PH’s Hot Air Balloon Festival To Stage A Comeback In New Clark City In 2024

L-R: Mr. Bernardo Jorge Mitra, Executive - PIHABF 2024; Captain Jose Mari “Joy” Roa, President and Events Director - PIHABF 2024; Engr. Joshua M. Bingcang, President and CEO - BCDA; Gov. Susan A. Yap - Provincial Government of Tarlac; Atty. Gisela Z. Kalalo, Executive Vice President - BCDA

The Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF), the country’s only airshow experience, will officially be back in the skies from February 16-18, 2024 (Friday-Sunday). The three-day event will be held at a new venue: New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac.

After a three-year hiatus, “A Weekend of Everything that Flies” will once again give families, friends, and aviation enthusiasts a chance to witness non-stop flying exhibitions from regular and special-shaped hot air balloons, helicopters, skydivers, paragliders, radio-controlled aircraft, kites, and drones, all in one venue.

Attendees can also look forward to different enjoyable and educational activities through aviation career seminars, fly markets, food booths and family entertainment. Evenings will be capped off by a magical hot air balloon night glow and concerts. According to Capt. Joy Roa, Event Director of the PIHABF, “Since restrictions have been lifted, we now have a chance to gather families and friends for a meaningful event. By inviting aviators from all over the world to participate in the flying exhibitions, we continue to share with everyone a real airshow experience, just as we have done for over two decades.”

Capt. Joy Roa, Event Director - PIHABF 2024

The 24th rendition of the PIHABF will take place in New Clark City, a sports hub founded by the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), which features a 20,000-seater Athletics Stadium, aquatics center and various open grounds. The PIHABF has signed a Memorandum of Agreement with BCDA for New Clark City to host the airshow event for 2024. The MOA was signed by Capt. Joy Roa, Event Director of the PIHABF, and Engr. Joshua Bingcang, President and Chief Executive Officer of BCDA. “We are thrilled to welcome the PIHABF to New Clark City, their new home. This modern-day festival, which brings joy to the young and old, deserves to be celebrated at the world-class facilities of New Clark City that are comfortable, spacious, and convenient for eventgoers,” says BCDA PCEO Engr. Joshua Bingcang. “We hope this partnership is just the start of many more events in the coming years.”

The event is in partnership with Clark Development Corporation, and the Provincial Government of Tarlac. Governor Susan Yap shares the same enthusiasm for the event, “The province of Tarlac welcomes the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta, which, for more than 20 years, has consistently staged a highly entertaining and educational aviation event, bringing a lot of tourism and business opportunities in this part of Central Luzon.”

For more than two decades, the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta, known as “A Weekend of Everything that Flies,” has been the most highly anticipated and longest-running sports aviation event in Asia. Over the years, it has stayed true to its longtime objectives: to spark interest in aviation; to instill discipline in young pilots; and to impart a spirit of volunteerism to the whole community.

For tickets and up-to-date information about the event, follow PIHABF’s official social media channels: Facebook – www.facebook.com/pihabf, Instagram – @philballoonfest, TikTok – @philballoonfiesta.

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Staying positive during a zombie apocalypse

At the brink of a zombie apocalypse, get yourself covered and prepared. It happens once in a lifetime, so why not make the most of it? LOL

Netflix’s Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead, which is currently at No. 1 on the Top 10 Movies on Netflix in the Philippines, is the dose of positivity that you need when things are not so great. The main character, Akira Tendo (Eiji Akaso), works at an exploitative company where he suffers endless hours and harassment from his boss. He spends his days feeling more dead than alive. One day, the town is overtaken by zombies and Akira gets excited for he doesn't need to go to the office anymore rather than facing the fact he has to survive the zombie apocalypse. Akira comes up with a bucket list of 100 things he decided to accomplish before he becomes a zombie and makes his bucket list checked traveling with Shizuka (Mai Shiraishi) and Kencho (Shuntaro Yanagi).

Like Akira, you don’t need a big weapon to take on a big challenge. Being optimistic is even more powerful! Here are ways to stay positive so you can live your best life under the worst circumstances.

