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  • CELEBRATIONS: 40 Years of Christmas Concert at The Pen

    CELEBRATIONS: 40 Years of Christmas Concert at The Pen

    Once a year on a late Sunday afternoon in December, something familiar and quietly magical unfolds at The Peninsula Manila. Families arrive dressed in their Sunday best. Children tug at their parents’ hands as they enter The Lobby and look up at the towering tree that has watched Manila grow for decades. Later, after musicians of a 49-piece orchestra have finished tuning their instruments, the light softens, and the city gathers for an afternoon that feels like coming home.

    2025 Christmas Concert at The Pen 1

    Welcome to the fortieth season of Christmas Concert at The Pen!

    For forty years, Christmas Concert at The Pen has been woven into these scenes. It has welcomed generations of Manileños who return not only for the music, but for the feeling it brings. Over the decades, The Peninsula Manila has opened its doors to extraordinary Filipino

    talent. Artists who first sang here as promising young performers have returned as some of the country’s most admired voices, a quiet testament to how this tradition has nurtured local talent across the years.

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    This 40th season brings together the Manila Symphony Orchestra under Jonathan Velasco, mezzo sopranos Cris Villonco and Yanah Laurel, and the fifty-voice Ateneo Chamber Singers. Their program will weave together carols, film and Disney favorites, light opera selections, and beloved holiday pieces, including the “Hallelujah Chorus” from Handel’s Messiah.

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    Kevin Tsang, Managing Director of The Peninsula Manila, reflects on this milestone with warmth. “We are delighted to have this wealth of Filipino talents at this year’s festive season concert. Year after year, these artists bring their heart and brilliance to The Lobby. Our hope is that this afternoon brings the spirit of Christmas into the hearts of our audience and becomes a joyful finale to their year.”

    He adds, “The first part of the concert will feature a playful mix of Barry White, movie musicals, light opera, Disney, and a well-loved Filipino pop classic. As tradition dictates, the second part will be filled with the familiar sounds of Christmas. Aside from the “Hallelujah Chorus,” which remains as magnificent today as it did when it was first performed in 1742, we have holiday songs and orchestral pieces that will inspire joy in both first-time listeners and those who return each season.”

    What makes the concert endure is the way it brings people together. Guests sing along. Strangers exchange smiles. Children hear their first live orchestra. Families who have been coming for decades whisper to one another that it still feels as uplifting as the very first time.

    As The Peninsula Manila approaches its fifth decade, the 40th season of Christmas Concert at The Pen reflects a legacy shaped by and shared with the city itself: a legacy of  Filipino talent, community, and the shared joy of welcoming the season in one of Manila’s most cherished holiday traditions.

    2025 Christmas Concert at The Pen Poster

    Christmas Concert at The Pen

    The 40th season of Christmas Concert at The Pen will be held on Sunday, December 7, 2025, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at The Lobby.

    Table reservations at The Lobby are available at P75,000 with a set deluxe festive merienda menu for ten. Tables for four are available at P30,000 with a set deluxe festive merienda menu.

    The Upper Lobby seating is available at P20,000 for tables of four with a set festive merienda menu.

    Prices are in Philippine Pesos and include VAT. Rates are subject to service charge and applicable local taxes.

    For inquiries or further information on Christmas Concert at The Pen 2025, please call (63 2) 8887 2888, extension 7410 (Festive Desk), email diningpmn@peninsula.com, or visit the website peninsula.com.

  • Romance, Rivalry, and Chaos Collide in “The Roses,” Streaming on Disney+ December 3

    Romance, Rivalry, and Chaos Collide in “The Roses,” Streaming on Disney+ December 3

    A Blazing New Story Arrives on Disney+

    Things are about to heat up at home—quite literally—as Searchlight Pictures’ The Roses makes its exclusive premiere on Disney+ this December 3. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Jay Roach, the film features powerhouse duo Benedict Cumberbatch and Olivia Colman in a story that gleefully blends romance, rivalry, and spectacular dysfunction.

    It’s funny, it’s messy, and it’s brimming with the kind of tension that feels all too familiar in today’s high-pressure world.

