MANILA, Philippines – Actor JC de Vera and fiancée Rikkah Cruz posed along the newly-rehabilitated Jones Bridge in Binondo, Manila at night for their pre-nup photoshoot. The couple, as well as their official photographer Nice Print Photo, shared the glamorous shots on Instagram on Tuesday, February 24.

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A post shared by Niceprintphoto (@niceprintphoto) on Feb 23, 2020 at 8:43am PST

JC wore a grey Edwin Tan suit, while Rikkah donned a lacey Francis Libiran gown.

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A post shared by Niceprintphoto (@niceprintphoto) on Feb 23, 2020 at 6:49pm PST

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A post shared by JC de Vera (@akosijcdeberat) on Feb 23, 2020 at 6:59pm PST

In a December 2019 Tonight With Boy Abunda interview, JC revealed his plans of a "traditional church wedding" with Rikkah for 2020. The 33-year-old actor proposed to his girlfriend in Siargao in 2018.

JC and Rikka have a one-year-old daughter named Lana Athena, whom JC first shared photos of in July 2018.  – Rappler.com

NEW YORK, USA – Harvey Weinstein was convicted on Monday, February 24 of sexual assault and rape, more than two years after allegations of the disgraced movie mogul's sexual misconduct sparked the global #MeToo movement.

The 67-year-old was acquitted of the most serious charge of predatory sexual assault but faces a lengthy jail term.

The guilty verdicts were hailed as a landmark moment for the #MeToo movement, with accusers, activists and attorneys lining up to congratulate prosecutors.

Here is the best of the reactions:

'Collective healing' 

Actress Ashley Judd, one of the first Weinstein accusers to go public with her allegations, thanked the 6 women who told the high-profile trial that the ex-Hollywood titan had sexually assaulted them. 

"For the women who testified in this case, and walked through traumatic hell, you did a public service to girls and women everywhere, thank you. #ConvictWeinstein #Guilty," she wrote on Twitter.

For the women who testified in this case, and walked through traumatic hell, you did a public service to girls and women everywhere, thank you.#ConvictWeinstein#Guilty

— ashley judd (@AshleyJudd) February 24, 2020

Actress Ellen Barkin simply named them.

"Right now Harvey Weinstein is on his way to prison. These are the women who put him away... Mimi Haleyi, Jessica Mann, Annabella Sciorra, Dawn Dunning, Lauren Young, Tarale Wulff," she tweeted.

Thank you all for your tremendous courage and strength. You have changed the future for all of us.

— Ellen Barkin (@EllenBarkin) February 24, 2020

High-profile accuser Rose McGowan tweeted: "Today is a powerful day & a huge step forward in our collective healing."

Today is a powerful day & a huge step forward in our collective healing

— rose mcgowan (@rosemcgowan) February 24, 2020

Italian actress and director Asia Argento, who told the New Yorker magazine that Weinstein raped her in 1997, posted a photo of herself and another woman on Instagram.

"Harvey Weinstein is now a convicted rapist. Two survivors cry and celebrate. Thank you God," she wrote alongside it.

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A post shared by asiaargento (@asiaargento) on Feb 24, 2020 at 9:13am PST

Actress Rosanna Arquette paid tribute on Twitter to "the brave women who've testified and to the jury for seeing through the dirty tactics of the defense."

Gratitude to the brave women who’ve testified and to the jury for seeing through the dirty tactics of the defense .we will change the laws in the future so that rape victims are heard and not discredited and so that it’s easier for people to report their rapes

— Rosanna Arquette (@RoArquette) February 24, 2020

Tarana Burke, founder of the #MeToo movement, said in a statement: "The implications reverberate far beyond Hollywood and into the daily lives of all of us in the rest of the world."

Sciorra lament 

Gloria Allred, attorney for Sciorra and Haleyi, told reporters outside court that, "It's no longer business as usual in the United States." 

"This is the age of empowerment of women, and you cannot intimidate them anymore, because women will not be silenced," she said.

"They will speak up, they will have their voice, they will stand up and be subjected to your small army of defense attorneys cross-examining them, attempting to discredit them," Allred added.

Some took to social media to express regret that the jury failed to convict Weinstein of predatory sexual assault based on the testimony of The Sopranos actress Annabella Sciorra.

She testified that Weinstein raped her almost 30 years ago as the prosecution sought to portray him as a career sexual predator.

"HARVEY WEINSTEIN HAS BEEN HANDCUFFED & TAKEN TO JAIL!" tweeted actress Rosie Perez, who testified on Sciorra's behalf during the trial. 

