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FDCP confers Annual and Lifetime Achievement Awards at “Parangal ng Sining”

In recognition of the outstanding contribution of local artists, filmmakers, and institutions to Philippine cinema and the cultural identity of Filipinos, the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) held the first-ever annual awards event “Parangal ng Sining” on April 23 at Seda Hotel, Quezon City.

Through “Parangal ng Sining” (Honor of the Arts), the FDCP aims to give honor and respect to Filipino creatives and stakeholders for championing the Philippine film industry and gaining widespread acclaim for their respective works.

Filipina actress Dolly De Leon received critical acclaim for her breakthrough performance in the Cannes Film Festival’s Palme D’Or winner “Triangle of Sadness” and became the first Filipina actress to receive nominations from the Golden Globe Awards and the British Academy of Film and Television Awards (BAFTA). For her significant contribution to world cinema and invaluable representation of the Filipino identity, De Leon was given the Gawad Lente: Annual Achievement Award by the FDCP for this year’s Parangal ng Sining.

Another recipient of the Annual Achievement Award is veteran actor Soliman Cruz, whose extensive filmography in the Philippine entertainment industry made him one of the most prolific and respected actors in the country. His lead role in the Romanian film “To The North” premiered at the prestigious Venice Film Festival, where it received standing ovations from the audience and won the Premio Bisato D’Oro 2022.

Filmmaker Martika Escobar is the first Filipino director to be awarded with the Special Jury Prize for Innovative Spirit at the 2022 Sundance Film Festival for her debut feature-length film “Leonor Will Never Die.” The FDCP honored her with the Annual Achievement Award for her experimental and world-class storytelling, as well as her homage for Philippine cinema in the aforementioned film.

Moreover, the FDCP honored those who have dedicated their lives to the growth and development of Philippine cinema with Gawad Lente: Lifetime Achievement Award, given to Ms. Vilma Santos, Mr. Nick Deocampo, Ms. Lily Yu Monteverde, and Cinemalaya.

Vilma Santos-Recto, widely known as the Star For All Seasons, has made significant contributions to the local entertainment industry with her numerous and often memorable roles in Filipino films and television shows. For the longevity of her career as a distinguished actress and the lasting impact of her roles on Filipino audiences, she was given the Lifetime Achievement Award by the FDCP.

The FDCP also honored Lily Yu Monteverde, represented by her daughter and Regal Entertainment’s Vice President Roselle Monteverde at the ceremony, with the Lifetime Achievement Award for fostering the growth of Philippine mainstream cinema and producing well-loved Filipino blockbuster films such as the “Shake, Rattle, and Roll” movie franchise. Widely known as Mother Lily, she has continuously given opportunities for homegrown talents to thrive in the entertainment industry and contribute to the legacy of Philippine cinema.

Film historian Nick Deocampo is an advocate for preserving and restoring Filipino films, and his substantial research on Philippine cinema emphasized the importance of remembering our cinematic history. The FDCP has chosen him as a recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award for his scholarly study of Filipino films to raise awareness and appreciation of our cinematic past for future generations of Filipinos. He was represented
by his nephew Teddy Tan, Jr. at the awarding ceremony.

Lastly, the Cinemalaya Foundation was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award for championing Filipino independent filmmakers and providing them with a significant platform to showcase their films at the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival. Cinemalaya continues to foster Filipino filmmakers’ artistry and proves that local independent films can reach diverse audiences without compromising their creative freedom and distinct Filipino identity.

Hosted by TV personality Robi Domingo and graced with performances from notable Filipino singers Jason Dy, Ana Feleo, Roselle Nava, and musical group 92AD, “Parangal ng Sining” is an initiative of the FDCP to gather Filipino artists and stakeholders for the celebration of Philippine cinema. It aims to recognize the meaningful role of cinema in preserving and fostering Filipinos’ collective identity and cultural heritage.

April 26, 2023
New Movies This Week: Renfield, The Black Demon, To Catch A Killer and more!

