Established in 2022, PICKUP COFFEE is redefining the coffee experience in the Philippine coffee scene. With over 300 branches nationwide and 20 million cups sold—including 3 million cups of its iconic Kape Kastila—PICKUP COFFEE has cemented its role as a key player in delivering premium yet surprisingly affordable coffee to Filipinos.
On February 5, PICKUP COFFEE celebrated a milestone moment during its Welcoming Event at SM Megamall Fashion Hall, where the brand unveiled its newest endorser, Donny Pangilinan, and showcased its signature handcrafted beverages. During the event, Francis Flores, PICKUP COFFEE’s Country CEO, highlighted the company’s mission:
“Since we launched in February 2022, our team has remained steadfast in achieving our mission—to UPlift everyone through delicious, high-quality, and surprisingly affordable beverages, everywhere, one PICKUP at a time.”
Donny Pangilinan’s introduction was a major highlight of the program, complete with a playful backstage search that built excitement among fans in attendance. Sharing the stage with PICKUP COFFEE’s iconic beverages, Donny expressed his enthusiasm: “Saying yes to joining the PICKUP COFFEE family was easy. They’ve perfected the balance of premium quality and affordability—it’s something you don’t see every day. It’s become my go-to because it just hits the spot every time.”
Known for its bean-to-cup promise, PICKUP COFFEE espresso-based beverages are made with 100% Arabica beans and a double shot of espresso, ensuring bold, rich flavor in every sip. Fans got to witness this firsthand during a live demo, where Donny prepared perfect espresso shots and served Kape Kastilas to lucky audience members.
At the heart of the celebration were PICKUP COFFEE’s renowned PICKUP Signatures: the rich and velvety Kape Kastila, the smooth and indulgent White Mocha, the sweet and bold Caramel Macchiato, and the creamy PICKUP Crème Latte. These crowd favorites underscore the brand’s dedication to serving beverages that cater to every coffee lover’s palate.
PICKUP COFFEE continues to make premium coffee experiences accessible to all, proving that quality doesn’t have to break the bank. From its beverages to its latest partnership with Donny Pangilinan, PICKUP COFFEE continues to prove why #ItsBetterEspresso
As part of Megaworld Hotels and Resorts’ commitment to MEGreen sustainability initiatives, Belmont Hotel Manila and Savoy Hotel Manila are excited to announce their partnership for an innovative sustainable initiative designed to enhance sustainability in their shared spaces. This collaborative effort will unite dedicated teams from both hotels, fostering teamwork and creativity to improve communal areas and gardens.
As part of this initiative, the two hotels will engage in a unique seed exchange, promoting collaboration and the sharing of resources. The Savoy Hotel Manila (SHM) team plant Romaine Lettuce seeds at the Belmont Hotel Manila’s (BHM) property, while BHM will cultivate Chinese Kale and Red Amarante seeds at SHM’s rooftop garden. This exchange not only enriches the diversity of their gardens but also strengthens the bond between the teams as they work together towards a common goal.
The produce harvested from this initiative will be utilized as fresh ingredients in the hotels’ culinary offerings, enhancing the farm-to-table experience for guests and showcasing their commitment to local sourcing.
By working together, both hotels aim to create vibrant, eco-friendly environments that enhance the aesthetic appeal of their spaces while promoting sustainable practices. This initiative not only reflects their dedication to environmental stewardship but also serves as an inspiration for guests and the local community to embrace responsible, eco-conscious behaviors.
As a corporate crime suspense thriller, ‘Buried Hearts’ takes an interesting approach to its narrative structure. The show opens with a flash-forward, a man’s body is discovered in the sea, dead, with an emphasis on his watch. We go back in time, to see Seo Dong-Joo (Park Hyung-Sik) attending a government hearing where Heo Il-do (Lee Hae-Young) is being grilled over the possibility of corruption in an energy collaboration between Heo Il-do’s company and the government. Seo Dong-Joo then sends a signal to an assemblyman, who incites chaos into the proceeding. Already, we are told that Dae-san, the company of Heo Il-do and Seo Dong-Joo are not to be trifled with.
