lifestyle and culture

December 4, 2023

OF FOND REMEMBRANCES - a concert on how we miss our grandmothers

Manila Pianos Artist Series presents OF FOND REMEMBRANCES. Dingdong Fiel's 12th and last solo piano concert for the year featuring favorite piano works of his paternal grandmother.
Included are works by Adinsell, Brahms, Buencamino, Chopin, Rachmaninoff among others.

The recital will be on Sunday, December 10, 2023 at 6 pm.
Venue is at Manila Pianos showroom, 4/F Ronac Lifestyle Center, Paseo de Magallanes, Makati City.

Ticket price : P 1000.00 (regular), P500.00 (seniors & students).

To purchase your ticket(s), GCASH payment to 0917-415-8876 Richard S. On the MSG line, type "(name) (# of tickets) - FIEL".

Please send confirmation to either 0917-415-8876 or use the messenger on Manila Pianos Artist Series fb page. Ticket(s) will be ready at the gate on the day of the performance.

Lola Daidy, as she is fondly called, was instrumental in raising Dingdong not only physically but intellectually, emotionally and spiritually as well. He remembers her lola playing CDs of Van Cliburn, Horowitz, Argerich and other piano greats at home when he was small. Her love for classical music seeped into his subconscious at an early age and soon enough he started to play on the family's upright. The rest, they say, is history.
During the pandemic, Dingdong went back to his hometown in Ormoc to be with family. Every Sunday he would lug his electric piano and play for his lola in the afternoons - a mini recital lasting 4 hours.
He made it a point never to repeat works. Playing the complete sonatas by Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven as well as piano works by Schumann, Chopin, Liszt. This became the catalyst for the twelve solo recitals this year.

Lola Daidy passed away this year. This concert is a tribute to the matriarch who exemplified strength with grace, perseverance and above all filial piety.

The artist:
DINGDONG FIEL is a concert pianist, composer, musical director/orchestra conductor, and vocalist.

He earned his Bachelor of Music Degree from the UST Conservatory of Music and was the recipient of the RECTOR'S AWARD FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE having obtained the HIGHEST ACADEMIC AVERAGE of the entire course, as well as the BENAVIDES AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT.

He finished his post graduate studies (Weiterbildendes Certificate) at the FRANZ LISZT Hochschule für Musik in Weimar, Germany Solo Piano and Chamber Music under the academy’s rector - Prof. Rolf-Dieter Arens as well as vocal accompaniment with Prof. Karl Peter Kammerlander.

He has garnered a total of 5 first prize wins from various piano competitions. Through sponsors like the Friends of The Philippines Society USA Inc., Deutsche Post, the UST Alumni Organization, Thueringer Aufbau Bank, Sparkasse Thueringen, The New Liszt Foundation, and various Philippine Embassies all over the globe, Dingdong was able to perform in a series of piano concerts around Europe, Asia, the Middle East and the USA - in Spain, Italy, Belgium, Germany, Guam, China, Japan, and Bahrain, among other countries.
Dingdong usually performs his own compositions in his concerts, the most recent was at a tour in Japan where he premiered his Preludes for solo piano- “Nuestro Mundo”. He has also composed music for foreign films that were entries to International Film Festivals - “THE GREEK MIRACLE" (2011), Three Spanish films - "PILAR GUERRA" (2011), “DON JUAN TENORIO” (2015), “LA REVOLTOSA” (2016) and the most recent - “JEAN D’ARC” the French film entry to the 2018 International Silent Film Festival Manila where he composed an hour and thirty-four minutes of music to accompany the famous film classic. This prompted silent film expert and critic - Teddy Co to exclaim that his scoring of the film was “the best version he has seen so far”.

Dingdong also attracted the attention of noted composers who were moved to write music specifically for him. These include music written by composer John Luke Jose for solo piano, a piano composition by Spanish pianist and composer Michael Davidov and "5 Pieces For Dingdong" which was composed specifically for his musical persona by Filipino composer Kabaitan Bautista.

