A Golden Partnership: City of Dreams Manila host Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF); Manila International Film Festival (MIFF) and MOWELFUND’s Historic Collaboration Allan Balmaceda October 9, 2024

(L-R) – MS. BING VIRAY – PROJECT DIRECTOR (MEDIA PUZZLE HOLDINGS CORP), MS. CHERRY ANN CARRERA – PRESIDENT (MEDIA PUZZLE HOLDINGS CORP) , MR. RAUL PUTONG – CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER (MIFF) , ATTY. ROCHELLE MACAPILI-ONA – EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR (MMFF) , ROMANDO S. ARTES – CHAIRMAN (MMDA) , MS. CHARISSE CHUIDIAN – VICE PRESIDENT FOR PUBLIC RELATIONS (CITY OF DREAMS MANILA), MS. BOOTS ANSON ROA – CHAIRWOMAN (MOWELFUND) , MS. GINA ALAJAR – BOARD MEMBER (MOWELFUND) , MR. JOEY ROA – WELFARE DIRECTOR (MOWELFUND) AND MR. JIM BALTAZAR – DIRECTOR (CMB FILM SERVICES)

In a remarkable prelude to the much-anticipated Golden Celebration of the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) this year, a ceremonial contract signing took place in City of Dreams Manila, signifying an important step in the partnership between Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) and the Manila International Film Festival (MIFF). This event not only highlights a significant milestone for both organizations but also sets the tone for what is expected to be a groundbreaking year for the Philippine entertainment industry.

As part of the programs, projects, and activities in celebration of its 50th year, the Metro Manila Film Festival named City of Dreams Manila as its Official Event Partner for the Golden Gala on November 11, 2024. This prestigious partnership with one of the country’s premier luxury destinations underscores the importance of the occasion, promising an unforgettable evening of glamour, entertainment, and philanthropy. The Golden Gala, hosted at City of Dreams Manila, will bring together a distinguished audience of celebrities, industry leaders, and influential personalities to honor the best of Philippine cinema, while also reinforcing its ties to the global film community.

A notable presence during the ceremonial signing was the Movie Workers Welfare Foundation, Inc. (MOWELFUND), a non-profit organization that has been championing the welfare of marginalized workers in the Philippine film industry for 50 years. MOWELFUND’s dedication to social welfare, education, and the preservation of film heritage was proudly represented by Chairwoman Boots Anson Roa, along with Board Member Ms. Gina Alajar and Welfare Director Mr. Joey Roa, further cementing the importance of this event.

KEY PANELISTS FROM MMFF.MIFF AND MOWELFUND TOGETHER WITH THEIR BRAND PARTNERS

The event brought together distinguished figures from the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), the Manila International Film Festival (MIFF), and their initial group of brand and media partners. Among the notable attendees were Chairman Romando S. Artes from the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Atty. Rochelle Macapili-Ona, Executive Director of MMFF, Ms. Charisse Chuidian, Vice President for Public Relations of City of Dreams Manila, Mr. Raul Putong, Chief Operating Officer of MIFF, Mr. Jim Baltazar, Director for CMB Film Services, along with Ms. Cherry Ann Carrera, CEO of Media Puzzle Holdings Corp., and Ms. Bing Viray, Project Director for Media Puzzle Holdings Corp.The MMFF and MIFF also recognized their esteemed brand partners, including Shantal’s Beauty & Wellness Products, represented by CEO and Founder Ms. Rossel “Shantal” Dimayuga; Brenan Global, represented by CEO Ms. Brenda So; Wow Glow, owned by Ms. Mariz Villanueva and Mr. Vlad Villanueva; and Gluta Skin, represented by CEO Ms. Lira Lacsamana. Additionally, gratitude was extended to media partners such as PhilStar, Philippine Daily  Inquirer, MBC Media Group, Manila Times, and Manila Standard.

