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Gerard Butler’s ‘Kandahar’: A Pulse-Pounding Journey Premiering on Lionsgate Play this October 20

Prepare to be on the edge of your seat this October 20, 2023, as Lionsgate Play releases “Kandahar,” a riveting action drama that promises high tension and relentless excitement. This gripping action-drama film follows CIA Black Ops agent Tom Harris, played by Gerard Butler (Greenland, Angel Has Fallen, 300), and his Afghan interpreter Mo, played by Navid Negahban (TV’s Homeland, 24, Legion).

Gerard Butler at His Best: From Destruction to Desperate Escape

In “Kandahar,” we see Gerard Butler, known for his electrifying performances in “Greenland” and “Angel Has Fallen,” take on the role of Tom Harris, a CIA Black Ops agent. His mission turns sour when he’s exposed as the man behind the destruction of an Iranian nuclear facility, setting off a desperate race against time. With only 30 hours to reach the airport in Kandahar, Afghanistan, Tom’s survival hangs in the balance, making for a movie experience filled with suspense.

An Unlikely Alliance: Navigating Conflicts and Terrains

Tom’s escape is complicated by the need for an ally, found in his Afghan interpreter, Mo, portrayed by Navid Negahban of “Homeland” and “24.” Mo, haunted by his past and disillusioned with the violence surrounding him, initially resists but eventually joins Tom’s frantic dash to safety. Their evolving friendship amidst the escape adds a layer of depth to the non-stop action.

Historic Cinematic Feat: “Kandahar” Breaks New Ground

Adding to the movie’s allure is its historic achievement as the first Western film shot entirely in Saudi Arabia.

Kandahar has made history as the first Western movie filmed entirely in Saudi Arabia. Talking about the experience filming in the city of Al’Ula, Gerard Butler said, “That was an exceptionally unique place to film and live. From the second I arrived there, I knew it was special. I’d seen photos of the area of course, and I knew it looked amazing, but just the energy there is what really takes you by surprise… I loved being in Al’Ula and discovering Saudi Arabia In my time off, I spent time just seeing the history, the nature. But in terms of a canvas to film on, there’s so much personality there, and it’s so dynamic. The location adds a whole other character in the movie.“

Elevating Entertainment: Lionsgate Play’s Commitment to Quality

Cecille Mariño, General Manager of Lionsgate Philippines, highlights the platform’s dedication to delivering top-notch entertainment. “Lionsgate Play is all about bringing high-quality entertainment to our subscribers, and Kandahar is a perfect addition to our library. With this movie, we are proud to present a thought-provoking film that showcases the talents of Gerard Butler and Navid Negagban. It’s a high-octane film that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats until the very end, and we’re very excited to take Filipino viewers on that journey. ”

Mark your calendars and brace yourselves for “Kandahar,” coming to you exclusively on Lionsgate Play this October 20, 2023. Join Gerard Butler in a pulse-pounding chase that navigates the intricacies of war, survival, and unexpected camaraderie.

About Lionsgate Play

Lionsgate Play, a premium streaming service from Lionsgate India and Starz, offers bespoke quality content to its users. It boasts premium and curated content including Premieres, billion-dollar Franchise Movies and binge-worthy Box Sets. Lionsgate Play is accessible to consumers in the Philippines via the app. For a monthly subscription cost of PHP 79, the titles can be streamed with a PLDT Home account.

About PLDT Home

PLDT Home is trusted by Filipinos to deliver the fastest internet connection and future-ready innovations to their homes. It is the only telco in the Philippines that has received the most prestigious “Fastest Fixed Internet, Five Years In a Row” award at the Ookla® Speedtest Awards™ 2022 – a first for PLDT and the Philippines. Enabling moments that bring the family closer together, PLDT Home offers unli-entertainment including Lionsgate Play and its library of award-winning titles.

October 14, 2023
Marvel Studios Unleashes Sneak Peeks of “The Marvels” – Advance Tickets On Sale Now!

