Blog

Cebu Pacific’s First Narita-Manila SAF-Powered Flight Takes Off

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB) operated Flight 5J 5055 from Narita to Manila powered by sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), making it the first Philippine carrier to use SAF in a commercial flight from Japan.

The leading Philippine carrier’s SAF flight was operated with an Airbus 321neo, using 40% blended SAF produced by Neste Corporation and supplied by Itochu Corporation. This combination resulted in a 44 percent reduction in carbon emissions per passenger, setting a new record for CEB’s SAF-powered flights.

“As we await sufficient SAF supply to meet the demand of the entire aviation industry, this inaugural Narita to Manila SAF flight represents Cebu Pacific’s ongoing efforts toward making air travel more sustainable. Other decarbonization programs that we have put in place include investing in fuel-efficient NEOs, optimization of flight plans, and adoption of fuel efficiency best practices to minimize fuel consumption. All these are concrete sustainability initiatives that bolster our commitment and support for the aviation industry’s goal of flying net-zero by 2050,” said Alexander Lao, President and Chief Commercial Officer at Cebu Pacific.

Itochu, which acts as the branded distributor of SAF in Japan, lauded the collaboration.

“We look forward to partnering with Cebu Pacific as we strive towards sustainable aviation. Our collaboration underscores the growing demand for SAF in the Asia-Pacific region and we are ready to meet that need,” said Atsushi Onishi, Senior Officer of Itochu’s Energy Division.

Passengers on the inaugural flight were part of the celebration, receiving commemorative tokens and engaging in in-flight activities. The initiative was also warmly welcomed by Narita International Airport.

“We are honored that Cebu Pacific has chosen Narita International Airport for this initiative. Being one of the select airlines to mount SAF flights in Japan, Cebu Pacific’s commitment to sustainability is commendable,” said Toshio Tashiro, Executive Officer of Narita International Airport.

Prior to the commercial flight, CEB signed a strategic partnership with Neste to work towards establishing a long-term supply of SAF across the Asia-Pacific. This initiative aligns with the airline’s sustainability goal to gradually integrate SAF into its operations, thereby reducing its carbon emissions footprint and promoting environmental consciousness.

CEB operated its first passenger flight powered by SAF in September 2022 from Singapore to Manila, making it the first low-cost carrier in Southeast Asia to incorporate SAF in its commercial operation. The airline aims to integrate blended SAF for its entire commercial network by 2030.

For more information about CEB’s sustainability initiatives, visit: www.cebupacificair.com.

October 25, 2023
Raising the Scoop: Carmen’s Best Elevates the Joy of Quality Ice Cream

Carmen’s Best, the pioneer of uncompromised quality in locally-produced gourmet ice cream, recently unleashed a wave of joy and high expectations during its Day of Joy celebration at the Marquis Events Place in Bonifacio Global City, held on earlier this month.

In photo (left to right): Carmen’s Best Director Felipe Bince, Metro Pacific Agro Ventures President & CEO Jovy Hernandez, Metro Pacific Agro Ventures Chief Commercial Officer Toby Gatchalian, Metro Pacific Investment Corp. Executive Vice President, Chief Finance, Risk, and Sustainability Officer Chaye Cabal-Revilla, Carmen’s Best Director Ricky Vargas, Host of Carmen’s Best Day of Joy event Gretchen Ho

Uncompromising Quality: The #NoShortCuts Philosophy

Carmen’s Best Gourmet Ice Cream is known for its unwavering commitment to quality. It’s all about the #NoShortCuts philosophy, where there’s no room for substitutions or shortcuts when selecting premium ingredients. They firmly believe in using 100% fresh, 100% local milk, sourced from their own joyful cows in Laguna. This dedication to quality ensures that every spoonful of Carmen’s Best ice cream is packed with the unadulterated joy that only fresh milk can bring.

A Flurry of Flavors

This meticulous process has garnered a devoted following over the years. With beloved flavors like Strawberry, Salted Caramel, Malted Milk, Dark Chocolate, and Brazilian Coffee, Carmen’s Best continues to prove that there’s no better way to experience true indulgence than with a scoop of their ice cream.

The Day of Joy: A Glimpse into Carmen’s Best

During the Day of Joy event, Carmen’s Best put their central belief into action: “There’s no better joy than giving your best.” They shared the best of themselves with their cherished customers and partners. The event featured ice cream tasting, frozen dessert demonstrations, and even a chance for guests to create their own joy filters, encapsulating the spirit of the day.

