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‘Teach You a Lesson’ Tops Netflix Global Non-English TV List for Two Straight Weeks

Netflix’s Teach You a Lesson is proving to be a global powerhouse.

The gripping series has maintained its No. 1 spot on Netflix’s Global Top 10 Non-English TV List for the second consecutive week, drawing massive attention from viewers around the world. During the week, the series recorded 21.10 million views and 225.80 million viewing hours, further cementing its place as one of the most talked-about non-English titles on the platform.

Its reach has been just as impressive. Teach You a Lesson ranked No. 1 in 46 countries, including Korea, Japan, and Singapore, while also landing in the Top 10 across 91 markets. Among these are the Philippines, the United States, the United Kingdom, India, France, Germany, Australia, Mexico, and Brazil.

A Bold Story That Has Viewers Hooked

At the heart of Teach You a Lesson is the Educational Rights Protection Bureau, an institution created with a daring mission: to deliver true lessons to students, teachers, and parents who cross the line.

Operating even beyond the limits of the law, the bureau steps into conflicts inside the school system with one goal in mind: to restore order. Along the way, the series explores power, accountability, justice, and the emotional weight carried by those caught in the middle.

With its mix of cathartic action, sharp social commentary, and human drama, Teach You a Lesson has connected strongly with audiences looking for a story that is both thrilling and meaningful.

Powerful Performances Lead the Global Hit

The series is anchored by a strong ensemble cast led by Kim Moo-yul, Lee Sung-min, Jin Ki-joo, and Pyo Ji-hoon. Their performances bring intensity, conviction, and surprising warmth to a story filled with conflict.

Kim Moo-yul plays Na Hwa-jin, a former special forces officer who now works as an inspector at the Office for the Educational Rights Protection Bureau. Known for his blunt, intimidating, and decisive approach, Hwa-jin handles school-related issues in his own way. Still, his toughness comes with deep empathy, especially for victims who need someone firmly on their side.

Lee Sung-min takes on the role of Choi Gang-seok, the Minister of Education and founder of the bureau. Despite criticism over the institution’s aggressive methods, Choi stands by its purpose and speaks with conviction about what education should truly mean.

Jin Ki-joo stars as Im Han-rim, a junior inspector and Na Hwa-jin’s former special forces junior. Polite on the surface but bold and relentless when it matters most, Han-rim pursues justice with courage and genuine concern for victims.

Pyo Ji-hoon portrays Bong Geun-dae, a brilliant administrative officer who graduated from KAIST in only two years. Often assigned to undercover school missions because of his “nerdy” appearance, Geun-dae initially treats the job like any other assignment. However, as he witnesses the changing realities inside schools, he becomes increasingly invested in the bureau’s work.

KAIST is one of Korea’s leading science and technology universities.

Supporting Characters Add Emotional Impact

Beyond its main cast, Teach You a Lesson has also earned praise for its memorable supporting characters. Their stories bring added tension, heart, and emotional depth to the series, helping viewers better understand the challenges faced within the education system.

Newly released stills highlight the Educational Rights Protection Bureau as its members confront complex cases and navigate difficult moral choices. The images also spotlight supporting characters who have resonated strongly with audiences, adding to the growing buzz around the series.

A Netflix Series with Strong Global Momentum

Directed by Hong Jong-chan, Teach You a Lesson continues to stand out for its gripping action, compelling storytelling, and thought-provoking themes. Its success across 91 countries, including the Philippines, reflects the universal appeal of its story and the strong response to its characters.

With two consecutive weeks at No. 1 on Netflix’s Global Top 10 Non-English TV List, Teach You a Lesson shows no signs of slowing down. It remains a thrilling, emotional, and powerful series that continues to capture viewers worldwide.

June 23, 2026
2TinCans Philippines and The Kabilin Center Present, Ang Kawatan: A Public Reckoning with the Stories We Steal

2TinCans Philippines and The Kabilin Center present Ang Kawatan (The Thief), the second production of Kulukabildo II: Stories in Direct Light, running June 27 and 28 at The Kabilin Center, Eduardo Aboitiz Street, Tinago, Cebu City.

Directed by 2TinCans Theatre Company member, Vanessa Fe, and written by journalist and playwright, Maverick Avila, Ang Kawatan is a tragicomedy set during a live televised book launch — Open Book with Frankie, a fading cultural program.

Celebrated novelist Mateo Robles (played by Dave Feril) takes his seat across from veteran host Frankie (played by Lord Lawrence Latonio), ready to tell the story behind his acclaimed bestselling book. What he does not expect to walk into the studio and refuse to be invisible is Ana (played by Judee Kriselle Rallos), a young woman whose trauma he silenced, repackaged, and sold as fiction.

