Holiday Hangouts Made Easy: What’s New at CV Strip in Quezon City This December

Holiday Hangouts Made Easy: What’s New at CV Strip in Quezon City This December

Saturday, December 6, 2025

From cozy cafés and brunch spots to gift pop-ups and family-friendly corners, CV Strip is shaping up to be one of QC’s most convenient holiday destinations.

The holiday season can get overwhelming fast, and sometimes all you really want is a simple, nearby spot where you can unwind, grab coffee, or squeeze in a bit of Christmas shopping. This year, CV Strip in Quezon City is becoming that go-to place. With new cafés, dining options, lifestyle stores, and a smoother route via the CV Bridge, the estate offers a relaxed escape that’s perfect for in-between plans, quick errands, and casual catch-ups.

A Relaxed Holiday Stop Close to Home

CV Strip’s charm lies in its quiet, uncomplicated energy. As management shared, their vision has always been to build “a place where people can easily meet, eat, and unwind — a community spot that feels close to home.” And this season, they’ve added more options that make those simple holiday plans even easier.

Visitors can enter through two main paths: Calle Industria, convenient for those coming from C5 and the Quezon City side, or the CV Bridge, which connects directly from Pasig. The bridge is open daily from 5 AM to 3 AM, giving holiday-goers an easy, straightforward route in and out of the estate.

Cafés, Brunch Spots, and Family-Friendly Corners

If you’re visiting for coffee or a laid-back meet-up, CV Strip has a growing lineup of cozy cafés:

• Biyaya Kofi – A new tenant with a warm setup perfect for long conversations, slow brews, and barkada board-game nights.
• Twelve28th Café – Offering brunch plates, pastries, and specialty drinks, ideal for quiet reunions or remote work breaks.
• Taylor’s Play Café – A family favorite where kids can play safely while parents enjoy a snack or coffee.

Holiday Shopping: Toys, Sportswear, and Last-Minute Finds

Whether you’re doing a quick pasalubong run or looking for affordable gifts, CV Strip has convenient options:

• ToyTown Clearance Pop-Up (until January 2026): Up to 70 percent off toys — perfect for budget-friendly gifting.
• Playground Premium Store: Athletic wear and accessories for sporty loved ones or those gearing up for a healthier new year.

Easy Dining Choices for Every Group and Gathering

From brunch with the family to barkada dinners, CV Strip’s dining mix suits any holiday plan:

• Giligan’s Restaurant – A reliable Filipino favorite for groups.
• Liam’s & Louis Gourmet Café – Great for cozy brunches and intimate family gatherings.
• Viandé – The newest spot offering premium dishes from breakfast at 7 AM to late-night sets at 10 PM.
• Chilltop – A relaxed pick for after-work drinks.

Wellness, Grooming, and Feel-Good Stops

For small resets in the middle of a busy season, CV Strip also offers thoughtful spots:

• Barkin’s Blends Dog Café: A must-visit for fur parents and pet lovers.
• My Studio & Allways Therapy (opening mid-December): A neurodiversity-affirming center offering therapeutic support and a studio space for portrait rentals — a great choice for holiday photoshoots.
• Guapo’s Barbers: Convenient grooming for those prepping for parties or reunions.

Why CV Strip Makes Errands Feel Lighter

Aside from its relaxed atmosphere, CV Strip offers two hours of free parking with a minimum purchase of ₱150 on a single receipt. Once validated, visitors enjoy the first two hours free, with succeeding hours charged at a flat ₱60 per hour. Same-day receipts only.

This simple perk — plus its accessible location and growing tenant mix — makes CV Strip a handy holiday stop whether you're meeting friends, grabbing gifts, or taking a quick breather from the Metro’s December rush.

If you’re craving a convenient holiday hangout without the chaos of big malls, CV Strip is an easy choice. With new cafés, more dining options, shopping finds, and relaxing lifestyle corners, it offers a refreshing escape for those last-minute December plans. Drop by for coffee, brunch, shopping, or just a little quiet before diving back into the festivities.

