Author: Press Release

FEU Student Films Advance to FAMAS Short Film Festival 2026

Far Eastern University Department of Communication student filmmakers continue to make waves in Philippine independent cinema as short films “Kahel” and “Lily” were named official selections for the FAMAS Short Film Festival 2026.

Organized by the Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences in partnership with REMS Entertainment, led by festival director Gabby Ramos and FAMAS president Francia Conrado, the festival selected the films from hundreds of submissions across the country. The event now awaits the Nomination Night on October 9, followed by the Awards Night on November 11.

Directed by Garnet Morilla Llames, BA Communication Batch 2026, under the Kuwerdas production team, “Kahel” is a musical short centered on Elias (Justin Abalos), a 9-to-5 worker who leaves his job to pursue music in the city. When a sudden jeepney breakdown leaves him stranded with his longtime musical hero (Brylle Parzuelo), his journey hits a turning point.

“Kahel” won Best Film, Best Direction, Best Editing, and Best Music/Score in the All Tamaraws Division at Sinepiyu XVIII. It was also a finalist in the Narrative Category of the 38th CCP Gawad Alternatibo and recently headlined the CCP Lakbay Sine program at the 6th Hundred Islands Film Festival in Alaminos, Pangasinan.

Justin Abalos in KAHEL

We in Kuwerdas gave birth to ‘Kahel’… As filmmakers, we can only set it free and hope it reaches fellow dreamers – those who are tired, losing hope, and need a little fire to dream again, Llames shared.

“Kahel” was made by Llames together with key student members, namely producer Joharra Embalzado, line producer Rafael Beltran, cinematographer/editor Regine Mae Manuel, screenwriter/musical director Justin Niccolo Mariano, co-writer/script continuity supervisor Sai Salazar, 2nd AD Rayanne Kabigting, production designer Irish Jundaye Macatangay, location manager/camera operator Ritch Matias, and sound recordist/boom operator Franz Juanillo.

KUWERDAS production team

On the other hand, “Lily” follows John (Karl Medina), a mysterious photographer driving through Manila, who intersects with Lily (Joyce Macalia), a shrewd sex worker.

Directed by Luke Salazar, BA Communication Batch 2025, under The Yellow Bus Pictures, the short film took home Best Narrative Film, Best Direction, Best Cinematography, Best Production Design, Best Editing, and Best Performance by a Male Actor for Medina at Sinepiyu, on top of winning Best Film at the Tamaraw Media Awards.

“It started as a poem molded in the style of Charles Bukowski, exposing the weaknesses and shortcomings of a man,” Salazar shared.

It then evolved into a screenplay shaped by conversations surrounding the realities of sex work in the Philippines.

LILY actress Joyce Macalia

The film also bagged Best Director, Best Cinematography, Best Production Design, and Best Musical Score at the Prime Series SineMulat Tres (Interschool Category), organized by the Multimedia Arts Circle at the University of Batangas-Lipa Campus, and Best Cinematography at Adamson University’s Realifilm, an annual intercollegiate and senior high school filmmaking competition and festival hosted by Silip@Lente-AdU film and photography organization.

“Lily” was brought to life by Salazar together with a dedicated student crew, including producer Krizha Helena Vebora, line producer Janrez Margarette San Jose, production manager Justine Alexandra Rael, location manager/casting director Patricia Mae Aquilizan, 1st AD Migo Morales, 2nd AD Vien Simbre, and script continuity supervisor/talent coordinator Julianne Cruz.

LILY director Luke Salazar with director of photography Randell Bautista

The visual and technical team included director of photography Randell John Bautista, camera operators Jan Dendiego and Gwyneth Mendoza, camera assistants Reigne Enriquez and Ron Barlan, lighting director Drey Coros, gaffers Ej Muñoz and Barlan, sound recordist CJ Bravo, logger/clapper Jayson Briboneria, production designer Maxine Mendoza, art director/intimacy coordinator Mar-ian Ejandra, set dressers Miguel Dabu and Chloe Cantonjos, and wardrobe head/hair and makeup artist Maxene David with assistant Venn Rod.

LILY production team

The crew was rounded out by master editor, colorist, and marketing video editor Jan Dendiego, sound designer/musical scorer Paolo Miguel Saclayan, production assistants Aice Dela Paz, Sebastian Quilaton, Kevin Mar Guerrero, Harry Corpuz, and Kimberly Peñaranda, marketing creatives Vebora and Rael, behind-the-scenes photographers Jetro Benitez and Tep Rodriguez, and creative consultants/FEU faculty members Seymour Sanchez, Gio Potes, and Jet Leyco.

