Sucere Foods Joins MassKara Festival 2026 in Bacolod

Sucere Foods Joins MassKara Festival 2026 in Bacolod

Tuesday, September 22, 2026

Sucere Foods Corporation is joining the MassKara Festival 2026 in Bacolod City as a co-presenter and food partner, bringing its confectionery brands to one of the country's most anticipated annual festivals.

The Filipino food company will participate in the celebration organized by the Bacolod Gugma Foundation Inc., with its brands set to be part of the festival experience for residents and visitors.

MassKara Festival is an annual celebration in Bacolod, widely known for its colorful masks, street dancing, music, performances and community activities. The festival has become closely associated with Bacolod's identity as the City of Smiles.

What is MassKara Festival 2026?

MassKara Festival is Bacolod City's annual festival celebrating local culture, creativity and community through public performances, entertainment, food and other activities.

The festival's name combines the English word "mass" with the Spanish-derived word "kara," meaning face, reflecting its iconic smiling masks.

Sucere Foods will join the 2026 festivities as a Co-Presenter and Food Partner, giving festival-goers opportunities to encounter its confectionery products during the celebration.

Sucere brings its confectionery brands to the festival

Sucere Foods' participation will feature products from its portfolio of Filipino consumer brands, including Mello, Mayfair, Marble and Bambino.

The company's product range includes chocolates, cookies, marshmallows, gummies and other confectionery items.

According to Sucere Foods, its participation is intended to bring its products closer to consumers during a major community celebration.

“We are very happy and honored to be part of the MassKara Festival 2026 as a Co-Presenter and Food Partner. MassKara represents the Filipino spirit of celebrating life, community, and togetherness, values that are very close to Sucere,” said Andrea Valentin Alzaga, AVP for Marketing of Sucere Foods Corporation.

“Through our brands, we hope to add a little more sweetness to the festival experience and create moments that people can enjoy and remember with their families and friends.”

A partnership centered on food and community

Food has long been an important part of Philippine festivals, where meals and treats often become part of gatherings among families and friends.

For food companies, festival partnerships also provide an opportunity to bring consumer brands into settings where people are already gathering and celebrating.

Sucere Foods said its MassKara participation reflects its interest in supporting community events while allowing festival-goers to experience its products.

The company describes itself as a proudly Filipino food company and currently has a portfolio that includes confectionery products across several categories.

MassKara Festival brings Bacolod to life

MassKara is one of Bacolod's signature cultural celebrations and contributes to the city's identity as a destination for festivals and tourism.

The event is particularly recognizable for its smiling masks and colorful street performances, but its activities extend beyond the iconic parades and dancing. Festival programming typically brings together entertainment, food, community gatherings and other activities across the city.

For visitors planning to attend MassKara Festival 2026, the partnership with Sucere Foods adds another food-focused component to the festivities.

Sucere Foods said it looks forward to celebrating alongside Bacolod residents and visitors coming from different parts of the country.

Who organizes MassKara Festival?

The Bacolod Gugma Foundation Inc. is identified by Sucere Foods as the official organizer of MassKara Festival 2026.

The foundation works with partners and stakeholders to mount the city's annual celebration, which brings together residents, businesses, communities and visitors.

For this year's festival, Sucere Foods joins the network of organizations supporting the event as a co-presenter and food partner.

Sucere Foods adds a food brand presence to MassKara 2026

The partnership puts Sucere Foods' consumer brands in the middle of one of Bacolod's largest annual celebrations.

While MassKara remains primarily a cultural and community event, partnerships with consumer brands help support the activities and experiences that make large-scale festivals possible.

For festival-goers, Sucere's participation means another opportunity to discover or enjoy familiar Filipino confectionery products while taking part in the city's colorful celebration.

MassKara Festival 2026 will once again bring together Bacolodnons and visitors for a celebration built around music, dance, food, culture and community.

With Sucere Foods joining as co-presenter and food partner, the company will be adding its own sweet touch to the festivities in the City of Smiles.

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Austin Dizon and Vienne Luna Win Century Tuna Superbods 2026

Austin Dizon and Vienne Luna Win Century Tuna Superbods 2026

Wednesday, September 16, 2026

Austin Dizon and Vienne Luna emerged as the male and female Grand Winners of the 20th Century Tuna Superbods, taking home ₱1 million each during the competition’s 2026 Finals Night.

The two winners were selected from 40 finalists who competed in the milestone edition of the long-running fitness and wellness competition.

Held at Solaire Resort North, the finals brought together the contenders, celebrity guests, fitness personalities and Century Tuna ambassadors for the culminating event of the 2026 search.

Dizon was recognized for his advocacy promoting accessible quality nutrition, while Luna highlighted Project H.E.R., which stands for Health, Empowerment, and Resilience.

The runners-up were MJ Ordillano and Jas Paguio, who each received ₱250,000.

Who are the 2026 Century Tuna Superbods winners?

Austin Dizon and Vienne Luna stood out not only for their physical preparation but also for the advocacies they brought to the competition.

Dizon's advocacy focuses on making quality nutrition more accessible, while Luna's Project H.E.R. centers on health, empowerment and resilience.

Their causes reflected the direction of this year's competition, which placed greater emphasis on personal stories, wellness journeys and advocacy alongside physical fitness.

Century Tuna's official website continues to feature the Superbods program as part of its fitness and wellness initiatives.

From 40 finalists to the final Top 16

The 40 finalists went through several stages before the winners were announced.

During Finals Night, the contenders took part in runway presentations featuring activewear, lifestyle wear and swimwear. The field was eventually narrowed to the Top 16, who faced the decisive Question and Answer round.

The finalists had also undergone physical challenges, advocacy workshops and community engagements before the finals.

