PUREGOLD Cinepanalo Does New "Panorama Shorts"

Another year, another PUREGOLD CinePanalo Film Festival. Yes, the much awaited venue to showcase Filipino film making genius has released the actual dates, and a new category called "Panorama Shorts" specifically for those finished films that are not more than 20 minutes, all themes and genres included. 

The dates mentioned was September 23 to October 4 (for the festival). Entries will only be accepted until August 15 at 11:59 pm. This will only be for finished films though because there will be no production grant for the CPFF section, which is something audiences should look forward to. Puregold CinePanalo will also award the winning film a whopping PHP 100.000, and you can't beat that!

Read the fine print here!

If you're a student, just doing this for fun or a pro at it, it's time you take out your lovely masterpiece and show it to the country, and the world! 

Although it's not a competition, the best one certainly would look and feel awesome on paper no?! 

Making Milestones in 2025: Forest Lake

You certainly can't stop a bullish run as Forest Lake Development Incorporated made 2025 their biggest year yet by recording a whopping 5.5 Billion in Sales Production. That's a 45 percent jump from the year prior, thanks to the countless Filipino families who have put their trust in them. This stems from their service with compassion, accessible memorial care and dedication of the men and women of Forest Lake according to their CEO Alfred Xerez Burgos. 

Aside from that, they've got a 20 percent revenue growth amounting to 3.26 Billion and a net income of 20 percent sans tax (789 Million), figures they've also been surprised with and gained SEC's trust to expand capital stock (initially 1 Billion, now 4 Billion pesos!). 

This will translate to even more facilities starting with their columbariums, Churches, Parks, and services which makes their Total Memorial care possible in years beyond. This is a milestone they proudly announced, to hopefully touch on their corporation's value. 

To date, they now have 42 memorial parks across the country plus over 41 partner funeral homes in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. These are all peaceful venues of families who want services that are hassle free, compassionate in the most troubling times of their lives. Visit forestlakeparks.com to know more about it.

MR. PHILIPPINES Finals Night Slated August 2!

It was a fun and exciting afternoon at Regal Entertainment's very own Valencia Events Place in Quezon City. It was immediately filled with pageant, bloggers, micro influencers, media and hunky men vying for the crown of Mr. Philippines 2026.

The organization will be looking for men to represent the Philippines in international pageants such as Grand International, Model International and World Quest. These 3 titles are of equal bearing, and from the looks of it, we're one of the countries to look out for (as Filipinos are absolutely good looking, smart and have great personalities).

This was also the opportune time to showcase their formal wear and active wear (courtesy of the folks from BENCH). Pageant Director Albert Bryan Abelido thanked and welcomed the sponsors and signed the Mr. Philippines 2026 with brands who will make the finals night happen on August 2 at the Palacio de Maynila in Del Pilar Street in the city of Manila.

Here are highlights from the red carpet:

The finale press presentation was also done to recognize the Mr. Philippines 2026 Media Choice Award. It was done by press voting that afternoon wherein 3 candidates will be given commemorative sash and cash prizes courtesy of the Philippine Entertainment Bloggers Association (PEBA). After hours of deliberation, contestants hailing from Makati, Mandaluyong and Pasig were announced as winners (Aethan Calix Cervantes, Zandro Sales and Angelo Dripin respectively). Congratulations!

If you wish to be part of the finals night, you can secure tickets via TicketMelon ( https://www.ticketmelon.com/mrphilippines/MrPhilippines ). You'll witness how the judges would choose the right men for the titles, in the quest of bringing home the international crowns and muster the courage to represent the country on the world stage. We can't wait to see who will win! Remember, the finals night will happen on August 2, and gates open at 6PM! 

For more updates, follow the Mr. Philippines 2026 FB page HERE.

Blooming at 18: Princess Aliyah

The gorgeous singer and actress Princess Aliyah is turning 18 very soon, and we've got a few things confirmed (so far) as she plans to celebrate her princess-strong woman themed birthday party. This press conference was done at the SEDA Hotel Vertis North in Quezon City. 

