King of Concert!
toink!

Are you proud to be a Filipino?


In the light of what’s happening in our country today, we believe that there is one crucial moment when we inevitably take a moment to look deeper into our hearts, face our fears squarely and analyse our self-worth, because we are Filipinos.


What really makes the true Filipino? What ideology should we stand for to keep us closest to the reality of our identity? Who among us could still proudly say that we still take pride of our Filipino heritage while in the midst of the worst political condition, poverty, economic instability, irreconcilable convictions, worst calamities, etc.

Introspection is inevitable. Here below are nuggets of wisdom from some of our biggest celebrities who have responded to our forum, "are you proud to be a Filipino? Why, and how?"

Some answers made us take a harder look at our condition, some made us even shed a tear of frustration, but overall, the forum satisfied a deeper longing of the soul to take pride in being a Filipino. Hope is there because there is a just God who is in control of our very situation.

Read on:

"In spite of how the Filipino is deemed by many nowadays, yes, I am proud to be a Filipino. I am not proud of how some of my countrymen have been conducting themselves, especially some in government. But I love my country and have faith in the Filipino’s strengths, abilities, resilience, and faith in the Almighty. Kahit saan sa mundo, magaling tayo. We are basically a caring people. Our smiles and warmth are genuine. And we are smart and talented. Kulang sa bansa natin nga lang opportunities, kaya madaming magaling sa atin ang umaalis. Sayang. We should get down on our knees and pray." — Sharon Cuneta

"Yes, I’m proud and confused. I’m proud simply because we still have a world boxing champion like Manny Pacquiao. I’m proud we are the only third world country to have a great huge number of shopping malls. Strange though. By the way, we are third world, two steps more and we are No. 1, first and champion. Ha ha ha! I’m proud because Filipinos are so flexible. We can make any profession turn into a Nurse. Even doctors become nurses. Sad though. Lastly, about 70 percent of us 80 million Filipinos seem to know how to run this country. But I am still confused. Apparently, nobody is qualified." — Cesar Montano

"I am definitely proud to be a Filipino. Many view our passion and zeal in a bad light but these traits are in fact our greatest assets. They contribute to our race’s resiliency that got us through the colonization of three superpowers, and the various trials we continue to face. Without a doubt, I am sure the Philippines will emerge triumphant in our goals." — Sen. Bong Revilla, Jr.

"I am extremely proud to be Filipino! I have always been. Why? Because never in my lifetime I have ever met a people that strive on surviving. People who know more about politics than the politicians. People who can turn garbage or memories of a calamity into a commodity. People who can sing, dance, act, model, punch, knock out, win, lose, win again, paint, sculpt, write, design, build, tear down, and build again. No one does it, takes it, fixes it, tolerates it like the Filipino. I am proud to be but ever prouder to be amongst Filipinos. Throw it our way, I dare you, we will survive. We will prevail. We will be the envy of the world if I had my way!" — Martin Nievera

"Of course I am proud to be a Filipino because of the few I’ve had the honor to encounter who at all times strive to make their country a little better, their fellows a little happier. It shames me that the supposedly best and brightest in power, as exemplified by the incumbent president that I voted for ceaselessly strive to elevate self and kin to the ranks of the fabulously rich and unabashedly corrupt. I am ashamed of having as a countryman the prayerful widow who deigns to ask the President to make the supreme sacrifice by stepping down, while she can’t even begin to relinquish an hacienda to its rightful owners. I’m ashamed of the unrepentant gangster who in his arrogance and power-drunkenness had the gall to blatantly blow our taxes and loans on mistresses and high living. I’m ashamed even as I still harbor hopes for my country. I know there are good ones out there." — Director Lore Reyes

"I am very proud to be a Filipino. Ours is a blessed race with rare talents and gifted with intelligence. We are hardworking and we are great survivors of very testing times. We are resilient. I take pride in beautiful places our country has and our incomparable hospitality." — Kuh Ledesma

"Our country has gone through a lot all throughout history but we are still here, standing proud. We are a very loving nation even if we don’t see eye to eye on some issues. Despite the problems, we all still manage to enjoy life and we know that we can get over all the trials. I am very proud to be a Filipino! No matter what happens, the Philippines will always be home for me. I know that God will bless our nation and redeem us." — Franco Laurel

"YES! And I will always be proud to be a Filipino. However, I am so ashamed of those people whose life’s ambition is to make the government fail, ruin the country, topple the president, and grab power in the guise of prayers and democracy. They do not deserve to be called citizens of the Republic." — John Lesaca