As Musical Director/Orchestra Conductor he was involved in various theater and opera productions such as Verdi's LA TRAVIATA at the Aliw Theater, Repertory Philippines' Manila staging of the musical "NO WAY TO TREAT A LADY", Ryan Cayabyab’s rock opera - "LORENZO”, the Manila run of the famous musical "INTO THE WOODS”, and Menotti’s thriller opera - THE MEDIUM, to name a few, as well as numerous classical, jazz, rock and pop concerts.

Dingdong is the songwriter and lead vocalist of the band - HARI. The band debuted at the biggest Original Pilipino Music gathering of 2018, The OPM pinoy playlist 2018. Their single - “Pa’no Umibig Muli” is already out on all digital platforms (i.e Spotify, Itunes, Amazon, Google music). He is currently the lead vocalist and songwriter of the group BLUE VIOLET BLUE.

In this pandemic, despite the quarantine protocols in place, it was still very eventful for Dingdong’s singing career. Through numerous videos posted on social media pages, people noticed and he was eventually invited by an association of singers based in the US to do an online singing fundraiser entitled- Quaran-Sing. The week after the said concert, a big producer based in New York also booked him an interviewed/live performance singing his original songs at WISH USA 107.5.

As a mentor and collaborative artist, he has worked with hundreds of instrumentalists and singers from all over the world for more than two decades.

Dingdong is a winner of the prestigious Aliw Awards Best Instrumentalist of the Philippines award.
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December 3, 2023

Anya Taylor-Joy stars in Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, set on 2024

This is her Odyssey. “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga,” starring Anya Taylor-Joy in the title role, opens only in cinemas May 22, 2024.
The much-anticipated return to award-winning director George Miller’s iconic dystopian world also stars Chris Hemsworth, Alyla Browne and Tom Burke. Watch the trailer below:

As the world fell, young Furiosa is snatched from the Green Place of Many Mothers and falls into the hands of a great Biker Horde led by the Warlord Dementus. Sweeping through the Wasteland, they come across the Citadel presided over by The Immortan Joe. While the two Tyrants war for dominance, Furiosa must survive many trials as she puts together the means to find her way home.

This all-new original, standalone action adventure was directed by George Miller, script by Miller and “Mad Max: Fury Road” co-writer Nico Lathouris. The film was produced by Miller and his longtime partner, Oscar-nominated producer Doug Mitchell (“Mad Max: Fury Road,” “Babe”), under their Australian-based Kennedy Miller Mitchell banner.

Starring Anya Taylor-Joy in the title role, Chris Hemsworth, Alyla Browne and Tom Burke.

In cinemas 2024, “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” is distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company.
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December 1, 2023

Pasko Like a Panda: A Christmas Raffle Extravaganza by foodpanda

'Tis the season for non-stop feasting and endless gatherings! Whether you're someone who loves the convenience of food delivery or takes pride in cooking up a feast, foodpanda's here to make your Christmas season a breeze!

But there's more to this festive treat as Pasko Like a Panda Christmas Raffle brings you bigger and better magical weekly prizes. Make the most of foodpanda's variety of services for your holiday must-haves and get a shot at winning awesome prizes every week!

Panda-monium of Prizes from our Partners
Pasko Like a Panda is packed with an array of spectacular prizes, thanks to our generous partners. Coca-Cola leads the grand prizes with a brand-new Chevrolet Trax, perfect for those who love the thrill of the open road. For the travel enthusiasts, there's a dreamy trip for five to the snowy wonderland of Sapporo, Japan, and for gaming aficionados, several lucky winners will take home the latest PlayStation 5 units. Adding to the grandeur, GCash/Alipay is offering a life-changing prize of Php 1 million.

