June 17, 2026
Ring the Bell, Open the Door: Iza Calzado Unlocks the Ultimate Real-Life Security Upgrade at the Smart Yale Home Booth in Wilcon Balintawak
June 14, 2026
The Sandbox Collective announces staged reading of Duncan Macmillan's People, Places & Things
The Sandbox Collective announced a strictly limited staged reading of Duncan Macmillan’s critically acclaimed play, PEOPLE, PLACES, AND THINGS, slated for August 2026. The reading will be helmed by the company's Artistic Director, Sab Jose.
The intimate stage reading will bring the raw, electric emotion of Macmillan’s brilliant dialogue to the absolute forefront, guided by Jose-Gregorio’s fresh directorial vision.
"Since our inception, advocacy theater has been at the heart of The Sandbox Collective’s identity. Following our production of Spring Awakening in February, Duncan Macmillan’s People, Places and Things continues our commitment to bringing difficult yet necessary conversations to the stage and beyond — expanding our reach, fostering understanding, and helping normalize discussions that matter most. " Sab said.
Details regarding venue, casting, and ticket availability will be announced in the coming weeks.
PEOPLE, PLACES, AND THINGS was first presented at The Dorfman Theatre, National Theatre London, in a co-production with Headlong on 1st September 2015.
For more information, follow The Sandbox Collective on Facebook, Twitter and Tiktok – @TheSandboxCo. You may also visit our website at www.thesandboxco.com.
June 12, 2026
The MSO Centennial Season Concert III - 80 Years of Filipino-American Friendship
![]() |
| Manila Symphony Orchestra |
Opening the evening is former MSO Assistant Conductor Col. Antonino Buenaventura's prize-winning composition, "Youth", which received its premiere during the 1946 MSO Gala Symphony Concert. Conducted by the composer himself, the work portrays youth as "the epitome of vigor, energy, and love, standing at the threshold of life's journey". "Dedicated to the youth of the land whose faith in democracy and freedom has been kept inviolate even unto the gates of death," the piece captures the optimism, resilience, and aspirations of a nation emerging from war.
The program continues with Lucio San Pedro's "Concerto in D Minor" for Violin and Orchestra. Recognized as the first complete violin concerto written by a Filipino composer, the work was composed in 1948 as San Pedro's final output upon completing his composition studies at the Juilliard School in New York. The concerto reflects the educational exchanges that have connected Filipino and American music while occupying an important place in the development of Philippine classical music. This work will be performed by violinist Jeanne Marquez, a recent graduate of the Juilliard School with a Bachelor of Music degree in Violin Performance.
| Jeanne Marquez, violinist |
| Jason Marquez, clarinetist |
![]() |
| Jose Reyna, Jr., "Filipino Toscanini" |
TICKETS: https://premier.ticketworld.com.ph/shows/show.aspx?sh=LIBERATN26
P5000 VIP
P3500 Orchestra Front Side
P3000 Orchestra Rear Side
P5000 Loge
P2000 Balcony Center
P1500 Balcony Inner
P1000 Balcony Outer
Early bird offer:
Code: LIBERATIONEB20
Validity: June 22, 11:59PM
20% Seniors and PWDs**
50% Students*
*Please send MSO your valid IDs to get your discount code
**Seniors and PWDs are encouraged to choose Orchestra or Loge seating, as the Balcony level is accessible by stairs
Complimentary tickets for MSO All Access Subscribers. Sign up today and get up to 50% off! Visit www.manilasymphony.com
Sponsored by: Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation
June 10, 2026
The Next Door Opens: Smart Yale Home Pop-up Booth Brings Special Perks, Gifts, and Savings to Wilcon Depot Balintawak
As one of the country’s key destinations for homeowners, builders, designers, and renovators, Wilcon Depot Balintawak serves as the venue for this stop, celebrating progress toward future-ready living. With over 100 branches nationwide, Wilcon continues to champion “Building Big Ideas” by bringing together home improvement and smart security to meet the growing demand for homes that are not only well-designed and functional but also safe, convenient, and ready for modern lifestyles.
