Veteran comedian Vic Sotto made a rare statement on his issues with his former producer, Television and Production Exponents Incorporated (TAPE Inc.)
In an interview with Toni Gonzaga, Vic clarified that he had no problems with GMA despite leaving the network.
However, he admitted that TAPE really disappointed him, saying that the company wanted them out because of their old age.
“We were happy with GMA. Until now, wala naman kaming masamang tinapay with the GMA people. We’re still friends. Ang naging problema lang namin is with TAPE,” said Vic.
“I mean, just imagine, 44 years of doing it, making money for them, and reaching them… Tapos all of a sudden, kasi dahil nagkaka-edad na raw kami, aalisin na kami,” he added.
Vic admitted that he was hurt by the decision made by TAPE against them.
“Eh Eat Bulaga yan eh. Kami yon eh, you know? Si Joey nag-imbento nu’ng title eh. Tapos we really worked hard for it… ’Di kami sume-sweldo, tinanggap namin lahat yon kasi enjoy kami sa show, we’re like a one big family there,” he said.
“Tapos bigla bigla na lang, the boss will call for a general meeting, announcing that, ‘Tito, Vic, and Joey, thank you. Nice working with you.’ Sakit. Ang sakit no’n,” he added.
In 2023, Vic and his co-hosts left GMA Network and formed another show on TV5 due to their differences with the production company owned by the Jalosjos family.
Vic, Joey de Leon, and Tito Sotto, who formed TVJ Productions, also engaged in a trademark battle against TAPE Inc over the ownership of the title Eat Bulaga.
Eat Bulaga was replaced by the short-lived noontime show Tahanang Pinakamasaya on GMA.
Singer and actress Gigi de Lana’s career was on the verge of ending after reports of her being banned from both ABS-CBN and GMA Network circulated on social media.
In a report published by Ogie Diaz on December 22, 2024, in his online show, the showbiz reporter said that Gigi committed a breach of contract with Star Magic.
“Ang tsika, nag-breach daw ng kontrata sa Star Magic si Gigi. Nagsarili. Hindi finullfill ang kaniyang obligasyon sa pinirmahang kontrata,” said Ogie.
According to Ogie, one of the consequences of Gigi’s breach of contract was being banned from working with ABS-CBN and other major networks, including GMA Network.
It can be recalled that Gigi had a rough year in 2023 after being scammed, losing her mom, and also almost losing her life due to a car crash.
If the rumors were true, Gigi would be forced to explore other ways to earn money, which may include focusing on her online channels or performing abroad.
Some netizens also blamed Gigi’s manager, questioning how her management allowed her to face legal troubles.
A lawyer made a frank comment to the statement made by two-time Olympic gold medalist Carlos Yulo during an interview with Preview.ph.
In the said interview, Carlos insisted that he didn’t do anything wrong to other people.
“May mga masasabi pa rin po ‘yung iba, kahit maganda ‘yung gawin ko o hindi maganda ‘yung gawin ko,” said Carlos. “Para sa akin, kilala ko ‘yung sarili ko. Alam ko ‘yung naging journey ko. Alam ko na wala akong ginagawang masama. ‘Di ako nananapak ng pagkatao or naninira ng dignidad.”
“Hindi naman po sa wala akong pakialam. Pero kung hindi nagre-resonate sa sinasabi mo [tungkol sa] paguugali ko, ini-ignore ko nalang sila,” he added.
However, Atty. Wilfredo Garrido reminded Carlos what the athlete did to his mother, Angelica Yulo.
According to Garrido, Carlos publicly accused his own mother of pocketing his money and also didn’t fulfill his promise to meet his father.
The lawyer believed that people should stop following Carlos’ footsteps.
“Una, siniraan mo ang ina mo nang tinawag mong magnanakaw. Pangalawa, masamang talikuran ang pamilya na nag aruga sa yo. Pangatlo, panahon na ng pasko ni anino mo di nagpakita sa pamilya mo lalo na’t sinabi mo “kitakits” sa tatay mo nang dinaanan mo siya sa parada. Di ka dapat tularan,” he stated.
Actress Yen Santos was rumored to have already given birth to her child with Kapuso actor Paolo Contis.
According to the report published by Abante, Yen’s disappearance to the public could be explained by her rumored pregnancy after her breakup with Paolo.
Yen reportedly gave birth to her baby last November.
Abante also said that Yen was planning to find a temporary caretaker for her child so she could work again.
If true, Yen may not receive any child support from Paolo as the latter admitted that he was not sending any financial help to his children with LJ Reyes and Lian Paz.
There were also rumors that Yen and Paolo were on good terms again, but still unsure if they decided to rebuild their relationship.
As of writing, Yen and Paolo have yet to confirm the rumors.
It can be recalled that Yen’s family denied that the actress had a relationship with Paolo.
However, Paolo’s confirmation of her romance with Yen was found more credible by the netizens.
