In a press conference held last Monday (Aug. 9), Willie Revillame announced that he was rescinding his contract with his home studio, ABS-CBN, after giving it much thought and prayer and upon the advice of his legal counsel.

With his announcement came detailed information about what has transpired between him and Kapamilya executives in the last three months, and especially the “treatment” he received from them. His statement validated the rumors that surfaced even before July 31, the day his popular program “Wowowee” was cancelled and replaced, that he was no longer coming back and that he was to be replaced as main host of the show if ever it would still continue.

Willie’s statement validated rumors saying he was suspended for three months – without pay! But he was told that he and ABS-CBN management will talk again after three months when they shall discuss and agree on what to do in connection with “Wowowee” and his engagement as host.

During several meetings with ABS-CBN execs like Ms. Charo Santos-Concio and Ms. Linggit Tan, Willie was told that he was to return to “Wowowee” on July 31, and understandably excited, Willie gave some inputs and suggestions, and later called his staff and informed them of the much welcomed development. They discussed new games and new segments to improve the show.

He was shocked when on July 20, Ms. Tan asked him for a meeting and told him that he will no longer be returning to “Wowowee.” On July 26, Willie received a letter from her informing him that “Wowowee” has been cancelled, and that they are offering him as replacement, a weekly program, not live but taped. Something Willie rejected.

In his statement, Willie said: “‘Wowowee’ has become the core of my existence. It has given me a sense of purpose in life because I was able to reach out to people from all walks of life. These people have become my constituents.’’

“If I made a mistake, I think it is loving ‘Wowowee’ too much and making it my life. Thus when it was cancelled, as if my life was consumed as well. I see no reason why I should still continue with my contract with ABS-CBN…”

As expected, many were saddened with the demise of their favorite noontime program. One elderly we talked to recently, a widow named Felipa Somera, expressed sadness that the show had been cancelled without her having the chance to meet her idol, Willie to ask his help for her medical expenses. “Siguro kung nakapunta ako sa ‘Wowowee’ at nakilala ko siya natulungan niya ako sa kalagayan ko.”

Some friends and relatives in Hawaii and New York emailed us to say the reason they are always excited to come home for vacations is the chance to visit “Wowowee.” “Ngayon na wala na siya at ang show niya, wala na kaming gana umuwi…”

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‘Iluminina’ makes impressive premier

GMA Network’s newest telefantasya, “Ilumina,” has made an impressive feat when it posted high ratings on its pilot telecast last Monday, August 2.

Featuring a powerhouse cast composed of the industry’s multi-awarded artists and today’s in-demand Kapuso stars, “Ilumina” registered on its first episode a notable people rating of 14.9 percent with an audience share of 40.7 percent based on the overnight data provided by Nielsen TV Audience Measurement Inc.

“Ilumina” is an original concept of GMA Network with seasoned telefantasya director Mark Reyes at the helm. The pilot episode last Monday opened with a remarkable and intriguing clash between the formerly conjoined twins Romana (Rhian Ramos) and Krisanta (Jackie Rice) powered with stunning visual effects.

The star-studded cast of “Ilumina” includes King of Philippine Drama Christopher de Leon, multi-awarded actress Jean Garcia, award-winning actress Ara Mina, and featuring the return of the internationally-acclaimed actor Cesar Montano to GMA Network together with Kapuso primetime stars Rhian Ramos, Aljur Abrenica and Jackie Rice.

The premiere unveiled the legendary tale of the white and black sorcerers and the source of their endless struggle – Ilumina, the Book of Magic – which according to legend provides enormous power whoever possesses it.

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Pop Girls endorses Beauty and Butter

Beauty & Butter, a one-stop shop for all beauty needs that the youth and the young at heart of today need, now has three branches: Its flagship branch at the 5th floor of SM Megamall Atrium and the two others at Mall of Asia’s Entertainment Wing and at SM San Lazaro.

Beauty & Butter is endorsed by the Pop Girls, the young and lovely group under the wings of Boss Vic del Rosario and choreographer Geleen Eugenio.

At the helm of Beauty & Butter is Mikael Coyiuto.

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Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, Aug. 12, go to actor Aga Muhlach, Marian Rivera, Gloria Ignacio, Tessie Rosales, Nemia Bonoan, Roberto Lim Zamora, Annie Gaw, Ramon Zaragoza, Nemia Ocampo, Atty. Tito Castañeda, Bhem Rosas, Edwadine Hartmann, Pinky David, and Yolanda Federigan…