Kapuso star Dingdong Dantes led the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) 2012 awardees during the appreciation dinner tendered by the 2012 MMFF Executive Committee at H2O Hotel at the Manila Ocean Park. The annual event also served as the official launch of MMFF 2013.

Dingdong personally received his cash prize as Best Actor (for the movie “One More Try”) from MMFF Executive Committee Chairman Francis Tolentino. A very pregnant Wilma Doesnt also attended to receive her cash prize as Best Supporting Actress (“Sisterakas”). Brillante Ma. Mendoza, Best Director (“Thy Womb”) was likewise present. Ms. Nora Aunor, Best Actress (“The Womb”) was unable to attend.

In his welcome speech, Chairman Tolentino stressed the need to look back on the history of the MMFF and to cherish it as the annual December film festival keeps moving forward. As the appreciation dinner coincided with the celebration of the EDSA Revolution anniversary, Chairman Tolentino remarked how both the MMFF and the EDSA Revolution were possible “through a collective effort towards one goal,” and how MMFF strives for the continued prosper of Philippine Cinema.

Among the highlights of the evening’s program, hosted by Ms. Boots Anson-Roa, executive director of Mowelfund, was Chairman Tolentino’s announcement of the creation of the MMFF New Wave Animation Category this year. “With the growing talent pool of animators both locally and abroad, it is high time that we recognize and showcase their potential to a broader audience,” he explained. Chairman Tolentino also announced the creation of the MMFF Review Committee which will assess and improve the rules, regulations and implementing programs of the MMFF.

Now on its 39th year, MMFF has been an annual showcase of Filipino movies. Last year’s festival grossed all-time high P767-million in the box office with the official entries “Sisterakas,” “El Presidente,” “Thy Womb,” “The Strangers,” “One More Try,” “Si Agimat, Si Enteng Kabisote at si Ako,” “Sosy Problems,” and “Shake, Rattle and Roll 14: The Invasion.”

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Daiana Menezes For Lady Grace

A grand launch was recently accorded Brazilian model-turned-showbiz personality Daiana Menezes for being chosen Lady Grace ambassadress. Highlight of the launch, held at Luxent Hotel along Timog Ave., Quezon City, was a mini-ramp show featuring lovely Brazilian models in sexy Lady Grace shape wears. Daiana of course was the star of the show.

Daiana, with her svelte and enviable figure, embodies what Lady Grace Intimates wishes to accomplish instantly – a slimmer, sexier and more shapely you! She expressed that she is so happy and proud to be part of Lady Grace family. “It’s not only the money but I’m really impressed with the quality of Lady Grace underwears which are affordable and sexy to wear under your favorite clothing no matter what your body shape.”

Lady Grace was started by Mrs. Andrea Exconde in 1958 with just one sewing machine. Now the family business has grown and they have at least 300 employees. Lady Grace Intimates are available at SM Department Stores nationwide, and also at CSI, Cash & Carry, Crossings and Gaisano malls.

Going back to Daiana, she revealed that she has a happy lovelife with her politician-boyfriend but they’re not in a hurry to get married, she stressed. But when that comes, she sees herself still working. She’s had stints in hosting (for both “Unang Hirit” and “Umagang Kay Ganda”) but she also has embarked in an acting career. She’s currently working on a movie titled “Sketch.”

Daiana will also be launching soon a travel show on ABS-CBN and ANC.

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Anne Curtis’ No Other Love

In a flirty fashion, Anne Curtis revealed recently in a TV commercial her faithfulness to her “one true love” which is making her truly happy these days – Century Tuna. The country’s leading and most trusted tuna brand, starts the year with the launch of its newest campaign endorser Anne Curtis in a TVC titled “No Other Tuna.”

The TVC ends with Anne flaunting her healthy and gorgeous figure which she maintains by enjoying her favorite Century Tuna: “For me, there’s no other tuna.”

Very pleased with the TVC, Century Tuna officials have nothing but good words for the actress. “We are delighted to work with Anne again for Century Tuna’s new campaign. Not only does she have a great personality, she also has a fit and healthy body that everyone aspires to have and that Century Tuna also promotes. And for us, that is why Anne is the ultimate Superbod,” said Greg Banzon, vice president and general manager of Century Canning Corp.

A self-confessed Century Tuna fan for many years now, Annie said she feels very privileged to be part of the Century Tuna family again. “It’s always a pleasure to represent a product that you truly believe in... I also feel very honored to be given the opportunity to bring the message of health and fitness to more people through Century Tuna.”

Century Tuna’s “No Other Tuna” TVC is a collaboration work between Film Armada and PC&V Communications.

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Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, March 4, go to Dawn Zulueta, Carol Banawa, Ella Reyes-Choy, Wilma Redler, Joanne Ramirez, Krystle Yambot, David S. Flores, Joan Camille Tisoy, Hattie H. Pili, Ruby Co, Ptra. Perla Lumbao, Chicago-based Gerry Crisostomo, Judith A. Los Baños and congressional spouse Sandra Estrella…