JM IBARRA and FYANG SMITH Excited About First MMFF Appearance via SHAKE RATTLE and ROLL Evil Origins

Every Metro Manila Film Festival, there's sort of an expected entry from the folks of Regal Films. It's tradition, something that movie goers flock to when it's Christmas, even to watch something scary during the season meld into episodes that have become iconic reminders of lore, monsters and fantasy. This year, they made the conscious decision of putting in one of the most popular love team of this generation, JM Ibarra and Fyang Smith, aka JMFyang. After their stint at PBB, the two have had shows and appearances in ABSCBN and of course, we can't discount how fans have really consumed content about them on social media, further cementing their status as artists capable of carrying their own movie now. This would be a litmus paper test, including the recent Ghosting show they've been in in recent months. 

Fyang says "I'm so happy about the part 1 of Ghosting, that's why we're doing part 2 very soon. Thank you for those who loved it, if it weren't for you this wouldn't happen. We came from a reality show, we are super close friends. He's a "maginoong lalake!". I really like horror movies, I sit on several movies for hours and SRR is something that already exists before I was born, and every Christmas it's something that people anticipate. We want to watch it in it's entirety. I really feel things, I think it's because I came from the province and I often am alone in the house. I remember when something mentioned my name and my cousins didn't believe it."

She adds "I couldn't believe that I'd be really fond of Sassagurl because I was too shy to approach her. She's my happiness and when we met I didn't think we'd click or gel. I am so happy about that. When we see each other bardagulan agad! FranSeth was super easy to work with because they're very focused on the work, they don't get distracted when the film is rolling. They also share and support other artists like us. We really did what we can for DJ Elle, it's already a win to just be part of it. It's a bonus if we win."

JM says "Until now I've been on cloud 9 hearing feedback from my movie in Cinemalaya. I'm happy and thankful for that opportunity to work in the film. We're just enjoying what's happening in and out of showbiz. Episode 2 is about the present time. It's a big thing to be included because this is one of the biggest and longest running franchise in Philippine cinema. We are just overwhelmed. I'm sure we'll be together during Christmas. When I was in Quezon, something really tried to mimic my Dad's voice."

Then he told us "Sassa, Seth and Dylan were really nice people. Working with them was super fun. Seth is really serious when working, he's also funny so it is easy to approach him when we need to. I feel we'll be satisfied with the work we did, and I hope viewers would appreciate that."

Here's the press conference on video:

During the event, Keith Monteverde was at the venue to support the two. Everyone's optimistic that the first MMFF appearance of JMFyang will be as successful as they predict because they see something promising from the two.

Though it's my first time interacting with them, they're super nice and I hope the support their getting translate into box office success so they can make more movies in the future including one that involves love and romance, something JMFyang fans would enjoy! Congratulations to both JM and Fyang, can't wait to see what you've got in store for those who love you. Anyone who's nice deserves that success.

Level Up Content Creation with the AKASO 360 Camera

Content creation has certainly gone miles and bounds than what it was a few decades ago. The eve of short form videos has certainly made it clear that you need to get the attention of every person in the first 3 seconds or they wouldn't see the video at all. After scrolling up for hours, they need something that would make them stay, so making that decision to create a different view is essential. That's where the AKASO 360° Camera comes in, and I'm so glad I got to try it!

Here's our unboxing video:

While I'm no novice at this, I'm super excited about shooting content at a 360 degree angle. That is one device, capable of shooting your surroundings and can be edited as different clips in one file. Imagine the applications of this especially when there's a press conference where people are all around the venue. One side had executives, one side had the media and the last one are the speakers. This is what I did with the event I covered in Las Pinas:

We also showed how a simple indoor shot can be done differently. I took it shopping and the selfie stick didn't appear on the video. Plus you are doing this at 5.7K which means you can use it for digital film, or simply export it to lower resolution if you are just doing it for social media. You don't have to literally fly to get a creative shot done because you've got tons of viewpoints you can play around with. 

For editing, you can use the AKASO 360 app which you can download off the Google Playstore to utilize the templates, or do your own before exporting it. You can use a third party video editor to combine shots (which I've been doing legibly these days so you get short and long form videos made in a jiffy.

