Keanu Reeves joins Jim Carrey and Idris Elba, voicing Shadow in Sonic the Hedgehog 3

An icon playing an icon. Keanu Reeves is Shadow. Get ready for Sonic the Hedgehog 3, opening in Philippine cinemas January 15, 2025.

“For 50 years, Shadow’s been in a state of suspended animation. He’s coming out of it seeking revenge,” says Keanu Reeves, who voices Shadow, a fan favorite villain in the Sonic universe.

Says Idris Elba, who plays Knuckles, another popular character: “Keanu, whatever he does, he kind of brings icon status to it.”

Reeves, well-loved for his Matrix and John Wick characters, adds, “Sonic’s no match for me.”

Watch the “Casting a Shadow” featurette:

Sonic the Hedgehog returns to the big screen in his most thrilling adventure yet. Sonic, Knuckles, and Tails reunite against a powerful new adversary, Shadow, a mysterious villain with powers unlike anything they have faced before. With their abilities outmatched in every way, Team Sonic must seek out an unlikely alliance in hopes of stopping Shadow and protecting the planet.

#SonicMovie3
Paramount Pictures

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 opens in Philippine cinemas January 15, 2025.

Read More

LG and WILL.I.AM transforms LG xboom's Sound & Design through "xboom by will.i.am"

will.i.am creates a distinct sound and design identity for LG xboom 2025 “xboom by will.i.am” speakers and earbuds to be unveiled at CES 2025

LG Electronics (LG) has announced a partnership with creative artist, multi-platinum musician, and tech entrepreneur, will.i.am, to launch a new line of audio products under the brand “xboom by will.i.am.” The partnership aims to transform xboom into a culture-forward brand with an urban aesthetic, providing an all-new audio experience.

In this partnership, LG has appointed will.i.am as LG xboom’s “Experiential Architect.” He will play a pivotal role in carving out a new space for xboom in the audio industry. Drawing inspiration from his pop culture and technological know-how, will.i.am will provide strategic counsel for LG xboom’s product development, design, and brand marketing. By combining LG’s advanced technologies with will.i.am’s unique insights as a world-renowned music artist and tech entrepreneur, this partnership will infuse LG xboom products with fresh creative aspirations.

“Working with renowned tech and lifestyle innovator, LG, opens the door to groundbreaking and dynamic experiences that speak to a broader community of music enthusiasts,” said will.i.am. “By bringing our cutting-edge technology and distinctive creative visions together with LG xboom, we want to foster an iconic culture where people can explore their passion for music with others on a whole new level.”

The 2025 line of “xboom by will.i.am” products, including Bluetooth speakers and wireless earbuds will be unveiled at CES 2025. The xboom Buds will be the first product available in the market.

All “xboom by will.i.am” products bear the mark of will.i.am, who took part in creating LG xboom’s signature sound that boasts a rich bass with balanced and warm tones. It comes in two distinct modes for listening: one mode provides stimulating sounds that gets you moving with powerful bass while a second mode offers a soothing sound with harmonious tones. The overarching design for LG xboom aims to elevate music enjoyment. Speakers incorporate clever embellishments such as easy-to-hold straps and colorfully interactive lighting that is in sync with the beat of the music being played. Earbuds are designed ergonomically with ear tips and ear hooks for a comfortable fit that also delivers the best sound experience.

“This launch marks the integration of our wireless earbuds and Bluetooth speakers into one audio brand, LG xboom,” said Lee Jeong-seok, head of LG Media Entertainment Solution Company’s audio business division. “We are thrilled to announce this partnership with will.i.am that will play a critical role in solidifying LG xboom’s new identity.”

All “xboom by will.i.am” products will be integrated with will.i.am’s RAiDiO.FYI, an AI-powered interactive audio experience, to introduce a new generation of listeners to infotainment. RAiDiO.FYI empowers listeners with unique abilities to immerse, personalize, and have a two-way real-time conversation with their favorite topic-based STAiTiONS. This conversational media platform transforms radio as we know it into a new dimension, connecting consumers deeper with the music, talk radio, and cultural content they love.

