Jolianne makes fun of her single status on the incredibly witty new track “Plain Girl”

Jolianne makes fun of her single status on the incredibly witty new track “Plain Girl”

Monday, December 16, 2024

Cebuana singer-songwriter Jolianne drops her new single, “Plain Girl,” a playful yet honest anthem that depicts the complexities of being a single young woman in a world full of love stories.

Released via Careless Music and Sony Music Entertainment, the track blends jazz-infused pop with a subtle touch of Disney-like whimsy, making it impossible to ignore.

With “Plain Girl,” Jolianne pokes fun of her own relationship status, waltzing into a narrative that speaks to the tiresome feeling of being lonely, inadequate, and overlooked. But instead of wallowing in self-pity or self-deprecation, the rising pop artist delivers a confessional with inescapable wit and lighthearted charm.

Jolianne explains, “I didn’t want it to come across as overly self-deprecating. Instead, I wanted it to sound like I was poking fun at my situation. This is why I paired the lyrics with dreamlike melodies and production.”

The song strikes a perfect balance between vulnerability and humor, with the soothing melodies contrasting sharply against the candid lyrics. Throughout the track, Jolianne’s natural charisma, paired with her impressive songwriting chops, shines in the dreamy lilt of lush instrumentation. She delivers a refreshing take on the “no-boyfriend-since-birth” (NBSB) narrative essentially like no other.

“Plain Girl” is filled with memorable lines that explore the frustrations and missed connection of navigating single life. One of the standout lyrics, “I want to be someone’s second to none, but it’s more likely I turn to a nun,” encapsulates the song’s raw honesty, a sentiment Jolianne feels deeply. “I think this line captures the balance best,” she shares. “It’s honest and a little bit cheeky, but that’s exactly how I feel.”

“Plain Girl” is produced by Jonah Bru and RJ Pineda, with vocal arrangement by Jolianne. According to the talented recording star, she wanted to embrace a whimsical and playful direction for the song, while highlighting her core strengths as a songwriter. The result is a lighthearted take on female solitude, but without being overly dramatic.

“Plain Girl” is the second single from Jolianne’s highly anticipated debut EP, set for release early next year. The upcoming EP will explore themes of yearning, love, and heartbreak, with the same mix of emotional candor and charismatic wit that makes “Plain Girl” so captivating.Jolianne’s “Plain Girl” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Careless Music and Sony. Music Entertainment. Watch the live performance video at her official YouTube channel.

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Alex Bruce and Zae celebrates women in hip-hop on joint track “A to Z (Drop It)”

Alex Bruce and Zae celebrates women in hip-hop on joint track “A to Z (Drop It)”

Two of Filipino hip-hop’s promising stars, Alex Bruce and Zae, turn up the heat with the release of their collaborative single “A to Z (Drop It)”—out today via Sony Music Entertainment.

The fun, upbeat track marks a pivotal moment for both artists as they navigate a new chapter in their career, with Bruce preparing to turn 18 soon and Zae dropping her second track as an artist under AWAL. Together, they deliver another catchy R&B/hip-hop jam that embodies confidence, self-expression and femininity.

More than just a banger, the track is a declaration of empowerment. Featuring bold, sassy, and unapologetic vibes, “A to Z (Drop It)” is about “embracing who you are and owning your space,” shares Alex Bruce.

The collaboration exudes a natural chemistry between Bruce and Zae, two artists who hit it off instantly despite the material being their first joint. The song showcases the best of both worlds, blending their strengths and perspectives in one compelling package.

“Working with Zae brought a fire that matched mine, and together we created something that’s pure sassy, classy, nasty vibes,” says Alex Bruce. “This is us stepping up our game.”

Championing women in hip-hop

The song is a testament to the power of female solidarity in a genre often dominated by men. In the music video, the presence of strong women in Pinoy hip-hop is emphasized, including a special appearance by one of the heavy-hitting rookies in the game: Illest Morena. Inspired by the iconic dance movie, Step Up (2010), the music video revolves around the concept that women should be celebrated, and not pitted against each other.

“We’re not just here for the spotlight; we’re here to uplift each other and make sure our voices are heard,” shares Bruce. “In a space where women are often overlooked, we’re showing that we’ve got each other’s backs. Together, we rise and create a powerful statement of unity and respect.”

The music video was helmed by Louie Ong, a two-time MYX Music Award nominee. He brought the concept to life with dynamic cinematography and high-energy visuals, further enhancing its message.

