Alden Richards

Alden Richards

10 years and counting: Alden Richards keeps shining brighter

When you hear the name Alden Richards, his bedimpled cheeks, natural charm, and humility which have won the hearts of many fans easily come to mind.

He was once an aspiring artist who made it big without losing his faith and genuine demeanor, making him well-loved on and off camera.

Though his early years in the industry were tough, Alden refuses to lose sight of how he started 10 years ago, pointing out that his struggles served as the driving force behind his success.

“When I was starting, ang dami kong pangarap, ang dami kong gustong mangyari sa buhay ko noon,” the Kapuso homegrown talent recalled. “As I go along the 10 years that I've been here, unti-unti siyang natutupad because of the support of the people.”

"My struggles pushed me to work hard para marating ko kung ano man ang narating ko ngayon. That's what keeps my feet on the ground. Kasi if not for those hardships and struggles, hindi ko mararating kung ano 'yung narating ko ngayon. So I really owe it to those moments. I don't regret any of those moments that happened to me in the past.”

Ten years later, the Asia’s Multimedia Star remains on top of his game in fulfilling his dreams. He is now one of the country’s premier actors, a top celebrity endorser, a highly talented host, an award-winning performer, a chart-topping recording artist, a record-breaking box office star, and yes, even a successful businessman.

To celebrate a decade of breakthroughs in his career and to pay tribute to his fans’ unwavering love and support, Alden banners the country’ s first ever virtual reality concert – 'Alden's Reality' – happening this December 8.

A musical treat from the Kapuso star also awaits his fans as he is set to debut his latest single during his highly-anticipated concert.

The song is titled ‘Goin’ Crazy’ and is a collaboration between Alden, GMA Music, and FlipMusic Productions. It was composed by Pow Chavez and was arranged by Rap Sanchez. It was also produced by Pow and Rap, with Kedy Sanchez as Supervising Producer.

“I’ve done a few singles in the past but this is one of my favorites. I'll be launching the single and performance on the day of the concert. It’s very timely, especially because we're all in community quarantine right now. Sobrang chill lang and I enjoyed recording it,” explained Alden.

Reaching 10 years in the entertainment industry is a big feat. Alden attributes his success to the trust of his home network and his legions of fans who have been with him since day one and which continue to grow as he ventures into new projects.

He said, “Malaki po ang pasasalamat ko sa tiwalang ibinigay ng GMA sa akin at sa suporta ng mga tao throughout my career. I'm really grateful to them kasi I would never reach 10 years without these people."

“Kasi siyempre ang success is best experienced when you share it with other people who are with you. So doon po ako pinaka-blessed, to have people who encourage me, who give me unconditional love and support. That's what I'm really grateful for and that's what keeps me going in this industry.”

Produced by Synergy: A GMA Collaboration, 'Alden’s Reality' is also GMA Network’s treat to loyal Kapuso as the country’s leading broadcast company marks its 70th anniversary. Joining Alden as special guests are brothers Rodjun and Rayver Cruz as well as OPM band December Avenue. The concert is directed by Paolo Valenciano. To be part of Alden’s Reality, visit http://www.gmanetwork.com/synergy.

Meanwhile, ‘Goin’ Crazy’ will be available for streaming on YouTube Music, Spotify, Apple Music, and across all other digital platforms worldwide beginning December 9. (30)

Asia’s Multi-media Star Alden Richards: On top of his game

Asia’s Multi-media Star Alden Richards is right where he deserves to be – on top of his game.

The Kapuso homegrown talent is one of the country’s premier actors, a top celebrity endorser, a successful businessman, a highly-talented host, an award-winning performer, a chart-topping recording artist, and a record-breaking box office star. But it is his genuine dedication towards excelling in his craft that sets him apart.

Recently, Alden received the ‘Asian Star Prize’ from the Seoul International Drama Awards 2019 at the Kyunghee University in South Korea and the first-ever ‘Celebrity Icon Award’ from the Okada Manila 2019 Icon Awards – two more accolades added to his growing list of accomplishments in the industry.

Despite all his feats, Alden remains an inspiration to the people around him and his legions of fans for his humility and passion in acting. As he renewed his contract with GMA Network yesterday, September 3, Alden attributed his success to his home network for almost a decade.

