Waiian drops manifesto of authenticity and self-expression with third album, BACKSHOTS

Waiian drops manifesto of authenticity and self-expression with third album, BACKSHOTS

Tuesday, March 18, 2025

Filipino rapper Waiian delivers a raw, unfiltered commentary on music and personal life with his highly anticipated third album, BACKSHOTS.

With the 9-track release, the acclaimed emcee takes a bold stand against the absurdity of the music establishment and trends, refusing to conform to social expectations, while reinforcing the importance of authenticity and staying true to one’s craft.

“BACKSHOTS serves as my testament to consistently speak my truth,” says the Solo Mission act. “The album is my rebelling against being known solely for motivational bars. Although I still believe in my roots, I also want to showcase my lighter side: the playful, humorous person who enjoys my life journey even as I pursue my rap career.”

Produced with Love and Rage

The album, produced by Kashira Music Prod and Pistolgrip, was shaped through a mix of love and raw emotion, challenging Waiian to rap over sonic experiments and eclectic beats. Throughout the project, the Makati City-based hip-hop artist credits his inspiration to artists who are not afraid to push the boundaries of songwriting, performance, and production.

“I drew inspiration from artists like Teezo Touchdown, Kanye West, Brockhampton, Kendrick Lamar, Denzel Curry and my past work, and more,” shares Waiian. “The 9-track album organically took shape, mirroring the cycle of life—its beginning and its inevitable end.”

A Journey of Growth and Reflection

BACKSHOTS offers a mix of seriousness and silliness, satire and sincerity, chaos and freedom. Lovingly layered with care and attention, the album takes listeners through unrefined thoughts and emotions, challenging and subverting traditional ideas of how music should be presented. With each track, Waiian blends confessional storytelling with unwavering commitment to his narrative, capturing both his growth as an artist and his reflections on career and life.

Key highlights from the album include “MAN IN THE MERROR,” the first track that he finished for this particular project, and “SI LODS NA ANG BAHALA,” which serves as a deep introspection of his life in a 3 minute and 32 second wav file. While he dedicates love, time, and focus to every single song in the record, making sure that each track possess its own distinct thought and direction, the aforementioned track reveals a splash of sentimentality that fits neatly alongside his earlier and current catalog.

He confides, “There is this one song that made me the most emotional when I came home from finishing it after several days of straight studio sessions. It’s SI LODS NA BAHALA, and I felt great being able to channel my life whereabouts in the confines of a song. It could be one of my favorite songs to perform from now.”

Music Video Releases

Waiian plans to accompany the release of the album with visuals featuring renowned collaborators and friends. The music video for “LODS NA BAHALA,” in particular, will have its own treatment, complete with archival imagery and locations from his formative years, including excerpts from the short films he made as a student and places he used to hang out at. “It’s about remembering my roots as a creative. These elements are blended with footage from my current life and experiences reflecting my artistic evolution.”

Additionally, the music video for “MAN IN THE MERROR,” which was directed Miguel Garcia from Madman Creative Solutions, will showcase his fun and goofy side, featuring places and people close to Waiian’s heart. He’s also in the pre-production stages of the music video of “SOFTIE,” which will highlight diverse couples representing various underrepresented identities in mainstream media, as well as a collaboration with Geloy Concepcion.

Live Performances and Upcoming Shows

Waiian will debut songs off BACKSHOTS live at the Wanderland Music and Arts Festival, where he’s meticulously planning and rehearsing every song for that special day to ensure a solid performance. Fans can expect a dynamic and energetic live set that captures the raw energy and emotional depth of his new album. He’s also set to co-headline the upcoming ALL OF THE NOISE music summit, along with Taiwanese band The Chairs, Singaporean rapper San The Wordsmith, and Thai indie pop collective KIKI.

Check out the track list:

(1) AUG27

(2) MALAKING BIRD

(3) MAN IN THE MERROR

(4) LOSE MY NUMBER

(5) SOFTIE

(6) MOTIVATIONAL QUOTES

(7) ASAN NA SI…

(8) SI LODS NA BAHALA

(9) BOUNCE NA KO MAN

Waiian’s new album, BACKSHOTS is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. The music video of “MAN IN THE MERROR” will premiere at 8 PM on YouTube this Friday, March 14, 2025.