This ceremonial signing ignites a transformative chapter for the Philippine entertainment industry. As we count down to the 50th edition of MMFF , we stand on the brink of a historic moment that will not only celebrate the rich heritage of Filipino cinema but also catapult it into the international spotlight. The MMFF 50th Golden Gala on November 11 at City of Dreams Manila promises to be more than just an event—it will be a defining moment for the industry, filled with glamour, prestige, and the power of Filipino artistry. Join us as we honor the past, celebrate the present, and shape the future of Philippine cinema on the global stage.

OPM Artists vie for honors at the 16th PMPC Star Awards for Music

It's all systems go for the highly anticipated 16th PMPC Star Awards for Music to be held on October 27, 6 PM, at Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Makati City.

The Song of the Year winner could be anyone's favorite, take the list of nominees: SB19’s viral hit Gento, BINI’s fun and sunny Pantropiko, Juan Karlos’ soulful Ere, Zack Tabudlo’s heartfelt Gusto, Moira Dela Torre’s heart-tugging Ikaw at Sila, Maki’s powerful Saan, and Lola Amour’s chart-topping Raining in Manila.

Powerhouse performers Bamboo, Billy Crawford, Christian Bautista, Erik Santos, Juan Karlos, Zack Tabudlo, and Ogie Alcasid will vie for the Male Recording Artist of the Year. While equally impressive talents Regine Velasquez, Moira Dela Torre, Yeng Constantino, KZ Tandingan, Morissette, Julie Anne San Jose, Katrina Velarde, and Sarah Geronimo compete for the Female Recording Artist of the Year.

Expect the usual but special and favorite fare of the PMPC, the grand tributes to music icons. This time, Mr. Pure Energy Gary Valenciano will receive the Pilita Corrales Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring his decades-long impact on the music industry. Likewise, seasoned music producer and arranger Homer Flores will be honored with the Levi Celerio Lifetime Achievement Award for his outstanding contributions in the industry.

Actor-turned director Eric Quizon promises to direct a different musical presentation which even the GenZs and Millennials alike would surely enjoy. The PMPC, headed by Rodel Ocampo Fernando, is leaving no stones unturned with the great help of Airtime Marketing headed by Ms. Tess Celestino-Howard.

The awards night will be aired on A2Z on November 9, Saturday, at 10:15 PM.

The nominees for the 16th Star Awards for Music are the following:

2024 STAR AWARDS FOR MUSIC

SONG OF THE YEAR

• Ere - Juan Karlos / Island Records Philippines

• Gento - SB19 / Sony Music Philippines

• Gusto - Zack Tabudlo feat. Al James/ Republic Records Philippines/ UMG Phil.Inc.

• Ikaw at Sila - Moira Dela Torre / Republic Music Philippines

• Pantropiko - BINI / Star Music

• Raining in Manila - Lola Amour / Warner Music Phils.