What unfolds is a public confrontation that cracks open the creative community it is set in, exposing the fault lines of complicity, victim-blaming, and the ease with which those who control the narrative can turn a stolen truth into a prize-winning lie.

Fe notes that this story is not new. It has always been there, just repackaged the same way Mateo repackaged Ana’s truth into a prize-winning book.

“Tragedy doesn’t come in loudly. It lives in the quiet moments: a community that keeps applauding, people who knew and said nothing. I didn’t want to put a survivor’s trauma on display. I wanted people to watch this and recognize themselves not as strangers to this story, but as someone who has watched another person be exploited and stayed quiet. It’s the perfect setting to show that the live show was the one place Mateo cannot hide. However, the same system that exposed him is the one that never protected Ana,” Fe said.

The production marks Fe’s directorial debut, a milestone made more meaningful by the story she has chosen to tell. She brings to this production both a director’s precision and a woman’s intimate understanding of what it means when a survivor’s truth falls into the wrong hands.

Ang Kawatan is also the result of many years of creative partnership. Fe and playwright Avila first developed the story in college — a shared conviction that has taken three years to find its stage.

2TinCans Producing Artistic Director, Sarah Mae Enclona-Henderson, hopes that audiences leave Ang Kawatan carrying with them not only memories of a compelling performance, but also a renewed sense of curiosity, awareness, and responsibility.

“If the play encourages even one person to see an issue differently, ask a difficult question, or take meaningful action, then it has fulfilled its purpose,” Enclona-Henderson said.

Ang Kawatan arrives as the second installment of Kulukabildo II: Stories in Direct Light, a monthly theatre series running April through November 2026. Rooted in the Bisaya concept of kulukabildo — an informal exchange, the kind of honest conversation that happens when people feel safe enough to speak freely. The series features the distinct visions of eight emerging Cebuano directors under the 2TinCans Directors Program. The series opened in March with The Second Eulogy, directed by Mario Alcoriza.

Completing the cast featuring 2TinCans Theatre Company members are Shiella Pestaño-Gemperoa as Gab, Shane Rennel Ayong as Kirby, and Grant Bacaltos as Patrick. The production is supported by stage manager Regina Binueza.

As a hub for Cebuano culture and community, The Kabilin Center continues to serve as the home for stories that demand to be told — narratives that do not ask for comfort but ask instead for honesty, attention, and the willingness to sit with what is true.

Ang Kawatan runs on June 27 at 7:00 PM and on June 28 at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM at The Kabilin Center. Tickets are available online at 2tincans-philippines.yapsody.com.

June 23, 2026
Hannah Pangilinan’s Just One Fun Run Partners with Posh Skin Co. to Release Exclusive, Limited Edition Collection for its Final Run
As the Just One Fun Run prepares for its closing chapter on June 20 at Vermosa, Imus, Cavite, co-founder Hannah Pangilinan is marking the milestone by partnering with leading pimple patch and acne skincare brand, Posh Skin, to release an exclusive, limited runner’s-edition pimple patch collection.

Featuring four unique designs made with Hannah, the Posh. x Just One collection serves as a keepsake for the movement’s third rendition, celebrating the community and message of Just One since its inception.

Drawing inspiration from the fun of getting ready before a run, Hannah explains that the collection was created to celebrate the expressive side of the running community.

“I wanted to capture the playfulness of getting ready for a run and icons that represent our sport with the collection. Whether you’re part of the Just One community or just a runner who loves to decorate their race face, you’d enjoy this collection!” she said.

Dubbed the Runner’s Version, the 32-piece limited-edition pack includes patches in two different sizes (15mm and 12mm), featuring carefully curated icons that represent all this running:
- The Just One Logo – Representing the core movement itself and the 30,000+ community that has grown alongside it over the seasons.
- The Winged Running Shoe – To capture that “runner’s high” that sometimes feels like flight itself!
- The Lightning Bolt – A bold emblem representing energy, drive, and the electric stamina required to reach the finish line.
- The Heart Pulse Line – Symbolizing the heart of a runner and how it beats for passion and pulses to keep the runner going!
Bridging Fitness and Self-Care

Celebrating three seasons of building an inclusive, beginner-friendly community, this collaboration bridges fitness and self-care by encouraging runners to embrace imperfections and wear confidence proudly. To honor this milestone, every registered participant will receive the exclusive patch collection inside their race kit.

