A thesis film about a boy who slugs it out in a neighborhood thumb wrestling tournament against another kid, whom he cannot defeat, will compete with other short film finalists at the Gawad CCP Para sa Alternatibong Pelikula at Video or Gawad Alternatibo. This after it bagged first place in the 2023 Student World Impact Film Festival.
‘Arena’ filmmaker Nicole Yvonne Lee with thesis mentor Seymour Sanchez
“Arena,” the 20-minute coming-of-age film stars Matthew Stanley, Shawn Niño Gabriel, and Miaka Mon, among an ensemble of other child actors.
SWIFF director Mark Leschinsky shared that the week-long New Jersey-based event, which got more than 13,000 submissions from 120 countries, “focuses on elevating the voices of young storytellers from historically marginalized races, backgrounds, and cultures to give them the opportunity to share their stories with the world.”
‘Arena’ actors
Before winning the SWIFF award, “Arena” became the first recipient of the Benilde Best Thesis Film trophy at the Cinematheque Centre Manila last April.
“As a filmmaker, I just really want to make people laugh and be happy using the films I made. Since I was a student, my school projects have been in the comedy genre. Arena was made from my playful imagination,” Lee, who wrote, edited, scored, directed, and co-produced the film, revealed.
‘Arena’ production team
Lee got the support of production manager Krissel Bernabe, director of photography Iezer Yap Magallon, production designer Grant Frondozo, assistant director Ivan Balmaceda, script continuity Giulia Saavedra, sound supervisor Paul Van Guzman, wardrobe master Clarisse Llaguno, colorist Tyrone James Luanzon, hair and makeup artist Rose Go, and production assistants Sheina Bensurto and Rodora Bagapuro.
“Arena” will try to continue its winning streak at Gawad Alternatibo, the longest-running independent film competition of its kind in Asia.
‘Arena’ filmmaker Nicole Yvonne Lee
Gawad Alternatibo, which was established in 1987, will feature some of the best works of Filipino alternative storytelling and filmmaking from August 5 to 7 at the Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez (Cultural Center of the Philippines Blackbox Theatre).
Rarely do you come across an artist that is able to touch countless people simply by staying genuine to their feelings and their craft. This is why when 21-year-old singer-songwriter Benson Boone entered the music scene in 2021, he was quick to capture the hearts of people across the globe.
Now, fans in the Philippines have the opportunity to watch him perform live on August 5, 6 PM, at the Venice Piazza in McKinley Hill’s Venice Grand Canal Mall! Attendees are in for a night of heartfelt songs and emotion-infused vocals, especially with performances of his hit songs like “Ghost Town,” “In The Stars,” and “Little Runaway.”
Benson’s highly anticipated Philippine debut will be preceded by opening performances from local artists Jikamarie and Rangel, who both have made names for themselves in the Philippine music scene.
Written in the stars
It was as if fame came naturally for Benson, who started going viral almost immediately on TikTok once he started posting snippets of him singing an unreleased original song. One of the people he captivated with his talent was Imagine Dragons lead vocalist Dan Reynolds, who signed Benson to Night Street Records in partnership with Warner Records.
Shortly after he was signed, Benson released his debut track “Ghost Town,” which charted in 13 countries. Since then, he has earned more than 1.2 billion global streams to date, as well as praise from Billboard, who lauded his “restrained vocals” and Consequence, who dubbed the newcomer “an exciting new voice.”
Exploring new horizons
Just a few months ago, Benson released his eagerly awaited EP Pulse, which has already won the hearts of his fans. Included in his new selection of songs are “Coffee Cake,” a bouncy, boisterous take on laid-back breakfasts and sparkling conversations, the playful pop gem “Lovely Darling,” and his recent single, the introspective “What Was.”
Also included is the angsty “Sugar Sweet,” which highlights the singer’s dazzling vocal abilities, and has already amassed more than 18 million streams. Benson completes the EP with the bluesy arrangements and soaring choruses of “Little Runaway,” which almost feels like a throwback to the intimacy of his previous releases.