To celebrate the roadshow's arrival at Wilcon Depot Balintawak, Yale is offering exclusive promotions* available only from June 15 to 30, 2026:
The Complete Smart Elite Bundle
Premium Safety, Extraordinary Savings
The Perfect Shape of Smart Security
Smart Defense for Your Peace of Mind
- Yale Solis 230L – ₱11,192 (from ₱13,990)
- Yale Solis 250 – ₱11,592 (from ₱14,490)
- Yale Solis 400 – ₱13,192 (from ₱16,490)
- Yale Solis 560 – ₱15,992 (from ₱19,990)
In addition to these special offers, customers can also enjoy exclusive rewards available only at Wilcon Depot Balintawak:
An Elite Gift for Our Very First Customer
A Grand Reward for Our Ultimate Customer
With the growing demand for connected living and smarter home solutions, the Smart Yale Home Pop-up Booth offers consumers a chance to explore the future of home security firsthand. Whether building a new home, upgrading existing security systems, or starting a smart home journey, visitors can discover practical solutions that combine trusted everyday protection with modern convenience.
Trusted Every Day: Unlock Real Life Security. Upgrade to a Smart Yale Home
This June, take the next step toward smarter living with Yale’s latest innovations. Designed to fit effortlessly into everyday routines, Yale’s smart security solutions combine convenience, reliability, and effortless confidence. Visit Wilcon Depot Balintawak and discover a brand that has been Trusted Every Day for over 180 years.
For more information, visit and follow Yale Home Philippines on social media:
Facebook (www.facebook.com/yalehomephilippines),
Instagram (https://instagram.com/yalehomephilippines), and
TikTok (tiktok.com/@yalehomephilippines).
You can also follow Wilcon Depot on:
Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/WilconDepot.PH),
Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/wilcondepot.ph/), and
TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@wilcondepot.ph).
Join the conversation using #YaleHomePhilippines #TrustedEveryDay #MySmartYaleHome #ASSAABLOYPH #WilconDepot
* DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-258986 Series of 2026
June 7, 2026
Faith, Love, and Mysticism Come Alive in Ang Pagbuo ng Baliana
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in partnership with MINT College and Kids Acts Philippines Inc., proudly presents Ang Pagbuo ng Baliana, the Grand Winner of the Playwriting Category of the Season 1 Young Creative Challenge. Written by Esmeralda Cado Albis, the musical play will be staged on June 10, 2026 (Wednesday), 7:00 PM at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, 4/F RCBC Plaza, Ayala Avenue, Makati City. Admission is FREE to the public.
Rooted in the rich traditions of Camarines Sur in the Bicol Region, Ang Pagbuo ng Baliana explores a century-old religious rite that continues to thrive in Sitio Baras, Malitbog, Minalabac. Through music, poetry, and drama, the production brings to life a deeply spiritual practice that celebrates faith, devotion, and the enduring connection between the living and those who have passed on.
The musical weaves together the worlds of humanity, the ethereal realm, and the Heavens, portraying a mystical journey where compassion, memory, and love transcend death. At its heart is a powerful message of eternal union and the belief that love remains unbroken even beyond earthly life.
Audiences will be captivated by the lyrical beauty of Bicolano texts, enriched by beloved Filipino folk melodies and original compositions based on the playwright’s written lyrics. Leading the cast is rising P-pop star Joshua Ryan Nubla as Arnold, alongside Danielle Delica as Esmeralda, with a talented ensemble of seasoned and emerging performers, Ces Dela Cruz-Guevara, Terence Guillermo, Rowel Robles, Zee Rizon, Rhoger Escorial, Josh Almeda, Ariz Pangilinan, Nina Ty, Ji Corpuz, Maxinne Lopez, Paulo Javier, Jesu Miguel Tan, Marcus Santos, Audrey Flores, Yassi Tan, Cheska Sangco, Bien Juni, and Chelsea Sangco.
Bringing the production to life are award-winning creative talents, with original music by Eugene Belbis and stage direction by Luigi Nacario and Meldrig Costuna.
For updates on the Young Creative Challenge and other post-competition activities, follow DTI Malikhaing Pinoy and Young Creatives Challenge. Continue supporting Filipino creativity and innovation through the growing community of local artists and storytellers.
Acclaimed Soprano Tinette Serafin de Ocampo returns home for Manila Concert Series
After years of building an acclaimed career across Europe, Milan-based Filipino spinto soprano Christiana “Tinette” Serafin de Ocampo returns to Manila for a special two-month homecoming concert series.