• Saan - Maki / Tarsier Records

ALBUM OF THE YEAR

• I Find Love So. So. Weird - Cool Cat Ash / Star Music

• IsaPuso – Alamat / Viva Records

• Pagtatag! – SB19 / Sony Music Philippines

• Sad Songs and Bullshits Part 1 - Juan Karlos / Island Records Philippines

• Songs From Home – Ogie Alcasid /Star Music

• Zack: For All - Zack Tabudlo / Republic Records Philippines

MALE RECORDING ARTIST OF THE YEAR

• Bamboo (Treading Water) Viva Records and G Productions

• Billy Crawford (Love Is In The Air) Viva Records

• Christian Bautista (You Are Everything) Universal Records

• Erik Santos (Kasunod)/ Star Music

• Juan Karlos (Ere) / Island Records Philippines

• Ogie Alcasid (Huwag Mo ‘Kong Iwan) / Star Music

• Zack Tabudlo (Akin Ka) / Republic Records Philippines

FEMALE RECORDING ARTIST OF THE YEAR

• Julie Ann San Jose (Something) Universal Records Philippines

• Katrina Velarde (Ako Ba o Siya) Viva Music

• KZ Tandingan (Walang Kapalit) CS Music

• Moira Dela Torre (Pangako) / Star Music

• Morisette (Something All We Know) Underdog Music Philippines

• Regine Velsquez (Nag-iisa Lang) Star Music

• Sarah Geronimo (Habang Buhay) Viva Records/ G Productions

• Yeng Constantino (Hamon Ng Mundo) Vehnee Saturno Music Corporation

DUO/GROUP ARTIST OF THE YEAR

• Ben&Ben (Autumn)Star Music

• BINI ( Pantropiko) Star Music

• December Avenue (Wala Ng Iba) Tower of Doom Music

• Inner Voices (Anghel) /Vehnee Saturno Music Corporation

• SB19 (Gento) / Sony Music Philippines

• The Juans (Back Home) / Viva Records

CONCERT OF THE YEAR

• Dear Heart: Sharon Cuneta/ Gabby Concepcion | NY Entourage Productions

• Gary V: Back At The Museum | Manila Genesis Entertainment & Management, Inc.

• Here And Now: The Jed Madela 20th Anniversary Concert / Creazion Studios

• Ogieoke / A Team and Full House Theatre Company

• Regine Rocks / iMusic Entertainment Inc

• SG20: Sarah Geronimo's 20th Anniversary Concert / Viva Live and G Productions

• Your Memejesty , Queen VG / Starmedia Entertainment

MALE CONCERT PERFORMER OF THE YEAR

• Christian Bautista (The Way You Look At Me: 20th Anniversary Concert) Stages Production Specialists, Inc

• Gary Valenciano (Back At The Museum) Manila Genesis Entertainment and Management Inc.

• Ian Veneracion (Ian Veneracion Live at Winford) Winford Manila Resort and Casino

• Jed Madela (Here And Now: The Jed Madela 20th Anniversary Concert /Creazon Studios

• Joey Generoso (Side Ko Lang /Random Minds

• Ogie Alcasid (Ogieoke) A Team and Full House Theatre Company

• Piolo Pascual (An Ultimate Night with Piolo) CS Concerts

FEMALE CONCERT PERFORMER OF THE YEAR

• Angeline Quinto (TenQ) KreativDen Entertainment

• Gigi De Lana (G Rules) ABS-CBN Events

• Kuh Ledesma (I Love OPM) Headline Concepts

• KZ Tandingan (KZ Xperience) Full House Theatre Company

• Regine Velasquez-Alcasid (Regine Rocks) iMusic Entertainment Inc

• Sarah Geronimo (SG20: Sarah Geronimo's 20th Anniversary Concert) Viva Live and G Productions

• Sharon Cuneta (Dear Heart) NY Entourage Productions

DUO/GROUP CONCERT PERFORMER OF THE YEAR

• APO Hiking Society (Apo Hiking Society…50 Years The Concert / Amor Yu Productions.

• Freestyle (Giving It All This Time) PLA Events Planner and Press Pause Media Productions, Inc

• SB19 Pagtatag World Tour… Manila /Black Star Entertainment

• Side A (Then and Now: The Repeat / Full House Theatre Company

MUSIC VIDEO OF THE YEAR

• Atin- Atin Lang -Al James feat. Flow G

Director: Director: Y.Stacey & Naki

• Blessed - Jay R / Director: Alex Figurov

• Boy Bente - Banda Ni Kleggy

Director: Joseph D.

• Ere - Juan Karlos - Island Records Philippines /Director: Raliug

• Oras - Jason Marvin

Director: Raymark King Bingcang

• The Way You Look At Me - Ben&Ben

Director: Blasgil Tanquilut.

• Gusto / Zack Tabudlo feat. Al James

Director: David Olson

POP ALBUM OF THE YEAR

• 3rd Time’s A Charm – Zack Tabudlo/ Republic Records Philippines

• Reimagined - Yeng Constantino / Republic Records Philippines

• Senaryo – Adie / O/C Records

• Chapters - Garrett Bolden/GMA Music

MALE POP ARTIST OF THE YEAR

• Donny Pangilinan (Biglaan) / Universal Records Philippines

• James Reid (So Fire) / Careless Music

• John Roa (Deliks) / Viva Records

• KD Estrada (Loved Led Us Here) / Star Music

• Maki (Saan) / Tarsier Records

• -Matt Lozano for "Liham" / GMA Music

• Sam Concepcion (Kapit) / Universal Records Philippines

FEMALE POP ARTIST OF THE YEAR

• Alexa Ilacad (Stay Right Here) Star Music

• Belle Mariano (Bugambilya) / Star Music

• Janine Berdin (Sitwasyonship) / UMG Philippines Inc.