The track also represents a breakthrough for both acts as they continue to challenge expectations and barriers in the Pinoy hip-hop scene. For Alex and Zae, this release is a declaration of their rightful place in a culture that is often slow to recognize women as key players.

“Women are often told to fit into certain expectations, especially in hip-hop,” says Zae. “With this song, we wanted to show that we’re more than just our image.”

“A to Z (Drop It)” is produced by Markbeats, a prominent urban producer who played a significant role in shaping the track’s overall sound and arrangement.

“He has always been a solid collaborator,” reveals Bruce. “He brought the energy we needed. His production really amplified the potential of the song and turn it into an anthem that hits hard.”Alex Bruce and Zae’s “A to Z (Drop It)” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch out for the music video to be released at 7:00 pm on her official YouTube channel.

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KAIA, Subsonic Eye, Milledenials, Shaan & More Showcase Music Excellence & Regional Bonds at ASEAN India Music Festival 2024

KAIA, Subsonic Eye, Milledenials, Shaan & More Showcase Music Excellence & Regional Bonds at ASEAN India Music Festival 2024

ASEAN-India Music Festival (AIMF) concludes its biggest and most expansive edition held from November 29 to December 1, at the renowned Purana Qila in New Delhi, India, which offered free entry to all. Organized by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and Seher, the festival celebrates a decade of India’s ‘Act East Policy’, a comprehensive strategic partnership between India and ASEAN countries.

Drawing thousands of music lovers over three days, ASEAN-India Music Festival was a stunning tribute to music and its power to unite people from different cultures, and a display of world-class talent, which Hon’ble Minister of State for External Affairs, Mr. Pabitra Margherita, who inaugurated the event on its opening day as the Chief Guest, put succinctly, “ASEAN India Music Festival 2024 has shown how melodies can dissolve boundaries and foster connections that go beyond geography. Over these three days, we’ve celebrated not just the rhythm of instruments but the heartbeat of two regions bound by shared history and aspirations. The energy here at Purana Qila is a reminder that when art speaks, it unites us in ways words alone cannot. It has been an honor to witness this beautiful symphony of cultures.”

The third AIMF opened in grand style featuring captivating performances by India’s music icons Shaan and Raghu Dixit alongside ASEAN talents such as CHET Kanhchna (Cambodia), MRTV (Myanmar), and Buc Tuong (Viet Nam).

Day 2 delivered more electrifying performances on a global music stage, as India’s sensational pop duo Sukriti-Prakriti and indie pop-rock heroes Western Ghats brought dynamic energy to the ancient grounds of Purana Qila, while ASEAN artists like Floor 88 (Malaysia), Television Off (Thailand), and Tropical Hornbills (Brunei) proudly represented their vibrant cultures to the audience.

The final day saw award-winning singer-songwriter Jasleen Royal captivate the huge crowds with her performance. They were further treated to more remarkable acts from ASEAN, such as Subsonic Eye (Singapore), who delivered ethereal indie pop, while Milledenials (Indonesia) turned up the tempo with their infectious energy. TAIY AKARD (Lao PDR) and KAIA (Philippines) rounded up the incredible night, with their high-powered sets to conclude the 2024 edition of ASEAN-India Music Festival.

The festival was not only an occasion to hear great music, but it also played a vital role in connecting people from different backgrounds, Shaan—the “Golden Voice of India”—reflected, “Music is the heartbeat of humanity, and this festival showed us just how powerful that connection can be… sharing a stage with artists from ASEAN and feeling the audience's energy was surreal. Music really is a universal language, and tonight proved that beyond a doubt.”

Hon’ble Minister of State for External Affairs, Mr. Pabitra Margherita, inaugurated the event, highlighting the festival’s role in strengthening ASEAN-India ties through shared cultural bonds. He remarked, “This highlights the cultural bonds we’ve forged over the years. It’s a celebration of how music transcends borders, deepening our connections and strengthening the ties that unite ASEAN and India in our shared journey of growth.”

Sanjeev Bhargava, Director of Seher, echoed the sentiment, describing the event as “[representation] of the connections that grow from shared experiences, the relationships built over time, and the new ones that music helps create. By coming together to celebrate, we are fostering understanding and enriching the ties that bind our cultures."

