ISHA PONTI Releases Christmas Single and Prepares for THE NEXT ONES Concert with ANDREA GUTIERREZ

Isha Ponti is taking her music to new heights by releasing a Christmas single called "Kung Wala Ka Sa Pasko". 

At the launch, they had PPOP girl group DIV9 and Andrea Gutierrez perform as part of their efforts to promote their upcoming concert "The Next Ones" on December 13th at the Music Museum, produced by Ponti Entertainment Productions. They will be with Aquila Packing, Nathan Randal, Maurice, PPOP group by Azter, Graciel Hizon, Raymond Gorospe, The Boxers, Roshe Performing Group and the iconic Rey Valera. 

Isha is a very talented songwriter, and this song she just released is a bit of an emotional plea because the one she loves was not there during a special occasion such as Christmas. Done all in Filipino, she hopes it reaches those who feel a little lonely during this season. The lyrics give off a bit of a woman wanting to be with her loved one. She says "When we were trying to make a song, this was done on the spot and took us only 40 minutes just last November. I love Sarah Geronimo since I was a kid. If ever I'd get to do acting work, I would definitely grab the opportunity. I haven't made a song for Ate Andrea, or a PPOP group so I'd like to do that. I also want to compose a song for Sarah Geronimo and Arthur Nery. I've been writing songs since I was 7, but had problems with a recording company. It was a surprise for my Dad but it just continued. He was the one who encouraged me to write. I heard of contests for songwriting, but never had the opportunity to do so. Now I have 24 songs written but had about 19 recorded. I haven't released it yet but we'll see. I haven't done collabs yet but I'd like to do that soon."

Andrea loves the music of Lani Misalucha and want the concert to be a bit more modern plus a few classic songs in the mix. She says "Isha and I met in a competition called Asia's Best where she was Season 1 champ and I got Season 3. We already had the final rehearsal and we got good feedback even if we have different genres. I will be singing a lot of songs including 3 for the holidays. This includes an original song, which I'm excited to do on that night."

Isha and Andrea were commended by the Director Calvin Niera and said they actually over delivered. They didn't box the repertoire and expect something off their comfort zones because they have other songs to perform in the show. This is something that they are working on til things happen on the 13th. It's also going to talk about their personal journey, their feelings, just said through songs. It's fun and dance will also be a huge part of it towards the end.

Obviously they are excited, and if you want to watch something fun before the holidays, get tickets via TicketWorld now! Here's lots of luck for you two and the other performers, cheers!

COCO MARTIN Visits City of Malabon for the Launch of JIMM'S 5 in 1 Coffee with Ginseng

Coffee lovers and Coco Martin fans flocked the Malabon Sports Complex this morning for Jimm's Coffee Mix Kapeyan Plus Coco Martin Event, which I think is the first in the city. It was a chance for Malabon home grown folks to not only try the coffee brand but meet the biggest action star of the Philippines, live and in person!

Coco enjoys the Jimm's 5 in 1 Coffee Mix with Ginseng which is sugar free and they made sure to give away tons of it during the event. They had several kiosks giving away sandwiches and free Jimm's coffee variants. They also had a special sale specifically for those who decide to purchase the products on site like B1T1 deals which folks availed.

Ms. Michelle Chan of Mega Prime foods and Jimm's Coffee Mix said they asked permission to do the launch here because it was very near where they shot scenes for Coco's series. They also chose him not just because of his stature, but because he really does drink the coffee brand even before they made him an endorser. He also believes that people need healthy stuff because they need more energy to spend throughout the day.

Here's our short video when Coco was interviewed on stage:

Coco has been trusted by millions of Filipinos and having him enjoy a Filipino brand that's got track record and history, is just amazing! Congratulations Coco, you're on a roll! 

BAR BOYS AFTER SCHOOL: Funny with Serious Topics, An Exciting Installment!