Princess says "This is a blessing, actually I just did plans for my debut last month. So now I am doing my gown, styling, and I'll get my PBB housemates on my birthday. They also told me a lot about a single they made for me which is AMBA, and I am so glad how it sounded, very pop princess and youthful. Initially I didn't want to celebrate my birthday but I actually have a lot of friends and extended family now which is why we went through with this. Since PBB I looked up to my Mom and since I'm turning 18, they will be a huge part of it. I love how it sounds too. Maybe people know how much of a baby I am, but I'm very strong and independent, but not to mar my sweet looks, I think I still want them to see that. I want my roles to be versatile, do contrabida roles, action, hopefully I could do that since I'm 18. I also want to do trekking on my own, I also want to have decisions, more responsibilities, and hope to just have good health for my family, that's all I want. I want the people who I've worked with to be there. Right now I am still finalizing things, I hope they could all come."

The single AMBA is written by Roel Rostata. It is arranged and produced by artist THYRO, produced by GMV Studios (as one of their artists).

Princess is a woman now, and she wants to do pageants if the opportunity comes, she loves Catriona and Pia, but it's not on her mind right now (yet). She likens herself with Rapunzel and see that she could do more getting to know herself even more while outside her walls. She promised herself to concentrate on her career and want a partner that would support that.

Happy birthday Princess!

One Epic Event: PUREGOLD OPMCon Generations 2026

 

While suffering a little anxiety because of the crowd that showed up, I wasn't really surprised they filled the Araneta Coliseum. Puregold just held their OPMCon Generations 2026 concert, and I loved every bit of it.

The country's biggest acts went there, from Alamat, Flow G, Ben & Ben, Skusta Klee, Sunkissed Lola, XONARA, G22, KAIA, and my favorite guys from SB19 really performed their best in this big concert brought to us by the folks from Puregold. The amount of fun and happiness it brings to fans and ordinary pinoys was insurmountable. Generations who love their personal acts showed up and cheered on every time an artist went out on stage. Here's some of the acts I recorded on video: 

 

Here is the one with new girl group XONARA managed by the folks from SB19, and the girls from KAIA

One of my favorite acts that evening was the one with G22. These ladies make me love going to concerts. Super happy about it!

There were a few rap artists that the crowd sang along with. I put my best focus on the guys from SB19 because my bias KEN was there! It just made this concert EPIC!

Folks were also treated with games and tons of Puregold groceries. It was an experience every Puregold customer would cherish. I loved every bit of it. I hope we get to do another one of these soon! 

A Day of Pampering at INOUE Health and Wellness Clinic

Here's the truth, I've never had any time for myself... I haven't had the "effort" to take care of my hair and skin lately. Problem is, my hair is thinning, and my skin hasn't been touched by anyone (not what you think) neither for cleaning. Sad I know, so I guess I needed this time for a little pampering. 

Good thing INOUE Health and Wellness Clinic sits right across GMA Network (Caswynn Building in Timog Avenue). I could literally walk there but it's raining a bit so I didn't. The place is new, relaxing, clean and super cozy. It felt like a spa rather than a super sterile hospital/clinic. It's my kind of vibe especially  when I want to relax. In a nutshell, this was all I asked for when I wanted a break from my stressful days, weeks, months and years.

Just like you, I knew I needed this. I had a few things I also wanted to address because my hair's crown part was thinning. I also had never had a serious facial aside from cleaning, so they recommended 2 things, the Hair Regeneration Therapy and the Facial Carbon Therapy. They have other kinds of services to address what you need and they talked to me lengthy about my concerns before they recommended procedures (thanks to Dr. Joey Sinchioco who's also on TikTok). I knew what I was getting into before I went there, and I have asked so many questions to pinpoint what I needed help with. Enhancing or improvement is something I'm open to, but these are all non invasive procedures, I'm so glad I did it at INOUE!

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The staff were very professional. The procedures were done in precious time because I got in and out of the clinic quite fast (than how much I expected). The Hair Regeneration Therapy was done with care. Although it needed needles,  I didn't really feel anything while they were doing it. The process involves putting in lab made stem cell. The way the do it is more efficient since they do it by putting in the same amount in an area (volume delivery). This makes stem cell work more efficiently. While they have it for other procedures for anti aging and other skin issues, this one is specifically formulated for hair. The efficiency is higher, and it helps me with my issues. 

To help brighten my skin, I also went with the Facial Carbon Therapy which involves heat. While it was being done, I didn't feel much of it (case to case basis) but have seen the effects right after the procedure. They utilize a machine called Hollywood Spectra which does laser peel so you could tone, address discolorations, dark spots, melasma, and I've seen the immediate effect (like a powder finish). For me, they did a spirulina mask to close pores and calm redness. My other friends who went here did Hy Ocean mask which is meant for hydration. If you're into brighter skin, I'd gladly recommend this procedure!