These activities were designed to highlight qualities beyond physical appearance, including communication, personality, confidence and the causes the contestants wanted to champion.

Century Tuna celebrates 20 years of Superbods

The 2026 competition marked the 20th edition of Century Tuna Superbods, making this year's finals a milestone for the brand's fitness-focused platform.

The anniversary edition placed emphasis on the stories behind the contestants and the different ways they define health, strength and personal growth.

Rather than focusing exclusively on physique, the competition highlighted advocacies ranging from nutrition and physical training to mental strength and personal resilience.

That approach was reflected in the special awards handed out during the evening.

Meet the other special award winners

Several finalists received special recognition during the finals.

Among the awards presented were:

• Century Tuna Super Bowl Game Changer: Ricardo de Jesus and Diane Querrer
• Century Tuna Nuggets Supermom: Rov Mizuse
• Century Tuna Nuggets Superdad: Jaco Benin
• Vita Coco Most Refreshingly Real Award: Nunoy van den Burgh and Jas Paguio
• Fitness Breakthrough Award: Ameer Ahid and Maan Marquez
• Jojo Bragais Power Walk Award: MJ Ordillano and Vienne Luna
• Superbod Ultimate Transformation: Rafael Tan and Vienne Luna
• Fan Choice Award: Austin Dizon and Aleiah Torres
• Bench Active Lifestyle Icon: Austin Dizon and Anna Lakrini
• Kilos Superbod Synergy: Jaco Benin and Anna Lakrini; Josh Florendo and Cianne Dominguez
• Digital Champ Award: Lorenzo Isip and Vienne Luna
• Ageless Award: Jay Gonzaga and Gee Canlas
• Solaire Wellness Icon Award: Prince de Guzman and Cianne Dominguez
• Media Choice Award: Prince de Guzman and Cianne Dominguez
• Beyond the Bod Advocacy Champion: Ricardo de Jesus and Thalia Joaquin

Vienne Luna was among the night's most frequently recognized finalists, receiving awards for Power Walk, Ultimate Transformation and Digital Champ, in addition to the female Grand Winner title.

Austin Dizon also received multiple honors, including Fan Choice and Bench Active Lifestyle Icon, before being named the male Grand Winner.

Anne Curtis, Alice Dixson and Atasha Muhlach join the celebration

Century Tuna ambassadors Anne Curtis, Alice Dixson and Atasha Muhlach were among the personalities who appeared during the finals.

Curtis and Dixson were also part of the judging panel, alongside actress Marian Rivera, actor-host Luis Manzano, athlete Mauro Lumba, Century Pacific Food Inc. executives Greg Banzon and Carlo Endaya.

Radio DJ Sam YG and television host Bianca Gonzalez served as hosts for the evening.

The event brought together entertainment and fitness personalities as the 40 finalists made their final presentations before the winners were announced.

What comes after the Century Tuna Superbods finals?

While the competition has reached its final night, Century Tuna is positioning the 2026 winners and finalists as advocates who can continue sharing their respective health and wellness journeys.

For the contestants, the competition involved more than the final stage presentation. Their preparation included fitness challenges, advocacy work and community activities intended to connect their personal stories with broader wellness messages.

That makes the 20th edition less about a single competition night and more about how the finalists can carry their respective advocacies beyond the stage.

For now, Austin Dizon and Vienne Luna take the titles as the Century Tuna Superbods 2026 Grand Winners, closing the competition's 20th edition with two new faces representing the Superbod platform.

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Marcelo H. Del Pilar Exhibit by His 17-Year-Old Descendant

Marcelo H. Del Pilar Exhibit by His 17-Year-Old Descendant

Monday, September 14, 2026

At just 17 years old, Pax Pineda is examining Philippine history from a deeply personal perspective.

As the great-great-great-grandson of Filipino reformist Marcelo H. Del Pilar, Pineda has grown up with a family connection to one of the country’s most recognized historical figures. His debut exhibition, MARCELO: THE MAN BEHIND THE HERO (Reflections on the Legacy of Marcelo H. Del Pilar), looks beyond Del Pilar’s political work to explore the personal sacrifices behind his life as a patriot, husband, and father.

The exhibition runs from September 4 to October 17, 2026, at the 2F Lobby of the Diorama Experience Gallery at Ayala Museum. It is co-presented by Ayala Museum and the National Historical Commission of the Philippines.

Looking at Del Pilar as a person

For Pineda, the exhibition is an attempt to move beyond the way heroes are commonly presented in history lessons.

“Often, history books shroud our heroes behind a dense wall of specific publications, dates, and political actions,” he says.

Rather than focusing solely on Del Pilar’s contributions to the Philippine reform movement, Pineda examines the person behind those historical milestones, particularly the cost of his decision to live away from his family while pursuing reform.

The exhibition draws from Del Pilar’s writings, including Dasalan at Tocsohan and his work associated with La Solidaridad, as well as personal letters that provide a glimpse into his relationship with his daughters, Sofia and Anita.

Those letters offer a different perspective on Del Pilar’s years away from home. Despite the distance separating him from his family, the documents portray a father who remained emotionally involved in his daughters’ lives.

For Pineda, this personal material is important in understanding that Del Pilar’s absence was not necessarily a reflection of a lack of love. Instead, it shows the difficult choices he made while living with poverty, isolation, and homesickness.

A family connection, approached as historical research

Pineda's position as a direct descendant gives the exhibition a perspective that is both personal and unusual.

At the same time, he approached the project as a historical inquiry, using research to balance his family's connection to Del Pilar with the need to present an evidence-based account of his life.

“This exhibition aims to strip away that historical mystery and introduce the actual character of the man,” Pineda explains.

His interpretation centers on the tension between Del Pilar's love for his wife and daughters and his decision to sacrifice the comforts of family life for his reformist work.

