Author: Press Release

Check Out Novotel Manila’s Dining Offers This Summer

The way we eat outside our private spaces has changed dramatically, restricted seating capacity, strict safety rules, and all the fuss about wearing protective gear take the joy out of experiencing a real dining ambience. While many hotel guests are relying on delivery services such as Novotel Manila’s very own Take Me Out, others are going above and beyond to welcome customers back to their dining outlets and provide a pleasant dining experience. Araneta City’s Novotel Manila is now ready to showcase an ALLSafe dining hospitality.

A HEALTHY FUTURE BEGINS WITH A SINGLE BITE AT GOURMET BAR BY NOVOTEL

Vegan got fancy. Choose healthy yet fulfilling cuisines for a day as Gourmet Bar by Novotel brings you all new and revamped menu selections to stay true to our mission of serving you only the healthiest and freshest dishes featuring fresh harvest from the hotel’s very own organic farm in Rizal, the El Dorado, starting March 1, 2022. Gourmet Bar highlights dedicated Healthy Choice and Vegan Selections alongside your favorite healthy pizzas, gourmet bowls, and Filipino specialty.

FOOD EXCHANGE MANILA PRESENTS CULTURAL PALATES EVERY SUNDAY BRUNCH

Beginning March, enjoy your favorite buffet items once more, but this time, in an even safer setting! The all-day dining restaurant of the Food Exchange Manila opens its doors with all-you-can-eat Sunday brunch dining concept that includes live cooking stations and platters. Enjoy delicious carvings such as crispy pork belly and the finest seafood selections from mud crab to prawns, cheese and charcuterie, and celebrated cuisines from across the region cooked by the culinary experts of Novotel Manila.

ODE TO NONNA BY CHEF MASSIMILIANO

Our secret ingredient has a very personal story to tell! Executive Chef Massimiliano Pauletto cherishes his memory of his (grandmother) Nonna Esterina’s passionate cooking favorites and he’s ready to share it with the world! A new spin on flavors on the hotel’s F&B outlets are coming this March.

FISHERMAN’S CATCH

From the sea to your plate, Food Exchange Manila’s Fisherman’s Catch brings you the freshest flavors from the sea! Let’s take your palates to an unforgettable ocean adventure. Novotel Manila actively supports sustainable fishing, which is why the hotel offer responsibly sourced seafood like mussels, oysters, clams and prawns. Guests can choose grilled, baked or doused in one of the many fresh sauces available at the counters.

K (kalye) – POP!

Our Culinary team brings you what’s in and what’s POPular from the streets of Asia! Kalye Pop (KPOP) is a must-try mouthwatering gustatory adventure that will transport you to your favorite Asian streets. The journey continues to Southeast Asia with a variety of staple street dishes from Manila, Singapore, Bangkok, Jakarta and Hanoi.

MUMBAI EXPRESS

Do you enjoy delectable Indian cuisine? With authentic cuisine that pays homage to its traditional roots, our Indian-inspired Sunday brunch buffet will whet your hunger. Enjoy a well-balanced selection of international and Indian cuisines. Favorites including lobster biryani, crab coconut curry, and roasted chicken tandoor are on the menu selection. When you dine at our Indian buffet, expect to order more than second and third helpings. There’s a fantastic blend of classic Indian cooking and modern Indian fare here. Popular dishes include roasted lamb leg and seafood curry.

Find the perfect balance of flavors with Mumbai Express that’s diverse in variety and is made up of a wide array of regional cuisines throughout various parts of India. Explore Indian traditions and tastes as we bring Indian specialty dishes to your table.

INDULGE WITH NO GUILT

Whet your appetite with Indulge Gelato’s expanded menu selections with more Indulge baked goods, breads, select sugar-free pastries, and new gelato flavors. Indulge Gelato is ready to serve your daily dose of sweetness.

SEE YOU ON WEEKENDS AT THE 6TH MANILA

Amplify your Saturdays with an outdoor Weekend Barbecue Dinner Buffet at The 6^th Manila for only PHP 1,688 nett per person. With a line-up of handpicked dishes and an intimate setting that encourages good conversations to flow like wine, it’s going to be a memorable family weekend to remember.

Food Exchange Manila and The 6th Manila private dining spaces are ideal for a gourmet feast to be shared with the people you love, making celebrations and intimate gatherings secure, convenient, and pleasurable.

Stringent health and safety measures are followed to safeguard the well-being of all diners, guided by Accor’s strong commitment to ALLSAfe. The hotel’s best practices include periodic cleaning and sanitation, sneeze guards, social distancing methods, a QR-code enabled menu, and contactless payment with various payment gateways.