Grab your popcorn because it’s time for another cinematic treat! ! This week, you can look forward to an enticing lineup of fresh movies hitting the theaters. Whether you’re a fan of adrenaline-pumping action, edge-of-your-seat suspense, or heartwarming stories, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive into the weekly roundup of new movies opening this week.

Choose which of these movies you’ll watch on the big screen first.

RENFIELD
Sink your teeth into the world of Renfield, a comedy horror film that puts a fresh spin on the classic vampire mythos that’s sure to leave you thirsting for more. “Renfield” explores the intriguing dynamic between the infamous Count Dracula and his loyal servant, Renfield. The film stars Nicholas Hoult as the eponymous character and Nicholas Cage as the legendary vampire, with supporting roles played by Awkwafina, Ben Schwartz, and Brandon Scott. Directed by Chris McKay, “Renfield” masterfully combines horror and comedy elements, offering a fresh perspective on Bram Stoker’s timeless tale. This enthralling cinematic experience promises to entertain and engage audiences with its unique take on a classic story.

THE BLACK DEMON
Dive into the depths of the ocean in The Black Demon, a thrilling adventure that takes you on a heart-stopping hunt for a terrifying sea monster. With its breathtaking underwater visuals and gripping storyline, this film will have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Hold onto your hats, because you’re in for a wild ride!

TO CATCH A KILLER
Unravel the mind of a murderer in To Catch A Killer, a spine-chilling suspense that puts you in the shoes of a relentless detective. Watch as he pieces together the clues and tracks down a cunning serial killer before it’s too late. Can he outsmart the mastermind and bring justice to the victims? You’ll have to see it to find out!

BEAUTIFUL DISASTER
Embrace the chaos of love in Beautiful Disaster, a heartwarming romantic drama that explores the bittersweet journey of two star-crossed lovers. As they navigate the ups and downs of their turbulent relationship, you’ll be reminded that sometimes, the most beautiful love stories are born from the ashes of disaster.

PAPA MASCOT
Get ready to laugh, cry, and be inspired by Papa Mascot, a touching tale of a father who goes above and beyond for his family. Watch as he dons a whimsical mascot costume to bring joy to his children and the community, all while learning valuable life lessons along the way. This heartwarming film is a testament to the power of love, determination, and the unbreakable bond between a parent and child.

SA MULI
Discover the magic of second chances in Sa Muli, a poignant drama that explores the intricacies of love, loss, and redemption. Follow the journey of two lost souls as they find solace in each other’s company and learn to embrace life’s unexpected twists and turns. This beautiful story serves as a gentle reminder that sometimes, a new beginning can be found in the most unexpected places.

YOU & ME & ME
A heartwarming coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of the Y2K scare in 1999. Identical twin sisters share an inseparable bond, experiencing every aspect of life together. As they navigate the emotional turmoil of adolescence and the challenges posed by this newfound affection, the sisters must learn to embrace change and discover their own unique paths, ultimately redefining the meaning of love and sisterhood.

Fan Favorites Still Showing

In addition to these fresh releases, you can still catch some of the most popular films of recent weeks. Here’s a list of fan favorites that are still playing in theaters:

AIR
Discover the game-changing partnership between a then undiscovered Michael Jordan and Nike’s fledgling basketball division which revolutionized the world of sports and culture with the Air Jordan brand.

DUNGEONS & DRAGONS: HONOR AMONG THIEVES
Embark on a thrilling adventure in Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves, a fantasy film that takes you on a rollercoaster ride through a magical realm. With its enchanting landscapes, daring quests, and epic battles, this movie is a must-see for fans of high-stakes escapades.

JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 4
Continue the exhilarating journey of the legendary assassin John Wick in the highly anticipated John Wick: Chapter 4. With its heart-pounding action, jaw-dropping stunts, and intense storyline, this film is a surefire hit for those who crave non-stop adrenaline rushes.

THE POPE’S EXORCIST
Delve into the chilling world of The Pope’s Exorcist, a horror film that follows the Vatican’s chief exorcist as he confronts unspeakable evil. With its spine-tingling suspense and nerve-wracking scares, this movie is not for the faint of heart.

