Category: Events

The ALT Collective Marks Its Largest Edition Yet at SMX MOA in 2026

ALT ART marks its most anticipated return with a bigger venue, expanded exhibitions, and dynamic public programs at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay from February 12 to 15, 2026, with public days scheduled from February 13 to 15, open from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

Organized by the ALT Collective and joined by nine of the country’s premier galleries—Artinformal, Blanc, The Drawing Room, Galleria Duemila, Finale Art File, MO_Space, Underground, Vinyl on Vinyl, and West Gallery—the fourth edition of the showcase is set to be the largest yet, featuring twice the floor area of its 2024 iteration, and walls rising up to 5 meters high. This expansion provides more room to exhibit the best works in contemporary art and to develop curated projects that further reframe artistic discourse and critical engagement with art in the Philippines.

Artinformal’s Tina Fernandez says that “Each of the 9 galleries that form part of the collective represent different artists who are experts in their field and have different points of view. ALT ART presents these different voices in a cohesive manner. Being in a venue that is more accessible to a broader audience fulfills our goal to enable more people from different walks of life to experience these shows.”

The staple SPECIAL PROJECTS, presented individually by each gallery, will continue to push conceptual possibilities and expand the showcase’s curatorial scope. Featured exhibitions will include works by Christina Quisumbing Ramilo, Buen Calubayan, Julie Lluch/Kiri Dalena/Ben Brixx, Raffy Napay, MM Yu, Kolown/Christina Lopez, Mauro “Malang” Santos, Lesley-Ann Cao, and Iwan Effendi.

Aiming to offer fresh perspectives in art, which marks another exciting milestone for ALT ART, this edition will unveil the inaugural group of artists featured in the DISCOVERIES SECTION.

“The Discoveries Program is a platform for artists who we think deserve to garner more attention. Some of these artists are not new, but we feel we have a long journey ahead. The program is also a reminder that with the fast paced turnover of attention, it is a good way for us to step back and slow things down a bit,” explains Jay Amante of Blanc.

Showcasing exciting and critically engaged practices, the program spotlights artists whose work merits greater visibility and recognition, including JC Mariategue, Jomari T’leon, Joar Songcuya, Allyza Tresvalles, Eric Bico, Gelo Cinco, Joanolasco, Rhaz Oriente, and Marco Ortiga.

“New highlights lead to new interests which lead to new conversations. We aim to bridge the gap between what is established, and what is to be discovered,” adds Mawen Ong of MO_Space.

ALT ART 2026 promises yet another edition full of discoveries, continuing its mission to promote Philippine art and amplify artistic voices for local and international audiences, collectors, and art enthusiasts.

The art showcase is presented by BDO Private Bank, and with special support from Nagaraya. Tickets for public days from February 13 to 15, 2026, are available onsite, priced at PHP 500 for the general public and PHP 250 for students. For more information, visit www.altphilippines.com and follow @altphilippines on Instagram and Facebook.

January 12, 2026
Cinemalaya 2026 Calls for Short Film Entries

Building on over two decades of nurturing independent Filipino cinema, the Cultural Center of the Philippines and the Cinemalaya Foundation Inc. open the screens for submission to the Short Film Category of the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival 2026.

The deadline for submissions is on or before 6pm of February 27, 2026.

The country’s biggest independent film competition is open to all Filipino filmmakers. Interested participants may submit a maximum of three (3) entries but only one (1) entry per proponent may be considered as a finalist.

Submitted entries must have been produced from May 16, 2025 to February 27, 2026. Short film entries that participated in other local and international festivals and competitions are qualified to join Cinemalaya.

Entries may be submitted ONLINE or OFFLINE. For online application, submit all requirements through: https://bit.ly/CM2026_ShortFilm_EntryForm. Requirements include a duly completed entry form, synopsis in English, a brief resume with 2×2 photo/s of the filmmaker/s, and the final work in MP4 format, with violator/watermark (for screening purposes only) and properly labeled with title, production company, address and contact numbers, production date, director’s name, and running time (which should not exceed 20 minutes including credits).

For OFFLINE submission, send entries to the Film, Broadcast, and New Media Division office, located at the Cultural Center of the Philippines Annex Building, Vicente Sotto St. corner Magdalena Jalandoni St., Pasay City.

