Femme MNL earned a spot in the semifinals of Pilipinas Got Talent Season 7 after being awarded the coveted Golden Buzzer during the show’s second episode on March 30, 2025.

The 31-member ensemble Femme MNL delivered an intense, high-energy dance performance that impressed both the audience and the show’s hosts, Melai Cantiveros and Robi Domingo. Moved by the group’s talent and empowering message, the hosts awarded them the Golden Buzzer, sending them straight to the semifinals.

Judge Eugene Domingo also drew loud cheers with her enthusiastic and celebratory remark:
"Ito lang ang masasabi ko — mahal ko ang mga bakla, masaya 'pag may bakla, dapat may bakla! The category is — Pilipinas Got Bakla!"

Before the official judging even began, hosts Melai and Robi approached the panel and excitedly announced, "Femme MNL, para sa amin kayo ay deserving ng..." before hitting the Golden Buzzer, securing the group’s spot in the next round.

REFERENCE LINK:

https://www.abs-cbn.com/entertainment/showbiz/movies-series/2025/3/31/all-gay-group-femme-mnl-is-pgt-season-7-s-first-golden-buzzer-1152

AC Bonifacio has clarified accusations of manipulation and backstabbing following her eviction from Pinoy Big Brother (PBB), stating that all conflicts with her housemates were resolved before her departure.

In a recent interview with TV Patrol, Bonifacio addressed the criticisms and negative remarks that emerged during her time in the PBB house, particularly those regarding her alleged tension with fellow housemates Criza Taa and Bianca de Vera. She acknowledged the accusations of throwing shade and manipulation but emphasized that she holds no ill will toward anyone.

"I understand where they're coming from," Bonifacio said, referring to the speculations surrounding her relationships with housemates Michael Sager and Harvey Bautista. She reassured fans that all issues were settled before her eviction. "At the end of the day, na-resolve ko ang mga issues ko sa loob," she added, stressing there was no "bad blood" with anyone.

Reflecting on her PBB journey, Bonifacio shared how the experience humbled her, teaching her the value of listening and patience. She also mentioned that many genuine moments of friendship, especially with housemate Ashley Ortega, were not shown on television.

“Our friendship and family po talaga was genuine and true. ‘Yun ang namimiss ko (That is what I will miss), ‘yung housemates. We know details that other people don’t know. Me and Ate Ashley [Ortega], what we went through, there’s a lot of it that wasn’t shown,” Bonifacio said in a separate interview with 24 Oras.

REFERENCE LINK:
https://entertainment.inquirer.net/604378/ac-bonifacio-speaks-up-on-backstabber-claims-after-pbb-departure

MANILA, Philippines – Lea Salonga, the award-winning Broadway star beloved for her powerful voice and commanding stage presence, is not only captivating audiences around the world—she’s also shaping hearts with her unwavering love and fierce advocacy for her transgender son, Nic Chien. In an exclusive interview with People Magazine, Salonga revealed the deeply personal journey she’s walked with Nic, reflecting on her experience as a mother who has embraced her child’s transition with grace, understanding, and unconditional support.

Nic, who was assigned female at birth, came out as transmasculine at the age of 14 and has since begun testosterone therapy as part of his transition. Through it all, Lea has been an ever-present source of strength, not just as a mother, but as an ally and advocate for her son’s right to live authentically. In an emotional conversation, Lea spoke candidly about her experience raising a child who is forging his own path. “The one thing I’ve learned is that you have to raise your child the way your child needs to be raised,” she shared thoughtfully. “As a parent, I want to set my child up for success.”

Her words are more than just a reflection of parenting—they are a testament to the transformative power of unconditional love. For Salonga, the journey is all about making sure that her son feels supported, loved, and, above all, safe. “I want my child to feel safe and strong and ready to conquer the world on their own terms,” she added, illustrating the heart of her approach to motherhood: allowing her child to live and grow in a space that nurtures his unique identity.

In the striking cover photo for People Magazine, Lea stands proudly behind Nic, a powerful and symbolic gesture of her ongoing support. For Salonga, this image captures more than just a moment of triumph; it reflects years of growth and learning, both as a mother and as an ally to her son. “I’ve learned how to raise a child who is their own being,” she said, encapsulating the personal evolution she’s experienced in the process of supporting Nic’s transition.

Nic, now 18 years old, opened up about his own emotional journey, acknowledging that the road hasn’t always been easy. “I am still figuring it out. It took a while,” he confessed. “There’s been a lot of crying,” he added, a poignant reminder of the internal struggles faced by many trans individuals as they come to terms with their identities. Despite the challenges, Nic never once doubted the love and acceptance of his parents. “It really helps to have people in your corner,” he said, referring to the constant support from Lea and his father, who have provided a safe and open space for him to express himself.

This August, Lea and Nic will take the stage together in the highly anticipated Philippine production of Into the Woods, marking an exciting new chapter in their shared artistic journey. While Lea will reprise her iconic role as The Witch, Nic will portray Jack, the role he has long dreamed of playing. Having previously starred as Alice in the 2017 production of Matilda by Atlantis Theatrical Entertainment Group, this moment represents a significant milestone for Nic—one that showcases not only his talents but also his determination to embrace his true self.

For Salonga, this upcoming performance is a celebration of both their professional achievements and their personal bond. As a mother, she takes immense pride in watching Nic step into his own, both as a performer and as a person. It’s a moment of mutual pride for both, as they come together not only as family but also as artists, sharing their voices and stories with audiences.