I'm certainly loving it because we get a lot of fun doing it with celebrities after the press conferences we recently covered. Check out love team JM IBARRA and FYANG SMITH on this clip!

This is just the tip of the iceberg of what you can do with the AKASO 360° Camera. You can purchase this from the popular shopping platforms and get more information from the AKASO Philippines social channels.

I don't think I should even convince you right?! Go level up your content creation game with the AKASO 360 Camera!

Foundation Takes On Cebu Earthquake Relief Efforts

Recent earthquakes have jolted the country and crippled a lot of lives in Northern Cebu. While the government addresses relief efforts, the private sector also took some of the chores to make sure everybody gets the help that they need. The folks from B!ing0P|us in Cebu (employees) took potable water, packed food and needed medicine to roughly 56,000 individuals in places like Bogo, Medellin, Daanbantayan, San Remegio, Borbon and Tabogon communities as they partnered with LGU's and other private entities in the region. 

B!ing0P|us Foundation treats this as a call to action which is why they immediately took 6 million funding to affected folks in Cebu. Through their Bayanihan P|us program, it took them a while to get to these areas but committed to the cause. They were met with aftershocks, heavy rain and transport challenges, but they didn't fret because they knew how much help the folks need including a 5.8 Richter scale aftershock that they experienced too. 

Their teams from Manila and local Cebu offices took to the streets together with the AFP engineering brigades to deliver help to far flung areas in Northern Cebu, also doing it house to house including PWD's in the community via PADS (Philippine Accessible Disability Services). 

It might be a long recovery process, but they will not hold back helping this part of the country. They plan to monitor and partner up with even more organizations to make sure Cebuanos, Filipinos would get access to supplies at the most trying times. If you want to know more about their efforts, follow their social channels by searching for the foundation name on FB and other channels.

Better Banking Rewards with Security Bank

 

Had a lovely morning at Shangrila Mall's atrium yesterday as Security Bank had all their people celebrate in "Ready, Set, Redeem!" which is a launch for their #BetterBankingRewards platform as part of their credit card perks. I think it's special because they really have designed it in a way where cardholders would be able to earn points easier, use their points with flexibility and enjoy the rewards conveniently instead of just being stagnantly there. With appealing promos and partner merchants as huge as the Mastercard network, you'll get to see and feel how rewarding it is to have one.

 

At the Shangrila Mall, they had different stations to exchange points into miles with different airline companies (You can exchange your existing rewards points from Security Bank to the preferred airline and buy the needed tickets you want. For international or domestic flights, partner airlines are accessible on the app), taught folks to also use it for hotel stays, had us watch Will Dasovich spend it like actual money to change his wardrobe, styled for a flight he's having in the afternoon. It was like using the points as convenient as cash. The #BetterBankingRewards is accessible through the Security Bank app or the website. Simply register and redeem rewards in over 100+ partner brands listed there. Whether you enjoy a day in a spa, flying, shopping, they've got lots of options for you to enjoy without spending a dime, just your points of course!

 

Rahul Rasal EVP and Retail Head of Security Bank says "Welcome to our partners, to Mastercard and Security Bank family. How many are married? Not Married? Do you believe in happy wife, happy life? A resounding Yes, but happy husband doesn't matter. I went on a vacation once, but had to call my bank to increase my limit, the kind person said it's okay, we can redeem your points to get you a room upgrade. That's when I felt the importance of rewards, you can do this on flights and hotels, and in a lot of merchants. We hope you too get a rewarding experience with Security Bank."

This doesn't only apply here, but internationally (so use your points and exchange them with other loyalty points smart!). You can also monitor your points spending in the same place. This convenience makes it a #BetterBankingRewards experience so if you apply for a Security Bank Credit Card today, you get to earn points like a pro. No wonder they've won awards for it! Head on to securitybank.com to know more.

ISHA PONTI and ANDREA GUTIERREZ Takes First Step with THE NEXT ONES Concert

The Philippines has certainly gotten the nod of the world when it comes to singing, and what Ms. Lea Salonga wished for recently made so much sense when she said "I hope I won't be the last!" to achieve something that could mirror her career, rightfully so, I agree with her 100%!

