Ben&Ben Submits ‘Leaves (Reimagined)’ for 2027 Grammy Awards Consideration

Ben&Ben Submits ‘Leaves (Reimagined)’ for 2027 Grammy Awards Consideration

Friday, October 16, 2026

Ben&Ben is taking a step toward its Grammy dream with “Leaves (Reimagined),” submitted for consideration in the Best Pop Duo/Group Performance category at the 2027 Grammy Awards.

The Filipino folk-pop band Ben&Ben has submitted Leaves (Reimagined) for consideration at the 2027 Grammy Awards, marking a significant step toward a goal the group has long hoped to achieve.

Submitted through Sony Music Entertainment Philippines, the track is being considered in the Best Pop Duo/Group Performance category. The Recording Academy’s first-round voting period runs from October 12 to 22, 2026, with nominees scheduled to be announced on November 16. The 2027 Grammy Awards ceremony is set for February 7, 2027.

The submission does not guarantee a nomination, but it gives the band an opportunity to have its work considered by Grammy voting members.

Why ‘Leaves (Reimagined)’ Holds Special Meaning for Ben&Ben

For Ben&Ben frontman Paolo Benjamin, the song is more than a reworked version of one of the band’s well-known tracks. It reflects a personal experience with hurt, forgiveness, and the difficult decision to move forward.

Paolo shared that someone close to him had hurt him unexpectedly, leaving him to choose between forgiving that person and walking away. He chose forgiveness, and the song became a way for him to process the experience.

He also described the track as a source of comfort during some of his darkest moments, crediting his faith with helping him find strength through it.

With Leaves (Reimagined), Paolo hopes listeners will see forgiveness as an act that can bring freedom, even when choosing to forgive is painful.

He also hopes the song will encourage people to continue loving selflessly, while acknowledging that the people closest to us can sometimes cause the deepest hurt.

Ben&Ben’s Grammy Dream

The band said receiving a Grammy Award has long been one of its dreams. Ben&Ben expressed gratitude for the opportunity to take an initial step toward that goal by submitting the song for consideration.

For Filipino artists pursuing recognition on the international stage, the submission also puts a spotlight on the music coming out of the local scene. The next milestone will depend on the Recording Academy’s voting process and whether the track advances to the official nominee list.

‘Nine’ Celebrates the Band’s Journey

The Grammy submission follows the release of Nine, Ben&Ben’s album that the group describes as a love letter to its listeners and a celebration of the friendship behind the band.

The nine-track album includes reimagined songs from different stages of Ben&Ben’s musical journey, alongside newer material. Its tracklist features Leaves (Reimagined), the 2026 hit Saranggola, and the new song Harinawa.

Earlier this month, the band performed all nine tracks at its sold-out Saranggola: The Concert at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, bringing the album’s material to fans in a live setting.

As the Grammy Awards process moves forward, Leaves (Reimagined) represents both a personal story of healing and another milestone in Ben&Ben’s continuing musical journey.

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DEMI Releases ‘Sinasabi Ng Iba,’ a New R&B Song About Choosing Love

DEMI Releases ‘Sinasabi Ng Iba,’ a New R&B Song About Choosing Love

Filipino singer DEMI returns with “Sinasabi Ng Iba,” a laid-back R&B single about standing by someone you love despite what other people think.

Released worldwide through Sony Music Entertainment, the track pairs DEMI’s signature sultry sound with more mature songwriting. It explores the decision to trust your own feelings rather than allow outside opinions to dictate a relationship.

The release also marks a step in DEMI’s artistic growth. While the song retains the smooth, intimate sound associated with her earlier music, its message reflects a more thoughtful approach to love, loyalty, and personal conviction.

What Is DEMI’s ‘Sinasabi Ng Iba’ About?

“Sinasabi Ng Iba” centers on choosing a relationship even when other people question or disapprove of it. The song presents love as a personal decision, one that does not always need public approval or outside validation.

For DEMI, the single connects the sensual R&B style that listeners recognize with a more mature perspective on relationships.

“I believe it’s the perfect blend of my old era and the direction I want to take moving forward,” DEMI shares. She explains that the sound remains familiar while the writing reflects a more mature and wholesome outlook.