But the excitement doesn't stop there. Other drool-worthy prizes include a Boracay getaway, a trip to Palawan, Klean Kanteen insulated bottles, Viu entertainment subscriptions, ZALORA fashion access, and an Anytime Fitness gym membership. These prizes are made possible thanks to foodpanda’s partners: Discovery Shores Boracay, Club Paradise Palawan, Klean Kanteen, Viu, ZALORA, and Anytime Fitness. This raffle is not just a chance to win; it's an opportunity to experience the best of what our partners have to offer!

Festive Feasts at Your Fingertips
Organizing a Christmas party? Let foodpanda take care of the food. With a wide range of restaurants to choose from, you can order various cuisines to satisfy everyone's tastes. Are you the type to cook your own feast? Surprise your family with a special meal delivered right to your doorstep. Spend less time in the kitchen and more time creating memories.

Stocking Up Made Simple with pandamart
Forgot an ingredient for your holiday recipe? pandamart delivers groceries in minutes, saving your meal prep from disaster. Starting to decorate for the season? From decorations to snack supplies, get all your holiday essentials delivered without the holiday shopping rush.

Skip the Wait, Pick-up Your Feast
Out for holiday shopping and need a quick meal? Order ahead and pick-up your food on the go, avoiding queues and wait times. Opting for pick-up can also be beneficial when it comes to health. In times of heightened health concerns, pick-up offers a safe and contactless way to enjoy your favorite dishes. For the duration of the promo, pick-up also gives you twice the raffle entries.

Personal Delivery Service for Everything
Sending gifts to loved ones? Use pandago to deliver your parcels anywhere within the city. From picking up a last-minute gift to delivering party supplies, pandago is your personal courier for all holiday errands.
foodpanda truly shines during the holiday season, offering delightful treats to cater to everyone's needs. Whether it's the convenience of ordering lavish feasts to celebrate with loved ones, or the ease of stocking up on essential groceries and supplies, foodpanda has it covered.

Aside from the convenience and ease, using foodpanda for the holidays also pays dividends with the chance for weekly prizes. Joining is easy. Just use the code FPASKO at checkout and you’ll get raffle entries corresponding to the services and order values you picked. Additional entries can also be earned through pandapro and using our partner merchants.

A wide selection of prizes are up for grabs, from Apple gadgets, Sony gaming consoles, Vespa motorcycles, and more. There will be 15 weekly draws culminating in a Grand Prize draw on December 23, 2023. For more information regarding the promotion and the fine print, visit https://www.foodpanda.ph/contents/Pasko-Like-A-Panda-Raffle-2023.

For more information about foodpanda and the incredible offers available, visit the official website at https://www.foodpanda.ph. Also like and follow the official social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Tiktok and Youtube.
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"SANA MASAYA KA" - Nicole Asensio releases new Christmas single

After a series of music releases that garnered multiple nominations, Nicole Laurel Asensio
released a brand new original Christmas duet entitled “Sana Masaya Ka” with iconic OPM artist Jeffrey Hidalgo on December 1, produced by Gabe Dandan and released under Warner Music.
"Sana Masaya Ka” is a bittersweet duet that unfolds the story between former lovers spending their first holiday season apart. Nicole’s silken vocals evoke nostalgia and Jeffrey Hidalgo’s smoky timbre resonates deeply into the very fibres of the bed of instruments arranged by Gabe Dandan. The classic and organic elements brought by strings and woodwind sections blanket the song with a much needed warmth and familiarity as the characters sing of healed hearts and happier holidays to come.

“It was well past midnight when I was in the throes of compiling lyrics and melodies for a different Christmas release.

Gabe arrived at the studio coming from another Christmas project. Because the holiday spirit was still ringing in our ears, I wanted to try writing another Christmas song even if it was creeping close to sunrise. Gabe begun jamming chords with a classic OPM feel and slow jazz accents, I loved them instantly. The challenge now for me was to express my sentiments in Tagalog. Save for some lyrical adjustments, the songwriting was done in one session," Nicole shares.