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Shangri-La Plaza empowers women’s wellness this March

Shangri-La Plaza empowers women’s wellness this March

Thrive and Shine with activities that bring calm, joy, and inspiration this National Women’s Month

She is all the rage this March, as the country celebrates National Women’s Month. For all the ladies, it’s the best time to embrace the radiant feminine energy you bring to every space by carving out some time for your own well-being. Looking for a spot to decompress? Shangri-La Plaza empowers women to Thrive and Shine this special month with a selection of curated wellness experiences.

Start off a wellness marathon with a sampler of women-centric brands and services Shang has to offer at the Her Haven fair happening only until March 16 at the Grand Atrium. It features wellness companies like The Blanche Beauty Lounge that’s known for fab nail art as well as various body contouring and facial improvement procedures, and Swiss physiological footwear brand MBT Shoes designed to mimic the feel of walking barefoot, promising a host of physical benefits like better posture and reduced joint stress.

To make the fair even more experiential, Shangri-La Plaza has tapped wellness advocates to share their unique perspectives on holistic health and self-care. Actor and yoga and meditation teacher Maxene Magalona focuses on Wellness & Wisdom on March 15 at 3PM with her talk, A Journey Back Home to Your Heart, that covers topics like nurturing the whole self and cultivating inner wisdom. She’s also expected to share breathing control techniques, mindful chair meditation practices, and journal prompts.

On March 16 at 1PM, Mommy Mundo founder and mindful and well-being teacher Janice Villanueva leads the Bold & Brilliant panel that includes WeddingsAtWork Founder Benz Co-Rana and women’s life coach and licensed transformologist Rezza Custodio-Soriano. The discussion highlights the paths these Filipinas took to launch their careers and attain success, with the goal of uplifting and empowering others seeking their calling and purpose.

Catch a stunning visual narrative that celebrates the complexity, strength, and evolution of women with Stories & Strength - RFLXN: The Many Faces of a Woman, made possible in partnership with conceptual visual artist, photographer, and Creative Director of Project Headshot Clinic Niccolo Cosme. From March 20 to 30 at the East Wing, the campaign uses fracture mirrors to symbolize the multifaceted nature of womanhood—a reflection of identity, resilience, and self-discovery—through dynamic displays and interactive installations.

Want more action? Get those endorphins flowing at the boutique indoor cycling studio Ride Revolution that offers 45 minutes of full-body cardio session featuring curated music and friendly (and very motivational) instructors. Or try to bust a move at G-Force Dance Center, a go-to for its celebrity choreographers. Keep it fun with K-Pop and hip-hop classes or unleash your feminine power at the studio’s signature sexy dance classes.

Lighten your mental load at the longevity and wellness hub Travertine Longevity & Wellness that offers unique treatments like Lymphastim Compression Therapy that flushes out lymphatic fluids and reduces inflammation and Vital Dome that leverages the transformative power of infrared therapy, soothing sounds, and light healing to reduce stress and anxiety and achieve pain relief and muscle recovery.

Shangri-La Plaza encourages women to prioritize their wellness with this roster of brands and activities as a fitting celebration of National Women’s Month.

For updates and inquiries, follow Shangri-La Plaza on Facebook at www.facebook.com/shangrilaplazaofficial and on Instagram @shangrilaplazaofficial.

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Smart powers the 2025 FCC Women’s Run PH

Smart powers the 2025 FCC Women’s Run PH

Sunday, March 9, 2025

Mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is joining the celebration of the International Women’s Month by powering the highly anticipated 2025 Filipina CEO Circle (FCC) Women’s Run PH on March 9, Sunday at SM Mall of Asia Complex.

Organized by RUNRIO and Femme Strides, the event is expected to draw over 8,000 participants in various categories, including the 1K kids dash, 5K, and 10K and 16K races.

“We are proud to be the official telco partner of 2025 FCC Women’s Run PH, which is one of the many ways we at Smart celebrate and pay tribute to Filipino women for their invaluable contribution to society,” said Lloyd R. Manaloto, FVP at Smart.

