MANILA, Philippines — Last year ETC made the big switch from cable to free television. The move solidified its place as one of the leading female channels in the country.

ETC’s Match Airing campaign has allowed viewers to enjoy the latest episodes of hit shows days after their initial US airing.

ETC brings the juggernaut singing reality competition, “American Idol Season 11” this Jan. 19 via satellite at 6 p.m. Featuring host Ryan Seacrest and returning judges Randy Jackson, Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler, catch all the talent, laughs, tears and drama “American Idol” has to offer every Thursday and Friday on ETC.

“Project Runway Philippines” with new host Tweetie De Leon, and returning mentor Jojie Loren and judges Rajo Laurel and Apples Aberin, pilots in March while “Etcetera” is back for another season with hosts Patti Grandidge and on-the-screen reporter Kim Jones.

All-time favorites like “America’s Next Top Model Cycle 18,” “Project Runway Season 7,” “The Rachel Zoe Project Season 4,” “The Millionaire Matchmaker” and “The Bachelor” will make their comeback. While new shows such as “The World According to Paris,” “Mad Fashion” and “The Bachelorette Party Las Vegas” will premiere for the first time in the country.

ETC is seen on free TV on RPN 9. Follow us on Facebook or Twitter or log on to www.etc.com.ph.

‘Rom-Com’ special

A three-act musical, “Rom-Com” (a Romantic Comedy Special), scheduled on Jan. 27 at the Music Museum, will feature music and comedy from Jon Santos and The CompanY.

Jon Santos said that the First Act of the show is inspired by old Hollywood productions as early as the 1920s.

Act II features the Pinoy “wild kalokohan,” according to Jon. It’s a reinvention of Filipino novelty hits – like those of Yoyoy Villame’s.

Act III will feature The CompanY which has been performing on stage for the last 26 years!

Why romantic comedy? Because romantic comedies appeal to a wider audience because of their lighthearted, feel good and anything-goes approach to a fairy tale ending.

Members of The CompanY are Annie Quintos, Jay Marquez, Cecile Bautista, and Moy Ortiz Sweet Plantado.

Celebrate ‘Happiness,’ ‘Prosperity’ at Midas

Midas Hotel offers Oriental treats in welcoming the Lunar Year of the Dragon.

Enjoy the lucky occasion on the comfort of “Happiness” deluxe room (P5,888) or upgrade to “Prosperity” deluxe room (P7,888) with a choice of lunch or dinner buffet for two. The price includes a buffet breakfast for two, a complimentary shuttle service to nearby mall. Promo covers the whole month of January.

Chinese lunch and dinner buffet is priced at only P1,900 from Jan. 21-23, prior reservations required. Indulge in a card and palm reading session on Jan. 23 from 12 nn. to 5 p.m.

Midas Hotel & Casino is managed by Genesis Hotels & Resorts. For inquiries and reservations, visit midashotelandcasino.com and genesishotels.com.

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Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, Jan. 20, go to actor/director Eric Quizon, Ric Puno Jr., Atty. Koko Pimentel, Tonypet Araneta, Roxanne Barcelo, Angelica Jones, Michelle Ann Arciaga, Orlando Bustos Jr., Jeremie N. Matias, Fabian de Leon, Melanie Rebucan, Isabel Pastor, Maria Theresa H. Ignacio, Joli Mae F. Ronquillo, and Juddha Paolo of Star Circle Batch 11… Happy wedding anniversary to Amb. Felimon and Anita Cuevas…