Author: Press Release

PLDT Home X Lionsgate Play Launch Event

Lionsgate Play — the fast-growing Southeast Asian streaming platform of the global content studio behind major franchise properties such as John Wick, The Hunger Games, Power, and many more — launches in the Philippines this June.

Enjoy a bigger, bolder, and more powerful entertainment viewing experience at home today as PLDT Home, the Philippines’ fastest broadband service provider, partners with premium streaming platform Lionsgate Play.

Lionsgate is a leading Hollywood studio that has created and distributed some of the world’s biggest properties, including the blockbuster film franchises The Hunger Games, Twilight Saga, John Wick, and Saw; and the television series Mad Men, one of the most acclaimed shows in television history. By simply subscribing to a PLDT Home Fiber Plan 1699 or up, Filipinos can enjoy and experience the best of global content across action, comedy, drama, horror, and thriller genres — and more of Lionsgate Play’s signature offerings from the comfort of one’s home.

“PLDT Home and Lionsgate are bringing entertainment straight from the box office into people’s homes. From the best love stories to the best of horror down to the most action-packed films and shows, the world’s best content is simply a push of a button away with Lionsgate Play for all new and existing PLDT-powered homes,” PLDT Home Senior Vice President and Head of Consumer Business-Home Group Jeremiah de la Cruz said. “This partnership is part of our continuing mission to provide our customers the fastest broadband connection in the country so that they can better stream their entertainment choices including the most exciting and irreverent stories from Lionsgate Play. Beyond PLDT-powered homes, Lionsgate Play shall also be available to Smart customers soon.”

“Our endeavor has been to ensure viewers are provided with a curated lineup of great content, spread across genres for the best viewing experience,” Lionsgate Executive Vice President Amit Dhanuka said of the partnership. “Taking this forward, we are excited to partner with PLDT Home to launch Lionsgate Play in the Philippines. We are reaching out to a large and diverse sector of consumers with a digitally-driven offering enabling them to ‘play more, browse less.’ We look forward to more Filipinos enjoying the best of what Hollywood has to offer!”

Among the content available at the Philippine launch of Lionsgate Play is American crime drama Power. With rapper and actor Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson as executive producer, Power follows the triumph and trials of drug dealer James St. Patrick (Omari Hardwick) as he tries to leave his life of crime behind to manage his own nightclub. Power is one of American premium cable TV’s most watched and highly-rated shows.

Also among Lionsgate Play’s banner content is futuristic action film Apex. This Bruce Willis starrer follows Thomas Malone (Willis) as a wrongfully-convicted prisoner given a chance at freedom.

Now available locally through Lionsgate Play is the critically-acclaimed drama Gaslit, starring Julia Roberts and Sean Penn. The new series spotlights Martha Mitchell (Roberts), wife of former US President Nixon’s Attorney General John N. Mitchell, discovering the full extent of the Watergate scandal in the 70s.

Lionsgate Play also features the studio’s most commercially successful films and film franchises: The Hunger Games follows hunter Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) and her heroic adventures in a post-apocalyptic world; John Wick tells the story of the titular character (Keanu Reeves) forced to return to his life as a hitman to avenge the death of his beloved puppy; the Twilight Saga follows the epic love story of teenager Bella Swan (Kirsten Stewart) and vampire Edward Cullen (Robert Pattinson); SAW trails the sadistic machinations of John Kramer or Jigsaw; Knives Out follows a detective (Daniel Craig) in his investigation on the mysterious death of a wealthy novelist (Christopher Plummer); and many more.

The streaming service also carries some of Lionsgate’s most iconic and groundbreaking series such as Mad Men, a multiple Emmy and Golden Globe-winning period drama starring Jon Hamm that’s widely considered to be one of the greatest TV shows of all time; and The Royals, a drama chronicling the tradition, opulence, and scandal that surround a fictional modern-day royal family. Lionsgate Play also gives PLDT Home subscribers first dibs on the hottest new shows including Becoming Elizabeth, which chronicles Elizabeth I’s rise to power and all the intrigue and betrayal that came with becoming the Virgin Queen. Catch these shows and more very soon on Lionsgate Play!

In time for the Philippine launch of the streaming service, both existing and new subscribers of PLDT Home Fiber Plans 1699 and up will be given exclusive access to Lionsgate Play without the additional charges until June 1, 2023.

