Tilly Birds Join Forces with Ben&Ben on New English Single “Heaven”

Bangkok, Thailand – Thailand’s leading alternative pop-rock band Tilly Birds continue their journey into English-language music with their brand-new single “Heaven”, following the heartfelt release of "Never A Waste Of Time".

This time, Tilly Birds' team up with none other than Ben&Ben, the Philippines’ biggest folk-pop band, whose music has surpassed 2 billion Spotify streams and earned numerous awards across Asia. The collaboration brings together the fresh, playful pop sound of Tilly Birds with Ben&Ben’s signature heartfelt melodies—creating a track that is as vibrant as it is memorable.

The story behind “Heaven” began with a backstage friendship when both bands shared the same lineup at a concert in Malaysia. Inspired by that connection, the three members of Tilly Birds later flew to Manila to co-write the song with Ben&Ben. Recording sessions spanned across borders, with files exchanged between Bangkok and Manila, until the track was fully brought to life.

The collaboration culminated in a music video shot in the Philippines, featuring all three members of Tilly Birds alongside Ben&Ben’s nine members. The experience was described by both bands as fun, warm, and filled with genuine friendship—a true testament to the spirit of “Heaven.”

Lyrically, the single captures the joy of meeting someone unexpectedly, at just the right time, and sharing a moment of happiness together—like finding a little piece of heaven on earth. In many ways, the collaboration between Tilly Birds and Ben&Ben itself is another definition of “Heaven.”

“Heaven” is now available worldwide on all streaming platforms.

Instituto Cervantes’ 24th PELÍCULA Spanish Film Festival returns to Makati

The anticipated Spanish Film Festival, PELÍCULA>PELIKULA, is returning to Makati in Ayala Triangle Gardens and Powerplant Mall from October 10 to 16, 2025 for its 24th edition. Since its creation in 2002 by Instituto Cervantes, PELÍCULA has become a much-awaited annual event in Philippine theaters. This year’s Festival will showcase over 20 acclaimed films from Spain, Latin America, and the Philippines.

 
The Festival will open on October 10 at Ayala Triangle Gardens with the screening of El 47 (Marcel Barrena, 2024). Over the week, audiences will enjoy a variety of genres, including dramas such as Soy Nevenka (Icíar Bollaín, 2024) and Nosotros (Helena Taberna, 2024); documentaries such as Un hombre libre (Laura Hojman, 2024) and La guitarra flamenca de Yerai Cortés (C. Tangana, 2024); and animations such as Mariposas negras (David Baute, 2024) and Robotia (Diego Cagide and Diego Lucero, 2024).

In addition to Spanish productions, the Official Selection will feature films from Latin America, including the Argentinian drama Por tu bien (Axel Monsú, 2024), the Brazilian Até que a música pare (Cristiane Oliveira, 2023), Uruguay’s Becho (José Infantozzi, 2024), and the Peruvian Reinas (Klaudia Reynicke, 2024). Filipino cinema will also have its place through the program En corto: Short films from the Philippines, Latin America, and Spain, which will be screened on October 16.

Like in previous years, spectators will decide the Audience Choice Award. Since 2004, this recognition has been one of the Festival’s most beloved traditions. Viewers may vote for their favorite films after each screening. The winning title will be announced on October 16 and will be screened again that evening at Power Plant Cinema 6 during the Festival’s closing ceremony.

 

Special sections and activities

Marking its return to Makati, PELÍCULA>PELIKULA will treat audiences to the extravaganza of Cine Maratón at Ayala Triangle Gardens on October 11, featuring a whole day of films such as Dalia y el libro rojo (David Bisbano, 2024), Tasio (Montxo Armendáriz, 1984), Solos en la noche (Guillermo Rojas, 2024), and Reinas (Klaudia Reynicke, 2024), from 11:45am to 11:00pm.

Since its first edition, PELÍCULA>PELIKULA has programmed activities aiming to showcase emerging Spanish and Filipino filmmakers. In line with this, on October 16 PELíCULA will be holding “Encuentros en el cine: En corto”, an activity which will feature three recent Filipino short films: Lip Sync Assassin, (Jon Galvez, 2025), Animal Lovers, (Aedrian Araojo, 2023), and Radikals (Arvin Belarmino, 2024). The movies will be presented by their directors.