Lea’s openness about her support for Nic has sparked a broader conversation about the importance of parental support for LGBTQ+ children. Her journey is a reminder that love—when offered without hesitation, judgment, or limitation—creates the foundation for strength, self-empowerment, and success. By embracing her son’s identity, Salonga is not only empowering Nic but also inspiring parents everywhere to create environments of love, acceptance, and respect for their children, no matter their gender identity.

As public figures, both Lea and Nic continue to use their platforms to advocate for greater visibility and understanding of the transgender community. Through their story, they shine a light on the importance of supporting our loved ones through their most authentic selves—because when we show up with love and understanding, we help create a world where everyone can truly be themselves.

REFERENCE LINK:

https://www.rappler.com/entertainment/celebrities/lea-salonga-supporting-trans-son-nic-chien-journey-interview/

Jill Sobule, known for her 1995 hit songs “I Kissed a Girl” and “Supermodel,” has passed away at 66.

According to a statement from her publicity firm, Sobule passed away early Thursday morning in a house fire.

The Denver-born artist’s track “I Kissed a Girl,” from her 1995 self-titled album, was the first openly LGBTQ-themed song to reach the Billboard Top 20.

She is widely recognized for the single “Supermodel,” also from her self-titled second album. “Supermodel” gained major attention after being featured in the hit 1995 film “Clueless,” which helped Sobule gain mainstream success.

John Porter, Jill’s manager, said in a statement that Sobule was “a force of nature and human rights advocate whose music is woven into our culture” and that he hopes her “music, memory, & legacy continue to live on and inspire others.”

Sobule’s musical career spanned over three decades, starting in the 1990s with her debut album “Things Here are Different,” which was produced by rock legend and record producer Todd Rundgren. The record was known for its track “Too Cool to Fall in Love.”

Her musical oeuvre includes 12 albums that take on issues including the death penalty, disordered eating and LGBTQ+ issues, among other topics. She performed with Neil Young, Cyndi Lauper and Tom Morello, among many others.

Sobule released her seventh studio album “California Years” in 2009 and then went on an extended break from releasing music. In 2018, she released what is now her final album, “Nostalgia Kills.”

“I was my own procrastinatrix, is what I call it,” she told Billboard in a 2018 interview about her long break between albums. “I started loving music again — loving listening, loving writing and the original spirit of why I did this in the first place, I suppose.”

Sobule added that she loved to perform, “and I love telling the stories of the songs.”

As stated on her website, Sobule was scheduled to perform in Colorado this weekend, with additional tour dates planned across the U.S. through the summer and fall.

According to her PR firm, a formal memorial will be held later this year to honor the singer’s life and legacy.

She is survived by her brother and sister-in-law, along with her nephews, cousins, and friends.

REFERENCE LINK: 

https://edition.cnn.com/2025/05/01/entertainment/jill-sobule-death

In a candid revelation during the May 12 episode of “Fast Talk with Boy Abunda,” renowned actress and comedian Ai-Ai delas Alas disclosed that she had been offered multiple opportunities to enter politics, including a proposition to run for mayor of Calatagan, Batangas. 

Delas Alas, known for her comedic roles and philanthropic endeavors, shared that the offers came from various political figures who recognized her influence and popularity. Despite the enticing prospects, she expressed reservations about pursuing a political career at this stage in her life.

Reflecting on the offers, Delas Alas stated, “I’ve been approached several times, and I even considered it. But I realized that my heart and passion lie in the entertainment industry and my charitable works.” She emphasized that her current focus remains on her career in showbiz and her commitment to supporting causes that uplift the marginalized sectors of society.

The revelation has sparked discussions among her fans and the public, with many expressing admiration for her dedication to her craft and her community involvement. While Delas Alas has declined the political offers, she remains an influential figure in both the entertainment industry and in her philanthropic efforts.

REFERENCE LINK: 

https://entertainment.inquirer.net/610324/ai-ai-delas-alas-reveals-she-was-offered-to-run-as-calatagan-mayor

On May 31, 2025, “Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition” witnessed the eviction of two notable housemates: Xyriel Manabat and Vince Maristela.  Their departure marked a significant moment in the ongoing season, which has captivated audiences with its dynamic twists and compelling narratives. 

After these immunity tasks, two GMA-7 and two ABS-CBN stars earned immunity. GMA-7 or Sparkle artists Shuvee Etrata and AZ Martinez and ABS-CBN or Star Magic talents Esnyr and Ralph de Leon won the immunity tasks. At the end of online poll, Xyriel and Vince got the lowest votes to save at 4.06% and 9.26%, respectively.

The evictions of Xyriel and Vince have sparked discussions among fans and viewers.  Their departures highlight the unpredictable nature of “Pinoy Big Brother,” where public votes and house dynamics play crucial roles in determining the fate of contestants.  As the season progresses, audiences remain eager to see how the remaining housemates navigate the challenges ahead.

With the exit of Xyriel and Vince, the “PBB: Celebrity Collab Edition” continues to unfold, promising more surprises and emotional moments. Fans are encouraged to stay tuned to the show's official platforms for updates and to support their favorite housemates in the upcoming episodes.

Xyriel and Vince are the latest housemates to leave the famous TV house after a week of intense challenges that saw immunities handed out to the toughest housemates.

Reference link:

https://www.philstar.com/entertainment/2025/06/01/2447422/xyriel-manabat-vince-maristela-exit-pinoy-big-brother-celebrity-collab-edition/amp