Enjoy a bigger, bolder, faster, and more powerful entertainment home viewing experience at home with Lionsgate Play, exclusive in the Philippines through PLDT Home. To learn more about Lionsgate Play, visit https://pldthome.com/lionsgateplay.

June 14, 2022
Disney and Pixar’s “Lightyear” U.K. Premiere Event

London’s Cineworld Leicester Square welcomed stars, filmmakers and special guests to celebrate Pixar Animation Studios’ 26th feature film, “Lightyear.” Chris Evans (voice of Buzz Lightyear), Keke Palmer (voice of Izzy Hawthorne), Taika Waititi (voice of Mo) and British astronaut Tim Peake, who lends his voice to Tim/Mission Control in the UK version of the film, greeted fans alongside filmmakers Angus MacLane (directed by/story by/screenplay by) and Galyn Susman, p.g.a. (produced by), as well as U.K. celebrities and presenters.

“Lightyear” opens in Philippine cinemas tomorrow, June 15.

ABOUT THE MOVIE

A sci-fi action adventure and the definitive origin story of Buzz Lightyear, the hero who inspired the toy, “Lightyear” follows the legendary Space Ranger after he’s marooned on a hostile planet 4.2 million light-years from Earth alongside his commander and their crew. As Buzz tries to find a way back home through space and time, he’s joined by a group of ambitious recruits and his charming robot companion cat, Sox. Complicating matters and threatening the mission is the arrival of Zurg, an imposing presence with an army of ruthless robots and a mysterious agenda.

The film features the voices of Chris Evans as accomplished Space Ranger Buzz Lightyear, Uzo Aduba as his commander and best friend Alisha Hawthorne and Peter Sohn as Sox. Keke Palmer, Taika Waititi and Dale Soules lend their voices to the Junior Zap Patrol’s Izzy Hawthorne, Mo Morrison and Darby Steel, respectively, and James Brolin can be heard as the enigmatic Zurg. The voice cast also includes Mary McDonald-Lewis as onboard computer I.V.A.N., Isiah Whitlock Jr. as Commander Burnside, Efren Ramirez as Airman Díaz, Keira Hairston as Young Izzy and Tim Peake as Tim/Mission Control (in U.K. release). Directed by Angus MacLane (co-director “Finding Dory”), produced by Galyn Susman (“Toy Story That Time Forgot”) and featuring a score by award-winning composer Michael Giacchino (“The Batman,” “Up”), Disney and Pixar’s “Lightyear” opens in Philippine cinemas tomorrow, June 15.

June 14, 2022
Better than Best: Friends Turned Business Partners Chari & Rose’s Pandemic Boom & Beyond

COVID-19 paved way for a new normal. Streets quiet, malls closed, with people afraid of leaving their homes prompting the boom in online shopping. The indoors provided solace and its interface is digital. This was the formula that kickstarted Rose and Chari’s ventures. “The pandemic was the great equalizer. It gave new opportunities to those whose eyes are constantly seeking,” said the company’s leading Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Rose Tolentino. While many slowed down, the duo went the opposite direction and launched not just one but multiple brands from personal and men’s care to food.

“2020 was the year. We felt the consumerist landscape was changing so to adapt was imperative for survival,” said Rose. “We were fueled to see the opportunity lying ahead so we really did our best, and have been continuing to do so. We felt it would be an injustice to God not to do well. That was really our motivation and push,” said Chari.

OMO! White

OMO! White, the company’s first successful brand scaled when it closed a partnership with the country’s biggest household cosmetic company, Ever Bilena Cosmetics Inc (EBCI). What once was a Korean-inspired product line is now manufactured in Korea. “The best of korean technology with the Filipino skin in mind,” Creative Chief Officer (CCO) Chari Trinidad-Mendoza, says. OMO! White is now in nearly 2,000 doors nationwide in all leading beauty & department stores.

Building a team that runs 100% online, the duo found the system worked to the advantage of their millennial team. No longer bound by the regular ‘8-5’ office demands meant clockwork capacity for their members’ optimum hours. “You know creativity can spring at 3 A.M. I guess you can call it ‘structured flow,’ says Rose.

Oh Crop!

Oh Crop! Is an adlai brand to serve the ballooning health-conscious consumer market. It is as an alternative to the Filipinos staple white rice, packed with nutrients, low in glycemic-index (GI) and high in fiber. Partnering with celebrity restaurateur Marvin Agustin, the company has hectares of personally-owned and contracted land whilst pioneering the first adlai-financing system with UBX and multiple LGUs to further encourage sustainable livelihood for their partner farmers. The brand is currently available at The Marketplace under the Robinsons Retail Group.