For OFFLINE submission, film entry must be submitted on a thumb drive (USB), with the entry form, synopsis, and filmmaker’s profile. All must be submitted in a long brown envelope properly labeled with the proponent’s name, title of the film, and contact details.

The Cinemalaya Selection Committee will shortlist 10 film finalists which will be screened at the 2026 Cinemalaya Film Festival on August 6 to 18, and will have the chance to compete for the coveted Balanghai trophies.

Since 2005, Cinemalaya has been committed to the development and promotion of Philippine independent film. At its core, it provides an avenue for the production of cinematic works of Filipino independent filmmakers that boldly articulate and freely interpret the Filipino experience with fresh insight and artistic integrity. With its call for submissions for the 2026 short film competition, Cinemalaya continues to invigorate the Philippine film industry by developing a new breed of Filipino filmmakers.

For full mechanics, visit the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph) and the Cinemalaya website (www.cinemalaya.org). Follow the official CCP and Cinemalaya social media accounts on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for more updates.

January 9, 2026
“A Weekend of Everything That Flies” All Set on February 13-15 at New Clark City

Mark your calendars as the 26th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta takes flight on February 13 to 15, 2026, bringing three days of color, energy, and sky-high excitement to New Clark City in Tarlac. This upcoming edition is set to be one of the biggest yet, featuring 22 new special-shaped balloons, the highest number in its history, with pilots flying in from the United Kingdom, United States, Belgium, Netherlands, Macedonia, Switzerland, Germany, and Brazil. Each day of the 2026 edition will close with two crowd favorites: the glowing hot air balloons and a massive 500-drone show lighting up the New Clark City skyline with colorful formations and messages.

Guests can enjoy world-class action with Federation Aeronautique Internationale (FAI) sanctioned paragliding and First-Person View (FPV) drone racing competitions, featuring participants from at least six countries, including the UAE, Indonesia, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Iraq, Oman, and the Philippines. More competitors are registering following the announcement that the Airsports Federation of Asia (AFA) will hold its first 2026 board meeting in New Clark City during the balloon fiesta.

Adding even more energy to the experience is the fast-rising Soccer Drone competition, quickly gaining global popularity, with a demo court for visitors to try it out and hopes for the Fiesta to host a world championship in the future. School teams from Far Eastern Air Transport Incorporated University (FEATI University) and Philippine Air Transport and Training Services College of Aeronautics (PATTS College of Aeronautics) are forming their respective teams to compete, with the winning team set to represent the Philippines in international events and competitions around the world. A Paper Plane competition, open to all ages, invites everyone to join in the fun, while throughout the day, RC airplane demos, aerial dogfights, and kite shows fill the skies with excitement.

Filipino inventor Kyxz Mendiola will also demonstrate his homebuilt manned flying drone, showing himself flying inside it, a glimpse at the future of personal air travel, as it takes flight across the grounds for all to see. Ultralights will do their usual formation flying around the fiesta grounds. On the ground, guests can enjoy car drifting, browse through a lively Fly Market, and savor Pampanga’s well-loved dishes along with other popular food choices.

With the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) stepping in as a strong supporter, these efforts are expected to boost Aero Sports and draw more non-traditional tourism into the country. The PSC has begun supporting our paragliding and paramotor athletes for the Southeast Asian Games in Thailand, and these same paramotors will be showcasing their skills during the event.

“For over 25 years, this event has been our way of sharing the magic of flight with every Filipino,” shared Capt. Joy Roa, expressing his excitement for the 26th Philippine Hot Air Balloon Fiesta. “We’re thrilled to bring even more experiences that inspire, amaze, and open doors to the world of aviation.”

Ms. Frances Canlas, Investment Promotions Officer of the Provincial Government of Tarlac, expressed the local government unit’s full support to the Balloon Fiesta. She says, “This stands as a beacon of innovative sporting events and ushers in a renewed vibrancy as it soars once again in the province of Tarlac at New Clark City. This exciting event is expected to catalyze transformative economic growth, drawing thousands of visitors into the province and driving demand across the hospitality, culinary, transportation, and experiential sectors, while strengthening resilient logistics and supply chains province-wide.”