"GUTTED FOR MY DEAR FRIEND #ANNABELLASCIORRA WHO TOLD THE TRUTH! YET I CONGRATULATE HER & ALL WHO CAME FORWARD FOR THEIR BRAVERY. THIS IS NOT ENOUGH BUT SURVIVORS TAKE COURAGE! THIS IS STILL A GREAT WIN!" she wrote. 

HARVEY WEINSTEIN HAS BEEN HANDCUFFED & TAKEN TO JAIL! GUTTED FOR MY DEAR FRIEND #ANNABELLASCIORRA WHO TOLD THE TRUTH! YET I CONGRATULATE HER & ALL WHO CAME FORWARD FOR THEIR BRAVERY. THIS IS NOT ENOUGH BUT SURVIVORS TAKE COURAGE! THIS IS STILL A GREAT WIN! CONGRATS JOAN ILLUZZI! https://t.co/LihJLiudNo

— Rosie Perez (@rosieperezbklyn) February 24, 2020

"#IBelieveAnnabellaSciorra," actress Alyssa Milano wrote on Twitter.

#IBelieveAnnabellaSciorrahttps://t.co/7ZixnJhxht

— Alyssa Milano (@Alyssa_Milano) February 24, 2020

Journalist and former Miss America Gretchen Carlson simply tweeted: "I hope the handcuffs are tight..."

I hope the handcuffs are tight ... #metoo#weinsteintrialhttps://t.co/O1TWzBg1Rl

— Gretchen Carlson (@GretchenCarlson) February 24, 2020

– Rappler.com

WASHINGTON DC, USA – Production of the latest film in the Mission: Impossible series starring Tom Cruise has been stopped in Italy following the coronavirus outbreak, Paramount Pictures said Monday, February 24.

The seventh installment of the franchise was scheduled to shoot in Venice for three weeks, the first location for production.

"Out of an abundance of caution for the safety and well-being of our cast and crew, and efforts of the local Venetian government to halt public gatherings in response to the threat of coronavirus, we are altering the production plan for our three week shoot in Venice," a Paramount spokesperson said in a statement to AFP.

The spokesperson added that crew members were allowed to return home until production resumed.

Italy reported its seventh death from the new coronavirus on Monday, but officials called for calm and reported a lower rise in the number of infections after a spike over the weekend.

The number of cases in the country now stood at 229, the head of Italy's civil protection department Angelo Borelli said at a press conference Monday evening, the highest number in Europe.

In addition to the Mission: Impossible VII production, the spread of the virus has disrupted high-profile events including Milan Fashion Week and the Venice Carnival. On Monday evening, sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora announced that six Serie A football matches would be played behind closed doors.

Mission: Impossible VII is due in theaters on July 23, 2021. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Thai superstar Mario Maurer is returning to Manila in June for a fan meet. On Tuesday, February 25, the Love of Siam actor said he will be holding his first Filipino fan meeting on June 28 at the Skydome in SM North Edsa.

"This coming 28th of June, I'll get to meet everyone in FIRST LOVE: Mario Maurer 1st Live and Meet in Manila 2020, 6PM at the SM SKY DOME. This is very exciting for me because, finally, I will be seeing all the lovely faces of my dearest fans from the Philippines. Tickets will be available starting on March 6, 2020, at 10:00 AM, Philippine standard time," he announced.

The event is produced by Wish Us Luck, a Thai production company based in the Philippines.

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A post shared by Mario Maurer (@mario_mm38) on Feb 25, 2020 at 12:29am PST

Aside from Love of Siam, he also appeared in other projects such as Pee Mak, Suddenly It’s Magic, and Crazy Little Thing Called Love.

He has been to the Philippines a number of times – as endorser of shampoo brand Head and Shoulders with Sandara Park in 2017 and as Thailand tourism ambassador. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The secrecy leading up to Sarah Geronimo and Matteo Guidicelli's wedding was so intense that even Matteo's family only knew about it the day prior. 

It's one of the little details that Letty Fuentes, relationship counselor and friend of the showbiz couple, told ABS-CBN's MJ Felipe in a report that aired Tuesday, February 25, on TV Patrol. Sarah and Matteo, who've been together since 2014, wed in a secret ceremony on February 20. 

Fuentes, who first met Sarah through church, said the two were married in Christian rites – not in a civil ceremony, as earlier reported by media – at around 6 pm at the Victory church in Taguig City. Pastor Paolo Punzalan officiated the union. 

Fuentes said Sarah "was so composed" in the lead-up to the wedding.