Rosie Posie

Halal-certified with a core philosophy of ‘beauty is kindness,’ Rosie Posie is a 4-step skincare kit made specifically for the Filipino women in Visayas and Mindanao. it is a brand promoting gentle and natural ingredients that aims to take care of you, while you take care of the Earth. The brand is available in Rose Pharmacy in Cebu, Iloilo and Bacolod.

Alike

Aside from their products in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) category, the ladies own the media company Alike Media. Similar to OMO! White, Alike was founded before the pandemic but its pivotal year was in 2020. An originally digital media company, expanded into an omni-channel that now has both digital and print. They were ranked as part of the top 10 digital media companies in the country.

Best friends since they were 10 the two are now in their 30s. Two decades of friendship have evolved and formed them, but never separated. The pandemic taught them simplicity, grit, but above all – what truly is ‘essential.’

Respect. Trust. Dreams. Love.

June 14, 2022
Experience Netflix and Thrills with your Favorite Barkadas at “Alas Netflix”

For the first time ever, Netflix Philippines is launching Alas Netflix, a self-produced web series where fans can celebrate their beloved Netflix titles with their favorite barkadas. Hosted by none other than our favorite Netflix besties, Jaz Reyes and Pipay, each episode of Alas Netflix shows popular celebrity barkadas playing fun and challenging K-variety show-inspired games that will not only test their teamwork and friendship, but more importantly, prove just how well they know Netflix titles. (Hint: Episode 1 is based on a very popular K-zombie series.) The key to winning? Being the biggest Netflix fan.

First 3 episodes of Alas Netflix will feature BGYO

Alas Netflix will be premiering today, June 14, with its very first celebrity barkada challenger – P-Pop royalty, BGYO featuring Gelo, Akira, JL, Mikki, and Nate. Join us for the pilot episode and witness our beloved Aces of P-Pop breeze through their very first challenge. Note: Their performance will definitely BLOW you away. Exciting prizes (or hilarious penalties) await our contenders at the end of every episode.

ALAS NETFLIX with besties, Jaz and Pipay

Cheer for your ultimate biases as they battle it out to determine if they have what it takes to emerge victorious from the exciting challenges that Netflix has in store. Watch weekly episodes of Alas Netflix every Tuesday at 7:00 PM only on Netflix Philippines’ Youtube channel.

AlasNetflix #BGYOonAlasNetflix

June 14, 2022
Netflix Geeked Week – Day 5 Recap

Geeked Week is officially wrapped, but the games are just beginning. Hosts Geoff Keighley and Mari Takahashi closed the five-day virtual event on Friday with a slew of news and first looks about all things games, ranging from games-inspired series like The Cuphead Show! and Sonic Prime to our long list of new mobile games, which will double our current catalog to approximately 50 titles by the end of 2022. Learn about new releases like Poinpy — now available to play! — and get ready to step into the world of your favorite Netflix series and films with games such as La Casa de Papel and The Queen’s Gambit Chess.

Missed the epic Geeked Week finale? Don’t stress! We’ve compiled all of the latest announcements, hottest clips and everything in between every day this week to keep you up-to-date and in the know.

Dragon Age: Absolution: That’s right! The hit role-playing video game is being adapted as an animated series at Netflix, and we’ve got the new teaser and the poster to prove it.

Tekken: Bloodline: The iconic Japanese fighting game franchise is getting the anime treatment! Hear from Chief Producer Katsuhiro Harada as he introduces never-before-seen exclusive clips from the series and touches on the background of a fan favorite character. Check out some exclusive footage and a special message from Katsuhiro Harada.

Shadow and Bone: Destinies: Straight from the Fold comes a new mobile game based on the fan-favorite series. Get a first look at this single-player RPG where you can step into the shoes of your favorite characters and journey across the world of the Grishaverse.

Too Hot to Handle: Swipe left on this sneak peek from the upcoming mobile game based on the Netflix series and get ready to meet and mingle with a whole new cast of sexy singles vying for your affection.

La Casa De Papel: It’s not all relaxation and romance. We’re excited to unveil this single-player action-adventure game based on the hit series, in which players crack safes, pick locks and help rob a casino in Monaco — all to help an old friend of the Professor’s. Watch the first look gameplay here.

