2013 03/08-03/14

‘One Direction’ (L-R: Louis, Tomlinson Liam Payne, Harry Styles, Zayn Malik and Niall Horan) will be at the HP Pavilion in San Jose on July 30. Photo by www.santabanta.com

‘ONE DIRECTION’

TO

SAN JOSE

TO-BE SEEN IN THE CITY

(SAN JOSE, CA) – Today’s hottest Boy Band, “One Direction (composed of Country Superstar Taylor Swift’s ex-flame Harry Styles, Liam Payne, Zayn Malik, Niall Horan and Louis Tomlinson)” is performing at the famed HP Pavilion in San Jose, CA on Tuesday, July, 30, 2013 starting at 7:30PM. They will be coming in from a prior performance at the Key Arena in Seattle, WA on Sunday, July 28, 2013.

‘One Direction’ became popular when they competed individually, got eliminated and recalled as a group (mentored by American Idol most famous former judge Simon Cowell) and ultimately won 3^rd place during the 7th season of X-Factor UK version in 2010. Their first hit single with a very catchy tune from their debut album (2011’s Up All NIght), ‘What Makes You Beautiful’ is the best-selling song by a boy band in digital history, reports Wikipedia. As of 2 months ago this year, it sold over 4,000,000 copies in the US, with over 5,000,000 copies sold worldwide, making the record among the best-selling singles of all time.

The same record previously set a record-breaking first week pre-order sales of 153,965 copies for Sony Music Entertainment during its first release, making its debut at Number 1 in UK Singles, Irish Singles and Scottish Singles charts.

Furthermore, it was on Top 10 on the Australian and New Zealand Singles Charts, Flemish Ultratop 50, Canadian Hot 100, Japan Hot 100 and the United States Billboard Hot 100 (where it held the Number 4 slot at one point).

Artistically, “What Makes You Beautiful" won the BRIT Award for Best British Single last year. The single’s video, shot on location in Malibu, CA gave won three (3) MTV Video Music Award also last year, including Best Pop Video. "

After San Jose, the British-Irish band will perform next at the Oracle Arena in Oakland on Wednesday, July 31, 2013 followed by their 2-night gig at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas, NV on August 2 and 3, 2013; then to the Sleep Train Amphitheatre - Chula Vista (formerly Cricket Wireless Amphitheatre) in San Diego, CA on Sunday, August 4, 2013 and for 4 consecutive nights (August 7-10, 2013), they will be seen at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, CA.

Their world concert tour encompasses France, Germany, Mexico, Switzerland, United Kingdom and the United States.

Tickets are still available at www.TicketNetwork.com.

This article also appears online at www.BradfordAdkins.com, www.ScenesInTheCity.com, www.PinoyEntertainment.us and http://sites.google.com/site/adkinsmmcevents/Home/ with readership in 160 countries now (& still counting!) according to the latest Google Analytics report.

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Filipino American James R. Curry of Long Beach, CA wins 2013 Mr Body Shots International held last Sunday, March 3rd at The Hilton Pasadena. He also was adjudged 'Best In Swimwear' in the same competition. Congratulations!

Janelle Logrono, a Freelance Visual Concept Designer from Glendale, CA (with Designer Monet Lu of Los Angeles, right) wins Miss Body Shots International title last Sunday at The Hilton Pasadena. Published with permission from photographer Marc M. Pijuan

Congratulations to the very successful 2013 Body Shots International Competition last Sunday, March 3 held at The Hilton Pasadena - Kudos go to the Show Producers Badette & Nilo Tagoc and Designer Lou Razon.

"Celebration of Life" for one year death anniversary of Johnny Soriano was held @ Domingo and Annabelle Alquiza's residence in San Jose, CA. The mass was officiated by Father Michael Gazzingan while the reception was held @ Troficana Buffett. Photos shows Janelle Marielle Alquiza, Mrs. Corazaon Soriano, Joy Soriano, Father Michael Gazzingan, Claire Manango, Isabel & Ethan Soriano. Other attendees were other families and friends of the Sorianos, The Couples for Christ, and the Most Holy Trinity Church parishioners.

