CANON Photomarathon 2026 Slated This April

The Canon Photomarathon 2026 was just launched today at Revel at the Palace BGC. It coincided with the press thanksgiving party with media and community in attendance.

Ace Porlet the Marketing Manager of Canon Philippines says "We've planned to do this after the pandemic but it was very difficult. We are announcing the start this year on April 18, at BYC Taguig. The theme will be announced on the spot so you won't be able to prepare. From capture to output, it will be one brand, on photo and video. Yes, video will be part of the competition and you are welcome to this year's photomarathon. Free admission to all digital camera users, and the registration is now open through the Canon Philippines Delightful App which you can download on Google Play or App Store."

They also are preparing for photowalks, workshops, school tours, and regional tours before the actual photomarathon. Make sure you visit their pages, as this will start from February to March. The categories will be Open Photo Category, Video Category (both which are open to any brand and phone make), and a Main Photo Category which will be exclusive for Canon Users. Special categories will have Media Category and also, one for Canon Employees. 

Prizes include EOS R8 (OPEN), PowerShot V1 EOS R50V (video), EPS R6 MARK III (Main Photo). Photoworld Asia will happen on the 29th at Glorietta, so if you're itching to get your DSLR, it's time!

Netizens Continue to Swoon Over Danaya-Aquil Pairing

It's been years since Encantadiks had seen a whiff of what have been DanAquil, the love between Aquil who commands the army of Lireo and Danaya, one of the 4 Sanggres who controls the Gem of the Earth (played by Alfred Vargas and Diana Zubiri). These two live super happy and separate lives now, but recent videos of their 2005 series resurfaced and have been talked about on different platforms, bringing nostalgia to many Encantadiks the world over!

The two have been loved during the Etheria: Ang Ika Limang Kaharian Ng Encantadia (Etheria: The 5th Kingdom of Encantadia) and also the sequel Encantadia: Pag-Ibig Hanggang Wakas (Encantadia: Love Until The End). They proceeded to do several more projects under GMA including a reality show in mid 2006. They also had a film during the same year together with legends Eddie Garcia and Gloria Romero. It was directed by Nose Javier Reyes under Seiko films, plus a 2003 flick Liberated under Direk Mac Alejandro. In 2016, they had different roles for the second chapter of Encantadia as Alfred did Amarro, while Diana did the role of LilaSari, which were both so colorful. Rocco Nacino and Sanya Lopez then took on their Aquil and Danaya roles which catapulted their careers too. 

Alfred's appearance in Encantadia marked his comeback in GMA-7. Then in 2011, he started making several series in ABSCBN's stable, and then moved to concentrate on public service during that time.

Alfred reacted to the videos that came out on FB and TikTok and said "This may have happened a long time ago but I'm so glad to see that there are still a lot of people who still get "kilig" with our pairing. When I was tagged and sent this video, I was so elated how it still trended on the platform. Diana and I had a really good working relationship which is why we remain friends until now. I hope we can make more movies or be in a series soon. 

I hope GMA or ABSCBN would see how fans remain so happy to see them together after all these years. Will they be given the chance to reprise roles or maybe paired in new shows soon?!

Filmmaker Rechie Del Carmen Builds Promising "BATANG PACO" Cast

Looks like there exists a movement to make an action comedy flick called "Batang Paco". Direk Rechie Del Carmen has confirmed they are already building an ensemble cast for it. Known for character driven films, she wants to make this intricately done by choosing apt ones for roles, because this isn't just going to be action and comedy, but will also contain family drama which Producer Ana Abiera Del Moral says Direk Rechie understands, and needs to have meaningful emotional core, so they could breathe new life to these characters once the film starts rolling. 