It's time to put on the Dali mask. A La Casa De Papel game is on it's way to Netflix! #GeekedWeek pic.twitter.com/hUjTnYvjAK
— Netflix Geeked (@NetflixGeeked) June 10, 2022

The Queen’s Gambit Chess: The tables have turned and now you get to take part in the ultimate game of chess. See a first look at the trailer and the locations for this upcoming game, which lets you take lessons, play puzzles and matches, and compete against online competitors or familiar faces from the award-winning limited series. Official game trailer here

The Cuphead Show!: Get ready for the latest misadventures of the impulsive Cuphead and his cautious brother Mugman with a new teaser for the upcoming episodes of this video game-turned-series. Official teaser here.

Want more scoop on what’s to come? Then check out this table read from a new never-before-seen episode and see the faces behind those iconic voices. Check out The Cuphead Show! table read here

Lucky Luna: Check out the first trailer for this platformer based on Japanese folklore, in which you can join Luna on a magical journey to the depths of hidden dungeons and mythical temples as she unlocks the mysteries of her past. Official game trailer here

Desta: The Memories Between: Duck and cover… and watch the trailer for this new turn-based strategy game inspired by the game of dodgeball. Overcome broken relationships and a tragic family event, all through the medium of a surreal and exciting ball game. Official game trailer here

Reigns: Three Kingdoms: The beloved game series that lets you rule your own kingdom and change your destiny with a single swipe is coming to Netflix. This time, you can dive headlong into ancient China and climb the ranks to navigate the epic Chinese saga of The Romance of the Three Kingdoms.

Terra Nil: Who wants to save the planet? With a nod at the current climate crisis, this game subverts the city-builder genre to let you do just that. Use technology to rejuvenate barren wastelands, then recycle all the structures you used to do it, leaving nothing behind but pristine wilderness.

Poinpy: To celebrate the launch of this vertical climber game — available to download and play today! — see the trailer for this experience that lets you dodge adorable baddies and feed the blue beast hot on your heels. Warning: The more you play, the harder the game gets. Official game trailer here

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iDA33JqHIjE

DOTA: Dragon’s Blood: Sneak a peek at Season 3 of this fantasy adaptation of the beloved game as Davion the Dragon Knight continues his quest to make the world a safer place one dragon slay at a time.

Wild Things: Animal Adventures: Dragons aren’t the only creatures on the loose! As the trailer hints, this new game tasks players with helping restore cute beasts to their wildlands (ranging from lush forests to tropical islands to icy terrains) by playing match-3 puzzles and restoring their habitats to health. Watch the full Games Day show to see the trailer and get more info.

Sonic Prime: Our favorite hedgehog is coming to Netflix as you’ve never seen him before. Get a sneak peek at this new animated series featuring an incredible twist that puts the fate of the multiverse in his gloved hands. First look here

Raji: An Ancient Epic: Paging all Raji fans! The Indian action-adventure game is coming to Netflix. Step into the shoes of Raji, the young orphan chosen by the gods to stand against the demonic invasion, as she tries to rescue her younger brother and face the demon lord Mahabalasura.

Spiritfarer: This award-winning cozy management game about dying is coming to Netflix, and we’ve got the new trailer. As Stella, a Spirtfarer and ferrymaster to the deceased, you can explore the world, farm, mine, fish, harvest, cook, and craft while spending quality time with your spirit passengers, creating lasting memories and learning to say goodbye.

Castlevania: Nocturne: A year ago, we ended Geeked Week on an epic mic drop: News of a new Castlevania series centered on Richter Belmont during the French Revolution. Now, get a sneak peek at the iconic Rondo of Blood hero in action. Check out the announcement here

About Netflix:

Netflix is one of the world’s leading entertainment services with 222 million paid memberships in over 190 countries enjoying TV series, documentaries, feature films and mobile games across a wide variety of genres and languages. Members can watch as much as they want, anytime, anywhere, on any internet-connected screen. Members can play, pause and resume watching, all without commercials or commitments.

June 14, 2022
Love Who You Love: LGBTQIA+ Movies and Series About Loving Freely on iWantTFC

Love is love – this is most especially true for members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Whether you are straight, gay, lesbian, trans, or queer, you are free to love whoever you want. While it may seem easy, there are some who still struggle to love freely and iWantTFC is here to remind you to love who you love.

