Meet The Newest PPOP Girl Group in Town: VVINK

After covering one of the biggest PPOP collabs just a few days ago, here we go drowning ourselves in PPOP content with the arrival of a new female group called VVINK through their debut showcase held today at the HYPE club in Quezon City.

While they've already released songs in the past, that was their pre-debut which mostly showcased their individual talents. This time, they will be taking a huge leap with their new single TULALA under their label FlipMusic.

They took the risk to do this so their listeners would be able to get to know them at their best. The group is composed of their leader Angelika, main vocalist Jean, main rapper Ayaka, main dancer Odri and the all rounder Mariel. This new song has a very dreamy vibe, quite upbeat, while trying to express the feeling of one's first love. This is just the first of a plethora of songs they plan to release in the next few months which will be included in the album expected to be done til the 2nd quarter of 2026.

These ladies come from different places, but were all hand picked by their COO Jumbo Belen and CEO Jeli Mateo to become a part of this group. Unconventional as it may have seem to be launched like this, they were able to showcase their individual voices and genre. They also feel that with the training they went through, that it was all worth it. Here's the press conference in full on video:

Later in the day, they gave us a glimpse of their upcoming singles (to be launched this year til the 2nd quarter) and by the looks of it, they absolutely killed it on stage. The titles include "Tatlong Hiling", "Baduy", "Kailan Aamin", "Ikaw Lang Ang Kulang", and "Tulog Pa Si Ganda". Aside from being singers, some of them are talented songwriters and are pro choreographers. They contribute what they can for VVINK.

I think I loved what I saw today, and if you're raring to support these girls, make sure to follow their social channels by looking of VVINK PH on FB, IG and others, become VVINKies as they start their journey to conquer the world!

MAGIC VOYZ Holds First Concert at VIVA CAFE: Welcomes New Member ASHER to the Fold

It's been a while since MAGIC VOYZ was launched in this same venue, the Viva Cafe. This time, the event is quite different, because they're holding a concert with several performers. They did it with a bang!

From several dance numbers, to song covers and provocative chair exhibitions, these guys didn't hold back including their guest performers Ayah Alfonso, Krista Miller, Marianne Saint, Meggan Marie and Yda Manzano. It was both exciting and fun because they made sure to connect with the audience, not to mention them being pretty too.

 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by John Bueno (@kumagcow)

 

When the boys came out, they did several dance numbers with their guests first before taking over the venue. We also got to meet their newest member Asher, who was very young looking and fresh, he's only 18 but eager to perform for the public. He joined Marcia, Juan, Rave, Jace, Johan, Mhack and Ian to sing their original songs including the latest one called "BINTANA" to woo the girls and not so girls in the audience.

They also did covers of OPM songs, so the crowd was able to sing along especially when they did Michael Pangilinan's "Pare Mahal Mo Raw Ako", which they dedicated to gay fans in the audience that night. In the end, they enjoyed every bit of their performances and said they're raring to do more in other places within the year. They also told us that they will be releasing another single (their 3rd one) very soon. 

This is just the start for the boys, and they've been very thankful so far about their journey. They thanked not just the fans, but the people who have been making this concert and the other events possible. There will be more, so if you would like them to perform in your town, go like their Facebook page and talk to them about how to make it possible. They are managed by Lito De Guzman and VIVA. They're goal is to make you happy!

KIANA V Showcases "Sweet Release" Music Video

The last time I saw Kiana was during the concert of her Dad Gary Valenciano. The prolific singer and songwriter just released the music video for her single "Sweet Release" which now can be seen on different platforms. Another feather to her hat, she worked as Director in this video together with her equally talented brother Gab, and MJ Arda. She also did edit the actual MV, something she prefers to add a personal touch on her work. 

MJ Arda though is no stranger to the business as he also choreographed several sequences with the ATeam. Unquestionably, this looks like a visual feast for the eyes. 

Kiana won Best Female R&B Recording Artist at the PMPC Star Awards, and this "Sweet Release" single won't shortchange those who adore her kind of music. It will be released 9am Manila Time and 6PM PST through Kiana's social channels. 