It seems there’s no stopping Benson Boone on his way to leaving a mark in today’s music industry. After his performance in Manila at the Venice Piazza, he’s also set to perform in Jakarta Indonesia, and Paris, France. Fans who want to know more about his upcoming shows can visit his official website, https://www.bensonboone.com.
Want to listen to Benson Boone’s top hits? Here’s a playlist just for you!
Following the epic victory of the Philippines against New Zealand at the FIFA Women’s World Cup, Ayala Malls is calling everyone to show their support to the athletes who will face Norway this Sunday, July 30, at 3:00PM.
In partnership with the Philippine Football Federation, Ayala Malls Glorietta is hosting the official watch party of the anticipated sports event at the Activity Center. Together with the Norwegian Ambassador to the Philippines, Christian Lyster, and the New Zealand Ambassador to the Philippines, Peter Kell, football fans are invited to witness the action livestreamed all the way from Eden Park Stadium, Auckland, New Zealand.
Open to all, registration to the official watch party starts at 1:00PM in Ayala Malls Glorietta Activity Center. The program kicks off at 2:00PM with remarks by Ambassadors Peter Kell and Christian Lyster, as well as representatives from the watch party’s major sponsors: Ayala Malls Marketing Director Lisa Yang, Coca-Cola Philippines President Tony Del Rosario, and Adidas Philippines General Manager Anthony Frangos. Adding to the hype, prizes will be given away to game contestants and raffle winners throughout the day—with goodies from Coca-Cola, Adidas, and the Norway Embassy.
Aside from Glorietta, Ayala Malls is bringing the thrill to the thriving communities of Pasig and Bacolod at Ayala Malls The 30th Activity Center and Ayala Malls Capitol Central Fiesta Market respectively, at promptly 3:00PM for the livestream. Ayala Malls establishments at Makati (Adidas Brand Center in Glorietta), Cebu (The Social in Ayala Center Cebu), and the South (Players Kitchen and Bar in Alabang Town Center) are also joining the excitement in bringing the extraordinary football experience to Filipinos around the country.
Ayala Malls continues to support Filipino athletes. Last March earlier this year, the FIFA Women’s World Cup trophy and the Philippines football women’s team graced Ayala Malls Glorietta—an effort to increase awareness about the sport and garner support from kababayans. The prized trophy was exclusively revealed at Ayala Malls Glorietta during its visit in Manila.
The livestream at Ayala Malls Glorietta follows the previous watch parties held at U.P. Town Center featuring Philippines VS New Zealand last July 25 and Ayala Malls Manila Bay featuring Philippines VS Switzerland last July 21.
Award-winning environmental documentary “Delikado” has received an Emmy nomination.
The film, which draws focus on environmental crusaders who risk their lives protecting the rainforests of Palawan, is nominated in the Outstanding Investigative Documentary category of the 44th Annual News and Documentary Emmy® Awards.
The 96-minute enviro-thriller documentary directed by journalist Karl Malakunas is eligible for an Emmy as it has screened in the US on PBS’s POV.
The film takes viewers to one of the Philippines’ top tourist destinations—Palawan. It follows lawyer and Palawan NGO Network Inc. (PNNI) executive director Robert “Bobby” Chan, then-El Nido mayor Nieves Rosento and land defender Efren “Tata” Balladares. The three fight to preserve Palawan’s natural resources from big developers, politicians, illegal loggers and others who threaten the Philippines’ “last ecological frontier.”
“Delikado” is a collaboration of award-winning filmmakers, among them two-time Emmy-nominated filmmaker Marty Syjuco (producer), “Give Up Tomorrow” director Michael Collins (producer, editor and writer), broadcast journalist and Storytellers International Inc. co-founder Kara Magsano-Alikpala (producer), and award-winning cinematographer Tom Bannigan ACS (director of photography).
The docu has also received various recognitions, including the Sustainable Future Award and Audience Award, Best Documentary #2 at the Sydney Film Festival; Special Jury Prize, Best Documentary Feature at Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival; Green Dog Award For Best Environmental Documentary at Watch Docs, Poland; Special Mention, Best Documentary Feature Film at the Asia Pacific Screen Awards; and Special Mention, Best International Feature at Doc Edge, New Zealand. Karl Malakunas also won a Walkley Award, Australia’s equivalent of the Pulitzer, for directing Delikado.
