Episode 20.5

Due to the extensive power outage wrought by typhoon Milenyo on Thursday (Sep 28), the ABS-CBN network decided to re-broadcast Episode 20.4 today (Sep 29).

Episode 20.4

You can find video clips of this episode on YouTube, courtesy of enterteynment.

Click to watch Part 1.
Click to watch Part 2.

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Tag: Video

BWN on its Last Two Weeks

Trailer for the last two weeks of Bituing Walang Ningning.



Tag: Trailer, Finale

Episode 20.3

Dorina is horrified to see that Adora has lost all her hair. Adora quickly tries to cover her head with the bandana, but Dorina hugs her and assures her that it's okay.

As they both cry, Dorina asks for Adora's forgiveness. She says she knows Adora doesn't want to see them crying. But Adora says it's okay, that it's not good to hide their feelings. They'll both feel better after a good cry.

Adora admits to being selfish because she cannot bear to see her children sad, because she cannot bear the thought of leaving her children.

She says she's still fighting to stay alive, but it's not in their hands anymore. Only God knows what will happen. Adora says Dorina should be ready for anything. Dorina cries as she she says she is simply not ready to accept losing Adora.

Adora tries to reassure Dorina by reminding her that she has another mother. Dorina grows even sadder at the thought of Rosamia. She shakes her head and says Rosamia does not want her. Adora urges Dorina to tell Rosamia that Adora is ill, so Rosamia will come and take care of her. Dorina says she doesn't want to make Rosamia come back and take care of her just because it's an obligation because Rosamia will one day grow to hate her for it. She says it's better that Rosamia doesn't know.

Dorina pulls herself together and assures Adora that she'll be okay because she has a mother who loved her. And Emilio is there, her father. They hug tightly.

Rosamia opens the door of her hotel room and Zossimo is there. She asks him to come in and forgive the state of her room. Zossimo asks her what her plans are, if she intends to hide the rest of her life. Rosamia reveals that she has found a job outside the country, and that she will be singing again. She just wanted to tell him so he won't worry about her.

Zossimo asks her when she expects to return. Rosamia says it's likely she won't ever be back Zossimo is quiet, obvious unhappy at this news.

Rosamia asks him to tell Dorina that she's okay, that she shouldn't worry. Zossimo urges Rosamia to tell Dorina herself, directly. Rosamia confesses that she doesn't have the courage to face Dorina. She believes it's better this way. Zossimo disagrees. He says she's punishing herself and making life difficult for Dorina. Dorina loves her and needs her.

Rosamia disagrees. She says Dorina doesn't need a mother who will drag her down... and that's the only thing that will happen should Rosamia become a part of Dorina's life. It's better this way.

Barbara is at home watching TV when a news break interrupts the program. Barbara is horrified to hear the newscaster announce that Lavinia has been the victim of an attempted rape by Larry. Barbara immediately calls for Rita, who rushes out of the kitchen.

Barbara worriedly tells Rita the news. Rita is shocked and asks where Lavinia might be. Barbara says the newcast didn't say. Barbara asks Rita to call Lavinia so they can find out what happened. Rita tries to call but Lavinia does not answer her cellphone.

Dorina and Nico are at Zoni's office. Nico tells her that Lavinia is in the hospital. He angrily mutters that he'll kill Larry for this.

Dorina suggests to Nico that they cancel the concert because Lavinia won't be able to handle it. She says that Lavinia needs their help right now. Nico asks her if she's sure. Dorina says they're talking about Lavinia's life. It would not be right if they pushed through with the concert.

Zossimo enters the office just then. Nico asks him if he has heard the news. Zossimo says yes, that he heard on the radio on his way back to the office. Nico asks Zossimo to hold the fort while he goes visit Lavinia at the hospital.

After Nico leaves, Zossimo tells Dorina that they need to talk. He tells her that he met with Rosamia. Dorina is excited at the news and immediately asks him to take her to see Rosamia, but Zossimo says he can't, because Rosamia doesn't want to see her.

Dorina is hurt. She asks him if Rosamia hates her. Zossimo says no, that Rosamia hates herself. She feels like she's useless and not worthy to be Dorina's mother, that Dorina has every reason to be ashamed of her.

Dorina says Rosamia has misunderstood. She asks Zossimo again to take her to see Rosamia. Zossimo tells her that it's too late, because Rosamia has left already... and she's not coming back.

Lavinia is surrounded by reporters in her hospital room. She tells them that she went through an ordeal, but she's a fighter and she will not just give up.

Oman returns home to find Dorina playing with the neighborhood kids. He asks her why she's there. Dorina says this is the only place she knows where she can relax and have fun and clear her mind.

He says that's good because she's been so serious lately. He asks her how she is. She says she doesn't want to talk about her life right now and asks him instead to tell her what's new with him.

She asks if he will work in Iloilo. Oman asks her if Kylie told her. He says he's still thinking about it, and asks her opinion. Dorina says if the offer is good, why should he not accept it?

Oman asks if he should accept it even if it will take him away from here. Dorina forces herself to says if it's good for him, then it's okay.

At the hospital, a reporter asks Lavinia about her plans for the concert. Lavinia responds by saying she's already said she's a fighter. She won't let other people take advantage of her current situation, so the concert will push through. Nico is standing in the room behind all the reporters and hears her answer.

Later, after all the reporters have left the room, only Nico and Lavinia are together. Nico is carrying a large bouquet of red roses. With grave concern, he asks Lavinia if Larry hurt her. Lavinia says she was able to stop Larry before he could do anything.

Nico urges Lavinia to rest. She says she can't because there's too much that still needs to be done. He tells her that she shouldn't feel obligated to push through with the concert, because people will understand if she doesn't perform. He offers to take care of everything.

Lavinia misunderstands. She becomes upset and pushes him away. She says she thought he came because he was concerned, when in reality, he just wanted to be sure that she wouldn't perform at the concert. Nico denies this. He tells her she's the reason he came, and that he's concerned about her.

Lavinia doesn't believe him. She says that Nico just wants to be sure that Dorina will have the concert all to herself. Well, she won't allow it because she's worked too hard to get to where she is now. She refuses to quit.

Nico steps closer to her and asks her to stop thinking about her career, just this once. Lavinia pushes him away again and says her career is all she has left. She's lost Rita, she's lost Barbara, and she's also lost Nico. Her career is the only thing that keeps her going. So no matter what happens she will not let it go.

Nico tells her that only one thing is important to her, and she's never going to change. Lavinia agrees and says she's never going to change, so he might as well accept it. As Lavinia glares at him, Nico backs down and leaves, but not without turning back for one final look at her.

Oman tells Dorina she's pushing him away. Dorina denies this and says she just thinks the opportunity is good for him. Plus it will give him a chance to be with Kylie, which is what he wants.

Oman asks Dorina what she wants. She hesitates before quickly saying that whatever he wants is whatever she wants. Oman grows frustrated and asks Dorina to just speak frankly. Dorina tells him she can't decide for him. Oman says he's not asking her to decide for him. He just wants to know what she wants... for him to go or to stay. He says he's right there for her.

Dorina hesitates, then says she'll support his decision, whatever it may be, because that's what friends are for. Disappointed, Oman asks her if that's really what she wants. Dorina says again -- I want whatever it is you want. Oman looks at her for a moment, then finally says he doesn't get her at all. He leaves to enter his dorm room.

At the Pineda home, Adora answers a knock on her door to find Rosamia on the doorstep. She's pleased to see Rosamia and says that Dorina is already asleep, but she'll be happy to wake Dorina for Rosamia.

Rosamia says no, and explains that she deliberately came at this hour so she wouldn't have to talk to Dorina. Her objective is to speak to Adora.

After they both sit down on the couch, Adora hands Rosamia a ticket to Dorina's concert, saying it's a front row seat. Rosamia turns it down, saying she won't be able to watch it. Adora urges her to keep it, in case she changes her mind.

Rosamia explains that she's leaving on the night of Dorina's concert. She's just stopping by to thank Adora for everything she's done for Dorina. She's been a good mother, she raised Dorina well, and she loves Dorina completely. Rosamia says she probably wouldn't have done as good a job if Dorina had been with her.

Adora says that's not true. She says she knows how much Rosamia loves Dorina, that Rosamia would do anything for her daughter. Which is why she thinks Rosamia should not leave.

Rosamia says she would only ruin Dorina's life if she stayed, that she would only bring Dorina problems. Adora says that's not true, because Dorina needs Rosamia, she needs a mother.

Rosamia replies that Adora is there. Adora counters by saying she won't be there forever. It looks like Adora is about to reveal her illness, but Rosamia interrupts her, saying there's nothing Adora could say that would change her mind. Adora is torn. Finally, she accepts Rosamia's decision and asks the singer if she would like to say goodbye to her daughter first.

The door to Dorina's bedroom opens, and Rosamia enters quietly. Dorina is already in bed, asleep. Rosamia stands beside the bed and fights tears as she watches her sleeping daughter. She recalls earlier, happier times with baby Emilia Rose, and later when she meets Dorina and mentors her.

Rosamia softly tells Dorina she loves her, then leans down to kiss her sleeping daughter. Dorina wakes just then to find Rosamia standing beside her bed.

Tag: Summary

Episode 20.2

Dorina is eating a sandwich (of course, Jollibee!) while sitting at a table at the rehearsal venue. Nico says it's been a long day and urges her to go home and rest. Dorina says she's not ready to go home yet, because she doesn't have the strength to keep smiling the way Adora wants her to. He asks her if she'd like some company. Dorina says it's okay because Emilio is there.

Nico moves to stand behind her and places his hands on her shoulders. He tells her to take things easy for a while. He also reminds her to call him anytime if she should need anything.

Lavinia walks past them and is consumed with jealousy at the sight of Nico and Dorina together.

Just then, Larry arrives and Lavinia makes a show of greeting him and being sweet to him and saying she misses him. Nico and Dorina cannot help but turn to look at them since they can plainly hear the other couple talking.

Larry asks Lavinia if she has plans after rehearsals, saying he has a surprise for her. Lavinia smiles happily and says she loves surprises. They arrange for Larry to pick her up at 9pm. They exchange "I love you"s before hugging. Larry leaves. Lavinia turns to find Nico watching her.

