Shang welcomes the new year with an art-filled January

Shang welcomes the new year with an art-filled January

Saturday, January 13, 2024

Enjoy acclaimed films, live music, and a Chinese painting workshop at Shangri-La Plaza

Leading lifestyle and shopping destination Shangri-La Plaza is giving cinephiles, music lovers, and art aficionados more reasons to celebrate the brand-new year with an elevated take on entertainment. As a cultural hub in the metro, Shang is showcasing compelling films, live music, and an art workshop to start off 2024.

Head on over to the Red Carpet Cinema and catch Studio Ghibli’s The Boy and The Heron. The Golden Globe award-winning masterpiece from acclaimed Japanese auteur Hayao Miyazaki follows the story of Mahito Maki, a young boy who discovers a hidden world of magic as he looks to overcome a personal tragedy. Enveloped in Miyazaki’s trademark wonder and dreamlike world-building, viewers are poised to emerge with a profound, refreshed perspective on life, ready to embrace the challenges of the upcoming year.

No new year is complete without great music and that’s exactly what mall guests are getting as rising indie band SunKissed Lola returns for LIVE at the Shang! The band, which gained its first hit through 2023’s Spotify Top Track of the Year, Pasilyo, is bringing its own brand of buoyant Pinoy pop as it performs at the Grand Atrium on January 13 at 6:30PM for a night of great vibes and unforgettable tunes. 

Cinephiles rejoice as the Ateneo de Manila University Ricardo Leong Center for Chinese Studies and the Ateneo Celadon, together with the People’s Republic of China and the Film Development Council of the Philippines, present the 18th Spring Film Festival at the Red Carpet Cinema from January 23 to 30. As one of the most celebrated Chinese-Filipino festivals in the country, the Spring Film Festival offers a range of introspective works exploring personal growth, cultural enrichment, and heartfelt relationships. 

The Spring Film Festival is also holding a Chinese painting workshop on January 27, letting mall guests learn more about Chinese culture ahead of the Lunar New Year festivities. 

Finally, 2024 may usher in all the luck and big prizes as Shang continues its Wishes and Wheels Shang Holiday Raffle Promountil January 31. One lucky winner will get to take home the newest off-road champ Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 2024 that combines a nostalgic, retro design with modern innovations. Simply shop at any qualified Shang store and earn one digital raffle coupon for every single receipt of P2,500. Redeem it by scanning the QR code at the Concierge or by submitting details at raffle.shangrila-plaza.com/raffle. 

This 2024, Shangri-La Plaza is making every moment count with a spectacular lineup of arts and cultural offerings that add more fun and zing to a new beginning. 

For updates and inquiries, follow Shangri-La Plaza on Facebook at www.facebook.com/shangrilaplazaofficial and on Instagram @shangrilaplazaofficial.

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Leah Halili releases introspective new track “Change”

Leah Halili releases introspective new track “Change”

The electronic-tinged pop song is produced by prolific musician Nick Lazaro, and penned by Leah herself

The Ransom Collective’s Leah Halili reflects on the difficulties of navigating the recent events in her life on her new single, “Change,” out on all digital music platforms worldwide this Saturday, January 13.

The introspective track serves as a love letter to the changes that one has to go through at some point in their adulthood, regardless of how drastic or trivial it is. As Leah Halili puts it, people need to overcome challenges in order to adapt to certain situations and welcome a sense of renewal. With “Change,” she wants to document her learnings through years of surmounting anxiety and fear, from embracing transformation in life without inhibitions to pushing a lever and switching paths—all in the name of new beginnings.

“The song touches on the brevity of life and the richness of experiences,” the Filipino singer-songwriter said. “It emphasizes the belief in enduring truths despite pain, focusing on the positive and hope that surround us.”

Produced by prolific experimental/indie artist Nick Lazaro, “Change” integrates dreamy, textured guitar lines with electronic elements. Temporarily veering away from the stripped-down and folk vibe of her previous releases, Leah embraces a more eclectic side of pop music while retaining the confessional nature of her songwriting.