There ought to be "THE NEXT ONES", a new generation of artists that not only could replicate her success but hopefully surpass it. Ponti Entertainment Production is staging a concert of the same name showcasing Isha Ponti and Andrea Gutierrez at the Music Museum on December 13th, 8pm. They will also be performing with OPM icon Rey Valera.

Asia's Pop Sweetheart Isha Ponti says "The concert is collaborative and they didn't force us in a certain genre, they wanted us to shine with what is comfortable for us. We base it also with what people want, I'm into Nina and Kyla. I'll be performing Walang Kapalit which wasn't revived yet by anyone. We also did a music video for it. It's also a tribute for Sir Rey Valera, also add our advocacy for the youth to hopefully pave the way for the next generation. This concert was a request from our producers, when they told us this was happening I felt unsure. We're not in the mainstream yet as we don't have hit songs, but the reason why we agreed is to break out of our cage. We wanted to go there, our start, our beginning."

She added "We picked artists that are current, but fits our genre. We will have older artists too but that's going to be a surprise! Recently, we watched the Filipino Music Awards and I was so impressed with Maki. I'm trying to write songs and sing it, if I get to be like him that's amazing! This is a major show, so as early as now we're already memorizing and practicing on top of school work. I prioritize it on Sundays and also try to dance a bit. I love it and I hope to integrate it on the show."

Bossa Nova Princess Andrea Gutierrez "I ventured into Bossa Nova because people who heard me sing compare me with Sitti and other Bossa artists. Maybe we can announce, Sir Rey Valera gave us songs to perform and we're excited to do that in this concert. Yes, we get pressured because we're headlining. We're practicing practically everyday and we hope the audience would appreciate that. I hope I get to have hit songs after this step. Ms. Lani Misalucha is my idol, I hope I get to sing songs like what she's done in the past years."

Other guests include Graciel Hizon, Raymond Gorospe, Aquila Paquing, Nathan Randal, including their front acts PPOP acts DIV9, AZTER, wonder kid Maurice, The Boxers, and the Roshe Performing Group. Tickets are available via TICKETWORLD and at the Music Museum Box Office.

It's time to support the next generation of artists, take a chance on seeing and hearing them live!

University of Perpetual Help Medical Center and RISE: A Partnership for Uninterrupted Connections and Healthcare Technology

It's my first time to step foot in the actual University of Perpetual Help grounds, and I've always regarded them as great fellow wizards in Battle of the Brains (a TV quiz show for the smartest in the land). Apart from showing us around their huge hospital, the UPHMC (University of Perpetual Help Medical Center) is celebrating their 50th Anniversary. 

With their theme "Golden Year, Greater Heights, Up and Beyond", they are making a huge step in making sure the facilities they have remain ready for any calamity. Communication is certainly an important factor not just in operations, but be able to help the community they belong to especially when the unexpected "Big One" happens. They currently have initiatives to further enhance their medical and technological capabilities, but never resting on complacency, to find more ways to lead in the education and healthcare industry. For their enterprise and B2B internet connection, they found the right partner with RISE (Responsible Internet Sustainability Effort), a tech company based in Cebu.

Capt. Norman Biola of UPHMC says "RISE was not a difficult choice to have in service providers because they are relatively new, a good network, assessment from our President. Tech is his primary guidance as hospitals become norm in robotics, AI, and without connections, it wouldn't happen. We have a total of 3 connections for our business. Carl Elano was persistent, and they provided us with these good for 3 years. We thank everyone for coming here today."

Justin Santiano of RISE says "Nice to meet you all, we thank you for coming here. RISE stands for Responsible Internet Sustainability Effort. I am so excited to have this partnership, and on our 10th year we are glad to see what was once a challenge for an Australian man back then has now provided b2b and enterprise industry. UPHMC is our first healthcare partner in the Philippines. We are based in Cebu, but also present in Iloilo and Davao. We are partnering with more corporations in our aim to better serve those who need internet in the Philippines. We were at the bottom once, but now we're at the middle compared to other countries. We were pushing for this because of advancements in technology. This is RISE's way of also giving back, our way of helping them be connected. We are 99.9% up all the time. Our after sales support is efficient, because we are not saturated. Our core value is transparency, we have top of the line network management system and partnered with big corporations in US, Japan and EU. We have ultra high speed latency, and thank you for being here today!"