Both “Kahel” and “Lily” were final projects under Sanchez’s Directing and Film Production class.

September 16, 2026
Joey G Brings the Hits Live to Hard Rock Cafe

An evening of timeless OPM awaits as award-winning singer Joey G takes the stage at Hard Rock Cafe Manila on September 17 at 9:30 PM. Joey G brings his signature sound to Hard Rock Cafe for an OPM experience, featuring his emotional vocals that make for a memorable performance.

Set within the energetic atmosphere of Hard Rock Cafe Manila, the show offers fans an up-close serenade of music. Guests can look forward to an intimate live show featuring Joey G’s unmistakable sound and a selection of OPM favorites.

Doors open at 7:00 PM with a door charge of P1,500, inclusive of P500 consumable. Seats are limited.

For inquiries and reservations: (02) 8990 9809 or 0917 144 9400

September 14, 2026
Nicole Laurel Asensio Holds Special Performance of “Songwriter” on Sept. 19 at 78 Salcedo

For two decades and across 16 countries, Nicole Asensio has inhabited many stages and many genres — Rock, Jazz, Classical, Soul, Blues — earning her place as a multi-awarded performer and recording artist.

But beneath the lights and glamour, there is another Nicole.

This is an invitation to meet her, to peel away the personas. Strip the music down to its bones — find a space somewhere between pen, paper, and soul.

Over one intimate evening, Nicole opens a collection of 20 songs, chosen from hundreds written through the years.

The first set, “Pen to Performance,” traces ten compositions that have been released over the last decade, replaced and reimagined in a mire intimate form.

The second set, “Unspoken and Unseen,” ventures into spoken word, unfinished compositions, fragments of ideas, and a few reimagined songs you may never have known Nicole wrote.

Some songs might be familiar.

Some will be hearing themselves aloud for the first time.

And perhaps, in the spaces between them, we might remember something of our own unfinished selves.

This intimate gathering of spirits — for those longing to rekindle the embers of creativity within — takes place at the official opening weekend of the brand-new second-floor space at 78 Salcedo. A larger room for larger-than-life performances, designed without sacrificing what matters most: intimacy, presence, and the rare luxury of truly listening.

On September 19 – 7pm at 78-45-33 San Agustin Street, Salcedo Village Makati — Come closer.

September 10, 2026
PPO’s 42nd Concert Season Celebrates Music Across Time and Borders

The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO) proudly stages their highly anticipated 42nd Concert Season, titled MODULATIO, running from September 2026 through April 2027. The new season brings together world‑renowned soloists and exceptional Filipino talents for a series of breathtaking orchestral performances, with the anticipated return to the newly-rehabilitated Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo (Main Theater) of the Cultural Center of the Philippines for its finale concert.

While celebrating the orchestra’s 53 years, Modulatio presents the PPO as a musical chameleon traversing through centuries. Led by Maestro Nowak, the PPO also cements its reputation of being the nation’s premier orchestra in its 42nd concert season.

The season kicks off on September 25, 2026 with CONCERT I – DA CAPO in a program blending beloved classics and sweeping orchestral masterpieces, setting a high‑energy tone for the months ahead. Featured works are Filipino composer Jeffrey Ching’s “What Happens in Every Classical Piece Explained in 15 Minutes” (Sinfoniettina on G-C for Mozart Orchestra) and the Asian premiere of Austrian composer Carl Czerny’s Symphony No. 6.  Spanish virtuoso Martin Garcia Garcia showcases his dynamic artistry in performing German composer Ludwig van Beethoven’s Piano Concerto no.5, op. 73, E flat Major “Emperor.”

Come October 16, the next concert installment, billed as CONCERT II – ELEGANCE, will feature Filipino composer Redentor Romero’s Philippine Portraits and Polish composer Zygmunt Noskowski’s The Steppe. Filipino classical pedal harpist Vien Ignacio takes center stage, bringing refined Asian flair to British-German composer Georg Friedrich Händel’s Harp Concerto in B-flat Major.