Ready to make a reservation? You can do that by reaching out to landline number 8990 7999 or mobile number 0949 886 5591 or email H7090-FB1@accor.com.

March 22, 2022
The Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature is Back, Now Accepting Entries for 2022
The wait is finally over for poets and literary artists!

After a two-year hiatus brought about by the global pandemic, the longest-running and most prestigious literary contest in the country is back and now accepting entries to the 70^th Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature (CPMA).

“We know that the past two years have been very challenging for everyone because of the pandemic. As we slowly get back on track and ease into the new normal, we believe the time is ripe to once again, promote and celebrate Philippine literature and honor our literary artists,” says Administrative Manager Bernardita Ben, CPMA official spokesperson.

CPMA is now accepting submissions to its regular categories as follows:
- Novel and Nobela categories;
- English Division – Short Story, Short Story for Children, Essay, Poetry, Poetry Written for Children, One-act Play, and Full-length Play;
- Filipino Division – Maikling Kuwento, Maikling Kuwentong Pambata, Sanaysay, Tula, Tulang Para sa mga Bata, Dulang May Isang Yugto, Dulang Ganap ang Haba, and Dulang Pampelikula;
- Regional Languages Division – Short Story-Cebuano, Short Story-Hiligaynon, and Short Story-Ilokano.
The special Kabataan Division for young writers below 18 years of age is also now open for entries in its two categories: English and Filipino. Submissions must be informal (personal) essays on the theme: “Life in the Midst of the Pandemic and Coping in the New Normal” (Kabataan Essay) and “Buhay sa Gitna ng Pandemya at Pagharap sa ‘New Normal’” (Kabataan Sanaysay).

The contest is open to all Filipino citizens or former Filipino citizens of all ages except current directors, officers, and employees of the Carlos Palanca Foundation, Inc. Authors who wish to join may submit only one (1) entry per category.

THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION OF ENTRIES for 70^th Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature (CPMA) IS ON 31 MAY 2022.

All submissions must be DONE ONLINE. The Carlos Palanca Foundation WILL NOT ACCEPT PRINTED AND EMAIL submissions for all categories.

The official contest rules and forms are available at the Carlos Palanca Awards website http://www.palancaawards.com.ph/.

For further inquiries and other concerns, email info@palancaawards.com.ph or call (632) 8843-8277 / (632) 8478-7996. Ask for Ms. Leslie Layoso or Ms. Susan Castillo.
March 21, 2022
It’s an Epic Celebrat-10-N: Lazada Celebrates 10 Years of Pioneering Ecommerce in The Philippines
Marking 10 years of trailblazing the growth of eCommerce in Southeast Asia, the region’s leading eCommerce platform Lazada invites shoppers on a personalized journey through Time Machine, an in-app feature celebrating special moments that added to consumers’ lives across the years. In a 10th anniversary special, Lazada’s LazLive channel also packs in 10 hours of non-stop livestream programs, exclusive giveaways, and celebrity performances at its signature Super Party, counting down to Lazada’s Epic 10th Birthday Sale that starts at midnight on 27 March.

Laz go back in time for an epic eCommerce journey!

As Lazada celebrates some of the biggest eCommerce milestones in the Philippines over the last 10 years, it also invites shoppers to embark on their very own personalized Lazada journey with the app’s Time Machine feature.

“Spurring the growth of Southeast Asia has been at the heart of Lazada’s mission since our inception as a pioneer of eCommerce in this region. As we mark our 10th anniversary this year, we also celebrate the businesses and communities that make up our ecosystem, for it is their trust in us that has enabled Lazada to become integral to the everyday lives of Southeast Asian consumers as we are today. The Time Machine in-app feature is our way of reminiscing shared moments, and thanking everyone for being on this amazing journey with us through the years.

Looking forward, we also remain committed in our trajectory to chart sustainable growth across our ecosystem and deliver value to our consumers’ lives – from investing in local competencies and enabling livelihoods to uplifting consumer experiences.” said Raymond Yang, Chief Operating Officer of Lazada Group.

With the Lazada Time Machine, users can unlock recent lifestyle insights and discover which of the nine unique shopper profiles they match with, to join in the celebrations of epic moments, big and small, spent on the Lazada App. Check out the Lazada Time Machine feature on the Lazada app and collect additional Lazada Epic 10th Birthday gifts when you share your #MyLazadaTimeMachine profiles on your own social media channels.

“We are proud to be commemorating 10 years of investing into the Philippine digital economy, becoming a top trusted lifestyle destination. In the road ahead, we will continue to empower more MSMEs to transform and scale their businesses. At the same time, with the increasing high-quality assortment and Shoppertainment offerings, Lazada hopes to further uplift our customers’ lifestyles with greater convenience and entertainment every day.” said Ray Alimurung, Chief Executive Officer of Lazada Philippines.