Other procedures they have in INOUE Health and Wellness Clinic include IV Drips. They have options like Prime Detox (for brightening), Vital Recovery (if you feel you are about to get sick), Serene Restore (for calming and sleep), Core Balance (which they recommended for partners) and Immune Defense (for vitamins). They also told me about Pure Radiance, Timeless Essence, Platinum Glow, Energy Boost, and Holistic Regeneration, all of which are cosmetically done depending on what you need. All you need to do is ask.

A day of pampering was certainly not on my schedules, but I needed it and got it at INOUE Health and Wellness Clinic. Thank you so much to the kind folks who accommodated me during their soft opening. They'll be doing a grand launch of it very soon, and I'll tell you more about it. Stay tuned! 

ALFRED VARGAS Unfazed with Legal Battle: Releases Strong Statement

Recent pronouncements from the Office of the Prosecutor has certainly dampened the spirits of the whole Vargas family as they have fought tooth and nail for their son in the bullying case they filed in recent months. Alfred Vargas has released a statement questioning that if hard evidence and medical diagnosis wouldn't be accepted in court, they worry what message this would send especially for those who have been traumatized by such incidents. 

Alfred says "While it hurts to see how our motion has been denied, and feel our efforts have been wasted, we continue to hold our heads high. We did not rely on speculation, but with testimonies from witnesses who saw our son being bullied and abused."

The believe the Office of the Prosecutor has committed an error and have filed criminal complaints against the parents for the violation of RA 7610 or the Child Abuse Law. They worry much of what precedents this may do especially for those who are victims of bullying and just suffer in silence, and wonder how this would affect the community?

They promise to not back down and exhaust all avenues and legal remedies including bringing this to the Department of Justice. They still believe in it especially for the truth they want to have. They vow to work on this case until they receive justice they deserve and calls for stronger laws and punishment for those who are bullying. 

They remain unfazed.

She's Back!: Heart Evangelista in Paris Fashion Week

People wondered why she wasn't able to appear in the September 2025 - Spring-Summer 2026 seasons, but the real life crazy rich Asian did it for personal reasons and a serious health scare during those times. She's not hanging the stilettos anytime soon as she's back in Paris Fashion Week, fit to even walk the streets and venues of the shows. 

A week prior, she was sent to the hospital as she wasn't feeling well, but she wouldn't miss the Fall/Winter Haute Couture Paris shows for 2026-2027. It was slated from July 6-9, where over 30 fashion houses would showcase their greatest work including the much awaited designer Matthieu Blazy over at Chanel. 

Heart had to attend several shows and tried on a couple via fitting sessions which she showed on her social media accounts. She chose her shows well and prioritized those that have been so close to her heart, but knows she had to go back to Manila for her new programs. A few months ago, GMA announced "The People Have Spoken" which will be shown every Saturday on Kapuso channels. She's hosting the show and a LOT of people are excited about it! I guess it's a new era of Heart Evangelista and we're here for it! 

I remember back in January -February, Heart also was invited for several shows during. Paris Men's Fashion Week. She wasn't able to do that because of the same health scare and exhaustion, and pointed out how important it is to take care of your health. She also hinted how she should have not given her efforts for those who didn't even like her in the first place. Makes sense. I'm all for her goal of attending just those who would make her happy, and purpose. She also showcased Filipino designed jewelry in Paris (filled with lovely gem stones), which other influencers drooled over.

Heart recently appeared during the 75th Max Mara anniversary in Shanghai. She was there together with Hollywood stars like Michelle Yeoh and Katie Holmes. 

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During her time in Paris Fashion Week, the shows were also graced by Zendaya, Blackpink's Lisa, Rihanna, Dua Lipa, Kate Moss, Aussie Nicole Kidman, Penelope Cruz and more. Heart might do this again in September for the Women's Spring Summer season. Go follow her social media accounts to see where Heart is going next! I'm so obsessed with the recent shows especially Schiaparelli, Hermes and Kenzo which she also adores! Oh I miss the scene! Can't wait for her to post more of her outfit changes and upcoming shows in Paris and perhaps, Milan too.