Calling All Fans: Brace yourselves as Marvel Studios serves up a thrilling treat. They’ve released exciting new sneak peeks of the much-anticipated The Marvels. Plus, to double the excitement, brand-new posters have landed. But that’s not all; tickets for the epic adventure are now on sale!

Grab Your Tickets: The wait is over! You can now secure your spot for The Marvels. Head to your nearest ticket outlet or hop online to make sure you don’t miss out on this cinematic spectacle.

Unveiling “The Marvels“

Carol Danvers Returns: In The Marvels, the indomitable Carol Danvers, also known as Captain Marvel, is back with a vengeance. She’s reclaimed her identity from the tyrannical Kree and settled the score with the Supreme Intelligence.

A Universe in Turmoil: But her heroic actions come with unexpected consequences. The universe now teeters on the edge of instability, and it’s up to Carol to set things right. Her journey takes her through a mysterious wormhole, connected to a Kree revolutionary.

Ms. Marvel Emerges: In this cosmic adventure, we’re introduced to Kamala Khan, the Jersey City super-fan who’s destined to become Ms. Marvel. Her journey becomes entangled with Carol’s, and together, they hold the fate of the universe in their hands.

Meet Captain Monica Rambeau: But that’s not all. There’s another addition to this extraordinary trio – Captain Monica Rambeau, who’s now an astronaut with S.A.B.E.R. She’s the estranged niece of Carol, and her role in this adventure is nothing short of pivotal.

A Uniquely United Team: These three unlikely allies must band together and learn to harness their powers in perfect harmony. The fate of the universe rests on their shoulders, and they’ll stop at nothing to save it.

Meet the Stellar Cast

The Leading Trio: Brie Larson is back as Carol Danvers, while Teyonah Parris takes on the role of Monica Rambeau. Iman Vellani steps into the shoes of Kamala Khan, aka Ms. Marvel.

A Star-Studded Lineup: The film boasts an ensemble cast that includes Zawe Ashton, Gary Lewis, Seo-Jun Park, Zenobia Shroff, Mohan Kapur, Saagar Shaikh, and the legendary Samuel L. Jackson.

Behind the Camera Magic: Nia DaCosta sits in the director’s chair, with Kevin Feige leading the charge as producer. The team is rounded out by executive producers Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Mary Livanos, and Matthew Jenkins. The screenplay is a collaborative effort by Nia DaCosta, Megan McDonnell, and Elissa Karasik.

Save the Date

Get ready for a cosmic adventure like no other. The Marvels is set to dazzle Philippine cinemas on November 8.

Excitement is building, and the Marvel universe is buzzing. Share your thoughts, speculations, and excitement online using the hashtag #TheMarvels. It’s time to unite and embrace the magic of the Marvels!

October 13, 2023
“Wonka” drops a sweet surprise: Release date moves to December 6 in the PH, ahead of the U.S.

The highly-anticipated Wonka, featuring the incredible Timothée Chalamet as the iconic chocolate-maker, is arriving sooner than expected. The release date has been moved up to December 6 (previously January 2024) for international markets, including the Philippines. As a result, Filipino fans will have the privilege of enjoying the film one week ahead of the U.S.

The Sweet Magic of “Wonka“

A Journey Back in Time:
“Wonka” takes us on a delightful journey into the past, exploring the origins of the beloved Willy Wonka. Based on Roald Dahl’s timeless classic, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” this movie unveils the remarkable story of the world’s greatest inventor, magician, and chocolatier.

A Whimsical Blend:
Wonka is a magical concoction of music, mayhem, and emotion, all sprinkled with heartwarming humor. Starring the brilliant Timothée Chalamet in the title role, this big screen extravaganza introduces us to a young Willy Wonka, brimming with dreams and a passion to change the world, one delectable bite at a time.

Behind the Scenes Magic

Visionary Creators:
Directed by Paul King and co-written by Simon Farnaby, Wonka promises to deliver a cinematic masterpiece. The production is helmed by David Heyman, Alexandra Derbyshire, and Luke Kelly.

