BTS Fans Celebrate Members’ Birthdays at SM Malls in the East

September and October were extra exciting for BTS fans as SM Malls in the East hosted fan gatherings for RM, Jung Kook, and Jimin. Virgo Vibes: RM and Jung Kook Day Fan Gathering at SM Center Antipolo Downtown and SerendiPARK: Jimin Day Fan Gathering at SM City San Mateo drew enthusiastic BTS ARMYs for celebrations of music, fun and love for their idols.

In partnership with ARMYs of the East PH, a local BTS ARMY fanbase, these events showcased how SM Malls in the East have become safe and creative spaces for fans to express their love and connect with fellow enthusiasts. The gatherings were filled with heartfelt tributes, photo opportunities, fan interactions, that captured the joy of being part of the ARMY community.

Next on the lineup is Moon Bear: Jin and V Fan Gathering on November 30 at SM City East Ortigas. As part of the SM Fandom campaign, SM Malls in the East invites not just ARMYs but all fandoms to join the fun. Come celebrate your love for music, pop culture, and everything fandom at SM!

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LG and Cinemalaya Drive the Future of Filipino Film and Creativity

Honoring the next generation of Filipino filmmakers, LG awards the Cinemalaya 21 winners with the next generation of LG OLED AI TVs that bring every story to life

LG Electronics Philippines proudly joins hands with Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival as Major Sponsor, further solidifying its commitment to empowering Filipino artistry and innovation. This year’s theme, “Cinemalaya 21: Layag sa Alon, Hangin, at Unos”, continues the festival’s legacy of celebrating Filipino independent films and supporting new filmmakers, keeping Philippine cinema vibrant with stories that reflect and capture real Filipino life. Since its launch in 2005, Cinemalaya has become one of the country’s most respected film festivals, providing a platform for filmmakers to share inspiring and meaningful stories.

This partnership reflects LG’s commitment to empowering creativity and the arts through technology, continuously supporting film, design, and visual storytelling that celebrate human imagination. In recognition of outstanding Filipino filmmaking, LG Electronics Philippines awarded LG OLED evo AI C5 TVs to this year’s winning filmmakers.

Best Film (Full Length) - Bloom Where You Are Planted by Noni Abao

The winners of Cinemalaya 21 reflected diversity of Filipino cinema, with 10 full-length features and 10 short films competing in this year’s festival, each offering a unique perspective and voice. The most celebrated film, Best Film (Full Length), was awarded to “Bloom Where You Are Planted” by Noni Abao, a documentary that follows Agnes, Amanda, and Randy, three land rights advocates from Cagayan Valley whose stories embody resilience, hope, and purpose. Amid their disrupted ties to home, the film celebrates their enduring spirit and unyielding will to protect and uplift their communities.

Best Film (Short Film) - The Next 24 Hours by Carl Joseph Papa

Best Film (Short Film) went to “The Next 24 Hours” by Carl Joseph Papa. An animated film that follows Sheila, a young woman whose strength and spirit are tested over the course of a single day. Through expressive visuals and heartfelt storytelling, the film offers an intimate look at the challenges of facing unwanted attention and asserting her independence in a society that often overlooks women’s experiences, capturing courage, resilience, and the quiet determination to stay strong.

NETPAC Award (Full Length) - Republika ng Pipolipinas by Renei Dimla

The NETPAC Award at Cinemalaya, presented by the Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema, recognizes films with outstanding artistic merit that contribute to the growth and visibility of Asian cinema. The NETPAC Award (Full Length) went to “Republika ng Pipolipinas” by Renei Dimla, a striking mockumentary centered on Cora Vitug, a farmer who establishes her own community built on empowerment and self-determination. The story highlights that what truly makes a nation great is not its land or history, but the courage of its people, those who continue to dream, create, and stand for change.