Read More

“Sungit”: Any Name’s Okay Celebrates the Sweet Imperfections of Real Love in New Single

“Sungit”: Any Name’s Okay Celebrates the Sweet Imperfections of Real Love in New Single

Wednesday, November 19, 2025

When was the last time you and your partner argued over something tiny—only to end up laughing about it minutes later? Those everyday “asaran,” tampuhan moments, and bursts of lambing are exactly what Any Name’s Okay captures in their newest single, “Sungit.” For many Filipinos, this familiar cycle feels like home and the band turns it into a warm, musical reminder that love doesn’t need to be perfect to feel true.

Set to be part of the group’s first full-length album launching in 2026, “Sungit” brings a fresh alt-pop/rock energy wrapped in heart-tugging honesty, something longtime fans will instantly recognize.

A Playful Spin on a Very Filipino Feeling

According to the five-member group, the song started with a simple, everyday word we all use sungit and evolved into a reflection of what mature love really looks like.

The band shared that the track explores “all the complex feelings that surround such a common Filipino word… It’s a snapshot of a love that isn’t perfect, but is comforting in its realness.” They emphasized that their music always comes from “a youthful, hopeful heart,” and “Sungit” beautifully carries that trademark sincerity.

Celebrating the Pokes, Paasars, and Petty Arguments That Make Love Real

“Sungit” is the kind of song that makes you smile because you’ve lived it. It highlights how:

• Small misunderstandings don’t make a relationship weak, they make it alive
• Lovers can jump from bickering one moment to bursting into laughter the next
• Even “sungitan” can feel sweet when you know you’re safe with each other

The song gently reminds listeners that love hides and grows in those tiny cracks, those imperfect, messy, human moments that make relationships feel authentic.

With lyrics that balance playfulness and tenderness, “Sungit” feels like a warm hug from someone who knows you inside out… even the sungit side.

A New Chapter for Any Name’s Okay

“Sungit” marks an exciting buildup to the band’s first-ever full-length album dropping in 2026. For a group known for heartfelt lyricism and refreshing soundscapes, this single feels like the beginning of an even more emotionally rich era.

Fans can expect more stories, more feelings, and more melodies that hit close to home.

Where to Listen

You can now stream “Sungit” on all major streaming platforms.

Follow Any Name’s Okay on their social media pages for the latest updates, show announcements, and sneak peeks of their upcoming album.

If you’ve ever been “masungit” with someone you love or been on the receiving end, you’ll feel instantly seen by this track. It’s charming, comforting, and incredibly Filipino at its core. Definitely worth adding to your “good vibes” playlist.

Read More

Gab Cabangon Releases Debut Single Pieces

Gab Cabangon Releases Debut Single Pieces

Friday, September 26, 2025

Gab Cabangon Debuts as Solo Artist with Heartfelt Single “Pieces”

After years of performing in the local gig scene, Filipino singer-songwriter Gab Cabangon is officially stepping into the spotlight with the release of his debut single “Pieces.” The acoustic indie pop track is now available on all digital music platforms worldwide and marks his first official release as a solo artist.

A Song for Healing and Hope

“Pieces” carries an empowering message for anyone navigating grief, depression, or uncertainty. Gab describes it as his personal “It’s Okay Not to Be Okay” anthem—an invitation to embrace vulnerability while holding on to the promise of brighter days.

“I want this song to be the soundtrack for people to allow themselves to go through the process of sadness and grief without feeling judged and without feeling alone,” Gab shares. He adds that acknowledging pain is part of the journey toward healing, and that there’s always someone—or something—that can help us rise again.

From Personal Gift to Shared Anthem

Originally written during the pandemic as an anniversary gift for his then-girlfriend (now wife), “Pieces” grew into something much bigger. When Gab began performing it at livestreams and gigs, the song resonated deeply with listeners, often moving audiences to tears. That reaction convinced him to record the track and share it with a wider audience.

“It also helps that I’m in a place right now where I could really invest in my music and do it at a certain level that I can be proud of,” Gab reflects. He credits his collaborators for helping shape the final product, saying they made him not just a better musician but also a better storyteller.

Collaboration and Craftsmanship

To bring the song to life, Gab teamed up with his longtime friend and music director David Lina, who infused the track with warm, tender arrangements. The song was then mixed and mastered by Shadiel “Shad” Chan and Jan Fuertez, whose expertise added polish while preserving the emotional rawness of the piece.