They also divulged the appearance of Chichi Rita, who's wit and charm will rival lead actors Empoy Marquez and Ms. Aiai Delas Alas comedic powers, it's going to be more fun than usual. The cast also includes Mon Confiado, Ynez Veneracion, Richard Quan, Alma Concepcion, Lara Morena, Natasha Ledesma, Gerard Acao, Kookoo Gonzales, Josh Ivan Morales, Kim Rodriguez, Jovi Vargas and Quentin Molo among others. It's going to be a crazy time and very Manila, written by one of the most successful writers in cinema, Ms. Gina Marissa Tagasa. This will be under MiVida Productions Inc., and "Batang Paco" will hit theaters on February 18th, stay tuned for that!

PBB Celebrity Collab Edition 2.0 Exciting Last Few Weeks!

 

The current Pinoy Big Brother Celebrity Collab Edition 2.0 is almost ending, and steadily going to its finale... the Kapuso Stars nominated to leave the famous house include Sofia Pablo, Heath Jornales and Caprice Cayetano. On the Kapamilya side, they've got Carmelle, Eliza and Joaquin who's all going to be at the eviction night. This is a nail biter because there are only 10 guys and gals left and it'll be a crucial week to get those votes. 

Fans say Caprice is authentic, calm, and gives genuine care for other housemates. Heath on the other hand is on his 4th time being nominated, but fans say they will never give up saving him inside the house. Sofia on the other hand is getting feedback that labels thrown at her are not true, and they're seeing it the more time she stays in the Big Brother House. She has helped a lot in chores and might be her ace. 

Carmelle on the other hand is quiet but fans say people feel her efforts in tasks. Eliza is a very doting daughter, very kind and caring according to them. Joaquin has played this with strategy, and consistently has done tasks quite well. They also say he has love and empathy for other housemates. Will this make them stay in the house?

Make sure you watch the show on GMA and ABSCBN assets because you shouldn't miss the last few week before the finale! Meanwhile follow Sparkle's FB page for updates of those who have already gone out and are having the time of their life, as they've got lots of opportunities after the show!

SPARKLE Receives TikTok's Digital Spotlight Award

The recently concluded 2025 edition of TikTok Live Awards Philippines proved to be one of the most successful ones for the Kapuso Network as Sparkle GMA Artist Center copped the Digital Spotlight Award for getting 1 Billion Views for last year's GMA Gala. It's one of the biggest gathering of celebrities held at the ballroom of Marriot Hotel in Pasay City. 

The award was received by Sparkle GMA Artist Center Head of PR, Events and Digital Ms. Roche Tuazon Chavez, and Caiel Pajarillo their PR Manager. Ms. Roche Tuazon says "We are so honored to  be recongnized, and this belongs to our artists, fans, creators, and partners who continue to support Sparkle. Thank you very much!"

Congratulations to SPARKLE and to everyone who made this feat possible! (photo credits Mary Gurat)

Rhodesian Sales Corporation Taps Two Promising Content Creators

My favorite Rhodesian Sales Corporation products specifically Tai Chi Rubs and VCO Liniments just got their own new brand ambassadors. They're from Team Orange, the folks from Orange Magazine who's been quite visible these past few years under Jeman Villanueva. Kister Morata and Sharmaine Rodriguez have been doing lifestyle events under the same group and they've been working hard creating content for the digital mag. 

Rhodesian Sales Corporation have been noticing them, seeing the need for folks from their generation to market their various products including Tai Chi Rub and VCO Liniments, Kuchi Pearl, Foamee, Kuchi Kuchi, Doggies Choice, Moringa Vita, Guyasteen Oilganics, Hailey's Underarm and Foot Powder who's been doing well in online shops, and on TikTok. 

They've been doing a lot of content on socials (part of their skill set) and this time, they're going to even do more to bolster Rhodesian's efforts, to further reinforce what they've been currently doing for their various brands. 

Present during the contract signing is Kirk Chester Dy the COO and Eric King current Head of Marketing for Rhodesian Sales Corporation, and Orange Magazine's Editor Jeman Villanueva. I'd like to send my congratulations to both brands and their 2 new brand ambassadors for this feat! 

