Author: Press Release

All the Egg-citing Easter Sunday Activities at Megaworld Lifestyle Malls

Easter has always been a special time of the year for families all over the world. Being the country’s leading lifestyle destination, Megaworld Lifestyle Malls is celebrating the cheerful season with special Easter events across its lifestyle malls with fun-filled events, activities, and promos that the whole family, especially the kids, can enjoy. Check out this list and plan your egg-hunting, face-painting, and more fun adventures this Easter weekend!

Easter Teepee Party at Uptown Bonifacio

Experience a kiddie glamping Easter celebration with egg hunt, games, and more activities at the Easter Teepee Party at Uptown Bonifacio. To join the festivities, simply present a single or accumulated receipt/s worth ₱2,500 from any Uptown Bonifacio establishment. Race with other kids in the Easter Egg Hunt to find as many eggs as you can and get a chance to win prizes. Visit the tattoo tent and get your own Easter-themed face paint. Join a series of kiddie glamping games and receive Easter treats.

Easter Wonderland: Jungle Safari at Eastwood City

Embark on a journey in the wilderness this Easter and join the Easter Wonderland: Jungle Safari at Eastwood City. Come in costume as a ferocious creature of the jungle or as a brave explorer of the safari and enjoy a variety of games to win special prizes. Test your skills in a series of motion sensor games at the Virtual Safari Games and take home the prize. Join the crew and make your own party headgear at the Easter Art Odyssey. Gather your mates and play all day in the inflatables and arcade machines at Jungle Thrills. Shop for toys and kids’ essentials from our wide array of pop-ups and stores at the Kids’ Fun Fair. End the day with a souvenir of your awesome adventure at the safari from the Photo Expedition booth.

Easter Dino World at McKinley Hill

Get ready for a dino-tastic adventure with kiddie parades, mascot meet-and-greets, egg hunt, workshops, costume contest and more at the Easter Dino World at McKinley Hill. Paint dino eggs or different ceramic figures and enjoy other creative activities at the Roar-tastic Workshops booth. Play a game of kiddie archeology as you unearth and examine dinosaur fossils at the Dino Dig and Hatch. During the Dino Scavenger Hunt, you can hunt for eggs around the mall and get prizes from our partner shops. Find the giant dino eggs to get a bonus treat. Join a fun and interactive storytelling session featuring dino-stories and be wowed by the thrilling dino-themed magic show at the Dino Interactive Storytelling Show and Roarsome Magic Show. Hop on eggshilarating rides at the Jurassic Adventure and dress in your best dino-costume for a chance to win prizes at the Rawrsome Costume Contest. Interact with your favorite dinosaurs, characters, and mascots at the Easter Dino Parade.

Hoppy Easter Playville at Lucky Chinatown
Hop to a playful Easter with colorful inflatables, egg hunt, sweet treats and mascot meet-and-greets at the Hoppy Easter Playville at Lucky Chinatown. Get ready to bounce in the Hoppy Jump Playville inflatable giant ball pits, balloon dome, and more. Sweeten your Easter celebration with Eggstra Special Treats – candies, chocolates, and more. Dress up in your best storybook-inspired costume and join Hip Hop Hooray Easter Costume Contest and Easterville Parade. Catch our friendly mascots for a fun meet and greet interaction. Be egg-cellent by diving into the giant ball pit Easter Eggscape Hunt and look for an egg to receive a surprise gift.

Easter Eggscapes at Newport Mall
Enjoy endless adventures filled with toys, egg hunting, costume contests, and games at the Easter Eggscapes at Newport Mall! Start your journey shopping at the Easter Toy Fair and catch the best deals on toys and goodies from Toys R US! Be on the lookout for exciting surprises from your favorite stores as you hop around the mall for the Easter Egg Hunt. Don’t be late for the Easter Party for tons of games, special performances, meet and greets, and more! Gear up with your best outfit for the Easter Costume Contest and get a chance to win special prizes.

Eggstra Eggciting Easter at Southwoods Mall
Experience the mystical rabbit hole of Easter festivities as you dive into an Eggstra Eggciting Easter at Southwoods Mall. Come in your best Easter-inspired costume and get a chance to win prizes at the Hoppy Bunnies Costume Contest. Go on a wild adventure as you go on the Easter Egg Hunt. Join the Easter Paint Party, a face painting event, and transform into bunnies and other colorful characters. Celebrate with the whole family and enjoy the Eggchanted Show, an Easter-themed magic show. Shop from an array of Easter treats including unique gifts, gourmet snacks, handmade jewelry and more at the Easter Market.

Easter Treat at Arcovia City

Experience a delightful celebration full of exciting activities, Easter specials, and more in year’s Easter Treat at Arcovia City. Spend this holiday with the kids and enjoy a pre-summer party, filled with different Easter-themed treats and activities. Search for golden eggs at the Doggo Easter Hunt with your furry companions for a chance to win awesome prizes. Bond with the fluffy bunnies and be amazed by the mind-blowing illusions of our magician.

Soaring Easter at Forbes Town

This year, Forbes Town is celebrating the Easter holiday with exciting new shows and activity stations at the Soaring Easter event. So, be sure to register to secure a guaranteed first class experience. Join the Cabin Crew Egg Hunt and win eggstraordinary prizes. Start your flight with a quick snap at the aviation-themed photo stations. Fasten your seatbelts for the In-Flight Activities including the Art Station, Plane Toss Game, Balloon Twisting, Face Painting, and Cotton Candy Cart. Don’t forget to drop by the Baggage Claim for all the treats and loot bags, and bring home extra souvenirs from the Frequent Flyer Market for all the sweets, toys, merchandise, and other gift items.