"She was all alone in the room and dressed up. She was happy, she was really happy," she said. Fuentes herself didn't know she was going to be attending a wedding – she thought it would just be a session and dinner with the two. 

Matteo's family and some members of the church were also present during the ceremony.

Fuentes said the couple had been making plans to wed for several years, but their plans never pushed through because of opposition from Sarah's family, particularly her mother Divine. 

While a secret wedding in itself is controversial and fodder for entertainment news, it was the events that transpired after Sarah and Matteo's wedding that made headlines.

News of their marriage was first "confirmed" to the public after Sarah's bodyguard Jerry Tamara alleged that Matteo punched him at a hotel in Taguig City following an altercation between the couple and Sarah's mother.

Divine, who was not invited to the wedding or reception, apparently gatecrashed the post-wedding reception at a posh Taguig City hotel. An angry Divine, said Fuentes, seemed to be "ready for a fight" as she shouted at the newlyweds. 

Fuentes denied the allegations against Matteo but said both she and Sarah fell during a scuffle. Matteo himself has also denied Tamara's claims. 

"Walang brawling doon, walang baril. May nabasa pa akong baril (There was no brawl, no gun. I read somewhere that a gun was involved)," she said.

Fuentes said she had also talked to Divine in the past about her daughter's relationship with Matteo. Sarah's mother, said Fuentes, insisted she'd reject the relationship even if the two wanted to wed. – Rappler.com

NEW DELHI, India –  Harvey Weinstein's conviction for rape and sexual assault was a "great victory" for women and sends a "very strong message", US President Donald Trump said Tuesday, February 25.

The Hollywood movie producer was found guilty on Monday by a New York court in a verdict hailed as a historic landmark by the #MeToo movement against sexual misconduct.

"From the standpoint of women, I think it was a great thing," Trump said at a news conference in India. (READ:Age of empowerment,' accusers hail Harvey Weinstein convictions)

"It was a great victory. And sends a very strong message, very, very strong message."

Weinstein, 67, was acquitted of first-degree rape and predatory sexual assault, charges that could have seen him jailed for life.

But he faces up to 29 years in prison for criminal sexual acts in the first degree and third-degree rape.

He was remanded in jail but was later admitted to Bellevue Hospital Center in Manhattan with chest pains.

"He was a person I didn't like," Trump said at a press conference in New Delhi. "I just was not a fan of his. I knew him a little bit, not very well."

Trump, who will lead the Republican party into elections in November, said Weinstein was closely linked to the Democratic Party.

"The people that liked him were the Democrats," he said.

"Michelle Obama loved him. Hillary Clinton loved him. And he gave tremendous money to the Democrats."

More than 80 women have accused Weinstein of sexual misconduct since allegations against him ignited a global reckoning in 2017 against men abusing positions of power.

With many claims too old to prosecute, the jury considered charges related to just two: ex-actress Jessica Mann and former production assistant Mimi Haleyi.

Weinstein is due to be sentenced on March 11. – Rappler.com

LONDON, United Kingdom – The Welsh soul singer Duffy on Tuesday attributed her long musical hiatus to a violent assault that saw her "raped and drugged and held captive over some days".

The Grammy winner, who in 2011 said she was "taking a break" from the public spotlight, said in an emotional Instagram post that "I am ok and safe now" but that recovery "took time".

"There's no light way to say it. But I can tell you in the last decade, the thousands and thousands of days I committed to wanting to feel the sunshine in my heart again, the sun does now shine," the 35-year-old posted. 

"You wonder why I did not choose to use my voice to express my pain? I did not want to show the world the sadness in my eyes. I asked myself, how can I sing from the heart if it is broken? And slowly it unbroke."

The singer-songwriter found global fame after releasing her debut album Rockferry in 2008, which won a Grammy for Best Pop Vocal Album.

In 2009, the artist born Aimee Anne Duffy also won 3 Brit awards.

She said in Tuesday's social media post that she had decided to break her silence over her trauma after giving an interview to an unnamed journalist last summer, and would begin "posting a spoken interview" in the weeks to come.

"If you have any questions I would like to answer them, in the spoken interview, if I can," she said. "I have a sacred love and sincere appreciation for your kindness over the years. You have been friends."

In 2013 the singer performed in an Edith Piaf tribute concert in New York, and contributed music to and played a role in the 2015 film Legend. – Rappler.com

SAN FRANCISO, USA – Walt Disney Co. said Tuesday, February 25 chief Bob Iger was handing off the top executive post after building the media-entertainment powerhouse into the undisputed Hollywood leader.

