Author: Press Release

Last Call for Talents: Join the MSO Concerto Competition 2025 Before the October 8 Deadline!
The Manila Symphony Orchestra Foundation is excited to welcome back the MSO Concerto Competition 2025!

This long-standing tradition, first held in the 1960s and 1970s, has been an important part of the Manila Symphony Orchestra’s history of discovering and encouraging young Filipino talents. Many outstanding soloists had their first big break through this very competition, and now, the MSO is continuing that legacy for today’s generation of musicians.

The MSO Concerto Competition 2025 hopes to give gifted young instrumentalists the chance to shine, grow in their artistry, and experience the joy of performing as a soloist with a professional orchestra.

CATEGORIES

1. Instrument
- Strings (violin, viola, cello, double bass, harp, guitar)
- Woodwinds (flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, saxophone)
- Brasses (trumpet, horn, trombone, tuba)
- Piano
2. Age Levels
- Level A: Not more than 12 years old by October 8, 2025 (3 winners)
- Level B: 13-18 years old as of October 8, 2025 (3 winners)
- Level C: 19 to 25 years old as of October 8, 2025 (3 winners)
REPERTOIRE REQUIREMENTS
- Applicants must prepare one complete movement from a standard concerto of the Baroque, Classical, or Romantic period.
- The piece must be performed from memory.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE

1. Video Submission
- Applicants must submit a video recording of their chosen concerto movement, performed from memory.
- Piano accompaniment is recommended but not mandatory.
- The video must be unedited, recorded in a single take, and should not be older than 2 months.
2. Application Form
- Applicants must complete the official MSO Concerto Competition Application Form and submit alongside the video link.
- Proof of age (valid ID) required.
- ₱1,000 Application Fee Applies
3. Deadline
- October 8, 2025
SELECTION PROCESS
- A screening committee composed of MSO musicians and qualified guest adjudicators will evaluate all submissions.
- Finalists will be chosen based on technical mastery, musicality, artistic expression, and overall musicianship.
- Winners from each level will be announced no later than October 10, 2025.
PRIZES AND PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITY
- Winners will be invited to perform with the Manila Symphony Orchestra in the Concert of Winners at the GSIS Theater on October 15, 2025.
- Each winner will perform the same concerto movement submitted during the competition.
- A total of 9 winners will be selected: 3 from Level A, 3 from Level B, 3 from Level C.
GENERAL RULES

1. The competition is open to all Filipino citizens and foreign students currently studying in the Philippines within the specified age brackets.

2. Judges’ decisions are final.

3. By submitting an entry, applicants grant the MSO Foundation permission to use their recordings and performance materials for promotional, archival, or educational purposes.

The MSO Concerto Competition 2025
Concert of Winners is on
October 15, 2025 Wednesday
7:30PM
GSIS Theater, Pasay City

Tickets are available at Ticketworld
Orchestra Center P2,000
Orchestra Sides P1,000
Balcony P500

CONTACT INFORMATION
Manila Symphony Orchestra – Circuit Makati Office
Address: 3rd Floor, Circuit Lane, AP Reyes Street, Circuit Makati, Makati City, Metro Manila

Telephone: (02) 8523 5712
Email: info@manilasymphony.com
Website: www.manilasymphony.com
September 30, 2025
Limited Slots Left for the First ASICS META: Time: Trials Philippines Run This October 19

For the first time ever, the ASICS META: Time: Trials, a global race redefining road running, is coming to the Philippines. Happening on October 19, 2025, at the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub, the ASICS META: Time: Trials is a 10KM road race that invites runners to push their limits and chase new personal bests. With limited slots available, runners with a love for the sport and a drive to hit new personal records now have the chance to be part of a race experience built to celebrate exactly that.

Fresh off its success in Spain, Thailand, and Malaysia, this global event is engineered for speed: wide, flat courses, race-day precision, and world-class support. It’s a format that has already produced breakthrough moments, including Sonny Wagdos’ championship victory in Thailand 2024 and 2025, along with Richard Salaño’s podium finish in 2024 – proof that Filipino runners can rise to the international stage. Even in the female division, Joida Gagnao bagged second place in the 2023 and 2025 editions of the ASICS META: Time: Trials in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and Bangkok, Thailand, respectively.