The song may resonate with listeners who have experienced relationship doubts or felt pressured to explain their romantic choices to others. Rather than focusing solely on longing, it emphasizes the confidence to stand by someone when outside voices become difficult to ignore.

How Did DEMI Develop the Song’s Sound?

Although DEMI wrote the lyrics in 2023, the song's musical direction took shape later. She revisited the track in 2025 and found the sound she wanted for its eventual release.

During that period, American singer-songwriter Leon Thomas was among the artists she listened to frequently. His music helped inform the atmosphere DEMI envisioned, while producer, mixing and mastering engineer, and track engineer Jianluigi “Plumberboi” Masongsong developed the arrangement with his own interpretation.

The resulting production uses a relaxed R&B approach that gives the lyrics room to breathe. Its warm, intimate atmosphere supports the song's message without overwhelming the directness of DEMI's writing.

“The writing is still the same, raw, DEMI—but more emotionally mature,” she explains.

The process also shows how a song can evolve between its initial writing and final recording. The core lyrics remained intact, but DEMI took time to find the musical treatment that best reflected her artistic direction.

Why Does ‘Sinasabi Ng Iba’ Reflect DEMI’s Growth as an Artist?

For DEMI, artistic growth means allowing her music to develop alongside her own experiences and changing outlook.

“Syempre, I grow old, I mature—so gusto ko sabay lang din yung direction ng art ko,” she says.

That approach is reflected in “Sinasabi Ng Iba,” which retains her established R&B sensibilities while exploring a more grounded view of love. Instead of abandoning the sound associated with her earlier work, she builds on it through more intentional storytelling.

The single offers a glimpse of the direction she hopes to pursue: music that remains emotionally honest while reflecting a clearer understanding of the values and perspectives she wants to communicate to listeners.

When Does DEMI’s ‘Sinasabi Ng Iba’ Lyric Visualizer Premiere?

DEMI's lyric visualizer for “Sinasabi Ng Iba” was scheduled to premiere on October 14 at 7 p.m. on her official YouTube channel.

The visual takes an unconventional approach to the song's romantic theme. Rather than simply illustrating a couple's story, it places DEMI in a setting where she explains herself to members of the media and reporters.

The concept draws a parallel between answering public questions about one's intentions and feeling compelled to justify a relationship to people outside it.

This approach reinforces the song's central idea: when it comes to love, the opinions of others do not always reflect what the people in a relationship know and feel themselves.

Where Can You Listen to ‘Sinasabi Ng Iba’?

DEMI's “Sinasabi Ng Iba” is available worldwide on digital music streaming platforms through Sony Music Entertainment.

Listeners can search for the single on their preferred streaming service and visit DEMI's official YouTube channel for the lyric visualizer.

With its smooth R&B arrangement and more mature perspective on romance, “Sinasabi Ng Iba” marks another step in DEMI's evolving sound, balancing the intimacy of her earlier music with a clearer sense of the stories she wants to tell.

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Gab Cabangon Releases ‘Learn to Love Again,’ a Debut EP About Healing and Rediscovery

Gab Cabangon Releases ‘Learn to Love Again,’ a Debut EP About Healing and Rediscovery

Filipino singer-songwriter Gab Cabangon explores burnout, heartbreak, and the courage to begin again in Learn to Love Again, his debut five-track EP released through Underdog Music.

Described by Cabangon as an “open diary,” the collection draws from his experiences navigating the music industry, balancing creative ambitions with professional demands, and rediscovering his love for songwriting and performing. Rather than presenting healing as a quick fix, the EP follows the gradual process of confronting disappointment, allowing space for rest, and reconnecting with the people and passions that matter.

The release marks a personal milestone for the Awit Award-nominated artist, who turned his frustrations about life, career, and love into a collection of songs shaped by collaboration with fellow musicians.

What Is Gab Cabangon’s ‘Learn to Love Again’ EP About?

Learn to Love Again follows five emotional stages, moving through frustration, vulnerability, rest, and rediscovery before arriving at a more hopeful understanding of love.

