Miss Philippines Earth 2025's Silver Lining for Its 25th Anniversary

2025 marks another eventful milestone for Miss Philippines Earth as it celebrates its Silver Anniversary!

Looking back throughout the years, Miss Philippines Earth (MPE) has unwaveringly promoted environmental awareness through on-ground events captured on social media and various media channels for its diverse audience.

Since its inception, MPE publicizes tree and mangrove planting, clean up drives, inspiring young learners through school visits, advocating the value of Flora and Fauna and the importance of preserving our heritage, counteracting climate change and most especially, promoting eco-tourism of the Philippines.

“Eventually, Miss Philippines Earth became one of the leading trend setters for environmental awareness, sustainable living and eco-tourism boosters. Our “Beauties for a Cause” take pride in who they are and what they can do for their country through the MPE platform.” Added Lorraine E. Schuck, Co-Founder of MPE and Executive Vice President of Carousel Productions Inc.

Miss Philippines Earth underwent various challenges throughout the years, especially during the Pandemic. Yet, despite the trials and tribulations of the pageant industry Miss Philippines Earth continued to set the pace as it evolved and revolutionized the pageant industry as we know it today.

The resilience of Miss Philippines Earth which has proven the strength of its cause amidst environmental and worldly conflict is the silver lining of its legacy. And thus, for its 25th Anniversary, it is only fitting that Miss Philippines Earth takes on the theme of HOPE and presents, “The Silver Lining” on its 25th, ever shining brightly for the world to see.

The Silver Anniversary milestone celebration and Coronation will be taking place on August 10, 2025, and will be streamed on MPE Facebook and You tube and Kapamilya channels

Lee Jae Wook Returns To Manila For 2025 Asia Fan Meeting Tour pro'log'

Announcement -- Korean actor Lee Jae Wook is making his much-awaited return to the Philippines for his 2025 LEE JAE WOOK ASIA FAN MEETING TOUR pro'log' in Manila! Set to take place on September 20 (Saturday) 6PM at the Newport Performing Arts Theater. Presented by Wilbros Live.   

 

This marks the Korean actor's second time in Manila, after his sold-out 2023 fan meeting, where he won over hearts with his genuine charm and sweet interactions with fans. Lee Jae Wook has quickly made a name for himself as one of the most exciting young actors in South Korea today. Whether he’s playing a romantic lead or taking on a role that’s more emotional and intense, he always manages to draw viewers in. Fans in Manila can expect to see the actor behind some of K-drama’s biggest hits, including Alchemy of Souls, Do Do Sol Sol La La Sol, Extraordinary You, and Memories of the Alhambra—all of which show his versatile acting range.  

 

Lee first caught viewers’ attention in Memories of the Alhambra, where he shared the screen with veteran actors Hyun Bin and Park Shin-hye. Since then, he’s steadily made a mark with both lead and supporting roles. Earlier this year, he took on a more challenging role in the Netflix drama Dear Hongrang, playing a mysterious figure who shows up claiming to be the long-lost son of a wealthy family. He’s also set to star in the upcoming drama Last Summer, which fans are already looking forward to.  Outside of acting, Lee is currently showing a lighter, more playful side on tvN’s variety show Fresh off the Sea 2, where he’s charming viewers as the lovable youngest cast member. 

 

Following a successful kickoff to his Asia Fan Meeting Tour in Japan, Lee Jae Wook shared, “Thanks to the fans, I created precious memories and received a lot of positive energy that strengthens me as an actor.”  

 

With Manila as his next stop, he is set to bring that same warmth and passion to the stage. Don't miss an unforgettable night with Lee Jae Wook! Tickets go on-sale on July 26 Saturday 12PM via SMTickets.com and SM Tickets outlets nationwide. Follow Wilbros Live on FB, X (Twitter), Instagram and TikTok for more information and the latest updates.  

REVIEW : "BEYOND 75" (A GMA 7 75TH ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL)

Review by RMS

SCORE: 4 OUT OF 5 STARS

This may be a couple of days late, but as the saying goes - "It is better to be late than never ". That, of commending, raving, and praising a job well done to all those people involved in the creative process of putting -up such a grandeur of a TV special /tribute to GMA 7's seventy five long years of network excellence.

All the KAPUSO stars (the contract artists of gma 7) were there and they were all like stars in the night skies sparkling like diamonds. The musical numbers were original and spectacular, something so new to see and the production numbers were greatly choreographed and performed so well by the great stars who can all sing, dance, and host.