“Our process is very spontaneous, it creates a creative environment that allows us to surprise ourselves. After finishing the song, Nicole expressed that she wanted to try making it a Christmas duet because it was something we haven’t done. I immediately thought of Jeffrey Hidalgo as a perfect match for Nicole and the song because of his warm smoky vocal tone,” Gabe Dandan echoed.
“I was delighted hearing Gabe’s suggestion, I have a lot of respect for Jeffrey as a singer, actor and director, his voice really is something special. It took me about a week to muster up the courage to ask him if he was willing to do this and then send him a demo. It didn’t take Jeffrey long to respond and when he said yes, i was so grateful… it was a clear sign that I had to save my other Christmas project for another year and finish off 2023 with this one,” Nicole added.

“The last time I had a Christmas single was 25 years ago so I am really looking forward to the release of this track. Nicole and Gabe asking me to do this collab is really an unexpected blessing, ” Jeffrey
Hidalgo exclaimed.

The Recording Process
“Working with Jeffrey for the first time and Nicole numerous times was very chill and spontaneous, we were just recording over food and drinks at Nicole’s home studio, despite the relaxed setting it was a very productive evening, ” Gabe Dandan added.

“This was one of the best collaboration experiences I’ve had in the studio if not, the best! My favourite aspect of being a musician is the recording process and recording this single was the most fun I’ve had in the studio. I enjoyed working with Nicole and Gabe immensely. I loved how they took me out of my comfort zone with out-of-the-box harmonies that were peculiar but so delectable to the ears. I loved their vision for the song form the get-go, so I was all in,” Jeffrey replied.

“Jeffrey has a beautiful signature vocal tone that can smooth over the rough edges of even the most painful lyrics and make it an easy listen. His depth as an actor/director makes his delivery and storytelling hit home. I learned a lot while tracking him. It makes me smile when I think about how this project is entirely homegrown and home recorded. Lawrence Nolan recorded himself playing drums from his home, Gabe played Bass, Guitar, Hammond and Rhodes as well as sang backup vocals from home. The strings and woodwinds played by Ted Amper and Carlo Mikhail were recorded by us in my home and our friends Jess Fermino, Mark Enriquez and myself took turns tracking vocals. Learning the quirks of the process and making mistakes was definitely part of what made this song even more memorable,” Nicole beamed.

“Recording the musicians was smooth because all the musicians we worked with are not just talented but patient, I did the string and woodwind arrangement on the spot and hummed it to Ted (Cello) and Carl (Woodwinds and violin) on the fly Carl and Ted were so easy to work with. I am thankful for our friends in music,” Gabe shared.

The song was then sent to Angee Rozul for mixing then to Waxie Joaquin and Enrique Santamaria of Waxiefied Sound Production for further Mixing and Mastering in Dolby Atmos.

“Though I’m more known as a pop balladeer, my personal musical preference really leans more towards the indie-alternative genre. I’ve been a fan of Nicole ever since General Luna, and a bigger fan now that she’s a solo artist. I love how distinct her voice is and how she seems to be comfortable in whatever genre she dips her feet into. Our collaboration might seem unexpected to some but after hearing our voices together, I love how it all just makes perfect sense. I love how Gabe and Nicole both know exactly what they want yet, they let me explore as well within my vocal range and style” Jeffrey replied.

“Hindi man tinadhana, sana masaya ka”

“It really is a bittersweet season for some, I wrote the lyrics and melody because not everyone’s Christmas is “Merry” Though it is easier said than done, focusing on the blessings gets us by. Relationships fail. People make mistakes and grow apart. However, the markings of truly loving someone is wishing them love and happiness even if you are no longer involved with them…you still want to know they are alright, and that they’ll still have a Merry Christmas even if you’re not in the picture anymore. I suppose one would dedicate this song to their TOTGA (the one that got away), ” Nicole muses.

