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| (Image Source: Orange Magazine TV/CreaZion Studios) |
BACKROOMS, the global phenomenon that captivated a generation, is coming to the Philippines on June 3, 2026. CreaZion Studios has revealed its release date, an eerie first official poster, and a pulse-pounding teaser. Produced by genre powerhouse A24 with Chernin Entertainment, Atomic Monster, and 21 Laps, the highly-anticipated science fiction-horror film is the directorial debut of prodigy Kane Parsons, the 20-year-old YouTuber who turned the viral legend into a cinematic nightmare.
Parsons’ web series about secret backrooms garnered nearly 100 million views. The Creepypasta-inspired horror has also been adapted into numerous video games, including on the platforms Steam and Roblox. Academy Award nominees Chiwetel Ejiofor (12 Years A Slave, Doctor Strange In The Multiverse Of Madness) and Renate Reinsve (Sentimental Value, The Worst Person In The World) star in the movie alongside Mark Duplass (The Morning Show), Finn Bennett (A Knight Of The Seven Kingdoms), Lukita Maxwell (Shrinking), Avan Jogia (Zombieland: Double Tap), Chelah Horsdal (Hell On Wheels), and Toby Hargrave (Superman & Lois). In the teaser, a strange doorway appears in the basement of a furniture showroom, plunging the viewer into a world where time slips and space shifts. The first poster for the film, meanwhile, features a familiar yellowish wallpaper. BACKROOMS is the latest highly-anticipated international film that CreaZion Studios is bringing to the Philippines as part of its #KwentoMoTo mission to make “Human Stories And Human Experiences” accessible to Filipino and Southeast Asian audiences.
“As a major player in film distribution in the Southeast Asia (SEA) region, CreaZion Studios finds purpose and meaning in giving SEA audiences the opportunity to experience well-crafted films, in the best possible way — in cinemas. Nothing compares to the experience of watching a film on the big screen, particularly works distinguished by excellence in writing, performance, cinematography, and overall execution. BACKROOMS marks the beginning of CreaZion Studios’ slate of international titles for exclusive distribution in the Philippines and across Southeast Asia, and we look forward to unveiling more of our forthcoming releases under our banner, #KwentoMoTo,” said CreaZion Studios Co-Founder, President and CEO RJ San Agustin. Last year, CreaZion Studios successfully brought to the domestic and SEA markets the critically-acclaimed filmmaker Park Chan Wook’s No Other Choice and A24 fantasy adventure film The Legend of Ochi; and in 2024, the award-winning body horror film The Substance.
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Sponge Cola And Gigi De Lana Join Forces For First-Ever Collaboration “Naghihilom”
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| (Image Source: Starmometer/Sony Music Entertainment Philippines) |
Sponge Cola and Gigi De Lana are set to release their first collaborative single “Naghihilom” on March 6, 2026 across major music streaming platforms worldwide with an official music video premiering on the same day. The release marks a milestone moment for both acts, uniting two distinct forces in OPM for the very first time. “Naghihilom”, which translates to “healing”, delves into the quiet, complicated aftermath of heartbreak. It reflects on the process of sitting with pain long enough to understand it and, eventually, letting it soften.
The track is anchored by Sponge Cola’s signature alternative rock sensibility, unfolding through textured instrumentation and a slow-burning arrangement. Within that space, Gigi De Lana delivers a restrained yet deeply felt vocal performance that broadens the song’s emotional range while preserving its vulnerability.
For De Lana, the connection to the song was immediate, even if its full meaning revealed itself gradually. She shares, “When I first heard it, I immediately felt the depth. It was heavy. To be honest, the first time I listened to it, I didn’t fully understand the gravity of it. But when I replayed it a few more times, it slowly revealed itself to me.” The collaboration also looks promising as Gigi shares her excitement for the team-up. She adds, “From the first meeting pa lang for the song, I felt safe. I felt welcomed. Walang pressure, just pure collaboration and good energy. Sponge Cola is so easy to work with. The environment was light, creative, and inspiring. The whole experience felt amazing. Honestly, ayoko nga umalis agad kapag kasama ko sila.”
Sponge Cola frontman Yael Yuzon hopes listeners will find their own stories reflected in the track, saying, “I want people to feel what they need to feel, to remember or forget, and hopefully sing with us. And working with Gigi, andali.” An accompanying music video was filmed during the song’s first-ever live performance at a major music festival last January, giving fans present an exclusive first glimpse of the track. The collaboration bridges two generations of OPM listeners: Sponge Cola, long known for their emotive anthems and enduring presence in the local rock scene, and Gigi De Lana, whose powerful vocals and commanding live performances have cultivated a strong digital following and a new wave of fans.