While the spirit of the ASICS META: Time: Trials is all about reaching new personal bests, the inaugural Philippine edition comes with a competitive edge: a ₱400,000 cash prize pot, split equally between the men’s and women’s divisions.

With ₱200,000 per division, the ASICS META: Time: Trials Philippines is set to be one of the most competitive 10KM races of the year.

“This is more than just a run, it’s a global performance experience,” said Ishina Buxani, Marketing Director of the SONAK Retail Group, the official distributor of ASICS in the Philippines. “The Philippines is home to one of the most passionate running communities in the region, and bringing the ASICS META: Time: Trials here is about giving every runner the opportunity to push their limits and discover what they’re truly capable of.”

In the lead-up to race day, the ASICS Running Club (ARC) offers free weekly training sessions on Tuesdays at ASICS Glorietta, Thursdays at ASICS Festival Mall, and Fridays at SM Mall of Asia. These sessions provide expert guidance, structured training plans, and highlight ASICS’ latest performance innovations to help participants prepare for their fastest race yet.

Don’t miss your chance to run for glory, or your fastest self, at the inaugural ASICS META: Time: TrialsPhilippines. Only limited slots are left for this first-of-its-kind race in the Philippines! Register online now via Race Roster.

Stay updated by following @ASICSPH on Facebook and Instagram.

September 30, 2025
Online Booking for Ceres Transport Now Available!
Great news, commuters! Ceres Transport – the largest fleet operating in Visayas and Mindanao with major hubs in Batangas, is now available for online booking through biyaheroes.com! Passengers can now choose their seats, get points and freebies, and choose from multiple payment options such as Gcash, Maya, credit/debit card, banks, payment centers, and more.

Currently, the schedules live for online booking are:
- Busport Araneta City to/from Batangas Grand Terminal and Batangas Pier
- LRT Buendia to/from Batangas Grand Terminal and Batangas Pier
- Cubao (Kamuning) to Batangas Grand Terminal
- Cubao (Kamuning) to/from Batangas Pier
- Cubao (Kamuning) to/from Bulalacao, Mindoro
- Cubao (Kamuning) to/from Dumaguete via EB Magalona/Kabankalan
- Cubao (Kamuning) to/from Iloilo via Central, Antique, Calinog or Roxas, Estancia
- Cubao (Kamuning) to/from Guihulngan
- Cubao (Kamuning) to/from San Jose, Mindoro
- Cubao (Kamuning) to/from Zamboanga
- PITX to/from Batangas Grand Terminal and Batangas Pier
- PITX to/from San Jose, Mindoro
More routes and schedules will be added online soon!

And as part of the digital launch, Biyaheroes and Ceres are giving away free shirts to the first 100 passengers who book their Ceres trips online!

Enjoy the convenience and peace of mind of booking your Ceres commutes online. Other destinations such as Ilocos Region, La Union, Baguio, Sagada, Palawan, and various ferry routes are also available through Biyaheroes.
September 27, 2025
PAWS Confers Certified Pet-Friendly Seal to Ayala Malls Vertis North

The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) has officially conferred its first-ever Certified Pet Friendly Seal to Ayala Malls Vertis North, in recognition of the establishment’s commitment to creating a safe, welcoming environment for people and their beloved companion animals.

The certification underscores the mall’s inclusive pet policy that welcomes all breeds, especially aspins (Asong Pinoy) and puspins (Pusang Pinoy)—showing that pet-friendliness goes beyond pedigrees and embraces all animals equally.

Ayala Malls Vertis North is also a proud KabaliCAT partner, supporting PAWS’ Trap-Neuter Vaccinate-Return (TNVR) program for community cats. Through this collaboration, the mall not only provides pet-friendly spaces but also contributes directly to responsible and humane population management of stray animals.

