Coco Martin in FPJ’s Batang Quiapo is set to air this February

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The original “Batang Quiapo,” which starred Poe’s father, the late film icon Fernando Poe, Jr., included scenes at Quiapo Church and Plaza Miranda.

The 1986 action-comedy film centered on Baldo (FPJ), a former pickpocket who becomes reformed after his time behind bars. Returning to Quiapo, he is asked by a young pickpocket, Maria (Maricel Soriano), to teach her his ways, but instead he attempts to put her on the right path.

Joining Martin and Poe in the cast of “FPJ’s Batang Quiapo” are screen veterans Charo Santos-Concio, Christopher de Leon, Tommy Abuel, Cherry Pie Picache, Pen Medina, Lito Lapid, and Susan Africa, Lito Lapid, and John Estrada.

Other cast members include Mark Lapid, Ronwaldo Martin, Ping Medina, Mercedes Cabral, Allan Paule, and Benzon Dalina.

The much-awaited return of Coco Martin in FPJ’s Batang Quiapo, is set to air in February.

TV5 and ABS-CBN have the biggest offerings in line for the fans of the long running TV series FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano, as the Primetime King Coco Martin returns with the adaptation of Fernando Poe Jr.’s 1986 action-comedy film, Batang Quiapo. In commemoration of Fernando Poe Jr’s 18th Death Anniversary, Coco teams up with Dreamscape Entertainment and FPJ’s daughter, Lovi Poe, for a promising, action-packed, and timeless small screen adaption of the beloved FPJ film.

Joining the cast of FPJ’s Batang Quiapo are Lito Lapid, Christopher De Leon, Susan Africa, John Estrada, Pen Medina, Cherry Pie Picache, Benzon Dalina, Mark Lapid, Ronwaldo Martin, Ping Medina, Mercedes Cabral, Alan Paule, and Tommy Abuel. The show will be headed and directed by Martin and Malu Sevilla, set to air on TV5 this February.

Your New Gym for Your New Year Fitness Goals : Stark Fitness’ first ever fitness club in San Antonio, Makati City

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As we recover from the pandemic and restrictions are being lifted, it is time that we also prioritize our health and wellness this coming new year. It means having  Go-to fitness clubs have become a necessity for people who want to achieve being fit and healthy. 

Stark Fitness, one of the fastest-growing health and fitness brands, expands its service to provide a healthy fitness lifestyle for every Filipino. Now, they want to continue redefining people’s perception that fitness is not difficult and attainable by opening Stark Fitness’ first-ever fitness center.

Megaworld welcomes Stark Fitness

(From Left to Right: Mr Mark Sta. Ana, Ms. Isa Lim, Ms. Ms. Camille Elviña and Ms. Gigi Dela Vega)

As a Cluster General Manager for Makati CBD Properties of Megaworld Lifestyle Malls, Mr. Mark Sta. Ana, with Ms. Camille Elviña (General Manager Makati CBD Properties), Ms. Gigi Dela Vega (Deputy General Manager Makati CBD) and his Megaworld Lifestyle Mall management team were on hand to welcome Stark Fitness Gym to one of its lifestyle mall in San Antonio Residence located at Malugay St. Gil Puyat Ave. Makati City.

Stark Fitness Gym grand opening

The brand new gym, which is situated on the 2nd Floor of San Antonio Mall along Buendia Ave, opened its door last January 27, 2023. This grand opening event attended by some of the well-known celebrities such as Max Collins, Jameson Blake, Winwyn Marquez, Michelle Vito, Pat Sugui, Tyronne Tan, Kim Rodriguez, model Kirst Viray and fitness influencers like Princess Legazpi, Dan of Fitness, Coach Legran, Coach Anton and with them some of the media both online and traditional joined to the event. As the gym showcases its own premium and quality equipment, the guests also enjoy the amenities that the gym can offer like the bungee fitness class and infra-red sauna to relax after their workout.

Getting into a workout routine doesn’t have to be boring.

The luxurious club will be offering personal training sessions and some of the most unique fitness classes such as the Bungee Fitness/Fly Class, currently the only one open in the Philippines, where people can experience a low-intensity workout jumping and flying while suspended on a rope. Everyone can also enjoy the Pound, an exercise class with a rock-star flair that consists of drumming, cardio, and strength training. Enjoy access to elite personal trainers, Zumba, yoga, or HIIT STEP classes. And when signing up, a free training assessment is included to develop your action plan and attack fitness head-on.

From Passion to Career.

Ms. Isabelle Lim, being a fitness enthusiast wanted to share her passion by opening its first brick and mortar store at SM Megamall and now by opening a fitness gym for Filipino people. As she shares on the gym grand opening event “ after opening up our first showroom in megamall, we wanted to expand into a fitness center to truly encapsulate that our fitness equipment is premium and high quality, meant also for commercial gyms. We plan to create a community where “being fit” means being able to provide one's own life and well being. Stark Fitness gym will not only focus on fitness but also wellbeing and mental health. Supporting all sizes and gender. On the business side, We plan to open up more fitness centers in the coming months and open up for franchising in the future.”

Pre-selling continues …

Stark Fitness Gym at San Antonio Residences continues its pre-selling promo of Php 2199/month for the first 3 months* inclusive of all the perks and classes that the gym offers until the end of february.

**Php 2199 for the first 3 months and Php 2500 for the following months.Applicable for 1 yr contract. Save Php 9,303 for one year. And a one-time payment of Php 1500 for the access key

For updates about the brand, visit Stark Fitness Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok accounts. The complete list of products is available on STARK Fitness website, Lazada and Shopee pages.

For updates about the brand, visit Stark Fitness San Antonio Gym Facebook, Instagram and TikTok accounts. More information on memberships is available on STARK Fitness website.

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About STARK FITNESS

Stark Fitness is a fitness and wellness brand that offers premium and quality home and commercial fitness equipment, fitness accessories, and memberships in our fitness centers that plan to create a space and platform where fitness and health enthusiasts are connected to benefit the lifestyle of every Filipino.

For inquiries about STARK Fitness, please contact:

09989980258 or email us at

starkfitnessph@gmail.com

Aspiring baker-entrepreneurs win big at URC Flourish Pilipinas competition

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Universal Robina Corporation (URC) Flour Division recently awarded six aspiring entrepreneurs with bakery start-up packages in its baking business competition, Flourish Pilipinas 2022: The CEO Initiative.

The competition is part of URC’s efforts to support young Filipino bakers who dream of becoming future CEOs of their own baking businesses.

URC Flourish Pilipinas 2022: The CEO Initiative Manila leg (from left to right): Alaura Daele Pabandero (1st runner up), Ellison Dean C. Lee (Managing Director, URC Flour), Sandra Camille Montenegro (Grand Winner), Marilyn Grande Esguerra (R&D Chapter Lead Snackfoods, URC), Jeremy Garcia (2nd runner up), and Dennis J. Magallanes (Deputy Chief Financial Officer, URC Agro-Industrial and Commodity Foods Group)

Participants from the Manila and Davao leg of The CEO Initiative were immersed in a series of technical trainings and business lectures. These aimed to hone their potential and equip them with knowledge that can be useful as they start their venture.

Six finalists made it to the final phase where they presented their business plans to a panel of experienced entrepreneurs. In the end, Manila leg’s Sandra Camille Montenegro, with her “3 Cs” (Cookies & Cream and Corn Cookies), and Davao leg’s Ericka Mae Tuliao of Davao, with “Kaka Mangifera”, were declared the grand prize winners. They each took home a start-up online bakery package worth P200,000.

URC Flourish Pilipinas 2022: The CEO Initiative Davao leg (from left to right): Jhon Michael Sarabia (1st runner up), Ellison Dean C. Lee (Managing Director, URC Flour), Ericka Mae Tuliao (Grand Winner), Marilyn Grande Esguerra (R&D Chapter Lead Snackfoods, URC), John Kenneth Nogodulia (2nd runner up), and Dennis J. Magallanes (Deputy Chief Financial

The first and second runners-up were given start-up packages worth P100,000 and P50,000, respectively. All the winners received top-of-the-line baking equipment, high-quality ingredients and access to industry network.

The CEO Initiative is one of the many activities under “Flourish Pilipinas”, URC’s program that aims to support the baking industry of the country. Since its launch in 2017, URC has conducted several activities that promote bread and pastry baking as a viable form of livelihood for Filipinos.

For more information and updates on URC Flour, follow its Facebook page. For more info about URC, visit its official website.

GCash partners with Grab Philippines for easy, hassle-free direct cashless payment option

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GCash, Grab Philippines join forces for more convenient transactions. Grab users can use GCash to pay for the leading superapp’s services by February

As the country’s leading mobile wallet GCash partners with Grab Philippines, the country’s leader in transportation and deliveries, paying for your ride and food orders will soon be easier and hassle-free.