A Haven Down South: Golden Haven Opens In Davao

They've been doing it so good that the rest of the country needs one, so they opened one at Purok New Visayas in Barangay Acacia, Buhangin District in Davao City. It's a full blown memorial park that is thoughtfully designed for families who would want their loved ones seen, remembered with dignity and serenity in mind. They've been doing this for years and Filipinos have seen great value from their other properties in Luzon, now Davao gets to have one of their own. 

Ms. Emy Lustado who manages Golden Haven's VisMin Operations dubs this as part of their huge commitment in memorial care, and to offer opportunities too for the local community. They will be starting pre selling period soon as this is set to be done first quarter. If you are interested, you may visit their official website goldenhaven.com.ph or call them via +63 917 828 4527 if you have inquiries.

LOIDA NICOLAS LEWIS Pens Third Book "Look Younger When You're Older - No Botox, No Surgery"

You've seen her several times in news outlets, shows here and abroad. She's absolutely proud to be a Filipino American. She's also a businesswoman, lawyer, and author. One who doesn't hold back when she needs to speak. She just released her third book properly titled "Look Younger When You're Older - No Botox, No Surgery (Philippine Edition)" under Anvil Publishing last December. This is available in leading bookstores (now part of the best sellers list!) including National Bookstore and online shopping apps Shopee and Lazada. 

She is in the country for a few days for a book signing event at the National Bookstore Edsa Shangrila Mall branch. Guests were treated to discounts on her new book, prizes, and a short meet and greet with the woman of the hour Atty. Loida Nicolas Lewis. She dedicates this third one for her family, specifically her grand kids who keeps her company on regular days.

Mind you, this isn't the first time Atty. Mon Abrea hosted Ms. Loida Lewis after meeting several times in the US. He says "It's an honor and privilege to host Tita Loida when she was here last year, this year, this is her despedida because she's leaving tomorrow for NY. I love her wisdom, and meeting at Harvard, I thought she was very feisty and frank. I got connections to make sure she's going to know me before I left school. We tried online and it didn't work, we both forgot about the zoom meetings. We met at Harvard Club later on for lunch, and joined her activity. I met a lot of successful Filipinos through Tita Loida, and what folks may not know is how generous she is. She introduces you to people, she's a mother, a good friend, and when there are times people lose hope, she's a source for that. We are all privileged to be in the presence of our 80 year old friend, who doesn't look like it, Ms. Loida Nicolas Lewis!" 

 

 

 

I asked Ms. Loida about taking a breather at this age and she says "I don't consider waking up in the morning as work, I still work even after selling the company because I as trying to build another one. For me, work is not work if you love what you are doing. When folks ask me when I'll retire, I'd say NEVER. Because there's always work to do. When you rest, you die. That's the real rest. When you're still alive, you do what you LOVE to do. You have to enjoy whatever is in front of you. If you're working, do it good, do it well. Joy is our secret ingredient. When you are Christian, God loves you. My good husband may have left but I'm still here. People should look at the positive side of things, and always say THANK YOU LORD! Don't emphasize the negative things in your life, don't mind the vampires and don't do it to yourself. You deserve better."

Tax Whiz Atty. Mon Abrea

Here's more of our conversation on video:

 

 It's such an awesome experience to talk to Ms. Loida, and I've felt how much care she pours out for others while keeping her cup full. Their outlook, and what good things they do while building their network, not minding their net worth because from their eyes, it will follow. Ms. Loida's book also concentrates not just on physical beauty, but more on spirit. There never will be an end to learning, on having the right mindset, to never think of growing older, maintain that young mind, great goals, and value for oneself.  If you want to get a copy of the book, it's available on Shopee and Lazada. I also linked it on the youtube video to make it easy.

 

Tiangco Talks About PBBM and Romualdez Incident on Podcast

Have you seen that Bilyonaryo interview with Congressman Toby Tiangco from Navotas? It's kind of troubling to know how folks know details about the public funds, how it was used and just the mere thought of having knowledge of it. 

