Blog

  • Snuggle Up! Disney+ Movies for Rainy Days

    Snuggle Up! Disney+ Movies for Rainy Days

    The rainy days are here, bringing with them gloomy afternoons and cold, windy nights—the perfect time to watch or rewatch favorites that always bring comfort, healing, and joy! It doesn’t matter if it’s an old-school classic or a recent obsession; there’s something special about snuggling up with a movie or show you love. From feel-good rom-coms to tearjerker dramas and hilarious comedies, Disney+ has all the gems for these rainy days. We’ve compiled a list of recommendations that will make you feel like you’re wrapped in a warm hug.

    Disney July 2024

    The Fault In Our Stars

    2014 • PG • 2 hrs 10 mins
    DRAMA, ROMANCE
    STREAM NOW

    This beloved tearjerker, based on John Green’s bestselling novel, tells the story of Hazel Grace Lancaster and Augustus Waters, two teenagers who meet and fall in love at a cancer support group. Their journey is both heartwarming and heartbreaking, making it a perfect watch for those cozy nights when you want to feel all the emotions.

    Titanic

    1997 • PG • 3 hrs 14 mins
    DRAMA, ROMANCE
    STREAM NOW

    James Cameron’s epic romance and disaster film needs no introduction. Follow the tragic love story of Jack and Rose as they navigate the sinking of the Titanic. This timeless classic is sure to pull at your heartstrings while keeping you glued to the screen.

    Freaky Friday

    2003 • G • 1 hr 35 mins
    COMEDY, FAMILY
    STREAM NOW

    Starring Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis, this hilarious comedy about a mother and daughter who swap bodies will have you laughing out loud. The movie’s heartwarming message about family and understanding each other is perfect for a light-hearted movie night.

    The Last Song

    2010 • G • 1 hr 50 mins
    DRAMA, ROMANCE
    STREAM NOW

    Miley Cyrus and Liam Hemsworth star in this touching drama based on a Nicholas Sparks novel. The story follows a rebellious teenager who reconnects with her estranged father during a summer at the beach. It’s a beautiful tale of love, loss, and forgiveness.

    Confessions of a Shopaholic

    2009 • PG • 1 hr 50 mins
    COMEDY, ROMANCE
    STREAM NOW

    Join Rebecca Bloomwood, played by Isla Fisher, as she navigates her way through life in New York City while battling a shopping addiction. This fun, feel-good movie is filled with humor, fashion, and romance, making it an ideal pick for a cozy night in.

    The Devil Wears Prada

    2006 • PG • 1 hr 49 mins
    COMEDY, ROMANCE
    STREAM NOW

    Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway shine in this iconic film about the cutthroat world of fashion journalism. Follow Andy Sachs as she works as an assistant to the formidable Miranda Priestly. The movie’s blend of comedy, drama, and fabulous fashion makes it a must-watch.

    Pretty Woman

    1990 • 1 hrs 57 mins
    COMEDY, ROMANCE
    STREAM NOW

    Julia Roberts and Richard Gere star in this modern-day fairy tale about a wealthy businessman who falls in love with a spirited prostitute. The chemistry between the leads and the charming storyline make this a perfect movie for a cozy, romantic night.

    Movie Marathon Tips

    The rain is pouring – perfect weather for staying in and indulging in a movie marathon! But before you hit play, here are some tips to make your movie marathon extra special:

    Prepare Snacks: No movie marathon is complete without delicious snacks! Stock up on popcorn, hot cocoa (champorado works too!), and your favorite chips. Get ready for a cozy and delicious movie time!

    Create a Cozy Atmosphere: Dim the lights, grab your softest blankets, and find the most comfortable spot to settle in. Think movie theater vibes, but in the comfort of your own home!

    Have Tissues Ready: Let’s be honest, some of these movies are tearjerkers. It’s okay to shed a happy (or sad) tear – just be prepared!

    Share the Experience: Invite your friends over for a movie night, or have a virtual watch party with loved ones. Discussing the movie afterward can be a fun way to connect and share your thoughts.

    Disney+ offers a treasure trove of comfort shows and movies that you and your friends can bond over. From animated classics to the latest blockbusters, there’s something for everyone. Now you’re all set for the ultimate movie marathon! Which movies are you planning to watch? Don’t forget to share your Disney+ comfort movies too!

