DENR-EMB launches back-to-back events to promote sustainable energy and better air quality

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) – Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) launches its very first solar rooftop panels alongside it’s the newly-installed LED (Light-Emitting Diode) board as part of its campaign to promote clean energy and clean air.

DENR Secretary Ramon JP Paje unveiled the 100-kilowatt (kW) “Solar Project,” a solar rooftop program for government agencies in partnership with state-owned Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC) at the rooftop of the EMB’s Environmental Research and Laboratory Services Division building.

According to Paje, the solar panel facility will allow the DENR to generate approximately 140,000 kWh of electricity per year which in turn, can generate savings of about P1,400,000 per year for government offices.

“It’s a win-win situation for us. We get to maximize clean energy for our electricity use and at the same time earn savings from this partnership. Solar power is clearly one of the most important solutions to the global warming crisis. And as a source of renewable energy, it emits no harmful gases, reduces the emissions of carbon and greenhouse gases, and therefore, mitigates global warming and climate change,” he said.

In 2015, PNOC has so far inaugurated similar facilities in two government agencies in Quezon City (Department of Science and Technology [DoST] and the Philippine Heart Center).

Meanwhile, Paje also switched on DENR’s first LED board located at the DENR-EMB grounds in Visayas Avenue, Quezon City as part of the Department’s intensified public information campaign to share how clean or unhealthy the air is.

The updates which are already uploaded daily in the official website of the DENR-EMB will be shown on the LED board with additional health information on the effects the public may experience based on their exposure to air pollution.

“The DENR is visited by its clients all the time and they can greatly benefit from the monitoring data provided by the 17 air quality monitoring stations scattered all over Metro Manila. This will make their visits in the Department more interesting and informative,” Paje said.

Globe Telecom changes landscape of PH entertainment with Globe Studios, Globe Live, new content partnerships and broadband plans

The country’s number one mobile brand, Globe Telecom, is changing the landscape of Philippine entertainment with the creation of Globe Studios and Globe Live which are designed to produce original shows, live events, and engaging world-class content that are fit for today’s discerning customers. 

At the same time, Globe reveals the line-up of its new international content partners and improved broadband plans for a complete and immersive entertainment lifestyle.

Darren Conquers Singapore

Darren Espanto, the so-called Total Performer, is not only making waves in the Philippines but has been conquering the international scene as well. The most recent, in Singapore.

This kid with amazing pipes recently had a promo tour from June 16 to 19 in Singapore, as his sophomore album "Be With Me" was released in the Lion City under Universal Music Singapore. Darren's day started with radio tours at Singapore's top English stations 987FM and Power 98 as well as a Press Conference at Ngee Ann Polytechnic where he was joined by US singer Greyson Chance and Malaysian girl group De Fam. The next day was spent with interviews with Singapore media then an explosive performance at Universal Music Singapore’s private event where he performed alongside Universal Music artists Greyson Chance (United States), De Fam (Malaysia), Micapella (Singapore) and Gentle Bones (Singapore). He opened the show for Greyson Chance for “A Rooftop Affair” event at MyVillage@Serangoon on the 18th and on the 19th, he formally launched his album “Be With Me” via an album signing session at Junction 8 Mall. Darrenatics in Singapore lined up to have their albums signed till stocks were sold out, as the retailer had to accommodate preorders for the album for fans who wanted to see Darren in the flesh.

Alexander Skarsgard, the Wild One in "Legend of Tarzan"

Swedish actor Alexander Skarsgård maintains a fearless pursuit of challenging roles, evolving with each new project, and is fast becoming one of Hollywood’s most in-demand actors for both the big and small screen. He headlines his biggest studio film yet with Warner Bros. Pictures' new action-adventure, “The Legend of Tarzan” (opening in Philippine cinemas on Thursday, June 30.)

Skarsgard plays John Clayton III, fifth Earl of Greystoke, and a member of England's House of Lords. But half a world away, and what seems like a lifetime ago, he had gone by another name…a name that has since become legend. Tarzan.

SMART announces free mobile live streaming of the inauguration of PH's first 'Social Media President’ via freenet

Filipinos will be able to watch the livestreaming of the June 30 inauguration of Rodrigo Duterte as the 16th President of the Republic of the Philippines, on mobile and for free.

Smart, TNT and Sun subscribers nationwide will be able to do this using freenet, the free data platform of Voyager Innovations, the digital innovations unit of PLDT and Smart Communications (Smart), in cooperation with Cignal TV.

Subscribers only need to download the freenet mobile app from the Google Play Store or the SafeZone app from the Apple App Store to view the free mobile livestream of Duterte’s inauguration on June 30 and take part in the historic event no matter where they may be in the country.