CONCERT III – BOLERO on November 6 will feature French composer Claude Debussy’s Prelude a l’apres-midi d’un faune, and French composer Maurice Ravel’s Alborada del gracioso and Bolero. Filipino violinist Kaycee Galano returns to perform classical string selections, showcasing the richness and versatility of Filipino artistry alongside full orchestral accompaniment with French composer Camille Saint-Saens’ Violin Concerto no.3, op.61, B minor.

The PPO will perform German composer Ludwig van Beethoven’s Egmont Overture and Symphony no.3, op. 55, E flat Major “Eroica” in CONCERT IV – DESTINY on December 4.  Acclaimed Italian concert pianist Mario Galeani delivers festive favorites and timeless concertos with German composer Ludwig van Beethoven’s Piano Concerto no. 4, op.58, G Major, wrapping the year in warmth and virtuosity.

Ushering the New Year on January 15, 2027, the PPO will premiere Filipino composer Jerry Dadap’s Symphony no. 5 in CONCERT V – GENESIS and Filipino composer Jeffrey Ching’s Journey to the Alps and Victor’s Meditation from the Opera Frankenstein. Internationally renowned Russian-American pianist Natasha Paremski graces Manila with her signature intensity and precision, performing Russian composer Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto no. 3, op.30, D minor.

The PPO will take on Russian composer Dmitri Shostakovich in CONCERT VI – RESILIENCE on February 12, featuring Festive Overture, op.96 and Symphony no. 5, op.47. Home-grown violin luminary Diomedes Saraza Jr. performs iconic violin concertos, bridging local pride with world-class excellence with Russian composer Dmitri Shostakovich’s Violin Concerto no. 1, op.99.

CONCERT VII – VISIONS on March 12 will present the Philippine premiere orchestra in a performance of German composer Robert Schumann’s Manfred Overture and French composer Cesar Franck’s Symphony in D minor. Korean violin sensation Ju-Young Baek brings lyrical depth and technical brilliance, presenting works from the Romantic and modern eras through Polish composer Karol Szymanowski’s Violin Concerto no. 1, op.35.

Capping the concert season, the PPO will come home to Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo (CCP Main Theater), following the rehabilitation of the center’s Main Building. The grand finale, CONCERT VIII – AL FINE, on April 16, 2027 will feature soloists and chorus in Filipino composer Jeffrey Ching’s completion of the Lacrimosa, Sanctus, Benedictus and Osanna fragments from Mozart’s unfinished Requiem, K626 (Sussmayr version) and French composer Hector Berlioz’s Symphonie Fantastique, op.14. Ukrainian violinist Dmytro Udovychenko closes the season with electrifying virtuosity, promising a memorable conclusion to the concert season with English composer Edward Elgar’s Violin Concerto, op.61, B minor.

A Season of Unity and Excellence

“Our 42nd season is a celebration of Filipino talent, global artistry, and the power of music to connect us. Through the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra, we bring the world to Manila and Filipino artistry to the forefront of the international stage,” said Kaye C. Tinga, the president of the Cultural Center of the Philippines.

The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra, the country’s premier symphony orchestra under the Cultural Center of the Philippines, has been advancing orchestral music since 1973, performing locally and touring internationally to critical acclaim.

Concerts I, III, IV, and V will take place at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Makati, while Concerts II, VI and VII will be held at The Metropolitan Theater. The season finale, Concert VIII, will be staged at the Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo (CCP Main Theater).

For more updates on PPO’s 42nd concert season, visit the CCP’s official website (culturalcenter.gov.ph) or follow the CCP’s social media pages (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube) for more information.

September 10, 2026
Cinemalaya Films Score 29 Gawad Urian Nominations

Seven films from the 21st edition of Cinemalaya have earned a total of 29 nominations at the Gawad Urian Awards, recognizing the filmmakers, artists, and creatives behind some of the festival’s most compelling works. The nominations span major categories from Best Film and Best Director to acting, screenplay, cinematography, editing, music and sound, reaffirming the strength of the country’s indie filmmaking scene.

The nominated films are Bloom Where You Are Planted, Cinemartyrs, Republika ng Pipolipinas, Paglilitis, Raging, Habang Nilalamon ng Hydra ang Kasaysayan, and Child No. 82: Anak ni Boy Kana. All seven were part of the full-length category of Cinemalaya 21 (2025).