"I sincerely want to, but I don’t know how and why." — Arnel Ignacio

"Yes, I’m still proud because we always survive. I think that is something to be truly proud of." — Regine Velasquez

"Yes, I’m proud to be Filipino. Because even the strongest blows that hit us, still they can’t stop or put us down. We’re very resilient." — Diether Ocampo

"When I remember the stories of Lapu-Lapu, Dagohoy, Diego and Gabriela Silang, Gomburza, Rizal, Ninoy Aquino, yes I am proud to be a Filipino. When my daughters (ages 4 and 1) and I, put our lives at stake on Edsa 20 years ago, yes I am proud to be a Filipino. It’s the only country where I am a first-class citizen. Now, after joining Edsa 2 and being governed by Mrs. Arroyo and all her sipsips, I’m having second thoughts. Should I still be proud of being a Filipino having helped install an administration that has become even worse than Marcos? But listening to Susan Roces, Guingona, Binay, Escudero, Cayetano, JV Ejercito, Joel Villanueva, Randy David, Satur Ocampo, and other so-called left-leaning-pro people representatives, I believe again in what Ninoy said, "the Filipino is worth dying for." I am once again proud to be Filipino, one of the many children of the true living God who is destined to serve Him here in Asia; the country where He planted the seed of Christianity 400 ago. Ang tagal lang nating magising sa ating tunay na tungkulin sa kanya." — Director Boots Plata

"Yes, I can say with candor that I am a Filipino and to deny and defy that because the country is in the midst of trials can be considered a monumental fiasco." — Evangeline Pascual

"To be honest, I am no longer sure if I could be proud of being a Filipino. As a part-time expat, the two People Power gave me pride and the whole world saluted us! But the events that took place recently somehow erased that feeling. Why can’t our leaders live up to the promise of Edsa? How come personal ambitions are more important than the lives of the downtrodden Filipinos? Cry The Beloved Country!" — Director Gil Portes

"Yes, I am very proud to be a Filipino. In fact, I surrendered my green card because I want to be a Filipino forever. We’re very adaptable race. Kahit saan ilagay, magsu-survive. Hindi katulad ng mga ibang nasyon magrereklamo kaagad kapag hindi convenient. Pero tayo hindi. Para tayong bubble gum, kahit saan dalhin, dumidikit." — Ricky Reyes

"Yes, I’m proud to be a Filipino. I realize that because I enjoy the privilege of seeing other countries, nations. And I have ssen that there is a lot to be proud about being Filipino: Our color, our resilience, our language, our ability to adapt. If we can only stop putting ourselves down." — Ivan Mayrina

"Oo naman. Pinoy ako. From birth, til I die. We might be a third world country but there are 7,000 plus reasons to be proud of. Where else do you see a democratic country that exercises its rights everyday with the politics goin on her and all the protests. We exemplify freedom. It is a great reason to be proud or our country. Our history flows in our blood. In our hearts, makikita ang pagmamahal sa bayan natin. Jeremy Marquez for President!" — Jeremy Marquez

"After heading the Philippine delegation to the World Championship of the Performing Arts Competition where the Philippines bagged a total of 16 awards including the world champion award with only two contestants besting 51 countries, I cannot but be proud to be a Filipino. I have always believed in the Filipino talent and will continue to find avenues that would catapult the Filipino artist to his rightful place in the world." — Ida Henares

"I am proud to be a Filipino which is why I chose to live in Manila even if most of my husband’s family members are in the USA. There are many struggling Pinoys and I want to be able to contribute in anyway by inspiring them through songs we produce or concerts that reach out to lost souls. As I heard the laments of the ‘Wowowee’ victims in Medical City and the victims and orphans of the Leyte landslide, I felt my Filipino blood surging because they were such simple loving, poor people with few needs, who only want to be cared for. There is much to be done in this country and I want to be one of the catalysts who could be part of bringing out the best in my fellow Filipinos. Truly it is the poor provincial Filipinos that make me proud because through their poverty and simplicity, they still manage to smile, work industriously and thank God and have faith that the best is yet to come for us. Before the resurrection, crucifixion, I am proud to be Filipino because we have wonderful countrymen whose gifts and talents are just waiting to be harnessed through responsible and honest leadership of our supposed ‘public servants’." — Angeli Pangilinan-Valenciano

"Yes, I am. Because there are no other people in the world who struggle so bravely to provide for their families. Overcoming trials and difficulties no matter how hard they are." — Melanie Marquez

"I’m proud being a Filipino. I’m proud of my heritage. We are the most creative people in the world. We adapt easily and do you guys ever notice all Filipinos know how to sing? Sing along with me folks. Pinoy Ako! Wohooo!" — Asia Agcaoili

http://www.mb.com.ph/ENTR2006031658826.html

SCUTTLEBUTT

* * *

And speaking of Martin, Jennifer from his office called us last Thursday to invite us to his charity performance billed "Martin Sings for Gaia" at the Rigodon Ballroom of The Manila Peninsula, on March 29 at 8 p.m. The concert will raise funds needed for a liver transplant to save the life of nine- month old Gaia Bianca Pasamba. Louie Ocampo will be Martin’s musical director in the show. Both have waived their talent fees in favor of Gaia and her family.