“The PAWS Pet-Friendly Seal is our way of honoring establishments that go the extra mile for companion animals and their humans,” said Atty. Anna Cabrera, PAWS Executive Director. “We commend Ayala Malls Vertis North for its inclusivity in welcoming aspins and puspins, and for its active partnership in TNVR through KabaliCAT. This is what true pet-friendliness looks like— creating safe spaces while also addressing animal welfare at the community level.”

This marks the official conferment of the PAWS Pet-Friendly Seal to a shopping mall, setting a standard for other establishments to follow in promoting responsible pet ownership and animal welfare in the country.

September 23, 2025
Run Like a Hero: Animal Kingdom Foundation’s Run Fur Life Returns to Bridgetowne!

Animal lovers, save the date: Animal Kingdom Foundation’s Run Fur Life 10 is happening at Central Park, Bridgetowne Destination Estate in Pasig City on Sept. 28.

It is the third time the event is being held at Bridgetowne, a premier destination estate by Robinsons Land (RLC), a pet-welcoming community that champions events for all, including our furry friends. The animal-inclusive event welcomes runners of all ages and their furry companions to a safe, vibrant space. Yes, you can run with your fur baby. There are three race categories: kids, adults and fur parents.

“For the past three years, Robinsons Land has been a proud supporter of AKF and Run Fur Life. By lending its open spaces to Run Fur Life, Bridgetowne reaffirms its commitment to creating meaningful spaces that bring together people, pets, and purpose. We’re excited to welcome back animal lovers, fur babies in tow,” said Mybelle V. Aragon-GoBio, Robinsons Land President and CEO. “At Robinsons, we believe pets are family. That’s why we’ve made sure our estates, malls, hotels—and soon even offices—are welcoming to them.”

“As the home of Run Fur Life 2025’s Superhero Edition, Bridgetowne transforms into a vibrant stage where everyday heroes come together for a cause. It is a place that celebrates not only lifestyle and leisure, but also compassion, advocacy, and collective action,” says Trina B. Cipriano, vice president and BU General Manager for Robinsons Destination Estates.

“Run Fur Life isn’t just a fun run—it’s a symbol of hope,” said AKF President Atty. Heidi Marquez-Caguioa. “Every step taken is a step toward a kinder world for animals. We’re thrilled to mark 10 years of running together with compassionate hearts. This year, we celebrate everyday heroes, friends, families, and fur families coming together for fitness, fun, and compassion, all in support of the voiceless.”

RLC, through its shopping malls, also supports the rehoming of strays and abandoned pets, expanding the reach of AKF’s mission. True to that vision, Robinsons Malls launched the Happy Pets Club nearly a decade ago—a community initiative that supports responsible pet ownership through exclusive services, events, and a shared space for animal lovers.

Run Fur Life is powered by a dedicated group of volunteers who juggle day jobs while committing their time and energy to support the mission of Animal Kingdom Foundation (AKF). They include animal welfare advocates, pet lovers, professionals from various industries, students and community leaders.

Since 2002, the AKF has been on a mission to end animal cruelty and promote kindness to all creatures. Among AKF’s projects are spay and neuter programs, anti-rabies vaccination drives, and animal welfare education.

Run Fur Life is one of AKF’s flagship projects—dedicated to supporting abandoned, rescued, and vulnerable animals while raising awareness and much-needed funds. Thousands of participants have joined since its launch, raising significant funds for animal welfare.

Proceeds will go to the AKF Rescue and Rehabilitation Center in Capas, Tarlac and will be used to rescue, shelter, rehabilitate and rehome dogs and cats. Tales of rescued dogs and cats finding forever homes are happy proof of Run Fur Life’s life-changing impact.

To register, visit https://bit.ly/RFL10. You can also support the cause by sponsoring, donating, or volunteering.

September 22, 2025
Techno Holdings’ THC Health & Beauty Hub opens at Shangri-la Plaza Mall this November

Envisioning a space that fosters vitality in life’s essential areas, Techno Holdings Corporation (THC) announces the upcoming opening of THC Health & Beauty Hub (THBH)  at Shangrila Plaza Mall. The 455-square-meter hub designed by CPG Design & Architecture, will house a total of five concept stores and will serve as the Philippines’ new home for Phiten, a new location for Nora Japanese Hair Salon and Nora Lab, and will also include Miss Esthe Facial Salon and Skin Care. This multi-brand flagship space will host the opening of the first two stores, Phiten and Nora Lab, in October, while the rest are set to open in November.

