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Watch Bill Hader Brings the Mischief in ‘The Cat in the Hat’ Main Trailer, In PH Cinemas November 4

The hat is back, and so is the chaos.

Warner Bros. Pictures has unveiled the main trailer for “The Cat in the Hat,” a new animated adventure that gives the beloved Dr. Seuss character his first theatrical animated feature film.

Voiced by Bill Hader, the Cat returns with all the mischief, imagination, and over-the-top energy fans would expect. This time, however, he has something to prove.

“The Cat in the Hat” opens in Philippine cinemas and IMAX on November 4, 2026.

A Mission Made for the Cat

At the center of the story are Gabby and Sebastian, two siblings having a difficult time adjusting after moving to a new town.

Enter the Cat.

Working for the I.I.I.I., or Institute for the Institution of Imagination and Inspiration, LLC, he is given what might be his toughest assignment yet: cheer the kids up.

On paper, it sounds like the perfect job for someone who specializes in turning ordinary moments into unforgettable adventures.

Then again, this is the Cat in the Hat.

His tendency to take things too far quickly turns a simple mission into something much bigger. With his reputation on the line, the assignment could become his final chance to prove he deserves to keep his magical hat.

That setup gives the familiar character a fresh challenge while keeping the playful spirit that has made him a favorite across generations.

Bill Hader Leads a Colorful Voice Cast

Bill Hader headlines the film as the Cat, bringing his signature comedic energy to the famously unpredictable character.

He is joined by Xochitl Gomez, Matt Berry, Quinta Brunson, and Paula Pell, with Tiago Martinez, Giancarlo Esposito, America Ferrera, Bowen Yang, and Tituss Burgess also lending their voices to the film.

The ensemble gives the animated adventure a strong mix of comedy talent and recognizable voices, adding even more personality to the fantastical world on screen.

A Bigger, Bolder Take on a Dr. Seuss Favorite

Rather than simply revisiting a familiar story, “The Cat in the Hat” introduces audiences to a new adventure built around imagination, spectacle, and plenty of trouble.

The trailer offers glimpses of a bright and wildly inventive world where almost anything can happen. True to the character, the Cat does not simply solve problems. He turns them into enormous, unpredictable events.

That sense of excess appears to be one of the film’s biggest strengths.

There is magic. There is mayhem. There are strange places, exaggerated situations, and the kind of cheerful disorder that fits naturally into the world of Dr. Seuss.

At the same time, the story gives the Cat a little more at stake than usual. Helping Gabby and Sebastian is not just another adventure. It may also determine his own future.

A New Chapter for The Cat in the Hat

Directed by Alessandro Carloni and Erica Rivinoja, the film marks Warner Bros. Pictures Animation’s first full-length feature film.

It also gives moviegoers a new version of the Cat designed for the big screen, complete with a larger world, a star-studded cast, and a story that balances comedy with a heartfelt mission.

For longtime fans, it is a chance to see a classic character reimagined for a new generation. For younger audiences, it may be their first introduction to one of Dr. Seuss’ most famous creations.

Either way, the Cat is clearly ready to make an entrance.

Watch the Main Trailer for “The Cat in the Hat”

See Bill Hader unleash the chaos in the main trailer here:

“The Cat in the Hat” opens in Philippine cinemas and IMAX on November 4, 2026.

Join the conversation online using #TheCatInTheHat.

_{Photo & Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Pictures”}

September 11, 2026
Max Verstappen Takes on 100 Drivers in Disney+ Live Racing Event “Max vs 100”

What happens when one of the fastest drivers in the world is placed behind 100 competitors and told to catch them all?

Disney+ is about to find out.

The streaming platform has announced “Max vs 100,” a one-of-a-kind live motorsport event created with Red Bull, featuring four-time Formula 1® World Champion Max Verstappen in a massive karting challenge at Silverstone.

Streaming live on Disney+ Philippines at 12:00 AM on September 17, the event will put Verstappen at the back of a 101-kart grid with a simple but formidable mission: overtake every driver ahead of him.

Max Verstappen Takes on a Massive Karting Grid

Set at Silverstone, one of motorsport’s most famous circuits, “Max vs 100” brings together 101 karts for one of the biggest kart races of its kind.