Cabangon began questioning his relationship with music after years of juggling live performances, behind-the-scenes work supporting other artists, and plans to release his own material. The pressure of managing these responsibilities affected his confidence and enthusiasm for his craft.

Instead of allowing those frustrations to end his creative journey, he worked with friends in the music scene to turn his experiences into songs.

“I also realized after writing everything that I just needed to show up,” Cabangon shares, reflecting on the importance of leaning on his wife, family, friends, and community during difficult periods.

The EP's message extends beyond romantic relationships. It also speaks to people who have struggled with creative burnout, career setbacks, or the feeling that they are falling behind while others move forward.

‘Love Again’ Leads the EP’s Message of Starting Over

The focus track, “Love Again,” captures the central idea behind the EP: stepping away from something meaningful does not necessarily mean losing it forever.

Cabangon wrote the song after taking a brief break from music during the pandemic. The pause gave him time to reconsider his relationship with songwriting and reconnect with the reasons he began making music.

That experience shaped the song's message about letting go, healing, and finding the motivation to return to a once-loved pursuit.

“I think it taught me to rest and to pause,” he explains. “That I didn’t have to be impatient and do music non-stop. It didn’t make me less of an artist.”

His reflection challenges the idea that constant productivity is the only measure of commitment. Sometimes, taking time away can help people understand what they want to return to and how they want to move forward.

For Cabangon, learning to love again is not a straight path. It involves accepting setbacks without losing sight of the reasons behind the journey.

What Are the Five Songs on ‘Learn to Love Again’?

Each track contributes a different perspective on disappointment, recovery, and renewed connection.

1. “Ikot Ulit”

The song confronts the anger and frustration that come with false promises, repeated disappointments, and obstacles that make progress feel difficult.

2. “Pieces”

This track embraces vulnerability, acknowledging that healing can involve grief, emotional breakdowns, and accepting help from others.

3. “Kama”

A reminder to slow down, “Kama” explores the value of rest in a culture that often places productivity above personal well-being.

4. “Love Again”

The EP's emotional centerpiece reflects on stepping away from a passion and gradually finding the courage and inspiration to return.

5. “ngayon at kailanman”

The collection closes on a hopeful note, looking toward love built on honesty, reassurance, and genuine connection.

Together, the songs present recovery as a process rather than a single turning point. The collection acknowledges frustration and uncertainty while leaving room for renewed affection, creative ambition, and personal growth.

Who Worked on Gab Cabangon’s Debut EP?

Cabangon collaborated with musicians and producers who helped develop the songs from acoustic demos into finished recordings.

David Lina handled arrangement and production, working with Cabangon through collaborative studio sessions. Shadiel Chan and Jan Fuertez of Nine Degrees North handled mixing and mastering, while Cha Martinez contributed lead guitars to “Love Again.”

For “Kama,” Cabangon worked with Gab Lazaro of Project Yass, vydd, Kyla Miel, and his wife, Geli, exploring different instrumental and vocal textures.

The collaborative process reflects the EP's broader message: creative work does not have to happen in isolation. Support from other musicians helped Cabangon shape a project rooted in personal experiences into a collection intended to connect with listeners facing their own uncertainties.

Where Can You Listen to ‘Learn to Love Again’?

Gab Cabangon's Learn to Love Again is out now through Underdog Music. Listeners can search for the five-track EP on their preferred digital music platform.

With this debut release, Cabangon offers a perspective on starting over that avoids easy answers. The songs acknowledge that disappointment, exhaustion, and uncertainty are part of life, but they do not have to mark the end of a meaningful journey.

Sometimes, moving forward begins with allowing yourself to pause, accepting support, and remembering why you started in the first place.

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Vietnamese Artists CHIVAN and MINH Perform at SONIK 2026

Vietnamese Artists CHIVAN and MINH Perform at SONIK 2026

Vietnamese artists CHIVAN and MINH performed at SONIK Philippines 2026, held September 11–12 at Green Sun in Makati, as part of efforts to strengthen music industry connections between Vietnam and the Philippines.