It’s an epic celebrat-10-n at the Lazada Super Party!

In a 10th anniversary special on 26 March, Lazada’s LazLive channel also packs in 10 hours of non-stop livestream programs, including interactive gameshows and exclusive giveaways leading up to its signature Super Party. Online shoppers can take part in the ultimate epic Shoppertainment experience by watching the performances, playing interactive games, and winning exciting prizes—all within the Lazada app!

Ka-Lazadas can look forward to counting down to Lazada’s Epic 10th Birthday Sale with Lazada’s Brand Ambassadors, including Alden Richards, Bea Alonzo, and SB19 together with Kapuso’s brightest stars with acts by Julie Anne San Jose, Christian Bautista, Barbie Forteza, and more!

Lazada is rolling out top trending acts and musical performances from the best artists in the entertainment industry with a fun-filled night of prizes, awards, and festivity. Three lucky Ka-Lazadas also stand a chance to become the newest Lazada Millionaires at the Super Party! In addition, Lazada is also giving away a brand-new condominium unit worth PHP 2.3M as well as PHP 18M worth of prizes and vouchers at Lazada’s Epic Super Party, which will take place from 10PM to 11:30 PM, March 26, and will be broadcasted on LazLive, GMA Network, GTV, as well as Lazada’s official TikTok, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube accounts.

Laz get this party started!

Lazada is upping the ante on its live interactive gameshows, this time by giving online shoppers and aspiring content creators a chance to win up to PHP 10,000 weekly when they showcase their Lazada Buys at Lazada’s content creation platform LazTalent: Kaya Mo? Show Mo! Epic 10th Birthday Sale. In addition, catch the LazLive Shopping Fest shows from March 18-24 to discover early birthday treats, piso deals, and win prizes. Finally, join Rochelle Pangilinan and our LazTalent Superstars for the LazLive Super Shop-a-Thon to discover deals as low as PHP 1 and get a chance to be one of the lucky winners of up to PHP 110,000 on March 27.

Lazada also launched its latest TV commercial starring Kathryn Bernardo, Alden Richards, and Bea Alonzo, where consumers are transported into Lazada City, a vibrant and futuristic retail wonderland, to meet Lazada’s beloved mascot Lazzie and a surprise guest around a colossal birthday cake at the heart of the city to celebrate Lazada’s Epic 10th Birthday.

Lazada will also launch a #ShareYourEpic birthday social media contest across Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand. From March 10 to 22, consumers in the Philippines can share their most epic birthday wish on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or Twitter and be one of 10 lucky winners of PHP 10,000 worth of Lazada vouchers. Visit lzd.co/ShareYourEpicWish to view the complete mechanics.

During the Epic 10 Birthday Sale, shoppers can also experience Lazada’s latest AI and AR-powered Virtual Try-On technology when shopping at the LazMall flagship stores of Bobbi Brown, Estée Lauder, and M.A.C., and immerse in hyper-realistic virtual makeovers with the beauty brands’ signature products before making a purchase.

Earlier this month, Lazada also lauded 18 outstanding women sellers at its second annual Lazada Forward Women Awards held recently during International Women’s Day on 8 March. The Awards spotlighted the achievements of the award recipients who found their creative niche, challenged social norms and grew the success of their businesses through the Lazada platform.

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Epic treats on Lazada Wallet and Lazada Loans

This March, Lazada users can continue to shop safely online and enjoy this month’s epic deals with Lazada Wallet and Lazada Loans.

With the Lazada app’s Balloon Blast mini-game, shoppers can win rebates for every cash-in of PHP 1,000, PHP 2000, and PHP 5000 on the app. The exciting feature awards users one, three, and eight balloons, respectively. Users may then pop the balloons to win rebates worth up to PHP 5000 x 1 + PHP 50 x 500, or PHP 10 per balloon pop (terms and conditions apply).

To celebrate its 10th year anniversary, Lazada is celebrating with financial partners on Lazada Loans to offer 0% interest for a limited time. Shoppers may sign up on Lazada Loans between the following dates to get the promo:
- Billease: March 1-31
- TendoPay: March 21-29
- Plentina: March 16-18, and 27-29
Don’t miss out on Lazada’s Epic 10th Birthday Celebration with a 3-day sale where shoppers can enjoy nationwide free shipping (no minimum spend), 10% Lazada Bonus Discount for every P1,000 spend, and 10% cashback, a Super Party, and so much more! Visit Lazada to know more.
March 21, 2022
There’s No Stopping You This Summer with Human Nature’s Essentials for the Season
In a tropical country like the Philippines, summer, or the hot dry season from March to May is widely anticipated by Filipino families and good friends. Since the Coronavirus outbreak, vacationing at the beach, visiting cooler provinces, and making time for outdoor hobbies are slowly becoming enjoyable again. And with more vaccinated individuals and more activities open to the public today, this year’s summer is looking a lot brighter than last year.

