Cinema One, the no. 1 cable TV channel in the Philippines, will once again present the “Cinema One’s Top 10 F.I.E People of 2011,” a special hosted by no less than the king of talk, Boy Abunda.
F.I.E. stands for “Fascinating, Interesting and Exciting,” which describes the prominent Filipino personalities who made it to the coveted list of Cinema One. Carefully strained from a bevy of names who made a mark in the field they’re known for, these luminaries are an exciting mix of celebrities, sportsmen, media, politicians, businessmen and people in the arts and culture. Some are distinct achievers, but some are just newsmakers. Some set new standards of being an achiever while inspiring others.
Topping this year’s list is the country’s hailed “Superstar” Nora Aunor, who recently had a red carpet comeback. After bearing all the negative issues being thrown at her, the Superstar is now back to restore her “never-dying” showbiz career. Nora was recently given an honorary award by the Cinema One Originals Festival for pioneering efforts in the Philippine Cinema.
Former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and husband Mike Arroyo are also newsmakers this year. Macapagal-Arroyo was recently arrested following the filing of criminal charges against her for electoral fraud. But before the infamous president was finally put in hospital arrest, she was involved in a series of dramatic incidents—at the airport and hospital.
Still on politics, Leila de Lima maybe is one of the most mentioned names in the news this year. Having been appointed as the Justice Secretary of the current Aquino administration, de Lima faced controversies, especially on her decisions in the country’s most prominent cases. Before taking his post as Aquino’s cabinet member, de Lima was the chairperson of the Philippine Commision on Human Rights, under the previous Arroyo regime.
In show business, another name who has made a buzz this year is Star Magic artist Andi Eigenmann, who fiercely faced the challenges of unwanted pregnancy. Behind her is supportive mother Jacklyn Jose, who said that Andi’s pregnancy only strengthened their mother-daughter relationship.
Ever since he was hailed world boxing champion and eventually elected as congressman, Manny Pacquiao and his family have regularly been in local and international news. Manny recently won against Mexican Juan Manuel Marquez. Nothing, however, can ever beat the support of his Filipino fans who still consider him as the “People’s Champ.” Jinky, on the other hand, finally disclosed her marital problems such as her boxer husband’s alleged infidelity, which almost prompted their split up. Now, the couple faces the public as if nothing happened. Jinky said that after serious talks with her husband, they decided to remain being together.
Topbilling “Praybet Benjamin,” the highest-grossing Filipino film of all time, Vice Ganda enters Cinema One’s list of most talked about showbiz personalities. Truly an icon to the LGBT (lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgenders) community, Vice is a successful as TV host, comedian and recording artist.
In the world of business, SM-owned businesses have mushroomed in the country this year. From building Asia’s biggest malls to establishing the most operational bank, the Sy’s are now into condominiums and other real properties. Get to know the people behind all this success, as Boy features siblings Teresita Sy-Coson and Henry T. Sy Jr., children of the legendary Henry Sy Sr.
Following the thread of Filipinos making noise internationally is Miss Universe 3rd Runner-up Shamcey Supsup. She enthralled everyone when she said in the pageant’s question and answer portion that not even her romantic love life can change her faith in God. Her answer was reflective of a Filipina with instilled traditional values, which critics say was not appreciated by a predominantly Western-raised panel of judges.
In sports, the Philippine Dragon Boat Federation team has also made buzz this year, after winning series of competitions abroad. What makes them more newsworthy is their battle for government’s recognition as an official competing team to the ASEAN Games and other official tourneys. A lot may be proud of their winnings, but they never received even a single centavo from the Philippine Sports Commission.
Emerging filmmakers such as Loy, Marlon Rivera, Antoinette Jadaone, Victor Villanueva and Sari Dalena are also featured in this special.
Catch “Cinema One’s Top 10 F.I.E People of 2011” on Thursday (Dec 23), 10p.m. Cinema One (SkyCable Channel 56) is available on SkyCable Gold, SkyCable Silver and other quality cable operators nationwide.
