DepEd supports TBA Studios’ historical film ‘Quezon’

The Department of Education (DepEd) has expressed its support for TBA Studios’ historical film “Quezon.”

The film, which is currently screening in cinemas nationwide, is a historical drama that focuses on Manuel L. Quezon years after the Philippine Revolution during the American occupation. “Quezon” stars Jericho Rosales in the titular role. It is directed by Jerrold Tarog. 

In an advisory released October 14, the DepEd encouraged junior and senior high school learners and teachers to “participate and integrate the film into classroom discussions.”

DepEd said the film is designed to “strengthen historical awareness, civic education, and appreciation of the arts among Filipinos learners by providing creative, curriculum-aligned tools that make history both relevant and accessible.” 

Palawan Group and DITO Team Up to Bring Seamless Connectivity to More Filipinos

Palawan Pawnshop–Palawan Express Pera Padala and PalawanPay have partnered with DITO to offer nationwide load distribution across 3,500+ branches and via the app.

Palawan Pawnshop–Palawan Express Pera Padala (PPS-PEPP) and PalawanPay, from the trusted Palawan Group of Companies, have officially partnered with DITO Telecommunity to launch nationwide distribution of DITO buy-load services. Through this collaboration, millions of Filipinos can now conveniently purchase DITO load at more than 3,500 PPS-PPEP branches across the country, as well as through the PalawanPay app. This move further strengthens  Palawan Group’s growing ecosystem, making it easier for customers to manage their financial and digital needs in one trusted platform as well as help DITO bring its mobile services closer to Filipinos.

Ayala Malls Cinemas exclusively brings “Kiss of the Spider Woman,” starring Jennifer Lopez and directed by Academy Award winner Bill Condon, to Philippine cinemas. NOW SHOWING!

Ayala Malls Cinemas continues to bring prestigious and highly acclaimed films to Philippine cinemas with their exclusive release of “Kiss of the Spider Woman,” a movie musical based on the acclaimed 1976 novel Kiss of the Spider Woman by Argentinian writer Manuel Puig and the  Tony Award®-winning Broadway musical of the same name by the multiple Tony Award®-winning playwright Terrence McNally (Master Class, Ragtime) and composer/lyricist team John Kander and Fred Ebb (Cabaret, Chicago). 

Starring Emmy® and Grammy Award® nominated superstar Jennifer Lopez, Emmy Award® nominee Diego Luna (Andor, Y tu mamá también), and Tonatiuh (Promised Land, Vida), “Kiss of the Spider Woman” is now showing exclusively in Ayala Malls Cinemas. The film is directed by Bill Condon, the Academy Award®-winning writer-director known for such films as Gods and Monsters, Chicago, Dreamgirls and Beauty and the Beast.

Mason Thames and Madeleine McGraw are fearless survivors in “Black Phone 2”

Now showing in PH cinemas

Four years after his escape from the clutches of The Grabber, Finn (Mason Thames) carries the trauma of the ordeal with him. In Black Phone 2, Finn, along with his sibling Gwen (Madeleine McGraw) relive the nightmare. Writer-producer Robert C. Cargill explains how they want to unpack Finn’s burden as a survivor and how it’ll play into the sequel. “Finn went through something horrific, and while he came out of it strong, the weight of what happened has not left him,” writer-producer C. Robert Cargill says. “He is haunted by the Grabber. He sees him everywhere, and he is using drugs to try to numb the fear. He wants nothing to do with the spirits, with the phone, with any of it. He is trying to shut it all out and live in denial. So, as Gwen starts uncovering this new mystery, Finn is doing everything he can to stay out of it. But of course, life does not let you run forever. Eventually, he will have to face what he has been avoiding.”

Historical Biopic “Quezon” Sets Worldwide Release

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.

Mapúa University launches School of Tourism and Hospitality Management, signs strategic partnership for student opportunities

Mapúa University, building upon its century-long legacy of academic excellence, is officially disrupting the landscape of higher education with the landmark launch of its innovation-led School of Tourism and Hospitality Management (STHM) at Ayala Malls Manila Bay—the university’s first-ever in-mall campus.

The event also served as a platform for Mapúa University to formalize its strategic partnership with Ayala Land Hospitality (ALH), the owner of the Seda Hotel brand, and Ayala Malls Manila Bay (AMMB), through a ceremonial Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing.