Hot summer days call for essentials that cool, moisturize, and protect. And because You Can’t Stop Summer, we’ll be seeing ourselves more in the great outdoors — the warmth of the sun kissing (and tanning!) our skin, reuniting with friends we missed so much, and making more wonderful memories! While being under the warmth of the sun sounds like a lot of fun, it can also dehydrate our skin and hair! We must also make sure we nourish and care for ourselves with only nature’s best! That’s why we’re completing your summer shopping list with cooling, moisturizing, and protective bath and body favorites for all your warm weather adventures!

We have cooling essentials that play to the warmer days by serving as a cool breeze that instantly perks up any mood. There are also moisturizing essentials that naturally help prevent dryness and soothe skin, and essentials that protect not only against harmful chemicals but also bug bites and ultraviolet rays that thrive during the country’s incomparable summer heat.

So take our advice and go grab these genuinely natural summer essentials to keep you going during your fun summer adventure!
1. Human Nature SafeProtect SPF30 PA++++ Sunscreen
Going to the beach or chillin’ by the poolside?

Shield yourself from the sun’s harmful rays with broad spectrum protection that armors against skin-aging UVA rays through superior PA++++ rating and deflects 97% of skin-burning UVB rays. Plus, enjoy your time at the beach knowing you’re wearing the #1 natural reef-safe sunscreen in the Philippines!

SafeProtect SPF30 PA++++ Sunscreen armors against skin-aging UVA rays, blocks skin-burning UVB rays and cares for coral reefs.
100% Natural, Oxibenzone-free, Hypoallergenic, Water Resistant, and the No. 1 Natural Reef-Safe Sunscreen in the Philippines
Price starts at P299.75
Also available: SafeProtect SPF30 PA+++ for Babies & Kids
1. Human Nature Cooling Body Cleanser with Rosemary & Mint
Enjoying your newfound outdoor hobbies?

Keep your cool and soothe your skin and senses with a refreshing thrill! Look forward to a cooling bath after a hot day outdoors. Breathe in the relaxing, spa-inspired fragrance of eucalyptus, rosemary, mint and lemon essential oils while lathering up with a delightfully cooling sensation.

Cooling Body Cleanser with Rosemary and Mint washes away dirt from with coconut-derived cleansers, refreshes with the tingly blend of peppermint & eucalyptus and protects skin from dryness with natural glycerin & aloe extract.
99.8% Natural, pH-Balanced, SLS/SLES-free, Paraben-free, Synthetic fragrance-free
Price starts at P199.75
1. Human Nature Cooling Leg and Body Cream
All packed for the road trip of your life?
Invigorate tired legs, back and shoulders with a revitalizing massage when hitting the road! Recharge with the tingly blend of eucalyptus, peppermint and bergamot, and keep skin soft with moisturizing aloe vera.

Cooling Leg & Body Cream cools down and moisturizes skin, and invigorates the body with the refreshing tingle of eucalyptus, peppermint and bergamot.
99.99% Natural, Mineral oil-free, Paraben-free, Synthetic fragrance-free, Silicone-free
P375 for 100ml
1. Human Nature Skin Shield Oil
Out to see nature’s best views?

Protect and moisturize your family’s skin when you explore the great outdoors. The nourishing blend of plant-derived ingredients infused with natural antibacterial citronella oil is safe for kids, gentle on the skin and kind to the environment.

Skin Shield Oil helps keep mosquitoes, bugs and other insects away with citronella and protects skin with soybean and eucalyptus oils.
100% Natural, Hypoallergenic, DEET-free, Safe for kids, pregnant, and breastfeeding women
Price starts at P99.75
Also available: Skin Shield Oil G6PD-Friendly and Skin Shield Lotion.
1. Human Nature Natural Shampoo Bar
Hungry for spontaneous adventures?

Wear down (or up!) delightfully soft and smooth hair without the plastic waste. Bring our spill-proof and compact natural shampoo bar with you on your adventures and make sure no plastic bottle is left behind! Green cleansers wash hair gently yet thoroughly while cocoa butter and avocado oil help nourish the scalp and keep strands hydrated!

Available in Strengthening (Bamboo & Petals scent) and Moisturizing (Zesty Vanilla Delight and Island Bloom scents)
Natural Shampoo Bars are solid solutions to healthy hair and a healthier planet! Breaking free from plastic waste can now be as easy as keeping your hair gorgeous with our potent, nourishing care wrapped up in a bar.
95% Natural, Vegan, pH-Balance
Price starts at P139.75
Also available: Shampoo Bars for Men and Kids
1. Human Nature Conditioning Hair Mist
Spending the entire day in the great outdoors?

