Marian Rivera and Heart Evangelista

MANILA, Philippines -- The alleged rift between Marian Rivera and Heart Evangelista has been in the news since the June 23 press conference for their movie “Temptation Island.” Marian got emotional when asked about what really happened at the airport that necessitated Heart’s mother to confront the “Amaya” actress with security escorts.

Marian said she knew nothing that could have angered Heart, saying “I thought we were friends so hindi ko talaga alam... magtanong na lang kayo sa ibang stars, mga staff and crew na nandun [about what really happened],” Marian then succumbed to tears.

In connection with this incident, here is the official statement of GMA Films and Regal Entertainment, co-producers of the movie remake of Joey Gosiengfiao’s movie:

“GMA Films and Regal Entertainment acknowledge that there was a recent incident involving Marian Rivera and Heart Evangelista that happened during the shooting of ‘Temptation Island’ in Laoag, Ilocos Norte. This unfortunate matter caused stress to both Marian and Heart and Heart made this known to her parents.

“However, the production team intervened and was able to handle the situation. Both Marian and Heart tried to put the issue behind them.

“The producers would like to assure the fans that this minor incident did not in any way affect the shooting of ‘Temptation Island’ and also request all their supporters and followers to put a closure to this episode.

“We are excited for the showing of the movie and we encourage all the fans and moviegoers to watch the film on July 6.”

“Temptation Island” also stars Rufa Mae Quinto, Lovi Poe, Solenn Heussaff, John Lapus, Aljur Abrenica, Tom Rodriquez, Mikael Daez and Dennis Trillo.

The movie is directed by Chris Martinez who John Lapus described as “a genius” and an actor’s director. Chris, who also directed a few indie movies (among them the acclaimed “100”), was a Palanca award winner who directs commercials.

Marian said she saw the movie before they started shooting. “My manager Popoy (Caritativo) gave me a copy of the original. I play the role played by Azenith Briones.”

Heart, on the other hand, reprises the virginal character Virginia, originally portrayed by Dina Bonnevie. Rufa Mae said, “Kakaiba talaga ang role ko dito. May konting pressure siyempre,” as nanny named Nympha, first played by Deborah Sun.

Lovi Poe plays the role of Serafina, a rich socialite played in the original movie by beauty queen Jennifer Cortez, while model-turned actress Solenn Heussaff plays the character Pura, the social climber originally played by Bambi Arambulo.

The Library marks 26th year

Comedy restobar in Malate The Library started celebrating its 26th anniversary last June 21 with the theme “The Library Goes Versus: Grand Celebration with the Stars.”

On that day, the winners and title-holders among the current crop of stand-up performers competed with one another for the battle royale of the “Best of the Best” awards. The Library handed out a total of 15 most coveted awards like “Entertainer of the Year,” “Show of the Year,” etc.

Highlights of the annual event include the selection of “Star of the Night,” “Hall of Fame,” “Golden Book Award,” “Rain or Shine Award” to the most loyal customer, and “Change Your Repertoire Award.” A posthumous “Legacy Award” was presented to the family of departed TV comedian Tomas Gonzales.

Time Magazine Asia profiled The Library as one of the best entertainment venues to visit in Manila. Proprietor Andrew de Real envisioned it as haven for people with love for music, comedy, clean fun.

The Library jumpstarted the careers of Ai Ai de las Alas, Arnel Ignacio, Allan K, John “Sweet” Lapus, Pooh, Teri Onor, Phillip Lazaro, Beverly Salviejo, Lenard Obal, May Bayot, Wally Bayola, among others.

• • •

Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings for Monday, June 27, go to former Sen. Helena Benitez, socialite Ms. Zeny Cabral, Dr. Amelia Jarin, Chief Inspector Francisco F. Bautista, Ms. Chit Dee, Olive Hiyas, Fr. Louise Lester Neiz of Missionaries of Mary, Ma. Lourdes R. Valdez, Chit Estrada, Nora Alapan, US-based Princess Dheimee Lagana, Joey Liongco, Johanna Lim, and Aby Acosta… Happy wedding anniversary to Bejamin and Racquel Lacaden… Belated b-day greetings to Marbee Shing Go (June 24)…