Engr. Mark P. Torres, Senior Vice President and Officer-In-Charge of the Bases Conversion and Development Bases and Development Authority (BCDA), noted, “As we prepare for this return, we envision a festival that is not only bigger and more vibrant, but also more inclusive—one that brings benefit to our communities and highlights Clark’s readiness as a premier tourism and investment destination.”

For those interested in a career in aviation, Capt. Joy explained that the Fiesta will feature passionate and successful professionals sharing their journeys. “We want to inspire the next generation of aviators by showing them how we started and what it takes to succeed in this industry,” he said. Attendees will learn about the adventures, challenges, and triumphs of working in a fast-paced field that offers strong career potential and high ROI. “Aviation offers excellent opportunities abroad, competitive salaries, and a chance to see the world while doing something you love,” Capt. Joy added. The lineup includes air traffic controllers, aircraft mechanics, flight attendants, safety inspectors, civilian and military pilots, and many more ready to share their stories.

With every flight and stunt over the years, the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta has captivated audiences with unforgettable moments, from the “100 Years of Flying” tribute and aircraft rallies from across Asia to breathtaking performances by the Breitling Jet Team, the Wing Walkers, and the daring aerobatics by Mark Jefferies of the Global Stars team. The Fiesta has also thrilled spectators with annual skydiving exhibitions and tandem jumps, hosted Ms. Aviation competitions, and featured ABS-CBN concerts alongside the iconic hot air balloon night glow. Cultural exchanges with countries like Turkey, complete with traditional dancers, porcelain artists, and carpet weavers, have enriched the experience, while renowned Filipino artist Manuel Baldemor contributed designs for posters and souvenir programs. Indoor aviation career seminars have long inspired students to pursue careers in the industry, providing insights from experienced pilots, air traffic controllers, flight attendants, safety inspectors, and mechanics. These diverse experiences, from high-flying stunts and concerts to educational programs and cultural showcases, have become the very soul and heart of “A Weekend of Everything that Flies.”

Discover more at www.philballoonfest.net and stay connected by following Philippine International Hot Air Balloon (@philballoonfest) on Facebook www.facebook.com/pihabf, Instagram www.instagram.com/philballoonfest, and Tiktok www.tiktok.com/@philballoonfiesta.

January 8, 2026
Makati in Full Color: A Proudly Pinoy New Year’s Eve Countdown Takes Over Ayala Avenue

Ushering in a new year of hope, energy, and transformation, Ayala Land, the local government of Makati, and Make It Makati invite the public to welcome 2026 with “Makati in Full Color: Ayala Avenue New Year’s Eve Countdown to 2026.” Part of the broader Makati in Color campaign, the celebration brings together music, community, and Filipino pride in one of the country’s most iconic city streets. The New Year’s eve countdown at Ayala Avenue has been championing global Filipino artists since it was relaunched 3 years ago in 2023.

On December 31, Ayala Avenue transforms into a vibrant, people-first celebration starting 6:00 PM, as the city opens its streets for a night of live performances, shared moments, and collective countdown energy. Designed as a proudly Pinoy New Year’s Eve celebration, the event spotlights homegrown talent, Filipino creativity, and the joy of coming together as one community.

Headlining the night are two of the country’s most beloved acts: rock icon Ely Buendia, whose music has shaped generations, and chart-topping band Cup of Joe, bringing a fresh, contemporary sound that resonates with today’s audiences. Other notable performers are Morissette, Juan Karlos, Sofronio Vasquez III, Divine Divas, and Theater Group Asia’s “A Chorus Line”. Their performances set the tone for an evening that bridges nostalgia and the future, much like Makati itself.

As the clock strikes midnight, the Makati skyline comes alive with a spectacular fireworks display accompanied by a Filipino version of the ball drop, welcoming 2026 in full color and marking the moment with optimism, hope, and shared celebration.

For those looking to enjoy the countdown with added comfort and exclusivity, VIP tickets are available via TicketWorld, offering access to a dedicated VIP lounge with a buffet dinner, prime viewing areas, and a more relaxed way to experience the festivities while remaining at the heart of the celebration.

