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Enjoy worry-free holiday travels to these destinations
Traveling with the family might feel like a tough balancing act during the holidays, but investing in travel insurance can help ease the stress, especially when you’re traveling abroad. GCash, in partnership with Malayan and Standard Insurance, offers affordable comprehensive travel insurance, through the GInsure platform on the GCash app. For as low as P103, you can enjoy a worry-free holiday experience, knowing that you are covered in case of unexpected events.

Here are some top destinations worth spending the holidays in, and how you can enjoy your travel to the fullest with travel insurance you can buy on GInsure:
- Singapore
Singapore is known for fusing Western influences with local culture. Shop for gifts at Orchard Road, its main shopping district, while marveling at festive larger-than-life lightscapes and animated displays. Visit the Christmas Wonderland at Gardens by the Bay, where you can take stunning photos with the iconic Supertrees. Lastly, savor Singapore-fied traditional festive treats, from Christmas Tandoori roast turkey to ondeh-ondeh cake.

Fly direct via Changi Airport and worry-free travel with Malayan Insurance Travel Master with COVID-19 coverage. This comprehensive plan protects you from unforeseen inconveniences like flight delays, trip cancellations, lost documents, damaged luggage, and even laptop mishaps, allowing you to focus on creating unforgettable memories in Singapore.
- Thailand
Thailand does not celebrate Christmas as a traditional festival but it offers a charming alternative to the usual festivities. Go on holiday shopping for unique crafts and finds at the festive and vibrant markets of Bangkok. On New Year’s Eve, head North to Chiang Mai and witness the release of traditional Thai lanterns, called ‘khom loy.’ This is said to be a way of releasing the troubles of the past year and attracting luck for the upcoming one.

Begin your relaxation even before you’ve touched down at the Suvarnabhumi Airport. Standard Insurance Travel Protect International offers trip inconvenience benefits, including for delayed departure, trip postponement, missed connection, trip diversion, baggage delay, loss of or damage to luggage, loss of travel documents and hijacking.
- Japan
Whether you’re dreaming of a snowy holiday or a festive feast, Japan is the place to be. Experience a winter wonderland at the snow parks of Hokkaido, or see the historical villages of Shirakawa-go and Takayama Jinya transform into real-life Christmas villages. Beyond snow, Japan also has stunning light displays, including Tokyo’s famous 1.2-kilometre-long Marunouchi Naka-dori street. Complete the Christmas feast by savoring the sweetness of traditional ‘kurisumasu keki,’ fluffy sponge cakes topped with fresh strawberry slices.

Planning to rent a car to get around Japan? Malayan Insurance Travel Master with COVID-19 includes car rental protection, on top of accidental death coverage, personal liability coverage, and emergency medical treatment, so you can enjoy your road trip worry-free.
- Hong Kong
Indulge in a delightful experience for your senses by visiting Hong Kong’s WinterFest. Visit West Kowloon Cultural District, Hong Kong’s world-class art and culture hub, for a trip to the Christmas Town. At the Great Lawn, you can spread out some picnic mats, get front-row seats to breathtaking pyrotechnic displays at the iconic Victoria Harbour, and relish in festive treats such as pineapple buns, Hong Kong-style egg tarts, and steamed rice rolls.

Wherever you are in Asia, confidently travel because Standard Insurance Travel Protect International Protect offers emergency medical assistance, including medical treatment during or arising from COVID-19, delivery of medicine, emergency dental care, emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, hospital income, and compassionate visit. It also includes additional coverage for accidental death and disablement, unprovoked murder and assault and burial assistance

Unexpected events no longer hold the power to disrupt your cherished plans this Christmas and beyond with affordable travel insurance you can conveniently purchase in just a few taps.

To purchase your travel insurance, access GInsure on the GCash dashboard and tap ‘Travel.’ Once you’ve chosen your insurance product, read through the benefits and coverage, fill in the questionnaire and traveler details, and complete the payment using your GCash account. Ready to travel the country during the holidays and beyond? Download the GCash App on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery. Kaya mo, i-GCash mo!

About GCash

GCash is the Philippines’ #1 Finance Super App. Through the GCash App, users can easily purchase prepaid airtime; pay bills via partner billers nationwide; send and receive money anywhere in the Philippines, even to other bank accounts; purchase from over 6 million partner merchants and social sellers; and get access to savings, credit, loans, insurance and invest money, and so much more, all at the convenience of their smartphones. GCash’s mobile wallet operations are handled by G-Xchange, Inc. (GXI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mynt, the first and only duacorn in the Philippines which is a part of the country’s leading digital solutions platform, Globe Group.

