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| (Image Source: ABS-CBN Corporation) |
The House of Representatives recently passed a resolution expressing its gratitude and appreciation to ABS-CBN's Sagip Pelikula for its significant role in restoring Filipino films and honoring the legacy of Filipino cinema. House Resolution No. 2314 recognized and celebrated Sagip Pelikula's "dedication and effort in the restoration of Filipino films, bringing to light the brilliance of Filipino filmmakers, actors, and storytellers”. It cited the film restoration efforts that started in 2011 by ABS-CBN in partnership with Central Digital Lab that resulted in the scanning, enhancing, restoring, remastering, and reintroducing 240 Filipino films to new generations of audiences. The resolution stated, "Sagip Pelikula restored a wide array of films across diverse genres and historical periods—from prewar titles to contemporary classics—ensuring that invaluable cinematic works were preserved for posterity."
After nearly 14 years of film restoration efforts, Sagip Pelikula ceased operation on March 31, 2025. The resolution cited its efforts "as the pioneering film restoration arm of ABS-CBN with the mission of digitally restoring and remastering selected Filipino films from the extensive archives of ABS-CBN". Among the films restored by Sagip Pelikula are “Ganito Kami Noon, Paano Kayo Ngayon?” (1976), “Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos” (1976), “Himala” (1982), “Oro, Plata, Mata” (1982), “Anak” (2000), “Tanging Yaman” (2000), and “Dekada ‘70” (2002) to name a few. The resolution was introduced by House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, Rep. Yedda Marie Romualdez, Rep. Christopher de Venecia, Rep. Angelica Natasha Co, Rep. Ramon Jolo Revilla III, Rep. Kristine Singson-Meehan, Rep. Bryan Revilla, Rep. Rachel Marguerite Del Mar, Rep. Rufus Rodriguez, Rep. Jefferson Khonghun, Rep. Angelo Marcos Barba, Rep. Edward Vera Perez Maceda, Rep. Jose Arturo Garcia Jr., Rep. Marlyn Alonte, Rep. Maria Rachel Arenas, Rep. Mark Go, Rep Tsuyoshi Anthony Horibata, Rep. Anna Victoria Veloso-Tuazon, Rep. Maria Angela Garcia, Rep. Maria Vanessa Aumentado, Rep. Linabelle Ruth Villarica, Rep. Richelle Singson, Rep Lianda B. Bolilia, Rep. Marissa Magsino, Rep. Lani Mercado-Revilla, Rep. Stella Luz Quimbo, Rep. Richard Gomez DPA, and Rep. Amparo Maria Zamora.
In a social media post, ABS-CBN Sagip Pelikula thanked the House of Representatives for the recognition, stating, "This commendation is also a tribute to the dedicated individuals, past and present, who poured their hearts into this mission through the years. Together, we remain committed to safeguarding our nation’s cinematic heritage for future generations.” Sagip Pelikula, under the leadership of its former head Leo Katigbak, has earned multiple recognitions worldwide including the Gold Quill Award given by the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC), Lifetime Achievement Award from the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), Film Heritage Award from the Society of Filipino Film Reviewers, Gawad Pedro Bucaneg from Unyon ng mga Manunulat sa Pilipinas (UMPIL), and the Gawad PASADO sa Pagsisinop ng mga De Kalibreng Pelikula distinction from the Pampelikulang Samahan ng mga Dalubguro (PASADO).
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"Only We Know" Earns Positive Reviews From Celebs, Filmmakers, And Media
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| (Image Source: ABS-CBN Corporation) |
The intriguing love story of Charo Santos and Dingdong Dantes in “Only We Know” has instantly captured the hearts of celebrities, esteemed filmmakers, and entertainment journalists and bloggers based on their reviews after watching the special advanced screening. The romance film, which is written and directed by Irene Emma Villamor, earned praise for its poignant storytelling, dreamy cinematography, and the cast’s heart-fluttering chemistry that transcends beyond ‘kilig’ as it also delivers an impactful message about life and love. The film resonated with celebrities Vice Ganda and Eugene Domingo who were both deeply moved emotionally. Vice shared, “It was a beautiful story. Nakakatuwa, masaya, then eventually malungkot na ako. Ang dami kong na-realize and it made me cry.” Eugene added, “Napakaganda niyang pelikula. This film will really stay long in our minds and in our memories because you know the people in this film.”