    Behind the Picture-Perfect Façade

    At the heart of The Roses is Ivy (Colman) and Theo Rose (Cumberbatch), a couple who seem to have everything sorted out. They enjoy fulfilling careers, a warm marriage, and children who complete the picture of domestic bliss. But—here’s where the cracks begin—perfection rarely tells the full story.

    As Theo grapples with a career that’s quickly unraveling, Ivy finds herself soaring in her own professional pursuits. That imbalance sets the stage for a slow burn of competition, resentment, and emotional chaos. What begins quietly soon escalates into an all-out domestic storm, sending the Roses down a wildly unpredictable path.

    A Modern Twist on a Beloved Classic

    The Roses reimagines the iconic 1989 film The War of the Roses, originally adapted from Warren Adler’s bestselling novel. This contemporary version sharpens the themes of ambition, partnership, and identity—revealing just how quickly love can turn volatile when desires collide.

    The film doesn’t just refresh a classic; it reframes it through today’s lens, making its emotional blowouts feel both outrageous and surprisingly relatable.

    The cast is stacked with comedic and dramatic talent, featuring:

    • Andy Samberg
    • Allison Janney
    • Belinda Bromilow
    • Sunita Mani
    • Ncuti Gatwa
    • Jamie Demetriou
    • Zoë Chao
    • Kate McKinnon
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    Jay Roach’s Signature Wit and Sharpness

    Director Jay Roach brings a crisp, clever sensibility to the film—balancing satire with heartfelt moments and letting the humor erupt in all the right places. With his well-known talent for navigating both comedy and drama, Roach crafts a riveting portrait of a couple stuck between affection and ambition.

    Critics are already charmed, praising the film as “hilarious” and “laugh-out-loud funny,” pointing to its smart writing and wildly committed performances.

    Streaming Exclusively on Disney+

    With its rich performances and fiery comedic tone, The Roses promises a viewing experience that’s both chaotic and irresistibly entertaining. Expect witty exchanges, unexpected turns, and a romance unraveling in the most spectacular fashion.

    Catch The Roses beginning December 3, streaming exclusively on Disney+.

  • OPM Royalties Ariel Rivera and Jaya Headline December Concert Series at City of Dreams Manila’s CenterPlay

    OPM Royalties Ariel Rivera and Jaya Headline December Concert Series at City of Dreams Manila’s CenterPlay

    This holiday season, the OPM (Original Pilipino Music) Balladeer Ariel Rivera and Philippine Queen of Soul Jaya are bringing the magic of OPM on CenterPlay for a one-night-only concerts on December 3 and 17, respectively, at 9 pm.

    1. Ariel Rivera Concert at CenterPlay City of Dreams Manila on December 3

    Accomplished actor and singer-songwriter Ariel Rivera kicks off the celebration of timeless OPM hits on December 3, bringing his notable smooth vocals in his R&B and melodic pop music repertoire, which includes chart-topping hits including his first single “Sana Kahit Minsan”, “Simple Lang”, “Minsan Lang Kitang Iibigin”, and “A Smile In Your Heart”. Ariel Rivera rose to fame in the 1990’s and was known as “Kilabot ng Kolehiyala”. Many will remember that the OPM Balladeer and talented heartthrob’s first album was self-titled and released in 1991and was quickly followed by a second album titled “Simple Lang” a year after. Both albums achieved triple platinum status. His notable musical and acting career earned him awards including Awit Awards’ Best New Male Artist in 1991, Best Performance by a New Male Recording Artist in1992, and Best Supporting Actor at the 1992 Metro Manila Film Festival, to name a few.

    1. Jaya Concert at CenterPlay City of Dreams Manila on December 17

    On December 17, Queen of Soul Jaya is set to take the audience to a night of nostalgic musical journey through her soulful voice and electrifying presence. She made a mark in the industry for being the first Filipino music artist to have a song included in the Billboard Hot 100. The veteran music icon, who carved a successful career both locally and internationally, has been known for powerful hits including “Wala Na Bang Pagibig”, “Laging Naroon Ka”, and “Dahil Tanging Ikaw”. To date, she has released 12 studio albums.