Congratulations to Lester and Josie Lintag on their 31st Wedding Anniversary. Blessings mass was officiated by Father Rodman @ The Most Holy Trinity Church in San Jose, CA.

Belated Happy Birthday to Marina Del Rey's Ms. Tata Roxas Mcnamee (2nd right, standing; violet dress, birthday celebranch) shown here with friends San Jose's Aileen Villamiel, Carlo Antonio R. Tioseco (son of birthday celebrant), Girlie Calderon , Bank Executive Bobby Cuison and (seated L-R) Shiela Cecilio, Baby Cuison and Mit Roxas.

JAMES CURRY WINS

MR BODY SHOTS INTERNATIONAL

SEEN IN THE CITY

(LOS ANGELES) - James R. Curry of Long Beach, CA was bestowed the title Mr Body Shots International 2013 while Glendale’s Janelle Logrono was proclaimed Miss Body Shots International 2013 in a competition pageant held last Sunday, March 3 at The Hilton Pasadena.

The other runners-up (1^st-3^rd) are Jason Garcia, Sebastien Leria and Will Zarro, in that order while the female counterparts are Kyla Marie Nadres, Ana Aguilar and Candice Cobbins, also in that order.

Best in Swimwear are James R. Curry for the male and Ana Aguilar for the female.

Photogenic Awardees were Sebastien Leria and Barbara Boyd.

Congeniality Awardees are Grikor Adjakian and Alma Cabasal.

Winner Tabulation Team was provided by Manny Legaspi’s ML Tax and Accounting.

Body Shots International 2013 was produced by the husband and wife team of Nilo and Badette Tagoc (V8 Productions) in collaboration with LA-based Fashion Designer Lou Razon.

This article also appears online at www.BradfordAdkins.com, www.ScenesInTheCity.com, www.PinoyEntertainment.us and http://sites.google.com/site/adkinsmmcevents/Home/ with readership in 160 countries now (& still counting!) according to the latest Google Analytics report.

Do you have any personal or community events you want announced or published? Just email them tobradford_adkins@yahoo.com

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BINIBINING PILIPINAS 2013 HOPEFULS SCREENED ONE LAST TIME

The culminating event for the 2013 search for the next Binibining Pilipinas titlists is fast approaching. From over a hundred aspirants who flocked to the 3-day screening on February 11, 12, and 13, only seventy have been called back to appear at the final screening on February 23 at the Gateway Suites in Quezon City.

Now on its 50^th year, the Binibining Pilipinas Charities, Inc. will be selecting 50 official candidates who will have the rare chance of winning one of the three most sough-after crowns in the history of Binibining Pilipinas: Miss Universe-Philippines 2013, Binibining Pilipinas-International 2013, and Binibining Pilipinas-Tourism 2013.

The surge of qualified young beauty queen wannabes is seen as the result of the Philippines’ inspiring three consecutive runner up placements in the Miss Universe Pageant beginning with Venus Raj who won 4^th Runner Up in 2010, followed by Shamcey Supsup who finished with the 3^rd Runner Up title in 2011 and topped off by Janine Tugonon who came close to becoming the official most beautiful woman in the universe by winning 1^st Runner Up in 2012.

Among the judges who meticulously sifted through this year’s applicants during the screenings were ABS-CBN head writer Chris Violago, ABS-CBN Special Projects Head Chit Guerrero, Miss Universe 2010 4^th Runner Up Venus Raj, Miss Universe 2011 3^rd Runner Up Shamcey Supsup, and Miss Universe 2012 1^st Runner Up Janine Tugonon.

Product endorsement deals and a desirable prize package are just two of the perks that await the 2013 batch of winners. The reigning Binibining Pilipinas queens are Miss Universe 2012 1^st Runner Up Janine Tugonon, Miss International 2012 Semi-finalist Nicole Schmitz, Binibining Pilipinas-Tourism 2012 Katrina Dimaranan, Miss Supranational 3^rd Runner Up Elaine Kay Moll, and Binibining Pilipinas 2012 2^nd Runner Up Ali Forbes.

The 2013 Binibining Pilipinas coronation night which will be telecast live on April 14 via ABS-CBN is brought to you by the Araneta Center.