The landmark partnership will give Grab users access to the easiest, most convenient, and secure cashless transactions when they add GCash as a direct payment method on the Grab app. GCash will be officially available as a mode of payment on the Grab platform by February.

Through this partnership, users can simply choose GCash as their payment method, and pay cashless for GrabCar, GrabFood, GrabMart, GrabExpress and other Grab services with just a few taps on their smartphones. Moreover, this partnership enables users to avoid transfer fees which go as high as Php 50.

GCash and Grab Partnership Launch: GCash and Grab mark their milestone partnership with GCash available as a direct payment option in the Grab app by February.

(L-R) GCash Chief Marketing Officer Neil Trinidad, GCash Head of Commercial Sales and Operations Luigi Reyes, GCash Chief Commercial Officer Ren-Ren Reyes, GrabFin Philippines President Martha Elaine Borja, Head of GrabPay Philippines Cris Alcaraz, and Grab Philippines Country Marketing Head Justine Anne Aruta

“With this partnership, we once again realize our commitment to make the lives of Filipinos better each day by delivering a more convenient, secure, and cost-efficient way to pay for their rides and food and grocery deliveries. We look forward to this partnership and we will continuously innovate and build more partnerships that will improve the lives of the Filipinos”, said GCash president and CEO Martha Sazon.

To make their cashless transactions more convenient and rewarding, customers of Grab also get to avail of GCash exclusive deals, and get special treats when they pay for their transactions using GCash.

Country Head of Grab Philippines Grace Vera Cruz shared, “Grab Philippines is dedicated to empowering our stakeholders in a digital-first economy, and key to this is driving a deeper and wider cashless adoption in the country. With more Filipinos transacting via cashless means, we are accelerating our prospects of digital transformation. We look forward to collaborating with like-minded partners such as GCash on this agenda, and we are optimistic that through this partnership, we can improve the lives and livelihoods of many of our kababayans, while building a cashless, digital-first economy for all Filipinos.”

Grab is Southeast Asia’s leading superapp for ride hailing, food delivery, and on-demand grocery delivery. It touts strong foothold in markets like the Philippines, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam. Prior to this development, GCash and Grab have already established a strategic collaboration. Their initial partnership has provided Filipinos safe, seamless, and secure digital experience by allowing users to transfer money from their GCash wallet to their GrabPay wallet, and vice-versa.

Building on GCash and Grab’s shared mission of addressing Filipinos’ daily needs, this partnership also helps in creating a more cash-lite and digitally driven economy.

As part of its vision of achieving “Finance for All”, GCash will continue to innovate and establish partnerships to offer affordable, convenient and safe services – making Filipino lives better every day and beyond, in the new normal.

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About GCash

GCash (G-Xchange, Inc.) is the #1 Finance App in the Philippines. Through the GCash App, 71M registered users can easily purchase prepaid airtime; pay bills at over 1,600 partner billers nationwide; send and receive money anywhere in the Philippines, even to other bank accounts; purchase from over 5.2M partner merchants and social sellers; and get access to savings, credit, loans, insurance and invest money, and so much more, all at the convenience of their smartphones. GCash is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mynt (Globe Fintech Innovations, Inc.), the first and only duacorn in the Philippines.

GCash was recognized by The Asian Banker (TAB) and by the IDC in 2021 for its outstanding digital financial inclusion programs.

About Grab

Grab is Southeast Asia’s leading superapp based on GMV in 2021 in each of food deliveries, mobility and the e-wallets segment of financial services, according to Euromonitor. Grab operates across the deliveries, mobility and digital financial services sectors in 480 cities in eight countries in the Southeast Asia region – Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. Grab enables millions of people each day to access its driver- and merchant-partners to order food or groceries, send packages, hail a ride or taxi, pay for online purchases or access services such as lending, insurance, wealth management and telemedicine, all through a single “everyday everything” app. Grab was founded in 2012 with the mission to drive Southeast Asia forward by creating economic empowerment for everyone, and since then, the Grab app has been downloaded onto millions of mobile devices. Grab strives to serve a double bottom line: to simultaneously deliver financial performance for its shareholders and a positive social impact in Southeast Asia.

Snap better photos with the Xiaomi 12T Pro

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Tips, tricks to help you take breathtaking shots and #MakeMomentsMega

Elevate your smartphone photography game with the Xiaomi 12T Pro, an advanced triple-camera setup with high-resolution capabilities. Whether you're a professional photographer, or just looking to up your Instagram game, the Xiaomi 12T Pro offers a range of features to take your photos to the next level.

The Xiaomi 12T Pro allows you to easily capture stunning images. But it's not just about the camera's technical capabilities that matter, it's also about knowing how to use them.

Experiment with different shooting modes

The Xiaomi 12T Pro's main camera boasts a resolution of 200 megapixels, more than enough to capture stunning images on the fly. When taking pictures, make sure to set the camera resolution to 200MP to capture the highest level of detail and sharpness as possible.

Don't be afraid to experiment with different shooting modes. The Xiaomi 12T Pro offers a variety of modes, including Night mode, Pro mode, and AI mode, each designed to optimize your camera for specific types of shots. Play around with different modes, and see which one works best for you.

Manual focus is another feature that can take your photos to the next level. By adjusting the focus of your shot manually, you can easily capture image shots or specific details in a scene.

The wide-angle lens is another tool not to be overlooked; it’s great for capturing landscapes or group shots. Remember to switch to the wide-angle lens before you start shooting to ensure you're getting the most out of this feature.

Lighting can greatly affect the final outcome of a shot and the Xiaomi 12T Pro's camera performs great in various lighting conditions. Experiment with different lighting setups and angles to see which one works best for the scene you’re trying to capture or mood you want to evoke.

When it comes to capturing movement, the Xiaomi 12T Pro is equipped to handle it in all its forms, from blurred or panned movement to intentional camera movement and sharp movement. But to truly capture movement effectively, you need to understand the principles of composition.

One key composition principle to remember is the rule of space. This principle states that you should leave room in front of moving objects in the composition, allowing them to move into the frame. This creates a sense of movement and dynamism in the photo.

Another great technique to try with the Xiaomi 12T Pro is reflection photography, which can lead to unique perspectives and add depth to your shots.

Xiaomi photography masterclass

Xiaomi recently conducted two masterclasses to guide users of the Xiaomi 12T series phones in making the most of their device's imaging system. The first session focused on "Movement" and was led by Filipino former actor and photographer John Manalo.

The second session delved into "People Photography" and was also conducted by John Manalo, collaborating with photographer Angelo Mendoza.

The next Xiaomi Masterclass session will focus on "Night Photography" and will be led by the Sinopinas Team of travel photographers Alexis Lim, Karl Ivan Presentacion, and John Austria. The session is scheduled to take place on February 4th, 2023 Registration is open to all users of the Xiaomi 12T series smartphones (including the Mi 10T, Mi 10T Pro, Xiaomi 11T, Xiaomi 11T Pro, Xiaomi 12T, and Xiaomi 12T Pro).

The class is free, but slots are limited, so be sure to sign up via the link provided on Xiaomi's official Facebook page to secure your spot. For more information on the

Xiaomi Xiaomi 12T series, visit Xiaomi’s official website.

TV5 and ABS-CBN boost primetime TV with new shows Dirty Linen and FPJ’s Batang Quiapo

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The groundbreaking collaboration between media giants TV5 and ABS-CBN makes 2023 even more jam-packed and action-filled with the domination of primetime TV by star-studded programs like Dirty Linen and the much-awaited return of Coco Martin in FPJ’s Batang Quiapo, in commemoration of Fernando Poe Jr.’s 18th Death Anniversary.

Dirty Linen, which premiered on TV5 on January 23, stars Janine Gutierrez and Zanjoe Marudo with an all-star ensemble cast led by John Arcilla, Joel Torre, Janice De Belen, Francine Diaz, and Seth Fedelin, under the direction of Onat Diaz and Andoy Ranay. Also gracing the show is Golden Globe nominee Dolly De Leon and Harlem International Film Festival Winner Ruby Ruiz. Dirty Linen follows the story of the Fiero family whose lives are threatened by those who wish to seek justice as a result of their family’s wrongdoing. This gripping story “stained by lies, washed by truth, and handled with care” is sure to captivate Filipino audiences, leaving them wanting for more.

Moreover, TV5 and ABS-CBN have the biggest offerings in line for the fans of the long running TV series FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano, as the Primetime King Coco Martin returns with the adaptation of Fernando Poe Jr.’s 1986 action-comedy film, Batang Quiapo. In commemoration of Fernando Poe Jr’s 18th Death Anniversary, Coco teams up with Dreamscape Entertainment and FPJ’s daughter, Lovi Poe, for a promising, action-packed, and timeless small screen adaption of the beloved FPJ film.