Local Streaming Service BlastTV is now ‘Legit Libre’ for Everyone

The emerging streaming app promises quality entertainment for every Filipino for free.

BlastTV, a local streaming service owned and operated by Tap Digital Media Ventures (TapDMV), announced that the app is now ‘Legit Libre,’ promising to deliver world-class and exclusive entertainment that is free for every Filipino.

The streaming service offers blockbuster movies, binge-worthy TV shows including US series, anime, and K-dramas, TV channels, and action-packed live sports. Boasting a vast library of premium content from globally renowned partners such as Paramount+, Ani-One, Muse Asia, WWE, UFC, NFL, and WTA, BlastTV takes ‘free streaming’ to the next level.

Canon Champions Lifesaving Advocacy with Blood Donation Drive in Partnership with NKTI

Canon Marketing (Philippines), Inc. (CMPI) reinforced its commitment to corporate social responsibility and community health through a successful Blood Donation Drive in collaboration with the National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI).

As part of Canon’s Health and Wellness initiatives, the event united employees in a shared mission to save lives and promote the spirit of giving. A total of 30 Canon employees participated as donors, contributing to NKTI’s blood bank and providing vital support for patients in need of blood transfusions.

Landmark Supermarket Brings Aussie Favorites With Taste of Australia

Australia is quite far as the journey takes you on a long trip down under. And many Aussies and those who has been to Australia might have missed a lot of great products that can only found there. But there is great news, as Landmark Supermarket opens up a special section called  A Taste of Australia at Landmark Supermarket Makati.

The event was led by Landmark Chief Operating Officer Teddy Keng, Landmark SVP for Marketing Michelle Keng, Hans Lim of NexTrade, with the support of Austrade and Australian Ambassador to the Philippines, Marc Innes-Brown, and with the representatives of leading Australian brands. 

PASKO NA, But Keeping it Sulit? We Gotchu!

Make the most of your Christmas with good deals and convenience at your fingertips

The minute the ber-months hit, a switch flips for us Filipinos. Christmas isn't just a single day—it's a four-month-long (maybe even five!) celebration that defines the last quarter of the year.

It’s the sweet scent of bibingka and puto bumbong warming the air after Simbang Gabi. It’s the streets glowing with vibrant lights, homes overflowing with Christmas cheers, and food becoming the non-negotiable, heartwarming center of every celebration. This is when our loved ones come home—OFWs, students, and workers returning—making every shared meal into a cherished, unforgettable family moment.

"ROMEO AND JULIET, The Musical" all set to open on October 22 and 23

As a season offering to all young adults, Kids Acts Philippines and MINT College collaborate to proudly present ROMEO AND JULIET”, The Musical, edited with additional lyrics by Luigi Nacario, music by Eugene Belbis, and directed on stage by Meldrig Costuna and Luigi Nacario.

The William Shakespeare's play will be staged, maintaining the classic requirements of the original folio, from costumes to the set. 

The music is composed through a fusion of Western and Eastern with a contemporary flavor. Romeo and Juliet is simplified without sacrificing the original texts of Shakespeare to let young adults understand how the play is written. 

The key to innovation: Casio partners with Lyric for official Philippine distribution

Through an exclusive partnership, Lyric becomes the home of Casio’s most advanced digital pianos and keyboards– bridging innovation and artistry

From left to right: Bel Sayson, General Manager of Lyric; Kazunori Yamagishi, Casio Manager for Southeast Asia; Maisie Anne Cristobal, Lyric Vice President; (back) Christopher Cristobal, Lyric Business Development Manager; Ayman Linzag, UST Conservatory of Music – Piano; Alma Joy Cristobal, Lyric President; and Kai Honasan, Lyric–Casio Ambassador

HONOR teases Revolutionary "Robot Phone" Ahead of MWC 2026

This new ROBOT PHONE is a key part of HONOR’s ALPHA PLAN to bring innovative AI device experiences to consumers

HONOR just teased the new HONOR ROBOT PHONE at the HONOR Magic8 series launch in Beijing – a new species of AI device that merges multi-modal AI, robotic capabilities and advanced handheld imaging, marking a key milestone in HONOR’s ALPHA PLAN and its push toward becoming a global AI device ecosystem leader.