With its lush acoustic textures and heartfelt delivery, “Pieces” has the cinematic quality of a film soundtrack, reflecting Gab’s vision of music that goes beyond entertainment and becomes part of life’s stories.

A New Chapter for Gab Cabangon

For Gab, “Pieces” represents a turning point. Having performed for years both solo and with his former band K.E., he admits he once doubted whether he should pursue recording as a solo artist. But late last year, he made the conscious decision to follow that path.

“For the longest time, I was very hesitant to release new music as a solo artist,” he admits. “At first, I thought I would be content just being a gigging artist. But the hunger and desire to record and release new music never left me.”

With this release, Gab introduces himself as a solo act who will explore themes of love, healing, and resilience. “Not to give away too much, but I’d like to think that it’s the opening song to a letter that I’m writing for the people who are trying to learn to love again,” he hints.

With its honesty and warmth, “Pieces” feels like more than just a debut single—it’s a heartfelt soundtrack for anyone searching for comfort and courage in difficult times. Whether you’re a longtime supporter of OPM or just discovering Gab Cabangon, this release is worth adding to your playlist.

Stream “Pieces” now on Spotify, Apple Music, or your favorite digital music platform and follow Gab’s journey as he shares more stories through his songs.

Read More

Damiano David Drops Star-Studded Single “Talk to Me” with Tyla and Nile Rodgers

Damiano David Drops Star-Studded Single “Talk to Me” with Tyla and Nile Rodgers

Friday, September 12, 2025

When an artist as bold and magnetic as Damiano David announces new music, you know it’s going to be big. This time, the Italian singer-songwriter (and Måneskin frontman we all know and love) has cooked up something truly special—his brand-new single “Talk to Me,” featuring Grammy-winning powerhouse Tyla and the legendary guitar genius Nile Rodgers.

Set to drop on Friday, September 12 at midnight GMT, the track promises to deliver Damiano’s signature raw lyricism, Tyla’s soulful vocals, and Rodgers’ iconic funk groove—all wrapped up in one unforgettable collaboration.

A Collaboration Written in the Stars

Damiano revealed that “Talk to Me” came to life in a burst of unexpected inspiration right before his tour. “I felt like the song needed a duet, and after hearing Tyla’s ‘Water,’ I just knew she was the perfect voice for it. Having Nile Rodgers add his legendary guitar? That was the icing on the cake,” he shared.

Tyla, who has been on a global rise since her Grammy win, said she instantly connected with the track’s nostalgic yet fresh vibe. “I heard myself on it right away,” she admitted. “My tygrs are gonna love this one!”

Meanwhile, Nile Rodgers, whose guitar has shaped countless hits across decades, described his role as “the third voice” in the track, adding, “It was just so much fun to work on.”

Riding High After Funny Little Fears

“Talk to Me” follows Damiano’s critically acclaimed debut solo album Funny Little Fears, which featured collabs with Suki Waterhouse, d4vd, and Labrinth, racking up over 800 million streams worldwide. Tracks like “Born With A Broken Heart,” “Next Summer,” and “Voices” have already proven his strength as a solo force, earning him two MTV VMA nominations this year, including Best Long Form Video and PUSH Performance of the Year.

Catch Damiano Live on His Global Tour

Fans won’t just have to stream—Damiano is taking his music around the world with a massive 2025 global tour. With 30+ dates across five continents, multiple sold-out shows, and even upgraded venues, the Rome-born artist is solidifying his place as one of today’s most exciting live performers.

From Rome to the World

From his rise with Måneskin—becoming the first Italian band to truly conquer the global stage—to now thriving as a solo artist, Damiano’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. With “Talk to Me” adding another chapter to his ever-growing legacy, it’s clear he’s not just making music—he’s making history.

Read More

ONErpm Expands to Philippines, Celebrates 15 Years in Music

ONErpm Expands to Philippines, Celebrates 15 Years in Music

Friday, August 29, 2025

The Philippine music scene just got a major boost! 🎶 Global music company ONErpm has officially expanded to the Philippines as part of its 15th anniversary celebration, bringing with it a fresh wave of innovation, artist-centered opportunities, and tech-driven solutions for creators of all levels.