The occasion also marks the launch of the new freenet brand for Voyager’s sponsored data platform, previously called SafeZone. Through freenet, users will continue to be able to access select apps and websites for free by downloading the freenet app on their phones and never worry about unintended data charges. About 70 brands and enterprises are already using the freenet platform to allow their users to access their sites and apps for free.

“INDEPENDENCE DAY: RESURGENCE” Invades Box-Office With P100 Million Opening Weekend

Blockbuster filmmaker Roland Emmerich’s latest alien-invasion action epic “Independence Day: Resurgence” won the local (Phils.) box-office war when it opened with a whopping PhP 100 million nationwide on its opening weekend.  “Independence Day: Resurgence” surpassed its blockbuster predecessor’s (“Independence Day”) feat by more than 200% for its opening weekend. 

“Independence Day: Resurgence” is currently in 2D, 3D and IMAX 3D screens across the nation and has recorded outstanding gross receipts in the following top twenty (20) theaters.  Among the top 20 highest grossing cinemas include: SM MALL OF ASIA (4.4 million),; SM MEGAMALL (3.8M); SM NORTH EDSA (3.3M); TRINOMA (3.3M); GLORIETTA4 (2.3M); POWERPLANT (2.2 M); GATEWAY/ ALI MALL (1.97M);  GREENBELT 3 (1.95M); BONIFACIO HIGH STREET (1.64M); ALABANG TOWN CENTER (1.58M); SM CEBU (1.57M); SM CLARK (1.43M); SM AURA (1.42M); THEATREMALL (1.41M); UPTOWN (1.4M); SHANG CINEPLEX (1.33M); AYALA CEBU (1.32M); EASTWOOD (1.18M); SM SOUTHMALL (1.16M) and NEWPORT (1.13M). This covered the first five day period  June 22 -27.            

“SUICIDE INCORPORATED” --- A Play To Help Raise Awareness All Set To Open On July 15

How can a theater company help raise mental health awareness by staging a play that tackles the theme of depression, suicidal tendencies and suicide itself?

Catch Twin Bill Theater’s eye-opening production aimed to shed light and raise awareness on mental health issues to its audiences in “SUICIDE INCORPORATED”--- a 2010 tragicomedy by brilliant Off- Broadway playwright Andrew Hinderaker.


Imagine a world where a company that edits suicide notes exists. Now imagine being part of that company. SUICIDE INCORPORATED centers around a company that makes money by drafting suicide notes. The business is Hallmark gone Wall Street, turning a profit by bullishly pushing its clients to perform the unspeakable. The CEO speaks, in an advertiser’s tongue, about cornering the market by targeting those suicide victims least likely to leave notes: Men. It turns out all these men are emotional mice when it comes to discussing matters of the self.

Hanks Must Stop Global Plague in New "Inferno" Trailer‏

“Dark days of hell isn't fiction. It's prophecy.” So starts the latest trailer of Columbia Pictures & IMAGINE Entertainment's new action-thriller “Inferno” starring Tom Hanks as symbologist Robert Langdon who must solve a deadly puzzle to avert a global plague.

The trailer may be viewed at https://youtu.be/aefSlgZhxVo.

“Inferno” is the third film in the studio's Robert Langdon series (including “The Da Vinci Code” and “Angels & Demons”).

Tim Burton Produces, James Bobin Directs "Alice Through the Looking Glass"‏

James Bobin (“The Muppets”) directs Disney's “Alice Through the Looking Glass,” bringing his own unique vision to the spectacular world Tim Burton created on screen with 2010's “Alice in Wonderland” which became a global blockbuster (to the tune of over $1-billion gross) and cultural sensation.

For years the producers of “Alice in Wonderland” talked of a second film. Explains producer Suzanne Todd, “We had discussions about what would be interesting thematically and what we wanted the story to convey, but we just weren’t there yet.”

Screenwriter Linda Woolverton (“Beauty and the Beast,” “The Lion King”) had been working on a follow-up to her “Alice in Wonderland” screenplay, and soon delivered a clever script which continued the adventures of Lewis Carroll’s vibrant characters and infused them with imagination and heart. Todd shares, “Linda had written a new story told through the prism of the book about the characters and what had happened since we last saw them, as well as what happened to them in the past, and everyone loved it.”

Kristen Wiig, from "The Martian" to "Ghostbusters"‏

Coming off an acclaimed turn in the Oscar-nominated “The Martian,” top American comedienne Kristen Wiig stars as Erin Gilbert, a particle physicist, academic firebrand and spectral warrior in Columbia Pictures' new action-adventure “Ghostbusters” (coming to Philippine cinemas July 15).

Watch the “Ghostbusters” Character Vignette Erin (Kristen Wiig) at http://youtu.be/rHeyB6cN2bw.