Certainly, a performer, singer and songwriter of her own credits. Congratulations Kiana!

GAB VALENCIANO Continues to Shine in US

Gab Valenciano surely didn't mind being a person from a very talented clan. It's been years and now, he's not just a son to Dad Gary but a very spirited Dancer/Choreographer who made headlines with his moves in viral video "Super Selfie". No less than Beyonce took notice and got the moves done in her 7/11 video a couple years back. 

Imagine, doing a thing in Florida, then having it be done by one of the greatest artists in the world, where it racked up 6000 million views. This just makes his efforts of finishing recording arts and engineering doubly special right? The move even got him nominated at MTG Video Music Awards for Best Choreography. Unbelievable to be credited in that together with greats Chris Grant and B herself!

Locally, he even did work for several soap operas on home station ABSCBN plus a few awards in the bag for Best Inspirational Song, Best Secular Song, Best Musical Score for several tracks he did on ABSCBN shows and indie film Alagwa which starred Jericho Rosales. He also did several music videos for his Dad, Yassi Pressman, Kai Buizon, and lovely sister Kiana. 

He's talented and a very accomplished motorcycle champ, he also did a few commercials, radio jingles, and recently, the TFC 30 Happy Hour during independence day celebrations in Texas. The man is now residing in the USA and still performs, does a lot of projects to feed his passion. 

Good job Gab! 

#SANAOIL Event Mounted: Artistic Fight for Sovereignty

We've been on our toes (even more recently) as Filipinos when it comes to the obvious bullying and tyrannical try of other countries to own what properly belongs to us at the West Philippine sea. No surprise, a non-profit org called Pinoy Aksyon (Pilipino Aksyon for Governance and the Environment) together with KM64 (a writers collective) just recently came out with #SanaOil  (a performance event) to better inform us about what's happening out there through songs, dance, spoken poetry showcasing their different talents while giving focus to the cause. 

One of the activities include Spoken Word Slam Competition which talks about how we have sole proprietorship of not just the body of water, but the riches of the sea and everything underneath it #TubigatLangis. It was a time to hone speech for showcasing patriotism and a sensible call for action. KM64 artists also did "sabayang bigkas" with groups like Kalipaya Theater Group, YT famous Jong Madaliday, Fifty Per Hour, the Tanghalang Bagong Sibol (theater and dance company), Chiang Lion and Dragon Dancers, Hype, Justine Taller and the one and only Dalaygon Queen Lady Morgana of RPDRPH.

PinoyAksyon wants #SanaOil to become just the start in order to make Filipinos become part of more efforts through innate freedom of expression, environmental care, and the importance of the country's sovereignty. 

We need to have active participation now because we can't just stand around and do nothing while they continue to bully us. 

Manoeuvres, Streetboys, Universal Motion Dancers, Power People and Kidz@Work Headline "THE SIGN" 90's SUPERSHOW!

If you're still in the mood to reminisce about the 90's, you're in for a treat! The biggest dance groups during that era is finally having a dance concert called "THE SIGN" 90's Supershow this coming April 19th at the ALIW Theater in Pasay City. 

Tito's and Titas will love what the Manoeuvres, Streetboys, Universal Motion Dancers, Power people and Kidz@Work have prepared on this date. Expect them to perform their signature dance numbers and the iconic hit songs that spelled a generation we wouldn't forget. Other performers include fellow 90's groups like Team 90's, Wildcat Queens, BMAD, Dyna Turbo, Teensquad, BIGMEN, Katz22, Black&White, Abstract Dancers plus special guests Blain and Mastermind.

As stellar as that list may sound, this concert is being done for the benefit of several dance groups that they are supporting. After holding a dance competition at the 1322 Bar and Lounge, WCQ Productions and Management noticed that some of the participants really needed help. Some had to travel far, slept outside, and didn't have a place to practice at all. It was heartbreaking to see them try to make ends meet. 

Their passion is unquestionable, which is why they believe that providing opportunities for these dance groups would be the right thing to do. Proceeds of this dance concert will be given to them so they could have facilities, the skills to become better at their craft in order to nurture the next generation of dancers in the country. They were really emotional while telling us about the story.