LG and will.i.am will celebrate this new partnership with product showcases and tech demonstrations at CES 2025 (January 6-10). To know more about “xboom by will.i.am”, please visit www.lg.com/global/xboom/xboombywilliam.

Read More

Fulfill Christmas Wishlists at SM City Marikina

The holidays are here, and the rush to tick off items on your loved ones' wish lists must be done. SM City Marikina is your ultimate gift destination in the East Metro, with stores offering something special for everyone. Whether you're shopping for a skincare enthusiast bestie or your tech-savvy sibling, we've got you covered. Check out these perfect gift picks for every personality:

For the Self-Care Queen:
Uniqlo’s Pocketable UV Protection Parka is a must-have for skincare lovers who understand the importance of sun protection. Pair it with a set of glow-boosting skincare goodies from The Body Shop, like their British Rose collection, to keep her skin soft and nourished through the holiday hustle.

For the Corporate Hustler BF:
Upgrade his work-from-home or office game with a tech-savvy touch with Huawei’s MatePad Pro for seamless productivity and entertainment. His favorite caffeine concoction is at his fingertips whenever—wherever—with the Starbucks’ Holiday card.

For the Adventurous and Stylish Dad:
Gift him footwear that’s both comfy and cool, like Crocs' Echo Clog. Durable and lightweight, they’re perfect for family outings or his next outdoor adventure. Top it off with a handsome Huawei Watch GT5 to keep track of his fitness goals.

For the Creative Techie Teen:
Spark their creativity with MacBook Pro, with Beats Solo 4 playing his/her favorite playlist. Whether they’re into digital art or video editing, these gifts will unleash their artistic potential. Available at Power Mac Center in Cyberzone.

Don’t wait—Shop for gifts now!
Head to SM City Marikina today and make every Christmas wishlist come true. Find all these and more, where holiday shopping becomes a festive experience. From exclusive deals to a joyful atmosphere filled with twinkling lights and carols, your Christmas gift hunt will be nothing short of magical.

Read More

foodpanda logistics hosts “Pautastic Event ng Taon” year-end party for Ka-pandas

Now in its third year, foodpanda Logistics' much-anticipated “Pautastic Event ng Taon” Year-End Party honored its hardworking Ka-panda delivery partners once again on December 8, 2024, at the Aseana City Open Grounds, Parañaque City.

The annual celebration grew bigger and better this year, introducing a new level of excitement and inclusivity by welcoming Ka-pandas’ families and friends to join in the festivities.

A Celebration of Dedication
The year-end party served as a heartfelt tribute to the dedication and commitment of foodpanda Logistics’ delivery fleet. This year, the event kicked off with the Ka-panda Rider Caravan, where Ka-pandas had their accounts checked and updated, ensuring a smoother experience for the year ahead.

The caravan also opened doors for aspiring delivery riders, allowing non-Ka-pandas to explore joining the fleet.

Pre-Show Highlights
The pre-show lineup featured fun and engaging booths from official event partners, offering food, beverages, and interactive activities. A standout attraction was the bamboo earning booth, which showcased how Ka-pandas could accumulate bamboo points through successful deliveries.

A Ka-panda joining one of the interactive activities during the event

These points were redeemable for exclusive foodpanda merchandise, adding an extra layer of excitement to the celebration.

Evening of Entertainment and On-Stage Fun

OPM band Spongecola performing in front of the delivery partners as the main act of the party

As the night unfolded, attendees enjoyed stellar performances by some of the most beloved OPM artists, including Sponge Cola, I Belong to the Zoo, and Arci Muñoz, along with other special guests, making it a memorable evening of music and entertainment.

Ka-pandas also participated in exciting on-stage games and a raffle featuring fantastic prizes. For those unable to attend in person, the event was live-streamed on Facebook, allowing delivery partners across the country to join the fun virtually and have a chance to win prizes.