“Ghostbusters” makes its long-awaited return, rebooted with a cast of hilarious new characters. Thirty years after the beloved original franchise took the world by storm, director Paul Feig brings his fresh take to the supernatural comedy, joined by some of the funniest actors working today – Melissa McCarthy, Kristen Wiig, Kate McKinnon, Leslie Jones, and Chris Hemsworth. This July, they’re here to save the world!

Julie Anne Takes a Birthday Break With Kids at Dreamplay

It has been a busy time for Julie Anne San Jose. From a busy 2015 with album launch, and the teleseryes she made with GMA, and recently finished her concert last May at the Kia Theater. Now she is celebrating her 22nd birthday doing another charity work as her way of giving back to people. 

She celebrated her birthday at the amazing grounds of Dreamplay located inside City of Dreams with the kids from Virlane Foundation. The amusement center  is filled with rides and activities inspired by Animated Dreamworks movies like Shrek, Dragons, and Madagascar. 

Star Movies Goes Move-A-Thon Dancing Up To 24 Hours!

Star Movies always makes something interesting every year with constant theme of going on marathons. In the past years, there has been events that invites viewers to take the challenge like the Movie Marathon, the Scare-A-Thon, and for 2016, they wanted a little more jive with Star Movies Move-A-Thon.

Move-A-Thon, a movie marathon that required non-stop dancing from contenders who wanted to be declared the Philippines’ ultimate film lovers. Groups of avid film viewers shimmied and shook their “groove thang” for up to 24 hours straight while watching the best and most popular movie musicals of all time—all for the chance to win the grand prize of PHP200,000.

"The Purge: Election Year" Welcomes World to Join Bloodbath in New Trailer‏

A great American tradition welcomes the world to participate, in the latest trailer of Universal Pictures' “The Purge: Election Year” which may we viewed at http://youtu.be/LreZsVNeGA0.

In the trailer, the annual Purge has now been opened to foreigners, triggering the arrival of “murder tourists” eager to take part in the bloodbath.

Expanding the universe introduced in the hit franchise that electrified the culture and earned $200 million at the worldwide box office, “The Purge: Election Year” reveals the next terrifying chapter that occurs over 12 hours of annual lawlessness sanctioned by the New Founders of America to keep this country great.

It’s been two years since Leo Barnes (Frank Grillo) stopped himself from a regrettable act of revenge on Purge Night. Now serving as head of security for Senator Charlie Roan (Elizabeth Mitchell), his mission is to protect her in a run for president and survive the annual ritual that targets the poor and innocent. But when a betrayal forces them onto the streets of D.C. on the one night when no help is available, they must stay alive until dawn…or both be sacrificed for their sins against the state.

Samuel L. Jackson Plays Real-Life Unsung Hero in "Legend of Tarzan"

Iconic actor Samuel L. Jackson stars in Warner Bros. Pictures’ “The Legend of Tarzan” as George Washington Williams, a real-life but relatively unsung hero from 19th-century American history who becomes Tarzan’s unexpected ally in the film.

“George Washington Williams was a man of so many talents and such bravery – to be this 14-year-old kid and go off to fight in the war between the States,” Jackson details. “And he went on to run for office, became a preacher, and did so many other things. So it was an opportunity to let people know that there was this man, historically, who actually went to the Congo and wrote a letter to King Leopold II about what he was doing to its population. Hopefully, people will see this movie and dig out their phones – or, as we used to say, ‘go to the library’ – and Google George Washington Williams and find out what actually transpired in the Congo.”

MediCard offers food intolerance testing

Do you feel bloated or suffer headaches after eating certain food items? Your body may be “secretly” reacting to the food you have just eaten. It is also possible that some of the recurring health issues you have been experiencing are caused by certain food that your body cannot tolerate.

According to Dr. Nicky Montoya, president of MediCard Philippines, a leading health maintenance organization, “food intolerance, unlike food allergy, manifests symptoms gradually, usually 72 hours to a few days after eating the offending food. It may cause different inflammatory symptoms which may affect different organs of the body and manifests as weight gain, bloating, migraine, body aches and pains including joint pains, PMS, depression etc. These can also become worse over time and may lead to more serious health problems, such as heart disease, cancer and the likes, if ignored.” Due to food intolerance’ delayed onset to manifest in the body, it is difficult to trace the root cause which is often just the food you are intolerant to.

Too Much Love? : Steps to Prevent Overfeeding and Pet Obesity

Pet owners adore their furry companions and treat them just like a part of their family. Pets indeed have their unique ways to make their pet parents feel special, and owners reciprocate the love and affection through belly rubs, cuddles, and hearty meals and treats. Food can be a great way to strengthen a bond with a pet, but what most pet lovers don’t recognize is the tendency to overfeed.

