Forget cold feet – in Shotgun Wedding, Darcy (Jennifer Lopez) and Tom (Josh Duhamel) face a new level of pre-marital jitters. Their idyllic destination wedding in the Philippines takes a hilariously chaotic turn when a band of ruthless pirates crashes the party, turning “til death do us part” into a very real threat. Suddenly, navigating their opinionated families becomes the least of their worries. Now, this bickering couple must put aside their differences and fight tooth and nail to save their loved ones, all while trying not to kill each other in the process.
Directed by Jason Moore (Pitch Perfect), Shotgun Wedding promises a wild roller coaster of romance, action, and laugh-out-loud moments. With a star-studded cast including Jennifer Lopez, Josh Duhamel, Jennifer Coolidge, Lenny Kravitz, D’Arcy Carden, and more, this is one destination wedding you won’t want to RSVP “no” to.
Interestingly, despite the story being set in the Philippines, Shotgun Wedding was filmed in the Dominican Republic. In an interview with cinemadailyus.com, director Jason Moore explained: “The story takes place in the Philippines, so we were looking for a place where we could safely shoot the movie. We shot this during the first winter of COVID, so we were looking for a place that could double for the Philippines closer to America, as we couldn’t travel all the way there. We did end up changing a lot of the architecture when we arrived in the Dominican Republic. We choose colors and fabrics that reflect Filipino culture.”
Meanwhile, in an interview with freshfiction.tv, Jennifer Lopez shared how she enjoyed the connection between her evolving character and her fluffy wedding dress:“I really felt like the dress itself was like a character in the movie, but also really represented what she was going through.. As she went on, and was more honest with Tom about who she was and what she wanted, [it was] peeling back the layers and becoming more herself and stepping into her own power – more of her authenticity.
“[The dress] was the biggest, most cumbersome, beautiful, but not her at all. Pieces started coming off, and by the end, she’s this badass and took off the hair extensions and she has a gun and is like, ‘Alright, now! Everybody listens to me. This is how it’s going to be.’ We had it basically in stages throughout the whole entire thing. It was very calculated, for sure.”
Mark your calendars for the wild and hilarious Shotgun Wedding, hitting Lionsgate Play on March 28, 2025 on PLDT Home and Smart.
ASUS proves yet again that it is a top contender in today’s Copilot+ PC market with their latest and lightest AI PC to date, the Zenbook A14.
Weighing less than a kilogram, the Zenbook A14 crushes competition in terms of portability and convenience. Yet it doesn’t cut corners in screen real estate and performance, boasting a 14-inch display and a powerful Snapdragon X processor.
Before its local release here in the Philippines, ASUS gave us the opportunity to have hands-on experience with the Zenbook A14 (UX3407QA) for a week.
Here are our thoughts on ASUS’ lightest AI PC yet.
First Impressions: Peak Portability, Sophisticated Style
I was well-aware of the Zenbook A14’s next-level lightness but holding it for the first time was still a pleasant surprise.
It weighs less than a kilogram and is about 0.5” thin. On paper, it’s expected to weigh around 899g, but our test unit was even lighter at 892g.
I can easily lift it with one hand and carry it around without breaking a sweat. You’ll feel the lightness even more when you handle it with the lid open.
With this build, the Zenbook A14 easily takes the lead in the realm of ultraportable laptops. So if you’re someone who constantly carries a laptop in your bag, upgrading to ASUS’ new AI PC will instantly improve your quality of life.
The feel and style of the Zenbook A14’s chassis did not disappoint either.
Its full chassis is made of ASUS’ patented Ceraluminum™ material. It combines aluminum with ceramic’s rich texture and lightness, resulting in a fingerprint-resistant finish with weightlessness that still feels very premium.
As for its aesthetic appeal, this Zabriskie Beige variant stands out with its elegant neutral tone that’s reminiscent of sandstone and goes well with the laptop’s matte texture.
They also have the Iceland Gray variant which sports a more classic color that’s just as sophisticated.
EasyLift to a Sizeable Screen
Opening up the laptop has been made effortless with the ASUS EasyLift Hinge, which allows you to lift the lid smoothly and wobble-free with a single finger.
The laptop hinge is often an overlooked detail, but this kind of improvement was something I didn’t know I wanted until I experienced it first-hand.
Onto the screen, this new ASUS laptop has a 14-inch WUXGA IPS (1920 x 1200) display with 90% screen-to-body ratio.