"Martin Sings for Gaia" is a joint production of The Manila Peninsula and Big Mouth International.

Tickets for "Martin Sings for Gaia" are now available at all Ticketnet outlets in all SM malls and are priced at P2000 each. Seats are on a first-come –first-served basis. For tickets and more information call Six Sigma at 829-9514-15 (ask for Jane).

http://www.mb.com.ph/ENTR2006031859051.html

Martin Nievera:
A Passionate Quest for Performing for the Filipinos Abroad
by: Jackie Regala-Katigbak

RENO, NEVADA, March 15, 2006—In spite of the snow and the chilling '30s temperature, people trekked the trail going to Silver Legacy Hotel and Casino in Reno last weekend to catch the show of Concert King, Martin Nievera.

From the moment you walked through the Nevada airport, a huge portrait of the pop icon greets you along with mainstream artists namely Black Eyed Peas with The Pussycat Dolls, Toni Braxton and Bob Dylan.

The billboard did not stop at Nevada airport. Martin's portrait was posted vaingloriously all over the place - from the garage to the escalator to the main Lobby; to the tent cards at the restaurants and to each hotel room and at the casino itself. And for any avid Filipino concertgoer, it is such a thrill to see their favorite Filipino artist as a headliner being advertised and promoted the way American performers are.

Like I said earlier, the very cold weather did not dampen the spirit of any concert enthusiasts at the Grand Exposition Hall where the concert took place. Instead, Martin turned the heat up that night with a fiery ensemble of seasoned musicians, an exciting array of repertoire and a personality that is truly warm, engaging and spiels that are funny and often witty. These are the very trademarks of a "Martin Nievera show."

For an artist who is quite meticulous as well as very professional, Nievera gathered an international array of musicians led by musical director, Lorrie Illustre (who by the way did a terrific job in arranging the repertoire and leading the band).

The musicians played with gusto starting off with Carlos Perez on percussions and vocals (this talented guy is also a percussionist-cum-vocalist for Ricky Martin); Tom Porello, trumpet (original trumpet player for the late Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley); George Bryant, drums; Rob Cooke, keyboards; Jim Buck, guitar/vocals; Steve Raimundez, bass; Kevin Stout, trombone and Gerald Merra on sax.

The show opened with Michael Buble's "Moondance" and "Tonight" before it segued way to a Sammy Davis Medley of "Who Can I Turn To/ What Kind of Fool "and "For Once in a Lifetime." All the first batch of songs set the tone of what to expect that night. I smiled and nodded with approval as I savored each song because Martin has definitely grown up and matured as a singer.

Gone are the days when he would sing a repertoire that consisted mostly of what his fans want to hear. Martin is now one of the few, full-fledged concert artists who has the luxury of singing the songs he likes and enjoys best performing on stage and still gets his audience's praises and applause.

From what I saw, everyone was entertained as Martin kept going from one song to the next.

What came next were well-loved OPM ditties from "Ikaw Lang ang Mamahalin" and "The Way You Look Tonight." Then there were the OPM classics, his own signature songs, "How Can I" and "Be My Lady." And even if we heard him sing these songs several times in the past, Martin made it sound like you heard it for the first time.

A welcome, refreshing add-on to Martin's repertoire is the Stevie Wonder medley of "Sir Duke," "Isn't She Lovely," "You are the Sunshine of My Life," "My Cherie Amour," "Overjoyed" and "Superstition." I hope that Martin and Lorrie would make this medley a staple in their act. This brought in the versatility factor to his ballad-filled repertoire.

Another medley strategically sequenced in between ballads is the Tom Jones Medley. It was "musically delicious!" A real treat to the audience with Martin singing "It's Not Unusual," "Delilah" and "Kiss." And talk about Kiss, Martin was swamped with not just one, but many kisses all throughout the night. He quipped: "Why kiss me in the cheeks where you can always kiss me in the lips." And out came the women from the audience with kisses landing on his lips - from grandmas to mothers to the lovely teens! The very Vegas-ish act reminds you of the scene from a Wayne Newton show.