Live demo and dessert making activity with Chef Sharwin Tee incorporating Carmen’s Best ice cream.

An Elevated Look: Carmen’s Best’s New Brand Identity

One of the event’s highlights was the grand reveal of Carmen’s Best’s fresh and joyful brand identity. Each element of the design narrates a crucial part of the brand’s story. It showcases the freshness and preciousness of milk, along with the unwavering commitment to quality and the generosity of real ingredients packed into every pint and cup. The change in packaging also aligns with sustainability efforts, as the brand transitions to an all-paper packaging system.

Digital Films: Capturing the #NoShortCuts Philosophy

At the event, Carmen’s Best premiered their first two digital films. These films illustrate their resolute commitment to the #NoShortCuts philosophy, showcasing how the brand’s tagline comes to life in moments best celebrated with nothing less than the best ice cream.

Expansion Plans: SM Mall of Asia, Rockwell, and E-Commerce

The brand also unveiled plans for its new store in SM Mall of Asia and the refreshed look of their Rockwell store. Additionally, their revamped e-commerce platform was introduced, offering the ease of ordering your favorite ice cream online. As a delightful surprise, the brand unveiled its limited-edition Christmas flavors, bringing extra joy to the holiday season.

Before the event ended, guests were delighted with a performance from the Ryan Cayabyab Chorale as the brand unveiled its limited-edition Christmas flavors for the holiday season.

A Bigger Mission: Carmen’s Best and Filipino Dairy

Carmen’s Best, now under the majority ownership of Metro Pacific Agro Ventures (MPAV), unveiled its grander mission in the realm of Filipino dairy. According to Jovy Hernandez, President and CEO of Metro Pacific Agro Ventures, “Our Best goes beyond just offering proudly local, world-class quality Ice Cream made from 100% Fresh milk, guided by our no shortcuts philosophy. Our Best also means investing in the future to fulfill our vision of being present as a full dairy line offering ice cream, milk, yogurt, cheese, butter, and other milk derivatives that are 100% local and 100% fresh. Our Best also extends to supporting local farmers, partnering with the academe for research, and collaborating with the government. We believe that this is the Best inclusive dairy model to pursue as it presents a win-win-win situation for all stakeholders in the Philippine Local Dairy Industry.”

In photo: Jovy Hernandez, President and CEO of Metro Pacific Agro Ventures

Expanding Horizons: Metro Pacific Investments Corporation

In photo: Manuel “Manny” V. Pangilinan in video greeting during the event

Manuel V. Pangilinan, Chairman, President, and CEO of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation, shared his vision for the future: “Our investment in agriculture is to ultimately help uplift our farmers and grow the Philippine Dairy Industry. Dairy is just the first, and we are looking forward to making the same impact in other agricultural sectors.”

A Sweet Ending

The program concluded on a sweet and celebratory note as everyone participated in a joyous Ice Cream Toast.

For the latest information and updates, visit www.carmensbest.com, and don’t forget to follow them on Instagram at @carmensbest.

October 25, 2023
Three Filipina Artists Conquer the Asean Art Scene in “Infinite Horizons”

Filipina Artists Mylene Quito, Raeche Dacanay and Valerie Teng have been invited to be part of a prestigious international art exhibition dubbed as “Infinite Horizons” which will be held from October 28 to November 20 in Palm Artspace, 188A Thao Nguyen Ecopark, Van Giang-Hung Yen, Vietnam. They will be joined by Trang Thanh Hien, Nguyen Thu Thuy, Nguyen My Nhoc, Ly Tran, Phan Thi Hong Sam. Quito and Teng both debuted their first solo art shows in ArtAblado, Robinsons Galleria.

“Infinite Horizons” is a collaborative art exhibit that celebrates the boundless potential of women from two countries, Philippines and Vietnam, to create a powerful narrative of empowerment through art.

A joint collaborative art show, “Infinite Horizons” will showcase the unique blends of colors, strokes and artistry of 8 female artists whose individual talents show the diverse and dynamic perspectives of women, uniting their voices to break barriers and redefine the limits of creativity, self-expression and strength. This Philippine-Vietnam Art Program also transcends cultural differences, illustrating the idea that the pursuit of dreams knows no bounds and the power of women, universal.