This screen setup has a very good display despite not being OLED-equipped locally, which also aligns with its lower price point among flagships.
Its strength also comes from the fact that the Zenbook A14 gets to be the lightest but it didn’t resort to a smaller 13-inch screen. Instead, its 14-inch size is the right balance between substantial and compact.
The 16:10 aspect ratio even offers additional productivity advantage with its added vertical space for reading web pages and documents.
The laptop also has a snappy 60Hz refresh rate, vivid 100% sRGB color gamut, and TÜV Rheinland certification for your eye protection.
The brightness goes up to 400 nits, which is fairly bright even in well-lit areas. As long as I had shade over the laptop, there was no bothersome glare while I worked at its maximum brightness.
Its dual super-linear speakers are also pretty loud and clear for a laptop this light, which complements the display when it comes to media consumption.
Smooth Typing and Touch
Working with Zenbook A14’s keyboard and touchpad also offers comfort and convenience.
I can type away smoothly with its short key travel and quick feedback. Typing feels soft and subtly clicky. It isn’t too loud and distracting which makes it perfect for shared spaces like offices, libraries, and coffee shops.
Working alone, this laptop still has the satisfying clicks of the keyboard that further motivate my writing when in a flow state.
Working in darker environments is not a problem as the keyboard backlight has three levels of brightness.
The touchpad is also made larger, with handy smart gestures that make volume, brightness, and playback adjustments easily accessible.
Heavyweight on AI Capabilities
Under the hood, the featherweight Zenbook A14 is run by a Qualcomm Snapdragon X X1 processor that’s designed for powerful AI computing. It’s backed by 16GB LPDDR5X RAM and 512GB M.2 NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD.
The Qualcomm Hexagon NPU also offers up to 45 TOPS that boosts its generative AI performance and speed.
You can pull up the Copilot AI Chatbot with just a click of the dedicated button beside the right Alt key. Responses are fast and concise as long as you ask it with specific and straightforward questions.
I didn’t encounter inaccurate or outdated information, and it usually adds reference links so you know you get credible sources.
Generating images is also fairly fast and precise in its details. Just make sure you write your prompts clearly and keep it within community standards.
Using the microphone to interact with the AI chatbot has also come a long way, Copilot’s speaking voice will make you think that you’re talking to an actual human. I even used Filipino to talk with it and it answered in our language.
But the Zenbook A14’s AI capabilities are not limited to the Copilot chat. It’s also equipped with a variety of built-in AI tools that make PC use more seamless and productive:
Paint Features: Generate images from text or using your own scribbles using Paint’s Cocreator. The app is also now capable of Generative Fill and Erase.
Photos App Features: Generate photos with Image Creator; turn images into different styles with Restyle Image; and turn blurry photos into crisp images with Super Resolution.
Windows Studio Effects: Control your camera’s lighting and background filter which automatically applies to all your video calls, whatever the platform.
Live Captions: Get real-time subtitles and translations on your calls.
Windows continues to develop more exciting updates for Copilot+ PCs with the following AI tools slated to further streamline your workflows and organize your digital workspace:
Recall: This appcreates a timeline of your PC screen snapshots. When you need to find something you saw on your screen, whether it’s in an email, webpage, or document, you simply describe it and the AI will find it for you instantly.
Improved Windows Search: Looking for your files is no longer constrained to specific file names and content. Just describe what’s in the photo or file you’re looking for in your own words and Windows Search can now understand it.
Click to Do: This feature offers advanced options when you click on a type of content. You can swiftly rewrite and refine text, remove or blur image backgrounds, and so much more with just a click.
Even without the use of its AI capabilities, the Zenbook A14 is also an excellent daily driver PC. Working with multiple tabs is a breeze while the lightweight dual fan setup keeps the ultraportable cooled and quiet.
Its performance also doesn’t change whether it’s plugged or running on battery. Work with your PC’s full potential even when you’re out and about and far from the nearest electric outlet.
For a closer look at how this AI PC fares in terms of processing power, here are our unit’s benchmark scores:
When an ultraportable pushes its boundaries, connectivity is usually compromised. ASUS made sure that you still have access to PC peripherals with the Zenbook A14’s full lineup of ports.
On its left is an HDMI 2.1 port, 3.5mm combo audio jack, and two type-C USB 4 ports with display and power delivery. Meanwhile, on the right side is a single type-A USB 3.2 port.
Powering this laptop is a lightweight 48Wh battery that takes advantage of the Snapdragon X chip’s generally lower battery consumption.