The interviewer asked if a confrontation happened between the Tiangco, Marcos and Romualdez, and he first said he couldn't put the President on the spot, then he continued to say about the incident wherein they sat down and then the President asked "Martin, how many houses, planes, helicopters do you need in Forbes Park? How many tins of caviar can you eat? How many Ferraris do you need?"

Then further says "You know Martin, I don't receive anything from that, and I couldn't do projects in 2 years because you and Zaldy are getting the funds from congress." The interviewer asked "So he knew?". Congressman Tiangco says "He had a list of flagship projects in his phone that were put on unprogrammed and done project insertions. The promise of Martin during that time was they will return it in the bicameral meeting, which didn't happen... which is why he was so mad in January."

Here's that clip:

@bnc.ph

TIANGCO DEFENDS PBBM, WARNS ON MARTIN ROMUALDEZ AND ZALDY CO Navotas Lone District Rep. Toby Tiangco defended President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., saying he believes the President has no involvement in the flood control corruption scandal, but warned he would politically part ways if Marcos protects former House Speaker Martin Romualdez or Zaldy Co. Speaking with Atty. Edwin Lacierda and Nani Braganza, Tiangco added he is willing to testify if Romualdez faces criminal prosecution over alleged budget anomalies and unprogrammed projects, emphasizing that he can only tell the truth when called as a witness. More on this in the full episode of #TheSpokes #fyp #foryou #foryoupage #news #newsph #balita #philippines #pilipinas #viral #viralvideos #PBBM #BongbongMarcos #Marcos #MartinRomualdez #ZaldyCo #FloodControl #FloodControlScandal #BudgetAnomaly #Corruption #UnprogrammedProjects #Truth #Witness

♬ original sound - bnc.ph

So I guess that's why folks have resigned from their post and also affected the President's ratings? This is a really troubling issue and I guess people should look into this even further because from the looks of it, people are now telling their story. The public deserves nothing but the truth and see accountability, put perpetrators behind bars, not soon, but now. It's high time they face the consequences. 

SPRING IN PRAGUE: A Love Story Without Boundaries!

Just got off the press conference of the upcoming Borracho Films movie called Spring in Prague, romantic comedy film starring Paolo Gumabao and Sara Sandeva.

This is produced by Atty. Ferdinand Topacio who says "Newcomers in the industry always have challenges, Mamasapano was one of them during MMFF, but we in Borracho Films love making films and we do it for the love of the craft. Not necessarily high gross, but lately you have placed it in the hands of people who don't know anything about movies. It should be reformed,  with people that are from the industry so we won't have mediocre entries. It's a festival, give us the best, not just commercially viable."

He adds "Spring in Prague I think can try to be a catalyst to make better films, the competition online is really tough, the movies also cost much. The industry should show it is irreplaceable, folks who think radio was gonna die still listen to it now. Same with visual arts, the cinema experience still is the best which is why we have a good cinematographer, bringing better vistas on the screen, something you can't see on a small phone. The difference is big in cinema, and this is new which can't be done in other platforms. I got Paolo Gumabao because his face is expressive, each gesture has something to say, and not all artists can be like that."

Lead actor Paolo says "I do my best with the characters I have to portray, I really aim to the best actor that I can be. I give what the director asks for me, and I did that here in Spring in Prague."

He adds "I guess one of the things that challenged us is showing the difference in culture, Alfonso and Marushka come from different countries, different habits, like mixing ketchup and soy sauce, but they still clicked. I try to see if the director is open to work with other artists, mine was very open hearing our ideas and concepts which is a good thing. They gave us their blessing if we need changes in the scene and story."

He also told us how easy it was to work with Czech Macedonian actress Sara Sandeva. He also described how different the working ethics were in Prague when they needed to shoot everything in one and a half week. He mentioned how they were really time centric, not relaxed, and when they go on set, they're really prepared. One instance was when they asked her to go to the location, she went back to her room because there were some left to be fixed at the location. They really mean business I guess.

