Together for Our Oceans: June 7 Coastal Cleanup

Together for Our Oceans: June 7 Coastal Cleanup

Saturday, May 31, 2025

In celebration of World Oceans Day 2025, SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, will once again mobilize thousands of volunteers across the country for its annual Coastal Cleanup Drive, set for June 7, 2025. This year’s theme, “WONDER: Sustaining What Sustains Us,” serves as a powerful reminder of the oceans’ role in supporting life—and our shared responsibility to protect them.

Held simultaneously in multiple coastal locations nationwide, the initiative is organized in partnership with local government units, environmental organizations, NGOs, community groups, SM employees, security and janitorial personnel, and affiliates. It is part of SM’s broader environmental commitment through the #SMWasteFreeFuture campaign, which also includes year-round plastic waste reduction efforts, recycling markets, and e-waste disposal drives.

In addition to the weekly cleanups already taking place at SM by the Bay, the World Oceans Day event marks one of three major coastal cleanups planned by SM Cares for 2025.

“As part of our commitment to the environment, we believe in community action to protect our oceans and waterways. Ultimately, we want to raise overall awareness on marine pollution, contribute to preserving biodiversity, and help in inspiring responsible waste management practices among Filipinos. The World Oceans Day Coastal Cleanup is more than just a one-day event—it’s part of our ongoing pledge to build a better, cleaner world,” said Engr. Liza Silerio, SM Cares Program Director for the Environment.

Participating SM Malls and Communities

NCR: SM by the BAY (cleanup site), SM City Manila, SM City San Lazaro, SM City Sta. Mesa

South Luzon: SM City Rosario, SM City Batangas, SM City Lipa, SM City Lucena, SM City Tanza

North & Central Luzon: SM Center Dagupan

Visayas: SM City Bacolod, SM City Iloilo

Mindanao: SM City Davao, SM CDO, SM CDO Downtown

Join the Movement

Volunteers are encouraged to sign up now through the SM Malls Online App: https://click.smmallsonline.com/DFqS/SMCOASTALCLEANUP2025. Stay tuned to the official social media pages of participating SM malls for site-specific schedules and updates.

This World Oceans Day, let’s celebrate the wonder of our oceans—and ensure that what sustains us today will continue to do so for generations to come.

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Myles Smith drops new EP, A Minute, A Moment…

Myles Smith drops new EP, A Minute, A Moment…

Thursday, May 29, 2025

After an extraordinary 18 months that saw him rise from grassroots acclaim to international recognition, British singer-songwriter Myles Smith today makes a powerful return with the release of his deeply emotive new EP, “A Minute, A Moment…”. Fresh off a whirlwind tour across the United States and Australia - where he played to packed venues and received critical praise - Myles has channeled his experiences, reflections, and growth into this six-track collection.

Written and recorded over the past year, the EP is a poignant snapshot of a transformative period in his life. Stripped back yet richly layered, “A Minute, A Moment…” finds Myles at his most raw and introspective, delving deep into themes of identity, love, heartbreak and self-discovery. “This EP has been a real labour of love, months of time, care, and everything I had to give.” Myles recently said of the EP in an Instagram post.

His signature blend of soulful vocals, acoustic textures, and heartfelt lyricism remains front and center, but there’s a new depth and maturity to his songwriting that signals an exciting new chapter in his artistic evolution. Marking a clear departure from his earlier EP “A Minute…”, which introduced his sound with youthful optimism and simplicity, this latest project embraces a more nuanced emotional landscape and refined sonic palette.

2024 was a landmark year for Myles. From winning the BRITs’ Rising Star award to being named BBC Introducing Artist of the Year and landing a spot on the BBC Sound of 2024 longlist, his rise has been nothing short of meteoric. His breakthrough single, “Stargazing,” became the biggest global hit of the year by a UK artist, spending 29 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 and amassing over 730 million global Spotify streams. With over 2 billion streams across his catalogue, “Stargazing” has cemented itself as a modern classic, topping airplay charts across the US, UK, Germany, New Zealand, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Switzerland.

His moment at the 2025 BRIT Awards also made headlines for more than just the award and his stand-out performance. His powerful acceptance speech called on the government to do more to support the arts and ensure future generations have access to creative opportunities, echoing the very message of resilience and advocacy found in his music. Myles also lent his voice to Ed Sheeran’s recent grassroots campaign focused on music education and the survival of grassroots venues in the UK, adding his name to Ed’s open letter to policymakers. Behind the scenes, Myles himself is actively developing his own initiatives aimed at supporting young creatives - with more to be revealed in due course.