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    Ariel Rivera and Jaya at CenterPlay follow the successful concert of Janno Gibbs in November.  They join the roster of featured OPM stars at CenterPlay including Neocolours, Moira, Juan Karlos, Rey Valera, Noel Cabangon, Raymond Lauchengco, Ariel Rivera, Ice Seguerra, “Soul Siren” Nina, Jinky Vidal, Jed Madela, Yeng Constantino, Daryl Ong, Imago, and The CompanY. The King of Soul’s anticipated concert also highlights performances from bands Highschool Playlist and Le Chic as well as from a DJ who are set to perform alternately from 7 pm to 2 am.

    Guests can reserve a seat or a table with consumables starting at P3,000, comprising of bar nosh, burgers, fries, and beverages. VIP couch seats for a party of eight, and smaller seatings are also available. Designed for the ultimate entertainment experience, CenterPlay is a cool snack and cocktail lounge offering light meals, signature cocktail concoctions, beers, wines, and other beverages, and is built around the circular stage at the center of the main gaming floor.

    For reservations and information, call )63 2) 8800-8080 or e-mail guestservices@cod-manila.com, or visit https://www.cityofdreamsmanila.com/en/whats-on/concert-series . Explore more of City of Dreams Manila’s promotional offers, rewards, or instantly check Melco Club points with the new Melco Club App, available for free download on iOS and Android. 

  • Glow Without the Plane Ticket: Japan’s Cult-Favorite Melano CC Is Now in the Philippines!

    Glow Without the Plane Ticket: Japan’s Cult-Favorite Melano CC Is Now in the Philippines!

    Raise your hand if you’ve ever asked a friend or loved one who’s traveling to Japan to bring you back a tube (or two) of Melano CC’s Vitamin Brightening Essence. Well, now you don’t have to.

    Melano CC FW Lifestyle

    Japan’s favorite vitamin C skincare, Melano CC, has officially arrived in the Philippines. No more airport hauls, no more praying your Shopee parcel is authentic, and no more skimping on your holy-grail Vitamin C because you only have one tube left.

    Cambert (PILIPINAS), Inc., the leading distributor of premium personal care and beauty brands, has brought Melano CC’s cult-favorite formulations and signature J-Beauty philosophy to Filipino skin: science-backed, gentle, and designed for real results.

    What Makes Melano CC a Japanese Skincare Icon?

    Under the Rohto-Mentholatum group, Melano CC has gained near-legend status across Japan and over 15 countries, thanks to its quietly powerful approach to brightening. No gimmicks, no 12-step routine, just high-performing Vitamin C delivered in formulas that work with the skin, not against it.

    Melano CC LotionR Lifestyle

    “Melano CC stands out because it delivers potent brightening without irritation—something especially important in our tropical, humid climate,” shares Trina Belmonte, Business Unit Manager for Cambert (PILIPINAS), Inc.

    Vitamin C has long been one of the overachievers of skincare: protecting skin from damaging environmental factors, fading dark spots and post-acne marks, and boosting skin’s overall glow. Melano CC takes this even further by maximizing both pure Vitamin C and its most effective derivatives to restore skin’s clarity, minimize the look of pores, and support overall skin health, all in formulations suitable for daily use.

    Rooted in J-Beauty’s principles of gentle efficacy, preventive care, and skin-barrier harmony, Melano CC prioritizes minimalist routines powered by high-potency actives. (Think: less fuss, more results.) They stay away from harsh additives, instead focusing on consistent, long-term radiance through hydration, balance, and skin repair.

    100% Japanese-Made, Science-Driven, and Built for Results

    At the heart of Melano CC is its advanced high-penetrating technology, developed to keep the notoriously unstable ingredient protected, potent, and effective even in warm climates. 

    Melano CC FW

    Starting with the Vitamin C Brightening Enzyme Face Wash, a gentle exfoliating cleanser that uses Vitamin C and enzymes to deep-clean pores and lift impurities while keeping moisture intact. It smooths rough texture and helps clear blackheads, essentially prepping the canvas so the rest of your routine can work harder.

    Melano CC LotionR

    This is followed by the Vitamin C Brightening Lotion, a refreshing water-light formula that serves as everyday Vitamin C care. Designed for normal to combination/oily skin, the lotion helps reduce dark spots, redness, soothe inflammation, and promote a healthy glow. Its high-penetration technology ensures that brightening ingredients absorb deeply and evenly, making it a seamless fit for humid climates where heavier lotions can feel suffocating.