Look at the bright side
Akira, who’s more worried about being late for work rather than zombies trying to eat him, eventually realizes the advantage of being in a zombie apocalypse: He doesn’t need to go to work! Having a rosy outlook helps him survive, giving him the focus to think of important things like his bucket list.

Listen to your favorite music
Music can be a powerful source of inspiration to keep you going. It’s part of Akira’s personal arsenal when he’s out on the streets of Tokyo looking for supplies. Listening to his favorite jam while outrunning a zombie horde is next-level superhero stuff.

Eat delicious food
Trying to survive a zombie apocalypse without having any survival skills sounds like a lost cause. But props to Akira for staying alive and rewarding himself with good food while he’s at it.

Think of your crush
Like Akira, thinking of your crush can give you the motivation to finish the task at hand. That kilig feeling will instantly put a smile on your face and boost your energy.

Find a friend
Two heads are better than one. No man is an island. Teamwork makes the dream work. All are true, especially when it comes to survival. Akira, Kencho, and Shizuka may have their differences but when working together to survive, they’re golden.

Make time for self-care
Life’s problems can get overwhelming that’s why it’s important to relax and recharge your mind and body. Be like Akira and his friends. In the midst of a zombie apocalypse, they found time to do SUP yoga and swim in a hot spring. Mindfulness achieved!

Look awesome while you’re at it
Akira may look like the living dead trying to beat deadlines but he sure knows how to take on a zombie shark in style. Facing difficulties is a fact of life. So why not look good while trying your best?

Make a list of goals
Having goals gives you purpose and achievement. In Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead, Akira created a bucket list to help him live his best life before he becomes a zombie’s meal. Starting a gratitude list is a good way to stay positive, too.

Do good, be good
Being kind comes naturally to Akira. He loves helping people and has a can-do attitude that keeps him determined. Being good is not always easy but it’s a surefire way to channel positive vibes.

For more life lessons, silly saves, and zombie gore watch Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead now streaming, only on Netflix.

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Save Big with Groceries Day: foodpanda's Spectacular Grocery Sale Happening on August 18 to 20!

Get ready for the most anticipated event of the year as online food and grocery platform foodpanda unveils Groceries Day - an extraordinary three-day shopping extravaganza happening from August 18 - 20, 2023. This is the ultimate opportunity for online grocery aficionados who know how to work hard and shop smart. Whether you're an existing foodpanda app user or a fresh face in the foodpanda family, Groceries Day is your ticket to indulge in an unmatched experience of incredible deals and discounts on a wide range of grocery items, exclusively available on the foodpanda app.

"We are thrilled to announce Groceries Day, the biggest grocery sale of the season. This event is our way of giving back to our valued customers, offering them unparalleled savings and convenience in their grocery shopping experience," says Danielle Eleazar, Head of Marketing at foodpanda Philippines.

Groceries Day offers customers incredible deals and discounts across an assortment of grocery items on the foodpanda app. This fantastic opportunity also allows customers to revel in big savings, with discounts of up to 70% and an additional P300 discount using the code: GROCERDAY.

In a unique offering, a bunch of your favorite brands have come together to make Groceries Day an unforgettable experience. Some of these awesome brands are Selecta and PepsiCo, serving up treats like Selecta’s Supreme Best Seller ice creams, Ruffles, Cheetos, FritoLay, Lay’s Truffle, and Quaker Oats. Not to forget, Nature Spring, URC, Colgate and Palmolive are also part of this exciting lineup.

“In today's fast-paced world, we understand the struggles that come with traditional grocery shopping - the long queues, crowded aisles, and the endless search for elusive items. We know how precious your time is, and that's why we've meticulously crafted Groceries Day to be the ultimate solution for all your grocery needs. Empower yourself as you navigate through our thoughtfully curated selection of products, each one chosen with your needs in mind. More than just an event, Groceries Day is a transformative journey into a new era of grocery shopping. Our unwavering mission is to arm you with the tools to shop smart, all from the comfort of your home." adds Eleazar.