Disney's board named Bob Chapek, a 27-year veteran of Disney, the new chief executive, effective immediately.

Iger, who has been CEO for 15 years, will assume the role of executive chairman and "will direct the company's creative endeavors," a Disney statement said.

Iger, 69, said on a call with analysts that his top priority now is the creative content on which Disney's streaming services and box office revenue depend.

The idea behind handing off the CEO position two years early is to let Iger focus on the creation of winning Disney content while Chapek handles day-to-day operations of the Magic Kingdom's complex entertainment operation.

"It was really that simple," Iger said while explaining the decision to surrender the CEO chair to Chapek.

"With everything else falling in place, the time seemed right."

The move also allows two years for Iger to coach Chapek on aspects of Disney he is less familiar with. Iger's contract ends at the end of 2021.

"The timing is, in very many ways, odd," Matthew Ball, a venture capitalist who once headed global strategy for Amazon Studios, told AFP.

"In other ways, it feels somewhat right. Iger has spent years trying to retire and the company has never been stronger than it is today."

Ball credited Iger with an impressive "corporate pivot" to streaming television and felt the success of Disney+ signalled the team is in shape to thrive after he leaves the company.

Big ticket buys

Iger engineered a blockbuster deal to take over much of the television and film assets of Rupert Murdoch's 21st Century Fox to become the Hollywood box office leader, and then launched a new direct-to-consumer streaming television service which aims to position Disney against rivals such as Netflix in the new media landscape featuring on-demand platforms.

Iger oversaw deals for the animation studio Pixar in 2006 for $7.4 billion, Marvel Entertainment in 2009 for $4 billion, Lucasfilm in 2012 for $4 billion, and 21st Century Fox last year for $71 billion.

"With the successful launch of Disney's direct-to-consumer businesses and the integration of 21st Century Fox well underway, I believe this is the optimal time to transition to a new CEO," Iger said.

Disney, which is the leading force in Hollywood and also has major theme parks and television operations, has been betting heavily on its move to streaming as it takes on Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.

Disney is intent on bulking up its original streaming content, taking advantage of beloved franchises such as Star Wars and the Marvel superhero movies. 

Chapek takes the top spot after heading Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

"Bob Iger has built Disney into the most admired and successful media and entertainment company, and I have been lucky to enjoy a front-row seat as a member of his leadership team," Chapek said.

"I share his commitment to creative excellence, technological innovation and international expansion, and I will continue to embrace these same strategic pillars going forward."

Iger is handing over the reins as theme park revenue is suffering due to closures resulting from efforts to curtail spread of the deadly coronavirus.

Disney+ a hit

Iger said the new CEO "has proven himself exceptionally qualified," adding: "His success over the past 27 years reflects his visionary leadership and the strong business growth and stellar results he has consistently achieved in his roles at Parks, Consumer Products and the Studio."

In Disney's latest quarterly update, the company announced it had signed up more than 28 million customers for its Disney+ streaming service, getting off to a flying start.

It also reported strong results from its latest Star Wars and Frozen films. 

The company's total global theater box office topped $11 billion dollars, "shattering" a film industry record  set by Disney 4 years ago.

"We will continue to pursue bold innovation, thoughtful risk-taking and the creative storytelling that is the lifeblood of our company," Chapek said on the call with analysts.

"Our achievements to date will serve as the foundation for the future." – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – After days of rumors, reports, and rumblings, Matteo Guidicelli posted on Wednesday, February 26, the first photo of himself and wife Sarah Geronimo. The pair got married in a secret ceremony on February 20. 

"A day full of pure love, honesty and genuine emotions. Yes, we got married. Mr and Mrs Guidicelli," wrote Matteo as a caption to a photo of herself and Sarah, toasting with their hands intertwined – with wide smiles to boot.

Matteo said they kept the ceremonies "as intimate as possible because of private matters" as he expressed "the overwhelming joy, love and excitement we have in beginning our life together." (READ: Even Viva boss tried to help in Sarah Geronimo's spat with mom)

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02 20 2020, A day full of pure love, honesty and genuine emotions. Yes, we got married. Mr and Mrs. Guidicelli. First and foremost, We would like to express the overwhelming joy, love and excitement we have in beginning our life together. We decided to keep everything as intimate as possible because of private matters. Each and everyone of you have been part of our love journey and we want to say, Thank you. Friends, family and everyone on “social media” have been a source of inspiration, strength, and most importantly, of LOVE. That evening was almost perfect until some unexpected events took place, but don’t worry I never “punched” anyone. I will forever stand up and protect my wife just as how my father would protect my whole family. I would like to say thank you to my family for loving Sarah like a daughter. Our family is growing and we are blessed. Papa and mama, thank you for deeply loving and welcoming Sarah into our family. In time, with God’s grace and Love, everything will heal and fall into place. We are happy, we are blessed, and we are husband and wife! Let’s always celebrate life and love! Nothing will ever defeat pure honest LOVE. God bless everyone for your love and support! Again, from the deepest part of our hearts thank you! Sincerely, Mr and Mrs. Guidicelli #family #BLESSED #HappywifeHappyLife