    MelanoCC Essence Lifestyle2

    Lastly, its hero, the Vitamin C Brightening Essence, blends pure L-Ascorbic Acid, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, and other high-performing derivatives in a stabilized, airtight system designed for deep penetration and long-lasting efficacy. 

    It brightens, supports collagen production, suppresses melanin formation, and protects against oxidation, all without the stinging or greasiness typical of other Vitamin C serums. It’s no surprise that it’s recognized as Japan’s #1 whitening essence, famous for visibly evening skin tone and fading dark spots in as little as four weeks.

    Together, these three products show Melano CC’s commitment to gentle efficacy: potent actives delivered in minimalist, skin-compatible formulas. Each formula is complemented by ingredients like Vitamin E to enhance brightening while calming and nourishing the skin.

    “Our unique formulation ensures that Vitamin C remains stable and effective, even in warm climates like the Philippines,” shares Trina Belmonte. All products are non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic, and designed to resist oxidation in airtight packaging—balancing potency, safety, and long-term stability.

    Why Filipinos Love It (and Have Been Loving it For Years)

    Developed for all skin types (including sensitive and acne-prone skin), Melano CC is tailored for the everyday lives of Filipinos: high UV exposure, humidity, and a tendency toward dark spots and post-acne marks.

    Its lightweight textures absorb quickly (no stickiness in sight), while the airtight tube packaging protects the formula for up to 18 months.

    “The launch was inspired by the booming demand for Vitamin C in the post-pandemic glow-up era,” Belmonte explains. “Filipinos have been seeking affordable yet effective spot-correctors amid rising UV exposure and acne concerns.”

    And yes, the gray-market era is officially over. Melano CC’s arrival signals a new chapter, one supported by reliable availability, localized education, and omnichannel presence.

    You can now find Melano CC at Mitsukoshi Mall, and online via Lazada and Shopee on the official Mentholatum store (goodbye, shipping delays and authenticity doubts). 

    Whether you’re navigating the midday sun along EDSA, piecing together tomorrow’s presentation, or enjoying a quiet weekend staycation, your skin deserves care that doesn’t quit. With its arrival in the Philippines, Melano CC makes bright, healthy, spot-free skin more accessible than ever.

    And yes, your vanity is already saving it a space.

  • Get Ready for a Night of Laughter as the Godfather of Filipino Comedy Sets the Stage at Quezon Club

    Get Ready for a Night of Laughter as the Godfather of Filipino Comedy Sets the Stage at Quezon Club

    Prepare for a night of laughter as veteran Filipino Comedy King Rex Navarrete takes his clever humor to Quezon Club this December 13. The premier Filipino-American stand-up comedian reconnects with his roots as he comes back to the Philippines to join Quezon Club for a one-night only performance at Solaire Resort North.

    Photo 1 Get Ready for a Night of Laughter as the Godfather of Filipino Comedy Sets the Stage at Quezon Club

    Enjoy a selection of delectable meals and drinks for a perfect time to laugh your woes away with Rex Navarrete’s sharp wit and relatable anecdotes brought to the stage. Visit Quezon Club and be part of this exclusive set by the original Filipino comic with the main show starting at 9:00 pm. Don’t miss out on this exciting night as more amazing performances showcase smooth jazz acts, high-energy dances, and exhilarating beats from DJs prime the evening beginning at 7:00 pm. 

    Photo 2 Get Ready for a Night of Laughter as the Godfather of Filipino Comedy Sets the Stage at Quezon Club

    Limited seating awaits your next big night full of comical artistry and sumptuous dishes at Quezon Club. For reservations and inquiries, visit quezonclub.com, call +632 8888 8888 or email snrestaurantevents@solaireresort.com to book your table today.

  • Ring In the Festive Season With a Sleighful of New Premieres on HBO Max This December

    Ring In the Festive Season With a Sleighful of New Premieres on HBO Max This December

    HBO Max is turning December into the ultimate holiday binge-fest with a powerhouse lineup of new movies, series, and family-friendly specials. Whether you’re craving high-stakes missions, heartwarming holiday stories, or action-packed K-dramas, the streaming platform is delivering non-stop entertainment all season long.