For Pineda, that sacrifice is part of what makes Del Pilar relatable beyond the pages of history books.

Connecting Philippine history with the Filipino diaspora

Pineda's own experience growing up in Hong Kong also informs the way he views his ancestor's story.

The exhibition draws a connection between Del Pilar's life abroad and the experiences of Filipinos in the diaspora today. Many Filipinos continue to live and work far from their families, making personal sacrifices in the hope of creating better opportunities for those at home.

This contemporary perspective allows Pineda to present Del Pilar's story not only as a chapter in Philippine history, but also as a story about family, separation, responsibility, and sacrifice.

Making history relatable to younger Filipinos

One of Pineda's goals is to encourage young visitors to approach history through empathy rather than memorization.

“Young people might not relate to editing a reformist newspaper, but they absolutely understand love, homesickness, and standing up for what is right,” he says.

Through MARCELO: THE MAN BEHIND THE HERO, Pineda hopes visitors will see Marcelo H. Del Pilar not simply as a name associated with the Philippine reform movement, but as a person who faced difficult choices and personal losses while pursuing what he believed was a better future for his country.

MARCELO: THE MAN BEHIND THE HERO (Reflections on the Legacy of Marcelo H. Del Pilar) is on view from September 4 to October 17, 2026, at the 2F Lobby of the Diorama Experience Gallery at Ayala Museum.

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Nadine Lustre and Apl.de.Ap Release ‘Donuts’

Nadine Lustre and Apl.de.Ap Release ‘Donuts’

Nadine Lustre has teamed up with Black Eyed Peas member Apl.de.Ap for “Donuts,” a new single that takes the Filipino artist’s music in a more urban direction.

Released under Cool Girl Records, the track follows Lustre’s comeback single “Personal” and blends elements of pop, hip-hop, and R&B.

“Donuts” moves away from the polished pop sound of “Personal,” built instead around 808s, gritty production, and drums with a marching quality. Lustre delivers rap-sung vocals over the track, showcasing a more assertive side of her musical style.

Apl.de.Ap joins Nadine Lustre on the track

Apl.de.Ap adds his own verse to “Donuts,” delivering a Taglish performance that also references his Filipino roots.

The Pampanga-born rapper incorporates a reference to Lapu-Lapu, the historic figure associated with the Battle of Mactan, while the song’s lyrics center on taking control of one’s direction and destiny.

The collaboration brings together two Filipino artists from different generations and musical backgrounds, with Apl.de.Ap’s hip-hop experience complementing Lustre’s evolving pop and R&B sound.

From ‘Personal’ to ‘Donuts’

“Donuts” also marks a noticeable shift from Lustre’s previous single, “Personal.”

While “Personal” leaned toward a smoother pop sound, the new track uses a heavier beat and more stripped-back rhythmic elements. Lustre’s rap-sung delivery sits at the center of the production, giving the song a more direct and edgy character.

The track was written by Lustre, Andric Ivo Empreso, and Jan Roberts Baloloy, with production by Khalil Atienza, Elijiah Wudz Bitacura, and Isagani Palabyab.

The song also features a spoken narration by Francis Brew of Filipino alternative rock band The Dawn, accompanied by choir vocals before the track moves into its beat-driven arrangement.

‘Donuts’ could lead to a bigger project

“Donuts” is the second release in what appears to be a series of singles from Lustre, potentially leading toward a larger music project.

The actress, businesswoman, and recording artist previously teased her collaboration with Apl.de.Ap in an Instagram post on September 5, describing the experience of making music with the Black Eyed Peas member as surreal.

With “Personal” and now “Donuts,” Lustre is gradually revealing a broader direction for her music, moving between pop, R&B, and hip-hop influences rather than staying within a single sound.

Nadine Lustre’s “Donuts” is now available on digital music platforms worldwide via Cool Girl Records.

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Paco Pastor Debuts With ‘Keep It Moving’

Paco Pastor Debuts With ‘Keep It Moving’

Manila-based artist Paco Pastor has released “Keep It Moving,” his debut single and music video under Philippine indie label Offshore Music.

Released on September 4, the track introduces the 19-year-old artist as he begins a new chapter in his music career, following years of independently developing his sound, creative identity, and audience.

Pastor describes “Keep It Moving” as his own interpretation of the familiar idea that “this too shall pass.” The song draws from his experience of continuing to pursue music despite uncertainty and the challenge of building recognition as an independent creator.

“At the time, I wasn’t validated for my art in music at all, and I was just an independent creator,” Pastor shared.

Signing with Offshore Music and working with management collective Waddle House Manila has since given the young artist a different experience of being part of the music industry.

“To be recognized by a label, have a manager willing to put up with my schedule, and have praise from people after I get off stage means so much,” he added.

A song about moving forward

The message of “Keep It Moving” is reflected in its upbeat production and emphasis on dancing.

Pastor built the song around a funky, fast-paced sound, using dancing as a metaphor for persistence. Instead of directly writing about struggle, he translated the feeling of pushing through difficult moments into lyrics centered on movement.

“It’s a funky feeling that keeps you moving,” he said.

The track also came together quickly. Pastor recalled being deeply immersed in the production and finishing the song in about an hour.

“Because of how quick-paced the song is, I knew it had to be about dancing somehow,” he explained. “So instead of writing lyrics that spoke in a literal sense, I translated the feeling of resistance and persistence into lyrics about dancing.”

Paco Pastor begins a new chapter

Pastor signed with Offshore Music this year and also joined Waddle House Manila, a newly launched local artist management collective.

As he introduces his music to a wider audience, the 19-year-old artist continues to perform at live gigs and use social media to connect with potential listeners.

