Who is Ruffa's Batman? + Albert Martinez on his 30/50

Ruffa Gutierrez is nominated in the 2011 Golden Screen TV Awards as Outstanding Showbiz Talk Show Host for TV5’s Sunday afternoon showbiz talk show "Paparazzi." She’s pitted against fellow Paparazzi co-host Cristy Fermin, Boy Abunda of The Buzz, Pia Guanio, Raymond Gutierrez and John Lapus of Showbiz Central and Luis Manzano of Entertainment Live!

"Really? Oh my God! Thank you so much," blurted out Ruffa when she was told of the good news after last Sunday’s telecast of Paparazzi at TV5’s Novaliches Studio.

Ruffa’s happy mood did not change a bit even if she was asked, for the nth time, regarding the issue about her, John Lloyd Cruz and Shaina Magdayao. After Ruffa defended herself on Paparazzi two weeks ago, John Lloyd and Shaina were interviewed on The Buzz last Sunday for their version of the story.

The press asked Ruffa if she’s not going to say anything more after John Lloyd and Shaina had said their piece. "Alam ninyo, wala na akong dapat i-share pa. Nasabi ko na ang gusto kong sabihin. Nadamay lang ako sa issue so, well, I’ll be quiet na. I won’t comment anymore," she said.

She added that she’s a peace-loving person and not the type who’d be getting into a fight with somebody, unless she is provoked. "I won’t run away from a fight but sometimes it’s nice to choose your battles," said Ruffa.

If Ruffa has a boyfriend or an admirer which she calls Batman, why doesn’t she announce who he is? Wouldn't that probably stop other girls from getting jealous of her? "I can’t. My marriage is not yet annulled. I am not loveless. I always have an inspiration. I am just open lately that I have a Batman in my life because of the gulo na nangyayari. Nakakaloka. Hindi ito nakakahaba ng hair," said Ruffa with a laugh.

‘I have an inspiration and he’s not an imaginary person. Just follow me on twitter so you’d know who is Batman."

But does she still communicate with John Lloyd? Are they still friends? ‘Kung mayroon naman, aaminin ko. I am friends with people who had been special in my life. Nakita ninyo naman si Zoren, grabe kami magbiruan. Siguro at this time it is awkward for us (John Lloyd) to be friends because of the situation," Ruffa answered.

Do you think you’re still in John Lloyd’s heart? "You better ask him that," she said.

What is it with Ruffa that guys can’t seem to forget her? "Ibang magmahal si Ruffa Gutierrez," she said and off she went and ended our interview.

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Brandon Libiran seems to have the perfect ingredients in life – a supportive family and the dream of becoming a chef abroad within reach. All of these take a turn for the worse when his father died and he has to go back to his hometown in Puerto Princesa, Palawan. His studies are put on hold and he needs to work as a cook in Kuzina Monaliza in order to help his family.

Despite his opposition to the idea, he agrees with it because he knows it’s only going to be temporary. After all, he will be able to continue with his studies upon saving enough money. As time passes, he is having doubts on his decision to stay in Puerto Princesa. Kuzina Monaliza’s specialties are Palaweno cuisines and uses natural herbs as ingredients. This culinary principle is opposed to the idea that Brandon is used to. This always results to arguments with Ms. Monaliza, the restaurant owner until he comes up with the fusion between Western and Palaweno cuisine.

This paves a way for Brandon to rediscover his hometown’s culture and cuisine, old and new friendships, and making choices in finding the ingredients that will make life a delicious cuisine.

Mazavor is a Palawan term that means "masarap" or delicious and this is the title of a new indie film that was shot in Palawan. It stars newcomer Jacob Dasco, a native of Palawan, who’s also a theater actor. He is a local talent in Palawan and he has done several hosting jobs. The movie also features local talents from Palawan.

Jacob plays a gay role in "Mazavor" and has Survivor Philippines Suzuki as his love interest. He’s not gay but has no qualms either in taking on such role. "I accepted the role as I saw it as an opportunity to learn new things. I want to see myself as a real actor," said the newbie actor. He also appeared in the MMK episode that was shot in Palawan which starred Angel Aquino and directed by Dante Mendoza.

He has auditioned for Pinoy Big Brother but did not make it. But he has done two local TV commercials in Palawan . "Mazavor" is his biggest break as an actor and he hopes to make it in showbiz.

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Still looking young and fresh, who would have thought that multi-awarded actor Albert Martinez is now on his 30th year in show business? In fact, he’s also celebrating his 50th birthday.

In an interview recently, Albert shared his secret for staying young. "At the very young age of 19, I started my healthy lifestyle. I began watching my diet and being conscious with my body. I never stopped body building until I reached 40. Now, I’m more focused on cardiovascular exercises," he shared.

Albert, husband of actress Liezl, son of ‘60s character actor Bert Martinez and brother of actors William and Ronnie, he began his showbiz career in the 1980’s. From then on, he has garnered recognitions from prestigious award-giving bodies for his effective portrayals in film and television. He also became an embodiment of a handsome and gentleman matinee idol.

Among his critically acclaimed roles are a downtrodden husband in "Magnifico" and as Jose Rizal in "Rizal Sa Dapitan," which gave him three Best Actor trophies in Brussels Film Festival ( Belgium ), Metro Manila Manila Film Festival and Guillermo Awards. Albert also made a mark when he played Mayor Enrique Rodrigo in ABS-CBN’s hit primetime series "May Bukas Pa."

Now, he heads the Altamira clan as Mariano and continues his search for his beloved daughter Elisa (Melissa Ricks).

Albert also revealed that in the course of his three decades as an actor, he hasn’t portrayed a president yet. "A lot of people have been asking me what role would I like to have next. I always say I want to be Manuel L. Quezon. I find him very interesting," he said.

Albert said he’s very thankful for the outpouring of support he always receives from his fans. Not only in his career are fans being supportive, Albert also receives a "pat on the back" whenever he faces trials.

Truly a pillar in the industry, the renowned actor promises to always be passionate in his craft and remain optimistic amidst the problems he’s facing. "Love is the key," he exclaims.

His ABS-CBN family threw a special party for him recently at The Establishment attended by Kapamilya executives, his family, closest friends, fans and members of the media.