As the saying goes, X-factor makes a star. But in the case of matinee idol Piolo Pascual, there is more to him than just a pretty face.

On Sept. 26, Piolo stages his one-man show at the opening of Zirkoh Comedy Bar in Tomas Morato, the newest concert venue this side of Quezon City owned by singer-comedian Allan K and Lito Alejandria. Joining him is the 7th Soul Band. Spicing up the night before the main act are Janelle Jamer and Janna Dominguez.

Produced by Backstagespass Productions, sponsors for the show are Enrico Roque of Bodega Ng Bayan, Bodega 168, Tampisaw Beach Resort and Amana Water Park, Pandi Bulacan with the support of Peter Sing of Pan de Pidro and Bhel Galindez of Lucida-DS at Power Joints.

With a new set of repertoire, Piolo will definitely keep his audience in stitches. What more can you ask for? Tickets are available at the gate.

The fun continues on ‘Wowowee!’

The long wait is almost over. The one and only Kuya Wil will once again be seen on the number one noontime show of the Kapamilya network!

After almost a month of rest where everyone felt his absence, the “Wowowee” studio is ready to welcome back Willie Revillame on everyone’s favorite lunchtime variety show.

A loyal fan of “Wowowee” said, “Hindi kasi pareho pag wala si Kuya Wil. Na-miss talaga namin siya.” This is the same feeling that his co-hosts, dancers and staff have that’s why they’re so excited to work with him again.

Don’t let this chance pass you by! Tune in to ABS-CBN tomorrow, Sept. 21 as a lot of surprises are in store for everyone, carefully prepared by the entire “Wowowee” family in this grand comeback of the one and only Willie Revillame.

Martin-Gary CD turns gold

The first Martin Nievera-Gary Valenciano collaboration album titled “As One” has been certified gold after only two weeks of release.

Martin and Gary received their Gold Record award from Universal Records executive vice president Ramon Chuaying last Sept. 13 in ABS-CBN’s show “ASAP ’09.”

“As One” album features the singing idols performing each other’s hit songs and the career single “As 1,” composed by Gina Tabuena Godinez and Albert Chang Co, and arranged by Gary V.

A real collector’s item “As 1” is currently the No. 1 OPM album in all major record outlets.

‘Survivor’ castaways unite to celebrate life

“Survivor Philippines” host Paolo Bediones and Season 1 Sole Survivor JC Tiuseco fired up the launching of the country’s first home for integrated elder care, La Verna Homes, held recently at the Kaboom Restaurant in Quezon City. The event entitled, “Celebration of Life” also featured castaways including Veronica Domingo, Charisse Yacapin, Rob Sy, Patani Dano, Kaye Alipio, Kiko Rustia and Jace Flores to commemorate the Grandparents’ day and promote seamless and holistic care for the elderly.

The Health Business Development (HBD) Partners Holdings Inc. founder and La Verna partner Dr. Hernando Delizo said, “La Verna Homes aims to provide continuous and integrated services that cater to the special needs of the aged.” La Verna Homes, added Dr. Delizo, will also function as the surrogate family of the elderly.

GMA-7’s Resident Psychologist and La Verna partner Dr. Samuel Ramos also noted that elder care is very necessary in the fast-paced environment of our country to sustain the quality of life among the members of the elder society. “I’m glad that celebrities also cherish their grandparents so much and aid our campaign to give the elderly a better senior life,” added Dr. Ramos in an interview during the event.

For more information you may visit www.lavernahomesph.com. La Verna Homes is located at 340 G. Ordoñez St., Marikina Heights, Marikina City.

‘Hancock’ premieres on HBO

Academy Award nominee Will Smith (“Seven Pounds”) stars in the action-packed “Hancock” as the titular Hancock, a sarcastic, hard-living and misunderstood superhero who has fallen out of favor with the public.

Edgy, conflicted, sarcastic, and misunderstood, Hancock’s well-intentioned heroics might get the job done and save countless lives, but always seem to leave jaw-dropping damage in their wake. The public has finally had enough – as grateful as they are to have their local hero, the good citizens of Los Angeles are wondering what they ever did to deserve this guy. Hancock isn’t the kind of man who cares what other people think – until the day that he saves the life of idealistic PR executive Ray Embrey, and the sardonic superhero begins to realize that he may have a vulnerable side after all.

Also starring Jason Bateman (Juno) as Ray Embrey, 2003 Academy Award® winner Charlize Theron (Aeon Flux) as Mary Embrey and Eddie Marsan (V for Vendetta) as Red Parker Jr., the film is directed by Peter Berg and produced by Akiva Goldman, James Lassetter, Michael Mann and Will Smith. “Hancock” brings punch into your screens as it premieres today, Sept. 20 at 9 p.m. on HBO, with encores on Thursday, Sept. 24 at 7 p.m., on Saturday, Sept. 26 at 11 p.m., and on Sunday, Sept. 27 at 11:30 a.m.