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New Balance and Foot Locker Exclusively Launch ABZORB 2000 Colorways with Global Football Star Endrick

New Balance ignites the season with new colorways of the ABZORB 2000, dropping exclusively at Foot Locker. The launch is supported by a global campaign featuring global football sensation and New Balance athlete Endrick, spotlighting the sneaker’s cultural resonance, street style and progressive vis tech design.

Together, New Balance and Foot Locker continue to shape youth culture and sneaker trends across the globe. Shot on a street corner in Madrid with Endrick, the campaign captures the energy of a local hangout and moments of community connection. The ABZORB 2000 thrives in this space where different generations converge, and the streets comes alive with energy.

Endrick is one of global football’s brightest rising stars. At just 19, he made history as the youngest player to debut and score for Palmeiras as well as represent Brazil in nearly six decades. His explosive pace, fearless left-footed play and standout performances on the international stage have cemented his status as a future icon. Endrick’s relationship with New Balance is built on shared values – authenticity, individuality and community. His effortless style and global influence make him the perfect face for the ABZORB 2000 campaign where sport meets culture. With global football set to take center stage in 2026, the timing of this campaign marks a powerful moment for sport, style and youth culture. As he leads the next generation of athletes, Endrick brings real energy, originality and warmth, reflecting the bold spirit of New Balance and the spaces that inspire it.

Originally introduced in 1993, ABZORB cushioning revolutionized running technology and has since become a signature feature of several fan favorite lifestyle models. The ABZORB 2000 transforms this functional feature into a fresh visual design statement standing out amongst other New Balance silhouettes, delivering exceptional comfort while honoring New Balance’s running heritage through a modern lens. Celebrating progressive design and visible tech, the ABZORB 2000 features a minimalist upper, futuristic detailing, and a full-length sole unit combining ABZORB cushioning with ABZORB SBS pods, a nod to 2000s running classics.

The ABZORB 2000 will be available in Neptune Grey/Blue Oyster and in Timberwolf/Double Bubble launching exclusively at Foot Locker globally and online on Monday, February 16, for a suggested retail price of $170 USD. Complete the look with head-to-toe styling, pairing the ABZORB 2000 with the New Balance Color Blocked Woven Jacket (suggested retail price: $100 USD) and Color Blocked Woven Pant (suggested retail price: $80) in Blue Oyster.

April 1, 2026
MOVIE REVIEW: Drama in Search of a Story — Sinag Maynila’s “Desperada”

Directed by Luisito Lagdameo Ignacio and written by Dennis C. Evangelista, Desperada is a film that feels more focused with melodrama than it is about fleshing out its characters and capturing striking images for impact rather than illumination. While the film tackles rather complex social issues, it often relies on transgressiveness to get a reaction rather than to subvert our biases.

The film opens in a cemetery, where Brenda (Robb Guinto) wanders naked through the darkness, confused and lost. She is found by a woman (played by Sue Prado) who runs a shelter and invites Brenda to stay until she recovers. There, she meets others on the fringes of society, each grappling with their own psychosis and disorders. While this setting offers ample opportunity to talk about how the system has failed the most vulnerable, yet the film chooses to zero in on their fleeting joys and breakdowns. Brenda soon becomes the object of another ward, Hesus (Mhack Morales) while later, Brenda sees a childhood friend and her ex-boyfriend, Lucio (Yasser Marta), who eventually joins them at the shelter. But Lucio is a chaotic force that tests Brenda’s resolve to heal. He’s an addict and is constantly thinking about sex and his presence breaks the relative harmony of the shelter.

Desperada

While there’s plenty of opportunity to get real character work done in this film, Desperada doesn’t do any of the hard work required to flesh out the wards’ dysfunctions or psychoses. Funnily enough, the three characters who enter the shelter – Brenda, Lucio, and a character played by Jorge Guda – arrive broken, screaming, or listless, only to become instantly lucid after a single bath. Hesus is quick to fall in love with Brenda and maintains this affection throughout the film though the movie never really gives us any indication what it is in Brenda that caught his attention.

