Nathan Studios Inc. Signs Dance Phenom ICE ALMERIA and Cast of "I'M PERFECT!"

I was busy writing a few things on my phone preparing for this fun event as Nathan Studios will be signing dance phenom Ice Almeria and the cast of successful MMFF 2025 picture I'm Perfect. I was oblivious about what was happening since it was still early until I got hugged from behind by Javi Sarmiento. He greeted me with such excitement and LOVE while telling me a simple hello, something that I've never experienced before starting an interview. 

That's how they are, very pure, no sugarcoating, and it surprises me every instance I get to meet them. Today marks a special day for them because they'll be officially signed with Nathan Studios, who's going to manage their career from hereon.

First is Ice Almeria, winner of Nathan Studios very own Time to Dance show on ABSCBN. He's a very spirited chap, a decorated dancer and choreographer. He's also good looking and surely, he's got a lot of opportunities coming soon. He's appeared in several shows including ASAP on weekends. Soon, he's probably going to be an actor, and I can't wait to see that happen. After officially signing with Nathan Studios Artist Management, he's going to be co managed with Star Magic, one of the biggest artist management agencies in the country.  

Then after that, they also got to sign the I'm Perfect cast Bea Mendoza, Richelle Uy, Royce Rivera, Gio Dicen, Jonathan Tilos, Javi Sarmiento, Direk Carl Garcia, Earl Amaba and current MMFF 2025 Best Actress Krystel Go.

 

Ms. Sylvia Sanchez says they are her angels, here's what she said after the event:

She also thanked the artists for putting their trust in them. She emphasized that this isn't just a contract signing event but more of making their dreams come true. They'll be doing it TOGETHER. She realized that there is no limit in talent when it comes to them, and now they've got the chance to show it to the world as persons with down syndrome. They've got skills, creativity, and authenticity which is hard to find because it's something that comes from the heart. She's seen their potential even before casting them in MMFF 2025 film I'm Perfect. They also made history with Krystel Go winning Best Actress and Best Ensemble for the cast. She reiterates how much she believes in them, and so did their parents/guardians. She also expresses her excitement to watch Ice Almeria grow, guiding his career will also be their priority. 

Together, they will reach their dreams soon! Congratulations!

Fueling the Driven Professional

It takes a lot of effort to power an individual throughout the day, especially for young professionals like us who need to fuel ourselves first before going out and facing life's challenges, work included.

Surely, one can't go out with an empty stomach and expect things to happen. You need something to eat, and make that a balanced one because it is possible. You just need to strike a balance between needs and wants, especially if you're just starting your day. 

I know not everyone has time to cook, but you need a proper meal. Folks often neglect this but proper nutrition starts there. If you deem the usual rice and viand a bit heavy or don't have time preparing that, you can have yogurt instead. In the Philippines, Nestle Yogurt is easily accessible. It's low in fat, has got vitamins and is best for gut health. Those cups have live active cultures on them and are really rich in protein, calcium and more. For those who fancy overnight oats, or love smoothies, mix the Greek yogurt with fresh fruits and it's gonna be an awesome morning. You can also whip up greens with it like kale or spinach, together with almond milk, bananas or fresh berries. Use a huge thermal bottle to bring it to work. No worries about being late for your first meeting as you can consume this while in transit. 

A sharp mind is a lethal weapon. A professional needs to be on top of his game. You may utilize things like the Pomodoro technique to manage time. That and a cup of Nestle Heavenly Mango or Sensational Strawberry Yogurt to make that morning office rush easy. You'll probably close your eyes in every spoonful, and I won't judge you for that. Quick, fast, nutritious and easy. May I have another cup please!?

BINI JHOANNA Set To Appear in PUREGOLD Series

Looks like they're not stopping anytime soon as the folks from Puregold start grinding the cinematic world with stories of special folks, of Filipino Sari-Sari Stories, one of which will be graced by the lovely BINI JHOANNA who'll play a cameo role on a short film entitled "The Witness", much to the delight of blooms around the world!

For those who don't know, it could be any genre but the one Jhoanna will be in talks of love, community and how the person inside the store would see while manning the store. They've done similar things in the past including "Ways" by SB19's Stell where hot rapper Skusta Klee also maze an impression. It will be a good place to connect with family and friends, See, we're all connected in some way so this project is just serendipity. 

Jhoanna says "People would be able to connect especially for entrepreneurs who are just starting. The film also showcases how we shouldn't fail to appreciate small businesses like Sari-Sari Stores around the country. It's an integral par of Aling Puring's movement, which is very Filipino, no matter how you put it. It's one of the reasons why there are stores nearby, always."

Ms. Ivy Hayagan Piedad reiterates why Puregold has been doing this for years because they are allies of entrepreneurs. These stories for them are not just there to promote but be a tool for them to learn a thing or two.

If that's not enough, you can still subscribe to The Puregold Channel's Youtube account or on other channels like IG, x Or FB because information about this will all be there.

MiVida Productions Set To Release BATANG PACO on Feb 18

This might be a gamble, but it surely looks promising as love will take center stage in this romcom action flick called "BATANG PACO". The film stars Empoy Marquez, Concert Comedy Queen Aiai Delas Alas and a throng of up and coming artists in this colorful ensemble. This is the first MiVida Productions film and they're putting their best foot forward in this story that delves on love and how it can make you change in the eyes of others.

Empoy plays Paco, a tattoo artist who got pushed to his limits, and had to take action when loved ones were at stake. His toughness will show, be vulnerable, but will also show heart. 

He says "Actually it was Coco who wrote this (he kids). The action scenes here are serious and you can compare it to the show. The one who will judge it will be the viewers, if asked who among us is better, it's Mon Confiado. This film is all about love, you can date your family, loved ones, single parents. I have a say in this film because I'm part of the utility men. Take no rice but quinoa, 3 for 100 in Baliwag Bulacan. In this film, I am portraying someone dumb, but has a heart. I hope you will watch this!"

Ms. Aiai says "Working here made me forget a lot of things, I did Zumba, workouts, and told myself to join contests too. Batang Paco and a few movies took my mind off things, I've been very busy, and also travel. I love Chichi (one of the cast), we're both feisty in real life!"

Here's the press conference on video, including our interview with Kim Rodriguez whom I haven't seen for a long time!

Batang Paco is based on the writer's sister, a little slow learner. She had a son who then became a genius, sometimes they don't connect, but later on becomes besties. She is also a big fan of Coco Martin, and they also grew up on Paco Manila. It will have social relevance.

Actors Mon Confiado, Ynez Veneracion, Chichi Rita, Cassy Lavarias, Richard Quan, Alma Concepcion, Lara Morena, Natasha Ledesma, Gerard Acao, Kookoo Gonzales, Jovi Vargas, Quentin Molo and the lovely Kim Rodriguez become part of the story. This is directed by Rechie del Carmen and written by the prolific Gina Marissa Tagasa. MiVida Productions is owned by Ms. Ana Abiera Del Moral and promises a well thought out film to be enjoyed by many. This is an ode to parents, and love for family. It's going to be out on February 18th, a few days after Valentines day!