Award-winning director Mae Cruz-Alviar led fellow filmmakers in commending the film’s subtle yet tender messaging about two people falling in love, stating, “The beauty is in its simplicity. It’s in the quiet moments, the tension. Doon ramdam na ramdam at nag-uumapaw.” The Philippine Star’s entertainment editor Nathalie Tomada wrote about Charo and Dingdong’s exceptional portrayal and said, “We came out of the theater thinking that whoever thought of bringing the two together pulled off a casting masterstroke. This film will prove that unconventional stories like this have a place in Philippine cinema.” Philippine Daily Inquirer’s entertainment and lifestyle journalist Marinel Cruz highlighted the film’s soulful storytelling. In a social media post, Cruz expressed, “‘Only We Know’ isn’t your usual love story. It’s layered. A little tricky to tell. But it totally works. Charo and Dingdong’s chemistry jumps off the screen.” Popular entertainment blog LionHeartTV.net described the movie as a “love letter to healing and second chances” and said, “There are films that shout their themes with grand gestures, and then there are films like ‘Only We Know’ - a delicate, achingly beautiful meditation on love, loss, and the quiet courage it takes to open one’s heart again. ‘Only We Know’ is a rare gem - a film that understands the power of silence, the beauty of small moments, and the transformative magic of human connection.”
“Only We Know” is now available in over 200 cinemas in the Philippines and will be shown in Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada, Guam, UAE, Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Hong Kong, and Macau. Charo and Dingdong will also attend special screenings and meet and greet events in Canada (June 20-21) at Cineplex Scarborough Town Centre and in the United States (June 22) at Cinemark Carson. Tickets will be available soon on mytfc.com. “Only We Know” tells the story of Betty (Charo) and Ryan (Dingdong), two wounded souls that navigate the type of special relationship they have as they develop an intimate bond with one another.
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DZMM Radyo Patrol 630 Returns With New Weekday Programming
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| (Image Source: ABS-CBN Corporation) |
DZMM Radyo Patrol 630 returned last June 2, 2025 on AM radio with a new round-the-clock programming lineup, simulcasting on DZMM Teleradyo on pay TV and online. While celebrating its rebirth, DZMM also celebrates the return of two of the most iconic voices on Philippine radio, Noli de Castro and Charo Santos. DZMM’s “Kabayan”, the flagship public affairs program of veteran journalist Noli de Castro, now airs in its new weekday timeslot at 10:00-11:00 am while “MMK Sa DZMM”, the radio drama series adapted from the highly popular “MMK” on TV, returns on air during weekdays at 12:30-1:00 pm. Media Serbisyo Production Corporation (MSPC) President Marah Faner-Capuyan expressed her enthusiasm over the return of DZMM to the airwaves, saying, “Tayo ay natutuwa dahil ang isa sa mga pinagkakatiwalaang AM radio station sa Metro Manila ay magbabalik na.” Charo added, “We are bringing back a legacy of service, information, and entertainment. Nasa puso na ‘yan ng bawat Kapamilya.”
On weekdays, its broadcast begins at 4:00 am with “Radyo Patrol Balita Alas Kwatro” anchored by Robert Mano and Steve Raz, followed by “Ronda Pasada” with Johnson Manabat at 5:00-6:00 am, and “Gising Pilipinas” with Alvin Elchico at 6:00-7:00 am. Doris Bigornia joins Alvin at 7:00-8:00 am before she and Robert Mano team up again for “Tandem Ng Bayan” at 8:00 am. The mid-morning to early afternoon block features “Balitapatan” at 9:00-10:00 am with Peter Musngi and Rica Lazo, the return of the iconic “Kabayan” at 10:00-11:00 am with Kabayan Noli De Castro, and “Nagseserbisyo Niña Corpuz” from 11:00 am to 12:00 noon, hosted by Niña Corpuz and Migs Bustos. “Headline Ngayon,” airing from 12:00 noon to 12:30 pm with Jeff Hernaez and Rica Lazo, delivers up-to-the-minute news, followed by “MMK sa DZMM” with Charo Santos, bringing inspiring real-life stories to listeners. In the afternoon, legal advice and public service take the spotlight in “Hello Attorney,” airing at 1:00-2:00 pm with Atty. Noel Del Prado and Lyza Aquino, followed by “Aksyon Ngayon” at 2:00 pm with Winnie Cordero and Doc Denis not only provides comfort and assistance to Filipinos but also supports the medical needs of each individual through medical advice. Amy Perez takes over at 3:00 pm with “Ako ‘To, Si Tyang Amy”, blending lifestyle talk with relatable, real-life commentary. News resumes with “Headline sa Hapon” at 4:00-4:30 pm, anchored by Tony Velasquez, followed by “ATM: Anong Take Mo?” at 4:30-5:30 pm.