THE SUPER MARIO BROS. MOVIE
Jump into the whimsical world of The Super Mario Bros. Movie, a delightful adaptation of the beloved video game franchise. Join Mario, Luigi, and their colorful cast of friends as they embark on a thrilling adventure to save the Mushroom Kingdom. This film is a nostalgic treat for fans of all ages.

That’s it for this week’s new movie releases. There’s no shortage of exciting films to check out this week. Whether you’re in the mood for a thrilling adventure, a suspenseful mystery, or a heartwarming tale, these new releases have you covered. So gather your friends, pick your favorite flick, and enjoy a spectacular movie-going experience. Happy viewing!

April 26, 2023
WATCH: CinemaCon Unveils “The Flash” Electrifying New Trailer

In “The Flash,” Barry uses his incredible speed to travel back in time, hoping to change the events of the past and save his family. However, his actions inadvertently alter the future, leaving him trapped in a reality in which General Zod has returned, threatening annihilation, and there are no Super Heroes to turn to. . To save the world he knows and return to his own timeline, Barry must enlist the help of a very different Batman, convince him to come out of retirement, and rescue an imprisoned Kryptonian – but not the one he expects.

With time running out and the fate of the universe hanging in the balance, will Barry’s ultimate sacrifice be enough to set things right?

“The Flash” boasts an impressive ensemble, including rising star Sasha Calle, (“Bullet Train,” “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice”), Ron Livingston (“Loudermilk,” “The Conjuring”), Maribel Verdú (“Elite,” “Y tu mamá también”), Kiersey Clemons (“Zack Snyder’s Justice League,” “Sweetheart”), Antje Traue (“King of Ravens,” “Man of Steel”) and Michael Keaton (“Spider-Man: Homecoming,” “Batman”). This talented cast is sure to bring the film’s intense storyline to life, captivating audiences around the world.

“The Flash” is produced by Barbara Muschietti (the “IT” films, “Mama”) and Michael Disco (“Rampage,” “San Andreas”). The screenplay is by Christina Hodson (“Birds of Prey,” “Bumblebee”), with a screen story by John Francis Daley & Jonathan Goldstein (“Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves,” “Spider-Man: Homecoming”) and Joby Harold (“Transformers: Rise of the Beasts,” “Army of the Dead”), based on characters from DC. The executive producers are Toby Emmerich, Walter Hamada, Galen Vaisman and Marianne Jenkins.

Joining director Muschietti behind the camera are director of photography Henry Braham (“Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3,” “The Suicide Squad”), production designer Paul Denham Austerberry (“IT Chapter Two,” “The Shape of Water”), editors Jason Ballantine (the “IT” films, “The Great Gatsby”) and Paul Machliss (“The Gentlemen,” “Baby Driver”), and costume designer Alexandra Byrne (“Doctor Strange,” “Guardians of the Galaxy”); the score is by Benjamin Wallfisch (“The Invisible Man,” the “IT” films).

Warner Bros. Pictures presents a Double Dream/a Disco Factory production of an Andy Muschietti film, “The Flash.” It will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures and is set to open in theaters across the Philippines beginning 14 June 2023. Don’t miss this electrifying adventure as Barry Allen races against time to save the universe and restore the world he knows.

Join the conversation online and use the hashtag #TheFlashMovie

Photo & Video Credit: “Warner Bros. Pictures”

April 26, 2023
WATCH: Denzel Washington Daring Mafia Face-Off in Riveting “The Equalizer 3″ Trailer

Get a sneak peek of the intense action and drama awaiting you in “The Equalizer 3” by watching the official trailer below. Prepare for a heart-pounding cinematic experience as vengeance meets its equal in Denzel Washington’s unforgettable portrayal of Robert McCall.

Denzel Washington is back with a vengeance in the highly-anticipated final chapter of “The Equalizer” series. In “The Equalizer 3,” Washington reprises his role as Robert McCall, a former government assassin seeking redemption and purpose by serving justice for the oppressed.

