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| (Image Source: Ticketnet/Cinema Exhibitors Association Of The Philippines) |
Moviegoers across the country were able to celebrate the joy of watching the latest blockbuster films, family favorites, local productions, and international releases on the big screen at an affordable price, even if it's just for one day, as ₱100 admission tickets for Regular 2D Cinemas in several participating movie theaters were sold out during the inaugural Philippine National Cinema Day last September 12, 2026.
Organized and spearheaded by the Cinema Exhibitors Association of the Philippines (CEAP) together with industry and government partners, “National Cinema Day” marked the first time cinema exhibitors across the Philippines come together under a single nationwide campaign dedicated to celebrating the moviegoing experience. The maiden edition of a once-in-a-lifetime celebration for Philippine cinema serves as a unified effort to re-engage audiences with the movie theater experience. It aims to highlight the incomparable joy of collective viewing, steering the public back to theaters as a primary destination for culture and leisure. “This is more than a promotional event. It is a nationwide celebration of cinema and an invitation for Filipinos of all ages to experience the excitement, emotion, and community of watching movies on the big screen,” said CEAP President Irene L. Jose in a statement. “For generations, the cinema has held a sacred place in the heart of pop culture, providing a communal sanctuary where we collectively weep and cheer for the triumphs and trials of the human story on screen. While modern streaming offers convenience, nothing quite replicates the electric, shared magic of watching a story unfold on a towering silver screen in a darkened theater,” said Irene L. Jose, Chief Operating Officer of Uniprom Inc., the entertainment arm of the Araneta Group.
Supported by the Film Academy of the Philippines (FAP), Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB), and the Metro Manila Film Festival through the MMDA, “National Cinema Day” represents an unprecedented collaboration among cinema operators, industry stakeholders, and government partners in support of Philippine moviegoing. By uniting behind a common goal, the industry hopes to create a nationwide celebration that reminds audiences of the unique experience that only cinemas can provide, from giant screens and immersive sound to the shared excitement of watching a film with a live audience. The strong turnout on the first Philippine National Cinema Day underscored continued public interest in the cinema experience when affordable admission brings moviegoing within reach of a wider audience.
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GMA News Launches “Team Totoo”, Showcasing Its Most Experienced And Credible News Team
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| (Image Source: GMA Network) |
GMA News further reaffirms its commitment to Serbisyong Totoo with its latest campaign, “Team Totoo”, bringing together its roster of seasoned journalists and highlighting the people behind the news Filipinos trust — truth-tellers, experts in their respective fields, and some of the most experienced journalists in the country. Anchored on the brand's enduring promise, “Walang kinikilingan. Walang pinoprotektahan. Noon at Ngayon, Serbisyong Totoo,” the campaign puts the spotlight on the journalists who relentlessly pursue the truth, wherever the story leads and whatever the subject may be.
For Team Totoo, reporting the news goes beyond what is seen, heard, or trending. It means asking the questions that matter as they cover the full spectrum of news — from national issues, politics, business, and public affairs to developments in entertainment, lifestyle, and popular culture. Armed with deep knowledge of their beats and years of experience in the field, they bring context, expertise, and perspective to every story. Team Totoo is about the people behind every credible report. They are responsible journalists who diligently check information, verify claims, consult the right experts and sources, conduct research, seek answers, and pursue all sides of the story before it reaches the public. With more than 1,000 journalists, staff, and crew working across platforms, GMA News has one of the country's largest and most experienced news organizations. Its journalists are in the know and on the ground where stories unfold, bringing Filipinos here and abroad news and information that is timely, relevant, verified, accurate, and credible.
Through Team Totoo, GMA News celebrates the collective experience and expertise of its journalists while reinforcing what has always set the organization apart: an unwavering commitment to truth and the responsibility that comes with informing the public. As the media landscape continues to evolve, GMA News continues to evolve with it — bringing its commitment to truth across television newscasts, regional newscasts, radio, digital platforms, and social media. Wherever Filipinos get their news, Team Totoo remains committed to informing, empowering, and serving the public with journalism they can trust. Because when it comes to the news that matters, truth needs a team that knows how to find it, verify it, and tell it.
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Comedy Central Announces The Return Of “DRUNK HISTORY” With New Episodes On Comedy Central YouTube Channel
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| (Image Source: BLEEDING COOL/Comedy Central) |
Comedy Central recently announced the return of the Emmy Award-winning comedy series DRUNK HISTORY with three brand-new short-form episodes, the series' first original installments in years. Created by Derek Waters and Jeremy Konner, DRUNK HISTORY became a cultural phenomenon by pairing unscripted, inebriated storytellers with historical reenactments, turning history's most monumental moments into comedic gold. The series will launch on Comedy Central's YouTube beginning September 15 with a premiere episode about Madonna's legendary first performance at the inaugural MTV Video Music Awards starring Meghan Trainor as Madonna.