For “Keep It Moving,” Pastor hopes to reach people who may be looking for a little optimism while dealing with uncertainty or difficult moments.

Rather than presenting perseverance as a heavy or serious concept, the song approaches it through movement, energy, and the simple act of keeping going.

“Keep It Moving” is now available on digital streaming platforms.

The official music video is also part of the release, giving listeners a visual counterpart to the song’s dance-driven concept.

Follow Paco Pastor on social media for updates on his upcoming gigs and music.

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IV OF SPADES Releases New Song ‘Isang Pag-ibig’

IV OF SPADES Releases New Song ‘Isang Pag-ibig’

Filipino alternative band IV OF SPADES has released “Isang Pag-ibig,” a song written nearly a decade ago that now arrives in a new chapter of the band’s career following their reunion in late 2025.

Released via Sony Music Entertainment, “Isang Pag-ibig” explores the search for genuine connection and the painful realization that giving everything to someone does not always mean being loved in return.

The song takes a straightforward musical approach, built around jangly guitars, a three-chord progression, and the arrangement of a four-piece band. Its loose and immediate sound reflects the period when the track was originally written.

Rather than relying on a heavily produced arrangement, the song keeps its structure simple, allowing its central sentiment to remain at the forefront.

A song from the band’s early years

“Isang Pag-ibig” looks back to an earlier period in the band’s history, but its release comes at a very different point in the lives and careers of its members.

Nearly a decade after it was written, the track now arrives as Unique Salonga, Zild Benitez, Blaster Silonga, and Badjao de Castro continue their activities following their reunion.

The release also points to a period of renewed creativity for IV OF SPADES, with the possibility of more music to come.

IV OF SPADES continues comeback momentum

Since reuniting in late 2025, IV OF SPADES has returned to the stage through a nationwide tour and several high-profile appearances.

The band’s Andalucia Tour 2026 brought the group to Davao City, Santa Rosa, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu City, and Baguio. The tour will also extend to North America in October, with scheduled performances in the United States and Canada.

Their return has also earned recognition from several award-giving bodies, including two People’s Choice nominations at the Filipino Music Awards 2026 and multiple nominations at the 39th Awit Awards.

The reunion has meanwhile renewed interest in the band’s earlier music. “Kabisado,” one of their previous releases, has accumulated nearly 80 million streams on Spotify and reached the top 10 of the Spotify Philippines Daily Chart. It also peaked at No. 6 on the Billboard Philippines Hot 100.

Watch the “Isang Pag-ibig” music video

“Isang Pag-ibig” is now available on digital streaming platforms worldwide through Sony Music Entertainment.

The official music video is also available on the IV OF SPADES YouTube channel.

For a band whose reunion has introduced its music to both longtime listeners and a new generation of fans, the release of “Isang Pag-ibig” offers a look back at where IV OF SPADES began while pointing toward what may come next.

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James Reid Releases Third Album Honey, I’m Home

James Reid Releases Third Album Honey, I’m Home

James Reid returns with a more introspective side of his music with the release of Honey, I’m Home, his third studio album under Sony Music Entertainment.

The 10-track record explores romance, vulnerability, intimacy and the idea of finding peace in who you are and the people you choose to have in your life.

For Reid, however, “home” is less about a physical place and more about a feeling.

The singer-songwriter, producer and actor describes the album as a reflection of a period when he began questioning the idea that there was always something else to chase.

“What if nothing is actually missing? Maybe I just wasn’t home?”

That realization became the central idea behind the album.

A Different Chapter for James Reid

After years of exploring different sounds and creative directions, Reid approaches Honey, I’m Home with less emphasis on proving himself and more confidence in following his instincts.

The album moves away from elaborate songwriting and overly polished production in favor of lyrics that feel conversational and personal.

That approach is particularly evident in songs that focus on everyday intimacy, from spending quiet time with someone to feeling understood enough to let one's guard down.

“I think this is probably the most comfortable I’ve ever sounded in my music,” Reid says of the record.

Honey, I’m Home Blends R&B, Soul and Classic Influences

While the album draws heavily from Reid's appreciation for R&B and soul, its sound also incorporates elements of funk, soft rock, yacht rock and classic pop.

The result is an album influenced by familiar musical textures without being designed as a retro project.

Reid and producer Luke April, who handled most of the album's production, also opted to preserve some of the imperfections associated with live performance.

Rather than making every element perfectly aligned to the beat, parts of the recording were intentionally left with subtle timing variations. The approach gives the songs a more organic feel.

Arthur Nery, Luke April and ISSA Join the Album

Honey, I’m Home is also Reid's most collaborative project so far.

Arthur Nery, Luke April and ISSA each appear on the album, with their contributions adding different textures to Reid's sound.

Nery joins Reid on “All Night,” bringing his distinct R&B vocals to the song's late-night atmosphere.

April appears on “Sunny Side,” contributing a laid-back rap and R&B performance that gives the track a more carefree character.

Meanwhile, ISSA features on “On My Way,” where her textured vocals create a contrast with Reid's cleaner vocal delivery.

The collaborations were chosen around what each artist could bring to the individual songs rather than simply adding features for the sake of having them.

“Indiana” Looks Toward Fatherhood

Among the album's most personal tracks is “Indiana,” which offers a glimpse into Reid's experience of preparing to become a father.

The song centers on the love and anticipation he feels for his child even before their arrival.

Within the context of Honey, I’m Home, “Indiana” also reinforces the album's larger theme: that a sense of home can be found in the people and relationships that give life meaning.

Tracks such as “Sunny Side” and “Blessed” similarly contribute to the album's themes of warmth and gratitude, while other songs explore romance, uncertainty and personal growth.