Later that night, Lavinia is at home preparing for her date with Larry when she sees a pendant in her jewelry box. She recalls how Nico gave her the pendant a long time ago -- a pendant that is a family heirloom, which his grandmother had said should only be given to the girl he loves.

Lavinia holds the pendant close for a moment, before quickly putting it back in her jewelry case. She wipes away her tears and retouches her makeup.

At home, Adora is sitting alone in bed, weeping silently. She looks over at a portrait of Jesus that sits along one wall of her bedroom. She prays: Lord, I know you won't give me a trial that I cannot bear. But I am so weak. I am afraid for my children. I am also afraid for myself. Lord, teach me to have complete faith in you. Only you are the light in my dark life. Only you.

Later, Dorina is at church kneeling on one of the pews, praying. Rosamia enters the church as well.

Lavinia and Larry are together, and Lavinia is in a bad mood. She testily asks him why they're outside, and even asks if they're trying to catch a meteor shower. Larry tells her it's so she can see his surprise -- he makes her turn around and look up -- at a large billboard of Lavinia endorsing Aficionado Perfumes. He tells her that she's now on the largest billboard in the country. Lavinia is thrilled and excited. She thanks him and hugs him excitedly. Larry asks her if she likes it, and she quickly says yes, of course. Larry is pleased.

Dorina catches sight of Rosamia at the church as her mother moves towards one of the pews. But Rosamia has spotted Dorina as well and she hurriedly runs out of the church. Dorina is not able to catch her.

Now inside Larry's office, Larry and Lavinia are drinking champagne to celebrate her latest achievement. Larry toasts Lavinia, saying: To the new face of Diva Cosmetics, box office sensation, concert diva, and future award winning actress... all rolled into one Lavinia Arguelles. Lavinia smiles sweetly and thanks him, saying she owes it all to him.

At home, Dorina brings dinner on a tray to Adora's bedroom. Adora is lying in bed. She tells Dorina she didn't have to go through so much trouble. Dorina says she enjoys spoiling Adora. Adora catches sight of the food on the tray and jokingly says that there's so much food -- it's as if it's her last meal and she's due to be executed by hanging the next day. The joke upsets Dorina, and it takes some effort for her to shrug it off when Adora tries to tease her out of her dark mood.

Still at Larry's office, Lavinia sits down, still in a good mood. Larry crouches down beside her chair and says that it's because he loves her that he'll do everything for her.

Larry looks intently into Lavinia's eyes and says he did all this for her to make her happy. When he sees her happy, he is happy as well. And now that she's on top again, there's only one thing left to do...

Larry is already down on one knee as he reaches into his pocket and pulls out a black jewelry box. Lavinia watches in dismay as he opens the box and reveals a ring inside. He asks Lavinia to marry him.

Lavinia is at a loss for words. Finally, she apologizes and tells Larry she will not marry him. Larry cannot believe what he is hearing. He rises to his feet and asks her what she just said.

Lavinia stands up as well and approaches him. She apologizes again and says she can't marry him. Larry says she cannot refuse and reminds her that they had a deal. Lavinia says she knows that. And she says that she had really intended to honor that deal. But she realizes now that it would be a terrible mistake if she did, because she doesn't love him.

Larry pleads with her, saying she'll eventually learn to love him. Lavinia backs away from him and says it won't happen. Larry grabs her from behind and angrily asks her if she's still in love with Nico. Lavinia pleads with him to be reasonable.

Dorina retreats into the bathroom and shuts the door. She cries inconsolably as she remembers how Adora told her she has lymphoma, and how Adora had promised she will not give up the fight while encouraging Dorina not to give up her own fight.

Lavinia is now angry as well as she struggles out of Larry's grasp. She says that she can't marry him and then pretend to be happy with him for the rest of her life. Lavinia apologizes again but says it really can't work. She tries to leave his office, but Larry stops her from leaving. He angrily says she promised to marry him. Lavinia pleads with him, saying it's better that she only hurt him once now, rather than they end up hurting each other repeatedly the rest of their lives.

Larry angrily says she promised to marry him as he pulls her away from the door. Lavinia falls to the floor. Larry angrily tells her they had a deal and she has to honor it. Lavinia slowly gets up and tries to run but Larry chases her, ripping off a piece of her dress in the struggle. He finally catches her and forces her down onto the conference room table.

Lavinia is now panicking and screaming as she tries to him Larry off. She finally manages to knee him in the groin. When he falls to the floor, she runs to his desk to pick up a letter opener. She holds it up to ward him off as she says he's an animal.

But Larry has given up. In anguish he says everyone tells him they love him, but then they leave him. His father left him. His friends left him, and now Lavinia will leave him as well. They all leave him in the end. They all deceived him. As Larry lays crying on the floor, Lavinia slowly backs out of his office and escapes.

The next day, Libby informs Larry that Lavinia did not arrive at her scheduled rehearsal. The musicians have been waiting for hours. Larry is silent. Libby says Lavinia is also not at home. Larry suggests she call Lavinia. Libby says she has tried calling but there's no answer. Larry tells Libby to just let things be, saying Lavinia will come back when she's ready. When Libby tries to object, he yells at her to just let it be. Libby says yes, then leaves the room.

Rosamia is sitting quietly in her hotel room, feeling restless. She finally stands up to pick up the phone. She calls Zossimo and tells him that they need to meet and talk.

At Larry's office, Larry is informed that Aficionado Perfumes is now one of the concert sponsors and they will be putting up a booth at the lobby.

Libby thanks the staffer and asks about Dorina's ticket sales. Another staffer says that Dorina's concert tickets were already sold out days ago and that there are still a lot of people looking for tickets. But the good news is, Dorina's fans are so intent on attending the concert that they are buying Lavinia's tickets. Libby says that should be okay, because once everyone is in the concert, people won't know who bought whose ticket.

But Larry is not pleased. Larry asks Libby why she hasn't done anything about the ticket sales. Libby reminds him that it's not that easy to manipulate the sales. Larry asks her about their smear campaign. Libby asks him what smear campaign. Larry reminds her of their intent to produce a sex video of Dorina. Libby is shocked; she asks him if he was serious when he said that in one of their previous meetings.

Larry angrily gets up says of course he was serious. He asks Libby if she thinks what he said was just a joke, if she thinks he's a joke. Libby says no, but she reminds him that he knows full well she doesn't work that way. Larry reminds her that they are all in his employ and that they should do as he instructs because he's the boss and he pays them to obey orders. Pushed to the wall, Libby angrily shouts at him that she quits and walks out of the office.

Libby is at her desk packing up her personal effects when Larry comes out of his office and tells her she can't quit. When he says she can't leave, she turns around and says: "Watch me."

As Libby exits, two police officers enter the office and ask him if he's Larry Calma. He says yes. They hand him an arrest warrant and tell him that Lavinia has filed a case of attempted rape against him. The two police officers drag him out of the office as Larry protests and orders a staffer to call his lawyers.

Dorina comes home to find Adora sitting alone in the living room. Adora tells her there's still food in the kitchen. Dorina says she has already had dinner. Adora says Bencho is already sleeping.

Adora urges Dorina to go have some of her cooking, because the day will come when Dorina will miss her cooking. Dorina falls silent, upset to be reminded of Adora's ill health.

Just then, Adora accidentally drops something and when she reaches down to the floor to pick it up, her bandana falls to the floor. Dorina is horrified to see for the first time that her mother has already lost all her hair.

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Tag: Summary

Episode 20.1

After throwing Lavinia out of her hotel room, Rosamia slams the door shut and smiles with satisfaction while outside, Lavinia hurls invectives at Rosamia from outside the room, all the while pounding on the door.

Larry is upset when he learns about Rosamia's actions. He gets on the phone and starts to call Oscar, but Lavinia stops him and says that he'll only give Dorina what she wants by revealing Rosamia's location. Lavinia tells him she'll get her revenge through Dorina instead -- where it will hurt Rosamia the most.

Later that night, Dorina and Bencho are already asleep in bed when Adora comes in and watches them sleep with a mixture of pride and sadness. She recalls earlier, happier times... as well as the night that Adora and Dorina promised each to never leave each other. Inevitably, her thoughts turn to their current trials -- her illness and their doctor's inability to treat her cancer further. She cries silent tears.

Adora is seated in the kitchen drinking a cup of coffee the next day when Emilio comes in and greets her a good morning. Adora is listless. Emilio asks her what's wrong. Adora says she doesn't know how to face all these challenges. She says she keeps putting up a brave front for Dorina, saying that she's strong, that she'll not give up.

But, Adora says, she knows no matter how much she fights, she will lose in the end. And that's what worries her. What will she do? Her children are so young to be orphaned. They can't be losing their mother already.

Emilio sits down beside her and sighs. He shares that while he was in jail, he thought day and night of his missing daughter. He had no idea if she was okay, if someone was taking good care of her. He says it was almost enough to drive him insane.

And, Emilio continues, when you are that desperate, you only have one place to run to, and that's God. Only He could take care of Emilia Rose. Emilio goes on to say that God really came through for him... because of all the people he could have possibly handed baby Rosamia to outside Club 100, he handed the baby to Adora.

Adora smiles. She tells Emilio that he's right, that God will provide. After all, Emilio is there, and Oman is there also. They'll take care of her daughters. Adora says it will indeed be better if she focuses her energy on how to make her remaining days more special. Emilio assures her that she'll get through this.

Bencho wakes up the next morning and sees a little Santa Claus figurine on the bedside table and the bedroom alive with Christmas decor. She excitedly wakes Dorina up. They're both puzzled to see Christmas decor in their bedroom when Christmas is still months away.

They run downstairs and in the living room, they see a fully decorated Christas tree. Adora and Emilio are there working on the tree and greeting them Merry Christmas. Puzzled, Bencho asks how long she's been asleep because she must have slept months away if it's Christmas already.

Adora explains that Christmas just came a little early this year. She says she doesn't think Jesus would mind if they celebrated early. Adora notices Dorina's sadness at this and asks her why the long face, even though she knows her daughter has figured out that Adora does not expect to survive the year.

Dorina hides her reaction for Bencho's sake and decides to play along. She tells Adora that she wishes she'd known that Christmas would be early this year because they would have prepared gifts. She says this will not do, and she urges Bencho to return up the stairs so they can prepare gifts.