    Get ready for explosive premieres like The Copenhagen Test, starring Simu Liu in an all-new spy thriller; Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, with Tom Cruise back in his most daring adventure yet; the gritty Korean crime-action series Villains; and the long-awaited live-action How to Train Your Dragon, headlined by Mason Thames, Nico Parker, and Gerard Butler.

    Families can also unwrap a stack of festive favorites including Dear Santa with Jack Black, the magical holiday classic The Polar Express, mystery adventures like A Christmas Mystery, and the fun-filled Urkel Saves Santa: The Movie!Plus, kids can celebrate with holiday episodes of Tiny Toons Looniversity (Season 2) and Teen Titans Go! (Season 9).

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    FEATURED MOVIES ON HBO MAX

    • Urkel Saves Santa: The Movie!, premiering December 6
    • How to Train Your Dragon, premiering December 12 and will also be available on HBO on December 13 at 9pm
    • Dear Santa, premiering December 20
    • Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, premiering December 20 and will also be available on HBO at 9pm
    • M3GAN 2.0, premiering December 26
    Featured SEries On Max

    FEATURED SERIES ON HBO MAX

    • HBO Original Hard Knocks: In Season with the NFC East, premiering December 3
    • New episodes of Booba Season five, premiering December 4
    • HBO Original The Yogurt Shop Murders, premiering December 6
    • New episodes of Jellystone! Season three, premiering December 11 / 24
    • Villains, premiering December 18
    • Amadeus, premiering December 21
    • The Copenhagen Test, premiering December 27

    Catch the dramatic finales of Dear X on December 4 and IT: Welcome to Derry on December 15.

    Dear X
    Featured Reality Series

    FEATURED REALITY SERIES ON HBO MAX

    • TLC’s Sherri Papini: Caught in the Lie, premiering December 4
    • Food Network’s Holiday Baking Championship Season 11, premiering December 7
    • Discovery’s Louvre Heist: Minute by Minute, premiering December 14 
    • Discovery’s Wild Winter, premiering December 14
    • AFN’s Thai Street Food: Best Kept Secrets, premiering December 18
    • TLC’s Gingerbread Land: The Biggest Little Holiday Competition, premiering December 24
    • HGTV’s Castle Impossible, premiering December 25
    • Discovery’s Expedition X Season 10, premiering December 31

    End the year on a high note and stream all these premieres on HBO Max for as low as ₱149/month or ₱1,040/year via the website, Apple App Store, or Google Play Store.

  • Comfort in Every Bite: Snack Pairings for the Holiday Season

    Comfort in Every Bite: Snack Pairings for the Holiday Season

    Between holiday shopping, last-minute get-togethers, and the nonstop playlist of Christmas tunes, the days can start to blur in the best way possible. Good thing there’s always time for little pockets of comfort—the kind that can come from your favorite snacks. Whether it’s the cool morning breeze, a rainy afternoon, or a chill night in, these small moments call for big flavors and cozy bites that make the season extra satisfying.

    This is your cue to grab your favorite snack pairings—sweet and savory duos that match every Ber month mood. Here’s how some well-loved goodies from Universal Robina Corporation (URC) can keep you company through the rush and make every bite feel like home.

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    For rainy afternoons: Warm and hearty with a crunchy twist

    When the skies turn gray and the rain begins to pour, a cup of steaming Nissin Cup Noodles hits the spot. Its flavorful broth and soft noodles bring warmth and comfort in every sip. Pair it with a bag of Nova or Vcut for that extra crunch—because nothing beats the combo of hearty noodles and a satisfying, savory sidekick.

    For movie nights or family bonding: Sweet meets savory

    Nothing says cozy bonding time like a good movie and a snack spread to match. Enjoy the gooey caramel and chocolate goodness of Cloud 9 for a satisfying sweet treat. Then balance it out with Granny Goose Tortillos—a savory, crunchy contrast that keeps everyone reaching for more. It’s the kind of pairing that makes family nights twice as fun.