The set up shows us the dirty dealings of a chaebol and how you’d never want to mess with their people. Seo Dong-Joo is one of those people, the right-hand man of Cha Gang-Cheon (Woo Hyeon), the CEO of Daesan and the father-in-law of Heo Il-do. In fact, the first episode is quick to show us that Cha Gang-Cheon is much closer to Seo Dong-Joo than Heo Il-do and Heo Il-do is not happy about it, neither is his wife, Cha Deok-Hee (Kim Jung Nam). But Seo Dong-Joo is loyal and is working hard playing the politics of business to try and get a promotion for himself. Keeping him grounded is his lover, Yeo Eunnam (Hong Hwa-Yeon), who is also working at Daesan.
Photo courtesy of Disney+ | Buried Hearts (Park Hyung-sik, Seo Dongju)
From the get-go, the series feels like it’s primarily a suspense thriller set in the messy world of conglomerates. Seo Dong-Joo’s goal seems to be how he’ll navigate raising in the ranks, especially when he’s not part of the family; as chaebol families have a tendency of keeping the highest positions in the business only to family. Seo Dong-Joo had already given up dating Cha Gang-Cheon’s granddaughter for Yeo Eunnam.
But the big twist is that this thriller’s fulcrum, the surprise at the end of episode one, is that this is a love story, and Seo Dong-Joo must contend with Eunnam in ways that was predictable but still shocking when it unfolds.
What makes ‘Buried Hearts’ so interesting is the narrative approach to the story. Director Jin Chang-Gyu (‘Military Prosecutor Doberman’) and writer Lee Myung-hee allows the story to begin right in the middle without taking too much time establishing characters and relationships. The show does that while the plot is unraveling before our eyes. It’s a hit-the-ground-running sort of approach that gives ‘Buried Hearts’ a different energy and pace. It’s exciting because there’s so much, we still don’t know but we are already at the heat of it, most especially by the end of episode one, that there’s very little room to breathe.
While Heo Il-do and his family seem to be an obvious obstacle for Seo Dong-Joo, the big mystery is how Heo Jun-Ho’s Yeom Jang-Sun plays into it. A former prosecutor and what seems like a current-day fixer is trying to create a relationship between himself and the Daesan group. He also has a connection with Seo Dong-Joo (is he Dong-Joo’s mentor?) but the show is setting him up to be the main adversary. This is where the politics and intrigue of the chaebol world will come to play, and I hope it’s as exciting as the first two episodes is making it out to be.
The show is slick and has a distinct and fresh energy that makes it an intriguing watch. It may be bogged down if it leans too heavily on the romance aspect but if it handles it the same way it handles all the other narrative aspects of the first two episodes, this might be a very enjoyable watch.
Over the years, Jollibee has established itself as a beloved global icon. With jolly favorites being staples on families’ dining tables and the loveable mascot turning into one of the most recognizable figures, the brand has become a symbol of joy for many people. This has led to many fun and exciting collaborations with notable brands and artists, further cementing Jollibee’s position as a top-of-mind icon in pop culture, both in the Philippines and beyond.
To kick off 2025 with a dose of excitement, Jollibee is thrilled to announce its latest brand collaboration, this time with Japanese hobby products manufacturer Good Smile Company (GSC). Called Nendoroid Jollibee, the new collectible is part of GSC’s famous Nendoroid line—cute, chibi-style figures around 10cm in size that come with swappable parts and accessories.
As the first ever Filipino brand to have its own Nendoroid figure, Jollibee joins the ranks of popular global brands and characters from famous movies, shows and games. This partnership aims to add more joy to the collections of Jollibee fans and toy collectors alike, as it features a unique style inspired by Japanese culture, while simultaneously celebrating a Filipino icon.
The Nendoroid Jollibee can do a variety of poses, thanks to its exchangeable parts and accessories which include the Chickenjoy bucket and Jolly Spaghetti, making it not only serve looks but also one’s favorite food! The figure also comes with a base and support arm, so collectors can securely place the item on their shelf, desk, or anywhere they want.
Like with other Nendoroid releases, getting your hands on the Nendoroid Jollibee is through pre-order basis, with the actual figures ready to be shipped by the third quarter of the year.
Don’t miss this newest collectible and pre-order the new Nendoroid Jollibee starting February 19, 2025 until April 2, 2025. Pre-orders can be placed at the Good Smile Company Online Store and through GSC’s official partner shops. You can also check out GSC’s website for more details, including pricing and shipping.