She adds, “For this specific track, I wanted to achieve something really different compared to my previous singles: ambient, soft sounds with echoey vocals and a little bit of electric, dancey vibe. But at the center of it all is a pop tune that fits well with my personality. It’s still very me.”

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Filipino rapper WAIIAN captures the simplicity of everyday life on “Pablo” music video

Filipino rapper WAIIAN captures the simplicity of everyday life on “Pablo” music video

Monday, December 18, 2023

The jazzy, laidback tune serves as the focus track off his third studio album, WEYAAT?

Filipino hip-hop artist WAIIAN offers a generous heap of slice-of-life goodness on the music video of “Pablo,” his new single under Sony Music Entertainment.

The MV captures a day in the life of Pablo (his real name), where he finds happiness and contentment in the simplest of things. The Joshua Cecario-helmed visuals depict a young man who lives in the present day and enjoys his routine, from spending time in his home studio to navigating familiar and far-flung places with his motorcycle ride—all lovingly filmed to present moments of beauty that surround him every single day.

“It’s about living life and making music out of it and making music to live a life,” the Solo Mission act explains. 

Written by WAIIAN himself and produced by Tatz Maven, “Pablo” solidifies his reputation as one of the most exciting young bloods in Philippine hip-hop. The laid-back tune serves as the focus track off his third studio album, WEYAAT?, which was released on December 1, 2023.

The nine-track album is thematically diverse but distinctly shaped by his keen sense of self-awareness. Led by the last track of the same name and new single “Pablo,” "WEYAAT?" is a slang for “WAIIAN, where you at?,” which is his way of reintroducing himself to the world after a three-year sabbatical in music. The groovy but sonically eclectic record also features collaborations with Kashira, a music production company founded by critically acclaimed producers and musicians U-Pistol, Tatz Maven, and Calix.

“I want listeners to recognize the energy that I put into these songs,” the prolific rapper adds. “Luckily, I’ve met people along the way who helped translate my vibe into music. Somehow, it adds extra sauce and interesting layers, sonic-wise.”

WAIIAN’s WEYAAT? is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the music video here.

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Tickets prices and tiers for SCRUBB Live in Manila released

Tickets prices and tiers for SCRUBB Live in Manila released

The Thai alt-pop powerhouse will be holding their debut show in Manila on February 10, 2024

Tickets to SCRUBB: Live in Manila are now available for fans to purchase!

According to event organizer GNN (formerly known as Gabi Na Naman Productions), fans can buy tickets at Ticketmelon for the following tiers: SVIP tickets at PHP 5,200, VIP tickets at PHP 3,200, and Gen Admission tickets at PHP 1,800.

Both SVIP and VIP packages have fan benefit inclusions with varying perks. 

A few weeks ago, SCRUBB officially confirmed that they’ll be headlining their debut show in Manila at the outdoor area of 123 Block in Mandaluyong City on February 10, 2024. 

The Thai alt-pop act will be performing songs off the official soundtrack of 2gether: The Series, the TV hit that catapulted its young lead actors Vachirawit Chivaaree (Bright) and Metawin Opas-iamkajorn (Win) to global superstardom. The soundtrack for the series includes 18 songs from SCRUBB, along with a few notable ones from the main actors.

Aside from the OST, Scrubb is set to entertain Filipino fans with new and old materials spanning six studio albums that they’ve produced throughout the course of their career. To date, Scrubb has graced several sold-out shows in Bangkok and key cities across Asia. The internationally renowned music act composed of Thawatpon Wongboonsiri and Torpong Chantabubpha.

SCRUBB: Live In Manila is presented and produced by GNN, the Filipino production outfit behind some of the most memorable shows of the year, including the Aliw Awards-nominee Back In Time with Pinoy R&B royalty Kyla and Jay-R, the 20th anniversary of Sugarfree’s Sa Wakas album (featuring Ebe Dancel), the 25th anniversary concert of Barbie Almalbis, Zark’s Fest 2023, Linya-Linya Land, and the intimate concert of Clara Benin—just to name a few. 