October 25, 2023
New Movies This Week: Sine Sindak 4 ‘Belzebuth,’ ‘Final Summer,’ and more!

As the Halloween season creeps in, get ready for a cinematic feast of the scariest and most thrilling movies from around the world with Sine Sindak 4. From October 25 to 31, prepare to be on the edge of your seat. Here’s a glimpse of the horror-filled journey awaiting you.

SINE SINDAK 4 – New Movies This Week (October 25)

BELZEBUTH

2023 • R-13 • 1 hr 54 mins
FANTASY, HORROR

While leading a police investigation of a massacre in a public school at the border of Mexico and the USA, Special Agent Emanuel Ritter links this strange case to the coming and rising of the ancient demon Belzebuth. But in order to stop the trail of upcoming infanticides, Ritter shall have to confront himself before dealing with the forces of good and evil.

BENNY LOVES YOU

2023 • R-13 • 1 hr 34 mins
COMEDY, HORROR

Jack, a man desperate to improve his life, throws away his beloved childhood plush, Benny. It’s a move that has disastrous consequences when Benny springs to life with deadly intentions!

CHABAK NIGHT OF MURDER AND ROMANCE

2023 • R-13 • 1 hr 23 mins
HORROR, THRILLER

On their first wedding anniversary, a couple ventures into the mountains for a romantic Chabak (car-camping) trip, but their idyllic getaway turns into a living nightmare when they unknowingly cross paths with a bloodthirsty psychopath. The couple must confront the truth before it’s too late.

DAWNING

2023 • PG • 1 hr 13 mins
DRAMA, HORROR, THRILLER

Haejin Park, a trauma therapist, is forced to face her family’s darkest past when she returns to her childhood countryside farm to console her heartbroken younger sister.

DEAD BRIDE

2023 • R-13 • 1 hr 23 mins
HORROR, THRILLER

After her father’s death, Alyson, her partner Richard, and their baby return to her childhood home. Following a few shocking supernatural events, Alyson discovers that she and her family have been living with a terrible curse, unleashed in the past by a bride killed by Alyson’s grandfather. Soon after Alyson’s child disappears, and she has no choice but to embark on a frightening journey into the underworld to free herself from the bride’s curse and to look for her daughter.

FINAL SUMMER

2023 • R-13 • 1 hr 22 mins
HORROR

In the wake of a tragedy during the summer of 1991, a group of camp counselors find themselves fighting for their lives against a masked killer.

THE GHOST WITHIN

2023 • R-13 • 1 hr 42 mins
HORROR

A young woman revisits her family home desperate to discover her sister Evie’s murderer 20 years before. After a series of terrifying encounters with Evie’s ghost at 09:09 pm, Margot knows she must fight to learn the truth once and for all.

THE JACK IN THE BOX: AWAKENING

2023 • R-13 • 1 hr 32 mins
HORROR

When a vintage Jack-in-the-box is opened by a dying woman, she enters into a deal with the demon within that would see her illness cured in return for helping it claim six innocent victims.

TODD AND THE BOOK OF PURE EVIL: THE END OF THE END

2023 • R-16 • 1 hr 18 mins
ANIMATION, COMEDY, HORROR

The animated conclusion to the live-action Todd and The Book Of Pure Evil Show. Todd tries to mend his friendship with Curtis after killing his girlfriend. The book has returned along with Hannah, and there is talk of a new Pure Evil one.

FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING

While you’re immersed in the spine-tingling Sine Sindak 4 selection, don’t miss the chance to catch the movies that are still stealing the hearts of cinema-goers. Here’s a lineup of fan favorites that continue to light up the silver screen:

KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON

2023 • R-13 • 3 hrs 25 mins
CRIME, DRAMA, THRILLER
BUY TICKETS

DEEP FEAR

2023 • R-13 • 1 hr 23 mins
ACTION, HORROR, THRILLER
BUY TICKETS

FIVE BREAKUPS AND A ROMANCE

2023 • PG • 1 hr 42 mins
COMEDY, ROMANCE
BUY TICKETS

LOVE RESET

2023 • PG • 1 hr 59 mins
COMEDY, ROMANCE
BUY TICKETS

TARGET

2023 • R-13 • 1 hr 42 mins
THRILLER
BUY TICKETS

PAW PATROL: THE MIGHTY MOVIE

2023 • G • 1 hr 32 mins
ACTION, ANIMATION, COMEDY, FAMILY, SCIENCE FICTION
BUY TICKETS

THE CREATOR

2023 • PG • 2 hrs 14 mins
ACTION, SCIENCE FICTION, THRILLER
BUY TICKETS

SAW X

2023 • R-16 • 1 hr 53 mins
CRIME, HORROR, THRILLER
BUY TICKETS

A VERY GOOD GIRL

2023 • R-13 • 1 hr 57 mins
DRAMA
BUY TICKETS

THE EQUALIZER 3

2023 • R-16 • 1 hr 48 mins
ACTION, CRIME, THRILLER
BUY TICKETS

THE NUN II

2023 • R-13 • 1 hr 49 mins
HORROR, MYSTERY
BUY TICKETS

That’s a wrap for this week’s new movie releases. Time to buy your tickets, grab that bucket of popcorn (or hide behind it) and quench your thirst for thrill and horror! Remember, the dim lights of the cinema house might be comforting, but what’s playing on the screen? Well, let’s just say you might want to leave the nightlight on when you get home. Enjoy the movie, and try to keep the real-world spooks at bay.

October 25, 2023
Step Up Your Style: Vans Lands in One Ayala Mall Makati

In a high-energy fusion of sneakers and style, Vans, the iconic skate footwear brand opens new style sanctuary in Makati’s One Ayala Mall. Spanning a stylish 119.29 square-foot area, this store is a vibrant showcase of what Vans stands for. The iconic checkerboard motif meets rustic elements to craft an atmosphere creating a vibrant youthfulness and creative flair. This isn’t merely a visit to a shop; it’s a walk into the brand’s spirit, giving “Off The Wall” a fresh twist.

Rediscover Vans Classics and More

Footwear:

Left to Right: Authentic Split – Php 5,498, Old Skool Split – Php 5,998 and Sk8-Hi Split – Php 6,498

Ever loved the classic Vans Split footwear? It’s back with a contemporary twist. Think modern color blocks, split construction, and vintage tones crafted meticulously in unique quadrants. It’s a reinvention that keeps the soul of the classic but brings a flair of the new.

Apparel and Accessories:

VANS OTW CURVED BILL JOCKEY MOUNTAIN VIEW CAP – Php1,898

But it doesn’t stop at the feet. Immerse yourself in a curated collection of Vans apparel and accessories, ensuring your style is on point, from head to toe.

VANS BRINK SS WOVEN ANTIQUE WHITE – Php 3,698

VANS COMFYCUSH ESSENTIAL CREW IN LODEN GREEN – Php 2,498

VANS RANGE BAGGY PANTS – Php 3,998

Limited Offer Alert!

Shopping can be even more rewarding. Be among the first 100 customers to spend at least PHP 8,000 and walk away with an exclusive Limited Edition Vans Umbrella. It’s Vans’ way of thanking its loyal customers. So, why wait?

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Vans Philippines (@vansphilippines)

Over Half a Century of Self-Expression

For more than five decades, Vans has championed creative self-expression. From its iconic side stripe to the legendary “Off The Wall” mantra, Vans has not only shaped sneaker culture but has also forged deep connections with action sports, music, arts, and design. It’s not just a brand; it’s a movement.

Visit Vans One Ayala Mall

Ready for a style upgrade? Visit the Vans One Ayala Mall on the 2nd Floor, 1 Ayala Ave., Makati City. Stay updated with the latest from VansPH by following them on Facebook and Instagram, or shop their latest collections at VansPH Online.

#StayStylish #VansPHxOneAyala #VansPhilippines

October 24, 2023
PETA Rocks the Stage with ‘One More Chance the Musical’ Featuring Ben&Ben Hits in 2024!

Last Sunday, theater lovers in Manila received the surprise of their lives! The curtain call of PETA‘s play ‘Walang Aray’ was just the beginning, as the night held an even bigger surprise. Right after the finale, PETA treated the audience to a hint of what’s coming next.

Photo Credit: Steph de la Paz and Kovi Billones

PETA’s Unexpected Reveal

Gio Gahol and Marynor Madamesila, renowned for their roles as Tenyong and Julia in “Walang Aray”, stepped into the iconic shoes of Popoy and Basha, characters from the beloved movie. With the famous lines, “She had me at my worst. You had me at my best,” echoing in the theater, it became clear: PETA was setting the stage for “One More Chance the Musical.”