Beyond Films: 0KGämës Taps Communities via BOYFRIEND EXPRESS

The pandemic had us watch all kind of content including the concept of Boys Love or BL. When Oxin Films delved into it a little later in those years, it became a phenomenon where it built communities that adore the trials of love, the colorful ways of friendships, discovery and the redeeming feeling of being accepted all enveloped in this fun collaboration between 0KGämës and Oxin Films.Content like these spark debate, deep discussions and also meaningful connections with like minded people who enjoy them. 

They always delve into these kind of material and 0KGämës knows how important it is to have something beyond experience, a call that they've been doing in previous years. 

Boyfriend Express stars Iñaki Torres and Andrei De Guzman who plays Brix and Harry. Other stars include Daniel Marshall and Art Guma (of PBB fame). They also have internet celebs lime Angelica Gegante and Thea Abanico, and a few more colorful characters. They've managed to tell stories of love, quirky relationships, which makes it more interesting for fans across the globe (very popular on YouTube). 0KGämës knows how this is important for people, so they designed interactive ways to make digital experiences more fun, especially the Boyfriend Express community who they've always had in mind. Things like these are evolving and they've really adapted well by being part of it. Each scene is well thought of, not as an accessory, but made to make sure partnership between them will be more meaningful. This is their thrust to make sure the entertainment they provide benefits those who are invested in the story. That's beyond what is expected of them. 

Are you excited to watch something like this?! 

Ultra Long Lasting Battery Laden HONOR X7e Exclusive Deals on Shopee TikTok Shop and Lazada 7.7 Events (Online Exclusive)

Something tells me that Honor Philippines is unstoppable. They gave away a Tesla, then a Mercedes Benz, and now they're coming out with an even powerful phone. 

Eason de Guzman from Honor Philippines says "The needs of FILIPINOS for all day power, we are here for the HONOR X7e. Thank you for sharing this to our community, and know that it will be available in Shopee, TikTok Shop and Lazada this 2026. We have had milestones, and we have launched several models that prove Anything is Possible. We have the power to do more, achieve more, and the newest member is Honor X7e, one of our strongest growth (over 3000 percent growth). This will complement things that are sold online, perfect for students, consumers who want power all day. This is something we plan to do this 7.7, so stay tuned!"

The Honor X7e has 7500 mAh battery capacity. It's powerful to last you 2 days of good use. It's available in 3 colors, Midnight Black, Sunrise Orange and Light Blue. It also has an AI button, instant access to smarter control and can be customized. 

It is also water resistant (ip64 standard), it can also survive 1.8m drops, has effective AI photo editing tools. It also has a 120 Hertz display. Price is only Php 14,999.00 and will be available on Honor Philippines store in Shopee, Lazada and the TikTok Shop. They're going to slash the price greatly, to Pho 9,999 during their respective 7.7 events. First 500 customers will get a freebie of Honor Earbuds so you better hurry!

NINA Mounts Repeat of NINA XX Concert

Looks like people are going to flock to the Newport Performing Arts Theater as Asia's Diamond Soul Siren NINA is doing the repeat of NINA XX The Anniversary Celebration on September 24, 2026 at 8pm. 

Her special guests include Christian Bautista, Top Suzara and Thor. The show will be directed by Calvin Neri and produced by EchoJam and Synth. Tickets will be available at Ticketworld.com.ph.

Nina says "The show was wonderful and the people wanted to see it one more time because they were very happy to see the show. I really take care of my voice, take care of myself by being happy and positive. I believe being not stressed means you are taking care of yourself. I don't do anything that could make my voice hoarse, to preserve my voice. My first song was There'll You'll Be, I was already emotional because that was for my fans. I already cried that time but when I finished Loved Moves in Mysterious Ways, I balled already. Twenty years is a long time but the only thing that has changed is having more confidence being in front of people. I am more relaxed now. I have to thank the parents, when I did Nina Live, they really shared my music to the next generation, I am so happy about that."

She adds "When I first sang Love Moves in Mysterious Ways, the meaning was just for a relationship, but now it's about the people who support me. The guests are here, more than the last time, I now have Christian, Top and Thor, we did a few songs that are different now. My jokes will be different if I feel like it. My family watched the last time and they requested a few things, I'm thankful for that."

The concert was already thought of after the first concert, it was not rocket science to do a repeat because the first one was sold out. At the first Nina XX concert, people were requesting for some songs with Christian but he wasn't available that time. They plan to do more songs after some good feedback from those who watched the first show, but that's going to be a surprise according to NINA. 