• Julie Anne San Jose (Something) / UR Philippines

• Lyka Estrella (Hawak Mo) / Star Music

• Marion Aunor (Delikado) / Viva Records

• Nadine Lustre (Overgrown) / Wild Recordings

NEW MALE RECORDING ARTIST OF THE YEAR

• Dionela (Oksihina) / UMG Philippines Inc

• Drei Sapugay (Ganun Talaga) / Star Music

• Jeri Violago (Gusto Kita) / Tarsier Records

• Krisostomo (Laging Ikaw) / Viva Records

• Mico Angeles (Ligaw Na Bala) / Enterphil Entertainment

• Nasunog (Khimo) / Star Music

• Paolo Sandejas (Different Shades of Blue) / UR Philippines

NEW FEMALE RECORDING ARTIST OF THE YEAR

• Atasha Muhlach (Pasuyo) / Vicor Music

• Jemay Santiago (May Iba Na Ba) / Sony Music Philippines

• Laverne Arceo (Kahit Ilang Ulit) / Independent

• Lindsay Bolanos (Pusong Nagmamahal) / Polyeast Records

• Lizzie Aguinaldo (Baka Puwede Na) / Star Music

• Lyka Estrella (Hawak Ko) / Star Music

• Shaira (Selos) / Bangsamoro Pop

• Vivoree (Matapang) / Star Music

ROCK ALBUM OF THE YEAR

• Di Man Lang Sinabi – Agsunta / Bauhaus Talent Management

• Kalangitan – Nobita / Vicor Records

• Panic In My Mind - Itchy Worms / Sony Music Philippines

• Sad Songs and Bullshits Part 1 – Juan Karlos / MCA Music

• Sansinukob – Dilaw / Warner Music Philippines

ROCK ARTIST OF THE YEAR

• Agsunta (Di Man Lang Sinabi) / Bauhaus Talent Management

• Dilaw (Orasa) / Warner Music Philippines

• Itchy Worms (Panic in My Mind) / Sony Music Philippines

• IV Of Spades (Come Inside of My Heart) / Warner Music Phils.