Keep running. Watch the new trailer for “The Running Man,” directed by Edgar Wright and starring Glen Powell, in Philippine cinemas November 12

Photo credit: Paramount Pictures

Play the game or the game plays you. Watch the new trailer for The Running Man, directed by Edgar Wright (Baby Driver, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, Shaun of the Dead) and starring Glen Powell (Top Gun: Maverick, Twisters) – in Philippine cinemas November 12. 

Watch the trailer: https://youtu.be/85sWo8ppvHM

MANUAL REVIEWS: Quezon - The Man of the Philippine Commonwealth

Highly anticipated as part of the Bayaniverse by TBA Studios, Quezon now brings us into the American Commonwealth era with Jericho Rosales playing the statesman Manuel Quezon whose name is etched into history with his administration and politics. With an amazing ensemble, the bayaniverse trilogy also comes together with both real and fictional characters. It was indeed a Quezon that is beyond the textbooks. 

Though the action moved from the warzone to government politics, it did bring tension and a reflection to current issues, thus making it very relevant to the dirty world of power struggles which they say is for the greater good of the country. Jericho indeed has embraced Quezon with the tone, mannerisms, and passion which can be comparable to archived clips.  

From historical accounts and other records, Quezon indeed has the passion for the country but also the ego which makes him a very interesting politician. Being able to move from the revolution to the Philippine commonwealth is a game that he played well alongside peers like Sergio Osmena (Romnick Sarmienta), and Manuel Roxas (JC Santos). Emilio Aguinaldo played by Mon Confiado is also a role he can proudly say he did well and also one of the characters that has appeared on all of the bayaniverse movies.

Building Dreams, Shaping Futures: Palawan Group of Companies Welcomes 158 New Scholars

The Palawan Group of Companies proudly welcomed 158 new scholars as part of its continuing commitment to making a difference in the lives of Filipinos. With Education as one of its corporate social responsibility pillars, the Palawan Group of Companies Scholarship Program (PGC-SP) remains the company’s CSR flagship initiative. The 28th batch of PGC-SP was officially welcomed through a Confirmation and Orientation Day held at the company’s head office in Puerto Princesa City.

The 28th batch of PGC scholars gathers for a milestone moment as they officially join the Palawan Group of Companies’ growing community of future leaders.

All-New Water-Resistant AI Phone HONOR X7d Now Official for as low as Php 7,299!

Setting a New Industry Benchmark for Powerful Budget Phone with Enhanced Durability and New AI Interaction 

Global AI device ecosystem company HONOR Philippines today announced the launch of its all-new HONOR X7d, the latest addition to its acclaimed X Series line-up for as low as Php 7,299! Get it during pre-order period until October 24, 2025 and get a FREE HONOR Camping Light Speaker worth Php 4,999. Head on to your nearest HONOR Experience and Partner Stores. 

Beyond The Screen: TCL & Anson’s VVIP Showcase Celebrates Enduring Partnership

TCL, the No. 1 Panel TV brand in the Philippines, a Triple Global Top 1 TV brand, and a top global leader in air conditioner sales, is joining forces with its premier retail partner, Anson’s, for an exclusive showcase dedicated to their loyal customers. Marking 25 years of strong partnership, TCL and Anson’s continue to redefine excellence through innovation, quality, and customer trust.

Dubbed 'Beyond the Screen: A TCL x Anson’s VVIP Showcase,' this event highlights TCL’s commitment to innovation and customer excellence. The showcase will culminate in the grand reveal of the TCL × Anson’s October 15 Promo Lineup—a curated selection of top-tier TVs, air conditioners, and essential home appliances designed to make premium technology accessible to all.

Meet Clara Grant, played by Mckenna Grace in the movie adaptation of hit novel “Regretting You,” in PH cinemas October 22

12 fun facts about Mckenna Grace’s fascinating and feisty teen heroine in epic tragic romance

Mckenna Grace plays Clara Grant in Regretting You, from the best-selling author of It Ends with Us and the director of The Fault in Our Stars, in Philippine cinemas October 22

“Mckenna brings so much life to Clara,” says Allison Williams, who plays Morgan Grant, mom to Mckenna Grace’s Clara in the upcoming tragic romance Regretting You. “She’s an extraordinary actress.” 