James Reid Honey, I’m Home Track List

The album features 10 tracks:

1. Honey I'm Home (Intro)
2. Attention
3. All Night feat. Arthur Nery
4. Traffic
5. Sunny Side feat. Luke April
6. Blessed
7. Indiana
8. Richest Man Alive
9. On My Way feat. ISSA
10. Unbecoming

Across the album, Reid presents a sound that feels more settled than some of his earlier work, while still allowing room for experimentation.

Rather than trying to define exactly what his music should sound like, Honey, I’m Home finds him leaning into the influences and songwriting instincts that feel most natural at this point in his career.

Where to Listen to Honey, I’m Home

James Reid's Honey, I’m Home is now available on digital music platforms worldwide through Sony Music Entertainment.

For listeners who have followed Reid's music through its different phases, the album offers a more intimate look at where he is creatively now: less focused on what comes next and more comfortable with where he is.

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SM East Metro Malls Offer Up to 50% Off in September

SM East Metro Malls Offer Up to 50% Off in September

Shoppers in the East Metro can look forward to three days of discounts as the SM Super September Sale takes place from September 18 to 20, 2026.

The sale will be available at SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, and SM City San Mateo, with discounts of up to 50% off on select items.

The three-day promotion gives shoppers an opportunity to pick up clothing, household items, gifts, and other purchases ahead of the holiday season while taking advantage of participating store offers.

When and where is the SM Super September Sale?

The SM Super September Sale runs from September 18 to 20, 2026, at three SM malls in the East Metro:

• SM City Marikina
• SM City Masinag
• SM City San Mateo

Selected items will be offered at up to 50% off, although actual discounts and participating products may vary by store.

For shoppers planning a visit, checking individual store offers and sale conditions before purchasing is advisable, particularly for items with limited stocks or specific promotional terms.

What can shoppers look for during the sale?

The September schedule makes the promotion timely for several types of purchases.

Start Christmas shopping early

With the holiday season approaching, the sale can be an opportunity to begin buying gifts before the heavier shopping period in November and December.

Starting early can also make it easier to spread purchases across several weeks instead of handling most Christmas shopping in one trip.

Prepare for the rainy season

September remains part of the rainy season in the Philippines, making practical purchases such as clothing, footwear, home items, and other everyday essentials worth considering during a sale.

The key is to prioritize items already on your shopping list rather than buying simply because something is discounted.

Refresh your wardrobe

Shoppers looking for new clothes or accessories can also check participating fashion retailers for sale items.

A discount can be more useful when applied to something you already need, whether that means replacing frequently used basics or preparing for upcoming events.

How can shoppers make the most of a mall sale?

A three-day sale can be tempting, but a little planning can help keep the shopping trip within budget.

1. Make a list before heading to the mall.

Identify the items you actually need, especially if you're shopping for Christmas gifts.

2. Compare the sale price with the regular price.

A percentage discount does not automatically mean an item is the best value.

3. Check store-specific promotions.

The advertised “up to 50% off” applies to select items, so discounts can differ between participating stores.

4. Set a spending limit.

Decide how much you intend to spend before shopping and prioritize essential purchases.

5. Shop early for popular items.

Sale stocks may be limited, particularly for specific sizes, colors, or gift items.

A September sale before the holiday shopping rush

September is an increasingly useful time for Filipino shoppers to start thinking about the holiday season. Buying gifts earlier can spread expenses over several pay periods and reduce the pressure of last-minute shopping.

For families in Marikina, Antipolo-area communities, and nearby parts of the East Metro, the three participating SM malls also provide convenient options for combining shopping with dining and other weekend activities.

The SM Super September Sale runs September 18 to 20 at SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, and SM City San Mateo. Discounts of up to 50% are available on select items during the promotion.

Shoppers should check participating stores for specific offers, product availability, and applicable sale terms.

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Jollibee Chicken Fillet Meals for Only ₱99

Jollibee Chicken Fillet Meals for Only ₱99

Sunday, September 13, 2026

Looking for a Jollibee meal that costs less than ₱100? From September 9 to 24, customers can get one of three Chicken Fillet meal combinations for ₱99 at participating Jollibee stores nationwide.

The limited-time Jollibee Chicken Fillet Deals feature the 1-pc Pepper Cream Chicken Fillet paired with either Fries and a drink, Jolly Spaghetti, or a Coke Float. The promo is available for dine-in, take-out, and drive-thru, while supplies last.

What can you get for ₱99 at Jollibee?

The three meal combinations are priced at ₱99, although their regular prices vary.

• 1-pc Pepper Cream Chicken Fillet + Fries and Drink ₱130 - ₱31 (savings)
• 1-pc Pepper Cream Chicken Fillet + Jolly Spaghetti ₱145 - ₱46 (savings)
• 1-pc Pepper Cream Chicken Fillet + Coke Float ₱154 - ₱55 (savings)

The Chicken Fillet with Coke Float offers the biggest stated savings at ₱55, while the Chicken Fillet with Fries and Drink saves ₱31.

The Jolly Spaghetti combination sits in between, giving customers a familiar Jollibee pairing for ₱99 instead of its regular ₱145 price.

When and where is the ₱99 Jollibee promo available?

The Jollibee Chicken Fillet ₱99 promo runs from September 9 to September 24, 2026, at participating Jollibee stores nationwide.

Customers can avail of the offer through Dine-in, Take-out, and Drive-thru.

The meals are available while supplies last, so availability may vary by branch.

The offer is also positioned as an option for different everyday occasions, whether it's a quick lunch, a meal between classes, or an affordable food stop.

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M1ss Jade So Unleashes ‘BAPHOMETA’ After Drag Race Win

M1ss Jade So Unleashes ‘BAPHOMETA’ After Drag Race Win

Thursday, September 3, 2026

Fresh from her RUBADGE win on the fourth episode of Drag Race Down Under vs. The World Season 1, M1ss Jade So is turning her latest drag transformation into new music.

