 |
| (Image Source: Wazzup.PH/Mentorque Productions) |
Mentorque Productions makes history through its film and Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) 2023 entry MALLARI as the first Filipino movie distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures which was made official via the formal signing of the partnership agreement between the two film production companies held last November 25, 2023 at the Chairman's Lounge of Okada Manila. Under the agreement signed by Mentorque Productions President John Bryan Diamante and Warner Bros. Pictures Philippines distribution director Rico Gonzales, the US-based global film production and distribution company will be responsible for the theatrical distribution of the Filipino horror film nationwide with plans for distribution and release across various Asian markets in observance of the company's 100th year anniversary.
Mallari is a partly fictional, partly true-to-life account inspired by the true story of Fr. Severino Mallari, a parish priest in the 1800s who killed 57 people before being caught, thereby becoming the first and only recorded Filipino serial killer ever, antedating Jack The Ripper by more than 60 years. The movie features Piolo Pascual portraying as Fr. Mallari with Janella Salvador, JC Santos, Gloria Diaz, Ron Angeles, Tommy Alejandrino, and many more. Directed by Derick Cabrido, the film was shot in various historic locations in the Philippines, including a village built for the project to recreate an authentic setting, and boasts of three timelines – combining the audiences’ love for retro horror with the immediate relatability of current terrors. With its high-quality production and high-caliber team which warned WB's nod, Mallari promises to be the scariest movie of the Holiday season when it hits cinemas nationwide during its MMFF 2023 run.
Kicking off its month-long journey towards its December 25th MMFF 2023 release was a grand media and fan conference held last December 1, 2023 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall in Pasay City in partnership with Cleverminds Incorporated where fans of their favorite artists, movie enthusiasts, vloggers, social media influencers and entertainment reporters across various forms of media were able to enjoy a sleuth of various activities staged throughout the day including games, interactive booths, the Mallari Gallery, and an open house session with the stars and director of Mallari and Mentorque Productions President John Bryan Diamante.
* * * *
ABS-CBN's Christmas Station ID 2023 Features GMA, TV5 And A2Z In Historic Music Video
 |
| (Image Source: Philippine Canadian Inquirer/ABS-CBN Corporation) |
Netizens are feeling the spirit of Christmas and camaraderie as ABS-CBN launched the highly-anticipated “Pasko Ang Pinakamagandang Kwento” Christmas Station ID, which made history as it featured GMA Network, TV5, and A2Z on its official music video released last December 1, 2023. Netizens expressed their delight because of the appearance of Kapuso, Kapatid, and A2Z employees in the music video. Partner media companies Viu, Prime Video, and PIE Channel were also seen in the music video.
The star-studded music video has registered over 5 million views on Facebook and YouTube and trended instantly on X (formerly Twitter) with multiple trending topics as netizens praised the music video’s message which resonated with them about the different challenges we each face and how the beautiful story of our Christmas binds us together. According to @convowithcharles, “This song centralizes the birth of Jesus and how Christmas is a very great story for everyone. Sa kabila man ng mga challenges, ipadama pa din ang diwa ng Pasko. All the best, ABS-CBN!”
“Pasko Ang Pinakamagandang Kwento” was written by ABS-CBN Creative Communication Management head Robert Labayen with ABS-CBN Music creative director Jonathan Manalo composing the music. Everyone is also invited to join the #KwentongPasko campaign. Tell your most beautiful Christmas story on TikTok using the Christmas Station ID template and music and on Facebook and Instagram using the “Add Yours” feature. Meanwhile, the official licensed “Kwentong Pasko” shirts are now available for pre-order via ABS-CBN’s authorized partner shirtsandprintsph (Facebook, TikTok, Lazada, Shopee) for Php350.
* * * *
BGYO Drops Heartfelt Single "Bulalakaw"
_2.png) |
| (Image Source: ABS-CBN Corporation) |
Filipino boy group BGYO sends a heartwarming message to their supporters through their special single “Bulalakaw” which has swiftly topped the iTunes chart in four countries. “Bulalakaw” symbolizes the appreciation for people who have shown love and support during challenging times. The members dedicate it to their fans who stood by them through the highs and lows. Kikx Salazar composed the track and also produced it with ABS-CBN Music creative director Jonathan Manalo. The track immediately claimed the top spot of iTunes singles chart in the Philippines, Singapore, UAE, and Saudi Arabia while it also ranked fourth in Hong Kong. It was also featured on Spotify’s New Music Friday Philippines.
Recently, BGYO members Gelo, Akira, JL, Mikki, and Nate also hit another milestone when they released their official version of the chorus of NSYNC’s comeback single “Better Place” in celebration of the release of the film “Trolls Band Together". Dubbed as the “Aces of P-Pop", BGYO is one of the fastest rising Filipino groups in the country who continue to push the Pinoy talent to the global stage. Their sophomore album “Be: Us” charted in 12 countries and also clinched the top spot of iTunes albums chart in the Philippines, Hong Kong, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, and UAE becoming the best-selling artist of 2022 on the platform. They were also ranked first on Billboard’s Next Big Sound chart and have also accumulated over a billion views on TikTok.