This Pride Month, iWantTFC has put together a selection of empowering movies and series about accepting same-sex relationships and accepting one’s sexuality and sexual preference. Here are LGBT-themed titles that you can stream for free:

1.“The Boy Foretold by the Stars” and “Love Beneath the Stars”

The movie “The Boy Foretold by the Stars” and its sequel series “Love Beneath the Stars” are everything you’d hope for in a Pinoy boys’ love (BL) story. With Adrian Lindayag and Keann Johnson’s portrayal of Dominic and Luke respectively, the story of two lovers from an all-boys Catholic school who end up falling in love and decide to break free from the constraints of society is beautifully highlighted.

In the coming-of-age story, Luke learns how to confront his sexual identity when he falls for Dominic, who is openly gay. While the movie and series feature a lot of puppy love moments, it also very much puts emphasis on having to deal with mature relationships and overcoming backlash from loved ones because of one’s sexual preference.

2. “Bakit Lahat ng Gwapo May Boyfriend?”

Whether you’re “out and proud,” “in the closet,” unsure of yourself, or simply just you, you can definitely learn a thing or two in “Bakit Lahat ng Gwapo May Boyfriend?” In this romantic-comedy film, wedding planner Kylie (Anne Curtis), who has had a string of boyfriends who turned out to be gay, is out to prove that her dashing client Diego (Dennis Trillo) isn’t actually straight.

In the process, Kylie finds herself falling in love with Diego, who in fact isn’t gay at all, and ultimately learns how to accept and be comfortable with her relationship with her gay best friend Benj (Paolo Ballesteros). While the movie is no means a boys’ love nor does it shun same-sex relationships, it teaches us to not judge people, to not allow others to define who we are or what we feel, and most importantly, it teaches us to embrace our sexuality no matter how we identify ourselves.

3. “My Lockdown Romance”

Having suppressed feelings for a friend is always a tough situation to deal with – this is what Tom (Jameson Blake), a closeted gay man, had to endure in “My Lockdown Romance.” Tom has always had a crush on his college best friend Kendrick (Joao Constancia) but is afraid to confess his feelings out of fear of losing their friendship.

In Star Cinema’s feel-good BL flick, the two male leads show viewers what it means to restore friendships and reignite feelings. Although Tom was insecure about coming out as gay, he eventually learned how to truly embrace who he is and his being honest also led to his special bond with Kendrick.

4. “Boyette: Not a Girl Yet”

Zaijian Jaranilla plays a flamboyant gay teenager and a straight boy at the same time in “Boyette: Not a Girl Yet.” In the movie, Boyette (Zaijian) pretends to be straight when his long-time homophobic crush Charles (Inigo Pascual) recruits him to a dance club. In an awkward yet hilarious twist, Nancy (Maris Racal), Charles’ crush, ends up getting smitten by Boyette instead.

While the film is very light-hearted, it effectively conveys an eye-opening message to its viewers – be unapologetically you and dismiss all the backlash about your sexuality because what’s important is your own happiness.

5. “Fluid”

This iWantTFC original series painstakingly shows everyone, whether you’re a member of the LGBT community or not, that it is A-okay to catch feelings for someone of the same gender and exploring these relationships is fine as well. Here, Mitch (Roxanne Barcelo) explores dating other women after multiple failed relationships with men.

Mitch then meets George (Ann Colis), a proud lesbian, who shows her what it truly means to fall in love. “Fluid” will teach viewers to be courageous in taking risks, learn how to whole-heartedly accept change, and that same-sex relationships can provide the same love and comfort just as heteronormative relationships.

6. “2gether” and “Still 2gether”

Thai BL series have become increasingly popular recently thanks to Bright Vachirawit and Win Metawin’s “2gether” series and its sequel “Still 2gether.” The swoon-worthy scenes between Tine (Win) and Sarawat (Bright) are a major contribution as to why viewers are easily hooked, but BL stories undoubtedly impart striking lessons as well.

In “2gether” and “Still 2gether,” viewers are able to relate to the characters as they come to terms with their sexuality. And while Tine and Sarawat navigate their feelings towards each other, they’re also dealing with their own personal struggles – which they eventually learn how to solve as a couple.