Verstappen will have to work his way through a field filled with athletes, streamers, gaming personalities, social media creators, media figures, fans, and surprise guests from around the world.

Rather than following a traditional racing format, the event blends elite motorsport with entertainment and technology, creating a challenge where the advantage is firmly with the pack.

The question at the heart of it all is simple: Can 100 drivers stop Max Verstappen?

A Return to Where It All Started

For Verstappen, the race also marks a return to the discipline that helped shape his career.

Before Formula 1® titles, record-breaking performances, and international fame, Verstappen spent years honing his skills in karting. It was there that he learned the fundamentals of racing, from race starts and defensive driving to overtaking and managing grip.

In go-karts you learn all the basics: starts, defending, overtaking, Verstappen said.

Of course, I spent a long period of my life go-karting, so it’s always nice to return. It’s about understanding the grip of the go-kart. I’ve done so many years in go-karting that you quite naturally get back into things.

The setup of “Max vs 100” also mirrors a challenge familiar from his early racing days: starting from behind and fighting through the field.

This time, however, the scale is dramatically bigger.

Who Will Race Against Max Verstappen?

The 100 drivers standing between Verstappen and the front of the grid will come from different areas of sports, gaming, entertainment, and online culture.

Among the Red Bull athletes joining the race are ultrarunner Arda Saatçi, basketball shooting specialist Chris “Lethal Shooter” Matthews, and freestyle mountain biker Matt Jones.

Also joining the grid are Red Bull streamers TheGrefg, Caedrel, and TheDonato, along with content creators, personalities, and fans invited from different parts of the world.

With such a varied field, the race promises plenty of unpredictable moments as competitors attempt to stay ahead of one of motorsport’s most accomplished drivers.

Mo Gilligan Leads the Live Coverage

Triple BAFTA-winning British comedian Mo Gilligan will front the live broadcast as part of a wider presenting team.

Gilligan will bring his trademark humor and energy to the event while the broadcast team delivers race commentary, analysis, and updates throughout the challenge.

I’m absolutely thrilled to be teaming up with Disney on this hugely ambitious project. Gilligan said.

Max Verstappen, 100 drivers and one massive race – this show is going to be truly spectacular. It’s fast, unpredictable and, above all, a lot of fun. Somehow, I’ve got the best seat in the house, and I can’t wait to take everyone watching on Disney+ along for the ride.

Silverstone Gets a Special Karting Setup

To accommodate the unusually large field, the circuit has been specially designed for the event by David Terrien, the race director, French racing driver, renowned kart designer, and youth karting world champion.

The layout has been built to allow all 101 karts to compete at the same time, creating a racing environment specifically suited to the ambitious concept.

Beyond the action on track, “Max vs 100” will also experiment with how viewers experience motorsport at home.

The broadcast will feature game-inspired graphics, cinematic drone footage, live race data, and on-screen insightsdesigned to help audiences follow Verstappen’s progress through the field.

Adding another layer of unpredictability, Verstappen will also be able to communicate directly with his competitors during the race.

That feature could give viewers a rare look at the conversations, reactions, and split-second decisions taking place while the competition unfolds.

Disney+ Expands Its Live Sports Entertainment Offering

Sean Doyle, Vice President, Unscripted, Disney+ EMEA, said the idea immediately stood out because of its unusual premise.

The moment we heard the idea for ‘Max vs 100’, we knew it was something really special, Doyle said.

Taking one of the greatest racing drivers in the world and asking him to overtake 100 drivers is the kind of challenge you can’t help but want to see play out.

He added that the collaboration with Red Bull reflects Disney+’s continuing push into live and sports entertainment.

Working with Red Bull, we’ve created a live event that’s ambitious, entertaining and genuinely unpredictable. It’s another exciting step as we continue to expand our live and sports entertainment offering on Disney+, and we can’t wait to bring the excitement of live motorsport to a new generation of fans.”

When to Watch “Max vs 100”

“Max vs 100” streams live on Disney+ Philippines at 12:00 AM on September 17.

The event is a Red Bull Media House production commissioned by Angela Jain, Head of Content, Disney+ EMEA, and Sean Doyle, Vice President, Unscripted, Disney+ EMEA.

Executive producers include Antonia Howard-Taylor for Disney+ EMEA, Ignacio Leon for Red Bull, Kutlu Baklacioglu, Red Bull Head of Motorsports Network, and Simon Corney, Executive Producer at Whisper.