FREE Smart Prepaid eSIM for participants

As the official telco partner of 2025 FCC Women’s Run PH, Smart is giving participants a FREE Smart Prepaid eSIM, which they can claim at Smart’s booth within the Race Village.

The digital version of the physical SIM card, the eSIM allows for a quick and hassle-free way for mobile users to enjoy local data, call, and text services without having to insert a physical SIM card into their devices.

Moreover, Smart Prepaid and Smart Postpaid subscribers can easily post and share their favorite race photos and videos at the event powered by Smart 5G.

Aside from the March 9 event, the 2025 Women’s Run PH will also hold a race in October to further celebrate women’s health, empowerment, and fitness.

To know more about the 2025 FCC Women’s Run PH, visit its official website at https://raceroster.com/events/2025/95194/fcc-womens-run-ph and its official Facebook account at https://www.facebook.com/womensrunph. 

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Now you can Parfait Your Way with customizable Parfaits from DQ!

Now you can Parfait Your Way with customizable Parfaits from DQ!

Saturday, February 22, 2025

Have you ever dreamed of creating your own DQ treat? Now you can!

It’s time to Parfait Your Way with DQ’s new customizable Parfait, a delightful cup of pure joy that lets you express your unique personality through your favorite toppings and mix-ins! This isn't just a dessert; it's a canvas for your creativity!

The Parfait Your Way comes in a 12oz cup with two layers of DQ's signature vanilla soft serve, ready for you to customize to perfection. Choose from DQ's mouthwatering sauces, mix-ins, and toppings to craft a treat that's uniquely yours!

Start with your choice of two sauces, one for each layer for that added burst of flavor. Will you go for the sweet and tangy strawberry or the tropical mango? Maybe the rich cocoa fudge or the bold coffee concentrate is more your style. For a classic touch, there's caramel fudge, or keep it fresh with matcha sauce.

Next, add some texture with two mix-ins. Are you a fan of the classic Oreo or the chewy Brownie? Perhaps the sweet and crumbly Graham or the crispy KitKat is calling your name. For a creamy twist, add cheesecake chunks, or go nutty with peanut, almond, or cashew. Feeling playful? Toss in some marshmallows or choco chunks.

Finally, crown your creation with a topping of your choice. Will it be a fluffy cloud of whipped cream or an extra ball of DQ’s signature soft serve? It's all up to you!

Share your masterpiece! Snap a photo of your custom creation and tag Dairy Queen PH or @dairyqueenphils on Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) to get featured. Also, don’t forget to follow DQ for the latest updates, offers, and sweet surprises!

DQ's Parfait Your Way is available for dine-in and take out in all DQ stores nationwide!

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Gateway Gallery Marks 10 ARTmazing Years with Timeless Moments

Gateway Gallery Marks 10 ARTmazing Years with Timeless Moments

On February 18, 2015, ten years ago, Gateway Gallery officially opened to the public via the launch of a landmark history exhibit. The SiningSaysay: Philippine History in Art Exhibit, is a breakthrough exhibition on history using 30 large-scale paintings. The Project was made possible through the collaboration of Araneta City, the University of the Philippines, and the UP Alumni Association.

Fast forward 10 years after, Gateway Gallery, the art museum of Araneta City and managed by the J. Amado Araneta Foundation, has expanded the permanent and banner exhibit with its other projects: museum guides, augmented reality, a museum app, a workbook for children, and a traveling exhibition. Gateway Gallery reinforced and strengthened its programs, especially those in support of emerging Filipino artists.

To celebrate its ten years, Gateway Gallery recently opened its tenth anniversary exhibit Timeless Moments: Still Life and Beginnings. Opened on February 8, 2025 and runs until March 7, 2025, the exhibit features 18 still life pieces from the Gateway Gallery Art Collection.

Timeless Moments features works of some of the most dedicated Filipino artists. Some of these artists include Carlos Cee Cadid, Tess Duldulao, Bing Siochi, Lita Wells, Joemarie Sanclara Chua, and Grandier Gil Bella.

