Jo Koy celebrates the Philippines in upcoming Netflix Special

I'm so excited to announce that my 3rd @netflix special "In His Elements" premieres June 12. We brought Netflix to the Philippines! Let's go!!

Welcome back to Instagram. Sign in to check out what your friends, family & interests have been capturing & sharing around the world.

Comedian Jo Koy is releasing his 3rd Netflix Special Jo Koy: In His Elements on June 12th 2020, exactly one year from the release of his last special titled, “Jo Koy Comin’ In Hot”.

June 12 is also, coincidentally, Philippine Independence Day. Koy’s latest Netflix special was filmed in the Philippines and includes fellow Filipino comedian Joey Guila and singer songwriter Inigo Pascual.

On his IG post, he shared that he wanted to show the audience where his mom was from, as well as bring his Filipino friends who haven’t been back to the Philippines. He added, “Let’s show them how beautiful the country is, how beautiful the people are and let’s just do a show.” He also notes that everything about the special is Filipino – from the cameraman, the owners of the venue, and the audience, and encourages everyone to “embrace our culture and have a good time.”

2020 Census - We Count

The Census happens every 10 years and counts every person living in the United States (and 5 U.S. territories – Puerto Rico, American Samoa, the Commonwealth and the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands). Funding for our hospitals, emergency services, roads/highways and schools are decided based on the questionnaire.

Many people are skeptical and fear for their privacy. However, the Census is extremely safe and your answers are confidential. They will not be shared with other agencies such as immigration, law enforcement or housing authorities. In addition, it only takes several minutes and it is now easier than ever to fill out the Census. It can be completed via phone, internet and through the mail.

If English is not your first or preferred language, the Census questionnaire is also available in 13 languages. Information and language guides are also available in 59 other languages. For more information, head to www.2020census.gov

For our Tagalog speaking community, please watch the video below for more information.

Diane Paragas' film Yellow Rose is picked up by Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions

According to Deadline, Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions has acquired all worldwide rights (excluding the Philippines – which will be released in theaters by ABS-CBN) to Diane Paragas’ film, Yellow Rose.

Directed by Paragas, Yellow Rose follows the story of Rose, a Filipina teen from a small town in Texas struggling to pursue her dreams of being a country singer while also facing the threat of deportation. Broadway star and multiple Tony Award nominee Eva Noblezada plays the role of Rose. Joining Noblezada is Tony Award winning actress Lea Salonga, Gustavo Gomez, Dale Watson and Princess Punzalan.

Below is part one of my interview with filmmaker Diane Paragas, Producer Cecilia Mejia and actress Princess Punzalan from earlier this year when the film made it’s premiere at the Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival.

Filipino: A PSA by Charlene deGuzman

Charlene deGuzman just released a PSA (Public Service Announcement) titles Filipino: A PSA in celebration of Filipino American History Month. deGuzman, who gained popularity over her youtube video “I Forgot My Phone”, wrote, directed and produced the PSA. Filipino: A PSA includes appearances by Filipino American actors including Vincent Rodriguez III, Ginger Gonzaga, Tess Paras, Jason Rogel, and Eugene Cordero as they give us a brief history of the Philippines as well as spotlighting other Filipinos in the entertainment industry.

Jo Koy's Netflix Special premieres June 12th

Comedian Jo Koy is “Comin’ in Hot” with the release of his latest project streaming on Netflix June 12th – just in time for Philippine Independence Day. According to Netflix’s description, his stand up, which was recorded at the Blaisdell Arena in Hawaii will feature his “candid take on cultural curiosities, filter-free fatherhood and more.”

THOMAS ORLINA & MALIA BALDOVI ARE TWO BESTIES TOGETHER

Best Friends Thomas Orlina and Malia Baldovi have taken their friendship to the next level by producing and hosting their new digital talk show, “Two Besties Together” where they celebrate their friendship, highlight diversity, positive vibes and wonderful times together. The first season of TBT premiered on Thursday, January 17th with new shows releasing every Thursday.

Each episode of Orlina and Baldovi’s show focus on 3 segments – The Topic, The Product and The Throwback. In The Topic, the BFFs discuss numerous topics which range from dating in the modern world, open relationships and mental health. In The Product, Orlina and Baldovi provide a platform for entrepreneurs, influencers and sponsors of TBT to showcase their own products, projects and ideas. And perhaps one of the highlights of the show is their segment, The Throwback where the two reminisce about moments they’ve shared together during their 10year relationship. Closing out each show is their “Besties of the Week” segment where their fans are encouraged to send in their own pictures with their BFFs.  