NETPAC Award (Short Film) - Hasang by Daniel de la Cruz

The NETPAC Award (Short Film) went to “Hasang” by Daniel de la Cruz, a tender and poetic story that blends myth and memory through the eyes of Boni, a young boy who witnesses his grandmother’s quiet transformation. The film beautifully captures a journey of letting go and embracing mystical truths, revealing the deep interconnectedness of all beings in a world slowly changing around them.

LG OLED evo AI TV's Perfect Black technology

With the LG OLED evo AI TV’s Perfect Black technology, every shadow and contrast is rendered with UL-verified true blacks, allowing viewers to fully appreciate the depth and emotion in dramatic scenes. The a11 AI Processor 4K Gen2 ensures next-level visual detail, upscaling every frame and recognizing faces to enhance expressions and depth, bringing characters and stories to life exactly as the filmmaker intended.

LG OLED evo AI TV's Perfect Color technology

Brightness Booster Ultimate adds clarity even in bright environments, while Perfect Color guarantees 100% Color Volume and Color Fidelity, that every hue, from subtle tones to vivid landscapes, is displayed with accuracy and vibrancy. AI Picture Pro takes it further by analyzing each frame to enhance resolution, brightness, depth, and clarity, making even the smallest details stand out, ideal for filmmakers who want to see every element of their work in full detail. Completing the experience, the AI Magic Remote allows easy control with gestures or voice commands, letting users navigate effortlessly through film libraries, review footage, or explore creative content with ease.

LG OLED evo AI TV

The films featured in this year’s Cinemalaya Festival are a powerful showcase of the craft, passion, and vision of Filipino filmmakers. When paired with the right technology, these masterpieces come alive with emotion and precision. Every frame, expression, and subtle detail of light and shadow captures the story’s intent and brings out the depth and beauty within it. Life’s Good when every story captivates and leaves a lasting impact.

Life isn’t just about having the latest technology—it’s about the meaningful experiences it creates and the impact it brings to our everyday lives. Discover more at www.lg.com/ph/tv-soundbars/ and stay connected by following LG Philippines (@lgphilippines) on https://www.linkedin.com/company/lg-electronics-philippines-inc/, www.facebook.com/LGPhilippines/, www.instagram.com/lgphilippines/ and www.tiktok.com/@lgphilippines.

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Historical Biopic “Quezon” Sets Worldwide Release

Jericho Rosales as Manuel Quezon

TBA Studios has officially announced the global rollout of “Quezon”, the highly anticipated Filipino historical biopic starring Jericho Rosales and “Game of Thrones” star Iain Glen. The film will premiere in the Philippines on October 15, with international screenings to follow:

QUEZON Worldwide Screening Dates:

• Philippines – October 15
• Australia & New Zealand – October 30
• North America, Guam, & Canada – October 31
• Middle East – November 20

Additional countries and screening dates to be announced soon.

Set against the backdrop of a nation on the brink of independence, “Quezon” follows Manuel L. Quezon’s (Rosales) strategic rise to power, navigating intense rivalries and political alliances to win the 1935 presidential elections. The film explores his clashes with figures such as Leonard Wood (Glen), Sergio Osmeña, and Emilio Aguinaldo, painting a gripping portrait of a leader who reshaped Philippine history.

Jericho Rosales (Quezon) and Mon Confiado (Aguinaldo)

The star-studded cast includes Benjamin Alves as young Quezon, Mon Confiado as Aguinaldo, Arron Villaflor and Cris Villanueva as Joven Hernando, Romnick Sarmenta as Sergio Osmeña, Karylle as Aurora Quezon, JC Santos, Jake Macapagal, Bodjie Pascua, Angeli Bayani, Jojit Lorenzo, Joross Gamboa, Therese Malvar, Ana Abad Santos, Ketchup Eusebio, and Nico Locco.

Karylle Tatlonghari (Aurora Quezon) and Jericho Rosales (Manuel Quezon)

TBA Studios revealed that they had been approached by several international distributors, with ABS-CBN International securing the exclusive theatrical distribution rights for “Quezon” in key overseas territories.