Leading the nominations is Cinemartyrs by Sari Dalena, with eight nods, including Best Film for Kino Arts, Best Director for Sari Dalena, Best Screenplay for Sari Dalena and Keith Sicat, Best Actress for Nour Hooshmand, Best Production Design for Toym Imao, Best Cinematography for Neil Daza and Kiri Dalena, Best Editing for Keith Sicat, and Best Sound for Emilio Bien Sparks. The film follows a young filmmaker who sets out to recreate forgotten massacres from Philippine history, only to awaken the spirits of those who were killed at one of the massacre sites.

Bloom Where You Are Planted

By Noni Abao earned six nominations, including Best Film and Best Documentary for Alex Poblete, Taripnong Cagayan Valley, and Noni Abao, Best Director for Noni Abao, Best Editing for Che Tagyamon, Best Music for Glenn Barit, and Best Sound for Mikko Quizon and John Michael Perez. The documentary follows three land rights activists in Cagayan Valley as they confront threats, displacement, and the struggle to find a secure place to call home.

Republika ng Pipolipinas

Received three nominations, including Best Screenplay for Renei Dimla, Best Actress for Geraldine Villamil, and Best Supporting Actress for Alessandra de Rossi. The mockumentary follows Cora Vitug, a disillusioned farmer who, after facing eviction from her land, renounces her Filipino citizenship and establishes her own micronation.

Paglilitis

Earned two acting nominations, for Best Actress for Rissey Reyes-Robinson and Best Supporting Actress for Eula Valdez. The drama explores the aftermath of workplace sexual harassment and the complicated pursuit of justice in an age when social media can turn a personal grievance into a public trial.

Raging

Directed by Ryan Machado, garnered three nominations, including Best Actor for Elijah Canlas, Best Cinematography for Theo Lozada, and Best Sound for Lamberto Casas. Set in 1990s Sibuyan Island, the film follows a young man traumatized by abuse whose discovery of a crashed plane draws him into a dangerous mystery and a quest for truth and justice.

Habang Nilalamon ng Hydra ang Kasaysayan

Received four nominations, including Best Actor for Jojit Lorenzo, Best Supporting Actress for Dolly de Leon, Best Supporting Actor for Nanding Josef, and Best Music for Paulo Protacio. The existential drama follows four Filipinos grappling with the aftermath of a painful political defeat as they confront disinformation, fading memories, and questions of purpose, truth, and hope.

Child No. 82: Anak ni Boy Kana

Received three nominations: Best Supporting Actress for Rochelle Pangilinan-Solinap, Best Editing for Vanessa Ubas De Leon, and Best Sound for Alex Tomboc. The fantasy-comedy drama follows Max, a young man who sets out to prove he is the 82nd child of a legendary action star in the hope of seeing his recently deceased father one last time, only to confront the complicated truth about his family and his own identity.

Since its inception in 2005, Cinemalaya has become a vital platform for showcasing the unique voices in Philippine independent cinema. It has launched the careers of numerous acclaimed filmmakers and actors, fostering a vibrant community that challenges mainstream narratives and pushes creative boundaries. Beyond awards, Cinemalaya’s influence extends to sparking important conversations about society, culture, and identity, making it not just a film festival, but a powerful movement that continues to shape and redefine Philippine storytelling on both local and international stages.

The Gawad Urian Awards is one of the most prestigious film award-giving bodies in the Philippines, organized by the Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino. Known for its critical and discerning approach, Gawad Urian has long been regarded as a benchmark for artistic and cinematic quality in the country’s film industry since its inception in 1977.

To date, Cinemalaya has nurtured over 200 Filipino filmmakers and showcased over 1,000 of their works, including full-feature films, shorts, documentaries, Filipino film classics, and art films.

With the recent conclusion of its 22nd edition, Cinemalaya will surely continue to uphold its vision to discover, encourage, support, train and recognize gifted Filipino independent filmmakers.

September 10, 2026
Tag-Ulan Na, Pero Kamusta ang Tiyan: Why Rainy Days Change Your Body’s Signals

There’s something undeniably comforting about the rainy season.

A warm bowl of lugaw, a steaming cup of coffee, crispy merienda, and the perfect excuse to stay indoors—it’s weather that invites us to slow down and indulge. But while we’re embracing these little comforts, our gut may be facing a different reality. Heavy rains, flooding, and increased humidity can raise the risk of food and water contamination, creating conditions that make digestive illnesses more common.

“Studies have linked periods of heavy rainfall and flooding with increased cases of diarrheal diseases and foodborne infections, making gut health an often-overlooked part of staying well during the season,” said Rica Mateo, Erceflora ASEA Zone Brand Lead.