Hop Hop Hooray at Twin Lakes Shopping Village
Delight in a fun Easter season, filled with egg-citing activities, fun decorations, dining deals, and more at Hop Hop Hooray at Twin Lakes Shopping Village. Let your imagination run free as you transform into mystic creatures, playful animals, or your favorite cartoon characters during the face painting activity. Decorate your very own easter eggs with colorful patterns and intricate designs. Catch the easter bunny and look for mystery eggs for a chance to win awesome prizes. Never forget this Easterrific Holiday when you snap a pic with our fun egg-themed displays.

Easter Eggscapade at Alabang West Parade

Gear up for a rollicking Easter Sunday filled with surprises and fun activities at the Easter Eggscapade at Alabang West Parade. Take home tons of exciting treats when you collect hidden mystical eggs scattered across the Easter Egg Trail. Have An Artsy Easter painting colorful designs and create beautiful egg masterpieces. Enjoy outdoor activities for the little ones at the exciting Easter-themed play area. Grab your baskets and shop for toys, merchandise, and other collectibles at the Easter Toy Fair.

Easter Candy Land at Festive Walk Iloilo
Celebrate Easter and hop into sweet holiday surprises at the Easter Candy Land at Festive Walk Iloilo. Get your supply of luscious sweets from our Sweet Easter Surprise candy fair. Transform into your favorite characters and animals at the Colors of Easter face painting booth. Witness a display of enchanting magic tricks that kids of all ages will enjoy at the Easterrific Magic Show. Guests can explore Looney World for FREE for 30 minutes when they present a single-receipt worth P500 from any Festive Walk Iloilo establishments, or a P1000 minimum purchase receipt from Festive Market or The Marketplace.

Easter Island at Newcoast Beachwalk

Celebrate Easter Sunday at Easter Island at Newcoast Beachwalk in Boracay. Experience the magic of the season with dining specials you can enjoy with charming, easter-themed decorations. Take full advantage of Easter Treats with limited special promos on all the best food spots.

March 31, 2023
McDonald’s Night Classroom is Back for Students’ Safe and Convenient After-School Studying

McDonald’s understands the importance of education and the challenges students face in finding a safe and conducive learning environment for after-school work. To address this need, McDonald’s continues to provide solutions that cater to students’ needs.

In 2020, over 200 McDonald’s Party Areas were transformed into McDonald’s Classrooms that provided teachers with a safe and work-friendly place to conduct their online classes. Building on the success and impact of the McDonald’s Classroom, McDonald’s is taking it to the next level by better utilizing its party areas and maximizing their use during the night time. Starting March 28, 2023, 60 participating McDonald’s stores near key universities across the country will open their doors to students nationwide for the McDonald’s Night Classroom. The Night Classroom will cater to late-night study sessions from 8 PM to 6 AM daily.

Equipped with solo study and wide table setups, and free WiFi access in select stores, the McDonald’s Night Classroom offers an uninterrupted study and work environment. In addition to a space to work and study, participants can also enjoy big deals and discounts on their McDonald’s favorites with exclusive offers from the McDonald’s App starting April 1. With the Night Classroom, students can now have a convenient and comfortable location to complete their academic tasks, allowing them to maximize their productivity.

“McDonald’s has always been a safe and trusted space to create feel-good moments for all—whether you’re a family celebrating a birthday, an employee getting their coffee fix before work, or a student looking for a place to pull an all-nighter. Students have already been treating McDonald’s as their go-to place for meetings or study sessions, so the McDonald’s Night Classroom is our special way of supporting them with their schoolwork,” said Oliver Rabatan, McDonald’s Philippines Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer.

Ready to pull an all-nighter the McDonald’s way? Visit the nearest McDonald’s Night Classroom now. For the complete list of participating stores, please visit http://bit.ly/McDoNightClassroom2023. Follow McDonald’s Philippines on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date with McDonald’s updates.

March 30, 2023
Level-up Gaming Experience DITO!

The online gaming scene in the Philippines continues to rise, with more and more Filipinos expressing their interest in playing online either through consoles, mobiles, or PCs. In a survey conducted by Rakuten Insight in April 2022, results showed that 80% of Filipino respondents said they play online games, with the majority saying they play daily.

While gaming for leisure and relaxation remains to be the compelling reason for playing online games, the eSports industry in the Philippines also continues to grow, with a projected market revenue of $7.12 million this 2023. Despite its relatively young age in the industry, eSports has gained popularity in the country, with a growing number of Filipinos expressing their interest and passion for the craft. As the country’s youngest and newest telco provider, DITO Telecommunity continues to support Filipino online gamers as they go all-out and TODO in pursuing and nurturing their talent and passion for online gaming.

Powered by its next-generation technology and strong connectivity, DITO is home to a wide variety of affordable mobile games that Filipinos can enjoy and experience. DITOzens can level up their mobile gaming experience by getting game currencies and gaming credits using their load balances via the DITO App for various gaming platforms such as Mobile Legends, Garena, Gameclub, Go Cash, EA Play, IMVU, Minecraft, Nintendo E-Shop, Roblox, Steam, Unipin, Xbox, PubG Mobile, and Growtopia.

For Mobile Legends Bang Bang, subscribers can get diamonds which can be used for custom skins, emotes, and events like draw, bingo, or starlight membership pass) while for Garena (Call of Duty – Mobile), CP currency can be used for battle passes, custom bundles (skins for guns, clothing, and vehicles), and events.

Avid gamers can also enjoy ad-free gaming on available games via DITO GameZone and Steam; validity varies from 1 day to 30 days. For Steam, subscribers can access and play games like NBA2k23 and GTAV, while DITO GameZone carries games from Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon, Angry Birds, and more which are ideal for kids and those young at heart!