Paired with insufficient exercise, overfeeding is a primary cause of obesity. An overweight pet means that it is consuming more calories than it actually needs which can severely lower the pet’s quality of life. The danger lies in several factors which include the nutritional inadequacy of foods given to pets, the frequency of feeding, and the lack of physical activity. When obesity strikes, the pet can be vulnerable to the risk of osteoarthritis, diabetes, certain cancers, heart and respiratory diseases, and other illnesses.

Bocsh Grew by 35% in 2015!

Bosch, a leading global supplier of technology and services, closed its 2015 fiscal year with USD 50 million (45 million euros) in consolidated sales in the Philippines. Compared to the previous year, the company achieved a strong double-digit growth of over 35 percent, marking the second consecutive year in which the Philippines was one of the fastest-growing markets for Bosch in Southeast Asia. This momentum was driven by a strong performance across the company’s diverse portfolio of products offered in the country and particularly related to power tools, security systems, and the automotive aftermarket business. Furthermore, Bosch’s Drive and Control business division officially commenced operations in the Philippines in April 2015. Over the course of the year, Bosch increased its workforce in the Philippines by over 50 percent to around 460 associates.


“Along with our expansion efforts in the Philippines, I am confident that our strength in innovation will continue to drive our growth”, said Andrew Powell, managing director of Bosch in the Philippines. “It is a very exciting time to be in Southeast Asia right now, particularly with the Philippines contributing strongly to Bosch’s growth in the region.”

Big Reveal of Jesus Marks New "Ben-Hur" Trailer‏

The new trailer of Paramount Pictures' new epic, action-adventure “Ben-Hur” is now online, and proudly showcases its Christ-centric tone. The trailer may be viewed at http://youtu.be/-OE46mqgXqo.

Written by Keith Clarke and John Ridley, “Ben-Hur” stars Jack Huston (HBO's “Boardwalk Empire”), Toby Kebbell (“The Prince of Persia”), Morgan Freeman, and also starring Rodrigo Santoro (“300”) as Jesus, Nazanin Boniadi (TV's “Homeland”), Ayelet Zurer (“Angels and Demons”), and Sofia Black D’Elia (“Project Almanac”).

"Fantastic Beasts" Featurette Introduces Newt Scamander‏

For its upcoming adventure “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them,” Warner Bros. Pictures has just shared a new featurette titled “Newt Scamander: A New Hero for a New Era of Magic” which may be viewed at https://youtu.be/d_Z-lr_YUcE.

In this featurette, we learn more about Scamander and his personality. We also learn a bit about how the magical world operates in North America, specifically with regards to interactions between wizards and muggles (or as they’re called in America, “no-maj”).

Don't Mess with Tom Cruise in "Jack Reacher: Never Go Back" Trailer‏

Tom Cruise returns as best-selling author Lee Child‘s one-man vigilante in the just-released action-packed trailer for “Jack Reacher: Never Go Back.” The Paramount Picture is due in Philippine cinemas this October. Watch the trailer here at http://youtu.be/gMzBfZx1M7M.

The follow-up to 2012's “Jack Reacher” finds the titular character returning to his roots, uncovering duplicitous officials and people of power, until he discovers that the women chosen to take over his role as head of the MP (Cobie Smulders), has been arrested for espionage.

Curse Of The “WORRY DOLLS” Begins June 29 In Cinemas

The Guatemalan Indians teach their children an old story. If you have worries, you share them with your Worry Dolls at bedtime. You put the dolls in a box and come dawn, the worries have been taken away.

In the upcoming horror movie of the same title, “Worry Dolls” is set in a peaceful town where a series of brutal murders sees a detective racing against time to save his daughter.  A brutal serial killer is finally gunned down in the middle of carrying out one last heinous act of bloody murder. In the maniac’s possession, a box of Guatemalan talismans, which mistakenly end up being sold as charm jewelry in Chloe’s Collectables thrift shop. Soon those who bought the Worry Dolls begin to act strangely out of character and cause another rash of senseless slaughter. An ancient curse is consuming the city and pits a hardened detective against the clock to save his 8 year-old daughter’s life.

“Worry Dolls” opens in cinemas June 29 to be distributed by Silverline, Inc.

PRISON MAYHEM IN ACTION-PACKED “RIOT” ON JUNE 29

It’s payback time in the action-packed “Riot” starring Matthew Reese along with veteran actor Dolph Lundgren about a man who deliberately throws himself into prison to kill another prisoner who murdered his wife.

Jack Stone (Reese) purposefully orchestrates a bank robbery in order to be thrown into prison with the notorious Russian kingpin, Balam (Chuck Lidell).  More than just a mob criminal, Balam is  a very cunning and dangerous lord who controls the police force from behind bars. His cell is a lavish private room built specifically for him, inaccessible to most in the depths of the prison structure.  However, Stone eventually finds an ally with a fellow prisoner played by Lundgren. Surrounded by his loyal henchmen and guards in his sectioned off fortress, Balam doesn't know Jack is coming for him to avenge his family, whom Balam murdered in cold blood. 