  • CenterPlay Concert Series at City of Dreams Manila Presents Noel Cabangon This July

    CenterPlay Concert Series at City of Dreams Manila Presents Noel Cabangon This July

    The July edition of City of Dreams Manila’s CenterPlay Concert Series puts the spotlight on OPM (Original Pilipino Music) icon Noel Cabangon in a one-night-only live concert on July 31 at 9 p.m.

    The seasoned multi-awarded folk singer-songwriter from La Union known for his heartfelt soothing voice and mastery of guitar chords has been the top-of-mind legend when it comes to songs that reflect Filipino society, culture, and heritage. He is well-known for timeless records such as “Kanlungan”, which was written by a former Buklod bandmate, among others. His rendition of the song “Kahit Maputi Na Ang Buhok Ko” won him Awit Awards’ Best Performance by a Male Recording Artist, and his other awards include Best Song Written for Movie / TV/ Stage Play award for “Ang Buhay Nga Naman” and Best World Recording for “Binibini.”

    1. Noel Cabangon

    “Noel Cabangon Live at CenterPlay” follows the successful sold-out concert shows staged monthly at the circular stage at City of Dreams Manila’s main gaming floor. OPM icons previously featured at CenterPlay’s Concert Series include: Neocolours, Jinky Vidal, Yeng Constatntino, Raymond Lauchengco, Janno Gibbs, Rey Valera, Ice Seguerra, “Soul Siren” Nina, and The CompanY. The upcoming concert also showcases the Highschool Playlist band and other DJs who perform alternately from 8 pm to 1:30 am.

    Designed for the ultimate entertainment experience, CenterPlay is a cool snack and cocktail lounge offering light meals, signature cocktail concoctions, beers, wines, and other beverages.

    Guests can reserve a seat or a table with consumables starting at P2,500, comprising of bar snacks, burgers, fries, and beverages. VIP couch seats for a party of eight at P20,000 and VIP Small Tables for a group of four at P10,000 are also available, inclusive of consumables. For reservations and information on upcoming performances at CenterPlay, call 8800-8080 or e-mail guestservices@cod-manila.com, or visit www.cityofdreamsmanila.com. Explore more of City of Dreams Manila’s promotional offers, rewards, or instantly check Melco Club points with the new Melco Club App, available for free download on iOS and Android.

  • Bathing in Luxury: Discover lavojoy’s Luxurious Self-Care Essentials

    Bathing in Luxury: Discover lavojoy’s Luxurious Self-Care Essentials

    Transform your daily routine into a personal spa session with lavojoy’s luxurious self-care collection. From nourishing shampoos to soothing body washes, each product is crafted to elevate your bath time into an extraordinary experience of pampering and rejuvenation.

    Lavojoy Model

    Expertly Formulated for Supreme Care

    lavojoy’s line of hair and skin care products is the result of meticulous formulation in Australia, under the guidance of renowned essential oils expert Ron Guba. Known for his expertise in blending natural herbal solutions to promote health and well-being, Guba’s contributions ensure that each lavojoy product not only meets but exceeds expectations in quality and effectiveness.

    Aromatic Excellence from France

    In order to bring only the best fragrances to make your self-care routine more soothing, lavojoy collaborated with French master perfumer Anne Flipo to develop exceptional scents and aromas. She also created scents for top-notch brands such as YSL, Burberry, Jo Malone London and Chloé. Including natural and exclusive ingredients in your bath time will create an experience like no other.

    Transform your everyday routine into something special with lavojoy. Let’s make self- care fun again with your new bath time besties with this haircare series that aims to provide affordable yet effective solutions to your hair concerns.

    Elevate Your Hair Care Routine

    It is usual to lose around 80 to 100 strands a day as part of hair’s natural cycle. For most people, hair grows back and allows you to maintain a full head of hair. However, external factors like hormonal changes, stress and inherited conditions can interfere with your hair growth cycle, giving you more hair fallout. New strandsdon’t always grow back, which makes hair care products crucial. In situations like this, Hold Me Tight Pro will be your bestie to help optimize hair growth cycle for a fuller and healthier hair.

