MANILA, Philippines—A studio insider let me in on this juicy info: Carla Abellana placed a sign on the door of her dressing room which says, “Kung tatambay lang kayo dito, ’wag na lang.” A co-star who didn’t see the sign barged in. She was shocked to see Geoff Eigenmann and Carla kissing. She muttered, “Bawal tumambay pero magtukaan pwede?”

Were they just practicing for a romantic scene in GMA 7’s “SRO Cinemaserye presents Carinderia Queen” (Thursdays, from Nov. 12)? You must remember this: A kiss is still a kiss; a sign is just a sign!

Laugh trip

Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera had a blast in Malaysia and Singapore, where they promoted “Dyesebel” and “Marimar,” which will be shown in both countries.

What was their most memorable moment during the trip? “Riding the roller coaster in Kuala Lumpur, in heavy fog” Dong said. “In Singapore last Halloween, we went out to look for a bar that wasn’t too crowded. We found a hole in the wall, where we thought we could have a few drinks and talk. It was, indeed, cozy. Little did we know what was about to happen onstage: Stand-up comedy! We found ourselves laughing so hard, even if we had no idea what they were saying because it was in the dialect. We couldn’t stop laughing even after we left.”

The couple that laughs together, stays together.

It’s ‘Showtime’

ABS-CBN’s “Showtime” has won viewers’ hearts as proven by its remarkable rating of 14.1 percent when it was launched on Oct. 24. Hosted by Vhong Navarro, Anne Curtis, Kim Atienza and band vocalists Teddy of Rocksteddy and Jugs of Itchyworms. From Monday to Saturday before “Wowowee,” it will showcase the delightful performances of Pinoys from all walks.

“It’s a party where everyone is wanted. It doesn’t matter how good or raw you are, you are welcome to show your stuff because it is your show and your time,” business unit head Alou Almaden said.

And only in “Showtime” can viewers oust judges. Show up and show off!

E-mail: wateringholeshangrila@yahoo.com