“Riot” opens in cinemas on June 29 from CrystalSky Multimedia.  Check out the film’s trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FZKW5V8hW5o

Darren Espanto Launches New Album And Upcoming Concert


Darren Espanto has finally moved into another level now as a teenager with more projects and a growing fanbase all over the world. Many can still remember when he got his biggest break with The Voice Kids, but he also had a much earlier career from his hometown Calgary, Canada and moved to Manila for a dream paid off.

Now he has a Platinum award for his debut album “Darren”, 3 #1 singles, countless awards from prestigious award giving bodies in the Philippines and concerts and gigs left and right are just some of Darren’s achievements. Add to that, he was noticed by international artists Nicki Minaj, Ashton Kutcher and Fantasia Barrino for his viral videos of him singing in a radio station bus showcasing his powerful vocals. 

Blockbuster Filmmaker Chris Columbus Produces “THE YOUNG MESSIAH”

At the heels of blockbuster movies from Chris Columbus such as “Gremlins,” “Home Alone 1 & 2,” “Mrs. Doubtfire,” “Percy Jackson” films and the “Harry Potter” franchise is the faith-based epic “The Young Messiah” which he produced under the direction of Cyrus Nowrasteh.

Columbus once again demonstrates his acumen for nurturing and cultivating young talents in “The Young Messiah,” replicating his feat from the highly successful “Harry Potter” franchise by casting then unknown talents such as Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint in lead roles.   Columbus now brings the young Adam Greaves-Neal at the center of “The Young Messiah” as the child Jesus along with an impressive supporting cast that includes Sean Bean, Sara Lazarro, Vincent Walsh, Clive Russell, Jonathan Bailey and Christian McKay. 

New Team of "Ghostbusters" Answers Call of the Haunted‏

More than 30 years after the first film debuted… more than 25 years after ghosts were last busted on screen… the long wait is finally over. “Ghostbusters” is returning to theaters, with a new team and new characters in a new adventure.

The new film began with director Paul Feig, who, as the creator of “Freaks and Geeks” and the director of “Bridesmaids,” “The Heat,” and “Spy,” has built an impressive comedy resume of some of recent years’ most successful, groundbreaking, and memorable comedies. Given the opportunity to reboot the franchise, it was Feig who saw a way to bring one of his personal comedy influences into the 21st century.

"Legend" Shows "Tarzan" Like You've Never Seen Before‏

First appearing in the 1912 story Tarzan of the Apes, Edgar Rice Burroughs’ Tarzan has remained one of the most enduring characters of 20th-century popular culture. The legendary “lord of the apes” has inspired films, TV serials, radio plays, stage productions, comics and video games.

But what the filmmakers of the upcoming action adventure “The Legend of Tarzan” found in the new script by Adam Cozad and Craig Brewer was a fresh and entirely new take on the legend. “It has great characters, romance, humor and fabulous action,” says David Barron, who is producing the film (with Jerry Weintraub, as well as Alan Riche and Tony Ludwig). “It’s a large-scope, audience-friendly film, but with a thinking mind and a beating heart.”

Beauty Powercouple Manny and Pie Calayan Expands With A New Branch In Cebu!

It has been a while since we seen the most known couple in the beauty business, Manny and Pie Calayan are excited to reach to more customers this year by expanding their reach beyond Metro Manila. They announced that they will be opening their first provincial branch located at SM Seaside City Cebu on July 3. 

Known to be the trusted brand of many celebrities and has paved the way to revolutionary procedures in the Philippines, the couple attracted a lot of clientele with their services. It is also serves a comeback for the couple since Dr. Pie went to the United States to take care of their children finishing college. One of their children have a degree in Alternative Medicine which will soon be integrated to their business.

"Alice Through the Looking Glass" Reunites Quirky Characters‏

The colorful characters inhabiting Underland in Disney’s “Alice Through the Looking Glass” are brought back to life by the all-star cast from the original “Alice in Wonderland.”

In “Alice Through the Looking Glass,” an all-new spectacular adventure featuring the unforgettable characters from Lewis Carroll’s beloved stories, Alice returns to the whimsical world of Underland and travels back in time to save the Mad Hatter.

Johnny Depp (the “Pirates of the Caribbean” films) returns as Hatter Tarrant Hightopp, better known as the Mad Hatter, whom Alice finds more mad than usual upon her return to Underland. Desperate to find out what has happened to his family, he is out of his mind with grief when Alice first arrives.

Damon, Vikander Wield Guns in New "Jason Bourne" Poster

Universal Pictures has just unveiled a new international poster for the highly anticipated sequel, “Jason Bourne” opening across the Philippines July 27. (Watch the new TV Spot here at http://youtu.be/NhSOm7tmTfs.)