In this action-packed installment, McCall finds himself in Southern Italy, where he unexpectedly forms new friendships. However, he quickly learns that his new friends are under the control of powerful local crime bosses. As the situation takes a dangerous turn, McCall has no choice but to confront the mafia head-on to protect those he cares about.

Directed by the talented Antoine Fuqua and written by Richard Wenk, “The Equalizer 3” is based on the television series created by Michael Sloan and Richard Lindheim. Denzel Washington leads an impressive cast that includes Dakota Fanning, David Denman, and Gaia Scodellaro.

The Equalizer 3 is distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Get ready to experience the thrilling final chapter in this action-thriller saga when it hits cinemas across the country this August. Connect with the hashtag #TheEqualizer3

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

April 26, 2023
Don’t miss out on Ed Sheeran’s ‘Subtract’ Advanced Listening Event!

Good news, Filipino Sheerios! You have the chance to be the first ones to listen to Ed Sheeran’s upcoming fifth studio album, ‘Subtract.’

Warner Music Philippines is holding an exclusive album listening experience at the Mall of Asia (MOA) Eye on May 4, 2023. This is the day before Ed Sheeran is set to release his latest album across all platforms.

Each cabin on the MOA Eye will be converted into a private ‘Subtract’ listening booth, where fans will have the once-in-a-lifetime experience of riding the ferris wheel while enjoying snippets of new music from Ed Sheeran. Those who want to take part in this event simply need to visit the MOA Eye during mall hours and pre-save the album on their listening platform of choice – it’s that easy!

As if being the first to hear ‘Subtract’ isn’t exciting enough, those who are lucky enough to be part of this event will also get the opportunity to win official Ed Sheeran merchandise.

Those who have been following the British singer-songwriter’s journey know that his upcoming album will be the most honest and vulnerable one yet, as it draws from hard-hitting events that Ed has faced in recent years.

He recently released a new single called “Eyes Closed,” which has an upbeat pop feel to it. However, closer inspection of the lyrics reveal that it captures the essence of love and loss, which is also reflected in the official video.

“This song is about losing someone, feeling like every time you go out and you expect to just bump into them, and everything just reminds you of them and the things you did together. You sorta have to take yourself out of reality sometimes to numb the pain of loss, but certain things just bring you right back into it,” Ed shared about the song and its video.

If this single gives any indication of what we can expect from ‘Subtract,’ it’s clear that Ed’s new album will be one that bares his soul and taps into his most genuine emotions.

So what are you waiting for? Mark your calendar as not to miss the opportunity to be one of the first people to experience Ed Sheeran’s ‘Subtract’!

Register here: https://wmp.lnk.to/SubtractatMOAEYE

Follow the official social media pages of Ed Sheeran and Warner Music Philippines for more information and updates on this special event.

April 25, 2023
Practice these money-managing tips to improve your finances with Maya
If you’re looking to improve how you manage your finances, having the right tools can make a big difference in simplifying your experience. Knowing good money “hacks” can help you save on fees and maximize rewards.

Maya, the country’s #1 digital bank app, combines the best payments, savings, credit, and crypto in one seamless experience, simplifying money management. It’s also known as the most rewarding finance app, offering cashback and one of the highest interest rates for your savings.

Here are four tips featuring exclusive Maya promos for you to take advantage of this April:

Build up your savings. Remember: you can always grow your money. You don’t need significant cash on hand to start saving. Maya offers the best-in-class savings account with daily interest crediting at 4% p.a., one of the highest in the industry. And you can boost your savings by up to 10% p.a. just by using Maya for your daily payment transactions. The boosted rate of up to 10% p.a. applies to deposits up to P100,000.

Get huge savings now – spend up to P30,000 using Maya to see your Maya Savings interest skyrocket up to 10%. This promotional rate runs until May 31.