Bb. Pilipinas 2013 Official Candidates

1. Ria Rabajante

2. Ma. Bencelle Bianzon

3. Zandra Flores

4. Nicole Kim Donesa

5. Maria Sofia Gloria Mustonen

6. Yvette Chantal Mildenberger

7. Maria Ivy Kristel Gonzales

8. Abbygale Monderin

9. Katherine Anne Enriquez

10. Anna Carmela Aquino

11. Ana Carmina Antonio

12. Camille Carla Nazar

13. Charmaine Elima

14. Mary Rose Pujanes

15. Pia Wurtzbach

16. Joanna Cindy Miranda

17. Carin Adrianne Ramos

18. Christine Paula Love Bernasor

19. Hannah Ruth Sison

20. Bea Rose Santiago

21. Lourenz Grace Remetillo

22. Ellore Noelle Punzalan

23. Leona Paula Santicruz

24. Cassandra Naidas

25. Merry Joyce Respicio

26. Anna Fernandina Buquid

27. Vania Valiry Vispo

28. Mercegrace Raquel

29. Pauline Quintas

30. Maria Theresa Gorgonio

31. Maria Angelica De Leon

32. Cindy Abundabar

33. Parul Shah

34. Grace Yann Apuad

35. Theresa Marie Fenger

36. Angel May Villafuerte

37. Ma. Teresita Alaine Baccay

38. Mariz Ong

39. Mutya Johanna Datul

40. Jan Helen Villanueva

41. Ariella Arida

42. Jacqueline Alexandra Mayoralgo

43. Rhea Nakpil

44. Gabrielle Monique Runnstrom

45. Imelda Schweighart

46. Amanda Noelle Navasero

47. Aiyana Mikiewicz

48. Angeli Dione Gomez

49. Herlie Kim Artugue

50. Ma. Cristina Ann Pascual

This generation’s hottest love team makes its big screen debut on March 13...

KATHRYN AND DANIEL TOPBILL VIA STAR CINEMA’S LATEST ROMANTIC MOVIE "MUST BE... LOVE"

This generation’s hottest love team, Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla, are both honored and thankful with the newest blessing given to their love team--the highly anticipated romantic movie from Star Cinema, "Must Be...Love," which will hit cinemas nationwide on March 13 (Wednesday).

Coming from the phenomenal success of the country's no.1 teen primetime teleserye "Princess and I" and the overwhelming support of the public to their love team's first two movies namely, "24/7" and "Sisterakas," Kathryn and Daniel are set to win moviegoers' hearts via their launching movie directed by one of the "Princess and I" directors Dado Lumibao.

"Masayang-masaya 'yung feeling na may pelikula na kami ni DJ (palayaw ni Daniel) kasi isang honor po talaga na mabigyang kami ng chance na makagawa ng isang pelikula right after our teleserye," said Kathryn. "Excited kami ni DJ sa project na 'to pero pareho rin kaming kinakabahan kasi ibang-iba nga talaga 'yung movie compared sa mga ginawa namin sa 'Princess and I."

Despite the pressure, Daniel admitted that Kathryn is a big factor that made him more driven to to do his best in the unique romantic movie, where they play as childhood best friends Patchot (Kathryn) and Ivan (Daniel). He said, "Happy ako kasi parang araw-araw kaming magkasama. At kung dati ay komportable kami sa isa’t isa, ngayon talagang super close na kami. Iba ‘yung bonding namin ni Kathryn. Sa sobrang saya, parang hindi na trabaho ‘yung ginagawa namin."

When asked about their 'secret to success,' Kathryn and Daniel only had a simple reply--they're just keeping it real and true.

"Siguro naging interesting sa viewers 'yung pagiging love team namin ni DJ kahit very opposite kami pagdating sa pananamit, pananalita, pagkilos, and personality," said Kathryn. "Yung ibang teenagers like us, nakikita nila 'yung mga sarili nila sa amin. At kami, 'yung mga ginagawa namin, pang-age lang talaga namin."

With the solid support of Filipino viewers across the globe, both Kathryn and Daniel ensured that their launching movie "Must Be...Love" will be different from their past projects. "Sobrang layo nung characters namin ni Kathryn dito compared sa 'Princess and I.' Yung look ko palang dito iba na, 'yung look din ni Kathryn iba talaga," shared Daniel.