Thomas Orlina and Malia Baldovi are no strangers to the entertainment industry. Orlina is best known for producing, creating and starring in his own webisode titled “Your Time With Thomas” as well as being featured on CNN Philippines. Hawaiian born Baldovi’s background is in Production where she most recently spent working at the USA Network for Temptation Island.

In addition to hosting, Baldovi also serves as executive producer to the show. “This has been an amazing process and having a show to interact with the audience and working with someone I call my bestie is amazing,” she said.

Orlina expressed his gratitude and excitement for his latest project, saying “I’m so grateful to be able to continue to create content that allows me to tap into the world of imagination in hopes to inspire and connect with today’s society. Being the creator, host and executive producer on this show with my bestie has been an innovative and unique experience.”

Two Besties Together debuted their season finale yesterday and all episodes are now available for binge watching on their youtube channel – Two Besties Together.  

See episode 1 of TBT below:

FILIPINO FILMMAKER MAKES HISTORY AT LOS ANGELES ASIAN PACIFIC FILM FESTIVAL

Diane Paragas and her film, Yellow Rose, will make history at this year’s 35th Annual Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival, making her the first Filipina American Filmmaker to open the festival.  

Directed and written by Diane Paragas, the American movie musical follows the story of Rose, played by Tony award nominee Eva Noblezada, a 17 year old girl who tries to fulfill her dream of becoming a country music star all while facing the threat of deportation. Joining Noblezada is Broadway star and Tony Award winner, Lea Salonga who plays Rose’s aunt. Rounding out the cast is Dale Watson, Liam Booth, Gustavo Gomez, Libby Villari and Princess Punzalan.

“I am so humbled that our film has been chosen for this honor.” Paragas told Deadline.com

Paragas also stated that Yellow Rose has taken over 15 years to make and “it couldn’t come at a more important time when anti-immigrant sentiment is at an all-time high. This is a story for everyone facing challenges in finding their voice, their dreams and, more importantly, their home.”

Francis Cullado, the Executive Director of Visual Communications expressed their excitement in showcasing Diane Paragas as the first ever Filipina American Opning Night presentation, saying

“We feel that Yellow Rose’s themes stemming from our collective experiences of what defines American can create cultural cross-connections throughout our diverse communities.”

The Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival will run from May 2nd to May 10th. For more information, you can head to https://vcmedia.org/festival

MARVEL STUDIOS MOVIE SHANG-CHI HIRES A DIRECTOR

Marvel Studios has signed on filmmaker Destin Daniel Cretton to direct their upcoming film Shang-Chi.

In the comic books, Shang-Chi is born in China to a Chinese father and white American mother. His father, the villainous Fu Manchu, teaches him martial arts. and Shang-Chi becomes a hero after rebelling against his father’s ways.

Although no casting news have been announced, Marvel Studios has mentioned that Shang-Chi will be their first project featuring an Asian lead and mostly Asian and Asian American cast. Shang-Chi will be penned by Chinese American Dave Callaham whose recent works include co-writing with Patty Jenkins and Geoff Johns in the upcoming DC Warner Bros sequel, Wonder Woman 1984 and Sony’s animated Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse 2.

Cretton, who was born and raised in Hawaii, is currently directing Just Mercy, a film he wrote, based on the memoir of Equal Justice Initiative founder Bryan Stevenson. The movie stars Michael B. Jordan and reunites him with actress Brie Laron who starred in his film, Short Term 12.

MARVEL COMICS INTRODUCES A FILIPINA HEROINE IN "THE WAR OF THE REALMS"

Marvel Comics’ upcoming comic book, The War of the Realms will introduce a new team of heroes including “Wave” a Filipina heroine, Aero and Sword Master from China who will be part of the Agents of Atlas. The War of the Realms universe will be set in Asia where the Agents of Atlas will be tasked to save the world.

According to Marvel editor Will Moss, “War of the Realms is this big, big Marvel universe story involving all the heroes from the Avengers, the Fantastic Four, Wolverine, the whole line.”

The comic books are set to be debut in May 2019.

BRUNO MARS HEADS TO SIN CITY

11 time Grammy winner Bruno Mars will be heading to Las Vegas’ Park MGM for an 11 show residency which is scheduled from April 29th to September 14th.

Tickets will go on sale at 10am on February 8th (Live Nation and M Life Rewards member presales will take place on February 6th)

For more information, you can head to the MGM website here.