A post shared by Matteo Guidicelli (@matteog) on Feb 25, 2020 at 6:28pm PST

"Each and everyone of you have been part of our love journey and we want to say, Thank you. Friends, family,and everyone on “social media” have been a source of inspiration, strength, and most importantly, of LOVE," he added. 

Matteo then addressed the elephant in the room – Sarah's bodyguard's allegations that the actor punched him in an alternation that followed when Sarah's mother Divine Geronimo gatecrashed the wedding reception. None of Sarah's family members were invited to the wedding or the dinner that followed. 

"That evening was almost perfect until some unexpected events took place, but don’t worry I never 'punched' anyone. I will forever stand up and protect my wife just as how my father would protect my whole family," he said. 

Matteo then thanked his family "for loving Sarah like a daughter." "Our family is growing and we are blessed. Papa and mama, thank you for deeply loving and welcoming Sarah into our family," he said. 

Without mentioning the Geronimos explicitly, Matteo expressed confidene that "in time, with God’s grace and Love, everything will heal and fall into place." 

"We are happy, we are blessed, and we are husband and wife! Let’s always celebrate life and love! Nothing will ever defeat pure honest LOVE. God bless everyone for your love and support!"

He signed the post off with "Mr and Mrs. Geronimo." 

Matteo and Sarah have been a couple since 2014. While they've managed to keep their relationship very private, it's become no secret to the public that Sarah's mother, Divine, disapproves of the pairing. 

Divine was apparently not informed of nor invited to the February 20 wedding, despite a leak from the Philippine Star's Ricky Lo. After the pair wed via Christian rites at the Victory Church in Taguig City, they held a reception at a nearby hotel. It's there that Divine allegedly gatecrashed the wedding, and hurled invectives at the couple and the Guidicellis. 

Viva boss Vic del Rosario was among those who intervened. While the Guidicellis, including Sarah, tried to slip out through the fire exit, Sarah's bodyguard allegedly tried to stop them upon Divine's instructions. It was then that Matteo supposedly punched the bodyguard – a claim several parties, including Matteo, had denied. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – If there’s anyone who can be named a Jack of All Trades, it’s Matteo Guidicelli who wears many hats – from athlete, to actor, to restaurateur, to Army reserve. He even dabbles in music – perhaps even more now that he is married to one of the country’s biggest pop stars.

He is also no stranger to showbiz kalat, having joined the industry in 2011 and getting into a scandalous brawl that same year – which, it should be noted, he apologized for immediately after.

The actor was recently embroiled in another controversy, after being accused of punching a bodyguard of the Geronimo family at their wedding reception. Matteo and several parties have since denied the allegations, and in his first post after the wedding he said: “that evening was almost perfect until some unexpected events took place, but don’t worry I never ‘punched’ anyone. I will forever stand up and protect my wife just as how my father would protect my whole family.”

As the Geronimo-Guidicellis move on from the controversy and into wedded bliss, here are a few things you should know about the newly-minted Mr. Geronimo:

Matteo’s roots are in Cebu

Matteo was born in Cebu City, to Gianluca Guidicelli, who hails from Italy, and Glenna Fernan, who is a member of one of Cebu’s prominent families. Matteo’s paternal grandfather Gianni settled in Cebu from Northern Italy in the 1970s. His maternal grandfather Vicente was the Cebu provincial prosecutor, and the cousin of former Supreme Court chief justice and Senate President Marcelo Fernan – after whom a bridge is named after in Cebu.

Matteo spent his early years in Cebu and, for a time, studied at Cebu International School. He also spent vacations in Italy, and studied Musical Theater for two years at Columbia College in Chicago.

He was a winning kart racer

Matteo started kart racing at the age of 11, and eventually began competing, winning several titles including 3 Karter of the Year awards. He stopped karting after getting into an accident after his last race and promising his worried mother that he would quit.

He’s a triathlete

After letting go of kart racing, Matteo got into triathlon racing, influenced by his father who joined the Ironman Triathlon in 2011. He then began training himself, and has since taken on Ironman several times.