The exhibit is interactive as it invites visitors to sketch or draw the still life objects on display in the exhibit. Visitors can also get intimate with the art genre through the videos on playback at the exhibit. Two art workshops on still life are also scheduled on February 27 and March 6. The workshops, to be facilitated by artist and educator, Robert Martin Sing, are free and open to the public.

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Vista Land maintains strong presence in the King City of the South

Vista Land maintains strong presence in the King City of the South

Friday, February 21, 2025

For nearly three decades, Vista Land, the Philippines' leading integrated property developer, has established a formidable presence in Davao Region. Situated along the Asia-Pacific Rim, Davao Region is a key gateway between the Eastern and Western hemispheres, positioning the Port of Davao as the busiest in Mindanao. Davao continues to entice migrants from across the country, drawn by the prospects in this established urban center.

With over 150 hectares of master-planned developments, house-and-lot communities, and condominium developments, it has helped shape the evolving regional landscape. Among its key projects are Camella Cerritos Davao, Camella Davao, Camella Digos, Camella Tagum, Camella Tagum Trails, Camella Toril, Solariega, and Toscana, along with multi-tower complexes such as Celesta, Frontera, and Northpoint.

Davao City, the rising metropolis of the South

Recognized as the economic powerhouse of the South, Davao City offers an ideal setting for those looking to secure their future. Its robust local economy, modern infrastructure, and investor-friendly environment make it one of the most desirable places for business and real estate investment.

With easy access to historical landmarks, pristine beaches, and breathtaking natural wonders, the quality of life in Davao City ranks among the best in the country. With the relentless drive of modern Davaoeños, the city’s growth is poised to be remarkable, and the demand for good quality homes will only continue to rise.

Frontera, a pine vertical village in Davao City

Frontera by Vista Manors sits along Manuel Garcia Road in Buhangin, near the Davao City bypass road, providing direct connectivity to Bukidnon-Davao Road, Barangay Toril, and Communal Road.

With modern infrastructure developments underway, Frontera is poised to accommodate the anticipated influx of property seekers and investors looking to establish smart-ready homes in Davao City. Spanning nearly two hectares, the vertical pine village will house mid-rise condominium towers tucked behind Caribbean pine trees, embodying the Vista Manors resort-inspired lifestyle.

Frontera will be constructed with smart features to enhance both convenience and security. It will feature resort-themed amenities including infinity and kiddie pools, an energy park, and an amphitheater. Milestone celebrations can be held at the clubhouse while kids can delight in the nearby kiddie playground.

The vertical village is set to become a beacon of progress, positioned near business districts, commercial centers, top educational institutions, places of worship, and major transportation hubs.

Tagum, the next big city in Davao Del Norte

Tagum City is the bustling epicenter of activity within Davao del Norte, carving out its own identity while remaining an integral part of Metropolitan Davao. Tagum stands out with its distinct character— a juxtaposition of urban infrastructure framed against a backdrop of picturesque mountains and towering royal palm trees lining its main avenue.

With its booming industries and favorable business climate, Tagum is evolving into a hub for commerce, trade, and tourism. Supported by a skilled workforce and supportive local government, the city is well-positioned for sustained growth.

Celesta, bringing harmony to the Music Capital of the South

Renowned for its vibrant music scene, Tagum City has earned the title of 'Music Capital of the South.' As the host of festivals such as the Musikahan Festival, Tagum City has attracted enthusiasts from across the country and beyond, setting the stage for concerts by homegrown talents and multinational artists. What truly sets Tagum apart, however, is its symphony of traditional and contemporary genres reflecting its rich cultural heritage and artistic evolution.

Inspired by this deep-rooted passion for music, Vista Land introduces Celesta, a vertical village rising in the heart of Tagum. Designed to orchestrate enhanced experiences in this part of Mindanao, Celesta offers an elevated lifestyle that resonates with the creative energy and progressive spirit of the city.

Every detail in Celesta is thoughtfully composed to create a masterpiece of contemporary living. Residents will have access to an array of resort-themed amenities, including a grand pavilion, swimming pool, and recreational spaces, all designed to foster relaxation and leisure. The vertical village finely tunes style, comfort, and functionality, offering a calm yet captivating escape.

