Theater Luminaries and Rising Stars collide in The Sandbox Collective’s NEXT TO NORMAL

On the heels of its 10th Anniversary season, The Sandbox Collective opens its 2nd decade with the Tony Award-winning musical NEXT TO NORMAL in February 2025. The show explores themes of love, loss, illness, grief, and the intricacies of the family dynamics.

The cast will feature Shiela Valderrama and Nikki Valdez alternating in the role of the matriarch Diana Goodman. A singer and an artist, Nikki makes her return to theater with Next To Normal. She is known for her iconic roles in ‘Ang Tanging Ina’ film franchise and was recently awarded a FAMAS Best Supporting Actress award for her role in the film ‘Family Matters.’ She also makes her theater return after her acclaimed performance in 9Works Theatrical’s ‘The Wedding Singer.’ Actress, singer and host Shiela was last seen on stage as Erzulie in 9WT’s ‘Once On This Island’. A Gawad Buhay and Aliw Award winner, she has played countless roles spanning over three decades, most recently being Sita in ‘Rama Hari,’ and Fosca in ‘Passion.’

Nikki Valdez and Shiela Valderrama

Alternating in the role of the husband Dan are OJ Mariano and Floyd Tena. A multimedia artist, Floyd’s resume boasts a wealth of work in theater, television and film. He is a Philstage Gawad Buhay nominee for his featured performance in ‘Sandosenang Sapatos.’ OJ is the resident tenor of the country's premiere vocal group, The Company. An Awit Award recipient for Best New Male Recording Artist with several albums under his belt, OJ is also a Philstage Gawad Buhay awardee for his performance in ‘Rama Hari.’

OJ Mariano and Floyd Tena

Playing the perfect daughter Natalie Goodman are Sheena Belarmino and Jam Binay. Jam is a singer-songwriter and multi-faceted theater artist whose recent credits include ‘Bar Boys: A New Musical,’ ‘Virgin Labfest 19: Pintog’s Sa Babaeng Lahat,’ ‘Pingkian: Isang Musikal,’ ‘Ardor,’ and ‘Ang Huling El Bimbo.’ Sheena is a singer, dancer, actress and Star Magic. She has appeared in the various shows such as Lyric and Beat, ASAP Natin ‘To, and It’s Showtime, of which she served as a host in the Showtime Online Universe. Sheena’s recent theater credits include the musicals ‘One More Chance’ and ‘Tabing Ilog.’

Sheena Belarmino and Jam Binay

The elusive Gabe Goodman will be played by Vino Mabalot and Benedix Ramos. Vino is an up-and-coming theater actor and talent under Star Magic, renowned for his compelling performances. A graduate of the Ateneo De Manila University, his recent projects include ‘Batang Rizal,’ ‘Dekada 70,’ and ‘Tabing Ilog,’ among others. Benedix is an actor, singer-songwriter, commercial model, host, and content creator managed by Star Hunt/Star Magic ABS-CBN. A vibrant talent in theater, his recent theater credits include ‘Bar Boys,’ ‘Tabing Ilog,’ and ‘Ang Huling El Bimbo,’ to name a few.

Benedix Ramos and Vino Mabalot

Omar Uddin and Davy Narciso will share the role of Henry, the boy who falls in love with Natalie. Omar, a distinguished actor and singer under Star Magic, has graced both the stage and screen with his versatile talent. Celebrated for his roles in musicals like ‘Mula sa Buwan’ and ‘Ibong Adarna,’ he also shone in ‘Bar Boys.’ A sought after theater actor, Davy’s credits for 2024 include: ‘Going Home to Christmas: A Jose Mari Chan Musical,’ ‘I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change,’ (male swing) and ‘Othello.’ In 2022, he was a soloist and member of the ensemble in Musikal II, the Cultural Center of the Philippines’ 53rd Anniversary Gala.

Omar Uddin and Davy Narciso

Playing the role of the psychiatrist Dr. Madden is Jef Flores. An award-winning actor and musician, Jef is known for his nuanced performances in theater and independent films. His theater credits include 9WT’s ‘Musikal nAPO’, The Sandbox Collective’s ‘Himala: Isang Musikal,’ ‘This Is Our Youth,’ and most recently, 9WT’s ‘Once On This Island.’

Jef Flores

At the helm of the production and directing the show is The Sandbox Collective’s managing artistic director, Toff De Venecia, Joining him are Ejay Yatco as musical director, Stephen Viñas as choreographer, Mark Daniel Dalacat as Production Designer/Associate Director, Elliza Dawn Aurelio as Hair & Make Up Designer, Jonas Garcia as dramaturg, Serena Magiliw as Intimacy Coach, Gabo Tolentino as Lighting Designer, Aji Manalo as Sound Designer/Engineer, and Francisco Miguel Yabut as Technical Director.