By the way, Martin, forget about the dancing and the gyrating! Leave that to Gary V.! Your dancing is perfectly fine - it's what makes you lovable and endearing to your fans.

And for a breather, Martin's female guest, Jenevi Bach brought her "Hot Stuff" act to the fore. Martin introduced her as "a weapon of destruction." And out came a voluptuous and alluring lady who commanded presence on stage. Together, Jenevi and Martin performed a slow bossa nova, "Quando Quando!"

Outstanding was Martin's performance of a Josh Groban original, "You Raise Me Up." Obviously he was in his best element. Ditto with "Please Don't Throw My Love Away" and "Say That You Love Me."

Another twist which we found very interesting that night was the Swing arrangement of Lorrie in the Michael Jackson Medley of "Billy Jean," "Beat It," "Bad," and "The Way You make Me Feel " -- another must-have in their forthcoming gig!

For a powerful pick-up song, Martin delivered the Broadway Medley - where the singer's vocal prowess was put to the test. He did justice in songs like "Home," "The Music of the Night," "I Dream the Dream," "Why God?" "Memories," "Somewhere," "There's a Place for Us" to "This is the Moment." This prompted the audience to accord Martin a standing ovation.

As if this was not enough musical journey for us, we were also treated to Nievera's famous rendition of "You are My Song," as a chaser for the night.

Over-all, Martin's performance was awesome and highly entertaining.

He is to us the perfect showcase of a Filipino talent out to show audiences all around the globe that indeed, the Filipino artist can stand at par with any mainstream artist.

During the concert, Martin also mentioned that it is his lifetime dream to be able to perform in another part of the world regularly before the Filipino audiences. And his wish was granted! Martin is set to perform for a year at the soon-to-open Steve Wyrick Theater located at The Passage in Aladdin Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas (this place will be soon be named Planet Hollywood Las Vegas.)

So if you are visiting Las Vegas, catch the Martin Nievera gig starting July 2006 (produced by the enterprising duo -- Ivee Fresnoza and Gene Gamalinda).

This is yet another must-see-show!

Martin sings to save a life
FUNFARE By Ricardo F. Lo
The Philippine Star 03/20/2006

Watch Martin Nievera’s concert at the Rigodon Ballroom of The Manila Peninsula on March 29, 8 p.m., and save a young life.

The concert, for which Martin flew back from the US a few days ago, will raise funds for the liver transplant of nine months old Gaia Blanca Pasamba slated early next month in Singapore. The operation costs $90,000 (roughly P5 million). The faculty of International School Manila, students and their parents, and private donors have so far raised money but they’re still short of 25 percent of the amount needed.

Born on June 7, 2005, to Giorde and Ybeth Pasamba, Gaia was diagnosed with Biliary Atresia, a serious disease of young infants which results in the inflammation and obstruction of the ducts that carry bile from the liver to the intestines and causes severe liver damage. Part of the donor’s liver will be transplanted into Gaia. One of Gaia’s parents is a teacher at I.S.

"When I was contacted for the fund-raising concert," said Martin, "I said ‘Sure’ right away. My (ex-)wife Pops (Fernandez) studied at I.S. and so did our sons (Ram and Robin). I hope that other stars (among them Sharon Cuneta) who have studied at I.S. will sing at the concert. (The Pen is offering the venue free of charge)."

The surgery (which would cost $200,000 in the US) has to be done before Gaia turns a year old when complications start to set in. Pediatric transplants are not yet done in the Philippines. The operation will be performed at the Glen Eagles Hospital by Dr. Tan Kai Chah, consultant surgeon and liver-transplant specialist, who is a beneficiary of the fund (to finance the education of medical students specializing in pediatric liver disease) raised by an English couple who lost their child to the disease 26 years ago.

"I plan to continue this project even after Gaia’s surgery," said Martin.

(Note: Tickets are priced at P2,000 to Martin Sings For Gaia are available at all Ticketnet outlets at SM malls. Seats are on a first-come-first-served basis. For inquiries, call Six Sigma at 829-9514 to 15.)

http://www.philstar.com/philstar/news200603201701.htm

‘Don’t bench me’
Martin unhappy about diminished role on ‘ASAP’


First posted 11:11pm (Mla time) Mar 21, 2006
By Marinel R. Cruz
Inquirer



Editor's Note: Published on Page A2-1 of the March 22, 2006 issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer


THERE’S so much I can do with or without the show having to be about me. I’m one of those players who can make the three-point shot. If you want me on your team, use me; don’t bench me.”