Brenda’s journey is the only one among the wards that resembles an arc, yet it is so rushed that it lacks the necessary narrative beats to feel fully realized. At the beginning, we her brought into the shelter, plagued by panic attacks; we see Hesus shower her with affection, and then the arrival of Lucio. Her physical desires are manifested, only for her to pull away from Lucio’s destructive force. Eventually, she finds her mother, who has been literally caged like an animal in the slums. She resolves her past quickly with one interaction from her one-dimensionally evil father but yet she can’t seem to let Lucio go. And while all these narrative beats are shown, it’s the steps that happen in-between that would ground this story but all we get is the highlight reel.

Desperada

Aside from Brenda, it is the relationship between Sue Prado’s character and her lover (played by Mercedes Cabral) that really feels the most real. They are given moments to show their character’s good moments and weak moments. They get to have quiet moments to discuss the challenges they face running the shelter out of the kindness of their hearts, with Cabral’s character playing a former nun and Prado an orphan. Because most of their scenes unfod without explosive drama, we are able to truly see their humanity rather than just a mere spectacle of emotions.

At times, Robb Guinto and Mhack Morales have moments when they clearly articulate their character’s reality. Outside of the more seasoned Prado and Cabral, Guinto and Morales show a vulnerability, especially in their less dramatic scenes. In contrast, Yasser Marta and Jorge Guda are always performing at a constant “level 10,” almost at the level of camp. Guinto and Morales show better range and I feel that if the material was more nuanced, more fleshed-out, they would be able to give more in future roles.

Desperada

Despite the screenplay’s weaknesses, the film is rather gorgeous to look at. Cinematographer TM Malones delivers gorgeous shots, especially when playing with darkness. He has a few cemetery scenes, which includes Guinto’s striking opening naked scene, that are visually stunning and the way he lights all of Brenda’s mother caged in a shanty creates an emotional effect which elevates the material away from camp.

Ultimately, Desperada is meant more to be more shocking and entertaining than it is groundbreaking. This is evident with the amount of sex scenes that feel unnecessary, the reliance on coarse language, and the way it uses a queer character for comedy. Lucky that Guinto is an arresting protagonist and Prado and Cabral give the film a grounding element that shows the film has way more potential that it allowed itself to explore.

My Rating: 2 Stars

Today marks the last day of Sinag Maynila Festival. While Desperada remains a provocative addition to Luisito Lagdameo Ignacio’s filmography, it stands as a testament to the festival’s commitment to showcasing bold, local cinema that isn’t afraid to push boundaries. Check the official Sinag Maynila social media pages for today’s final screening schedules and theater locations.

April 1, 2026
Mary Grace Café Draws Crowds and Warm Reception in Singapore Debut

Since opening its doors on March 13, 2026 at 52 Tras Street, Tanjong Pagar, Mary Grace Café’s first-ever international branch has drawn a steady, eager stream of guests as Filipinos in Singapore find a comforting taste of home and locals embrace the brand’s signature warmth and flavors for the first time.

The opening was met with an immediate and enthusiastic reception, reflecting its broad appeal across diverse communities. Filipinos expressed a surge of Pinoy pride, thrilled that a beloved brand they grew up with—or frequently visited in Manila—was now easily accessible. This palpable excitement was evident on opening day, with queues of guests lining up for take-away baked goods.

Beyond the diaspora, Singaporeans demonstrated a genuine curiosity, first observed during the brand’s successful web-based pop-ups in September 2025. International residents also showed significant interest, readily exploring the café.

This warm welcome underscores how Mary Grace’s “Goodness of Home,” built on cherished traditions and authentic flavors, has earned its place on the global stage. “I have always believed that what we serve is more than food. It is the feeling of being taken cared of, of being home,” said Mary Grace Dimacali, Founder, President, and CEO of Mary Grace Foods Inc. “When I started Mary Grace 30 years ago, I was simply trying to share what I knew best—good ingredients, heartfelt cooking, and a warm table for everyone. It fills my heart that we have brought this feeling to a whole new community in Singapore.”

Extending the “Goodness of Home” Beyond the Philippines

From the very beginning, Mary Grace Café was an extension of home—a place where the smell of freshly baked ensaymada meant comfort, where a warm cup of hot chocolate meant belonging, and where every corner table held a story worth telling.

The decision to plant Mary Grace’s first international location in Singapore was both strategic and sentimental. Singapore is home to a vibrant and thriving Filipino community—professionals, families, and creatives who have built their lives in the Lion City while carrying the Philippines close to their hearts. At the same time, Singapore’s cosmopolitan, food-forward culture and its appetite for authentic, quality-driven dining experiences made it the ideal first frontier for the brand.

