Karylle to transfer to ABS-CBN

Karylle, who only recently admitted breaking up with actor Dingdong Dantes, will move to ABS-CBN, her new management team said in a statement. STAGES, which produced the successful local theater presentation of “West Side Story” that featured Karylle in the lead role of Maria, has taken over talent management duties for the singer. It said Karylle’s transfer had the blessings of top GMA-7 executives Wilma Galvante and Darling de Jesus. The move confirms rumors that the young singer was set to transfer to the Kapamilya network. Speculations arose that the sudden decision to transfer was a result of the break-up, widely believed to have been fueled by Dingdong’s career choices and reports of an alleged romance with perennial co-star Marian Rivera. Marian vehemently denied any special relationship with Dingdong. Dingdong and Marian are among the current top stars of GMA 7. "As Karylle's new partner in the industry, we've been exploring the best projects for her, in and out of television networks, that will continuously hone her singing, acting and hosting skills. She's got incredible talent that is yet to realize its full potential," said Carlo Orosa, Business Head, STAGES Talent Group. According to the statement, Karylle was “grateful to GMA-7 for the all the opportunities the network has given her. GMA-7 has been behind her success since the early years of her career.” It also quoted Galvante as wishing “her the best, and leaves the door open if she decides to return to GMA-7 someday.” Before she transfers to ABS-CBN, Karylle will fulfill her pending commitments with GMA 7, “including her appearances on ‘SOP,’ ‘Kakasa Ka Ba sa Grade 5,’ and her singing the Philippine National Anthem at the Manny Pacquiao-Oscar de la Hoya boxing match at Las Vegas, Nevada on December 6.” “Karylle, warmly welcomed by ABS-CBN executives Cory Vidanes and Deo Endrinal, will be seen in ABS-CBN's musical variety shows, and soap operas.  She is set to record a new album, and reprise her critically-acclaimed portrayal of Maria in STAGES' production of hit Broadway musical, "West Side Story," in 2009,” the statement further said.