Joining the cast of FPJ’s Batang Quiapo are Lito Lapid, Christopher De Leon, Susan Africa, John Estrada, Pen Medina, Cherry Pie Picache, Benzon Dalina, Mark Lapid, Ronwaldo Martin, Ping Medina, Mercedes Cabral, Alan Paule, and Tommy Abuel. The show will be headed and directed by Martin and Malu Sevilla, set to air on TV5 this year.

Since the much-lauded collaboration between TV5 and ABS-CBN last year, Kapatid and Kapamilya viewers alike have enjoyed top-notch entertainment on free TV across the country. As TV5 beefs up its lineup with ABS-CBN’s programs, Filipino households will have fun-filled and exciting stories to be enjoyed by the entire family. Alongside much awaited programs like Dirty Linen and FPJ’s Batang Quiapo, viewers can expect even more exciting shows this 2023 as TV5 and ABS-CBN continue their collaboration to bring us more top-quality entertainment.

Catch the  debut of ABS-CBN’s Dirty Linen on TV5, Monday to Friday at 9:30pm, and stay tuned for the upcoming premiere of FPJ’s Batang Quiapo, soon on TV5.

Smart and Maya unveil 'Power Savings' exclusive to Smart Postpaid subscribers

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Enjoy up to 7% per annum on Maya Savings with your Smart Postpaid account.

Mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. has partnered with all-in-one money app, Maya, to launch 'Power Savings,' an exclusive promo that enables postpaid subscribers to grow their savings faster.

Under the exclusive promo running from Jan. 16 to Feb. 28, Smart Postpaid subscribers with Plan 999 and up, and who have upgraded their Maya Savings account, can earn an interest rate of up to 7% per annum credited daily - from the base interest rate of 4.5% — one of the highest in the market.

This gives qualified postpaid subscribers a unique opportunity to grow their money faster and extra cash daily to help them achieve their financial goals.

Moreover, subscribers can enjoy FREE InstaPay transactions when they transfer funds from other banks to Maya and switch to Maya Savings.

To avail of Power Savings, eligible Smart Postpaid subscribers simply have to follow these steps:

First, join Maya and upgrade your account. First-time users can get up to PHP 60.00 Welcome Reward upon upgrade. 

Open a Maya Savings account and go to “Missions” in the app, look for “Smart Postpaid Exclusive” mission and enter the unique Smart Postpaid code (to be sent by Smart via SMS).  

Spend a minimum of PHP 999.00 using Maya on paying for your Smart Postpaid bill or any other bill, scanning to pay, paying with Maya card or shopping online. (Tip: Cash in at least PHP 1,500.00 via InstaPay and get a PHP 25.00 service fee cashback)

Enjoy the daily 7% saving interest rate (for up to PHP 100,000.00 end-of-day deposit balance)

All Maya Savings account holders may also avail of the FREE Maya Card, inside the app.  

Download the Maya App now  

Free to download and register, the Maya app packs a feature-rich e-wallet, an inclusive digital bank, and everything else you need to save, spend, grow, and manage your money—right from your smartphone.

The app is powered by its very own Maya Bank, a Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP)-licensed and Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC)-insured bank to ensure that the money remains safe and secure. With its 99.9% uptime rate, users can expect their transactions to be seamless and with less downtimes. 

Maya was originally known as PayMaya, a leading e-wallet app in the Philippines. It recently rebranded to Maya as it evolved beyond payments with the launch of its own banking and crypto services. This makes Maya the Philippines’ first and only all-in-one money app as it brings together banking, crypto, and wallet features into a seamless customer experience. 

Register your Smart SIM 

Smart Postpaid’s exclusive partnership with Maya for subscribers is just one of the many ways the mobile services provider empowers customers with the best postpaid experience. 

On top of award-winning services, Smart Postpaid subscribers can expect more exclusive rewards and benefits this 2023.

To keep enjoying Smart's services and perks, postpaid subscribers are encouraged to complete their SIM Registration by confirming the personal information and IDs they submitted for their postpaid plan application. To do this confirmation, subscribers just need to text YES to 5858. They shall then receive a confirmation message from Smart upon successful SIM Registration and get FREE 3 GB data. 

Know the best Smart Signature Plan for your lifestyle at www.smart.com.ph/postpaid.

To know more about this exclusive offer, visit https://www.maya.ph/smartpostpaidoffers.

Cherry introduces new must-have accessories

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Tiny Little Things to Liven Up Your Lifestyle

Cherry beats the challenge to keep current as it constantly expands technological innovations improving quality and ease of life. Choose the device that best suits your lifestyle as we get to know more about Cherry Accessories Must-have: Cherry Home Smart Universal Extension Cord, Cherry Cube and Capsule Earbuds, Cherry Smart Watch.

Cherry Home Smart Universal Extension Cord: If energy conservation is your top priority.

As we use different gadgets to spice up our daily life, we also need built-in safety features to keep them secured. Cherry Home Smart Universal Extension Cord is useful to keep tabs on your consumption. Devices and appliances can be set up with a schedule and timer that can be utilized to assist in energy conservation. Users can instruct the device to take action on its own with the use of a Wi-Fi or data connection and the Cherry Home application. Additionally, you can use Siri shortcuts, Google Assistant, and Amazon Alexa. It allows you to remotely manage the linked gadgets, providing more comfort and control. Its universal sockets and USB ports are compatible with 16A high power sockets. Moreover, it has flame retardants to either stop or contain the spread of fire. Limit the potential harm from overcharging electronic devices. Bring home your Cherry Home Smart Universal Extension Cord for ₱1,619.

Cherry Cube and Capsule Earbuds: If your day is dull without beats.

Enjoy the pure dynamic sound of music, podcasts or audiobooks while hitting the road. Take your pick between Cherry Cube Earbuds and Cherry Capsule Earbuds. It has an ergonomic lightweight design for comfortable wearing which is suitable when you’re up for a walk or exercise. For every music lover, you may listen in awe of its binaural host design seamlessly pairing and switching. This gives outstanding sound quality, strong bass, and sharp highs. Manage the device through touch control or using Cherry Home App. Lay hold of Cherry Cube Earbuds at ₱1,199 and Cherry Capsule Earbuds for ₱1,499.

Cherry Smart Watch: If you’re into wearable technology.

Need quick updates on a busy day? Keep your hands free while managing your notification, emails and fitness objectives. Have your Cherry Smart Watch sync on your smartphone while you’re on the run. It is multisport with heartrate monitor, suitable for physical activities even in the worst weather. Thanks to its ATM 3 and ip67 waterproof that has complete defense against dust and airborne particle entry. Protection from liquids and water, including total submersion in up to one meter of water. Cherry smart watch is available in two colors. Depending with what you're wearing, you can select between a sleek, contemporary style in black or white. For the tech-savvy individual who don’t want missing out, get Cherry Smart Watch for ₱1,199.

From Cherry’s boundless collection of accessories, turn your lifestyle into a smart one. To know more about the products, visit:

Cherry Shop PH: www.cherryshop.com.ph

ASUS celebrates 2.2 no. 1 OLED Festival with up to 10% OFF on Vivobook and Zenbook devices

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From January 28 to February 5, ASUS fans can win a Vivobook 13 Slate OLED by purchasing any ASUS OLED laptops during the promo period

Manila, Philippines, January 26, 2023 - Kickstart your year and enjoy big discounts this upcoming 2.2 no. 1 OLED Festival sale from the leading laptop brand in the Philippines, ASUS. Enjoy free shipping nationwide and get a chance to win a Vivobook laptop when you purchase any ASUS OLED laptops through the ASUS Official Store on Shopee and Lazada from January 28 to February 5, 2023 only. The lucky winner will be announced on February 10 through the official Facebook page of ASUS Philippines.

Amazing true-to-life ASUS OLED colors

OLED technology is now available across ASUS’ Vivobook and Zenbook series. It lets you enjoy an incredible viewing experience, whether at home, work, or traveling. It will give users an immersive laptop experience because it produces accurate and cinema-grade colors and extreme contrast with high color volume compared to regular LCD laptops. ASUS OLED laptops also guarantee motion clarity and faster response time which means users can enjoy fast-paced motion pictures without experiencing motion lags. It also produces 70% less blue light reduction that protects the eye health of the user. ASUS Fans can enjoy these industry-leading features from the no. 1 OLED laptop brand in the Philippines, ASUS. To know more about the benefits of OLED display, you may check it here WHY ASUS OLED.

Your no. 1 Zenbook OLED technology

Starting January 28, 12 midnight, ASUS fans can get the Zenbook 14 Flip OLED (UP5401) for only PHP 83,695.00 from its original price of PHP 87,995.00. This versatile ultra-slim Zenbook boasts a powerful 12th Gen Intel Core Processor with Intel Iris Xe Graphics for a seamless and smooth laptop experience for work and entertainment. The Zenbook 14 Flip OLED also features ASUS’ 360-degree ErgoLift Hinge technology that lets you convert the device into whatever laptop mode you wish – laptop, stand, tent, or anything in between.