GCash is a staunch supporter of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly UN SDGs 5,8,10, and 13, which focus on safety & security, financial inclusion, diversity, equity, and inclusion as well as taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts, respectively.
December 23, 2023
Stream 2023’s top-trending shows this festive season with PLDT Home

2023 is down to its last few days, and that means for many of us, it’s time for a well-deserved break. For those who get the rare opportunity to unwind, it’s a moment to indulge ourselves and do what we want to do — and for some, it’s catching up on a lot of good stuff on our screens.

By now, everyone knows that with so much content out there in the world, there’s truly no shortage of stuff to watch. Whether it’s TV shows, movies, concerts, sports, or anything that’s bingeable, there’s something to pass the time with.

If you’re a PLDT Home customer, you get to have even more to choose from than usual, as you’ve got access to some of the most exciting streaming platforms in HBO GO, Lionsgate Play, Viu, and, of course, NBA League Pass for hardcore basketball fans. All you have to do is avail yourself of a special subscription that comes with your PLDT Home Fiber plan, and you’re good to go with unli-entertainment for the break. Here are some of the gems you can enjoy with your fam and friends at home this holiday season:

Barbie

If you haven’t seen one of the most talked-about movies of the year, this is now your chance to see what so many people have loved. To live in Barbie Land is to be a perfect being in a perfect place. Unless you have a full-on existential crisis. Or you’re a Ken. From Oscar®-nominated writer and director Greta Gerwig (Little Women, Lady Bird) comes Barbie, starring Oscar®-nominees Margot Robbie (Bombshell, I, Tonya) and Ryan Gosling (La La Land, Half Nelson) as Barbie and Ken, alongside America Ferrera (End of Watch, How to Train Your Dragon films), Kate McKinnon (Bombshell, Yesterday), Issa Rae (The Photograph, Insecure), Rhea Perlman (I’ll See You in My Dreams, Matilda), and Will Ferrell (the Anchorman films, Talladega Nights). Barbie, now exclusively on HBO GO, is available to PLDT Home customers for as low as P199/month.

Spencer

Princess Diana’s untimely passing will always grip people’s hearts and imaginations as one of the most unfortunate tragedies the world has seen. That fascination ledto Spencer, the biopic starring Kristen Stewart (The Twilight series) as the beloved and iconic Princess of Wales.

While it may be easy to make a highly dramatic film about her car accident, Spencer is a more subtle film that focuses on Diana’s slowly unraveling psyche in 1991, on the brink of her much-publicized divorce from then-Prince Charles. It’s a careful study on what drives a person, especially a woman, to do certain things that other people and a hawkish media would prey upon and twist. Fans of Princess Diana and the British royalty would do well to check the 2021 film digitally released first on Lionsgate Play, available to PLDT Home customers for as low as P79/month.

A Journey to Love

Right now, Korean dramas and some Japanese dramas get a lot of love from Filipinos, but you shouldn’t also sleep on Chinese dramas as well. One such series is A Journey to Love, a period romance and wuxia martial arts fantasy drama that’ll hook sentimental viewers, history buffs, and Eastern martial arts fans alike.

Set in the famed Three Kingdoms era of China, A Journey to Love is the story of female Wu assassin Ren Yu Yi (Liu Shi Shi) who must save the King of Wu with Ning Yuan Zhou (Liu Yu Ning), the leader of Wu’s Six Realms Hall and a party of other warriors. As they go on their adventure, Ren and Ning both grow and fall in love together, making it a journey of self-discovery as well.

Those who want a bit of a different flavor to their drama can catch this on streaming platform Viu, carrying Chinese, Korean, and Japanese shows and movies among other Asian finds. PLDT Home customers can get Viu Premium for P80/month.

NBA Christmas Day games

Christmas Day basketball has been a tradition of the NBA, with this year’s holiday festivities marking the 76^th time it’s been held. On Tuesday, Dec. 26 PHT, the past four NBA champions will see action to give fans a thrilling slate of regular-season games.