For all the latest updates, like Jollibee on Facebook, subscribe to Jollibee Philippines on YouTube, and follow @jollibee on X, Instagram, and TikTok.
The urge to book a plane ticket is always strong, especially during a seat sale. But you know what? It’s time to embrace the jetsetter lifestyle, whether driving to a local destination or jetting off abroad. You should be ready for all travel possibilities at the drop of a hat.
If you’re looking for sturdy luggage, comfy shoes and clothes, and other travel essentials for your next trip, Robinsons Department Store’s annual Wanderfest Travel Fair 2025 has you covered. Running until February 28, 2025, in all Robinsons Department Store branches and online stores, the biggest travel fair features trusted fashion and accessory brands for up to 60% off, ideal for every type of adventure.
Highly durable suitcases from brands like TUNKR and Sky Travel can carry everything you need. They can also survive every bump during the trip. For city trips, a good pair of shoes from brands like Adidas, Nike, and World Balance are a must to walk comfortably everywhere. Likewise, avid hikers can cover a lot of distance with footwear from Outland Shoes Unlimited and spacious backpacks from Forthpack.
There are many more brands to shop during the Wanderfest Travel Fair. You can enjoy better deals when you use a Metrobank Credit Card for your purchases. Get a P200 cashback for a single-receipt spend of P3,000 on straight transactions, or a P300 cashback for P7,000 on 0% installment transaction.
More chances to travel
Who can say no to free trips? Wanderfest Travel Fair’s e-raffle has exciting destinations for shoppers. For every minimum purchase of P4,500 from the shoes, bag, luggage, and athletics department using Go Rewards, you earn one e-raffle entry to the promo, in partnership with Salmon and Klook. You can earn five additional entries when you purchase using Salmon.
There will be one winner of an All-in Travel Package to Vietnam for 4 pax, and two winners of an All-in Travel Package to Siargao for 2 pax. There will also be two winners of an Enchanted Kingdom Ekspress 1-day pass for 6 pax, courtesy of Klook.
Complete your travel arsenal
The travel fair fun doesn’t stop there. From February 24 to March 2, 2025, you can drop by Wanderfest at the Midtown Atrium, Robinsons Place Manila to check out more brands for all your needs. Browse various shoe styles from brands like Nike, Anta, and Skechers; bags and luggages of all sizes from Hawk, Secosana, TUNKR, and many more essentials you may need for your next trip.
Don’t miss out on great deals at this year’s Wanderfest Travel Fair and go travel in style. For more updates and information, visit here.
There is an unmistakable pandering nature to JP Habac’s ‘Ex Ex Lovers,’ a film that reunites the classic love team of Marvin Agustin and Jolina Magdangal back in the big screen. The undeniable chemistry of the leads is the foundation that keeps the film afloat despite how the film seems to cater to revisiting the same energy they have established in previous films, almost two decades ago, like ‘Labs Kita… Okey Ka Lang?’ If nostalgia is all it was going for, I suppose that’s fine. It would be a fluffy film and that’s okay but underneath it all is a gorgeous film about marriage and accountability, and beyond its nostalgic temperament, Agustin and Magdangal showcase a maturity that is something completely refreshing and new and it’s a potential that is only reached in the final act of the film.
The story is about Joy (Magdangal), a single mother whose daughter, SC (Loisa Andalio), has just been proposed to by her boyfriend Joey (Juan Karlos Labajo). Wary of their young age, Joy tries to dissuade her daughter from marrying so young. After all, her husband, Ced (Agustin), is nowhere to be found and has left Joy with taking care and raising SC all by herself. When SC insists that her mom flies to Malta to fetch Ced so he can walk her down the aisle, Joy has to revisit all the pain and resentment brought upon by her marriage to Ced, while he still carries all of his love for her since then. Joy tries to get Ced to agree to delaying the wedding while Ced has his own agenda into getting back together with Joy.