Spend smarter. Good money management means spending smartly. And when you pay using Maya, your spending smarter as it’s more convenient and rewarding. Check out these wide-ranging deals this April:
- Are you ordering food online? Use the code MAYANEW30 on the foodpanda app to get 30% off (up to P100 discount) using your Maya card. Open to new foodpanda users only. Promo runs until April 30, 2023 only!
- Get 5% cashback (up to P50) when you purchase apps or in-app subscriptions worth P500 on Google Play and checkout with Maya until May 5, 2023. One-time availment only.
- Shop and spend at least P3,000 on ZALORA to get 40% OFF when you pay with Maya. Simply input the code ‘PAYWITHMAYA’ upon checkout. Promo runs from April 29 to May 9, 2023!
- Game on and save up to P45 when you enter the promo codes “MAYAML30″/ “MAYAML15” on Codashop and checkout with Maya. Top up from April 28 – May 29 to avail of the offer.
- Shop for your family’s essentials on Edamama and get up to P1,450 off when you checkout with Maya. Promo is valid until August 31, 2023
- Grab all your summer favorites on Pick.A.Roo and save up to P300 when you checkout with Maya. Promo is valid until May 21, 2023.
- Buy gift for your mom on Mother’s Day like the queen she is and save up to P1,450 on FlowerStore.ph! Sale starts from April 24 to May 14:
  - Product Exclusive Discount: Get P500 OFF + FREE Shipping on Chocolate Love when you pay with Maya! Use the code “MAYAEXCLUSIVE”.
  - App-Exclusive Discount: Get 25% OFF + FREE Shipping when you purchase on Flowerstore APP using checkout with Maya! Use the code “MAYAAPPMOM”. Reward capped at P250.
  - Website Only: Get 20% OFF + FREE Shipping when you purchase on the Flowerstore site using checkout with Maya! Use the code “MAYAMOM”. Reward capped at P150.
- Get a chance to win a trip for 2 to Boracay when you scan to pay with Maya at least P1000 in any Mercury Drug Center branch until June 15, 2023.
Pay your bills on time. Settling your payables on time saves you penalties and unnecessary stress. The Maya app makes paying your bills on time even more convenient and rewarding. For instance, customers paying their PLDT bill in Maya for the first time can get up to a P500 cashback reward. Existing PLDT bills payer, meanwhile, can receive up to P200 cashback. Meanwhile, if you’re settling a minimum of P5,000 Platinum Creditplus loan payment on Maya, you will get P80 cashback. This promo runs until May 15.

Level up with Maya. Maya helps unlock a better version of yourself—one who’s in control of growing and mastering your money. Did you know that Maya users can get up to P120 when they sign up, upgrade their accounts, and transact for the first time?

Use your referral code and spread the word to get your friends and family to join Maya. Even better, you get P50 for everyone who signs up using your code, upgrades, and completes their first transaction.

Start improving your finances today with Maya and do banking your way. Maya’s digital banking services are powered by Maya Bank, Inc., a digital bank supervised by the BSP. Deposits are insured by the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) for up to PHP500,000 per depositor. To learn more, visit https://www.maya.ph/deals. Follow Maya at @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok and @mayaofficialph on Twitter.
April 25, 2023
Cebu Pacific Elevates Passenger Experience at NAIA T3

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines’ leading airline, enhanced customer service at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 (NAIA T3) by allowing passengers who accomplished online check-in to enter through a dedicated gate, among other features that will ease travel experience.

From the first entrance at the NAIA T3 Departures (Online Check-In Entrance), customers who checked-in online can go straight to the boarding gates if they don’t need to check in their bags.

Passengers who need to check in their bags may proceed to CEB’s self-bag tag kiosks at Isle E, scan their boarding passes at a machine, print and attach the tags on their bags. Thereafter, domestic passengers may proceed to the online check-in bag drop counters at E16-E29, while international passengers may check the counters assigned to them on the flight information monitors near Isles D and E.

Meanwhile, passengers who did not check in online may enter through Gates 1 and 2 and use any of the check-in kiosks located in between Isle D and E. They may also print their bag tags and use the bag drop counters located between D16-D29 and E1-E15.

CEB will offer a repack area where all passengers can check if they are within their baggage allowance or not. It also allows passengers to conveniently repack or arrange their bags if necessary.

The airline is also ready to address the concerns of passengers with same-day flights by operating a 24/7 help desk at its ticket office near NAIA T3 Arrival Gate 6.