Veteran actor Cesar Montano couldn’t stop himself from praising businessman Atong Ang for admitting his relationship with Sunshine Cruz.
It can be recalled that Sunshine, who’s Cesar’s former wife, was seen having sweet moments with Atong during an event.
After the video went viral, Atong finally admitted to a news network that he was already in a relationship with the actress.
As a response, Cesar said that he admired Atong for being man enough to admit his relationship.
According to him, he was happy that his former wife already found a man that would love her.
“Saludo ako kay Atong for being man enough to admit his relationship with Shine,” said Cesar.
“I sincerely wish that they will live happily ever after. They both deserve to be happy. When shine is happy, that means our three daughters are happy too. And as a father, my daughters’ happiness is mine as well,” he added.
Atong’s relationship with Shine received a different reaction from the netizens.
“That is better than having a man who cannot provide u anything but headache. She’s been into different relationship and failed. Using her brain is far better than losing her youth without gaining anything,” netizen Liezl said.
“At their age, they only want someone who can give them peace of mind. They no longer care about other’s people opinion. Be happy enjoy life,” netizen Mara commented.
Businessman Atong Ang confirmed his relationship with actress Sunshine Cruz, establishing several months of rumors about the two public figures.
In a report published by Bilyonaryo News Channel, they confirmed the relationship between the two.
“Dito niyo lang po unang maririnig, kinumpirma mismo ni Atong Ang sa Bilyonaryo News Channel na may relasyon nga sila ni Sunshine Cruz,” said Pinky Webb.
Meanwhile, Korina Sanchez, another Bilyonaryo News Channel host, congratulated Sunshine.
“We’re happy for them. We’re happy for people who are happy. Dapat tawagan natin si Atong at Sunshine na manlibre naman ngayong pasko. Ipagkalat nila ang kanilang kasiyahan,” said Korina.
It can be recalled that Atong and Sunshine were seen together having sweet moments during an event.
Colegio San Agustin-Makati denied the claims made by Yasmien Kurdi that her daughter was bullied by her classmates on December 10.
It can be recalled that Yasmien said that her daughter, Ayesha, received ill treatment from her classmates as she couldn’t respond to the messages being sent by her classmates regarding their preparation for their Christmas party.
“Today, my daughter was targeted by a group of students in her class because she was unable to keep up with group messages about their upcoming Christmas party while we were out of the country,” said Yasmien.
However, CSA’s legal counsel, Atty. Joseph Noel Estrada and Atty. illard Yung said that no bullying incident happened on December 10.
They also said that Yasmien’s post only worsened the situation.
“These may have unintended consequences on the students involved, including her own daughter. We acknowledge that she is a public personality and perhaps used to public attention, but the other parties, especially the minor students, value their privacy and hence deserve respect too,” the lawyers said in a statement.
“CSA supports raising awareness on bullying, but also mindful that the drawing or seeking unnecessary public attention does not help at all in the formation and correction of students and in eventually revolving their conflicts,” they added.
Yasment was set to meet Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sonny Angara to discuss the incident.
The rumored relationship between Atong Ang and Sunshine Cruz became a discussion again after the two were caught having a sweet moment during an event.
A netizen uploaded a video showing Sunshine approached Atong and kissed the businessman.
Sunshine’s gesture received cheers from the other attendees.
It can be recalled that the possible relationship between Sunshine and Atong first circulated several months ago after they were spotted together during an event.
Some netizens reacted negatively to the video, saying Sunshine deserved a better man.
“Ante Sunshine you can do better tatlong babae pa naman mga anak mo,” a netizen said.
“Yung Cesar Montano, gets ko pa kasi bata pa si Sunshine noon. Baka nagbulagbulagan lang sa red flags. Pero ngayon, mukhang ganyan talaga ang choice nya sa men,” another netizen commented.
“Hindi nakakapag taka kay Atong Ang madami naman talaga chix normal sa madaming pera Ang suprising dito ay si Sunshine yon choice of men niya at that age,” another netizen remarked.
Atong and Sunshine have yet to confirm their relationship status.
Previously, Atong was linked to Gretchen Barretto, but netizens speculated that the latter was already done with the businessman after their public appearance suddenly stopped.
The excitement was palpable, the competition fierce, and the stakes higher than ever. From December 4 to December 8, 2024, the Tongits Champion Cup brought together the nation’s best players to battle for a total prize pool of ₱1,000,000. At the end of this thrilling journey, Mark Austria from Rizal emerged victorious, claiming the coveted grand prize of ₱300,000 and earning the title of the first-ever Tongits Champion Cup Grand Winner.
A Journey to Glory
Mark Austria’s triumph is a testament to the power of determination, skill, and passion. His journey began long before the finals. As one of the top contenders in the Tongits Daily Free Qualifying Tournament, Mark proved his mettle by outplaying numerous competitors to secure his spot in the Champion Cup. These qualifying rounds, held daily, were no easy feat. Players from across the country competed fiercely, each vying for a chance to move closer to the ultimate prize.