“Here at DITO, it is part of our mission to support the Filipino online gaming community as they try to go all-out in making the most of their talents, interests, and passions for online gaming. We may be the youngest telco player in the country, but we strive to always provide avid Filipino online gamers with the best possible mobile gaming experience fueled by our next-gen technology and strong connectivity. As we continuously innovate and try to expand to new horizons, DITO will continue to be an ally of Filipino gamers in the country as they pursue and nurture their passion and represent the Philippines on the global stage,” said Jasper Evangelista, DITO Telecommunity Brand & Marketing Director.

Start enjoying DITO’s mobile games, with its easy-to-access and convenient gaming products, using DITO load balances via the DITO App. Subscribers just need to follow these easy steps: log in to the DITO App, click “Buy App Subscription” on the homepage and choose the preferred subscription, enter a valid email address to receive the voucher code, and lastly, wait for the confirmation message.

DITOzens can also enjoy an ultimate gaming experience by subscribing to DITO App Boosters. For as low as Php 50, subscribers can get 7GB of app access data with a bonus 1GB of open access data, valid for 7 days.

In line with Republic Act 11934 or the SIM Registration Act (SRA), subscribers who register their SIMS will also receive a bonus of 2GB all-access data, which they can use for gaming upon successful SIM card registration. For more information about SRA, click here: DITO SIM Registration

For more information, check out @DITOphofficial at Facebook and Instagram or visit https://dito.ph/.

March 30, 2023
Enjoy Movies and Series this April on HBO GO, HBO, Warner TV, Cartoon Network and Boomerang
On HBO GO and HBO this April, catch Emmy® winner Bill Haderin th e premiere of the HBO Original Comedy Series Barry Season 4, the untold story of one 12-year-old’s dream to become the world’s greatest supervillain in Minions: The Rise of Gru, and new episodes of Succession Season 4. This Hari Raya tune-in to Cartoon Network’s marathon special starting with a match-off between Teen Titans Go! and Mechamato. Then, hop straight into the
freshest episodes of Bugs Bunny Builders, Baby Looney Tunes, and more during the Easter weekend on Cartoonito on Boomerang.

Crime, Comedy and Drama on HBO and HBO GO

Barry Season 4
Premieres Monday, April 17 at 10AM on HBO and HBO GO

Created by Alec Berg and Bill Hader, follow as Cousineau (Henry Winkler) is hailed as a hero as Barry’s (Bill Hader) arrest has shocking consequences. It’s all been leading up to this – the explosive and hilarious final chapter of Barry. Stars Bill Hader,Stephen Root, Sarag Goldberg, Anthoney Carrigan, Henry Winkler, Robert Wisdom, Michael Irby, Fred Melamed, Andrew Leeds, Patrick Fischler and Jessy Hodges

Somebody Somewhere Season 2
Premieres Monday, April 24, at 10:30AM on HBO and HBO GO

Sam is a true Kansan on the surface, but, beneath it all, struggles to fit the hometown mould. As she grapples with loss and acceptance, singing is Sam’s saving grace and leads her on a journey to discover herself and a community of outsiders who don’t fit in but don’t give up, showing that finding your people, and finding your voice, is possible. Anywhere. Somewhere. Stars Bridget Everett, Mary Catherin Garrison, Jane Brody, Murray Hill, Mercedes White, Kailey Albus, Meighan Gerachis, Tim Bagley, Jennifer Mudge and Barbara Robertson.

Memory
Premieres Saturday, April 8 at 9PM on HBO and HBO GO

When Alex, an expert assassin struggling with memory loss, refuses to complete a job for a dangerous criminal organisation, he becomes a target. Stars Liam Neeson, Guy Pearce, Monica Bellucci, Taj Atwal, Ray Fearon and Harold Torres.

Minions: The Rise of Gru
Premieres Saturday, April 22 at 9PM on HBO and HBO GO

The mischievous Minions are back for more wacky adventures in Minions: The Rise of Gru, which tells the untold story of one 12-year-old’s dream to become the world’s greatest supervillain. Stars the voices of Steve Carell, Pierre Coffin, Taraji P. Henson, Lucy Lawless, Dolph Lundgren, Danny Trejo, Jean-Calude Van Damme, Julie Andrews and Alan Arkin.

Series finales and new episodes on HBO and HBO GO

Catch the finale episode of The Bachelor Indonesia on Friday, April 7 and new episodes of Succession Season 4 every Monday, Perry Mason Season 2 every Tuesday, Rain Dogs Season 1 every Tuesday and back-to-back episodes of The Heroic Quest of the Valiant Prince Ivandoe Season 2 on Friday, April 7.

Action & Thriller Movies on Warner TV

East New York Season 1
Premieres Tuesday, April 4 at 9PM on Warner TV

Deputy Inspector Regina Haywood is the newly promoted boss of the 74th Precinct in East New York – a working-class neighbourhood on the edge of Brooklyn that is in the midst of social upheaval and the early seeds of entrification. With family ties to the area, Haywood is determined to deploy creative methods to protect her beloved community with the help of her officers and detectives. But first, she has the daunting task of getting them on board, as some are sceptical of her promotion, and others resist the changes she is desperate to make. Stars Amanda Warren, Kevin Rankin, Richard Kind, Elizabeth Rodriguez, Olivia Luccardi, Lavel Schley, Ruben Santiago-Hudson and Jimmy Smits.