On-ground, the Posh Skin booth will feature an experiential station allowing racers to decorate their faces pre-race with the brand’s full line of pimple patches. Visitors can also test Posh Skin’s comprehensive skincare lineup, including cleansers, toners, serums, moisturizers, and mud masks, all featuring ultra-lightweight Korean formulations engineered specifically to thrive in humid, tropical climates. Beyond the testing station, attendees can participate in interactive activities and challenges throughout the day for a chance to win custom skincare products and additional patches.

Join the Celebration

Celebrate the final season of Just One alongside 3,000+ other runners and secure your limited-edition pack of custom pimple patches designed by Hannah Pangilinan. Pre-register for the final Just One Run on June 20th at https://runjustone.myruntime.com/register.

Can’t make it to the track? You can still grab the limited-edition Posh. x Just One Runner’s Version pimple patches exclusively on Posh Skin’s TikTok Shop at: https://www.tiktok.com/@poshskin.ph.
June 23, 2026
MOVIE REVIEW: Though a Little Tired and Old, ‘Toy Story 5’ Still Has That Charm and Warmth

I am consistently surprised by how resilient, wonderful, and relevant the Toy Story franchise has remained over the years. As critics and audiences have said many times before, the creators realised the fans of the original movie have grown up and may now have children of their own. So the stories always reflected that of the first audience of the first film and reflected their own relationship with youth, play, and toys. I even enjoyed the fourth installment, despite it not being remembered as fondly. I felt that the story of Woody (Tom Hanks), and his realisation that he had to move on to other things, to pursue a different purpose separate from the one he fought so hard for in previous installments was such a fitting life lesson for me, when I watched it seven years ago; as a man who just turned forty.

The fifth installment sidelines Woody and Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen) to center its focus now on Jessie (Joan Cusack), the new sheriff of the children’s room. Having experienced being given away twice before – first by Emily and later by Andy as he outgrew his childhood – Jessie serves as the main protagonist of this story that directly deals with her trauma of being replaced. This time, however, the threat isn’t that their new owner, Bonnie, has outgrown them, at eight years old, she is still young enough to play. Instead, Jessie and the rest of the gang are being displaced by modern tech toys. Joining the franchise is Lily (Greta Lee), a sleek tablet short for “Lilypad”, who promises to help Bonnie make friends.

Toy Story 5 deals with the impersonal world of tech and the changing nature of social interactions, making a good case for how digital screens can arrest a child’s social development. This leaves Jessie fighting a battle on two fronts: first, for the emotional well-being of her child, Bonnie; and second, against her own unresolved issue of abandonment. Cusack is wonderful in the role, imbuing Jessie with an urgency. This heightened emotional tension is brilliantly articulated through both Cusack’s frantic voice acting and the animators’ incredible character design work and expressive animation.

However, director and writer Andrew Stanton (alongside co-writer Kenna Harris), doesn’t quite capture the same magic found in the previous installments, considering he co-wrote the first two films, the fourth, and wrote a draft of the story for the third. Despite knowing this material so well but somehow Stanton struggles with the movie’s first half, creating a heightened sense of drama when a subtler, more grounded approach might have eased us into the world more effectively. It feels as though Stanton and his team were overcompensating for switching the protagonist to Jessie and sidelining Buzz and Woody in this sequel.

Once the story gets into full swing and the characters are fully established, the second half feels a lot more secure as the film’s emotional weight starts to carry through. Jessie finds herself at the home of Emily, her original owner. While Emily is no longer there, Jessie meets a new child alongside an older generation of tech, which beautifully deepens the ongoing toys-versus-tech debate. I am not surprised that Pixar and Disney chose to find a middle ground here. As someone who is inherently wary and cautious of technology, especially for children, I feel this balanced point-of-view to be the safe choice, though not necessarily the strongest one. But, of course, that is just my own prejudice talking.

Toy Story 5

There is an undeniable predictability to Toy Story 5. While it still hits narrative beats that surprise us, the ending is signaled loud and clear; at a certain point, you can practically see Stanton, Harris, and Pixar steering the story toward the safer choice. What keeps the film interesting, however, is a gripping subplot involving a wrecked container filled with new versions of Buzz Lightyear toys. Serving as transitional sequences throughout the movie, this subplot delivers the most surprising plot insertion in the entire film. But before it reaches that point, it builds a sense of tension and mystery that keeps the movie’s energy running. That sort of energy could have also been afforded to Jessie’s storyline as well.