An Ensemble of Stars:
Alongside Timothée Chalamet, the cast is a stellar constellation. It includes Calah Lane, Keegan-Michael Key, Paterson Joseph, Matt Lucas, Mathew Baynton, Sally Hawkins, Rowan Atkinson, Jim Carter, and Oscar winner Olivia Colman. The film also features Natasha Rothwell, Rich Fulcher, Rakhee Thakrar, Tom Davis, and Kobna Holdbrook-Smith.

Mark Your Calendar for December 6

Get ready for a cinematic adventure as Wonka hits theaters on December 6. Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company, is bringing this enchanting tale to Philippine cinemas.

Let’s share the excitement online! Use the hashtag #WonkaMovie and prepare to be transported to a world of pure imagination. Don’t miss this delectable cinematic experience!

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

October 13, 2023
New promo alert! Get free Krispy Kreme doughnuts using your BPI Debit Card

The Ber months cannot get any sweeter, so doughnut miss this deal with your BPI Debit Card!

If you’re a BPI Debit cardholder, you can get 3 FREE Original Glazed doughnuts from Krispy Kreme when you spend at least Php 3,000 in any in-store merchants, anywhere from October 1 to November 30, 2023! This promo is open to BPI Debit Mastercard, BPI Debit Cirrus, and BPI Debit Cirrus Gold cardholders.

To avail, simply present a BPI Debit Card transaction slip dated October 1 to November 30, 2023. Remember, online transactions are excluded, and cardholders may avail of the promo only once per redemption day, and per store.

Ready with your receipt? Redeem your free box of three (3) Krispy Kreme Original Glazed Donuts at participating Krispy Kreme stores on the following dates: October 12, 19, and 26; and November 16, 23, and 30.

To learn more, visit www.bpi.com.ph. You can also follow @BPI on Facebook and @officialbpi on Instagram for more news and updates.

October 13, 2023
Totoo ang chismis! #DeliciouslyDifferentChicken na ang Chowking Chinese-Style Fried Chicken!

Chowking, the #1 Chinese QSR brand in the Philippines, brings a deliciously different spin to its beloved Chinese-Style Fried Chicken!

More and more people are discovering the unique flavors of Chowking’s Chinese-Style Fried Chicken. Chowking sneakily held a mystery pop-up event at Capital Commons, Pasig from October 6 to 7. At the pop-up, regular customers and passersby were given a chance to do a taste test of unbranded fried chicken to get their real and unbiased reactions. Not knowing where it came from at first, they later discovered the delicious surprise that it was from Chowking.

Their experiences speak for themselves – from the resounding crunch that comes from the first bite to how the taste perfectly lingers at the last bite. The general consensus? Flavorful at nanunuot ang sarap hanggang sa buto, proving that its burst of authentic Chinese flavors and spices truly makes Chowking’s chicken deliciously different.

Dine in at a Chowking branch near you to discover the #DeliciouslyDifferentChickenfor yourself! You can also enjoy at home via Take-Out, Drive-Thru, and delivery through chowkingdelivery.com or the Chowking App.

Never miss out and share your experiences online when you find out what makes Chowking’s Chinese Style Fried Chicken different.

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October 13, 2023
A Feast of Horrors Takes Over Shangri-La The Fort, Manila
It’s time to put on your witch’s and wizard’s hats and flock to Shangri-La The Fort, Manila for a Halloween experience on Sunday, October 29 at High Street Café. With tricks, treats, and cauldrons full of eats — here’s a little something you and your family can look forward to this month.

With nine spook-tacular themed buffet stations cooked á la minute, this is an experience you, and your little friends will truly enjoy. Make your way through the High Street Café halls and savour dishes straight from our chef’s cauldron. From pasta, satisfying your charcuterie agenda, sampling our sushi selection, and of course digging into our mains which vary from Prime Rib to Salmon en Croute, there’s bound to be something for the whole family to enjoy.

And when you thought Halloween could not get more exciting, when you dine at High Street Café, your little one can get a special Halloween Card which allows you to purchase an Adventure Zone guest pass for only Php 800. See terms and conditions below.