Tipping off the holiday festivities, on Dec. 26 at 1 a.m. PHT, the 2021 NBA champion Milwaukee Bucks – led by superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo – face the New York Knicks. Following right after at 3:30 a.m. PHT, the current NBA Champions the Denver Nuggets – led by the NBA Finals MVP Nikola Jokic – go up against the previous champs the Golden State Warriors – captained by megastar Stephen Curry. At 6:00 a.m. PHT, the third match of the five-game slate will see LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers play against their perennial rivals the Boston Celtics – powered by young stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Rounding out the Christmas Day games are the Philadelphia 76ers vs. Miami Heat (9:00 a.m. PHT) and the Dallas Mavericks vs. Phoenix Suns (11:30 a.m. PHT). Of course, if the heated basketball action starts too early for you, NBA League Pass – the league’s premium live game subscription service – lets you catch it on-demand at your own pace. No better way for a basketball fan to enjoy the break than with the game’s brightest stars! PLDT Home customers can subscribe to NBA League Pass and access wall-to-wall NBA content for P425/month. To find out more, visit https://pldthome.com/entertainment.

December 22, 2023
Lionsgate Play Cozy Christmas Movies to Binge for Your Well-Deserved Holiday Night In

There’s nothing quite like curling up in bed with a warm mug of cocoa and a heartwarming Christmas movie to kickstart the holiday season. It’s one of the best feelings in the world. So if you’re up for a relaxing evening of Christmas films that transport viewers to a world of snow-covered streets glowing under twinkling lights, nostalgic school Christmas dances, and charming towns celebrating the holiday cheer, press play on these movies on Lionsgate Play.

Christmas Made to Order (2018)

Workaholic architect Steven (Jonathan Bennett, Mean Girls) finds himself in a dilemma when his family insists on spending Christmas in his near-empty home. In a pinch, he recruits holiday coordinator Gretchen (Alexa PenaVega, Spy Kids) to pull off an interior decorating holiday miracle. Gretchen’s Christmas spirit successfully brings Steven’s family together and works a little too well in bringing the pair closer to each other.

Stream Christmas Made to Order here.

Christmas Wonderland (2018)

Heidi Nelson (Emily Osment, Hannah Montana), a successful art gallery curator in New York, is forced to come home to the small town of Pleasant Valley for the holidays. She crosses paths with her high school sweetheart, Chris Shepherd (Ryan Rottman, The House Bunny), now a teacher at the local school. The pair slowly rekindle their relationship after Chris asks her for help looking for a last-minute location for the school’s Christmas dance. The more time Heidi spends in Pleasant Valley, the more she finds herself inspired to pursue her painting passion again. But time is running out and Heidi must decide if the cutthroat life she built in the city is worth exchanging for the charming one she has in Pleasant Valley.

Stream Christmas Wonderland here.

A Christmas in Royal Fashion (2018)

Kristin Cooper (Cindy Busby, The Big Year) and Prince Patrick’s (Diarmaid Murtagh, Vikings) Christmastime meet-cute starts at a fashion show. Kristin, an assistant at a global PR firm, is tasked to organize the annual Christmas Fashion Show and Auction for one of their biggest clients. Meanwhile, the King of Edgemoor volunteered his son, Prince Patrick, as the Royal family representative. Sparks fly when Kristin and Patrick meet, but he mistakes Kristin for her boss, Melaine. As they spend more time together, Kristin wonders if the dashing prince would fall for her if he knew she works as an assistant and not a boss.

Stream A Christmas in Royal Fashion here.

Curl up in bed and enjoy these cozy Christmas movies streaming exclusively on Lionsgate Play on PLDT Home.

December 22, 2023

Ring in the New Year with Exciting Movies and Series on HBO GO, HBO, Warner TV, Cartoon Network, and Cartoonito

Kick off the new year with HBO Original series True Detective: Night Country andcelebrate the 25^th Anniversary of The Sopranos with us on HBO GO. Ahead of the 75th Primetime Emmy® Awards, revisit nominated series, from Succession, The Last of Us, House of the Dragon and more. The action continues with the premiere of The Super Mario Bros. Movie, Bed Rest andOperation Fortune: Ruse De Guerre on HBO and HBO GO.Gather the family together for something magical on Warner TV with Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium and catch Adventure Time: Distant Lands and more with Movie Madness on Cartoon Network as well as a brand-new show, Interstellar Ella on CARTOONITO.

Drama and Thriller on HBO GO

True Detective: Night Country
Premieres Monday, January 15 on HBO GO

Catch True Detective: Night Country on HBO GO on Monday, January 15 in celebration of True Detective’s 10^th Anniversary on January 12. When the long winter night falls in Ennis, Alaska, the eight men who operate the Tsalal Arctic Research Station vanish without a trace. To solve the case, Detectives Liz Danvers and Evangeline Navarro will have to confront the darkness they carry in themselves and dig into the haunted truths that lie buried under the eternal ice. Stars Jodie Foster and Kali Reis.