The Zenbook A14 promises up to 23 hours of offline video playback, but we also tested it for its intended use.
The usual productivity tasks such as browsing the internet and typing documents consumed 11% to 13% of the battery every hour. Interacting with Copilot, the laptop lost only 5% of battery at the 30-minute mark.
As for media consumption, watching videos online decreased the battery by 9% every hour.
All these tests were done under Balanced Mode and with settings that suited my well-lit and quiet workspace: 40% brightness and 50% volume. If you want to save battery, you can always switch to Best Power Efficiency mode.
Juicing up the laptop is a very compact 65W fast charger with the Ultra Mini Universal Adapter. When powered off, I got my test unit charged from 0% to 55% in just 30 minutes, and to 86% in the 1-hour mark.
The Zenbook A14 didn’t just showcase portability through its weight, it’s also highly flexible with its array of ports, and balances lightness with long-lasting productivity.
Our Verdict: Today’s Lightest AI PC Goes Beyond The Grams
It’s an impressive feat that the Zenbook A14 achieved a featherweight form that even beats 13-inch ultraportables. And it didn’t lose its Zenbook identity in the process, remaining a full-fledged 14-inch laptop with a stylish look and even more AI capabilities.
With the Snapdragon X chip at its core, they were able to tuck in a smaller battery that doesn’t drain as fast while the dedicated 45 TOPS NPU works wonders in bringing the full power of a Copilot+ PC to your fingertips.
Whether you’re a student, an office professional, or a digital nomad, this laptop makes both physical and digital work a lot lighter without breaking the bank.
The Zenbook A14 is truly built for the kind of productivity that takes you places.
You can now get the ASUS Zenbook A14 for P65,995 inclusive of a lifetime subscription to Microsoft Office Home 2024 and 1-year access to Microsoft 365 Basic.
It also comes with an ASUS Service Package with 2-year international warranty and 1-year accidental damage protection.
Grand Hyatt Manila is thrilled to introduce two exceptional afternoon tea offerings at The Lounge, promising to transform your afternoons into a sophisticated celebration of flavors. The new Merienda Cena Grand Afternoon Tea menu and Wings of Spring Afternoon Tea bring together local culinary traditions and global inspirations for a truly remarkable experience.
Chef Won Young Jeong
These two new experiences are further enhanced by Grand Hyatt Manila’s pastry chef, Won Young Jeong. Chef Won Young artfully crafted all of the cakes, parfaits and pastries that are not only served during afternoon tea but throughout the hotel’s dining outlets, most notably, the Florentine shop at the lobby. His extensive culinary background matched with his modern approach to creating desserts is evident in the variety of sweet items of both Merienda Cena and Wings of Spring.
Merienda Cena Grand Afternoon Tea
The Merienda Cena Grand Afternoon Tea reimagines the cherished Filipino merienda tradition with an elegant twist. Starting 21st March 2025, indulge in this grand afternoon tea, available Fridays to Sundays from 2:30 PM to 6:00 PM. Guests can enjoy unlimited servings of Filipino-inspired light bites, bao bun sandwiches featuring Lumpia Sariwa, Pork Asado, and Chicken Adobo, as well as savories such as Kinilaw na Tuna and Shrimp Cocktail. The menu also features waffles accompanied by Amarena Fabbri compotes, vanilla chantilly, chocolate sauce, and caramel sauce. Traditional homemade plain and raisin scones are served with strawberry jam, ube jam, and clotted cream.
Homemade cakes complete the indulgence, including the Calamansi Tart with sable, passion caramel, and almond cream, Strawberry Chiffon with fresh strawberry, chantilly, and vanilla sponge, Cheesecake with graham cracker and berry compote, and the decadent Grand Hyatt Manila Chocolate Cake with maracaibo mousse, hazelnut feuilletine, and dark ganache. Sweet treats such as Namelaka Chocolate Parfait and Mango Coconut Parfait, complemented by a selection of freshly brewed coffees and premium tea blends, add to the delightful experience. Pricing starts at PHP 1,850 net per person for the free-flow food menu, PHP 2,600 net per person for the free-flow food menu with rosé wines, or PHP 3,300 for a two-person Afternoon Tea Set.