His previously released EP ‘A Minute…’ further solidified his status and features his hit single “Nice To Meet You.” In 2024, he played sold-out shows across the globe and appeared on major platforms including the TODAY Show, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, and Later… with Jools Holland. Looking ahead, Myles is currently in the midst of his world live tour, ahead of joining Ed Sheeran on the European leg of the Mathematics Tour.

Hailing from Luton, Myles’ journey is rooted in authenticity. Taught to play guitar and piano by age 12, he cut his teeth performing in local pubs and open-mic nights before gaining momentum in 2020. His viral covers of “Sweater Weather” and “I Found” opened the door to original tracks like “Solo” and “My Home,” leading to his signing with Sony’s RCA label in 2023.

Myles Smith’s ability to connect through heartfelt storytelling and melodic sincerity has made him one of the UK’s most compelling new voices and his trajectory shows no signs of slowing down.

Tracklist:

1. Made For Me

2. Gold

3. My First Heartbreak

4. Someone New

5. All My Life

6. Dreamers

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AXEAN Festival returns to Bali this September 2025

AXEAN Festival returns to Bali this September 2025

AXEAN Festival proudly announces its return to Bali this year with an expanded vision and more comprehensive programming. Happening from September 13-14, 2025, at the Jimbaran Hub, Southeast Asia’s first intra-regional music showcase event is set to transform the island into a two-day convergence of sound, innovation, culture, and collaboration.

Positioned as a “celebration across borders,” AXEAN Festival will showcase over 40 emerging and established acts from Southeast Asia and beyond while exploring new educational and collaborative formats that strengthen the creative and business ecosystems across the region.

Building on last year’s acclaimed edition, this year’s event elevates its commitment to providing a holistic experience not only for the fans but also for the artists and industry stakeholders that make this celebration possible.

“AXEAN Festival has always been a labor of love for all of us co-founders—driven by passion, run pro bono, and built with bootstrapped resources,” shares AXEAN Festival co-founder and team leader Piyapong Muenprasertdee. “We've consistently pushed the limits of what’s possible with limited funding, and the positive impact we’ve made so far is a testament to that dedication.”

Piyapong adds, “We’ll keep doing what we do best: turning passion into purpose and creating meaningful opportunities for artists and industry alike—whether we’re working with a shoestring budget or something more.”

Among the festival’s hallmark offerings this year is its music conference segment, featuring curated panel discussions, business pitching sessions, and structured speed meetings between delegates and artists, which were designed to foster impactful conversations and long-term partnerships.

In addition, AXEAN Festival hones its artist-centered programming with the return of its songwriting camp—a four-day initiative inviting select showcasing artists, producers, and songwriters to co-create in an intimate, cross-cultural setting. The inaugural camp last year resulted in the creation of 20 original songs, exemplifying the creative possibilities the festival cultivates.

For the first time, AXEAN Festival also shines a spotlight on Southeast Asia’s burgeoning rave, dance, and electronic culture with the launch of its SEA Club Showcase—a live music platform dedicated to regional electronic subcultures such as Indonesian funkot or dangdut, Vietnamese vinahouse, Singaporean/Malaysian manyao, and Filipino budots. The newly minted stage honors the unique grassroots genres that are redefining the international club scene with distinctly local flair.

AXEAN Festival Co-founder and co-director David Siow emphasizes the importance of authenticity and intent in the festival’s DNA: “On the delegates' front, the intentions of the AXEAN team are clear—we really just want the artists to succeed, and we do all we can to make that happen. People do sense authenticity and intent, so having a unified goal and communicating that honestly allows for the music industry to trust us.”

David also pointed out how AXEAN Festival’s casual and welcoming nature contributed to its success and appeal. “The relaxed and jubilant atmosphere of the festival, conference, and songwriting camp, are direct reflection of the personalities in the AXEAN team. But don’t be fooled; some serious business and networking is happening for delegates and artists whilst the public enjoys the showcasing part.”