    Hold Me Tight Pro

    Hold Me Tight Pro Shampoo

    This hair-care wonder addresses the concerns of those suffering from hair loss. It helps with boosting hairgrowth and contains Kopexil that accelerates the process. It also has caffeine that stimulates the hair follicles to lengthen its growth phase.

    Hold Me Tight Pro Conditioner

    Strengthen the hair and condition the scalp with this conditioner that prevents hair fall! It contains vegan-friendly ingredients that strengthen the hair down to the roots and reduce excess oil. It has ginseng that helps stimulates hair growth and ginger that stimulates hair follicles which promotes longer and stronger hairwhile keeping it smooth and shiny. Thanks to Camellia Seed Oil, Walnut Seed Oil, Argan Oil and SweetAlmond Oil, your hair will stay healthy and nourished!

    Dandruff

    The excessive shedding of the top layer of our scalp can mix with sweat, clump together, and becomeflakes. This flaking can caused by different things like hair being too oily, environment factors, and at times ,stress. Luckily, your companion to combat this comes in Out of My Head Shampoo and Conditioner that deeply nourishing your scalp and helps to control that itch.

    Out Of My Head

    Out Of My Head Shampoo

    lavojoy’s anti-dandruff shampoo helps with controlling itch and flaking. Enriched with amino acids, it gentlycleanses the scalp and hair to reduce dandruff and itching. This is formulated with Piroctone Olamine, which is known for its anti-fungal properties that protect the scalp from dandruff, and Salicylic Acid that gently exfoliates and gets rid of the dry flakes while maintaining scalp moisture.

    Out Of My Head Conditioner

    This is a must-have that conditions the hair for deep nourishment, formulated with Keratin that helps repairdamaged hair and prevents splitting, and Aloe Vera that leaves the hair feeling soft and nourished.

    Damaged

    Heat styling, over washing, and harsh chemicals are just some of the causes of dry and damaged hair. This happens when our hair lacks its capacity to hold its moisture. Luckily, So So So Smooth is here to the rescue!

    So So So Smooth

    So So So Smooth Shampoo

    This Hyaluronic Acid enriched-shampoo helps reduce frizz and seals in moisture into every strand. lavojoy’s So So So Smooth Shampoo is enriched with Amino Acid that helps in protein synthesis to rebuild andstrengthen the hair shaft, perfect for those who want to combat rough and damaged hair.

    So So So Smooth Conditioner

    This conditioner deeply nourishes your hair, making it soft and smooth. Enriched with Hyaluronic Acid andSqualene that boosts the ability of the hair to hold its moisture, the So So So Smooth conditioner is ideal for those who have dry and frizzy hair.

    Ready to make every bath time the best time? Make every shower time pleasurable while achieving your skincare goals with the lavojoy Bodycare series.

    Dull Skin

    If your skin is lacking luster, it may be caused by dead skin build-up, dehydration, lack of sleep and even skipping exfoliation. Worry no more with Let It Glow Body Wash and Let It Glow Body Serum! Achieve the radiant-looking skin you deserve.

    Let It Glow Body Wash1

    Beyond Hair Care: Skin Solutions for Every Need

    Invest in a body wash that brightens and hydrates your skin while strengthening your skin barrier. This contains nurturing ingredients like Niacinamide to gently evens out your skin tone, Hyaluronic Acid that helps retain skin moisture, and Ceramides to protect and repair your skin barrier.

    Let It Glow Body Wash

    Let It Glow Body Serum

    Formulated with skin caring ingredients such as Niacinamide, Vitamin E, and Ceramides to gently even out your skin tone, and repair your skin barrier, this product will give you the nourishment your skin needs for a healthier, brighter appearance.

    Body Acne

    Acne is something that nearly everyone deals with at some point. It is caused by dirt, overactive oil glands, and excess dead skin cells. lavojoy Solve It Now is your bestie that will gently exfoliate and calms your skin.

    Solve It Now Body Wash

    Solve It Now Body Wash

    A gentle body wash formulated with Zinc PCA that regulates sebum production and combats acne breakouts is exactly what you need to combat body acne. Enriched with AHA that removes dead skin cells on the surface of the skin and BHA that penetrates deep on the skin get rid of dead skin and sebum, this product istruly an all-time wonder for fighting body acne.