As the day winds down, Tony Velasquez and Karmina Constantino host “Isyu Spotted” on DZMM Teleradyo while “Arangkada Balita” with Niña Corpuz and Jeck Batallones airs on DZMM Radyo Patrol 630 at 5:30-6:30 pm. This is followed by the simulcast of “TV Patrol Sa DZMM” at 6:30-8:00 pm. Evening programming continues with “Spot Report” with Jeff Caparas and Marlene Padiernos at 8:00 pm, “Alam na This” with Papa Ahwel and Jhai Ho at 9:00 pm, and “Love Konek” with coach Vanessa Antonio at 10:00 pm to 12:00 midnight. Capping off the day is “Remember Your Music” with Dan Capucion playing timeless hits and late-night dedications starting at 12:00 midnight to 4:00 am the next day. Listeners can tune in to DZMM Radyo Patrol 630 on the 630 kHz AM band and catch DZMM Teleradyo on Sky Cable, over 170 cable providers nationwide, free TV via PRTV Prime Media on BEAM TV, TFC, iWant, satellite TV, and online via its official Facebook and YouTube pages.
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Bilyonaryo News Channel Makes History As First Filipino News Channel Available On Samsung TV Plus
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| (Image Source: TNT Abante/Bilyonaryo News Channel) |
In a landmark development for Philippine media, Bilyonaryo News Channel (BNC) becomes the first Filipino news channel available on Samsung TV Plus, the global free ad-supported streaming platform of Samsung Electronics. This move significantly expands BNC’s reach to millions of Samsung Smart TV users nationwide, strengthening its position as a leading source of business, economic, and lifestyle news. The partnership was facilitated by Tap Digital Media Ventures Corporation (TapDMV), serving as media advisor and sales representative.
“TapDMV is proud to be the Partner of Prage in bringing Bilyonaryo News Channel into millions of Filipino homes through Samsung TV Plus. TapDMV is committed to ensuring these channels thrive in today’s dynamic streaming landscape, reaching wider audiences while unlocking new commercial opportunities through the medium of Connected TV,” said TapDMV President Celinda de Guia. BNC’s programming features business and lifestyle news hosted by veteran broadcast journalists from ABS-CBN and the now-defunct CNN Philippines. The channel is owned by Prage Management Corporation which also operates the digital news platforms Bilyonaryo.com, Politiko, and Abante. “Integrating Bilyonaryo News Channel into Samsung TV Plus is a game-changer for Filipino audiences. We’re excited to pioneer this with Rey Marfil, Gil Cabacungan, and the Prage team — and this is just the beginning,” said TapDMV/BlastTV Chief Growth Officer Jacque M. Ruby. For BNC's Senior Vice President for News Chair Favila, “This Samsung alliance is a quantum leap. We’re not just entering Filipino living rooms-we’re empowering a new generation with the financial intelligence to thrive.” The launch comes amid a surge in digital streaming, as audiences increasingly turn to free, easily accessible platforms for timely and relevant news.
Samsung TV Plus, which debuted in Southeast Asia in late 2024, offers over 100 live channels with no subscription fees or sign-ups, accessible on all Samsung Smart TVs. BNC is also available via free-to-air thru BEAM TV in major Philippine cities; pay TV platforms such as Cignal, SkyCable, and Converge Vision; as well as digital platforms including YouTube, Facebook, and Cignal Play. As competition in streaming intensifies, this move places BNC at the forefront of innovation in Philippine media — connecting more viewers to timely, local news and insights anytime, anywhere.