Ang OA: 555 Tuna welcomes new endorsers in their latest campaign

PBB Housemates Klang, Shuvee, and Esnyr serve all the right flavors in their new cheeky digital film

Fresh out of the PBB house, fan favorites Esnyr Ranollo, Klarisse De Guzman, and Shuvee Etrata make their way to the dining room in 555 Tuna’s new digital film ‘Rekta’.

In the film, 555 Tuna tackles a daily struggle in our everyday life: Anong ulam? (‘What are we going to eat?’).

The Fray And December Avenue Take The Stage This December 12 At The Smart Araneta Coliseum!

Get ready for an extraordinary night of music and emotion as The Fray and December Avenue share the spotlight at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on December 12, 2025!

For the first time ever, the multi-platinum American band The Fray, known for global hits like “How to Save a Life” and “You Found Me”, and one of the Philippines’ most beloved OPM acts, December Avenue, famed for their heart-wrenching anthems “Kung ‘Di Rin Lang Ikaw” and “Sa Ngalan ng Pag-Ibig” will be in ONE SHOW!

This unprecedented collaboration promises a night where heartfelt lyrics meet soaring melodies — a celebration of stories, emotions, and the shared power of music that transcends borders. Fans can expect a breathtaking lineup of both international and local favorites, performed live at the iconic Big Dome.

Tickets are available via Ticketnet (https://www.ticketnet.com.ph/event-detail/the-fray). Grab yours before they sell out!

Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime concert experience.

The Fray and December Avenue, Live at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, December 12, 2025.

#TheFrayLiveInManila #DecemberAvenue #SmartAranetaColiseum #DecAveMeetsTheFray #Ticketnet

Congratulations! The winners of “Awiting Wicked: For Good” have been chosen by Jon M. Chu, Ariana Grande, and Cynthia Erivo

The three duos will meet the director and stars at the Singapore premiere of “Wicked: For Good”

Filipino talent shines as Jon M. Chu, Ariana Grande, and Cynthia Erivo personally chose the three winning best friend duos in the “Awiting Wicked: For Good” competition.

Global Superstars Jisoo And Zayn Unite For Blockbuster Duet “Eyes Closed”

Today, South Korean superstar singer, actress, and international style icon JISOO unites with multi-platinum recording artist, songwriter, producer, and philanthropist ZAYN to release the epic new collaborative single “EYES CLOSED.” Set to expansive, genre-swirling production, the duet captures the nervous anticipation and thrilling freefall of diving into new love without looking back. Listen to “EYES CLOSED” HERE via Warner Records.

The momentous team-up arrives as JISOO continues to delight audiences on BLACKPINK’s Deadline World Tour, which has sold out stadiums on multiple continents already — check out the full, ongoing itinerary below and find more info HERE. Meanwhile, ZAYN is set to kick off 2026 with his first-ever Las Vegas residency, marking the beginning of what will be a massive year as he gears up for his next chapter. Tickets are on sale now — go HERE for details.

Keep running. Watch the new trailer for “The Running Man,” directed by Edgar Wright and starring Glen Powell, in Philippine cinemas November 12

Play the game or the game plays you. Watch the new trailer for The Running Man, directed by Edgar Wright (Baby Driver, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, Shaun of the Dead) and starring Glen Powell (Top Gun: Maverick, Twisters) – in Philippine cinemas November 12. 

Check out the new posters! 

11 Winners of the 2025 Manila Symphony Orchestra (MSO) Concerto Competition Set to Perform in a Concert at the GSIS Theater on October 15, 2025

Witness the next generation of rising Filipino music stars ! Eleven young musicians from all over the country were chosen from a field of 48 entries who participated at the recent Manila Symphony Orchestra Concerto 

Competitions. 