Speed Racer
Premieres Saturday, April 15 at 9PM on Warner TV

Fearlessly hurtling down the track, careening around, over and through the competition in his thundering Mach 5, Speed Racer was born to race cars. But when Speed turns down a lucrative offer from Royalton Industries, he not only infuriates the company’s maniacal owner but uncovers a terrible secret – some of the biggest races are being fixed by a handful of ruthless moguls! The only way for Speed to save his family’s business and the sport he loves is to beat Royalton at his own game. Stars Emilie Hirsch, Christina Ricci, John Goodman, Susan Sarandon, Matthew Fox, Benno Furmann, Hiroyuki Sanada, Rain, Richard Roundtree, Roger Allam, Paulie Litt and Kick Gurry.

Celebrate Warner Bros. 100^th Anniversary with movies every Sunday on Warner TV
- Justice League
Premieres Sunday, April 2, at 9PM
- The Dark Knight
Premieres Sunday, April 9, at 9PM
- Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street
Premieres Sunday, April 16, at 9PM
- Grudge Match
Premieres Sunday, April 23, at 9PM
- Music and Lyrics
Premieres Sunday, April 30, at 9PM

Good Friday & Hari Raya Puasa Weekend on Warner TV

The Next Three Days premiering Saturday, April 8 at 9PM,follows Lara Brennan who is sentenced to a life in prison for a murder she claims she didn’t commit. When the last appeal is rejected, her husband decides there is only one option left: to break her out of prison, no matter the consequences.

The Golden Compass premiering Saturday, April 22, from 7PM, is a story of a wondrous parallel world where witches soar the skies and Ice Bears rule the frozen North, one special girl is destined to hold the fate of the universe in her hands. When Lyra Belacqua becomes the keeper of the Golden Compass, she discovers that her world and all those beyond – is threatened by the secret plans of Mrs. Coulter. With the help of Lord Asriel and a group of unlikely allies ready to stand at her side, Lyra embarks on an extraordinary quest that celebrates friendship and courage against all odds. Stars Dakota Blue Richards, Nicole Kidman and Daniel Craig.

Adventures on Boomerang, Cartoon Network and HBO GO

CARTOONITO on Boomerang: Egg-stra Special Long Weekend
From Friday to Sunday, April 7 to 9, at 12PM on Cartoonito on Boomerang

This Easter weekend, hop on to Cartoonito on Boomerang for an egg-stra special line up where you can find brand new episodes of Bugs Bunny Builders and have a hopping fun time with your bunny friends from Baby Looney Tunes, Brave Bunnies and Alice & Lewis.

CARTOONITO Celebrates Earth Day
Premieres Saturday, April 22, at 12PM on Cartoonito on Boomerang

To celebrate Earth Day, Cartoonito is bringing you the nature-loving gang of Ranger Rob, Tangranimals and Dino Ranch.

Look out for two brand new episodes of Tangranimals. In the episode called Octo Grandpa, Geo and his friends were looking forward to going on the big fairground’s Octo-Wheel but Octo-Wheel is too tired to turn! Geo promises his friends he’ll find a way to help Octo-Wheel turn. In The Challenge, the Tangranimals compete in a series of challenges designed by Toff. But no one seems to enjoy the challenges when Toff wins at everything.

ACME Fools

Every weekend this April from Saturday, 1 April, at 1:30PM on Cartoon Network

Get ready for an ACME Corporation month-long take-over! From April Fools’ weekend to every weekend in April, have a good laugh with The Tom and Jerry Show and new episodes of Looney Tunes Cartoons. Catch the funniest moments from these classic shows and laugh your head off.

ACME Fools is part of the global celebration of Warner Bros. 100^th Anniversary. Join us on Cartoon Network for this special occasion.

Movie Madness
From Friday to Sunday, April 7 to 9, at 10AM on Cartoon Network

Enjoy all-time family favourite movies that are now available in the HD format; Scooby-Doo and The Alien Invaders, Looney Tunes: Rabbit’s Run, Tom and Jerry: The Magic Ring and more this Easter!

Teen Titans Go! and Mechamato Marathon
From Saturday to Monday, April 22 to 24, at 7:30AM on Cartoon Network

Celebrate Hari Raya with Cartoon Network as we bring you a special marathon featuring a match-off between Mechamato and Teen Titans Go!

Channel numbers for your reference:
- Cartoon Network: Cignal: Ch. 74 (SD), Ch. 220 (HD), Sky Cable: Ch. 43 (SD), Ch. 178 (HD)
- Boomerang: Cignal: Ch. 76, Sky Cable: Ch. 42
- Warner TV: Cignal Ch. 235 and Sky Cable Ch. 34 (SD) and Ch. 197 (HD)
- HBO: Cignal: Ch. 53 (SD), Ch. 210 (HD), Sky Cable: Ch. 54 (SD) and Ch. 168 (HD)
Subscribe to HBO GO online at https://www.hbogoasia.ph/ or the mobile app via the App Store or Play Store for only ₱1,190 on the 12-month plan. Or access HBO GO via Cignal, Globe and Skycable. HBO GO is also available on Android TV, Apple TV, LG TV and Samsung Smart TV – and comes with AirPlay and Google Cast functionality.
March 30, 2023
TV Shows and Movies coming to Prime Video in April 2023

Family Matters
April 3, 2023

A story of a stroke-stricken father whose family members take turns in manning the caregiving department. As his condition worsens, his children and wife start to squabble among themselves as they try to adapt to the circumstances.

True to Love
April 12, 2023

True to Love is a romantic comedy series that bursts with romance. The romance is centered around reputable dating coach Deborah (Yoo In-na), the prickly publishing planner Soo-hyeok (Yoon Hyun-min), and the publishing company head Sang-jin (Joo Sang-wook).