Martin Nievera was telling a group of entertainment writers on Saturday how neglected he was feeling for being one of the “less-used artists” on ABS-CBN’s Sunday noontime variety show, “ASAP ’05.”

Martin, his ex-wife Pops Fernandez, Ariel Rivera and former Miss Universe Dayanara Torres, were the first hosts of the program launched in the early ’90s.

The current edition of the show has over 30 hosts led by Zsa Zsa Padilla, Gary Valenciano and Kuh Ledesma.

“Back then, everything revolved around [the four main hosts],” Martin recalled. “Now, [I’m among] the less-used artists. Tomorrow (Sunday, March 19) I’m singing Adam Sandler’s ‘Grow Old With You’ for the [segment on the] wedding of Claudine [Barretto] and Raymart [Santiago]. I have an album of wedding songs that became a double gold, and I have to sing that?”

Interviewed later, Deo Endrinal, network vice president for Talk, Variety, and Reality argued that Martin had committed only six dates for “ASAP” this year—two in February, three in April and one in May.

Theory

Endrinal said the production team hadn’t counted on Martin’s availability on March 19. “We were told a week earlier. We couldn’t just suddenly change the concept of the show, which was for Claudine. We asked Martin to sing Raymart’s favorite song.”

Martin had a theory: “If you ask ABS-CBN why these things are happening, they’ll say, ‘It’s because Martin is never here.’ Try throwing me an offer—don’t wait for me to be available.”

“Martin is like an icon for the program,” Endrinal conceded. “We’d like to honor him as often as possible, [to mark] every milestone in his career. We know that his dream is to really make it big internationally. We’re always here to help him promote himself.”

Martin stressed that he didn’t want out: “I’m not telling the people [running the show] how to do their jobs; I’m offering my services. If you need another male host, I’m your guy.”

He added: “Believe it or not, I’m very faithful. I’m a team player. Do you know how many offers I’ve gotten from the other side? A lot. They’re offering me a lot more than what I’m making right now. ABS-CBN has never offered me a contract.”

The gathering on Saturday was to announce Martin’s fundraising concert on March 29 at the Manila Peninsula in Makati City, to benefit 9-month-old Gaia Bianca Pasamba, who needs a liver transplant.

Do your fans notice?
I get a lot of feedback from fans. They ask, ‘Why did this one get a solo and you didn’t?’ I tell them, ‘Don’t worry about it. It’s a team effort.’ It’s because of the fans that I feel this way. They expect something, for instance, a homecoming welcome. It’s not as if I’m on the show every weekend. I wish they’d do their homework naman. You watch: if I hit it big in the US, they’ll be promoting me on ‘ASAP.’

What are your plans for the year?
On April 15, I’ll do another fundraiser in Los Angeles with MiG Ayesa and other Filipino artists who are in the US now—for the Leyte landslide victims. In May, I’m touring Europe with Pops... then Las Vegas in July.

How did you get involved in the fundraiser for Gaia?
My sister Tere’s son, who goes to the International School, came home one day feeling depressed. He said his teacher, Gaia’s father, had a problem. A lot of people ended up wanting to help, and it snowballed into a show. The baby could go under the knife on the very day of the
performance.

Will you henceforth be concerned about helping people?
You’ve got to start somewhere. I lost my father to a similar disease. Hopefully my name still has some pull. Once, in Japan, I asked a group, ‘If I kissed you on the lips, how much would you give me?’ I raised $5,000 for typhoon victims, which I donated to the ABS-CBN Foundation. By the end of that tour, I had donated almost $20,000. But did ABS-CBN know I did that? It’s not important. I just want you to see that I am a team player.

Is there anything else you dream of as a performer?
I want to be really big and come back to this country, my hometown, and do a big show with an orchestra for free. It would be fully produced but I will not charge a cent. That’s when you know you’re a big star.

http://news.inq7.net/entertainment/index.p...&story_id=70144

Martin Nievera, frustrated with ‘ASAP’ assignments


By JOJO PANALIGAN

Concert King Martin Nievera is frustrated with singing assignments he gets from ABS-CBN Sunday variety show, "A.S.A.P." that he pioneered and hosts, saying he’s "not being utilized the way the show could."


"I and other veterans of the show, of late, only perform one or two numbers in the show. Most of the air time is given to others who do songs I have been doing for years. An example is an eight-minute Broadway segment by the Champions. And there I am backstage thinking, ‘But I’ve been doing Broadway songs for years!’ It seems it’s easier for Sam Milby to be given a portion of his own than for me who thought up of the show’s name to do more songs," says Martin during an interview.