Tresses feeling parched? Spritz on extra moisture to your thirsty hair and bring it back to healthy softness any time of the day! Rehydrate your locks with hydrolyzed jojoba’s conditioning properties that help keep hair from looking and feeling dry. Tame poofy hair with light, water-based formulation that won’t weigh your hair down so spray away anytime, anywhere!

Conditioning Hair Mist refreshes hair and keeps strands smelling sweet and feeling fresh with every spray. It masks funky odor and banishes the stubborn smell of vehicle fumes, cigarette smoke, food and sweat, and comes in a cool, tropical bloom scent
100% Natural, Vegan
P249.75 for 100ml
1. Human Nature Sunflower Lip Miracle
All set for whatever tropical weather forecast?

Pucker up to healthy-looking and crack-free lips (yes, in spite of the unpredictable weather!) Better yet, prep your lips two-ways to avoid dry, chapped lips altogether:

1.) Use as an overnight lip mask and awaken to irresistibly supple lips
2.) Apply after you put on lipstick to amplify shine

Available in Peach and Mint flavors
Sunflower Lip Miracle seals in rich hydration and quenches dryness with sunflower oil, and helps make lips look healthier with
44x Vitamin E.
100% Natural, MIneral Oil-free, Petrolatum-free, Artificial colors-free
P199.75 each
1. Human Nature Aloe Face Mist
Looking for some shield against humidity?

Cool down and stay fresh-faced as you face all your day-to-day mini (or great!) itineraries for the weeks to come! Say bye-bye to the sticky feel whenever you please with our skin-soothing, makeup-setting natural face mist!

Aloe Face Mist quenches parched skin, helps set makeup, energizes the face and gives a dewey, natural finish while helping strengthen skin and improve its elasticity.
99.98% Natural, Hypoallergenic, Vegan, Alcohol-free, Non-aerosol
P200 for 100ml
Also available: Rosedew Mist
1. Human Nature Cool & Gentle Feminine Wash
Hiking, cycling or dancing, ladies?

Experience a whole new level of freshness no matter what your summer activity is! With the purest care of our gentle, natural, plant-based feminine wash, stay naturally protected as every drop is formulated with soothing aloe vera, cooling actives and 100% pure chamomile oil.

Cool & Gentle Feminine Wash gently cleans with coconut-derived cleansers, protects from dryness with aloe extract and gives a natural cooling sensation and a calming chamomile scent.
99.57% Natural, Hypoallergenic, Vegan, pH-Balanced, SLS/SLES-free, Paraben-free, Synthetic fragrance-free
Starts at P61.75
1. Human Nature Cool Burst Spray Sanitizer
Going germ-free safety in all-time favorite summer activities?

Delight in a spritz of cooling freshness as you bid bacteria goodbye during your summer activities! Our natural formulation is clinically proven to kill 99.99% of germs. Plus, unlike other sanitizers, this won’t dry out your hands!

Bring it anywhere, use it on anything — it’s multipurpose, and contains no harmful chemicals such as hormone-disrupting triclosan. Plus, it contains soothing aloe extract that moisturizes the skin with Vitamins B1, B2, B6, C and amino acids. It keeps your hands germ-free minus the dryness!

Cool Burst Sanitizer contains 60% alcohol (sugarcane-derived ethyl) thus meeting the recommended standard for alcohol content in sanitizers by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Learn more at bit.ly/CDCNCoV.
99.99% Natural, Vegan, Triclosan-free
Starts at 64.75

Whether you’ve got the days planned out or you’re feeling spontaneous, our Filipino-made formulations of naturally cooling, moisturizing and protective essentials are ready for your outdoor adventures — because this 2022, there’s no stopping summer!
March 19, 2022
Piolo, Pepe, & Pia in the Wacky Love Triangle of ‘My Papa Pi’

“My Papa Pi,” the new show that will bring joy and good vibes to Filipinos, is finally airing this Saturday (March 19) featuring the “hopefuls” of Mapag-asa Street led by Piolo Pascual, Pepe Herrera, and Pia Wurtzbach.

Follow the story of twins Pipoy (Piolo) and Popoy (Pepe) and Tere (Pia), the woman that completes the love triangle starting tomorrow, 7 pm on Kapamilya Channel, A2Z, Kapamilya Online Live on Facebook and YouTube, iWantTFC, and TFC.