Richard Tamayo says "Welcome to UPHMC, and today marks our 50th anniversary. After the war, my Grandfather was an advocate of family planning and part of that is putting up a hospital. Them being educators, they decided to put up a nursing school, but they needed a hospital to do that. This place used to be a room for the school. We are happy for the graduates that we have and the accomplishments of the school. We have tons of patients, healthcare professionals not just here but around the globe. We are looking forward to the future, and our partnership with RISE is a lifeline for hospitals. We have a very strong digital backbone, now even at time of crisis. This is part of rapid recovery following any disaster. This secure systems and the community that we belong to. We are future ready!"

He adds "Connectivity is important to get results and feedback timely and accurate. This is also the same with telemedicine, which is why we have backups, also for doctors and medical staff. Technology is integral for healthcare delivery. With government efforts for increasing coverage, doctors need to fill up forms so turnaround is fast. Medical personnel also have needs, so internally it is also important. If processes are fast, the reimbursements are faster too. This will shorten the process."

Here's the whole event on video:

Things are certainly looking good for UPHMC, RISE and the whole community. They're not done with the work they're doing and have plans to take extra steps to secure data, have cloud access so patients health and records are not affected from disasters, makes sense? 

Students, Medical Personnel and Patients should be assured that they're getting the best care and facilities in UPHMC, congratulations on this partnership!

Celebrate Christmas Early with foodpanda

The Philippines celebrate Christmas early, and it looks like foodpanda knows how to make it even better. Filipinos call it the Ber months, possibly to mimic Burrr, something folks say when it's cold outside. Aside from the change of weather, people gather for intimate or festive ones to celebrate the season or make memories. 

Gone are the days of spending hours in the kitchen because the convenience that foodpanda brings could help you enjoy the 4 months. No need to cook, with a flick of a button inside the foodpanda app, you could order from thousands of food establishments, get groceries and supplies in a jiffy. No need to bring huge pots and pans, utensils or drinks because everything is available there. 

As a treat, foodpanda is also taking a Php 100 off your meals with the voucher code PASKONA in food establishments like Mang Inasal, KFC, Popeyes, Pizza Hut, Kenny Rogers, Pickup Coffee, Angel's Pizza or grocery stores like Pandamart. That's a smart idea that everyone should have especially when you are so busy entertaining. This makes it more affordable and take a lot of stress in prepping for the countless Christmas parties, Tree Lighting events, and concerts you plan to go to during these months. New and existing accounts can use this til the 31st of December, details are on the app too!

Isn't that a good deal? Go download it now because I heard there's even more of it available there!

Judy Ann Santos Agoncillo Trusts KYOWA

Today was a really good day as everybody's favorite super mom and chef Judy Ann Santos Agoncillo becomes the newest endorser for home brand Kyowa. She's really the top endorser and she doesn't just do that for any product. Mind you, she's used them for quite a while and attests how the quality of these home appliances certainly made life easy. They signed her up with the presence of Nathanael Ong the President of KBMC, Eugene Go the COO, and Ms. Mary Jane Buencamimo the President of Mylaunchpad Inc. There were also several loyal Kyowa consumers and Judy Ann Santos' lovely fans to witness the event.

Comfort, Trust and Simple Joys, it is something that Kyowa exuded in the years it has been in the country. This is the same reason why it has been trusted by Judy Ann and the countless families that enjoy it.

Juday told us stories and said "When I learned to cook, I learned to explore. I put other spices in my soups, use cheese, make a different chowder, it's a canvass. It makes sense to allow other ingredients because it makes you appreciate cooking so much compared to what I've been doing in the past after work. I still cook after a long day, I put my thoughts in what I cook and prove that I can do something else other than being an actress. It's comfort food, Angrydobo dishes actually came from my heart."

She added "When I make something out of what I just imagined, I feel happy. Even on chef's nights, I can work with both my hands. You get challenged to deliver, when it's service time, you put out your best work. Some brands just do technology but don't think about the basics, of what people need to do and achieve in the kitchen. Everybody loves a good recipe, if you want a good one just portion it, put it in the freezer and have your family member take it out, use the Kyowa Air Fryer and make it crispy. You can also cook tortang talong, bake in it, things that you can quickly cook and also wash it easy afterwards. I've tried and tested that! Just put slices on it so you can get rid of blood on the protein. You can cook anything on it, there's lots of information out there!"

