MANILA, Philippines -- Versatile Lovi Poe seems destined to be the newest horror queen with the success of her starrer, “Aswang,” Regal Film’s latest offering which is now showing in local theaters.

With acclaimed director Jerrold Tarog, whose past works, including the thrillers “Confessional” and the “Funerarya” episode of “Shake, Rattle & Roll,” which all earned critical acclaim, “Aswang” is set to make a new trend in Philippine Cinema. Clearly, the Alma Moreno-Peque Gallaga classic, takes on a new dimension, with a new set of creatures called the “abuwaks,” clearly inspired by the monsters from “28 Days Later, “Resident Evil” or “30 Days of Night.”

Lovi plays Jasmine, a mysterious girl who is revealed to be an “abuwak.” She has accepted her fate but refuses to lead a life like an “abuwak,” which preys on human beings. Jasmine sees hope when she meets a human, Daniel (played by Paulo Avelino), whom she sees as her hope to escape from the world of the abuwaks.

The film also stars Jillian Ward and Albie Casiño as two children running away from a hitman (Marc Abaya), accidentally leading them to the paths of Jasmine and the “abuwaks.” Precious Lara Quigaman, Noni Buencamino, Nina Jose and Bembol Roco complete the cast.

The Circus is in town! 

The much-awaited annual Hair Asia presentation dubbed “Salon Spectacular” aims to be entirely different in its 2011 edition as the prestigious hair and make-up competition will be held against the backdrop of breathtaking entertainment.

Hair Asia promises there will be performances swinging from the rafters – literally!

Street magicians, human statues, stilt walkers and jugglers are just a few of the sights that will surprise event-goers as Hair Asia brings the carnivàle to the World Trade Center on Nov. 15.

Participants will compete in three categories – Ladies’ Haircut and Colour Design, Gents’ Haircut and Colour Design, and Progressive Evening Hairstyle and Makeup Design. This year’s grand prize is a round-trip ticket to Milan, Italy, site of the 2012 Hairworld Olympics.

For more details and inquiries, visit www.facebook.com/hairasia.

Maurer opens BonChon Phils.

BonChon Chicken, a favorite in the US, formally opened in the Philippines with Thai superstar Mario Maurer gracing the opening.

Maurer, popular for the teenage romantic flick “Crazy Little Thing Called Love,” flew into the country to sign a movie deal with Star Cinema (he will be paired with Erich Gonzales) and appear in a Fan Conference at the PICC with thousands of screaming fans in attendance.

He was greeted by BonChon executives and a flock of excited fans.

Bonchon is known worldwide for its addicting chicken – created from a secret recipe.

It is crispy, light, with hot juicy meat flavored with your choice of soy garlic or the hot and spicy glaze.

The Thai heartthrob tried out some of their delicious offerings such as fish tacos, bulgogi rice, chapchae (Korean noodles).

BonChon Chicken outlets are located at: Ayala Triangle Gardens, Greenbelt 1, Libis (Acropolis), SM Megamall, Robinsons Galleria, Greenhills Promenade, Katipunan, Shangri-La Plaza, Taft Avenue, Tomas Morato (Il Terrazzo).

• • •

Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, Nov. 6, go to noted PR people Rene Nieva, Edd Fuentes and Joy Buensalido, Doña Rufina R. Saldaña who turns 92, Leonarda Camacho, Letty Caparros, Clara Francesca Tagasa, Dr. Raul Guanzon, Michael Bermundo, Meldy Tuazon-Robiano, Manu H. Pili, Bong Obligacion, MB’s Pinky C. Colminares, Gee-Ann Abraham and Shaina Magdayao of Star Magic and Jolina Magdangal… The generosity of the family of Vice Pres. Jejomar Binay, especially Rep. Abigail Binay and Mayor Jun-Jun Binay, was again shown when they shouldered the burial expenses of Angel Villanueva. The deceased was the daughter of Bench Fairview top hairstylist Aaron Villanueva and wife Mia. Help was also extended by Vice Mayor Kit Pena, Lailanie Azparo, Ron-Ron Abad, Councilor Magpantay, Roger Cardinal, Ricasio Rodriguez and officials of South Cembo, Makati…