Matt Damon returns to his most iconic role in “Jason Bourne.” Paul Greengrass, the director of “The Bourne Supremacy” and “The Bourne Ultimatum,” once again joins Damon for the next chapter of Universal Pictures’ Bourne franchise, which finds the CIA’s most lethal former operative drawn out of the shadows.

For “Jason Bourne,” Damon is joined by Alicia Vikander, Vincent Cassel and Tommy Lee Jones, while Julia Stiles reprises her role in the series. Frank Marshall again produces alongside Jeffrey Weiner for Captivate Entertainment, and Greengrass, Damon, Gregory Goodman and Ben Smith also produce. Based on characters created by Robert Ludlum, the film is written by Greengrass and Christopher Rouse.

“Jason Bourne” is distributed by United International Pictures through Columbia Pictures.

Readers Digest Trusted Brands 2016: Honoring the Companies Filipinos Believe In the Most

What is the mark of a good business? 

Is it the consistent increase in sales; the continued accumulation of assets or a financial statement that will keep investors smiling?

Five or ten years ago, these figures may be enough, but in the current business landscape, there is one other factor that has become critical in building a strong foundation-- Trust. 
TRUST has become a “high-value” currency that is accepted globally outweighing the value of any monetary conversion. Gone are the days when people just look at the lavish office buildings when choosing their banks, on shiny new equipment of service centers or rely on commercials and celebrity endorsers when deciding which brand to purchase. 

Al Gatmaitan Herald Newer and Bolder Steps To Welcome His 20th Year Career

Every artist have dreams to pursue, but it is how one conquers those dreams that make a difference. Over the last couple of months, noted award-winning actor and classical / crossover artist AL GATMAITAN was quietly working on a dream project to further hone his craft in music and theater.

To further widen his horizons, Al Gatmaitan embarked on a major decision --- a bold move that he has taken very seriously in the forthcoming production of Linda Faigao-Hall’s “THE FEMALE HEART” under the direction of Banaue Miclat-Janssen for the UP Playwrights’ Theater

Gloc-9 Releases New Album "Sukli", Back Again To Star Music

Another OPM icon has come home to Star Music.

After 10 years, OPM rap icon Gloc-9 has finally released his comeback album with the record label titled “Sukli,” for which he also served as the overall producer.

“I'm excited for all the things that I can do now that I’m back with my Star Music family. ‘Sukli’ is an album that proves writing songs is still my dream come true. I am happy that my fans, who continue to support me, will hear the new songs I made,” said Gloc-9.

With six studio albums, one DVD release, and multiple hit songs to his name, Gloc-9 doesn’t really have much more to prove. Yet “Sukli” reveals a rapper who still continues to work hard at his craft, wanting to deliver something new for his listeners.

The album’s carrier single “Hoy!,” whose music video was recently released, is about the Filipino spirit and resilience despite trying times.

“INDEPENDENCE DAY: RESURGENCE” Now Showing In More Than 300 Screens Nationwide (2D, 3D AND IMAX)

The latest epic battle “Independence Day: Resurgence” by director Roland Emmerich is set twenty years after the alien invasion that nearly decimated the planet and presents an alternate reality to our world today. 

The backstory of “Independence Day: Resurgence” begins in 1996, during an ordinary summer day when, without warning, something extraordinary happened.  All eyes turned upward and the question of whether we were alone in the universe was finally answered.  In a matter of minutes, the lives of every person across the globe changed forever. With the fate of our planet at stake, the words “Independence Day” took on an entirely new meaning.  No longer was it solely an American holiday.  It would be memorialized as the day the entire world fought back against a common enemy. 

Levi’s, Google Team Up For Wearable Technology

Levi's is the first official partner of Google for Project Jacquard, which will apply the search engine giant’s technology to the brand's iconic Commuter jacket. This is the jacket everyone will want to wear in 2017, when it will be available in Levi’s stores worldwide.

What makes the jacket so different?  There is a sensor at the wearer’s left cuff, which you can take off and charge with a USB plugin that is linked to the special yarns in the jacket’s fabric. The sensor is touch sensitive, allowing wearers to answer or decline calls, skip songs and adjust the volume on their playlists and even access turn-by-turn directions with simple gestures like swipes and taps.

"The Purge: Election Year" Campaigns with New Posters‏

Choose your side with newly-released brand new posters from Universal Pictures’ suspense thriller “The Purge: Election Year,” and declare whether you purge for the Nation, the People, Liberty, Glory or Power.

Expanding the universe introduced in the hit franchise that electrified the culture and earned $200 million at the worldwide box office, “The Purge: Election Year” reveals the next terrifying chapter that occurs over 12 hours of annual lawlessness sanctioned by the New Founders of America to keep this country great.