Although it's been a long time since this was done, they're going to have a public viewing this coming February 4th in theaters nationwide! Included in the film and production are some of the BORRACHO Artists/Talents who sang the theme song and did the music video for it. Some of the artists appearing in the movie are under Tyrrone Escalante's Artist Management, both of whom are excited to have this movie come out since it's also their first time to be part of one. I've seen the trailer and it's quite nice, especially the majestic views they shot in Prague, you'll also love their story. Here's a bit of the media conference on video:

Again, if you fancy views (of Prague and Puerto Galera), a good laugh and a romantic love story, watch SPRING IN PRAGUE this coming February 4th in theaters nationwide!

Ginebra Honors Real Life Heroes with "Tatak Ng Tapang, Tatak Ginebra" Campaign

Inspiring stories from real life heroes take the stage with Ginebra San Miguel's recent campaign called "Tatak Ng Tapang, Tatak Ginebra" (Seal of Courage, Brand of Ginebra) that tells the story of 4 folks, real, unadulterated stories of heroes. The videos are now up on Ginebra's social channels since December 31st, with real people as subjects which Filipinos can relate to. The Never Say Die spirit still lives in this era, with the lives of Filipinos, including educators, jeepney drivers, medical professionals, and people who work each day to make a living. They're quite sure you experienced meeting these heroes during the pandemic where we had to live under closed doors, but still made a point to be of help for your countrymen, no matter how big or small it is.

Folks have endured one of the most challenging times of our lives, like Miguel Mapalad who scaled Mount Everest, talented artist Aughie Fontanilla, PBA'S Sonny Estil, and Billiard Phenom Chezka Centeno. They wear their scars as badges, this is their "Tatak ng Tapang", and won it. We all have this, our struggles can be a thing of the past, we do it for ourselves, our family, and our country. No matter what it is, we can conquer them! Like the highest peak in the world, where Miguel braved the cold and difficulty, shared a bottle of Ginebra with other mountaineers and their Sherpa, and did it greatly!

Auggie on the other hand left her comfy job in publishing, to get into her real passion, doing graffiti work, and now earning recognition for it. She now also manages her clothing brand with the Pilipinas Street Plan Collective. Meanwhile, Sonny Estil is now part of the Ginebra Kings. He's also the top draft pick and became part of the most popular team in the PH pro league. He had to go through hard work as a farmer and carpenter prior to that, carries his courage up his sleeve like a Ginebra King should! Same with Billiard champ Chezka who did so well in 10 ball. She hails from the streets of Zamboanga, used to battle veteran male players, some of which she lost, but she never gave up. It was her dream, and even if it was economically impossible at times, she did it. This is what Ginebra San Miguel wants to celebrate, the never say die spirit has now bared real life heroes and that's amazing!

MANILA's FINEST: A Period Film That Discusses Current Issues

Just watched Manila's Finest last night and from a viewers standpoint, it was a cinematographic masterpiece. It's a period film, set in the late 60's, that tells the story of what transpired during those years with the Manila Police District. While life was simple, it wasn't any less complicated as the atrocities of love, family, relationships and politics become real and present danger. 

Piolo Pascual plays Homer Magtibay, a very optimistic cop who's got his own demons to vanquish. He's got his own crew that includes Enrique Gil who plays Billy Ojeda, Romnick Sarmienta who plays Severino Meneses, Joey Marquez as Rogelio Liwanag, and Dylan Menor as newbie cop Efren Taguyonon. He will begin most of his challenging life when Cedrick Juan who plays PC Metrocom Danilo Abad comes into the picture, and makes his once tranquil life into something a lot problematic. 

They made us see the causes of Martial Law lengthy, of what intricate things were done to make it happen. Fact or fiction, this makes them question loyalties, principles, betrayal, how corruption blur the lines of what's right and wrong. While it is set in the 60's, it still discusses something that is sadly happening til now. Piolo Pascual has always been an excellent actor, and a nomination for Best Actor award would not be surprising. Another notable performance would be for the role of his daughter in the film played by Ashtine Olviga. Her role might not have appeared much in the movie, but it is pivotal for the rift between characters, and her endearing ways of communicating emotions is unquestionably brilliant. Enrique too is another, but I think he would've needed more dialogue and grit, but that's just me.

