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| (Image Source: Ticketnet Online/AEG Presents Asia/Ovation Productions) |
HIPHOP/R&B girl group XG held their first world tour, XG 1st WORLD TOUR "The first HOWL", captivating audiences in Japan with back-to-back sold out shows at Osaka-Jo Hall last May 18-19, 2024 and K-Arena Yokohama last May 25-26, 2024. The performances showcased cover songs that are unique to the Japan shows, reimagined versions of their tracks, and songs from their “XG TAPE” rap content series alongside their “XG VOX” vocal content series, crafting an impressive multi-song setlist. XG eventually surprised fans with the first-time unveiling of their new single “WOKE UP”. The two concerts, spanning about two exhilarating hours per show, were met with enthusiastic cheers from the crowd until the very end.
XG’s fifth single “WOKE UP” features an innovative fusion of 808 bass and distinct East Asian elements showcases the group's rap prowess and unapologetic hip-hop identity. The official music video, which can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5sT20edl02I, sees XG members transform into fierce wolves, challenging stereotypes as well as boundaries, and heralding a new era of their artistic transcendence. With its cinematic storyline and breathtaking visuals, the MV is mystical and awe-inspiring all at once. The seven-member girl group comprising of JURIN, CHISA, HINATA, HARVEY, JURIA, MAYA, and COCONA debuted in March 2022 with their 1st Single ‘Tippy Toes’. Since then, they have performed on numerous international stages and media outlets in countries including the United States, Japan, Korea, Australia, Singapore, the UAE, Malaysia, and China. They were the first Japanese artists to have charted 1st place on the U.S. Billboard chart “Hot Trending Songs Powered by Twitter” and the first Japanese girl group to grace the cover of U.S. Billboard magazine.
Following its successful kickoff in Osaka and Yokohama in Japan, XG 1st WORLD TOUR “The first HOWL” will be heading to several Asian cities, including Manila, on the following dates and venues with more stops across Greater China, North America, Australia, South America, and Europe to be announced soon.
• July 10-11, 2024 – Yes24 Live Hall, Seoul, South Korea
• July 13, 2024 – Taipei International Convention Center, Taipei, Taiwan
• July 16, 2024 – The Star Theatre, Singapore
• July 19, 2024 – We The Fest, Jakarta, Indonesia
• August 2, 2024 – Smart Araneta Coliseum, Manila, Philippines
• August 4, 2024 – UOB LIVE, Bangkok, Thailand
• August 7, 2024 – Mega Star Arena, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Promoted by AEG Presents Asia and Ovation Productions, tickets for XG 1st WORLD TOUR “The first HOWL” Landing at Manila are now available at Ticketnet outlets nationwide and online at ticketnet.com.ph starting at Php4,000.
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Kids Enjoy An Unforgettable Day Of Joy, Smiles, And Fun At Jollibee’s Ngiting Walang Katulad Kids’ Day
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| Jollibee's newest ambassadors, the Arellano family, with Hetty and Jollibee at Jollibee's Ngiting Walang Katulad Kids Day (Image Source: INQUIRER.net/Jollibee) |
On May 21, 2024, members of the media and their kids were invited to a special event full of jolly faces, fun activities, and their favorite Jolly Spaghetti at Jollibee’s Ngiting Walang Katulad Kids’ Day held at the Mind Museum in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig City. The Ngiting Walang Katulad Kids’ Day was a big day for kids who attended including children from Asociacion De Damas De Filipinas, an orphanage dedicated to taking care of kids in need of homes.
Guests took on fun puzzles, art activities, and many games related to Jolly Spaghetti. These included the Spaghetti Limbo where players had to pass under a Jolly Spaghetti noodle to win each stage. On the other hand, the Cheesy Cha-Cha Challenge had each participating pair show off their dance moves. The final challenge, Spaghett-astic Sprint, was a very energetic Jolly Spaghetti relay that capped off the day’s line-up of games. Afterwards, the kids toured the museum to see its fascinating exhibits, from animals and colorful plants to the wonders of the human body. It was a fun and educational day all around! Making the day extra special was the surprise appearance of the Arellano family, the newest Jolly Spaghetti ambassadors. Iya, Drew, and their kids gamely joined in the fun and participated in many activities, spending valuable time and creating new joyful memories and bonds with everyone.
“A kid’s smile is precious and infectious, and it has the power to bring joy to anyone’s day. Add their favorite sweet-sarap Jolly Spaghetti in the mix and kids can create wonderful memories of joy that will stick with them and their loved ones for a long time,” said Iya Villania-Arellano. “Enjoying Jolly Spaghetti with my kids always brings special and colorful moments worth cherishing. I hope its sweet-sarap goodness continues to bring even more joy to kids and become a part of their special moments,” said Drew Arellano. And of course, the event would not be complete without everyone’s favorite mascots Jollibee and Hetty who brightened up everyone’s day and gave happy faces that will surely leave memories with every child present. “Just like everyone’s favorite Jolly Spaghetti, we wanted to make a day where we can enjoy all of our favorites, and bring 'ngiting walang katulad' to everyone,” said Jollibee Brand Manager Kat Facun. With the Ngiting Walang Katulad Kids’ Day, Jollibee continues to spread joy and bring the Ngiting Jolly Spaghetti to children, showing that langhap-sarap food paired with jolly memories can brighten anyone’s day and make unforgettable memories.