The night doesn’t end at midnight. Guests are invited to keep the energy going at the street party with beats by DJ Cupcakes. This is followed by an after party with beats by The Studio Dance Club, at Ayala Triangle Gardens, extending the festivities into the early hours of the new year.

More than a countdown, Makati in Full Color is a celebration that reflects Makati’s continued evolution as a city that champions culture, creativity, and community. As 2026 begins, Makati once again opens its street, inviting everyone to celebrate the future together.

“Makati in Full Color” is presented by Ayala Land, the local government of Makati, Make It Makati, together with Ayala Corporation, Globe Telecom and Circuit Makati with additional support from Avida.

Tickets can be purchased through Ticket World at https://premier.ticketworld.com.ph/. For updates, ticket information, and event details, follow Make It Makati on Facebook.

December 29, 2025
Santa Brings the Holidays to Life at Brickman® Wonders of the World in Manila!

Santa Claus is making a special stop at Brickman® Wonders of the World! Families can enjoy the exhibit at The Space at Solaire all the way through February 8, with Santa spreading holiday cheer for a limited time, from December 15 to January 4, 1:00 to 6:00 PM daily. Celebrate an unforgettable Christmas with Santa and a walk through remarkable LEGO® brick creations that turn the world’s most iconic landmarks into a playground of imagination, creativity, and play.

Visitors can journey through the world-famous Brickman® Wonders of the World, discovering jaw-dropping LEGO® recreations of iconic landmarks from across the globe. With over 45 breathtaking builds, like the Taj Mahal and the Arc de Triomphe, each piece was crafted by Ryan “The Brickman” McNaught, the only LEGO® Certified Professional in the Southern Hemisphere, together with his team of expert LEGO model builders.

Kids can also unleash their creativity at the exhibit’s interactive LEGO build areas where they can design their own mini-masterpieces inspired by the landmarks they’ve just seen. It’s a hands-on experience that sparks curiosity, imagination, and hours of fun, perfect for busy parents looking to treat their kids to something meaningful and engaging during the holidays.

With Santa making special appearances throughout the season, families can capture magical Christmas moments and enjoy a thoughtful, exciting experience that brings together holiday magic, creativity, connection, and memories that last long after the holidays.

“Christmas at Wonders of the World is all about creativity, imagination, and togetherness, ” said Carlos Candal, CEO of GMG Productions. “Santa’s visit brings the festive spirit to life, giving families the chance to celebrate the season in a setting that inspires creativity and curiosity.“

Brickman® Wonders of the World runs from December 13, 2025, to February 8, 2026, at The Space at Solaire. Tickets are officially on sale exclusively via TicketWorld. Stay updated on upcoming productions by visiting www.gmg-productions.com or following @gmg.productions on Facebook and @gmgp.exhibits on Instagram.

December 19, 2025
OPM Takes Center Stage as BGC Rings In 2026 at NYE at the 5th

Bonifacio Global City (BGC) and the City Government of Taguig is set to welcome 2026 with another one-of-a-kind festive event that will gather some of the country’s biggest local acts in one venue, NYE at the 5th.

After an exciting year that’s overflowing with milestones and moments that continuously shape the district’s next chapter, BGC is preparing for an all-out celebration to thank everyone who has become a part of its story this year.

This year’s program reflects the momentum that BGC is in right now, and aims to express a feeling of local pride and optimism, rooted in various breakthroughs that were achieved through synergy.

As one of the most international districts in the country, BGC and the City Government of Taguig’s choice to spotlight OPM is deliberate–in a city shaped by global ideas, nothing hits harder than coming home to the sound of our own.

At the core of the celebration is a powerhouse OPM lineup engineered to electrify the city. DJ Mars Miranda, Jay-R, Dionela, G22, Parokya Ni Edgar, TJ Monterde, KZ Tandingan, and SB19 lead the night with a succession of performances that reflect the full spectrum of Filipino sound—from nostalgic and comforting to modern and genre-breaking, but all proudly local.

Joining this powerful lineup is apl.de.ap, global Filipino icon and member of The Black Eyed Peas, whose presence bridges the local and international.

As 5th Avenue transforms into a living corridor of music and lights, the night extends into a shared visual journey. With immersive light choreography and LED satellite screens across the district, the entire community is part of the moment.