The Sandbox Collective’s Next to Normal will open in February 2025 at the Power Mac Center Spotlight Blackbox Theater. The musical will be directed by Sandbox’s managing artistic director Toff de Venecia, with musical direction by Ejay Yatco, music by Tom Kitt, and book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey.

Making its Broadway debut in 2009, Next to Normal has been credited with launching the discussion of mental health in mainstream theater, winning three Tony Awards and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama.

Next to Normal is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). New York, NY, USA. All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.MTIShows.com

For more information, follow The Sandbox Collective on Facebook, Twitter and Tiktok. You may visit our website www.thesandboxco.com and our social media platforms below:

www.facebook.com/TheSandboxCollective
www.instagram.com/thesandboxco
www.tiktok.com/@thesandboxco

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LG brings Amazon MGM Studio's holiday blockbuster Red One, now streaming on Prime Video, to LG customers

Gifting customers the ultimate cinematic experience right at home

LG Electronics (LG) announced that LG customers will now be able to stream the action-packed film of the 2024 Christmas season – Red One. Red One will be available to all customers with a Prime membership, streaming on LG Smart TVs in over 200 countries. Red One is produced by Amazon MGM Studios, Seven Bucks Productions, The Detective Agency and Chris Morgan Productions.

Available exclusively on Prime Video from today and starring Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, Chris Evans, Lucy Liu, and J.K Simmons, Red One brings new levels of holiday entertainment, best experienced on LG TVs.

After Santa Claus – Code Name: RED ONE – is kidnapped, the North Pole's Head of Security (Dwayne Johnson) must team up with the world’s most infamous bounty hunter (Chris Evans) in a globe-trotting, action-packed mission to save Christmas.

To celebrate the Red One release, LG and Prime Video are offering a first look at Red One through a series of jointly developed visuals presented on the LG.com website, in addition to online and offline sales outlets and the company’s digital billboards in London’s Piccadilly Circus and New York City’s Times Square, the latter featuring an anamorphic, three-dimensional teaser that gives passers by a taste of the film’s fast-paced thrills.

As part of this partnership, LG sponsored Red One’s US premiere, which was held at New York City’s iconic Lincoln Center in November. The premiere featured LG TVs displayed throughout the grand venue to give attendees and celebrities the opportunity to immerse themselves in the ultimate viewing experience.

The latest LG TV models deliver a cinematic, immersive experience at home, powered by industry-leading technologies. Dolby Vision® brings scenes to life in detail and clarity, while Dolby Atmos® creates a multidimensional audio experience, with sound that moves around the viewer to make them feel at the centre of the action. LG TVs also feature FILMMAKER MODETM , which helps to preserve creative integrity by presenting films the way the director intended, allowing viewers to experience Red One just as director Jake Kasdan envisioned.

Reinforcing the company's Life's Good promise, LG customers will enjoy a premium viewing experience on LG TVs, including the company's market leading OLED display , which delivers realistic and immersive viewing thanks to self-lit pixel technology.

“At LG, we’re inspired by how innovation can enrich everyday life, creating meaningful moments at home” said Chris Jo, senior vice president of the platform business at LG Media Entertainment Solution Company. “Our commitment is to help people find joy in the everyday and make lasting memories with family and friends, all while enjoying an exceptional viewing experience.

Our collaboration with Prime Video is essential to delivering the latest and best in entertainment, allowing LG customers to experience premium content directly through our TVs. We’re thrilled for LG customers to enjoy this season’s must-see Christmas blockbuster, Red One, thanks to our valued content partnership.”

“At Prime Video, we are constantly seeking out new and innovative ways to showcase our content to our global customers” said Sandhya Iyer, Global Head of Distribution and Partnerships for Prime Video.

"Thanks to our long-standing relationship with LG, we can continue to delight our mutual customers by creating immersive experiences off-screen through our marketing partnerships and on screen through the Prime Video app on LG Smart TVs.”

Following the theatrical launch of Red One in cinemas, the blockbuster film is now available to stream on Prime Video.

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Festive Celebrations at The Manila Hotel

This holiday season The Manila Hotel invites guests to embrace a festive experience that blends cherished traditions with modern flair. This year, the hotel presents a delightful array of holiday offers designed to spread joy and create lasting memories.

Café Ilang-Ilang’s Festive Buffet
Celebrate the season with an indulgent international buffet at Café Ilang-Ilang. Whether it’s Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, or New Year’s Day, diners can enjoy a culinary experience befitting the festive spirit. Prices start at Php 5,000 nett per person for lunch or dinner buffet.