Staying true to its signature blend of hilarious storytelling and reenactments, the series revisits unforgettable moments from history and pop culture. Featured stories include Madonna's first performance at the MTV Video Music Awards, one of the most iconic intersections of music, celebrity and live television; Frances Perkins, the woman who was the unsung architect of FDR's New Deal; and the lifelong battle of two men to make the world's largest ball of twine. Performers include Steve Agee, Tim Baltz, Seth Green, Colin Hanks, Jack McBrayer, Chris Parnell, Johnny Pemberton, Daryl Sabara, Meghan Trainor, Mae Whitman, “Weird Al” Yankovic and more with narrators including Lisa Gilroy, Patton Oswalt and Marisha Ray. “We are thrilled that DRUNK HISTORY is back. These new episodes reflect our heritage as both the home of iconic comedy franchises and a premier launchpad for comedic talent. As we continue to expand our reach across platforms, DRUNK HISTORY is a great example of how we're delivering Comedy Central to fans in new ways,” said Comedy Central Executive Vice President and Head of Original Content Ari Pearce. “I'm so excited to be back making DRUNK HISTORY again! We have a lot of catching up to do,” said Waters. Originally premiered in 2013, DRUNK HISTORY earned critical acclaim over its six-season run, winning the Emmy Award for Outstanding Costumes for a Variety Program or a Special and receiving 17 nominations while becoming known for its distinctive blend of improvised storytelling, celebrity performances and surprisingly educational takes on history.
The return of DRUNK HISTORY underscores Comedy Central's continued investment in one of the strongest comedy portfolios in entertainment. Building on a lineup that includes SOUTH PARK, THE DAILY SHOW, BEAVIS AND BUTT-HEAD and more, the brand is expanding the ways fans discover and engage with comedy through initiatives such as Comedy Central Stand-Up Selects, new one-hour specials, original podcasts and a growing slate of multiplatform originals. As it grows across platforms, Comedy Central remains committed to championing new comedic voices and creating the next generation of comedy hits.
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Ahn Hyo-Seop Stars As A Mysterious World-Class Chef In Scripted High-Stakes Culinary Drama “Final Table”, Streaming On Prime Video
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| (Image Source: ManilaSociety.com/Prime Video) |
Prime Video recently announced that Final Table, a compelling and heartfelt culinary drama, will premiere exclusively on Prime Video on October 24, 2026 in the Philippines and more than 240 countries and territories worldwide. World-renowned star Ahn Hyo-seop serves up a bold new transformation as a chef for the first time, bringing a whole new flavor to his performance. The “Rom-Com King” stars alongside Hong Hwa-yeon and Chang Ryul in a high-stakes culinary competition where fierce rivalries, unexpected connections, and deeply personal stories unfold with every dish.
Final Table follows Korean chefs who gather from all over the world to compete in “The Table: K-Chef 2026”, a contest to crown the finest Korean chef — a feast of dazzling dishes and extraordinary personal stories. Among the contenders are Kang Han, a world-class talent who works behind the name “Chris K.”; Choi Song-yi, fighting to keep her late father's restaurant standing; Cha Woo-jin, a star chef who accepts nothing short of perfection. As they push one another to the edge, plate after plate — and somewhere between the rounds, the rivalry turns into something closer to care. A warm survival drama about people who come to win, and end up mending each other's wounds instead. After captivating global audiences across period drama, romance, and animation, Ahn Hyo-seop (Sold Out On You, Dr. Romantic Season 2 & 3, Business Proposal, K-Pop Demon Hunters) takes on his first chef role as Kang Han, a Korean-born chef known as Chris K., who has built his career at restaurants overseas while keeping his background shrouded in mystery. Following a certain incident, he becomes head chef at Famiglia and throws his hat into the ring for a cooking survival competition. Hong Hwa-yeon (Filing For Love, Buried Hearts, I Am A Running Mate, True To Love) stars as Choi Song-yi, the only daughter of Choi Seung-hyo, the godfather of Western cuisine in Korea. Fighting to keep her late father's failing restaurant Famiglia alive, she crosses paths with Kang Han — a fateful meeting that could change everything. Chang Ryul (Daily Dose Of Sunshine; Love Me, My Name; The Golden Spoon) stars as Cha Woo-jin, the perfectionist star chef behind Korea's finest contemporary restaurant. Cha Woo-jin has built his name on precision and never settles for anything less. Six years ago, a chef known as Chris K. handed him the only defeat of his career. Now, they meet again. The series is produced by SLL, B.A. Entertainment and DZoongFilm. Written and directed by Kim Doh-hoon (Moon Embracing The Sun, Chimera, Medical Top Team), the series follows chefs who bring their talent and passion to the table, discovering that what's at stake goes beyond the win.