Viewers can also watch “Oh, Mando!,” “Mga Batang POZ,” “Die Beautiful,” “Third Party” and Thai titles “Bad Buddy,” “Enchanté,” “Not Me,” “Baker Boys, and “Dark Blue Kiss.” Celebrate Pride Month by watching these movies and series for free on the iWantTFC app (iOs and Android) and website (iwanttfc.com). Viewers can get easy access to iWantTFC’s content library with its “watch now, register later” feature. Watch iWantTFC on a larger screen with select devices, including VEWD, ROKU, and Amazon Fire streaming devices, Android TV, select Samsung Smart TV models, Telstra TV (in Australia), and VIDAA in select countries. Additionally, iWantTFC is available via Chromecast and Airplay. Visit https://iwanttfc.com/help#tfc-on-smart-tv for a complete list of compatible devices, sign-in instructions, and account activation.

For updates, like www.facebook.com/iWantTFC and follow @iwanttfc on Twitter and Instagram, and subscribe to www.youtube.com/iWantTFC. For inquiries and concerns about the service, users can also send a message on iWantTFC’s Facebook page or e-mail support@iwanttfc.com.

June 14, 2022
Ro Woon Live in Manila, A KmmunityPH Exclusive Fan Meet

We’ve celebrated all things hallyu at the Kamsahamnida Festival last month, and got thrilled by Kim Seon Ho at his debut as a KmmunityPH ambassador. Now, get ready for more excitement as Globe’s ultimate K-culture community continues its third anniversary celebration with another special surprise: actor RO WOON’s Live in Manila.

Catch the leading star of the Netflix series “Tomorrow” live on June 26 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, where RO WOON will have a fan meet event exclusive to New Glone One App subscribers, made possible by KmmunityPH.

To score tickets to the event, download the new Globe One App and click on the KmmunityPH banner to get all the details you need. Pre-registration to early access is open until today, June 10. Aside from this, Globe customers can also get a chance to win tickets through its Ultimate Stan Promo from June 10-17 or watch Ro Woon via livestream when Globe customers register to Daebak499 from June 20-26 via the New Globe One app. Globe customers will receive 3GB for 3 days, unique ticket code to the livestream event and lifestyle voucher of choice from partners Agoda, Boozy or Klook!

RO WOON’s Fan Meet is part of KmmunityPH’s daebak surprise as it celebrates its third year anniversary. “KmmunityPH members can expect more in the months to come!” says Pia Gonzalez-Colby, Globe Marketing head.

Launched in 2019, Kmmunity PH is a multi-channel community group for customers who love

everything K—music, films, dramas, food, beauty, fashion, merch, and, most especially, idols.

Through events such as the Kamsahamnida Festival and RO WOON’S upcoming Fan Meet, Globe hopes to support Pinoys’ passion for K-culture and continue providing a safe space for them to share all their passion for everything and anything Korean.

“K-culture isn’t just a passion point for Filipinos, but is also a means to connect and be part of a larger, like-minded community,” says Colby. “At Globe, we want to empower this community and take their K-experience to the next level!”

Download the New Globe One app at glbe.co/NewGlobeONE today for more details.

Join and follow the Kmmunity on the following social media channels:

Facebook: Kmmunity PH | Viber: glbe.co/kmmunityviber | Twitter: http://twitter.com/KmmunityPH Youtube: http://glbe.co/KmmunityPHonYT

June 14, 2022
Tara Allez!: Fete de la Musique is Going Back to the Live Stage

This June, the most popular free music event celebrated in 130 countries around the world is going back live again for the first time in the Philippines since the pandemic.

Fête de la Musique PH, after hosting two online editions in 2020 and 2021, gears up to showcase some of the country’s best, freshest, and most diverse acts in the local music scene with a series of live celebrations across Metro Manila, Palawan, Baguio, Cebu, and Siargao.

Cheats

This year’s edition aims to provide generous French-Filipino cross-cultural exchange while also harnessing the healing power of music, forging new friendships, and building & supporting communities. Entitled “Tara Allez!” or “let’s go!” in both colloquial Filipino (“tara”) and French (“allez”), Fête PH 2022 will feature new and exciting collaborations between artists from the Philippines & France. This is also in commemoration of the 75th anniversary of Franco-Phil bilateral relations.

Brass Pas Pas Pas Pas

“We’re excited to bring the Fête de la Musique celebrations back to the beautiful places of the Philippines,” says Xavier Leroux, Executive Director of Alliance Francaise de Manille. “This year’s festivities will find us rediscovering the joys of live and in-person music once again.”