Their participation was supported by CisuMusiC, an international music platform that connects artists, audiences, festivals, and industry networks across different markets. The showcase gave the Vietnamese performers an opportunity to introduce their music to Filipino audiences and connect with music professionals working across the region.

SONIK Philippines 2026 brought together local and international artists, music professionals, and industry representatives for two days of discussions and live performances focused on music export, touring, international expansion, and industry networking.

What Happened at SONIK Philippines 2026?

SONIK Philippines 2026 combined industry discussions with live performances, creating opportunities for artists and music professionals to connect beyond the stage.

The first day of the showcase featured performances from Filipino acts, including SID and One Click Straight, before Itchyworms closed the day with a sing-along set.

Day 2 continued the live music program alongside conversations about how Filipino artists can develop international careers and reach audiences in other markets.

For CHIVAN and MINH, the event provided a platform to perform in the Philippines while meeting members of the local music community. Their appearance also highlighted the role of showcases in introducing artists to audiences outside their home countries.

How Is CisuMusiC Connecting Artists Across Borders?

CisuMusiC works across music festivals, live showcases, Livehouse tours, fan platforms, and media networks to connect artists and industry communities in different countries.

Its network includes connections across Vietnam, Thailand, Taiwan, South Korea, Malaysia, the United Kingdom, and other international markets.

Through these activities, the platform aims to help artists build audiences beyond their domestic markets and develop relationships with music organizations, promoters, and other industry partners.

The participation of CHIVAN and MINH at SONIK Philippines 2026 brought that approach into the Philippine music scene, using a local showcase as a point of contact between Vietnamese performers and Filipino industry professionals.

Could Filipino Artists Find More Opportunities Overseas?

The exchange could also create opportunities in the opposite direction. CisuMusiC sees potential to develop relationships with Filipino artists, festivals, music organizations, and industry partners, connecting them with opportunities in other Asian and international markets.

Cross-border showcases can help artists introduce their work to new audiences while building relationships with potential collaborators and industry contacts. These connections may support future performances, festival invitations, and other international projects, although such outcomes depend on the partnerships developed after an event.

For Filipino musicians looking to expand overseas, regional music networks can provide a starting point for exploring new markets and connecting with people who work within them.

What’s Next for Philippine-Vietnam Music Connections?

SONIK Philippines 2026 marks a point of engagement between CisuMusiC's international network and the Philippine music industry.

The participation of CHIVAN and MINH brought Vietnamese artists to a local stage, while the event's industry program created opportunities for broader conversations about international music careers.

As these relationships develop, further exchanges could give Filipino and Vietnamese artists more opportunities to perform in each other's markets and connect with audiences across Southeast Asia.

For now, the SONIK showcase highlights how music events can serve not only as performance venues but also as meeting points for artists and industry communities looking to build connections across borders.

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IV OF SPADES Releases New Single ‘Rollercoaster’

IV OF SPADES Releases New Single ‘Rollercoaster’

Filipino band IV OF SPADES is back with “Rollercoaster,” a new single that embraces life's unexpected turns through a mix of reggae rhythms, indie rock, and Manila Sound influences.

The release follows a strong awards season for the band, which won Album of the Year and Song of the Year at the 2026 Awit Awards, along with Alternative Song of the Year at the Filipino Music Awards. The track also arrives as the group continues its US and Canada tour, bringing its music to audiences overseas.

Released worldwide through Sony Music Entertainment, “Rollercoaster” is the band's second single of 2026, following the recent release of “Isang Pag-ibig.”

What Does IV OF SPADES’ ‘Rollercoaster’ Sound Like?

“Rollercoaster” takes a more carefree musical approach, combining the rhythmic feel of reggae with indie rock and elements of Manila Sound. The result is a groove-driven track that leans into psychedelic influences without losing its easygoing character.

Rather than building around a conventional pop formula, the song moves with a relaxed rhythm suited to long drives, late-night hangouts, and spontaneous get-togethers with friends.

Its central idea is about surrendering to the moment. Like an actual rollercoaster ride, life comes with unexpected twists, and the song encourages listeners to embrace the experience instead of trying to control every turn.