Ultimately, while this is not the strongest entry in the franchise, it is still a good movie. It is charming and poignant that I even caught myself holding back tears. The classic Pixar magic still has that charm, but like the very first generation of children who watched the original ‘Toy Story’ as kids in 1995, this franchise is getting old. Five is a good number to end on.

My Rating: 3.5 Stars

Toy Story 5 is still playing exclusively in theaters! Check showtimes and grab your tickets today to see Jessie take the reins in the gang’s latest battle against tech, then head back here and drop a comment to share your thoughts on the new sequel!

June 23, 2026
Charo Santos-Concio Stars in Groundbreaking Filipino Animated Series “Sun Chaser”

A radiant new adventure is rising from Philippine animation.

Award-winning actress Charo Santos-Concio lends her voice to “Sun Chaser,” a pioneering Filipino animated fantasy series that premieres its pilot episode for free on YouTube beginning Tuesday, June 23, at 12 noon.

Produced by Manila-based Toon City Animation and Playlab, the series marks a proud milestone for local animation. Developed and produced entirely in the Philippines, “Sun Chaser” brings Filipino mythology, homegrown artistry, and a deeply personal coming-of-age story to a global audience.

A Stellar Filipino and Filipino-American Voice Cast

Adding star power to its already exciting world, “Sun Chaser” features an impressive ensemble of Filipino and Filipino-American talents.

Joining Charo in the voice cast are Manny Jacinto, Liza Soberano, Eugene Cordero, Dingdong Dantes, Zia Dantes, J.R. De Guzman, and Star Magic artists AC Bonifacio and KD Estrada.

With this remarkable lineup, the series celebrates Filipino talent across generations, industries, and borders.

A Summer Vacation Turns Into a Mythic Mission

At the center of “Sun Chaser” is Jordan Santos, voiced by Manny Jacinto. He is an ordinary teenager who travels to the Philippines expecting a peaceful summer getaway.

Instead, his vacation takes a thrilling turn when a supernatural threat throws his island into chaos. As ancient powers begin to stir and hidden family secrets come to light, Jordan learns that his destiny is far greater than he ever imagined.

Soon, he must step into a dangerous new role: protecting the boundary between the human world and the spirit world.

Filled with wonder, danger, and heart, “Sun Chaser” explores self-discovery, family, courage, and the strength it takes to embrace one’s purpose.

Filipino Creators Bringing Pinoy Mythology to the World

The series was created by Filipino animation talents Bobby Pontillas and Bernard Badion, whose international experience adds world-class polish to the project.

Pontillas is a Disney Animation veteran with credits that include “Zootopia,” “Moana,” “Big Hero 6,” and “Wreck-It Ralph.” In 2018, he received an Academy Award nomination for the animated short film “One Small Step.”

Badion, meanwhile, has developed projects for major studios in Los Angeles, including “Transformers: EarthSpark.”

Together, the creators are building a fantasy universe rooted in Filipino culture, shaped by Filipino imagination, and crafted for viewers everywhere.

A Proud Win for Philippine Animation

Before its YouTube premiere, “Sun Chaser” had already gained international recognition.

The series won the Animation du Monde Prize for international projects at Annecy/MIFA 2025, one of the animation industry’s most respected platforms for emerging animated projects and independent series.

For a creator-owned Filipino production, the recognition signals a thrilling step forward for Philippine animation and its growing place on the world stage.

Where to Watch “Sun Chaser”

Filipino viewers can watch the pilot episode of “Sun Chaser” for free on YouTube beginning Tuesday, June 23, at 12 noon.

A Kickstarter campaign will also launch alongside the premiere to help fund future episodes, as the creators work toward bringing the full first season to audiences worldwide.

Bright, bold, and proudly Filipino, “Sun Chaser” is ready to introduce a new animated hero and a mythic world worth following.

June 23, 2026
‘Babaye sa Bubon,’ ‘Kundoktor’ Lead Winners at 9th Sine Negrense Film Festival Awards

The 9th Sine Negrense: Negros Island Film Festival honored the region’s outstanding filmmakers and student storytellers during its Awarding Ceremony held on June 20, 2026, at the Negros Occidental Provincial Capitol Social Hall.

The festival showcased films from both the Open Competition and Inter-School categories, recognizing excellence in directing, acting, screenplay, cinematography, and other filmmaking disciplines. Festival screenings were conducted from December 3 to 6, 2025, at the Cinematheque Centre Negros.

In the Open Competition Category, “Babaye sa Bubon” emerged as the festival’s top winner, earning the Best Film award along with a cash prize of P30,000. The film also garnered several major awards, including Best Director for Ginboy Bataclit, Best Actress for Jonah Sabijon, and Best Sound Design for Ry Cortez and Wenny Lord Bacabac.