A Spooky Playdate with Boni the Bull in Adventure Zone
1. The Halloween card entitles the bearer to avail of an Adventure Zone guest pass for a single child for PHP 800. Guests who will dine with children for lunch in High Street Café on October 29, 2023 are entitled to avail of the Halloween Card.
2. The Halloween Card can be used to avail of an Adventure Zone guest pass for one time only and is valid any day from October 29 until November 5, 2023, subject to availability. No extensions will be granted.
3. The Halloween Card cannot be used in conjunction with other discounts, Adventure Zone parties and events, privileges, or other gift certificates.
4. The Halloween Card and the High Street Café official receipt must be presented at the Adventure Zone reception desk to purchase an Adventure Zone guest pass. Use of the Halloween Card must be mentioned when availing of the Adventure Zone guest pass and for reserving a play period slot. Advanced reservation of a play period slot is recommended.
5. The Halloween Card is not for sale and is not exchangeable for cash in part or in whole. A damaged or altered Halloween Card will not be accepted and is not replaceable in case of loss.
6. The holder of the Halloween Card shall abide by the House Rules of Adventure Zone and follow at all times the advice and instructions of the Adventure Zone staff. Those who do not observe the Adventure Zone rules may be required to leave the premises or be refused admission.
7. Children and adults are required to come in the prescribed dress code (cotton long sleeves, trousers, and socks for children; socks for adults.)
8. Children must be accompanied by one (1) adult guardian within the activity area. No additional guardian will be allowed.
9. The Halloween Card must be surrendered upon availing of the Adventure Zone guest pass.
October 13, 2023
Alden Richards and Julia Montes Set to Ignite the Big Screen in “Five Breakups and A Romance” on October 18

The Countdown Begins:
The much-awaited big-screen love story Five Breakups and A Romance starring Alden Richards and Julia Montes is gearing up to make cinematic history when it hits local theaters nationwide on October 18.

A Perfect Blend:
Directed by Irene Villamor, known for her award-winning works in “Meet Me in St. Gallen,” “Sid and Aya,” and “Camp Sawi,” this film promises a harmonious blend of romance and realism.

Alden Richards & Julia Montes in Five Breakups and a Romance

The Ultimate Team-Up:
It’s a cinematic first as GMA Pictures, Cornerstone Studios, MYRIAD Corporation, and Alden’s multimedia company join forces to bring this love story to life.

Julia Montes & Alden Richards in Five Breakups and a Romance

Fresh Faces, Timeless Love:
Five Breakups and A Romance marks the inaugural collaboration between Alden Richards and Julia Montes for the big screen. These talented actors step into fresh roles, exploring complex characters in a tale of modern love and ambition.

Navigating Love and Career:
Lance (played by Richards), a carefree soul, and Justine (Montes), a career-focused woman, find themselves at the crossroads of love and ambition. Their journey mirrors the complexities of modern relationships.

Unexpected Twists:
As the story unfolds, unexpected challenges test their love. Will they choose the path of love over career? The present over the future? How many times must they part to find their way back to each other? The film teases exciting scenes that showcase the actors in fresh, mature roles.

In Theaters Only:
Circle October 18 on your calendar and get ready for a cinematic adventure with Five Breakups and A Romance. The film promises to ignite your heart and inspire you to chase your dreams without losing sight of love.

October 12, 2023
Legendary director Ridley Scott brings to the big screen a spectacle-filled action epic in “Napoleon”

Ridley Scott’s brilliant filmmaking is unmatched. See the acclaimed director’s work on the big screen in Napoleon, starring Academy Award® winner Joaquin Phoenix and Vanessa Kirby (The Crown, Mission Impossible movies), in cinemas November 29.

To prepare to shoot the movie, Scott assembled his team in a war room – which in this case was as literal a war room as can be when the subject is making a movie. With large-scale models of the sets for battles at Waterloo, Austerlitz, and Toulan, art department drawings, models, Scott – who is an excellent artist and has always storyboarded his own films – brought the entire team together to share his vision and direct his crafts team in the images he is looking to achieve.