The location at Tanjong Pagar—in the heart of one of Singapore’s most beloved heritage neighborhoods—reflects this intention: to be accessible, to be welcoming, and to earn a place not just among Filipinos abroad, but among Singaporeans and international guests discovering Filipino warmth.

“We wanted every detail in Singapore to feel like Mary Grace,” said Chiara Dimacali-Hugo, Executive Director of Mary Grace International. “My mother built this brand with her deep belief in what a home should feel like. It is our family’s privilege to carry that forward into Singapore, and to make sure that every single guest who walks through that door—whether they are a Tita who grew up eating our ensaymada in Manila, or a Singaporean who has never heard of us before—feels exactly the same thing: that they are welcome, that they are cared for, and that they are home.”

Unveiling the Limited-Edition Pandan Coconut Cake

In honor of the international expansion, Mary Grace Café introduced a limited-edition Pandan Coconut Cake, available exclusively at Mary Grace locations across the Philippines. Inspired by the flavors of Singapore, this specialty product is a fragrant pandan almond cake with toasted coconut white chocolate crunch, silky coconut crémeux, and light-as-a-cloud whipped pandan ganache—crafted together for a cake that’s light and indulgent at once.

What’s Next for Mary Grace Café

The Singapore opening marks a significant milestone, yet it is truly just the beginning. As Mary Grace embarks on its next decade, the priority for this first international outpost is to uphold the brand’s renowned quality and consistency, mirroring its esteemed reputation in the Philippines. The vision extends to cultivating a deep connection within Singapore, striving to expand the Mary Grace customer base and establish the café as a cherished “home” for everyone.

Future plans include thoughtfully expanding the menu with beloved Filipino favorites from Manila and introducing innovative Singapore-exclusive creations, with aspirations for additional café branches and kiosks across the island.

While the potential for broader international expansion remains a long-term aspiration, for now, nurturing the Singapore café to thrive amidst the dynamic F&B landscape is paramount, ensuring it continues to bring the “Goodness of Home” and its unique blend of Filipino warmth and quality to all who experience its charm.

April 1, 2026
“The Flowers of Evil” Japanese Live-Action Adaptation Delivers a Bold, Dark Story on Disney+
A Bold Tale of Youth, Guilt, and Obsession

Arriving with a striking emotional punch, The Flowers of Evil is set to premiere on Disney+ on April 9, bringing a chilling live-action adaptation of Shūzō Oshimi’s celebrated manga to global audiences. Dark, provocative, and deeply psychological, the series explores the fragile boundaries between curiosity, shame, and control.

With Keita Meguro (Red Blue) and Shuho Takase (Truck Girl) leading the adaptation, and directors Young Paul (WOWOW I, KILL) and Noboru Iguchi (Aku no Hana) at the helm, the series promises a visually compelling and emotionally charged experience.

When One Impulse Sparks a Downward Spiral

In a quiet town where routine defines everyday life, high school student Takao Kasuga turns to literature for escape. Inspired by the works of Baudelaire, he dreams of something more—particularly the attention of his admired classmate, Nanako Saeki.

But everything shifts in an instant.

Caught in an embarrassing and troubling act involving Saeki’s gym clothes, Takao becomes the target of Sawa Nakamura, a classmate who thrives on pushing boundaries. Rather than exposing him, she binds him to her through manipulation and blackmail, dragging him into a series of increasingly reckless decisions.

As guilt tightens its grip and fear begins to consume him, Takao finds himself trapped in a situation that feels impossible to escape—building toward a tense and explosive climax at a local town festival.

Performances That Capture Emotional Turmoil

Fuku Suzuki (Marumo no Okite) takes on the role of Takao Kasuga, portraying a teenager caught between innocence and inner conflict. Alongside him, Ano (Oshi no Ko) delivers a chilling performance as Nakamura, whose unsettling presence fuels the story’s tension.

Their on-screen dynamic brings depth and authenticity to a narrative that thrives on emotional extremes.

From Cult Manga to Captivating Live Action

Originally penned by Shūzō Oshimi, The Flowers of Evil earned widespread recognition for its fearless storytelling and raw portrayal of adolescence. This live-action version preserves the manga’s unsettling tone while reimagining it with a cinematic edge that heightens its emotional impact.