When I heard Bar Boys would have another run, I was extremely happy just thinking what it would be like especially since the first installment had so many stories to continue with. The iconic Odette Khan won Best Supporting actress for it in different award giving bodies, including Indie Movie of the year, Best Director and Screenplay nominations to name a few. It also had a stage musical done which was well received by fans, and also had nominations for the version with the music used for the medium.

10 years since, the boys would have totally different lives and a whole new set of students to tell a story with Will Ashley, Sassa Gurl, Klarisse De Guzman, Glaiza De Castro, Emilio Daez, Therese Malvar, Benedix Ramos and Bryce Eusebio. The orignal ones Rocco Nacino, Kean Cipriano, Carlo Aquino and Enzo Pineda took on their roles 10 years older, having different lives to say the least, with Rocco teaching law school. Most of them were at the press conference a few days ago. They also paid tribute to Madame Odette Khan as she graced the event, had a standing ovation, which I adored.

Direk lamented how beyond the film, they all have been able to forge friendships and didn't take a miracle to pull off a second movie after the success of the first one. He said "We all grew as people and I've worked with everybody on this stage (including the new ones). I can guarantee, all of them are good people. I can confirm they are true artists who want to become better at their craft. I hope people see the value in that and support our Metro Manila Film Festival entry for 2025! I hope people would watch us first because we assure you it's going to be worth it." He also said that starting this meant they need to tell more stories that would matter, something people found in their first one so that's going to be interesting.

Will Ashley is going to be part of this and he says this movie is going to connect with you in so many ways, they really worked hard to make this second movie. Benedix on the other hand has auditioned for the musical play before landing this role for the movie. Sassa was super playful, her valedictorian role is something you should look forward to. While new, Emilio took a chance and auditioned for this role because he loved how his character developed. He learned a lot and want folks to watch this. Therese is already an award winning actress, having her in this film is just icing on a cake, she deserves it. The story she says is super good and said YES when it was offered to her.

Enzo says "It means a lot to me to see fans of Bar Boys to be here. It's also my first time to do MMFF, I've waited to do this after 15 years, and I'm part of it. I hope you get to support it like the first one."

Kean says "Josh after school didn't pass law school and this will continue that story. I hope we won't die in the end. Being part of a project that has value, being part of the first one was worth it, the second one just touches us on a different level. Being with them, seeing you appreciate it is enough for me."

Rocco says "Thank you to everyone who's here. I was supposed to take a different role, but I'm glad I ended up with this one. This is the first film that I've done that had a sequel, I assure you, you won't have problems suggesting this to friends and family if you would want to watch an entry at MMFF."

Carlo jokes about being in MMFF like he only had this as an entry, but everyone knows he's a regular LOL. He says "I want to share that when I read this email of Bar Boys, I was quitting showbiz, and the film gave me spark, to do what I love, I hope the same spark makes a movement out of Filipinos."

Excellent choices so far has been seen in MMFF 2025, and Bar Boys is the only one that is independently produced and supported by the FDCP. I can't wait to see what would happen to the original cast and the freshmen who will take on the new roles. This is a piece worthy to watch for sure! 

The MANZANOS: Luis and Jessy Reflect on Tumultuous Year

When I see Luis and Jessy, I feel like it's going to be a beautiful day. Their pleasant smiles has always been something people love, and for good reason, as they are very good people. This isn't the first time that I've seen Luis and Jessy, because back in the day, I've seen Luis at gym and several press conferences for shows in ABSCBN. Jessy on the other hand has been so genuinely lovely during an interview for "The Girl with the Orange Dress" which was her last film project(?) before going on a supposed hiatus. 

Luis then became very busy with a lot of things, including scandals which he addressed plus an exhausting electoral run that he admitted to have taken a toll on his mental health. He was lucky (literally) that he had Jessy on his side, that no matter what things may have happened these past few years. Jessy on the other hand went on recovery mode (since Peanut came) and also made sure they both spent time with her because they want too experience that too. Specifically on her formative years, but now reflects on it as the kid took Luis' mannerisms + naughtiness and and Jessy's innate kindness.