It’s the perfect rom-com premise but the film’s set up can be quite cruel. Because Magdangal is charming and has that quality to draw you in, you’re on her side when she talks about the hardships, she’s faced having to raise SC alone because Ced just went up and left them. When she gets to Malta, she finds a hardworking man who is apologetic but still treats her as if time hadn’t passed and life hadn’t come and gone. Agustin lets lose all the old 90s energy, acting cute and ends up making Ced annoying and downright insensitive. It’s played for comedy – everything from the shots to the direction of the acting, to the music – but from the audience’s seat, it’s just an uncomfortable moment. All of Joy’s misgivings are valid but neither Ced nor SC seems to care.
So much so that when Joy acts up and treats Joey unkindly, she’s really meant to look like the bad guy despite how everybody is expecting Joy to just go along with everything that they want. At some point, I was getting very angry for Joy.
It’s the perfect rom-com premise but the film’s set up can be quite cruel. Because Magdangal is charming and has that quality to draw you in, you’re on her side when she talks about the hardships, she’s faced having to raise SC alone because Ced just went up and left them. When she gets to Malta, she finds a hardworking man who is apologetic but still treats her as if time hadn’t passed and life hadn’t come and gone. Agustin lets lose all the old 90s energy, acting cute and ends up making Ced annoying and downright insensitive. It’s played for comedy – everything from the shots to the direction of the acting, to the music – but from the audience’s seat, it’s just an uncomfortable moment. All of Joy’s misgivings are valid but neither Ced nor SC seems to care.
So much so that when Joy acts up and treats Joey unkindly, she’s really meant to look like the bad guy despite how everybody is expecting Joy to just go along with everything that they want. At some point, I was getting very angry for Joy.
Then the film turns in the 3rd act of the film, when screenwriters Antonette Jadaone and Kristine Gabriel switches things around and gives Joy a chance to speak up. The whole movie abruptly shifts tone, and Magdangal and Agustin step up to the plate to play the grown up and mature characters that feels more honest to who they are today, and the film ends up tackling bigger themes that it could have been wrestling with earlier. Maybe the shift of tone allows for a bigger impact in the third act? I don’t know. But it sure made it difficult to get hooked in until the film started to take Joy’s side of the matter.
Because Marvin and Jolina are just oozing with charisma and talent. There’s no question about that. But in the film’s attempt to harken to the nostalgia and old-school charms, it made them feel childish and silly, which made their characters and the struggles they faced seem trivial when it’s not. When the film allows the two to grow up and be adults, the humor is still present, the chemistry is still palpable, but they are able to accomplish so much more, including some very powerful statements about divorce.
I found the whole first two acts quite messy and chaotic. It’s appeal to nostalgia undermined a beautiful movie that still managed to find center stage at its final act. One thing is certain, though: and that the power of Marvin and Jolina is enduring and could really use another go.
My Rating:
Ex Ex Lovers is now showing in cinemas. Check showtimes and buy your tickets here.
For the first time in its 91-year history, DC Comics is releasing a Philippine-exclusive variant cover. Absolute Flash #1, part of the groundbreaking Absolute Universe—a bold reimagining of DC’s iconic superheroes—will be unveiled locally by SuperManila this March.
A Flash of Manila
The exclusive cover features the Absolute Universe’s Flash speeding through Ayala Avenue at the start of the SuperManila Fan Run, which will be held in real life in Makati this March. Eagle-eyed fans will spot several fun Filipino Easter eggs, from The Flash enjoying the popular chicken feet street food “adidas,” to a racing stray cat—a playful nod to DC superpet, Streaky.
Bringing this exclusive variant cover to life is an all-star team of celebrated Filipino comic book artists. The cover is penciled by Carlo Pagulayan, widely recognized for designing Warrior Hulk, featured in Thor: Ragnarok. It will feature inks from Jason Paz and colors from Romulo Fajardo, both of whom have been regular collaborators with DC and Marvel. Their combined artistry makes this variant a must-have for collectors and comic book enthusiasts alike.
Exclusive to SuperManila Fan Run Registrants
This Absolute Flash #1 SuperManila variant will be available exclusively to registrants of the SuperManila Fan Run. With a limited print run, this highly collectible edition is expected to be a sought-after item among fans and collectors alike.
As the first issue in DC’s Absolute Universe, Absolute Flash #1 is the perfect jumping-on point for new fans diving into the new era of DC storytelling, which reimagines the origin stories of beloved superheroes.