Photo Credit: Steph de la Paz and Kovi Billones

Ben&Ben Lights Up the Night

But the surprises didn’t end there. As the set curtains dramatically unveiled, the audience was greeted with the striking presence of Ben&Ben. The hall filled with melodies as the crowd joyfully joined in, singing the band’s hit songs, Kathang Isip and Araw-Araw. Songs that resonate with a generation, making Ben&Ben a staple in contemporary Philippine music. Their monumental achievement as the most streamed OPM Artist and Group in the Philippines speaks volumes about their artistry.

Photo Credit: Steph de la Paz and Kovi Billones

PETA’s Legacy of Jukebox Hits

PETA’s legacy is adorned with jukebox musicals that have left an indelible mark on the theater landscape. Their record showcases gems like the immensely successful “Rak of Aegis” and the critically acclaimed “Three Stars and a Sun”, a tribute to the genius of Francis Magalona.

With “One More Chance the Musical”, PETA is ready to offer another classic, adding to their illustrious lineup of theatrical masterpieces.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by PETA THEATER (@petatheater)

Save the Date for a Theatrical Treat

Mark your calendars, theater enthusiasts! “One More Chance the Musical” is gearing up to take the stage by storm in April 2024 at the revered PETA Theater Center.

For corporate partnerships or if you’re considering a show purchase, PETA’s door is always open. Reach out at petatheater@gmail.com or dial 0917-539-1112. For the latest buzz and updates, keep a tab on PETA’s social channels – @petatheater on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

October 24, 2023
Have you been to Ayala Malls Manila Bay’s Entertainment Oasis?

Looking for a new and exciting experience? Ayala Malls Manila Bay goes beyond the ordinary, offering not only a fantastic shopping and dining experience but also a world of entertainment suitable for families, barkadas, and individuals of all ages. With a wide array of options to choose from, we’re here to guide you through the endless fun this vibrant locale has to offer.

Why not start with a cultural journey celebrating the rich diversity of the Philippines at Lakbay Museo: Food Wanderer? This interactive museum offers a visually captivating experience for all ages, allowing you to engage with immersive displays of local delicacies, art and history.

If you’re in for greater thrills, explore the Airsoft Arena for some target shooting or a friendly game with fellow adrenaline junkies! For a more classic choice, head to TimeZone, featuring cutting-edge gaming experiences that promise unforgettable family entertainment. On the other hand, those who are looking for new, novel experiences, head to Ayala Malls Manila Bay’s newest neon-lit attractions: Pat’s Putts and Roller Fever! The first, Pat’s Putts, is an indoor mini golf boasting 18 holes and engaging obstacles designed to delight visitors. The added element of glow-in-the-dark features promises a visually captivating experience for all. Alternately, Roller Fever, is a K-pop themed indoor skating rink that immerses visitors in a Hallyu wonderland by infusing the fun of skating with K-pop beats and Korean snacks.

Meanwhile, the Sports Center provides a haven for fitness enthusiasts to pursue their health goals with state-of-the-art equipment in a spacious setting. Whether you’re a basketball enthusiast looking to sharpen your skills on the court, a badminton aficionado seeking competitive rallies, or a volleyball player aiming for that perfect spike, The Sports Center caters to a diverse range of interests that will get you moving while having fun.

For those with a passion for crafts and baking, Craft Academy is the ultimate destination for hands-on fun, quality time with loved ones, and a sprinkling of creativity in every slime, cookie, and cupcake. Meanwhile, baking enthusiasts will find their haven at IDIM DIY Bakery, offering a relaxing and educational do-it-yourself baking activity, providing an ideal opportunity to unleash your creativity while bonding with family and friends over homemade treats. Alternatively, at Shaking Shaking Milktea Station—the one and only spot where boba and crafts converge—you can get creative and design personalized carpets and decorations for your home, car, and room. It’s a place where your imagination takes center stage, promising unforgettable moments of togetherness and creative exploration.

If you have little ones in tow, don’t miss Fun City, which features games and rides for the young ones, making it the perfect play destination for children with boundless energy! Not to mention, Kidzoona Inflatable Park is another exciting attraction awaiting your visit. This inflatable wonderland promises hours of joy and entertainment for children and the young at heart, with a variety of inflatable structures and play zones that create a paradise of bouncy adventures.

Alternatively, you can opt for a classic movie night at Ayala Malls Manila Bay Cinemas, where a variety of films cater to diverse tastes. Experience premier events and activities in a cinema that redefines comfort and luxury, featuring a giant screen, leather recliner seats, and foldable snack tables in a family-friendly setting that caters to everyone.