Capping off the night — and the year — BGC will light up the sky with its dual-zone fireworks display. The tradition has become a familiar part of the city’s New Year’s Eve, but it still carries that collective pause — a moment where everyone looks up, takes it in, and steps into the new year together.

Since its maiden year, NYE at the 5th has become one of Metro Manila’s most anticipated events, and for good reasons. It’s one that’s known for effectively merging artistry, technology, and a shared energy that sets the tone for the year ahead. This year’s celebration takes a moment to honor the now—the victories and breakthroughs of 2025—whilst opening the door to the next chapter, not only of BGC but of the people who live, work, and play in it.

This year’s celebration is made possible with the support of partners who share BGC’s vision to create connection and energy across the district. Globe, MG Motor, Pru Life UK, Vivo, and PepsiCo join BGC in bringing NYE at the 5th to life, shaping a celebration that feels true to the district and the people who call it home.

Follow Bonifacio Global City for more details and updates on NYE at the 5th.

December 18, 2025
An ‘Al Fresco’ Live Concert and Film Screening at MiraNila Heritage House

On Thursday, February 5, 2026 the gates of the MiraNila Heritage House will open for a singular evening where time, memory, and music converge.

As the sun sets over this 1929 home, guests will wander through its halls treated to an intimate house tour and gather in the front lawn to witness a concert and cinema in lockstep, an experience like no other:

Violinist Alessio Benvenuti — lauded as an “Artist of High National and International Value”

Pianist Mariel Ilusorio —whose artistry has touched audiences across four continents

Together will perform the music of Ennio and Andrea Morricone from the timeless film ‘Cinema Paradiso’ — the Oscar-winning, Palme d’Or–honored masterpiece.

After the movie, famed Italian director Giuseppe Tornatore will come on screen and address our MiraNila audience.

This will definitely be a night of heritage, harmony, and the enduring magic of cinema.

Early Bird Tickets: ₱1,000 (adults)
₱800 (seniors & students with IDs)
Prices increase after December 20!

Regular Tickets:
₱1,200 (adults)
₱1,000 (seniors & students with IDs)

Book tickets now,
Text Bern on Viber: 0906 547 8268 (for best response time, contact between 1pm to 7pm)

FOOD & DRINKS

–Pasta stations, snack tables, and cold drinks will be on sale in the front lawn.

–Consider booking VIP pre-concert cocktails & anti-pasti at ₱1,000 and/or VIP post-concert dinners at ₱1,750 https://shop.thenestbythesea.com/search?q=cinema+paradiso&options%5Bprefix%5D=last

For queries, contact MiraNamin at +63 917 621 0062 or hello@thenestbythesea.com

December 5, 2025
Get Ready for a Night of Laughter as the Godfather of Filipino Comedy Sets the Stage at Quezon Club

Prepare for a night of laughter as veteran Filipino Comedy King Rex Navarrete takes his clever humor to Quezon Club this December 13. The premier Filipino-American stand-up comedian reconnects with his roots as he comes back to the Philippines to join Quezon Club for a one-night only performance at Solaire Resort North.

Enjoy a selection of delectable meals and drinks for a perfect time to laugh your woes away with Rex Navarrete’s sharp wit and relatable anecdotes brought to the stage. Visit Quezon Club and be part of this exclusive set by the original Filipino comic with the main show starting at 9:00 pm. Don’t miss out on this exciting night as more amazing performances showcase smooth jazz acts, high-energy dances, and exhilarating beats from DJs prime the evening beginning at 7:00 pm.

Limited seating awaits your next big night full of comical artistry and sumptuous dishes at Quezon Club. For reservations and inquiries, visit quezonclub.com, call +632 8888 8888 or email snrestaurantevents@solaireresort.com to book your table today.

December 2, 2025
All-4-One is Coming Back to the Philippines

The Grammy Award-Winning, multi-platinum R&B/POP legends All-4-One are coming to Davao on December 15 at the SMX Convention Center! The group has timeless harmonies and chart-topping hits that have shaped the soundtrack of love for over three decades.The quartet consists of Jamie Jones, Delious Kennedy, Alfred Nevarez, and Tony Borowiak who are celebrated for their blend of rich vocal arrangements and heartfelt storytelling that continues to inspire the global music scene and the new generations of artists with their signature sound.