    For afternoon merienda or study breaks: Flavorful comfort food

    When you need something to power through a busy afternoon or to keep you company during study time, go for a hearty mix. A comforting bowl of Payless Instant Mami delivers the warmth and satisfaction of a home-cooked merienda, while a pack of Presto Peanut Butter Sandwich adds a nutty sweetness that hits the spot. It’s a duo that can fill you up—both body and mind.

    The perfect finish: sweet, creamy, and refreshingly cool

    After dinner, indulge in the sweet and chocolatey goodness of Cream-O cookies—just enough to satisfy your dessert cravings. Then top it off with a Maxx candy for that cool, fruity-fresh finish that leaves you refreshed and ready to unwind.

    Whether it’s slurping noodles on a rainy afternoon, pairing sweet and savory treats for a cozy movie night, or savoring a fruity-fresh candy after dinner, these simple snack rituals can bring warmth and joy to every day during the hectic season leading up to the busy holidays.

    Universal Robina Corporation (URC) produces iconic brands such as Jack ‘n Jill Piattos, Cloud 9, Maxx candy, Cream-O, Payless, C2 Cool and Clean, and Great Taste coffee, which have been part of Filipinos’ lives for decades. To learn more about URC, visit its website (www.urc.com.ph), Facebook page (@URCPhilippines) and TikTok account (@URCPhilippines).

  • Freddy and the Gang Are Back to Haunt You in “Five Nights at Freddy’s 2” – Bigger, Bolder, and Way More Terrifying

    Freddy and the Gang Are Back to Haunt You in “Five Nights at Freddy’s 2” – Bigger, Bolder, and Way More Terrifying

    The Animatronics Are Back… and This Time, No One’s Safe

    Just when you thought it was safe to clock out, the horrors of Five Nights at Freddy’s return in an even more intense sequel. In Five Nights at Freddy’s 2, the animatronic nightmares break free from their eerie pizzeria origins and step into the real world—where the stakes are higher, the scares are sharper, and the mysteries cut deeper.

    FNAF 1

    Starring Josh Hutcherson, Piper Rubio, McKenna Grace, and Matthew Lillard, the sequel follows the shocking aftermath of the 2023 box office smash, which scared up nearly $300 million worldwide. And yes, Freddy Fazbear is back… but he’s not alone.

    Building on a Blockbuster

    After the surprise success of the first film, producer Jason Blum credits the movie’s impact to its unique collaboration with Five Nights at Freddy’s game creator Scott Cawthon.

    “Scott Cawthon is one of the most thoughtful creators I have ever worked with,” Blum says. “He is deeply involved in every part of Five Nights at Freddy’s—the strategy, the business and the creative decisions. What really sets him apart is how connected he is to the fan community. He is constantly thinking about what will surprise them, what will make them happy, and how to honor what they love about the franchise.”

    With Cawthon’s vision front and center, Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 digs deeper into the franchise’s expansive lore while still delivering the funhouse horror fans crave.

    FNAF FreddyBonnie

    Mike and Abby Return—But So Does the Nightmare

    Former night security guard Mike Schmidt (Hutcherson) and his younger sister Abby (Rubio) are still haunted by what happened at Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza. But when Abby, lured by memories and mystery, sneaks away to reconnect with the animatronic mascots—Freddy, Bonnie, Chica, and Foxy—she triggers a terrifying new chapter that uncovers the twisted origins of the haunted characters.

    This time, the nightmare doesn’t stay locked inside the restaurant. As Freddy and his friends move beyond their familiar territory, the horror escalates—and the real world is about to get a serious fright.

    Watch the Brand-new Clip here:

    From Game to Film: Honoring the Franchise’s Roots

    Returning director Emma Tammi once again brings Cawthon’s creepy world to life, while sticking to a clever framework: aligning each film with its respective video game entry.

    “Scott always envisioned that if there were multiple films, each would connect to its corresponding game: the first film to game one, the second to game two, and so on,” Tammi says. “So, we already had a clear blueprint of what needed to be included, from the setting to the animatronics. Beyond that, it was about blending those game elements with our ongoing story and figuring out how our characters’ arcs would evolve alongside them. It was a balance between honoring the game and deepening the emotional journey of the characters.”