Produced by TV Tokyo and C&I Entertainment, the series highlights the growing influence of Japanese dramas on the global stage.

Expanding Disney+’s Japanese Content Library

With its latest addition, Disney+ continues to strengthen its lineup of compelling Japanese series. Viewers can also enjoy titles such as:
- Gannibal – A suspense-filled mystery set in a secluded village
- Land of Tanabata – A unique story blending humor and supernatural elements
- My Family – A tense and emotional tale of a father’s desperate mission
Don’t Miss the Premiere

Intense, unsettling, and undeniably compelling, The Flowers of Evil is a series that lingers long after the credits roll.

Stream it starting April 9, exclusively on Disney+.
April 1, 2026
Rosé as the Face of PUMA H-Street: Where Heritage Running Meets Modern Street Style

As a global style and music icon known for her understated elegance and trend-shaping influence, Rosé brings a distinct cultural weight to the revived PUMA H-Street. She turns every step into a statement, and with the PUMA H-Street, she does it effortlessly.

As the new face of the iconic silhouette, Rosé reimagines a track-born classic for today’s streets, transforming its late-90s racing roots into something fresh, fluid, and undeniably modern. Lightweight, low-profile, and built for movement, the H-Street becomes the foundation of her everyday style, seamlessly shifting from laid-back moments to bold, fashion-forward looks.

Taking the H-Street from archival design to a streetwear essential, Rosé showcases how the sneaker’s race-inspired construction becomes a canvas for versatility. Available in Poison Pink-PUMA Silver, Fizzy Green-PUMA Silver, and PUMA Black-PUMA Silver colorways, the H-Street stands out with its stripped-back build, sleek proportions, and barely-there feel, making it the perfect foundation for bold, playful, and effortlessly cool looks.

From Track Roots to a Modern-Day Streetwear Essential

PUMA’s H-Street redefined for modern streetwear

Rooted in late-90s innovation, the H-Street traces its lineage to PUMA’s Harambee racing spike, engineered for elite sprinting performance with a focus on speed and minimalism. Today, that same DNA translates into a sneaker that feels just as relevant on the streets.

Rosé brings this evolution to life, proving that the H-Street is more than an homage to PUMA’s legacy. It’s a fashion-forward silhouette that bridges past and present. Whether she’s heading out for a coffee run, dressing up for a casual meetup, or embracing playful suburban moments, the sneaker adapts effortlessly, turning everyday routines into style statements.

Lightweight and Versatile Design

Light on your feet, strong on style with PUMA’s H-Street

The original Harambee silhouette earned recognition for its sleek design and lightweight comfort—qualities that continue to define the modern H-Street. With the sneaker reimagined for today’s street style, it honors PUMA’s track heritage while evolving into a street-ready essential.

When worn, the H-Street feels almost effortless. Light, low, and close to the ground, as if the sneaker moves with you. Its breathable mesh upper gives a soft, flexible fit that adapts quickly to the foot, while the slim sole keeps every step grounded yet agile. There’s an immediate sense of ease the moment you put it on: no heaviness, no bulk, just a clean, streamlined feel that works for long walks, quick city commutes, or full-day wear without distraction.

For Rosé, this makes the sneaker ideal for fashion experimentation. Its signature T-shaped toe box, streamlined shape, and bold branding create a distinct profile that stands out across different looks. From daily commutes to social outings and even styled campaign moments, she demonstrates how a performance-rooted sneaker can double as a standout fashion piece without compromising comfort or mobility.

A Canvas for Personal Style

From speed to style, PUMA’s H-Street has it all

At the same time, the H-Street’s nostalgic elements, including its race-ready silhouette and classic branding, are elevated through modern materials and Rosé’s styling sensibility. She brings personality and narrative into every look, moving effortlessly between grounded, everyday outfits and more imaginative, fashion-forward moments.

From suburban backyards to creative, surreal settings, the sneaker proves its range: versatile, lightweight, and expressive. It’s designed for those who move through different worlds in a single day: style-conscious commuters, comfort-driven casual dressers, and fashion-forward individuals who treat everyday outfits as self-expression.

In Rosé’s hands, the H-Street becomes a reintroduction of heritage through a contemporary lens. It honors its past while stepping confidently into the future, showing how a track-born icon can thrive in today’s street style culture.