More than a return visit, Tinette's homecoming marks a new chapter as she establishes an Asian base while continuing her international engagements throughout Europe and expanding her artistic work across the Asia-Pacific region. Through a series of concerts, lectures, and collaborations, she hopes to share her extensive experience with local audiences and emerging Filipino artists.
Fresh from the success of her recent performances Ritoma Vincitor! Arias Unleashed and Curtains Up: Opera Meets Broadway, Tinette is set to headline the following events:
ENCORE!
June 13, 6 PM
Manila Pianos Showroom, Ronac Lifestyle Center, Makati
Featuring opera arias by Verdi, Puccini, Wagner, Strauss, and Massenet, with pianist Dr. Peter Porticos.
Tickets: 0917-4158876
CELLI SENTIMENTAL
June 14, 7 PM
Centro de Turismo, Intramuros
A collaboration with cellist Damodar Das Castillo and the Manila Symphony Junior Orchestra under guest conductor Dr. Renato Lucas.
Tickets: Ticket2Me.com
OPERA UP CLOSE: A Concert Lecture Series
July 11, 6 PM
Sunshine Place, Makati
An intimate exploration of opera featuring pianist Mariel Ilusorio.
Tickets: sandy.hontiveros@gmail.com
August 8, 6 PM
Varlez Pianos, Ortigas Avenue
A special recital highlighting voice and guitar-inspired repertoire.
Tickets: Richard Sy Facunda 0917-415-8876 rsyfacunda@gmail.com
Born in Manila, Tinette's musical journey has taken her from New York's New England Conservatory to Vienna, Paris, and Milan, where she refined her artistry under renowned vocal mentors and built a reputation for her interpretations of dramatic and spinto soprano roles. Her career has included performances across the United States and Europe, alongside a growing commitment to vocal pedagogy and artist development.
Now back in the Philippines, Tinette brings decades of international experience to local audiences, continuing a remarkable artistic journey that bridges cultures, continents, and generations through music.
For updates, follow Christiana Serafin de Ocampo on Facebook, YouTube (@christianaserafindeocampo), and Instagram (@serafinvocalacademy).
May 29, 2026
Gold Is the New “It Girl” of Investments for Younger Generations
The new investment obsession? Digital gold, but make it accessible with GCrypto
What do Sabrina Carpenter, matcha, and ballet flats have in common? They all had their undeniable “It Girl” moment—dominating conversations, shaping trends, and suddenly becoming everyone’s latest obsession. But what if investments had an “It Girl” too? Surprisingly, gold seems to be stepping into the spotlight.
Traditionally associated with family heirlooms, safety deposit boxes, or something your tita’s forever- reliable financial advice, gold has long been seen as a safe but somewhat old-school investment. However, a report by Reuters shows that, as early as 2024, younger generations are already looking to gold to make smarter financial decisions in an economy that feels anything but predictable. Younger investors are increasingly drawn to gold for its perceived stability and long-term value.
And honestly, it tracks. Between rising costs, market swings, and the pressure to make money grow, high-barrier investments are starting to lose their shine. Instead, many younger investors are gravitating toward options that feel more stable, tangible, and easier to understand. Yahoo Finance reports that younger investors are increasingly prioritizing lower-risk, long-term assets, and part of that consideration is an investment in gold, now seen as a time-tested store of value that feels a lot less “for someday” and a lot more for right now.
Why Gold Is Having a Comeback: The Economy Made Her Do It
Gold’s growing appeal didn’t happen by accident. According to a 2025 article by EBC Financial Group, rising geopolitical tensions, inflation worries, recession fears, and ongoing market volatility have pushed investors back toward safer assets like gold, reinforcing its long-standing role as a “safe haven” during uncertain times. The result: stronger demand and record-high prices as investors look for something that doesn’t flinch every time markets do.
Younger Filipinos, in particular, are becoming more intentional about how they grow their money—not justcfor short-term gains, but for building a more secure future. In fact, younger consumers increasingly prefer low-effort, practical ways to manage and grow their finances, according to recent findings covered by the Q4 2025 TransUnion Consumer Pulse Study.
The mindset shift is clear: investing is no longer about guessing—it’s about planning for long-term stability and future goals.