For a country known for its rich musical talent and passionate audiences, this move is a big win—marking a new era of growth for Filipino artists who are ready to take their sound worldwide.

ONErpm: From Global Force to Local Game-Changer

Founded 15 years ago, ONErpm has grown into one of the world’s leading independent music companies. Entirely self-funded and independent, it’s already among YouTube’s top five global music partners, clocking in an impressive 25 billion monthly views. With its strong presence in Asia, Africa, and other fast-growing markets, the Philippines is now set to become its newest strategic hub in Southeast Asia.

So, what makes ONErpm stand out? Beyond traditional distribution, the company offers full label services, catalog deals, joint ventures, and innovative marketing strategies tailored to each artist’s unique journey. Simply put—it’s more than a label. It’s a platform designed to help artists grow and thrive sustainably.

Meet the Power Team Behind ONErpm Philippines

To cement its presence in the local scene, ONErpm has assembled a rockstar team of industry professionals who know the Filipino music landscape inside and out:

Clark Cunanan – Senior Business Development Manager

With years of experience at The Orchard Philippines and Universal Music Group, Clark has worked with both major and indie artists. From artist marketing to touring as a musician himself, he brings the perfect balance of strategy and creativity to help Filipino talents shine.

Alyssa “Pebs” Pe Benito – Marketing Manager

Pebs has spent over a decade crafting viral hits and chart-toppers. With roots in the indie scene and a strong background in marketing and advertising, she’s known for building campaigns that connect with audiences and elevate artists to the next level.

Presh Ong – Business Development & A&R Representative

Fans may recognize her as DJ Alice from Wish 107.5’s The Roadshow. With 11 years in broadcasting and artist relations, plus experience at Radical Music, Presh is passionate about discovering fresh talent and empowering artists with her unique blend of charisma and business know-how.

Louie Tamon – Project Manager

A rising force in music distribution and artist relations, Louie ensures a smooth onboarding experience for artists and labels. He’s also the go-to guy for pitching releases to digital streaming platforms.

Building a Record Label of the Future

According to Isaac Miranda, ONErpm Associate Director for Asia, the company’s strategy is all about “meeting artists where they are and building locally with global standards.” With flexible deal structures, transparency, and a strong local team, ONErpm aims to become the go-to partner for Filipino artists ready to expand globally.

“The Philippines already has the talent pool, a passionate music scene, and strong export potential,” Miranda shares. “Our goal is to provide global reach with local execution.”

Shaping the Future of Filipino Music

As it celebrates 15 years of empowering artists worldwide, ONErpm’s expansion into the Philippines is more than just a milestone—it’s a statement. By investing in local talent and building infrastructure for long-term growth, the company is reimagining what a record label can be: tech-powered, artist-focused, and future-ready.

With this move, Filipino creators now have greater opportunities to break into the global stage—proving once again that the world is ready for more OPM.

ONErpm’s arrival is not just about business—it’s about amplifying Filipino voices and pushing the local music scene into the global spotlight. And we can’t wait to see which homegrown artists will take center stage next.

What do you think of ONErpm’s expansion? Drop your thoughts in the comments and share which Filipino artists you’d love to see go international with ONErpm!

Read More

How PR Transforms The #1 Storytelling Mistake Brands Make

How PR Transforms The #1 Storytelling Mistake Brands Make

Monday, August 25, 2025

Millions of brands fight to own the narrative every day, but not all of them succeed. Their mistake? They put themselves at the center of the story instead of their audience.

In the Philippines, many small and medium enterprises (SMEs) make the same storytelling flaw. Your customers want to be the hero, and your role is to guide, support, and inspire them.

When you take this approach in storytelling, you can turn casual buyers into loyal advocates. Here’s how you can produce stories that grab attention and retain connections.

The #1 Brand Storytelling Mistake: Making It All About You

When businesses talk only about their achievements, products, or milestones without connecting to their audience’s needs or values, they unintentionally push people away.

For example:

● Too much self-promotion: “We’ve been in business for 20 years!” Good to know, but why should customers care?