Dorina and Bencho return to their bedroom and try to figure out what gifts would be appropriate. After some thought, they both get ideas and exchange excited looks.

Back in the living room, the four of them gather together and exchange Christmas presents, wrapped in colorful paper. There's hugging, smiles, and a lot of laughing as the presents are revealed -- including a paper sampaguita lei which Dorina presents to Adora, as she says that Adora is her #1 idol.

Even their dinner is an all-out Christmas feast. Emilio says he and Adora spent all day shopping for food for their meal, and that people were looking at him like he was crazy when he asked for chestnuts and pears. Just then, Dorina's phone rings and it's Zossimo.

Dorina answers the call and apologizes to Zossimo for all the trouble she has caused. She assures him that she's given the matter further thought, and she will push through with the concert. Zossimo is relieved and pleased. He thanks her and they end the call. The rest of the family cheers at the news that the concert is pushing through.

Later, Dorina prepares to leave home and finds Adora sitting at the dining table, forcing herself to drink ampalaya shake. Minda also arrives with some herbs, saying Adora should give it a try. Dorina says goodbye and leaves.

Once Dorina is gone, Adora conspiratorially asks Minda if she has "it." Minda says yes and pulls out a small video camera from her bag, saying she doesn't know how to use it. Adora tells her to press the record button so they can try it out.

At a press conference in Zoni's office, Dorina confirms to reporters that she really did intend to back out of the concert, because she was going through some trials, especially with Adora and with Rosamia. She confesses that it got to be too much and she felt like she couldn't handle things anymore.

A reporter asks her what changed her mind. Dorina replies that even though Adora is gravely ill, she doesn't give up, that she manages to draw strength from a higher power. Dorina says she draws strength from Adora. She says it's not easy, and she knows the time will come when she will feel overwhelmed again. But she promises that even though she falls over and over again, she will stand up again each time.

Dorina rushes to her next rehearsal and Nico is at the entrance waiting for her. He asks her if she'd like to cancel the rehearsal session, and Dorina says no, saying that it would be embarrassing for her to cancel on Lavinia. Nico says she should just let him know if she wants to leave anytime and Dorina promises she will.

Inside, Lavinia is on stage preparing for rehearsals. A staffer approaches her and asks how many seats she would like to reserve for her special guests so they get guaranteed seats. Apparently, Dorina has already reserved 12 seats for close friends and family.

Lavinia is disturbed, because she doesn't know how many "close friends and family" she can invite. To avoid giving an answer, she reprimands the staffer for bothering her with such a "trivial" question. The staffer leaves.

Lavinia is about to rehearse when she sees Dorina and Nico enter the rehearsal venue. She immediately notices how Nico has his arm companionably around Dorina's shoulder.

At home, Adora is seated on her bed and Minda has set up the video recorder. With the recorder now switched on, Adora delivers her message. She greets her daughters and says that if they're watching this video, it means she has lost the fight. She asks them not to be sad, to only shed a few tears.

Adora goes on to say that she really loves them, and that regardless of all the trials that she has gone through, she will not exchange it for anything because she's so happy that they got to spend what time they had together. She expresses regret that they didn't have more time. She says she tried her best to extend her stay with them, but it seems that God has other plans.

She says she intends to leave the tape with them so she can answer their life questions. She wonders out loud what kind of questions they might have for her.

From behind the camera, Minda suggests she answer questions about sex. Adora says no, saying if she were to talk about sex, her daughters would have to be 30 before they watch the tape! Adora smiles and says she'll share one of her secret recipes instead.

Later, Adora is sitting in the living room freshening up her make-up. Minda sits beside her and asks her if she really feels up to going out. Adora says yes, adding that it was only the chemo that was weakening her before. Minda says she could catch an infection while they're out, and if that were to happen, Adora is not strong enough to fight it off.

Adora says she can't just stay home all day because she has nothing to do and she doesn't have that much time left. She'd like to go shopping for new clothes. Minda likes the idea and asks if the new clothes are for Dorina's upcoming concert? Very matter-of-factly, Adora says she'd like new clothes for her burial, because she wants to look good at her "finale." Minda cries at such unexpectedly frank and brutal words from Adora, but Adora just shushes her and reminds her that they agreed on no tears.

At rehearsals, Dorina performs Bituing Walang Ningning. Lavinia and Libby watch and listen from the sidelines. After listening to the chorus, Lavinia immediately asks Libby what song Dorina is singing. Libby replies that it's her rival's new song. Lavinia asks Libby to find out who the composer is because she wants the song for herself. Libby tells her it's impossible, because Rosamia composed that song for Dorina.

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Tag: Summary

More Press on Bituin Finale at Big Dome

CF's Note: To see previously blogged articles about the Finale, click here.

*** Warning: Spoilers ahead ***

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Journal Online
September 21, 2006

TATTLE
ni Nel Alejandrino

Angelika 'di nagpatalbog kay Sarah

Link to original article

THE final scene of the ABS-CBN teleserye, Bituing Walang Ningning, is truly a must na panoorin, if only for the showdown between Dorina (Sarah Geronimo) at Lavinia (Angelika dela Cruz).

Doon makikita kung sino sa dalawa ang may karapatang tawaging bituing “may ningning.” Idinaan ito via a concert na ginanap mismo sa Araneta Coliseum.

Well, the concert was witnessed by a live audience. Jampacked ang Big Dome with no less than ABS-CBN top guns Charo Santos Concio and Cory Vidanes in the audience.

Bagama’t, as expected, si Dorina (Sarah) ang mag-i-end up as the star of the show, Angelika put up a tough fight and how!

She proved she also has the voice, though maybe not as powerful as Sarah’s. But given the chance, Angelika can eventually become a singer to reckon with.

Personality-wise, ang laki na ng ipinagbago niya. Kung anuman ang naging bulung-bulungan in the past na diumano’y ipinagawa niya sa kanyang mukha, naka-add ’yon para magkaroon siya ng kakaibang charm.

* * *

AT 18, Sarah has improved a lot as a singer and performer. Kapansin-pansin din na, despite the naggagandahang gowns na isinuot niya courtesy of kilalang designer-couturiers, Sarah somehow still lacks the luster, not to say, the class associated with renowned divas like Zsa Zsa Padilla, Kuh Ledesma, Regine Velasquez, Sharon Cuneta and much, much earlier, Pilita Corrales.

Sana Sarah will acquire ang mga katangiang ito through the years.

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TRIBUNE
September 23, 2006

Final Cut
by Edsel-Thadeus O. Lorete

The Battle of the 'Divas' rages on at the Big Dome

Link to original article

Loyal followers of ABS-CBN’s top rating musical-drama Bituing Walang Ningning, a teleserye adaptation of one of Sharon Cuneta’s biggest Pinoy blockbusters, got the stubborn thrill they asked for when they all got to participate as TV character’s Dorina Pineda (Sarah Geronimo) and Lavinia’s (Angelica de la Cruz) real cheering fans at the Araneta Coliseum, the historic location ABS-CBN commissioned to highlight Bituing Walang Ningning’s nationally anticipated concert showdown between its two hottest (rival) divas on primetime television.

What made the gig unusually different from other Big Dome attraction had everything to do with masa fan’s willingness to put themselves in a virtual position cheering for two fictional TV characters: Geronimo, the famed “rags-to-riches” singer-actress they adore, protect, and dare emulate, and Cruz as the stingy kontrabida first played by Cherie Gil.

Seeing something this big take off gives you the shivers, hearing a mixed group of young and not-so-young crowd cheering wildly at the beat of a cheap showbiz teaser, which is commonly used to break the ice or keep an enormously growing crowd focused on a hanging theme while waiting for a live feed, and still enjoy an entertainingly decent Pinoy concert.

The sight was thrilling and, believe it or not, if last Tuesday’s Big Dome gathering had a real political agenda Sarah Geronimo will have easily won an electoral post by a knockout landslide vote. Sarah had the upper hand and fans submitted and then responded to their idol’s wishes as if it was their own.

I have never seen this much star power patronage as Sharon Cuneta or Vilma Santos did so in their respective weekly live shows in the ‘80s or back when Gary Valenciano or the defunct noontime show Student Canteen did phenomenal provincial summer tours. Sarah, as well the rest of Bituing Walang Ningning’s cast, knew about this prospect yet they chose to respectfully thank the packed audiences, who diligently follow the teleserye after the news show Bandila, instead of playing on people’s whims. The show was a smash hit.

However, to avoid spoiling the thrill of seeing Dorina and Lavinia’s pulsating live showdown, I think it is best for fans to hang on the thrilling note as everyone else as Bituing Walang Ningning finally close its curtain this coming October. See it with the family!

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Tag: Press, Grand Showdown, Finale

Episode 19.5

CF's Note: Special thanks to enterteynment for uploading today's episode on YouTube, and giving me a chance to make this summary. And a bigger thank you to Libra for the link. :-D

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Dorina meets Adora and Minda as they are leaving the doctor's office. Adora tells her she's not getting her chemo treatment today, and that they can go home. When Dorina asks why, Adora explains that she no longer needs chemo.

Dorina asks if it's because she's now well? Adora sadly tells her that chemo is no longer going to help her. Dorina is shocked and worried.

At Larry's office, Larry tells Lavinia that he just finished meeting with ad agencies, and that their clients like Lavinia's new pictorials. And her commercials are going well. Lavinia flips through a magazine as she listens without any apparent interest.

She asks if these clients will be sponsoring her concert. Larry says of course. And he goes on to tell Lavinia that she's going to be the new face of Diva Cosmetics, not just in the Philippines but in Southeast Asia.

Lavinia finally looks up at Larry at this important bit of news. She smiles broadly. Larry asks her if she's happy now. She gets up and goes around the table to hug him as she says "Of course I'm happy"

At the hospital, Dorina, Minda, and Adora are now seated at one of the benches. Dorina says that if the doctor can't do anything more, maybe there's still some other treatment option. Adora says the cancer has spread to her brain and there's little that can be done now. Dorina says maybe they should still continue with the chemo because it might still work.

Adora quietly tells her that the chemo is really not going to work because the cancer has spread. Plus it would simply be a waste of money. Dorina tells her not to worry about money, especially with what she's earning now. She says she can take care of it.

Adora says money isn't really the issue. It's hard to go through chemo. It weakens you. Adora says she'd rather enjoy the time that's left to her.