The winning soloists are:

LEVEL A: 12 years old and below

1. Eliana Jimenez Mariano, 10 to perform Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto in E Minor, 3rd Movement

2. Andrei Johann B. Lagda, 10 to perform Carl Stamitz’s Flute Concerto in G Major, 1st Movement

3. Lois Quitane, 11 to perform Lalo’s Symphonie Espagnole, 1st Movement 

LEVEL B: 13–18 years old

1. Megan Phuan Zhiyan, 13 to perform Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 13 in C major, 1st Movement

2. Maura Mikaela Medina, 18 Saint Saens’ Violin Concerto No. 3 in B-minor

3. Vittorio Vicenzo G. Vizcocho V, 16 to perform Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto in E minor, 1st Movement

4. Zildjian Zachary N. Viray, 18 to perform Liszt’s Piano Concerto no. 1 in E-flat 

major, 1st Movement

5. William Hsu, 18 Paganini’s Violin Concerto No. 1, Op. 6 in D major, 1st 

Movement

6. Agung Dayaw A. Sicam, 18 Mozart’s Concierto Aranjuez, 2nd Movement

LEVEL C: 19–25 years old

1. Joshua Agapito, 25 to perform Mozart’s Flute Concerto in G Major K313, 1st Movement

2. Rey John C. Flores, 22 to perform Mozart’s Flute Concerto No. 2 in D Major, 1st movement

The jury who selected the winners are as follows

1. Prof. Alessio Benvenuti, MSO Concertmaster, violinist and pianist

2. Ms. Mariel Ilusorio, Filipina concert pianist and teacher

3. Prof. Arnold Josue, MSO Principal cellist and educator

4. Mr. Marc Ramirez, bassist and MSO Assistant Executive Director

5. Mr. Angelo Mateo, MSO Principal Flutist

6. Mr. Adrian Sison, MSO Principal Trumpet

7. Prof. Ramoncito Carpio, Filipino classical guitarist, composer and educator

The MSO Concerto Competition was a program that was started in the 1960s whose former winners include Cecile Licad, Raul Sunico, Corazon Pineda-Kabayao, 

Cecilia Basilio-Roxas and many other distinguished Filipino artists. This year’s 

revival of this tradition is one of MSO’s long list of programs and activities as it prepares to celebrate its 100th Anniversary in 2026.

The winners will be rehearsing with the MSO conducted by its executive director and associate conductor Jeffrey Solares, and will be presented in a Concert of Winners on October 15, 2025 at the 

GSIS Theater - 7:30 PM. 

TICKETS:

Orchestra Center P2000

Orchestra Sides P1000

Balcony P500. 

Tickets now available at Ticketworld!

https://premier.ticketworld.com.ph/shows/show.aspx...

50% off for Students

20% off for Seniors and PWDs

#MSO #MSOConcertoCompetition2025

#ConcertofWinners #MSORoadTo100

90 minutes to prove his innocence or face execution. Watch the official trailer of “Mercy,” starring Chris Pratt and Rebecca Ferguson

Coming soon in PH cinemas

An A.I. program is now judge, jury, and executioner in “Mercy,” the newest sci-fi thriller starring Chris Pratt and Rebecca Ferguson. In the near future, a detective  (Chris Pratt) stands on trial accused of murdering his wife. He has 90 minutes to prove his innocence to the advanced A.I. Judge (Rebecca Ferguson) he once championed, before it determines his fate. 

Watch the trailer: https://youtu.be/sdV4DDalhL4

WATCH LIVE: HONOR X7d Launch on Facebook — Win a Brand-New Phone!

Watch the arrival of HONOR X7d live on Facebook and get a chance to win it! 

Leading global smart devices provider HONOR Philippines is all set for the arrival of its newest viral smartphone HONOR X7d! In anticipation of the launch, it entices HONOR fans to watch its launch live on Facebook on October 14, 6PM to win a brand-new HONOR X7d: https://bit.ly/X7dLaunch_FB.  

PalawanPay Supports UP Fighting Maroons as Primary Sponsor for UAAP Season 88

PalawanPay, from the trusted Palawan Group of Companies, reaffirmed its commitment to youth and sports development as the primary sponsor of the University of the Philippines (UP) Men’s Basketball, Judo, and Swimming Teams for UAAP Season 88. This partnership was highlighted during the “Sugod, UP! UAAP Season 88 Pep Rally” held at the University Theater in UP Diliman. Sharing a deep-rooted love for the country and a passion for nurturing Filipino talent, and with Sports Development as one of its corporate social responsibility pillars, PalawanPay continues to support the UP Fighting Maroons, a team that embodies the same spirit of national pride and commitment to honor and excellence. 

Organized by the UP Office for Athletics and Sports Development (OASD), the pep rally brought together the UP community — students, faculty, staff, and alumni — in a spirited display of support for the Fighting Maroons. The event featured high-energy performances, athlete introductions, and words of encouragement, all reinforcing the university’s drive for strength, perseverance, and excellence this season.