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Public school teachers benefit from continued support from DepEd and BDONB in reaching their financial goals

Public school teachers benefit from continued support from DepEd and BDONB in reaching their financial goals

Friday, December 13, 2024

PUBLIC school teachers stand to benefit from the continued support from the Department of Education (DepEd) and BDO Network Bank (BDONB), particularly in equipping them with financial knowledge to help them achieve their personal goals.

For many teachers, gaining financial literacy helps them practice financial discipline and make informed decisions on budgeting, saving, and debt management.

On the importance of practical budgeting in particular, knowing where their money goes every month has taken so much stress off teachers’ shoulders already loaded with the daily grind of teaching. This knowledge assists in avoiding debt traps as they are able to manage and prioritize their expenses better.

Saving for future goals also gives teachers tools to start building funds for their imminent needs, including their retirement.

By being financially knowledgeable, public school teachers can also impart these money management strategies to their students.

"Here in DepEd, we're looking for ways to train our teachers on financial literacy because they can't teach that to their students if they themselves don't know anything about it," DepEd-National Capital Region Regional Director Jocelyn Andaya said. “Our teachers play a very crucial role in teaching financial literacy to our students. It's important that at a young age, they (students) are already taught to be self-sufficient financially and know how to budget and plan for their future.”

Important role on financial literacy. DepEd-National Capital Region Regional Director Jocelyn Andaya said public school teachers play a crucial role in teaching financial literacy to their students.

She added that in partnership with BDO Unibank's corporate social responsibility arm, BDO Foundation, financial seminars are held wherein pockets of teachers are trained—a crucial exercise since financial literacy is already part of school curriculum among elementary and high school students.

“Our next plan is to come up with an instrument to measure what level our teachers are in right now in terms of their own financial literacy. That's where the private sector, such as BDO, can come in to help us not just by having more modules but by also capacitating our teachers. It should be a sustainable thing for us so that we will know the progress in say, three years' or five years' time," Andaya added.

BDO Network Bank (BDONB)—the community banking arm of BDO Unibank—truly values the role teachers play as the backbone of education and the true heroes shaping the future of the next generation. BDONB said it is deeply honored to have the opportunity to partner with DepEd in supporting and empowering these educators, recognizing that when teachers thrive, so do their students, their communities, and the nation as a whole.

"The teachers are really the heroes. Day in and day out, they're the ones who sometimes spend more time with our children. So it's very important that we support them because it's like supporting our own family. The success of the teachers will depend on the support they get not only from the government but even from the private sector," said Alberto O. Quiogue, BDONB Senior Vice President and Salary Loans Group Head.

Through BDONB's tailor-fit products, services and financial literacy seminars it regularly conducts, it is envisioned that teachers will be better equipped to reach their financial goals.

Quiogue added that teachers with sufficient knowledge and confidence in their own financial know-how will be able to do their jobs very well and not be mentally burdened by money-related problems.

Festive moment. BDONB brand ambassador and award winning actor Coco Martin wows the crowd with one of his song numbers during the World Teacher’s Day celebration, as public school teachers  enjoy the show.

"We believe that a financially sound teacher can function and be very efficient. Teachers who have many financial problems are the ones who get bogged down and can't teach very well because there are many things in their minds," he said. "The financial literacy program is helping them be more efficient. I think the most important thing that we promote to teachers is responsible borrowing and financial wellness. Every time we have an opportunity, we give them a little talk on financial wellness, how to achieve their financial goals by managing their money well, and knowing the difference between a good loan and bad loan.”

Always ready to support DepEd, all year round

But more than the products it offers, community engagements, and seminars it conducts, BDONB said its full support to DepEd’s cause can be gleaned from its unwavering commitment to the agency’s programs all year round, including as one of its corporate partners for the World Teachers' Day celebration and other DepEd activities.

"We at BDO Network Bank, we're always there to support the teachers and the many endeavors of DepEd. Any support that they need, we're all out for them," Quiogue said. "We support the Palarong Pambansa. We have the yearly Brigada Eskwela where we help clean, paint, and fix the schools. There's also a program wherein at the beginning of the year, we give a lot of donations to the students and teachers. We're always there to help them."

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We Are Imaginary marks new era as an indie rock duo with new single “Pinkish Hue”

We Are Imaginary marks new era as an indie rock duo with new single “Pinkish Hue”

Saturday, December 7, 2024

The hypnotic track chronicles the slow deterioration of a love that was once vibrant and promising

After celebrating their fifteenth anniversary with the release of their fourth studio album, Swan Songs for Drifters last year, We Are Imaginary continues to evolve as a dynamic indie rock duo. Comprised of founding members and brothers Ahmad Tanji (vocals and guitars) and Khalid Tanji (guitars), the band remains steadfast in its commitment to crafting compelling, emotive music.