“I think I have 2 TOTGAs that I would have dedicated this song to, many many years back. I am just so glad I’m not in the position of the characters in the song nowadays. I’m in a much better place. LOL! But seriously, I am sure many people will be able to relate to this song if not at the moment, then at some point because because this has happened to a lot of us. You sincerely want to wish a past lover happiness, yet deep inside, you still really want to be with that person too. Ouch. Hahaha!,” Jeffrey jokingly said.

“Pagsapit ng bagong taon… saan ka man naroroon.”

“I am looking forward to next year because we will be working on compilations and EPs instead of singles, more ideas to execute, much more music to be made. I’m very excited for the different musical styles Nicole and I will be exploring,” Gabe said.

“Working with Gabe as a producer, sparked the producer in me as well and I am suddenly hungry to create more music next year,” Jeffrey gives a wink.

“I am grateful to still be making music and happy whenever inspiration strikes. More songs are already in the works for next year. I don’t know how many years on earth I’ll have to do this, and that makes me so much more grateful for the instances God allows creativity to flow, ” Nicole concludes.

Hiling ko lang ngayong pasko, Sana masaya kayo!

Listen to the song below:
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November 26, 2023

SRR Extreme 2023: Spine-tingling scares before the holidays

WARNING: Contains major spoilers.
Continuing the tradition of the Shake, Rattle and Roll trilogy during the holidays, Regal Entertainment Inc. presents the new line up of scary movies that puts the variety of film experience Filipinos were accustomed of. And this year, they have come extreme with three stories that are worth watching. I was happy to attend and gala night on November 26 at Market! Market! cinema in BGC and sharing my thoughts about this set. Themes were almost all Gen Z, I think, in general.
Glitch (by Joey De Guzman)
A demon captures vulnerable children's attention as their families were slowly torn apart through technology. In the modern times, Iza Calzado is a busy mother that no longer believes in prayers while she displays the Nativity scene in time for Christmas. Her daughter was lured by "Gary The Goat" in a kid's show and it was invited into her home with a bewitching chant. None that she is aware of but the goat is actually a demon that hurts and kills the people that disagree with the child. Appearing as a friend to the child but actually a punisher in disguise. The story gives a religious premise which is already predictable.

Lesson: Don't spoil the kids with gadgets and monitor what they're watching. 6/10

Mukbang (by Jerrold Tarog)
A group of social media influencers gather in a "dream collab" hosted by a couple. While they enjoy their stay in a collab mansion, feast on a delectable meat lovers buffet, their personalities change one by one. Strange as it seems, it was just ignored until they discovered they're in a monsters' lair that transfigures to their victims and eats human flesh to stay immortal. This movie is a balanced mix of fun, Gen Z spirit, a non-cringy romance and horror that social media savvies will enjoy. 8.5/10

Rage (by Richard Somes)
An alien life form from the meteor shower infests and transforms a provincial barrio into an angry zombie district that kills everyone in sight. In this story of survival, Jane de Leon and her friends try to escape the place through all means. This zombie-slasher segment knows how to do it. 8/10

Shake, Rattle, and Roll: Extreme stars Iza Calzado, Paul Salas, Jane de Leon, Jane Oneiza, Paolo Gumabao, with social media stars, AC Bonifacio, Ninong Ry, Esnyr, Phi Palmos, and more. Opening this Wednesday, November 29, only in theaters nationwide.
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November 21, 2023

LG PH Marks a Milestone: Life's Good Day 2023

On November 10, 2023, LG Electronics Philippines (LGEPH) celebrated a day brimming with optimism and innovation: LG Life's Good Day 2023. Held at the LGEPH Office, this event was more than just a milestone; it represented the brand promise of 'Life’s Good.' This promise is a testament to LG's unwavering belief and commitment to enhancing lives through innovation, all while maintaining an optimistic perspective. The day marked a vibrant declaration of LG's renewed brand identity, showcasing how it enriches lives through groundbreaking technology and a robust sense of community.