The Jury Prize, accompanied by P20,000 in cash, was awarded to “Pagdumdom,” which also secured awards for Best Screenplay (Mhika Jhella Cenizal), Best Supporting Actress (Jing Torrecampo), and Best Actor (Jessiah Makilan).

Other Open Category winners included Jade Clarence Susper for Best Cinematography for “Hilum,” Kyle Decana for Best Editing for “Handurawan,” Jehu Peria for Best Production Design for “Hilum,” Chaz Katalbas for Best Musical Score for “Kabay Pa,” and Johnwine Janipin for Best Supporting Actor for “Maria.”

The award for Best Original Song went to “Kaisog sa Imo Makita,” written by Jabez Rees Gonzales and Angel Kay Dejaros for the film “Hilum.”

Special Awards in the Open Category were presented to “Kabay Pa” for Best Trailer, “Pagdumdom” for Best Poster, and “Snatcher” for the People’s Choice Award.

Meanwhile, in the Inter-School Category, “Kundoktor” emerged as Best Film, receiving the top prize and P20,000 cash award. Its director, Joshua Pastora, also won Best Director and Best Screenplay honors.

The Jury Prize, together with P10,000 in cash, was awarded to “Ngaa Tugnaw ang Gab-i.” The film also produced the category’s Best Actor, Paco Gloria, and earned Best Production Design for Kyle David Ebro.

“Gugma sa Balod” dominated several technical awards, winning Best Cinematography, Best Editing, Best Musical Score, Best Sound Design, and Best Original Song. Khyle Anasta received multiple recognitions for his contributions to the film.

Acting honors in the student category were awarded to Fourth Dillomes of “Isa Ka Higayon” as Best Supporting Actor, Jing Torrecampo of “Gugma sa Balod” as Best Supporting Actress, Wilma Larrazabal of “Isa Ka Higayon” as Best Actress, and Paco Gloria of “Ngaa Tugnaw ang Gab-i” as Best Actor.

Special Awards in the Inter-School Category went to “Hinangpanay” for both Best Trailer and Best Poster, while “Libod Para sa Handum” received the People’s Choice Award.

The Inter-School Category was judged by filmmaker and “Love Child” director Jonathan Jurilla, Negros Director and Manager Candy Nagrampa, and film professor Jag Garcia, who served as jury chairman.

The Open Competition jury was composed of Bakunawa Fest Festival Director Elvert Bañares, film critic and National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) Committee on Cinema head Tito Valiente, and award-winning filmmaker Jeffrey Jeturian, who served as jury chairman.

Serving as the guest and inspirational speaker during the awarding ceremony was Butch Ibañez, Chief Content Officer of Solar Studios, Inc. Addressing filmmakers, students, and festival supporters, Ibañez shared insights from his decades-long experience in the Philippine media and entertainment industry and encouraged aspiring storytellers to pursue excellence in filmmaking while remaining true to their unique voices and cultural roots.

Festival organizers expressed their gratitude to the Film Development Council of the Philippines headed by Chairman Joey Reyes, Cinematheque Centre Negros, The Performance Laboratory Inc., The Negros Museum, and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts led by Chairman Dr. Eric B. Zerrudo for their continued support of regional filmmaking initiatives.

The organizers also acknowledged the NCCA Committee on Cinema, former committee chair and Solar Studios Chief Content Officer Butch Ibañez, volunteers from the University of St. La Salle’s IWAG Image Makers Collective and the Maskara Theatre Ensemble, and the Province of Negros Occidental under Governor Eugenio Jose “Bong” V. Lacson and Provincial Administrator Atty. Rayfrando P. Diaz II for helping make the event possible.

Now on its ninth edition, the Sine Negrense: Negros Island Film Festival continues to serve as a platform for showcasing the talents of filmmakers across Negros Island and nurturing the next generation of regional storytellers.

June 22, 2026
Toast: The Best of Bread Live in Davao Added to Tour

In response to the fast-selling two-city performance of TOAST the Best of Bread in Manila and Cebu, Ovation Productions has added a third city; Davao. The three-city Philippine Tour dates are now August 12 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, August 13 at the SMX Convention Center in Davao, and August 15 at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino.

TOAST the Best of Bread has faithfully re-created all the hits of the 1970’s legendary band, Bread, as well as the solo works of its founders David Gates and James Griffin. Concertgoers and die-hard fans consistently praise the band for their strikingly accurate recreations of Bread’s warm, sentimental tracks and complex harmonies. The band tours internationally, often packing major venues and bringing a feel-good, emotional experience to audiences worldwide.