Beko shares four smart kitchen and laundry hacks for the busy holiday host

Paskong Pinoy is a whirlwind of tradition and get-togethers, which can be a good deal of challenge even for the most dedicated hosts. The quest to curate the perfect holiday experience, from a sumptuous feast to a sparkling home, can often leave them feeling overwhelmed. So this year, the key is to achieve convenience and efficiency for a seamless celebration.

Beko, from the no. 1 large home appliance company from Europe, understands the dilemma of Filipino homes, especially at the most wonderful and busiest time of the year. To help homemakers survive the holiday hosting season, here are some simple hacks to try out:

'ECHOES OF CROATIA IN THE PHILIPPINES' concert all set on October 14

The Far Eastern University Center for the Arts and the FEU Institute of Arts and Sciences (IAS), in partnership with the soon to open Embassy of Croatia in Manila, proudly present "ECHOES OF CROATIA in the Philippines."

Set your eyes and ears on 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘇𝘁𝗲𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝗻𝗮𝗲 𝗔𝗰𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗱𝗮, 

a 14-year-old Filipina prodigy and Croatia’s Got Talent 2023 winner, as she captivates you with her stunning voice alongside internationally acclaimed Croatian artists — 𝗕𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗸𝗮 𝗧𝗸𝗮𝗹č𝗶ć (mezzo-soprano) and 𝗗𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗷𝗲𝗹 𝗢𝘁𝗼 (pianist, educator, and chamber musician). 

Experience an afternoon filled with harmony that bridges nations on

October 14, 3:00 pm at the FEU Auditorium. 

Chriztel Renae Aceveda, a 14-year-old soprano originally from Pampanga, Philippines, has been living in Sveti Martin na Muri, Croatia since 2020. She first captured the hearts of the public with her interpretation of a traditional Međimurje folk song on Supertalent, and has continued to delight audiences across Croatia ever since. From the age of five, she showed a passion for music, singing karaoke with her mother. In Croatia, she quickly embraced the local culture, especially the region’s musical heritage and traditional attire. Chriztel is an 8th-grade student at Primary School Sveti Martin na Muri, a member of the school choir and part of the local cultural and artistic society HKUU Sveti Martin. She studies voice in the preparatory program of the Varaždin Music School under the guidance of Blanka Tkalčić. Her performances of authentic Međimurje folk songs have been compared to the legendary "Aunt Liza", and her emotional expressiveness leaves audiences breathless. She has performed at numerous traditional music events, charity concerts, and public festivals, including collaborations with Croatia's folk music icon Lidija Bajuk. She won the Supertalent show, the Prvi glas Zagorja contest, the Mali MEF Grand Prix, and first prize at the Brežice Festival in Slovenia. Through her singing, Chriztel celebrates her second homeland—Croatia—while remaining proudly connected to her Filipino roots. 

Japanese Film Festival 2025 is Back at UPFI—and Making Its SM City Manila Debut!

Following the success of its first Metro Manila leg at Shangri-La Plaza, the Japanese Film Festival (JFF) 2025 returns to one of its longtime partner venues—the UPFI Cine Adarna—and, for the first time, expands its reach to SM City Manila, marking an exciting milestone for the festival’s growing audience in the capital. 

Previously closed for renovations during JFF’s February run, the UPFI Cine Adarna now reopens its doors with a full lineup of Japanese cinema. From October 10 to 18, audiences can enjoy eight days of screenings featuring 12 films, a mix of contemporary titles and restored classics that highlight the depth and diversity of Japanese filmmaking. 

Ethan Hawke is out for revenge, resurrected as the Grabber in “Black Phone 2”

In PH cinemas Oct 15

Villains who leave a mark rarely stay buried, and in Black Phone 2, Ethan Hawke reprises his role as The Grabber, seeking out revenge from beyond the grave. “I wouldn’t have done it if Ethan was not willing to return,” writer-producer-director Scott Derrickson says. “He agreed to it before there was a script, which showed a surprising amount of trust in me. I recognized the appeal of bringing back the Grabber as a ghost.”

