurdi and Arnel Ignacio kicked off the festivity at SM Cebu Events Center.

LJ Reyes, Iwa Moto, Jackie Rice, Chariz Solomon, Jan Manual, Chuck Allie, Arci Munoz and Sunshine Dizon are expected to be at the StarStruck V at SM Davao Events Center. At the SM Iloilo launch, “StarStruck” heartthrobs Mark Herras, Mart Escudero, Prince Estefan, Dex Quindosa and Allan K will be there, and at the Stadia in Dagupan City, fans will thrill at the presence of the following young stars: Heart Evangelista, Dennis Trillo, Jennica Garcia, Kris Bernal, Aljur Abrenica, Paolo Avelino, Pauleen Luna, Glaiza de Castro, Gian Magdangal, Mae, Sexbomb, Harry, Jan Nieto, Chris Cayzer, Matteo Guidicelli and Gerald Santos.

Applicants must bring the original and photocopy of their birth certificate, as well as whole body and close-up photos. Those below 18 years old need a written consent from their parents, and original and photocopy of their parent’s valid ID in order to qualify for the auditions.

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‘Pangarap Kong Jackpot’ holds successful premiere night

After weeks of controversies, Carlo J. Caparas can finally enjoy positive news — the very successful premiere of his movie “Pangarap Kong Jackpot” held Friday night at the SM Megamall.

Manny Pacquiao, who dabbled on drama, led the star-studded event. The mall crowd either patiently lined up to see the movie or get a glimpse of the film’s stars.

The trilogy “Pangarap Kong Jackpot is a PCSO’s 75th anniversary treat to the people who’ve been supporting Sweepstakes and Lotto. Plots in the film are based on true-story of Lotto and Sweepstakes winners. Directing the trilogy with Carlo is another noted film-TV director, Toto Natividad.

Inside the theater, the Pacman showed a different side of acting in “Sa Ngalan ng Busabos” where Manny dared to be the next drama king. Earlier Carlo noted that, “Talagang dramatic kasi ang role ni Manny sa episode niya. Tumakas siya sa orphanage where he grew up to look for love – from family, parents, brothers and sisters. Sa paghahanap niya ng pagmamahal, marami siyang pagdadaanang hirap. You have seen Manny Pacquiao the boxer, now you’ll see Manny Pacquiao the dramatic actor. Our kababayans will be surprised to see a different Manny Pacquiao this time. Our Champ can surely act.”

Most of the film’s cast were there to watch the movie with supporters. Carlo assembled a stellar cast of film actors and showbiz personalities including Eddie Garcia, Gina Pareño, Caridad Sanchez, Tommy Abuel, Joel Torre and Pen Medina, together with rising young stars Jake Cuenca, Mark Herras, Baron Geisler and Megan Young.

Jake Cuenca (of “Tayong Dalawa” fame) and Megan Young topbill the episode “Hawak Kita, Hawak Mo Ko,” while Eddie Garcia stars in “Hiwaga ni Lolo Hugo.”

Carlo’s wife Donna Villa is equally happy with the way things turned out for “Pangarap Kong Jackpot’s” premiere. If the success of the screening was to be the gauge of more fruitful endeavors, then it is more likely that Carlo will aim for more.

It is recalled that the controversial filmmaker hinted on running for public office.

Carlo previously said, “Gusto kong ipakita na ang isang nasa ibaba ay puwedeng gumanti sa mga nang-aapi sa kanya sa pamamaraang malinis na pulitika. They are forcing me to run for a political post, mapipilitan siguro ako because of what they are doing, na parang walang karapatan ang isang galing sa masa na katulad ko na maging National Artist.”

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PVB inaugurates new Dagupan branch

Philippine Veterans Bank (PVB) recently inaugurated its newly relocated branch in Dagupan City with Mayor Alipio Fernandez as the Guest of Honor. The branch is now located at Burgos St., Dagupan City. In his message, Mayor Fernandez encouraged Dagupeños to bank with PVB in view of its social mandate, that by banking with PVB, one will also help our WWII heroes, the aging veterans, their widows and orphans.

A private commercial bank, Veterans Bank provides 20% of its annual net income to the Board of Trustees for the Veterans of World War II (BTVWWII) which manages programs for the benefit of the WWII veterans and their surviving families. One is the Veterans Federation of the Philippines (VFP) Out-patient center in Taguig that gives free medical services, consultation and medicines to WWII veterans. The other is the VFP Museum which showcases little known stories of heroism by Filipino Freedom Fighters.

As part of its expansion and retionalization strategy, PVB also relocated its Batangas, Mandaluyong and Paseo de Roxas (Makati) branches for the benefit of the bank’s clients. Meanwhile, the bank opened four new branches in Antipolo City, Tarlac City, Lucena and San Fernando, Pampanga presently bringing its total branch network to 49. The Bank plans to open 11 more new branches by early 2010.

“We’re very grateful to our clients and partners for helping the Bank grow and reach new heights. Apart from servicing their needs with modern banking facilities, our clients are also helping our heroes, the World War II veterans, and their families especially now in their twilight years.” said Balbido.

For his part, PVB EVP & Branches Group Head Jesus Vicente O. Garcia said that more branches will be opened soon. “We are also setting up more branches in the next months with the BSP approval. At present, we are eyeing sites in Valenzuela, Malolos, Lipa City; Cavite City, Olongapo City, Cabanatuan and Tagbilaran among others.” Garcia added.

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Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings Monday, Sept. 7, go to Iriga City Mayor Madeline Alfelor-Gazmin, Jacqueline Ejercito-Lopez, Regine Tolentino, Ms. Regina Meer Castillo, Lilia Uy Hao, Sol Lavadia, Paquita Maglaya, Albert Morris, Mary Elizabeth S. Timbol, Jane J. Garcia, Linda Amon, Reggie Espinosa, Samuel Velasco, Ms. Nenita Evans, Butch Roldan, Julia Lopez, and Rolando Josef of MMDA… Happy wedding anniversary to Titong C. Villacorta and Ma. Georgia Ejercito, and Tito and Maryann Salcedo…Condolence to the family of Laureta “Loring” Cortado Abayari of Macalong, Asingan, Pangasinan who passed away recently at age 75...