● Overly technical jargon: “Our proprietary solution uses next-gen algorithms to optimize workflow…” Sounds smart, but confusing.

● No emotional hook: “Buy now before the promo ends.” Where’s the connection?

Effective brand storytelling is about making your customer the protagonist while positioning your brand as the dependable guide who helps them reach victory.

Why This Mistake Hurts Your Business

When your story is too focused on yourself, your audience quickly tunes out. People will just scroll past you if your content doesn’t speak to their needs. You also lose the emotional connection that comes from shared values and empathy, leaving your message sounding more like a hard sell than a genuine story.

In our current ad-ridden digital landscape, nothing drives people away faster than sounding too salesy. In fact, Edelman’s Trust Barometer found that 81% of consumers need to trust a brand before making a purchase. Building that trust requires not only self-promotion, but also relevance, empathy, and authenticity.

What Good PR Storytelling Looks Like

Good PR storytelling in the Philippines banks on relationships and community ties. These traits are important in crafting your narrative:

• Audience-focused: Stories begin with the customer’s perspective.
• Authentic and relatable: Draw from real experiences, not just marketing copy.
• Value-driven: Share how your brand improves lives, not just products.
• Culturally aware: Tap into Filipino values like bayanihan (community spirit) or pakikisama (harmony).

For example, instead of “We launched a new eco-friendly packaging,” a PR agency in the Philippines can frame it as:

“A small bakery in Quezon City helped reduce 500 kg of plastic waste in their barangay. Here’s how your own business can do it too.”

This shifts the story from self-promotion to impact and community value.

How a PR Agency Can Help You Fix This Mistake

A seasoned PR agency that understands both traditional and digital media can help transform your storytelling by:

1. Identifying Your Core Narrative

PR professionals know how to extract the most relatable parts of your brand’s journey. They’ll help you frame stories around your mission, customer successes, and cultural touchpoints that resonate in the local market.

2. Finding the Right Platforms

A good story falls flat if no one hears it. PR agencies use their media connections in print, TV, radio, and online to amplify your story to the right audiences. Your content can shine in a lifestyle magazine in Manila or a community Facebook group in Cebu.

3. Ensuring Consistent Messaging

In integrated marketing communications (IMC), consistency builds credibility. PR agencies align your press releases, social media posts, interviews, and blog articles so your audience hears the same values and voice everywhere.

4. Using Data to Shape Stories

With media monitoring and sentiment analysis, PR pros can track which stories resonate and adjust messaging accordingly. This avoids wasted effort on narratives that don’t land.

5. Turning Everyday Moments into PR Wins

A small act can become a full-fledged brand story if packaged well. Experienced PR agencies know how to spot and amplify these moments.

Why Good PR Is Essential for Success

In the Philippines, word-of-mouth still drives much of purchasing behavior, which makes public relations about publicity and credibility. Good PR ensures you’re telling the right stories to the right people, building trust and loyalty instead of pushing empty sales, and positioning your brand as authentic, relevant, and socially aware.

Without that expertise, even well-meaning efforts can fall flat or, worse, harm your reputation

Read More

Muri and Shigge Drop Cross-Cultural Dance EP “SETSUNA” Celebrating the Beauty of Impermanence

Muri and Shigge Drop Cross-Cultural Dance EP “SETSUNA” Celebrating the Beauty of Impermanence

Tuesday, August 12, 2025

When Filipino Soul Meets Japanese Beats

What happens when a Filipino indie pop/soul artist teams up with a Japanese electronic producer? You get SETSUNA — a fresh, genre-bending EP that captures the fleeting beauty of life’s moments while making you want to move to the beat.

Released by Muri in collaboration with Shigge, this 4-track record blends pop, soul, and intricate dance production, offering a unique soundscape that’s both emotional and electrifying. The title “SETSUNA” comes from the Japanese word for “instant,” perfectly capturing the project’s theme: impermanence in a fast-paced world.

A Sonic Journey Through Fleeting Moments

Created remotely between Manila, Tokyo, and London, the EP merges cultural influences and styles in a seamless, hypnotic way:

Afternoon – Starts breezy and chill, then suddenly shifts into an adrenaline-pumping drum n’ bass groove.