Here's the press conference held at Farmers Plaza in Araneta City.

  

THE SIGN: 90's Supershow is directed by Kiko Cabarloc and Arnel Caranto. As discussed during the presser, they will have their groups perform individually. They also plan to do a dance number where everyone will be joining in. This is quite exciting especially for people who miss the times they went to clubs and discos. The competitive fan base of these different groups should definitely show up at the ALIW Theater as they promise to BRING IT on the dance floor. 

Spencer Reyes will also be flying to the Philippines from the UK this coming April 13. That's a few days before the 26 play date. He's quite excited to see his brothers from Streetboys, and the other guys from the other dance groups. 

Here's a short talk we had with him that afternoon.

If you wish to get tickets, please visit the Tickelo website at TICKELO: https://www.tickelo.com/the-sign-90s-supershow . If you want to support the show as a sponsor, you may message or call them via 09660696014 or their social channels. Just look for WildCat Queens Productions and Management Inc. on Facebook. They also encourage those who have talent in singing and dancing (especially the talented ones who need help) to get in touch with them online too.

This would not be possible without the help of their sponsors namely Wolfgang's Steakhouse, The Red Crab, 1322 Bar and Lounge, Wild Seafood atbp., Erjohn Almark Transit Corporation, Wildcat Queens Travel and Tours Limited, Mak Media, SG Vibes, Farmer’s Plaza, Tickelo, Wildcat Queens Recording Studio and Wild Knights Band. Again, if you want to be a part of this cause, and wish to enjoy music and dance of the 90's, make sure you take the trip to ALIW Theater in Pasay City and see THE SIGN: 90's Supershow!

KULTURA MANILA To Hold Fashion Show at Jones Bridge

It's been a while since a major fashion event has happened in Manila. That's about to change this coming September 8 as Manila sets the stage for Manila International Dance Festival aka MIDFest 2023. A fashion event called KULTURA MANILA will happen around October, utilizing an unfamiliar runway at the Jones Bridge. Yes, you've read that right. If you're not aware, much of these happen in Paris, Milan and New York, but the plan is to do it at one of the busiest thoroughfares of the city of Manila which I feel is pretty awesome.

This project is spearheaded by Manila Vice Mayor Yul Servo. When the MIDFest 2023 event was announced, he also bared news about Kultura Manila, Mister Manila and a Sports event for Manila policemen and government personnel. The city is a historical and cultural hub and it's important to not forget that while we get back on track after the pandemic. Several of Manila's top Fashion Designers will dish out their best pieces showcasing inspiration from the pre-colonial and also those from the Spanish era. Think of it as a travel through time, which makes this even more exciting!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by John Bueno (@kumagcow)

 Fashion Designer Norman Penaflorida had us see a couple of pieces he's done worn by some of Mister Manila's contestants. Sure enough, we've seen nicely formed jackets and clothing, all of which look very current and wearable despite it being couture. He actually had a show prior which showcased non conventional textile drawn from flour bags of local bread makers. He's the house stylist for mostly all the shows at the Manila Metropolitan Theatre, a little iffy about the designer title but if you think about it, he's been doing this for years. Aside from that, he's done work with the National Center for Culture and the Arts and done Production Design, Stage Management, Hosting, beside being an accomplished Actor and Singer. He held off on constructing his new atelier in Sampaloc, Manila as Kultura Manila preparations went underway. I mean, look at those fabrics he used as accents to these uni jackets! (He says he'll be using them extensively on the show).

There's going to be more designers to be featured in October, which makes me feel all the more excited about what's about to happen. This is part of the projects of Vice Mayor Yul Servo and heavily supported by Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna together with the council, Verde Creatives and the men and women behind the Manila International Dance Festival. They also plan to do this yearly, so imagine the scale of these events unfold in the city including Rizal Park, several Manila based universities and different locations around the metro. If you want to partner up, they're very open to that. Get in touch with them via midf2023(at)gmail.com.

See you on the runway!