This is where gold quietly reclaims the narrative—not as an intimidating, high-ticket asset, but as something far more accessible than its reputation suggests. What was once seen as expensive or physically out of reach is now being reinterpreted by younger investors as a practical way to build wealth over time through low-barrier, flexible options that actually fit their lifestyle.
Enter Digital Gold: The Easier Way In
Enter digital gold—no vault visits, no jewelry store negotiations, and definitely no need for large upfront commitments. Just a simpler way to start small and build steadily in a format that actually fits how people manage money today.
This is where Gold on GCrypto comes in—your easy access point to digital gold, seamlessly available within the GCash ecosystem and designed as a first step into exploring digital assets.
Entry starts as low as PHP 500, making it easy to begin investing and grow your holdings through small, consistent contributions at your own pace. It’s also built with trust in mind: offered through GCash as a vetted partner, with digital gold fully insured, certified, and backed by 100% physical gold stored in high-security vaults in Switzerland.And because modern investors don’t want to “set and forget,” visibility and control are built in. Users can monitor their gold anytime, anywhere, and buy or sell 24/7—no waiting, no guesswork, just real-time access to their investment. In short: it’s gold, but upgraded for how people actually live today.
Younger generations are no longer waiting for a “perfect time” or a big bankroll to start investing—they’re starting where they are, with what they have. Digital gold reflects that shift: practical, accessible, and far less intimidating than traditional entry points.
Every era has its obsession, and for younger investors navigating an unpredictable economy, gold may just be having its moment—not as an untouchable luxury, but as an investment that finally meets people where they are.
Ready to start investing in digital Gold? Open the GCash app, go to the Invest tab, then choose GCrypto > Gold to begin building your digital gold portfolio. Download the GCash App on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery. Kaya mo, i-GCash mo!
May 27, 2026
16th Gawad Buhay! Awards Nominations
All 18 eligible Philstage productions that opened between January 1 to December 31, 2025 garnered a nomination. These nominations were drawn from a pool of 155 citations determined through four separate meetings by a 13-person independent jury of theater practitioners, academics, reviewers, and journalists. For the first time since 2015, every competitive category had a recipient for a citation. Among the 78 nominated individuals, 25 (or 32%) are first-time nominees.
The following productions were co-produced with non-Philstage member companies: “Come From Away” (Stages Production Specialists, Inc. with GMG Productions), “Kaliwaan” (Stages Production Specialists, Inc. with MusicArtes, Inc.), “Nobody Is Home” (Philippine Educational Theater Association with Mecklenburgisches Staatstheater), and “Via Dolorosa” (The Necessary Theatre with WHYNot Manila).
The 16th Gawad Buhay! Awards ceremonies will be held on July 28, 2026 at Aliw Theater, Pasay City.
See below for the complete list of nominations:
Outstanding Original Script
- Chesie Galvez-Cariño (‘The Foxtrot’)