    Solve It Now Body Serum

    Solve It Now Body Serum

    If you’re looking to gently exfoliate and soothe skin to prevent body acne, this one’s for you! Solve it Now Body Serum is formulated with AHA, BHA, Zinc PCA and 4 types of botanical essence with Shea Butter and Hyaluronic Acid to boost and lock in skin moisture.

    Experience the ultimate in luxury and care with lavojoy’s comprehensive range of products, available exclusively at Watsons, SM Beauty, and online through Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok Shop. Follow @lavojoy_ph on Instagram, @lavojoyphilippines on TikTok, and lavojoy Philippines on Facebook to stay updated on the latest products and promotions. Turn every bath time into a moment of lavish self-care with lavojoy, your new best friend in beauty and wellness.

  • Colleen Hoover Invites Filipino Fans to Experience “It Ends With Us” Movie Adaptation

    Colleen Hoover Invites Filipino Fans to Experience “It Ends With Us” Movie Adaptation

    #1 New York Times bestselling author Colleen Hoover is thrilled to invite her fans in the Philippines to watch the much-anticipated movie adaptation of her acclaimed romance novel, It Ends With Us. This heartwarming film follows Lily Bloom (portrayed by Blake Lively) as she pursues her dream of opening her own business, while dealing with the complexities of her past, an old love, and a serendipitous encounter with a captivating neurosurgeon.

    It Ends With Us, published in 2016, has soared in popularity, thanks to the BookTok community on TikTok. The novel has sold over a million copies worldwide and was the best-selling book of 2023. It has also been translated into more than twenty languages.

    Colleen Hoover has described It Ends With Us as the most challenging book she’s ever written, drawing inspiration from her parents’ tumultuous relationship. Critics have lauded the novel for its sensitive portrayal of domestic abuse. The Slate remarked, “It Ends With Us left a profound impact on me. It’s an emotional rollercoaster that made me feel a spectrum of emotions – anger, sadness, happiness, and joy. It made me realize the profound difficulty of leaving an abusive relationship.”

    ER3 0075 1333x2000 thumbnail 1

    Watch Lily Bloom’s Journey on the Big Screen

    It Ends With Us, the first Colleen Hoover novel to be adapted into a film, narrates the powerful story of Lily Bloom (Blake Lively), a woman who rises above a traumatic childhood to build a new life in Boston and achieve her dream of opening a business. When she meets the charismatic neurosurgeon Ryle Kincaid (Justin Baldoni), they share an instant connection. However, as their relationship deepens, Lily starts to see disturbing similarities between Ryle and her parents’ troubled past. The sudden reappearance of her first love, Atlas Corrigan (Brandon Sklenar), forces Lily to confront her past and make a heart-wrenching decision about her future.

    The film is directed by Justin Baldoni and produced by Alex Saks, Jamey Heath, Blake Lively, and Christy Hall. The cast includes Blake Lively, Justin Baldoni, Jenny Slate, Hasan Minhaj, Amy Morton, and Brandon Sklenar. The screenplay is penned by Christy Hall, based on Colleen Hoover’s bestselling book.

    ER3 0557 sseLEqSC 1000x755 thumbnail

    Mark your calendars for August 7 and witness Lily Bloom’s inspiring story unfold in Philippine cinemas.

    Distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, a local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International, It Ends With Us hits cinemas on August 7. Join the conversation with the hashtag #ItEndsWithUsMovie and follow @columbiapicph for updates.

    Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”

  • Beetlejuice Returns! Watch the New Trailer for “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice”

    Beetlejuice Returns! Watch the New Trailer for “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice”

    Here to make all your nightmares come true, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” – directed by Tim Burton and starring Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, Jenna Ortega, and more – opens exclusively in cinemas on September 4. Watch the new trailer now!

    About “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice”

    Beetlejuice is back! After an unexpected family tragedy, three generations of the Deetz family return to their home in Winter River. Still haunted by Beetlejuice, Lydia’s life is turned upside down when her rebellious teenage daughter, Astrid, discovers the mysterious model of the town in the attic and accidentally opens the portal to the Afterlife. With trouble brewing in both realms, it’s only a matter of time until someone says Beetlejuice’s name three times and the mischievous demon returns to unleash his unique brand of mayhem.