• Juan Karlos (Ere) / Island Records

• Lily (Stars) / Star Music

• Lola Amour (Raining In Manila) / Warner Music Philippines

NEW MALE GROUP ARTIST OF THE YEAR

• Ajaa (Hany) CS Music

• BILIB (Kabanata) /AQ Music

• Dear Dahlia (Malabo) Universal Records Philippines

• Hori7on (Dash) / MLD Entertainment

• Skygarden (Kokoa) AltG Records

DANCE RECORDING OF THE YEAR

• 4 Myself - AC Bonifacio / Tarsier Records

• Dancing On My Own - Janah Zaplan / Star Pop Music Philippines

• Gento - SB19 / Sony Music Philippines

• Dare You - Kiana V / Kiana V Music

• Kabanata - BILIB / AQ Music

• Matapang – Vivoree/ Star Music

• Pantropiko - BINI / Star Music

RAP ALBUM OF THE YEAR

• Guns And Roses - Shanti Dope feat Helmerry / Universal Records Philippines

• Meron Na – Loonie / Believe Music

• Pilak - Gloc 9 / Universal Records Philippines

RAP ARTIST OF THE YEAR

• Al James (Atin-Atin Lang) / Al James/Boomplay Music

• Flow G (Rapstar) / Flow G

• Gloc-9 (Bahay Yugyugan) / Universal Records Philippines

• King Promdi (Piccolo) / Toxic Lifestyle Entertainment

• Loonie (XXXX) / Believe Music

• Sassa Gurl (Maria Hiwaga) / Sassa Gurl

• Shanti Dope (Palagi) / Universal Records Philippines

FEMALE RNB ARTIST OF THE YEAR

• AC Bonifacio – 4 Myself / Tarsier Records

• DENY (Alam Ko Na) / Viva Records

• Kyla (Hanggang Kailan) / Star Music

• KZ Tandingan – Kailan Pa Ma’y Ikaw / Universal Records Philippines

MALE RNB ARTIST OF THE YEAR

• Billy Crawford (Love Is In The Air) / Viva Records

• Garrett Bolden for "Kung Malaya Lang Ako" GMA Music

• Jason Dy (Ulit Ulit) / Star Music

• Jay R (Guiding Star) / Homeworkz Entertainment Services

• Jojo Santor (Tahan Na) / Independent

• Khimo (Nasunog) / Star Music

• Kris Lawrence (Buti Na Lang) / Homeworkz Entertainment Services

MALE ACOUSTIC ARTIST OF THE YEAR

• Arthur Miguel (Paano?) Warner Music

• Daniel Paringit (Sa 'Yo (Heto Na Naman)) / Island Music Philippines

• Davey Langit (Ipagpanata Kita) / Davey Langit / A Team PH

• Jason Marvin (Yaman) / Sony Music Philippines

• Toneejay (711) / Marilag Recordings International Inc.

• Paolo Sandejas (After Taste) / Universal Records Philippines

FEMALE ACOUSTIC ARTIST OF THE YEAR

• Ica Frias (Ayoko Na) / Off The Record

• Marion Aunor (Nahulog) / Wild Dream Records

• Misha de Leon (Damdamin) / Star Music

• Moira Dela Torre (Eme) / Republic Records Philippines

• Syd Hartha (Gabay) / Sony Music Philippines

COLLABORATION OF THE YEAR

• Bae You - Jaime Miller/Kris Lawrence/Jay R /Homeworkzmusic

• Huwag Mo Kong Iwan - Ogie Alcasid/Regine Velasquez / Star Music

• Sa Duyan ng Bayan - Noel Cabangon/Ebe Dancel/Gloc-9 / Jesuit Music Industry

• Tapusin Na Natin ‘To Juan Karlos/Paolo Benjamin/ Island Records Philippines

• Treading Water - Sarah Geronimo/Bamboo / Viva Records and G Productions

• Walang Pumapalakpak - Gloc-9/Gary Valenciano /Universal Records Philippines

NOVELTY SONG OF THE YEAR

• Autodeadma – Maymay / Star Music

• Maga Ako Manas Ako – Eydie Waw/The Wawettes / Star Music

• Ms. Ukay - Kim Chiu / Star Music

• Rampa - Vice Ganda / Star Music

• Susuka Pero Di Susuko - Denin Sy / Denin Sy/Dekta Records

• Olkisrotom (I'll Be Home Soon) / NewVibe Ph

NOVELTY ARTIST OF THE YEAR

• Denin Sy (Susuka Pero Di Susuko) / Denin Sy/nDelta Records

• Kim Chiu (Ms. Ukay) / Star Music

• Maymay (Autodedma) / Star Music

• Vice Ganda (Rampa) / Star Music

• Virgin King (Promdi) /Toxic Lifestyle Ent.

• Olkisrotom (I'll Be Home Soon) / NewVibe Ph

REVIVAL RECORDING OF THE YEAR

• Can This Be Love - Zephanie / GMA Music

• Hanggang Kailan - Kyla/Star Music

• Huwag Kang Mangako - Laverne / Independent

• Stars - Lily / Lily Music

• The Way You Look At Me - Ben&Ben / Universal Records Philippines

• Walang Kapalit - KZ Tandingan / CS Music

INSPIRATIONAL SONG OF THE YEAR

• 3 in 1 - Jamie Rivera / Star Music

• GLNG" by XOXO GMA Music

• Healing - Sarah Geronimo / Viva Records

- Idolo" by JC Regino and the April Boys

GMA Music

• Isasayaw Kita - InnerVoices / Vehnee Saturno Music Corporation

• Tagumpay - Hannah Prescillas /GMA Music

• You Are My Everything - Diane de Mesa /DDM Studio Production

Baby Go Stars in Her First Leading Role

Baby Go, the lady boss businesswoman-philantrophist behind BG Films International (BG), is finally a star.