Final Table joins thousands of titles available on Prime Video including Filipino favorites such as Honor Thy Mother, The Loyalty Game, Love Is Never Gone, The Silent Noise, The Alibi, LOL: Last One Laughing Philippines, Saving Grace, Linlang, and Drag Den With Manila Luzon Seasons 1 and 2; Korean titles like See You At Work Tomorrow!, Absolute Value Of Romance, Siren’s Kiss, Spring Fever, Surely Tomorrow, Head Over Heels, GOOD BOY, Newtopia, and Marry My Husband; and anime hits including Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX, Jujutsu Kaisen 0, and Rurouni Kenshin. The service also features award-winning and critically acclaimed Amazon MGM Studios series and films such as Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan: Ghost War, Elle, Off Campus, Young Sherlock, Fallout, Reacher, Road House, The Boys, The Lord Of The Rings: The Rings Of Power, and The Summer I Turned Pretty alongside licensed fan favorites like John Wick. Prime Video also offers exclusive access to live sports, including the NBA, as well as acclaimed sports documentaries such as Bye Bye Barry, Kelce, and Earnhardt. Prime Video members can watch anytime, anywhere on thousands of compatible devices. Through the Prime Video app, members can also download content on mobile devices and tablets for offline viewing at no additional cost. Prime Video is available in the Philippines for just Php149 per month.
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The Sandbox Collective Opens 2027 Slate With SPRING AWAKENING
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| (Image Source: pelikula mania/The Sandbox Collective) |
The Sandbox Collective announces the highly anticipated and limited rerun of the award-winning rock musical SPRING AWAKENING. The production is set to open in February 2027 at The Black Box at The Proscenium Theater, Rockwell Center, Makati City. The staging recently received 17 Citations from Gawad Buhay Awards, cementing it as one of the most celebrated local productions of the season. Winner of eight Tony Awards including Best Musical with book and lyrics by Steven Sater and music by Grammy Award-nominated recording artist Duncan Sheik, SPRING AWAKENING is a contemporary rock masterpiece based on the controversial Frank Wedekind play of the same name.
Set in 19th-century Germany, the musical follows a group of teenagers navigating their burgeoning sexualities and rapidly changing bodies. As they seek answers to the mysteries of life, they clash with uncommunicative parents, rigid institutions, and a deeply conservative society. Driven by an electrifying alternative rock score, the show channels its characters’ adolescent repressions into the timeless angst and power of modern youth. It is an illuminating, unforgettable fusion of morality, sexuality, and rock and roll that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. With direction by Gawad Buhay nominee Andrei Nikolai Pamintuan (Muli, Lungs, Sa Wakas, Fringe Manila) and musical direction by multi-awarded Ejay Yatco (Side Show, Next To Normal, Little Shop Of Horrors), the SPRING AWAKENING rerun promises to reignite vital conversations while championing The Sandbox Collective’s ongoing education and advocacy initiatives. Pamintuan and Yatco are joined by Nunoy Van Den Burgh (Choreographer), Missy Maramara (Intimacy Director), Wika Nadera (Set Designer), Raven Ong (Costume Designer), Gabbi Campomanes (Assistant Director), and D Cortezano (Lighting Designer).
SPRING AWAKENING is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI), New York, NY, USA. For more information, visit the official website of The Sandbox Collective at www.thesandboxco.com and its official social media accounts: @TheSandboxCollective on Facebook, @thesandboxco on Instagram, and @thesandboxco on Tiktok.
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Rising Artist Paco Pastor Debuts New Single “Keep It Moving”
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| (Image Source: Starmometer/Offshore Music) |
Manila-based 19-year-old artist Paco Pastor officially releases “Keep It Moving”, a single and music video out now on digital music streaming platforms worldwide, which marks his debut under indie label Offshore Music. Inspired by the act of moving forward despite the odds, Pastor wrote “Keep It Moving” as his own rendition of the term “this too shall pass,” connecting his personal struggle from when he initially started to pursue his passion for creating music, refining his creative identity, and trying to garner listeners all on his own.
Feeling grateful, Paco shared, “At the time, I wasn’t validated for my art in music at all, and I was just an independent creator. To be recognized by a label, have a manager willing to put up with my schedule, and have praise from people after I get off stage means so much.” In “Keep It Moving”, the pop performer stayed true to the song’s message by using dancing as its central image, reflecting the feeling behind the track: “It’s a funky feeling that keeps you moving”, and that is precisely what Paco Pastor wants everyone to feel when listening to his music. “I was lost in the sauce. Because of how quick-paced the song is, I knew it had to be about dancing somehow. So instead of writing lyrics that spoke in a literal sense, I translated the feeling of resistance and persistence into lyrics about dancing,” he said of the song’s production, noting that he finished the track in an hour.
This year, Paco Pastor signed with Offshore Music, an artist-run Philippine label, and joined Waddle House Manila, a local, newly launched artist management collective. Right now, Paco Pastor is in the phase of finding his audience by putting his music out into the world through social media and live gigs. For this new track, he hopes it reaches listeners looking for a little optimism in their lives and that “Keep It Moving” leaves people feeling positivity against any looming despair and uncertainty.