On Napoleon, Scott would employ up to 11 cameras at once. Phoenix, who plays iconic French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, was gratified by the opportunity to work again on a Ridley Scott set. “If we happen to get lucky and discover something, and there is a special moment where something was unplanned, then it’s almost guaranteed that Ridley has captured it,” he says. “To have that opportunity as an actor is really rare. Trying to chase something and recreate it is virtually impossible.”

Vanessa Kirby and Joaquin Phoenix

“It allowed us to bring an improvisational nature to the way we worked,” says Kirby, who plays Napoleon’s one true love, Josephine. “You don’t need to remember the exact movements you did in the previous shot. It’s an opportunity for collaboration, as we would go and watch the monitor with Ridley and throw ideas out about what could be done differently.”

Shares production designer Arthur Max, a frequent collaborator of Scott’s: “There is no background with Ridley, no cheating; it’s all about scale and the density of detail. It’s like living in a painting – it is challenging, but also immense fun.”

Ridley Scott and Joaquin Phoenix

Against a stunning backdrop of large-scale filmmaking orchestrated by Scott, Napoleon captures the iconic French emperor’s relentless journey to power through the prism of his addictive, volatile relationship with his one true love, Josephine, showcasing his visionary military and political tactics against some of the most dynamic practical battle sequences ever filmed. The film opens in cinemas November 29.

Napoleon is distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Connect with the hashtag #Napoleon

_{Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”}

October 12, 2023
M Bakery Revels in Sweet Indulgence with NY Cheesecakes and Classic American Pies

M Bakery, renowned for classic American confections, is pulling back the curtains to showcase their irresistible cheesecakes and traditional pies. Sure, you’ve probably savored their banana pudding and cupcakes, but there’s more sweetness waiting! From the heart of New York to international destinations like Dubai and Bangalore, aficionados are reveling in their delightful cheesecake and pie varieties.

Filipino Flair: Calamansi Cheesecake Magic

M Bakery has seamlessly woven Filipino taste into their renowned Key Lime Cheesecake. Introducing the Calamansi Cheesecake: a fusion of tangy calamansi and opulent cream cheese. It’s a Manila exclusive – a tribute to the local palate, crowned with a graham cracker crust and a whipped cream peak. M Bakery’s Calamansi Cheesecake is flavored with fresh calamansi juice and finished with a graham cracker crust and a dollop of whipped cream. Available in three sizes: Individual (₱ 295), 6 inches (₱ 1,350), 9 inches (₱ 2,800).

Sweet Serenade: Caramel Pecan Perfection

Venture into the world of creamy elegance with M Bakery’s Caramel Pecan Cheesecake. Envision a creamy vanilla bean cheesecake base, lavishly swathed in homemade caramel and sprinkled with toasted pecans. A harmonious blend of textures and tastes that sings to the soul! Each forkful is a journey through layers of velvety cheesecake and a medley of sweet, nutty perfection. Available in three sizes: Individual (₱ 295), 6 inches (₱ 1,350), 9 inches (₱ 2,800).

Berry Delight: Blueberry Cheesecake Mastery

The Blueberry Cheesecake at M Bakery isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience. Imagine a bed of fresh blueberries, atop a classic vanilla bean cheesecake, culminating with a graham cracker finale. The secret? Only the freshest blueberries make the cut – no cans here! What sets this delight apart is their commitment to using only the freshest blueberries, steering clear of canned alternatives commonly found in other bakeries. It’s available in three sizes: Individual (₱ 345), 6 inches (₱ 1,350), 9 inches (₱ 3,250).

Velvety Red Charm: Red Velvet Reimagined

Introducing the Red Velvet Cheesecake, where luxury meets taste. Think rich, chocolate undertones, with a hint of tanginess, all nestled on a chocolate cookie crumb crust, and subtly tart cheesecake resting on a chocolate cookie crumb crust, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and chocolate shavings. A creation that tastes as heavenly as it sounds. Available in three sizes: Individual (₱ 295), 6 inches
(₱ 1,350), 9 inches (₱ 2,800).