MANILA Prepares for Manila International Dance Festival

Something really big is happening over at the city of Manila, it's the Manila International Dance Festival (also called MIDFestival) happening on September 8, 2023.

In a grand press conference a couple of days ago at the Manila City Hall's historic Session Hall, they announced details about the three day festival aimed to celebrate diversity, peace and unity through dance and music. The word international must have already given you an idea that this will involve several countries in the region that will also showcase their cultural dances at the event. This includes our neighbors Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, plus friends from India and South Korea.

What's quite different about this festival is that it'll be happening in different areas of the city simultaneously. From the biggest malls in Manila like Lucky Chinatown and Robinsons Place Manila, schools, universities and Fort Santiago in Intramuros, they'll be performing in these places then culminate in Rizal Park later on in the evening.

Vice Mayor Yul Servo says "4 of our newest projects in Manila is happening this last quarter, with the help of our Mayor Honey Lacuna and the different organizations in the city of Manila, we are asking for your support and cooperation to make this a very successful one in the coming months to benefit the young Manilenos and Manilenas. We will have 16 dance groups from the Manila and different parts of the Philippines plus other countries like Indonesia, India, Japan, Malaysia, South Korea and Thailand. This project aims to showcase the talent of Manilenos, and our neighboring countries too. We would like to thank those who have cooperated and arranged this project like the National Parks Development Committee, Concert at the Park, Archiestic Events Production, Office of the Vice Mayor of Manila, Department of Tourism, the National Center for Culture and the Arts, Verde Creatives, and the City of Manila who will fully support this much awaited event and prestigious dance festival in the region. We will also be holding the "Mr. Manila" pageant, which is now a separate entity from the previous Mr. and Ms. Manila pageant where talented Manilenos who work, live and study in the city could join and represent Manila in international tilts. We sincerely thank our Mayor Honey Lacuna for her full support on these endeavors."

Here's our interview with Festival Director Archie Dema-ala who also shared some details about the upcoming MIDFestival:

MIDFestival is also supported by the honorable Senator Loren Legarda, Hotel Sogo, Lyf Hotel, and the City of Manila. If you want to become part of the celebrations (for partnerships) you may email them at midf2023@gmail.com or through their social channels facebook.com/manilainternationaldancefestival.

The sheer number of participants just make me feel so excited for what's about to happen. This is a big event for the city of Manila, we can't wait to see this in the coming weeks!

Her Time to Shine: GELA ATAYDE

It is her time to shine!

Gela Atayde just got back from battling at the World Hip Hop Dance Championships together with their crew "Legit Status" for the MegaCrew division. They emerged CHAMPIONS and represented the country well in the US (Phoenix, Arizona) versus 54 other groups in the prestigious tilt.

Talking to her, I felt how Gela knows herself. She isn't pressured about her status in show business being part of the Atayde family. Her Mom Ms. Sylvia Sanchez was always someone who pushed her to go after her passions, and not be persuaded to prove herself. Seeing her brother Congressman Arjo and sister Ria to have to do that during their start was a learning experience, that she didn't have to do that and just do things at her own pace. When she saw her Mom giving a message about her recent achievements, she immediately looked at her back, and we saw her cry. She was just reminded on how much her Mom and Dad supported her all these years. Her Mom never forced her into show business, but always was there to encourage her in any thing she wants to do with the words "Kaya Mo Yan Nak!".  She also said how even if her Dad wasn't much of a talker, he was on camera this time and really said things that moved her. Her new Sister in Law Maine Mendoza was also so happy about her recent achievements, and felt the love when they were featured in a video prepared for her during the press conference.

Here's a few scenes from the presser a few days ago:

She was actually okay if fitted with a title especially if it's about dance because she wants this particular art form to be something that Filipinos would love. As for love teams, she's okay to be paired up for a show but rather not a permanent one. She can do it much like what Congressman Arjo and Ria did, and if the time comes to have a very serious relationship, we got the gist that she prefers to do it in proper time... and with someone non-showbiz. 