Aside from Kathryn and Daniel, also part of "Must Be...Love" are Liza Soberano, John Estrada, John Lapus, Miguel Morales, Kit Thompson, Ramon Christopher, Janus del Prado, Sharlene San Pedro, Paul Salas, Cacai Bautista and Arlene Muhlach.

"Must Be...Love" is written by Mae Chua and Melai Monge, under the guidance of Star Cinema's award-winning writer Vanessa Valdez.

Don't miss another milestone in Kathryn and Daniel's career, their big screen debut via Star Cinema’s latest romantic movie, "Must Be...Love," to be shown on theaters nationwide on March 13, 2013.

For more information and latest updates about "Must Be...Love" simply visit www.StarCinema.com.ph,http://facebook.com/StarCinema and http://twitter.com/StarCinema.

ROBIN AND OTHER KAPAMILYA STARS JOIN PANAGBENGA FLORAL FLOAT PARADE. Almost two million people trooped to Baguio City to witness the grand Panagbenga Flower Festival joined by ABS-CBN RNG's float that carried aboard "Kailangan Ko'y Ikaw" stars Robin Padilla, Xyriel Manabat, Marco Gumabao, Miles Ocampo, Karla Estrada, and Smokey Manoloto; and "Kris TV" co-hosts Jason Francisco and Melai Cantiveros. The ABS-CBN Regional Network Group is the nationwide TV and radio network of ABS-CBN Corporation. For more Kapamilya stories and happenings in the regions, log on to www.abs-cbnnews.com,www.choosephils.com, and www.iwantv.com.ph.

KAPAMILYA STARS IMMORTALIZED IN AUDREY HEPBURN PHOTO EXHIBIT

Kapamilya stars Erich Gonzales, Jessy Mendiola, Karylle, and Andi Eigenmann shone brightly at the recently held Velvet The Oscar Party 2013 which staged a tribute exhibit for Award-winning actress, fashion icon, and humanitarian, Audrey Hepburn.

Their Audrey Hepburn inspired looks were forever immortalized in the exhibit which commemorates the actress’ outstanding contribution to film and television. The tribute was part of the channel’s celebration for Hollywood’s biggest night, the 85th Academy Awards, which will air live and complete on Velvet on February 25.

“Out of the Shadow” featuring Jessy Mendiola photographed by Ria Regino won the most awards including the Silver award for Best Photograph, Special Citation for Hair and Makeup, Special Citation for Photography, and Best Celebrity Transformation. Jessy personally accepted the award as well as Karylle whose photograph “Eternally a Fair Lady” by Milo Sogueco won Best Production Design.

Gold awardee “To Envy is Human” featuring Erich Gonzales photographed by Paolo Pineda and Ejay Leung also won Special Citation for Styling while “The Face” by Doc Marlon Pecjo featuring Andi Eigenmann won the Bronze award for Best Photograph and People’s Choice award wherein attendees of the party casted a ballot for their photograph of choice.

The exhibit also included the following photographs: “Opera Negative” by Dix Perez featuring Jodi Sta. Maria, “Paris on my Mind” by Kai Huang featuring Empress Schuck, “The Black Widow” by Philip Sison featuring Maricar Reyes, “The Venus Affair” by Miguel Miranda featuring Maja Salvador, “Untitled” by Pat Dy featuring Kristine Hermosa, and “What About” by Niko Villegas featuring Julia Montes.

The photographs will be displayed at the Greenbelt 3 lobby until February 28.

The complete coverage of the 85th Academy Awards will be shown live on February 25, Monday morning starting at 6:00 a.m. with the red carpet/arrivals special followed by the main ceremony at 9am. on Velvet Channel. Velvet (SkyCable Channel 53) is available on SkyCable Platinum, SkyCable Gold, SkyCable Silver and other quality cable operators nationwide. For updates, log-on to http://www.velvet.com.ph/ andhttp://www.facebook.com/VelvetChannel.