Discover the H-Street now starting at PHP 5,500 at PUMA.com, PUMA flagship stores, and select resellers. Visit PUMA Philippines’ official website at ph.puma.com and follow its official website and social media pages on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to get the latest updates.

April 1, 2026
Making Space for Summer, Even on a Full Schedule

Summer doesn’t always come with time off. For many, it looks like regular workdays, back-to-back tasks, and squeezing in mini breaks where you can. But even without a getaway, there are still many other ways to feel the season.

If your days are spent working through the heat, those in-between moments start to matter more: a quick pause, something cold to recharge, or a meal you don’t have to think too much about. It’s not about taking time off, but finding small pockets of ease within the day.

In this way, summer becomes less about taking a break and more about how you take breaks. Simple rituals—like an iced drink during a busy afternoon or a well-timed meal after a long stretch of work—can bring that same light, refreshing feeling. Platforms like foodpanda and services like pandamart, make these moments easier to access without the extra trip out. So even on full workdays, there’s still something to look forward to.

To kick off the summer season, foodpanda is launching its Best Seller Campaign, which offers up to 30% off on selected menu items from well-loved restaurants like McDonald’s, Wendy’s, Shakey’s, Domino’s Pizza, Conti’s, and more—making everyday meals feel more worth it.

At the same time, enjoying these summer moments at home doesn’t have to come at a high cost. If you’re ordering in, you can use the code SARAP to get ₱100 off at participating foodpanda restaurants (minimum spends vary). For pantry needs, pandamart offers up to 10% off on essentials, while PRO users enjoy up to 20% off and free delivery on food orders (capped at ₱49).

Whether you’re treating yourself to a favorite comfort meal or simply stocking up on cooling essentials for the week, these little wins make the summer hustle feel a lot lighter. Because sometimes, summer isn’t about where you go—it’s about how you feel. More often than not, that feeling can be found in the most ordinary moments: in what we eat, how we pause, and the small ways we choose to enjoy each day.

March 31, 2026
“Supergirl” Trailer Ignites the Skies—Milly Alcock Leads DC’s Daring New Adventure This June 24
A Striking New Chapter in the DC Universe

And just like that—DC Studios sets the tone for summer. The newly released trailer for “Supergirl” delivers a powerfulfirst look at a heroine ready to redefine her legacy. Directed by Craig Gillespie (“Cruella,” “I, Tonya”) and headlined by Milly Alcock (“House of the Dragon”), the film blends emotional storytelling with high-impact action.

Mark your calendars: June 24, 2026. That’s when “Supergirl” officially lands in Philippine cinemas, bringing with it a fresh and exciting cosmic journey.

A Hero’s Path Forged in Loss and Purpose

At once reluctant, yet undeniably brave, Kara Zor-El steps into the spotlight. Alcock’s portrayal captures a heroine caught between grief and duty—until a sudden, ruthless threat forces her hand.

Pushed beyond her limits, Kara joins forces with an unexpected ally. Together, they embark on a sweeping interstellar mission driven by vengeance, justice, and a search for meaning. Along the way, the film unfolds as a gripping and heartfelt exploration of identity, strength, and belonging.

Watch the Official Trailer:

An Ensemble That Elevates the Journey

Surrounding Alcock is a dynamic cast that adds depth and intensity to the story:
- Matthias Schoenaerts
- Eve Ridley
- David Krumholtz
- Emily Beecham
- Jason Momoa
Meanwhile, DC Studios leaders James Gunn and Peter Safran steer the production, with a screenplay by Ana Nogueira—ensuring a cohesive and compelling vision from start to finish.

Behind the lens, the creative team shapes a visually rich universe:
- Cinematography by Rob Hardy
- Production Design by Neil Lamont
- Editing by Tatiana S. Riegel
- Costumes by Anna B. Sheppard
- VFX by Geoffrey Baumann
- Music by Ramin Djawadi
A Must-See Cinematic Event This Summer

Presented by Warner Bros. Pictures, “Supergirl” opens internationally on June 24, 2026, followed by its North American release on June 26, including IMAX® screenings for a fully immersive experience.

With its striking visuals, emotionally charged narrative, and a heroine rising against all odds, “Supergirl” positions itself as one of the most anticipated and uplifting releases of the year.