“Since I started in GMA up to this point of my career, sila ‘yung sumusugal sa’kin. They gave me huge projects, huge opportunities and regardless kung successful or hindi, hindi sila tumitigil. Hindi nila ako pinabayaan. They kept on believing, kahit na minsan wala ng angle to believe in. Hinawakan nila ‘yung kamay ko through ups and downs, hindi ko nakita ‘yon with others,” he said.

Throughout his years as a Kapuso, Alden has proven his versatility by portraying several formidable roles. In his upcoming primetime drama, The Gift, he is taking on another challenging role as a visually-impaired fruit vendor named Sep.

“In my nine years of stay in GMA, I keep on discovering something new about myself and my craft. Project after project, it gives me more hunger to do more and inspire more people through my works and the things that I do. Pag may lumalapit sa’kin and sasabihin nila, ‘Alden sobrang ganda ng ginawa mo, nabago ‘yung buhay ko.’ Sobra akong namo-move to be appreciated by these people by the thing I love to do most. I want projects that could touch lives - that’s my ultimate goal as an artist. Ang sarap kasi noong nakakapagpabago ka ng buhay ng ibang tao kagaya ng pagbabago ng GMA sa buhay ko. I also want to be a vessel to help others.”

Present in the contract signing were GMA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Atty. Felipe L. Gozon; President and Chief Operating Officer Gilberto R. Duavit, Jr.; Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Felipe S. Yalong; Senior Vice President for Entertainment Group Lilybeth G. Rasonable; Chief Risk Officer and First Vice President for Corporate Strategic Planning and Program Support Department Regie C. Bautista; Vice President for Drama Productions Redgie Acuña-Magno; Vice President for Business Development Department III Darling de Jesus-Bodegon; Vice President for Corporate Affairs and Communications Angel Javier Cruz; Vice President for Regional TV Oliver Amoroso; Senior Assistant Vice President for Alternative Productions Gigi Santiago-Lara; Assistant Vice President for Business Development Department II Bang Arespacochaga; Assistant Vice President for Drama Cheryl Ching-Sy; Assistant Vice President for Talent Imaging and Marketing Simoun Ferrer; Senior Program Managers Helen Rose Sese, Ruth Mariñas, Mae Zambrano, Mildred Natividad, Cecille de Guzman, Ian Roxas, and Charles Koo.

During the contract signing held at the Boardroom of GMA Network, Atty. Gozon expressed his admiration over the actor’s loyalty towards the Kapuso Network, “As one of GMA’s most treasured stars, we are honored to be part of your unrivaled accomplishments as an artist. Even though you are now one of the biggest stars in the country, you remain humble that’s why we are confident that you will achieve more successes. Being a homegrown talent of GMA, kami dito sa GMA ay very proud of your achievements and gratified that you’ll continue to be a Kapuso.”

Mr. Duavit, on the other hand, had nothing but praises for the Kapuso star, “We’ve always admired your dedication and commitment to your craft lalong-lalo na tuwing napapanood at nasasaksihan namin ang patuloy na pag-evolve mo bilang isang artista, isang host, at isang napakabuting tao. Katuwa-tuwa at nakakataba ng pusong masaksihan ang iyong pag-angat at pagsulong sa iyong career. Sa mga hinaharap na taon, makakaasa ka na nasa likuran mo kaming lahat.”

Rasonable, in turn, expressed her appreciation of the homegrown actor’s professionalism and good heart, “He is loved by all because mahusay siyang makipagkapwa tao sa lahat ng mga katrabaho niya. Nakikita ng lahat ‘yung seriousness niya sa kaniyang ginagawa, ‘yung effort and the passion that he pours into his work so nahahawa niya lahat ng tao sa kaniyang paligid. Throughout all these years parehong-pareho, from the first time we worked together in Alakdana until now in The Gift wala talagang nagbago kaya siya mahal na mahal ng mga tao.”