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Markiplier’s “IRON LUNG” Thrills Fans At PH Fan Screenings
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| (Image Source: Starmometer/Encore Films Philippines) |
Markiplier’s “IRON LUNG” made its Philippine fan screening debut at SM Aura Premier, SM City Fairview, SM Southmall, SM Mall of Asia, SM North EDSA, and SM Megamall last February 21, 2026. These screenings were a huge success with overwhelming demand leading to sold-out screenings at several venues. Most attendees raced to secure their tickets, eager to be among the first in the Philippines to experience the chilling suspense of “IRON LUNG”.
Longtime fans of Markiplier shared their excitement for the film. One fan said, “I’ve been waiting for this moment, and as his fan since 2012, this is something a fan would love and look forward to.” Even ahead of the movie’s regular release last February 28, fans were quick to buy tickets for the fan screenings, choosing to see it ahead of the official release. Many couldn’t wait to experience it firsthand, having waited for years to see this passion project come to life on the big screen. After watching the film, audiences praised “IRON LUNG” for staying true to its indie horror roots. Fans lauded Markiplier for delivering a compelling cinematic experience, noting that the film’s creativity and tension stood out despite a limited budget and his debut in filmmaking. Markiplier’s fans were locked in, dressing up, creating content, and going all out with their themed props. Some showed up with “IRON LUNG”-inspired 3D popcorn buckets while others cosplayed him or brought standees to celebrate his film.
Another fan, teary-eyed, shared, “Believe it or not, he is my hero! That’s why it’s a big deal for me that Markiplier did this movie as the director, producer, you name it, and a major bonus is that he also stars in it as Simon. As a fan, it is a proud moment witnessing this milestone. I’ve watched him for years on my PC and phone as a YouTuber, and now seeing him as a director and actor on the big screen is a proud and truly special moment for me.” Filipino fans expressed their support, enthusiastically greeting and cheering for Markiplier. They were also game, taking photos and videos, mimicking him, doing memes, and showing their love in every way. Be one of them, and don’t miss your chance to experience the tension and heart-pounding suspense inside the submarine. Brace yourself for an intense, claustrophobic dive into the unknown, and experience “IRON LUNG”, now showing in Philippine cinemas released by Encore Films Philippines.
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Silent Sanctuary Embarks On Sold-Out Japan Tour, Expands International Run With Singapore Show; New Single ‘UNA’ Out Now
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| Silent Sanctuary (Image Source: Starmometer/Universal Records Philippines) |
Popular OPM rockestra band Silent Sanctuary is set to reach a new international milestone as the group performs a three-date tour in Japan on March 27-29, 2026 followed by a Singapore show on April 5, 2026 at Timbre+ One North. Originally planned as a single concert, the Japan run expanded to three performances after strong fan demand with all shows now officially sold out.
The band's vocalist Sarkie Sarangay shares, “This is our first time in Japan. Supposed to be one show only, but because of the fans, they opened a second show and then a third,” noting that the band did not expect to discover such a large fanbase in the country. Violinist Kim Mirandilla-Ng described the upcoming tour as a moment the band feels “grateful for a new adventure” while cellist Anjo Inacay highlighted the growing reach of OPM across Asia, saying it is exciting to see Filipino music crossing into neighboring countries. The band will perform at Mr. Back Saitama, Livehouse Shinjuku SAMURAI, and Heaven’s Door, bringing their signature blend of rock instrumentation and classical strings to new audiences. Members shared that performing in Japan presents both excitement and challenge, as they look forward to meeting overseas fans and delivering performances that match the high musical standards of the livehouse scene. Fans attending the shows can expect a mix of classic hits, deeper cuts, and selected fan requests. Following the Japan dates, Silent Sanctuary will continue its international appearances in Singapore, where the band plans to deliver what Sarangay described as a “full-blast performance” for supporters abroad. Tickets for the Singapore show are available via Peatix.
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| (Image Source: Starmometer/Universal Records Philippines) |
Coinciding with the tour is the recent release of the band’s new single “UNA” under Universal Records, a refreshed version of a track originally recorded as a demo in 2009 and previously performed in the band’s early live sets. Catch their new single now on major digital music streaming platforms. As Silent Sanctuary continues to evolve creatively after more than two decades in the industry, the band remains driven by its passion for songwriting, live performance, and the enduring connection with audiences worldwide. In a message to fans, Sarangay said, “Walang humpay na pasasalamat. Thank you to all the old and new fans. Sana hindi kayo magsawa, dahil hindi kami magsasawa gumawa ng kanta para sa inyo.”