Wings of Spring Afternoon Tea
The Wings of Spring Afternoon Tea celebrates the beauty of Japan’s spring season through a limited-time offering available from 21st March to 27th April 2025, Fridays to Sundays between 2:30 PM and 6:00 PM. This exclusive menu includes bao bun sandwiches inspired by Filipino flavors, alongside Japanese delicacies such as Grilled Tuna, Assorted Maki Rolls, and Chirashi Sushi. Desserts inspired by springtime artistry include Cherry Blossom & Yuzu Choux, with citrusy yuzu curd and sakura cream, Cherry Blossom Mousse featuring peach compote and vanilla sponge, Cherry Blossom Cheesecake with graham cracker and berry compote, and Cherry Blossom Roulade with matcha sponge and mixed berry spread. Traditional homemade plain and raisin scones are served with strawberry jam, ube jam, and clotted cream.
The experience is further enhanced with the addition of Affogato, made with vanilla ice cream, biscotti, and chocolate flake.
With an add-on of PHP 1,700 nett, both menus also offer the tropical delight of Homemade Mango Bingsu, a refreshing Korean treat of shaved condensed milk, fresh mango, and coconut ice cream.
Experience these exceptional afternoon tea offerings, thoughtfully crafted to create unforgettable moments, only at The Lounge, Grand Hyatt Manila. For inquiries and reservations, call (63 2) 8838 1234 or email manila.grand@hyatt.com. For updates on its latest promotions, follow Grand Hyatt Manila on Instagram @grandhyattmanilaph and on Facebook, www.facebook.com/GrandHyattManilaPh.
Death never takes a day off. And this time, it’s going back to where it all began. “Final Destination Bloodlines”—the chilling sixth installment of the globally successful horror franchise—arrives exclusively in cinemas on May 14, 2025.
Get a terrifying first look at the new chapter:
Watch the Trailer Here:
About “Final Destination Bloodlines”
A fate worse than death awaits. New Line Cinema’s latest horror thriller delves into Death’s sinister origins, revealing its merciless sense of justice in “Final Destination Bloodlines.”
Plagued by an eerie and violent recurring nightmare, college student Stefanie (Kaitlyn Santa Juana) returns home, desperate to uncover the truth that may save her family from the gruesome fate that looms ever closer. But can she break the cycle before it’s too late? Or has Death already claimed them all?
The film stars an exciting mix of fresh and familiar faces, including:
The legendary Tony Todd (in one of his final performances)
A Powerhouse Horror Team Behind the Scenes
Directed by Adam Stein & Zach Lipovsky, the film is penned by Guy Busick & Lori Evans Taylor, based on a story by Jon Watts, Busick & Taylor. It continues the chilling legacy of the original series, created by Jeffrey Reddick.
The film’s production team includes industry veterans:
Get ready for edge-of-your-seat suspense and jaw-dropping death sequences as “Final Destination Bloodlines” screams into theaters and IMAX worldwide on May 14, 2025.
Will you escape Death’s grip? Or is your fate already sealed?
From her film debut in Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story to her bravura performance in The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, Rachel Zegler has the talent and screen presence to be a bona fide superstar. The young actress has range, spunk, and the vocal chops to deliver a classic Sondheim and Bernstein song splendidly. I have such respect for her that I find her underutilized in the overly busy live-action remake of Snow White. The movie is riddled with sentiments that have been played out in other films before and is overloaded with CGI that, at times, doesn’t look quite finished. For someone of Zegler’s talent, this feels beneath her—except when she sings one of the songs by Pasek and Paul.
All the narrative beats from the classic Disney cartoon are in this movie, but they have been expanded to include Snow White’s relationship with her parents and how she got her name in the first place. Her parents raised her to be a leader and to treat people with kindness, and it’s this upbringing that allows her stepmother to take over when Snow White’s father fails to return home after an investigation in the southern parts of their kingdom.
Snow White is then left to do chores, and she and the rest of the kingdom gradually forget she even exists (as expressed in one of the expository songs). The Evil Queen allows her to live as long as the magical mirror proclaims her to be the fairest of them all, but the moment Snow White awakens to the world’s harsh realities, the mirror finally declares her as the fairest. This prompts the Evil Queen to attempt to take her life.
One of the more clever additions here is the idea that Snow White isn’t considered beautiful until she has woken up to the realities of the world. It’s an interesting contemporary reimagining of the story: that beauty is a concept that goes deeper than the skin. It should play well with the film’s push for a more politically-charged retelling of the story but director Marc Webb and screenwriter Erin Cressida Wilson can’t make this kingdom feel bigger than the tiny little town in the film’s opening. This world feels so small and spends more time trying to capture nostalgia rather than to amplify its new themes. It takes the most shallow and contrived examples of corruption and shows them at such a small scale that the urgency the film tries to push doesn’t seem quite true or authentic.