Piyapong agrees with David’s statements, noting that AXEAN Festival’s success lies in its people. “Over the years, I’ve made it a personal mission to invite people I’ve connected with—those who bring positive vibes and a collaborative spirit—to simply come as they are,” he shares. “This openness creates a welcoming atmosphere where even first-time attendees or those who come alone can feel at ease, enjoy the music and environment, and organically build meaningful connections. That positive energy is contagious—it helps break down barriers, encourages real conversations, and often leads to exciting new collaborations and business opportunities. Overall, it’s the community spirit and the human connection that make the festival truly special.”

Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, the team envisions expanding the festival’s reach through deeper strategic partnerships, enhanced sustainability measures, and ever more dynamic, inclusive programming.

“Whether you’re a delegate, an artist, or a music lover attending for the first time, we invite you to discover the joy of connection, creativity, and cultural celebration at AXEAN Festival 2025,” says Piyapong.

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Third Time’s the Charm as Nemesis Wins Title at Red Bull Dance Your Style National Final in Cebu

Third Time’s the Charm as Nemesis Wins Title at Red Bull Dance Your Style National Final in Cebu

Wednesday, May 28, 2025

Following months of electrifying qualifier rounds in Davao, Manila, and Cebu, it all came to a head as the Queen City of the South hosted the Red Bull Dance Your Style Philippines National Final for the very first time. Last May 24, the country’s fiercest dancers came together for an explosive dance showdown at Ayala Center, Cebu.

Historic Dance Showdown in Cebu

Top dancers from across the country battled for the crown during the National Final in Cebu, electrifying the crowd with a mix of styles, from hip-hop to house, waacking to locking, and even voguing. The energy was unmatched, with each dancer’s fate resting on the crowd’s hands. Ultimately, Sam Rivera, known in battles as ‘Nemesis,’ was crowned the 2025 Red Bull Dance Your Style Philippines National Champion.

“It was an amazing journey,” said Nemesis of her Red Bull Dance Your Style journey. “This was my third time to join Red Bull Dance Your Style. I’m so happy that I won the championship title in my hometown, Cebu. It’s my pride and honor.”

Nemesis also expressed her excitement at having the National Final in Cebu for the first time. “I was so excited because people (from my hometown) will get to see me dance on the national stage, especially my mother, my family, and my friends.” She explained, “I think that I was more empowered because my family was here with me, and while I was on stage I could see my friends, so that gave me a boost.”

Nemesis also credited the Cebuano crowd for energizing her throughout the competition. She said, “They carried me through the Final. I’m so grateful to them because the community here is so supportive, not just to me but to all the contenders who danced on stage. And of course, Red Bull, who gave me wings. Thank you for the energy.

With their undeniable stage presence and crowd-commanding charisma, the Cebuana Krump Star stamped her dominance each round and earned not just the trophy but also a spot on the global stage. As the representative of the Philippines at the Red Bull Dance Your Style World Final in Los Angeles, USA, Nemesis now has her sights set on the next battle. They shared their enthusiasm for the World Final, stating, “First of all, it’s going to be in Los Angeles, and it’s going to be my first time travelling outside of Asia.” She also said, “I want to connect with other dancers from around the world, and dance my heart out at the World Final to show them what Filipinos are capable of.”

Nemesis shared how she plans to prepare for the World Final, saying, “I will do my usual routine. I will train my body, my mind, and my soul.” She also said, ”I think that (has to be) a balance of everything, your faith in God, your physical conditioning, and strong mental conditioning when you perform.”

On her game plan for the World Final, Nemesis shared, “I’ll just be myself because I think we’re all unique in our own way. I’ll just show them what I can do, how I krump, and how I dance.”

The Full Red Bull Dance Your Style Experience

Beyond the intense dance battles, the Red Bull Dance Your Style National Finals in Cebu turned into a full-blown cultural celebration. The event curated an unforgettable experience for attendees.

Aside from world-class streetdancing, guests were treated to the flavors of Cebu’s talent with special performances from Cabuana superstar Karencitta, and local dance crew SZHD. More than a dance competition, the Red Bull Dance Your Style National Finals was a true festival of Cebu’s urban creativity.

Nemesis’ Next Stop: the World Stage

The countdown to the ultimate showdown has begun. Support Nemesis’ journey to the Red Bull Dance Your Style World Final in Los Angeles, USA this October 11. Follow Red Bull PH and Red Bull Dance on social media for the latest updates.

