From left: Arnold Vegafria, Kris and Miguel’s manager; Kris Lawrence; Miguel Escueta; Darling de Jesus, GMA-7 AVP for Magazine/Musical/Variety; and Rams David, GMA-7 Program Unit Manager.

“Star in a Million Season 2” Grand Winner Kris Lawrence and alternative rock artist Miguel Escueta recently signed up with GMA-7.

The two artists will be regular mainstays of the GMA-7 Sunday noontime show, “S.O.P.  Fully Charged.”

Known for his monster hits “Kung Malaya Lang Ako” and his rendition of “When I See You Smile,” Kris released his “Moments of Love” CD last year. It contains the carrier single “Careless Whisper” as well as the radio-friendly “I Will Take You Forever,” a duet with Denise Laurel.

A staunch advocate of original rock/alternative music, Miguel launched his “Sleeping While The World’s Awake” EP late last year. A prominent player in Manila’s underground rock circuit, he bagged the Best Alternative Solo Artist award at the 1st Philippine Radio Music Awards.

Kris and Miguel are managed by ALV Talent Circuit, and are also contract artists of MCA Music.

Paolo Bediones hosts ‘Pagbabago 2010’

Premier TV host Paolo Bediones will get a taste of an intensified anchoring job in the live presidential debate “Pagbabago 2010: The TV5 and PPCRV Presidential Forum,” which will be held at the Miriam College Auditorium on Sunday, Feb. 7 and will be telecast on TV5 at 9:30 p.m.

Organized by the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV), in cooperation with TV5 News and Public Affairs, “Pagbabago 2010” will be Bediones’ first hosting assignment in his new home network. He and co-host Anna de Villa-Singson will moderate an intelligent debate among all 10 presidential aspirants to draw out specific leadership ideas and political platforms from each candidate. “That part of the job appeals to me. I’ve always enjoyed debating and discussing even in my previous job,” Bediones related when asked how he felt about his new hosting challenge.

“Pagbabago 2010” is a rare opportunity for the public to see Sen. Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III, Vitaliano Acosta, Councilor JC de los Reyes, former President Joseph Estrada, Sen. Richard Gordon, Sen. Jamby Madrigal, Nick Perlas, Gilbert “Gibo” Teodoro, Bro. Eddie Villanueva, and Sen. Manny Villar convene for an intense face-to-face debate which could gain or lose votes for their presidential bids.

Kate Hudson sings in ‘Nine’ soundtrack

MCA Music will release in the Philippines the all-star original motion picture soundtrack cast album for the musical “Nine.” The Ron Fair remix of “Cinema Italiano” sung by Oscar-nominee Kate Hudson marks the actress’ debut as a recording artist. The song is one of Yeston’s exclusive new compositions for the film.

This film adaptation of the Tony-winning musical “Nine” was directed by Rob Marshall (Chicago) and features an all-star cast led by Academy Award winners Daniel Day-Lewis, Penelope Cruz, Nicole Kidman, and Sophia Loren. “Nine” tells the story of a famous filmmaker (Day-Lewis) and the nine women who play pivotal roles in his life. The soundtrack includes songs sung by A-listers, including Cruz, Loren, Kidman, and Fergie.

“Nine” was written for the screen by Michael Tolkin and Anthony Minghella. The movie is based on the original stage play with music and lyrics by Maury Yeston.
 
February shows on SKYCABLE HD

This February, catch clear-as-real entertainment only on SKYCABLE HD as it serves up new shows that stimulate your intellect, emotions, and funny bone. The well-loved Nicholas Sparks novel comes to life in clear detail on HBO HD (channel 166), featuring Diane Lane and Richard Gere as unexpected lovers on “Nights in Rodanthe” on Sunday, Feb. 7 at 9 p.m.

The following week on HBO HD, Feb. 14 at 9 p.m., “Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa” brings on the laughter when the zoo animals find themselves in Africa, suddenly encountering species of their own kind for the very first time.

Come Feb. 20 at 9 p.m., discover the real-life drama aboard the flagship USS Constellation voyage. In vivid HD detail, the show captures the gritty stories of ship’s fleet as they attempt to stop the African slave trade during the 1850s. Also catch the delightful premiere of “The House Bunny” on HBO HD this Feb. 21 at 9 p.m.

Don’t miss Anne Hathaway’s Academy Award-nominated portrayal of an estranged daughter whose return home throws a wrench into the family’s precarious social dynamics as the critically acclaimed drama “Rachel Getting Married” premieres in cinematic HD quality on HBO HD, Feb. 28 at 9 p.m.

Immerse in experimental archaeology with “Surviving History,” airing Wednesdays at 9 p.m. on History Channel HD (165). On Thursday nights, roll up the sleeves and get rough with the “Ax Men” as they unfold the fusion of ancient tradition and modern technology in today’s lumber industry.