What I'm loving is that they're absolutely BRAVE in doing this film during this regime. That alone deserves something, including the quality of work in post production which might get them a nod. They deserve 4 cows 🐮🐮🐮🐮/5. I'm a little sad that though realizing how the problems in the 60's are still present, like corruption to it's core.

If you want to see the film this coming Christmas, be ready for something a little cerebral. This obviously has been made with higher production value, and that's because of MQuest and the MVP group. Hopefully they'd be able to create more of this even after MMFF 2026!

JOSEPH MARCO at his PEAK, Celebrating His 3rd Year with HANFORD

Took the trip up north to cover the contract signing of actor/model Joseph Marco. The well loved man is on his third year with Hanford. 

The contract signing was witnessed by Dr. Victor N. Te the President, Ms. Sincerely C.Te the Executive Vice President, Ms. Sheena Ann Te-Tan the Vice President, Ms. Angelica Sangco the Sales And Marketing Manager, all of Mansfield International Incorporated. Present in the occasion was Ms. Katherine M. Liclican the President/ CEO of JKast Management Productions, Inc. (Joseph's management).

Dr. Victor N. Te welcomed us to the occasion. He said "This is the 3rd time we are signing Joseph Marco with Hanford. He is very intelligent, capable, dashing, fun, fearless, fresh, genuine and handsome. He's also very personable, quick witted, radiant, stylish, talented, unique, versatile, wholesome, has an x factor, youthful, and zesty. He is special, and our collaboration with him will have great success!"

Joseph replied "They chose to believe in me and that means everything to me. If you invest in me, I give back, I will always do my best. It's about comfort, confidence, and this is what Hanford stood for. For believing in me once again, thank you so much!"

Here's our conversation with him after the contract signing with the executives of Mansfield International Inc., the entity that owns HANFORD.

Joseph added "With HANFORD, every year our connection grows deeper. They made me own my craft in terms of the business, they really teach me the ropes. When you're given difficulties in life, you discover so much with yourself. Every year, I prepare a lot for them and the campaigns they include me in. I am bulking right now, last year, it took me months to get ready and I learn a lot doing that including nutrition, food, my lifestyle and working out. Soon, I want to have my own designs and I think it's the perfect time to do that. It's been amazing to spend 3 years with them, I am thankful, grateful and it's a powerful to be with a brand that trusts you. I feel like I'm at my peak, when you reach maturity, most of the distractions are muted. Right now, I don't waste time anymore so I make sure to work out and watch my diet. I have a personal cook, she cooks for me, it's part of the process because I want to challenge myself, to improve this time, stretch myself in setting the bar high!" 

Asked if he's wishing for anything, he says "I really think that the most valuable things in life are family, friends, self fulfillment, and finding your purpose. I am just grateful that I've passed that phase. When you learn how to be content, it's amazing. Always maintain your mental peace."

Congratulations Joseph Marco! You're killing it, and we can't wait to see what HANFORD is planning for your campaign this coming 2026. So far, it looks amazing from here!

ASHLEY RIVERA aka PETRA MAHALIMUYAK Is Your WHITE CASTLE CALENDAR GIRL for 2026

 

I've heard of her a couple years back, but my first personal encounter with her was during an event in San Juan and I was hailing a car to go home with a TV. She was a guest too of the brand and she had to go to another event/go home but she preferred a motor ride through a ride hailing app so she could get there early. Needless to say, I thought celebrities would prefer to have their drivers and car, but she's a cowboy, didn't even mind what people would say. She's beautiful, like a ball of energy, and she's super down to earth. I said, I like her already!