Jessy says "I really am thankful about a lot of things, not claiming redirections, but confidently I think we found our path as a couple. Me returning after 6 long years, finally I was reminded why I started in this career. I now have experience to bring, coming from real life. I am thankful for Star Magic and Hawhaw, I talk about work and things that make me happy. When Mumskie is asking stuff, it's mostly for updates about us and her son, she calls and really asks me, and treats me as her daughter. I am so lucky to have a very good MIL."

Lucky also credits Jessy and said "She shows me things behind the scenes (about her current shows), she's really happy. I also realized the programs that were battling it out on TV (media asked about his shows in same time slots in different channels). The magic of streaming is that you can go back and watch it. There's also the vlog where she's more open, more spontaneous. Recently people have been inquiring about hosting jobs, we've done it together in past shows and it may happen soon."

We also got to talk about how they actually fell in love. It was interesting because Luis was actually dumped twice before being officially a couple. It was crazy but he detailed that on this video:

Yes, it was a challenging few years for Luis and Jessy. To say that they've been through a lot is short of a joke, because it was complicated, scary, even dangerous. These two went through those issues together, and as Jessy puts it, she had to step up and be there for her husband especially during the most difficult times, more so after giving birth and being a full time home maker.

Tumultuous as it was, it was a challenge that never stood a chance because at the end of the day... they've got each other. They also told us about their relationship with Ms. Vilma Santos whom they've described treated Jessy as her own daughter since day 1. It's inspiring to see that despite of it all, love was there for them.  

Congratulations Luis and Jessy, can't wait to see your future projects and the ones you're already doing now!

Battling Hollywood Giants: GLADYS REYES in "The Heart of Music"

Got to watch the movie and musical entitled "The Heart of Music" starring prime actress Gladys Reyes, together with the very talented singer-actors Robert Sena, Isay Alvarez, Angel Guardian, 80's heart throb Rey PJ Abellana, Ms. Marissa Sanchez, dance couple Jopay Paguia, Joshua Zamora, and a throng of new child actors in the mix..

It's a very light-hearted story of a woman who happened to change the lives of a family using the power of love, singing and music.There are also several scenes where they teach life lessons about family, relationships, building dreams, aspirations, and the harsh realities of raising children. 

It had the right touch of Filipino humor, culture, and as Ms. Gladys put it, it was a dream role for her. She's been doing dramas for most of her acting life and one of her bucketlist items was to do a musical. She prepared for this by old school Karaoke style, but also involved a voice coach since it would really need execution that wasn't so familiar to her as a primetime drama actress.

 

Despite its shortcomings (albeit a few), it gave most of its spirit to how people could learn a thing or two about family, of having good manners, things that would fit be watched by children. I heard a lot of feedback from those who got to watch the screening that this would be perfect to show this to kids who are under the Department of Education (Elementary Schools), and I totally agree. It does make sense since it has little elements that they could learn from, and it'll be quite entertaining as a medium because it is after all filled with music and singing, done by some of the most talented folks in theater, and PH entertainment. 

Here's the fun mediacon on video, please enjoy! 

This shows on December 10 in cinemas nationwide! And as Ms. Gladys said, this could beat those big Hollywood movies, see if it does on theaters! This is Directed by Paolo Bertola and written by Mario Gatdula Alaman (who also did the music).

The Glow Atelier Starts Exclusive Distribution of The BARUM Systems in the Philippines

The freedom to choose what to use for your skin is something that I treasure, and so does 103 million other Filipinos. These days, we've had the opportunity to travel and discover things that are apt for Asian skin. We've seen the resurgence of Korean derm products, one of them is The Barum, a brand that has been recently launched in the Philippines. This is exclusively going to be distributed in the country by The Glow Atelier.