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Crunchyroll Kicks Off ‘Gachiakuta’ World Takeover With Main Trailer, Global Premiere Schedule, And More
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| (Image Source: Animation World Network/Crunchyroll) |
Crunchyroll, the ultimate destination for anime fans worldwide, recently launched the Gachiakuta World Takeover, an unprecedented global anime movement that will deliver the excitement of this incredible title and unite fans around the world. In partnership with Kodansha, Avex, and Bones, this campaign kicks off the debut of the main trailer, unveiling new footage from the high-octane action series set to stream on Crunchyroll on July 6, 2025. Fans can also view the newly revealed key visual, the global premiere schedule, a new concept video and visual that tells the world, “Here Comes Gachiakuta!”, as well as explore special activations that showcase the raw, graffiti-inspired world. “There’s a raw, emotional current in Gachiakuta that will resonate with fans the moment they see it. These promotional efforts are designed to match the excitement and intensity of this remarkable story and hook them into an unforgettable narrative journey,” said Crunchyroll Chief Operating Officer Gita Rebbapragada
Before its worldwide streaming debut, Gachiakuta will premiere early in 15 countries and regions through special advance screenings. These showings will be held at major anime events and cities:
• United States: Anime Expo (Los Angeles, California) – July 4, 2025 at 10:00 am PDT
At Anime Expo, in addition to the two-episode premiere, there will be a special panel featuring creators Kei Urana and Hideyoshi Andou alongside producer Naoki Amano. Fans can also experience an immersive Gachiakuta-themed installation on the show floor, featuring storytelling zones, and more.
• France: Japan Expo (Paris) – July 4, 2025 at 11:45 am CEST
• Brazil: Anime Friends (São Paulo)
• Germany: Astor Film Lounge (Berlin) – July 5, 2025 at 6:00 pm CEST
• India: PVR Icon (Mumbai) – July 4, 2025
• Mexico: Antara Shopping Mall (Mexico City) – July 4, 2025
• Italy: The Space Moderno, Piazza della Repubblica (Rome) – July 4, 2025 at 6:30 pm CEST
Alongside today’s trailer debut, there are two additional highlights:
• “Behind Gachiakuta” Video Interview: A behind-the-scenes look at creators Kei Urana and Hideyoshi Andou, diving into their creative process and passion for fusing manga with graffiti. Watch it here:
• Gachiakuta Graffiti Maker Website: An interactive experience where fans can create their own personalized “Gachi-style” graffiti tags inspired by the series’ bold aesthetic Try it at https://graffiti-maker.gachiakuta-anime.com.
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HBO Max Accelerates Global Growth Strategy With July Expansion Into Multiple New Markets
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| (Image Source: PR Newswire/Warner Bros. Discovery) |
Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) has announced that HBO Max, the premier global streaming platform, will launch direct-to-consumer in multiple new countries on July 2025. The platform will become available in Albania, Armenia, Cyprus, Estonia, Georgia, Iceland, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, and Tajikistan. These countries join their European neighbors in accessing an unparalleled lineup of entertainment from HBO, Warner Bros. Pictures, DC Studios, Max Originals and much more. This includes the global sensation A Minecraft Movie; the Harry Potter movies; returning series like The Last of Us, The White Lotus, The Pitt and Peacemaker; and future series such as Task, and IT: Welcome to Derry - as well as iconic series such as Friends and The Big Bang Theory, and 90 Day Fiancé from TLC and Gold Rush from Discovery.
Sports on HBO Max will be available in select countries with events including tennis Grand Slams - Australian Open, Roland-Garros, The Championships, Wimbledon, and US Open - as well as cycling's Grand Tours - Giro d'Italia, La Vuelta a España, Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes - and major winter sports events. WBD Chief Executive Officer and President of Global Streaming & Games JB Perrette said, "Our continued global expansion of HBO Max is helping fuel the great momentum we continue to see for the service. These 12 countries will be followed by a few additional markets later this year, and launches in Germany, Italy and the U.K. early next year. Each new market further positions HBO Max as a worldwide destination for the best in entertainment." HBO Max offers two subscription plans:
• Standard Plan - allows subscribers to stream on two devices at once with full HD resolution and up to 30 downloads for offline viewing (limits apply)
• Premium Plan - allows subscribers to stream on four devices at once with 4K UHD and Dolby Atmos (as available) and enjoy up to 100 downloads for offline viewing (limits apply)
HBO Max is available on major devices such as select mobiles, tablets, and connected TVs. Subscribers can pay via major providers (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, PayPal), and through in-app purchases on Apple App Store, Google Play Store, and Samsung Checkout. The global expansion of HBO Max follows earlier 2025 launches in Australia and Türkiye. Additional launches are planned in 2025 and into 2026 as momentum continues to build for HBO Max. WBD ended the first quarter of 2025 with 122.3 million streaming subscribers, an increase of 5.3 million from the previous quarter.