What makes it even harder to sink into is the balance of the magical elements. There’s a mystical wood right beside Snow White’s castle with the seven dwarves who mine for gems that would make the Evil Queen turn feral, but never do we see her greedy schemes ever come near the dwarves or their bounty. So, when the dwarves agree to help Snow White, it feels unjustified.
Zegler, as Snow White, is fierce and a powerhouse. There’s a humanity in her that makes the character work, though she struggles when performing alongside a fully CGI-created cast. She fares much better when sharing scenes with other live actors—or even, for some reason, CGI-Dopey. Gal Gadot, as the Evil Queen, is giving it her all. What I find unfortunate is that she doesn’t bring anything interesting to the portrayal of the Queen. It’s such a literal performance that it feels uninspired. I’m surprised that she sings quite well. Andrew Burnap plays Jonathan, a bandit who fights in the name of the true king and is the new love interest for Snow White. It’s a fluffy character that’s written to be charming and to bring him (and by association Snow White) closer to the people, which would be fine if the film interrogated and explored the weakness of monarchial system. But it doesn’t. It still presents the fact that princesses and kings are okay despite all this talk about “being for the people.” There’s a disconnect to the socially charged themes and in the setting never questioning the viability of a system that passes down authority by bloodline or marriage. It’s not ideal. Look at what happened with the Evil Queen.
In an attempt to infuse the film with politically charged plots, the film ended up showing how superficial it was in its adoption of these new themes. And when you consider the reimagining of Snow White’s loss of her kingdom, the live-action remake of ‘Cinderella’ by Kenneth Branagh does it much better. It’s practically the same circumstances but done with more heart and a scale befitting the story. In ‘Snow White,’ everything is super-sized but it doesn’t take the time to match it in scale and so it feels hollow and empty.
With the shoddy CGI – those dwarves are not enjoyable to watch at all – and the plot not giving us anything new, Zegler is working overtime in making the film worth watching. She is singing every song and trying to make every scene mean something more and while she’s doing great, everything around her is just falling short. Zegler deserves a better movie than this and the original cartoon should have just been left alone.
My Rating:
Snow White is now showing in cinemas! Ready for the magic? Catch it on the big screen—check showtimes and get your tickets here!
It’s Movie Wednesday, and that means a hot new batch of films is storming cinemas today, March 26, 2025! This week’s lineup is a total knockout—think a cursed romance that’ll keep you hooked, a cop’s insane battle against hellish forces, a rock concert that’ll shake your seats, a horror twist that’ll mess with your mind, and a family tale that’ll hit you right in the feels. We’re talking My Love Will Make You Disappear, Home Sweet Home, Imagine Dragons: Live From the Hollywood Bowl, Shadow of God, and The Unbreakable Boy—five fresh flicks dropping today to spice up your week. Ready to find your next big-screen obsession? Let’s roll the previews and get you hyped!
Now, let’s take a sneak peek at what’s premiering this week:
What happens when you’re cursed to make every lover vanish into thin air? That’s the quirky predicament at the heart of My Love Will Make You Disappear, a delightful blend of comedy, drama, and romance that’s sure to tug at your heartstrings. Kim Chiu stars as a woman convinced she’s jinxed in love, crossing paths with Paulo Avelino’s troubled landlord as they team up to save their community from displacement. The chemistry between these two is electric, and with Wilma Doesnt adding her signature flair, this film brings laughs, swoons, and maybe a few misty-eyed moments.
The story’s charm lies in its relatable stakes—fighting for home and heart—wrapped in a playful “what if” scenario. Will Chiu’s character break the curse, or will Avelino disappear like the rest? It’s the kind of movie that’s perfect for a cozy date night or a solo treat-yourself outing.
Home Sweet Home is not your average night at the movies—it’s a full-on genre mashup of action, fantasy, horror, and thrills! Picture this: William Moseley plays Jake, a cop thrown into a bizarre alternate realm called “The Hindrance” after a mall shooting goes sideways. His mission? Save his wife, Prang (Urassaya Sperbund, aka Yaya), from an evil occultist named Mek (Michele Morrone) who’s hell-bent on unleashing chaos by opening the Gates of Hell. Oh, and he’s got a mysterious Novice Monk (Lee) as his sidekick. Talk about a Wednesday adrenaline rush!