    The result? A film that balances fan-service Easter eggs with fresh character arcs, placing emotional depth right beside the jump scares.

    Say Hello to New (Terrifying) Friends

    To bring more of the franchise’s beloved animatronics to life, the production once again turned to Jim Henson’s Creature Shop, who spent over six months crafting an all-new lineup of nightmare-fuel characters.

    With three times more animatronics than the original film, fans can expect several long-awaited characters to finally get their big-screen debut—each one creepier than the last.

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    Beyond the Pizzeria: A Whole New Playground of Fear

    Breaking free from the pizzeria setting was a bold move—but one that opens up thrilling new possibilities.

    “It was only a matter of time before the animatronics had to leave the pizzeria,” Tammi says. “In the sequel, we meet them in a new location, which is exciting on its own, but then gets even more thrilling when they break out into the real world. Seeing them in everyday settings is both hilarious and terrifying. Staging those moments was one of my favorite parts of making this film.”

    From quiet neighborhoods to public spaces, Freddy and friends aren’t hiding anymore—and neither are the scares.

    Bolder, Wilder, and Built for the Big Screen

    While the sequel leans into what made the first film a fan favorite, it also dares to explore new territory—both literally and creatively.

    “We are building on everything that connected with fans the first time, but we are also taking risks,” Tammi says. “It is sharper, scarier and more unpredictable, and every choice was made to pull the audience deeper into this world.”

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    Ready to Clock In?

    If you thought your shift at Freddy’s was over, think again. With more lore, more animatronics, and more twisted fun than ever, Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 is set to scare up another cinematic hit.

    Mark your calendars—Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 opens in Philippine cinemas on December 3, 2025.

    For More Updates, Follow Universal Pictures PH: Facebook: @UniversalPicturesPH, Instagram: @UniversalPicturesPH and TikTok: @UniversalPicsPH

  • Now Showing: Disney’s ‘Zootopia 2’ Brings a Wild New Adventure to the Big Screen!

    Now Showing: Disney’s ‘Zootopia 2’ Brings a Wild New Adventure to the Big Screen!

    The Wait is Over – Welcome Back to Zootopia!

    The animal metropolis we all fell in love with is bustling once again! Disney Animation’s long-awaited sequel, Zootopia 2, is officially now showing in cinemas across the Philippines—and it’s bigger, bolder, and even more heartwarming than before.

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    From the visionary minds of directors Byron Howard and Jared Bush, the follow-up to the 2016 global hit brings back the quirky charm, social commentary, and thrilling detective work that made the original an instant classic.

    This time, our favorite unlikely police partners—Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde—are navigating new territory: both in the city, and in their growing friendship.

    Bunny Meets Fox… Again?

    It’s not all carrots and case files for Judy and Nick.

    Now officially partners on the ZPD, the two are learning what it really means to work together on—and off—the clock. Think of it as “roommate energy,” but with more tail swishes and sly grins.

    Director Byron Howard describes their dynamic with a laugh:

    “like when new friends share an apartment together, and they start to figure out things like, ‘Oh, you don’t do dishes,’ and ‘You don’t return phone calls.’ There are things they’re learning about each other that are definitely new.”

    Co-director Jared Bush adds heart to the humor:

    “Their relationship really touches on how our differences can feel like obstacles, but sometimes simple conversations can actually push through those obstacles. Sometimes, the simplest thing is trying to make a connection.”

    And yes—there’s still plenty of witty banter, high-speed chases, and clever twists along the way.

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    Enter Gary de’Snake: Not Your Typical Disney Hero

    Let’s talk about the biggest twist in Zootopia 2 Gary de’Snake, the newest face in the city—er, scales.

    Voiced by Academy Award® winner Ke Huy Quan, Gary is a venomous but lovable pit viper on a personal mission to clear his family’s name. He arrives in Zootopia with clues to a case that’s been buried for decades… and let’s just say, it rattles the entire city.

    What makes Gary so special? Aside from being Disney Animation’s first-ever CG snake protagonist, he’s also a character meant to challenge perceptions.

    “Snakes tend to get cast as villains or sidekicks,” shares animation supervisor Adam Green. “With Gary, we wanted to flip the narrative—make him funny, relatable, and full of heart.”