The combination of familiar Filipino musical influences and alternative rock sensibilities also reflects the band's willingness to explore different sounds while maintaining its distinctive musical identity.

IV OF SPADES Follows ‘Isang Pag-ibig’ With Another 2026 Release

“Rollercoaster” follows “Isang Pag-ibig,” which was released in 2026 after first appearing on the band's SoundCloud page in 2015.

According to the release announcement, the updated version of “Isang Pag-ibig” has surpassed three million combined streams across platforms and reached No. 18 on YouTube Music's Trending Music chart.

Revisiting an older track gives longtime fans another opportunity to connect with the band's earlier material, while introducing the song to listeners who may have discovered IV OF SPADES more recently.

The release of two singles in 2026 also gives fans fresh material to follow as the band continues performing internationally.

IV OF SPADES Takes Its Music Overseas

The release of “Rollercoaster” coincides with IV OF SPADES’ US and Canada tour, extending the band's activities beyond its recent achievements at home.

The timing places the new single alongside a busy period for the group, following recognition from two major Philippine music award ceremonies.

For Filipino artists touring overseas, digital releases offer a way to keep audiences connected to new music even while performances take place in different cities. Fans can stream the latest track while following the band's tour updates and upcoming appearances through its official channels.

With “Rollercoaster,” IV OF SPADES shifts the focus from award-season recognition to a new musical experience built around movement, freedom, and spontaneity.

Where Can You Listen to ‘Rollercoaster’?

IV OF SPADES’ “Rollercoaster” is now available worldwide on digital music streaming platforms through Sony Music Entertainment.

Listeners can search for IV OF SPADES – “Rollercoaster” on their preferred streaming service.

Following the success of “Isang Pag-ibig” and the band's recent award wins, the new single gives fans another track to add to their playlists as IV OF SPADES continues its 2026 musical run.

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McDonald's Remains Committed to Bringing Exciting Flavors at Affordable Prices with Snack and Match’s New Creamy BBQ and Honey Butter Flavors

McDonald's Remains Committed to Bringing Exciting Flavors at Affordable Prices with Snack and Match’s New Creamy BBQ and Honey Butter Flavors

Tuesday, October 13, 2026

 McDonald's Philippines remains committed to making everyday merienda moments more exciting, as it continues to offer exciting flavor experiences that can be enjoyed together with friends, family, and workmates without stretching the budget. This October, the brand introduces new creamy BBQ and honey butter flavors to its Snack & Match menu, giving Filipinos even more reasons to look forward to their snack breaks and making every visit feel extra.

Starting October 1, fans and customers can enjoy new flavor experiences at just P59 solo or P79 as a combo with the launch of the Honey Butter McShaker Fries, Creamy BBQ Burger McDo, and Creamy BBQ Crispy Chicken Sandwich. As part of Snack & Match's growing lineup of mains and sides, these limited-time offerings continue McDonald's commitment to making it easy and affordable for customers to find something new to crave, try, and share with friends.

"Filipinos are always looking for something new to enjoy, especially during merienda, and that's exactly what Snack & Match is designed to deliver," said Ada Almendras-Lazaro, Chief Marketing Officer of McDonald's Philippines.

"Through our wide variety of mains, sides, and limited-time offerings, we're constantly giving customers new flavor experiences to discover while keeping them easy on the wallet. We want McDonald's to be the destination customers think of whenever they're looking for an exciting snack break that feels extra special without spending extra."

Exciting new flavors, still affordable

Three new limited-time Snack and Match mains are set to make new flavor experiences that don't compromise on either taste or value.

The Honey Butter McShaker Fries is a variant on the beloved “shake-shake” snack, combining the sweetness of honey notes and rich buttery flavor with the crispy, deep-fried goodness of the World Famous Fries. The Creamy BBQ Burger McDo and the Creamy BBQ Crispy Chicken Sandwich both feature creamy garlicky sauce with the right amount of smoky flavor, an exciting upgrade over the original variants.