I've covered several calendar girl launches, but this year, White Castle was the last one to actually do it. They've been looking for someone who could fit their brand, someone who could represent them in so many ways, and when the choice was made, I was so happy to hear it was going to be Ashley Rivera aka her alter ego Petra Mahalimuyak.

White Castle's VP for National Sales Brandon Jon Limpe-Aw says "Thank you for being here despite the traffic, rain and all. For the upcoming year, we are going to introduce our 2026 Calendar Girl. After Ninong Ry, Sassa Gurl, Ria Atayde, and more, we want to have the persona of White Castle on social media. We looked for someone humorous, funny and a really great personality. We found her in a podcast, this was also something that she wished for, and we got interested about her. We scanned her social channels, and found out how she aligns with our brand. Cheers!"

He also mentioned why they chose her and said "Her energy is really big, and that's why we chose Ashley Rivera aka "PETRA MAHALIMUYAK". I think the universe really just transpired, and we really wanted Ashley to be our White Castle Calendar Girl for 2026!"

Ashley says "They're right because I really wished for it during a podcast, and there's so many women to choose from. White Castle trusted me and I am so grateful. I will have those life sized photos of me and put them in the lobby of my condo. I would like to dedicate this to my Mom who's here. My Mommy Vicky already has her own followers, I'm glad netizens are also having fun with her on social media. When I found out, I was shocked because it's something that happened before the year ends. When I was chosen, they shared the story board and I was so happy because it's in a ranch, classic, I was speechless when I saw the layout. Let's see because I have so many plans about content we're going to come out with after this launch! Watch out for that!"

Here's some more videos from the launch, particularly her dance number when she went on stage!

Congratulations Ashley! You're gorgeous, funny, so eloquent, and really deserve this recognition! You're one remarkable lady that people should discover even more!

Holiday Snacks from URC!

Christmas is just around the corner and the folks from URC (Universal Robina Corporation) knows exactly why snacking should be a big part of it. From family reunions to friends catching up, a drink or two is essential, and so is a bowl of Jack N Jill snacks. 

Unbeknownst to a lot of people, you can actually jazz it up and make it a bit gourmet if you please. They recommended a few recipes you can try at the comforts of your own home!

Piattos Nachos 

3-4 packs of regular sized Piattos Cheese (my preferred flavor but you can choose Nacho Pizza instead)

2 cups grated cheese (cheddar or quickmelt)

1 Jar of Salsa

Optional: Sauteed Ground Beef, Pork, beans (boiled til soft), Jalapeños, Black Olives, Onions, Sour Cream, more tomatoes. You can just put chips on a bowl, put cheese and melt it, then put salsa and other components. Serve immediately!

Cream-O Cake

For the sweet tooth, you can do a lot of things with your favorite cookie brand Cream-O. Grab 10 packs of it, separate the cookies from the cream, ground it up and mix it with 1 and a half cup of milk. Layer it alternately with the cream, steam it for 5 minutes (though I prefer mine frozen) add the remaining layers later on. Add a scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream or just eat it straight out of the container. Enjoy!

Without cooking skills, you can make a lot of things with these products, and yes, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to make it work. All of these are available in your local grocer or supermarket. You can also get it from your food and grocery apps, it's all about making your what you want to happen. All from our friends at URC! 

ALDEN RICHARDS Brings PH to Hollywood via "BIG TIGER" with Max Collins, Byron Mann, Katherine McNamara and Luke Goss

If you haven't heard, Alden Richards is taking his shot at Hollywood this coming 2026. Yes, you heard that right, Asia's well loved multimedia star is producing and becoming a part of "BIG TIGER" an action flick he's starring with fellow GMA star Max Collins, HK American Byron Mann (omg he's Ryu in Street Fighter!), and action star Katherine McNamara, and English actor Luke Goss (who's had several movies in his belt). 