    Tim Burton, a genre unto himself, directs from a screenplay by Alfred Gough & Miles Millar (“Wednesday”), with a story by Gough, Millar, and Seth Grahame-Smith (“The LEGO® Batman Movie”), based on characters created by Michael McDowell & Larry Wilson. The film’s producers are Marc Toberoff, Dede Gardner, Jeremy Kleiner, Tommy Harper, and Burton, with Sara Desmond, Katterli Frauenfelder, Gough, Millar, Brad Pitt, Larry Wilson, Laurence Senelick, Pete Chiappetta, Andrew Lary, Anthony Tittanegro, Grahame-Smith, and David Katzenberg serving as executive producers.

    poster 2

    Star-Studded Cast

    The film stars Michael Keaton (“Batman,” “Birdman”), Winona Ryder (“Stranger Things,” “Little Women”), Catherine O’Hara (“Schitt’s Creek,” “Corpse Bride”), Justin Theroux (“Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi”, “The Leftovers”), Monica Bellucci (“Spectre”, “The Matrix” films), Arthur Conti (“House of the Dragon”), Jenna Ortega (“Wednesday”, “Scream VI”), and Willem Dafoe (“Poor Things”, “At Eternity’s Gate”).

    Release Date

    In cinemas on September 4, “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” is distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company.

    Join the conversation using #Beetlejuice #Beetlejuice.

    Photo & Video Credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

  • One Day Only: Mang Inasal celebrates ₱50 Pork BBQ Blowout this July 23

    One Day Only: Mang Inasal celebrates ₱50 Pork BBQ Blowout this July 23

    Mang Inasal, the Philippines’ Grill Expert, is set to delight Pork BBQ enthusiasts across the country with its grandest ₱50 Pork BBQ Blowout this Tuesday (July 23).

    For one day only, customers will be treated to Mang Inasal’s two-piece Pork BBQ with Rice and Spiced Vinegar for just ₱50, saving ₱49 off the usual price of ₱99!

    Mang Inasal celebrates ₱50 Pork BBQ Blowout this July 23

    This offer follows the successful launch of Maris Racal and Anthony Jennings as Mang Inasal’s newest endorsers.

    “We were inspired by the public’s warm reception of Maris and Anthony and how everyone got excited to taste our smoky-sweet, juicy-lambot sarap Pork BBQ,” said Mang Inasal president Mike V. Castro. “And through this Pork BBQ Blowout, we want more people to experience this best-selling product, where you’ll be surprised with just how tender and rich each bite is. Our Pork BBQ is really a taste sensation that will surely leave you wanting more. For those that haven’t tried it yet, this is the chance you’ve been waiting for. Don’t miss it!”

    Mang Inasal Pork BBQ Blowout

    The #MangInasalPorkBBQBlowout is available for dine-in and takeout only. The list of participating stores is published on manginasal.ph.

     In addition to the Pork BBQ Blowout, Mang Inasal will hold a nationwide Pork BBQ Caravan beginning this July, giving away free Pork BBQ at 20 venues across the country, including malls and universities.

    Want more Mang Inasal exclusives NOW? Visit www.manginasal.ph for the latest news, https://manginasaldelivery.com.ph for delivery deals, and follow Mang Inasal on social media for more Ihaw-Sarap and Unli-Saya updates!

  • Ajinomoto Konbini Experience: Soup & Go® Arrives in the Philippines!

    Ajinomoto Konbini Experience: Soup & Go® Arrives in the Philippines!

    Breakfast is undoubtedly the most important meal of the day. It sets the mood for how you start your mornings and essentially becomes your fuel to kickstart your tasks, may it be in school, at the office, at home, or anywhere you’re meant to be for the day. Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC), considers this as a vital part of one’s twenty-four hour period, especially here in the Philippines, as it launches its first easy-to-make breakfast that takes less than a minute to prepare! This is the perfect companion for those on-the-go, and also for those who want a hassle free quick breakfast that doesn’t compromise nutritional value and that savory flavor. 