Matteo starred in his first film in 2011 – where he co-starred with his now-wife, Sarah Geronimo

Matteo initially hesitated joining showbiz, but decided to go for it, joining teen comedy sitcom Go Kada Go alongside Alex Gonzaga and Joem Bascon. He then became a Star Magic talent, and starred in the soap Agua Bendita opposite Andi Eigenmann, and his first film, Catch Me I’m in Love along with Gerald Anderson, and yes, his now wife, Sarah Geronimo – though they wouldn’t start dating until years later.

He is a recording artist

It only makes sense for someone who is married to the "Popstar Royalty" to also have dabbled in music, and Matteo has done more than that. He's released two albums since 2015, and has performed in several concerts, both with other artists, and solo.

He is a 2nd lieutenant for the Philippine Army Reserve

Matteo underwent a Scout Ranger Orientation and Leadership Development course in 2019, graduating in June of that year. He received his rank as 2nd Lieutenant from President Rodrigo Duterte in August 2019. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Kaka Quisumbing and Jal Taguibao have reunited to resurrect Sugarfree, without the band's frontman and lead songwriter Ebe Dancel.

The reunion was marked by the release of a new song, "Nagkita Muli," which was played on radio station Jam 88.3 on February 25 and isn't yet available online as of writing.

On social media, the band said "In 2020 we decided to resurrect the band because we miss making music. Sobrang na-miss namin (we really missed it)."

The reunion wasn't as warmly welcomed by Ebe's brother, musician and lawyer Vin Dancel who on Facebook said: "They might want to check with Polyeast tho because the label has exclusive rights to the band name under the 2002 artist agreement."

"Even the 3 remaining [Eraserheads] didn't use the band name after Ely left. Hanep," he said.

He also questioned the timing of the band's reunion coinciding with Ebe's upcoming first solo concert with the Manila String Machine on February 29.

In a comment on his original post, Vin also implied that Ebe, original drummer Mitch Singson, and the band's original label Polyeast were not informed of Sugarfree's reunion, saying "if they wanna 'resurrect' [the band] then delikadeza (decency), and legal obligation dictate they ask Ebe, Mitch AND Polyeast."

"Why am I affected? Because they're messing with my baby brother is why," he said. "He's also my client by the by. And they're annoying. lol"

Sugarfree formed in 1999 with the original lineup including Ebe, Jal, and Mitch, who left the band in 2006 and was replaced by Kaka. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – When James Corden and BTS are in the same room, fun times are always to be had. So when that same room also happens to be a 8-seater car, you can only be sure that the laughs will keep on coming. 

The Late Late Show with James Corden released on Wednesday, February 26 (February 25 in the US), the long-awaited "carpool karaoke" episode featuring the K-pop sensation. Carpool karaoke is a series where James drives around with different guests while singing along to their songs (and those from other artists as well). In between, James sometimes asks questions and even runs an errand or two. 

In this episode, RM, Jimin, J-Hope, Jungkook, Jin, Suga, and V sing "Mic Drop," Bruno Mars' "Finesse" (don't miss Jungkook's high note), their latest single "ON," "Black Swan," and Post Malone's "Circles." 

In between the songs, of course, they talked about how RM learned English, christened James "Papa Mochi," discussed life together, and inadvertently "invited" James to be the 8th member of the group. The whole ride ended with a visit to Moore Dancing, where James apparently regularly goes for dance cardio class. 

This would be BTS' second straight major feature on an American late-night TV show. The day prior, they premiered their performance of "ON" at the Grand Central Terminal. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – It's been nearly a week since he exchanged wedding vows with Sarah Geronimo in a secret wedding but Matteo Guidicelli is definitely still on a high.

During a press conference for a new endorsement on Wednesday, February 26, Matteo was asked how married life has been so far. “It's our sixth day together... It's the best days of my life and it's the best times. We're blessed,” Matteo said, according to thePhilippine Star.

“Everything's the same but I just have somebody beside me all the time... everything's better!”

The same day, Matteo also posted on Instagram for the first time since they wed.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Matteo Guidicelli (@matteog) on Feb 25, 2020 at 6:28pm PST

The couple got married in a Christian ceremony at the Victory Church on February 20. News of the wedding as first "confirmed" to the public when Sarah's bodyguard Jerry Tamara accussed Matteo of punching him during an altercation at the reception.

Divine, Sarah's mother, reportedly gatecrashed the wedding reception. Matteo reportedly called Viva Entertainment chairman Vic del Rosario to ask for help. 