“My name is Pipoy Papa. Kambal ko si Pepe Herrera. Meron kaming tumbungan kaming kambal tapos meron akong anak si Mikay, na mahal na mahal ko. Marami kaming pangarap sa buhay kaso sa kasamaang palad may nangyari sa kambal ko and I had to do something para matuloy ‘yung legacy namin na tumbungan,” said Piolo about his character.

In the teaser released by Star Creatives Television recently, it was revealed that Pipoy and Popoy, who are total opposites, will become one after the sudden demise of the latter. Will Tere and their neighbors at Mapag-asa Street find out about their secret?

Meanwhile, “My Papa Pi” Cathy Garcia-Molina told viewers that apart from Piolo, Pepe, and Pia, they will surely love the other characters in their sweetcom played by Joross Gamboa, Katya Santos, Hyubs Azarcon, Anthony Jennings, Daniela Stranner, Frenchie Dy, Alora Sasam, Allyson Mcbride, Anthony Andres, Quincy Villanueva, Haiza Madrid, and Madam Inutz.

“Hindi lang naman si Piolo at si Pepe at si Pia ang bida dito. But the entire community, the hopefuls. So they are as important as them. It’s going to be entertaining for all of you,” shared Direk Cathy.

Just like the people in fictional Mapag-asa Street, the cast and crew of “My Papa Pi” have bonded well after being in lock-in taping for months, wherein a set resembling a real community famous for tumbungan was built.

Before the show’s debut on Saturday, the “My Papa Pi” family, led by its stars, will watch the premiere episode together this Friday (March 18) with some physically attending while some will be in zoom. Netizens were also given a chance to watch the first episode online, 48 hours in advance yesterday (March 17) via iWantTFC.

“My Papa Pi” will air every Saturday at 7 pm starting tomorrow (March 19) on Kapamilya Channel, A2Z, Kapamilya Online Live on Facebook and YouTube, iWantTFC, and TFC. Follow Star Creatives on Twitter , Facebook, and Instagram for updates.

For other news on ABS-CBN, follow @ABSCBNPR on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok or visit www.abs-cbn.com/newsroom.

March 19, 2022
Move on By Forgetting? Award-Winning Film ‘The Silence of Others’ Tells Why it is Not That Easy

Spain passed in 1977 an amnesty law that has come to be known as “the pact of forgetting”. It prohibits the prosecution of any crime against humanity committed during the 40-year dictatorship of General Francisco Franco for the sake of the country’s healing. But for much of the population, there is no peace in silence.

The Silence of Others

From March 25 to 27, Dokyu Power Documentary Film Festival will screen for free a film about the struggle of the victims and their families and their groundbreaking international lawsuit to fight “the pact of forgetting.”

Entitled The Silence of Others, the film is a cautionary tale about fascism and the dangers of forgetting the past. It is executive produced by Pedro Almodóvar and directed by Almudena Carracedo and Robert Bahar.

“We programmed this award-winning film to shed light on this ongoing legal battle and at the same time, explain why victims need justice, even decades after the crimes were committed. We also want to add to the discussion on the importance of talking about history before it leads to conflicting collective memory,” explains Kara Magsanoc Alikpala, president of the Filipino Documentary Society (FilDocs), one of the groups behind Dokyu Power.

Filmed over six-years, The Silence of Others tells the story of people like José María Galante, who lives meters away from the man who tortured him. Unknown to much of the world, in Spain today, torture victims live just blocks from their notorious police torturers who walk free everyday.

It also features the stories of families desperate to recover the bodies of their loved ones from thousands of mass graves across Spain. They are blocked by their own government from doing so. Ascensión Mendieta Ibarra, is one of them. She seeks to recover the bones of her father who died in 1939.

In addition to murders, forced disappearances and torture, babies belonging to opponents’ families were kidnapped to be given to political supporters. Tens of thousands of parents continue to search for their children who were likely stolen at birth.

The Silence of Others has won more the 40 international prizes, including the 2019 Goya for Best Feature Documentary (Spain’s Academy Award), two Emmy Awards (Emmy for Best Documentary and Outstanding Politics and Government Documentary), Peabody Award, and Panorama Audience Award and Peace Film Prize at the Berlinale (Berlin International Film Festival). It was also shortlisted for Best Feature Documentary for the 2019 Academy Awards.

Screening is for free via MOOV by Cinema Centenario. It may be accessed at cinemacentenario.com/dokyu-power.

The film festival Dokyu Power is organized together with Dakila and its Active Vista Center. It is supported by Cinema Centenario, Purin Film Fund and Rappler’s Move.Ph.

The organizers aim for the film festival to inspire Filipinos to claim their voices and vote in the Philippine national elections in May 2022 by presenting stories that show parallels of history and of people’s struggles towards empowerment. It is inspired by various people’s movements and our country’s own People Power. The festival started last February 25, during the anniversary of People Power and will end on April 9, during the country’s celebration of the Day of Valor.