In the spirit of 'Life’s Good', LGEPH hosted a bloodletting event, embodying the company's deep-rooted commitment to community service and the well-being of others. This initiative showcased LG's drive to not only advance in technology but also to cultivate a culture of empathy and shared responsibility.
LGEPH employees participate to a blood letting activity
The event featured a special segment, Life's Good Hour, where LGEPH employees came together to enjoy an array of delightful Filipino snacks. This was a moment of joy and togetherness, reflecting LG’s core value of warmth and its belief in the importance of fostering community spirit.
LGEPH employees enjoying a delightful treat of Filipino snacks

The Three Pillars of LG's Brand Values
  1. Uncompromising Customer Experience: Aligning with LG’s optimistic outlook, this event was a testament to the company's dedication to delivering exceptional products and services. LG believes that every interaction with its products should not only be satisfactory but should elevate the customer's daily life, infusing each moment with enjoyment and ease.
  2. Human-Centered Innovation: At the heart of LG's innovation is a human-centric approach. This perspective ensures that every technological breakthrough and product is crafted with the end-user's needs and aspirations in mind, demonstrating LG's belief that technology should tangibly enhance human lives in practical, meaningful ways.
  3. Warmth to Power a Smile: Emphasizing LG's optimistic perspective, the event demonstrated the company's belief in the power of warmth to kindle happiness and build connections. This philosophy was palpable in the communal enjoyment of snacks and the impactful bloodletting initiative, underscoring that technology is more than features – it's about creating joyful, connected experiences.
LG Life's Good Day 2023 marked a significant step in LG’s journey, reinforcing its commitment to improving lives with innovative technology and heartfelt service. This event was a clear reflection of LG’s belief in a better future, where technology and human empathy work in harmony to create a brighter world.

LGEPH Managing Director Mr. Sungjae Kim, with a tone of optimism, encapsulated the essence of the day, stating, “LG Life's Good Day 2023 is a celebration of our unwavering commitment to our customers, community, and the human spirit. It represents our optimistic vision for the future, a path guided by hope and positivity. This event symbolizes our journey towards a future where every innovation is infused with compassion, and each product we create is a step towards a more joyful, optimistic, and fulfilling life for everyone.”

Life's about more than having the latest technology, rather, it's about the experiences technology creates that impact our lives. LG Electronics Philippines delivers smart life solutions through top-of-the-line smart appliances, digital platforms, and services that prepare Filipinos for their greatest moments. LG promises to bring "Innovation for a Better Life" nationwide - from Luzon, to Visayas, and Mindanao. LG products are available in major appliance stores nationwide and through its flagship stores in Lazada and Shopee. For more information, visit lg.com/ph and follow their social media channels on Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok and Youtube (@lgphilippines). 
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November 20, 2023

Auditions NOW OPEN for PETA's One More Chance, The Musical

Philippine Educational Theater Association’s (PETA) much-awaited production for 2024, “One More Chance, the Musical,” featuring the music of the massively popular and award-winning Filipino nine-piece band, Ben&Ben, announces the casting call for auditions starting Monday, November 20, 2024.

Interested applicants who want to audition will have the chance of a lifetime to portray the roles of Popoy, Basha, the Thursday Barkada, and other ensemble characters from the cult-classic movie.

Applicants must submit 16 bars, or 1 stanza and 1 chorus, of the best part of any Ben&Ben or OPM song, along with 4 bars of choreography to any contemporary modern music. The full set of requirements can be found at this link: https://tinyurl.com/OMCauds.

The deadline for all casting submissions will be November 26 at 11:59 p.m. Live auditions at the PETA Theater Center will follow from December 4–5.

“One More Chance, the Musical” is slated to open in April 2024 at the PETA Theater Center.

For more information on this much-awaited musical, follow PETA Theater on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok: @petatheater. For partnerships, email PETA at petatheater@gmail.com. For questions regarding auditions, email petaonemorechancetm@gmail.com.

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