An investment into a better way of living

Filipinos deserve the best—this driving belief has been integral to Vista Land and its day-to-day operations and is the secret to its success.

As the holding company of the housing ventures of Vista Group, Vista Land is primarily engaged in developing master planned communities, horizontal properties, and the construction of vertical residences in the Philippines' key growth areas. Creating better, expansive, and global-oriented offerings and experiences for its residents, as well as delivering excellent long-term investment growth for its stakeholders, has always been the impetus behind the conglomerate's continuous evolution.

Learn about Vista Land master planned developments in Davao Region at www.vistaestates.vistaland.com.ph. Follow @VistaLandAndLifescapesOfficial on social media or call 0917 802 1813 or 0999 886 4341 for news and offerings.

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MMDA-Robinsons MMRF Launch Collects Over Two Thousand Kilograms of Recyclables in Muntinlupa

MMDA-Robinsons MMRF Launch Collects Over Two Thousand Kilograms of Recyclables in Muntinlupa

Wednesday, February 19, 2025

300 attendees including valued members of the Muntinlupa City Environment and Natural Resources (CENRO) actively participated in the launch of the Mobile Materials Recovery Facility (MMRF) in Barangay Sucat, Muntinlupa City demonstrating strong community support for responsible waste management. During the event, a total of 2,272.2 kilograms of recyclables were collected, with 1,623.2 kilograms sold to a junk shop and 649 kilograms transferred for further processing at the MMDA’s Integrated Solid Waste Management Facility (ISWMF), situated in the Vitas Pumping Station at Tondo, Manila. These efforts highlight the significant impact of community-driven waste recovery and segregation to major close waste stream loops and implement a circular materials recovery system (MRS).

A Public-Private Partnership for Sustainability

This initiative is a collaboration between Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC) through its corporate social responsibility arm, Robinsons Land Foundation. The partnership underscores the shared commitment of both the public and private sectors in advancing sustainable waste management solutions. Jay Dela Cuadra, Senior Development Director of Robinsons Logistix and Industrials (RLX), emphasized Robinsons Land’s dedication to fostering eco-friendly practices within communities, ensuring that initiatives like the MMRF program continue to drive long-term environmental impact.

Mr. Jhonmarie Caoyong of MMDA Solid Waste Management Office (SWMO) emphasized the significance of this partnership, stating, "The MMDA and RLC's collaboration creates a mutually beneficial system that promotes recycling while providing essential goods to community members in exchange for their recyclable materials—the core concept of the project. By engaging communities, providing incentives, and fostering partnerships, we are not just managing waste—we are transforming it into a sustainable resource that benefits everyone."

Empowering Communities through Waste Management

Barangay Sucat residents enthusiastically embraced the program, actively exchanging recyclables for goods provided by RLC and San Miguel Corporation (SMC) through MMDA’s MMRF.

Dela Cuadra highlighted the significance of this public-private partnership: “This project underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing our waste management challenges to reduce plastic pollution in our waterways. Together, we can inspire communities to adopt best practices that promote a culture of environmental responsibility.”

The launch event featured interactive activities, educating residents on proper waste segregation, recycling practices, and the importance of the MMRF in their community's waste management efforts.

A Sustainable Future for Metro Manila

The MMDA and RLC are committed to sustaining the MMRF's operations through ongoing community engagement, educational campaigns, and resource allocation. This successful partnership serves as a model for other communities, showcasing the power of collaboration between national and local governments, the private sector, and residents in making real change towards sustainable waste management.

"The success of this project hinges on the active participation of every member of our community," stated Vincent Alon of Muntinlupa's Environmental Sanitation Center. "Segregation at home is crucial for cleaner surroundings and effective waste management practices. By raising awareness and visibility of programs like this one, we are hoping to motivate our stakeholders to join the zero waste movement.”

The MMDA encourages all Metro Manila residents to participate in the upcoming MMRF operations and learn more about responsible waste management practices. Together, we can build a cleaner, greener, and more resilient Metro Manila.

For more information, visit the MMDA website or follow @MMDA on social media.

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