“Our top priority at Cebu Pacific is to ensure the safety and comfort of our passengers. As demand for air travel picks up, we hope that these solutions will allow our customers to travel more conveniently and reach their destinations with ease,” said Lei Apostol, Cebu Pacific Vice President for Customer Service Operations.

Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) General Manager Cesar Chiong lauded CEB’s initiatives to improve passenger experience at NAIA T3.

“Our focus is to make sure that we will deliver the best service to our riding public and to our fellow Filipinos. This supports our overall goal to continuously enhance travel experience for all passengers passing through the NAIA,” said Chiong.

Among the measures that MIAA has undertaken to further provide a seamless travel experience for passengers include the removal of the initial security check in all four NAIA terminals, reassignment of some domestic and international flights to other terminals, and implementation of several digitalization projects.

CEB advises its passengers to book their flights online by creating a MyCebuPacific account to get notifications about their upcoming trips, manage their bookings, access their Travel Funds, among other features. Online check-in is also available via the Cebu Pacific app and website, reducing passenger waiting time at the airport and allowing them to go straight to their assigned boarding gates.

CEB flies to 35 domestic and 25 international destinations, spanning across Asia, Australia and the Middle East.

April 25, 2023
The Fem Manual: A Woman’s Feminine Hygiene Guide To Becoming Her Best Self

Women of today have shown how formidable and tenacious they are by breaking through multiple glass ceilings at work, at home, and in society all in the name of gender equity. This relentless path to gender equity has been paved by women who wholeheartedly embrace their individuality day in and day out, and who constantly strive to become their best selves.

A lot of care and consideration is needed when trying to become your best self. Since women have varying definitions of what that ‘best self’ looks like, it is important to note that the only way to fully achieve any of those definitions is by choosing to take proper care of yourself every day.

Portrait of young fitness woman stretching her arms, warm-up before training session, sport event in park, jogging and excercising.

As women, one of the best ways to practice self-care is through good feminine hygiene. Your intimate region or your “femzone” not only requires attention, it also requires delicate and essential care in order to keep your overall health in tip-top shape — because when you win in health, you win at life.

Here are five things you need to know about feminine hygiene:

1.      Confidence is key

Being able to embrace one’s uniqueness comes down to one crucial factor: confidence. To build that confidence up, you must practice taking care of your body and health regularly because when you look and feel good, you become more confident in yourself and more appreciative of your individuality.

This is one of the reasons why organizations from all over the country are making consistent efforts to aid women in becoming more confident in their own skin, by creating brands and products that make them feel good both inside and out.

2.      A clean femzone is a happy femzone

While the femzone is known for its self-cleaning abilities, it wouldn’t hurt to give it the occasional wash from time to time. The best way to keep your femzone happy and clean is to use feminine washes that are formulated to be gentle and maintain your femzone’s balance.

Considering that the femzone requires distinct care from the rest of the body, long-trusted products like Lactacyd Feminine Wash is a perfect fit as it has a long-standing history of helping women as early as 1947 in protecting and cleansing the femzone.

3.      Get deep and learn what your femzone needs

Before starting and creating any routine with your femzone, remember that every femzone is unique. Methods that might work for others might not work for you. Make sure you get deep and learn your femzone’s specific needs, by testing products and routines to know what kind of care works best for your femzone.

Luckily for women everywhere, there are products that offer a full range of options for every kind of care that your femzone might need. Whether the need might be having it moisturized or revitalized, naturally and safely whiten, having long-lasting coolness and freshness or keeping irritation and odor away, there is a feminine wash fit for you.

4.      Get your femzone checked

While home remedies work for the common cold, it will not do when trying to resolve an issue with your femzone, like menstrual cramps or dysmenorrhea.

For matters as sensitive as this, the simple hot compress will no longer do. Fortunately for women everywhere, over-the-counter medications exist to target this very unique experience. Medications like Hyoscine N-butylbromide + Paracetamol (Buscopan Venus) provide the dual action formula that targets the source of menstrual cramps and simultaneously provides relief versus usual analgesics that just mask the pain.