How did this all start? Alden told us that he personally went to LA to look for studios that he could work with via his production company Myriad Entertainment (who's done several ones in the PH). There were a lot of them that he approached but it was either not feasible for them (and a whole lot of other reasons). When he talked to the folks from LUX Angeles Studios, Bims and Sawyer Studios and Voltage Pictures, all it took was 2 zoom meetings and one personal appearance to make things happen. With a Filipino production team based here in the Philippines, Keoni Waxman felt how smooth it was to stage the shoot here, and got lots of praises for the texture they got from locations that would have cost millions to build in the US. Here, it's all natural, and producers called it "COST EFFECTIVE" to make it happen here.

Here's what Alden had to say about that!

 Here's the full video of the media conference a few days ago:

There are tons of plans now to do several flim projects with Myriad Entertainment, and according to the producers, about 9 to 10 films the least. This is huge especially for the ones looking for locations outside the US, and it will bring jobs for PH crews, for Philippine based actors that they plan to do. This is ultimately what Alden wants to happen, and these are all challenges that he will try to overcome. He says "The reinforcement from production partners, to highlight the Philippines, as a location hub for Asia, if this comes true, we will have the chance to increase the quality of what we can do here in the country! I hope to work with Hollywood stars and do it with Filipino actors, this is an opportunity to bring more people to work in the Philippines and have the Filipino actors work here too. They didn't know how affordable it was to make films here, now they do!"

Max says "It's so different to see Alden do this (as an Antagonist) because we've worked together before in ILLUSTRADOS. That's totally different with our characters, he's an @SSH0LE and it was amazing and sexy, his fans would love to see more of those!"

BIG TIGER is a place in the film, and you'll see why it is called that once you see it in cinemas. They have plans to show it here, distribute it in the US and streaming platforms. This is where Alden is going, are you going to support him all the way?!

I know, I would!

I'M PERFECT: Understanding the Cause of This MMFF 2025 Entry

People were already crying when they got out of the cinema for the media conference of the movie I'M PERFECT, Nathan Studios' entry to the 2025 Metro Manila Film Festival. It's a film that touches on the lives of those with down syndrome. Before it even started, the conversations of media and folks from organizations captured my interest. I overheard Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines Chairman Elmer Lapeña while he was talking to a colleague about it, and he says "They have one special ability, and that is to LOVE without inhibitions, magmahal ng wagas!"

Direk Ingrid says "I need to make a story, a film about 11 years ago. We won in FDCP and this was teased. This was to show that they can. I'm very lucky that this was noticed by Ms. Sylvia and Nathan Studios and made it happen. Kita Kita was 2017, but this was 2009. They forged my characters, they choose what to show and we only had to trust them. I know it is a risk for producers but I was given the right ones with passion. I didn't want to use them, because this is a passion project and we didn't want them to be used, but loved and be independent. I felt hope because it doesn't end there."

Ms. Sylvia says "I saw two of her scripts and didn't like it but this third one was an afterthought. She didn't believe I would do this, because it was 10 years ago, they wanted it but didn't trust that this will be made, but I knew that the kids with down syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy can. I want to thank Janice, LT, Tonton, Zaijan, because at the beginning they knew they would support them, and they did. When I found the cast in Direk's laptop, I knew I had to do it. We met with the officials because we want their guidance and do it right. These kids will make history, so please make sure to watch it!"

This film called "I'm Perfect" is something special. It's about unconditional love, the support actors describe this as reality, a spectrum of emotions, and when they were in the set, instead of them teaching the lead actors, they learned more instead. They taught them the currency of love and hugs, and watch them enjoy the process as actors for MMFF. They were overwhelmed!

Here's what happened at the press conference:

You might be wasting time treating them differently but they probably need to be treated plain and the same. It's an eye opener, looking at family dynamics on how to love, and how to do it purely, without judgement, hesitation, or anger. That's what they want you to feel in this film, and if you're up to it, you can support them on the 25th! 

This film has a mission, and hopefully even before it comes out on theaters, it makes you feel what it is for. Make sure you watch it, so you'll learn more about what LOVE is in its purest form and concentrate on what they CAN DO instead of what they CANNOT DO.