The most memorable production number for us is the dancing duo number of Alden Richards and Michael V. They are both great dancers, and even though Michael V. is already old, his dancing skills never faded (Michael V. started it out as a dancer of OctoArts recording company). And to add, the concept of their dance number is a "dance duel" with action stunts and all.

The introduction of this TV special is also among those which we liked most. A child actor was watching TV and channel 7 was his favorite channel. He grew up well because of the good values imparted by the TV station. This intro number was executed so perfectly.

The event as seen on this TV special was very "Hollywoodish", as glamour, poise, and fabulous evening gowns and men's tuxedos were seen everywhere, as worn by the stars. So exciting to look at.
A very stylish and collaborative TV special - that is, BEYOND 75.

We could feel, another 75 years of network excellence is waiting for this TV network channel.

FOREVER.

 

A Lost Love Story Returns: Japanese Silent Film Screening at UPFI Cine Adarna + A Chance to Win JFM Limited Edition Merch

 A love story nearly erased. A voice that brings it back to life.

The International Silent Film Festival Manila continues its celebration of cinema history and live performance with a special screening of The Scent of Pheasant’s Eye: An Episode from the Tales of Flowers, directed by Jirô Kawate. This rare 1930s Japanese silent film is adapted from the work of Yoshiya Nobuko—one of Japan’s earliest openly queer women writers and a trailblazer of shōjo and yuri literature. In a time when stories of women loving women were rarely told, Yoshiya wrote them into existence, offering narratives that still feel quietly revolutionary.

This revival is told in the tradition of how silent films once were—through the voice of a benshi. Nanako Yamauchi, one of only around 20 active benshi remaining in Japan, will perform a live narration that blends storytelling, performance, and emotion, bringing this nearly forgotten film vividly to life.

Accompanying her is a live original score by an all-female ensemble: Mariah Reodica, Teresa Barrozo, and Pat Sarabia. Together, they weave indie rock, experimental sound, and bold percussion into a contemporary reimagining of Yoshiya’s world.

Attend the screening and get a chance to take home limited edition Japan Foundation Manila merchandise, including:

• JFF & JF Tote Bags
• SUKI: The Official Magazine of JFM
• JFF Postcards
• Japanese Film Festival Theater Fans

First come, first served. One item per person while supplies last.

This isn’t just a screening—it’s a reclamation. A revival. A tribute to queer storytelling and women’s voices, past and present.

July 14, 2025 | 2:00 PM | Cine Adarna, UP Film Center

Free admission | Walk-ins welcome | Register here: https://bit.ly/JapaneseSilentFilmScreening

---

For more information and updates:

Visit the International Silent Film Festival Manila on Facebook and Instagram.

International Silent Film Festival Manila 2025 Officially Kicks Off at Shangri-La Plaza

The International Silent Film Festival Manila (ISFFM) 2025 officially kicked off on June 17, 2025,

at Shangri-La Plaza, warmly welcomed by members of the press and media. After years of

pause and reflection, the festival returns with renewed energy and purpose, bringing together

cultural institutions, musicians, and film lovers in a celebration of cinema, music, and

international collaboration.

Mr. Johnny Rios, Retail Operations Head of Shangri-La Plaza Corporation, also graced the

event and offered his warm welcome to the partners and media in attendance. He expressed

the mall’s excitement in supporting ISFFM as one of their special cultural collaborations with

participating countries, envisioning Shangri-La Plaza as a space for world cinema to thrive and

be experienced by wider audiences.

This year’s festival embraces the exclamation point as its central symbol—a mark of excitement,

urgency, and joyful noise. In the spirit of silent film, where expression is everything and every

gesture is heightened, the exclamation point becomes a fitting emblem for a festival that seeks

to amplify its voice in silence. It signals a bold return, a shared declaration: we're back.

The 2025 edition reassembles its international community, reconnecting participating countries

and introducing new voices, with an eye toward growth and reinvention. This is not just a return,

but a reimagining of what the festival can be. Once again, ISFFM affirms its role as a platform

for cultural dialogue, artistic experimentation, and cinematic exploration.

