Non-stop fun with MMP in L.A.

MANILA, Philippines - Filipinos from all over the US and Canada experienced the thrill and excitement that only Manny Many Prizes (MMP) could offer last Sept. 16 with a two-part special at the Gibson Amphitheater, Universal Studios Hollywood.

Dubbed as Kapuso Goes Universal with Manny Many Prizes, the presentation was for the seventh anniversary of GMA Pinoy TV, the flagship international channel of GMA Network.

Around 5,000 spectators filled the venue to see the MMP barkada led by Pound-for-Pound King Manny Pacquiao. He was joined by his co-hosts Paolo Contis, Mike “Pekto” Nacua, Onyok Velasco and Gladys Guevarra.

Filipinos also had the chance to see up close Dingdong Dantes, Rhian Ramos, Solenn Heussaff, Rochelle Pangilingan, Elmo Magalona and Julie Anne San Jose.

Manny Pacquiao with Lola Leoning Torio (top) and Richard Caringal, winners of Dear Ninong segment and brand-new Nissan Urvan and $5,000, respectively

Fans of Pacquiao were pleased to see the fun side of the boxing hero as he sang OPM songs with his wife Jinkee, and even danced Gangnam Style to the delight of everyone.

Turning serious, Pacquiao later introduced Lola Leoning Torio, 87, who was living alone in an old garage in West Covina, and making a living out of picking up discarded bottles and cans on the street.

After being touched by her story, Pacquiao made the old lady’s wish come true that is to come home to her family in Nueva Viscaya. She received $2,000 and a plane ticket from Pacquiao, who also provided her family with a new source of income and a college scholarship for her grandson.

Ninong Manny also gave away a two-bedroom condo unit from New San Jose Builders, a brand-new Nissan Urvan, and cash prizes amounting to several thousands of dollars.

 Aside from the MMP show being a certified success, the pre-event talent competitions were also a huge hit among locals, as aspiring singers and dancers took turns in impressing the judges at the prestigious Globe Theatre. A singing competition for aspiring young singers was held in the morning, followed by a singing search among young Fil-Am singers. Finally, a ballroom dancing competition was held afterwards in search for the Ballroom Dancing King and Queen.

Viewers can watch the celebration on Oct. 7 and 14 on GMA 7.