Phiten is a Japanese health and body care brand that promotes relaxation and healthy life conditioning using patented Aqua Metal/Nano technology. THBH  will house the first Phiten IP Salon location outside Japan. The health and recovery center features advanced technology and equipment such as the hyperbaric Oxygen (O2 Alpha) chamber, Healthy Light Bathing Capsule, Aqua Titan Bathing Egg, Bathing Egg Beauty, and water wave massage beds. Phiten’s retail store, on the other hand, will sell health and body care products along with innovative items like stylish bracelets, necklaces, Phiten tape, and apparel that support relaxation, relieve body pain, enhance performance, and promote overall body balance.

Nora Hair Salon is a Kami Charisma-awarded Japanese salon led by renowned hairstylist Hidekazu Ando-san. The Nora Lab operates as a training facility exclusively for Nora’s Hair Salon stylists and trainees. The Nora Lab trainees and assistants undergo a strict training program with a curriculum explicitly designed by Nora’s Japanese creative directors. The Japanese hair salon shares an open, walk-through reception area with Miss Esthe, a top Japanese esthetic clinic where estheticians are trained to help clients achieve beautiful skin through gentle and thorough techniques.

By bringing together these leading Japanese brands, THC has achieved a significant milestone in offering exceptional products and services within a single, beautifully designed space.

Visit http: technoholdings.com.ph to learn more about Techno Holdings Corp.

September 22, 2025
Zac Efron’s favorite eyewear is finally in Vision Express

Police eyewear, De Rigo Group’s house brand, has finally landed in Vision Express, with acclaimed actor and producer Zac Efron at the forefront.

True to its mission to make designer brands accessible to more Filipinos, Vision Express, the leading premium optical retailer in the Philippines, has brought Police frames and sunglasses to selected stores nationwide.

“We are ecstatic to bring Police in Vision Express because we believe this is a brand that resonates with Filipinos – bold, passionate, unapologetic. Their new tagline, Audacity Wanted, talks to the Filipino men who exude style and boldness,” shares Vision Express President Neelam Gopwani.

The collection

In a society where having audacity is deemed appalling, Police eyewear embraces it in their Spring/Summer 2025 collection. This boldness is interpreted and expressed through Zac Efron’s multifaceted personality. Efron epitomizes the new kind of man Police envisions – one with a modern sense of masculinity, mindful of the environment, and capable of reinventing himself while staying true to who he is.

The Police collection reinterprets tradition with an innovative and distinctive design. It is divided into two main segments: Contemporary, which offers original and modern shapes for a fresh and dynamic look, characterized by the application of the “Gothic P” or Police logo.

The second segment, Origins, is inspired by more classic lines and is recognizable by the iconic eagle logo, a tribute to the brand’s historical roots. These are joined by Statement, the line that represents the excellence of the brand, encompassing the most distinctive and exclusive styles.

Book your free eye test today and head on over to the nearest Vision Express stores to try on the Police SS25 collection. To learn more about Vision Express, please visit https://visionexpress.ph/ and follow Vision Express on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.

About Vision Express

Vision Express offers state-of-the-art vision care technology paired with a truly personal approach to eye care – focusing on what brings joy in life, as well as prescription needs. Home to various global luxury eyewear labels like Ray-Ban, Celine, Loewe, Prada, Gucci, Cartier, Bvlgari, Burberry, Bottega Veneta, Dior, and Vision Express exclusive Tony Morgan London, paired with the World’s Best Lens Innovation from Shamir, Tokai, and Opulens—customized based on not just your face shape, but also tailored to your every day, work, or play lifestyle.

September 17, 2025
Blankets, Playlists, and Popcorn: Lionsgate Play’s Perfect Ber Month Binge

There’s something about the “Ber months” that feels instantly different. The nights get cooler, Christmas playlists start sneaking into jeepney rides and malls, and the air carries that faint mix of nostalgia and excitement. In the Philippines, September doesn’t just mark the start of the holiday countdown – it’s also the perfect excuse to slow down, cozy up, and indulge in feel-good entertainment.