Some of the songs assigned to Martin, he says, do not even maximize his proven singing mettle. He cites his assignment last Sunday; a version of Adam Sandler’s novelty hit tune, "Grow Old With You."

"‘A.S.A.P.’ gave me that number in line with the Claudine Barreto-Raymart Santiago wedding. I tried listening to the study tape but I turned it off. It’s a throw away number----really frustrating ," he says.

Martin is especially dumbfounded with the scant exposure considering that he infrequently hosts the show as he has been busy doing shows abroad.

"You’d think that they would want to use me as long as I am there but no. Sometimes they do not even acknowledge that I’ve been gone and had just returned. Once, I came back to ‘A.S.A.P.’ during the week of my birthday and after three months of absence. But was that given due acknowledgment? Was I welcomed as warmly as one would expect? Hardly," he says.

Even some of the significant things he has done voluntarily for the network are little noticed by the show. One is his effort in a show in Japan to drum up donations for the ABS-CBN drive for a recent calamity.

"Only once was it mentioned in ‘A.S.A.P.’ and done so in passing. Looking back, I only wanted it mentioned sufficiently so that the Japanese who donated money would know that I did give it to the network. Sometimes I feel that I have to achieve something really momentous abroad before I’m given real attention again here," he says.

The Concert King acknowledges that perhaps "A.S.A.P." prioritizes new singers because they need the exposure more than he does.

"Still, I hope they don’t forget that we paved the way for these young ones. In fact, it was much harder for us because we did it without the help of reality star searches. The dues we paid were stiffer," he says.

Martin believes that more exciting spot concepts could be cooked up for him especially since Gary Valenciano, his singing rival for years, also hosts "A.S.A.P."

"Yet they don’t make us do numbers together! I mean, when was the last time people saw Martin and Gary doing a song together? ‘A.S.A.P.’ is even trying to be politically correct about it in that if Gary does the opening number, then it’s me who must close the show or vice-versa. Whoever said that should be the rule? Certainly not I," he says.

When asked why he thinks this has been happening to them, Martin is at a loss.

"I don’t know. What I do know is that the only reason I and the rest of the seasoned stars are being retained in ‘A.S.A.P.’ is because we keep the show authentic," he says.

It’s not as if Martin’s stellar power has diminished. A fundraising show he will be for free at the Manila Peninsula dubbed "Martin Sings For Gaia" on March 29 sold out ¾ths of the venue-capacity within days of word-of-mouth buzz and long before it has been publicized in media.

How does Martin describe this situation with "A.S.A.P.?"

"I’m one of the players who can do three-point shots. I’m available yet nobody passes the ball to me. I’m not asking for special treatment-----in fact, I wouldn’t even be bringing this up if not for people texting me, asking why the situation is what it is. All I’m saying is that if ‘A.S.A.P.’ values my being in the team, then they should use me, not bench me," he says.

Manila Bulletin contacted "A.S.A.P." Business Unit Head, Deo Endrinal, who addressed Martin’s points one-by-one.

"We talk to the manager of all our artists by start of the year. Going by the advice of Martin’s this year, he was declared to only be here during the last two weeks of April and then on May. Since we program our content in advance, we have no choice but to incorporate him in pre-planned numbers for other artists in times when he’s here outside the availability notice he gave us" says he.

As for Martin’s frustration over "Grow Old With You," Deo speculates that the singer was probably not told when the study was handed to him that the song is very special to Claudine and Raymart. "Otherwise----- and I’m sure of this-----he would probably imbued his singing with much more feelings than he already did," says Deo.

When asked about how "A.S.A.P."’s celebrated Martin’s recent birthday on air, Deo said that the Concert King was away on the actual natal date (Feb. 4). Even so, "A.S.A.P." hosts still greeted him on the show.

"He arrived two weeks after that, on Feb. 17, so it was a little too late to do a full-blast birthday bash. Also, the day after his birthday was when the ULTRA stampede happened. Going by propriety, the show cannot be too celebratory in face of such tragedy," Deo says.

What about Martin’s statements on Sam Milby’s segments?

"Sam’s segment is on momentary basis to promote his album and movie. I’d like to think that when it’s Martin who needs the push, he gets the same from us if not more because he deserves it and we love him. Everybody just takes turns, that’s all. "

Deo adds: "We cannot draft ‘A.S.A.P.’ line-up of numbers according to what each of its mainstays can offer. We have 30 very talented people out there and to always maximize each would be tedious. It’s like how things are in a family: Sometimes the younger ones are given the spotlight, sometimes it’s the seniors who get it. Giving way is how the family stays strong, happy and alive."