Produced by Whisper, the award-winning global production company behind major sports and entertainment programming, the live event is set to combine competitive racing with a fresh, playful format.

With Max Verstappen chasing down 100 drivers at Silverstone, “Max vs 100” is shaping up to be one of Disney+’s most ambitious live motorsport spectacles yet.

September 11, 2026
Watch Movies for Only ₱100 Nationwide on the Philippines’ First National Cinema Day

Movie lovers, this is the sign to clear your schedule.

On September 12, 2026, cinemas across the Philippines will come together for the country’s first-ever Philippine National Cinema Day, a nationwide celebration that will let audiences watch movies for only ₱100 at participating Regular 2D Cinemas.

For one day only, moviegoers can enjoy local and international films on the big screen at a significantly lower ticket price, making it one of the most exciting cinema events of the year.

Whether you are planning a family movie date, a barkada night out, or a solo trip to catch a long-awaited release, National Cinema Day gives Filipinos another reason to experience movies the way they were meant to be seen.

₱100 Movie Tickets Across Participating Cinemas Nationwide

The biggest highlight of Philippine National Cinema Day is simple: Regular 2D cinema tickets will be priced at only ₱100 at participating theaters.

The special rate will apply to all movies scheduled for exhibition on September 12, including both Philippine and international titles, subject to MTRCB classifications, cinema schedules, seat availability, and participating theater policies.

That means audiences may be able to choose from blockbuster releases, family-friendly films, local productions, and other titles showing that day.

With regular cinema prices often costing considerably more, the one-day promo makes moviegoing more accessible to students, families, groups of friends, and anyone looking for an affordable big-screen experience.

A First for the Philippine Cinema Industry

Philippine National Cinema Day is organized by the Cinema Exhibitors Association of the Philippines (CEAP) together with industry and government partners.

The event marks the first time cinema exhibitors across the country are joining under one nationwide campaign dedicated to celebrating the moviegoing experience.

Under the banner “One Industry. One Message. One Big Day,” the initiative highlights the importance of cinemas not only as entertainment venues, but also as shared spaces where audiences can experience stories together.

This is more than a promotional event. It is a nationwide celebration of cinema and an invitation for Filipinos of all ages to experience the excitement, emotion, and community of watching movies on the big screen,” CEAP President Irene L. Jose said in a statement.

Why National Cinema Day Matters

Streaming may have changed the way people watch films, but there is still something special about seeing a story unfold inside a cinema.

The giant screen, immersive sound, dimmed lights, and collective reactions of an audience create an experience that is difficult to replicate at home.

National Cinema Day aims to bring that experience within reach of more Filipinos while also encouraging audiences to support theaters, local cinema culture, and the wider film industry.

The nationwide campaign is supported by the Film Academy of the Philippines, Film Development Council of the Philippines, Movie and Television Review and Classification Board, and the Metro Manila Film Festival through the MMDA.

The collaboration brings together cinema operators, industry stakeholders, and government partners for one major celebration of film and moviegoing.

When Do National Cinema Day Tickets Go on Sale?

Moviegoers who want to secure their seats early can start booking before the event itself.

Advance ticket sales begin on September 10, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.

Tickets may be purchased through participating cinema box offices, official cinema websites, mobile apps, and authorized ticketing platforms.

Availability will still depend on individual cinema schedules, theater capacity, and participating locations, so booking early may be a smart move, especially for popular titles and peak screening times.

Your September 12 Movie Plans Are Set

For Filipino movie fans, Philippine National Cinema Day is shaping up to be a standout celebration of the big-screen experience.

With ₱100 Regular 2D cinema tickets, a nationwide lineup of participating theaters, and both local and international films included in the special offer, September 12 presents a rare chance to enjoy cinema at a more affordable price.

So check the schedules at your favorite theater, gather your family or barkada, and pick the movie you have been meaning to watch.

The Philippines’ first National Cinema Day happens on September 12, 2026, and for one day, the big screen becomes easier to enjoy for only ₱100.

September 11, 2026
Tom Cruise Faces a Global Crisis in the Final Trailer for “Digger,” in Cinemas October 2

The final trailer for “Digger” has arrived, offering a new look at Tom Cruise in the latest original film from Academy Award-winning filmmaker Alejandro G. Iñárritu.