A Q&A with the film directors will also be presented by the organizers on March 25, from 8 PM to 8:30 PM, on the festival’s Facebook page. The event will provide audiences with a closer look at the film and will discuss the film’s parallels to the current state of the country.

March 18, 2022
LOOK: Dumbledore’s First Army in ‘Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore’

Get an inside look into the making of ‘Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore‘ with a newly-released featurette about Dumbledore’s First Army. The launch coincided with the reveal of solo posters of characters belonging to the magical group.

Check out the video below and watch “Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore” exclusively in cinemas across the Philippines on Black Saturday, April 16.

About “Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore”

Warner Bros. Pictures’ “Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore” is the newest adventure in the Wizarding World™ created by J.K. Rowling.

Professor Albus Dumbledore (Jude Law) knows the powerful Dark wizard Gellert Grindelwald (Mads Mikkelsen) is moving to seize control of the wizarding world. Unable to stop him alone, he entrusts Magizoologist Newt Scamander (Eddie Redmayne) to lead an intrepid team of wizards, witches and one brave Muggle baker on a dangerous mission, where they encounter old and new beasts and clash with Grindelwald’s growing legion of followers. But with the stakes so high, how long can Dumbledore remain on the sidelines?

The film features an ensemble cast led by Oscar winner Eddie Redmayne (“The Theory of Everything”), two-time Oscar nominee Jude Law (“Cold Mountain,” “The Talented Mr. Ripley”), Ezra Miller, Dan Fogler, Alison Sudol, Callum Turner, Jessica Williams, Katherine Waterston, and Mads Mikkelsen.

“Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore” was directed by David Yates, from a screenplay by J.K. Rowling & Steve Kloves, based upon a screenplay by J.K. Rowling. The film was produced by David Heyman, J.K. Rowling, Steve Kloves, Lionel Wigram and Tim Lewis. Neil Blair, Danny Cohen, Josh Berger, Courtenay Valenti and Michael Sharp served as executive producers.

ALSO READ:
WATCH: The Wizarding World is at War in New ‘Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore’ Trailer
WATCH: Mads Mikkelsen is Grindelwald in ‘Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore’ Trailer

Warner Bros. Pictures presents a Heyday Films Production, a David Yates film, “Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore,” in Philippine theaters April 16. The film will be distributed worldwide in select theatres and IMAX by Warner Bros. Pictures.

Join the conversation online and use the hashtag #SecretsOfDumbledore

March 18, 2022
The Wedding Library’s #MayForever Bridal Fair 2022

Start your journey to FOREVER at The Wedding Library’s #MayForever Bridal Fair this May 6, 7 & 8, at the Megatrade Halls, SM Megamall!

Get a chance to WIN P100,000.00 by BOOKING your suppliers here

Hundreds of thousands worth of discounts and freebies await you at the only bridal fair that believes na #MayForever.

Meet over 150+ Philippine wedding suppliers all under one roof!

Save The Date

Register for FREE ENTRANCE at: https://www.weddinglibrarybridalfair.com.ph/register

March 17, 2022
Max’s Restaurant Offers a BOGO Promo on Their Halo-Halo, Knickerbocker, & More!
Max’s Restaurant, the iconic Filipino restaurant chain famous for its Sarap-to-the-Bones® Fried Chicken is celebrating National Halo-Holiday on March 26 with a special offer to its customers. For that day only, guests can buy any summer cooler and get another one for free!

Nowadays many are feeling the heat, whether from the sun or the environment, so it’s a great time to pause and chill with a refreshing dessert to calm the mind and body. What’s even better is customers can spread the spirit of giving by treating a friend, partner, workmate, or family member when availing the promo.

Guests can choose any of the following solo servings of Samalamig:
- Halo-Halo: A favorite Pinoy dessert consisting of sweetened beans, gulaman, shaved ice, milk, and topped with Selecta ice cream.
- Mais Con Yelo: A summertime treat made with sweet corn, shaved ice, milk, and topped with Selecta ice cream.
- Knickerbocker: A fruitier version of Max’s Halo-Halo made with fresh watermelon, mango, buko strings, gulaman, milk, and topped with strawberry ice cream and bits of our Caramel Bar.
- Classic or Ube Ice Scramble: A classic childhood dessert made with shaved ice, skimmed milk, sugar, and topped with colorful sprinkles, mini marshmallows, and chocolate syrup.
This Halo-Holiday offer can be enjoyed whether for dine-in, take-out, and delivery in all stores nationwide. Orders can also be made through delivery.maxchicken.com or 888-79000.