The News & Documentary Emmy Awards will be held at the Palladium Times Square in New York City on September 28. Also competing in the Outstanding Investigative Documentary category are HBO Max’s Escape from Kabul, Netflix’s FIFA Uncovered and I Am Vanessa Guillen, and Amazon Prime’s Flight/Risk.
Philippine Airlines (PAL) is delighted to introduce its latest limited-edition, Disney-themed Junior Jetsetter Kits (JJ Kits) starting July 24, 2023. This special amenity kit features designs inspired by beloved Disney characters such as Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy, adding a touch of joy to every journey.
The JJ Kit will be exclusively provided to children traveling on PAL’s long-haul flights between Manila and a selection of premier destinations including Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Honolulu, Toronto, Vancouver, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Dubai, Riyadh, Dammam, and Doha.
Designed to captivate young imaginations, the JJ Kit offers a variety of engaging activities to keep kids entertained during long-haul flights. For flights out of Manila, young travelers will find a stackable crayon, an activity book, and a tic-tac-toe game set. Meanwhile, for flights inbound to Manila, kids will receive kits that include a sliding puzzle in addition to the stackable crayon and activity book. Both versions will be conveniently packed in a stylish ‘fanny pack’ type of bag.
PAL aims to make air travel with kids an unforgettable and exciting experience. PAL Head of Product and Service Management Yosh Yoshida expressed his excitement about the Mickey and Friends edition of the JJ Kit. “We believe our young travelers will enjoy this special treat, as air travel presents an extraordinary adventure for them. Philippine Airlines would like to help spark the joyful spirit of travel in our valued junior jetsetters as they embark on a journey of wonder and excitement.”
The Film Aficionados Circle (FilAC), the official student film organization of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines College of Communication, is gearing up for more film-related activities after recently concluding “Sineminuto: Buhayin at Lakbayin, Pelikulang Atin!” with the theme “Lakbay.”
“As the only film organization in PUP, we really want to give a platform to aspiring filmmakers on campus. Sineminuto is like a bridge for the mentees of the Film Aficionados Circle into the basics of film production,” Adelbert Abrigonda, FilAC President, shared.
Carousel Productions
“Bakit Maingay ang EDSA?” which was directed by Rafael Nuyad of Carousel Productions bagged the Sineminuto Best Film award. The short film about two homeless siblings wandering around the highway also won Best Male Performance for Ralph Capinig, who played Anthony, Best Screenplay, Best Sound Design, and Best Concept. It placed second in terms of direction, cinematography, and editing.
Nilay Productions with Adelbert Abrigonda and Rod Marmol
“The Portrait of a Man” from Nilay Productions got Best Direction for Ronalyn Antonio, Best Production Design, and Best Editing. It ranked second overall in film, screenplay, and sound design categories.
Meanwhile, “meet me halfway” from After Hours Production finished third and received Best Female Performance for Frances Danielle Tan as Emma and Best Cinematography, as well as second in production design.
“En Route” from Loop Productions brought home the second best concept among those which were realized into films for Sineminuto. The only horror film entry in the competition tells the story of a student who gets trapped in an infinite loop on a hallway in campus, preventing her from attending her class.
“Balikat” by ACDK Pictures, “Kaya Kaya” by Aninuno Productions, “Pihit” by 2RDS Productions, “Urong Sulong” by Yapak Productions, and “Yapak” by Amping Productions completed the Sineminuto entries.
Director and screenwriter Rod Marmol, filmmaker/photographer Arjanmar Rebeta, producer and writer Seymour Sanchez, PUP scriptwriting and TV production professor George Gamayo, and FilAC alumnus Edrian Pabona made up the jury for Sineminuto, FilAC’s flagship event for student filmmakers.
FilAC also recently became a member of the Academic Film Society of the Film Development Council of the Philippines. The organization plans to hold more events to promote and teach the art of filmmaking to students who share their passion for cinema.