Meanwhile, Santiago-Lara admires Alden for being down-to-earth in spite of the colossal achievements he has reached in his career, “I’m proud of him, sa lahat ng achievements niya. ‘Yung passion na nakita ko sa kaniya noong nag-start kaming mag-work, it hasn’t died and in fact, lalong nakita ko ‘yung willingness and passion niya to grow. Everybody is saying na hindi siya nagbabago but it’s more than that. He likes to give back sa lahat ng napapasaya niya, ‘yung mga sumusuporta sa kaniya. Iyon ‘yung isa sa mga kakaiba sa kaniya.” (30)

Alden Richards renews contract with GMA Network. (L-R) GMA Senior Vice President for Entertainment Group Lilybeth G. Rasonable; GMA President and Chief Operating Officer Gilberto R. Duavit, Jr.; Alden Richards; GMA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Atty. Felipe L. Gozon; GMA Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Felipe S. Yalong.

Alden Richards renews contract with GMA Network. (L-R) GMA Vice President for Corporate Affairs and Communications Angel Javier Cruz; Senior Assistant Vice President for Alternative Productions Gigi Santiago-Lara; GMA Senior Vice President for Entertainment Group Lilybeth G. Rasonable; GMA President and Chief Operating Officer Gilberto R. Duavit, Jr.; Alden Richards; GMA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Atty. Felipe L. Gozon; GMA Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Felipe S. Yalong; Vice President for Regional TV Oliver Amoroso; Assistant Vice President for Talent Imaging and Marketing Simoun Ferrer; Chief Risk Officer and First Vice President for Corporate Strategic Planning and Program Support Department Regie C. Bautista; Vice President for Drama Productions Redgie Acuña-Magno; Assistant Vice President for Business Development Department II Bang Arespacochaga; Senior Program Manager Helen Rose Sese.

Alden Richards wins Asian Star Prize at the Seoul International Drama Awards 2019

Alden Richards marks another milestone in his career as he received the Asian Star Prize in the Seoul International Drama Awards 2019 last August 28 at the Grand Peace Hall in Kyung Hee University.

The Kapuso prime actor proves to be unstoppable in expanding the standards of acting and strengthening his depth as an artist.

Alden flew to Seoul to personally accept the prestigious accolade and expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the award-giving body during his acceptance speech.

“It is such an honor to receive this award. As a Filipino, I am very humbled and grateful to be recognized in the international scene along with so many amazing and talented artists here tonight. This award is also extra special to me because it comes at a time when we are celebrating 70 years of friendship between the Philippines and Korea. Thank you to the Seoul Drama Awards Committee and the Korean Broadcasters Association,” he said.

Meanwhile, Alden will once again showcase his acting chops in the upcoming primetime series The Gift, where he takes on the role of Joseph—a man who grows up in Divisoria and becomes one of its hard-working vendors. Despite the trials that come his way upon losing his eyesight, Joseph continues to be a good person and becomes an inspiration to the people around him.

Alden underwent an immersion with Resources for the Blind Inc., a non-government office that helps visually-impaired people to prepare for his character.

A recognition of his remarkable talent, the award also symbolizes Alden’s dedication and love for his craft. He noted, “As actors, it is always our hope to make more people happy and inspire them with our passion.”

Organized by Seoul Drama Awards Organizing Committee and Korean Broadcasters Association, Seoul International Drama Awards is a festival that brings together all professionals in the field of TV drama production and media industry and global audiences who enjoy television dramas. (30)

Alden Richards leads GMA Network’s Countdown to 2019

Say hello to a brighter year ahead as GMA Network welcomes 2019 with its musical-variety themed New Year Countdown special at the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Seaside Boulevard this Monday (December 31).

Watch your favourite Kapuso stars in a night full of music, happiness and festivity as they close 2018 with amazing treats and spectacular performances.

The yearend bash is hosted by the Network’s biggest and brightest stars led by Kris Bernal, Andrea Torres, Betong Sumaya, Joyce Pring, Arra San Agustin and Pambansang Bae Alden Richards.

The countdown special begins on air at 10:30 pm with performances from Asia’s Romantic Balladeer Christian Bautista, Asia’s Pop Sweetheart Julie Anne San Jose, and Pop Heartthrob Mark Bautista together with talented Kapuso stars Glaiza de Castro, Yasmien Kurdi, Katrina Halili, Rocco Nacino, Derrick Monasterio, Ken Chan, Sanya Lopez, Kyline Alcantara, Thea Tolentino, Jeric Gonzales and Jak Roberto.

Showering the celebration with non-stop entertainment are GMA’s talented comedians - Super Tekla and Donita Nose aka DonEkla.