Reinvigorated by a streamlined two-member lineup and bolstered by a fresh group of collaborators, We Are Imaginary returns with “Pinkish Hue,” the first single marking a new chapter in their musical journey.

This hypnotic guitar-pop track blends shoegaze and ’90s alt-rock influences, imbuing their sound with dramatic flair. “Pinkish Hue” explores the slow erosion of a love once vibrant and full of promise, now fading—along with the memories it once held.

“I wrote the entire track,” Ahmad explains.  “It’s actually one of the leftovers from my previous project. When Khalid showed me an unfinished sketch with the same chord progression, it inspired me to present the song to the band. They immediately loved it.”

As a gifted singer-songwriter with an affinity for poetic melancholia, Ahmad paints the slow deterioration of romance with a bittersweet tone of a sunset: beautiful, yet fully aware that its end is inevitable. “You’re so far away,” he sings with resigned contemplation, while the thick, shimmering textures envelop the track, underscoring the sense of finality and longing. 

The song’s vibrant, layered sound owes much to a team of all-star collaborators who brought the track to life. Producer and mixer Joey Santos and recording engineer Angee Rozul steered the song’s sonic direction, while drummer Jerros Dolino contributed dynamics, enriching the song’s moody, theatrical atmosphere.

“Trust was there, fueled by lots of caffeine and mutual respect,” Ahmad shares, when asked about being able to pull in some of the most notable names behind the scenes to work on their highly anticipated comeback. “They all were very much involved and open to whatever crazy ideas we have. It was just a smooth collaboration from the beginning.”

According to Ahmad, “Pinkish Hue” is part of a larger sonic vision the band is currently developing, and it will feature on their upcoming fifth album, slated for release in both digital and vinyl formats next year.

We Are Imaginary’s “Pinkish Hue” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via new indie label floppydisks.

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The Itchyworms return to Japan for another leg of ‘Akin Ka Na Lang’ tour

The Itchyworms return to Japan for another leg of ‘Akin Ka Na Lang’ tour

Award-winning Filipino band The Itchyworms are set to return to Japan for another run of their critically acclaimed Akin Ka Na Lang… Japan! Tour in early 2025.

Following the success of their 2023 tour, the band will perform three shows from January 17 to 19, 2025, on iconic venues across Tokyo, including Mr. Back in Saitama, Heaven’s Door in Sangenjaya, and Gamuso in Asagaya.

“We’ve been fortunate to build a loyal fanbase in Japan over the years,” says Jugs Jugueta, lead vocalist of The Itchyworms. “It’s truly humbling to see fans traveling hours from all over Japan just to watch us perform. What makes the Japanese audience so special is their deep appreciation not only for our hits but also for the more obscure tracks. To them, it’s all good music.”

The Itchyworms, known for their blend of rock, pop, and humor, have long cultivated an international following. For this upcoming tour, the band promises a fresh setlist that includes more English-language songs from their early catalog, along with some unexpected surprises. “We used to have a lot of songs in English when we were starting out, and we also experimented with odd time signatures. We’re bringing some of those songs back for this tour, and I’m excited to see how the Japanese audience responds to this experiment,” says Jugueta.

Drummer and co-lead vocalist Jazz Nicolas also shares his admiration for the Japanese fans, noting that despite language barriers, music remains a universal connector. “Even if the audience doesn’t understand every word, the connection is still there,” he says. “It’s the music that binds us.”

Nicolas also reflects on a memorable moment from a previous Japan tour. “One time, I decided to surprise my bandmates by crawling on the floor and making weird noises behind a wall, just to startle them. To my surprise, it wasn’t my bandmates who walked in—it was the venue owner. He just smiled and said, ‘Aha! Crawling on the ground. Itchyworms.’ That moment has stayed with me ever since.”

Next year, The Itchyworms are set to expand their reach even further with more venues abroad. In addition to their Japanese dates, the band is planning tours in Europe, with a special focus on the UK, and new dates in Australia, New Zealand, and Canada.

With a career spanning over two decades, The Itchyworms continue to resonate with fans around the world, cementing their place as one of the Philippines’ most beloved musical exports.