Matteo has denied the allegations against him. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – James Reid advertised the sale of a property in Loyola Grand Villas, Quezon City – the home that he supposedly shared with ex-partner Nadine Lustre.

James advertised the sale of the 1000-square meter house on his Instagram Stories on February 26.

According to the ad, the property has 3 storeys, 7 bedrooms all with en suite bathrooms, 2 large kitchens, a fully soundproofed recording studio, a 25m lap pool, a fully equipped gym, a CCTV security system, and a 6-car garage.

The house is valued at P82 million to P85 million.

James confirmed in 2019 that he and Nadine were living together. They announced their split in January 2020, after nearly 4 years of being together. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Ngayon Kaya may or may not be just another hugot film – but it does feature the first on-screen team up of Janine Gutierrez and Paulo Avelino, whose chemistry is evident even from the film's teaser, released on February 25.

The teaser shows Janine's and Paulo's characters, initially as young friends who seem to be exploring the possibility of a romance but never quite get there.

As the teaser plays on, the characters are evidently older - and there seems to be more tension between them as they reunite.

The film, directed by Prime Cruz and written by Jen Chuaunsu, is set to be released in Philippine cinemas in 2020. – Rappler.com

LONDON, United Kingdom – Hollywood star Johnny Depp made a surprise appearance at England's High Court on Wednesday, February 26 for a hearing in his libel case against The Sun newspaper.

The Pirates of the Caribbean actor is suing the tabloid and its executive editor Dan Wootton over a 2018 article which accused him of abusing former wife Amber Heard.

The 55-year-old sat in the court in London wearing a suit and blue-tinted glasses for the pre-trial review hearing.

Depp accuses Heard, 33, of being the "aggressor" in the rocky relationship, which ended in 2016.

His lawyer David Sherborne told the court he had evidence that "diametrically opposed" claims in the article.

"There is such a contrast between the version of events that is provided by Ms Heard and that provided by Mr Depp," he said.

"It is black and white. One person, one side, is lying, and one is not."

The 10-day case is due to start on March 23, and is expected to hear from witnesses over a video-link from California.

Depp has brought separate libel proceedings against Heard in the United States. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The Salazar sisters in the cult favorite Four Sisters and a Wedding have since become not only mama’s favorites, but the internet’s favorites – so much so that Star Cinema sub-brand SCX is producing a prequel for the beloved film.

According to a February 27 by ABS-CBN Films’ James Banaag, the prequel will be directed by Giselle Andres.

ANNOUNCEMENT: Iconic movie ‘Four Sisters and A Wedding’ to have a prequel, FOUR SISTERS BEFORE THE WEDDING. This is a production of Star Cinema's sub-brand, SCX, to be directed by Giselle Andres. pic.twitter.com/3jjaBQppVp

— James Banaag (@dearscarjames) February 27, 2020

Set 10 years before the events of the original film, the prequel will feature a new cast who are playing younger versions of the sisters.

Gillian Vicencio is cast as Alex, the role originally played by Angel Locsin, while Charlie Dizon is playing Toni Gonzaga’s character Teddie. Belle Mariano is playing Shaina Magdayao’s character Gabbie, and Alexa Ilacad is cast as Bea Alonzo’s character Bobbie.

Four Sisters and a Wedding premiered in 2013 and tells the story of 4 sisters who reunite for the wedding of their youngest brother, Rebreb (Enchong Dee).

The film has since birthed countless memes, and given viewers several unforgettable scenes, including the tearful confrontation between the entire Salazar family, a wedding scene that would have put the Met Gala Camp red carpet to shame, and that cathartic scene where a character played by Mocha Uson gets dragged by the sisters onto the streets.

A release date for the prequel film has yet to be announced. The original is available for viewing on Netflix. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – In spite of everything that has happened after their union, Sarah Geronimo and Matteo Guidicelli seem to be living their best lives as husband and wife. The newlyweds recently fulfilled some “normal husband and wife duties” as they shopped for things for their new home.

Celebrity doctor Vicki Belo posted a video with Sarah and Matteo, who looked positively blissful as they shopped for plates, kitchen towels, and other home accessories.

The two were accompanied by an energetic Scarlet Snow Belo, who shyly congratulated the couple. As the video rolls on, Vicki, who is behind the camera, says “Tita Sarah is shopping for her new house, so they’re buying plates, and utensils, and cups, and Matteo’s pretending he knows what he’s doing.”