Don’t miss the world-class performances of The Clash grand champion Golden Cañedo and finalists Jong Madaliday, Garrett Bolden and Josh Adornado. Joining them are Nar Cabico, Kapuso boy band One Up, and The Clash graduates Kyryll Ugdiman, Anthony Rosaldo, Mika Gorospe, Esterlina Olmedo, Melbelline Caluag, Danielle Ozaraga, Muriel Lomadilla, Lyra Micolob, Psalms David, RJ Buena, JL Toreliza and Lowell Jumalon.

On its 11th year of partnership with GMA Network, SM Mall of Asia is all set to light up the sky with a world-class and brilliant fireworks display that will surely leave the audience in awe. And to make sure that the event remains safe and secure, the network also cooperates with National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) and Pasay City Police. Visit www.gmanetwork.com for the full list of event’s security policies.

For this year, GMA Network joins forces with Solaire Resort & Casino for live updates as they also showcase a spectacular set of fireworks display.

Start the year right with GMA’s Countdown to 2019 this December 31 at the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Seaside Boulevard. This special will also air abroad on GMA’s flagship international channel, GMA Pinoy TV. For the program guide, visit www.gmapinoytv.com. (30)

ALDEN RICHARDS CELEBRATES BIRTHDAY BY TREATING FANS TO THEME PARK AND CONCERT

Alden Richards turned a year older last January 2 and to celebrate his birthday, he gathered his loyal supporters and treated them to a fun day at Enchanted Kingdom last January 6.

It was actually Alden’s idea to spend a special day with his fans. He came up with the concept last November 2017 and he was so hands-on with everything he even attended all the pre-production meetings.

The fans all had a great time. Apart from enjoying the rides in the theme park the whole day wearing personalized blue shirts with “One Fun Day with the Bae” printed on them, they also got up close and personal with the Pambansang Bae, taking selfies with him and basically bonding with him.

In the evening, Alden’s fellow GMA Artist Center stars had a concert. Bea Binene, Kristoffer Martin, Rodjun Cruz, and boybands T.O.P. (Top One Project) and One Up all performed song numbers and had nothing but good words for the birthday boy.

“Si Alden, kahit sobrang busy niyan, isang tawag lang, andiyan ‘yan,” shared Kristoffer.

Rodjun added, “Kapag hindi siya sumasagot, isa lang ang ibig sabihin nun – may trabaho siya. At pagkatapos na pagkatapos niya dun, umasa ka na siya mismo ang tatawag sa’yo.”

Bea also reminded the audience just how family-oriented Alden has always been by sharing that time when the actor was about to buy a car. She thought he would choose a good-looking two-door car, but he instead chose a four-door. “Sabi niya, mas magagamit daw ng pamilya niya kung four-door car ang bibilhin niya,” she said.

Alden Richards surely started the year right – by showing his appreciation for his loyal fans, who are sure in for a treat this 2018 considering all the exciting projects of the Pambansang Bae.

Currently, Alden is in Australia preparing for his upcoming show, this time with the Kapuso abroad, on January 20 at the Evan Theatre in Panthers Penrith, Australia. Through the exclusive media sponsorship of GMA’s flagship international channel GMA Pinoy TV, he is also joined by Kapuso comedian Betong Sumaya in the show, dubbed “Alden Richards Live in Sydney”.

For more updates about Kapuso events that bring Filipinos abroad closer to home, follow GMA Pinoy TV on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram at @GMAPinoyTV, or visit the official website at www.gmapinoytv.com. (30)

At 24 years old, the highly popular, albeit still very humble, Pambansang Bae Alden Richards continues to surprise people – this time with a narrative of his life experiences.

Following the success of his music album, Wish I May, which reached seven-time Platinum status, and the box office success of Imagine You & Me, his movie with on-screen partner Maine Mendoza, the book is another tribute from Alden to his scores of supporters.

In the much-awaited book titled Alden Richards: In My Own Words, readers get a glimpse into the life of the GMA Artist Center star and one-half of the popular AlDub love team from Eat Bulaga’s Kalyeserye.

Through the book, Alden opens himself up to his readers, sharing his journey from simple beginnings to his current status as one of the most in demand stars of his generation.