Through the AFS, the FDCP provides support and makes resources more accessible in the academic setting. As part of its initiative, the FDCP co-presented Sineminuto with FilAC together with IDP Philippines, Motivo PH, Urban Chick, M’ Finesse PH, and Cinemata, Sineminuto’s official media partner.
Abrigonda was elated that Sineminuto mentees were able to showcase their craft through their films and apply “what they have learned from the PelikuLearn sessions” that FilAC spearheaded this year with National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Ricky Lee and director Jules Katanyag among their mentors. “I’m also happy to see the enthusiasm of the student filmmakers and their desire to develop their passions into something meaningful through their work. This is something to be proud of and I’m really looking forward to seeing how the organization will grow more in the future. Especially now since there are many students in the campus who are very eager to explore the world of filmmaking,” he concluded.
Canva Philippines will hold Negosyantrends Expo 2023, its biggest face-to-face event geared for all entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners, on August 5 at the Music Hall of SM Mall of Asia. The event will feature one-on-one consultations with brand and design experts, interactive stations, and design activities to help entrepreneurs level-up their businesses. Interested participants can sign-up for the expo by registering at canvaph.com/NegosyantrendsExpo-2023.
The expo will also feature success stories from select entrepreneurs and a panel discussion on innovation and design headlined by entrepreneurs Reese Fernandez Ruiz, president and co-founder of Rags2Riches, Andre Chanco, head of product and co-founder of Yardstick Coee, and Cara Paguio, senior creative for photography at Canva and owner of the local beachwear brand Guppy PH.
“We heard countless stories of Filipino entrepreneurs using Canva. Following the success of Negosyantrends 2022, Canva Philippines aims to continue uplifting the entrepreneurial spirit of Filipinos through this event and we’re excited to interact with our community in person. We believe that through Negosyantrends Expo 2023, we’ll be able to help more negosyantes take their business to the next level with Canva,” Maisie Littaua, Canva Philippines’ Head of Growth said.
Empowering Entrepreneurs Through Design
Canva Philippines also held its education caravan through engaging online webinars with various partners such as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Globe Business, Edukasyon.ph, and Bayan Academy.
The series kicked o with the “Design & Diskarte Talks for Entrepreneurs” with DTI, highlighting Canva’s brand management capabilities like Brand Kits, Brand Guidelines, and Brand Folders. These tools help businesses manage their brand assets in one place, maintain consistency, and allow teams to collaborate more easily.
As part of the series, Canva Philippines also partnered with Globe Business, Edukasyon.ph, and Bayan Academy for a session on building a digital brand.
In 2020, Canva Philippines launched Canva for Negosyo, which provides entrepreneurs with branding and graphics design resources for free, marketing toolkits, photo collections, and video tutorials, and has since established an engaged community of Filipino entrepreneurs. Now with over 60,000 members, its Canva for Negosyantes community on Facebook continues to be a platform for many business owners to share ideas, collaborate on designs, and provide insights to each other.
“As Pinoy entrepreneurs take their businesses online, we want to be right there with them,” Littaua said. “When it comes to design and branding, Canva for Negosyo is the Filipino business owner’s partner in creativity and productivity for their digital presence.”
For more updates on Canva Philippines’ eorts for entrepreneurs, follow @CanvaPhilippines on Facebook or join Canva for Negosyantes.
The Manila Hotel is one of the most iconic landmarks in the Philippines with a rich and storied past that spans over a century. Since its opening in 1912, the hotel has been a symbol of luxury, elegance, and refinement, as well as a cultural and historical hub for the city of Manila. From its early beginnings to its present-day splendor, the stories of the Manila Hotel continue to evoke nostalgia from people of all ages who remember the hotel at its different stages.
A Timeless Tale of Luxury and Heritage
The Manila Hotel coffee table book not only serves as a nostalgic trip down memory lane for those who have had the privilege to visit the hotel, but also as an invaluable keepsake for future generations. The book is a remarkable testament to the enduring legacy of this esteemed establishment, tracing its origins back to its opening in 1912. Through meticulously curated archival photographs, insightful narratives, and personal anecdotes from distinguished personalities, the book showcases The Manila Hotel’s integral part in the cultural and social fabric of the Philippines.