Hot on the heels of Abenida's success in the international circuit, she teams up with frequent collaborators Ralston Jover (director) and Dennis Evangelista (line producer) for a semi-autobiographical short film titled Madam.

Other cast members are Allen Dizon, Rico Barrera, and Kate Brios.

Ms. Go, despite this being her first leading role, finished her scenes in just one take.

BG has produced a total of 17 films and the magnanimous producer have cameo roles there.

It is not surprising at all if Madam competing internationally as well. 

During a recent event, Madam Baby Go announced that her independent film outfit will kick into high gear once again. Will we be seeing her take on a meaty role in a full-length movie soon?

CHOCOLATE FACTORY AND JROA FUSE REGGAE, R&B, AND HIP-HOP FOR ‘TONIGHT’

Chocolate Factory, a reggae band oozing with talent and creativity, is keeping the flame of their beloved genre burning with their vibrant new single, "Tonight." This track features a smooth melodic flow and is sure to be a feel-good anthem that captivates listeners. Known for their rapturous reggae renditions of OPM and English songs, as well as original hits like “Kung Ika’y Akin,” “Ilalim,” and “Letra,” the five-piece outfit from Angeles City, Pampanga, has once again showcased their ingenuity with this latest release.

"Tonight" is an innovative reggae love song born from a collaboration with prolific singer-songwriter JRoa. His contemporary R&B and hip-hop influences enrich the track, blending seamlessly with Chocolate Factory’s signature reggae sound. This fusion creates a fresh listening experience, demonstrating how diverse musical styles can unite to form something extraordinary.


Reflecting on how the collaboration came together, band frontman Antonio Brown explained, “We wanted to explore new elements in our reggae sound. When we met JRoa during our recent Australian tour, we instantly felt that his musical style aligned perfectly with what we were looking to create.”

Drummer Khay Regala shared, “Since ‘Tonight’ is a love song, we wanted to incorporate an R&B element. When we heard JRoa’s work, it was clear he would be a perfect fit for this collaboration.”


Bassist Louie Domingo added, “We were particularly impressed by JRoa’s singles 'Oks Lang' and 'Dati.' They highlight his ability to blend smooth vocals with clever lyrics while maintaining a laid-back yet infectious vibe.”


JRoa noted, “For me, it’s all about crafting and sharing authentic music. ‘Tonight’ allowed me to write a heartfelt letter to my wife, and I hope it reminds listeners to appreciate their loved ones. I pray this collaboration inspires other Filipino artists to connect with performers from different genres.”


When asked about potential future collaborations with JRoa, guitarist Mark Ocampo said, “The chemistry during this project was undeniable, and the creative synergy was strong, so we’re definitely open to working with JRoa again.”

As for what fans can expect from Chocolate Factory moving forward, keyboardist Boney Hipe stated, “Expect more catchy songs and dance-inspiring anthems. We aim to release as much feel-good music as possible. To our beloved ChocoTroops, thank you for your unwavering support at every show. Stay tuned for more music soon!”


“Tonight” is now available on most music streaming platforms and has an official lyric video.


Stay connected with CHOCOLATE FACTORY:

https://www.facebook.com/ChocolateFactoryBand

https://www.tiktok.com/@chocolatefactoryband

https://www.instagram.com/chocolatefactoryband.official/

https://www.youtube.com/ChocolateFactoryTV

https://chocolatefactorybandph.com/

Stephen King’s 1975 bestselling novel “Salem’s Lot” will debut on October 3 on HBO GO

New Line Cinema’s film adaptation of Stephen King’s 1975 bestselling novel “Salem’s Lot” will debut on October 3 on HBO GO. The Max Original film Salem’s Lot reunites the producing teams behind the record-breaking horror franchises The Conjuring universe and the IT films. Gary Dauberman writes, directs, and executive produces the film. Producers are James Wan and Michael Clear for Atomic Monster, Roy Lee for Vertigo, and Mark Wolper. 

Author Ben Mears returns to his childhood home of Jerusalem’s Lot in search of inspiration for his next book only to discover his hometown is being preyed upon by a bloodthirsty vampire. 