Celebrate The Sopranos 25^th Anniversary on Wednesday, January 10 on HBO GO

James Gandolfini stars in this acclaimed series as Tony Soprano, a husband and mob boss whose professional and private strains often land him in the office of his therapist.

Celebrate 25 years of the captivating crime-drama series and revisit all six seasons of The Sopranos, now on HBO GO.

Revisit Emmy-nominated series on HBO GO

In advance of the 75^th Primetime Emmy® Awards, be sure to stream your favourite nominated originals such as Succession Season 4, The Last of Us, The White Lotus Season 2, House of the Dragon, Barry Season 4 and many more on HBO GO.

More on HBO and HBO GO

The Super Mario Bros. Movie
Premieres Saturday, January 6 at 9pm on HBO and HBO GO

A fun adventure based on Nintendo’s globally successful video game franchise about a moustachioed plumber Mario and his lanky brother, Luigi, in their quest to save Princess Peach from villain Bowser. Starring Golden Globe winner Anya-Taylor Joy and comedy masters Chris Pratt and Charlie Day.

Bed Rest
Premieres Saturday, January 13 at 9pm on HBO and HBO GO

After years of struggling to start a family, Julie Rivers is pregnant again and moving into a new home with her husband as they embrace a fresh start. Upon being ordered to mandatory bed rest, Julie begins to slowly unravel as she suffers through the monotony and anxiety of her new constraints. Soon, terrifying ghostly experiences in the home begin to close in on Julie, stirring up her past demons and causing others to question her mental stability. Stars Melissa Barrera and Guy Burnet.

Operation Fortune: Ruse De Guerre
Premieres Saturday, January 20 at 9pm on HBO andHBO GO

Super spy Orson Fortune must track down and stop the sale of a deadly new weapons technology wielded by billionaire arms broker Greg Simmonds. Reluctantly teamed with some of the world’s best operatives, Fortune and his crew recruit Hollywood’s biggest movie star Danny Francesco to help them on their globe-trotting undercover mission to save the world. Stars Jason Statham, Aubrey Plaza, Josh Hartnett, Cary Elwes, Bugzy Malone, and Hugh Grant.

Drama and Comedy on Warner TV

Movies and Series Premiere on Warner TV
●      Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium
Premieres Saturday, January 6 at 9pm
●      Hack My Life Season 3
Premieres Monday, January 8 at 8.10pm
●      Abduction
Premieres Saturday, January 13 at 9pm
●      Next
Premieres Saturday, January 20 at 9pm

LOL Sundays on Warner TV
Every Sunday at 9pm
●      Joe’s Apartment, January 7
●      Little Nicky, January 14
●      Wedding Crashers, January 21
● Hall Pass, January 28

Cartoon Network and CARTOONITO

Interstellar Ella
Every Thursday and Friday, from January 4 onwards, from 8am on CARTOONITO

In the year 3021, on a space station somewhere between Mars and Jupiter in the Milky Way, 8-year-old Ella Ryder sets out with her friends on exciting adventures in space! While Ella’s adventures are spine-tingly fun, they also allow her to discover a little bit more about herself with each unexpected challenge.

Movie Madness on Cartoon Network
Weekends, January 6 to January 28, from 11am on Cartoon Network

On January 6, catch the premiere of JLA Adventures: Trapped in Time where The Justice League stops Lex Luthor from going back in time to eliminate Superman, Wonder Woman and Batman by changing their origin stories. On January 12, join the Teen Titans as they travel to Japan to get to the source of the attack by a new villain, in Teen Titans: Trouble in Tokyo. Then, catch Adventure Time: Distant Lands and find out who’s the hero to call when there’s a deadly space emergency on January 27.

Channel numbers for your reference:

HBO – Cignal: Ch. 53 (SD), Ch. 210 (HD), Sky Cable: Ch. 54 (SD) and Ch. 168 (HD)
CARTOONITO – Cignal: Ch. 76, Sky Cable: Ch. 42
Cartoon Network – Cignal: Ch. 74 (SD), Ch. 220 (HD), Sky Cable: Ch. 43 (SD), Ch. 178 (HD)
Warner TV – Cignal Ch. 235 and Sky Cable Ch. 34 (SD) and Ch. 197 (HD)

Subscribe to HBO GO online at https://www.hbogoasia.ph/ or the mobile app via the App Store or Play Store for only ₱1,190 on the 12-month plan. Or access HBO GO via Cignal, Globe and Skycable. HBO GO is also available on Android TV, Apple TV, LG TV and Samsung Smart TV – and comes with AirPlay and Google Cast functionality.