The Itchyworms’ Akin Ka Na Lang… Japan! Tour 2025 dates:

• January 17, 2025 - Mr. Back, Saitama

• January 18, 2025 - Heaven’s Door, Sangenjaya

• January 19, 2025 - Gamuso, Asagaya

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Vista Land elevates tourist destinations in North and Central Luzon with integrated communities

Vista Land elevates tourist destinations in North and Central Luzon with integrated communities

Monday, November 25, 2024

The emergence of metropolitan hubs in North and Central Luzon signifies a crucial shift in the trajectory in the Philippines, combining cultural preservation and economic progress to create a wealth of opportunities for the national future. The collaborative efforts between the government and private sectors in accelerating expansions across these regions are poised to elevate them as major players, attracting attention from Southeast Asia and beyond.

Vista Land, the Philippines’ leading integrated property developer, is introducing a series of master planned developments and condominium properties that aligns with the rapid urbanization of North and Central Luzon. These self-sustaining environments aim to support local growth while striking a balance between tradition and modernization.

North and Central Luzon house some of the most culturally significant tourist sites in the country, which blends historic charm and modern conveniences. This juxtaposition appeals to travelers seeking experiences rooted in both heritage and innovation, giving these regions a distinctive edge.

Vigan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Ilocos Sur, is celebrated for its well-preserved colonial architecture and profound cultural importance. With road enhancements like the Luzon Spine Expressway Network, access to Vigan will improve significantly, attracting more visitors to its iconic cobblestone streets and ancestral homes. Vista Land is developing an integrated community called Querencia in this scenic city, designed to offer modern conveniences while complementing its historical charm.

Echoing the Mission-style architecture that rose largely in Alta California––and named for the historic Mission trail that dots highway 101, the 16-hectare Querencia will be charming hamlets and tower clusters of dazzling white stucco topped with the undulating clay-tile roofs so loved in the California landscape. Architecture reminiscent of Sta. Barbara that will blanket the development will breathe fascinating new life into Bantay Querencia’s commercial hub will be named Azulejos, is inspired by the extraordinary “Paseo Nuevo”––Sta. Barbara’s sprawling open-air shopping and dining center.

In Alaminos, Pangasinan, home to the renowned Hundred Islands National Park, Ylana aims to enhance the regional eco-tourism appeal while promoting sustainable practices. Ylana is inspired by the islands that made the city a sought-after destination. As a Resort Destination in Pangasinan, the township promises an idyllic escape—residences with tranquil sanctuaries offering facilities, services, and lifestyle amenities. The vertical cluster will be linked to commercial and business centers through pathways landscaped with tropical greenery and blooms.

As Alaminos transitions into a modern tourist destination with improved infrastructure, the focus of Vista Land on environment-friendly initiatives will help preserve the natural beauty of the city, attracting eco-conscious residents.

Subic, once a naval base in Zambales, has transformed into a vibrant tourism and economic hub in Central Luzon. Montessa will seamlessly blend natural allure with thoughtfully designed amenities, building a development that appeals to both residents and tourists. Its strategic location near Metro Manila, along with easy access to the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), makes it an ideal getaway for relaxation and adventure.

Situated in Brgy. Aningway, Subic, Zambales, the 33-hectare Montessa is a play on the Spanish word for mountain, in tribute to the majestic sierras that surround Subic. The sprawling township will be developed according to four key design principles: a symmetrical Mediterranean palette; lyrical landscapes; a legacy of wellness retreats; and an overall bespoke experience allowing residents to live the way they choose.

Master planned into several zones, a lifestyle center linking the zones together is fitted out to mimic Pueblos Blancos, a white-washed village with mesmerizing vistas of southern seaboard in Andalucía, Spain. Montessa features pathways and streets landscaped with tropical greenery and blooms, with sculptures and water features slipping over mosaic streets and building facades.

Vista Land: Leading the charge in North and Central Luzon

These master planned developments coincide with a broader infrastructure boom in North and Central Luzon, which includes expressways, rail systems, and new airports. These improvements will transform the mobility landscape, allowing faster connections within Luzon and to Metro Manila, reducing congestion, and promoting smoother logistics. Infrastructure projects like the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX), the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR), and the New Manila International Airport further enhance accessibility to and within North and Central Luzon. These projects support economic expansion and attract a steady flow of investors, residents, and tourists who seek opportunities in well-connected regions.