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Generation HOPE: How Your Favorite Brands Are Helping Build Classrooms for Filipino Children

Generation HOPE: How Your Favorite Brands Are Helping Build Classrooms for Filipino Children

Tuesday, May 27, 2025

In a groundbreaking collaboration, Generation HOPE brings together the Department of Education (DepEd) and some of the Philippines' most beloved brands—BDO, Carmen’s Best, Grab, Penshoppe, Aivee Clinic, SM Supermalls, and Sunnies—to help solve one of the country’s most pressing challenges: the lack of public school classrooms.

HOPE, the Philippines’ first certified B Corporation and a trailblazer in social impact, leads this initiative to empower Filipinos to support education through their everyday purchases. With Generation HOPE, every peso spent can contribute to nation-building—one classroom at a time.

A United Effort for Education

Generation HOPE is more than a campaign; it’s a movement. By partnering with DepEd and top Filipino brands, HOPE is rallying the private sector and the public to close the education gap and give every Filipino child access to a safe and conducive learning environment.

The initiative officially launched with HOPE Founder Nanette Medved-Po, DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara, and representatives from participating brands.

“Filipinos always come together in times of need. In a world that is increasingly divided, let's harness that power every day to support something we can all agree on: investing in the youth of this country,” said Medved-Po during the launch.

How You Can Be Part of Generation HOPE

Each participating brand offers a unique way for consumers to contribute to the classroom-building cause:

BDO: Soon, customers can sign up for a “HOPE in Every Spend” credit card, where part of every purchase supports classroom construction. BDO Rewards points can also be converted into donations, and even the card’s annual fee helps build schools.

Carmen’s Best: Introducing limited-edition flavors—Hope in a Scoop and Hope in a Pint—where indulgence meets impact.

Grab: Users can donate GrabRewards points or make direct donations through the app to fund classroom builds.

Aivee Clinic: Launching the Aivee x HOPE collection, which includes stylish bags, tags, and specially designed Skin Bank cards, all supporting education.

Penshoppe: Releasing a special HOPE-themed line of shirts, hoodies, caps, and bags so you can wear your cause with pride.

SM Supermalls: Donating a portion of sales from SM-branded water bottles sold in partner food outlets.

Sunnies: Unveiling a sleek clean lens kit and Sunnies Flask, designed especially for this initiative.

These tangible products allow Filipinos to give back effortlessly while enjoying the brands they already love.

Real Impact, One Classroom at a Time

Working closely with DepEd, HOPE ensures that every classroom built directly addresses the most urgent educational infrastructure needs across the country. These classrooms provide students with a safe and inspiring space to learn and grow.

“Education is a solemn responsibility we all share,” emphasized DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara. “Partnerships like Generation HOPE break down barriers and pave the way for every Filipino child to thrive.”

Join the Movement

With Generation HOPE, helping build classrooms has never been easier—or more meaningful. Support the movement and be part of a future where every Filipino child has access to quality education.

Visit www.generationhope.ph

Follow HOPE on Facebook: @generationhope.ph

Instagram: @generationhope.ph

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GIVĒON unleashes new single and music video “Rather Be”

GIVĒON unleashes new single and music video “Rather Be”

Saturday, May 24, 2025

Multi-platinum seven-time GRAMMY® nominee GIVĒON continues his sophomore chapter with the release of his new single and video, “Rather Be.” The new single and its Loris Russier-directed music video are available now.

“Rather Be” is GIVĒON at his most comfortable: vulnerable, confident and unafraid to let his vocal range do some heavy lifting. The ballad is produced by Sevn Thomas, Maneesh, Matthew Burnett, jeff gitty and jahaan sweet and incorporates the bells and whistles fans have come to love from the Long Beach native, from the horns peppered throughout its instrumental to the intimacy and dashing fashion of its music video. Following the release of the cathartic lead single from his new campaign, “Twenties,” GIVĒON is generating impressive momentum, and pouring his heart into each lyric along the way.

The Russier-directed cut is an elegant montage of GIVĒON and his sleek troupe adorning airy spaces with a live rendition of the new song, as GIVĒON, the protagonist, tries to get comfortable with his love interest. Russier deftly plays with planes of space and symmetry to create a unique backdrop for the singer and his suit-clad crew.