Black Phone 2 tells the tale of siblings Finn (Mason Thames) and Gwen (Madeleine McGraw), as they struggle to reclaim their lives four years after the events of the previous film. Gwen starts receiving calls in her dreams from the black phone, and receives visions of three boys being stalked at a winter camp known as Alpine lake. The siblings relive their nightmare when they visit the camp as the Grabber, now more powerful in death, seeks out vengeance.

Bossjob Accelerates Global Growth and Strengthens Philippine Presence with New Partnerships and Employer Wins

Bossjob, the chat-first, AI-powered career platform, continues its strong growth trajectory across Southeast Asia and beyond, powered by steady user expansion, breakthrough product innovations, and new employer partnerships that reinforce its role as a trusted hiring platform for the future of work.

From January to August 2025, Bossjob achieved remarkable global adoption, generating more than 1.7 million monthly chats between job seekers and employers. This surge in engagement highlights the success of its AI-driven, chat-first hiring model, which provides faster, smarter, and more efficient talent matching.

“Our vision has always been to make hiring seamless for both talents and employers. These milestones show that Bossjob is not only growing steadily but also transforming the way recruitment works across markets,” said Kiat How Quak, Co-Founder of Bossjob.

Beauty + Health & Wellness Manila and Hotel & Foodservice Suppliers Show Brings Hospitality and Well-Being In One Venue

What's better than have all what you need in one place, Global-Link MP Events International, Inc. successfully staged the Beauty + Health & Wellness Manila 2025 and the Hotel & Foodservice Suppliers Show at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia, gathering over 250 brands across 10,000 square meters of exhibition space.

Designed as a hub for trade, innovation, and collaboration, the twin expos brought together decision-makers, suppliers, and entrepreneurs from across the beauty, wellness, hospitality, and foodservice industries — setting the stage for stronger cross-sector growth.

Taking the action from the Grid to the city streets – TRON: Ares is now showing in cinemas nationwide

A film made for the big screen, experience TRON: Ares best in IMAX or 4DX– plus experience riding a Light Cycle yourself in a limited activation in SM North EDSA

Experience riding the iconic Light Cycle through the TRON: Ares display at SM North EDSA Annex Atrium. Photo courtesy of the Walt Disney Studios.

The Grid comes alive in the real world as Disney celebrates the release of TRON: Ares with its themed display at the SM North EDSA Annex Atrium. With the iconic Light Cycle as its centerpiece, the Grid-inspired setup puts fans into the futuristic world of TRON until October 12.

Bryan Adams Brings New Tour To Manila ‘Roll With The Punches’

Announcement – Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Bryan Adams announces the Asia leg of his newest tour ‘Roll With The Punches’ with a concert in MANILA on January 31, 2026 (Saturday) at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. Presented by Wilbros Live. Tickets go on-sale on October 18 Saturday, 12PM via SMTickets.com and SM Tickets outlets nationwide.

Bryan Adams has been touring the world for nearly four decades. His music has achieved #1 status in over 40 countries and is the recipient of numerous awards including a Grammy, American Music Awards and 3 Academy Award, 5 Golden Globe nominations and is a Companion of the Order of Canada.

He is one of the most exciting live musicians in the world and his energetic performance, effortless stage presence and incredible vocals are guaranteed to thrill and entertain. His classic hits include Summer of 69, Heaven, Straight from the Heart, Cuts Like a Knife, Run To You, Please Forgive Me, All For Love, Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman, I Finally Found Someone, and (Everything I Do) I Do It For You.

Equipping the Future: TCL Rolls Out Skills Training Program for TESDA Trainees

Trainees who completed the inaugural TCL–TESDA Air Conditioning Training Program were joined by TESDA and TCL Philippines representatives during the certificate awarding ceremony at the TCL–TESDA Center in Taguig City.

TCL, the No. 1 brand in global air conditioner sales and a Triple Global Top 1 TV brand, as well as the No. 1 Panel TV brand in the Philippines, has officially launched its inaugural Air Conditioning Training Program in partnership with TESDA Regional Training Center-NCR (RTC-NCR). This landmark collaboration reflects TCL Philippines’ strong commitment to developing a highly skilled technical workforce. The newly inaugurated TCL–TESDA Center in Taguig City will serve as a training hub where trainees can gain hands-on experience and industry-ready expertise in air conditioning technology, thereby strengthening the local talent pool and driving long-term workforce productivity.