The book also presents a personal side of AlDub as Alden opens up about Maine, and shares stories from their phenomenal rise to stardom. Currently, the two are off on an exotic adventure in picturesque Morocco to do a photo shoot for a major lifestyle magazine.

And as their multitude of Kapuso fans wait with bated breath for their next adventure, we can be assured of more exciting news and projects from Alden Richards in the coming years. (30)

Alden Richards makes time for sister’s graduation

Alden Richards joins 117^th Philippine Independence Day celebration in the US

After a successful back-to-back 10^th anniversary celebration of GMA Pinoy TV in Kapusong Pinoy Vancouver and Anaheim, Kapuso actor Alden Richards is gearing up for another series of fun-filled, patriotic events to be held in California and Washington in celebration of the 117^th Philippine Independence Day.

Alden Richards, who portrayed the role of Jose Rizal in the Philippines’ first ever bayaniserye Ilustrado, says he is excited to be joining his kababayans in the United States.

“I’m very excited to re-unite with our kababayans abroad and celebrate such an important milestone in Philippine history with them,” shares Alden as he counts down the days before the celebration.

Despite the fact that Alden’s real surname is Faulkerson, his heritage is undoubtedly Filipino - his father being a Laguna native, and his mother, a Pampanga native.

Alden will be joining the celebration on June 6 (Saturday) at the Veterans Park in Los Angeles, California and on June 7 (Sunday) at the Pagdiriwang Philippine Festival 2015 in Seattle, Washington, where he will hold a meet and greet session for his excited kababayans.

GMA Network launches newest reality talent search Bet ng Bayan

Last October 5, 2014 (Sunday), the search for the Performing Artist Extraordinaire began via GMA Network’s newest reality talent search Bet ng Bayan. Hosted by no less than the Asia’s Songbird Ms. Regine Velasquez-Alcasid and Kapuso Prime leading man Alden Richards, Bet ng Bayan showcases exceptional Filipino talents—dancing, singing, and extraordinary performances.

‘ILUSTRADO’

“I die without seeing dawn's light shining on my country...

You, who will see it, welcome it for me...

Don't forget those who fell during the nighttime.”

― Jose Rizal, Noli Me Tangere

Richard Reyes Faulkerson, Jr. (born January 2, 1992 in Sta. Rosa, Laguna) also known by his stage name Alden Richards, is a Filipino television actor and model who is currently signed toGMA Network. He is best known for his TV roles in Alakdana, Tween Hearts, and One True Love and his breakthrough movie, The Road. In May 2013, he released his debut album underUniversal Records.

Alden was born on January 2, 1992 in Santa Rosa, Laguna, Philippines as the second child of Richard Faulkerson Sr., a native of Laguna, and Rosario Reyes Faulkerson, a native ofPampanga. Alden is a Business Administration student of De La Salle Canlubang in Canlubang, Biñan, Laguna. Before he became an actor, he joined various male pageants in Laguna and worked as a part-time commercial model. He holds the titles Ginoong Sta Rosa 2009 andGinoong Laguna 2010. He also tried his luck in show business by auditioning in Pinoy Big Brother: Teen Clash 2010, but he failed to make it to the official list of housemates. In 2009, he joined StarStruck, but he also failed to be a part of the reality show. He also appeared on atelevision commercial for a multivitamins product.

2010-2011: Breakthrough, The Road and awards

Richards was launched as an actor in GMA Network for the afternoon soap, Alakdana with leading lady Louise delos Reyes after signing up a 5-year contract with the network. He played a disabled man, Joma in his first ever TV show. In an interview, he admits that acting became more of a prioty for him rather than schooling even though he has an intention of getting a degree. He also said that when he becomes successful in show business, he plans to use his earnings to finance the studies of his younger siblings. In 2011, he became part of the successful teenage series, Tween Hearts and acted also for the film, Tween Hearts: Class of 2012. He is currently active as a weekly performer of Party Pilipinas. He also graced two episodes of Spooky Nights in Singil and in the Christmas episode of Spooky Nights as Elmer. Alden was praised by critics as a new breed of actor in the movie The Road where he played as a young man that was traumatized in his young age; with the killing of his mother by his father then the father takes suicide after thus leads him to become violent himself as he grows up, killing two young females stranded on the road.^[9] He also starred on a highly anticipated movie entry for 2011 Metro Manila Film Festival for Ang Panday 2, where he played as Gobi. Richards was also praised by some writers that he will be the next big star of GMA Network because of his reported friendliness with the press, referring to him as the John Lloyd Cruz of GMA Network.