“This song is a reflection on acceptance. The idea of seeing someone’s flaws and choosing to stay,” GIVĒON said about “Rather Be. “It’s about loving someone not for who they could be, but for who they are, and realizing that real connection isn’t about starting over, it’s about holding on.”

As fans eagerly anticipate his sophomore project, GIVĒON’s 2025 has already been one to remember. He celebrated the five-year anniversary of his breakout project, 2020’s TAKE TIME EP, with an intimate performance earlier this year in Los Angeles, attended by the likes of Epic Chairwoman Sylvia Rhone, Lena Waithe, Amerie and Jimmy Jam.

Shortly afterwards, “Twenties” notched a slot within the Top 10 of the Billboard Hot R&B Songs chart and went on to achieve a Top 20 position on the Hot R&B/Hip Hop Songs chart. The song’s music video has already surpassed 12 million YouTube views and earned GIVĒON the fourth Hot 100 hit of his solo career.

Earlier this month at Prada’s prestigious annual pre-Met Gala event, GIVĒON took the stage to perform “Twenties” live for a crowd that included Tracee Ellis Ross and Hunter Schafer. This summer, GIVĒON is up for a 2025 BET Award, ‘Best Collaboration,’ for his collaboration with Teddy Swims, “Are You Even Real.”

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Bigo Live Celebrates Nine Years of Empowering Community and Creativity

Bigo Live Celebrates Nine Years of Empowering Community and Creativity

Marking nearly a decade of empowering users to connect, create, and thrive in real time across cultures, borders, and backgrounds.

Bigo Live, the leading global livestreaming platform, marked its 9th anniversary with a vibrant celebration held on May 17 at Clubhouse at the Palace in BGC in Manila. The event brought together Filipino creators, such as those behind Bigo IDs like AVC_Roni and claire18, along with agency managers, fellow streamers, and family members to celebrate a milestone journey of creativity, connection, and community growth.

Since its launch in 2016, the Bigo Live Philippines community has grown significantly and become a dynamic space where creators from all walks of life are empowered to champion self-expression, showcase their talents and reach an international audience. As part of the anniversary festivities, Bigo Live unveiled a series of billboards across key locations in Manila, spotlighting top Filipino creators such as Ikangmo, recognising their talent and impact on the platform.

“Bigo Live is proud to celebrate nine years with our Filipino community. We remain committed to fostering a safe and inclusive environment where creativity thrives, careers are built, and connections are made,” said a Bigo Live Philippines spokesperson. “Thank you to all our creators and users who helped us shape this community and for being part of this incredible journey.“

Empowering Community, Online and Offline

Bigo Live has played a significant role in bringing local communities together to spread positivity and kindness through its interactive and real-time livestreaming experiences. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the platform provided Filipino creators a safe space to stay connected. Creators shared their stories, music and positive messages and found solace in their communities by connecting remotely from their homes.

Today, Bigo Live continues to champion community-first initiatives that bridge the digital and real worlds, offering new ways for the Filipino community to engage, celebrate, and connect. These include events such as Bigo Voice Music Fest 2024, BIGO Voice 2025 and Bigo Live Philippines Awards Gala.

“Bigo Live helped me discover parts of myself I never knew existed. I gained confidence, built genuine connections, and grew my following to nearly a million in just a year. The platform opened doors I never imagined – new friendships, exciting opportunities, and the ability to build my own income streams. To my supporters and fellow hosts: keep doing what makes you happy. Bigo Live changed my life, and it can change yours too,” shared Bigo Live creator Ikangmo.

Celebrating Local Voices and Cultural Impact

Bigo Live Philippines actively supports initiatives that uplift underrepresented voices and inspire positive change. The livestreaming platform has actively supported women’s empowerment through community-led events like Women’s Run PH — a run by women, for women — and specialised workshops for aspiring female creators. In a bold step towards inclusivity, Bigo Live Philippines partnered with global beauty brand MAC Cosmetics to launch Slay Model Search Asia, a talent competition celebrating the transgender community in the Philippines.

Looking ahead, Bigo Live Philippines will continue to roll out creator- and community-centric initiatives that inspire authentic expression and strengthen bonds across its user base. From new programmes that help creators unlock their full potential, to fun, meaningful events for the broader community, Bigo Live remains committed to its core mission: to empower people and change lives through real-time connectivity.

To find out more about Bigo Live, please visit our website.

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