Juday enrolled in culinary school because she wanted to learn, prove to her daughter that she can finish something. She decided a long time ago not to pursue college, but did it to have tools other than acting. She also plans to produce shows and films, she also wants to do make up, but wanted to do cooking as a fall back. She realized acting wasn't a permanent job, and Ryan told her she should because she loved cooking. I guess Kyowa can now be her partner in the kitchen because their products really make sense.

Congratulations Ms. Judy Ann Santos on your recent achievements, I'm quite sure there will be more!

GMA PLAYLIST: Shaun Salvador, Akira Kurata and Seb Pajarillo on Love in Different Stages

Looks like GMA Playlist is making their mark again with new artists Shaun Salvador, Akira Kurata and Seb Pajarillo. They're releasing their new singles "Get Through", "Dahil Sa'yo!", and "Guhit" which will be all under the same production. These songs are about the different stages of love, a new one, one that is going through troubles, and then the one recovering from it. 

Shaun says "This is very foreign for me, laughed a bit about it because I didn't think it would happen. I am thankful for GMA Playlist for making this happen. I needed to live the life of the character, it's not easy because like acting you need to put in emotions."

Akira told us "I didn't get to the finals of Campus Cuties but I was surprised when I got to AOS. Singing was something I didn't really know I could do because I was more into sports. They trusted us and this happened all so fast. I am super happy I now have a single out on streaming platforms. I went through singing workshops and had to travel from Dasma to here, they understood how far I was traveling from so thankful for GMA playlist."

Seb shares "I'd really like people to listen to this while it's raining because it feels so different. I listened to it when it was sunny and I went a little bad, but you'll get swayed with emotions with rain in the background. I am very thankful recording this was a breeze even if it took a while rehearsing for it. The process was super good."

Here's more of the press conference on video:

I'd be glad to note that they seem to be in a state where their songs are, experience is a good place to be in order to interpret it comfortably. Make sure you support them by streaming on platforms as these singles are out already!

LG Honors Filmmakers in 21st Cinemalaya

It was a really different celebration that happened at this year's Cinemalaya. It was light, quite unserious, but the merits were still given to those that deserve it. For those who don't know, it's an annual independent film festival made to empower those who make films, those who write, people in front and behind the cameras. 

Leading electronics brand LG knows how important this is for Philippine cinema, and they've become a major sponsor for this event as they do their 21st installment. Their theme this year is "Layag sa Alon, Hangin at Unos" which means to journey through waves, the wind and the storm. 

They also want to give importance to those who make these inspiring stories. They've always been part of efforts in making sure technology supports those who are in the creative industry and arts. Which is why they are doing the legwork, and will give some of them LG OLED Evo AI C5 television sets as this year's winners!

Here's some on the list:

The LG OLED evo AI TV's use "Perfect Black" technology which means you get the black that you want for the feel you intended to have on scenes. The sets also utilize A11 AI processor 4K Gen 2 so you get the depth and drama as the filmmaker intends to show. There's a lot to love on these really good TV's.

If it's good for Cinemalaya, you should think about what you want to have on your own home.

Entertainment Corp Wins Big in ICD

Besting some of the biggest and best corporations in the region is entertainment firm DigiP|us Interactive Corp. This is the same institution behind giants B!ng0P|us, Aren@P|us, and G@meZon3. This is monumental because it's all about corporate governance, and this is a first for them to earn a Golden Arrow Award. 

They were given last October 23 in ceremonies hosted by the Institute of Corporate Directors and PH Domestic Ranking Body. This also contributes to the scorecard of the ASEAN Corporate Governance, an honor only given to a few talented Filipinos. 

Their transparency efforts has never gone unnoticed and this is just one of the reasons why they got a highly coveted Golden Arrow Award. They put importance on transparency, accountability and several of their their advocacies. Make sure you follow them on their socials so if they have activities of the same you'll get notified too!