View this post on Instagram

doing normal husband and wife duties . @scarletsnowbelo is trying to help them pick out glassware in Rustans but I don’t think she’s helping that much Matteo though is so sweet and patient with her - He told me his only wish for Sarah is to be the happiest woman in the world #AshMatt

A post shared by Vicki Belo, M.D. (@victoria_belo) on Feb 26, 2020 at 6:15pm PST

In the caption, Vicki wrote “So happy to see Mr. and Mrs. Guidicelli doing normal husband and wife duties. [Scarlet Snow] is trying to help them pick out glassware in Rustans but I don’t think she’s helping that much. Matteo though is so sweet and patient with her.”

“He told me his only wish for Sarah is to be the happiest woman in the world.”

Matteo replied to the post, saying “We love you Dra.”

Sarah and Matteo married in a Christian ceremony at Victory Church in Taguig on February 20. News of their union first broke when Jerry Tamara, a bodyguard for the Geronimo family, went to the police alleging that Matteo had punched him following an incident with the couple and Sarah’s mother Divine Geronimo.

Divine, who is known to disapprove of Matteo and was not invited to the wedding, apparently gatecrashed the reception at a restaurant in a posh Taguig City hotel.

According to the couple’s relationship counselor Letty Fuentes, Divine shouted at the newlyweds, and a scuffle ensued, but Matteo did not punch anyone. Matteo himself has denied Tamara’s allegations.

Sarah and Matteo have been together since 2014. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – It’s been a whirlwind ride for the organizers and ticket-holders of Wanderland 2020 as several of its international acts cancel their appearances – but the annual festival is pushing through with a new addition to their lineup: Barbie Almalbis.

You've got to hold your head up high for homegrown singer-songwriter, @barbiealmalbis

The game's in our favor as she makes her #WanderlandMusicFest debut this March!

https://t.co/6HXw9ADBNk, @Purveyr, Crema & Cream, and NOOK pic.twitter.com/lOtMmk1cAn

— Wanderland Festival (@wanderlandfest) February 24, 2020

The singer-songwriter of Barbie’s Cradle fame will be performing on the second day of the festival, alongside IV of Spades, (((O))) (formerly known as June Marieezy), Stephen Day, George, Banna Harbera, and The Sundown. (READ: Here's the schedule for Wanderland 2020)

Barbie joined the lineup after British singer-songwriter Bruno Major dropped out of his shows in the Philippines and Bangkok due to travel concerns related to the novel coronavirus outbreak.

It is with a heavy heart, and after lengthy deliberation that I am regretfully postponing my headline shows in Asia this month... pic.twitter.com/DxtG5Bo7El

— Bruno Major (@MrBrunoMajor) February 24, 2020

"Please know that this is not a decision I have made lightly," Bruno said in a statement on Twitter.

"In the two and a half years since I have been touring heavily, I haven't missed a single show – despite losing my voice or being injured or logistical problems. The current situation however is out of my control," he said. "I know it sucks but I promise I will make it up to a you all in August."

Other artists including Novo Amor, Sabrina Claudio, Ari Lennox, and Raveena also withdrew from the festival.

Despite this, the festival organizers reassure attendees that the event is pushing through, with health and safety measures put in place considering the COVID-19 outbreak.

Wanderland 2020 will be held at the Filinvest City Events Grounds in Alabang on March 7 and 8. Tickets are available on their website. – Rappler.com

MADRID, Spain – Scandal-hit opera star Placido Domingo on Thursday, February 27 said his apology over sexual harassment allegations had given a "false impression" but canceled his appearance in an upcoming performance in Madrid. 

"I feel I have to issue another statement to correct the false impression generated by my apology," he said in a statement that said he had withdrawn from La Traviata at Madrid's Teatro Real and would do the same with any theatre or opera house "that might have difficulties" with his presence.

The latest statement came two days after the 79-year-old, who faces multiple allegations of sexual harassment, apologized for "the hurt" caused to his accusers, saying he accepted "full responsibility" for his actions.

At least 20 women have accused Domingo of forcibly kissing, grabbing or fondling them in incidents dating back to the 1980s, and on Tuesday, the AGMA union said an internal probe found the storied tenor-turned-baritone had engaged in a pattern of "inappropriate activity". 

But the Spanish megastar, whose initial apology did not specifically confirm any of the allegations, on Thursday insisted his statement had been misunderstood. 

"I know what I haven't done and I will deny it again. I never behaved aggressively with anyone and I have never done anything to obstruct or impede anyone's career," he said in the statement. 

"My apology was sincere and from the bottom of my heart to any colleagues whom I could have hurt in any way by something I said or did. As I have demonstrated on many occasions, it was never my attention to hurt or offend anyone." – Rappler.com