Trivia: When she did NINA LIVE she was actually sick. Her go to Karaoke songs include All By Myself, and she wants to be remembered with her song Love Moves in Mysterious Ways. She wants Can't Say That I Love You to be played more because she wrote that.

If you're reading this and see that you WANT to see her LIVE, go get tickets and do it! It'll be worth it!

Top Smart Toilet Brand MGS Releases New Collection

The Philippines has gotten an Upper Middle Income Economy rating according to its Gross National Income per capita (GNI), and folks have been investing in properties and making them liveable. That includes interior design and making their place a smart home. Luxury condos usually get equipped with premium stuff, all for the love of hygiene and convenience. This is why they are choosing smart toilets these days, I wouldn't be surprised if you have one in your home.

Smart toilets are clean, always a better alternative to the usual toilet paper driven restrooms. It is also more comfy especially if you get the ones with heating, no more surprised cold moments when going in the loo. It also uses less water, as it employs smarter flushing technology on top of functionality that MGS offers. 

MGS Smart Toilets are way better. They're market leaders for a reason, because among other brands, they provide various models that would fit the meticulous ones in the country. It is also designed well, built right and always assured that it is of high quality. 

It is after all their flagship smart toilet. It's got all the nice things one would want in hygiene tech like auto flushing, remote control, waterproof protection, one touch operation, and eco mode. This spells a very premium experience if you are looking for something luxurious, all advanced like the MGS line. 

The Vanta Pro has user memory settings (so you have your own when you need to use it.) They also have Aero, Nevo, Luxa if you want something smart and convenient. This would also make your property increase in value, it surely is the time to invest in good toilets!

If you want to take a look, visit their official website mgshome.ai if you need Smart Toilets, Smart Locks, Smart Kitchen solutions and more! It was so cool seeing this!

WHITE PARTY MANILA: REIGNITE! Earns 1 Million for LOVE YOURSELF Inc.

Celebrating pride month has been something that the country has been doing BETTER every year. Years ago, there were White Party celebrations in the streets of Orosa and Nakpil in Manila. Back then, it was a congregation of different bars and to some degree, that place died down together with the LGTBQIA+ establishments that were there in Manila. This year, Mentorque Productions under Bryan Dy felt that it is time to throw one again, with the aim to help their co-presenter LOVEYOURSELF Foundation Inc. who has been steadily helping folks with HIV+ cases, testing and information. Together with allies, and the icons of LGBTQIA+ community, WHITE PARTY MANILA: REIGNITE was finally happening (after 12 long years) at the World Trade Center in Pasay City!

Everyone came to the venue wearing their best white outfits, ethereal looking garbs and carried their friends with them. I also saw cisgender folks, family members, their Mums and Dads who came to support them too. It was heartwarming, because the crowd was mixed, of young ones and not so young, seeing hope to have a new generation continue this celebration too.

Performers were led by the Unkabogable Vice Ganda, who not only appeared, but did the fashion show by BANG PINEDA that evening. The event was also hosted by KaladKaren, with John Sweet Lapus awarding some allies who have not only talked, but walked to support the LGBTQIA+ community. We also saw celebrity couple Ice Seguerra and Liza Diño, model Joey Mead-King car pro Angie King. Direk Andoy Ranay, Alex Diaz, Klea Pineda, Mimiyuuuh, Janella Salvador, Chie Filomeno, Kirk Bondad, Ron Angeles and Teejay Marquez were also at the runway, while RPDR runner up Marina Summers opened the show!

Acts from allies and community members like Ben&Ben, Maki, Gloc-9, Maxie Anderson and SexBomb Girls (who won Gay Icon of the Year Award) also happened. White Party Manila definitely set a new standard!

Outstanding Ally of the Year went to QC Mayor Joy Belmonte, Pasay Mayor Emi Calixto Rubiano, San Juan Mayor Francis Zamora and Manila Mayor Isko Moreno. John Lapus gave the award and discussed matters that they supported like the right to care card for couples, partners or relatives. This is going to be a yearly honor for 4 individuals, hetero cis, for their contribution to the LGBTQIA+ community.

Then in a touching moment, Vice Ganda handed a 1 Million Peso check (earned from WHITE PARTY MANILA) to their supported foundation LOVE YOURSELF Inc. so they can continue their support for the cause.

Here's a toast to the lovely people who made this all happen! Can't wait for next year's WHITE PARTY!