Dorina quietly asks if this means Adora is giving up now. Adora says she's not giving up, that she will still fight. Plus they have an ally in God. God is greater than all the doctors. Dorina is quick to agree. Adora goes on to say that the things that the doctors cannot do are within God's power. Dorina nods as tears slip down her cheeks.

Zossimo and Dorina are in a meeting at Zoni's office. Dorina tells him that she needs help. She reveals that Adora has been told by the doctors that her cancer has reached her brain. Zossimo sits back in surprise and dismay. Dorina says the doctors have given up on the chemo.

Zossimo says he's sorry to hear this news. Dorina says she can't accept that nothing more can be done. She says there has to be another way. Maybe they can send her for treatment in the US.

Zossimo says while it's true that treatments are more advanced abroad, he says she should ask for the doctor's opinion, saying they're the ones who are more aware of the latest treatments. Dorina says she no longer wants to consult the doctors because they were the ones who gave up on Adora. Dorina says she refuses to give up. She pleads with him to help find a specialist for Adora. Zossimo agrees.

Larry visits Rosamia in her small motel room while she is still hard at work composing. She asks him if it's really necessary for him to stand guard there. He says he's just making sure that she's fulfilling her end of the bargain. He doesn't want her just running off with his money. Rosamia says she's not a treacherous snake, the way he is. Larry is irritated, but he stays silent.

Rosamia then asks -- do you suppose your father would be happy to know what you're doing now if he were still alive? Larry says he's doubled the business and the grown the revenue. Every household in the country knows the name of La Calma Recording. He says he's sure his father would be happy.

Rosamia shakes her head and replies: I'm sad to say that if you think that would make your father happy, then you don't know your father well.

Larry replies -- Not like you? I guess you must know my father very well. Did my father know you had a husband when he made you his mistress?

At the dinner table, Adora asks Dorina why she's hardly eating. Adora asks her what's wrong. Dorina says she doesn't believe that there's nothing more that can be done for Adora. She'll find a way. She'll find a doctor. There's still hope for them.

Rosamia turns to glare at Larry at his accusation. Rosamia angrily tells Larry that she's lost track of the times that she's told him she never had that kind of a relationship with Lauro. She asks why Larry refuses to believe her. Larry says it's pointless to discuss this when his father has long been dead. Rosamia says she has to clear her name and his father's name, even if only with Larry.

Rosamia says Lauro loved him, and Lauro did everything for Larry. Larry angrily says he now knows she's lying, because if it were true, he wouldn't feel like crap. He could never do anything right in Lauro's eyes. Rosamia says it's only because he wanted you to learn.

Larry disagrees. He says Lauro only wanted to humiliate him. And that's because of Rosamia, because of her influence. Larry says derisively that Rosamia is something else. She had an affair with Lauro even though she was married to another man. She only used Lauro.

Rosamia angrily says again she never had that kind of a relationship with Lauro. And that she was never unfaithful to her husband. Larry asks her -- did you really love your husband even though he was in jail, even though he lost your daughter?

Rosamia pauses for a moment then says: Yes. I love Emilio up to now. My love for him never wavered. Larry has no comeback for that statement.

Dorina is at home surfing internet sites on lymphoma to find more information about Adora's disease. On the phone, she consults a Dr. Miller, saying she needs a second opinion. The doctor asks for Adora's files and lab results. Dorina says she'll send everything to her hospital tomorrow.

Later, Dorina is still reviewing Lymphoma related materials in bed, desperate to find some clue as to how best to help Adora.

Later that night, Adora comes down the stairs and finds Dorina asleep at the dining table with lymphoma materials scattered in front of her. Adora sits down next to Adora then wakes her sleeping daughter. When Dorina wakes up, Adora asks her to go upstairs to her room to rest. Dorina quickly gathers all the materials from the table then kisses Adora before leaving the dark dining room. Adora sighs.

The next day, Rosamia calls Larry on the phone and tells him that the song has been completed.Larry is pleased. However, Rosamia insists that Lavinia has to personally pick up the song. When Larry asks why, Rosamia says she needs to teach Lavinia how to properly perform the song. Larry tells her there's no need to do that. Rosamia says if he wants to get the song, this is way it has to be.

A staffer greets Dorina, Rita, and Jack as they arrive at the rehearsal venue. Dorina learns that she arrived just in time because Lavinia just wrapping up her own rehearsals.

Lavinia sees Dorina arrive and approaches one of her own staff. She instructs her staff to listen to Dorina's song line-up and that if there are any changes, she should be informed right away.

Dorina is quietly listening on headphones to her own songs in preparation for her rehearsals when Lavinia approaches her and knocks down one of the nearby chairs to get Dorina's attention. Lavinia accuses Dorina of listening in on her rehearsals, checking out the competition. She tells Dorina that whatever she does, Lavinia will always be five steps ahead of her.

Lavinia turns away at first, then as if changing her mind, she turns to Dorina once again to say -- oh, I almost forgot. I have a new song in my repertoire, composed by Rosamia.

Dorina is shocked. She asks Lavinia if Rosamia really made the song for her. Lavinia says of course. Dorina says she doesn't believe it. Lavinia pulls photos out of her bag and asks Dorina if she's seen Rosamia's latest photos.

Tears well in Dorina's eyes as she stares at the photos before pleading with Lavinia to tell her where her mother is. Lavinia says "no way" before quickly leaving. Rita rushes to Dorina's side and asks what Lavinia has said to upset Dorina so badly. Dorina is crying too hard to answer.

At Larry's office, Larry tells Lavinia that Rosamia has completed her song. Lavinia is thrilled. She asks Larry if it's a good song. Larry confesses that he hasn't heard it. Lavinia says they should listen to it now. Larry reveals that they don't have it yet. He says there's a catch -- Lavinia has to personally pick up the song from Rosamia, because Rosamia intends to teach her the song.

Lavinia is upset. She says there's no way she will agree to be mentored by Rosamia, who's a has-been. Larry says Lavinia has to think of it this way -- Dorina's first song became #1 not because of the singer, but because of the composer. Rosamia taught her the proper way to interpret the song. He urges Lavinia to go because she might still learn something. Lavinia finally agrees.

Zossimo is walking towards the rehearsal venue when he sees Jack and the band members loitering in one of the hallways. He asks them why they're just standing there and not rehearsing. He asks where Dorina is.

Jack says Dorina is inside crying. When Zossimo asks him what's wrong, Jack says he thinks Lavinia has said something to upset her.

Zossimo enters the rehearsal area to find Dorina and Rita together. Rita is trying to give her something to drink. Dorina is calm now, but almost lifeless. Zossimo asks her what Lavinia said. Dorina says quietly that it doesn't matter. Zossimo says that's a good attitude -- in one ear, out the other.

Dorina says she's tired. She's tired of crying. Tired of singing. Tired of dealing with Lavinia. She says her mother needs her right now. Dorina stands up and collects her things, preparing to leave.

Zossimo asks her what she means. Dorina says she's backing out of the concert. Rita and Zossimo are shocked.

Larry is on the phone asking the person on the other line if it's true. After he hangs up, Lavinia asks him for news. Larry reveals that Dorina has backed out of the concert. Lavinia is all smiles. She says she knew all along that Dorina is afraid of her. She laughs.

Outside the rehearsal venue, people are starting to talk and the band learns that Dorina has backed out of the showdown. They enter the rehearsal hall and ask her if it's true she's backing out. Zossimo is on the phone (probably trying to reach Nico). Dorina leaves without saying another word.

At home, Rita tells Barbara that she really feels sorry for Dorina. She says she doesn't know what Lavinia has told her, but it's like Dorina has been drained of all energy, all life. She no longer has the will to fight. Barbara asks what this means, whether or not the concert will still push through.

Rita says as far as she knows, Dorina is the only one who backed out, so Lavinia will still be performing. Barbara sits quietly for a moment, then says Lavinia's dream will come true at last -- she will be the number one singer.

Rita says that may be true, but Lavinia will have achieved her dreams the wrong way -- through intrigues, through foul play. She may have caused Dorina to back down, but she hasn't proven that she's the better singer.

Barbara says that if truth be told, Lavinia could have achieved all this without resorting to all these underhanded schemes. Rita agrees that Lavinia is certainly talented enough, unfortunately, Lavinia herself tends to forget this.

Dorina is at home sitting on the couch when Adora enters and says Nico has been calling. She asks Dorina why she is not answering the calls. Dorina says she doesn't know what to say to Nico. Adora asks Dorina if she's the reason why Dorina wants to back out.

Dorina says it's not just Adora, it's because of everything, including Rosamia. She says she's so tired of competing with Lavinia. Adora tells her she can't just back out like this -- what about the concert?

Dorina says she's given this a lot of thought. She doesn't need all this. If Lavinia wants to be the queen of all singers, then that's fine with her. Lavinia can have that crown all to herself.

Adora says she's not the type to interfere with Dorina's decisions. But she says there are times in people's lives when they have to do things even if they don't want to. Like this concert. Dorina started it, therefore she needs to finish it properly.

Dorina plaintively says she no longer wants to do it, that she can't handle it anymore.

Adora says she didn't raise Dorina to be the type of person who leaves other people hanging in the wind. She says these people are all counting on her. She made a commitment to Nico and to all these people. She has to fulfill it.

Lavinia arrives at La Calma's office and is immediately mobbed by reporters who ask if it's true that Dorina has backed out. Lavinia says with obvious satisfaction that it's 100% true.

Another reporter asks her why Dorina would suddenly just back out like this. Lavinia says it's hard to say, that perhaps Dorina is simply afraid. Another reporter asks what she means, and if Lavinia will now emerge as the winner of the showdown?

Inside a restaurant, Rosamia and her employment agent are meeting. The agent tells her that it's a good thing all the paperwork for their departure has been fixed. While they talk, the TV is on inside the restaurant, and Lavinia's interview is being aired.

Rosamia hears the questions about the showdown and turns to look at the TV. She is just in time to see Lavinia say: Well, I know it, you all know it, and I guess by now Dorina knows it too. And honestly, I think she did the right thing because she doesn't stand a chance at all, especially now that I have such a beautiful new song, which is composed by Rosamia.