December 22, 2023

Jonas Brothers’ ‘The Tour’ Set to Visit the Philippines in February 2024

Fresh off the heels of their final North American shows and three-night hometown run, Jonas Brothers have announced that THE TOUR will also journey to the Philippines on February 22, 2024, to perform at the Mall of Asia Arena.

‘The Tour’ is their most ambitious outing to date with 98 shows across 26 countries. Every night is a celebration of five albums and features their best hits throughout the years including a variety of career-spanning deep cuts and fan-favorite hits.

Their monumentally successful North American run, which hit legendary venues including Toronto’s Rogers Centre, Chicago’s Wrigley Field and Los Angeles’ Dodger Stadium, concluded this month at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. In 2024, the tour will continue its trek around the globe starting in The Philippines, Indonesia, and New Zealand in February. They will also perform for the first time ever in Australia, New Zealand, Poland, Austria, Czech Republic, Northern Ireland, Hamburg, Lyon, Munich and Norway.

The Jonas Brothers reaffirmed their status as global icons and left a lasting imprint on the hearts of their Filipino fans. Their upcoming concert in the Philippines is promoted by Ovation Productions with Blast TV as the official media partner. General on sale will be on 6 January 2024, at 12 noon through smtickets.com.

For more details and updates about the concert please check the official website and Facebook Page of Ovation Productions at https://ovationproductionsmanila.com/ and https://www.facebook.com/ovationproductions/.

December 22, 2023
Mas Pinalamig na Paskong Pinoy Handog ni Sangkap Claus and BGYO

Sangkap Claus has come to town bearing a special gift for all: Chowking’s SuperSangkap Halo-Halo, ang #SuperSangkapNgPasko! Made with 13 unique halo-halo ingredients, this super sangkap dessert is the all-you-need palamig para sa mainit na Paskong Pinoy!

Chowking and Sangkap Claus set-up a special Christmas tree at NAIA terminal 3 with special QR codes to redeem a SuperSangkap Halo-Halo at any Chowking branch via chowkingdelivery.com or the Chowking App, perfect for balikbayans who are back home for the holidays. The tree will be up beyond the holidays, so anyone traveling could get their halo-halo fix no matter the season! Sangkap Claus will also be visiting select Chowking nationwide dala ang #SuperSangkapNgPasko, so watch out!

And that’s not all! PPop sensation BGYO also teamed up with Sangkap Claus to release their new Christmas jingle. ACEs all over the country could now bop it out to ‘Halo-Halong Saya’ while feasting on their idol’s favorite SuperSangkap Halo-Halo.

Make your different holiday moments even sweeter and cooler with the Chowking SuperSangkap Halo-Halo, a treat na bagay na bagay sa halo-halong kulay ng mga Pinoy celebrations any time of the year. Available in all Chowking stores nationwide, all-year-round. #SuperSangkapNgPasko

December 22, 2023
‘Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom’ Continues its Epic Journey in IMAX, 4DX, and Uptown Tempur Cinemas from December 25 Onwards

Aquaman fans, get ready for an underwater adventure like no other! The much-anticipated sequel, “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom,” starring the charismatic Jason Momoa, continues to make waves in cinemas. This holiday season, from December 25 to January 7, immerse yourself in the stunning visuals and gripping storyline in IMAX theaters, 4DX, and the luxurious Uptown Tempur Cinema at Uptown Mall, Taguig.

Midnight Premiere and Ongoing Excitement

Kicking off with midnight screenings on December 20, the movie has been captivating audiences with its breathtaking visuals and compelling narrative. Directed by the visionary James Wan, the film also stars Patrick Wilson, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Nicole Kidman, and Amber Heard.

A Unique Atlantis Experience Awaits

For an added dose of excitement, visit “The Aquaman Tunnel Experience” at SM Mall of Asia, Level 3, South Entertainment Mall. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Atlantis, capture memories with life-size Aquaman and Black Manta displays, and enjoy a captivating video tour of the Kingdoms of Atlantis! This immersive experience is open throughout December and is not to be missed.

A Battle of Epic Proportions

In this sequel, Aquaman faces an even greater challenge. Black Manta, thirsting for revenge and armed with the formidable Black Trident, poses a dire threat to Aquaman, his family, and the entire world. To triumph, Aquaman must form an unlikely alliance with his once-enemy, Orm. The stakes are higher than ever in this battle to save the kingdom and the world from destruction.