During this three-day extravaganza, customers can expect an array of exceptional deals and discounts, so they can save up on their grocery shopping. Whether you are stocking up on everyday essentials, planning a special meal for your family, or simply looking to save money, Groceries Day is the perfect occasion.

So mark your calendars for August 18 - 20, 2023, and join us on the foodpanda app to embark on a one-of-a-kind grocery shopping journey.

For more information about Groceries Day and the incredible offers available, visit https://www.foodpanda.ph/, where you'll find a complete list of partner merchants and top necessities that will be part of this spectacular event. Also like and follow the official social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Tiktok and Youtube.

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“CONCRETE UTOPIA” to be released in PH, opens in cinemas September 20

Concrete Utopia, a thrilling disaster film starring an ensemble of A-list Korean actors including Lee Byung-hun, Park Seo-jun, Park Bo-young, Park Ji-hu, Kim Do-yoon and Kim Sun-young, will be released in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures.

The film, which opened #1 in Korea, will open in local cinemas September 20.

In Concrete Utopia, the world has been reduced to rubble by a massive earthquake.

While no one knows for sure how far the ruins stretch, or what the cause of the earthquake may be, in the heart of Seoul there is only one apartment building left standing. It is called Hwang Gung Apartments.

As time passes, outsiders start coming in to Hwang Gung Apartments trying to escape the extreme cold. Before long, the apartment residents are unable to cope with the increasing numbers. Feeling a threat to their very survival, the residents enact a special measure.

Check out the trailer below:

As the trailer and poster speaks for themselves, the survivors will have to go through mind-boggling thought processes, revealing the kind and dark side of human nature. Find out with us in the cinemas who will be the final survivors.

Directed by Um Tae-hwa, Concrete Utopia is loosely based on Part 2 of the hit webtoon “Joyful Outcast” (“Pleasant Neighbors”). Concrete Utopia is a disaster thriller about the aftermath of a devastating earthquake. The film will follow the story that begins when the survivors gather at Hwang Gung Apartments, the only building left standing in an earthquake-ravaged Seoul.

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Feel the Cyber Thrill this August!

SM Supermalls hosts the biggest gaming activation in 60 malls nationwide.

Looking for the best deals on everything tech? Ready to play at the largest nationwide sports area? Now is the best time to visit SM Supermalls and unleash the gamer within as it celebrates the latest tech innovations and gadget trends, with exclusive deals and promos this Cyber Month!

From August 1 to 31, a celebration of e-sports and all things tech that make our lives easier and more convenient will take place at SM Supermalls. Essential gadgets, thrilling activities, and new discoveries are waiting to be made will welcome every individual with various needs.

Get ready as SM transforms its malls into a larger-than-life e-sports arena. Gamers and e-sports fans are in for a treat at the CyberMonth celebration, at over 60 malls nationwide, as community tournaments and an immersive gaming environment take center stage. Tag along with your friends and watch some intense and epic battles as players try to outplay each other at the community matches.

Gaming that never goes out of style. If you are a gamer who loves your classic video games, the Retroverse is for you. Select malls every Saturday will be setting up Retro Gaming Stations featuring classic consoles and games from the past. Relive the magic of iconic titles like Super Mario Bros., Pac-Man, Tetris, and Sonic the Hedgehog.

Venture into different worlds with AweSM Kids. Kids and kids at heart can have some fun at the Kids Zone–-an interactive area featuring popular games like SM Kids Roblox and Minecraft every weekend for the whole month of August.

The GeekCon is on! SM celebrates all things geek this Cyber Month including a Cosplay Competition. Every Sunday, bring your favorite anime, manga, games, TV, series, and comic book characters to life through elaborate costumes and performances that will wow the crowd. The GeekCon will also feature activities that geeks will love such as collectible toy displays, visual arts masterclasses, meet-and-greets with popular streamers, and Collectible Card Game Tournament.

SM City Masinag

Techtopia for all your tech needs. SM malls nationwide will have multiple activity areas bringing together a wide range of gadgets, interactive installations, and displays at Techtopia. Get your hands on the newest and trendiest gadgets, devices, and even smart home appliances at SM. Plus, at the Techtopia zone, you can check, test, and ensure the product’s quality before making that big purchase.