An investment into a better way of living

Vista Land is committed to creating master planned developments that will flourish in the evolving landscape of North and Central Luzon. As these regions continue to transform into economic powerhouses, the company is well-positioned to lay the groundwork for innovative urban developments that promote growth while honoring unique cultural and natural heritage.

With a strategic focus on connectivity and infrastructure, Vista Land is not merely shaping the present, it is also paving the way for a sustainable future for Luzon. By integrating modern living with the history and culture, Vista Land developments will contribute to creating master planned developments that anticipate to the diverse needs of residents, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of life in the regions.

For more information on Vista Land master planned developments North and Central Luzon,visit www.vistaestates.vistaland.com.ph and follow @VistaLandAndLifescapesOfficial.

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Century Tuna Inspires Fitness at Any Age with Aga Muhlach and Richard Gomez

Century Tuna Inspires Fitness at Any Age with Aga Muhlach and Richard Gomez

Friday, November 22, 2024

Century Tuna, the Philippines' leading tuna brand, is redefining health and fitness with its latest campaign, #TheBestYouStartsNow, featuring iconic actors Aga Muhlach and Richard Gomez. These award-winning leading men are taking on the challenge of transforming their health and fitness journeys, proving that it’s never too late to prioritize wellness.

With guidance from Century Tuna Superbods 2014 Grand Champion, Coach Mauro Lumba, Aga and Richard are committed to becoming healthier versions of themselves, inspiring Filipinos to do the same.

Aga Muhlach’s Weight Loss Journey

Aga Muhlach, who faced weight fluctuations during the pandemic, found motivation through Century Tuna. The actor has already shed an impressive 50 pounds and remains focused on consistent exercise and healthy eating to reach his ideal weight by year’s end.

For those hesitant to begin their fitness journeys, Aga offers this advice:

"Just start now and do it slowly. There will be no instant gratification, and it's not going to be easy because there will be failures along the way. But if you fail today, sleep. Tomorrow's another day."

Richard Gomez’s Wellness Transformation

As a public figure and role model, Richard Gomez sees the #TheBestYouStartsNow campaign as an opportunity to inspire Filipinos to embrace a healthier lifestyle. Through consistent effort, Richard has made significant progress—his pants are now 4 inches looser!

He shares his formula for success:

"Being healthy really involves a lot of diet, eating the right food, and doing the right exercises. It's not easy. But you just have to keep on pushing yourself. Just be consistent, be regular, and be constant."

Fitness Knows No Age

With their ongoing transformations, Aga Muhlach and Richard Gomez exemplify that fitness is achievable at any age. As ambassadors of Century Tuna, they inspire everyone to take the first step toward better health.

“Century Tuna has always stood for bringing out the healthiest version of people. Richard and Aga’s involvement in the campaign is a testament that fitness knows no age. No matter what stage you are in life, it’s never too late to make a change in your lifestyle,” said Mr. Carlo Endaya, Vice President and General Manager for Branded Tuna Business at Century Pacific Food Inc.

Start Your Fitness Journey Today

Century Tuna’s #TheBestYouStartsNow campaign encourages Filipinos to prioritize health and fitness at every life stage. With Century Tuna’s support, the best time to start your wellness journey is now!

For more updates, visit the official website, follow Century Tuna on Facebook, or on Instagram (@centurytunasuperbods).

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Jason Marvin reflects on healing and second chance in Rewritten Promise (Volume 2)

Jason Marvin reflects on healing and second chance in Rewritten Promise (Volume 2)

Wednesday, November 20, 2024

Jason Marvin has released his new album, Rewritten Promise (Volume 2) via Sony Music Entertainment.

The Filipino singer-songwriter’s new album brings to light the raw emotions of regret, growth, and the difficult path toward healing. With this poetic sequel to his debut album, Promise, Marvin closes out an old chapter of his life through songs of regret, letting go, and moving on, and sets himself for a new adventure armed with redemption and hope.

“This album is about changing of plans and expectations,” Jason Marvin shares. “Acknowledging that we have no control over destiny; we can make plans, set expectations, and even prepare for what’s ahead. But when life throws you an unexpected storm, you just have to hold on to who you are and trust in God’s faithfulness.”

The album was conceived during some of the darkest days of Marvin’s life, a time of deep reflection and self-discovery. While undeniably written from a place of hurt and woundedness, the songs also became his lifeline—an outlet for emotional release and a source of comfort as he worked through his struggles. The music allowed Marvin to reframe his perspective on life, spirituality, and love, ultimately setting him on a path toward recovery and renewal.