    SOUPGO PHOTO 2

    From Left: Kazuki Kyoya, Category Manager, Marketing, Koichi Ozaki, APC President, Mika Makino, APC Director for Sales, Marketing and Public Relations

    For the first time ever, a live demonstration on how to prepare the Ajinomoto Soup & Go® was celebrated at the Konbini. (A Japanese term for convenience store) Located in Market Market Taguig, the pop-up store is a site to see in the middle of the mall’s open space near the terminals, that mimics a real life convenience store which sells Ajinomoto products. This will surely catch everyone’s attention and excite you to explore what is in its glass walls. Graced by APC President Mr. Koichi Ozaki, Mr. Koichi himself demonstrates how easy it is to prepare the tasty breakfast soup. All that is needed is to have your own cup, pour in the contents of the Soup & Go® sachet, add hot water and stir. After following these easy steps, all that’s left is to wait for 1 minute to finally have that first serving of the delicious soup. 

    “We are very excited for the Philippines because we know how the Filipino people love breakfast. With Soup & Go®, our aim is to make their mornings brighter through a convenient dish that’s flavorful and nutritious made with carefully selected ingredients from Japan like corn from the Hokkaido farms (just for corn flavor), and authentic milk from Japan (for all flavors),” says Mr. Koichi Ozaki when asked about what the company aims to achieve with Soup & Go®.

    Soup & Go® comes in three flavors, including Corn, Potato, and Pumpkin, packaged with three single-serve sachets in each box and is available at only Php85. Currently available exclusively in 7-11 branches for the first three months. Soon, Soup & Go® will be available nationwide. 

    “We in Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation are committed to championing a lifestyle that indeed echoes our slogan, Eat Well, Live Well. Through our newest product, Soup & Go®, we are optimistic that it will not only make the mornings of our Filipino customers more convenient, but will also equip them with the necessary nutrients and boost their mood by starting their day with a healthier and flavorful breakfast.” ends Mr. Koichi Ozaki.

    Soup & Go® is Ajinomoto’s first instant soup product introduced to the Philippine market. APC believes that through these easy-to-prepare meals, their customers are given wider options when it comes to choosing a healthy and flavorful meal that is sure to sustain their nutritional needs for the morning without compromising their daily budget and quality of food. For APC, quality and taste has always been paramount when it comes to their products, and the Soup & Go® is testament to the continued innovation and commitment of the company to improving the quality of life of the Filipino people through nutrition and everyday ingredients that elevates every meal. 

    The Soup & Go® official brand video was also shown during the event held at the Konbini & Go, you may enjoy the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V7NIgqOQVEo

  • Project 8 and Mentorque Collaborate on Cinemalaya Film ‘Kono Basho’ Exploring Family and Grief

    Project 8 and Mentorque Collaborate on Cinemalaya Film ‘Kono Basho’ Exploring Family and Grief

    “To grieve together and safely: sometimes that’s all that matters.” – Merlinda Bobis

    Grief often comes in waves, urging us to seek solitude. Yet, finding solace in others can be a powerful remedy. Project 8 Projects and Mentorque Productions come together to bring you Kono Basho at this year’s Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival.

    An Esteemed Legacy of Filmmaking

    Project 8 Projects is no stranger to success, having earned accolades such as the Cinemalaya Audience Choice Award for Rookie (2023) and the Gawad Urian Best Film for Iti Mapukpukaw (2023). Their filmography includes critically acclaimed titles like Never Not Love You (2018), Alone Together (2019), and Fan Girl (2020).

    Mentorque Productions, known for the box-office hit Mallari (2023) – the first Filipino mainstream film distributed by Warner Brothers – continues its tradition of impactful storytelling with Kono Basho

    KONO BASHO STILL 01

    The Inspiration Behind Kono Basho

    Bryan Dy, Executive Producer at Mentorque Productions, shares his motivation: “What drew me to Kono Basho was the powerful story that embodies hope in the face of adversity. Witnessing Rikuzentakata’s rebuilding and the community’s spirit is incredibly inspiring. I want audiences to feel the warmth and solace this film offers.”

    Dy emphasizes the importance of supporting filmmakers who craft stories with heart, highlighting the strength of the human spirit.