Captivating Photography and Exclusive Content
Within the pages of the book, readers will be treated to a visual feast of stunning photography that brings to life the Grand Dame’s architectural marvels, opulent design, and historic charm. The images are complemented by anecdotes from prominent personalities who have graced the hotel’s halls over the decades, sharing their cherished memories and visions for The Manila Hotel. In all of its 162 pages, the book displays a generous collection of images that depict the past 11 decades documenting historical shifts and achievements.
The True Heart of the Philippines The book serves not only as a tribute to The Manila Hotel’s storied past, it also sheds lights on the hotel’s unwavering commitment to providing exceptional hospitality. The Manila Hotel coffee table book is a masterpiece guided by the deft hand of Ms. Jullie Yap Daza, esteemed Associate Editor of Manila Bulletin, with invaluable photo contributions of Sonny Espiritu and Peter Cons. Available for purchase at the hotel’s Gift Shop for Php 1912 per piece, this publication will be a perfect addition to the collection of history enthusiasts, connoisseurs of luxury, and admirers of the hotel’s enduring charm.
If you peer into the horizon, what do you see? You see light blossoming from an imaginary line. You see all the tomorrows just waiting to be born. You see possibilities. You see hope.
For the members of the two art groups — Arte Bauan and Arte Likha — the horizon symbolizes the boundless human spirit and that unyielding desire for exploration, as well as the breathtaking beauty and incredible diversity of the world around us.
In terms of art, what can be seen on the horizon are the youth, according to artist and Arte Bauan Founding President, YelCast.
There is a need for more experienced art group members to be mentors to those who are next in line. “Igalang at irespeto ang mga artist na nauna.Suportahan ang mga kasabayang nagpipinta.Tulungan at gabayan ang nagsisimula pa lang magpahid ng pintura.Patuloy na ibahagi ang passion at i-serve ito sa mga tao at sa bayan para mas maging meaningful ang buhay nating bilang artist.”
Both young and experienced artists define what is to see beyond the vistas of art in “Horizon,” on view until July 31 at the Robinsons Land ARTablado art space, on the third level of Robinsons Galleria. “Horizon” is the first time that both Batangas-based groups are mounting a joint exhibition in Metro Manila. The experienced hands in Arte Bauan have taken the young up-and-comers in Arte Likha under their wing, so to speak. The participating artists include: Yelcast, Cheyzer Manalo, Sarah Jane Tumambing, Doy Kastilyo Jerwind Magnaye, Ada Panopio, Marigonz, Ruby Bagsit, Marck Ogbac, Dhennis Sigua, MJ Cuasay, Joy Bagay, Kier Insigne, Temyong and Windsor Magnaye.
“We’ve created Arte Likha kasi bawat isa sa amin ay ramdam na maraming bata na gustong maging artist pero kailangan pang i-guide in terms of skills,puso at professionalism. So, parang training ground ito sa mga gustong maging professional artists. Gusto din naming ma-sustain ang mga art projects at advocacy namin. Saka naniniwala talaga kami na ang nasa kabataang artists ang pag-asa ng sining ng bayan.”
Art Bauan — forged by friendship and passion for art, founded by members who share an affinity for art talks and food tripping — was established in 2018 by Yelcast One of the most rewarding and meaningful projects of Arte Bauan is the founding of its young art group, Arte Likha, in 2020. Arte Bauan initiated this during the pandemic, gathering young artists in Bauan and nearby municipalities who wholeheartedly share the same passion ideas and artistic value as the members of Arte Bauan. Through its Arte Bauan Calendar Project (“Sa Pagsikat ng Bagong Umaga”), Arte Bauan has provided Arte Likha members with free art materials and exposed them to art exhibits, campaigns and conventions.