The Filipino production group is also set to welcome Taiwanese math-rock outfit Elephant Gym (co-production with The Rest Is Noise PH). They’ve recently brought Indonesian pop-rock band Reality Club and Pamungkas to the Philippines for an intimate showcase.

SCRUBB is a phenomenal Thai alt-pop duo whose music reached global popularity thanks to their enormous contributions to the official soundtrack of 2gether The Series, the biggest Boy’s Love hit ever released worldwide, which features young superstars Vachirawit Chivaaree (Bright) and Metawin Opas-iamkajorn (Win) as leads. The OST to the series includes 18 songs from SCRUBB, along with a few notable one from the main actors.

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7 Secrets to Beat the Holiday Stress

7 Secrets to Beat the Holiday Stress

Wednesday, December 13, 2023

The ‘ber months are in full swing, and Filipinos are already feeling the Christmas breeze. ‘Tis the season when families plan for the most anticipated holiday in the Philippines. But as with any event, timing is everything in making Christmas the most magical celebration of the year!

As the trusted partner of Filipinos in the kitchen, MAGGI understands that food – and sharing it with the family – is the heart of the holiday season. “Christmas is when home cooks bring out the most special recipes – those that they love to cook and that their families enjoy sharing together, especially during Noche Buena. MAGGI is here to help empower Filipino home cooks na gawing mas magical ang Pasko as they prepare, cook, and transform their dishes into the most delicious Noche Buena spread,” said Ms. Raine Calma, Food & Dairy Culinary Recipe Marketing & Digital Lead.

From choosing recipes and buying ingredients to cooking and welcoming guests on Christmas Eve, MAGGI shares 7 secrets to enjoying a stress-free holiday season!

Explore menu-making hacks

Home cooks need a game plan, and MAGGI (https://www.maggi.ph/magicalpasko) is here to serve as some menu inspiration. Noche Buena cooking is made easier with access to over 100 recipes that make holiday meals extra special. It's best to lock in your headcount so that you can modify the recipe based on the number of servings you need.

Make a list and check it twice

With a menu in place, it’s time to check the pantry and inventory ingredients. List down the quantities of items needed before heading to the supermarket. A quick check in the grocery's online shelves can help ensure stocks and availability. Holiday traffic is real, so grocery runs should be planned in advance.

Do a test run if cooking a recipe for the first time

Trying out a new dish can be overwhelming. With enough lead time, home cooks can do a trial and have loved ones give comments to improve the dish. Using only the best seasonings like MAGGI Magic Sarap and its variety of Savor and cube products, they can transform any dish from pwede na to sarap-sustansya and magical levels.

Make ahead whenever possible

Cooking everything all in one day can be tiring. Home cooks can start pre-cooking certain dish components to help lessen their kitchen load on celebration day. Meat stews, marinades, embutido, pasta sauces, and cookie batter can be prepared a few days ahead. This means planning for fridge space will be crucial to ensure dishes keep well until serving.

Save the fresh for last

Fruits and vegetables can be purchased in the morning to retain their freshness. Adding fresh pineapple to an all-time favorite fruit salad will elevate the dish.

A little help goes a long way

This is the perfect bonding time for the family when home cooks pass on their cooking techniques and share their passion for food with their children. The joy of cooking will translate into your dish, too!

Give your Noche Buena table setting an added flair

Adorn the dining table with bits and pieces of Christmas to make the Noche Buena gathering even more memorable. It can be as simple as a red ceramic platter for your chosen entrée, scattering a few Christmas balls, or adding candles with gold ribbons for an added magic touch.

According to Calma, these simple tips from MAGGI are aimed at helping home cooks manage their time, resources, and energy. “The holiday rush can get the best of us because we only want the best for the people we love. Proper planning can make all the difference and allow the whole family to spend more time together, celebrating and enjoying their most magical Noche Buena yet.”