Chic Celebration at the Champagne Room
Savor the holidays with an exquisite culinary experience. Indulge in a special lunch and dinner set menu on December 24 and 25, 2025, priced at Php 5,500 nett per person, featuring a choice of Oven Roasted Gindara Fillet, Grilled U.S. Beef Tenderloin, or Sous Vide Turkey Breast in Truffle Cream as the main course. On New Year’s Eve, delight in a lavish dinner buffet for Php 7,850 nett per person. On January 1, 2025, celebrate the New Year with a luxurious set menu priced at Php 6,000 nett per person, offering main course option like Oven Roasted Sea Bass, Roast Lamb Rack in Herb Crumble, Grilled Angus Rib Eye, or Grilled Kurobuta Pork Cutlet.

Red Jade’s Joyful Feast
Guests are invited to embark on a gastronomic journey through the rich flavors of traditional Chinese cuisine at Red Jade. This holiday offering features a sumptuous set menu, ideal for sharing with family and friends. Available for lunch and dinner on December 24, 25, 31, 2024, and January 1, 2025, the festive set menus, are priced atPhp 3,888 nett per person, with a minimum of four diners per table.

Festive Merrymaking at Tap Room and Lobby Lounge
Bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new with a Tapas Buffet and Beer celebration. Guests can enjoy unlimited tapas paired with two glasses of local beers or non-alcoholic drinks for Php 3,550 nett per person.Tapas selection includes a spread of assorted cold cuts, cocktail sausages, cheese board, ceviche shooters, Italian mortadella sliders, Spanish croquetas with jamon, Swedish meatballs in mushroom sauce, and crema catalana, among others. Available at Tap Room on December 31, 2024, from 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm.

Special Festive Menu at Lobby Lounge
From December 1, 2024 to January 6, 2025, excluding New Year’s Eve, the Lobby Lounge unveils its special festive menu featuring a selection of holiday-inspired a la carte dishes such as Turkey Fricassee in Mushroom Cream Sauce, Smoked Ham-Turkey Breast-Edam Cheese, Filipino-Style Christmas Ham, and Gingerbread Blondie Cookies. Available from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm, the menu offers something for everyone, making it an ideal venue for gatherings with family, friends, or colleagues.

Delicatessen Holiday Treats
The Delicatassen offers a tempting assortment of festive goodies, including wreath-shaped macarons, fruitcake, stolen bread, pralines, and Santa Claus themed chocolates. Perfect as gifts or personal indulgences, these treats add a touch of sweetness to the season. Available until January 5, 2025.

Sip into the Season
Raise a toast to the holidays with specialty drinks crafted to evoke the spirit of the season: Lotus Biscoff Frappe, a creamy blend of spiced Lotus Biscoff and smooth frappe; White Chocolate with Mocha, perfect for those seeking something sweet and luxurious; Frozen Spiced Chai, a creamy, spiced brew with gentle vanilla notes; and Christmas S’mores Cocktail, a mix of chocolatey marshmallow flavors of s’mores reminiscent of campfire memories. Available at Tap Room, Lobby Lounge, and Pool Bar until January 31, 2025, holiday beverages are priced at Php 320 each.

In-Room Dining Menu
For a more intimate celebration, The Manila Hotel’s In-Room Dining service offers specially curated holiday menus available from December 20, 2024 to January 2, 2025, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. For Php 2,650 nett, guests can choose between two delectable options—a menu that includes all-time favorite Roast Turkey and Pork Barbecue Ribs, or a menu including Filipino staples Chicken Inasal and Lechon Baboy. Each order is good for 2 persons.

Countdown to 2025
Revel in live entertainment, a dazzling ambiance, and festive décor that set the stage for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration. The Manila Hotel’s countdown party at the Grand Lobby promises an evening filled with vibrant performances by Manileños and the company of loved ones as guests welcome 2025 in style.

For inquiries and reservations, call +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500 local 1261-1264, or email restaurantrsvn@themanilahotel.com. For more information, visit www.manila-hotel.com.ph.

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Your Holiday Padala Service: pandago Delivers Everything You Need

Simplify Your Holiday Hustle with Pandago—Reliable Deliveries, Anytime, Anywhere

It's officially the start of the holiday rush, and between managing work deadlines, last-minute errands, and holiday preparations, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed—especially with the constant need to manage deliveries like gifts, documents, groceries, and treats for loved ones across the city.

