Author: Press Release

Benilde MMA Alumna Repeats as Best Director at Cinemalaya

Filmmaker and De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde Multimedia Arts alumna Gabriela “Gaby” Serrano got another Best Director award in the Short Film category of the 22nd Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival, this time for her short film “Elenita Elena Elaine.”

Gabriela Serrano with her second Best Director trophy at Cinemalaya 22

The recognition highlights her distinct voice in contemporary Philippine cinema and underscores the growing impact of bold, genre-expanding storytelling.

“Elenita Elena Elaine” is a dystopian sci-fi drama set against a sleepless, dreamless Manila where dreaming itself is outsourced. Produced by Archipelago, Studio Dalaga, Key Pictures, Lunari Global, and Membrana Pictures, and supported by the 2025 Momo Film Co Distribution Grant, it explores mother-daughter dynamics, economic displacement, and personal sacrifice.

The narrative shifts across time to follow three interconnected Filipino women: a pop idol, a young graduate preparing to go abroad, and a call-center agent whose voice slowly fades under late-night shifts.

Gabriela Serrano at work with sister Mariana

Serrano drew directly from her own life for the project, reflecting on a period when she and her mother worked remote, outsourced jobs side by side in their living room. While her mother handled foreign call-center support, she served as a series editor on FX’s Spirit Award-nominated series “The Choe Show.”

We worked alongside each other from our living room in Manila, and though our new jobs sustained our household, the darker sides of globalization took root inside our home. Endless night shifts, underpaid labor, and cultural gaps started draining us both of time, sleep and hopes for brighter futures, the filmmaker shared.

Amidst this, we began to confide in one another dreams we had each put on the backburner: my aspirations to direct films someday, and her teenage wish to be a singer. Like millions in the Philippines, our true voices were rendered silent in order to survive our neocolonial economy, she added.

The shared strain of grueling hours and underpaid labor brought forward their suppressed ambitions, shaping the tender, speculative foundation of the film.

Gabriela Serrano directing Agot Isidro and sister Mariana

Serrano’s work routinely weaves folklore, surrealism, and local socio-economic realities. She previously won Best Director and the Special Jury Prize at Cinemalaya 18 for her split-screen folk-thriller “Dikit,” Best Short Film at QCinema’s QCShorts Lokal for the surreal short “Surface Tension” which she co-directed with her sister Mariana in 2025.

Serrano collaborated again with her sister, co-writer, and actor Mariana, together with executive producers Kim Jones, Gabie Tanjutco, and Mike Marks, producers Gale Osorio and Keith Deligero, cinematographer Kara Moreno, production designer Pauline Olarte, sound designers Dawr Toñacao and Deligero, musical scorer Andrea Ramos, and Mariana’s co-actors Agot Isidro and Gabby Padilla.

Gabriela and Mariana Serrano

Serrano is currently developing her feature-length sci-fi project “Please Bear With Me,” a companion piece to “Elenita Elena Elaine” which also expands on similar themes of call-center labor, and earned pitch recognitions at the Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival (BIFAN), Festival du nouveau cinéma (FNC) Montréal, and the Southeast Asian Film Lab.

Serrano’s latest win at Cinemalaya reinforces a rising path for Filipina filmmakers pushing genre boundaries, proving that personal truths can redefine the scope of local cinema.

September 16, 2026
ASUS ExpertBook Ultra: Flagship Business Laptop Lands in Cebu and Davao
ASUS Business Philippines is expanding its business presence beyond Metro Manila, bringing its flagship laptop ASUS ExpertBook Ultra and business-grade technology closer to the executives, entrepreneurs, and IT decision-makers driving growth in Cebu and Davao.

Following its Manila debut on July 1, 2026, the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra made its regional debut in NUSTAR Resort Cebu, Cebu City on September 7 and 8, followed by Dusit D2, Davao City on September 11.

Drawing more than 1,000 total attendees, the Grand Launches supports ASUS Business Philippines’ commitment to expanding access to enterprise-grade AI for business technology. For ASUS Business, the message is clear: the next wave of AI adoption and business-grade devices are not limited to one place. It is also taking shape in the regional business hubs where companies are building, scaling, and competing for the future.

Bringing Business-Grade Technology Closer to Fast-Growing Regional
Businesses

ASUS brought its flagship business laptop, the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra, to Cebu and Davao as part of its continued regional expansion and commitment to making its latest business-grade devices more accessible in key regional markets.

As businesses in Visayas and Mindanao continue to expand, the demand for reliable, high-performance technology that can support increasingly sophisticated workplaces is also growing. Bringing business-grade devices like ASUS ExpertBook Ultra closer to these markets allows regional businesses to experience the products firsthand, and explore solutions suited to their needs.