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Give your eyes a break with something ‘COOL’ from Rohto Eye Drops

Give your eyes a break with something ‘COOL’ from Rohto Eye Drops

Monday, December 11, 2023

Did you know that the number 1 eye care brand in the world, Rohto Eye Drops, is from Japan and has been formulating and producing eye drops for over a century? That’s how much the Japanese take their eye health seriously. And one of the things they swear by is getting those cooling eye drops from Rohto – which, good news for us, is now available in the Philippines!

Rohto Cool Eye Drops, the country's first and only cooling eye drops, deliver instant and effective moisturizing and cooling relief from minor eye discomforts like dryness and irritation.

A favorite among leading beauty and fashion insiders and celebrities, Rohto Cool Eye Drops are a must if you constantly experience dry or strained eyes from all that screen time, or if you need relief from redness or itchiness caused by smog, dust, wind, sun glare, and chlorinated water. This fun and unique Level 5 cooling sensation also gives the eyes a refreshing feeling, making it handy for waking sleepy eyes.

Rohto ensures their eye drops are safe and easy to use, as they’re formulated by Rohto Pharmaceutical Co., Japan which has 100 years of unwavering commitment to eye care. The eye drops help retain natural tears and moisture to prevent eye surface dryness, deliver oxygen and nutrients to the cornea, wash out dust and debris, and prevent bacteria and other germs from entering.

They’re also safe to use even if you’re wearing contact lenses and offer a moisturizing protective veil that makes removing the lenses easier even after a long day. Plus, Rohto’s eye drops feature an innovative free-angle nozzle, allowing effortless application from any angle, so it's convenient if you’re on the go!

Experience the cool difference today and get Rohto Cool Eye Drops or the gentle moisturizing option Rohto Aqua Eye Drops at a Watsons store near you or through Watsons Online Shop. Rohto Eye Drops are also available at the official Mentholatum stores on Lazada and Shopee.

Discover the refreshing world of Rohto eye drops and say bye to minor eye discomforts, follow Rohto on Facebook @rohtoph and Instagram @rohtoeyedropsph and visit their website at https://rohtoeyedrops.com.ph.

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Be the game changer with TECNO SPARK 20

Be the game changer with TECNO SPARK 20

The best entry-level gaming phone at only PhP5,599. Purchase on Shopee during its first sale offering for only PhP4,099!

As part of its commitment to bring the latest mobile and gaming innovations to Filipinos, TECNO launched today its latest smartphone, SPARK 20. In collaboration with PUBG Mobile, the game-changing SPARK 20 is the 2023 PUBG MOBILE National Championship (PMNC) PH Official Smartphone Partner. TECNO’s latest versatile device levels the playing field for all passionate, energetic individuals wishing to get their hands on a trendy, stylish, power-packed smartphone, minus the hefty price tag. Before the end of the year, SPARK 20 Pro will likewise be available in the local market.

Officially priced at only PhP5,599, the SPARK 20 is the global premier mobile phone brand TECNO’s latest innovative offering to gamers, gaming enthusiasts, and ambitious, practical individuals. As an early Christmas present, customers who purchase the SPARK 20 at TECNO Mobile PH Official Store in Shopee will only pay PhP4,099 during the first sale period. This special promo has been running since its launch last December 7.

“The SPARK 20 is the upgraded version of TECNO’s SPARK series, but we are not raising our prices to make our smartphone more valuable. Our brand's unyielding pursuit of technology and innovation, coupled with high-value products, inspires young consumers to pursue excellence, challenge conventions and redefine the future. The future, defined by you,” said TECNO Regional Marketing Director, Nana Chen.

Game changing

TECNO SPARK 20 continues the legacy of high value, trendy design, large memory capacity, and excellent camera performance. Its design has robust features, impeccable configuration, and unmatched cost-effectiveness.

The SPARK 20 features a larger storage with 256GB ROM + 16GB RAM (8GB Extended RAM). Capture all good memories in doubled memory capacity. Turbocharge your system with up to 16GB RAM using Memory Fusion.