But, while this medication exists, make sure to accompany this with regular doctor visits to always be updated on the condition of your femzone.

5.      Find your purpose and live it out

In owning all the ways you can take proper care of yourself, you learn to appreciate your unique perspective, skills, and experiences even more. Use that appreciation to identify your life’s purpose and decide to live it out every day.

Make the intention to positively impact groups as small as your circle of friends or crowds as big as communities around you, and influence others to do the same. After all, every woman is a woman of impact and influence in their own way.

Bodies grow and change with age. Your femzone is a part of your body that faces health challenges at various points of your life, which is why brands like Lactacyd and Buscopan Venus exist; they recognize that caring for one’s femzone is a continuous process and keeping it healthy is an important part of your overall health.

“We know that taking care of the femzone is not easy, but it is necessary. We wanted women to know that we understand their struggle and we want to make caring for their femzone a little bit easier,” said Ysabel Banson, Group Brand Lead for Sanofi Consumer Healthcare.

April 25, 2023
“History’s Greatest Heists With Pierce Brosnan” premieres on April 30, only on THE History™ Channel

History’s Greatest Heists with Pierce Brosnan is produced for The HISTORY™ Channel by Big Fish Entertainment and Anchor Entertainment.

Using dramatic recreations, dynamic storytelling, cutting-edge visual effects, and first-person witness accounts, the show will explore the intricate schemes of some of the world’s most criminal masterminds who risked their freedom for a shot at a lifetime of wealth and riches.

Hosted by two-time Golden Globe Award nominee, film producer, and philanthropist Irish actor Pierce Brosnan, each one-hour episode uncovers the meticulous planning, daring execution, and shocking aftermath behind some of the most elaborate real-life heists in history, including the notorious Lufthansa Heist of New York, the half-billion-dollar Gardner Museum art theft, the Antwerp Belgium Diamond Heist, and more.

Brosnan is embedded into each heist through state-of-the-art technology to bring each global news headline to life by putting viewers at the heart of the action and breaking down every aspect of the plan, including the conniving team, the mark, the execution, and finally, the aftermath.

On April 22, the HISTORY™ Channel gathered Filipino fans and special guests for an interactive and experiential event at the Trinoma Activity Center. The event transported them back to the crime scene of The Antwerp Diamond Heist, where they were tasked to complete several missions inspired by the ambitious plan to steal more than $100 million of diamonds, gems, and cash from the Antwerp World Diamond Centre. Participants who successfully accomplished all five missions were rewarded with special gift bags from The HISTORY™ Channel.

With highly innovative visual effects and compelling storytelling of History’s Greatest Heists With Pierce Brosnan, you too can be in the center of the action. Watch the episodes beginning April 30, Sundays at 9pm, only on The HISTORY™ Channel.

EPISODIC GUIDE

Episode 1: The Lufthansa Heist
30 April 2023, Sunday 9pm _(SIN/HK)

A mafia crew with insider knowledge attempts the most lucrative airline heist in history at JFK International Airport. Made famous by the film Goodfellas, its aftermath saw those associated with the crime disappearing – and dying.

Episode 2: The United California Bank Job
7 May 2023, Sunday 9pm _(SIN/HK)

A mob-connected heist crew the FBI described as “the best ever” takes down a Southern California bank in 1972, getting away with millions in cash allegedly linked to President Richard Nixon.

Episode 3: The Antwerp Diamond Heist
14 May 2023, Sunday 9pm _(SIN/HK)

An elite crew of Italian thieves targets the vault of the Antwerp World Diamond Centre. After 27 months of planning, they execute their ambitious and intricate plan and make off with more than $100 million in diamonds, gems, and cash.

Episode 4: The Dunbar Armored Depot Heist
21 May 2023, Sunday 9pm _(SIN/HK)

An armored-car depot employee uses his insider knowledge to plan a heist that could net him, and the longtime friends he recruits, more than $18 million in cash.