“We’re thrilled that ‘Quezon’ will finally be seen by Filipinos around the world—and not just by the Filipino community, but also by fans of historical and political cinema,” said producer Daphne Chiu-Soon. “This is a world-class production made for the big screen, and we’re proud to share this important story with a global audience.”

Helmed by award-winning director Jerrold Tarog, “Quezon” marks the end of the film studio’s cinematic “Bayaniverse” trilogy, a series of films based on Philippine history that includes 2015’s “Heneral Luna,” the Philippines’ highest-grossing historical movie of all time; and 2018’s critically acclaimed “Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral.”

“Quezon” is produced by TBA Studios, with support from the Film Development Council of the Philippines and CreatePHFilms.

For updates and international screening details, follow TBA Studios on social media or visit their official website.

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"Romeo and Juliet, The Musical" all set to open on October 22 and 23

 The timeless tragedy of Romeo and Juliet comes alive this October as Kids Acts Philippines and MINT College proudly present “Romeo and Juliet, The Musical”—a fresh take on William Shakespeare’s most famous love story. The show will run on October 22 and 23, 2025 at St. Cecilia’s Hall, St. Scholastica’s College, Manila.

Adapted and given new lyrical life by Luigi Nacario, with music by Eugene Belbis and stage direction by Meldrig Costuna and Luigi Nacario, this production is designed especially for young audiences. True to the original folio, the staging will feature classic period costumes and sets while weaving in a unique blend of Western and Eastern musical influences. Shakespeare’s text remains intact, but with a simplified presentation that allows students and young theatergoers to fully appreciate the poetic language.

The production tells the legendary tale of two star-crossed lovers from rival families—the Montagues and the Capulets—whose romance blossoms amid a bitter feud in Verona. From their first fateful meeting to the heartbreaking finale, “Romeo and Juliet” explores the intensity of young love and the devastating cost of hatred.

This musical features a talented ensemble led by Noel Comia Jr. as Romeo, with Chelsea Sangco and AC Gamo alternating as Juliet. They are joined by a stellar cast including Ces Dela Cruz-Guevara, Faith Cabebe, Carlo Fabillar, Jhonsen Bognot, Terence Guillermo, Ivan Parcero, Bien Juni, and many more, along with a strong chorus of understudies and child narrators.

Noel Comia Jr.

“Romeo and Juliet, The Musical” promises to be both a literary and theatrical treat—an engaging introduction to Shakespeare for students and a vibrant reimagining for theater lovers of all ages.

📅 Regular Run: October 22–23, 2025 (2:00 PM & 6:00 PM)
📍 Venue: St. Cecilia’s Hall, St. Scholastica’s College, Manila
🎟️ Ticket Price: Php 1,200

Tickets are available via Ticket2Me. For inquiries, text/call 0945 148 8292 or email kidsactsphilippines@yahoo.com.ph. Follow Kids Acts Philippines on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) at @KidsActs, and Instagram at @kidsactsphilippines.

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Killer Monkey Mayhem: Primate Wins Over Horror Fans with Gnarly Practical Effects

The horror world is going wild for Primate — a blood-soaked, old-school creature feature that made a ferocious splash at Fantastic Fest this September. Directed by Johannes Roberts and starring Johnny Sequoyah, Jessica Alexander, and Troy Kotsur, the film thrilled horror fans with its gnarly kills and impressive use of practical effects. It opens in Philippine cinemas this January 2026.

Watch the trailer here:

Early festival reactions have been electric. Fans at Fantastic Fest and Beyond Fest raved about the film’s unapologetically brutal approach and its commitment to practical FX over CGI. “Primate does for monkeys what Jaws did for sharks—only with more fur, sharper teeth, and a far greater sense of blood and guts,” wrote Bryan Kluger of Boomstick. The Holo Files called it “Cujo for chimpanzees,” praising its “gnarly kills balanced with hilarious moments.”