Snap wonderful moments with TECNO SPARK 20’s remarkable 50 MP ultra clear dual flash rear camera with a super night mode. Continuing the previous generation's legacy, SPARK 20 has a 32 MP front camera with three light modes for glowing selfies. More importantly, the SPARK 20 is the first smartphone with a 32 MP selfie camera in the PhP5,000 price range.

SPARK 20 has an enhanced, pioneering 6.56’‘ 90Hz hole screen and Magic skin 2.0. Leading the pack with a cutting-edge hole screen, the SPARK 20 is transformed to look sleeker while delivering a 90% screen-to-body ratio for a visual feast. This beauty also comes with a brain: up to 90Hz adaptive refresh rates ensure consistent smooth interactions.

Experience the pinnacle of performance with TECNO SPARK 20’s MediaTek G85 Gaming processor, the undisputed best in its class. Seamless and stable operations will be an everyday reality. Awaken your superpower with the 5000mAh super battery with Type C, fueled by 18W fast charging.

Finally, feel the beat of super sound on-the-go with the TECNO SPARK 20’s stereo dual speaker sound by DTS 400% big volume. Plus, it’s IP53 water- and dust-proof.

Full blast in December with TECNO, PUBG collaboration and SPARK 20 Pro launch

TECNO will conclude 2023 with a series of game-changing offerings to its local customers. As the official smartphone partner of the 2023 PMNC PH, TECNO will provide the phone as the final prize for the PMNC winners, and also invite popular gamers to play PUBG by using SPARK 20 during the PMNC. The 2023 PMNC PH tournament began last November 13, with the grand finals occurring from Dec. 28 to 30.

“PUBG MOBILE is the original battle royale game on mobile and is one of the Philippines' most popular mobile shooting games. Its enthusiasm always inspires the majority of the GenZ groups. They are, like SPARK 20, the real game changers,” said Ms. Chen.

TECNO SPARK 20 Pro will also debut in the local market in mid-December. The launch will be accompanied by the introduction of the brand new chief gaming officer, a high-profile personality already known among the GenZ, gaming and fashion circles.

Win big, spark beyond with TECNO SPARK 20 this Christmas

TECNO SPARK 20 comes in gravity black, cyber white, neon gold, and magic skin colors. Add the SPARK 20 to your Christmas list for sharper memories and next-level gaming sessions over the holidays.

The SPARK 20 is officially priced at only PhP5,599. Customers can avail of more discounts during its ongoing first sale at TECNO Mobile PH Official Store in Shopee and TECNO Mobile PH in TikTok Shop. Customers can also get the device at TECNO Mobile PH Official Store in Lazada. at all TECNO Concept Experience Kiosks, and TECNO Partner Retail Stores nationwide.

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Filipino rapper Alex Bruce links up with Costa Cashman on the minimalist bop “Bling”

Filipino rapper Alex Bruce links up with Costa Cashman on the minimalist bop “Bling”

Sunday, December 10, 2023

Filipina rapper Alex Bruce and O Side Mafia’s Costa Cashman coast through a seamless blend of minimalist rap and spaced-out production for their new single “Bling,” released under Sony Music Entertainment.

The unexpected pairing brims with chemistry that few others can lay claim to while delivering larger-than-life verses that play to their individual strengths.

“This song celebrates our success as an artist and how we’ve come a long way in surmounting the challenges in our respective careers,” the young Filipina rapper explains. “We’re both bragging respectfully, but there’s more to this track than flaunting our achievements. It’s also about hard work and rewarding yourself and the people around you who made it possible for you to survive and win in life.”

“Bling” serves as Alex Bruce’s first collaboration with a fellow artist on equal billing. The track is produced by Costa Cashman and BRGR, whose unique styles mesh together to create a star-making bop for the streaming generation.

The rising young talent expressed her confidence in the outcome of the material, particularly on the technical side of the production. She attests, “I’ve always trusted Cashman and BRGR when it comes to dishing out the best beats to complement my energy and delivery. I am aware that they know what they’re doing, and based on first-hand experience, the material resonates with me on a personal level.”