Gary and Martin doing numbers together are reserved for special occasions "as deserving their status. You don’t want to serve just spaghetti on Christmas Day. You reserve the best for such occasions. Besides, they have enough talent an stellar power between them to make their solo numbers remarkable."

Deo sums up "A.S.A.P."’s relationship with Martin, then and now.

"Martin and ‘A.S.A.P.’ have a great love story with its share of ups and downs. No matter where we are in the two, love is not diminished from either party. Then again, how could anyone expect otherwise? After all, Martin and ‘A.S.A.P.’ are----will always be---- kapamilya," he ends.

http://www.mb.com.ph/ENTR2006032259384.html

Martin, masama ang loob sa 'ASAP'


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Joe Barrameda

Masama pala ang loob ni Martin Nievera dahil hindi siya nabibigyan ng magandang exposure sa ASAP tuwing lalabas siya sa nasabing programa.

Kung ako si Martin, hindi na ako lalabas sa nasabing programa.

Made na siya at hindi na niya kailangan ng exposure doon,

maliban kung may ipino-promote siyang show.

Nasa international scene na nga siya, eh. Mas malakas siya sa mga show sa abroad at marami na rin siyang natutulungang mga nangangailangan at kapus-palad.

http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/march2306/main.htm

sana regular na lang siya..

ULTIMATE FILIPINO MUSIC COLLECTION

ULTIMATE FILIPINO MUSIC COLLECTION
VARIOUS ARTISTS

CD US$39.99

Playlist:
CD One
1. Ngayon At Kailanman- Basil Valdez
2. Sanay Wala Nang Wakas- Sharon Cuneta
3. Ikaw Ang Lahat Sa Akin- Martin Nievera
4. Dito Ba - Kuh Ledesma
5. Hindi Magbabago- Randy Santiago
6. Boy-Timmy Cruz
7. Naaalala Ka - Rey Valera
8. Kailangan Kita -Leah Navarro

CD Two
1. Sinasamba Kita- Sharon Cuneta
2. Hindi Kita Malilimutan - Basil Valdez
3. Paano Kita Mapasasalamatam - Kuh Ledesma
4. Sa Aking Pagiisa- Cinderella
5. Bababaero- Randy Santiago
6. Kahit Konting Pagtingin - Ric Segreto
7. Buhay ng Buhay Ko - Leah Navarro
8. Kapalaran- Rico Puno
9. Anak- Freddie Aguilar

CD Three
1. Gaano Ko Ikaw Kamahal - Celeste Legaspi
2. Hanggang sa Dulo ng Walang Hanggan - Basil Valdez
3. Sana - Kuh Ledesma
and many more

CD Four
1. Sanay Maghintay Ang Walang Hanggan- Sharon Cuneta
2. Bulaklak- Kuh Ledesma
3. Ipagpatawad- VST & Co.
and many more

CD Five
1. Kapantay ay Langit - Rico Puno
2. Narito Ako- Cris Bermont
3. Iduyan Mo - Basil Valdez
and many more

RECORD LABEL: Vicor Music Corp

RELEASE DATE: March 2006

www.starrystarry.com

Martin is Hurting

Martin Nievera didn’t mince words about his displeasure with ABS-CBN, which he said was “neglecting” him.

“There’s so much I can do with or without the show having to be about me,” he told a group of entertainment writers. “I’m one of those players who can make the three-point shot. If you want me on your team, use me; don’t bench me.”

Martin was referring to how his role in the network’s Sunday show ASAP had diminished through the years. From being one of the top four hosts (together with ex-wife Pops Fernandez, Ariel Rivera and former Miss Universe Dayanara Torres) when ASAP was launched in the early ’90s, Martin now considers himself as one of the “less-used artists” on the show. The current edition of the show has over 30 hosts led by Zsa Zsa Padilla, Gary Valenciano and Kuh Ledesma.

Martin added: “If you ask ABS-CBN why these things are happening, they’ll say, ‘It’s because Martin is never here.’ Try throwing me an offer—don’t wait for me to be available.”

He clarified that he didn’t want out. “I’m not telling the people [running the show] how to do their jobs; I’m offering my services. If you need another male host, I’m your guy.”