Audience reactions echoed the same energy, calling it a wild, crowd-pleasing ride that had entire theaters screaming, laughing, and squirming in their seats. JoBlo highlighted its “shocking kills and crowd-inciting moments,” while According to Seth described it as “pure carnage” and “a reminder never to have a pet monkey.” Cody Leach called it “the most fun I’ve had with an animal attack movie since Lake Placid.”

Primate follows a group of friends whose tropical getaway turns into a primal nightmare when their pet chimpanzee unleashes chaos. What starts as fun in the sun spirals into a bloodbath of survival as the group fights for their lives.

Produced by Walter Hamada and written by Johannes Roberts & Ernest Riera, the film combines old-school monster movie thrills with a wicked sense of humor, making it a standout in the creature feature genre.

Get ready to go bananas when Primate swings into Philippine cinemas in January 2026.

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The Manila Hotel named the Philippines’ Leading Hotel at the World Travel Awards anew

The Manila Hotel once again earns international recognition as it is named the Philippines’ Leading Hotel 2025 at the 32nd World Travel Awards Asia & Oceania Gala Ceremony, held on October 13, 2025, at the InterContinental Grand Stanford Hong Kong.

Following its 2024 win, this consecutive victory reaffirms The Manila Hotel’s enduring excellence and its stature as the country’s premier luxury landmark. The World Travel Awards—often regarded as the “Oscars of the travel industry”—honor organizations that set new standards of excellence in travel, tourism, and hospitality worldwide.

Grand Lobby

Champagne Room

Cafe Ylang-ylang

Accepting the award was Atty. Jose D. Lina, Jr., President of The Manila Hotel, who expressed deep gratitude for the international recognition.

“To be named the Philippines’ Leading Hotel once is already a distinct honor, but to receive this award for the second consecutive year is truly humbling,” said Atty. Lina. “This recognition belongs to our people—the heart and soul of The Manila Hotel—whose passion and dedication continue to define Filipino hospitality at its finest. For 113 years, The Manila Hotel has stood as a symbol of heritage and excellence, and this honor further inspires us to uphold that legacy as we continue to elevate the experience of our guests.”

A Legacy That Looks Ahead
With this back-to-back win, The Manila Hotel further cements its place as a national icon of heritage and prestige. As it continues to evolve, the hotel remains committed to enhancing every guest experience. Rooted in history, thriving in the present, and focused on the future, The Manila Hotel stands as a living symbol of Filipino pride.

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The Running Man releases new trailer and posters

The stakes are higher than ever in The Running Man — the explosive new thriller from director Edgar Wright, the visionary filmmaker behind Baby Driver, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, and Shaun of the Dead. Starring Glen Powell (Top Gun: Maverick, Twisters), this high-octane adaptation of The Running Man hits Philippine cinemas on November 12, 2025. Check out the posters and latest trailer:

 

Set in a near-future dystopia, The Running Man revolves around the most-watched TV show on the planet—a brutal competition where contestants, known as Runners, must survive 30 days while being hunted by professional assassins. Every moment is broadcast live to a bloodthirsty public, with each passing day raising the stakes and the prize money. Watch the trailer below:

Powell plays Ben Richards, a working-class man driven to desperation by his daughter’s illness. He’s lured into the deadly game by its charming but ruthless producer Dan Killian, played by Josh Brolin. What begins as a last resort quickly turns into a rebellion: Ben’s defiance and grit turn him into an unlikely hero and a threat to the entire system. As ratings soar, the danger escalates, and Ben must outsmart both the Hunters and a nation addicted to watching him fall.

The film also stars William H. Macy, Lee Pace, Michael Cera, Emilia Jones, Daniel Ezra, Jayme Lawson, Sean Hayes, Katy O’Brian, Colman Domingo, and Josh Brolin.

Produced by Simon Kinberg, Nira Park, and Edgar Wright, The Running Man is based on the novel by Stephen King. It’s a gripping, adrenaline-fueled story about survival, spectacle, and the price of entertainment in a world that’s forgotten its humanity.

The Running Man opens exclusively in Philippine cinemas on November 12, 2025. Watch the trailer now and get ready for the game of your life.

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