My Husband's Lover Premiers On Fox Filipino

FOX Filipino has announced that it will soon feature one of the most talked about local drama series in the country, My Husband’s Lover, which premiered on the channel on June 20, 2016. This groundbreaking series that follows the story of a woman’s awakening to her husband’s hidden sexuality will be shown on weeknights, with back-to-back episodes from Monday to Friday, 7 PM to 8:50 PM. Fans of My Husband’s Lover can also get their fill of this critically acclaimed drama with replays on weekdays from 7 AM to 9 AM and marathons every Saturday from 9 AM to 5:55 PM.

Fujifilm’s Instax Mini 70 gets 3 new stylish colors

Fujifilm is launching three new stylish colors for the Instax Mini 70 instant camera: Midnight Black, Passion Red, and Stardust Gold, making it the perfect accessory for the cool and the fashionable. With its new colors, the Instax Mini 70 can not only capture your OOTDs, but match them perfectly as well.

Late last year, Fujifilm launched its Instax Mini 70, initially available in three colors: Moon White, Canary Yellow, and Island Blue. The instant camera has a sleek and modern design, and is the perfect camera for taking selfies. Its new selfie mode provides the appropriate brightness and shooting distance for any selfie, and its selfie mirror located beside the lens allows you to check your framing before you take that shot. Its automatic exposure control captures bright backgrounds and subjects even in the dark, letting you take a selfie anywhere you go. Another awesome feature is the hi-key mode that lets you capture bright beautiful skin tones, giving you flawless selfies.

The Instax Mini 70 is the perfect fashion statement for any occasion, and with its selfie-friendly features, you’ll be sure to instantly capture life's most memorable moments wherever you go.


"Storks" Race to Deliver Last Baby in New Trailer‏

The new trailer of Warner Bros. Pictures’ new animated feature “Storks” has just been unveiled – together with a brand new poster -- which may we viewed at https://youtu.be/1r1gJ_LUKOM.

“Storks” stars Andy Samberg (“Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs,” “Hotel Transylvania”), Kelsey Grammer (“Toy Story 2,” “The Simpsons”), Katie Crown (Cartoon Network’s “Clarence”), Keegan-Michael Key (“The Angry Birds Movie,” “Keanu,” “Key & Peele”), Jordan Peele (“Keanu,” “Key & Peele”), Jennifer Aniston (“We’re the Millers,” “Horrible Bosses”),Ty Burrell (“Modern Family”), and Danny Trejo (“The Book of Life”). 

In the film, storks deliver babies…or at least they used to. Now they deliver packages for a global internet retail giant.  Junior (Andy Samberg), the company’s top delivery stork, is about to be promoted when he accidentally activates the Baby Making Machine, producing an adorable, and wholly unauthorized, baby girl. 

Homecoming for Disney/Pixar's "Finding Dory" Filipino Sketch Artist, Paul Abadilla‏

Paul Abadilla, the US-based Filipino animator from Pixar Animation Studios received a warm homecoming welcome by his family and animation fans in Manila, Philippines. Parallel to the story of Dory finding her way home in the new Pixar film, “Finding Dory” -- Abadilla made his way home to share more about the work he did on the film, which opened here on June 16th.

Joined by some of his own family who are still living the Philippines, the Manila-born artist attended the premiere of “Finding Dory” last Saturday, June 11 at SM Megamall. Abadilla also took time out to conduct an Animation workshop, attended by over 250 animation students and influencers last Tuesday June 14 at Makati Diamond Residences. Attendees also received autographed “Finding Dory” concept art.

“It’s great to be home to be with my family and I feel privileged to be given the opportunity to come back and share what we did for Finding Dory. This is an unforgettable experience and I am very moved by the warm reception I’ve received so far,” said Abadilla.

Latest Kwentong Jollibee video honors Pinoy dads

Heartwarming Father’s Day TVC highlights love and acceptance

Jollibee, the country’s number one fastfood chain launched its newest made for digital material which premiered just in time for Father’s Day.

The two-minuter Father’s Day special, titled “Entrance Exam,” is the latest installment of the fastfood chain’s Kwentong Jollibee series. It revolves around the story of a successful father with high expectations and his son’s earnest desire to fulfill them. The commercial culminates with an unexpected twist—expectations of excellence can be built over decades, but love and acceptance trumps over disappointment at the end of the day.

Smurfs Invade Skypark, Marina Bay Sands in Singapore‏

To celebrate the birth month of Peyo, the creator of The Smurfs, Sony Pictures Animation has mounted a Smurfs Invasion of the Skypark of the Marina Bay Sands – with some 5,000 Smurfs figurines!