The Zenbook 14 Flip OLED is designed to accompany you anytime and anywhere with its 14-inch 2.8K OLED display and large screen, perfect for users looking for a versatile and lightweight device while traveling. Aside from the Zenbook 14 Flip OLED (UP5401), other thin and light Zenbook devices like the Zenbook 13 OLED (UX325) and Zenbook 14 OLED (UM3402) are also part of the ASUS 2.2 no. 1 OLED Festival sale.

Wow The World with OLED and Performance

Both the Vivobook S 14X OLED (S5402) and Vivobook S 14 Flip OLED (TP3402) are perfect for your leisure time, whether for movies or for social media browsing with their 14.5-inch and 14-inch 2.8K OLED display. These devices are designed to keep you entertained at your most convenient time. When it comes to performance, both laptops are equipped with up to 12th Gen Intel i7 Core Processor, making your daily laptop experience easier and faster.

Designed to improve the modern workflow, the Vivobook S 14X OLED features Intel Evo certification for fast-charging technology, all-day battery life, blazing-fast connectivity, instant wake, and incredible performance. Both of these laptops produce true-to-life colors because it is Pantone Validated. For added protection, the Vivobook S 14 Flip OLED has the ASUS Anti-bacterial Guard technology that kills 99% of bacterial inhibition in the laptop

The Vivobook S 14X OLED (S5402) and Vivobook S 14 Flip OLED (TP3402) have a pre-installed Microsoft Office for Home & Student. You may also enjoy a 1-month free Adobe Creative Cloud upon purchase. The Vivobook S 14X OLED and Vivobook S 14 OLED will have a discounted price of PHP 71,295.00 and PHP PHP 71,245.00, respectively. You may check out other discounted Vivobook laptops like the Vivobook 13 Slate OLED (T3300), Vivobook Pro 15 OLED (K6500), and Vivobook 15X OLED (M1503) during the 2.2 no. 1 OLED Festival sale on Shopee and Lazada.

In addition to these amazing deals from ASUS, enjoy sitewide nationwide free shipping for both Shopee and Lazada, capped at PHP 100.00. To know more about the details, please check out ASUS Shopee, ROG Shopee, and ASUS Lazada for these exclusive deals and discounts.

1As of Aug. 1, 2020. Based on internal ASUS market analysis comparing the size of ExpertBook B9 to competitor products from vendors including Acer, HP, Huawei, Lenovo, Microsoft and Samsung. Actual weight may vary by specs

From Chalkboard to Screen: How Educators Championed Teaching Through Technology

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Know the inspiring stories of this year's Quipper Super Teachers and how their passion enabled them to achieve technology-driven education

Teacher Alcher Arpilleda of St. Paul University-Surigao with his OPPO Pad Air and OPPO Enco Buds while preparing for his hybrid classes with Quipper.

Technology helped significantly bridge the gap between quality and conducive education before and after the pandemic. It allowed students to expand their knowledge and helped educators increase their efficiency.

To celebrate this feat and in accordance with National Teacher's Month and World Teachers' Day, Quipper, one of the leading edtech and LMS platforms in the Philippines, conducted the first-ever Quipper Super Teachers awards last October 13.

Among all the teachers who submitted their entries, three Quipper Super Teachers were selected—Alcher Arpilleda of St. Paul University-Surigao, Joselle Quizon of The Refiner's Christian School, and Eliza Balaoro of Lyceum of Alcala. These teachers showcased excellent performance in utilizing technology and Quipper and upheld good relations with their students and the school's stakeholders.

Their teaching experience helped shape who they are now and withstand challenges, making them Quipper Super Teachers.

Discovering passion in teaching

The recognized Quipper Super Teachers went on a long journey before becoming successful educators. Despite their differences in upbringing, they all had the same goal: to teach and inspire. Alcher Arpilleda, a Mathematics teacher for Grade 9 and handling various subjects for Senior High School (SHS) and College, his dream started because of his mother, sister, and some relatives, who are teachers.

Aside from that, he has always been fond of Mathematics since his elementary years. He even met great Mathematics teachers who also served as his role model in teaching the subject that every student avoids. He wants his students to realize the subject's importance and make it easier for them to understand mathematical concepts.

He shared how his parents became instrumental in his decision to be a Mathematics teacher. They told him to share all his knowledge with the youth and inspire them to become successful someday. Now, he has been teaching for six years and has tirelessly made efforts to make Mathematics enjoyable for all his students.

For Eliza Balaoro, a teacher of Araling Panlipunan for Junior High School (JHS) and other general education subjects for SHS, becoming a teacher has always been her dream. Her initial plan was to teach music, but due to some circumstances, she chose to redirect her goals and teach Araling Panlipunan.

She was inspired by her Araling Panlipunan teacher, who taught her to not only learn the subject but also strive harder and do well in every challenge she encounters. From thereon, she studied hard and sought to become the best teacher she could be. As she enters her third year of teaching, she only wishes nothing but to improve her skills and continue to nurture her students.

The third Quipper Super Teacher, Joselle Quizon, has been an educator for almost six years of Sciences subject. Since she was a child, she dreamed of becoming a teacher. Everything that happened in her life led her to be the educator she is now. Despite moments when her surroundings pressured her to take other courses and venture into a new path, the world created ways to make her realize that teaching is her true calling in life.

Teacher Joselle Quizon of The Refiner's Christian School receiving her OPPO gadgets and Quipper merch as part of the prizes from Quipper Super Teachers award.

She had to come to terms with reality. For her, teaching is an everyday hardship that she needs to surpass. "Every teaching day is a challenge because it gives you the burden of asking yourself, 'Am I giving my students what they deserve?'" Quizon said.

Arpilleda, Balaoro, and Quizon began their journey differently, but they all share the same aspirations: to provide conducive and effective learning for their students. Gladly, aiming for technology-driven and innovative teaching became their tool for reaching this goal.

Technology as their teaching companion

For the new Quipper Super Teachers, being an educator is their sworn duty they need to fulfill no matter what. To do that, they had to constantly adapt to changing times and learn to use helpful tools that could elevate their teaching methods. These tools, powered mainly by technology, became their companion and lifeline.

For Arpilleda, the online platform's various features helped him improve his instruction methods and even personalize learning for all types of learners. For instance, the study guides are available offline and can be used for independent learning, allowing his students to study at their own pace.

He also uses ready-made presentations and integrates them into his lesson plan. He maximizes the QCreate Portal to create and upload his own content and activities to built-in resources and documents. The free worksheets from the platform also helped him elevate his teaching techniques, as these were used for enrichment and remediation activities.

"It was harder for me to create activities for different types of learners. However, the platform and technology helped lessen the burden of preparing learning exercises for the students," Arpilleda said.

When the recent Typhoon Odette hit the province of Surigao del Norte and other parts of Mindanao, he also used the Quipper worksheets and study guides as his tools. It helped ensure that education remains unhampered, making learning possible in a modular distance learning modality.

Meanwhile, Balaoro, just started her teaching journey at the onset of the pandemic in 2020. It was challenging for her, especially since she had to recalibrate everything she learned and apply it to online learning setup. The good thing is that edtech tools helped her to continue providing effective and innovative education for her students.

Teacher Eliza Balaoro of Lyceum of Alcala receiving her OPPO Pad Air, OPPO Enco Buds, OPPO A57, and exclusive Quipper merch.

"At first, my colleagues and I were reluctant. We had doubts that technology or even an LMS platform could provide conducive online learning for students. But we were proven wrong and were able to cater to the needs of the students. This also allowed us to provide quality education to the students amid the pandemic," Balaoro shared.

These educators believed in the power of technology and how it can serve as a tool and a catalyst of change for education. Teachers will always be there for the students, and edtech tools can never replace their capabilities. But technology is shaping contemporary education that caters to all types of learners.

"For me, technology helped shape students to become the best 21st-century learners. With these tools, they will be ready to explore the world," Balaoro added.

Navigating the future of technology-driven education

The first-ever Quipper Super Teachers' recipients hope to continue their sworn duty despite challenges. As they navigate their way to the education sector's uncertain future, edtech providers like Quipper will be there to support them so they can give effective learning.

In partnership with OPPO, the awarding ceremony was conducted to recognize outstanding, innovative, and creative teachers who utilized technology and the Quipper LMS platform as a teaching tool to provide an engaging learning environment to their students. To further support the Quipper Super Teachers, they received an OPPO Pad Air, an OPPO A57, and OPPO Enco buds. The Quipper LMS, together with the OPPO devices will continue to provide an innovative and technology-driven education that will help elevate their teaching journeys and guide more students with future-ready skills.

The Quipper Super Teachers program culminates Quipper's signature event called eQuippED, which celebrates teachers on National Teachers Month and World Teachers Day, for their passion for teaching and dedication to learning.