This year’s edition features new partnerships with Instituto Cervantes, the Philippine Italian

Association, Japan Foundation Manila, the Austrian Embassy, and the Goethe-Institut

Philippinen. Their curated films include Gigantes y Cabezudos (Spain), The Scent of Pheasant’s

Eye (Japan), Wie Sich Der Kientopp Rächt, Aschenputtel, and Geschichten von Freiheit und

Freundschaft (Germany), Beethoven (Austria), and Fra Diavolo (Italy)—a rich tapestry of stories

from across cultures and eras.

These films will be accompanied by live musical scores from a compelling lineup of Filipino

musicians. Featured performers include the genre-bending Psychic Surgeon, Pepe Manikan’s

Progharmonic Orchestra, Hearlife Verein, the experimental duo Ma.Ma, and the all-female trio of

Teresa Barrozo, Pat Sarabia, and Mariah Reodica — each bringing their distinct sound to this

celebration of silent cinema.

Opening the festival on July 11 is Japan’s featured film, accompanied by a special performance

from Nanako Yamauchi, a benshi or silent film narrator. Yamauchi will provide a live

interpretation of the Japanese silent film, reviving the traditional art of benshi narration and

offering audiences a rare and immersive cultural experience.

The festival runs from July 11 to 13 at Red Carpet Cinemas, Shangri-La Plaza, with a pocket

screening event taking place on July 14 at Cine Adarna, UP Film Center.

ISFFM 2025 promises not only a revival of the beloved silent film tradition but a fresh encounter

with its enduring power. The excitement is palpable—and this year, it ends not with a period, but

with an exclamation point.

For more details kindly visit International Silent Film Festival in Manila on Facebook

(https://www.facebook.com/InternationalSilentFilmFestivalManila) and @ISFFM on Instagram.

Choi Bo Min Shines at the Beauty Empire Grand Media Con

The Beauty Empire Grand Media Con last June 17 was a star-studded affair. Apart from its stars Barbie Forteza, Kyline Alcantara, and Sam Concepcion, Korean star Choi Bo Min also attended the event.

Dressed to impress, Bomin looked dashing in a suit designed by the renowned Filipino fashion designer, Francis Libiran. His stylish ensemble perfectly complemented his charismatic presence, capturing the attention of fans and media alike.

Beauty Empire, which tells the story of the cutthroat beauty industry, is currently streaming on Viu and is set to premiere on GMA Prime on July 7. The series is getting a lot of attention, particularly after the release of its second episode, which showcased the undeniable chemistry of its stars. The on-screen interactions of Bo Min with Barbie and Kyline have been a focal point for viewers, drawing parallels to their playful TikTok collaborations that have taken social media by storm. One example of this is the viral TikTok of Bo Min and Barbie dancing “Me Jalo” inside a set that looks like a train, which has generated millions of views.

For more kilig moments and undeniable chemistry, catch Bo Min, Barbie, and Kyline in Beauty Empire, now airing on Viu and premiering on GMA starting July 7.

A REVIEW OF THE NETFLIX FILM 'STRAW'

 Written by RMS

Rating: 5/5 stars

Excellent. Five thumbs up. Truly wonderful. This Netflix film is the film that we've been waiting for all our life. A kind of film that will haunt you, stab your heart, and feel anew the goodness of the human heart - alongside with the kindness of strangers.
Though the female lead actress of this film, a black woman whose love for her daughter had reached the echoes of heaven - suffered so many hardships, and bad lucks, and wrong judgements- with the concern and care of other human beings, she could have died and shot carelessly by the sniper bullets of the policemen and NBI agents, whom all thought that she was a bank robber and the experimented toy (made by her daughter) she was carrying was a bomb.

Yeah, the kindness of some total strangers could save lives. Thanks God, there were two black women like herwho could feel and understand her. One, the bank manager who stood for her and chose to be beside her until the end, and second, the policewoman who communicated with her and fought hard for her to be understood. And with that, people who watched via the FB LIVE of a hidden cp of a bank teller, knew what really happened to her. People flocked to the bank and rallied for her LIFE.

A highly -dramatic and suspenseful film with many twists and turns, surprises overload and unexpected events, STRAW, the film could be just another Netflix film, but this one has a PURE HEART.

That, amidst the evilness, corporate ways, selfish policies and rules of banks and other business establishments, harsh landlords, and road rages -, ... a few living angels and ordinary real-life heroes will still keep-up with your faith for HUMANITY and its undying spirit.