Discover the hottest tech deals. Gear up and get your baskets ready for SM Supermalls’ month-long nationwide tech and gadget sale. Whether you shop at your favorite SM mall or scroll through your go-to SM Online and SM Deals apps, there are a lot of great gadget deals all for you. Avail of these special promos, special offerings, and bundles on select items with up to 50% off in participating stores this August.

Mark your calendars! August is geek-out month with these fun-filled activities and deals in store for you this Cyber Month at an SM mall near you. Game on and shop #TechAssured gadgets and get exciting deals when you #CheckCyberzone.

For more information, visit www.smsupermalls.com/cyberzone or follow @SMSupermalls and @smcyberzone on social media.

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tick... tick... BOOM! Time is not running out for everyone.

Live theater is back for 9 Works Theatrical. Maybe the most recent company to open its doors to the audience with their restaging of one of Jonathan Larson's notable musicals, tick... tick... BOOM! This expresses that there will be a right time for all things. And the timing for staging this is well-executed.

tick... tick... BOOM! is about a struggling artist who feels the pressure of success in a target time, the case of which is before the age of 30. Led by Jef Flores, with Reb Atadero and Tanya Manalang, alternating with Khalil Ramos, Vien King and Kayla Rivera, this musical hits to the core of everyone who undergoes existential crisis and overthinking the goals that surround us.

Jon (Flores/Ramos) is like many of us. He has the ideals, passion but punched by reality in the face. I sometimes associate him to Christian of Moulin Rouge who believes that everything has its order but dwells in the reality that we are starting penniless and need to work hard.

But on the bright side, we are lucky to be given with a handful of people who can support us. Reb and Tanya, playing Mike and Susan, could be your household companions. It seems that Jonathan Larson was very lucky to have these two in his life. He was not even harshly confronted of taking too long to push a career but instead they supported his dreams. 

The three, collectively, has to be given credit for exemplary performance in their roles. They have formed a great ensemble with just 3 cast members. The stage also has a notable moment that drew the audience into a great impact which understands our feelings and in a comforting way. A special applause for director Robbie Guevara for a fun treatment on this production. It was clearly different in Netflix's version which stars Andrew Garfield, but that is for another commentary. 

9 Works' comeback production of tick... tick... BOOM! runs until August 27, 2023 at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium. The cast are shuffled every show so you can watch different takes on the roles. For tickets, you may visit https://bit.ly/m/ticktickBOOMmnl

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FEU Chorale's PASASALAMAT concert set on Aug. 12

The Far Eastern University Chorale returns to the stage of the FEU Auditorium for "Pasasalamat" at 6 PM on August 12, 2023. This concert serves as a homecoming celebration for the group following their participation in the recently concluded 2nd Asia Choral Grand Prix in Bali, Indonesia, where 6 choirs from Spain, Malaysia, Taiwan, Indonesia, and the Philippines battled in this competition of winners. The FEU Chorale qualified for this prestigious competition by winning the Andrea O. Veneracion International Choral Competition in 2019.

2 weeks before leaving for Bali, the FEU Chorale competed in the Sing, Tarlac, Sing Choral Festival in Tarlac City and won a Gold Diploma, the Best in Folk Song Category, and the Second Prize.

In the Tarlac and Bali competitions, the FEU Chorale sang pieces in contemporary, folk, and sacred contemporary genres. These pieces will be performed in Pasasalamat, which recounts the group’s voyage under Mr. Angelo Tangco’s term as their Artistic Director. He molded the choir’s sound to be balanced and that is the legacy they will strive to maintain in the years to come.

The choir has been able to touch hearts and inspire people. An Indonesian choir approached the members of the FEU Chorale to say how they were moved by their performance. The FEU Chorale made them more interested in the sound of Filipino choirs.

Hear this sound in Pasasalamat on Saturday, August 12 at 6PM in the FEU Auditorium. Tickets are at p500 and p250 and are available at the FEU Center for the Arts and the FEU Chorale's FB page. They will be sold only until 5.30 PM on concert day.

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