"Our current situation requires us, teachers, to be flexible. It measures our heart as to how far we can go with our profession and how much we are willing to sacrifice and give. This is a big responsibility. That is why feeling a bit lost is okay. However, we must have an open heart and mind to accept changes. There is no such thing as failure if we keep pushing forward," Quizon reiterated.

To learn more about Quipper Philippines and its other programs and initiatives, visit https://www.quipper.com/ph/.

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About Quipper

Quipper Philippines is a leading global education technology company with a mission to bring the best education to every corner of the world. Quipper aims to provide, improve, and distribute quality education, through technology, to create a world where every child is given an equal opportunity to learn and gain knowledge.

2023 Netflix Korean Slate

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The global fandom for K-content is continuing to grow, with over 60 percent of all Netflix members watching Korean titles last year. Looking ahead at 2023, Netflix is debuting a diverse array of Korean TV series, films and unscripted shows, including eye-popping original productions alongside returning fan favorites, in their biggest-ever lineup of Korean films and series.

“The global popularity of K-content has continued apace over 2022, with Netflix bringing a wider variety of stories and genres to fans around the world. Over the last year, Korean series and films have regularly featured in our Global Top 10 list in more than 90 countries, and three of Netflix’s most-watched shows ever are from Korea. This year, we’re pushing the envelope even further with the stories we tell and how we tell them. With this lineup of Korean titles, Netflix will continue to be the ultimate destination for compelling, diverse and must-watch Korean storytelling,” said Don Kang, VP of Content (Korea).

SERIES

Love to Hate You

Directed by: Kim Jeong-kwon

Written by: Choi Soo-young

Produced by: Binge Works

Starring: Kim Ok-vin, Yoo Teo, Kim Ji-hun, Go Won-hee

Release Date: February 10, 2023

Logline: Love to Hate You is a romantic comedy about a woman who really hates losing to men and a man who harbors a deep mistrust of women, experiencing a warlike love and finding themselves healed through the experience. Kim Ok-vin plays Yeo Mi-ran, a rookie lawyer at the entertainment law firm Gilmu who detests losing to men while Yoo Teo plays the character Nam Kang-ho, a Korean A-list actor who deeply mistrusts women. From the hostile first encounter of the two main characters, shaped by a misunderstanding and suspicion due to biases, to the journey of these two characters who do not believe in love coming to understand each other, audiences will find themselves immersed in their story. Anticipation runs high for the electrifying chemistry and fun, exciting romance that Love to Hate You promises to bring. 

The Glory Part 2 

Directed by: An Gil-ho

Written by: Kim Eun-sook

Produced by: Hwa&Dam Pictures, Studio Dragon

Starring: Song Hye-kyo, Lee Do-hyun, Lim Ji-yeon, Yeom Hye-ran, Park Sung-hoon, Jung Sung-il 

Release Date: March 2023 

Logline: The Glory is a Netflix series that tells the story of a woman broken by school violence, and who has dedicated her life to a meticulous web of vengeance and those who are entangled in her plot. The series was announced to much fanfare as the project brought together writer Kim Eun-sook of countless hits, director An Gil-ho, a master of genre series, and a star-studded cast led by Song Hye-kyo. Part 1 was highly praised for its dramatic developments and passionate performances by the cast, even ranking first in the  Global Top 10 (Non-English) TV charts in the week of January 2, ramping up anticipation for Part 2. The Glory Part 2 is a beautiful, unrelenting portrayal of the destruction of the perpetrators of school violence led by Yeon-jin as they fall, one by one, into the trap designed by Dong-eun. The powerful message that elicits righteous fury, empathy, and solidarity, will leave audiences around the world with lasting emotional resonance.

Bloodhounds  

Directed by: Kim Joo-hwan

Written by: Kim Joo-hwan

Produced by: STUDIO N

Co-produced by: Seed Film, Seven O Six

Based on: WEBTOON original series ‘Bloodhounds’ Created by Jeong Chan

Starring: Woo Do-hwan, Lee Sang-yi, Park Sung-woong, Heo Jun-ho

Release: Q2

Logline: Bloodhounds is a story about two young people who step into the world of loan sharks in pursuit of money and get caught up in a web of much darker forces. After his perfect performance in a dual role in The King: Eternal Monarch, Woo Do-hwan returns as Geon-woo, who jumps into the world of loan sharks to pay off his debt. Having intrigued viewers with his multi-faceted charm in Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha, Lee Sang-yi plays Woo-jin, who first meets Geon-woo as his opponent in boxing but ends up working with him. Meanwhile, actor Park Sung-woong plays vicious loan shark Myung-gil, who is driven solely by money in everything that he does while Heo Jun-ho plays Mr. Choi, who was once considered a legend among loan sharks, but now helps out the sick by lending money with no interest, bringing gravitas with their on-screen presence. Based on a Naver webtoon of the same title, the series is directed and written by director Kim Joo-hwan of Midnight Runners, promising to showcase refreshing chemistry among the cast and uninhibited action. 

Celebrity

Directed by: Kim Cheol-kyu

Written by: Kim Yi-young

Produced by: Studio Dragon

Co-produced by: KIMJONGHAK PRODUCTION Co., Ltd., HOW PICTURES

Starring: Park Gyu-young, Kang Min-hyuk, Lee Dong-gun, Jun Hyo-seong

Release: Q2

Logline: Celebrity is a Netflix series that depicts the true reality of the glamorous and competitive life of celebrities encountered by Seo A-ri, who jumps into their world where fame will bring riches. The series is directed by Kim Cheol-kyu, who was nominated at the official competition of the first Cannes International Series Festival for Mother. Rising star Park Gyu-young from the Netflix series Sweet Home as well as The Devil Judge and Dali and the Cocky Prince plays Seo A-ri, who becomes a celebrity overnight with her bold moves that set her apart from all the other influencers. Kang Min-hyuk plays Han Jun-kyoung, the CEO of Korea’s leading cosmetic brand while Lee Chung-ah plays Yoon Si-hyeon, who has everything from elegance, class, and a reputable background. Through the story of A-ri, who threw herself into the life of a celebrity where the number of followers equals her competitive edge and the whirlwind of events that she brings those around her into, Celebrity will have viewers sending their “likes” for the series non-stop.

Queenmaker 

Directed by: Oh Jin-seok

Written by: Moon Ji-young

Produced by: INSIGHT FILM Co., Ltd. 

Co-Produced by: Studio Focus x Co., Ltd., ASTORY Co., Ltd.

Starring: Kim Hee-ae, Moon So-ri, Ryu Soo-young, Seo Yi-sook

Release: Q2

Logline: Queenmaker is a Netflix series that follows the story of Hwang Do-hee, a PR genius who used to oversee the Corporate Strategy Team in Eunsung Group, diving into an election campaign for human rights lawyer Oh Kyung-sook, nicknamed Ms. Rhino for having survived countless ups and downs, to get her elected as the mayor of Seoul. Kim Hee-ae, celebrated undoubtedly as one of the greatest actors in Korea for her powerful performances, plays PR genius Hwang Do-hee, while Moon So-ri, famed for her unparalleled presence through the diverse characters she has played, transforms herself into human rights lawyer Oh Kyung-sook in their historic first performance together in this Netflix series. 

Black Knight

Directed by: Cho Ui-seok

Written by: Cho Ui-seok

Based on: Toomics webtoon ‘Delivery Knight’ (written by Lee Yoon-gyun)

Produced by: PROJECT318 

Starring: Kim Woo-bin, Song Seung-heon, Kang You-seok, Esom 

Release: Q2

Logline: Set in 2071, where people depend on respirator masks to breathe due to extreme air pollution, Black Knight is a Netflix series that follows the legendary deliveryman “5-8” with extraordinary battle skills, as he encounters refugee Sa-wol, who dreams of following in his footsteps, as becoming a deliveryman is the only hope for refugees in this world. Based on a popular webtoon, the series depicts a world where only one percent of the human race has survived and strict social stratification has been established in the deserted lands of the Korean Peninsula, where deliverymen play critical roles in society that has stopped functioning properly. Actor Kim Woo-bin plays 5-8, a legendary deliveryman who is unmatched by anyone, while Song Seung-heon plays Ryu Seok, the sole heir to Chun-myung Group, which controls the world by capitalizing on oxygen. Sa-wol, a refugee boy who aspires to become a deliveryman himself and looks up to 5-8, is played by Kang You-seok, who has been broadening his spectrum as an actor through performances in Start-up and Once Again, bringing fresh energy to the series. The series is directed by Cho Ui-seok, famed for his tightly-knit stories, sophisticated cinematography, and cathartic action through his works including Master, Cold Eyes, and The World of Silence.

A Time Called You 

Directed by: Kim Jin-won

Written by: Choi Hyo-bi

Produced by: npio entertainment Co., Ltd., LIAN CONTENTS Co., Ltd., Studio Flow, Inc.