- Liza Magtoto, J-mee Katanyag, Nina Gühlstorff, and the cast of ‘Nobody Is Home’ (‘Nobody Is Home’)
- Guelan Varela-Luarca and the Tanghalang Pilipino Actors Company (‘Kisapmata’)
- Nicanor Tiongson and Eljay Castro Deldoc (‘Gregoria Lakambini: A Pinay Pop Musical’)
- Nica del Rosario, Matthew Chang, Nicanor Tiongson, and Eljay Castro Deldoc (‘Gregoria Lakambini: A Pinay Pop Musical’)
- Gabriel Ramos and Dexter Lansang (‘Via Dolorosa’)
- Farley Asuncion and Myke Salomon (‘We Aren’t Kids Anymore’)
- Nica del Rosario and Matthew Chang (‘Gregoria Lakambini: A Pinay Pop Musical’)
- Rony Fortich (‘Come From Away’)
- Ejay Yatco (‘Shrek the Musical’)
- Ejay Yatco (‘Side Show’)
- JM Cabling (‘Kisapmata’)
- JM Cabling (‘Side Show’)
- Jomelle Era (‘We Aren’t Kids Anymore’)
- Paul Alexander Morales (‘The Foxtrot’)
- Stephen Viñas (‘Delia D.: A Musical Featuring the Songs of Jonathan Manalo’)
- Stephen Viñas (‘Shrek the Musical’)
- Bonsai Cielo (‘Kisapmata’)
- Mitoy Sta. Ana (‘Delia D.: A Musical Featuring the Songs of Jonathan Manalo’)
- Carlos Siongco (‘Side Show’)
- Hershee Tantiado and Phillip Domingo (‘Alice in Wonderland’)
- Marco Viaña (‘Gregoria Lakambini: A Pinay Pop Musical’)
- John Batalla (‘Delia D.: A Musical Featuring the Songs of Jonathan Manalo’)
- D Cortezano (‘Kisapmata’)
- D Cortezano (‘We Aren’t Kids Anymore’)
- Meliton Roxas Jr. (‘Shrek the Musical’)
- Gabo Tolentino (‘Side Show’)
- Arvy Dimaculangan (‘Kisapmata’)
- Aji Manalo (‘Side Show’)
- Fabian Obispo (‘Art’)
- Aron Roca (‘We Aren’t Kids Anymore’)
- Luke Swaffield (‘Come From Away’)
- Lawyn Cruz (‘Shrek the Musical’)
- Mark Dalacat (‘Side Show’)
- Joey Mendoza (‘Kisapmata’)
- Joey Mendoza (‘We Aren’t Kids Anymore’)
- Mikayla Teodoro (‘Come From Away’)
- GA Fallarme (‘Liwanag sa Dilim’)
- GA Fallarme and Joyce Garcia (‘Delia D.: A Musical Featuring the Songs of Jonathan Manalo’)
- GA Fallarme, Justin Santiago, and JM Jimenez (‘Shrek the Musical’)
- Joey Mendoza, D Cortezano, Justin Santiago, and JM Jimenez (‘Kisapmata’)
- Jackie Lou Blanco (‘The Foxtrot’)
- Meann Espinosa (‘Nobody Is Home’)
- Lhorvie Nuevo-Tadioan (‘Kisapmata’)
- Ron Capinding (‘Kaliwaan’)
- Bart Guingona (‘Via Dolorosa’)
- JC Santos (‘The Foxtrot’)
- Brian Sy (‘Art’)
- Jonathan Tadioan (‘Kisapmata’)
- Ute Baggeröhr (‘Nobody Is Home’)
- Toni Go-Yadao (‘Kisapmata’)
- Ash Nicanor (‘Let’s Do Lunch’)
- Susi Wirth (‘Nobody Is Home’)
- Marco Viaña (‘Kisapmata’)
- Krystal Kane (‘Side Show’)
- Molly Langley (‘Side Show’)
- Marynor Madamesila (‘Side Show’)
- Tanya Manalang (‘Side Show’)
- Nikki Valdez (‘Next to Normal’)
- Arnel Carrion (‘A Christmas Carol’)
- Phi Palmos (‘Delia D.: A Musical Featuring the Songs of Jonathan Manalo’)
- Jamie Wilson (‘Shrek the Musical’)
- Cathy Azanza-Dy (‘Come From Away’)
- Maronne Cruz (‘We Aren’t Kids Anymore’)
- Sheila Francisco (‘Come From Away’)
- Sheena Lee Palad (‘The Bodyguard The Musical’)
- Heart Puyong (‘Gregoria Lakambini: A Pinay Pop Musical’)
- Topper Fabregas (‘Shrek the Musical’)
- John Lapus (‘Delia D.: A Musical Featuring the Songs of Jonathan Manalo’)
- Vino Mabalot (‘Next to Normal’)
- Marvin Ong (‘Side Show’)
- Benedix Ramos (‘Next to Normal’)
- Alfredo Reyes (‘Shrek the Musical’)
- ’Kisapmata’ (Tanghalang Pilipino)
- ‘Nobody Is Home’ (Philippine Educational Theater Association)
- ’Come From Away’ (Stages Production Specialists, Inc.)