Deborah is regarded as the best dating coach. However, when she is wondering when her perfect boyfriend of 8 years is going to pop the question, she suffers a humiliation and loses everything – not only marriage, but her credentials. To get her coaching published into a book, she works with publisher “Soo-hyuk,“ a man who despises her for giving his then-girlfriend a suggestion to leave him.

The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
April 14, 2023

After burning bridges and being cut from tour, Midge Maisel persisted through Season Four, rebuilding her career and reputation. Midge is ready to “Go forward” and fight for her ascent to stardom – equipped with her quick wit and sharp tongue, and nothing else to lose.

In the fifth and final season, Midge finds herself closer than ever to the success she’s dreamed of, only to discover that closer than ever is still so far away.

An awards juggernaut, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel has won 20 Primetime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Comedy Series; six Critics Choice Awards; four Screen Actors Guild Awards; three Golden Globe Awards; and more. The series has become one of the most acclaimed and beloved shows on television and changed the game of the streaming industry.

Nanahimik ang Gabi
April 14, 2023

A suspense- thriller that follows the story of an ambitious young woman who spends a night in a mysterious and isolated mansion with an older, married corrupt cop, when a disturbed and violent intruder invades their love nest and takes both of them hostage for reasons as baffling and strange as it is vicious.

GF na Pwede na
April 20, 2023

Pam has it all, a great career and a handsome boyfriend- Jiggs, and is ready to settle down and get married. But Pam is insulted and breaks up with Jiggs when she finds out that his boyfriend does not think of her as wife material but rather just a so-so girlfriend. Despite having her heart broken, she still loves Jiggs and makes an elaborate plan to win Jiggs back by transforming a street vendor, Francis, to make Jiggs jealous. It worked but her plan backfired and started developing feelings for Francis

Dead Ringers
April 21, 2023

A modern take on David Cronenberg’s 1988 thriller starring Jeremy Irons, Dead Ringers will feature Rachel Weisz playing the double-lead roles of Elliot and Beverly Mantle, twins who share everything: Drugs, lovers, and an unapologetic desire to do whatever it takes—including pushing the boundaries on medical ethics—in an effort to challenge antiquated practices and bring women’s health care to the forefront. The series’ ensemble cast includes Britne Oldford (The Umbrella Academy, American Horror Story: Asylum) as Genevieve, Poppy Liu (Hacks, iCarly) as Greta, Michael Chernus (Severance, Orange is the New Black) as Tom, Jennifer Ehle (Zero Dark Thirty, Saint Maud) as Rebecca, and Emily Meade (The Deuce, The Leftovers) as Susan.

Filmmaker Sean Durkin (Martha Marcy May Marlene, The Nest, The Iron Claw) directed the first two episodes and co-directed the last episode of the series. Durkin also serves as an executive producer. The directing team also includes Karyn Kusama (Jennifer’s Body, Girlfight), Karena Evans (P-Valley, Snowfall), and Lauren Wolkstein (A Friend of the Family, Y: The Last Man).

Citadel
April 28, 2023

Eight years ago, Citadel fell. The independent global spy agency—tasked to uphold the safety and security of all people—was destroyed by operatives of Manticore, a powerful syndicate manipulating the world from the shadows. With Citadel’s fall, elite agents Mason Kane (Richard Madden) and Nadia Sinh (Priyanka Chopra Jonas) had their memories wiped as they narrowly escaped with their lives. They’ve remained hidden ever since, building new lives under new identities, unaware of their pasts. Until one night, when Mason is tracked down by his former Citadel colleague, Bernard Orlick (Stanley Tucci), who desperately needs his help to prevent Manticore from establishing a new world order. Mason seeks out his former partner, Nadia, and the two spies embark on a mission that takes them around the world in an effort to stop Manticore, all while contending with a relationship built on secrets, lies, and a dangerous-yet-undying love.

March 30, 2023
Nathaniel San Pedro & The Art of Wandering Wings

There is something cinema-like about how, as a seven-year-old kid, Nathaniel San Pedro was consistently competing and placing among the top three in on-the-spot painting contests. Nathaniel was a boy-wonder in terms of colors and composition. In high school, he was a member of the Young Artist Club of Saint Joseph’s College in Quezon City where he honed his creativity and painting skills even more. But there came a fork in the road and Nathaniel was nudged toward a different path. He shared, “My parents insisted that I take a course that is related to medicine or science. Being an obedient son, I took up a Bachelor of Science in psychology to appease my parents and graduated from Our Lady of Fatima University.” But the painter inside him was restless — like a bird poised and ready to take flight.

WANDERER (Philippine Trogon)

WANDERER (Apo Myna)

WANDERERS (Red Keeled Flowerpecker)

WANDERERS ( Whiskered Treeswift)

“When I started working in the corporate world as a recruitment specialist, I realized that drawing-painting is something innate. I looked at it as my never-ending passion,” he explains.

Now, the artist is back on his chosen path as Robinsons Land ARTablado presents Nathaniel San Pedro’s latest exhibition titled “Wanderers: Exhibition of Diverse Beauty of Philippine Birds,” on view from April 1 to 15 at the ARTablado space in Robinsons Galleria.

To get back into the groove, Nathaniel did the necessary work.

“For two years, I got serious in art and thoroughly studied painting,” he says. “I came to know the basics of painting, the process of paint application, the mixing of tonal values of paints, the combination of colors and right proportion of drawings. I took up an associate degree in fine arts at Global Knowledge in Boni, Mandaluyong City. I tried to study and enhance my painting skill even while working in the corporate world. After studying the basics in oil painting, the rest was self-taught by watching videos of oil painting on YouTube, reading books about drawing and painting, and even engaging in small talk with different artists. These things will help you hone and expand your skills.”