Happening on March 16, 2025, along Ayala Avenue, the SuperManila Fan Run isn’t just a race—it’s an immersive pop culture experience. Organized by the team behind the successful SuperManila Comic Con, the event encourages participants to come dressed as their favorite pop culture characters. Registrants can choose to walk, jog, or speed through—just like The Flash himself—across four distance categories: 1KM, 3KM, 5KM, and 10KM.
The Philippine’s Place in the DC Universe
“The team behind SuperManila wanted a cover that celebrates the unique connections between DC Comics and the Philippines,” said SuperManila organizer Ivan Guerrero. “Few people realize that the city of Manila has appeared in DC Comics for over 80 years, starting with Blackhawk #9 in 1944 and most recently in Absolute Batman #1 in 2024.”
“We’ve worked with many amazing Filipino artists on past DC variant covers, but those were always shared editions released in other countries,” explained co-organizer Sandy Sansolis. “This is the first Philippine-only release for a DC variant cover.”
The Flash’s legacy is also deeply connected to Filipino talent. Acclaimed Filipino-born artist Francis Manapul played a major role in shaping The Flash’s modern stories during DC’s New 52 era, while Fil-Am artist Greg LaRocque helped define The Flash’s look in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s.
Don’t Miss Out on This Historic Release!
Mark your calendars and register for the SuperManila Fan Run to snag this exclusive edition featuring the “SuperManila” cover. As a Philippine-exclusive DC variant, this is a chance to own a true collector’s piece and celebrate Filipino superhero fandom! Secure your copy now by registering at www.supermanila.ph.
About SuperManila Comic Con
Launched in 2019, SuperManila Comic Con is the Philippines’ premier pop culture event, celebrating Filipino creativity in entertainment and collectibles. This year’s event is organized by Arigatoys, Ban Kee Trading, Comic Odyssey, and Filbar’s.
The game is afoot, and Sherlock has a new address! This February 21st, Lionsgate Play rolls out the red carpet for the world’s greatest detective – and trust us, you won’t want to miss it!
Join Sherlock Holmes (Benedict Cumberbatch), and his steadfast partner, Dr. John Watson (Martin Freeman), as they crack impossible cases and go head-to-head with London’s most formidable criminal masterminds. From decoding intricate puzzles to outwitting the dangerously unpredictable Jim Moriarty (Andrew Scott), every episode delivers intrigue, suspense, and razor-sharp wit.
Sharing his first memory of working on the series, lead actor, Benedict Cumberbatch said “Learning the lines for the audition, really. That was the first bit of work I ever did on it. And this is hard, but a lot of fun.”
In an interview with Vogue, Benedict Cumberbatch opened up about his thoughts about Sherlock’s personality,“I thought he should be more – not stiff but like a guy who does a lot of yoga. It’s that strength where people look weak but their core is strong. He’s incredibly poised. Back straight. His head leans to the side.” He further added, “There’s this thing about him being very reserved and austere. I wanted him to be a bit more rock star. There is something almost boyish – a joy about him. I wanted him to smile. “
Created by Doctor Who masterminds Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss, Sherlock reimagines the classic detective tales into 90-minute episodes that will keep you guessing until the end. From the chilling murder spree in “A Study in Pink” to the eerie mysteries of “The Hounds of Baskerville”, each case is a puzzle you won’t be able to resist.
Sherlock’s modern reinvention of the classic detective series has earned multiple accolades, including Primetime Emmy Awards for Cumberbatch, Freeman, and Moffat, a BAFTA for Best Television Drama, and a Peabody Award, cementing its status as a TV phenomenon.
Completing a well-loved legacy of 15 years filled with mind bending twists and captivating cases since its 2010 debut, all 4 seasons will now be available exclusively on Lionsgate Play for Philippines audiences. Get ready to dive back into the world of mystery, and genius – because you’re about to be Sher-locked!
Don’t miss this chance to experience the brilliance of Sherlock! Catch all four seasons on Lionsgate Play on February 21.
An Unconventional Love Story with a Hilarious Twist
What if you could insure your marriage against divorce? That’s exactly what Noh Ki-jun (Lee Dong-wook), a top-tier insurance expert, sets out to do. After three costly divorces leave him broke, he’s determined to develop a “divorce insurance” product that protects people like him. But in calculating the cost of love and separation, he and his insurance team discover unexpected truths about relationships, heartbreak, and second chances.