DINGDONG DANTES IN STARSTUDIO

For his first StarStudio solo cover, back-to-back Metro Manila Film Festival Best Actor awardee Dingdong Dantes shares the journey of his life, told through exclusive photographs — including some of him and girlfriend Marian Rivera — taken during their trips together to Barcelona, Spain, Angkor Wat and Amanpulo, Palawan.

It is also the first time for Dingdong to show the latest addition to his collection of vehicles: a Chevrolet Corvette and the Ducati Diavel, which was a gift from Marian.

In the magazine’s packed March 2013 Big Summer Travel Special, Kapamilya stars also share photos of their adventures to some of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. And for those who are raring to go on tour this summer, check out the latest celebrity style and travel accessories.

All these and more in StarStudio magazine’s Big Summer Travel Special, only from ABS-CBN Publishing.

Kidlat super villains, revealed

Things just got tougher for everyone's favorite Pinoy superhero as Kidlat (Derek Ramsay) faces the slew of super villains Vincent (Baron Geisler) gathered. He first finds orphaned twins Francine and Francis played by Artista Academy graduates Shaira Mae and Mark Neumann. The seemingly ordinary teens possess the power to produce ice and fire, transforming into the deadly duo Frosta and Fuego. With their combined powers, they have the ability to unleash a tornado-like force that is bound to cause major destruction.

Meanwhile, Paolo Ballesteros takes on the role of Walter, a poor yet hardworking cook who is often bullied for being a weakling. His life changes when he finds a magical stone that turns him into Warla, a beautiful villain with feminine features who possesses superhuman strength and impressive combat skills.

Commercial and fashion model Valerie Weigmann makes her acting debut as the mysterious Natasha Thorpe, a young fashion entrepreneur with a hidden agenda. Her telekinetic powers, knowledge of witchcraft and a thirst for vengeance makes her a potent villain for our hero. As Enigma, she can seduce and alter her victim’s perception. Can Kidlat resist her or will he fall prey to her seductive wiles?

Aside from these villains, Kidlat will still also have to fight Vincent’s lackey, Graba Man (Wendell Ramos). Fans of the show should also stay tune as Vincent develops a new weapon that promises to destroy Kidlat. How will our electrifying hero fare against these villains? Keep watching Kidlat at these times: 7:45pm KSA, 5:45pm UK, 2:45am Guam, 5:30pm NA PST, and 8:30pm NA EST only on Kapatid TV5.

Kidlat faces new villains, chooses between leading ladies

As ratings continue to surge for TV5’s hit primetime series Kidlat, new loves and new villains were officially introduced today at the Plaza Ibarra’s Party Venues in Timog, Quezon City. In the upcoming episodes, everyone’s favorite superhero will find himself choosing among three potential love interests.

One of the ladies is the strong-willed Joey played by FHM cover girl Ritz Azul. Audiences already caught a glimpse of her during the Kidlat Movie Special but as the story progresses, Ritz promises that viewers will see more of who Joey is.

Adding a bit of spice to Voltaire’s life is sassy and sophisticated Natasha, played by newcomer Valerie Weigmann. The Filipina-German model makes her acting debut in Kidlat as a fashion designer who will eventually become villainess Enigma. Though a little nervous to be part of a successful series, Valerie admits that she’s more excited to meet everyone—particularly her new leading man. “Excited at kahit paano kinabahan din ako. I've heard so many good things about [Derek] like how he’s a gentleman. I can’t wait to finally work with him.” Even though she’s a newbie, Valerie is well aware of her co-star's reputation for being a ladies man. When asked if she’s ready to be linked to Derek, Valerie replied coyly, “Let’s just see what happens.”

After Nadine Samonte’s untimely exit from the show, fans immediately took to social media to express their sadness over the loss of one of the show’s favorite characters. But now, fans of the Lara-Voltaire love team will have reason to celebrate with this week’s biggest twist—Lara's return.

Stirring up trouble for our hero is a new crop of villains. Artista Academy graduates Shaira Mae and Mark Neumann play twins Frosta and Fuego who possess the power to produce ice and fire. Paolo Ballesteros joins the cast as Warla, a beautiful villain with feminine features who has superhuman strength and impressive combat skills. Finally, Kidlat faces Graba Man (Wendell Ramos) once again as Vincent (Baron Geisler) continues to plot more ways to take down the electrifying hero.