* * * *
JStair, SBS Medianet Announce "K-POP The Show", A Unique Idol Rhythm Game With Diverse K-Pop Missions
 |
| (Image Source: Google Play/JStair) |
JStair, a subsidiary company of Woori-Net, officially announced the launch of the idol rhythm game "K-POP The Show". Developed by STARLIKE in cooperation with SBS Medianet and now available on Android and iOS, "K-POP The Show" is a rhythm game that features popular K-Pop idol music. After selecting a song, players hit the notes falling down the screen to gain points and allow them to use items for an enhanced gaming experience. The objective is to achieve the highest possible score, and each song has missions that enable players to gain extra points. Additionally, video footage from The Show, a music program broadcasted on SBS Medianet, is showcased in the backdrop of the game.
The game showcases multiple idol groups from various talent agencies, unified on a single platform. It encompasses a repertoire of 30 songs, comprising 17 tracks performed by 12 idol groups, along with original compositions exclusively created for this game. New songs and footage will continuously be provided via frequent updates. In addition to the diverse lineup already featured in the game, "K-POP The Show" will also include exciting tracks from popular K-Pop groups such as AIMERS, BugAboo, 1CHU, MUSTB, and DUSTIN. These artists bring their unique styles and energetic performances to the game, offering players an even more immersive and varied K-Pop experience.
Fans of these groups can look forward to not only playing along to their favorite songs but also engaging with exclusive content tailored to each group, further enhancing the connection between the game and the vibrant world of K-Pop. JStair's platform development team mentioned that “The distinctive feature of our game lies in our collaboration with 'The Show' where we incorporate footage from the show into our gaming experience.” Additionally, they conveyed, “Our aim is to deliver a unique and exhilarating experience to K-pop enthusiasts globally.”
* * * *
NAITAS Holiday Golf Shootout 2023 To Promote PH Tourism
 |
| (Image Source: PhilStar.com/National Association of Independent Travel Agencies) |
The National Association of Independent Travel Agencies (NAITA) announces the staging of the NAITAS Holiday Golf Shootout 2023, a golf event set to be held on December 15, 2023 at Club Intramuros in Manila which aims to support golf tourism in the Philippines. Over 100 players from various golf clubs and organizations are expected to participate in the event that seeks to promote the country as a top golfing destination. With its stunning golf courses and breathtaking landscapes, the Philippines offers a unique and unforgettable golfing experience for players of all levels.
The NAITAS Holiday Golf Shootout 2023 will be the kick-off event as it aims to promote the diverse golf destinations in the Philippines, attracting both local and international golf enthusiasts. NAITAS is proud to have the support of co-presenters for this event including Zen Institute, AQA Entrasol, Diabetasol, and Fitbar. These companies share NAITAS’ vision of promoting golf tourism in the Philippines and are committed to provide a memorable experience for all participants. The Golf Shootout is also sponsored by Go Hotels, Sogo, Slimmer’s World, Converge, GENCYS, and WE RIDE which play a crucial role in making this event possible.
The NAITAS Holiday Golf Shootout 2023 promises to be a day filled with excitement, camaraderie, and friendly competition. Participants will have the opportunity to showcase their skills on the beautiful fairways of Club Intramuros, a renowned golf course known for its challenging layout and scenic views. Aside from the golf tournament, there will be various activities throughout the day, ensuring a fun and enjoyable experience for all attendees. Participants can look forward to a sumptuous buffet lunch, raffle prizes, and exciting giveaways. NAITAS is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants. For more information and registration details, call the NAITAS Secretariat at 09275380957 or via e-mail at naitasphilsinc@gmail.com.
* * * *
Mang Inasal Marks 20th Anniversary With A Grand Back-To-Back Blowout
 |
| (Image Source: SunStar Philippines/Mang Inasal) |
Mang Inasal, the Philippines’ Grill Expert, will celebrate its 20 years with special treats to its customers. On December 12, 2023, Mang Inasal will offer its customers nationwide a one-day AnniverSAYA Blowout with Chicken Inasal Large Paa or Pecho with rice for only Php99 where they can enjoy not just a treat for their savory pleasure, but also savings of up to Php52. “Our 20th anniversary celebration is a tribute to all our customers who have been part of our many milestones and supported us over the past 20 years. Let us enjoy the Ihaw-Sarap food and Unli-Saya experience which we will continue to serve everyone in the next 20 years," said Mang Inasal President Mike V. Castro.
 |
| (Image Source: SunStar Philippines/Mang Inasal) |
The AnniverSAYA Blowout comes two days after the #MangInasalAt20 AnniverSAYA celebration on December 10, 2023 at the Main Mall Atrium of Robinsons Place Manila with Mang Inasal endorsers Coco Martin, Dimples Romana and Jane De Leon topbilling the occasion. There will be free Extra Creamy Halo-Halo and Mang Inasal Palabok, Game Booths, and Photobooth from 2:00 to 4:00 pm. During the main event at 4:00 pm, an AnniverSAYA raffle is in store for attendees with grand prizes like iPhone 14, Samsung 50” Smart TV, iPad 10th Gen and Mang Inasal Gift Certificates worth Php5,000.