Episode 5: The Pierre Hotel Robbery
28 May 2023, Sunday 9pm _(SIN/HK)

A duo of highly skilled thieves who specialize in hotel jobs goes after the biggest target of their careers: New York’s famed Pierre Hotel. With a plan timed down to the minute, the team takes over the 41-story hotel, getting into the lobby vault and its hundreds of safe deposit boxes.

Episode 6: The Baker Street Bank Burglary
4 June 2023, Sunday 9pm _(SIN/HK)

Enterprising thieves tunnel underneath and up into the vault of a Lloyds Bank branch in London. When an amateur radio enthusiast intercepts their walkie-talkie chatter, they find themselves in a high-stakes cat-and-mouse game with Scotland Yard.

Episode 7: The Gardner Museum Heist
11 June 2023, Sunday 9pm _(SIN/HK)

Two thieves dressed as fake cops make off with a half-billion dollars’ worth of world-class artwork from a Boston museum. Although the paintings are still missing, numerous suspects turn up – dead.

Episode 8: The Museum Of Natural History Heist
18 June 2023, Sunday 9pm _(SIN/HK)

Surfers by day, cat burglars by night, this trio of thieves is in New York to steal the priceless jewels at the American Museum of Natural History. Their bold plan has them creeping along the museum ledge, 125 feet above the streets of Manhattan, willing to risk their lives to get away with millions.

April 25, 2023
FIBA ambassador Luis Scola and American rapper Saweetie to banner FIBA World Cup Draw 2023

The world’s biggest basketball tournament is about to unfold in Manila at the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023, with basketball legend Luis Scola gracing the much-anticipated draw with performances by American rapper Saweetie, Sarah Geronimo, and Billy Crawford this Saturday, April 29 at the Smart Araneta Center in Cubao, Quezon City.

Scola has won multiple medals as a member of the national men’s basketball team of Argentina. He played for Argentina’s national squad from 2001 until 2019, winning two silver medals at the FIBA World Championships, one each in 2002 and during his final tournament in 2019 at the age of 39. During the 2015 FIBA Americas Championship tournament, Scola became the all-time leading scorer in FIBA AmeriCup history and won his 4th tournament MVP.

On the live performance side, Saweetie is an American rapper who made a name for herself by rhyming over iconic tracks, giving a nod to those who came before while building her own catalog of fiery hits such as “My Type,” “Tap In,” and “Best Friend,” a collaboration with Doja Cat.

Meanwhile pop superstars Sarah Geronimo and Billy Crawford are expected to represent the Filipino side at the international event happening on Saturday, 7:30 at the Big Dome.

Ranked #40 in the world, the Philippines has gained an outright berth in the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup Games by being one of the host nations alongside Japan and Indonesia. This is the sixth time that the Philippines is playing on the world stage, and its second time as host nation following its hosting in 1978 where it finished in the top eight.

As a FIBA global partner, Smart is going all-out for the FIBAWC 2023 Draw Event as anticipation reaches a new high with all the 32 qualified nations receiving their country assignments during the spectacle. This year’s much-anticipated FIBA draw will finally announce the matchups and finalize which countries will be playing in the Philippines, giving Pinoy basketball fans time to plan which games and basketball greats they wish to see live in action.

Catch Ben&Ben live and win prizes from Smart at ‘FIBA in Manila’ in BGC

Basketball fans can also join the all-day festival party, “FIBA in Manila,” at BGC Uptown area, corner of 9th Avenue and 36th Street in Bonifacio Global City (BGC) from 10 am onwards, also on April 29.

Ben&Ben’s performance at the “FIBA in Manila” will be streamed live via Smart’s official Facebook page at 2pm.

Never miss a moment with the Smart LiveStream App

Smart subscribers can get hyped with non-stop FIBA basketball action by catching all the exciting happenings and the games, including those played in the previous windows, via the Smart Livestream App.

Using the app, fans can catch every minute of live basketball action at the 2023 FIBAWC from Aug. 25 to Sept. 10.

The Smart LiveStream app is downloadable on the App Store and the Google Play Store, and subscribers will only need to enter a valid Smart Prepaid or Postpaid mobile number to enjoy all the sports action.

April 25, 2023