The tour kicked off in Cebu City on September 7 and 8, where more than 600 attendees filled the NUSTAR Resort Cebu. The Cebu launch was hosted by veteran broadcast journalist and ASUS Business Brand Ambassador Rico Hizon alongside co-host Andi Pateña-Mateu, featuring a special performance by Jacky Chang.

The tour continued in Davao on September 11, bringing more than 500 attendees together at Dusit D2 for the regional close. The event was hosted by Claire Lara, with a special performance by Aila Santos.

Both launches opened with an Expert Class Forum featuring sales training, a product showcase, and an exclusive first look at the ASUS Business product roadmap and upcoming programs. The event was followed by the Grand Launch, where guests witnessed live durability demonstrations, local dance performances, and a Gala Night that brought together business leaders for an evening of networking and celebration.

Together, the Cebu and Davao launches mark an important step in ASUS Business Philippines’ regional expansion, bringing business-grade devices and support closer to the companies and professionals shaping the future of Visayas and Mindanao.

ASUS Business Brand Ambassador Rico Hizon leads the Cebu Launch as
Host

The Cebu Grand Launch also marked a significant moment for ASUS Business Philippines Brand Ambassador Rico Hizon, who took on the role of host for the launch.

As a veteran broadcast journalist and business consultant, Hizon brings 38 years of experience covering some of the world’s most consequential business stories.

The launch also featured a special “Murphy’s Law” video featuring ASUS Business ambassadors Gabbi Garcia and Rico Hizon for memorable demonstration of the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra’s durability and resilience. Together, they took on “Murphy’s Law”—the idea that anything that can go wrong, will go wrong—putting the flagship business laptop through a series of unexpected challenges and proving that even when things go wrong, the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra is built to keep going.

Watch the Video: Rico Hizon and Gabbi Garcia Beats Murphy’s Law with ASUS ExpertBook Ultra

Hizon represents the kind of modern business leader the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra is built to support: veteran executives who are constantly connected and navigating a professional landscape where portable devices, durability, business-grade security is becoming an increasingly important part of everyday work.

The Flagship AI PC Built for Modern Business

Boldy positioned as “The Flagship of the Industry. Period.” the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra weighs as little as 0.99kg and measures just 10.9mm thin. It combines an ultra-portable form factor with up to an Intel® Core™ Ultra X9 Series 3 processor, a dedicated NPU delivering 50 TOPS and up to 180 total platform TOPS.

As a certified Copilot+ PC, the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra also features built-in AI features such as ASUS MyExpert. With Military-Grade durability and up to 26 hours of battery life, it’s designed to withstand the demands of frequent business travel and support executives professionals who are constantly on the move.

No Price Increase: ASUS ExpertBook Ultra Retains Its ₱129,995 Introductory Price

Despite widespread price increases across the PC market, the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra maintains its introductory price of ₱129,995.

The decision reinforces ASUS’ aim to make its latest business technology more accessible to Philippine enterprises, SMBs, and professionals, particularly as businesses increasingly look to AI-powered business-grade devices to improve productivity and stay competitive.

Limited-Time Offer until October 18, 2026: Save Up to ₱6,000 on ASUS ExpertBook Ultra + FREE ASUS GaN Charger

Customers who purchase the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra from the official ASUS ExpertBook Stores on Shopee and Lazada can enjoy up to ₱6,000 in savings, plus a free ASUS 100W GaN charger.

The promotional offer is available until 11:59 PM on October 18, 2026. DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-266989, Series of 2026.

Where to Buy the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra in the Philippines

The ASUS ExpertBook Ultra is available starting at ₱129,995 in ASUS Concept Store SM City Fairview, ASUS Concept Store SM Dasmarinas, Villman Stores and ASUS ExpertBook Stores in Lazada and Shopee.
- Where to Buy ASUS ExpertBook Ultra: https://ph.asus.click/ExpertBookUltra-WheretoBuy
- ASUS ExpertBook Store – Lazada: https://ph.asus.click/ASUSExpertBookStoreLazada
- ASUS ExpertBook Store – Shopee: https://ph.asus.click/ASUSExpertBookStoreShopee
Trusted by IT Experts. Built for Worry-Free Business.

Visit the ASUS Business Website, contact your nearest ASUS Business authorized reseller, or fill out the Volume Purchase Form for Volume Purchases for business orders.
September 16, 2026
UNIQLO : C FW26 Explores the “Precision of Softness”

Global apparel retailer UNIQLO today announces the launch of the 2026 Fall/Winter UNIQLO : C, the special line from renowned British fashion designer Clare Waight Keller. Created on the theme of “Precision of Softness,” this latest collection reimagines everyday essentials through refined proportions, tactile textures, and precise layering, bringing an urban sensibility to familiar pieces. Denim, wool, cashmere and corduroy are expressed through generous yet controlled volumes, while rich bordeaux and brown are balanced with charcoal and softer touches of lemon, blush pink and green, bringing subtle contrasts throughout the collection.