San Pedro had his first solo exhibition in 2020 which was about the passion and journey of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary. The idea for his follow-up show began when he received a Christmas gift: a book titled Birds of the Philippines. He was awe-stricken by the variety and beauty of the winged creatures we have in our country. When he made trips to Bulacan and Pampanga to see and study religious images, he chanced upon even more birds.

Birds became a symbol for the artist, how beauty in this world is becoming truly fleeting because of how humans are destroying the environment. The splashes and colors in San Pedro’s paintings are emblematic of how birds and their habitat are slowly dying. According to the artist, his art serves a greater purpose: an eye-opener for people to start taking care of the world we live in and all the creatures we share it with.

“Yes, I believe that painting is a powerful tool to convey a message. I want to render the beauty of the Philippine local birds, especially the endangered ones. It goes hand in hand: when we see the beauty of birds in nature, we tend to appreciate and protect them, and we need to protect nature, including seas and trees, in order to conserve their habitat and food. By starting to appreciate birds, we are also starting to protect the whole part of nature-biodiversity.”

San Pedro has also started to involve himself in NGOs supporting local birds. He is currently supporting Wild Club Birds of the Philippines, sharing 10 percent of his earnings from exhibitions. The Wild Bird Club of the Philippines is the foremost birdwatching group in the country. Formed 20 ago, the club seeks to raise awareness about the Philippines’ avian biodiversity through birdwatching. To date, the club continues to work with various government agencies, LGUs and the private sector to promote birdwatching.

Peace, hope, harmony… These are the words that come to mind whenever San Pedro paints birds. “God created them and they are part of our nature. We need to do our part to take care of them.”

It is fitting that Nathaniel San Pedro is mounting his exhibition at Robinsons Land ARTablado, an exhibition venue that has allowed artists from all walks of life to exhibit their works, share them with a larger audience, and showcase their talents. ARTablado has allowed Filipino artists to soar.

“I believe that my second solo show is an answered prayer,” says Nathaniel. “I’ve been seeing ARTablado exhibitions from time to time. And since I’m also a constant follower on Instagram and Facebook, I see posts about their shows. So I prayed that one day I’ll also have my exhibit in ARTablado. Very accommodating kasi ang ARTablado, they give opportunities to new and aspiring artists like us. Without hesitation, the people involved gave me a slot to showcase my new work and style. And I know that ARTablado will reach not just the art collectors, but also people who are into arts as well as people who may not necessarily be into arts but appreciate skills and creativity.”

And as the ARTablado visitors and mall-goers gaze at the winged wanderers of Nathaniel San Pedro, may their imaginations and aspirations reach even greater heights.

March 30, 2023
The #AuraPortraitMaster vivo V27e: Your Next Must-Have Smartphone Now Available for P16,999

Start your mobile photography journey and get the pocket studio of your dreams with the latest addition to vivo’s premium lineup, The Aura Portrait Master, vivo V27e. The dream mobile partner of every selfie enthusiast, filmmaker, and multitasker, this stylish and lightweight phone strikes a perfect balance between the capabilities of a reliable camera and the features of an all-around smartphone.

Get this game-changing phone on any vivo kiosks and concept stores nationwide now for PHP16,999!

All your photography essentials in one device

Driven by the desire to keep innovating and elevating the youth’s smartphone experience, vivo came up with a concept for a ring light to replace the usual flash and solve common photography issues such as overexposure and compromised night shots caused by bright, unfiltered camera flash. The Aura Portrait Algorithm is a vivo-exclusive innovation that softens the subject’s features and gives them a warm, luminous skin, yielding results comparable to professional portraits done in studios.

Night portraits with the vivo V27e are more vivid and detailed, making the subject shine in the middle of the dark backdrop. The vivo V27e packs a hybrid EIS + OIS Dual Ultra-Stabilization feature which guarantees effortlessly stable photographs and videos each time. The vivo V27e also has a 32MP HD selfie camera and 64MP OIS Ultra Sensing rear camera – all harmoniously creating a seamless, professional camera experience for you.

Seize the content creator momentum and create your own vlogs with V27e’s vlog movie 3.0 feature which guides you throughout the entire vlogging process from pre production prep to shooting and editing. Making film-grade vlogs is likewise a breeze with the smartphone’s built-in film tone templates, frames and stickers.

Easily edit videos, insert text, or add filters and themes with on-screen tips and instructions even while recording, so you don’t end up with unusable footage and wasted time. With all these innovative specs paired with your creativity, nothing can stop you from being the content creator you’ve always wanted to be!

Top of the line or never mind

No, a smartphone is not just a device for sending and receiving messages, taking pictures and videos, and setting alarms and calendar schedules. It is a fashion statement as much as a digital tool for school, work and other creative pursuits.

Inspired by Bauhaus design philosophy, the new vivo V27 series exudes minimalism and elegance but with emphasis on function. The compact camera layout further gives the phone an elegant yet simple vibe — a refreshing take from the bigger, more extravagant camera arrangements in other phones.

Download all your school and work files for review with ease with the vivo V27e’s 256GB storage. Powered by vivo Extended RAM 3.0 technology with 8GB+ up to 8GB extended RAM, the vivo V27e delivers a smooth and seamless performance throughout the day. Scrolling through your phone screen is also made even easier with its upgraded 120Hz refresh rate.

Start your journey with the #AuraPortraitMaster

No more “sana all” moments for you as this premium smartphone with 66W FastCharge technology and 4,600mAh battery is about to be yours at a special price. Turn your photography and vlogging dreams into a reality and be #TheAuraPortraitMaster with the vivo V27e.