Their philosophy lies in "Proactive Skincare", something that is fully scientifically approached, to not just act on issues now, but starting on making the skin resilient. They have products to make sure it's equipped before things happen. The Barum addresses a lot of it with Radiance Renewing Systems via kits specifically formulated from marine sponges, to help regenerate skin cells. It also hastens peeling, the R2 HS Implant Kit and Spicules does that. They also have the Crystal Clear PR Ampoule that has PDRN created from salmon (skin/extract), and promote collagen creation. The Radiance Renewing R1 Acid Kit on the other hand is for acne treatment and oil control. It's got Salicylic and Glycolic Acid. They also have Blue Jewel Azulene line that cools and reduces redness after sun exposure. 

Here's a few things they discussed during the event: 

If you would like to experience it, or become part of the business, take a trip to The Glow Atelier (who exclusively distributes this in the country). Looks promising, but still, they strongly advice to seek professional consultation (with a doctor) before using these products. That's exactly what they prefer you do and I applaud them for that. You may ask via their social channels about the availability. 

40 Years of MARIE FRANCE with DAWN ZULUETA and Daughter Ayisha

A pioneer in slimming services in the country since 1985, Marie France is celebrating their 40th anniversary. 

When I got invited to this event, I was thinking of the thousands of men and women who have undergone their services; and how it has ultimately changed their lives. 

They've been known to do scientific and non surgical weight loss programs, with some of the best looking celebrities proving how effective it is, and each of them get armed with confidence, the knowledge to take care of themselves because at the end of the day, they truly deserve it. 

The corporation started small, like any other business, but with their name on the line, they made sure to develop their services by working with the best in the world. Marie France Group of Companies now also has Svenson, Facial Care Centre and pioneered the best slimming, health and wellness offerings the country has ever seen. 

Who would ever forget the time when one of the country's brightest stars Ms. Dawn Zulueta graced a huge billboard back in the days. While making blockbuster movies and appearing on local TV, she made sure that she stays on her best shape with Marie France's help. She also looks like a vampire, as she didn't look like she aged, and people loved her for that. This time, she's going to be with Marie France together with her daughter Ayisha who's obviously inherited her good looks, turning to the same place to take care of her skin especially since she's also had breakouts like any teen of her age.

It was heartwarming that the love and care continues after all those years. They're trusting the same people who made their life journey easy, the folks from Marie France.

Here's a glimpse of the event:

What's more touching is that, some of the women that have been with Marie France also went to the 40th anniversary celebration and told us their stories. Some are single, some are married, some have kids, but every single one trusted Marie France. It has changed their lives for the better, as I am too now that I am having treatments with the hair experts from Svenson. I've just started, and I can't wait to tell you how it has been a great journey with them. Their corrective measures made me realize I've been ignoring a lot of things when it comes to taking care of my hair. My friends on the other hand are availing services from Facial Care Center, and they have been loving each day. Can't wait to have sessions with them too.

I am so happy I'm one of the thousands of individuals who's life has been touched by Marie France, and I'm sure if you'd try it one of these days, that you will see the value of it too. Congratulations to everyone at Marie France, and I say, cheers to 40, and more years of taking care of us! 

Shared Experiences, Love, and Hurt in MMFF 2025 Entry UNMARRY

This 2025 MMFF, an entry by CINEKO Productions and Quantum Films will touch on the topic of relationships, love, and walking away. Angelica Panganiban and Tom Rodriguez will play the role of Angelica and Tom, a married couple who's life is about to collapse, breaking their hearts, and their two daughters. The other couple played by Zanjoe Marudo and Solenn Heussaff, want to fight their annulment procedure, and being with his son Elio played by Zac. Then found themselves inside the office of a lawyer, Atty. Lombridas played by the iconic Eugene Domingo. 

Finding themselves in the same boat, they got to stand on trial, telling some of the hardest things they've ever experienced while in the circumstances of their respective partners, and end up connecting, because they've been through the same things too. They began rebuilding themselves, helping each other overcome their trauma, but does this mean they're meant for each other?