Clare Waight Keller said:
“I think there is a real desire now for clothes that bring comfort and ease without losing their sense of character. For this collection, I wanted to give that softness greater definition, through proportion, texture and the way each piece moves on the body. Everything is very considered, from the warmth and tactile quality of the new fluffy cashmere to the unexpected lightness and fluidity of corduroy. It is about creating a sense of refinement you can feel, with clothes that have a strong point of view yet remain completely natural to wear.”

A new cashmere series conceived by Clare Waight Keller introduces long-pile fluffy knits that enhance the natural warmth and softness of the fiber. Exceptionally soft against the skin, their textured surface gives the pieces an immediate sense of refinement. Shallow V-neck styles, crew neck cardigans and turtleneck vests are presented in soft, muted shades of pink, lemon, oatmeal, charcoal grey and cream. Corduroy trousers made from a newly developed fabric create a light, fluid drape and are completed with a premium leather belt finished with a metal tip. Vibrant new shades of HEATTECH Cashmere Blend add color to layered Fall/Winter styles.

STYLINGS

UNIQLO : C Special Website
https://www.uniqlo.com/ph/en/women/special-collaboration/uniqlo-c

September 16, 2026
RNDMD (Randoomed) Marked Its First Makati Studio Opening with “Hey Neighbor!”

Makati just got a whole lot more creative. Multidisciplinary design studio RNDMD officially marked a massive milestone on September 11, 2026, opening the doors to its very first physical studio space with a warm, intimate housewarming dubbed “Hey Neighbor! RNDMD Makati Open Studio.”

Since launching in 2022, the creative agency has been quietly making waves behind the scenes. Now, they finally have a permanent brick-and-mortar home inside one of Ayala Avenue’s most iconic architectural landmarks: the PNB Makati Center.

The gathering was also an opportunity to thank the clients RNDMD has come to regard as creative partners – including Philippine Airlines, LIVE PH, and others. Their trust, openness, and collaboration have helped the young studio learn, grow, and take on increasingly meaningful work. Rather than a showcase of names, their presence in RNDMD’s story served as a reminder that every milestone has been built through relationships.

Beyond being a workplace, the studio gave RNDMD a visible home for its multidisciplinary practice. A place where its team could build a stronger sense of belonging, clients could participate more closely in the creative process, and new relationships with agencies and brands could begin.

RNDMD did not just pick any random office floor for their new headquarters. Setting up shop inside PNB Makati Center, a legendary Brutalist structure designed by renowned Filipino architect Carlos D. Arguelles back, the Brutalist landmark has remained a distinct presence along Ayala Avenue since 1980. Its curved facade introduced movement into the district’s ordered skyline, while its continuing adaptive reuse demonstrated how an established structure could evolve without losing its identity.

That balance between permanence and change, restraint and movement reflected RNDMD’s belief that design can move culture.

Designed in-house, the RNDMD office drew from the building’s existing material language and finishes, translating them into a warmer and more contemporary creative environment. The approach allowed the studio to establish its own identity while becoming part of PNB Makati Center’s evolving story.

“Opening our first studio in Makati was a proud moment for us, but the event was really about the people who brought RNDMD here. The office gives our work a home, but its purpose is larger: to build a studio capable of contributing to a world where design moves culture.” said Floyd Esguerra, Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer of RNDMD. “Seeing our team, families, clients, collaborators, and friends in one space made the milestone real.” said Jerome Rosario, Co-Founder and Creative Director for Multimedia.

The evening’s neighborly spirit was shared by its official event partners. Pizzetta, the event’s Official Food Partner, brought the communal experience of food made for sharing together with its roots in Poblacion, Makati. CHAGEE, the Official Beverage Partner, complemented the gathering through its contemporary expression of tea culture and its belief in bringing people together over tea.

“Hey Neighbor!” marked a new chapter for RNDMD, one approached with pride in its progress, gratitude for its community, and humility about the work still ahead.

About RNDMD Inc.

Founded in 2022 by Floyd Esguerra and Jerome Rosario, RNDMD Inc. is a Filipino multidisciplinary creative studio working across brand strategy, design, campaigns, motion, video, content, product, and digital experiences. Guided by human-centered thinking and innovation through diversity, RNDMD creates purposeful work toward a world where design moves culture.

September 16, 2026
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