Seize this amazing offer from vivo and get this ultra-handy and reliable device for only Php 16,999! Visit any of vivo’s offline stores nationwide or vivo’s official website, Shopee, Lazada and TikTok to avail.

March 30, 2023
Empowering Mompreneurs: PLDT Home Supports Madiskarte Moms

PLDT Home believes that the future of Philippine entrepreneurship is female and digital, and the company is proud to support Madiskarte Moms PH (MMPH). MMPH is an online community of mompreneurs who are building and growing their online businesses while taking care of their families at home. With the fastest broadband internet provider in the country, PLDT Home supports this group of 153,000 community members by providing digital business tools, knowledge and skills training, and networking opportunities. The group has helped many of its members grow their side hustles into booming online home businesses that have allowed them to support and build dreams for their families.

These successful mompreneurs share the most important lessons they’ve learned

The group became not only a go-to space for digital business tools, basic and necessary knowledge and skills training, and networking opportunities, but it also became an emotional and mental support system. MMPH believes in the importance of giving recognition to the passion and resilience that the members have shown all throughout their entrepreneurial journey, especially during the pandemic.

Hence, MMPH launched the Gawad Madiskarte Awards in 2022 to highlight and celebrate the most outstanding mompreneurs in the community. The winners were rewarded with more of the support that they need to expand their business further and their stories serve as an inspiration to every mompreneur who are working hard to reach their own dreams of success.

Mompreneurs who inspire

For mompreneur and Diskarteng Solid Award winner Abigail Madrigal, support from many people is always crucial when trying to get a business off the ground. She sold high-quality bedsheets on online selling platforms while balancing a full-time job and raising a toddler during the pandemic.

“I started this business with the capital of P10,000—equivalent to 50 yards of fabric in five designs that were sewn by my Nanay. Now, we have the house next to ours as a production area, with rolls and thousand yards of fabrics in almost 100+ designs,” she shared.

“MMPH gave me the important backing that I needed when I was starting. This platform landed me several clients and the word-from-mouth created from these transactions started the growth and reputation of my store, Mommy Matters. The posts that I read in the group also inspired me to work better on my venture,” Abigail said.

Kaylynn Adolfo of The Asian Mommy is a Diskarteng Eco-Friendly winner for her line of locally-made reusable cloth diapers. Her business follows her staunch zero-waste advocacy, exemplified with the reusable diapers and environmentally friendly packaging.

Kaylynn learned that the network of like-minded people you meet can also be your biggest supporters and customers. “Through the Madiskarte Moms community, I have met moms that are now my suppliers,” she said. “I have also taken advice from other moms that has helped my brand flourish. The group has also helped me find customers multiple times.”

Protecting the environment is likewise the advocacy of Rosanna Dela Cruz Kabiling of Something Nice Environmental Corp., a winner for the Diskarteng May Puso award, whose biggest lesson was that committing to a good cause can bring you success.

Her business deals with the proper transport, treatment, disposal of hazardous waste; and reduce, reuse, recycle of scrap material for local and multinational companies. She values the supportive network that she has built with MMPH.

“I am happy to see a lot of mommies today who are open-minded enough to start their own business and who are fulfilling their dreams. The group helps me to realize how blessed I am,” Rosanna said.

Madiskarte Mom Theresa Carbonell Buenaflor of Ellana Mineral Cosmetics was chosen for the Diskarteng Digital award, for using social media platforms to reach her customer base with her skincare, body care, and makeup products. Her inspiring insight is that one should always use technology and digital trends for better chances of success.

“MMPH helped us believe that there are still good people out there who support our brand, especially during the challenges of the pandemic,” Theresa said. “I’m grateful for the support and reception of this group because it helped me believe that there are still good people out there who can support each other in these tough times.”

Lou Neri Putian was the 2022 Diskarteng Home Biz winner. She has emerged successful with her Sy Glow cosmetics and skincare products that are available through direct sales. She was able to thrive and properly manage her home business despite being a full-time mom raising her three kids, proving thatwith some diskarte and the right motivation, it is never impossible for moms to balance a business and being a mother.

“I was inspired by the other Madiskarte Moms of the group in growing my business, which I juggled together with taking care of my kids at home,” she says.

PLDT Home aims to support the online community further, and help empower more women to achieve business success.

PLDT Home is set to hold the second Gawad Madiskarte Awards in May 2023 to recognize the Madiskarteng Pinays who have shown excellence in growing their online home businesses and positive attitude in helping and inspiring other fellow mompreneurs. To know more about this year’s Gawad Madiskarte Awards, join the Madiskarte Moms PH online community here: https://pldthome.info/GawadMadiskarteWomensMonth2023.

March 30, 2023
Action-Packed Quest Awaits Fans and Gamers in “The Super Mario Bros. Movie”

Nintendo’s mustached hero Mario, along with the rest of the characters from the Super Mario Bros. that have been captivating gamers and fans for decades jump out of the game for The Super Mario Bros. Movie that will finally open in Philippine cinemas on April 19.

For the first time, iconic global entertainment brands Illumination and Nintendo join forces to create “The Super Mario Bros. Movie”, a new cinematic adventure starring pop culture’s most prominent plumber of the past four decades. Based on the world of Nintendo’s Super Mario games, the film invites audiences into a vibrant, thrilling new universe unlike any created before in an action-packed cinematic comedy event.