Rendering the Skypark practically blue, the invasion was part of Smurfs Night which concluded the highly successful Sony Pictures Summit: Singapore, a four-day publicity blitz that highlighted the studio’s upcoming blockbusters, including “Ghostbusters,” “Inferno,” “The Magnificent Seven” and “Smurfs: The Lost Village.”

BREAKING NEWS! "Dory" Finds Glory at No. 1, Grosses P101.7-M in 4 Days in PH‏

Disney-Pixar's “Finding Dory” brought its big-hearted optimism to the Philippine box-office and swam away with P101.7-M in only four days, shattering the biggest opening weekend record for a Disney-Pixar film.  This was announced today by a spokesman of Walt Disney Studios Philippines which distributed the film.

“Dory's” four-day opening weekend figure smashed the previous record of 2015's “Inside Out” (at P97.2-M) for highest opening weekend for a title released by either Walt Disney or Pixar. 

Scratastic Chillogy Continues In “ICE AGE: COLLISION COURSE” On JUly 6 In Cinemas

In the latest epic family movie adventure “Ice Age: Collision Course” from the highly successful “Ice Age” franchise, audiences worldwide will be propelled to new environments  like the cosmos and a crystallized world known as Geotopia, with many of the characters beginning their own new journeys.

Scrat is, of course, one character that never changes.  In “Ice Age: Collision Course” he continues his pursuit of the cursed acorn.  But this time Scrat’s quest is taking him where no Ice Age character has gone before—the cosmos—where the consequences of his antics are nothing short of “Scrat-tastrophic.”  Scrat’s epic pursuit of the elusive acorn catapults him into the universe, where he accidentally sets off a series of cosmic events that transform and threaten the Ice Age world.  To save themselves, Sid, Manny, Diego and the rest of the herd must leave their home and embark on a quest full of comedy and adventure, as they travel to exotic new lands and encounter a host of colorful new characters.

Win a trip to Hollywood for the Ghostbusters World Premiere!

The iconic Ghostbusters films took the world by storm 30 years ago and the franchise is returning this July with a fresh take by Director Paul Feig (Spy, Bridesmaids). The film reboot will be taken on by an all-girl group made up of Melissa MaCarthy (Mike and Molly, Spy), Kristen Wiig (The Martian, Bridesmaids), Kate McKinnon (SNL) and Leslie Jones (SNL).

Signing up for a new HOOQ account up to June 24 gives subscribers a chance to watch the world premiere with the Ghostbusters stars in Hollywood this July. Check out www.HOOQ.tv/Ghostbusters for more details.

Father’s Day Advice from these Digital Dads

News flash: The generation that grew up on the buzzing sounds of dial-up internet is now officially grown up and running the world. In fact, not a few of them are already full-fledged fathers. So we threw a couple of these digital dads a fun, hypothetical question: If they could go a few years back in time (back when 3G was new and their own fathers weren’t yet on Facebook), what advice would they give to themselves on how to survive being a father?

Opt to be active with your dad this Father’s Day

Nestlé Health Science encourages dads to live a full and healthy life

Our dads will always hold a special place in our hearts. He is the superhero who fought the bad guys so we could sleep at night, the coach who patiently taught us how to fly a kite and ride a bike, and the best friend who always made us feel special even after a long day at work.

It’s wistful to think that our dads are slowly approaching their twilight years. As adults, we are often so immersed with our own lives that we overlook the fact that our once strong and active dads are ageing. It is now our turn to take care of our fathers and assess if their health and nutrients are still optimized.

Keeping up with grandkids

Every dad dreams of seeing his children have kids of their own. They long for the day when they could give their grandkids piggyback rides, take them to the park, and teach them the things they taught their sons and daughters when they were young.

Time for a Little Madness in "Alice Through the Looking Glass"‏

In Disney’s “Alice Through the Looking Glass,” an all-new spectacular adventure featuring the unforgettable characters from Lewis Carroll’s beloved stories, Alice returns to the whimsical world of Underland and travels back in time to save the Mad Hatter.

Directed by James Bobin, who brings his own unique vision to the spectacular world Tim Burton created on screen with “Alice in Wonderland,” the film is written by Linda Woolverton based on characters created by Lewis Carroll. The producers are Joe Roth, Suzanne Todd and Jennifer Todd and Tim Burton. John G. Scotti serves as executive producer.

In Philippine cinemas July 06, “Alice Through the Looking Glass” reunites the cast from the 2010 worldwide blockbuster phenomenon, including Johnny Depp, Anne Hathaway, Mia Wasikowska, Matt Lucas and Helena Bonham Carter and introduces new characters played by Rhys Ifans and Sacha Baron Cohen. Also back are the talented voices of Alan Rickman, Stephen Fry, Michael Sheen, Timothy Spall, Barbara Windsor and Paul Whitehouse, who are joined by Matt Vogel.