With edgy and profound Cinematography, crisp Sound, perfect lighting and artistic Production Design - and wow, a very awesome and great direction of the film's director and the whole cast's perfect acting showcase...

STRAW IS THE KIND OF FILM

THAT WILL LAST

FOREVER. 

MULTIPLE GRAMMY® AWARD WINNING DIAMOND-CERTIFIED SUPERSTAR ED SHEERAN ENTERS THE RACE WITH “DRIVE” FROM F1® THE ALBUM

 WATCH THE OFFICIAL VIDEO DIRECTED BY CHRIS VILLA HERE

 

CO-PRODUCED BY GRAMMY^® WINNERS BLAKE SLATKIN AND JOHN MAYER

“DRIVE” FEATURES SHEERAN JOINED BY MAYER ON GUITAR AND DAVE GROHL ON DRUMS

SUPERCHARGED COMPANION ALBUM TO APPLE ORIGINAL FILMS’ HIGH-OCTANE,

ACTION-PACKED FILM F1^® THE MOVIE FEATURES 17 MASSIVE NEW TRACKS

FROM EXHILARATING LINEUP OF SUPERSTARS, INCLUDING DON TOLIVER, DOJA CAT, ROSÉ, DOM DOLLA, CHRIS STAPLETON, MYKE TOWERS, TATE MCRAE, TIËSTO, SEXYY RED, RODDY RICCH, RAYE, BURNA BOY, MADISON BEER, PEGGY GOU, AND MORE

 

ALL-NEW SOUNDTRACK CURATED BY THE PRODUCERS OF THE

OSCAR^®, GRAMMY^® AND GOLDEN GLOBE^® AWARD-WINNING BARBIE THE ALBUM

 

F1^® THE MOVIE ONLY IN THEATERS AND IMAX^® + F1^® THE ALBUM

EVERYWHERE ON FRIDAY, JUNE 27

“One of the most high-profile soundtracks of 2025” – BILLBOARD

 

“In F1’s soundtrack, Atlantic Records promises a high-rpm joyride for the ages, and they have yet to build a car that can get us to premiere day fast enough” – ROLLING STONE

 

Atlantic Records’ upcoming  F1^®THE ALBUM, the supercharged and star-studded musical companion to Apple Original Films’ high-octane, action-packed film F1^® THE MOVIE, starring Brad Pitt and directed by Joseph Kosinski (Top Gun: Maverick), is speeding towards the finish line with today’s premiere of “Drive” by 4x GRAMMY^® Award-winning, RIAA Diamond-certified global superstar Ed Sheeran, available everywhere now HERE. F1^® THE ALBUM is available now for pre-order HERE and arrives in stores and at all online retailers on Friday, June 27^th in conjunction with the theatrical release of the feature film, distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures.

 

Produced by GRAMMY^® Award-winner Blake Slatkin (Lil Nas X, Lizzo) and 7x GRAMMY^® Award-winner John Mayer, “Drive” sees Sheeran backed by an all-star combo that includes Mayer on guitar alongside Foo Fighters’ Dave Grohl on drums, legendary bassist Pino Paladino (Eric Clapton, The Who), and keyboardist Rami Jaffee (Foo Fighters, The Wallflowers), with additional keyboards and drum programming by Slatkin. The dynamic new track is joined by an official music video, directed by filmmaker Chris Villa (Post Malone, Morgan Wallen, A$AP Rocky, Young Thug), premiering today on YouTube HERE.

 

From the label that brought you the award-winning, blockbuster soundtracks Barbie The Album, Twisters: The Album, The Greatest Showman, Suicide Squad and more, F1^® THE ALBUM will feature massive new tracks from an unprecedented lineup of superstar artists, including Ed Sheeran, RAYE, Burna Boy, Madison Beer, Peggy Gou and more. See below for the full tracklisting.

 

F1^® THE ALBUM was produced and overseen by multi-GRAMMY^® Award Winner, 7x GRAMMY^®  Award nominee, and Atlantic Records West Coast President, Kevin Weaver (Soundtrack Album Producer of Barbie The Album, Twisters: The Album, The Greatest Showman, Suicide Squad, Daisy Jones & The Six, Birds Of Prey) along with Atlantic Records’ EVP and Co-Head of Pop/Rock A&R, Brandon Davis and Atlantic Records’ SVP A&R/Marketing, Joseph Khoury. Named by Rolling Stone as a “soundtrack guru,” Weaver has produced numerous multi-platinum soundtrack projects that have amassed tens of millions of albums sold worldwide. Additional key players involved in the project include Soundtrack Album Executive Producers Joseph Kosinski and Jerry Bruckheimer, and Music Supervisors David Taylor and Jake Voulgarides.