Kidlat airs weeknights at these times 7:45pm KSA, 5:45pm UK, 2:45am Guam, 5:30pm NA PST, and 8:30pm NA EST only on Kapatid TV5.

Pilipinas Global Network Limited (PGNL) is a joint venture between Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company (PLDT), the largest and leading telecommunications company in the Philippines, and ABC Development Corporation ("ABC5"), the operator of TV5, the fastest growing terrestrial channel in the Philippines. It acts as the sole and exclusive distributor and licensee of the programs, shows, films and channels of TV5. It distributes these media content via syndication and via its international linear channels, namely: Kapatid TV5 and Aksyon TV International.

‘Good Morning Club’ hosts to sponsor wedding of 10 couples

To cap off its month-long anniversary, the “Good Morning Club” barkada will serve as witnesses to 10 lucky couples who will be part of the “GMC Kasalang Bayan” on Thursday, February 28.

The couples were chosen from a callout on the show’s Facebook community (Good Morning Club Official).

Aside from conducting the actual ceremony and arranging reception-related matters, “GMC” will also make sure that the couples look their best with free hair and make-up. The couples will also receive a bounty of gifts to make the event even more special.

For all of February, “GMC” put together exciting treats for viewers who continue to join the club for news and information — including a love booth for those who want to broadcast their romantic greetings to their loved ones.

Last Valentine’s Day, “GMC” hosted a romantic date on board a yacht for its loyal viewers.

The show also held a grand fans’ day last February 21 where 100 loyal GMC Facebook followers were treated to a day of fun and prizes with their favorite GMC barkada, which included free breakfast, pampering treats, raffles and giveaways.

One lucky follower also went home with a pangkabuhayan showcase raffled off during the fans’ day.

Join the club every morning with Edu Manzano, the tres Kumares (Amy Perez, Chiqui Roa-Puno and Tintin Bersola-Babao), Paolo Bediones, Cheryl Cosim, Grace Lee, Joseph Ubalde, Makata and Shalala every Monday to Friday at these times: KSA 6:30am, UK 4:30am, Guam 1:30pm, NA PST 6:45am, and NA EST 9:45am on Kapatid TV5.

A usual mixed martial fighter gets to fight once or twice a year, but Mark Striegl is not a usual fighter. In 2012 alone, he's fought and won six times--an admirable feat in the MMA community. With his superior grappling and submission skills, it seems as if Striegl is a step above the rest. Last year, he even fought twice in a single week!

Graduating from the prospect status, the 24-year-old undefeated Mark is now already considered a seasoned veteran. Armed with his exciting performances from his 11-0 MMA record and tons of potential, Striegl is pegged as the next fighter from the Philippines to jump to the bigger stage, the UFC.

Currently, the Pacific Xtreme Combat's (PXC) golden boy has already become a household name. With the help of TV5 sports channel Aksyon TV International's coverage of PXC, more Filipinos have been exposed to Striegl's impressive and exciting fights (his next fight is on May 18, watch for it!). Luckily, we got the chance to ask him about his journey as an MMA fighter when we caught up with him recently, and he even gave tips for those interested to try out the sport.

How did you start out with MMA?

I had a wrestling background. I did wrestling, aikido, and taekwondo growing up. And then after high school, I basically walked into a gym in Japan, an MMA dojo, near my house and I thought I was a tough guy coming from a wrestling background and doing different sports in high school. I walked into the dojo, thinking it would be fun and wanting to challenge myself. But then I got butt-kicked and I realized I knew nothing about mixed martial arts. So after that, I started training ever since.

How did you become interested in trying out wrestling in the first place?

My brother. My brother got me into aikido, taekwondo, and MMA. He’s four years older than me so he got me to start with combat or contact sports. I just kind of followed him. I started wrestling when I was around 8 years old, and ever since it’s been my base in MMA.

Can you tell us about your training regimen?

For my last fight, I went on a two-month training camp, four-days-a-week camps. I train as much as two to three times a day, for four to eight hours. I do strength and conditioning sometimes. It usually depends on the day or the type of planned program and the fight itself. I do strength and conditioning in the morning and at night maybe I just do striking or just wrestling or just jiu-jitsu or just MMA and I’ll just do everything all together.