The Philippine National Nutrition Council likewise reminds Filipinos that rainy months are associated with a higher risk of waterborne diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid fever, underscoring the importance of food safety and proper hygiene during this time.

The rainy season doesn’t just increase environmental health risks—it also influences our eating habits. Comfort foods, fried snacks, irregular meals, and street food indulgences can put added stress on the digestive system, especially when food safety risks are heightened. Since a large portion of the body’s immune system resides in the gut, maintaining a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria is essential for supporting overall immunity.

When this balance is disrupted by poor diet or exposure to contaminated food and water, the risk of digestive issues increases, making gut health an important priority throughout the rainy season.

Listen to Your Gut: Your Body Often Gives Warning Signs

Your gut is often one of the first parts of your body to tell you when something isn’t right. Research from the US National Institutes of Health cites frequent stomach discomfort, loose stools, bloating, changes in bowel movements, and mild abdominal cramps as common symptoms that may indicate an underlying digestive issue or an imbalance in the gut that should not be ignored.

“Our bodies often give us early warning signs when something isn’t right, and it’s important not to ignore them—especially during the rainy season,” Mateo added. “Persistent stomach discomfort, bloating, loose stools, or changes in bowel habits may signal that your gut needs attention. Addressing these symptoms early through proper hydration, good food hygiene, and appropriate care can help prevent more serious digestive issues.”

Give Your Gut an Umbrella: Why Probiotics Matter This Rainy Season

Beyond practicing good hygiene, drinking safe water, and eating well, you can give your gut an extra layer of support during the rainy season through probiotics. Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that help restore and maintain the natural balance of good bacteria in the gut, supporting healthy digestion and the body’s natural defenses—especially when that balance is disrupted by changes in diet, illness, or exposure to contaminated food and water.

Probiotics such as Erceflora Probiotics contain billions of INTELLI-SPORES® and are for all ages above 6 months old. It aids in the enhancement of natural resistance to intestinal infections, the enhancement of intestinal ecology, the improvement of digestion, and the improvement of lactose malabsorption with proper diet and exercise—making it a helpful addition to everyday gut care, especially during the rainy season.

Rainy days are meant to be enjoyed—from sharing comforting meals with loved ones to embracing the slower pace of the season. By listening to your body’s signals, practicing good hygiene, making mindful food choices, and giving your gut the support it needs, you can better protect your digestive health and make the most of everything the tag-ulan has to offer.

“Rainy weather shouldn’t keep Filipinos from enjoying the season—it should simply remind us to be more intentional about caring for our health,” Mateo concluded. “Small, proactive habits, from choosing safe food and water to supporting gut health with probiotics like Erceflora, can go a long way in helping keep our digestive system resilient. After all, a healthy gut is the foundation for enjoying life’s everyday moments, rain or shine.”

September 9, 2026
‘Silenced Nights’ Film Competes in Bangkok after Historic Toronto Premiere

Filipino sociopolitical thriller “Silenced Nights” will next vie for awards in the Bangkok International Film Festival from September 15 to 27, following its historic selection as the first Filipino title in the Toronto International Film Festival’s juried Platform program.

Nico Antonio in ‘Silenced Nights’

Executive producer Atty. Joji Villanueva Alonso confirmed the film’s upcoming selection in the Bangkok filmfest main competition, where it will contend for a $15,000 USD cash prize. Alonso also shared that the project is locked in for two additional European festival stops later this year.

Written by Troy Espiritu and directed by Lawrence Fajardo, “Silenced Nights” tells the story of an ordinary gadget repairman (Nico Antonio) living in a Manila slum. His life turns upside down after witnessing police officers commit an extrajudicial killing of a teenager during anti-drug operations. Driven by conscience, he decides to help the victim’s grieving mother fight for the truth.

Director – Lawrence Fajardo

The cast also includes Lotlot De Leon, Ina Feleo, Joel Saracho, Tanya Gomez, Dylan Ray Talon, Jorrybell Agoto, Simon Ibarra, Mario Magallona, Rom Factolerin, Soliman Cruz, Hector Macaso, Raul Morit, Bombi Plata, Apollo Abraham, DMs Boongaling, Mae Paner, Tess Jamias, Timothy Castillo, Kenken Nuyad, Micko Laurente, Enzo Osorio, and Aquisha Tombiga.