Gela is also part of the cast of the new ABSCBN youth oriented show Senior High which stars Andrea Brillantes (doing a dual role). The show will premiere on August 28th, so make sure you check out what Gela has up her sleeves in this new series. Together with them are former child stars Zaijian Jaranilla, Xyriel Manabat, Gameboy's Elijah Canlas, Gold Squad's Kyle Echarri, singer-rocker Juan Karlos, Daniela Stranner, and her mom Ms. Sylvia Sanchez. 

This is Gela's time to shine, make sure you watch her shows because she's just starting! Congratulations Gela and the whole Legit Status crew for being hailed champs!

XOXO Unleashes New Upbeat OPM Song GLNG (Go Lang Ng Go!)

I'm sure I'm not alone in saying that we miss XOXO. They're GMA's premiere girl group that's got super powerful vocals, and has very successful individual acting careers too. Members Lyra, Dani, Real and Mel started the event quite excited, showing why they're one of the most sought after performers by telling stories that made us all roll in laughter prior to them singing. They've got A LOT of personality, they can work out a crowd and get away with it. They're also great ambassadors of body positivity and about loving who you are no matter what color, race or ethnicity is. They pointed out how varied they are and proved how talent, music, encompasses everything!

This foray to OPM is somewhat a new endeavor for them. They made sure it's got dance, more upbeat than usual because it's something that is supposed to inspire you when you're down. It's something that could encourage you to learn, and leave those worries behind especially when you're with people who support you like friends and family. This is where they say "Go Lang ng Go!", here's where they performed it for us that evening!

@kumagcow UPBEAT SONG GLNG (GO LANG NG GO) RELEASED BY XOXO Under GMA Music #EntertainmentPH #tiktokshowbizreporter #ppop ♬ original sound - John Bueno

I didn't get to talk to her after the show, but she's my bias if you could say that. If you haven't seen Muriel on TikTok, you should definitely give her a follow. She's not only entertaining, showcasing her powerful vocals there, but takes time to tell different stories that touch the heart, interacting with her fans is certainly something that she does quite good, but something tells me she's gotten busy that she doesn't stream live as much anymore, but that's a good thing. It only means they're rising, doing performances not just in the country, but abroad too. 

Which reminds me, Lyra, Dani, Real and Mel will be at the Best of P-POP and S-POP Concert this coming June 11. It will be held at the Esplanade Recital Studio and is produced by AOR Global Pte. Ltd. so make sure you get your tickets prior to the show. As said, there's going to be several groups performing with them like BGYO and BINI, plus a few more Singapore based artists so make sure you get tickets at sistic.com.sg as early as now because it's going to be absolutely crazy! They also told us they're very excited to work with fellow Filipino PPOP groups which they haven't done in quite a while. Here's how our interview with them that evening!

So if you're loving what you are hearing, go stream them on Spotify and other streaming platforms where available. Again, this is produced by GMA Music (who had their executives there btw). Thank you for the opportunity to talk with you XOXO! Can't wait for more music, take OPM where you're goin!

The A-Team, JULIEBee, Gary V and Jollibee

Just attended the "Tara nat sumayaw, sumaya!" event of Jollibee this afternoon at the Zero Studios in Quezon City. It's the home studio of world renowned A-Team who's done remarkably well representing the country in dance championships and they had us try the Share the Joy dance which is going viral on social media. They have also recently launched the #ShareTheJoy video featuring Gary Valenciano and Julie Anne San Jose which you can also watch on their official channels.

The video actually was fun and felt like it brings memories. They showcased Jollibee's 45 years in it, and the experience of sharing the joy here in the Philippines and the rest of the world!

 

Meanwhile, here's what happened during the dance workshop.

 

After the short dance workshop by the A-Team, we were then surprised by the appearance of Asia's Limitless Star Julie Anne San Jose which everyone called JulieBee when she came in. She came in a red jacket and pants, perfect for the endorsement! I loved how she danced the Share the Joy song with Jollibee that afternoon, she was also super generous in letting everyone take a selfie with her especially with the moms and kids that day.

I hope you get to #SharetheJoy with Julie Anne and Jollibee by dancing the same song, the actual dance number is on the video I shared so I get that you'll have a good time following the simple steps they made. It's quite easy, and posting it on social channels is highly encouraged! You should also watch the actual video on Jollibee's socials to get the reason why they are doing this on their 45th year!