He disclosed he had received far bigger offers from rival networks but he chose to stay with ABS-CBN. “I’m a team player. Do you know how many offers I’ve gotten from the other side? A lot. They’re offering me a lot more than what I’m making right now. ABS-CBN has never offered me a contract.”

On April 15, Martin is doing a fundraiser in Los Angeles with MiG Ayesa and other US-based Filipino artists for the Leyte landslide victims. In May, he is touring Europe with Pops and in July he has a concert in Las Vegas.

Asked about his dream as a performer, he replied: “I want to be really big and come back to this country, my hometown, and do a big show with an orchestra for free. It would be fully produced but I will not charge a cent. That’s when you know you’re a big star.”

http://www.planetphilippines.com/

Martin reunites with Pops & kids


IF I KNOW
By Aster Amoyo
People's Journal

POPS Fernandez and Martin Nievera have been separated for several years now and their marriage have long been annulled, but they have remained good friends.

There are also certain occasions when the uncouple are together along with their two grownup sons — Robin and Ram — like what happened at the recent wedding of Pops' youngest sister, Jocelyn, to Ron Henares.

Martin flew in from Las Vegas, Nevada, on that day just to attend the wedding. He even sang at the reception held at the Manila Peninsula Ballroom.

It was actually a delight looking at the former couple together with their sons. Rarely are they seen together as a family.

"Sana magkabalikan sila. They still look good together," murmured our seatmate at the wedding reception.

If there's one person who wants them back as a couple, it's Pops' mom, Dulce Lukban.

"I always include them in my prayers. Kahit matagal na silang hiwalay, gusto ko pa rin na magkabalikan sila," says the beauteous Dulce.

http://www.journal.com.ph/news.asp?pid=2&s...day=3&year=2006

Martin paawa effect


TATTLE
Nel Alejandrino
People's Tonight

GIMIK lang ba o talagang gusto lang magpaawa ni Martin Nievera kaya sa kanyang mga spiel sa concerts, madalas niyang ipa-feel sa audience na 'di na siya sikat?

Madalas niyang gawing halimbawa ang tungkol sa partnership nila ng popular at in demand na musical director na si Louie Ocampo.

Napapansin daw niyang kapag mga kabataang singer, tulad, halimbawa, ni Piolo Pascual, ang ina-accompany nito sa pag-awit, 'di lang daw ito parang ganadung-ganado. Wari niya raw, parang inspirado pa.

Pero, kapag siya na raw ang singer na ina-accompany ni Louie sa pag-awit, 'di lang daw ito parang napipilitan lang, kundi lagi pang nakayuko.

Tanong tuloy sa amin ng isang kilalang corporate PR practitioner: "Laos na ba si Martin?"

O, Martin, ikaw ang nagpi-feed sa mga follower mo na 'laos' ka na.

Do you (Martin) honestly think so?

http://www.journal.com.ph/news.asp?pid=1&s...day=4&year=2006

Martin & Katrina kiss & make up
FUNFARE By Ricardo F. Lo
The Philippine Star 04/08/2006

While all of us were preoccupied monitoring the ups and downs of showbiz lovers, guess which pair has just kissed and made up in Las Vegas – yes, Martin Nievera and Katrina Ojeda!

This piece of good news, relayed by Funfare’s casino-crazy DPA, comes as surprise because, although it has been whispered around, there was no confirmation from Martin that he and Katrina ever broke up. You see, even if vocal about his career and his ex-wife Pops Fernandez, Martin becomes tongue-tied when it comes to Katrina.

According to the DPA, the reconciliation happened last week, a few days after Martin flew back to Las Vegas after doing a fund-raising concert in Manila for a months-old boy who needed a liver transplant.

Martin and Katrina own separate houses in Las Vegas where Martin did a successful concert series last year.

"The reconciliation was done while Pops was having a concert in Canada," said the DPA.

Now, is marriage a possibility between the lovers?

Let’s wait and see.

http://www.philstar.com/philstar/news200604081701.htm

"I SHALL RETURN" A concert for the benefit of St. Bernard, Leyte in Glendale, CA with MIG AYESA • MARTIN NIEVERA • BERNARDO BERNARDO • PATRICIA JAVIER • INTROVOYS • DESSA • STEPHANIE REESE • YOLY TOLENTINO • JENNIFER PAZ • BECCA GODINEZ Saturday, April 15, 2006 at Glendale Civic Auditorium, 1401 N. Verdugo Road., Glendale, CA 91208. Doors open 5PM. Donations: $25 general admission, $100 VIP

bakit wala na sya sa ASAP? may mga tours ba sya?

---

YENG ROCKS!!!

mas marami syang shows dito sa US