The Festival also includes parallel activities. On October 11, Instituto Cervantes will also offer an activity related to films for children, where the Spanish Cultural Center will invite young participants to join fun and creative activities such as crafts and games that spark their imagination and curiosity. 

On the following day, October 12, before the 2:00 p.m. screening of Robotia at Power Plant Cinema 6, children will have the chance to win several footballs and an official Real Madrid jersey signed by football legend Emilio Butragueño. These prizes are generously provided by Real Madrid C.F. through the Manila-based Peña Madridista Emilio Butragueño.

PELíCULA>PELIKULA 2025 is a project of Instituto Cervantes in Manila, presented in collaboration with the Embassy of Spain in the Philippines, the AECID, the Film Development Council of the Philippines, Intramuros Administration, the Embassy of Argentina in the Philippines, the Embassy of Brazil in the Philippines, the Embassy of Perú, the Embassy of Uruguay, QCinema, the Quezon City Film Commision, Make it Makati, Power Plant Cinema, University of Santo Tomas, De La Salle University--College of Saint Benilde, the Department of European Languages of the University of the Philippines, UP Círculo Hispánico, Far Eastern University, CIIT College of Arts and Technology, Mapúa University, Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Mint College, Ateneo de Manila University-Modern Languages, Peña Madridista de Manila Emilio Butragueño. Sponsored by Philippine Transmarine Carriers, Acciona, Ayala Corporation, Fundador, and Boysen.

All screenings are free of charge with films presented in their original language and accompanied by English subtitles.

For more updates on the Festival, you may visit the website of Instituto Cervantes de Manila (https://manila.cervantes.es) or  facebook.com/InstitutoCervantesManila.

Gloc-9 And Abaddon’s “Bonethugs” Is Not Your Typical Love Song

 

Kung kailangan mo siyang suyuin, this song is for you. Rap heavyweight Gloc-9 teams up with lyrical beast Abaddon to drop "Bonethugs.” It’s the perfect anthem for couples who often find themselves in the midst of lovers' quarrels. 

This isn’t your typical love song; it's real talk for real relationships served with that signature Pinoy hip-hop flavor. Gloc-9 and Abaddon spit truth about the relationship grind – the misunderstandings, the short tempers, the apologies that come after. It’s not always good times in a relationship, there are bumps, mistakes, misunderstandings, but at then and of the day your partner is your support and your teammate. As mentioned in the track: “Bakit hindi mo muna ako pakinggan (pwede bang ikaw muna ay makinig). Hindi yung agad-agad mo 'kong pahihirapan ('di ba tayo lang ang magkakampi)”

Straight off Gloc-9's relentless monthly drop schedule, "Bonethugs" hits different with its “real talk,” tackling what it really takes to make love last. The track has bars that cut deep and make you reflect: “Kahit ang sahod ay sa akinse pa, kung may'rong babayaran, ako na’ng bahala, sagot kita. Tanging hiling ko lang ay lambing sa pag-sususumamo ko. Ako'y kakampi mo, pinapangako ko.”

Sometimes we fight hard, but we need to love harder. “Bonethugs” is out now on all major streaming platforms. 

Stars and Industry Icons unite with MTRCB to promote Filipino Film and Television

The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) officially launched its infomercial “Bagong Pilipino, Tara, Nood Tayo!” a national government campaign encouraging Filipinos to support locally produced movies and television shows.

Leading the campaign was no less than President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., joined by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and the First Family. The President proudly reaffirmed the administration’s support for the film and television industry, calling the creative sector a vital force for cultural identity, national pride, and economic growth.

“Kasama ang pribadong sektor, kaisa ninyo ako, ang aking pamilya at ang ating pamahalaan sa pagtangkilik sa pelikulang Pilipino at mga programang pangtelebisyon, dahil ang bagong Pilipino ay ipinagmamalaki ang kwentong Pilipino,” said the President.

MTRCB Chairperson and CEO Lala Sotto expressed gratitude to the President, the first family and the entertainment industry for rallying behind the campaign.

“This campaign reflects our shared vision to uplift the Filipino creative industry while instilling responsible and informed viewing among our audiences,” said Sotto.

Top network executives from GMA, ABS-CBN, TV5 and ALLTV also shared how Filipino TV shows and movies have become part of every Filipino family’s life.