And there’s more to come! The soon-to-open Brickyard will host the Tamiya Mini 4wd Philippine Cup, giving winners the chance to represent the Philippines in the Tamiya Mini 4wd Asia Challenge in Thailand. Adding to the excitement, get ready for the opening of Drift Motor Speedway’s flagship store, where everyone can enjoy the thrill of indoor kart racing.

Finally, Winter Magic Philippines is coming soon to Ayala Malls Manila Bay, promising an enchanting winter-themed attractions amidst tropical Manila. With educational experiences that transports guests to various winter destinations from around the world, it’s a must-visit for every family especially this ber-season!

With so many entertainment options available, Ayala Malls Manila Bay ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So make it your next stop and explore this vibrant world of entertainment, where fun knows no bounds!

For more information, visit ayalamalls.com or head to Ayala Malls Manila Bay’s social media pages for updates and announcements:

Facebook: /ayalamallsmanilabay
Instagram:@ayalamalls.manilabay
TikTok: @ayalamallsmanilabay
#SeizeTheBay

October 24, 2023
MOVIE REVIEW: More Comedy than Rom-com, ‘Love Reset’ is full of great laughs

It takes ‘Love Reset’ a full half-hour before it’s premise sinks in. Director and screenwriter Nam Dae-jung (with co-writing credit to Bang Gicheol) spend the first 30 minutes of the film to present us with a hilarious set-up. Kang Ha Neul and Jung So Min are in extremely fine form as they portray a couple who get married after some challenges and then find themselves completely hating each other after. Nam Dae-jung is relentless in delivering funny moments to really emphasize how the relationship of Na Jeong-yeol (Kang Ha Neul) and Hong Na-ra (Jung So Min) turned sour and how they cannot stand each other.

This is really a showcase of the pair’s fantastic comedic timing and their ability to sync into the film’s hyper-real dramatic situation. Na-ra is a problematic, spoiled rich girl. She’s confrontational, has a problem with holding her alcohol, and has some questionable hygiene issues. Jeong-yeol comes from a more modest background and has become annoyingly frugal, and it took him a while to pass the bar exam, so he was supported by his richer wife. There issues got into the relationship and the way by which they have turned homicidal against each other is the source of the comedy.

Kang Ha Neul and Jung So Min play it up so well that you can’t stop laughing at how they can’t stand each other and it’s part of the charm of the film. Then, as the title suggests, the couple lose their memory during the 30-day period before a divorce is made official. Both sets of parents, especially the mothers, don’t want them back together but it is to the couple’s benefit that they stay at home as this might help them recover their memories. So now, they have to live together, try to remember who they are, and not fall in love.

The second act of the film surprisingly is more directed towards the couple remembering their past and director Nam Dae-jung manages to use this to continue emphasizing all the horrible things that they’ve done to each other. The backgrounds of the couple are further explored and mined for their comedic potential. Na-ra and Jeong-yeol are shocked to discover the kinds of people that they were but also are seeing each other with a completely new set of eyes.

The romance part comes in just beneath the surface, just underneath the laughs, and propelled completely by Kang Ha Neul and Jung So Min’s performances. Never does Nam Dae-jung really worked hard towards absolving his character’s past mistakes. Instead, he’s here to have a good time and is not above alluding to the film as a film by his own characters. At the later part of the movie, even the characters are comparing the current situation as if it were a film.

As a rom-com, ‘Love Reset’ doesn’t quite get the romance part all the well. The film is more focused on the comedic aspects, which it captures excellently. I was laughing along with the rest of the theater for every little thing that they did. The lines, the situations, and even the slapstick parts. There are all kinds of comedy at work here and the whole cast is up to the task at making each joke work.

Interestingly enough, the film also shows how divorce is handled in South Korea and it seems so logical and sensible that it is a point of envy for us non-South Koreans watching the movie. The film makes no moral assessment of these proceedings. Sometimes, love dies. But also on the flipside, sometimes it takes amnesia to realise what is important after all. It’s a hilarious film led by two very strong comedic performances. If it was equal parts romance and comedy, then it would have been perfect. Otherwise, it’s just a great comedy.

My Rating:

Love Reset is now showing. Check screening times here.