This summer, the universe gets a new protector—and her story is only just beginning.
March 31, 2026
Secrets Unearthed: “The Sarcophagus” Clip Teases the Terror of “Lee Cronin’s The Mummy” — In Cinemas April 15
A Sinister Discovery Beneath the Sands

What was Katie doing inside a 3,000-year-old sarcophagus? It’s the kind of question that sends a chill down your spine—and the newly released “The Sarcophagus” clip offers a haunting glimpse of the answer.

With an eerie blend of mystery and dread, Lee Cronin’s The Mummy promises a bold and terrifying new chapter in one of horror’s most enduring legends.

When the Past Refuses to Stay Buried

At first, it’s a story of loss.

A journalist’s young daughter disappears into the vast desert, leaving behind a shattered family and a mystery that lingers for years. Then, without warning—eight years later—she returns.

Alive. Found. Home.

Yet something feels deeply wrong.

What should have been a joyful reunion quickly spirals into a gripping nightmare, as unsettling truths begin to surface. The girl they thought they knew may be carrying something ancient… something dangerous.

Watch “The Sarcophagus” Clip

Step into the tension and uncover the horror:

The clip delivers a powerful jolt of suspense, hinting at the film’s suffocating atmosphere and the dark forces at play.

A Visionary Take on a Horror Classic

Following the massive success of Evil Dead Rise, writer-director Lee Cronin returns with a striking and intense reimagining of The Mummy. Backed by horror heavyweights James Wan, Jason Blum, and John Keville, the film blends emotional storytelling with relentless terror.

Leading the cast are Jack Reynor, Laia Costa, May Calamawy, and Natalie Grace, alongside Veronica Falcón—each bringing depth and urgency to a story that thrives on both fear and feeling.

Built by a Masterful Creative Team

Behind the scenes, a skilled group of filmmakers shapes the film’s immersive world. Cinematographer Dave Garbett captures the stark beauty and menace of the desert, while production designer Nick Bassett crafts a setting rich in atmosphere.

Editor Bryan Shaw sharpens every moment of tension, complemented by Joanna Eatwell’s detailed costumes and Stephen McKeon’s haunting musical score. Casting directors Terri Taylor and Sarah Domeier Lindo ensure a compelling ensemble that grounds the supernatural story in human emotion.

A Must-See Horror Event This April

Presented by New Line Cinema, Atomic Monster, and Blumhouse, Lee Cronin’s The Mummy is set to deliver a powerful cinematic experience on the big screen. Distributed locally by Warner Bros Pictures PH.
- International Release: April 15, 2026
- North America (Theaters & IMAX®): April 17, 2026
Ancient evil has awakened—and it’s closer than ever. #LeeCroninsTheMummy

_{Photo and Video Credit: Warner Bros. Pictures}
March 31, 2026
Rockwell Easter Jam: Hop Into The Spotlight at Power Plant Mall
Attention little superstars: it’s your time to shine!

Easter is about to get loud and lively as Power Plant Mall introduces the hottest bunny pop group in the area: The Hopstars! They are gearing up for their biggest show yet on Sunday, April 5, 2026 at The Fifth at Rockwell, R5, where little rockstars are invited to hop into the spotlight and join in on the fun!

Help The Hopstars prepare for a show-stopping performance by working your backstage magic. Jump from one exciting challenge to another—from styling the stars and dancing to groovy bunny beats to egg hunting your way towards an encore filled with delightful treats. More surprises await including interactive performances and a magical show!

How to join the Hopstars

Each child participating in the Easter activities will be required to have a Hopstars Album that serves as an All Access Pass. Pre-order your Hopstars Album on shop.TheRockwellist.com.

The kit includes the following:
- One (1) Participant ID
- Two (2) Companion Wristbands
- One (1) Bunny Beats Bag Pass
- One (1) Photobooth Pass
- Five (5) Activity Passes
All Hopstars Albums will be available for claiming during mall hours only from March 26 to April 5, 2026 at The Rockwellist Pop-up (R1 Level, Power Plant Mall). Kindly present your order confirmation email upon claiming. There will be no deliveries for the Hopstars’ Album.

Event loot bags will only be available for claiming upon registration on the event day, April 5, 2026, using the Bunny Beats Bag Pass found inside the Hopstars Album.