    KONO BASHO STILL 03 1

    The Heartfelt Narrative

    Kono Basho follows the journey of two estranged half-sisters, Ella (Gabby Padilla) and Reina (Arisa Nakano), who reunite at their father’s funeral in Rikuzentakata. Ella, a 28-year-old Filipina anthropologist, grapples with cultural and emotional complexities tied to her father’s second family in Japan. Despite their differences, Ella and Reina forge a bond, reconciling their perceptions of their shared father.

    Their path of self-discovery intertwines with Rikuzentakata’s healing, a city deeply affected by the 2011 earthquake and tsunami. Together, they navigate family tides, addressing unresolved traumas that reshape their relationship.

    KONO BASHO STILL 04

    Stellar Cast and Crew

    The film stars Gawad Urian and Cinemalaya Best Actress nominee Gabby Padilla, known for her roles in Kalel, 15, Billie and Emma, and Gitling. Gabby reflects on the experience: “The community we built in Japan while shooting in Rikuzentakata was one of my favorite things about the whole Kono Basho experience. Being able to work with an amazing team in such a magical place was already a gift in itself.”

    Arisa Nakano, celebrated for her role in the Oscar-nominated Perfect Days, brings depth to Reina. Having experienced Japan’s 2011 disaster, she hopes the film offers Filipino audiences a glimpse into that reality. “Having lived through the big natural disaster in Japan, I’ve seen how people’s lives changed because of it. I hope people in the Philippines get a glimpse of that reality through this film.”

    KONO BASHO STILL 05 1

    Director’s Vision

    Visual artist, curator, and filmmaker Jaime Pacena II draws inspiration from his time in Rikuzentakata. He integrates thirteen years of archival photos and videos into the film, portraying themes of memory and resilience. Pacena dedicates Kono Basho to his three eldest sisters, emphasizing family and sibling bonds.

    Director Dan Villegas returns to his roots as a cinematographer, enriching the visual storytelling of Kono Basho. Villegas also serves as Executive Producer and Producer, ensuring the film’s compelling narrative is brought to life.

    KONO BASHO STILL 02

    Cultural Collaboration

    The Japan Foundation played a crucial role in the film’s production, ensuring Rikuzentakata’s culture and sensibilities were authentically represented.

    KB MainPoster

    A Story of Family and Renewal

    Kono Basho explores themes of family, loss, identity, and renewal against the backdrop of the 2011 tsunami. It offers a poignant reflection on the Filipino diaspora and the enduring hope amid grief.

    Grief comes in waves, but you don’t have to face it alone. Sometimes, unexpected connections make the journey bearable.

    Join us in Japan with Kono Basho, an official entry at the Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival – in theaters August 2024.

  • Coca-Cola x Marvel Heroes Unite: Collect Limited-Edition Packs Now

    Coca-Cola x Marvel Heroes Unite: Collect Limited-Edition Packs Now

    In an iconic union that brings together the fizz of Coca-Cola and the thrill of Marvel, Coca-Cola Philippines has unveiled its latest innovative collaboration: “Coca-Cola x Marvel: The Heroes”. This dynamic partnership marries Coca-Cola’s rich history with Disney’s storytelling prowess, continuing a legacy that spans over six decades, and the two iconic brands have continued their strong collaboration across projects, universes, and multiverses – such as the iconic Marvel Universe.

    Coke Marvel EComm 1920x1080pixels 062424

    Collectible Designs and Augmented Reality Thrills

    In a creative twist that marries classic beverage branding with cutting-edge technology, Coca-Cola has introduced six limited-edition can designs. Each can features iconic Marvel characters, from the fierce Wolverine to the cunning Elektra, and offers fans a unique augmented reality (AR) experience. By scanning the cans, consumers can bring their favorite heroes and villains to life right before their eyes, adding an interactive layer to every sip.

    In Coca-Cola and Marvel’s latest limited-time campaign, the brands have joined forces to bring the world of Marvel to life in an exciting new way with a brand new TV commercial and by delivering a never-before-seen consumer experience through exclusive, limited-edition Coca-Cola pack designs featuring 6 character illustrations, digital collectible characters, and an immersive AR extension on Coca-Cola’s website.  

    Innovative Campaign and Digital Integration

    This heroic collaboration is supported by a 360 global campaign, which includes new creative that will run across TV, cinema, and other video-sharing platforms, as well as digital and out-of-home programming. 