Whether you’re into love stories that make your heart flutter, supernatural romances with a bite, or dramas that feel achingly real, Lionsgate Play has something for every mood. Here are five comforting picks to kick off the Ber month binge.

The Twilight Saga

Few things match the brooding mood of September better than vampires, werewolves, and a love triangle that had the whole world choosing sides. Long before today’s headline-making romances – yes, we’re looking at you, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce – Bella and Edward had their own ultimate ‘forever’ moment, an engagement reveal that sent Team Edward and Team Jacob into absolute overdrive. The Twilight Saga follows Bella Swan (Kristen Stewart), an ordinary girl who falls for the enigmatic Edward Cullen (Robert Pattinson), only to discover he’s a vampire. As their romance deepens, childhood friend Jacob Black (Taylor Lautner) steps in with his own secrets. With danger, desire, and supernatural stakes at every turn, it’s the perfect marathon for nights when you want a love story as intense as it is iconic.

What Women Want

When a freak accident gives advertising exec Nick Marshall (Mel Gibson) the power to hear women’s thoughts, his world – and ego – turn upside down. At first, he uses his new ability to get ahead at work, but everything changes when he meets his brilliant new boss Darcy McGuire (Helen Hunt). As Nick begins to understand the women around him, he also learns a few things about himself and what it really takes to win someone’s heart. Witty, charming, and just the right amount of cheesy, What Women Want is proof that love can be found when you least expect it.

Dirty Dancing

Set in the summer of 1963, this beloved musical follows Frances “Baby” Houseman (Jennifer Grey) on vacation with her family at a sleepy Catskills resort. When she meets dance instructor Johnny Castle (Patrick Swayze), she’s drawn into his electrifying world of music, movement, and late-night rehearsals. What starts as secret lessons quickly turns into a romance that challenges both their worlds and leads to one of the most iconic final dance scenes ever filmed. With its legendary soundtrack and unforgettable final dance, this film isn’t just a favorite – it’s a rite of passage.

Normal People

This beautifully raw series, based on Sally Rooney’s acclaimed novel, follows Marianne (Daisy Edgar-Jones), a sharp and solitary young woman, and Connell (Paul Mescal), the well-liked boy from her school, as they weave in and out of each other’s lives from high school through university. Their relationship shifts from secret romance to deep friendship to painful estrangement, all while they struggle with family pressures, personal insecurities, and the push and pull of first love. With its quiet intensity, breathtaking performances, and deeply relatable moments, it’s the kind of drama that lingers long after the last episode.

Warm Bodies

A zombie romcom? Believe it. When undead loner R (Nicholas Hoult) saves human survivor Julie (Teresa Palmer), an unlikely romance begins to bloom and maybe even spark the end of the apocalypse. With its clever humor, surprising warmth, and a romance that literally brings new life, Warm Bodies is an offbeat love story perfect for a cozy night in.

From classic romances to supernatural adventures, Lionsgate Play has everything you need to set the perfect mood this September. Time to grab a blanket, pour yourself something warm, and let the Ber month binge begin.

September 16, 2025
Shop, Dine, Repeat: UNIQLO, Shake Shack, and More Open at GH Mall’s South Wing

GH Mall’s South Wing is buzzing with anticipation as a fresh wave of stores is ready to welcome more shoppers and foodies with the opening of 14 new establishments. From diverse cuisines to international brands, you’ll have plenty of options for your next visit with the fam.

UNIQLO is Coming to GH Mall

The biggest store opening coming to GH Mall is UNIQLO, with two floors of stylish pieces to browse from. The popular clothing brand from Japan is bringing its wide range of high-quality and functional “LifeWear,” cool UT collections, and more closer to shoppers.

UNIQLO officially opens its doors at GH Mall’s South Wing on September 19, 2025.