The Filipino drag artist has released “BAPHOMETA,” a new track produced by her collaborator Naive Supreme and released under Offshore Music.

The song takes its name from the character M1ss Jade So created for the competition's “Wildlife Couture” category, where she transformed into a dark, stylized version of the occult figure Baphomet.

What inspired M1ss Jade So’s “BAPHOMETA”?

The concept began with a much simpler idea.

M1ss Jade So initially considered dressing as a goat for the challenge. She eventually pushed the concept further, developing BAPHOMETA, a character that combines elements associated with Baphomet with her own deliberately unconventional aesthetic.

The result reflects an approach to drag that has become central to M1ss Jade So's artistry: using fashion, music and transformation to explore identity while challenging conventional ideas of beauty.

“I like creating art that is provocative,” M1ss Jade So says.

That approach can also be heard throughout her music. Her catalog includes the sex-pop track “Power Top na Bratzy” from 2024, followed by the darker “ESOTERICA” and the more divine-themed “GODDESSA” in 2026.

“BAPHOMETA” continues that fascination with contrasting and sometimes provocative imagery.

“BAPHOMETA” mixes darkness with playfulness

Despite the song's occult-inspired concept, M1ss Jade So did not want the track to sound completely sinister.

According to the artist, she and co-writer Pette (Shabu) wanted the song to carry a destructive and chaotic energy while still feeling playful.

That contrast is an important part of the track's concept. Rather than treating its darker imagery with complete seriousness, “BAPHOMETA” uses humor and playfulness alongside its provocative themes.

It is a combination that fits M1ss Jade So's broader creative identity, where exaggerated characters and unconventional visuals are matched with equally distinctive music.

Why Baphomet became part of M1ss Jade So’s drag identity

The symbolism associated with Baphomet also resonated with M1ss Jade So because of its connection to duality.

The figure has been represented through contrasting concepts such as masculine and feminine, light and darkness, and mortal and divine.

For a drag artist, those ideas naturally lend themselves to transformation and identity.

M1ss Jade So says the concept connects with her own experience as a drag artist, particularly her exploration of identity, beauty and transformation.

That makes BAPHOMETA more than a character created for a single competition runway. It has become another extension of the world she is building through her music and visual art.

From Drag Race runway to new music

The release of “BAPHOMETA” also highlights how M1ss Jade So continues to blur the boundaries between drag performance and music.

Her latest project arrives at a time when her visibility has expanded through Drag Race Down Under vs. The World, giving audiences another opportunity to discover the artist behind the looks.

Rather than separating her drag persona from her music, M1ss Jade So uses the two mediums together. A runway concept can become a character, and that character can then inspire a song and visual experience.

That approach gives “BAPHOMETA” a natural place within her growing body of work.

Where to listen to “BAPHOMETA”

“BAPHOMETA” by M1ss Jade So is now available on streaming platforms under Offshore Music.

Fans can also catch the music video at a watch party on September 5 at Hoesik in Makati.

Following her RUBADGE win, the release gives M1ss Jade So another way to bring her latest Drag Race moment beyond the runway and into music.

With its dark imagery, playful energy and deliberately provocative concept, “BAPHOMETA” adds another unusual chapter to M1ss Jade So's evolving artistic universe.

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Ylona Garcia Marks 10 Years in Music With PH Homecoming

Ylona Garcia Marks 10 Years in Music With PH Homecoming

Ylona Garcia is marking a decade in music with two homecoming performances in the Philippines this September, revisiting the songs and experiences that have shaped her journey while giving fans a preview of what comes next.

The two-part celebration begins with Backyard Live: Ylona Garcia Spotlight on September 4 at Backyard Warehouse Studio in Baesa, Quezon City. The invitation-only event will offer a limited audience an intimate look at Ylona's 10th anniversary project.

On September 5, the celebration opens to the public with 10 Years of Ylona Garcia: Live at Venice Grand Canal Mall in McKinley Hill, starting at 7 p.m.

What will Ylona Garcia's 10th anniversary shows feature?

The anniversary performances will revisit songs from Ylona's decade-long career, but the material will be presented through her current perspective as an artist.

Rather than simply looking back, the project reflects how her experiences over the past 10 years have influenced the way she approaches music today.

Ylona described her first five years in the industry as a period of learning, particularly as she navigated Filipino culture and the entertainment business. She said the following five years brought more difficult personal experiences, including loss, emotional challenges and periods of being alone abroad.

Those experiences, she explained, helped her understand the distinction between being a singer and becoming an artist.

That evolution will be reflected in the anniversary performances.

From Philippine pop star to international artist

Ylona first gained recognition in the Philippines before expanding her musical career internationally.

Her journey eventually brought her to Paradise Rising, the Filipino-focused label under 88rising, and to Los Angeles, where she continued developing her music career.

Her international work has included a performance at 88rising's Head in the Clouds festival and the release of "Entertain Me," a collaboration connected to Riot Games' VALORANT.

Her growing profile has also brought attention from international publications, including V Magazine.

The path has not always been straightforward, but the different stages of her career have helped shape the artist she is today.

A new live album is also coming

The two Philippine performances will eventually form part of Ylona Garcia's 10th Anniversary Live Album, a nine-track collection featuring her interpretations of songs from the past decade.

The album will also connect her previous work with her next musical chapter.

Elements of the sounds and influences being developed for her long-awaited second EP will be incorporated into the anniversary performances, giving the project a forward-looking component.

For fans, that means the homecoming is not simply a retrospective. It is also a glimpse into the direction Ylona wants to take next.

Ylona Garcia begins a new chapter with Sony Music

Ylona is working with Sony Music Entertainment to reimagine her catalog for the anniversary project.