Now don't go and say I didn't tell you about it! Congratulations again!

iStudio Plus Levels Up iPhone 17 Midnight Launch

Had so much fun at iStudio Plus' iPhone 17 Midnight launch at the Bonifacio Highstreet grounds in BGC. Countless folks lined up early to make sure they get the much coveted iPhone 17 and the perks that come with it if you get it from iStudio Plus. 

BGC's B3 area was transformed into an activity center filled with various brands like HAVIT, Insta 360, EcoFlow, Union Bank who partnered with iStudio to make sure everyone gets an experience out of the launch even before the release of iPhone 17 began. Several performers like DJ Nico Yabut, artists Yoki and Kiyo performed on stage to the delight of patrons who stayed and partied for hours, and got prizes from booths inside the activity area. They also had coffee and fruit drinks given for free if you complete the passport and celebrities saying hi too. This includes artist Raki who partnered with iStudio, he certainly had talent and his art work and merch was a hit with everyone at the venue!

Angel Guardian, PBB Celebrity Collab alumnus AZ Martinez, Asian Cutie took their sweet time to participate in booths, and later went with us to unbox their very own iPhone 17. Here's a few videos we took when the clock struck 12!

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Then we also saw the first person in line named Vanessa Marcelo who hails from BGC. She really waited online to sign up for the form and went there as customer number 1 which means aside from owning an iPhone 17, she'll be getting various products and apple services amounting to Php 70k+. This also happened in different tiers with other folks who also spent the day lining up and enjoying the fun party that iStudio Plus had at their BGC branch. 

If you want one, you should definitely follow their social channels to make sure when stocks become available, you can avail it from them. Who knows?! You might get perks like them too!

Level Up Content Creation with AKASO Action Cameras

I've been raring to find something that could up my content creation journey and yes, a 360 degree camera would gladly fit. It's been on my bucket list lately so it wouldn't be just the run of the mill interviews that I'd have but rather a way to show how we'd get there in a fun way. AKASO has got a line of action cameras in their arsenal that would fit any lifestyle that you have and they recently announced their expansion in the Philippines with the help of Siklab Spark Corporation (who's also going to have exclusive rights to distribute it in the country!)

At the event, they had the executives re-introduce the various devices and how it could take videos and content creation to another level plus a few more reasons on why one should consider an AKASO 360 action camera.

Here's what happened on video:

If you are keen to have one, they've got really good promos on TikTok Shop, Shopee and Lazada. It costs Php 12,288 on TikTok, also offered for Php 11,888 on Snopee, and Php 12,188 on Lazada. Make sure to use all the available vouchers to get it. They are also offering the AKASO V50 X for Php 6,988, and have it even lower on the same platform. Same goes with the AKASO EK7000 which you can get less than 4K with available vouchers. I think it's time you consider getting one. If that ain't enough, following them on these platforms would also get you the chance to win on October 22. They'll announce the winners 8pm that day. Make sure you also follow their social channels to know more of these products and future promos they plan to implement, because they've got plans to do so!

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Can't wait to take it out for a spin today! It's time we take our shots to another level!

Big Screen Dreams: Coco Martin, Matti, and Monteverde Team Up

When I got invited to this event, we weren't told about who's coming on stage but pretty much got clues with the shirts of the people filming it, they all had CCM printed which makes us believe it's a Coco Martin event. There were 3 chairs in front though so just seeing that made me realize it was something big, and true enough they came out with guns blazing.

One is an iconic director, of OTJ fame, Erik Matti, the other is a big producer from the Monteverde clan, Mr. Dondon Monteverde and of course, the biggest action star of this generation, producer and director Coco Martin. They plan to do 2 huge film projects for Coco particularly "MayPagasa The Battles of Andres Bonifacio" and "OTJ: Maghari" which will be under Reality Studios and CCM Productions.

Sir Dondon told us that this was sealed on the sidelines after some talks happened at the death anniversary of Mother Lily Monteverde a few months ago. He says "The death anniversary of my Mom started all of this. Losing my Mom was a huge blow to the industry. We always wanted to work with Coco and we've met in events with it behind our minds. It was just an opportune time to start talking, showing him other projects. He didn't like what we presented him at first, but when he knew about these two films (not included in the discussion, he just wanted it to happen!"