Shake Shack, Yabu, and More Restaurants Opening

Foodies will have no shortage of delectable finds at GH Mall’s South Wing. Get your savory fix at Shake Shack, which just opened on September 1, Peri-Peri Chicken, and Yabu; have a hearty feast with Tong Yang’s hotpot selection and filling meals from Super Uncle Claypot, Ocean Empire, and Gingerlily.

Top off a long day of shopping and eating with sweet desserts from La Creperie, Pinkberry, and Sour Sally. You can also get your much-deserved beverage fix at Starbucks, Chi Cha San Chen, and Dough Creamery Cafe.

If you’re looking for your next hangout spot for the week, head to GH Mall’s newly opened stores in the South Wing. You can also discover more experiences, from shopping local and international clothing brands to fun interactive activities, in GH Mall’s other wings.

For more updates and information on GH Mall’s new establishment, follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

September 15, 2025
Don’t Miss the Beat: Theatre Group Asia Announces Ticket Sales for “A Chorus Line”

Fresh from the success of Into the Woods, Theatre Group Asia (TGA) brings another Broadway landmark to local audiences with A Chorus Line*, celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Tickets sales roll out starting September 15-17 for BPI card holders, TGA early sign-ups on September 18, and to the general public September 19 via Ticket World.

A landmark in American musical theatre and celebrating its 50^th Anniversary this year, A Chorus Line revolutionized Broadway by spotlighting the lives of ensemble dancers—the unsung heroes of every musical. As it follows 17 hopefuls vying for eight spots, it becomes an ode to ambition, sacrifice, and individuality. TGA is bringing this story to life with an all-Filipino cast, celebrating the global talent and cultural depth of the Philippines.TGA’s Overall Artistic and Creative Director, Tony Award-winner Clint Ramos, shares, “This local production of A Chorus Line will honor the iconic legacy of its original 1975 premiere while breathing new life into its message for a new generation.” The musical is notable for its stripped-down set, iconic choreography, and intensely personal monologues that explore identity, perseverance, and the often invisible cost of chasing a dream. It remains one of the few musicals to ever win the 1976 Pulitzer Prize for Drama aside from winning the Tony Awards for Best Musical, Best Book of A Musical (James Kirkwood), Best Original Score (Marvin Hamlisch and Edward Kleban), Best Director (Michael Bennett), and Best Choreography (Michael Bennett and Bob Avian) that same year.

As it celebrates its golden year, this enduring production continues to inspire anyone who’s ever dared to chase a dream. Beloved songs include “One [Singular Sensation],” “What I Did For Love,” “I Can Do That,” “I Hope I Get It,” and “The Music and the Mirror.” A film adaptation was released in 1985, directed by Richard Attenborough and starring Michael Douglas.

New York-based Emmy Award-winning Karla Puno Garcia who is set to direct and choreograph the musical shares, “This production is as much about discovering raw, beautiful talent as it is about telling a story.” The celebrated respected Fil-Am artist and dance educator expounds, “I’ve lived this story. I’ve been the dancer hoping to be seen, fighting to be chosen, giving everything to the moment. Now, I get to turn that experience into an opportunity for others.”

Puno Garcia promises a production that remains faithful to the original material while making it resonate with a younger set of Filipino theatergoers, “I’ve been in conversation with Baayork Lee, who embodies the spirit of the original production. Once we complete the casting, we’ll breathe new life into the material while staying true to the original show’s hallmarks. I’m especially excited to explore the characters with the all-Filipino cast we’re forming. I want to hear their stories and how they connect with the roles they’re portraying. I can’t wait to be inspired by their perspectives and find a way to use our combined experiences to organically create something that translates into today.”

Puno Garcia collaborates with TGA Executive Director and former internationally acclaimed danseur Christopher Mohnani, Associate Choreographer JM Cabling, and a host of Filipino talents driven to make this staging in the words of the musical, “One singular sensation!”

Tickets are available through Ticket World premiere.ticketworld.com.ph. Ticket prices start from PHP900 to PHP5,500. A Chorus Line will run from March 12-29, 2026. Thursday and Friday shows are at 7:30 p.m. Two shows are staged on Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

For more information, visit TGA’s website www.theatregroupasia.com, Instagram @theatregroupasia, or Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/theatregroupasia.

September 15, 2025