October 24, 2023
QCinema 2023 Restored Classics Section Unveiled

While QCinema is dedicated to screening the newest and most exciting films of the year, the festival also believes that there is room in the lineup for an appreciation of what has come before. So every year, the festival picks some of his favorite classic films, particularly ones that have recently gone under digital restoration, and makes them available for festival goers.

This year features a double bill of Wong Kar-wai films: his mirror image masterpieces Chungking Express and Fallen Angels. While Chungking Express plays out the loneliness of Hong Kong in the daylight, Fallen Angels works in the shadow of night, studying how that same loneliness and isolation can result in more violent ends. Originally designed to be one film, the two complement each other in creating a fuller picture of what Hong Kong was in the 90s.

If loneliness and desperation aren’t the festival goer’s bag, there is also a very different product of Hong Kong: legendary martial artist Bruce Lee. A restored version of Robert Clouse’s Enter the Dragon places Lee in the middle of a fighting tournament organized by a crime lord. The 1973 film is widely considered one of the most influential action films of all time, combining elements of the kung fu film, spy movies and the blaxploitation genre, creating a unique stew of very entertaining elements.

And finally, completing the lineup is a work from one of the true masters of cinema, Stanley Kubrick. The 1971 film A Clockwork Orange remains one of his most controversial films. Based on the Anthony Burgess novel of the same name, Kubrick’s film questions the very definition of goodness in the societal sense as it follows Alex, a young hooligan who will undergo behavioral therapy at the behest of a nation that wants to control him and curb his impulses. A Clockwork Orange was nominated for four Academy Awards, including best picture.

All films will be screened in beautiful 4K.

Catch these restored classics at the QCinema International Film Festival, taking place this year from November 17 to 26 at the cinemas at Gateway Mall, Robinsons Magnolia, UP Town Center, Shangri-la Plaza and Power Plant Mall.

October 24, 2023
Starbucks Philippines Enhances Loyalty Rewards, Offering More Ways to Earn Stars
Since its inception in 2013, the Starbucks Rewards program has consistently focused on cherishing and rewarding their most devoted patrons. Starbucks Philippines takes customer appreciation to the next level by revamping its Rewards program journey: an easier sign-up process and a more flexible Star-earning mechanism. Now, it’s even easier to join and earn Stars no matter how you pay!

Effortless Sign-Up: One Email Away!

Gone are the days of lengthy registration procedures. Now, all it takes to become a Starbucks Rewards member is a simple email sign-up. Whether through the Starbucks website or their user-friendly app, once registered, customers will instantly get a distinct 16-digit digital card. This virtual card is rechargeable at any time. Moreover, for those enamored with those captivating seasonal Starbucks Card designs, they can still obtain them in-store and link them effortlessly to their account later on.

Earn Stars Your Way

In this new era of Starbucks Rewards, every member is a star! Whether you’re scanning your app at the counter or making a digital payment, every purchase earns you Stars. Here’s the gleaming breakdown:
- Pay using cash, credit/debit cards, or even e-wallets in-store and collect one Star for every Php 50 spent.
- Maintain the previous perks of receiving one Star for Php 25 spent via the Starbucks Card.
- Earn one Star per Php 40 spent on GrabFood or Lazada when your account is linked.
“We’re absolutely thrilled to introduce an easier online sign-up process, making our Starbucks Rewards program accessible to all, with Stars earned regardless of payment method,” said Jamie Silva, Senior Manager for Marketing, Digital Experience, and Loyalty. “Our loyal customers have always been the heart of Starbucks, and we are committed to enhancing their experience through this exciting innovation.”

A Future-Forward App Experience

The Starbucks app is not just an application; it’s an essential part of the modern Starbucks journey. Lauded for its plethora of features – from locating stores to advance orders and facilitating touch-free payments – members can expect even more innovative payment and reward choices in the coming days.

Discover More About Starbucks Rewards

To delve deeper into the world of Starbucks Rewards and its myriad of offerings, head over to www.starbucks.ph/card. For the ultimate Starbucks Rewards journey, download the Starbucks app available for both iOS and Android platforms.

Starbucks Philippines continues to innovate, keeping customer satisfaction and convenience at the forefront. This evolution of the Starbucks Rewards program is a testament to their commitment to continuously enhance the Starbucks Experience for all coffee lovers in the Philippines. So, why wait? Sign up, earn Stars, and enjoy the perks of being a Starbucks Rewards member today!
October 23, 2023