Arte Bauan and Arte Likha chose ARTablado as the venue for their exhibition because they believe in ARTablado’s core principles and advocacy: to support Filipino artists from all walks of life. “Magandang ang pangarap ng ARTablado para sa art scene ng Pilipinas. Kaya para sa amin, mahalaga na i-connect namin ang aming grupo sa ARTablado na may puro at magandang adhikain para sa sining ng Pilipinas. Bakit kami bumalik sa ARTablado para mag-show? Actually, hindi kami bumalik kasi palagi kaming nasa ARTablado. Naghanda lamang kami para maisabay namin sa exhibit ang mga inaakay namin sa mundo ng sining.”
The people behind Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC) believe in the ingenuity and artistry of Filipinos. RLC has allocated spaces in Robinsons Galleria (Ortigas) and Robinsons Antipolo to hold exhibitions for art practitioners who deserve to showcase their hard work, grit and perseverance. ARTablado’s impact has been instantaneous for members of the art community who have been pining for a platform where every artist — young or old, established or up-and-coming. A much welcome development in the local art scene.
For the “Horizon” show, each of the artworks unveils a “narrative that encapsulates the essence of man’s quest for adventure.” Art, after all, is in itself a sort of quest. And artistic quests and advocacies often benefit from people and organizations with like minds and same intentions.
“Our goal is to showcase our art and our talent to a wider audience. So, we tried to find networks and avenues to connect to the world. (We got the help we need from) Kunst Filipino (2021 Banaag Presidential Awardee) and, very recently, Rotary Club of Hearts (Helping Empowerment through Arts and Sports). These are two organizations that are also into promoting art in the global arena. And with the help of these two groups, we were able to send Arte Bauan artists to Europe to showcase their skills.”
What lies on the horizon for members of Arte Bauan and Arte Likha? More paintings, much discussions about art, and the start of a journey from ARTablado and onto the world stage.
From Friday, July 28, parents and young kids will be able to enjoy a new TV channel destination called Cartoonito, which takes over from existing channel Boomerang.
Cartoonito will welcome a new generation of pre-schoolers into the world of iconic franchises such as Batwheelsand Bugs Bunny Builders and modern preschool adaptations that support each child’s unique potential.
Although Cartoonito will appeal to slightly younger children than Boomerang, some perennial favourites such as Tom & Jerry, Baby Looney Tunes, Alice & Lewis, Pat the Dog, and Grizzy and the Lemmingswill remain on the channel. These will sit alongside other friends such as Dino Ranch, MumfieandTangranimals. Cartoonitobrings together all of these characters on one channel – while adding brand-new shows like Mittens & PantsandVida the Vet – offering a wider variety of programmes and new adventures for the whole family to enjoy.
The channel’s modern approach to preschool programming is supported by an educational framework called “Humancentric Learning”. All Cartoonito shows follow this curriculum – designed by early childhood education expert Dr Laura Brown – to form the four pillars of: Creativity, Caring, Curiosity and Courage. The brand aims to inspire kids aged 2-6 to use their imagination, to learn from their mistakes and to treat others with empathy and respect.
“Our new-look preschool channel celebrates individuality and originality, offering a safe space where kids and their families can laugh and learn alongside beloved characters,” says Christopher Ho, Head of Kids Networks – Southeast Asia, Warner Bros. Discovery.
The linear Boomerang channel will be rebranded as Cartoonito on all platforms across Southeast Asia from July 28 and there will no change to the channel number. Depending on the country, Cartoonito will be available in English, Mandarin, Thai, Bahasa Malaysia and Bahasa Indonesia.
About Cartoonito Cartoonito is the Warner Bros. Discovery Kids & Family preschool channel. Offering the best in original preschool content with key shows Batwheels and Bugs Bunny Builders, Cartoonito is the place for kids and families to enjoy trusted characters and experience a whole lot of laughter. Championing compassion, empathy, and inclusion, Cartoonito celebrates preschool kids’ individuality and aims to inspire through positive and playful animated content. Cartoonito will offer modern programming that leans into Warner Bros. Discovery’s Kids & Family iconic IP that stems from Warner Bros. Animation and Cartoon Network Studios.
