The 1st MTRCB (Movie and Television Review and Classification Board) TV Awards, spearheaded by Chairperson Ma. Consoliza Laguardia, will be held tonight at the Cinema 5, Gateway, Araneta Center.

The nine categories and the respective nominees/programs are: News, “TV Patrol,” April 26, 2009 episode (ABS-CBN), “Balitanghali,” “Hagupit ni Bagyong Frank” (QTV 11); and “News Central,” Dec. 2, 2008 episode (Studio 23); Public Affairs Show: “Rated K,” “Pamilya” (ABS-CBN), “I-Witness,” “Ambulansyang de Paa” (GMA-7), “Reunions” (QTV 11), and “Y Speak,” “Estudyanteng 3rd World (Studio 23); Educational Show: “Sineskuela,” “Global Warming” episode (ABS-CBN); “Ka-Blog,” Feb. 7, 2009 episode (GMA-7); and “Go Negosyo, Kaya Mo” (QTV 11);

Children’s Show: “Art Angel,” Mother’s Day Special (GMA-7); “Kids on Q,” “Missy, Mistress of the Sea” (QTV 11); “Moments” (Net 25), and “Mustard TV” (ABC 5); Reality Show: “Dare Duo” Episode 4, “Volunteerism” (QTV 11), “I Survived” Episode 3 (ABS-CBN); “Pinoy Records,” Episode 5 (GMA-7); Comedy Show: “WOW Mali” (ABC 5); and “Bubble Gang” Dec. 5, 2008 episode (GMA-7);

Talent Show: “Talentadong Pinoy” (ABC 5), and “Shall We Dance?” (ABC 5); Drama Special: “Obra” “Butch” episode (GMA-7); “Maalaala Mo Kaya,” “Transistor” episode (ABS-CBN); Teleserye: “Kahit Isang Saglit,” whole season (ABS-CBN); and “Dyesebel,” whole season (GMA-7).

According to Chairperson Laguardia, there will also be special and individual awards: MTRCB Lifetime Achievement Award, Special Award for Promoting Nation-Building, Special Award for Promoting Family Values and Solidarity; Special Award for Promoting Moral Values; Special Award for Promoting Education for the Marginalized; Best Male Host, Best Female Host, Best Actor, and Best Actress.

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Top officials, celebrities in Bro. Mike’s 70th b-day

The recent 70th birthday celebration of El Shaddai leader Bro. Mike Velarde was expectedly attended by top officials of the land, celebrities and prominent personages. Leading Bro. Mike’s wellwishers was no less than Pres. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.

The momentous occasion coincided with the 25th anniversary of the El Shaddai Movement and the inauguration of the newly constructed El Shaddai International House of Prayer and the College of Divine Wisdom at Amvel City Business Park in San Dionisio, Parañaque City.

The ribbon-cutting and unveiling of the Covenant Corner Stone was done by President Arroyo, assisted by Bro. Mike and his wife Belen Velarde. The Eucharistic Concelebration and blessing were officiated by Arch. Angel Lagdameo, DD; Bishop Deogracias Ybguez, DD; and another bishop.

During the communion, young and impressive classical singer Kris John Paul Gonzales sang “Ave Maria.” During the reception, Ms. Verni Varga, Ricky Davao, Lionel Guico, Dongi Ong and Noel Gonzales (president of Muebles Italiano who provided the chandeliers) serenaded the birthday celebrator with beautiful songs.

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New, improved Black Pearl Band

Their success story is unique. Before establishing their niche in the music industry, The Black Pearl Band first forayed into the foreign music scene as traveling performing artists in different Asian countries and the US (Guam in particular). And it’s interesting to note that at first, each member had no actual experience in music. But when they each trained in their respective instruments, the result was amazing: They became a hit act overseas.

It has been seven years since band manager Lulu Carpio put up Black Pearl and during those times, the band cemented their reputation as one of the most talented and promising in their league. They started performing in various local clubs first and because of their highly entertaining repertoire, eventually became sought-after performers abroad.

Black Pearl has indeed come a long way. Aside from their international bookings, they have also released an album which showcased their A-1 musicality. They have been featured too in numerous write-ups that highlight their incomparable musical style. Over the years, they remained as one of the most versatile bands in the country.

But just like any other band, Black Pearl also loses some of its members from time to time. Originally comprised of six members, some of them left for personal reasons. But this doesn’t dampen the spirit of Lulu. Instead, she considers this an opportunity to discover fresh talents who could go big with the band.

In this light, Black Pearl has undergone some revamps and introduced a new and improved line-up of members. They kicked off this year with SRO gigs in Calle 5 Mabini, couple of months in Baguio Country Sounds in Baguio City.

With their continued success, there is no doubt that Black Pearl is here to stay and will continue entertaining the public with their music.

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Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings on Sept. 4 go to Mrs. Amelia Juico Gordon, Rizalino Fraga, Ericson “Padz” Puduit, Armanda E. Layug, Ashley Pauline S. Gatdula, Marilyn Legaspi, and Liza Margarette B. Lumauig.