Cookie Enchantment: Lotus Biscoff Extravaganza

If cookie butter makes you swoon, M Bakery’s Lotus Biscoff Cheesecake is your dream incarnate. A cookie butter lover’s dream that leaves customers craving for more. It’s made with Lotus Speculoos spread on a Lotus Biscoff cookie crumb crust, then finished off with yet another generous layer of Lotus spread and sprinkles of Lotus Biscoff crumbs. It’s a dream come true for Biscoff enthusiasts and a delightful twist on a classic cheesecake. Available in three sizes: Individual (₱ 295), 6 inches (₱ 1,775), 9 inches (₱ 3,725).

Nostalgic Nibbles: Apple Crumb Pie Comfort

Each bite of M Bakery’s Apple Crumb Pie is a stroll down memory lane. This single-crust pie is filled with delicious golden apples, cooked to perfection, and topped with a crumbly, butter topping. Each bite is a warm embrace of comfort and nostalgia, making it a must-have for any occasion. Available in two sizes: Mini Pie (₱ 450) and 9-inch pie (₱ 1,350).

Pudding & Pie Fusion: Banana Cream Magic

The iconic taste of M Bakery’s banana pudding, now in pie form. Vanilla wafer crust, fresh bananas, creamy vanilla pudding, and a whipped cream zenith. Absolute bliss in every bite! This classic pie is filled with fresh bananas and vanilla pudding atop a vanilla wafer crust and piled with mile-high whipped cream. If you’re a fan of their banana pudding, then this dessert should be on your list on your next visit. Available in two sizes: Mini Pie (₱ 450) and 9-inch pie (₱ 1,350).

M Bakery’s Best-Kept Secret: Blueberry Jamboree

Meet the under-the-radar sensation: the Blueberry Jamboree. With a pecan shortbread base, creamy layers, and a crown of fresh blueberries, it’s a hidden gem waiting to be uncovered. An absolute favorite among M Bakery’s super fans worldwide. This luscious treat features a pecan shortbread crust layered with whipped cream and cream cheese filling and finished with a crown of juicy fresh blueberries (not canned blueberries). Available in two sizes: Mini Pie (₱ 595) and 9-inch pie (₱ 2,300).

Southern Elegance: Pecan Pie Tradition

Embrace the warmth of southern hospitality with the classic Pecan Pie. This dessert is a harmonious blend of crunchy pecans and a delectably sweet brown sugar syrup, all encased in a traditional pie crust. Each slice is not just a dessert; it’s an experience of the South. Loaded with pecans and enveloped in a sweet and delicious brown sugar syrup mixture, each slice is a celebration of southern hospitality and culinary mastery. Available in two sizes: Mini Pie (₱ 450) and 9in pie (₱ 1,950).

Craving these mouthwatering treats? M Bakery‘s delicacies grace their shelves year-round. Swing by their flagship store at Lower Ground of One Bonifacio High Street Mall, or call (+632) 847-9829 or (+63) 917-633-1718 to get your baked treats or to place your advance orders. For your convenience, they’re also available on GrabFood, Food Panda, and Pick.A.Roo. Stay updated on their sumptuous offerings by following M Bakery on Facebook and Instagram. Get to also visit M Bakery’s other stores in Power Plant Mall (2^nd floor) in Rockwell, Makati City, SM Megamall (Upper Ground Level, Mega B), and Mitsukoshi BGC (Basement Food Hall).

October 12, 2023
Pangasinan all set to present showstopping creations at Manila FAME debut

After a 40-year long wait, Pangasinan is all set to present its bounty of artisan creations at international shows, with Manila FAME as its first stop.

The province has tapped 10 MSMEs that deliver world-class “Made in Pangasinan” creativity under the ABOUND project which discovers artisans and provides coaching and mentorship. The project is bringing these MSMEs as a group to the prestigious trade exhibition for the first time.

With the full support of Pangasinan Governor Ramon V. Guico III, leaders of the province’s towns of Binalonan and Bolinao, and local agencies, Governor Mon Mon (as he is affectionately called) presented the 10 micro, small, and medium enterprises at the project’s recent launch. The MSMEs have been carefully selected for their world-class and export-quality artistry and products from luxurious-looking fashion pieces to home furnishings that evoke tropical elegance, to fantastic creations that showcase the province’s agricultural bounty and rich heritage.