Meet the Cast & Characters:
Noh Ki-jun (Lee Dong-wook) – A brilliant but emotionally shattered insurance expert who’s on a mission to make divorce less painful—at least financially.
Kang Han-deul (Lee Joo-been) – Once a timid wife mistreated by her in-laws, she reinvents herself after divorce and ends up working alongside Ki-jun.
An Jeon-man (Lee Kwang-soo) – Ki-jun’s childhood friend, a safety-first kind of guy who reluctantly gets involved in the divorce insurance project.
Jeon Na-rae (Lee Da-hee) – A fiercely independent woman with no interest in marriage—until she meets Ki-jun and gets curious about his past.
From the Director of Killing Romance
Helmed by acclaimed director Lee Won-seok (Killing Romance, The Royal Tailor) and written by Lee Tae-yoon (Secret Royal Inspector & Joy), The Divorce Insurance delivers sharp humor, heartfelt moments, and undeniable chemistrybetween its lead stars.
Catch new episodes every Monday and Tuesday on Prime Video starting March 31!
Why You Should Watch It:
A fresh rom-com concept – Who knew insurance could be this entertaining?
Top-tier cast – Fan-favorites Lee Dong-wook, Lee Joo-been, Lee Kwang-soo, and Lee Da-hee bring their A-game.
Heartfelt and hilarious – A mix of comedy, romance, and emotional depth.
A new shadow creeps across the silver screen as visionary director Robert Eggers resurrects Nosferatu—his most personal film yet. “In many ways, my adaptation of Nosferatu is my most personal film. A story, not engendered by me, but one that I have lived with, within, and dreamed about since childhood. I often felt I had the same un-jaded creative spark of a first time filmmaker when finally making the film because of the years of thought I have put into it. I feel more fortunate than ever to have had the chance to make it with my trusted team of long-time collaborators,” Eggers shares. With an unrelenting passion for gothic horror and folklore, he breathes new life into the legendary vampire, crafting a tale that is both chilling and deeply emotional.
A Return to True Terror
Forget the suave, dinner-jacketed vampires of modern pop culture—Eggers reaches back to the roots of ancient folklore, where the vampire was a harbinger of disease, death, and primal fear. “The folk vampire is not a suave dinner-coat-wearing seducer, nor a sparkling, brooding hero. The folk vampire embodies disease, death, and sex in a base, brutal, and unforgiving way. This is the vampire I wanted to exhume for a modern audience,” he explains.
Set in the mist-laden town of Wisburg, Germany, the story follows Ellen (Lily-Rose Depp), a young woman plagued by visions of an ancient, nightmarish entity—Nosferatu (Bill Skarsgård). As his obsession tightens around her, the town descends into terror, spiraling into a darkness from which few may escape.
A Tale That Took Decades to Make
Eggers’ obsession with Nosferatu began in childhood when he fell under the spell of F.W. Murnau’s 1922 silent classic, Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror. He first attempted an adaptation in high school, but the dream of making it lingered for decades. After crafting horror masterpieces like The Witch and The Lighthouse, he finally returned to his passion project.
“As an evolution of the story, the thing that is most significant is that this is Ellen’s film. She is a victim not only of the vampire, but of nineteenth century society,” says Eggers.
Lily-Rose Depp: A Star Meant for Horror
Finding the perfect Ellen was crucial. According to Eggers, Lily-Rose Depp’s audition was so powerful that everyone in the room was moved to tears. “Her audition was so strong. I was crying, the casting director was crying, the videographer was crying. It was clear she was going to be powerful as this character,” Eggers recalls.
For Depp, the film’s horror stems from its unsettling realism. “There’s something about this script and this movie that feels very real, visceral, and human, which is interesting because we’re talking about demons, and ghosts, and this other realm. That’s what I think is the scariest part about the movie: just how real the nightmares are,” says Depp.
Prepare for Pure Horror
A haunting blend of gothic horror and psychological depth, Nosferatu promises to grip audiences with its eerie atmosphere and unrelenting dread.
The horror unfolds in Philippine cinemas starting February 26. Follow Universal Pictures PH in Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for exclusive updates.