Collaborating with two distinguished producers—Nicholas Lazaro of La Balls Studio and Shadiel Chan of 9 Degrees North—Marvin’s vision for Rewritten Promise came to life through diverse creative influences. Lazaro, known for his enigmatic style, brought a distinct artistic touch to the album, while Chan’s expertise in creating soothing, atmospheric soundscapes further enhanced the emotional depth of the project.

Marvin reflects, “Working with Nick Lazaro was always a learning experience with the way he would suggest arbitrary elements and vocal harmonies for my songs that fits so perfectly. He was an older brother who knew his stuff through experience and guided me well. Working with Shadiel Chan is always a vibe. The coldness of Baguio, the quality of equipment, and Shad’s patience and lightness allows you to breathe and thus making the creative process so fluid. He’s someone you walk with side by side and together you discover how magical the output would be.”

Musically, Rewritten Promise explores acoustic folk sensibilities, woven together with lush arrangements and deeply personal lyrics. Marvin’s storytelling ability shines as he takes listeners on an emotional journey—from feelings of isolation to the catharsis of reconciliation and growth.

Jason Marvin explains his though process as a musician, and likens his process like that of a storyteller. “I usually love starting raw and simple. Setting up the listener’s ears for a whole range of dynamics, a simple acoustic guitar paints a picture of loneliness. From the first track of Mag-Isa being the denial stage, until the last tracks of Pwede Pala and Yaman being so grand with drums, strings, electric guitars—as the culmination of the album, I’ve always envisioned this album as a reflection of my thoughts, feelings, and experiences. It’s that personal to me.”

The focal track of the album, “Pwede Pala,” is a testament to Marvin’s newfound hope and optimism. In this powerful song, he confronts his past fears and hesitations, finding strength in the idea of second chances and the possibility of love after loss.

Heartbroken people would joke about love being fleeting—walang forever—but I refuse to believe that even in the light of my story,” he admits. “I’ve seen it with my parents. Marriages can work. Marriages can be flourishing even after 40 years. Marriages can survive storms when both parties are willing to fight for it.”

With Rewritten Promise (Volume 2), Jason Marvin emerges as an artist unafraid to confront life’s toughest moments, offering his audience not only an intimate glimpse into his journey but also a message of hope and resilience.

Jason Marvin’s new album, Rewritten Promise (Volume 2) is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. 

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H1-KEY Releases Remix Single “Re: Thinkin About You” in Collaboration with SB19's JOSH CULLEN

H1-KEY Releases Remix Single “Re: Thinkin About You” in Collaboration with SB19's JOSH CULLEN

H1-KEY has released 'Re: Thinkin' About You' in collaboration with SB19's JOSH CULLEN.

'Re: Thinkin' About You' is a remix track of 'Thinkin' About You,' the first series from H1-KEY's 'H1-KEYnote' released in January this year. SB19's JOSH CULLEN, a member of the globally loved group known for 'GENTO,' participated in writing the rap lyrics in the form of a response track."

'Re: Thinkin' About You' is a warm and cozy pop track that contains JOSH CULLEN's response to a realistic and mature breakup. The emotional vocals of H1-KEY's members, which blend perfectly with the cold season, are impressive, and JOSH CULLEN's unique rap adds to the track, allowing listeners to experience their story from two different perspectives on the same breakup.

< Track Credit >

01. Re: Thinkin' About You

Lyrics by 라이언전, Martin Stilling, Moa Pettersson Hammar, KIDDO & JOSH CULLEN

Composed by 라이언전, Martin Stilling, Moa Petterson Hammar, KIDDO

Arranged by 라이언전, Martin Stilling

Vocal Directed by 시우(SIU), 김민구(NiNE)

Background Vocals by 페리(Perrie)

Programming - 라이언전, Martin Stilling

Recorded by 박정호 @Titan Recording Studio

Digital Edited by 김지현 @doobdoob Studio

Engineered for Mix by 박남준 @GLAB Studios

Mixed by 신봉원 @GLAB Studios

Mastered by 권남우 @821 Sound Mastering

Original Publishers: STARTION, Whizz Kid Publishing GmbH / Hanseatic Musikverlag GmbH, The Very Good Music Publishing/Sony Music Publishing Scandinavia AB (STIM)

Sub-Publishers: STARTION, Warner Chappell Korea, Sony Music Publishing Korea

PRESENTED BY GLG

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