CALISTA Undergoes Tough KPOP Dance Training for New Single

After having a very successful "VAX TO NORMAL" Concert a few months ago, Calista is relentless in making sure they're taking their skill game seriously as they undergo a full blown KPOP Dance training from world renowned KPOP choreographers Park Ji Yeon and Lee Eun Kyung.

The two have been spending hours upon hours training Anne, Dain, Laiza, Elle, Denise and Olive new choreography for their 2nd single which will be coming out soon. What was evident was the difference between what they've been dishing out in the past (which according to the choreographers was explosive and powerful). The KPOP style they're teaching CALISTA this time is going to be cute, feminine, sultry and playful. This surely will be something quite different to present to A-listas who have been supporting them since day 1. We got to see them in a press conference they held at the Tyronne Escalante Artist Management offices in Quezon City, and sure enough, we got to talk with them about the things they went through to make this possible. Head honcho Tyronne Escalante says "We listened to A-listas, PPOP, iPOP fans and asked about who would be the perfect fit to teach them new skills, and I think we've got the right people to do it."

Here's part of the press conference which happened last Saturday.

CALISTA admitted it was really hard for both parties in the beginning because the language barrier. Good thing is, they have watched so many KDrama shows and understood some of the words they uttered during the training. Then they had us see a part of the things they've been working on for the second single of CALISTA called "Don't Have Time" composed by Tera and produced by Marcus Davis who also did their debut single "Race Car". 

 

 

 

To give you an idea, Lee Eun Kyung and Park Ji Yeon has worked with different artists and groups like Aster, ERICA, WTF Den Team, Seoul Land, the MBC Show Musical Fantasy, Hwang JinLea, Elec Cooke, artists Yeon-ja Seojin Park, Ri Chang Wook and even one of our faves 2NE1. With regards to their performance after our press conference, let me just say they really look and felt different with the KPOP moves they learned from these talented ladies. The girls of CALISTA also promised they'll make sure that even after the training, they'll be mixing in some of the PPOP moves that CALISTA is known for so it wouldn't be entirely foreign, some of that Filipino flavor everyone is looking for. 

Congratulations to CALISTA, their producer Merlion Events Production Inc. and Tyronne Escalante Artist Management, people will love this new look, flavor and skills you've instilled with the girls. A-listas should be ready for this!

SARAH G and Mimiyuuuh Wants you to Show Your Happiness with TNT

If you're watching things online this weekend, chances are, you've already seen the new TNT commercial. The one and only Pop Princess Sarah Geronimo Guidicelli and the roar induced YouTube phenom Mimiyuuuh appeared in a new music video to enjoin Filipinos to find their happiness amidst these challenging times.

They call it "Tuloy ang Saya!" (Continue the Fun!) and in it, they collaborate in a fun song and dance number that showcases how one can be happy and finish work in very simple ways. Like for example, talking to loved ones on messaging apps, or spending countless hours perfecting that dance number on TikTok, playing lots of games online, even learning crafty stuff on YouTube or getting online stores up and start a business, the possibilities are endless!

According to Sarah, she says "I'm extremely happy that I got to come back with a project together with Mimiyuuuh. The importance of this lies on the message on how much we've managed to weather through hardships, continue to grow."

Mimiyuuh has expressed joy about this collaboration and says "I am so grateful for the opportunity to work with Sarah G. especially about how it celebrates the good traits of Filipinos, because at the end of the day, TNT, Tuloy ang Saya! (Continue the Happiness!)." If you want to join the fun, go post your own dance videos at TikTok and use the hashtags #TNTuloyAngSaya.

Here's some of the behind the scenes photos from the shoot:

If you're with TNT, they have a new promo called Sulit Affordaloads. You can choose between Pantawid 10, SurfSaya 20 and All Star Data 50 that also has a Free TikTok for All with it. So go dial *123# and choose the best data, call or text promos from the options there. TNT is also covered by Smart, so you've got the widest coverage in the country.

This is epic!