Star-Studded Cast Returns

Jason Momoa shines as Arthur Curry/Aquaman, juggling his responsibilities as the King of Atlantis and a new father. The cast also includes Patrick Wilson as Orm, Amber Heard as Mera, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II as Black Manta, and Nicole Kidman as Atlanna. Dolph Lundgren and Randall Park reprise their roles, adding depth to this dynamic ensemble.

Behind the Scenes: A Creative Powerhouse

Directed by James Wan, the film is a product of collaboration among Peter Safran, Wan, and Rob Cowan, with a screenplay by David Leslie Johnson-McGoldrick. It’s a Warner Bros. Pictures presentation in association with Atomic Monster and The Peter Safran Production.

Join the Global Excitement

“Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” promises an unforgettable cinematic experience. Be part of the global excitement and follow the conversation online using the hashtags #Aquaman and #TunnelExperience. Secure your tickets at aquaman2.com.ph and prepare for an epic journey under the sea!

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

December 22, 2023
Google unveils 2023’s top search trends in the Philippines
Google ends the year once again by releasing the Year In Search 2023, its annual compilation of the top trending keywords and terms that Filipinos search for.

These top 10 lists serve as a record of the many events and issues that people have gotten caught up in over the year. For example, SIM registration topped the News list because of the new law that mandated everyone to register their phone numbers, and because Filipinos wanted to know more about the process. Major international events are also high on Filipinos’ awareness, as the Israel-Hamas war is ranked fifth in the top News trends.

The pop culture lists are also full of names that are bound to trigger specific memories from months past. Among many other keywords, there’s Japanese actor Mackenyu who ranked #2 in Male Personalities because of the reception to his One Piece role, Jenna Ortega (#8 in Female Personalities) who’s enjoying her career highs from Wednesday and Scream 7, and local TV drama Maria Clara at Ibarra that gripped Filipinos during its TV run.

TV shows and movies available on streaming platforms earned more places on this year’s lists, which lines up with the steady growth of online media consumption as projected in this year’s eConomy SEA Report.

Below is the full list of the top search trends in the Philippines:

News
1. SIM registration
2. precinct finder
3. persona non grata
4. Nipah virus
5. War in Israel and Gaza
6. lato-lato
7. Typhoon Egay update
8. Taal Volcano update
9. Turkey earthquake
10. MoCa Farm
Sports
1. Lakers vs Warriors
2. Lakers vs Nuggets
3. FIBA World Cup
4. Miami vs Denver
5. Lakers vs Grizzlies
6. Suns vs Nuggets
7. Celtics vs 76ers
8. Heat vs Knicks
9. Golden State Warriors vs Kings
10. Ginebra vs Bay Area
Shows or Series
1. Duty After School
2. Maria Clara at Ibarra
3. Moving
4. The Glory
5. Twinkling Watermelon
6. King the Land
7. XO, Kitty
8. The Last of Us
9. My Lovely Liar
10. Strong Girl Nam-soon
Songs or Lyrics
1. Say You Won’t Let Go
2. ERE
3. Pasilyo
4. Uhaw
5. Lupang Hinirang English
6. Angels Like You
7. California King Bed
8. Rapstar
9. Raining In Manila
10. Jopay
Games
1. Blade Ball codes
2. Delta Executor
3. Soldier, Poet, or King quiz
4. Cosmic Values
5. Anime Adventures codes
6. Farlight
7. Choox Sega
8. Honkai: Star Rail
9. Minecraft 1.20
10. Project Slayers codes
Male Personalities
1. Ahn Bo-hyun
2. Mackenyu
3. Marco Gumabao
4. Taylor Lautner
5. Travis Kelce
6. Liam Hemsworth
7. David Licauco
8. Kyle Kuzma
9. Juan Karlos
10. Chen Zhe Yuan
Female Personalities
1. Katy Louise Saunders
2. Cristine Reyes
3. Millie Bobby Brown
4. Lee Da-in
5. Issa Pressman
6. Janna Dominguez
7. Bada Lee
8. Jenna Ortega
9. Emily Rudd
10. Isabel Santos
Movies
1. Oppenheimer
2. John Wick: Chapter 4
3. Barbie
4. Insidious: The Red Door
5. The Menu
6. Extraction 2
7. I Love Lizzy
8. Evil Dead Rise
9. Nowhere
10. Kill Boksoon
Farewells
1. Mike Enriquez
2. Joey Paras
3. Matthew Perry
4. Andrei Sison
5. Patrick Guzman
6. Mario Dumaual
7. John Regala
8. Michael Gambon
9. Park Soo Ryun
10. Tina Turner
Korean Series
1. Duty After School
2. Moving
3. The Glory
4. Twinkling Watermelon
5. King the Land
6. My Lovely Liar
7. Strong Girl Nam-soon
8. Alchemy of Souls
9. Island
10. A Time Called You
To see the full Year in Search 2023 list, click here.
December 21, 2023
Nostalgia Meets the Future: Ayala Avenue New Year’s Eve Countdown to 2024