“Ang telebisyon at ang mga sinehan ay nagsisilbi ring pangalawa nating tahanan,” said AMBS-ALLTV President Maribeth Tolentino.

“Nanonood tayo ng mga programa dahil ayaw nating nagpapahuli sa balita at kwentuhan,” said TV5 President and CEO Guido Zaballero.

“Invested tayo sa mga karakter na pinapanood natin na parang mga tunay na tao sa totoong buhay,” GMA Network Inc. Senior Vice President Atty. Annette Gozon-Valdes noted.

“More than just a memory of a happy story, we have invested ourselves in the characters of our TV shows and movies, at sa bawat karakter na kinakapitan natin, sila ay nagiging bahagi ng ating pamilya,” ABS-CBN Corporation President and CEO Carlo Katigbak added.

Award-winning film director Cathy Garcia-Sampana reminded everyone that films and teleseryes are “reflections of the Filipino soul,” while box-office stars Kathryn Bernardo and Alden Richards highlighted the industry’s authenticity and inclusivity.

“Ito ang industriyang maituturing nating totoo at sariling atin,” Bernardo said.

“Ang tunay na bida ng ating mga pelikula at telebisyon ay ikaw at ako, tayong mga Pilipino,” Richards added.

Celebrity couple and parents Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo and Ryan Agoncillo stressed that TV and film are “a second home for the Filipino families” and must be handled with care.

Actors and producers Piolo Pascual, Coco Martin and Vic Sotto expressed hope for a vibrant local industry for future generations and reminded that stories have the power to shape hearts and minds.

Meanwhile, mall executives from SM Supermalls, Ayala Mall and Robinsons reassured the public that the magic of cinema remains alive and memorable.

“We are guided by the fact na ang pagpunta sa sinehan ay isang communal experience,” SM Supermalls President Steven Tan said.

“We will make sure watching movies at cinemas is always a fantastic experience para sa lahat at palaging parte ng masasaya nating alaala,” Robinson Land Corporation Executive Vice President Faraday Go.

“And we honor the movie viewers by ensuring na ang mga sinehan will always represent a happy experience sa bawat manonood,” Ayala Mall Asset Management Head Jose Ramon Katipunan added.

Regal Entertainment President and CEO Roselle Monteverde and VIVA Communications Inc. President Vincent del Rosario underscored how going to movies with families remains a treasured experience to Filipinos.

The infomercial was aired nationwide across traditional and digital platforms including cinemas, reaching millions of Filipino viewers. With support from government, networks, filmmakers, producers, artists and industry leaders, the campaign shines as a celebration of Filipino creativity and storytelling.

Sotto emphasized that the Board remains proactive and committed to protect Filipino audiences, especially children, from potentially harmful content, while at the same time nurturing a creative environment that allows artists to thrive.

With the biggest stars, icons, and leaders joining hands, the call is clear: “Bagong Pilipino, Tara, Nood Tayo!”

“Rehab” is Shanti Dope’s Most Personal And Courageous Work Yet

Filipino hip-hop sensation Shanti Dope delivers his most personal and courageous work yet with his new single "Rehab,” a track that chronicles his battle with addiction, the road to recovery, and the power of love as a driving force for change. 

The song is an unfiltered confession, a mirror of Shanti Dope’s own battles with substance abuse, peer pressure, and his experience on the dark side of fame. What began as experimentation with an illegal substance led to a troubled path, forcing him to confront his demons and seek rehabilitation for the sake of those he loves most—his partner, his son, and his family. In a heartfelt verse, Shanti raps: Sabik na kong gawin yung halikan ka pagkagaling ng rehab. Hindi sapat sa akin na ika’y yakapin lang. Yung tamang panahon ay darating din basta kapit lang.

"Rehab" boldly challenges the shame often associated with recovering from substance abuse–Shanti presents rehabilitation as an act of strength—proof that fighting for a better life requires strength and courage. The song is for anyone who struggles with addiction and their inner demons. His reminder that you are not alone, that asking for help is not a weakness, and that change is possible. If you keep holding on, the right moment will come. As Shanti said in the song, Yung tamang panahon ay darating basta kapit lang.

