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.

Lola Amour Lights Up New York Times Square for Love on Loop

With a string of exciting promotional activities and fan engagements, Lola Amour has been making waves both online and on the ground. To celebrate the release of their sophomore album Love on Loop, the band lit up a billboard in New York’s iconic Times Square, a moment that highlighted just how far their music has reached.

On August 15, the band marked their album release day with a special Spotify Listening Party, becoming only the second OPM act to host the feature after SB19. Fans tuned in to listen to the record in full while the band shared stories and insights behind the tracks. To make the experience even more special, Lola Amour gave away tickets to their highly anticipated concert happening on September 12.

Additionally, Lola Amour has been surprising students across Metro Manila with a series of pop up busking shows. They have performed in front of crowds of 300 to 500 students per stop, starting at NU Nazareth on August 1, followed by PLM on August 7, UP Diliman on August 11, and PSHS on August 15. The series of surprise shows will continue until the end of the month, bringing their music directly to the youth that has championed them since the very beginning.

Lola Amour at PLM last August 7

Lola Amour at UPD last August 11

The band has also launched Relapse Freedom Walls across key student areas, including Esteban Abada in Quezon City, Lerma Street in Manila, and Dagonoy Street in Malate, Manila. These interactive walls invite fans to express their thoughts and emotions, drawing in hundreds of participants who connect with the themes of the focus track for Love on Loop “With You.” Many wrote down stories and confessions such as “Bakit ka pa kumapit kung bibitawan ka lang?”, “Minumulto pa ako nung una ko siyang nakilala,” and “Ang pagmamahal ko sayo ay di mawawala”, real and raw sentiments that reflect the song’s emotions.

All these activities are building up to Lola Amour’s biggest headline show yet, Love on Loop The Album  Concert happening on September 12 at One Ayala. Tickets are available via https://lolaamour.helixpay.ph/

Hakki Emerges at the P-Pop Music & Culture Caravan’s Adamson University Stop

The P-Pop Music & Culture Caravan (PMCC) made its much-anticipated second stop at Adamson University last August 28, 2025, filling the campus with music, creativity, and community pride. The event, presented by Black Star Entertainment, featured powerhouse P-Pop groups KAIA, 1ST ONE, HORI7ON, and New:ID, with special performance by emerging artist Hakki.

Hakki kicked off the afternoon concert with a high-energy set that showcased her powerful stage presence and artistry. She captivated the crowd with her heartfelt rendition of “Di Na Muli” by Janine Teñoso and the iconic “Huwag na Huwag” by Kitchie Nadal, turning the Adamson University grounds into a massive sing-along. The Adamsonians proved to be a warm, responsive, and appreciative audience, echoing every lyric and cheering Hakki on throughout her performance, making her act as one of the highlights of the show.

Fresh off her achievements as a front act for Kitchie Nadal’s ‘New Ground’ concert at the Araneta Coliseum and a highlight performer during SB19’s Wish Bus comeback, Hakki once again proved that she is a fast-rising star in the local music scene. She also gave fans a sneak peek of her upcoming single under KDR Music House, building anticipation for its release soon.

The PMCC event wasn’t just about music—it was a full day of activities celebrating Filipino creativity and culture. Students and guests joined the Indak Dance Competition, explored the Pop Marketplace, and participated in creative workshops on Moda, Baybayin, Indak, and Tunog.

Supported by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts and DTI Malikhaing Pinoy (DTI-PCIDCS), and co-presented by the KO-PH World Foundation, the caravan continues to spotlight Filipino talent while uniting communities through music and art.

With Hakki’s captivating performance and the stellar lineup of P-Pop acts, the Adamson University stop of the PMCC left the crowd energized and eager for more of the caravan’s upcoming destinations.

Jeremy Zucker Returns to Asia with his 2025 World Tour

Multi-platinum singer, songwriter and producer Jeremy Zucker is set to return to Asia this year with his highly anticipated 2025 World Tour. Kicking off this November, the tour will bring Jeremy Zucker’s intimate yet electrifying live experience to fans across the region, with stops in Seoul, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Taipei, & Tokyo.

Promoted by AEG Presents Asia and Ovation Productions, Jeremy Zucker – World Tour 2025 in Manila will take place on 29 November 2025, Saturday, at the New Frontier Theater. Tickets are priced from PHP2500 and will be available via Ticketnet.com.ph from 20 August (Wed), 12PM. 