ABOUT ED SHEERAN:

Ed Sheeran is an era-defining artist, responsible for some of the biggest songs of this decade, selling nearly 200 million records across the globe, and amassing over 100 billion streams worldwide. One of the most influential singer-songwriters of his generation, the 4x-GRAMMY award winner was also one of the first artists to earn three RIAA-Diamond certified singles, with “Thinking Out Loud,” “Shape of You,” and “Perfect” all achieving sales equivalents exceeding 10 million in the US alone. Widely regarded for his incredible live performances, Sheeran is currently in the midst of his record-breaking Mathematics Tour, smashing attendance records at stadiums all around the world.  Closing the chapter on his Mathematics series of albums - which began with his debut full length “+” (plus) in 2011 and includes “x” (multiply), “÷” (divide), “=” (equals), and “-” (subtract) - Sheeran is stepping boldly into a new phase in 2025 with his much anticipated album Play, set for release on September 12.

 

ABOUT F1^® THE MOVIE:

From Apple Studios and the filmmakers of Top Gun: Maverick comes the high-octane, action-packed feature film F1^® THE MOVIE, starring Brad Pitt and directed by Joseph Kosinski.  The film is produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, Kosinski, seven-time FORMULA 1^®  world champion Lewis Hamilton, Pitt, Dede Gardner, Jeremy Kleiner, and Chad Oman.

 

Dubbed “the greatest that never was,” Sonny Hayes (Brad Pitt) was FORMULA 1’s most promising phenom of the 1990s until an accident on the track nearly ended his career.  Thirty years later, he’s a nomadic racer-for-hire when he’s approached by his former teammate Ruben Cervantes (Javier Bardem), owner of a struggling FORMULA 1 team that is on the verge of collapse.  Ruben convinces Sonny to come back to FORMULA 1 for one last shot at saving the team and being the best in the world.  He’ll drive alongside Joshua Pearce (Damson Idris), the team's hotshot rookie, intent on setting his own pace.  But as the engines roar, Sonny’s past catches up with him and he finds that in FORMULA 1, your teammate is your fiercest competition—and the road to redemption is not something you can travel alone.

 

F1^® THE MOVIE also stars Damson Idris, Kerry Condon, Tobias Menzies, Kim Bodnia, and Javier Bardem, and was shot during actual Grand Prix weekends as the team competes against the titans of the sport. Kosinski directs from a screenplay by Ehren Kruger, story by Kosinski & Kruger.  The film is executive produced by Daniel Lupi.  Collaborating with Kosinski behind the scenes are his creative team, including director of photography Claudio Miranda, production designers Mark Tildesley and Ben Munro, editor Stephen Mirrione, costume designer Julian Day, casting director Lucy Bevan, and composer Hans Zimmer.

 

Apple Original Films Presents a Monolith Pictures / Jerry Bruckheimer / Plan B Entertainment / Dawn Apollo Films Production, A Film by Joseph Kosinski, F1^® THE MOVIE, distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, in theaters and IMAX nationwide on June 27, 2025, and internationally beginning June 25, 2025.

 

F1^® THE ALBUM

TRACKLIST

 

1. Don Toliver - Lose My Mind (feat. Doja Cat)
2. Dom Dolla - No Room for A Saint (feat. Nathan Nicholson)
3. Ed Sheeran - Drive
4. Tate McRae - Just Keep Watching
5. ROSÉ - Messy
6. Burna Boy - Don't Let Me Drown
7. Roddy Ricch - Underdog
8. RAYE - Grandma Calls The Boy Bad News
9. Chris Stapleton - Bad As I Used To Be
10. Myke Towers - Baja California
11. Tiësto & Sexyy Red - OMG!
12. Madison Beer - All At Once
13. Peggy Gou - D.A.N.C.E
14. PAWSA - Double C
15. Mr Eazi - Attention
16. Darkoo - Give Me Love
17. Obongjayar – Gasoline

Sensitivity and Age: A 'Soltera" Film Review

Written by RMS

SCORE 3/5

The real mistake of some beautiful melodramatic films is the excessive presentation of things that should have been kept inconspicuous instead of being repeatedly shown in the movie scenes. In a way, the plot has become too much of a

"given". It would have been more exciting had it been kept concealed.