    Mission accomplished.

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    A Bigger, Wilder Zootopia Awaits

    Fans of the original will be thrilled to know that the Zootopia universe has massively expanded.

    This sequel boasts a whopping 178 new characters across 67 different species, each adding more color, culture, and complexity to the animal city. From shady back alleys to neon-lit nightclubs and hidden boroughs beneath the metropolis—there’s a whole new Zootopia to explore.

    And yes, your favorite characters are back too—along with an all-star voice cast featuring:

    • Fortune Feimster
    • Andy Samberg
    • Idris Elba
    • Patrick Warburton
    • Quinta Brunson
    • Nate Torrence
    • And of course, Shakira, reprising her role as Gazelle!
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    All Ears on “Zoo” – The Soundtrack of the Season

    Speaking of Shakira, did someone say “new anthem”?

    Yes, the international superstar returns with an original song titled “Zoo”, co-created with chart-toppers Ed Sheeran and Blake Slatkin. This infectious track pulses with energy, unity, and that unmistakable Disney optimism.

    Whether you’re dancing in your seat or humming it on the way home, “Zoo” will definitely be your next earworm.

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    Why You Need to See Zootopia 2 Now

    Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the city, Zootopia 2 has something for everyone. This sequel isn’t just a return—it’s a level-up. So gather the gang, grab the popcorn, and get ready for an adventure that’s as meaningful as it is memorable.

    Book your tickets at https://www.disney.ph/movies/zootopia-2

  • All-4-One is Coming Back to the Philippines

    All-4-One is Coming Back to the Philippines

    The Grammy Award-Winning, multi-platinum R&B/POP legends All-4-One are coming to Davao on December 15 at the SMX Convention Center! The group has timeless harmonies and chart-topping hits that have shaped the soundtrack of love for over three decades.The quartet consists of Jamie Jones, Delious Kennedy, Alfred Nevarez, and Tony Borowiak who are celebrated for their blend of rich vocal arrangements and heartfelt storytelling that continues to inspire the global music scene and the new generations of artists with their signature sound.

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    All-4-One’s debut song “So Much in Love” burst through the charts in 1993 with their fresh spin on a classic tune that introduced their smooth sound and vocal chemistry to the world. It quickly rose to the No.4 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart but it was their follow-up single “I Swear” that was their ticket to international superstardom, spending consecutive weeks at No.1 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts. The song became one of the longest running songs of the era and was a cultural phenomenon that earned them the 1995 Grammy Award for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal. “I Swear” was also named by ASCAP as one of the greatest love songs of the 20th century.

    Their hits include “I Can Love You Like That”, “These Arms”, “Beautiful As U”, “Someday” from the soundtrack of Disney’s Hunchback of Notre Dame, and “I Turn To You” from the Space Jam Soundtrack, later recorded by Christina Aguilera. Their debut and sophomore albums both solidified their place in R&B history by going multi-platinum, and earning gold and platinum certifications across multiple countries. 

    To date, All-4-One has sold over 25 million records worldwide with their music charting in the U.S., U.K., Asia, Australia, and across Europe. They have received numerous accolades including the Grammy Award, the American Music Award, the Blockbuster Entertainment Award, and 3 Billboard Music Awards.

    All-4-One continues to perform around the world, even with decades of sold-out tours and millions of fans, they still plan to deliver their hits and newer favorites with passion and excellence to places such as Davao. Their live shows are a testament to their passion, excellence, vocal power, showmanship, brotherhood, and enduring appeal. They celebrated their over 20 year journey in 2015 by releasing the album “Twenty+” featuring new songs and reimagined versions of their iconic tracks. The album reminded fans and critics alike that All-4-One remains at the top of their game.

    Now with 30 plus years as an active pop group, All-4-One are proud to still be united with all four original members – an extraordinary accomplishment in the music industry. Their journey from small-town beginnings to international stardom is a story of perseverance, unity, and a shared belief in the power of music to move the world.

    Secure your tickets now at SM Cinema and smtickets.com to witness the exceptional performance of R&B’s most cherished group. Ticket prices are 5500, 4500, 3300, and 1500 plus ticketing charge. Presented by Ovation Productions and Blast TV.