Direk Erik Matti had huge success with the OTJ franchise and Coco always wanted to be part of it. Direk Erik shares "Maghari is the story of Joel, the Tatang of OTJ. It's a 90's themed movie of him protecting his family. MayPagasa The Battles of Andres Bonifacio is a historical bio, and it is scary to do because it is based on that. Ours is different, we're bringing it to the future and shooting it in a modern way. It's all about what is happening now in the country." 

Coco was smitten with the thought of doing an OTJ installment and told us "When I watched OTJ, I honestly was waiting, waiting to be cast in a film like it. I required my staff to watch it (before doing Batang Quiapo) and I hoped they notice me. I asked myself and said maybe I wasn't enough, because they weren't calling me. I was silent, and thinking they were not considering me because I didn't have potential, so I tried to do one myself (his shows) but got so busy with my series. One day, they informed me that they wanted to talk about it, I told them I was waiting for this to happen. I know how folks have been appreciating Filipino films that they made, they pitched a few projects with me but I told them I was a fan of OTJ and Buybust. After that, I talked about a historical film, then they talked to me about a project they wanted to do about Bonifacio. They thought I was a fit in these two projects they didn't talk about initially."

He added "Now that we're together, we just needed to make it bigger for a global audience. This will make a mark in the Filipino film industry. I'm also working with the best, and this IS an answered prayer! We can't wait to release this in 2027!"

Here's the whole press conference on video:

Giants Coco Martin, Direk Erik Matti and Dondon Monteverde actually has plans to do more, so this is just for starters. When I asked about challenges, Coco was severely optimistic that all these projects are possible, he's always had that positivity in all his projects since he's successfully done it. He attributes most of it because of this optimism, and since they plan to release this internationally, they need your support once it comes out locally. With an internationally acclaimed actor (tons of indie films on his belt), Director (familiar with Filipino film projects released worldwide) and the best production outfits this country, these projects are pretty much a done deal. 

I just can't wait to see it! 

Experiencing PANDA PLATES: Flavors of the World in Quezon City

 

Manmaru Japanese Restaurant, Pandan Asian Cafe took out their best dishes!

There's often a discussion between friends and family where to eat, but I think this doesn't happen often in Quezon City. Here, we've got choices, choices that you don't have (I kid!). Oh how I love being in my hood, and people know it. Imagine, you can feel like you've been around the world just by going through several restaurants in Tomas Morato. This is the experience done courtesy of the folks from foodpanda. They properly call it PANDA PLATES: Flavors of the World in Quezon City. Hold on to your seats because this is good! 

Chili's Tomas Morato had Half Slab of Ribs, Truffle Burgers, Molten Chocolate and Salmon.

 

As you can see, Quezon City did not disappoint when it comes to food from around the world. We also went to BASTA Cafe in Kamuning, pick ups from Dulcinea in Tomas Morato, had deliveries from Amici in the Scout Area and end with a feast at CHILI's in Tomas Morato. You can literally walk to these establishments but might take a while in some of them. Good thing we've got the foodpanda app to ease the burden on folks during this rainy afternoon. 

The Quezon City Tourism Department's Ms. Yasi Jorge told us this is one of the city's best culinary destination and they're glad that foodpanda is doing it here. It has been a vibrant way of showcasing food culture, tradition and innovation. Every street offers new flavors, a new story, and great experience. They're happy to be a part of the gathering that makes food from this place shine. There's a lot of home grown restaurants and establishments in this place and they're raring to welcome guests even more. Added it's a culinary capital that is worthy to be explored. This gives emphasis to give support in everything local. The dining culture is alive and thriving in QC, and definitely more to explore!

Ms. Jade Legazpi foodpanda's Senior Account Manager also shared how they'll be launching promos specifically during Quezon City's founding anniversary. This was on October 12th where they gave up to 20 percent discount on QC restaurants, so make sure you follow foodpanda's social media channels so you wouldn't miss promos like it in the future. foodpanda's Jerome Mangahas also awarded winning participants in the days event. It was really fund and we didn't go home hungry, thanks foodpanda!

Can't wait to have another one of these food crawls happen soon!