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‘Björn Again – The ABBA Forever Tour’ Is Coming To Cebu And Manila On August 2026
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| (Image Source: Starmometer/Concert Republic) |
Direct from Melbourne, Australia, Björn Again brings The ABBA Forever Tour to Cebu and Manila in 2026 – a dazzling two-hour ABBA spectacular celebrating the timeless music that conquered the world. This glittering, feel-good revival features all the iconic hits you know and love including Mamma Mia, Dancing Queen, Waterloo, SOS and Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! alongside ABBA’s most beautiful ballads such as The Winner Takes It All, I Have a Dream, Chiquitita and Fernando. Loved by audiences and critics worldwide, Björn Again is renowned as one of the most entertaining, high-quality live shows on the international circuit. With spot-on vocals, dazzling energy, outrageous costumes, hilarious theatrics and cheeky humour, Björn Again delivers the ultimate ABBA experience for fans of all ages.
Formed in Melbourne in 1988, Björn Again has now performed in over 120 countries and is the only ABBA tribute show officially endorsed by the members of ABBA. Their devoted fans include Metallica, Nirvana, Sir Tom Jones, Rowan Atkinson and J.K. Rowling, cementing their status as a true global phenomenon. Björn Again has performed at some of the world’s most iconic venues including Wembley Stadium, the Royal Albert Hall, the Sydney Opera House and Melbourne’s Myer Music Bowl, and at major international festivals such as Glastonbury (three times), Roskilde, Reading, The House of Blues (Los Angeles) and The Big Red Bash in central Australia. Time Out declared Björn Again “one of the most entertaining live shows in the world today” while Benny Andersson of ABBA famously said, “Fans better make the most out of Björn Again because that’s the closest they will get to seeing ABBA.” With ABBA’s music more popular than ever — thanks to Björn Again’s decades of worldwide touring, the films Muriel’s Wedding, The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, and the global success of MAMMA MIA! — this is a show not to be missed. Indeed, Björn Again – The ABBA Forever Tour is the must-see live event of 2026.
Presented by Concert Republic, Björn Again – The ABBA Forever Tour in the Philippines kicks off on August 7, 2026 at the Waterfront Hotel and Casino in Cebu City, followed by a two-night spectacle on August 8-9, 2026 at The Theatre at Solaire. Tickets for the Cebu leg are available at all SM Tickets outlets nationwide or online via SMTickets.com while tickets for the Manila leg can be purchased at either Ticketworld or Solaire Box Office.
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A Fresh Sound For 2026: Christian Bautista To Release City Pop-Inspired Anthem ‘Sa’yo Lamang’
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| (Image Source: Daily Guardian/Sony Music Entertainment Philippines) |
Celebrated as Asia’s Romantic Balladeer, Christian Bautista embraces his signature romantic charm while exploring a fresh sonic direction — pairing nostalgic pop glow with a stylish, contemporary edge. In his new single under Sony Music Entertainment entitled “Sa’yo Lamang”, Bautista embraces the romantic love song template with renewed confidence, pairing its feel-good energy with sophisticated production and city pop grooves. Imagine the neon glow of ‘80s Tokyo at twilight, yet the atmosphere feels distinctly Pinoy in its comforting glory. That’s how it sounds.
The award-winning OPM icon shares, “Sa’yo Lamang captures exactly where I am musically and emotionally: fully committed, joyful, and ready to connect. This year I’m all in. I want listeners to feel uplifted, have fun, and start the year with good energy.” Produced by Ziv, the track benefits from its intentional marriage of global and local flavors, past and present sounds, and the insistence of not wanting to be easily defined or pinned down. From slick arrangements to meticulous production, Ziv’s instincts for groove — particularly in the drum pattern and basslines — anchor the track’s smooth, vintage edge while allowing Bautista’s vocals to shine and charm their way through the listeners. Christian describes his collaboration with Ziv as a game-changing experience, saying, “His attention to detail in sound design and vocal production elevated every element, while his clear vision and collaborative approach pushed us to take creative risks. The process was smooth and professional from start to finish, and his contributions shaped a final mix that truly exceeded our expectations.” The vibrant personality of “Sa’yo Lamang” seamlessly translates into its upcoming music video which incorporates smooth retro styling, warm neon tones, and playful choreography. Designed to be a joyful night out, the MV captures intimate singing moments, carefree dancing, and lilting city snapshots that somehow mirror the easygoing vibe of the track. Bautista adds, “There’s also a small Easter egg hidden in the karaoke machine: make sure you look for that.”
The music video is directed by Tristan Ortega and conceptualized in collaboration with the Sony Music Philippines team and Balcony Productions with creative direction by Rico Blanco. As Bautista steps into a new era, music fans can look forward to celebrating the moment live. He is set to share the stage with Mark Bautista for an exciting night of timeless hits and exciting new music. Dubbed “Bautista x Bautista”, the concert is set to take place on March 6, 2026 at the New Frontier Theater in Cubao, Quezon City. Tickets are available via ticketnet.com.ph.