This one’s for the thrill-seekers who love a good “save the world” plot with a supernatural twist. The international cast brings star power, and the stakes feel sky-high. Will Jake outsmart the clock and keep Hell’s gates shut? You’ll have to see it to find out—just don’t blame us if you’re checking under your bed afterward!
2025 • PG • 2 hrs 11 mins CONCERT, MUSIC GET SHOWTIMES
Imagine Dragons: Live From The Hollywood Bowl (with the LA Film Orchestra) is here to turn your movie night into a concert vibe. Filmed at the iconic Hollywood Bowl, this is the GRAMMY-winning band—Dan Reynolds, Wayne Sermon, and Ben McKee—at their explosive best, backed by over 50 musicians from the LA Film Orchestra. Expect their biggest hits like “Radioactive” and “Demons,” plus fresh chart-toppers, all woven with lush symphonic arrangements that’ll give you goosebumps.
This isn’t just a concert film; it’s a front-row seat to a once-in-a-lifetime show. The energy is infectious, the visuals are stunning, and the music? Pure fire. Whether you’re a die-hard Dragons fan or just love a good live performance, this one’s a treat for the ears and eyes. Pro tip: sing along quietly—your seatmates will thank you!
Shadow of God takes horror to a whole new level with a premise that’ll keep you up at night. Mark O’Brien stars as an elite exorcist who’s secretly performing an exorcism on his own father (Shaun Johnston). But here’s the kicker: the entity he’s battling might not be a demon—it could be a holy being, maybe even God Himself. Jacqueline Byers rounds out the cast, adding depth to this chilling tale of faith, fear, and family.
This isn’t your typical jump-scare fest; it’s a slow-burn horror that messes with your head. What happens when the line between good and evil blurs? Perfect for fans who love a story that lingers long after the credits roll, Shadow of God is a bold pick for brave cinephiles. Just maybe keep the lights on when you get home, okay?
2025 • PG • 1 hr 49 mins DRAMA, FAMILY BUY TICKETS
Need a feel-good cry? The Unbreakable Boy is your ticket to a heartwarming story about resilience and joy. Based on a true story, it follows Scott (Zachary Levi) and Teresa LeRette as they navigate life with their son Austin (Gavin Warren), who has autism and brittle bone disease. What starts as worry transforms into wonder as Austin’s unbreakable spirit and Scott’s growing faith show them—and us—that courage and gratitude can shine through anything. Jacob Laval adds extra sweetness to this family affair.
This drama is all about finding light in the tough stuff, making it a great watch for anyone who loves an uplifting tale. It’s the kind of movie that leaves you hugging your loved ones a little tighter. Bring tissues, and prepare to be inspired—Austin’s story is one you won’t forget.
FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING
Meanwhile, don’t forget to catch up on some of the movies that are still playing in cinemas – catch them before they’re gone! Here’s a list of fan favorites that are still showing in cinemas:
2025 • PG • 1 hr 58 mins ACTION, SCIENCE FICTION GET SHOWTIMES
Let’s be real: picking just one of these movies is going to be tough! My Love Will Make You Disappear serves up romance with a quirky twist, while Home Sweet Home throws you into a wild, action-packed nightmare. Imagine Dragons: Live From The Hollywood Bowl is your concert fix, Shadow of God delivers spine-chilling suspense, and The Unbreakable Boy warms your soul. There’s something here for every mood, whether you’re solo or with your barkada.
What’s great about this week’s releases is how they mix global flair with local vibes. Kim Chiu and Paulo Avelino bring Pinoy pride, while international stars like Michele Morrone and Zachary Levi add that Hollywood sparkle. Don’t miss out—check our Movie Section for showtimes and snag your tickets today. Stay tuned for next week’s fresh releases and updates. Enjoy the movies!
Netflix has officially unveiled the key art for Kian’s Bizarre B&B, a one-of-a-kind guesthouse variety show featuring entertainer Kian84, BTS’ Jin, and Ji Ye-eun. Directed by Jung Hyo-min—who pioneered the “guesthouse variety” genre with Hyori’s Homestay and delivered hits like Korea No. 1—this new series promises an exciting mix of laughter, adventure, and heartwarming moments.
Welcome to Kian’s Imaginative Universe
“Kian’s Imagination Becomes Reality”. A place where everything you imagined isn’t there, and everything you never imagined comes to life.