KAREN GALLMAN IS FIRST FILIPINA MISS INTERCONTINENTAL PAGEANT WINNER

47 years after its inception, a Filipina contestant was crowned Miss Intercontinental.  Filipina Australian beauty Karen Gallman became the first Filipina to win the competition which was held at the Mall of Asia Arena in the Philippines this past weekend.

“It means a lot to me. This is the first time the Philippines has won Miss Intercontinental so I am very happy I could do this for the Philippines. I am speechless. I can’t stop smiling. I am just so grateful,” she said in an interview after her coronation at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Gallman thanked her supporters via her Instagram account and also dedicated her crown to the Philippines.

With her Miss Intercontinental win, Gallman hopes to be a great role model for young women. She added that she wants to be voice for those that cannot be heard and would like to be an inspiration to others. Like current Miss Universe winner, Catriona Gray, one of Karen Gallman’s main goals is to fight for better education for children living in poverty and are from the rural areas of the Philippines.

MARC DELA CRUZ MAKES HISTORY ON BROADWAY WITH HAMILTON

Filipino singer and actor Marc Dela Cruz makes history by becoming the first Filipino to play Hamilton on Broadway. Born in Hawaii, the Filipino Japanese star made his Broadway debut in 2014 playing Swing in “If/Then” and joined the cast of Hamilton in 2018 playing various roles which included King George, General Philip Hamilton, Tennessee Congressman James Reynolds and more.

Marc delaCruz on Instagram: "Sometimes amazement lies right around the corner. Thank you for all the messages of support and encouragement I've received over the last..."

2,341 Likes, 92 Comments - Marc delaCruz (@marc_delacruz) on Instagram: "Sometimes amazement lies right around the corner. Thank you for all the messages of support and..."

FIL-AM BOBBY RUBIO AMONG FILMMAKERS WHO ARE PART OF PIXAR'S SPARKSSHORTS PROGRAM

Filipino American filmmaker Bobby Rubio confirmed on his social media accounts that he will be writing and directing a short film titled “Float” as part of Disney-Pixar’s Sparksshorts program which is described as “an experimental storytelling initiative that welcomes new creative voices at Pixar Animation Studios to share their stories.”

“Float” follows the story of a father, who upon discovering that his son floats, decides to hide him from the outside world to keep him safe from the judgement. But when the public learns of his son’s ability, the father must decide to either run, hide, or accept his son as he is.

In response to a tweet, Rubio acknowledged that the characters in his film are indeed Filipino.

He also stated “I am proud to tell our stories. I know what it means to see our culture represented on screen! #RepresentationMatters.”

“Wind” by Edwin Chang (Pixar)

Joining Rubio in the Sparkshorts program is Edwin Chang and his short “Wind” which is described as a “magical realism story about a Grandma and a Grandson trapped in a massive, never ending sinkhole, living on a large boulder suspended by strong winds. Together they scavenge falling debris to build an escape, hoping to find a better life in the outside world.”

“Kitbull” by Rosana Sullivan (Pixar)

Filmmaker Rosana Sullivan whose maternal family is from Malaysia where several of her stories are inspired from, will also join Chang and Rubio with her short “Kitbull” which tells the story of an unlikely relationship between a stray kitten and pitbull.    

Other shorts joining the program include “Purl” written/directed by Kristen Lester, “Loop”, written/directed by Erica Milsom, and “Smash and Grab” written/directed by BrianLarsen.

Jim Morris, the President of Pixar Animation Studios said in a statement,

“The Sparkshorts program is designed to discover new storytellers, explore new storytelling techniques, and experiment with new production workflows. These films are unlike anything we’ve ever done at Pixar, providing an opportunity to unlock the potential of individual artists and their inventive filmmaking approaches on a smaller scale than our normal fare.”

“Kibtull,””Smash and Grab” and “Purl” will premiere at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood starting on January 18th for an exclusive one-week run. They will then be available on YouTube next month – “Purl” (Feb 4th), “Smash and Grab” (Feb 11), and “Kitbull” (Feb 18).

The rest of the films have no release dates yet.

All of the Sparkshorts selected shorts will be available on Disney+, the upcoming Disney streaming service which is scheduled to launch later this year.

CATRIONA GRAY'S MISS UNIVERSE MEDIA TOUR COMMENCES

Filipino Australian Catriona Gray started her 2019 Miss Universe media tour in New York yesterday making numerous television appearances including Good Morning America and Live with Kelly and Ryan. Appearing nothing short of beautiful inside and out, Gray spoke to host Ginger Zee about her mother’s premonition that she would win Miss Universe in a red gown, her talents as a singer and of course, her advocacy in helping children from impoverished areas, including working with an organization in the Philippines called, Young Focus Philippines. At the end of the interview Zee was definitely impressed, saying “Well, obviously you’re perfect, and that’s why you won Miss Universe!”