In “The Super Mario Bros. Movie”, while working underground to fix a water main, Brooklyn plumbers Mario (Chris Pratt, Jurassic World and The LEGO Movie franchises) and brother Luigi (Charlie Day, Horrible Bosses) are transported down a mysterious pipe and wander into a magical new world. But when the brothers are separated, Mario embarks on an epic quest to find Luigi. With the assistance of a Mushroom Kingdom resident Toad (Keegan-Michael Key, The Lion King) and some training from the strong-willed ruler of the Mushroom Kingdom Princess Peach (Anya Taylor-Joy, The Queen’s Gambit), Mario taps into his own power.

Directed by Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic, “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” features an extraordinary comedic cast, including Jack Black (Jumanji films) as Bowser, Seth Rogen (The Fabelmans) as Donkey Kong, Fred Armisen (Saturday Night Live) as Cranky Kong, Kevin Michael Richardson (Family Guy) as Kamek and Sebastian Maniscalco (Green Book) as Spike, plus a special voice appearance by Charles Martinet, who has voiced the characters of Mario and Luigi in the Super Mario games for more than 30 years.

Nintendo’s Shigeru Miyamoto, the creator of the Super Mario games and producer of The Super Mario Bros. Movie, explains that the Super Mario world connects with so many people across the globe because it has continued to evolve since its conception. “Since I was a child, I longed to become a manga artist, and until around the time that I entered high school, my dream was to become one,” Miyamoto says. “Around then, I was imagining the characters I drew myself appearing in my own manga. Although the rail shifted to the game instead of manga, I believe that if my first game was not fun enough, the characters which appear in it would not have remained in everyone’s memories. Fortunately, the character which appeared in Donkey Kong, the very first game I developed, was remembered and recognized by many people, and allowed me to produce many series of games after that. For the people who play the game, the character was recognized as an alter ego of themselves which moves around on the TV screen. And Mario evolved along with the evolvement of digital technology. As I continuously produced a game of Mario whenever a new technology came out, Mario became a very unique character which is totally one of a kind.”

From Universal Pictures International, “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” starts playing in local cinemas nationwide on April 19.

March 29, 2023
PPO Reaches Its Final Metamorphosis

Maestro Herminigildo Ranera takes the dais and performs with the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra for the finale concert of its 38th concert season on April 28, 2023, 8pm, at the CCP Live at the Metropolitan Theater.

The PPO resident and associate conductor is a multi-awarded musician who won top prizes at the National Music Competitions for Young Artists (NAMCYA) in 1982 and 1983 for his performances in the Trombone, Baritone, and Tuba (Chamber Music) categories. He won second place at the 1983 League of Filipino Composers Competition for Young Composers. He has performed with various orchestras here and abroad, including the UST Symphony Orchestra, the Manila Philharmonic, the Philippine Pops Orchestra, the CSULB Symphony Orchestra, the Chia Yi Wind Orchestra, San Miguel Philharmonic, Transylvania Philharmonic Orchestra in Club, Romania, and the Philippine Pop Orchestra, among others. He has collaborated with his mentor, Fr. Manuel P. Maramba, O.S.B. in various CCP productions. He was the musical director and conductor of the Philippine Opera Companies’ OPERA NOW in 2005, the conductor of the world premiere of three Filipino Operas and Zarzuela. Founder of the Philippine Band Association (PHILBANDA), Dr. Ranera is currently the board member of the Asia-Pacific Band Directors Association and the adviser of Band Conductors League of the Philippines.

The PPO, under his baton, will premiere his very own music “Lola Basyang Miniature Suite,” alongside with Dmitri Shostakovich’s Festive Overture, Christoph Willibald Gluck’s L’espoir renait dans mon ame from Orphee et Eurydice, and Gaetano Donizetti’s Prendi, per me sei libero from L’elisir d’amore.

The CCP resident orchestra continues its repertoire for its Concert VIII with Gioacchino Rossini’s Si, ritrovarla io giuro from La Cenerentola, Georges Bizet’s Je dis que rien ne m’epouvante from Carmen, and Gaetano Donizetti’s Quio! Vous m’aimez? from La fille du regiment, and Antonin Dvorak Symphony no. 9, op.95, E minor (“from the New World”).

The PPO shares the stage with young talented singers, soprano Mheco Joy Manlangit and tenor Radnel Del Rio Ofalsa.

A winner of multiple vocal competitions locally and internationally, Manlangit won first prize and the Audience Choice at the 2018 Jovita Fuentes Vocal Competition, and second Prize at the 2017 Singapore International Festival of Music Competition. She has played various notable roles such as Maria Clara in CCP’s Noli Me Tangere the Opera, Fiordiligi in Mozart’s Cosi Fan Tutte, and Lady Billows in Benjamin Britten’s Albert Herring. She is the current choir director of the Hudson Montessori School, and an active performing artist in New York and Manila.

Ofalsa, meanwhile, bagged the first prize in two National Vocal Competitions, the 2018 Jovita Fuentes Vocal Competition, and the Best Interpretation of the Competition Piece at the 2017 NAMCYA Senior Voice Category. He was an Encouragement Award winner at the Metropolitan Opera Laffont Competition in San Francisco District. He has performed at the CCP’s 50th Gala Concert, NAMCYA’s 45th Anniversary Concert, Paco Park Presents, UST Christmas Gala Concerts, NCCA’s Musikapuluan, the Friends of the Philippines Society USA Inc.’s Modern Day Filipino Heroes Concert, and the Mannes Sounds Festival.

Dubbed Metamorphosis, the 38th concert series serves as the battleground for the five shortlisted conductors vying for the musical director position. Watch out who will be named the PPO musical director.

Ticket prices for concerts are: Php 1,500, Php 1,200, Php 800 and Php 500. For inquiries and tickets, call CCP Box Office at 8832-3704 or email customercare@culturalcenter.gov.ph. Follow the official social media accounts of CCP in Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates.

March 29, 2023