    “Coca-Cola has a long history with Disney, and it’s exciting to have a relationship that encourages and enables us to continue to push ourselves and our relationship to new heights creatively,” said Mark Dee, Senior Marketing Director, Coca-Cola Philippines. “This latest collaboration with Marvel allows us to tap into the legacy and affinity for both brands to deliver consumers new and unexpected experiences.”

    “Our corporate alliance with Coca-Cola uniquely positioned us to develop something remarkably innovative within the industry,” said Mindy Hamilton, Senior Vice President of Global Marketing Partnerships, The Walt Disney Company. “We took the traditional marketing paradigm and redefined it in the best way possible. The result is an unprecedented campaign that taps into the power of the Marvel Universe – which is heading into its 85th year of beloved characters – and tells stories in a way that can only be done when Coca-Cola and Disney come together.”

    This collaboration kicked off with a new digital film, telling the story of the latest chapter in the long history of these iconic brands. In the spot, a woman accidentally puts an entire comic book world in danger. Then the Real Magic of Coca-Cola unites the Marvel Universe to save the day and provide an uplifting moment for the protagonist.

    Coca Cola Hero Film Key Visual

    Artistic Cans and Character Roster

    This new line of exclusive cans features heroes and villains from the Marvel Universe. Illustrated with a balance of white, red, and black tones that highlight the characters, these cans leverage contrast to amplify the attention to detail within each limited-edition character design. The cans are scannable, and each will bring its character to life in a unique way through AR.

    The Marvel heroes and villains featured in 6 designs across these limited-edition products are: 

    image 4

    Collect, Scan, and Experience

    These 6 collectible cans are available in Coca-Cola Original Taste and Coca-Cola Zero Sugar variants, ensuring that all fans can enjoy their favorite flavors. Available nationwide across physical and online retail platforms, these cans are expected to be a hit among collectors and fans, offering a taste of the Marvel Universe with every sip.

    As Coca-Cola and Marvel continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in brand collaboration, they invite fans to become part of this adventure. For an extended experience and more information on the Coca-Cola x Marvel AR journey, fans are encouraged to visit Coca-Cola’s official website and follow their social media pages.

    For further details on this electrifying collaboration, follow the official Coca-Cola and Marvel pages on Facebook and Instagram. Visit coca-cola.com for that extended Coca-Cola x Marvel AR experience. Get ready to unleash the hero within with every sip of Coca-Cola!

  • Totally Rad Deals as Alabang Town Center’s Paint the Town Red Sale Goes Old School

    Totally Rad Deals as Alabang Town Center’s Paint the Town Red Sale Goes Old School

    Alabang Town Center has been a landmark destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment for decades. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and community-centric events, Alabang Town Center continues to be a beloved hub for families and friends to create lasting memories. As the school season kicks in, get ready to rekindle those core memories that made the Town an iconic hangout spot through the years.

    PTTR Sale Goes Old School

    From July 25 to 28, 2024, Alabang Town Center’s Paint the Town Red Sale Goes Old School! Score epic deals throughout the mall, then warp back in time for a ‘90s-vibe shopping experience like no other at the Activity Center. It’s time to stroll down memory lane and create new memories while celebrating the old ones.

    Craving those classic bites? Head over to Mt. Mcdo for a taste of nostalgia that hits the spot every time.

    Strike a pose and capture the moment with retro-inspired snaps at Picture City. Step into the photo booth, don some vintage props, and let the camera transport you back in time.

    Challenge your friends and family to a game of Giant Jenga and see who can build the tallest tower without toppling it over. Winners will snag some sweet deals with gift certificates and Klean Kanteen products.

    Tune in to your favorite ‘90s hits and add your jams to the community playlist. The Giant Townie Radio is here to spin your throwback favorites all day long. Have you got a song request? List it and it’ll be queued up!

    Simply spend a minimum of P3000 from any Alabang Town Center store to get a Townie wristband, which grants you access to the activities.

    Join us at Alabang Town Center and paint the town red like never before. It will be a blast from the past, filled with fun, laughter, and iconic Townie moments. See you there, and let’s make some rad new memories together!