- ‘Gregoria Lakambini: A Pinay Pop Musical’ (Tanghalang Pilipino)
- ‘Shrek The Musical’ (Full House Theater Company)
- ‘Side Show’ (The Sandbox Collective)
- ‘We Aren’t Kids Anymore’ (Barefoot Theatre Collaborative)
- Bart Guingona (‘Via Dolorosa’)
- Nina Gühlstorff and J-mee Katanyag (‘Nobody Is Home’)
- Guelan Varela-Luarca (‘Kisapmata’)
- Paul Alexander Morales (‘The Foxtrot’)
Outstanding Stage Direction for a Musical
- Delphine Buencamino (‘Gregoria Lakambini: A Pinay Pop Musical’)
- Toff de Venecia (‘Side Show’)
- Dexter Santos (‘Shrek the Musical’)
- Michael Williams (‘Come From Away’)
- Rem Zamora (‘We Aren’t Kids Anymore’)
- ’The Foxtrot’ (Theatre Titas)
- ‘Kisapmata’ (Tanghalang Pilipino)
- ‘Nobody Is Home’ (Philippine Educational Theater Association)
- ’Via Dolorosa’ (The Necessary Theatre)
- ’Come From Away’ (Stages Production Specialists, Inc.)
- ‘Shrek the Musical’ (Full House Theater Company)
- ‘Side Show’ (The Sandbox Collective) -
- ‘We Aren’t Kids Anymore’ (Barefoot Theatre Collaborative)
- ’Gregoria Lakambini: A Pinay Pop Musical’) (Tanghalang Pilipino)
- ’A Christmas Carol’ (9 Works Theatrical)
- ‘Shrek the Musical’ (Full House Theater Company)
May 20, 2026
Discover the Latest Must-Visit Shops at SM Malls in the East Metro
![]() |
| Max out your mall visit at the newly opened shops in your most loved malls in the East Metro |
![]() |
| Dainty accessories for your little princess at Clarisse SM Center Antipolo Downtown |
![]() |
| Branded finds at 7 Luxe on the 2nd level of SM Center Antipolo Downtown |
![]() |
| Classic Filipino dishes with a twist at Mesa SM City San Mateo located at the Ground Level |
![]() |
| Premium cakes and pastries on the go at Conti's located on the 2nd Level of SM City San Mateo |
![]() |
| Bulawan Panaderya serves freshly baked breads daily at SM City Masinag |
![]() |
| Everyday wearable jewelry at Everglowi SM City Masinag located on the ground level |
![]() |
| Hearty Ramen bowls at Ramen Nagi located on the New Hallway of SM City Marikina |
![]() |
| Coffee and me time at Pedal Café SM City Marikina |
![]() |
| Marikina's pride Mylene's Bakeshop now brings its bestsellers to SM City Marikina |
![]() |
| Wangfu brings Singaporean cuisine to its new location at the newly opened hallway of SM City Marikina |
![]() |
| Real and modern Italian Cuisine at Cibo SM City Marikina |
From shopping hauls and café dates to family feasts and spontaneous gala moments, SM Supermalls in the East Metro continues to bring fresh experiences closer to shoppers. Visit your nearest SM mall in the East Metro today and discover new ways to dine, shop, and celebrate every day to the max.
SM Malls in the East goes Purple again for BorahaEast 2.0
![]() |
| BTS is back -- and BorahaEast 2.0 returns in full purple celebration across SM Malls in the East |
![]() |
| SM Malls in the East celebrate BorahaEast 2.0 ARMY Fan Festival on June 13 to July 9 |
- SM Center Angono
- SM Center Antipolo Downtown
- SM City East Ortigas
- SM City Marikina
- SM City Masinag
- SM City San Mateo
- SM City Taytay
![]() |
| Energetic fan chants are always fun with hundreds of co-ARMYs cheering together |
![]() |
| Groove with co-ARMYs to BTS hits at ARMY fan gatherings |
![]() |
| Running while fangirling to BTS is always a good idea |
![]() |
| Tag along your ARMY bestie and create lasting fangirl moments |
![]() |
| Join ARMY games and win fun prizes at fan gatherings |
![]() |
| Join ARMY games and win fun prizes at fan gatherings |
![]() |
| BTS merch -- official or fanmade in all forms -- available for collection at the Pop-up Market in select SM malls and dates |
Don’t miss a single purple moment — follow the official social media pages of all seven participating SM Malls in the East for BorahaEast 2.0 schedules, surprises, and event announcements, then gala to the max by visiting your most loved malls throughout the celebration and making memories with fellow ARMY along the way.





















