For as low as PHP 59, you can enjoy any of the Snack and Match mains:

● NEW Honey Butter McShaker Fries

● NEW Creamy BBQ Burger McDo

● NEW Creamy BBQ Crispy Chicken Sandwich

● Medium Poptato

● Choco Lava Puff

● Cheesy Burger McDo

● McSpaghetti

● Regular World Famous Fries (Plain, McShaker BBQ or Cheese)

● Medium Iced Coffee Original

For PHP 79, you can enjoy a fuller snack combo by matching your main with any of these sides:

● Taro Custard Pie

● Medium A&W McFloat 16oz

● Medium Coke McFloat 16oz

● Medium Coke McFloat with Hot Fudge 16oz

● Medium Royal McFloat 16oz

● Medium Soft drinks (Coke/Coke Zero, Sprite, Royal, A&W) 16oz

● Plain Sundae

“What makes Snack & Match special is that customers can always look forward to something exciting whenever they visit McDonald’s. Alongside our well-loved snack favorites, we continue to elevate the snacking experience with new flavors and offerings to keep snack time fresh, enjoyable, and worth coming back for. We’re especially excited to see barkadas, families, and workmates enjoy these moments together, because discovering new favorites is always more fun when shared with others,” added Almendras-Lazaro.

McSavers Snack and Match is available via Front Counter, Take-Out, SOK, and Drive-Thru, McDelivery, and Third Party Aggregators.

For more information about McDonald’s Philippines, visit www.mcdonalds.com.ph, McDo.ph on Meta, @mcdo_ph on Instagram, and @McDo_PH on X.

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All’s Fair Season 2 Trailer Drops Ahead of November Premiere

All’s Fair Season 2 Trailer Drops Ahead of November Premiere

The lawyers of Grant, Ronson & Greene are returning with more secrets, shifting alliances, and personal conflicts. Disney+ has released the official trailer and key art for All’s Fair Season 2, which premieres in the Philippines on November 4, 2026.

The new season opens with three episodes on Hulu on Disney+ Philippines, followed by weekly releases every Wednesday. The legal series, created by Ryan Murphy, brings back Kim Kardashian, Naomi Watts, Niecy Nash-Betts, Teyana Taylor, and the rest of its ensemble for another round of high-stakes drama.

What Can Fans Expect From All’s Fair Season 2?

Season 2 puts the spotlight on the lawyers' increasingly complicated relationships as new allegiances emerge and friendships face difficult tests.

A shocking revelation also threatens the future of Grant, Ronson & Greene, putting the firm's survival at risk. With professional ambitions colliding with personal loyalties, the lawyers will have more than courtroom battles to contend with.

The newly released trailer and key art offer fans a preview of the returning characters and the conflicts awaiting them in the upcoming season.

Who Stars in All’s Fair Season 2?

The returning cast features a mix of Hollywood veterans, music talent, and familiar faces from the entertainment industry.

The Season 2 lineup includes Kim Kardashian, Naomi Watts, Niecy Nash-Betts, Teyana Taylor, Matthew Noszka, Cauã Reymond, Sarah Paulson, and Glenn Close.

The series is produced by 20th Television in association with Ryan Murphy Television. Ryan Murphy leads the executive-producing team alongside Kim Kardashian, Kris Jenner, Nina Jacobson, Brad Simpson, and several other producers and cast members.

When Does All’s Fair Season 2 Premiere in the Philippines?

All’s Fair Season 2 premieres on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, on Hulu on Disney+ Philippines. The first three episodes will be available on premiere day, with subsequent episodes released weekly on Wednesdays.

For viewers planning their November watchlist, the weekly release schedule offers a chance to follow the unfolding drama one episode at a time.

How Can Viewers Watch All’s Fair on Disney+?

Philippine subscribers can watch the new season through Hulu on Disney+ Philippines. Viewers should check their Disney+ accounts for current subscription options and availability.

Disney+ also offers parental controls that allow account holders to manage access to mature content. Parents and guardians can set content restrictions and create PIN-protected profiles. Junior Mode profiles are also available for younger viewers.

These controls can help households manage what different family members can access on the platform.

With the trailer now out, fans can get an early look at the next chapter of Grant, Ronson & Greene before the series returns on November 4.

For streaming assistance, visit the Disney+ Help Center.

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