Starring: Ahn Hyo-seop, Jeon Yeo-been, Kang Hoon 

Release: Q3

Logline: A Time Called You is a time-slip romance where Jun-hee, missing her boyfriend who passed away a year ago, goes back in time to 1998 to meet Si-heon, who looks identical to her boyfriend. The series made headlines instantly after its announcement as the remake of Someday or One Day, a classic Taiwanese romance. Having starred in Business Proposal, Still 17, and Dr. Romantic 2, Ahn Hyo-seop plays the double role of Jun-hee’s boyfriend Gu Yeon-jun and his look-alike Nam Si-heon from 1998. Jeon Yeo-been of the Netflix series Glitch and the Netflix film Night in Paradise as well as series such as Vincenzo returns as Han Jun-hee and Kwon Min-ju. Jeon Yeo-been plays two characters that look the same but have completely opposite personalities, delivering delicate performances. Kang Hoon, a rising star from The Red Sleeve and Little Women, plays Jung In-gyu, who struggles between friendship and love after finding out that his long-time crush Min-ju likes his best friend Si-heon, depicting the young, pure love of an 18-year-old boy. 

Song of the Bandits 

Directed by: Hwang Jun-hyuk

Written by: Han Jung-hoon

Produced by: Urban Works, Baram Pictures

Starring: Kim Nam-gil, Seo hyun, Yoo Jae-myung, Lee Hyun-wook, Lee Ho-jung 

Release: Q3

Logline: An action adventure set in the tumultuous period of Japanese colonial rule over Korea about a group of people who, for various reasons, end up in the lawless land of Gando and become united in protecting Joseon for the Korean people. Anticipation runs high for the intense drama that will unfold as different groups with their respective motives — including Japanese troops, the Korean Independence Army, hitmen, bandits, and Joseon migrants — face one another in the anarchic land of Gando during the 1920s. Writer Han Jung-hoon and director Hwang Jun-hyuk team up again for Song of the Bandits after having delivered spectacular, exhilarating action and drama with their previous projects, including Bad Guys: Vile City and Squad 38.

D.P. Season 2 

Directed by: Han Jun-hee

Written by: Kim Bo-tong, Han Jun-hee

Based on: D.P. Dog Day (webtoon by Kim Bo-tong)

Produced by: Climax Studio

Starring: Jung Hae-in, Koo Kyo-hwan, Kim Sung-kyun, Son Suk-ku, Ji Jin-hee , Kim Ji-hyun 

Release: Q3

Logline: D.P. is a Netflix series that follows Jun-ho and Ho-yeol of the Deserter Pursuit unit in the Korean military as they encounter the realities unknown to them until they chase after the deserters with various backstories. The first season of D.P. was highly acclaimed for its social commentary and resonated with many audiences. The highly anticipated season 2 of D.P. brings together yet again director Han Jun-hee and the same main cast members from the first season, including Jung Hae-in and Koo Kyo-hwan, who respectively played An Jun-ho and Han Ho-yeol, the fantastic duo from the D.P. unit, Kim Sung-kyun, who played D.P. Unit Chief Park Beom-gu, and Son Suk-ku, who played Lieutenant Lim Ji-seop, bringing their teamwork and rock-solid chemistry back to the new season.

Mask Girl  

Directed by: Kim Yong-hoon

Written by: Kim Yong-hoon

Produced by: House of Impression, Bon Factory

Starring: Go Hyun-jung, Ahn Jae-hong, Yeom Hye-ran, Nana

Release: Q3

Logline: Mask Girl is a story about Kim Mo-mi, an ordinary office worker by day who is insecure about her appearance and a live-streamer by night who covers up her face with a mask, as she becomes embroiled in an unforeseen incident and undergoes a dramatic turn of events. The original webtoon of the same title that the series is based on was beloved by many readers for its unpredictable twists, biting messages about lookism, and the effortless cross between thriller and black comedy. Actors Go Hyun-jung and Nana play the character Kim Mo-mi on different timelines while Ahn Jae-hong plays Kim Mo-mi’s colleague Ju Oh-nam, who has a crush on her, and Yeom Hye-ran plays Ju Oh-nam’s mother. Director Kim Yong-hoon, who drew the attention of the world with his feature debut Beasts Clawing at Straws, which won the Special Jury Award at the 49th International Film Festival Rotterdam, directs the series to deliver refreshing plot developments and a shocking story. 

Gyeongseong Creature 

Directed by: Chung Dong-yoon

Written by: Kang Eun K

Produced by: STORY & PICTURES MEDIA

Co-produced by: kakao ENTERTAINMENT, Studio Dragon

Starring: Park Seo-jun, Han So-hee, Claudia Kim, Kim Hae-sook, Cho Han-cheul, Wi Ha-jun 

Release: Q4

Logline: A creature thriller set in the spring of 1945 — one of the darkest times in Korean history — about two young people struggling to survive as they face a monster born out of human greed. Korea’s top talents Park Seo-jun and Han So-hee team up for the first time through this series. Park Seo-jun of Itaewon Class and What is Wrong with Secretary Kim returns as Jang Tae-sang, the wealthiest man in Seoul and owner of the Golden Treasure Pawnshop. Han So-hee who has established a strong presence through Netflix series Nevertheless and My Name,  transforms herself into Yoon Chae-ok, a sleuth infamous for her ability to track down anyone, even the dead. Writer Kang Eun K of Dr. Romantic & Director Chung Dong-yoon of Hot Stove League will spearhead this mega production.

Sweet Home Season 2 

Directed by: Lee Eung-bok, Park So-hyun

Based on: Webtoon by Kim Kang-bi, Hwang Young-chan (Published on Naver Webtoon)

Produced by: Studio Dragon, STUDIO N

Starring: Song Kang, Lee Jin-uk, Lee Si-young, Ko Min-si, Park Gyu-young, Yoo Oh-seong, Oh Jung-se, Kim Mu-yeol, Jin-young etc.

Release: Q4

Logline: Song Kang, Lee Jin-uk, Lee Si-young, Ko Min-si, and Park Gyu-young — the residents of Green Home who, in the previous season, delivered overwhelming tension as they risked their lives through bloody battles against their neighbors-turned-monsters — return again in season 2 to offer thrills and tension of a whole new different kind. Joining the cast in the new season are actors Yoo Oh-seon, Oh Jung-se, Kim Mu-yeol, and Jin-young, portraying the various dimensions of human nature and desires as they find themselves at a crossroads for survival. Having opened new horizons for K-content with its diverse creatures designed and built with a global dream team, Sweet Home Season 2 is ready to mesmerize audiences around the world once again with its expanded world and story.

Doona!

Directed by: Lee Jung-hyo

Written by: Jang Yu-ha 

Based on: WEBTOON original series ‘The Girl Downstairs’ Created by MIN SONGA

Produced by: Studio Dragon, Showrunners, STUDIO N

Starring: Suzy, Yang Se-jong

Release: Q4

Logline: Doona! portrays the romance between Won-joon, an ordinary university student, and Doona, a former K-pop idol, as they cross paths in a shared house for students. The series is based on a webtoon beloved for the heart-pounding romance with a housemate who is a former K-pop idol and the nuanced depiction of emotions that bring the story to life. Having been consistently cited as the perfect cast for the role thanks to her background as a K-pop idol and beauty, Suzy creates amazing chemistry for a budding romance with Yang Se-jong, who has breathed life into each character he played.The series is directed by Lee Jung-hyo, who directed Crash Landing on You and Romance is a Bonus Book. After the sensation of Crash Landing on You, Director Lee Jung-hyo is now ready to present a beautiful, budding romance between those in their early 20s.

Daily Dose of Sunshine

Directed by: Lee JQ, Kim Nam-su

Written by: Lee Nam-kyu, Oh Bo-hyun, Kim Da-hee

Based on: Morning Comes to Psychiatric Wards Too by Lee Ra-ha

Produced by: FILMMONSTER by SLL, KIMJONGHAK PRODUCTION Co., Ltd.

Starring: Park Bo-young, Yeon Woo-jin, Jang Dong-yoon, Lee Jung-eun

Release: Q4

Logline: Daily Dose of Sunshine is a Netflix series that explores the world inside a psychiatric ward and the stories of people in it, as encountered by Da-eun, who has just become a nurse in the mental health department of a hospital. Director Lee JQ, creator of the K-zombie sensation All of Us Are Dead, which is the 4th most popular Netflix TV series (non-English) of all time, partnered with Netflix once again in this moving human drama. Actor Park Bo-young from TV series such as Doom at Your Service, Strong Girl Bong-soon, and Oh My Ghost returns as Jung Da-eun, who experiences personal and professional growth, unfazed by her struggles at work after being transferred from the internal medicine to the mental health department and caring deeply about her patients. Yeon Woo-jin from Thirty-Nine, Marriage, Not Dating, and the Matchmaker plays the quirky proctologist Dong Go-yun while Jang Dong-yoon, who has been broadening his spectrum as an actor through his performances in Search, The Tale of Nokdu, Mr. Sunshine, and School 2017 will play Song Yu-chan, Da-eun’s close friend who always bickers with her.