Does your diet or training regimen differ when you’re on break?

Yeah, totally. There’s off-season weight and there’s fight weight. I cut off a lot but not everything. I cut out my candies and soda. I cut off all the stuff people enjoy because of the fight. I eat clean carbs, oatmeal, brown rice, wheat bread. I’ll have a healthy protein meat diet: fish, chicken breast, and stuff like that.

How many gyms do you train with?

Mainly I’m with my gym, Fight Corps; I also teach wrestling there on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Sometimes I go to Manny Pacquiao’s boxing gym to work on my striking. The name’s Shape Up boxing. In Manila, I go to Erwin Tagle’s gym, Submission Sports.

How do you divide your time among the gyms?

For a training camp, it is important to go to different places and get new bodies to work with. If you’re stuck in one place, you start getting used to your training partner’s tendencies and techniques. It’s not good to get used to these things since you always have to stay sharp, always evolve, and get better. If I have a fight--my next fight will be on May 18--I’ll be going for a two-week training camp in Tokyo. I’m going to train in Baguio, too. I’ll be going around gyms.

Compared to other fighters who fight only once or twice a year, you’ve fought for more than four times last year. How were you able to accomplish this feat?

Last year, actually, I fought six times, so this is the first break I’ve had for a long time. I won’t be fighting until May, which is kind of nice actually. You’ve got to know your body really well. You should know your limits. Train smart and fight smart. And yeah, you have to avoid injuries. At the end of the day, it is still a contact sport and you can hurt yourself. I just train smart, try to be in tune with my body, eat healthy, and these speed up my recovery time. And yoga!

Any advice for people interested to try out MMA?

First and foremost, find a good gym. There’s a lot of gyms out there, we actually call them McDojos because they just pop out everywhere and a lot of those gyms aren’t qualified enough to teach. Find a good gym, a good reputable gym, and give it a go.

What’s a good base discipline that newbies should learn first?

I would suggest wrestling first, but at the end of the day it’s mixed martial arts and you’ve got to mix all of the martial arts. So you need to learn everything. You have to find your niche first. Some martial arts are more natural to some people, and vice versa. Some people are better with punching than kicking. You have to figure out your body and find out what martial art suits you.

Any advice for people who want to try MMA but are scared to get injured?

It’s fun, and it’s a good workout for one. Learn a lot about yourself and get to know your body in general. Just give it a try, really. It’s not really as bad as it looks like. It looks violent, but actually it’s a safe sport. There are a lot less injuries than you think.

Are there MMA fighters that you look up to?

I really like Fedor Emelianenko. I grew up in Tokyo, Japan and I used to see him fight live on TV. I really admire his calm, cool, collected demeanour. His mental toughness is admirable. Other guys are usually angry, with a scary face, but with him, you can’t get a good read. He’s just there for the fight. He’s so focused when he fights.

I also like Georges St. Pierre (GSP). You can’t beat him and he keeps on going forward on his fights. I also admire how he carries himself. I really like that he doesn’t talk smack, which is cool.

What’s next for Mark Striegl?

Well, I’ll just take it one fight at a time. I’m still getting better as a martial artist. Like I’ve said, I’m improving every single aspect of my game. In the long run, I’d like to go to UFC. I’d like to keep this undefeated streak going. And I’d like to represent the Philippines in the international MMA community or even in UFC.

By any chance, is there any other sport that you play?

In my free time, I play football with my friends. I don’t follow many other sports, though. Is fishing a sport? It’s what I usually do, and ceramic-making and pottery. There, ceramic-making and fishing.

Catch Mark Striegl's next fight on May 18 live in Manila or you can catch it on Aksyon TV International’s coverage of PXC on primetime.

Pilipinas Global Network Limited (PGNL) is a joint venture between Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company (PLDT), the largest and leading telecommunications company in the Philippines, and ABC Development Corporation ("ABC5"), the operator of TV5, the fastest growing terrestrial channel in the Philippines. It acts as the sole and exclusive distributor and licensee of the programs, shows, films and channels of TV5. It distributes these media content via syndication and via its international linear channels, namely: Kapatid TV5 and Aksyon TV International.