As part of Fête de la Musique’s continued partnership with the Department of Tourism, this year’s festivities will celebrate not only the artists and music from various parts of the country but will also showcase the natural beauty and rich culture of some of the Philippines’ most popular tourist destinations.

Lola Amour

“Now that the Philippines is open to fully-vaccinated individuals from all over the world, there’s no better time than now to explore our islands, and immerse in our vibrant arts, music, and culture,” enthused DOT Assistant Secretary for Branding and Marketing Communications Howard Uyking.

The Itchyworms

The main stage for Fête de la Musique 2022 will be at the Puerta Real Gardens, Intramuros on June 25 with performances from Cheats, The Itchyworms, Lola Amour, Anima Tierra, and a special number by Brass Pas Pas Pas Pas featuring Curtismith, Toni B., Faye Yupano & Zsaris. More surprises and performers will be announced soon.

Pushing 2021’s virtual #FeteFromMyIsland theme even further, Fête PH 2022 also teamed up with various partners across the Philippine archipelago to support their own physical Fete-stivities, namely Lokal Lab for the Siargao Stage on June 21 in Santa Fe Beachfront Playground; Kalye Artisano x Lio Estate for the El Nido Stages on June 26 & 28 both in Kalye Artisano; and Melt Records x Alliance Francaise de Cebu for the Cebu Stages on June 25 in Draft Punk & June 26 in La Vie.

French artists Marc Fichel, DJ Blutch, and Maxime Cozic will also be flying in from Paris to perform around the country.

DJ Blutch credits Evan Lunven

Singer-songwriter and pianist Marc Fichel will perform in Sofitel on June 23; at the main stage in Intramuros on June 25 in a collaboration with The Voice Teens grand winner Cydel Gabutero; and alongside Palawan-based musicians in El Nido on June 26.

DJ Blutch, known for his abstract hip hop and house mixes with video mapping will also perform in Sofitel on June 24; at the main stage in Intramuros on June 25 in a collaboration with a surprise Filipino movement act and will be joining Cebu-based musicians in the City of Smiles on June 26.

Dancer and choreographer Maxime Cozic will perform both his 18-minute solo piece and in collaboration with embodiment artist Dona Tumacder-Esteban and improvisational drum circle Bathala Na at the final Fête PH 2022 stage in Kalye Artisano in Lio Estate on June 28.

Maxime Photo Crédit _ Moïse de Giovanni

In addition, Fête de la Musique has once again partnered with over 30 independently produced pocket stages in Metro Manila to simultaneously feature various genres and musical moods on June 24. The participating venues include Alchemy Bistro Bar, Archipelago Makati, Boogie, Braiser’s The Village Cafe in Paranaque, Commune, Craven’s Bar and Restaurant, Dear Adam Sweet Lucy, Elements Boutique Hotel, Futur:st, H&J Restaurant, Kampai, La Collina, Leisure HQ, OTO, Pardon My French, Pura Vida Manila, Saguaro Bar & Cafe, Skinny Mike’s Sports Bar in BGC, The Apartment, The Green Door, The Astbury, The Social on Ebro, The Spirits Library, Topic, Thumbayan Grill, White Banana, WYP, Z Hostel. Some performers include Basically Saturday Night, Johnny Alegre, Ean Mayor of UDD, Coffeebreak Island with Bing Austria & Tuesday Vargas, Tropical Depression Apartel, Mulan and Samantha Nicole.

Fête de la Musique also partnered with Funkybeat Entertainment, a music production company led by Francis De Veyra to produce and compose an anthem for Tara Allez!. Featuring an inter-island collaboration among artists across the country, from Manila and Cebu to Palawan, the song perfectly captures how music brings people together, giving a sense of community and belongingness through good vibrations and camaraderie.

Fete de la Musique in the Philippines 2022 is presented by Alliance Française de Manille, in partnership with the Embassy of France to the Philippines and B Side Productions, and co-organized by the Department of Tourism. The event is also organized in partnership with SM Malls, National Commission for Culture and the Arts, Intramuros Administration, Outbound Asia Inc., Funkybeat Entertainment, Kumu, Sofitel Manila, Institut Français, and TV5 Monde, Baba Manila, and Jagged Perspective. With the support of Lio Resorts and AirSwift.