With foodpanda’s instant padala service pandago, you can take the stress out of deliveries. This fast, reliable, and convenient service allows you to send packages or items with same-day delivery, available 24/7, ensuring everything arrives exactly when you need it.

Whether you’re a yuppie balancing work, personal commitments, and last-minute gift deliveries, or a small business owner managing the holiday rush and sending out important documents, pandago makes it easier.


Here’s how pandago helps you breeze through the holiday rush:

1. Last-Minute Gift Deliveries
   Made Easy pandago lets you send gifts directly to loved ones, even when you're running short on hours. pandago’s same-day service ensures your gifts arrive when they're needed most.
2. Errands Without the Hassle
   Send documents, run errands, or drop off packages without leaving home or the office—making pandago the easiest way to stay on top of your errands during the holidays.
3. Sweet Surprises for Friends and Family
   Whether it’s a souvenir or a special gift, you can have them delivered with pandago to ensure your thoughtful presents reach their destination making it easy to share the joy of the season without the hassle.
4. Local Love Delivered with pandago
   Small businesses are the heart of our community, and pandago is here to #SupportLocal! If you’re a small business owner, using pandago for your deliveries ensures your customers receive their orders on time, even during the holiday rush. foodpanda is dedicated to supporting local entrepreneurs and making sure your business shines during the holidays.
5. Celebrate Without Breaking a Sweat
   With pandago, send your homemade dishes fresh and hot. Share your meals with loved ones, knowing they’ll arrive fresh and right on time. Focus on creating memories while pandago handles the rest.

This holiday season, make pandago your trusted delivery partner. With 24/7 reliability and unbeatable convenience, pandago handles everything, from gifts to meals. As the heroes of the holidays, pandago takes the stress out of your celebrations, so you can focus on what matters most—quality time with your loved ones. Always dependable, pandago is here to take care of your delivery needs.

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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Let's DOH It Again! in both Houses on World Universal Health Care Day

HEAL PH Party-list

For the first time in Philippine history, two health reform champions unite in the upcoming 2025 elections to guarantee that quality healthcare services reach the poorest Filipino families, ensuring access to health services for all.

Dr. Jonathan David "Jondi" A. Flavier

Inspired by the legacy of the late Senator Dr. Juan Flavier (1995–2007), known for his advocacy of "Bringing a Doctor to the Senate," renowned physician Dr. Willie Ong and Dr. Jondi Flavier, first nominee of the HEALTH ALLIANCE PH (HEAL PH) Party-List 152, are both running in the May 2025 midterm elections.

Their campaign message is clear: "Let's DOH it again."

Dr. Enrique "Eric" Tayag

Alongside them are former Department of Health (DOH) Undersecretary Dr. Eric Tayag and former Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Undersecretary Major General Bennie de Leon, who joined the HEAL PH team as key nominees.

Signing of Manifesto with HEAL PH Party-list Nominees

Both Dr. Willie Ong and HEAL PH are committed to advancing the principles of Primary Health Care, as set out in the 1978 Alma Ata Declaration, and to fully supporting the Universal Health Care Act of 2019, known as "Kalusugan Pangkalahatan.”

Their shared vision, once elected, is to advocate for the G.O.A.L. program that will directly benefit the underserved Filipino communities:

G - Gamot (Free Medicine)

O - Operasyon (Free Medical Operations)

A - Abiso (Correct Health Advice)

L - Lab Tests (Free Laboratory Tests)

These initiatives will be focused on urban poor communities and remote barangays, ensuring that those who need help the most receive the care they deserve.

Dr. Willie and HEAL PH also pledged to support the Department of Health (DOH) and local government units (LGUs) in recruiting, training, and deploying more young, idealistic doctors and health workers to underserved areas, continuing the program initiated by Dr. Juan Flavier in 1993.

A key part of their platform is the promotion of Health Cards with unlimited medical coverage, which will provide vulnerable Filipinos with access to essential healthcare services from basic care to specialized treatments.

These cards will not only save lives but will also help combat fraud in healthcare facilities.

Rather than focusing on new investments, Dr. Willie and HEAL PH will prioritize optimizing and modernizing existing resources to improve government health infrastructure.

They are committed to implementing strict penalties for the misappropriation of public health funds, including making such offenses non-bailable.

Nominees of HEAL PH Party-list

The Manifesto of Solidarity and Collaboration, signed by Atty. Gilbert Lauengco, Chief of Staff for Dr. Willie Ong, was formally launched today, December 12, 2024, at Spices Restaurant, The Peninsula Manila, Makati. Dr. Jondi Flavier, Dr. Eric Tayag, General Bennie de Leon, and other HEAL PH nominees were present to witness the event.

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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.

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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.

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