Set on a remote island, Kian’s Bizarre B&B takes hospitality to a whole new level, blending playful escapades with unexpected adventures. Kian84, known for his refreshing humor on I Live Alone and Adventure by Accident, takes on the challenge of managing this unconventional guesthouse, creating a space where diverse guests come together for a truly unpredictable getaway.
A Star-Studded B&B Experience
Kian84: The visionary behind this eccentric retreat, known for his witty, laid-back style.
BTS’ Jin: Bringing his charm and comedic brilliance, he’s set to steal hearts and spark laughter.
Ji Ye-eun: A rising trendsetter with a pulse on the MZ generation, adding a fresh and dynamic flair.
The chemistry between these three is bound to create some hilarious and unforgettable moments, making every guest’s experience unique and entertaining.
An Unforgettable Guesthouse Experience
Beyond the hosts, the real magic lies in the unexpected interactions with guests who come seeking a romantic escape, a healing retreat, or just a taste of something new. Kian’s Bizarre B&B blends adventure, relaxation, and pure entertainment, ensuring a mix of heartfelt connections and laugh-out-loud chaos.
With Netflix at the helm, expect stunning visuals, genuine emotions, and moments that will keep you coming back for more.
Don’t miss Kitchie Nadal this March 27 at 9:30 PM as she performs live at Hard Rock Cafe Manila. This special show is part of Hard Rock Cafe’s Women’s Month Celebration featuring some of the country’s most popular and endearing female artists.
The renowned singer-songwriter is responsible for timeless songs like “Huwag na Huwag Mong Sasabihin” and “Bulong!” Let the good times roll at Hard Rock Cafe Manila with a standout one-night-only performance this chart-topping icon.
Catch Kitchie Nadal live! on March 27, 2024, at 9:30 PM, at the Hard Rock Cafe Manila in S Maison, Conrad Hotel, Pasay City. Door charge is P1,600 (P1,000 entrance fee; 600 consumable). For inquiries & reservations, contact (02) 8990-9809 or +63 917-144-9400. Limited seats available!
The highly anticipated ibis Styles Manila Araneta City has officially opened its doors, marking a new era of vibrant hospitality in the heart of Quezon City. The grand opening event brought together esteemed industry leaders, VIP guests, members of the media, and content influencers for a night of celebration, style, and hospitality innovation.
The highly anticipated launch of ibis Styles Manila commenced with a vibrant ceremonial dragon dotting of the eye and an official ribbon-cutting ceremony at the relay lobby, symbolizing prosperity and success. The prestigious event was graced by esteemed leaders, including Mr. Jorge Araneta, CEO, Chairman & President of the Araneta Group; Mr. Rowell Recinto, Senior Management Consultant of ACI, Inc.; and Mr. Paul Pratt, Senior Vice President of Operations at Accor Asia.
Joining them from the Araneta Hotels Board of Directors were Secretary Jose Pardo and Ambassador Joseph Bernardo, along with distinguished hospitality executives Mr. Xavier Cappelut, Accor Vice President of Operations for Vietnam, Maldives, and the Philippines, and Mr. Bernd Schneider, Cluster General Manager of Raffles and Fairmont Makati.
Representing ibis Styles Manila’s leadership team were Ms. Maria Manlulu-Garcia, Cluster General Manager of Novotel and ibis Styles Manila, and Ms. Felicia Aye Chan Mon, Resident Manager of ibis Styles Manila. Their collective presence marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the hotel, promising an innovative and stylish hospitality experience in the heart of the city.
The event continued with a high-energy Sunset Boulevard celebration, featuring a live band, engaging performances, and heartfelt speeches from industry leaders, including Assistant Secretary Sharlene Zabala-Batin from the Department of Tourism, who highlighted the hotel’s role in shaping the country’s growing hospitality landscape. The celebratory toast was also graced by Mr. Max Ma, the Director for Design and Technical Services of Accor Singapore & Philippines and Atty. Thomas De Castro, Action Officer of District 3 representing the honorable mayor of Quezon City, Ms. Joy Belmonte.
A spectacular Symphony of Lights performance and the grand unveiling of the ibis Styles Manila façade marker showcased the brand’s bold and playful identity. Guests indulged in a night of immersive dining experiences, from the Asian buffet favorites at strEATs to an elegant 4-course French menu sit-down setting at Le Bistro. Culminating in a chic after-party at The Edge Skyview Bar with acclaimed DJ Brian Cua setting the vibe.