The narrative draws inspiration from the real-life 2017 death of teenager Kian delos Santos during the Duterte administration’s war on drugs. Framing its central theme under the tagline “Where fear prevails, justice is silenced,” the film examines systemic violence, institutional fear, and moral courage.

Ina Feleo in ‘Silenced Nights’

Fajardo, a seasoned figure in Philippine independent cinema, has built a reputation for gritty, fast-paced storytelling rooted in working-class struggles and social realities. First breaking through at the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival with the short film “Kultado” (2005) and later receiving acclaim for films like “Amok” (2011) and “Posas” (2012), Fajardo brings a documentary-style urgency to his project narratives.

Atty. Alonso, a practicing attorney and veteran film producer, leads Quantum Films. Known for balancing commercial hits with daring arthouse passion projects, she has been a major force in elevating Philippine cinema on international festival circuits.

Lotlot De Leon in ‘Silenced Nights’

Shot entirely on location in Happyland, Tondo, utilizing a cinema vérité style, the film is co-produced by Quantum Films, House on Fire (France), and House on Fire International (Taiwan), supported by the Film Development Council of the Philippines.

Before kicking off its Bangkok screenings, “Silenced Nights” will make its world premiere in Toronto on September 13, competing for TIFF’s $20,000 Platform Prize.

‘Silenced Nights’ cast and crew

Shortly after its Canadian debut, the film will return home for its Philippine theatrical premiere on September 16, carrying an R-16 classification from the MTRCB due to its realistic depictions of violence, drug context, strong language, and heavy social themes.

September 9, 2026
Spring Returns: The Sandbox Collective Opens Its 2027 Slate with ‘Spring Awakening’

The Sandbox Collective announces the highly anticipated and limited rerun of the award-winning rock musical, SPRING AWAKENING. The production is set to open in February 2027 at The Black Box at The Proscenium Theater, Rockwell Center, Makati City.

The staging recently received 17 Citations from Gawad Buhay Awards, cementing it as one of the most celebrated local productions of the season. Winner of eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, with book and lyrics by Steven Sater and music by Grammy Award-nominated recording artist Duncan Sheik, SPRING AWAKENING is a contemporary rock masterpiece based on the controversial Frank Wedekind play of the same name.

Set in 19th-century Germany, the musical follows a group of teenagers navigating their burgeoning sexualities and rapidly changing bodies. As they seek answers to the mysteries of life, they clash with uncommunicative parents, rigid institutions, and a deeply conservative society. Driven by an electrifying alternative rock score, the show channels its characters’ adolescent repressions into the timeless angst and power of modern youth. It is an illuminating, unforgettable fusion of morality, sexuality, and rock and roll that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

With direction by Gawad Buhay nominee Andrei Nikolai Pamintuan (Muli, Lungs, Sa Wakas, Fringe Manila) and musical direction by multi-awarded Ejay Yatco (Side Show, Next to Normal, Little Shop of Horrors), the SPRING AWAKENING rerun promises to reignite vital conversations while championing The Sandbox Collective’s ongoing education and advocacy initiatives.

Pamintuan and Yatco are joined by Nunoy Van Den Burgh (Choreographer), Missy Maramara (Intimacy Director), Wika Nadera (Set Designer), Raven Ong (Costume Designer), Gabbi Campomanes (Assistant Director), and D Cortezano (Lighting Designer).

Ticket information will be announced soon.

SPRING AWAKENING is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI), New York, NY, USA.

For more information, follow The Sandbox Collective on Facebook, Twitter and Tiktok. You may visit our website www.thesandboxco.com and our social media platforms below:

www.facebook.com/TheSandboxCollective
www.instagram.com/thesandboxco
www.tiktok.com/@thesandboxco

September 7, 2026
FEU Film ‘Kahel’ Headlines CCP Lakbay Sine at 6th Hundred Islands Film Festival

Following a triumphant run in the student film circuit, the award-winning musical short film “Kahel” from Far Eastern University continues its journey across the country.

The acclaimed 20-minute film, which was produced by the Kuwerdas production team, is set to screen on September 5 at the Don Leopoldo Sison Convention Center as part of the 6th Hundred Islands Film Festival in Alaminos City, Pangasinan.

Brought to the festival through the Cultural Center of the Philippines Lakbay Sine program, an initiative dedicated to expanding the reach of Philippine cinema to local communities, “Kahel” arrives as a finalist from the 38th CCP Gawad Para sa Alternatibong Pelikula at Video or CCP Gawad Alternatibo.