Bad News – Infectious grooves and pulsing beats that feel freeing and vibrant.

Midnight Calls – An after-hours anthem with late-night energy and smooth sophistication.

Sayaw – A bilingual dance floor delight mixing English and Filipino lyrics, soulful melodies, and heavy bass.

The result? A record that’s as unpredictable as life itself — playful yet profound.

Behind the Collaboration

Muri admits the project wasn’t always smooth sailing. Working across different countries and styles meant navigating unfamiliar creative territory.

“The first song we did together felt uncomfortable at first because it was out of our comfort zone,” Muri shares. “But in the end, that uncertainty made it exciting. We didn’t know how it would turn out, but we both loved what we created.”

This willingness to experiment is exactly what gives SETSUNA its charm — it’s fearless, boundary-pushing, and alive with personality.

Why It Matters to OPM Fans

Filipino listeners will love how “Sayaw” injects Pinoy flavor into a global collaboration, proving OPM can hold its own on the world stage. In an era where artists can collaborate across continents without leaving their home studios, SETSUNA is a prime example of music’s power to transcend borders.

If you’re craving music that makes you dance while also making you reflect, add SETSUNA to your playlist. Whether you’re chilling at home or out for the night, Muri and Shigge’s cross-cultural beats will keep you hitting replay.

Read More

A new symbol of tech-style: The POVA 7 Ultra 5G is arriving soon

A new symbol of tech-style: The POVA 7 Ultra 5G is arriving soon

Monday, August 11, 2025

Official gaming phone of the Philippine National Esports Team


AI-driven innovative technology brand TECNO is bringing to Filipino youth its culture defining tech style icon, the POVA 7 Ultra 5G on August 8. Bold, sleek and minimalist with pure interstellar spaceship design and hyper gaming engine for elite esports, the POVA 7 Ultra 5G is trusted by champions to push limits.

 

As the official gaming phone of Philippine national esports team SIBOL, the POVA 7 Ultra 5G is the perfect power partner for SIBOL to dominate the global gaming arena at the Southeast Asian Games and World Esports Games.

From galaxy to your grip - lighting up your world, dancing to your life

The POVA 7 Ultra 5G will capture the imagination of a new generation of edgy and futuristic users with its full customization capability - distinctive appearance and iconic styling designed to delight. Generic phones will be a thing of the past for the Filipino youth with this ultra stylish smartphone.


The POVA 7 Ultra 5G redefines trendy tech art with its “Line & Lighting” theme, featuring upgraded 104 mini-LEDs surrounding the camera for the innovative “Status Light,” enabling customizable lighting patterns for notifications and enhancing both style and functionality.

Beyond visual distinction, the POVA 7 Ultra 5G excels in performance, offering a full suite of AI-powered tools supported by a high-performance chipset and robust battery. It is truly a symbol of TECNO’s dedication to continuing its mission of empowering next generation users with trend-tech styles and advanced technology.

Get it first on TikTok Super Brand Day on 8.8

Be among the first to own the POVA 7 Ultra 5G during its first launch on TikTok on Super Brand Day. Running from Aug 8 to Aug 14, customers who purchase the new smartphone will get freebies worth up to PhP1,999 - buy 1 get 1 POVA wireless powerbank + 1 Customised Dito UNLI PUBG Prepaid Gaming SIM card + 1 Special Edition PUBGM case card.

Experience POVA 7 Ultra 5G’s superpower at the POVA Gaming Fiesta

Make your way to SM Fairview on August 9 to experience firsthand POVA 7 Ultra 5G’s futuristic features and powerful performance. Immerse yourself in esport games like never before and feel the difference when you outperform opponents and light up your wins in celebration.

Meet and greet the gamechangers and trendsetters, starting with POVA 7 Ultra 5G’s Chief Gaming Officer. Take front row seats and watch a top gamer Showmatch. See why SIBOL picked POVA 7 Ultra 5G as its official gaming phone, and TECNO Mobile Philippines as its official smartphone partner.


Similar to TECNO’s mantra, SIBOL will "Stop At Nothing" in its quest to bring honor to the Philippines in the esports arena. Game on!

Read More