The reporter quickly asks how Rosamia came to compose a song for Lavinia. Lavinia says: I guess even Rosamia knows who's the better singer.

Later, Lavinia knocks on Rosamia's motel room door and enters when Rosamia opens it. She asks Rosamia where her song is. Rosamia says it's right here, as she loads a CD into the player. She tells Lavinia she has some tips as to how the song should be interpreted.

Lavinia scoffs at the notion. She says they should just drop this idea that Rosamia could possibly have anything to teach her about interpreting the song she composed. Lavinia goes on to say that they both know Rosamia has nothing to teach her because Lavinia is a far better singer.

Rosamia is still for a moment, then she says -- it's hard, after all, to teach someone who's as stone-cold as you. Lavinia doesn't rise to the bait. She simply asks for the song.

Rosamia asks her if she wouldn't like to listen to it first, then hands the headphones to Lavinia. Reluctantly, Lavinia walks over and puts on the headphones.

From her expression, it's obvious that Lavinia likes the song. Rosamia asks her if she liked it. Lavinia says it's adequate. She grudgingly admits that the song is worth whatever amount it is that Larry paid Rosamia.

Rosamia ejects the cd from the player and asks Lavinia if this means she likes the song. Lavinia says -- didn't I just say the song is worth Larry's payment? Now, please hand me the song so I can leave because my God! There are cockroaches in your room.

Rosamia finally looks at Lavinia as she extends the cd to the singer. Just as Lavinia is about to get the CD, Rosamia snatches it back then folds it, ruining the disc.

Lavinia is surprised. She frantically asks Rosamia what she thinks she's doing. Rosamia hurls the destroyed disc across the room. Lavinia asks her why she did that to the CD, especially since she was paid for that song.

Rosamia pulls Larry's check out of her purse and shows it to Lavinia. She says with emphasis -- I will never compose a song for you. Never! She rips the check in half and throws it to the floor.

Lavinia is insulted. In her anger, she tries to slap Rosamia, but Rosamia is ready for her. Rosamia catches Lavinia's arm in mid-air, then slaps Lavinia hard across the face. While Lavinia is still in shock, Rosamia grabs Lavinia by the hair and drags her to the door of her motel room then throws her out into the corridor.

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Tag: Summary

Episode 19.4

Nico and the indie movie producer are talking at a restaurant about Lavinia's movie. The producer asks Nico if he's heard that the movie is doing well at the box office. It means that Nico's investment will make money. Nico acknowledges the statement but says he didn't involve himself in the movie because of the investment. The producer asks -- don't tell me you invested because of Lavinia? Nico just sighs deeply.

Larry and Lavinia enter the restaurant just then. Lavinia spots them and quickly misreads the situation. She approaches Nico's table and cattily says that she knew all along that Dorina was just acting the other day on TV (when she made her plea to Rosamia). She must want to be an actress, like Lavinia.

Nico tells her that nothing is further from the truth. Lavinia doesn't believe him. She says Dorina is always following in her footsteps. But there's just one problem with that strategy -- Dorina is always behind Lavinia... like a puppy following her around. She laughs and leaves.

The indie producer asks Nico if Lavinia still doesn't know that her movie wouldn't have happened without Nico's help. Nico advises the producer to just ignore her.

At Dorina's rehearsals, Rita and Jack are helping Dorina finalize her song line-up when Kylie and Oman arrive. Oman asks if it will disturb them if they stayed and watch. Dorina quickly says it's no problem at all, and even invites Kylie to join their "jamming". Kylie is thrilled and immediately runs over to stand beside Dorina. Oman pulls out Kylie's phone and starts taking photos at Kylie's request.

At the restaurant at her own table with Larry, Lavinia asks him how the ticket sales are doing. He says that Dorina's sales are stronger after she appeared on TV with her plea to Rosamia. But he assures her not to worry because they've made it look like Lavinia's tickets are selling more, because he bought all her tickets. Lavinia is shocked and worried. She says that if he's got all the tickets, how will her fans be able to enter the concert? He says he'll give those tickets away to people.

Lavinia is angry at this. She says of course people will go because it's free. But it doesn't prove that she's the reason they're going. She tells him to fix this otherwise she will not speak to him again. She gets up and leaves.

While she is outside waiting for her car, Lavinia sees the indie producer exit the restaurant. She approaches him and asks if he has plans to get Dorina as an actress. The producer says no. Lavinia is pleased. She tells him that if he gets Dorina as an actress, he can be sure she won't act in any of his movies again.

He tells her it doesn't matter, because he no longer wants to work with a hot-tempered diva like her. He goes on to reveal that he first offered the role to Dorina but she wasn't interested, and that Nico suggested they offer the role to Lavinia. Furthermore, when the film went over budget because of Lavinia's unprofessionalism, it was Nico who stepped in as a silent investor, which is why the movie was completed.

Lavinia is shocked. The producer tells her that without Nico, the movie would have been shelved, and there would have been no career revival for her. The producer's assistant interrupts just then with a phone call for him, and he leaves Lavinia standing on the curb still in shock.

The rehearsals are going well. Dorina walks up to Oman during a break and says that Kylie is something else -- she never runs out of energy. Oman just smiles. After a moment's hesitation, Dorina asks him how his relationship with Kylie is progressing. She reminds him that he once told her that they seemed to be hitting it off. She tells him that they seem be a good match. She goes on to say that even though Kylie and Oman have only known each other a short time, they seem like.... Oman says -- like us?

Dorina is quiet for a moment then she tells him that he shouldn't let Kylie go. He asks Dorina if she thinks he should court Kylie. Dorina forces herself to nod. Oman asks her to confirm -- so it's Kylie? There's no one else who would be a good match for me? Dorina hesitates then says she thinks Kylie would be good for him. She forces a smile.

At La Calma's office, Libby is updating Lavinia on her gown fitting schedule, but Lavinia is lost in thought and not paying attention. Libby has to call Lavinia's name before Lavinia finally rouses herself to ask Libby if she knew that Nico suggested to the indie producer that he cast Lavinia. Libby expresses surprise. Lavinia also informs Libby that Nico is the movie's silent investor. Libby says she's confused as to why Nico would do that. Lavinia smiles as she says she knows why -- it can only mean that Nico still loves her.

Dorina leaves the rehearsal room and sees Kylie sitting outside by herself. Kylie says that Oman is still trying to hail a cab outside. Dorina seizes the opportunity to ask Kylie to take good care of Oman. Kylie misunderstands. She says -- so he told you (referring to Oman's job offer)... that good because that means he's already agreed.

Kylie asks Dorina if she's okay with this, because Dorina will no doubt miss Oman. Dorina agrees, but says that life's really like that. They can't be together all the time for the rest of their lives.

Kylie tells her not to worry since there's Internet connectivity at the hacienda, they can still email each other. They can still chat. That way he won't seem too far away.

Dorina is confused and surprised. She asks Kylie -- too far away? Kylie says -- yes, when he's working in Iloilo at our hacienda.

Dorina is even more surprised -- she asks Kylie to confirm that she said Iloilo. Kylie says yes -- and she is now also confused. She says she thought Oman had already told Dorina. Kylie is dismayed to realize that she had misunderstood. She asks Dorina not to let Oman know that she had let slip the info, because he'll be angry with her.

Just then Oman walks in to say that the cab has arrived. Kylie thanks Dorina again for letting her join the rehearsals, saying she enjoyed herself. Kylie and Oman leave.

Lavinia asks Libby if Dorina's ticket sales continue to be brisk. Libby says yes, because Zoni has been promoting continuously on radio, tv, and print. Libby says she advised Larry to do the same thing, but Larry decided to spend the advertising money on Lavinia's tickets instead. She says Larry's not thinking.

Lavinia says she doesn't want the concert venue to be filled with Dorina's fans. She says they have to do something about this. Libby asks her for ideas. Lavinia thinks for a moment then says she'll take care of it.

Nico is at his office when the door opens and Lavinia enters. He asks her what she's doing there and if Larry is with her. Lavinia says Larry doesn't know she's there. She tells him that she knows everything -- that Nico is the silent partner that saved the movie, and saved her career.

Nico says he only invested in the movie. Lavinia says he's lying... that she knows why he did all this. It's because he still loves her. Nico does not acknowledge the statement. He asks her if that's all she came here to say, forcing Lavinia to get to the point -- she asks Nico to drop Dorina, to destroy Dorina.

Nico is repulsed. He asks her if she's that desperate. Lavinia says yes. She says that if Nico does this, she'll marry him. She insists that he still loves her, and confesses that she still loves him. She asks him to do this for them, so they can be happy together.

When Nico doesn't believe her, Lavinia assures him that it's true. She still loves him up to now. Nico asks about Larry. Lavinia confesses that she never loved him, that Nico is the only man she ever loved. Nico asks her if she just used Larry in the same way she just used Nico. Lavinia denies this. She insists that she loves him. She pleads for him to believe her.

Nico says he really didn't want to say this to her: but he had given up a long time ago. Now angry, Lavinia asks him when she gave up on him -- was it when he fell in love with his protege, who is merely her fan. Nico angrily tells her to leave Dorina out of this because she knows full well that there's nothing between him and Dorina.

Lavinia angrily asks him how she can do that when he still sides with Dorina even though it's Lavinia he loves. She calls Dorina an alley cat. Nico, now angry, tells Lavinia that her problem is she's always riding around in her airconditioned car. She's never tried walking on the street, which is why she doesn't realize that on an ordinary street, you can sometimes find gold.

Venomously, Lavinia tells him that if this is a declaration of war, she accepts the challenge. And on the night of the concert, she will take pleasure in showing him just how she will shove his precious Dorina back into the dirt she crawled out of. Lavinia walks out.

Later that night, Oman is sitting alone playing the guitar and singing "Bakit Ba Ganyan". At home, Dorina takes out a box and pulls out a photo of herself with Oman. She remembers their earlier happy moments together -- her surprise birthday party, as well as the times she teased him about courting another girl.

She pulls a medal out of the box and recalls how Oman gave it to her after she fainted at her first singing contest.

She pulls a ring out of the box and remembers how it was Oman who gave it to her after winning the ring at an arcade game. She cries as she puts the ring on again.

