MANILA, Philippines — When she was launched as the new endorser of YSA Botanica 2-in-1 Papaya with Kojic Acid, Alex Gonzaga impressed the press with her flawless skin and her candid answers. For instance, she said that between her and sister Toni there is no sibling rivalry. “Wala sa amin yang inggitan or competition; actually, we support each other.”

Alex, who used to be with ABS-CBN, is now with TV5 while Toni remains a kapamilya. Alex is one of the hosts of “Juicy Express” and also in the cast of “Lokomoko U.” Her other shows with the Kapatid Network include “Babaeng Hampaslupa,” “Big Shot Jackpot,” “Hey, It’s Saberdey!” “PS I Love You” and Regal Shocker “Piano.” She has also signed up a four-picture contract with Viva Films. Born Catherine Cruz Gonzaga, Alex was also known as Cathy Gonzaga when she first joined showbiz.

Alex said she is happy and honored to be the endorser of YSA Botanica 2-in-1 Papaya with Kojic Acid, a skin whitening line. “I’m happy to be promoting the product for three reasons: Because it uses natural ingredients which I always prefer because I try to avoid products with too much chemicals. Also, because it’s made by YSA which has a reputation for quality because it is headed by Dr. Isabel Lopez-Nazal, of the well-known dermatologists in the country. And thirdly, because the product really works!”

YSA Botanica 2-in-1 Papaya with Kojic Acid is a available at all Watsons outlets.

Ballet Manila’s ‘Kutitap’ at Aliw 

Star City is treating park goers to free performances of Ballet Manila’s “Kutitap” – an all-Filipino Christmas ballet that promises holiday cheers to the whole family. “Kutitap” will be shown at the Aliw Theatre for the entire holiday season.

Led by artistic director Lisa Macuja-Elizalde, the half-hour program features the entire company of Ballet Manila recreating scenes that spell Christmas to the Filipino people – from Simbang Gabi to Noche Buena.

“Kutitap” is a joint choreographic work by Lisa Macuja-Elizalde, Osias Barroso, Rudy de Dios, Gerardo Francisco, Nino Guevarra, Michael Divinagracia, Ricardo Mallari, Romeo Peralta and Roduardo Ma.

“Kutitap” premiered onstage at Aliw Theatre, Dec. 18. It will have performances today, Dec. 26 till Dec. 30, at 7:30 p.m., and on Jan. 1 at 5 and 8 p.m.

• • •

Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, Dec. 26, go to Hajji Alejandro, former QC Vice Mayor Steve Sarino, director Edd Palmos, Darling Cruz, Romy Magat, Wilma Yamzon, Apple Cruz, EG Shane Malicdem, Magdalena “Nena” Guevara, Cely Gantner, Ma. Victoria Estrella, Ed Gonzalez, Mithusela Ginez of Asingan, Pangasinan, and Jennica Garcia...