Ayala Land and Make It Makati, in collaboration with the local Government of Makati, are delighted to present “Nostalgia Meets the Future: Ayala Avenue New Year’s Eve Countdown to 2024.” Happening on December 31, 2023, witness the biggest, brightest, and most iconic celebration of NYE in the country, together with the community. This exciting show will unfold right at Ayala Avenue, commencing at 7:00 PM and continuing into the night.

Marking 24 years since the epic turn-of-the-millennium NYE celebration, Ayala Avenue is set to host a spectacular event to welcome 2024. The tradition of the New Year’s Eve countdown street party in Makati originates from the turn of the millennium, when the city hosted a grand celebration to ring in the year 2000. This event was the first of its kind in the Philippines, setting a precedent for large-scale public New Year’s Eve festivities. It was not just a party but also a community gathering, bringing together people from all walks of life to celebrate a significant milestone.

As we step into 2024, Makati eagerly brings back this cherished tradition. The aim is not just to throw a grand party, but to give back to the community that has made Makati the thriving city it is today. This year’s celebration is designed to be inclusive, inviting everyone to partake in the festivities and enjoy the night. This event is all about the power of shared experiences and the joy they bring, and all are invited, regardless of age or interest, to join in the celebration.

By rekindling this tradition, Makati hopes to create a sense of unity and belonging, to remind everyone that we’re all part of this vibrant community. The New Year’s Eve countdown street party on Ayala Avenue is a gift to the people of Makati, a thank you for their contribution to the city’s success throughout the years.

Under the theme “Nostalgia Meets the Future,” all are invited on a journey that is both a nod to the past and a toast to the future. Rewinding to 1999, the event recalls the Philippines’ very first grand-scale New Year’s Eve countdown, featuring the country’s most beloved performers headlined by Asia’s Songbird, Regine Velasquez. Families marveled in excitement as they partied and waited for the turn of the millennium at midnight.

The magic returns with the comeback of Ayala Avenue’s New Year’s Eve countdown to 2024. This celebration is all about Filipino pride – an event that spotlights the country’s top talents who have made waves on the global stage.

Prepare for a night of unparalleled entertainment as Makati welcomes to the stage some of the Philippines’ biggest names in the music scene. Regine Velasquez will once again be headlining the event together with the phenomenal P-Pop sensation, SB19. Joining them on the stage are other major performers such as Sponge Cola, Al James, and a team of talented musical theatre artists led by Gab Pangilinan and Myke Salomon. The event will be hosted by the dynamic duo Baus Rufo and Ai Dela Cruz, with direction from the acclaimed Paolo Valenciano.

The highlight of the event, a countdown to 2024, will feature a breathtaking lights and fireworks show that will illuminate the Makati skyline. As the clock strikes midnight, DJ Brian Cua and DJ Mike Lavet will lead the crowd into an all-night dance party.The main stage, located at the intersection of Makati Avenue and Ayala Avenue, will feature an impressive 3D-stage setup, complete with 7-meter tall LED screens on either side, bringing an immersive experience for all attendees. This New Year’s Eve party promises a visual and auditory feast like never before.

The celebration extends beyond the stage to a gastronomic adventure, with various Makati establishments collaborating to offer a delectable selection of food choices. Merchants will open starting at lunchtime, allowing guests to embark on a culinary journey before the evening festivities commence.

Witness the biggest New Year’s Eve Countdown in the Metro! From iconic performances to state-of-the-art technology, “Nostalgia Meets the Future: Ayala Avenue New Year’s Eve Countdown to 2024″ underscores Makati’s unwavering commitment to excellence and community.