The Philippines’ premier trade show Manila FAME is finally returning on-site after three years on October 19-21 at the World Trade Center, promising an unforgettable celebration of Filipino creativity and craftsmanship. With the event’s return comes the province of Pangasinan’s attendance – their first in 40 years.

“Promoting the province’s diverse creative industries through prestigious trade events like Manila FAME is a key part of the bigger economic growth initiatives in Pangasinan. MSMEs play a vital role in ensuring inclusive economic growth in the province, as they can help accelerate trade and exportation,” says Gov. Guico. “I believe that the MSMEs joining the Manila FAME will represent the best of everything made in Pangasinan. They embody what Pangasinan, Ang Galing truly means.”

Herwin Buccat known as Herwitanyo, a painter from Bolinao who features surrealist and nature-fantasy-inspired artwork. The ABOUND Team conducted one-on-one coaching on how to interpret his works and fortify his DNA. His commissioned pieces were then translated into art merchandise such as notebooks, tumblers, and pencils, as well as totes, shirts, and hoodies.

Blades, hailing from Pozorrubio, produce swords that have featured in Hollywood films. Project ABOUND has helped evolve these collector’s items into high quality chef knives and trendy fashion accessories such as bespoke necklaces and bracelets. Erastus from Sto. Tomas is a furniture maker, who with the help of Project ABOUND’s product development team, has learned new applications of materials, and now features sleek designs that modernize home and office spaces.

ILO from Laoac is a producer of home accessories made from locally sourced materials. Through the project, this MSME has evolved into using industrial materials for their designs that can very well enter the luxury market. WELAB (Women Empowerment Livelihood Association of Binalonan) used to produce ordinary recycled market bags. With the project’s involvement, their designs were elevated to upcycled handbags that can be considered as a signature collection.

Alma from Pozorrubio is a producer of ethnic droplights. After consistent collaboration and rigorous material research, the products have become one-of-a-kind home and interior accessories characterized by their rustic elegance. Rach based in Aguilar is a maker of bamboo bags. With regular design and product development guidance, these fashion accessories have transformed into chic crystal-embellished bags.

Cawayan from Bolinao utilizes buri to create bags and mat products. After going through process development, and coloring and molding procedures with the ABOUND team, Cawayan weavers now make an inspired, signature bag. Joy based in Basista uses corn husks and bangkuang for home accessories and fashion bags. The project has helped transition the designs from a natural look to a classic luxury aesthetic.

The youngest of this batch of MSMEs, B6 (Blessed 6) began from a group of more than 30 young individuals who have undergone and continue to attend training and guidance through the project. With a lot of effort and support from Mayor Ramon Ronald V. Guico IV, the current crop of emerging artisans and entrepreneurs have produced 7 collections of espadrilles to be launched in both domestic and international markets.

Pangasinan’s Manila FAME bid started with the help of the Artisan Empowerment Association (AEA), which aims to elevate MSMEs in Pangasinan, especially those specializing in handcrafted creations. It is an initiative envisioned by esteemed businesswoman and the chair of the board of the World Citi Group, Arlyn Guico, and industry expert, entrepreneur and CEO of luxury brand Mele + Marie, Rosemarie Oamil, who both hope to show that there’s more to the province than most people think.

“Artisan Empowerment Association equips budding designers and entrepreneurs with capacity-building resources and opportunities like mentorship and training programs that enable them to showcase their work to a wider market so they can uplift their lives and their communities,” shares Ms. Guico.

“Our vision is to help Pangasinan-based artisans reach their highest potential through quality assurance and business development. As we prepare to present our remarkable MSMEs and their diverse product categories at Manila FAME, our vision for a prosperous Pangasinan is more vivid than ever,” assures Rosemarie Oamil.

Catch these top Pangasinan MSMEs and see their incredible artisanal creations up close at the Manila FAME on October 19-21, 2023 at the World Trade Center.

October 12, 2023