Kelly Ripa and Ryan Seacrest welcomed Catriona Gray with open arms and also took the time to greet Gray a happy birthday, asking what she did to celebrate, as well as talk about her upbringing in the Philippines and moving to New York only 4 days ago which prompted Kelly Ripa to ask Gray what she thought about winter, and if she has a coat.

Gray confessed to going out with at least a minimum of 3 layers and jokingly said she sometimes looks like a siopao when she goes out. See Catriona Gray’s interview on Live with Kelly and Ryan below.

1ST GRAMMY NOMINATION FOR LEA SALONGA

Lea Salonga, along with her Once on This Island cast received a Grammy nomination (Best Musical Theater Album category) for their cast album. This is the first Grammy nomination for Salonga who was in disbelief. She admitted in a tweet that she had to visit grammy.com to verify the news.

@MSLEASALONGA TWITTER

In the Broadway musical Once on This Island, Salonga plays Erzulie, the goddess of love. The musical follows the story of a peasant girl and a French descended nobleman and the gods that watch over them.  

Joining the Once on This Island cast under the Grammy nomination for Best Musical Theater Album category include albums of The Band’s Visit, Carousel, My Fair Lady and Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert.

The 61st Annual Grammy Awards will take place on February 10th 2019 at the Staples Center.

Asian Representation - 2019 Golden Globe Nominations

The 2019 Golden Globe nominations were announced live this morning from the Beverly Hilton Hotel. As expected, Sandra Oh received a Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series – Drama nomination for her role in Killing Eve.  It’s been a wonderful 2018 for the actress who made history this year as the “first woman of Asian descent to be nominated for best lead actress in a drama series” for her work on the BBC America show Killing Eve. Previously, Oh received 5 Emmy nominations for best supporting actress in a drama series while playing Dr. Cristina Yang on ABC’s hit drama Grey’s Anatomy. She will also co-host the 2019 Golden Globes with comedian and Brooklyn Nine-Nine’s Andy Samberg.

Filipino American Singer and Emmy winning actor Darren Criss also received a (Best Performance by an Actor in a Limited Series or Motion Picture Made for Television) nomination for his role as Andrew Cunanan in The Assasination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story. The FX Show also received a nomination for Best Television Limited Series or Motion Picture Made for Television and will be going up against TNT’s The Alienist, Showtime’s Escape at Dannemora, HBO’s Sharp Objects and Amazon’s A Very English Scandal. Criss’ costars Penelope Cruz and Edgar Ramirez were also recognized for their work.

NBC’s The Good Place which stars Kristin Bell, Ted Danson, Jameela Jamil and Filipino born Canadian actor Manny Jacinto also received a nomination for Best Television Series – Musical or Comedy.

On the big screen, the blockbuster hit Crazy Rich Asians received a Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy nod with Constance Wu also being recognized with a Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy nomination for her lead role in the film.

The animated movie Mirai was honored with a Best Motion Picture - Animated nomination. Mirai tells the story of a boy who runs away from home because he feels forgotten when his little sister Mirai joins his family. He encounters an enchanted garden where he meets a teenage Mirai and they enter a world of wonder, meeting characters from their past and future as they uncover their beautiful family’s story. Featuring the voices of John Cho and Daniel Dae Kim, Mirai is the 10th highest grossing Japanese film in 2018 (according to Wikipedia).

Another Japanese film, Shoplifters also received a nomination for Best Motion Picture – Foreign Language. According to Wikipedia, Shoplifters is the 4th highest grossing Japanese film of 2018. Upon receiving the Golden Globe nomination, Director Hirokazu Kore-eda said, “Thanks to many people’s help, Shoplifters has spread its wings farther and farther since the Cannes Film Festival in May. As it is my first nomination for Golden Globe Awards, I am looking forward to being a part of this new experience. My thanks to the Hollywood Foreign Press.”

Shoplifters won the Palm d’Or at the 2018 Cannes International Film Festival.

Filipino American Cinematographer and Academy Award nominee Matthew Libatique was the man behind the camera lens for A Star Is Born which received a nomination for Best Motion Picture – Drama. Libatique also made a couple of cameos in the film. In addition, Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper received nominations for Best Actress and Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama. Cooper also received a Best Director – Motion Picture for the project.  

The 2019 Golden Globes will air live on NBC Sunday, January 6th.

For a complete list of the nominees, you can click here