All-4-One’s debut song “So Much in Love” burst through the charts in 1993 with their fresh spin on a classic tune that introduced their smooth sound and vocal chemistry to the world. It quickly rose to the No.4 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart but it was their follow-up single “I Swear” that was their ticket to international superstardom, spending consecutive weeks at No.1 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts. The song became one of the longest running songs of the era and was a cultural phenomenon that earned them the 1995 Grammy Award for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal. “I Swear” was also named by ASCAP as one of the greatest love songs of the 20th century.

Their hits include “I Can Love You Like That”, “These Arms”, “Beautiful As U”, “Someday” from the soundtrack of Disney’s Hunchback of Notre Dame, and “I Turn To You” from the Space Jam Soundtrack, later recorded by Christina Aguilera. Their debut and sophomore albums both solidified their place in R&B history by going multi-platinum, and earning gold and platinum certifications across multiple countries.

To date, All-4-One has sold over 25 million records worldwide with their music charting in the U.S., U.K., Asia, Australia, and across Europe. They have received numerous accolades including the Grammy Award, the American Music Award, the Blockbuster Entertainment Award, and 3 Billboard Music Awards.

All-4-One continues to perform around the world, even with decades of sold-out tours and millions of fans, they still plan to deliver their hits and newer favorites with passion and excellence to places such as Davao. Their live shows are a testament to their passion, excellence, vocal power, showmanship, brotherhood, and enduring appeal. They celebrated their over 20 year journey in 2015 by releasing the album “Twenty+” featuring new songs and reimagined versions of their iconic tracks. The album reminded fans and critics alike that All-4-One remains at the top of their game.

Now with 30 plus years as an active pop group, All-4-One are proud to still be united with all four original members – an extraordinary accomplishment in the music industry. Their journey from small-town beginnings to international stardom is a story of perseverance, unity, and a shared belief in the power of music to move the world.

Secure your tickets now at SM Cinema and smtickets.com to witness the exceptional performance of R&B’s most cherished group. Ticket prices are 5500, 4500, 3300, and 1500 plus ticketing charge. Presented by Ovation Productions and Blast TV.

November 26, 2025
Shop Proud and Celebrate a Filipino Christmas at the 29th Global Pinoy Bazaar in Shangri-La Plaza Mall

Yabang Pinoy proudly will wrap its 20th year anniversary with the upcoming 29th GLOBAL PINOY BAZAAR, set to take place on November 27–30, 2025 (Thursday to Sunday) at Level 2, Grand Atrium, Shangri-La Plaza Mall, Mandaluyong City. Known as one of the country’s pioneering all-Filipino lifestyle bazaars, the event once again gathers the best of local craftsmanship, creativity, and entrepreneurship under one vibrant roof.

This year’s bazaar continues its mission of elevating and empowering homegrown brands by offering a curated marketplace featuring Filipino-made products made with 100% love and pride — from fashion, accessories, home and lifestyle goods, to artisanal food, eco-friendly innovations, and creative small-batch enterprises. Yabang Pinoy’s goal has always been to highlight the ingenuity of Filipino makers and give them an avenue to thrive. As the yuletide season is just around the corner, the bazaar is a perfect opportunity to choose local for the gifts and items that we will be giving to our families, friends, colleagues, and anyone dearest to us.

Some of the upbeat local brands to watch out in this bazaar are women’s brands such as IKOT, Tessa Handcrafted, Rica Rico Studio, Ferylou Fab Collection, Babaylan Treasures, Alixia Marie, and Le Scarpe; men’s brands such as Fresh Element and Islander; home products such as Amber & Anne, Kimochi, RN Arts & Crafts, and Tala at Panaginip; and food brands such as Sweet Kamote, The Kabute Farm, and Sister Ging’s Homemade.

Come celebrate Christmas the Pinoy way and shop proud for unique gift ideas at the 29th Global Pinoy Bazaar. For inquiries, you may call us at (63 917) 815-1513 or e-mail globalpinoy2025@gmail.com.

November 22, 2025