The Maricel Soriano-starrer SOLTERA is truly beautiful. However, we noticed some flaws in this film. The excessive display of "age-related issues" somewhat suffocated the moviegoers. The entirety of the film focused too much on that aspect rather than on the character development of SOLTERA. As a result, her character did not quite evolve.

Our favorite scenes were those in which Raymond Bagatsing appeared in. His role as Maricel's gay best friend was wonderfully hilarious. Raymond did an excellent job portraying a gay character.

In terms of technical aspects, sound, music, and cinematography are commendable. These greatly contributed to the overall film. We repeat, being solitary is a long journey. It does not just end with the kisses of a boy or love.

THE REBIRTH OF “ANAK”: PAUL SAPIERA AND SAHARA HONOR FREDDIE AGUILAR’S TIMELESS LEGACY

The recent passing of Filipino music icon Freddie Aguilar has left a deep sense of loss across generations of fans and artists who grew up listening to his music and stories. Revered for his timeless anthem “Anak,” Aguilar gave the world a song that transcended language and culture; a deeply emotional tale about family relationships, youthful rebellion, and heartfelt repentance. Just weeks before his passing, Aguilar witnessed a powerful reimagining of “Anak” by talented American OPM artist Sahara and accomplished Filipino singer-songwriter Paul Sapiera. The rendition, which they released shortly before Aguilar’s death, was not originally meant to be a tribute. And yet, it has become one, poignantly and unexpectedly. So moved was Aguilar that he commented “Awesome” on the pair’s Facebook page. It would be one of the last public responses he gave to a reinterpretation of his most iconic work. For Paul Sapiera, the connection to Aguilar ran deep; not just as an admirer, but as a friend and former mentee. Their first meeting was in the early ‘90s: Paul, then seeking a vehicle to transport band equipment, was introduced to Freddie, who occasionally sold used vans. The two struck a barter deal: music gear in exchange for a van. That trade sparked a friendship rooted in shared experiences, mutual respect, and their Ilocano roots. “We bonded over more than just music,” Paul recalled. “Freddie understood the life of a musician. He didn’t just give me a van, he gave me support at a time when I needed it.” That same van still runs to this day, now used by a pastor in Zambales, a quiet symbol of how legacies can echo in unexpected places. As a mentor, Aguilar left his mark on Paul by encouraging authenticity above all. “Freddie always said, ‘Don’t try to sound like someone else,’” Paul shared. “He believed in preserving the soul of a song, of staying real no matter the trend.” Having come up in the vibrant music scene of Olongapo alongside legends like Wally Gonzales and Sampaguita, both Freddie and Paul knew the value of staying grounded in one’s roots. Paul’s connection to “Anak” began early. He sang it to win a singing contest at age 10, and later taught himself to play it on guitar. For Sahara, the emotional pull was just as strong, even across oceans. “The first time I heard it, I cried,” she said. “I kept practicing it but never felt ready to record it, until Paul told me I was.” That moment—an impromptu, goosebump-filled conversation over drinks—sparked a collaboration months in the making. Together, Sahara and Paul poured heart and history into the remake, staying faithful to the original arrangement while bringing in new emotion. Paul recalls the emotional weight of recreating the orchestral parts, and the pride he felt watching Sahara master difficult Tagalog phrases with raw feeling and grace. “For a foreigner to sing ‘Anak’ in Tagalog is already something special,” Paul said. “But to sing it well, with deep emotion and authenticity, that’s what made it unforgettable.” For Sahara, the recording of “Anak” marked a meaningful milestone, both musically and emotionally. “During our recording session, when Paul said, ‘You sound like a Filipino,’ I got goosebumps and silently cried tears of joy. That moment will stay with me forever,” she shared. To her fans, Sahara’s message is simple and sincere: “Mahal kayo ni Sahara.” And to Freddie Aguilar: “It’s a bittersweet dream come true that you heard our version and liked it. I wish I could’ve met you, but I feel closer to you through your song. Thank you for letting me sing it.” Paul’s message echoes the sentiment shared by many: “Freddie carried the Philippine flag across the world through his music. From Asia to the West, millions know him and his song ‘Anak,’ which has become a national treasure. On behalf of the Filipino public, I want to thank him for the music and the legacy he has given us.” Though Freddie Aguilar’s voice is now silent, his message, his music, and his memory live on—carried by those who sing his songs, and those who see themselves in his lyrics. For more information on Sahara and Paul, visit their social media channels. Paul’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sapieramusic Sahara’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/voiceofsahara Sahara’s Socials: https://bio.to/sahara Stream Anak: https://lnk.to/sahara_sapiera_anak Watch ANAK : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_hKfwVhPUNI