For the singer, the collaboration has also become part of her personal and artistic growth.

She described learning how to bring her own vision into a creative room, consider other perspectives and build something collectively without losing the message she wants to communicate.

That process appears to be central to the next stage of her career: maintaining her identity while becoming more intentional about the music she creates.

Two shows, one decade of music

Ylona Garcia's 10th anniversary homecoming brings together different parts of her journey, from her beginnings in Philippine showbiz to her international ambitions and the personal experiences that have influenced her songwriting and artistry.

The September 4 show at Backyard Warehouse Studio offers an intimate start to the celebration, while the September 5 performance at Venice Grand Canal Mall brings the anniversary to a broader audience.

After a decade of change, Ylona is returning to the Philippines not only to revisit where she started, but also to introduce audiences to the artist she has become.

The anniversary performances mark a significant milestone for Ylona Garcia, but the bigger story may be what follows. With a live album and second EP in the works, her 10th year in music looks less like an ending and more like the beginning of another chapter.

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The Itchyworms Bring OPM to New Zealand This September

The Itchyworms Bring OPM to New Zealand This September

Filipino pop-rock band The Itchyworms are taking their music to New Zealand this September with the Akin Ka Na Lang New Zealand Tour, bringing their signature mix of catchy melodies, sharp lyrics, humor and heartbreak to four cities.

The band will headline shows in Auckland, Wellington, Queenstown, and Christchurch, giving Filipino communities in New Zealand an opportunity to reconnect with home through OPM while inviting Kiwi audiences to experience one of the Philippines' well-known pop-rock acts.

Where will The Itchyworms perform in New Zealand?

The Itchyworms will perform in four New Zealand cities throughout September 2026:

• Auckland: September 18 at Galatos
• Wellington: September 19 at Notre Dame Performing Arts Center
• Queenstown: September 25 at Queenstown Memorial Center
• Christchurch: September 26 at Christ's College Auditorium

Tickets are priced at NZ$99 for Standing VIP, which includes a photo opportunity, and NZ$69 for Standing General Admission.

Tickets are available through the tour's ticketing page.

The tour is more than a series of overseas performances for The Itchyworms. It also gives the band a chance to connect with Filipinos living in New Zealand and introduce OPM to friends and audiences from outside the Filipino community.

The Itchyworms bring a distinctly Filipino sound overseas

The Itchyworms have built their identity around songs that combine memorable pop-rock melodies with clever and often relatable storytelling.

For drummer and vocalist Jazz Nicolas, that combination is part of what makes the band's music accessible across generations and cultures. Their songs can tackle petty frustrations, heartbreak and difficult experiences while packaging those emotions in melodies that are easy to remember.

That balance of humor and emotion has become part of the band's appeal.

It also makes the New Zealand tour an opportunity to introduce international audiences to another side of Original Pilipino Music (OPM). Filipino music is not limited to one sound or genre, and bands such as The Itchyworms show how contemporary OPM can blend rock, pop and distinctly Filipino storytelling.

A chance to celebrate Filipino culture

For vocalist and guitarist Jugs Jugueta, the New Zealand shows are also about reconnecting with Filipino communities abroad.

Jugueta said the band is encouraged by the growing international interest in Filipino culture, including its music and artists. He also encouraged Filipinos attending the shows to bring their Kiwi friends and family.

That invitation reflects an important part of overseas Filipino concerts. These events can serve both as a gathering for Filipinos abroad and as an introduction to Filipino culture for international audiences.

For The Itchyworms, music becomes a way to share not only familiar songs but also the energy and humor associated with Filipino celebrations.

Four cities, one OPM experience

The New Zealand tour gives Filipino music fans across the country several opportunities to catch The Itchyworms live.

Auckland opens the tour on September 18, followed by Wellington the next day. After a short break, the band heads to Queenstown on September 25 before wrapping up the tour in Christchurch on September 26.

For Filipino fans who have been away from home, hearing familiar OPM songs performed live can offer a strong connection to the Philippines. For first-time listeners, meanwhile, the shows could provide a lively introduction to the songwriting and sound of The Itchyworms.

With four stops across New Zealand, The Itchyworms New Zealand Tour is set to bring a familiar Filipino sound to audiences far from home while giving OPM another opportunity to travel beyond Philippine shores.

For Filipino music fans in New Zealand, it is also a chance to sing along, reconnect and, as Jugueta puts it, show their Kiwi friends how Filipinos party.

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James Reid Releases ‘Sunny Side’ With Luke April

James Reid Releases ‘Sunny Side’ With Luke April

Monday, August 31, 2026

James Reid has released “Sunny Side,” a new alternative pop single featuring producer and artist Luke April, ahead of his upcoming album honey, i’m home.

Released on August 27, 2026, through Sony Music Entertainment, the track explores freedom, self-acceptance, and the decision to define oneself rather than be shaped by other people's expectations.

“Sunny Side” combines bright guitars, filtered drums, a relaxed rap section, and alternative pop production. Its laid-back sound mirrors the song's central idea of enjoying the present without feeling pressured to be somewhere else.

What is James Reid’s ‘Sunny Side’ about?

At its core, “Sunny Side” is about personal freedom.

Reid describes the song as a reflection of choosing his own identity despite how other people may perceive him.

The track's message moves away from freedom as rebellion and toward freedom as self-assurance. Rather than responding directly to outside expectations, the song presents a more comfortable relationship with one's own identity.

That idea also connects to the themes of Reid's upcoming album, honey, i’m home.

How was ‘Sunny Side’ created?

The song was developed during a week-long creative session held in a makeshift outdoor studio at the back of an Airbnb.

According to the artists, the informal setup helped create an environment where there were few expectations about what the sessions needed to produce.