Make sure to bring your Hopstars Album and its contents to be able to join the activities.
March 31, 2026
Nicole Laurel Asensio is Shure Microphone’s first Philippine Brand ambassador for music

When Nothing Is Certain, Stay With What You Love

At her core, Nicole is a storyteller—whether she’s interpreting a jazz standard, belting our classic rock or performing her own compositions in her home country or elsewhere in the world. Being named the first Filipina ambassador for Shure Microphones reflects more than an achievement, it’s a natural extension of her journey. This breakthrough marks a moment where timing, trust, and years of work come together—Nicole’s 20 years in music, Shure’s 100-year legacy, and JB Music’s 50 years excellence and supporting artists in the Philippines. Three milestones, Three Different journeys. One purpose. Shure celebrated their 100th year anniversary and new partnership with JB Music Philippines (who also celebrated their 50th anniversary) where Nicole performed as Shure’s launching artist, she was then named Shure’s first Filipina brand ambassador (for music).

Built to Last

For nearly a century, Shure has been part of those moments — when the voice has to carry, when the sound has to hold, when what’s being shared needs to be felt, not just heard. In those moments, Nicole writes and performs for the ones who sit with their feelings a little longer than most. The ones navigating reinvention. The ones healing quietly. The ones who live somewhere between nostalgia and now. That only happens when nothing gets in the way and people can focus on the music. “Reliable gear is a big factor—it makes me breathe and sing easier,” Nicole says.

In the Philippines, JB Music has spent 50 years making that possible, giving artists access to tools they can trust as they find their voice.

Now, that shared understanding comes together in Nicole’s partnership with Shure, as she takes the stage with the Super 55 (launching soon) — an iconic microphone rooted in decades of music history that stands as part of that continuity—where past and present meet to help all types of voices find their place.

From One Stage to Another

Filipino voices have always carried stories across borders. What’s burgeoning now is how far and fast they can reach others, how many of our stories get to be heard through song.  After all, what seeps into our consciousness isn’t just the performance… when our stories are told through song, the singing stays with us, reminding us that music is a phenomenal shared experience, carried from one listener to another, long after the stage lights fade.

Following her residency at Café Carlyle in Hong Kong, Nicole took the stage in Taipei, becoming the first Filipino artist to perform at Smith & Wollensky. From one room to another, the journey expands—without losing its center. When she performs abroad, she carries pieces of home with her. Sometimes in language. Sometimes in phrasing. Sometimes in something less visible, but deeply felt. There might be someone in the room who doesn’t understand every word — but understands exactly what she means.That exchange is the point. With a global presence that has long supported artists across borders, this partnership with Shure allows that exchange to travel further — amplifying the voice of local stories and carrying them onto wider audiences, without losing what makes them personal.

Music Never Dies, It Adapts

No one could have predicted how the world would shift and sway after the pandemic pause, years later, there seems to be a passionate resurgence for nightlife, but not just the kind we knew before, younger Filipinos have been embracing speakeasy culture, low wattage lighting and jazz. The streets of Manila glimmer madly under the newly installed neon signs and deep crimson glow of scores of venues putting on “jazz nights” across the metro. The perfect backdrop for a Shure Super 55.

“Both the local and global music scene is embracing a resurgence of the classics and jazz influences in modern music, Here in Manila, there have been so many “jazz nights” and speakeasies popping up across the metro, younger crowds stumble in ordering martinis and classic cocktails singing along to standards in dimly lit bars— like the olden golden days, It is an unexpected renaissance of the jazz age influence right about a century later with the quirks and complexities of modern day Filipino style— the perfect blend of old meets new.”  – Nicole

There were times when many questioned Nicole’s choice switching genres from her former rock inclinations, but who would have known that choice she made over a decade ago would take her exactly where she was meant to be today —  an influential figure amongst the younger ones in this realm, smiling ear to ear, Shure 55 in hand, knowing that perhaps surpassing the doubt from naysayers was worth it. After all, reinvention doesn’t mean that you no longer love other kinds of music, it simply means you’ve unlocked new parts of your story through other forms of artistry. It goes to show that even when nothing is certain, keep doing what you love. You never know how your own story goes unless you write it yourself.

Photo credits:

Rham Canlas / Midnight Dream Studio (yellow background)
Daniel Tan (guitars background)
Deizz Monteloyola / Midnight Dream Studio (books background)
Jeff Cabiling / Rham Canlas / Midnight Dream Studio (spotlight and gray background)

March 31, 2026