Eugene Domingo "This film is sincere, no hysterics, just telling a story. It's an honor for me to do a film like this, we have a relationship because I am the real Ninang of Angge. She gives a little, it doesn't have to be overdone, a little talk, you'll feel it because she has been through a lot."

Chris "It's the way they throw lines, when I wrote this, I couldn't imagine how it would feel like in real life. It's been 3 years since we conceptualized this, about annulment, and the issues of legalities, no resolve of suggesting, but fair depiction of it, and balanced."

Angelica says "If you watched it, you'll like how characters tell their story. When I read this, I needed to be the voice of those who are seeking freedom, and we deserve that. I prepared for this because you really have to get to know the character first, it's easy because I'm working amongst friends too. I often suggest things, and they were receptive. Z and I have worked together so many times so it's comfortable to work with him. She didn't have to fight an annulment, but it's how she tries to find herself.When I was being given roles, I just couldn't feel things. Of course I want the life I have right now but I needed something that could make me come back with a project, something that could fire passion. I got text messages from both Atty Joji and Direk Chris. When I found out the cast, it was just the schedules that we talked about. This was really worth it. I started slow, they guided us in the first 3 days, but I wanted to do best because I miss this craft a lot. I wanted to prove so many things because I have experience. I needed to attack differently. My husband was happy and supportive, had to take breaks because I live in Zambales. This made me go out to Manila for a couple of days. Being with Uge was also warm, I feel good being with her on set "

Zanjoe says "When I read this, I knew how we were not husband and wife, but we were going through the same thing. Being a Father, and Husband, it's going to be more natural to connect with my character. It doesn't undermine marriage. I focused on emotions, because most of it is Ivan's family and how they are leaving you. I had to attack it on the day of the shoot, because it needs to build up naturally. I love how you know something will happen on scenes even after rehearsing it, it's a surprise every day."

Tom says "Celine and Ivan is relatable, but I tried to approach it as a human being even if I don't understand why. Even if love was depicted wrong, it's not a gimmick, it is a story that happens a lot in the Philippines. I feel fortunate because I got through a divorce which is relatively quicker. I was eager to accept this role. Atty. Joji is my Mom, this material was good but when I read it, it's something you wouldn't just leave on the table. I had to find the character."

Nico says "Being a child in an annulment, I went through it personally. This encourages you that in every ending, it gives someone else a fresh start."

Here's the video of the Mediacom this afternoon:

This comes out on Christmas day together with other entries of the Metro Manila Film Festival 2025. Make sure you catch it with the other films because this looks like an Angelica Panganiban masterpiece, she could get a Best Actress award for it. It doesn't matter if you're single, married or not. The film encourages you to think, start a better life with someone else or your own.

"NASAAN SI HESUS? Showcases Humanity and Touching Ways of Faith

Screenings (the advanced ones) have already begun for the movie musical "Nasaan Si Hesus?". It is a story about folks, their community and their unending thirst to find the reason for their existence, slated to show in SM Cinemas this December 3rd, nationwide! 

It was cool to see several iconic 80's and 90's stars be part of the cast. It's a musical, so the caliber of singers must fit the characters of the original stage production. From Janno Gibbs, to Rachel Alejandro, Geneva Cruz, Jeffry Hidalgo (I almost thought they would complete Smokey Mountain), comedienne Ms. Marissa Sanchez, the well loved vixen Salome Salvi, Ms. Via Antonio, Chloe Jenna, Cecil Paz, new stars Rachel Gabreza and Giani Sarita. Not to mention multi awarded actor Bembol Roco and musical mainstay Jerald Napoles. 

Much of the songs were made by Mrs. Lourdes Pimentel (Bing for her closest friends in the industry). This is also directed by Dennis Marasigan (including screenplay). The project is an adaptation of the original work done by Ms. Pimentel and Nestor Torre who wrote and directed the piece.