Known for his lyrical depth and unflinching honesty, Shanti Dope uses his music to reflect real-life struggles. With "Rehab," he strips away any pretense, offering listeners a raw and an unfiltered look at his lowest moments, and his journey back to light.

PPOP Music Awards 2025: Celebrating a Decade of Pinoy Pop Excellence

The PPOP Music Awards—also known as the Philippine Popular Music Awards—is an annual celebration dedicated to honoring the artistry, innovation, and global contributions of Filipino artists in the P-Pop industry. Over the years, this prestigious event has become a hallmark of recognition for both established and emerging talents, shining a spotlight on the vibrance of Philippine pop music and culture.

Set to take place on November 29, 2025 (Saturday), from 6 PM to 10 PM at the Metropolitan Theater, this year’s edition marks a historic milestone: a full decade of celebrating the excellence of Pinoy Pop. With the theme “Dekada ng umaarangkada nating sariling musika, sining at kultura,” the 10th PPOP Music Awards will bring together pioneers of the genre and rising stars to showcase the growth, diversity, and global recognition of P-Pop.

The event features prestigious award categories, including Boy Group of the Year, Girl Group of the Year, Breakthrough Artist of the Year, Artist of the Year, and Song of the Year, providing a platform to celebrate the best of the best in the P-Pop scene. More than just a competition, the awards night aims to foster camaraderie, unity, and collaboration within the P-Pop community while giving fans the opportunity to experience electrifying performances from their favorite acts and discover fresh talent.

In partnership with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), this year’s staging promises to be the biggest yet, merging the historic legacy of the Metropolitan Theater with the energy and creativity of today’s P-Pop stars. The event is not just an awards show but a movement—one that continues to amplify Filipino music and culture on a global stage, inspiring the next generation of artists to carry the torch forward.

As P-Pop enters this exciting new chapter, the 10th PPOP Music Awards is set to stand as a testament to a decade of passion, artistry, and unwavering pride in homegrown talent.

PETA’s Walang Aray Musical Cast Recording Now Available on Spotify!

 

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — The Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) is proud to announce that the Official Cast Recording of the hit musical Walang Aray, is now available for streaming on Spotify. This monumental release has been expertly crafted in partnership with one of the country’s premier full-service audio production houses, Soundesign Manila.

Rody Vera’s Walang Aray is a contemporary adaptation of Severino Reyes’ classic zarzuela Walang Sugat, returning with sharper satire, deeper emotional stakes, and bold new interpretations. Blending humor, romance, and political commentary, Walang Aray continues to resonate with audiences as it explores the intersection of love and resistance. As the flagship production of PETA’s 58th season, themed Love and Power, this restaging features a more comedic, more subversive, and bolder and biting Walang Aray while retaining its heartwarming core.

The cast recording’s release allows Pinoy theater fans to relive the show’s infectious musical catalog any time, anywhere. The original cast recording will feature popular tracks composed by award-winning composer and musical director Vince Lim, such as “Pangako 'Yan,” “Luv U 4 Ever,” “Tipo Kong Lalaki,” “Walang Aray Finale,” “Huwag Mo Akong Saktan,” “Front Act,” and a newly released song, “Tumindig at Lumaban” mashed up with the rousing Act 1 ender, “Bayan Ko.” 

This recording also marks a proud collaboration with Soundesign Manila. The company is celebrated for its comprehensive services, including sound design, engineering, composition, arrangement, voice casting, and soundtrack production across multiple musical genres. Since 1997, Soundesign Manila has been at the forefront of audio production in the Philippines, collaborating with top-tier clients in advertising, media, and entertainment. Their award-winning work consistently sets the standard for sonic storytelling and innovation. Their creative vision and technical mastery were integral in capturing Walang Aray’s vibrant musicality for this recording.

“At Soundesign Manila, we believe in the transformative power of music and sound. Walang Aray’s cast recording was a way for us to support the arts and the art of doing original music for theater,” said Raul Blay, Soundesign Manila’s President and Founder.

Stream the Walang Aray Official Cast Recording via Spotify by searching “Walang Aray Cast Recording,” or follow the direct link, bit.ly/WA2025CastRecording.   Walang Aray runs from August 28 to October 12, 2025, at the PETA Theater. For more show information, follow PETA’s social media pages: @petatheater.  Tickets are available via ticket2me.net.