AWARD-WINNING FILIPINO MUSICAL ‘WALANG ARAY’ RETURNS WITH REFRESHED STAGING AND AN EXCITING CAST LINEUP

QUEZON CITY, Philippines—Tumindig at Umibig…PA MORE! Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) brings back Rody Vera’s award-winning hit comedy musical, Walang Aray, a witty and hilarious reimagining of Severino Reyes’ classic zarzuela Walang Sugat, from August 29 to October 12, 2025, at the PETA Theater Center.

Walang Aray had a total of 58 shows in 2023 alone, having staged two runs in just one year due to insistent public demand. The musical also dominated the 2024 Gawad Buhay Awards, winning eight major awards, including Outstanding Musical, Outstanding Ensemble Performance for a Musical, Outstanding Stage Direction for a Musical (Ian Segarra), Outstanding Book of a Musical (Rody Vera), Outstanding Original Score (Vince Lim and Rody Vera), and Outstanding Choreography (Gio Gahol). Walang Aray also bagged the major awards in the female performance categories, with Neomi Gonzales winning the Female Featured Performance in a Musical award and Shaira Opsimar taking home the Female Lead Performance in a Musical.

The rerun is a fitting kick-off for PETA’s 58th theater season with its theme of Love and Power. Coming back with a sharper text and refreshed staging, Director Ian Segarra, now joined by Associate Director Norbs Portales, breathes new life into the beloved musical without taking away any of its original appeal.  

Rody Vera’s script will continue to underscore the play’s messages of resistance and romance while being enhanced with updated contemporary references. Vince Lim, who grabbed Gawad Buhay for Outstanding Original Score, adds a playful new song to Walang Aray’s infectious pop musical catalog. 

The refreshed edition of Walang Aray also features an exciting lineup of new cast members among its original award-winning lead cast. Gio Gahol and Jon Abella return as Tenyong, with Shaira Opsimar and Marynor Madamesila reprising their role as Julia. One of the fresh faces joining the cast is triple-threat artist Lance Reblando, who debuts as the feisty and endearing zarzuela star Julia.

They are joined by original cast members Bene Manaois (Miguel), Kiki Baento (Monica), Carlon Matobato (Lucas), Neomi Gonzales (Juana), Gie Onida and Csairus Habla (Don Tadeo), Johnnie Moran (Padre Alfaro), and the quick-witted and sharp supporting cast, Jarred Jaicten, Gerard Dy, Yeyin de la Cruz, Ayla Garcia, and Ada Tayao.

Walang Aray also welcomes a powerhouse roster of new cast members, which includes theater favorites and triple-threat performers: Rendell Sanchez (Miguel), Divine Aucina (Monica), Gold Villar-Lim (Juana), and Roi Calilong (Padre Alfaro). Also joining the cast as ensemble members are James Lanante, MC Dela Cruz, Bomba Ding, Otep Madriaga, Miah Canton, Matel Patayon, and Zoe Damag.

Two Philippine pop culture icons, Jolina Magdangal and Ice Seguerra, add more excitement to the already outstanding cast lineup. Magdangal joins the cast as the quirky and over-the-top Doña Juana, while Seguerra plays the loyal and playful sidekick of Tenyong, Lucas.

Tickets for the show will be available starting June 28 via ticket2me.net.

An exclusive and discounted pre-sale for Metrobank credit cardholders will run from June 28 until July 1, 2025. The public sale starts on July 2, 2025. Ticket prices are as follows: P2,500 (VIP Front and VIP Elevated), P2,000 (Orchestra Center and Balcony Center), P1,500 (Orchestra Side), and P1,200 (Balcony Side).

Walang Aray is produced by PETA in partnership with Indie.Go Media, together with Metrobank. 

For partnerships and show-buying inquiries, contact Mitch Go at 0917-539-1112 or email PETA at petatheater@gmail.com. For more information about Walang Aray, follow PETA’s social media pages: @petatheater.