The forthcoming three weeks of “Ilumina,” GMA-7’s highly-acclaimed drama series, will keep viewers even more excited, as one exciting feature will unfold: The successful operation of twin sisters Romana (Rhian Ramos) and Krisanta (Jackie Rice). Both sisters were joined since birth, and the operation made them now truly on their own as separate individuals.

But like all twins, there will always be that difference between them: Romana is weak, while Krisanta is agile and can move faster. And they will even compete intensely against each other.

During a break at the taping of “Ilumina” at the Makati City Medical Center, Cesar Montano described how difficult it was to shoot an underwater scene because the water was murky. Cesar was undertaking a rescue scene, and the director had to do no less than 30 takes. The scenes must be repeated at several angles just to insure that there would be some clear scenes.

“When we previewed the scenes,” Cesar said, “I was surprised to see that all the takes were clear.”

He was not however spared from the itchiness left on him by some small jellyfish which rubbed themselves against his body. He had to wipe the affected areas with a hot face towel. Someone advised him to use vinegar, but he jokingly said that Sunshine might dip her sliced mangoes into the vinegar.

Cesar spoke of the other members of the cast as very easy to work with. “There was nothing tense, all were in an easy mood! I’m enjoying every aspect of the work!”

Cesar revealed that he will be the cover photo of the September issue of FHM. But he is fully attired surrounded by sexy girls. Cesar will also do a sitcom with GMA-7.

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Stars to grace ONE Naturales opening

A bevy of beautiful faces and bodies are set to brighten the store launch of ONE Naturales at Watsons in SM Makati on Thursday.

Miss Earth-Air 2009 Sandra Seifert and Miss Philippines Earth 2010 Kris Psyche Resus will be joined by celebrity hunks and fashion models Victor Basa, JC Tiuseco and top Brazilian model Fabio Ide as the new personal care and beauty line is officially launched at the international retail store’s branch in SM Makati.

ONE Naturales personal care and beauty line offers natural luxury at an affordable price. Its current offering includes body soaps, solid shampoos, moisturizers.

ONE stands for organic, natural and eco-friendly.

It is the brainchild of pharmacist-entrepreneur Charade Galang.

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Angelica Jones, adopted daughter of Sultanate of Sulu

Actress Angelica Jones Alarva, who has been elected board member of the 3rd District of the Province of Laguna, is also now Ambassador of Goodwill and an adopted daughter of the Sultanate of Sulu & Borneo.

During a recent presscon held at Kamay Kainan along West Ave., QC, the Sultan of Sulu himself, Sultan Esmail D. Kiram II announced Angelica’s appointment.

Now, the actress-politician could be likened to a princess with the trust and confidence accorded her by the Sultan of Sulu as Ambassador of Goodwill. Angelica takes her appointment with great responsiblity to help not only the people in Sulu and Northern Borneo but also the Muslims living in Laguna.

She recalled that she was still young when she was already appearing before the Senate to air her voice about the issues of women trafficking.

Aside from Ms. Alarva, also given recognition by the Sultanate of Sulu and Northern Borneo were Jestoni Alarcon and Bayani Agbayani.

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Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings on Aug. 19 go to Mother Lily Monteverde, Tonton Young, Nancy Harel, Condrado Estrella, Manuel Bediones, Celine Nene Africa, Maribel Lopez, Dulce Palma, AJ Sytangco, Dra. Liz Torres-Reyes, Manuel Ablan, Eunice Duque, Rey Panaligan, Atty. Mar Santiago, Lanie Q. Doliente, Elizabeth Diaz, Rommel Mendoza, Letlet Veloso, Lit del Rosario, Randy Ortiz, Magin Belarmino, Merlita V. Macahindog, John Lloyd M. Ensaga, Henry G. Babiera, Jereck of QTV, Manuel Canta Tanael of Anda Pangasinan, Taiwan-based Loida Lagana-Huang, Iwa Moto and Ella Guevarra...