At rehearsals the next day, Dorina sings "Sana'y Maghintay ang Walang Hanggan" with Jack on the keyboards. Zossimo is not pleased with the way she sounds and asks her if she's okay because she seems tired. Dorina explains that she didn't get a lot of sleep the night before. Zossimo patiently reminds her that the concert date is getting close and she has to take the rehearsals seriously. Dorina apologizes. Zossimo asks her to start again from the top.

Oman and Lolo Minggoy are playing chess. Lolo says that the job offer sounds good and asks if Oman is going to accept it. Oman says he's not sure.

Lolo asks him what Dorina's reaction was. Oman says he hasn't told Dorina because it seems like she doesn't care one way or another about what he does. Lolo asks him why he says that. Oman says Dorina's practically pushing him into Kylie's arms. She seems to want him to end up with Kylie. She's just saying that he doesn't stand a chance with her.

Lolo says if he stands no chance, that's okay. He advises Oman to go to Iloilo. It will broaden his world, and besides there are a lot of beautiful girls in Iloilo. He advises Oman to give himself a break. Oman just smiles then changes the subject by reminding Lolo that it's his turn to make a move on the chessboard.

Larry is signing forms at his office. He asks his secretary if Lavinia has arrived. She says no. He asks her to try reaching Lavinia on her cellphone. Just then, Lavinia walks in.

Larry reprimands her for being late, saying that the musicians have been waiting. Lavinia tells him not to start; she's not in the mood because she hardly got any sleep the night before.

He asks her where she was the night before. He reveals that he went to her house but she wasn't there. She also didn't answer his phone calls to her cellphone.

Lavinia simply says she was out. Larry asks her who she was with. Lavinia angrily stands up and asks him why he has so many questions. Just as irritated, Larry asks her why she's avoiding answering his questions. He accuses her of hiding something.

Lavinia denies it, then complains plaintively that they're not even married yet and already she feels like he's strangling her. She exits his office.

Adora and Minda are at the doctor's office waiting for their appointment. Minda says Dorina sent a text message saying she's on her way. Adora says to tell Dorina not to hurry since the doctor isn't there yet.

Minda asks Adora if she knows why the doctor asked to meet with them. Adora says it's probably just to update her on the status of her treatment. She is optimistic, saying she thinks the chemotherapy is working. Minda says the chemo better work especially with all the nasty side effects.

The doctor finally arrives and apologizes for being late because she had first conferred with another doctor about Adora's MRI results. With some hope in her voice, Adora says the results must be good.

The doctor breaks the bad news: the cancer has spread to her brain... there is metastasis. She sadly tells Adora that her days are numbered.

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Tag: Summary

BWN Grand Showdown Photo Gallery

*** Spoiler Alert ***

Oliver Carnay of HollywoodFlip.com has an extensive photo gallery with over 70 photos from the Bituing Walang Ningning Grand Showdown, which was held at the Araneta Coliseum on September 19, 2006.

Click here to visit his BWN photo gallery and view full size images.

A few random thumbnails from the gallery:


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Tag: Photos

Bituin Finale Taped

WARNING: Spoilers ahead!

Abante Online
September 21, 2006

Lolit, iniyakan sina Sarah at Angelika!
ni Jojo Gabinete

Link to original article

STANDING ovation, masigabong palakpakan at malakas na tilian ang ibinigay ng audience sa ending ng showdown nina Dorina Pineda (Sarah Geronimo) at Lavinia Arguelles (Angelika dela Cruz) sa Bituing Walang Ningning na ginanap noong Martes ng gabi sa Araneta Coliseum.

Humanga kami sa husay nina Sarah at Angelika dahil tuhog ang kanilang mga eksena pero hindi sila nagkamali kahit minsan. Hindi biro ang tuluy-tuloy na pagkanta nila habang umaarte at umiiyak sa stage.

Bago kinunan ang finale ng Bituing Walang Ningning, nagkaroon muna ng blocking at rehearsal ang buong cast ng drama series ng ABS-CBN. Maaga kaming dumating sa Araneta Coliseum kaya napanood namin ang rehearsal nina Sarah at Angelika.

Sa rehearsal pa lang, napaiyak na ang dalawa, pati na sina Zsa Zsa Padilla at Ai Ai delas Alas. Napaiyak si Angelika nang isabit sa kanya ni Sarah ang sampaguita pagkatapos magpaalam na ‘yon na ang kanyang huling pagkanta.

***

Eksaktong 7:30 pm nang mag-umpisa ang taping para sa ending ng sinusubaybayang drama series ng ABS-CBN. Bago sinimulan ang taping, binigyan ng instructions ang audience na kailangang ang mga pangalan nina Dorina at Lavinia ang kanilang isigaw.

Naging cooperative ang manonood. Actually, totoo at hindi na acting ang pagpalakpak at pagsigaw nila sa mga pangalan nina Dorina at Lavinia habang kumakanta ang dalawa.

Dahil na rin sa galing ng mga artista, nag-iyakan ang manonood dahil sa mga makabagbag-damdaming eksena kahit walang intensyon ang mga artista na paiyakin ang audience.

***

Kasama namin si Lolit Solis sa panonood ng grand showdown nina Sarah at Angelika. Hindi itinatanggi ni Lolit na paborito niya ang Bituing Walang Ningning at nagpunta rin siya sa Araneta Coliseum bilang suporta sa kanyang mga alaga na bahagi ng cast, sina Tonton Gutierrez at Amy Austria.

"Ang cheap ko, ha!" ang dialogue ni Lolit habang pinapahid ang mga luha na dumadaloy sa kanyang pisngi dahil nadala siya sa mga eksena nina Sarah at Angelika.

Maraming TV camera ang ginamit nang kunan ang finale ng drama series. Sigurado kami na nakunan ng kamera ang pag-iyak ni Lolit at ang kanyang walang patid na pagpalakpak habang kumakanta si Sarah.

Nang gabing ‘yon, isang fan at hindi TV host o talent manager ang aming nakasama. Hanggang ngayon, nakatatak sa isip namin ang walang patid na pagpalakpak ni Lolit kahit walang dahilan para palakpakan ang ilang eksena na pinapanood namin.

In fact, sa rehearsal pa lang, hindi nag-iisa sina Zsa Zsa, Ai Ai, Angelika at Sarah sa pag-iyak dahil mula sa kanyang kinauupuan, umiiyak din si Lolit na 4 pm pa lang ay pumunta na sa Araneta Coliseum.

Nag-feeling cast member ba ng Bituing Walang Ningning si Lolit Solis? Well... sort of!

____________________

Ang Pilipino Star Ngayon
September 21, 2006

Baka ma-extend ang ‘Bituin...’ kahit nakunan na ang finale nito
Link to original article

Nakakapangilabot ang taping ng pagwawakas ng Bituing Walang Ningning na ginanap sa Araneta Coliseum last Tuesday night dahil saksi ang more than 15,000 katao kung sino talaga ang mas magaling sa dalawang diva, kung si Lavinia (Angelika dela Cruz) at Dorina (Sarah Geronimo).

Nang papunta kami sa nasabing venue ay inisip namin na konti lang ang tao dahil nga taping lang naman at hindi tipong concert style talaga, e, nagulat kami dahil tunay pala itong concert as in showdown.

Punumpuno ng iyakan sa ending at very touching ang pagkaka-buo ng pamilya ni Dorina at nang manumbalik siya bilang "avid fan" ni Lavinia dahil muli niyang sinabitan ng sampaguita ang idolo niyang si Lavinia habang kumakanta ito.

Mapapanood ang buong senaryo sa katapusan ng Setyembre, pero narinig namin na baka may extension pa dahil may mga eksenang idinagdag.

Samantala, nasa audience ang bigwigs ng ABS-CBN headed by Ms. Charo Santos-Concio, Ms. Cory Vidanes, Ms. Linggit Tan, Deo Endrinal, Joanna Gomez at iba pang familiar faces.

___________

Ang Pilipino STAR Ngayon
September 21, 2006

BABY TALK Ni Salve V. Asis
Link to original article

Supposedly ay taping lang ang magaganap last Tuesday night sa Araneta Coliseum ng ending ng Bituing Walang Ningning. Pero isa pala itong full length concert featuring Sarah Geronimo. In fairness, napuno ang Araneta at marami pang tao kesa sa napuntahan kong concert sa Araneta recently lang.

Kung singing lang nga ang usapan, no comparison between Sarah and Angelika dela Cruz na magkalaban sa Bituing Walang Ningning. Surely, nakakakanta si Angelika pero iba ang timbre ng boses niya compared to Sarah na in demand sa concert scene at ilang platinum award na nga ba ang nasa collection niya ng award.

Kung sabagay, sa primetime sineserye lang naman ang nasabing tapatan kaya useless na i-compare sila.

I heard na dapat ay live ang ending ng Bituing Walang Ningning, pero na-extend ito. Mataas daw kasi ang rating.

Maganda ang ending. Nakakaiyak.

Very cooperative ang audience at obvious na followers sila ng programa dahil alam nila ang bawat flow nito.

After ng showdown, nagkaroon ng pasasalamat concert ang buong cast ng Bituin plus malalaking singers and stars ng ABS-CBN plus Aga Muhlach nag-speech as no. 1 endorser ng Jollibee na major sponsor ng nasabing concert.

Pero ang bottom line, si Sarah pa rin ang bida. Grabe ang importance na ibinigay ng ABS-CBN kay Sarah. Nanood pa ang mga top guns ng ABS-CBN - Ms. Charo Santos-Concio, Ms. Cory Vidanes and Mr. Deo Endrinal, Viva’s Mr. Vic del Rosario among others.

Moment ni Sarah ang gabing ‘yun. And she deserves it.

_____________________

Photos from the Grand Showdown
Courtesy of Aiga at the BWN thread on PinoyExchange

Spoiler Alert: Ending details are revealed in the photos.

Click on a thumbnail to view the full image.



________________

Tag: Press, Showdown, Photos

Episode 19.3

Adora is yelping in pain when Dorina rushes into the treatment room at the faith healer. She stops the faith healer's treatments and tells Adora that she no longer needs to endure that kind of pain because they can go home now. Adora controls her tears. Dorina helps her stand up and they leave.

At the resort, Oman tells Kylie that when he talks to her dad, he becomes really excited because the job seems so real. Kylie says she thinks he'll be really happy in Iloilo.