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Ready For Duty: AirAsia Philippines Welcomes New Batch Of Air Force Reservists
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| The new Allstar PAF Reservists at the Philippine Air Force Gymnasium, Villamor Airbase, Pasay City: (L-R) John Christopher Y. Elizon (Head of Quality Management), John Brandon C. Bunag (Cabin Crew), Katherine E. Santonia (Executive – Culture), Angelica S. Gabriel (Cabin Crew & A-Team Member), Kathelene Zenas T. Padilla, M.D. (Occupational Health Physician/Longevity Physician), Maria Estrella B. Panganiban, R.N. (Healthcare Nurse), Jessie Kid P. Tan (Head of ICT), Reginald G. Mendoza (Cabin Crew), and Frederick F. Macapagal (Asst. Manager – Operational Quality Assurance) (Image Source: AirAsia Philippines) |
A new set of nine Allstars was officially inducted as reservists of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) after completing the Basic Citizen Military Training. This marks the 5th batch of AirAsia Philippines personnel to finish the program, solidifying the partnership with the PAF and commitment to supporting community service. AirAsia has been affiliated with the PAF as a 1st Airlift Wing Reserve unit since 2019. “The dedication of our Allstar reservists to community service is deeply rooted in AirAsia Philippines’ commitment to readiness in responding to national crises, emergencies, rescue operations, humanitarian efforts, and medical missions. We have always cultivated a culture of readiness through CSR programs like alwaysREADY: anytime, anywhere, aiming to support disaster relief efforts in communities regardless of time and location,” shared AirAsia Philippines CEO Ricky Isla.
To date, AirAsia has 65 reservists, supporting community service through the 1st Airlift Wing, earning recognition as the Best Reserve Unit nationwide by the PAF. Oftentimes, Allstar reservists were also tapped to augment government relief efforts to typhoon stricken areas in far-flung provinces. Throughout their journey, Allstars reservists underwent a 30-day Basic Citizen’s Military Training with eight weeks of theoretical learning coupled with three days of field training. AirAsia Philippines Wing Commander, 1st Airlift Wing Reserve LTCOL Gomer Monreal, expressed his pride, saying, “In a testament to our commitment to national service, we proudly welcome the newest Allstar reservists now part of the esteemed PAF – Air Force Reserve Center.” This initiative has been especially meaningful for AirAsia Allstars like ICT Head Jessie Kid Tan, the only Marksmanship Awardee among the whole class, who shared, “I’m honored to be part of this opportunity as it allows me to express my love for the country, while also developing valuable skills in leadership and teamwork. All these I apply in my line of work in AirAsia.”
Allstar Air Force Reservists also have the option to undergo Professional Military Education or PME courses should they seek promotion or active positions in the service. AirAsia has been actively supporting uniformed personnel by providing specialized discounts and promo offering to all uniformed personnel. These initiatives are more than just an expression of gratitude to the selfless service of uniformed personnel. They signify the airline’s commitment to honoring their dedication and love for their country.
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Bridging Creativity, Strengthening Communities: realme Brings Portrait Master Academy To Visayas And Mindanao
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| (Image Source: Megabites/realme Philippines) |
After kicking off in Luzon with legs in Escolta, Manila, and Baguio, the realme Portrait Master Academy recently made stops in Davao and Bacolod. With the realme 12 Series 5G, participants received valuable insights into mobile photography from expert mentors and had the opportunity to engage in Squad Meets. The academy concluded with an engaging Photowalk activity that allowed attendees to apply their newfound knowledge and capture stunning images, further solidifying the sense of community and shared passion for photography. The realme Portrait Master Academy is a global hub for mobile photography enthusiasts to unleash their creative potential while exploring the art of capturing moments. It is a community where photographers from all corners of the world come together to learn, share, and inspire.
Miguel Lisbona, a life coach with experience in street photography, documentaries, minimalism, and 360 photography, led the Davao leg while Khintrow, a well-known street photographer couple, guided mobile photography enthusiasts in Bacolod. Lisbona and Khintrow discussed the basics and importance of portrait photography and the different elements of the craft with the student organizations of the Academy's official campus partners STI College Davao and Colegio San Agustin-Bacolod facilitating the photo walks. Each leg of the realme Portrait Master Academy was powered by the realme 12 Series 5G comprising of the realme 12 Pro+ 5G, realme 12 + 5G, and realme 12 5G. Known as the Portrait Master for its flagship camera experience, it has a 64MP Periscope Portrait Lens and has one of the highest megapixel counts on a telephoto camera. The Sony IMX890 OIS and SonyLYT5600 OIS Cameras take crystal clear shots, even in dimly lit environments.
realme values communities in all regions of the country by recognizing the unique contributions of each region. The launch of the realme Portrait Master Academy exemplifies this commitment, as it is a heartfelt initiative to give back to the Squad all over the country. By sharing a passion for photography and creative growth, realme shows its appreciation for its loyal customers through the brand’s deep-rooted connection with the Squad. Interested members of the Squad can check out realme’s Community Facebook page for future events.