Salem’s Lot stars Lewis Pullman (Ben Mears), Alfre Woodard (Dr. Cody), Makenzie Leigh (Susan Norton), Bill Camp (Matthew Burke), Spencer Treat Clark (Mike Ryerson), Pilou Asbæk (Straker), and John Benjamin Hickey (Father Callahan).  

Gary Dauberman writes, directs, and executive produces the film, producers are James Wan and Michael Clear for Atomic Monster, Roy Lee for Vertigo, and Mark Wolper.

Stream Salem’s Lot from October 3 on HBO GO. Subscribe to HBO GO online at https://www.hbogoasia.ph/ or the mobile app via the App Store or Play Store for only ₱1,190 on the 12-month plan. Or access HBO GO via Cignal and Globe. HBO GO is also available on Android TV, Apple TV, LG TV and Samsung Smart TV – and comes with AirPlay and Google Cast functionality. 

26th Gawad Pasado Bares Nominees

Annually, the PASADO (Pampelikulang Samahan ng mga Dalubguro) recognizes exemplary works from the entertainment industry which have great educational value.

Here are the nominees for the awarding ceremony happening on October 12:

AMERICAN OPM SINGER SAHARA RELEASES LATEST SINGLE “DAHIL IKAW”

 Filipinos will again be amazed and inspired by American OPM singer Sahara through her new song, “Dahil Ikaw.” Sahara, an international recording artist based in the United States, launched her professional career as an OPM singer with her impressive version of “Dahil Ba Sa Kanya” as her debut single, which was originally recorded by “Philippine Queen of Soul” Jaya. When our kababayans hear her sing an OPM for the first time, they are amazed that Sahara is a foreigner who can croon Filipino lyrics with perfect enunciation, and they’re also inspired by the fact that she has such immense passion for Original Pilipino Music.    

In an interview, Sahara shared how she came to work with esteemed composer Freddie Saturno for her latest single. “I first met Freddie when I asked for permission to release my very first OPM, a cover of his song ‘Dahil Ba Sa Kanya’ originally sang by Jaya. We worked together again on my first original Tagalog song ‘Kabiyak.’ And then last year he said he wrote a song for me, and I thought he just meant it was good for my voice.” 

“When I first heard ‘Dahil Ikaw,’ I was touched at how sentimental it was, so loving with a hint of sadness. And then he told me, he wrote it for me and my husband, knowing that we share similar experiences with him and his wife. Being the spouse of an artist can be hard, but love conquers all,” she added.

Regarding the song’s message, Sahara explained, “Love always has its ups and downs, but even if there’s a quarrel or a disagreement, love is forever if you don’t give up. It’s important to remind ourselves of the power of forgiveness, and know that we’re not perfect. I think anyone in a close relationship, whether it’s romantic, family or friends, can relate to the lyrics of ‘Dahil Ikaw.’” 

“When I sing ‘Dahil Ikaw,’ I imagine I’m singing it to my husband, with all the trials and tribulations we experienced. I can equally imagine him saying the same words to me, and totally singing it out of tune,” she said, with a smile.

Sahara also shared the other projects she is currently doing. “I have a new Christmas rock song coming soon in time for the ‘Ber months, and several new singles for the new year, including a collab with Bassilyo. And I’ve been spending a lot of time learning about cinematography and video editing, so I directed and edited the music video for my new song ‘Dahil Ikaw.’ I hope to keep getting better and make videos for my future singles.” 

The talented singer who can also sing remarkably in English, Spanish, French, Italian, and German concluded the interview with a heartfelt message to Filipinos. “Thank you for accepting my passion for OPM into your hearts and supporting my dream of being an OPM artist. I hope you enjoy listening to my new song ‘Dahil Ikaw’ as much as I enjoyed recording it for you. And as always, mahal kayo ni Sahara.”

For more information on Sahara and her new song “Dahil Ikaw” as well as her other OPM singles, follow her on Facebook (www.facebook.com/voiceofsahara), on Instagram (www.instagram.com/voiceofsahara) and on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Sahara-TheAmericanOPMSinger