Much of the story delves on a community trying to find answers on everyday struggle. They eventually find out how God took care of things, and how it changed their lives. It's also interesting how they managed to show how faith comes into play, not just having someone to believe in but how blessed they are despite their circumstances. This film is the handy work of production firms Balin Remejus Inc and Great Media Productions Incorporated. If you want to know more about it, follow the social channels of Great Media Productions and Management (especially on FB). It's time you see how talented Filipino singers and actors are, and this might be a sure fire way to prove how faith helps in anything.

Try to find yourself in the characters, and connect with it!

EASTWEST and FOODPANDA Launches ULTIMATE FOODIE CARD

Looks like the folks from foodpanda and EastWest Bank are making your foodie adventures even better as they give you the ULTIMATE FOODIE CARD that has got ton of perks, something that's never been seen in the food delivery or restaurant and banking scene. Foodies are definitely special, and what this means for all of us is better benefits on top of the convenience owning an EastWest Bank Credit Card. 

For starters, there's CASHBACK on every foodpanda transaction like 10 percent til Php400 is reached, 3 percent til 3 percent is reached, 1 percent on Overseas spend, and 3 percent on domestic. 

Dani Jaramillo the Managing Director of foodpanda Philippines says "Thank you to our local partner EastWest Bank, Visa, as we now have a shared commitment for our digital first customers. We want to give more deals for our customers to make sure they get their instant cravings. You will get weekly Cashback, as we work hard with our partners, especially the ones who do small purchases very frequently. This just amplifies what we do, and hope you love the benefits the card brings. This also supports NFC and Google Pay."

Jerry Ngo of EasyWest Bank says "Food, Easy and Free, we are now celebrating the launch of the ultimate foodie card. We are pushing the boundaries for Filipinos, positioned for the millenials, so they can spend and get rewarded immediately with the things that they like. Food, experience and entertainment, hopefully with foodpanda and Visa, can be used not just here, but abroad. It's a celebration of food, being easy and free!"

It's super easy to apply via their QR codes, which only requires you IDs and a selfie video. 

Visa also said that it wasn't easy to bring to life but there's value to partnerships with people and entities you can trust. This is the 4th product to launch with the bank and the need to change is increasing because payments are changing, it starts today with the GenZ who wants things given now. The partnership with Foodpanda and EastWest Bank makes it easy.

This really fits the need of their consumers. Time to get rewards with those foodpanda purchases huh?!

VOLTME Expands Presence: Opens Kiosk at SM City North Edsa Annex

While most businesses are closing down in the Philippines, VOLTME is still growing and making their presence felt in some of the biggest malls in the country. As one of the leading charging solutions brand in the country, they have set up shop in SM North Edsa - Annex's 5th Level facing with other electronic brands that the mall carries. They are at the middle part of the floor, with a kiosk showcasing some of the power banks, useful cables, and other accessories.

They've been very well received especially for customers who have  needs for not just city usage, but travel, trying to look for something compact, light, but still powerful. I personally am using a VOLTME Powelink Yoyo that can be long at times, but easily retracts so you can keep it handy in bags when I'm out for coverages and events. 

They also have showcased several products like the 65W REVO EVO Wall Charger which you can fit on walls, utilize it's different ports especially when you've got lots of phones and gadgets to use at one time. For those who want something small factor, the 20000mAh Hypercore Power Bank can be your best bud when you don't like running out of juice for home and office work, and still comes with dual ports as well. The VITO EZ Travel AC Desktop Power Strip on the other hand makes it easy for you to manage cables, use for your bigger items like laptops and desktops, but still have space for your other devices because it also has other ports available. Good thing is that they come with warranty so if ever you have issues with the device, you can go back to the store and get help. They are available on Shopee and Lazada, which will have special sales coming since it is the 12.12 season! 

Congratulations to the men and women of VOLTME who promised they'll be continuing their growth in other parts of the Philippines very soon!