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Welcome To The Marketplace Of Excitement: Eplayment Launches PIXEL Loot Fair
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| (Image Source: 2nd Opinion/Eplayment) |
Content creation has grown to be a lucrative field in recent years with the explosive rise of influencer marketing and the spread of short-form video content on social media platforms. Content creators have grown into a niche of their own with them being branded as entrepreneurs, monetizing their interests, hobbies, and other aspects of their lives. It’s very much like running a business, and with that comes the challenge of balancing it all. Eplayment brings a content aggregator platform PIXEL, designed to help burgeoning creators manage their content and social media accounts, to elevate monetization opportunities and build a community among fans and content creators.
The platform hopes to further its goals at the first-ever Loot Fair happening on June 1-2, 2024, 10:00 am-10:00 pm, at Esrancia Mall in Pasig City. A cross between a convention and a conference for creators, the Loot Fair will be PIXEL’s much-awaited event where creators, fans, and enthusiasts can gather at a marketplace of ideas. Eplayment CEO Karlos Naidas states, "We recognize that there is quite a lot of potential for content creators to monetize the ideas they bring to life. We hope that through this event, we can bring together creators and their fans so we can build a community and a safe space for creativity to thrive and be enjoyed.” A number of fun and educational activities await those who will attend including PIXEL Creator Chats where on-stage interviews with PIXEL’s Partner Creators will be conducted. This is also an opportunity for fans and fellow creators to ask questions and win raffle prizes.
For those visiting the merchant booths, PIXEL’s donation feature will be accepted as a valid mode of payment so both fans and creators can experience the seamless transfer of funds that PIXEL promises. A live auction for partner creators’ most prized possessions will also be held as a way for fans to score a sentimental piece from their favorite creator. An exciting cosplay runway will also happen to showcase talents and their personal branding and cosplaying skills on-stage. The likes of AC Soriano, Kang Dupet, and Euleen Castro will surely have some goodies that fans will be happy to snag. The event is open via registration and everyone is welcome to partake in this event and meet the creators that we all love. PIXEL Loot Fair is just the start of Eplayment’s many creator-centric programs to support the community, foster relationships within, and extend opportunities to aspiring creators.
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Prime Video Announces New UK Original Movie "My Fault: London"
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| Asha Banks and Matthew Broome as Noah and Nick in Prime Video UK Original Movie "My Fault: London" (Image Source: Amazon MGM Studios) |
Prime Video will launch My Fault: London, a new UK Original Movie, following the global success of Spanish Original Movie Culpa Mia (My Fault). My Fault: London remakes the story of Nick and Noah, starring rising British talent Asha Banks (A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder) and Matthew Broome (The Buccaneers). Production has recently wrapped in the UK. My Fault: London offers fans worldwide an exciting British remake of this Original Movie based on the first book of Mercedes Ron’s bestselling Culpables trilogy (Culpa Mía, Culpa Tuya, Culpa Nuestra).
When Noah’s mother Ella falls in love with the very wealthy William, the two move from America to London to live with William and his son Nick. Upon arrival, the 18-year-old Noah meets bad boy Nick and there is an immediate attraction between the two. Noah spends the summer adjusting to her new life, making new friends from Nick’s various circles, and navigating a complicated relationship with him while they fight to keep the attraction at bay. But unbeknownst to Noah, her estranged father has been released from prison and starts tracking her every move. Noah will ultimately be forced to deal with her devastating past while falling in love for the first time. “We know fans around the world will be excited to hear that Prime Video will deliver them a brand new British remake of the first book of Mercedes Ron’s bestselling Culpables trilogy with My Fault: London. We’re delighted to be investing in rising talent Asha Banks and Matthew Broome as Nick and Noah, bringing this world renowned story to life through a British lens," said Amazon MGM Studios Vice President of International Originals James Farrell.
In addition to Asha Banks and Matthew Broome, the My Fault: London cast includes Eve Macklin (Brooklyn) as Ella, Ray Fearon (Barbie) as William, Enva Lewis (How to Have Sex) as Jenna, Jason Flemyng (Black Dog) as Travis, Kerim Hassan (Champion) as Lion, Sam Buchanan (Back to Black) as Ronnie, Amelia Kenworthy (Messenger) as Anna and Harry Gilby (Tolkien) as Dan. My Fault: London is produced by 42 and is directed by duo Dani Girdwood and Charlotte Fassler and the script has been written by Melissa Osborne (Change). The UK Original Movie is produced by Ben Pugh and Erica Steinberg from 42 with Kari Hatfield serving as Executive Producer alongside Pokeepsie Films’ Alex de la Iglesia, Carolina Bang and Domingo González.