The narrative centers on Elias (Justin Abalos), a standard office worker who leaves behind his 9-to-5 job to chase his musical ambitions in the city. His journey hits an unexpected crossroads when a sudden jeepney breakdown strands him along with his longtime musical hero (Brylle Parzuelo).

For director Garnet Morilla Llames, who also performs as part of the indie-pop duo Justin + Garnet, bringing “Kahel” to new audiences reflects the broader mission behind its creation.

Llames added that their film is about chasing dreams and he dedicated it to the dreamers who keep going no matter how hard it gets, “We in Kuwerdas gave birth to ‘Kahel,’ and as its director, I really hope it goes far beyond what it is now. Like birthing a child, we’ve carried, nurtured, and poured our hearts into it. Now, as filmmakers, we can only set it free and hope it reaches fellow dreamers – those who are tired, losing hope, and need a little fire to dream again.”

Aside from Llames, the other members of Kuwerdas include producer and production manager Joharra Embalzado, line producer Rafael Beltran, cinematographer and editor Regine Mae Manuel, musical director and screenwriter Justin Niccolo Mariano, co-writer and script continuity supervisor Sai Salazar, 2nd assistant director Rayanne Kabigting, production designer Irish Jundaye Macatangay, location manager and camera operator Ritch Matias, sound recordist and boom operator Franz Juanillo.

The film’s Alaminos City showing follows a string of recognitions. “Kahel” swept Sinepiyu XVIII, FEU’s annual student film festival, winning Best Film, Best Direction, Best Editing, and Best Music/Score in the All Tamaraws Division. It was also honored with the Gawad Bathala Best Film at the Tamaraw Media Awards.

HIFF 2026 serves as an ideal backdrop for the project, using film education, regional storytelling, and youth empowerment to celebrate local culture and uplift young storytellers. Audience members at the Don Leopoldo Sison Convention Center can experience this story of creative perseverance as part of the festival’s full day of programming on September 5.

September 4, 2026
Celebrate Mid-Autumn Traditions with Conrad Manila’s Moonlit Grace Gift Set at China Blue by Jereme Leung

Conrad Manila presents Moonlit Grace, an exquisite collection of handcrafted mooncakes available exclusively at the Michelin-selected China Blue by Jereme Leung. Offered until 25 September 2026, the collection features two thoughtfully curated gift sets presented in elegantly designed keepsake boxes that embody the season’s spirit of grace, tradition, and refined indulgence.

“The Mid-Autumn Festival is a cherished occasion that brings families and loved ones together in celebration of unity, gratitude, and tradition,” shared Rupert Hallam, general manager of Conrad Manila. “With our Moonlit Grace collection, we invite guests to honor these meaningful connections through artisanal mooncakes thoughtfully crafted to be shared and enjoyed with those who matter most.”

Designed for both corporate gifting and personal celebrations, the Moonlit Grace collection is available in two distinct sets. Priced at PHP 3,888 nett, Moonlit Harmony is encased in an elegant pastel sky-blue box with refined detailing. This premium offering features four assorted mooncakes and serves as a sophisticated expression of the season’s traditions. Meanwhile, Moonlit Charm, available at PHP 2,888 nett, is presented in a blush-pink jewelry-inspired box containing two mooncakes, making it a delightful gift for friends, family, clients, and loved ones.

Guests may choose from five artisanal mooncake flavors meticulously crafted by Conrad Manila’s Executive Chinese Chef Eng Yew Khor under the culinary direction of renowned celebrity chef Jereme Leung. Traditional baked selections include the classic white lotus paste, XO paste, and red bean paste, each complemented by a rich single yolk. Also featured are the vibrant jackfruit paste with mixed nuts and the indulgent custard coconut, offering contemporary interpretations alongside timeless favorites.

A celebration of heritage, family, and togetherness, Conrad Manila invites guests to embrace the spirit of the Mid-Autumn Festival through its exclusive Moonlit Grace collection. Whether shared among loved ones or presented as a thoughtful gesture of appreciation, these handcrafted mooncakes offer a meaningful way to mark one of Asia’s most treasured traditions. For orders and inquiries, guests may call (63 2) 8833 9999, (63 917) 650 4043, or email MNLMB.FB@ConradHotels.com.

September 4, 2026