Goodbye Earth

Directed by: Kim Jin-min

Written by: Jeong Seong-joo

Based on:  Shūmatsu no Fūru, a novel by Kotaro Isaka

Produced by: IMTV Co., Ltd.

Starring: Ahn Eun-jin, Yoo Ah-in, Jeon Seong-woo, Kim Yoon-hye

Release: Q4

Logline: Goodbye Earth is a Netflix series that depicts the planet in chaos, with 200 days left before an asteroid destroys it, and the stories of those living their remaining days on Earth. Ahn Eun-jin, one of the most in-demand actors in Korea who was in Hospital Playlist, plays Jin Se-kyung. Se-kyung was once a home economics teacher in middle school, but volunteers at the juvenile department of the Woongcheon municipal office after the news about the asteroid breaks, struggling in silence to protect the children. Yoo Ah-in, who mesmerized audiences around the world with his performance in Netflix series Hellbound returns as Ha Yoon-sang. A long-time lover of Se-kyung and a researcher at a bio-engineering research institute, Yoon-sang leaves the safety of the U.S. behind without hesitation and returns to Korea, a crisis zone, in order to stay by Se-kyoung’s side. Director Kim Jin-min of Netflix series Extracurricular and My Name teams up with writer Jeong Seong-joo of Secret Affair. How the individual characters will spend the last 200 days on the planet based on their respective beliefs, and what kind of choices they will make are already intriguing audiences anticipating its release.

Behind your Touch (WT)

Directed by: Kim Sok-yun

Written by: Lee Nam-kyu

Produced by: SLL, Studio Phoenix

Starring: Han Ji-min, Lee Min-ki, Ju Min-kyung, Suho

Logline: Ye-boon, who has always dreamed of becoming a vet in the small town of Mujin in Chungjeong-do, is instead stuck doing the nitty-gritty work to make ends meet, like delivering calves and vaccinating halibuts. Then one day, she was given psychometric powers during one of her visits to a cow farm. She encounters the passionate detective Jang-yeol, who mistakes her for a pervert and attempts to tackle her. Subsequently, Jang-yeol relies on Ye-boon and her powers to solve his cases, from petty crimes to serial murder. The two grow closer as they solve each case, one by one.

 

Crash Course in Romance 

Directed by: Yu Je Won

Written by: Yang Hee Seung

Produced by: Studio Dragon

Starring: Jeon Do Yeon, Jung Kyung Ho

Logline: A romantic comedy between a hotshot instructor Chi-yeol, who works at the Daechi District known as the education hotspot in Korea, and an ex-handball national team athlete Haeng-sun, who now runs a side dish store near him. Haeng-sun belatedly enters the private education field for a rigorous college entrance exam for her nephew and unexpectedly gets involved with Chi-yeol. Soon they find their bittersweet romance to become scandalous due to the fame of Chi-yeol. 

The Good Bad Mother

Directed by: Sim Nayeon

Written by: Bae Seyoung

Produced by: DramaHouse, SLL, FilmMonster

Starring: Ra Miran, Lee Dohyun, Ahn Eunjin

Logline: A single mom who has been widowed at a young age, Young-soon runs a pig farm, and raises her son Kang-ho by herself. She becomes a “bad mother” – hard on her son because she doesn’t want him to grow up penniless nor powerless. Thanks to her discipline, Kang-ho grows up to be a prominent prosecutor, but loses his memory due to an unfortunate accident and becomes a 7-year-old again. Young-soon decides to become a “bad mother” again for Kang-ho in this comforting and touching comedy series that tracks the journey of recovery between mother and son.

 

King the Land

Directed by: Lim Hyun-ook

Written by: Choi Rome

Creator: Chun Sung-il

Produced by: npio Entertainment, SLL 

Starring: Lee Jun Ho, Lim Yoon A

Logline: Graceful, charismatic, intelligent, and chic, the heir of King Group Gu-won has everything but memories of his mother. In an attempt to recover his memory, he returns to King Hotel. Known as King Hotel's queen of smiles and hospitality, Cheon Sa-rang worked her way up from the front desk to now work at the glamorous "King the Land" space, where she meets Gu-won. Actor Lee Jun Ho plays Gu-won, and actress Lim Yoon A plays Cheon Sa-rang.

 

Destined with You

Directed by: Nam Kihoon

Written by: Roh Jisul

Produced by: SLL, C-JeS Entertainment

Starring: Ro woon, Cho Boah, Ha jun, Yura

Logline: Big-time lawyer Shin-yu has to secure the temple located at the skirts of Onju Mountain because of a curse that’s been in his family for 350 years. Then one day, a YouTuber who trespasses the temple dies of an accident, and Hong-jo, a passionate civil servant of Onju City appears before Shin-yu to demolish the temple. “The long-standing curse will end. The owner of the wooden box appeared…” Eun-wol, the shaman who has guarded the temple for over 60 years, gives permission for the demolition to Hong-jo, and the wooden box that was hidden deep inside the temple lands in Hong-jo’s hands. There is a forbidden document inside the wooden box, which gives Shin-yu hope that the spells can free him from the curse by Hong-jo. He takes on the job as lawyer for Onju City to stay close to Hong-jo. This series portrays the force majeure romance between Hong-jo, who happens upon the document that was bound for over three centuries, and Shin-yu, who is the scapegoat of the document.

 

See You In My 19th Life 

Directed by: Lee Na-jeong

Written by: Choi Younglim

Starring: Shin Hye-sun, Ahn Bo-hyun, Ha Yoon-Kyung, Ahn dong-goo

Produced by: Studio Dragon, Stuido N, Finecut

Logline: Based on the webtoon of the same name, See You In My 19th Life is a spirited love story that comes back to life between Ban Ji-eum, who has the extraordinary ability to remember her past lives, and Moon Seo-ha, whom she is destined to meet. Ban Ji-eum has no attachments to her previous lives, but when she loses Moon Seo-ha to an accident after meeting him in her 18th life, she begins her 19th life to reconnect with him.

FILM

JUNG_E 

Directed by: Yeon Sang-ho

Written by: Yeon Sang-ho

Starring: Kang Soo-youn, Kim Hyun-joo, Ryu Kyung-soo 

Release Date: January 20, 2023

Logline: JUNG_E portrays a desolated earth in the 22nd century that is no longer inhabitable due to climate change. Amid the chaos, an internal war breaks out in the shelter built for human survival. Victory – meaning the end of the war – now hinges on finding a way to clone the legendary mercenary JUNG_E into a scalable robot. Orchestrated by Director Yeon Sang-ho of Train to Busan, Peninsula, and Hellbound, and with a colorful cast – Kang Soo-youn, Kim Hyun-joo, Ryu Kyung-soo — JUNG_E portrays a unique theme combined with dystopia, cloning, and technology. 

Unlocked

Directed by: Kim Tae Joon

Written by: Kim Tae Joon

Produced by: MIZIFILM

Co-produced by: STUDIO N

Cast: Yim Si Wan, Chun Woo Hee, Kim Hie Won

Release Date: February 17, 2023 

Logline: A real-crime thriller following an ordinary woman whose entire life is upended after she loses her phone containing her personal information. With the worst possible things happening after the main character loses her phone containing everything, including her social security number, banking information and the details of her personal life, this movie will present a ringing sense of spooky reality and horror to viewers today who cannot live without their phones. Yim Si Wan, who has already established himself as a talented actor with his role of the menacing antagonist in Emergency Declaration, will once again prove himself an on-screen chameleon as he plays Jun-yeong, who commits heinous crimes after stumbling upon the smartphone. Startup marketer Na-mi, who loses her phone, finds it, and becomes entangled in unimaginable schemes, is portrayed by Chun Woo Hee, who has a stellar track record of portraying colorful characters with her unparalleled acting. 

Kill Boksoon

Directed by: Byun Sung-hyun

Written by: Byun Sung-hyun

Produced by: SEE AT FILM CO.,LTD.

Casting: Jeon Do-yeon, Sul Kyung-gu, Kim Si-a, Esom, Koo Kyo-hwan, etc.

Release: Q1

Logline: Boksoon leads a double life — she is both a mother of a teenage daughter and a legendary professional killer at top-tier killing agency MK. Caught between the mission of killing someone and the mission of raising someone, Boksoon refuses to complete an assigned mission and is thrown into an inevitable fight.