Presented by Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures, the film is now set to open in theaters and IMAX worldwide on October 2, 2026.

A Race to Save Humanity

Cruise takes on the title role in a story centered on power, responsibility, and a rapidly escalating global threat.

In the film, Digger is described as the most powerful man in the world. After unleashing a devastating disaster, he finds himself on a frantic mission to prove that he can still become humanity’s savior before everything falls apart.

The final trailer teases a tense journey filled with urgency, ambition, and mounting consequences as Digger struggles to stop the catastrophe he helped create.

Tom Cruise Leads a Star-Studded Cast

Joining Cruise is an impressive ensemble of acclaimed actors.

The cast includes Academy Award winner Riz Ahmed, John Goodman, Oscar nominee Sandra Hüller, Michael Stuhlbarg, and Oscar nominee Jesse Plemons.

Also appearing in the film are Robert John Burke, Emma D’Arcy, Burn Gorman, and Sophie Wilde.

With such a strong lineup, “Digger” brings together a compelling mix of established performers and rising talent for one of the year’s most anticipated theatrical releases.

Alejandro G. Iñárritu Returns With an Original Story

Iñárritu directs the film from a screenplay he co-wrote with Academy Award winners Alexander Dinelaris and Nicolás Giacobone, along with Sabina Berman. The story was developed by Iñárritu and Berman.

The film is produced by Alejandro G. Iñárritu, Mary Parent, Tom Cruise, and Michael Sharp.

Executive producers include Joshua Grode, Sabina Berman, Alexander Dinelaris, Nicolás Giacobone, Jez Butterworth, and Emmanuel Lubezki.

An Acclaimed Creative Team Behind the Camera

For “Digger,” Iñárritu once again works with several notable collaborators.

Academy Award-winning cinematographer Emmanuel Lubezki serves as director of photography, while the editing team includes Conor O’Neill and Oscar winner Stephen Mirrione.

The production also brings together Oscar-nominated costume designer Jacqueline West, Oscar-winning makeup and hair designer Alessandro Bertolazzi, and Oscar-nominated casting director Francine Maisler.

Other members of the creative team include Oscar-winning production designer Dennis Gassner, production designer Richard Johnson, Oscar-winning prosthetic makeup designer Kazu Hiro, and composer Cosmo Sheldrake.

Shot Entirely in VistaVision

One of the film’s standout technical details is its use of VistaVision, with the entire production filmed in the large-format process.

The format adds another layer of spectacle to a project already designed as a major theatrical experience, particularly for audiences watching in IMAX.

An Alejandro G. Iñárritu Film, “Digger” will be distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures and released in theaters and IMAX worldwide on October 2, 2026.

With Tom Cruise leading an acclaimed ensemble and Iñárritu behind the camera, the final trailer sets the stage for an intense, visually ambitious story about a man desperately trying to save the world from a disaster of his own making.

September 10, 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
Austin Abrams Faces His Worst Delivery Route Yet in “Resident Evil,” Tickets Available Now!

Austin Abrams is heading straight into Raccoon City, and his character is having what may be the worst work shift imaginable.

In director Zach Cregger’s new take on Resident Evil, Abrams plays Bryan, an ordinary medical courier whose routine delivery turns into a terrifying fight for survival. Tasked with transporting coolers, Bryan soon finds himself navigating a night filled with infected humans, mutated creatures, and escalating danger.

Unlike the highly trained heroes often associated with survival horror, Bryan enters the nightmare with no combat experience and no special skills. That vulnerability places audiences directly in his shoes as he tries to stay alive long enough to complete his journey.

Austin Abrams as Bryan in Resident Evil

Resident Evil opens in Philippine cinemas, including IMAX, on September 16. Tickets are available now.

Zach Cregger Found the Right Everyman in Austin Abrams

For Cregger, casting Abrams was an easy decision.

The two previously worked together on Weapons, and that collaboration gave the director confidence that Abrams could bring the right balance of humor, fear, and relatability to Bryan.

Austin is so well-suited for this part, says Cregger. We had an amazing experience together on Weapons and we really connected creatively. So, when it was time to get Resident Evil going, I didn’t have to think too hard about casting Austin.