Just then Andre, Kylie's ex, walks past and overhears her comment. He is upset to learn that Oman will be going to Iloilo, when Kylie never once invited him to visit. He asks Kylie what Oman has that he doesn't. Oman steps in and tells Andre to back off. This act infuriates Andre further, and he punches Oman in the face. Oman falls, but gets up quickly. Kylie angrily tells Andre he should just leave.

Back in Adora's bedroom at the resort, Adora and Dorina are packing up their things; their vacation is almost over. Dorina says she's sad that nothing has happened with their trip to Tagaytay, referring to the faith healer. Adora tells her that's not true -- they had fun as a family, something they've not had a chance to do in a while. Dorina asks her if she doesn't feel like it was such a waste. Adora replies that nothing is wasted, and everything is worth it if she gets to see her children smiling.

Larry and two men brings an electric keyboard to Rosamia's motel room. After the delivery men leave, he pulls out a large liquor bottle from a paper bag, saying it will no doubt help her along with her composition. He also hands her a check, saying that should help put her in the mood to compose.

Rosamia stands up from the bed and says there's only one thing she needs to put her in the mood. She slaps Larry hard across the face -- twice. Larry is too shocked to stop her. She sits back down on the bed and looks at the check he has given her, and says sarcastically -- now I'm inspired to work.

At the resort, Emilio loads all their supplies into the van. Bencho and Adora climb into the van while Dorina takes one last look around, hoping to catch a glimpse of Oman before they leave. Adora gives her permission to go look for Oman to say goodbye.

Oman and Kylie are sitting at a table and Kylie is trying to treat the cut on his lip. Oman says he doesn't understand why Kylie seems so happy. Kylie says it's because Andre was obviously jealous, which means there's hope that she can get back together with him.

She teases Oman and coaxes him to smile, just as Dorina walks up from behind and overhears their banter. She leaves before they see her.

Zossimo is waiting for them in front of the Pineda home when the van pulls up their driveway. He asks them how their vacation went, and Adora says everything is good. She thanks Zossimo for giving Dorina time to spend with her.

After the rest of the family has entered the house, Dorina asks Zossimo if they've had any news about Rosamia. Reluctantly, he says no.

Rosamia is sitting at the keyboard in her small motel room, waiting for inspiration to strike, but nothing comes to her. Finally, she goes to the closet and pulls out the framed drawing of herself with baby Emilia Rose and places it on a nearby table. She sits back down at the keyboard and resumes work.

Dorina asks Zossimo if it's a good idea to hire a private detective to look for Rosamia. Zossimo says he's actually thought about it, but he doesn't know whether it's a good idea because if they find Rosamia before she's ready, it may make the situation worse. He says that he knows Rosamia. When the time comes and she's ready to see Dorina, she will be the one to come see her daughter.

Oman is walking home when he meets a neighbor who asks what happened to his lip. Oman says it's nothing, and quickly asks if Dorina stopped by to see him. His friend says no. Oman is disappointed.

Later, Oman meets Lolo Minggoy and complains that Dorina didn't even say goodbye before leaving Tagaytay. Lolo tells him he didn't make a point of being there to say goodbye. He tells Oman that he's not demonstrating enough initiative.

Oman defends himself, saying he didn't know that they were leaving that soon. Oman asks Lolo how he is supposed to take care of Dorina if she's always trying to get away from him. He tells Lolo that he got the distinct feeling that Dorina no longer needs him.

Later that night, Dorina is in bed next to Bencho. She asks Bencho if she remembers what month it is -- because it's very near Adora's birthday. Bencho says they should surprise Adora. Dorina says she was thinking just the same thing. They try to think of a good surprise.

The next morning, Dorina and Bencho are sitting at the dining table when Adora comes down the stairs with Minda and asks them if they know what day it is. Bencho says it's a saturday, because she has no school. Dorina says it's one of Adora's chemo days. Adora says yes, that's true, but it's something else also.

Adora is surprised that they don't remember that it's her birthday, but she doesn't say anything. She and Minda leave to go to the hospital. Dorina and Bencho trade smiles and exchange high-fives. Their plan is in motion.

Adora is getting ready to leave the hospital after her chemotherapy. The doctor greets her happy birthday, saying that her birthday is in her medical chart. Other patients overhear and quickly greet Adora. Adora tells them she's eager to go home to be pampered by her family.

On the way home in the van, Adora is sitting next to Minda when she notices that Emilio is driving the wrong way. She asks him why they are taking this route. Emilio says they're just trying to avoid traffic.

A short distance later, Emilio pulls over to the side of the road, saying that the van's engine just died. He gets out of the van to check under the hood. Adora and Minda decide to get out of the car and stretch their legs and get some air.

Emilio makes a show of checking the van, then tells Adora that the engine must have overheated. He says they probably need to let it cool down. Adora worriedly says she needs the rest room. Minda tells her that there's a restaurant right behind them, and offers to accompany Adora inside so she can use the facilities.

Inside, the restaurant is so dark, and Adora comments that she can barely see where she's going. When they reach the top of the stairs, the lights suddenly come on. Family and friends have all gathered there yelling "Surprise!!"

Dorina is holding a cake with a lighted candle, which Adora happily blows out. Mother and daughter hug each other tightly.

During the surprise party, Oman dances around crazily on the dance floor garnering laughs from the Pineda family. He pulls Dorina and Bencho onto the floor to join him. Emilio and Minda get into the groove also. Adora sits at a side table, smiling at the sight of all her loved ones enjoying themselves.

Later that evening, Dorina and Bencho get on the microphone and greet Adora happy birthday. Dorina tells Adora that they had a hard time thinking of what gift to give her. She says to the guests gathered that Adora never wished for or longed for material things. Her life revolved around her two daughters, and she's always doing everything she can to help them achieve their dreams.

Dorina apologizes to Adora and says they could only think of this as a way to thank her: Dorina and Bencho sing "Kanta Tayo" together. Tears fill Adora's eyes while she listens to their song, as she recalls the earlier, tougher times when she was raising her two children.

At the end of the song, Adora stands up to hug her two daughters while the guests at the party applaud.

Later at the party, Adora tells Dorina and Bencho that she's really happy with their surprise. Oman sits at a nearby table and Dorina goes to sit with him. She tells him it's good that he was able to come. He says he's never turned down an invitation to a party like this before so of course he would come.

Oman says he was actually surprised that they remembered to invite him. Dorina asks him how he can not be invited when he's practically family. Oman says that in Tagaytay, she seemed different. And he says they left without saying goodbye, when he had been planning to invite her to join them on a picnic.

Dorina expresses surprise at this news and apologizes. She tells him that she actually went to say goodbye but he seemed busy with Kylie. He looks puzzled and asks her what they were doing. Dorina awkwardly says -- you just seemed busy. To escape the conversation, she gets up saying she's going to get something to eat.

In his office, Larry tells Lavinia that her movie is still doing well at the box office. She asks him if he thinks she can be a box office queen. He says yes, because movie offers have been coming in for her, this time from major movie outfits.

He says he thinks she can become an established actress. She asks him if it means she can one day earn an acting award. He says it's certainly possible. He assures he that he'll have Libby issue press releases to ensure that the jurors know all about her.

Larry tells Lavinia that he wants her to be the ultimate package -- the sensational singing star, and the sensational movie actress. Before long, she alone will reign at the top.

____

Tag: Summary

Episode 19.2

Lavinia wraps up the day's rehearsals for her concert. She instructs a staffer to have everyone come in for another rehearsal the next day. When the staffers says tomorrow is a Sunday, Lavinia says she doesn't care. She tells the staffer to instruct the band to arrive for rehearsals tomorrow.

Just then, Jack and Rita enter the hall and Lavinia asks them where their singer is, saying Dorina must be late and therefore unprofessional. Rita tells her that Dorina is not rehearsing today, and that the entire band was advised. They only stopped by to pick up a few music sheets.

Lavinia says Dorina is being over-confident if she's not rehearsing with the concert so near. She must think so highly of herself. Rita pointedly tells Lavinia that Dorina is not rehearsing because she has accompanied her mother to seek treatment, because her mother and her family are more important to her than her career or her concert.

Lavinia is at a loss for words. Rita and Jack walk past her towards the stage, but Rita cannot help but look back at her sister. Lavinia likewise looks over her shoulder at Rita, before finally leaving.

At the resort, Oman expresses surprise when Dorina and Kylie arrive at the front driveway of the resort together. Dorina says she doesn't have to join them if he doesn't want her there. Oman says there's no need for her to sensitive, and that it will be more fun for all of them to be together.

They spend the afternoon on golf carts touring the resort. Dorina is uncomfortable and feels out of place while Oman and Kylie enjoy themselves. Later that afternoon, they are at the poolside enjoying drinks together. Dorina finds herself laughing and enjoying herself.

At home, Rita opens the door of their small apartment to find Lavinia standing there at the door. Rita quickly checks outside to see if anyone else has come. Lavinia tells her she came alone. She enters and kisses Barbar aon the cheek.

Rita asks her why she has come. Lavinia said she was just in the neighborhood so she decided to stop by. Rita tells her brusquely that they're just fine.

Lavinia ignores her statement and asks Barbara how her therapy is progressing. Rita interjects and answers that all is well, then asks Lavinia what she's doing here. Lavinia asks her if she needs a reason to visit her own family. Rita says that if they were talking about someone else, no. But since they're talking about Lavinia, then the answer is yes. She asks again what Lavinia is doing there. Lavinia says she just wants to repeat her offer for them to live with her back home.

Rita quickly says they're okay where they are. Lavinia asks her how they can possibly be okay when they're living in a place that's so shabby and there's no airconditioning. She says it's much like the house they used to live in.

Rita asks her what's wrong with their old house? They liked it just fine. And they're fine where they are now. Lavinia is now exasperated. She tells Rita there's no need to be this stubborn. If she simply said yes, then this discussion would be over.

Lavinia goes on to say that Rita may be contented with where they are now, but does she really think Barbara is happy being here? Rita asks her how she can possibly knows what Barbara wants when they've not spoken to each other for so long.

Before the argument between the two sisters deteriorates further, Barbara finally speaks up. She asks Lavinia what it is she really needs. She asks -- Do you need me? Do you need your family?

Lavinia pauses then swallows hard. Finally, she answers -- I don't need anything. I'm just doing you a favor.