For more information, visit the official Facebook page at @MaxsRestaurant. Customers may also use the hashtag #MaxsHaloHoliday.
March 17, 2022
Huawei Launches the nova 9 SE with 108MP Camera & Handy Vlogging Features

Huawei Philippines officially debuted the HUAWEI nova 9 SE — the latest smartphone in the nova line, designed for young creatives. Through an exclusive launch event at Shangri-La the Fort, themed “Super nova, Super camera,” Huawei aimed to spark creativity and celebrate authenticity in limitless experience. Graced by the presence of all-time Huawei users Julia Barretto, Kylie Verzosa, and Bella Racelis, this star-studded launch event also came to life through a series of experience hubs, designed to evoke the feeling of an outer-space journey, and epic visual demonstrations of technological talent.

Introducing the nova 9 SE

Huawei’s new nova 9 SE is equipped with the most advanced and most powerful capabilities that can help enable the young generation of today to indulge in their interests and passions, regardless of who they are. This new Huawei nova innovation changes the game and lets any aspiring content creator get their foot in the door, and takes things onto even greater heights. With the following key features, anyone can be sure this product is the best photography and vlogging tool for young and fresh content creators:

Super Camera & Super Vlog Experience

With the Huawei nova 9 SE’s 108MP AI quad-camera system compromising the main 108MP camera, an 8MP ultrawide lens, a 2MP Bokeh lens, and a macro lens, moments can be captured in crystal-clear detail. Designed for any situation, this new nova’s super camera produces crisp footage in exciting high-resolution images, lossless even when they are zoomed 3x. As the action picks up, users benefit from smooth transitions at a touch with the new nova’s Continuous Front/Rear Recording capabilities. There’s also the Dual-View Video capability that lets you vlog like never before. Vlog like never before with Dual-View Video, that enables recording for both front and rear footage at the same time, stitch them together. No need to worry now about missing life’s greatest moments with these powerful nova camera capabilities.

Super Charge

With a massive 4,000mAh battery and 66W HUAWEI SuperCharge technology support, the new nova smartphone is a dependable companion throughout the unpredictable twists and turns of your day. It only takes 15 minutes to charge the new smartphone to 60% capacity, up to about half an hour for 100%.

Super Display

The phone stands at 6.78in and measures 7.94mm, perfect for easy viewing yet also comfortably slipping into your pocket. The display also features ultra-narrow bezels; 1.1mm at the top, 1.05mm on the sides. With an otherworldly supernova-inspired design, the phone comes in three breathtaking skyscape colorways: Crystal Blue, Pearl White, and Midnight Black. The star orbit ring camera additionally refracts light like starlight, in line with the thematic concept behind the nova line.

Super Device

Powered by the EMUI 12, the nova 9 SE seamlessly integrates with other Huawei devices at the swipe of a finger. With a complete Huawei inventory, the sky is the limit. Buying the nova 9 SE is worth it on its own, but Huawei goes above and beyond by making sure every Huawei purchase exponentializes the whole against the sum of its parts.

The nova line, a tribute to the youth

The Huawei Country Head, Peter Peng, made a charmingly earnest speech to ultimately make the point that the nova 9 SE is a product for the youth. The Huawei engineers and designers behind the nova line have always taken inspiration from the evolving hopes and dreams of the youth, who are the most invested in protecting and improving our future — and the nova line has grown in ways they could never have imagined by themselves. The nova 9 SE is a celebration of that boundless passion and creativity that fuel the current young generation right now, packaged with technologies that would best enable them to engage in conversations and offer ideas online. “Here at Huawei, with the nova 9 SE,” Peng proudly exclaimed, “we democratize creativity so anyone can express themselves. The nova 9 SE is our gift to the youth.”

With Julia Barretto, Kylie Verzosa and Bella Racelis, the Huawei team showed their appreciation to everyone who came by raffling off several favorite Huawei products to the guests. Chiefly coveted overall were, of course, the nova 9 SE units gifted to the luckiest ones, who received the units with joy.

The whole event was live-streamed on all of Huawei Philippines’ social media pages, viewed by scores of aspiring content creators, tech wunderkinds, and loyal fans eager to be some of the first to get nova 9 SE’s as well. Truly, it was a night to be remembered for a very long time.

Pre-order the new HUAWEI nova 9 SE for PHP13,999 from March 18 to March 24, 2022 and get freebies such as the HUAWEI FreeBuds 4i and HUAWEI Cloud worth PHP4,745. Get it from the Huawei Online Store, or at the Huawei Flagship Stores on Lazada, and Shopee.

Visit Huawei Philippines’ official pages on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, to stay updated on the latest promos and devices.

March 17, 2022