Richards was awarded as the 1st Filipino Amazing Male Newcomer in the first Yahoo! OMG! Philippines Awards (2011). He also won asBest New Actor in the Golden Screen Awards. The newcomer actor garnered two awards in one year which signifies a smooth soar for his career. Alden is never hesitant to share his love life with the media, the fact that he invited the FHM Sexiest of 2011, Sam Pinto for a date on national TV. The latter did accept the invite and later on held a cruise date in the Manila Bay, but the sexy actress revealed that it was just a friendly date. On Valentines Day of 2012, a GMA Network promo A Date with Alden Richards surfaces in television and the micro-blogging site Twitter where it trended.

2012-present: One True Love, other shows and music career

In early 2012,morning program Unang Hirit reported that Richards takes on new challenges and making bolder steps with his career by posing topless for his first ever sexy pictorial for the summer collection of a clothing brand, Folded & Hung along with co-actors JM De Guzman andEnrique Gil. Richards also starred as a thief named Rico on a primetime series, My Beloved together with Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes. He also acted on the episode UNOS (Calamity) of the fourth season of a Holy Week special, Tanikala that is presented byChristian Broadcasting Network. Richards acted on his first lead role in a primetime series through a drama series entitled One True Love which premiered on June 11, 2012. Richards once again united with his love team, Louise delos Reyes in this TV series, acting about the enduring power of love between two people from two different walks of life. The success of the series resulted in five weeks extension, approved by the network on August 20, 2012. According to GMA Network on their press release, it has been extended due to its phenomenal ratings success over its rival program since it premiered last June 11. Richards who plays as "Tisoy" is a poor guy who is in love with a rich girl. According to him, the series has been his biggest break in the industry. While "One True Love" proved Richards acting skills, it took quite a while before a new acting assignment came along for him until being cast as young Simeon (the character played by Sen. Bong Revilla) in the historical drama Indio, one of the biggest projects of GMA for 2013. According to Richards, "I am proud to have played the role of the young Bong Revilla. It didn't sink in that i did not have show for a long time, but when I counted the days, I realized I have not acted in six months in a regular show...".

The story of Richard's life was featured on drama anthology, Magpakailanman aired in March 2013 wherein he portrayed his own life. In the same year, Richards and Delos Reyes joined together once again in a melodrama broadcast by GMA Network entitled as Mundo Mo'y Akinwith veteran actresses, Sunshine Dizon and Angelika dela Cruz. It is a family drama that follows a compelling storyline that explores the insatiable quest for beauty, and wealth. The characters find themselves ensnared in a game of deceit, and betrayal and will stop at nothing to gain power and prestige.

Richards debut as a singer through the #SummerCrush episode of Sunday noon time show, Party Pilipinas. He launched his first single, "Haplos", a revival of Shamrock's hit song which surfaced in My Music Store and iTunes on April 5, 2013. The album is underUniversal Records, for release on May 26, 2013 in which exclusively distributed at TriNoma. He is currently featured as Myx Celebrity VJ for the month of June, 2013.

Aside from being an actor, Richards also act as a part-time model. On 2011, he was 4th in the list of "Celebrity Cuties" of Candy Magazine and had a first time performance in Candy Fair held in Pasig City. According to him, he is already a regular cutie on the list even before he became an actor. Alden Richards posed topless for the first time, wearing a pair of board shorts with star prints for the promotion of the 2012 Summer campaign of a clothing brand, Folded and Hung (F&H). The photo trended in Twitter as the photo is confirmed to be already up as a billboard on EDSA-Guadalupe. On the past interviews, he told the media that he is already prepared for posing sexy on magazines.^[43] Richards is also one of the newest endorsers of a cellphone product, My|Phone along with co-teen stars from ABS-CBN and TV 5. On July 2012, Richards along with Bela Padilla, Kris Bernal, and Sarah Lahbati graces the cover of MEGA Magazine dubbed as, "GMA’s new breed of rising talents"