“Nostalgia Meets the Future: Ayala Avenue New Year’s Eve Countdown to 2024” is open to everyone, free of charge, and requires no registration. Stay tuned for updates and announcements including road closures at Make It Makati’s official Facebook page. For more information, stay connected via social media – follow Make It Makati on Facebook, Instagram and X at @makeitmakati. #MakeItMakati

December 21, 2023
Unveiling BTS’ Legacy: A Glimpse into ‘BTS Monuments: Beyond The Star’

“BTS Monuments: Beyond The Star“ has arrived on Disney+, offering an unprecedented look into the remarkable ten-year journey of BTS. From their humble beginnings to becoming global superstars, this docuseries promises to deliver an intimate, raw, and honest portrayal of the septet’s rise to fame.

Here are some things ARMY can’t wait to see in BTS Monuments: Beyond The Star.

Why ARMY Can’t Wait: Top 7 Moments to Anticipate

1. Behind-the-Scenes Dance Practices:
Witness BTS in their element with extensive practice footage, potentially including rare pre-debut clips. With a decade in the industry, BTS naturally have tons of footage hidden in their vault. Based on the teasers released for BTS Monuments: Beyond The Star, we’re definitely getting more practice videos — maybe even some pre-debut content!

2. Cherished Graduations:
Get a glimpse into the members’ graduation ceremonies, with special focus on RM, and possibly others. Most ARMYs are familiar with Jung Kook’s graduation ceremony Bangtan Bomb where all the members of BTS were present.

3. Early Showcases:
Relive BTS’ roots through clips from their early, more intimate performances. Before BTS sold out huge stadiums and flew to different countries worldwide, the members used to perform at small shows and meet a handful of fans. Often, they had to catch quick naps in a tiny car while hopping from event to event around South Korea. Thanks to BTS Monuments: Beyond The Star, ARMY will get to see more clips from those simple days.

4. Life in the Old Dorm:
Explore BTS’ shared experiences in their first dorm, with exclusive footage offering a peek into their early days. In their early years, all 7 members of BTS shared one tiny room measuring 17 tsubo or pyeong (which is merely around 56 square meters). It’s all too familiar and nostalgic for ARMY — it’s where BTS celebrated their 1st debut anniversary. There aren’t a lot of videos from that era, but it seems they’ll be releasing never-before-seen footage based on a trailer clip of RM and V playing with a game console at their old dorm

5. The Stories Behind Selfies:
Delve into the anecdotes behind iconic BTS selfies, including a special feature on a viral selfie by Jimin. BTS members love sharing group photos and selfies with their fans, as proven by the overabundance of content on their social media accounts. As a way to connect with ARMY, BTS often tell the story behind the photos they upload. This time, fans might get actual footage from behind the scenes of some photos! In one scene from the trailer, Jimin explains to the camera how he ended up taking a viral selfie he posted in 2013.

6. Exclusive 2013 Fan Meeting:
Anticipate potentially unseen footage from a unique fan meeting held in 2013, a much-awaited treat for fans. BTS held a small fan meeting for a joint celebration of Christmas and the birthdays of Jin and V. Fans couldn’t bring cameras to the event, but BigHit did film the event, yet footage remains elusive. While the trailers released so far didn’t show a hint of this event, many ARMYs (including us!) are hoping HYBE and BigHit will finally show the world actual clips from this event.

[Thread Rebuild]
8yrs ago today BTS held an x-mas, Jin & Tae bday party fanmeet (131223)
Debut ARMY brought this to the TL during ARMYpedia since mostly no one remembered (or even knew of) it as cameras were banned because BH filmed—but then BH never released *any* pics or vid! + pic.twitter.com/vAuxfxcPY2
— Ren⁷⟭⟬⟬⟭(busy) (@renkiger_) December 22, 2021

7. Lockdown Reflections:
Experience the emotional struggles and triumphs of BTS during the COVID-19 lockdown, a period that challenged but also showcased their resilience. To the rest of the world, BTS provided a much-needed light and life during the COVID-19 pandemic with their inspiring and upbeat songs “Dynamite”, “Life Goes On”, “Butter”, and “Permission to Dance”. But ARMYs would know how difficult that time was for the members due to the cancellation of the “Map of the Soul Tour” and the difficulty of performing in front of their fans, especially at the height of their careers. The footage from that era might make fans cry, but ARMY will surely tune in even with tears blurring their vision.

A Must-Watch for Every ARMY

Catch this stirring docuseries on Disney+ and embark on a journey with BTS, experiencing their growth, challenges, and triumphs. “BTS Monuments: Beyond The Star” is more than a series; it’s a celebration of an era, a testament to BTS’ enduring legacy, and a heartfelt tribute to the unwavering support of the ARMY.

December 21, 2023

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A Must-Watch for Every ARMY