Solar: Pacquiao violates contract by getting ABS-CBN as TV partner

plus: The country’s first ‘true’ music fest Himig ng Bayan to be held in Dumaguete; Gabby Concepcion says showbiz comeback is a miracle

The ABS-CBN network has issued a statement regarding the decision of Manny Pacquiao to have his fight with Ricky Hatton on May 2 to be aired on ABS-CBN.

The statement reads:

“We are very happy with the decision of Manny Pacquiao to be his partner in future fights including the Hatton fight on May 2.  As his former media partner, we shall support Manny’s campaign to bring honor to the Philippines and to his kababayans here and around the world.  To Manny, we say welcome home Kapamilya.”

However, the people from Solar Sports expressed disappointment with this development, saying that Pacquiao still has an existing contract with them that is valid and the boxer should not cut short that contract.

According to Solar’s legal counsel, Atty. Enrique dela Cruz, “They (Solar) believe that their contract with Pacquiao is valid and binding. This should not be reneged or rescinded by Pacquiao or ABS-CBN.”

Solar has yet to hear from Pacquiao although they revealed that Manny sent them a letter stating that he wants to end his contract with them.

It seems ABS-CBN might be facing a legal suit if Solar Sports decides to file charges if and when Manny and ABS-CBN violate the contract.

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After the hit teleserye, “Iisa Pa Lamang,” which served as his comeback project on the boob tube, matinee idol Gabby Concepcion joins the cast of “May Bukas Pa” on ABS-CBN.

Gabby will play the role of an alcoholic magician. His journey through life will lead him to the miracle boy Santino (Zaijan Jaranilla). The question is how will they affect each other’s lives?

The actor got excited upon learning that he will be part of the top-rating teleserye. “I am both happy and excited,” said Gabby. “We have a good cast and we have an excellent production staff. I consider it a big honor to be a part of this project.”

When asked if there’s one incident in his life that he considers miraculous he readily answered, “My comeback in the entertainment industry. I didn’t expect that I’d be given projects,” he added.

According to Ethel Espiritu, the production manager of “May Bukas Pa,” since the program has many windows for other stories, we should expect more guests that will spice up the story more. Gabby Concepcion is just one of the other artists that will appear on the show.

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The great musical minds from around the country will come together to celebrate all that is music in Himig ng Bayan 2009. The Philippines’ first true music festival aims to bring Filipino music creativity to the fore with a four-day event that fosters budding talent and creating a venue for music enthusiasts to listen to and play great music.

Acknowledging the Philippines as a breeding ground for talented musicians and songwriters, Himig ng Bayan gives aspiring artists a place to perform their own pieces and learn from the best in the industry. Hoping to become an annual event, Himig ng Bayan is an event that not only gives amateurs the chance to listen to the country’s top acts in concert, but takes it one step further with activities that allow them to interact with their favorite artists.

Dumaguete City is the event’s host, the quaint small-town feel of the place allowing the entire population to participate in making the event truly special. Located in the province of Negros Oriental, the city is steeped in history, with landmarks such as the Silliman University and Dumaguete Belfry to illustrate the evolution of the city’s architecture. Dumaguete is also in affinity with nature, being a short drive from the twin lakes of Balinsasayao and the dolphin-watching lift-off points in Bais. Himig ng Bayan hopes to call attention to one of the country’s untapped beautiful spots.

The events include jamming sessions, workshops, recitals and nightly concerts. The last night’s grand closing ceremonies will feature three of the country’s top musical acts, and a special number from the winners of the previous day’s recital. The concert, to be held at the Lamberto Macias Sports Center, will be ticketed at a minimal price and will culminate with a display of fireworks.

In the interest of helping the music industry develop into a better version of itself, part of the proceeds of the paid concert will go to the Asosasyon ng Musikang Pilipino and the local government of Dumaguete City.

Himig ng Bayan is happening this May 13 to 16, 2009. Himig ng Bayan is organized by Alt+Enter Productions, a new company that offers specialized service in producing events. The two-hour special of Himig ng Bayan will be aired on CS9 two weeks after the event.