Mark’s road to victory was paved with sleepless nights, countless hours of practice, and unwavering focus. His ascent to the top wasn’t just about winning games; it was about perfecting strategies, understanding opponents’ moves, and staying composed under pressure.
The Grand Event
The Tongits Champion Cup wasn’t just a competition; it was a celebration of the game that has brought joy to countless Filipinos. Hosted live from December 4 to December 8, the event gathered the country’s top Tongits players for an intense and action-packed showdown. Fans were treated to a spectacular display of skill, strategy, and sportsmanship as players battled for supremacy.
Viewers from across the nation tuned in to watch the tournament unfold. GameZone, the platform behind the event, ensured that the audience’s experience was just as thrilling as the players’. To add to the excitement, live viewers had the chance to win 500 GameZone Credits, a reward that encouraged fans to engage with the event and support their favorite players.
The tournament’s timing added to its charm. Held during the festive season, it became a source of joy and entertainment for families and communities. Fans gathered to cheer for their hometown heroes, and social media buzzed with excitement as viewers shared their predictions and celebrated every twist and turn of the competition.
What Made the Champion Cup Special?
The Tongits Champion Cup was not just about the game; it was about fostering a sense of community. Here are some highlights that made this event truly unforgettable:
A Massive Prize Pool
With a total of ₱1,000,000 in prizes, the stakes were higher than ever. Players competed not just for bragging rights but for life-changing rewards. Apart from the grand prize of ₱300,000, other top players also took home significant winnings, ensuring that the event was as rewarding as it was competitive.
Interactive Experience for Viewers
GameZone’s decision to involve live viewers in the event added a layer of excitement. By offering 500 GameZone Credits as prizes for active participants, the platform encouraged fans to engage with the tournament, making them feel like part of the action.
Celebrating Filipino Culture
Tongits Go is more than just a card game; it’s a cultural pastime that has brought people together for generations. The Champion Cup honored this tradition by showcasing the game on a national stage, highlighting its strategic depth and the camaraderie it fosters.
Mark Austria’s Winning Strategy
Mark’s victory was no accident. Throughout the tournament, he displayed exceptional gameplay that set him apart from the competition. Here are some key elements of his winning strategy:
Adaptability: Tongits is a dynamic game that requires players to think on their feet. Mark’s ability to adapt to different opponents and scenarios was crucial to his success.
Patience and Precision: Mark’s gameplay was marked by careful planning and calculated risks. He knew when to hold back and when to strike, ensuring that every move counted.
The Road Ahead
The success of the Tongits Champion Cup has set the stage for more tournaments in the future. The overwhelming support from fans and players alike has demonstrated the game’s enduring appeal and its potential to grow as a competitive sport.
For those inspired by the event, downloading Tongits Game can be a great way to start. Available for download on major app stores, Tongits Go offers players a chance to hone their skills, compete with friends, and prepare for future tournaments like the Champion Cup. It’s a platform that brings the joy and strategy of Tongits to the digital age, making the game more accessible to players everywhere.
GameZone has already hinted at plans for more events, promising even bigger prizes and opportunities for players to showcase their skills. For aspiring Tongits champions, Mark’s journey is an inspiring example of what can be achieved through hard work and dedication.
A Call to the Tongits Community
The Tongits Champion Cup wasn’t just about crowning a winner; it was about bringing together a community of players and fans who share a passion for the game. Events like these remind us of the power of games to unite people, celebrate culture, and create unforgettable memories.
To everyone who watched, cheered, and participated in the tournament, thank you for making the first-ever Tongits Champion Cup a resounding success. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a casual fan, the tournament’s message is clear: with determination, skill, and a love for the game, anyone can rise to the top.
If you’re eager to improve your skills or simply want to enjoy the thrill of the game, consider download Tongits Go. This popular app lets you play anytime, anywhere, and connects you with a vibrant community of Tongits enthusiasts. It’s the perfect way to stay sharp and prepare for the next big competition.
Closing Thoughts
As we celebrate Mark Austria’s victory, let’s also look forward to the future of Tongits. The first-ever Champion Cup has set a high standard, but it’s just the beginning. With more tournaments on the horizon and a growing community of players, the game’s legacy continues to shine brightly.
Congratulations once again to Mark Austria, our first-ever Tongits Champion Cup Grand Winner! Your victory is a source of inspiration for players across the nation. Here’s to more thrilling competitions, unforgettable moments, and the continued celebration of the game we all love. See you at the next Tongits Champion Cup!
The success of this event also underscores the importance of platforms like DigiPlus, Bingo Plus, Arena Plus, and GameZone in revolutionizing the gaming experience in the Philippines. These platforms not only bring entertainment to the digital era but also create opportunities for communities to connect, compete, and thrive in a shared passion for gaming.