The expanded itinerary gives more Filipino fans a chance to experience the band’s live renditions of timeless classics and hits by Bread like “Make It With You”, “If”, “Baby I’m-A-Want-You”, “Everything I Own”, “Aubrey”, “Sweet Surrender”, “It Don’t Matter To Me”, “Clouds”, “Mother Freedom”, “Everything I Own”, “Guitar Man”, “Games Of Magic”, “Lost Without Your Love”, “Goodbye Girl”, among many other Filipino favorites.

Toast the Best of Bread is composed of Jeff Clark, Brett Hart, Rich Bischoff, Robbie Lopez, Davie Rocks, and Troy Jolley. Their three-city Philippine Tour also features Noel Cabangon as special guest. Tickets available through ovationtickets.com. Presented by Ovation Productions in cooperation with Blast TV.

Visit Ovation Productions’ website and social media accounts for more updates on the seat map, ticket prices, and other official announcements.

June 22, 2026
BINI Joins DreamWorks Animation’s “Forgotten Island” OST with New Song “A Parallel World”

BINI Brings P-pop Power to a Proudly Filipino Animated Adventure

BINI is adding their signature P-pop sparkle to DreamWorks Animation’s “Forgotten Island.” The nation’s girl group has joined the film’s original soundtrack with their upcoming track “A Parallel World,” marking another exciting moment for Filipino music on the global entertainment stage.

Blooms were treated to a wonderful surprise at the start of BINI’s Signals World Tour, where the group performed a sneak peek of the song for the first time. Complete with special choreography, the performance gave fans an early taste of the vibrant sound and emotion that BINI is bringing to the film.

Fans can watch BINI’s performance of “A Parallel World” on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

A Soundtrack Filled with Filipino Talent

The soundtrack of “Forgotten Island” brings together an impressive lineup of Filipino and Filipino-American artists. Alongside BINI, the film features SB19 with a cover of Francis Magalona’s “Mga Kababayan,” as well as Ruby Ibarra and Carl Angelo with “Salbahe Ako.”

The star-studded roster also includes H.E.R., KATSEYE’s Sophia Laforteza, and Lea Salonga, making the soundtrack a heartfelt celebration of Filipino artistry, heritage, and sound.

With each artist bringing something unique to the mix, the music of “Forgotten Island” is set to deepen the film’s emotional story while proudly spotlighting Filipino culture.

A Magical Story of Friendship, Memory, and Growing Up

At the center of “Forgotten Island” is an emotional story about lifelong best friends Jo and Raissa, who find themselves on one last extraordinary adventure before life pulls them in different directions.

After discovering a mysterious portal, the two are transported to Nakali, a mythical island filled with magical beings inspired by Filipino folklore. Some are friendly, some are fearsome, and some may change the way Jo and Raissa see their friendship forever.

As they search for a way home, the best friends uncover a heartbreaking truth: returning to the real world may cost them the memories of their entire friendship. Suddenly, their journey becomes a race against time as they fight to hold on to the bond that shaped their lives.

A DreamWorks Film with a Stellar Voice Cast

DreamWorks Animation, the studio behind beloved stories of friendship in “How to Train Your Dragon,” “Shrek,” and “The Wild Robot,” brings another dazzling bond to the big screen with “Forgotten Island.”

The film stars Grammy and Academy Award-winning artist H.E.R. and international star Liza Soberano as Jo and Raissa. Joining them in the all-star voice cast are Manny Jacinto, Dolly de Leon, Jo Koy, Jenny Slate, Dave Franco, Ronny Chieng, and Tony-winning icon Lea Salonga as the dreaded Manananggal.

Written and directed by Academy Award nominee Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, and produced by Academy Award nominee Mark Swift, the film comes from the creative team behind “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish.”

“Forgotten Island” Opens in PH Cinemas September 23

Fantastical, emotional, and proudly rooted in Filipino culture, “Forgotten Island” invites audiences to rediscover the magic of friendship and the stories passed down through generations.

Catch DreamWorks Animation’s “Forgotten Island” in Philippine cinemas starting September 23.

DreamWorks Animation’s “Forgotten Island” is distributed by Universal Pictures PH.

June 22, 2026
“Gisingin ang Mundo”: Nescafé Fusion Launches a Cultural Movement to Champion Filipino Music

On June 26, 2026, the Filinvest City Events Grounds will transform into the epicenter of Filipino youth culture as Fusion: The Philippine Music Festival returns in partnership with Nescafé.