RK Rubber Enterprise Corp. Launches 6th CINEGOMA Film Festival

If you're in the look out for indie films, there's a lot being showcased at the CINEGOMA: RK Rubber Film Festival. It's an open film festival hosted by RK Rubber Enterprise Corporation to feature student and non-professional films that tell stories of resiliency, grit, determination and the Filipino spirit. They are also making sure the film makers are going to be featured in several locations across Quezon City.

This is their 6th installment, so far from the initial 6 films independently produced when they started, they now have a little over 50 films shown in several locations. They also have some of the films released in other provinces like Olongapo City prior to this launch in Quezon City. They also did a parade to promote the CINEGOMA Film Festival around Quezon City Circle grounds with a full on band, street dancers, participants and the UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe. 6th installment not only means film, but workshops and several mainstream works that are exhibited for the filmmakers and the public.

Xavier Cortez the CEO of RK Rubber who heads the festival says "I feel pressured because of the introduction but this is the 6th year of the CINEGOMA Film Festival. Thank you to the organizers, to the employees of RK Rubber, the production department of the same corp, the logistics department and operations, to RK Rubbers Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, the RK Rubber Davao and to the media who went here for the opening of CineGoma. You are giving them voice, to those who volunteered and supported CINEGOMA and provided expertise and experience, to help make sure we get to understand how go organize this show and emman dela Cruz. We also have the sales department of Manila who got us huge projects to contribute here. If we are this big and do this every year, there will be more than 40 films that will benefit from it. Folks have never got tired of CINEGOMA because the independent and small filmmakers are being given experience, so they too can tell their stories. Each of you have stories, unique ones that can change the lives of others. Because if we do that, there will be a huge impact on communities, and I hope this 6th CINEGOMA becomes bigger in the next few years as we imagined it to be."

He adds "I feel proud that my once schoolmates are now cheering for a person who wants good things to happen with filmmakers. I get teary eyed, because they're so proud of me too. For all who participated, full length or shorts, congratulations to all of you! I'll do my best to make this better, give more opportunities for filmmakers and this is all for you!"

Here's what happened at QCX that morning:

This year's categories are separated into Student, Commercial, Pro, made with AI and RK which are meant for RK Rubber Enterprise employees only. As mentioned by Sir Xavier, prizes amount from 5,000 pesos to 25,000 pesos depending on the award category. This will run from November 24-29, and the awards will be given at the Quezon City University on the last day. Make sure you watch the films at Sine Pop and exhibitions around Quezon City during this time because after all, it's the City of Stars! (Please check schedule on CINEGOMA social channels).

This is certainly a great way to showcase their talents, and hopefully, the ones who have a lot of promise gets noticed especially the students. They were very eager to showcase their work during the festival launch. Congratulations to RK Rubber Enterprise Corporation for mounting this every year!

LADLAD PL, STRAP and VERDE Creatives Issue Statement of Support and Call for Action

A few days ago, we got to participate in a talk amongst some of our trans sisters, Ladlad Partylist, Verde Creatives, STRAP, and Commission on Human Rights, about the real issues they go through in life, and even in death which have marred their gender identity, done personal or otherwise especially by media practitioners and government workers.

Using their preferred pronouns should be fundamental, and while I don't forget this part when I write, a lot of tabloid and newspaper writers and editors continue to do that which not only feels hurtful for them, but severely invalidating. 

This is why Verde Creatives, STRAP, Ladlad Partylist and trans organizations have issued a statement about this. It's time we change things to not only promote inclusivity, but put respect especially for transpinays. Not to force, but to consider and put a spotlight and give what is due them. 

In 2025, oppression has no place in society. I'd like to send my support for not jus their cause but simply their human rights. I am also for the passage of the SOGIESC Bill, which has been filed over 26 years ago. That's an adult, and they only ask for equal rights, nothing special, which is mind boggling to say the least.

The talk was certainly a nice venue to explain procedures, on media, social media and the choices we make. I fervently hope people would NOT turn a blind eye about what they are fighting for. Be aware of Live/Dead names, understand that Transpinay lives are also human lives. All they ask is to be treated as equals.