The Match

Directed by: Kim Hyung-joo

Written by: Kim Hyung-joo, Yoon Jong-Bin

Produced by: Moonlight Film

Co-produced by: BH Entertainment

Cast: Lee Byung-hun, Yoo Ah-in 

Release: Q2

Logline: Teacher and student, but legendary rivals Cho Hoon Hyun (Lee Byung-hun) and Lee Changho (Yoo Ah-in) play the match of their lifetime in the game of Go. At a time when the game of Go was more popular than the World Cup, global legends Cho Hoon Hyun and Lee Changho engage in a heated game of Go in The Match where black and white stones are placed silently but dynamically. Lee Byung-hun portrays Cho Hoon Hyun, who is both strict and warm with Lee Changho, whom he takes in as a student when Changho was just 10 years old as he showed much promise, right after Cho Hoon Hyun won the grand slam. Yoo Ah-in takes on the role of Lee Changho, a student who works tirelessly to exceed his monumental teacher Cho Hoon Hyun. Lee Byung-hun and Yoo Ah-in, who are known to bring their own interpretations to characters across any genre or plot, collaborate for the first time in The Match, adding to the hype of what to expect in this game between teacher and student.

Believer 2

Directed by: Baik

Original Story by: Jeon Cheol-hong

Screenplay by: Kim Hee-jin

Adapted by: Kim Joon-hyun

Produced by: Yong Film Inc.

Co-produced by: Superfiction, CJ ENM Studios

Cast: Cho Jin-woong, Cha Seung-won, Han Hyo-joo, Oh Seung-hoon, Kim Dong-young, Lee Joo-young, etc.

Release: Q4

Logline: A crime action film on the nerve-wracking war between Won-ho, who is still pursuing Mr. Lee’s organization and the disappeared “Rak” after the bloody fight at Yongsan Station, and Brian, who has reappeared, and a new character “Big Knife.” Believer 2 follows Won-ho’s investigation of looking for “Rak,” who disappeared after Brian’s incarceration, while getting to the core of the elusive drug cartel. Director Baik, who has already received praise for sophisticated cinematography and sensational directing in The Beauty Inside, showcases a different side of his directing in this film. Actor Cho Jin-woong portrays Won-ho, the persistent detective who has been tracking down the drug cartel for a long time; Cha Seung-won portrays Brian, who considered himself Mr. Lee as a hidden character within the organization; and Kim Dong-young and Lee Joo-young play Manko and Lona, the deaf siblings who are genius at making top-quality drugs. New character “Big Knife” is played by Han Hyo-joo, who is beloved for her wide spectrum of filmography spanning from mellow, action to comedy, and will immerse in a completely different kind of character for this film. 

Ballerina

Directed by: Lee Chung-hyun

Written by: Lee Chung-hyun

Produced by: Climax Studio

Cast: Jun Jong-seo, Kim Ji-hun, Park Yurim, etc.

Release: Q4

Logline: This film depicts the beautiful and ruthless revenge by Okju, a former bodyguard, for Minhee, her best friend. Ballerina is directed by Lee Chung-hyun, who shocked the Korean film scene with his short film Bargain and demonstrated sensational directing in mystery thriller Call, with its interesting genre and colorful characters. Ballerina will present viewers with trendy and stylish action scenes and visuals, and garner attention for its refreshing cast lineup composed of Jun Jong-seo, Kim Ji-hun and Park Yurim. Jun Jong-seo portrays Okju, a former bodyguard who has no physical limits when it comes to her self-defense skills, swordsmanship, agility with guns and motorbikes. The so-called “Choi,” who is the subject of revenge, is portrayed by Kim Ji-hun, who has a wide spectrum of acting skills and the ability to immerse in any character. Handsome, fit, and intelligent, he is set to play the antagonist of Okju. Rising star Park Yurim, who won the 94th Academy Award for her role in Drive My Car directed by Ryusuke Hamaguchi, will play the ballerina Minhee. Moreover, the versatile musician Gray who can produce, compose, rap and vocalize, takes on the role of music director, making his collaboration with Director Lee Chung-hyun even more intriguing.

REALITY & VARIETY SHOWS (UNSCRIPTED)

Physical:100

Directed by: Jang Ho Gi

Written by: Kang Sukkyeong, Jo Keun Ae 

Produced by: MBC

Release Date: January 24, 2023

Logline: An extreme survival entertainment program designed to find the best physique with the strongest physical capabilities. The vast filming site designed solely for Physical:100 sets the stage for an intense competition among 100 men and women who pride themselves on their physiques, regardless of age or sex, to determine the one person with the “perfect physique.” The process of coming down to the last one standing on an unprecedentedly enormous set where only the 100 exist shows fierce competition in its rawest form, making Physical:100 an entirely new type of survival entertainment show. 

Siren: Survive the Island

Directed by: Lee Eun-kyung

Written by: Chae Jin-ah

Chief Producer: Ko Min-goo 

Produced by: Studio Modak

Release: Q2

Logline: Siren: Survive the Island is a combat survival entertainment show where 24 women of top combat power and strategic thinking form 6 teams divided by career groups and fight one another. Entitled “Siren,” which means both “warning sound” and “beautiful temptress,” this show involves women with extraordinary physical capabilities and skills for strategies including police officers, firefighters, bodyguards, stuntwomen, military women, and athletes who form teams according to their jobs. One team will emerge as the winner after a mission that puts their limitations to the test. For 6 nights and 7 days, their fight for survival on an unknown island requires aggressive mind games and tight teamwork. The extreme situations and unexpected twists and turns will add to the immersive nature of the show. Moreover, the vast scale of the location on a huge uninhabited island, the seamless plot development, and the background stories and relationships between the participants will have viewers hooked on this combat survival entertainment show. 

19/20(Nineteen to Twenty)

Directed by: Kim Jae-won, Kim Jung-hyun, Park Suji

Written by: Chi Hyun-sook

Produced by: Sizak Company

Release: Q3

Logline: 19/20(Nineteen to Twenty) is a reality entertainment show that tracks the fresh and youthful lives of Generation Z in their last week of being 19 just before they turn 20. During that final week, they attend “19 School” to learn practical things about adult life and prepare for adulthood. Then on January 1, they all stay at “20 House,” a space where they are independent from their parents and teachers. 19/20 garners much attention as these 19-year-olds, who are on the cusp of adulthood, create unexpectedly vivacious and nostalgic moments throughout the show. KYUHYUN, actress Kim Ji-eun, and LEE SUHYUN from AKMU participate as emcees. Producer Kim Jae-won who is writing history in reality entertainment shows with his Single’s Inferno orchestrates the show.

Zombieverse 

Directed by: Park Jin-kyung, Moon Sang-donn

Written by: Yu Jin-young 

Produced by: Kakao Entertainment

Release: Q3

Logline: Netflix, the go-to platform for quality Korean zombie content, unveils a new type of zombie universe entertainment show for the first time. In Zombieverse, participants must complete quests to survive in Seoul, which has been turned into a zombie world. The art team from All of Us Are Dead and the zombie action choreographer from Kingdom work behind the scenes, adding to the anticipation of how realistically and thrillingly the zombie universe will be portrayed. Their endeavors to survive until the end by completing quests such as looking for food, transportation, or a safe haven; or deciding whether to save a colleague who has been infected by a zombie, will keep viewers at the edge of their seats. 

The Devil’s Plan

Directed by: Jeong Jong-yeon

Written by: Heo Jung-hee, Jung Da-hee

Produced by: TEO

Logline: Devil’s Plan is a mind game survival entertainment show that awards up to 500 million Korean won to the winner. Participants including celebrities and influencers and recruits of this game begin with the devil’s suggestion to take off their social masks and reveal one’s true identity. The show is directed by maestro of mystery and genre entertainment producer Jeong Jong-yeon with past works such as Great Escape with its vast filming set and seamless storyline throughout every season; The Genius which has unexpectable development and plot twists in every episode; and High School Mystery Club with its immersive storytelling and unparalleled chemistry among participants. As many fans have awaited his collaboration with Netflix, all eyes are on what Devil’s Plan has in store for them.

 

DOCUMENTARIES (UNSCRIPTED SHOWS)

In the Name of God: A Holy Betrayal

Directed by: Jo Seong-Hyeon

Produced by: Kim Jin-man

Writer: Ko Hye-rim

Production: MBC

Release Date: March 3, 2023

Logline: In the Name of God: A Holy Betrayal is an eight-episode true-crime documentary that explores the self-proclaimed ‘messiahs’ in modern Korean history and the shocking events behind them. 

Yellow Door: Looking for Director Bong’s Unreleased Short Film (WT)

Directed by: Lee Hyuk-rae

Produced by: Broccoli Pictures Co.,Ltd

Starring: Members of Yellow Door Film Club and others

Release: Q4

Logline: Yellow Door: Looking for Director Bong’s Unreleased Short Film (WT) is a documentary tracing the quest for the Oscar-winning director Bong Joon-ho’s unreleased short film, Looking for Paradise. This 22-minute film was screened for some 10 members of cinephile club Yellow Door on Christmas, 1992, and has never been seen since. In the process of getting to the bottom of Bong’s mysterious film-making debut, Yellow Door (WT) pieces together the memories of the only witnesses to the film, and recreates an era of avid movie lovers.

 

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