This year, the festival leaps beyond the format of a traditional concert to become a true cultural movement, all anchored on the rallying cry of Nescafé’s campaign: “Gisingin ang Mundo.” Nescafé Fusion is not just about putting on a show, it is awakening the youth to take action, to stand for what they care about, and to be one in support of Original Pilipino Music (OPM).

Nescafé Awakens the Filipino Youth

We live in an age of uncertainty where economic pressures and digital fatigue often leave the youth feeling disconnected. Yet, a new generation of “Gleamers”, radical optimists who find power in small wins, is rising to combat the chaos.

For decades, Nescafé has been the daily companion that helped generations of Filipinos start their mornings and power through long nights. Now, it is using its legacy to fuel the youth with the language that resonates best with them: music. By merging Nescafé’s global scale with Fusion’s deep roots in Filipino music culture, we are rousing a movement that champions local artistry and human connection over the isolation of the digital world.

Democratizing the Stage and Empowering Voices

At the heart of Nescafé Fusion is a festival experience that belongs to the community. Students are no longer just spectators to history-in-the-making; they are co-creators of the movement. By working in deep synergy with student organizations, we are bringing together the brightest youth to build a festival that reflects the true spirit of today’s generation.

This commitment to the future is best exemplified by the return of Nescafé Fusion FreeJam, an intercollegiate battle of the bands. Supported by the Organisasyon ng mga Pilipinong Mang-aawit (OPM) and the Filipino Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (FILSCAP), FreeJam is a pillar in nurturing the next generation of Filipino musicians. Finalists receive financial support for their music journey and mentorship from the industry’s best directors and partners. They don’t just warm up the stage, they perform back-to-back with our headliners during the prime segments of the festival.

The movement is also bolstered by an unprecedented unity of media organizations. Cignal, a major media partner, brings the movement from the music community to the sports community through properties such as the UAAP to connect with youth culture even further. Myx, one of the country’s iconic music platforms, remains a long-time partner of Fusion, sharing our vision of promoting our very own music.

Walking the Talk: Sustainability and Community

Nescafé Fusion believes that global ambitions must be matched by local, tangible action. We are moving beyond the “table stakes” of sustainability to create a truly resourceful event that today’s consumers trust and champion. We are partnering with Briyo Energy to power parts of our festival using solar power, directly addressing the environmental impact and carbon footprint delivered by large-scale entertainment events.

We are also working with The Plastic Flamingo to ensure that concert plastic waste, which is significant in events of this scale, is upcycled into useful products, such as school chairs, that circle back to serve the student communities that define our roots.

A Unifying Celebration for the Future

Nescafé Fusion transforms the Filinvest Concerts Grounds into a vibrant, multi-sensory playground where the electric energy of the movement is felt in every corner. Elevating this experience is the Nescafé Mansion, a festival centerpiece that elevates on-ground experiences beyond the stage.

The festival’s lineup is a direct reflection of the youth’s own voices. Featuring a powerful roster of OPM icons like IV of Spades, Maki, Angela Ken, BGYO, Earl Agustin, and Arthur Miguel, the artist selection is meticulously guided by the performers that the youth listen to and relate to on their own journeys. Adding to the excitement, the Fusion FreeJam finalists are not only an opening act, they have a spot in the limelight, performing back-to-back with Fusion main artists during prime segments of the festival.

Beyond the music, Nescafé Fusion walks the talk in community support through the Nescafé Fusion Youth Village. This space will hold student entrepreneurs and youth artisans to sell their products without any concessionaire fees or commissions, providing a tangible platform for the next generation of young creators to thrive in a real-world setting.

The festival culminates in a powerful, unified moment when the audience gathers for the anthem, “Gisingin ang Mundo.” To be performed alongside university hitmaker Earl Agustin, this performance serves as the ultimate call to action, uniting the crowd in a collective chorus that champions Filipino music that we’re proud of.

Shared Rituals for a New Generation

The Nescafé Fusion experience is also a reflection of how the brand is evolving alongside the very audience it celebrates. As the culture of coffee shifts from a purely functional morning ritual toward personal “micro-moments,” the kind that defines one’s identity and social rhythm, Nescafé is meeting today’s generation exactly where they are.

Whether it’s through refreshing, on-the-go coffee experiences that fit a fast-paced festival lifestyle or accessible options for daily life, the brand is prioritizing versatility. By integrating into the social rituals of the youth, Nescafé aims to be more than just a drink; it serves as a companion to the moments, big or small, where young Filipinos continue to connect, dream, and shape their future.