June 14, 2022
“Minions: The Rise of Gru” to Open in Local Cinemas on June 29

From the biggest global animated franchise in history, comes the origin story of how the world’s greatest supervillain first met his iconic Minions, forged cinema’s most despicable crew and faced off against the most unstoppable criminal force ever assembled in Minions: The Rise of Gru.

Minions: The Rise of Gru traces pre-villain Gru long before he became the master of evil. We first see Gru (Oscar® nominee Steve Carell) as a 12-year-old boy in 1970s suburbia, plotting to take over the world from his basement which is not going particularly well. When Gru crosses paths with the Minions, including Kevin, Stuart, Bob, and Otto—a new Minion sporting braces and a desperate need to please—this unexpected family joins forces. Together, they build their first lair, design their first weapons, and strive to execute their first missions.

At a young age, Gru has always wanted to join the supervillain supergroup called the Vicious 6. When its legendary martial arts fighter Wild Knuckles (Oscar® winner Alan Arkin)— Gru, their most devoted fanboy, finds a way to the interview to become their newest member. The Vicious 6 is not impressed by the diminutive, wannabe villain, but then Gru outsmarts (and enrages) them, and he suddenly finds himself the mortal enemy of the apex of evil. With Gru on the run, the Minions attempt to master the art of kung fu to help save him, and Gru discovers that even bad guys need a little help from their friends.

Featuring more spectacular action than any film in Illumination history and packed with the franchise’s signature subversive humor, Minions: The Rise of Gru stars a thrilling new cast, including, the Vicious 6: Taraji P. Henson as cool and confident leader Belle Bottom, whose chain belt doubles as a lethal disco-ball mace; Jean-Claude Van Damme as the nihilistic Jean Clawed, who’s armed (literally) with a giant robotic claw; Lucy Lawless as Nunchuck, whose traditional nun’s habit hides her deadly nun-chucks; Dolph Lundgren as Swedish roller-skate champion Svengeance, who dispenses his enemies with spin kicks from his spiked skates; and Danny Trejo as Stronghold, whose giant iron hands are both a menace to others and a burden to him.

The film also stars Russell Brand as Young Dr. Nefario, an aspiring mad scientist, Michelle Yeoh as Master Chow, an acupuncturist with mad kung fu skills, and Oscar® winner Julie Andrews as Gru’s maddeningly self-absorbed mom.

From Illumination and Universal Pictures International, Minions: The Rise of Gru opens in local cinemas nationwide on June 29.

June 14, 2022
The Official Spirit Of The NBA: Game Never Stops with Henessy and NBA

Hennessy, the world’s best selling cognac, continues to highlight its global partnership with the National Basketball Association (NBA) during its 75th season this year. The multiyear agreement, which marks the leagues first-ever global partnership with a spirits brand, ushers in the next chapter of Hennessy’s relationship with NBA and the impact the two have on pop culture.

“We are honored by the distinction as the first global spirit partner in the NBA’s history,” said Julie Nollet, Hennessy global CMO. “The NBA is more than basketball, and Hennessy is more than cognac. We represent global communities, and this partnership empowers us to support a game and culture that brings people together through entertainment and camaraderie despite the current challenges faced by fans around the world. We share the NBA’s core values of integrity, teamwork, respect and innovation, which are more powerful than ever as we work to inspire and unite people across the globe.”

“This partnership expansion marks an exciting milestone for the league as Hennessy becomes the NBA’s first-ever global spirits partner,” said Dan Rossomondo, NBA Senior Vice President, Media and Business Development. “We look forward to continuing to celebrate the game of basketball alongside this iconic brand and our fans around the world.”

Throughout this June, Moet Hennessy Philippines brings fans together through several watch parties at Hennessy x NBA VIP Room located at Distillery BGC so they can toast to their favorite teams with HEnnessy Very Special. Hennessy is here to celebrate those who embody the ‘Never Stop, Never Settle’ mindset and commitment to drive culture forward. With that, they are thrilled to provide a space for basketball fans in the country through a range of events, activation, and exciting content.

Hennessy eagerly spreads the true Spirit of the NBA through this campaign, aiming to take its partnership with NBA to a new and unexplored level. As the league approaches its final games, Hennessy invites you to celebrate shared excellence on and off the court.

To learn more about Hennessy and NBA partnership, visit Hennessy.com or @Hennessy on Instagram.

June 13, 2022