The celebration was made even more special with the support of brand partners like CignalPlay, Mega Prime Foods Inc., Seaoil, and Realme and official transport partner Angkas. Major sponsors, including Universal Robina Corporation, Surf 2 Sawa Powered by Converge, Bida Fiber Powerbed by Converge, Jack N' Jill Snacks, Jack N' Jill Lush Sour, Jack N' Jill Maxx, Jack N' Jill Hello, Goodday, GoTyme, Converge, Ropali, Caltex, Kawasaki, Motoworld PH, Commonwealth Hospital & Medical Center, Cut Encarnacion, Motivo, and Sulit Chicken, contributed to making the event an exciting and unforgettable experience for all attendees.

D’Best Ka Ka-panda
foodpanda logistics is doubling down on its commitment to its Ka-panda delivery partners with ‘D’Best Ka Ka-panda’, its flagship program aimed at uplifting and supporting delivery partners in five core areas: safety, well-being, personal development, community, and welfare perks.

Over the years, foodpanda logistics has refined its delivery partner initiatives to consistently deliver on what they value and find ways to best support and enhance their delivery experience. ‘‘D’Best Ka Ka-panda” will house both existing and new welfare and engagement initiatives.

“We want them to feel valued, supported, and empowered in their partnership with us,” said Ron Sanders, Rider Experience Lead of foodpanda logistics Philippines. He also expressed his excitement about this year’s event. "Our Ka-pandas are the backbone of our operations, and this celebration is a way to give back to them. This year, we’ve leveled up the event, ensuring it’s not just a party for our delivery partners but also for their loved ones. It’s our way of saying thank you for their incredible dedication throughout the year."

Sanders also highlighted the importance of fostering a sense of community among delivery partners. "We want our Ka-pandas to know they’re part of a family that supports and celebrates their achievements. The ‘Pautastic Event ng Taon’ embodies that spirit of unity and appreciation."

Read More

The Chosen Christmas Special “Christmas with The Chosen: Holy Night”

A perfect celebration of the season opens December 11 Exclusively at SM Cinemas

In an unforgettable preview of “Christmas with The Chosen: Holy Night”, fans of the globally beloved TV series The Chosen were treated to a moving portrayal of the birth of Jesus Christ, making it a must-watch for the Christmas season. Held during Jonathan Roumie’s visit to the Philippines, the premiere offered a deeply immersive retelling of the Nativity that captured hearts and stirred faith.

Sara Anne and Raj Bond

Starring Sara Anne as the younger Mother Mary and Raj Bond as Joseph, this Christmas special blends the human and divine dimensions of Christ’s birth, portraying the ordinary lives of Mary and Joseph while illuminating the extraordinary mission they embraced. Joining them in limited scenes from the regular cast members of The Chosen TV series are Elizabeth Tabish (Mary Magdalene) and Vanessa Benavente (older Mother Mary). The special also features a video message from The Chosen creator and director Dallas Jenkins, encouraging reflection on the deeper meaning of Christmas. The powerful cinematography, paired with the soulful soundtrack combined with musical numbers that included a piece from Andrea Bocelli and his son Matteo, magnifies the reverence of the Holy Night, evoking awe and gratitude. Other musical performances in the featured screening will include The Feast Worship, adding a uniquely Filipino touch to the celebration.

Audience reactions to the preview were overwhelmingly positive. Many attendees remarked on the emotional depth of the performances and the authenticity of the storytelling. “It made me feel like I was present at the Nativity,” shared one viewer. Another described the episode as “the perfect reminder of the reason for the season,” lauding its ability to inspire reflection on the true essence of Christmas amidst today’s commercialized celebrations.