“Bling” is the follow-up to “Betty Bruce,” a 2023 single that reasserts the young artist’s position as a feisty young rapper celebrating the importance of self-worth and womanhood. The 16-year-old hip-hop sensation recently headlined a FIBA halftime performance for international brand NIKE.

Alex Bruce’s “Bling” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

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SCRUBB confirms debut concert in Manila on February 2024

SCRUBB confirms debut concert in Manila on February 2024

Friday, December 8, 2023

 The upcoming show is produced and presented by GNN

It’s official: SCRUBB is coming to the Philippines early next year.

The Thai-based act just confirmed on their social media that they will be headlining their own solo show in Manila in partnership with local production outfit GNN.

Details about the upcoming concert will be announced on December 11, 2023, at 6 p.m.

SCRUBB is a phenomenal Thai alt-pop duo whose music reached global popularity thanks to their enormous contributions to the official soundtrack of 2gether: The Series. The said TV show is touted the biggest Boy’s Love hit ever released internationally and features young superstars Vachirawit Chivaaree (Bright) and Metawin Opas-iamkajorn (Win) as leads. 

The original soundtrack to the series includes multiple songs from SCRUBB, along with a few notable ones from the main actors and other guest acts.

A prolific music act composed of Thawatpon Wongboonsiri and Torpong Chantabubpha, SCRUBB has produced six studio albums throughout the course of their career and has done sold-out shows in Bangkok and key cities across Asia.

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Revolutionizing Financial Inclusion: M Lhuillier and GCash Join Forces in Groundbreaking Partnership

Revolutionizing Financial Inclusion: M Lhuillier and GCash Join Forces in Groundbreaking Partnership

In a significant leap towards financial inclusion and technological innovation, two industry giants, M Lhuillier and GCash, have forged a groundbreaking partnership. This collaboration not only signals a new era in the financial landscape of the Philippines but also promises to empower millions by providing convenient, secure, and accessible financial services.

M Lhuillier, a renowned financial service provider with a rich history has been a trusted name in the Philippines. With a vast network of branches across the archipelago, M Lhuillier has been instrumental in providing services such as pawnshop, remittance, and other financial services. On the other hand, GCash has emerged as a leading mobile wallet in the Philippines. Its user-friendly interface and extensive array of services, including bills payment, fund transfers, and online shopping, have made it a staple in the lives of many Filipinos seeking seamless digital financial solutions.

The partnership between M Lhuillier and GCash brings forth a synergy that leverages the strengths of both entities. M Lhuillier's extensive physical presence complements GCash's digital prowess, creating a comprehensive financial ecosystem that caters to diverse consumer needs.

In a move set to redefine the convenience and accessibility of the country’s digital financial landscape, GCash users can now enjoy the ease of cashing in and cashing out at any of the over 3,000 M Lhuillier branches across the country.

The Cash In service fee is completely waived for the initial P8,000 cash in within a month. This means users can enjoy a fee-free transaction when making their first cash in. However, for amounts exceeding the P8,000 limit, a nominal 2% charge will be automatically deducted from the user's transaction. This transparent fee structure ensures that users are well-informed about any applicable charges beyond the specified limit, maintaining financial transparency and user trust.

For those needing to draw funds from their GCash accounts, M Lhuillier branches now offer a convenient Cash Out service. With a vast network of locations, finding a nearby M Lhuillier branch is easier than ever. While making a Cash Out transaction, users should take note of a reasonable 2% service fee automatically deducted from their account. This fee ensures a reliable and secure cash withdrawal process, providing users with peace of mind and the assurance that their financial transactions are handled with the utmost security.

The M Lhuillier and GCash partnership is a significant milestone in the financial landscape of the Philippines. By combining the strengths of a trusted traditional financial service provider with a dynamic and innovative digital platform, this collaboration sets the stage for a future where financial services are not only accessible but also tailored to the evolving needs of the Filipino population especially the unbanked and underserved. As the partnership unfolds, it holds the promise of transforming the way individuals perceive and engage with financial services, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and digitally empowered society.

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