Barbara's voice is filled with emotion as she says -- I pushed you long and hard to do what I wanted for so long. I forced you, strangled you. I don't want to do that now. I don't want to be a burden to you.

Tears stream down Barbara's face as she says to Lavinia -- I'm setting you free.

Barbara turns to Rita and says she wants to rest. Rita wipes away her own tears then wheels her mother out of the living room.

Lavinia watches them leave. She takes a moment to compose herself before she leaves the house. She gets into her car and cries as the car pulls away.

Adora is in her bedroom at the resort when she gets a knock on the door. The door opens and Oman enters. When he asks her where Dorina is, Adora says Dorina is somewhere outside.

Oman sits on the bed beside Adora and asks her how she's doing, and if she needs anything. Adora is quiet for a moment, then asks him to take care of Dorina. Oman says things are different now that he and Dorina don't get to see or talk to each other too often. Oman says he doesn't know what to do for her anymore.

Adora says that other than herself, Oman is the one who knows Dorina the best -- what she's thinking, what she's feeling. Oman responds that that may have been true before, but that's not true now. He says he can't read Dorina anymore.

Adora assures him that Dorina is the same Dorina he's known all this time. He just thinks that she's drifting away, but really she's not. Adora tells her that everytime Dorina has a problem, she goes running to see him. Whenever she's happy about something, she wants to tell him about it. When she's victorious, she looks for him, hoping he'll be beside her.

Adora tells Oman that Dorina needs him, as a friend, an ally, in this sad and lonely world that she's now entered. She'll be stronger if he's there defending her. Oman is silent throughout all this.

Later, Oman finds Dorina outside next to the fishpond, brooding. He asks her what she's doing there all alone, if she has a problem. She says no, that she's just enjoying the view because it's beautiful.

She tells Oman that Kylie's family is nice and that Kylie told her Oman came to talk to their foreman. She asks him what they talked about. Oman says he's not sure whether or not he's going to accept the job. Dorina asks him for more details, but Oman says he'll tell her all about it when everything's already final.

He asks her about Adora. Dorina says the chemo is going on, but she's not sure if it's working.

Oman then asks her how she's doing. Dorina gives him the safe answer -- that she's okay. She goes on to say that it's a good thing a lot of people are helping her: Emilio, Nico, and Zossimo... they're able to provide whatever it is she need -- whether it be support, or assistance with the expenses at the hospital, or with the doctor. She sighs, then says she wouldn't know what to do if they weren't there.

Oman says it's good that she has them. He then changes the subject and says he heard they're going to see a faith healer tomorrow. He volunteers to go with them. Dorina quickly says he doesn't have to, that Emilio will be there, and that they'll be able to handle it.

Oman says -- so you don't need me anymore? Dorina says -- no, but thank you. She bids him goodnight and walks away before he can say anything more.

Rosamia comes down the stairs of the motel she's staying at and Oscar immediately snaps a photo of her and greets her. She asks him what he wants from her. Oscar tauntingly says everyone wants to know where she is. Rosamia grabs his camera and throws it to the floor, then steps on it. She slaps Oscar and tells him to take that to his employer, before rushing back into the motel.

Adora is at the faith healer. He lights a few candles, then performs his prayers. Adora asks him what he's going to do. He says he's going to drop hot wax on the lumps on her body. Adora is horrified at this news, and immediately jumps up from the chair she's sitting on. The faith healer is exasperated. He tells her that what he's about to do is the treatment that is required to remove the poison from her body.

He asks her why she's being skeptical, and if she is not going to be brave enough to endure the treatment for the sake of her family, of her daughters. Adora finally relents and agrees to the "treatment".

Rosamia storms into Larry's office. She tells him that if he thinks she's afraid of Oscar, he's being clueless. She says if she sees Oscar again, she's going to smash the camera into his face. Larry tells her to try if she thinks that will help. But he reminds Rosamia that she can't hide from Oscar, and that even if she were to move to another place, Larry's many contacts will find her. Rosamia asks him why he's harrassing her like this. He's already won. What's the point?

Larry tells her he'll leave her in peace, as long as she composes a song for Lavinia. And not just any song -- it's got to be a hit, and it has to seal the deal to make Lavinia the best singer ever, better than Dorina. After that, Larry will pay Oscar to be quiet, and he'll even pay Rosamia for the song.

Rosamia is cornered. She agrees to the terms before leaving his office, just as angry as when she entered.

Oman and Kylie's father are talking at the resort. Kylie's father asks Oman what he thinks about the job offer. Oman says the work seems to be okay, but asks Kylie's father if he's sure about Oman being the one for the job. He asks if he wouldn't be better off getting someone with a college degree.

Kylie's father says education is important, but character is more important to him. Especially since he himself does not have a college degree. He says all his success now became possible because a long time ago, someone took a chance on him. And since he's the type to share his blessings, he wants to give other people the same chance as well. Perhaps with this start, Oman one day will be able to reach his dreams.

Dorina and Emilio are waiting worriedly outside the faith healer. They can hear Adora's yelps of pain inside. Emilio urgently asks Dorina to go in there and stop this nonsense. Dorina is unsure. She asks Emilio -- what if this is actually helping her? Emilio says that with the pain that Adora is enduring, do you really think that it's helping her? She's only doing this for you.

___

Tag: Summary

Episode 19.1

The Pineda family is preparing to leave the house for their weekend getaway. When Adora looks for Oman, Dorina explains that he can't join because he has other priorities. But she assures Adora that they will still have fun even without him. Emilio loads all their supplies into the back of the van and they drive off to Tagaytay.

They arrive at their destination, Canyon Woods, and are escorted in to the registration counter. Dorina signs them in. They all head out to the terrace to enjoy the magnificent view and pose for pictures.

As she watches her children pose for photos, Adora remembers her own words to Minda, saying that only God can heal her now, and that she cannot bear to take hope away from her family.

The family enjoys a picnic together next to the fish pond. They share a moment of excitement when Emilio manages to catch a small fish.

That night, Dorina is sitting alone brooding outside. Emilio sees her and goes to talk to her. He asks her if she's alright and invites her to go back inside with him. Dorina says she wants to be completely calm and composed before she goes back inside because she doesn't want Adora to see her upset.

She confesses to Emilio that she's frightened. What happens if the faith healer they're going to see tomorrow doesn't heal Adora? She wouldn't know what to do. Emilio holds her and tells her not to raise her hopes because the faith healer is only human as well. It is up to God now.

Oman is seated at a table with Kylie, her father, and the foreman who is retiring, Mang Atong. They are now at the resort. Oman is introduced to the foreman. Kylie's father says Oman should talk to the foreman to find out what's involved with the job. Kylie's father asks the foreman what he thinks of Oman. The foreman says Oman seems skinny, and may be sickly. Oman feels challenged and immediately speaks up saying he's as fit as a carabao. Mang Atong gets up from the table and invites Oman to walk with him so they can speak privately.

Later that night, Dorina is putting Adora to bed. Adora remarks that it's too bad Oman couldn't join them, it would have made Dorina's enjoyment more complete. Dorina says that Oman couldn't come with them anyway, since he's spending the weekend with Kylie's family. He has his own life now. He even has his own set of friends. Adora asks her if she misses him. Dorina confesses that she misses Oman every day.

Rosamia is eating cup noodles in her small room when she gets a knock on her door. She opens it to find Larry on the other side. She tries to slam the door shut, but he pushes his way in and says they need to talk.

Larry says he's there to help her. Rosamia says she knows him; he wouldn't offer to help unless he needed something himself. Larry doesn't bother to deny it. He says that he indeed needs something from her in exchange for his help: one song. He wants her to compose one song for Lavinia.

Larry tells Rosamia he's willing to pay her for the song. He says she's not been earning money lately and she's only been working in cheap clubs the past year. He also says he knows that she just pawned her jewelry. Rosamia angrily tells him that she would rather beg on the streets before she will accept a single cent from him. She throws him out of her room and sits back down to resume eating.

In Tagaytay, it's night time and Dorina is walking along the fishpond, still brooding. She recalls the time Oman confessed his feelings to her in front of her home, while playing the guitar.

At his own weekend getaway, Oman is wandering around the resort, restless and brooding as well. As he walks, he is surprised to suddenly sees Dorina. They're at the same resort! They're both surprised and happy to see each other.

Dorina misunderstands Oman's presence. She says she's happy that he decided to join them after all. She asks him how he even knew they were there in that particular resort. Oman confesses that he didn't actually follow them. Just then, Kylie walks around the corner and finds them. She is thrilled to see Dorina and says it's a great coincidence. It will be a much more enjoyable vacation. Dorina on the other hand, is disappointed.

The Pineda family is having breakfast the next day when Oman and Kylie enter the dining room. Oman would rather not talk to them, but Kylie pulls him along so they can greet the Pineda family.

Adora sees Oman and says it's a good thing that he was able to come after all. Dorina explains that Kylie's family is also a member at the resort, and that it turns out Oman and Kylie are there with her father as well. Kylie says it's a lucky thing that they chose to vacation here. Oman awkwardly makes small talk, saying it's such a coincidence. Dorina is not at all friendly during this whole conversation. Oman feels awkward. He makes their excuses and he and Kylie leave. Adora cannot help but notice Dorina's reaction to seeing Kylie and Oman together.

In Larry's office, Larry tells Lavinia that he was unable to convince Rosamia. Lavinia is disappointed. She says that the root of the problem is Rosamia can't be bought. She says offering her money was the wrong way to go.

She paces the room a bit before finally turning to Larry to ask him -- What does Rosamia want? Larry says that right now, Rosamia wants to hide from the press, from the public. Lavinia smiles and says -- then give that to her.

Later that morning, Emilio is pointing out the various activities that are available at the resort to Adora and Dorina. Kylie approaches them and asks Dorina if she's doing anything. Dorina says she plans to spend the day with Adora. Kylie invites her to join them instead. Dorina tries to take a rain check, but Adora encourages her to go with Kylie. She urges Dorina to join them. Kylie says it's a rare opportunity for her to show Dorina around.

Rosamia wanders out of her room, bored. She steps out on the balcony of the building to get some fresh air. As she looks down, she sees the reporter Oscar in the parking lot looking up at her, watching her with an evil smile on his face.

___

Tag: Summary