Audiences can expect an emotive and powerful set, featuring a blend of brand-new songs from his upcoming third full-length album, Garden State (out 22 August), alongside fan favourites including comethru, you were good to me, talk is overrated and always, i’ll care. Known for his raw, honest storytelling and genre-blending sound, Jeremy Zucker’s live performance capture the essence of connection, nostalgia, and vulnerability that have defined his music. 

Since his emergence in 2015, Jeremy Zucker has amassed over 10 billion global streams and nearly 5 million albums sold worldwide, solidifying his place as one of the most impactful voices of his generation. 

Don’t miss the chance to experience Jeremy Zucker live in Asia! 

Event Details | Jeremy Zucker – World Tour 2025 in Manila
Date: 29 November 2025 (Saturday)
Venue: New Frontier Theater

Jeremy Zucker – World Tour 2025 | Tour Stops 

23 November Seoul Love in Seoul 2025
25 November Singapore Capitol Theatre
27 November Kuala Lumpur Zepp KL
29 November Manila New Frontier Theater
3 December Taipei Legacy Taipei
5 December Tokyo Spotify O-EAST

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About Jeremy Zucker 

Multi-Platinum New Jersey-born and Los Angeles-based singer, songwriter, and producer Jeremy Zucker threads intimate storytelling into a patchwork of bedroom beat-craft and organic instrumentation. Following his emergence in 2015, he has impressively amassed over 10 billion global streams and worldwide sales of nearly 5 million albums to date. His catalog has expanded with Platinum hits such as “comethru,” “all the kids are depressed,” and “you were good to me” with Chelsea Cutler, in addition to Gold singles “talk is overrated” feat. blackbear and “better off” with Chelsea Cutler. He delivered acclaimed albums love is not dying [2020] and CRUSHER [2021], and joined forces with Cutler on their fan favorite collaborations—brent EP [2019], brent ii EP [2021], and brent iii LP [2024]. Inciting applause from The New York Times, Rolling Stone, Billboard, HYPEBEAST, PAPER Magazine, Wonderland, Man About Town, and Numéro Magazine, among many others, as well as gracing the covers of FAULT Magazine, Head Above The Clouds Magazine, and NUDE Magazine, he has notably performed on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, The Late Late Show with James Corden, and TODAY. Not to mention, he’s lit up festival stages everywhere from Lollapalooza and Governors Ball to Reading & Leads. In the wake of his most recent is nothing sacred? EP [2023], he sold out venues coast-to-coast on his biggest headline tour to date. Now, he returns to his roots on his aptly titled third full-length album, Garden State, out August 22nd [Mercury Records]. 

About AEG Present Asia

Combining the power of the live event with a focus on true artist development, AEG Presents is a world leader in the music and entertainment industries. Operating across four continents, the company has an unparalleled commitment to artistry, creativity, and community. Its tentpole festivals and multi-day music events — which include the iconic Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival and the legendary New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival alongside American Express Presents BST Hyde Park, Stagecoach, Hangout Festival, Electric Forest, and Firefly — continue to set the bar for the live music experience. AEG Presents promotes global tours for artists such as The Rolling Stones, Elton John, Taylor Swift, Celine Dion, Justin Bieber, Kenny Chesney, Paul McCartney, and Katy Perry, in addition to — through its network of clubs, theatres, arenas, stadiums and renowned partner brands such as Goldenvoice, Messina Touring Group, Concerts West, The Bowery Presents, PromoWest Productions, Marshall Arts, Madison House Presents, and Zero Mile Presents — creating and developing an unmatched infrastructure for artist development and audience reach. More information can be found at www.aegpresents.com. 

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About Ovation Productions 

Through the years, Ovation Productions has handled some of the biggest names in live entertainment. It has expanded the markets for international artists in the Philippines by pioneering in all major provincial cities in the country aside from Metro Manila and has been awarded the Trailblazer Award by Filscap. Ovation Productions has recently started ovationtickets.com in partnership with Singapore’s largest ticketing company, Sistic.com.sg and has established Ovation Singapore to expand its global operations. The company has also established BlastTV, an ad-supported streaming platform founded in 2023. With 20+ live channels covering sports and entertainment plus an extensive library of on-demand content including popular TV shows, blockbuster movies, news, and factual entertainment, Blast TV aims to revolutionize the way viewers consume live TV and on-demand programming. 

For more information, visit ovation.ph.