Join us on June 26, 2026, as we transform the Filinvest City Events Grounds into a beacon of the Filipino youth’s creativity, hospitality, and hope. Together, we are building the next global cultural phenomenon in awakening the world to the heartbeat of Filipino culture.

Lock in your ticket on Ticketmelon and be part of the #GisinginAngMundo movement. Follow Fusion’s page for updates.

June 22, 2026
Rody Vera Cast as Older Noah in The Notebook, The Musical

Theatre Group Asia (TGA) proudly announces that renowned playwright, screenwriter, actor, and singer Rody Vera will take on the role of Older Noah in its highly anticipated international premiere of The Notebook, The Musical.

A towering figure in contemporary Philippine theater, Vera has spent over four decades helping shape the country’s cultural landscape through his various artistic endeavors as a performer, writers and cultural voice. His career has traversed the worlds of theater, film, television, literature, and advocacy, making him one of the rare artists whose influence extends both onstage and behind the scenes.

As an actor, Vera has delivered memorable performances across generations of Philippine theater. He first gained prominence onstage in productions such as PETA’s Kahapon, Ngayon at Bukas and the landmark musical 1896, where he portrayed Andres Bonifacio. Over the years, he has built a body of work encompassing both Filipino classics and international repertoire, appearing as Padre Damaso in Noli Me Tangere, The Musical, Edgar Jopson in EJ, Ang Pinagdaanang Buhay nina Evelio Javier at Edgar Jopson, Iago in Otelo, Reuven in Mga Mansanas sa Disyerto, Gov. Danforth in The Crucible, and Bobby Gonzales in Mario O’Hara’s Stageshow, a performance that earned him the Gawad Buhay! Award for Best Featured Actor. Audiences have continued to embrace Vera’s performances, from his role as Fernan in the hit musical Rak of Aegis to Tawfiq in the Philippine production of The Band’s Visit, and his performance in Tiny Beautiful Things. Most recently, he is most known for his role as The Narrator in TGA’s phenomenally successful staging of Into The Woods alongside Lea Salonga, Eugene Domingo, and Arielle Jacob.

Internationally, Vera has collaborated extensively with Singapore’s renowned The Necessary Stage, appearing in productions such as Mardi Gras, Top or Bottom, Good People, The Year of No Return, and most recently Old Gaze at Victoria Theatre in Singapore. His international work has also brought him to Hong Kong, Romania, Hungary, Tokyo, and New York, where he participated in productions and collaborative projects exploring the intersections of culture, identity, and performance across borders.

TGA Creative and Overall Artistic Director Clint Ramos remarks, “Rody Vera is one of the most important theater artists of our time. He is a master storyteller whose artistry is rooted in compassion, intelligence, and an extraordinary understanding of the human experience. As Older Noah, he brings a lifetime of wisdom, emotional truth, and theatrical excellence to a role that demands all three. We are honored to welcome him to The Notebook.”

For Vera, the role resonates deeply with the musical’s central themes of memory, devotion, and enduring love. “The Notebook reminds us that love is not only found in grand gestures but in the choices we make every day to remember, to stay, and to care with patience and loyalty ,” he reflects. “What moves me most is how the story finds beauty even in fragility. I am grateful for the opportunity to tell this story alongside Celeste Legaspi and this remarkable company of artists. And I’m very proud to be part of this musical’s international premiere.”

His casting as Older Noah alongside the previously announced Celeste Legaspi as Older Allie brings together two of Philippine theater’s most respected and beloved artists. Together, they anchor a multigenerational cast that also includes Morissette as Middle Allie, Laurence Mossman as Middle Noah, Sheena Belarmino as Young Allie, and Benedix Ramos as Young Noah.

Based on the bestselling novel by Nicholas Sparks and the beloved film adaptation, The Notebook, The Musical is a sweeping story of love that endures across decades, memory, and circumstance. Featuring music and lyrics by Ingrid Michaelson and a Tony Award-nominated book by Bekah Brunstetter, the musical has captivated audiences worldwide with its intimate portrayal of a love that evolves through youth, adulthood, and old age.

With Rody Vera bringing his impassioned artistry, humanity, and lifetime of theatrical achievement to the role, TGA’s production promises a moving and unforgettable portrait of one of literature’s most enduring love stories.

For more information, visit TGA’s website www.theatregroupasia.com, Instagram @theatregroupasia, or Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/theatregroupasia.

Watch Rody Vera’s Performance of “Iron in the Fridge” from The Notebook: The Musical

June 22, 2026