“We’re opening a whole new chapter of STYLES in the hospitality scene. This is more than just a fresh take; it’s a bold reimagination of style, experience, and innovation. Because not all beginnings are ordinary – especially this one. Every corner, every detail, and every experience has been thoughtfully designed to bring a vibrant, unforgettable energy to every stay,” said Ms. Maria Manlulu-Garcia, Cluster General Manager of Novotel and ibis Styles Manila Araneta City.
As the newest addition to the growing Accor family in the Philippines, ibis Styles Manila embodies the brand’s signature vibrant design, creative experiences, and dynamic hospitality. Located in the heart of Araneta City, the hotel promises to be a destination for both business and leisure travelers looking for a comfortable escape and value for money without compromising the standards.
For more information and bookings, visit www.ibisstyles-manilaaranetacity.com or follow @ibisstylesmanilaaranetacity on social media, email HB133@accor.com, or contact ibis Styles Manila Araneta City on telephone +632 8 248 8444.
Guests at ibis Styles Manila Araneta City can benefit from Accor’s lifestyle loyalty program, ALL – Accor Live Limitless, to discover a world of rewards, unique benefits, and exclusive events.
Summer has officially arrived, and while the heat can be overwhelming, planning your dream vacation shouldn’t add to the stress—especially when finding the budget to book that much-awaited and well-deserved trip. Whether you’re planning a fun getaway with your barkada or a relaxing family vacation, you can make your summer travel dreams a reality all through the help of your finance super app.
Woman checking the fight number on cellphone at the airport
GCash offers its installment product GGives and credit line GCredit to help you travel now and pay later. GGives allows eligible users to pay for big-ticket items of up to PHP 125,000 with zero downpayment, allowing you to book now and spread out your installments across 24 months. If you prefer the flexibility of a credit line, GCredit provides an instant credit line of up to PHP 50,000, depending on your eligibility.
If your vacation plans aren’t set in stone yet, GCash empowers you to go on that well-deserved getaway without the upfront cost so you don’t have to wait or sacrifice for your dream vacation. To make your getaway a reality, here are some of the services you can pay for using GGives and GCredit:
Land and Sea Transportation: Pay for bus tickets using GGives and GCredit on Victory Liner, Partas, and SolidNorth, and for road trips, use toll road RFID services like AutoSweep and EasyTrip. For sea travel, book tickets with 2GO Travel, OceanJet, SuperCat, 12GO, and FastCat. Tickets can be purchased directly through the merchants’ portals or via biyaheroes.com, iwantseats.com, and bustickets.ph, where you’ll be able to pay later using GGives and GCredit.
Air Travel: For air travel, GCash makes flying a breeze with its partnerships with Cebu Pacific, Air Asia, and Philippine Airlines. GCash makes planning domestic travel easy with instant credit and flexible payment options, allowing you to book now and pay later with GGives and GCredit.
Accommodations: Finding the perfect place to stay is easy when you can book through trusted partners like Agoda and Airbnb, and pay in installments using GGives. Agoda offers a variety of hotels and resorts to suit your needs, while Airbnb provides unique vacation rentals for a more personalized experience, catering to different preferences and budgets.
Activities: Make your trip even more memorable by booking exciting experiences through Klook, and pay later using GCredit or GGives. Whether you’re looking for guided tours, thrilling adventures, or cultural experiences, Klook offers a wide selection to make your vacation even more memorable.
Get Exclusive Travel Deals with GCredit and GGives
To make your vacation even more rewarding, GCredit and GGives offer exclusive travel promos that help you make the most out of your getaway. Whether you’re heading home for a long weekend or planning that dream vacation, GCash not only simplifies the entire travel process but also makes it easy to find the best deals.
Be sure to follow GCash’s official channels and watch out for upcoming promos designed to make your travel experience even better.
If you’re eligible, you can activate GGives by going to “Borrow” then clicking “GGives”. Fill out the quick application form, and once you’re activated, you’ll see your available credit limit! Note that your offer is subject to regular evaluation. To activate GCredit, go to “Borrow” then click “GCredit.” Fill out your details, complete your registration, and submit to view your credit limit.
If you still find yourself hesitating because of travel costs, think again—dahil tuloy ang travel goals! With GGives and GCredit, you can travel now and pay later, making your well-deserved break more attainable than ever. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or an international trip, GCash’s convenient services and exclusive promos make it easy to plan, book, and enjoy a stress-free vacation. Kaya Pala with GGives and GCredit!
Access GCredit and GGives through your GCash dashboard or find them under “Borrow.” No GCash yet? Download the GCash App on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery.