Cregger also wanted audiences to experience the chaos through someone who feels believable and grounded.

Before everything goes sideways,” Cregger explains. “Bryan has no training and no backup. He’s just a guy whose shift has turned into a survival horror story that he had no way to prepare for. He’s sucked into a nightmare and burdened with this sacred mission that’s going to take him into the true heart of darkness.

That setup makes Bryan less of an action hero and more of a stand-in for the audience. Every threat becomes more intense because he is figuring things out as he goes.

Watch the official trailer:

Austin Abrams Embraces Cregger’s Mix of Horror and Humor

Abrams was equally enthusiastic about working with Cregger again.

For the actor, part of the appeal came from the filmmaker’s ability to shift between fear and comedy without losing momentum.

Zach’s humor makes me laugh because it’s so sharp,” says the actor. “I really love his work because in one moment Zach can freak you out, and a second later, make you laugh. It’s his kind of flavoring.

That contrast between tension and humor could give this version of Resident Evil a distinctive personality while still delivering the mayhem and horror fans expect from the franchise.

Bryan Is Someone Audiences Can Easily Root For

Executive producer Miri Yoon also points to Abrams’ natural performance as one of Bryan’s biggest strengths.

Austin’s portrayal is very natural and honest. He’s so wonderful at playing the everyman, who stands in for all of us who have never handled a weapon and have no fighting or survival skills. Bryan is just a guy trying to get through a really bad day full of mayhem and gore.

Austin Abrams as Bryan in Resident Evil

For Bryan, surviving the night is not about being the strongest person in the room. It is about adapting quickly, pushing through fear, and finding a way forward even when the odds keep getting worse.

Executive producer Roy Lee believes that sense of resilience is exactly what will keep audiences invested in the character.

Austin brings a real sense of resilience to the role. He has the physical presence to handle the intense action, but he also gives the character heart and hope, so that you’re constantly rooting for him to survive the night.

With infected humans, mutated creatures, and Raccoon City standing in his path, Bryan has plenty to survive.

Catch Austin Abrams in Resident Evil when the film arrives in Philippine cinemas, including IMAX, on September 16. Distibuted locally by Columbia Pictures PH. Tickets are available now.

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
Melai Cantiveros Brings All the K-Feels in Disney+ Philippines’ “Deserve Mo Ng K!” Campaign

Filipino K-drama fans have plenty of reasons to get excited as Disney+ Philippines launches “Deserve Mo Ng K!”, a new campaign celebrating the wide range of Korean stories available on the platform.

Leading the fun is Melai Cantiveros-Francisco, whose signature humor and expressive personality perfectly capture the rollercoaster of emotions that comes with watching a gripping K-drama.

Melai Brings Every K-Drama Mood to Life

In a new campaign video, Melai takes viewers through the familiar emotions K-entertainment fans know all too well.

There is kilig for scenes that make hearts flutter, kulit for the playful and hilarious moments, and kaba for those tense sequences that keep audiences guessing until the very end.

Bringing her unmistakable energy to the campaign, Melai shows how one Korean series can make viewers laugh, swoon, worry, and cheer, sometimes all in a single episode.

With “Deserve Mo Ng K!,” Disney+ Philippines invites fans to find a story that matches their mood.

Exciting Korean Titles Take Center Stage

The campaign also puts the spotlight on a strong lineup of Korean content coming to and available on Disney+.

Among the anticipated titles featured are The Remarried Empress, Made in Korea, and A Shop for Killers Season 2.

Also part of the lineup is Flex X Cop Season 2, giving fans another series to look forward to, while the acclaimed Moving continues to stand out as one of the platform’s fan-favorite Korean titles.

From romance and comedy to action and suspense, the collection offers something for viewers looking for different kinds of stories and emotions.

Find Your Next K-Drama Obsession on Disney+

Whether the mood calls for a sweet romance, a laugh-out-loud comedy, a gripping thriller, or an action-packed adventure, Disney+ Philippines is giving K-drama fans even more ways to enjoy the stories they love.

And with Melai bringing the campaign to life, “Deserve Mo Ng K!” turns every kilig, kulit, and kaba moment into a celebration of the Filipino love for Korean entertainment.

Whatever K-feel you are craving, there is a story waiting on Disney+.

Deserve mo ng K! K-dramas on Disney+.

September 9, 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