Tsismis: Latest gossip from the Pinoy World

Gloria Romero is the acknowledged queen of Philippine movies since the 1950s. She belongs to a generation of artists who were considered celebrities in the truest sense of the word — glamorous, talented and very professional. She plans on retiring when she reaches 80, three years from now. But that hasn't stopped her from doing what she does best — acting. She leads the current primetime top-rated series, Munting Heredera.

tabloid! caught up with the veteran actress to talk about her plans.

You've been working for ABS CBN for so many years. Why transfer to GMA?

I would love to work with a top network. Before I retire, when I reach 80, I would like to experience what it is to work with a different studio other than ABS CBN, which has also been good to me. I have been offered many times, but I would always have a project in ABS CBN. This year, an opportunity came up so I spoke to ABS CBN management and they were very gracious in letting me go.

How is it working with GMA now?

They've been very good to me. Inaalagaan niila ako masyado [They're taking care of me really well], and I appreciate it. I told them they don't have to pamper me that much. But I appreciate the importance they are giving.

You're the lead star in Munting Heredera, a top-rated primetime series currently showing. How do you feel about that?

Not too many senior stars in the Philippines are given this opportunity. I would like to thank GMA for giving us the break and the opportunity to still shine. There are so many young artists nowadays who get all the premium assignments, I am thankful we are still being given the chance in good, quality programmes. In the US and Europe, you get to see senior stars in big-budget movies, not as support actors/actresses, but as leads. It's different here in the Philippines, but I'm glad it is now changing.

You have been in the business for so long, what advice would you give upcoming artists?

You have to love your work. This is a stepping stone to many good things, but don't treat it as just that. You have to love it; be passionate about what you do. Be professional. After all this is a career, like any other job, except that it comes with the status, glamour and fat pay cheques. And like any other, it also doesn't last; sometimes, it can be taken away from you all of a sudden.

In a career spanning more than 60 years, you have played many characters and been given many roles. Is there anything you would like to do still?

I haven't thought about that for a while now. When I was younger, I would want to play this or that character. I believe I have done more than my fair share and have given my best to the most challenging roles assigned to me. There is one thing though, for once I'd like to portray the role of a beggar — I haven't done any significant project in this character. So I would love to be able to explore that — no make-up, not glamorous.

Wrong John?

John Estrada has slammed rumours that he is flirting with Happy Yipee Yehey co-host Bianca Manalo. The actor says Manalo is not dating him, but another John on the show, John Pratts. Estrada says he remains committed to his newly pregnant wife, Brazilian model Prescilla Mereilles. Estrada and Mereilles were married last year.

Grave Heart

Heart Evangelista has expressed her dismay that her work is being affected by her rift with Marian Rivera, the GMA7 star who has reigned over primetime television. Evangelista and Rivera had a tiff while shooting the movie, Temptation Island. Since then Evangelista hasn't had any assignment and was replaced from a show that paired her with Rivera's actor boyfriend, Dingdong Dantes. In recent interviews, Evangelista says she just wants to work, but kept mum on her feud with Rivera.

It's official

Award-winning actress Lorna Tolentino has signed a contract as a TV5 artist. Tolentino is the latest celebrity to join the aggressively recruiting network after leaving ABS CBN. With Tolentino joining TV5, many are anticipating a TV or movie project that will pit her with another top actress, Nora Aunor, who has just signed a three-year contract with TV5. Tolentino's first assignment with the network is a series depicting the life of cosmetic surgeons and beauty doctors. It will be a breeze for Tolentino not just because of her talent, but also she happens to be one of the most beautiful actresses in showbusiness.

Are you ready for Talentadong?

Top TV host Ryan Agoncillo will be in the UAE to hold auditions for his top-rating show, Talentadong Pinoy. The dates are still being finalised, although our sources say the auditions will be held this month. This will be the first time that Talentadong Pinoy will be holding auditions in the Middle East and will be on the look-out for Filipino expatriates with unique and exceptional talents. Watch this space for more details next week.