Musicians and producers moved in and out of the space while instruments were left around the studio. Instead of following a rigid recording plan, the collaborators allowed ideas to develop through experimentation and improvisation.

Reid said the relaxed setting helped create room for instinct and reduced the pressure that can sometimes come with recording music.

What does Luke April bring to the track?

Luke April produced “Sunny Side” and brought an alternative pop-rock approach to the recording.

April cites artists including Dominic Fike and Jean Dawson as references during the creative process.

He also intentionally allowed the different sections of the song to have slightly different sounds, creating a less predictable progression.

That approach is reflected in the production, which combines guitars, drums, rap, and pop elements without keeping the entire track within one rigid musical style.

What kind of sound does ‘Sunny Side’ have?

“Sunny Side” sits between alternative pop and pop-rock, with an intentionally relaxed arrangement.

Its production includes:

• Filtered drums
• Guitar textures
• An easygoing rap section
• Alternative pop elements
• Contrasting sounds between different sections of the song

The arrangement gives the track a sense of movement without making it feel hurried.

Its lyrical theme and production also make the song suited to casual listening, whether during a drive, a relaxed afternoon, or a day spent without a strict schedule.

When is James Reid’s new album coming out?

“Sunny Side” will appear on James Reid's upcoming album, honey, i’m home.

The album is scheduled for release on September 10, 2026, through Sony Music Entertainment.

Reid has described the project as being rooted in acceptance and a more confident understanding of himself.

The album's title also reflects that idea. For Reid, “home” represents a place where he can be most fully himself.

James Reid’s ‘Sunny Side’ and the idea of finding freedom

The release presents a more relaxed interpretation of independence.

Rather than framing freedom as pushing against expectations, “Sunny Side” focuses on being comfortable enough with one's identity that outside opinions carry less weight.

That perspective gives the song a natural connection to its laid-back production. The music does not sound hurried, while the lyrics center on the freedom to simply exist on one's own terms.

For listeners following Reid's musical direction, the track also provides an early indication of the themes that will carry into honey, i’m home.

Where can you listen to ‘Sunny Side’?

James Reid featuring Luke April's “Sunny Side” is available on digital music platforms worldwide through Sony Music Entertainment.

The single arrives ahead of the September 10 release of honey, i’m home.

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Ben&Ben Reimagines ‘Leaves’ With a More Mature Sound

Ben&Ben Reimagines ‘Leaves’ With a More Mature Sound

Nearly a decade after “Leaves” became one of Ben&Ben's most recognizable songs, the Filipino band has returned to the track with a new interpretation titled “Leaves (Reimagined).”

Rather than simply reproducing the original arrangement, the new version approaches the song from the perspective of musicians who have grown older and experienced more of life's uncertainties. The reimagined track explores themes of forgiveness, second chances, and growing together, with orchestral elements adding depth to both its quieter passages and emotional peaks.

How is ‘Leaves (Reimagined)’ different from the original?

Ben&Ben chose not to treat “Leaves (Reimagined)” as a straightforward remake.

The band added orchestral sounds alongside its existing musical identity, creating more space between the intimate and expansive sections of the song.

According to Ben&Ben, the arrangement was designed to reflect the emotional complexity that comes with growing older. Instead of making the song simply bigger, the orchestral elements help emphasize its quieter moments while giving the more dramatic sections additional weight.

The result is intended to feel more lived-in than the band's earlier recording.

What does ‘Leaves (Reimagined)’ say about growing older?

The new interpretation connects the song's message with the band's own experiences over the past nine years.

Ben&Ben describes the reimagined track as a reflection of how its members and their community have experienced different stages of love, loss, uncertainty, and change.

The band also connects the song's message to long-term relationships, whether between romantic partners, family members, or close friends.

For people who continue to grow alongside someone they love, forgiveness and giving another chance can become part of maintaining that relationship.

That perspective gives the song a different emotional context from its earlier version.

Why did Ben&Ben revisit ‘Leaves’?

The project follows the band's earlier experience with “Lifetime (Reimagined)”, but the group says the creative process for “Leaves” developed differently.

Rather than applying one formula to its older songs, Ben&Ben approached each reimagining as an opportunity to discover where the track could go next.

The band says that changing the musical and lyrical perspective can lead each song toward a different trajectory, allowing the original composition to take on another identity without losing its connection to its earlier version.

Ben&Ben continues a strong 2026 run

The release comes as Ben&Ben continues to receive recognition for its recent work.

In June, the band was named Duo/Group Artist of the Year at the 17th PMPC Star Awards for Music, with the recognition citing its work on the album The Traveler Across Dimensions.

Ben&Ben also received multiple nominations at the 39th Awit Awards, including:

• Record of the Year for “Saranggola”
• Best Performance by a Group for “Saranggola”
• Best Pop Recording for “Saranggola”

The nominations add to the band's continued presence in the Philippine music awards circuit.

When is Ben&Ben’s ‘Saranggola: The Concert’?

Ben&Ben will bring its music to the stage for “Saranggola: The Concert” on October 2 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The upcoming major concert follows the band's latest body of work and gives fans another opportunity to experience its music in a live setting.

The timing also places “Leaves (Reimagined)” within a broader period of reflection for the group, as it revisits earlier material while continuing to develop its current sound.

‘Leaves’ continues to evolve with Ben&Ben

Songs can change meaning as listeners and artists grow older.

For Ben&Ben, “Leaves (Reimagined)” offers an opportunity to revisit a familiar song from a different point in life. The new arrangement retains its emotional foundation while adding orchestral textures and a more mature perspective on relationships.

Nearly a decade after the original recording, the reimagined version presents “Leaves” not as a song frozen in its original moment, but as one that can continue to take on new meaning.

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