Jonathan Roumie, who portrays Jesus in The Chosen series, expressed his gratitude to Filipino fans for their passionate support. “To see such a warm reception to The Chosen here is humbling,” he said, delighted to learn that the Philippines prides itself in being the country with the longest Christmas season in the world—where Christmas carols are broadcast from September to January’s Feast of the Three Kings. Roumie’s presence at the premiere added a personal connection that deepened the audience’s appreciation of the series.

“The Chosen Christmas Special: Holy Night” not only honors the Nativity story but also bridges cultural and spiritual divides, inviting viewers of all backgrounds to encounter the wonder of Christ’s birth in a fresh and meaningful way.

The Christmas special “Christmas with The Chosen: Holy Night” that will open on December 11 at SM cinemas is now poised to become a cornerstone of Christmas traditions worldwide. Whether for personal reflection or family gatherings, it is a heartfelt reminder of God’s love made manifest, making it a perfect gift for the holiday season.

Buy your tickets now at the SM Cinema apps on App Store and Google Play.

Read More

"Sari-Sali Portal Cafe" a familiar place that unites two different cultures

Don’t miss the captivating collaborative performance between the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) and Kyoto-based theater group BRDG, Sari-Sali Portal Cafe, running until TOMORROW, December 8 with shows at 3pm and 8pm at the PETA Theater Center!

The cast of Sari-Sali: Hiroyuki Kozaka, Julio Garcia, Hitomi Nagasu and Zoe Damag

This remarkable production creates a bridge between Filipino and Japanese cultures, inviting the audience into a cozy, intimate cafe setting where stories from both countries unfold. Through vibrant storytelling, themes, music, and engaging dialogue, Sari-Sali Portal Cafe offers a unique lens into the everyday lives, dreams, and struggles of people from different walks of life, making it a deeply relatable experience for anyone in the audience.

What truly sets this performance apart, however, is its innovative approach to audience interaction. The show doesn’t just involve the audience as passive observers—audience members are woven into the narrative through participation, creating an immersive experience that makes you feel like a part of the characters' world. This integration of the audience enhances the emotional depth of the performance, making every moment feel more personal and alive.

The true magic of Sari-Sali Portal Cafe is how the actors and creative team have masterfully navigated the potential challenges of language and cultural differences. Despite these barriers, there is a seamless cooperation between the performers, allowing for an emotionally rich, cross-cultural exchange. The universal themes of connection, belonging, and understanding transcend language, and it's evident that the cast and crew have put in an extraordinary amount of effort to ensure that every moment resonates across cultural lines.

Thank you to The Japan Foundation Manila, Philippine Educational Theater Association and Kyoto-based theater group BRDG for a wonderful experience.

If you’re looking for a theatrical experience that not only entertains but also fosters a deeper understanding of two rich cultures, Sari-Sali Portal Cafe is an absolute must-see. Be sure to catch it before it’s gone!

Read More

Your Next Drive Awaits at SM!

Drive into the Holidays with SM Supermalls’ Shop, Dine, & Drive Promo!

Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year by shopping, dining, and driving your way to a brand-new Suzuki S-Presso 1.0-GL-MT-SE at SM Supermalls in the East Metro! Until December 25, 2024, every purchase you make brings you closer to this exciting grand prize.

Here’s how easy it is to join:

1. Shop or Dine to Earn Entries

• Get 1 e-raffle entry for every ₱1,000 single or accumulated receipt from any of these malls: SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, SM City San Mateo, and SM Center Antipolo Downtown.
• Special bonuses:
• At SM Cinema, earn 1 raffle entry with every purchase of 4 cinema tickets in a single receipt.
• At SM Foodcourt, enjoy 1 raffle entry for every ₱300 single receipt purchase.

2. Boost Your Chances Online

• Upload a screenshot of your SM Malls Online account profile and get an extra 3 e-raffle entries!

This holiday season, your shopping and dining adventures could take you straight to the driver’s seat of an eye-catching Suzuki S-Presso! Head to your favorite SM Malls in the East Metro today and let your holiday shopping take you places!

Read More