vivo V70’s AI Stage Mode brings concert moments closer at music fest

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The energy of a live concert is unforgettable: flashing stage lights, fans singing in unison, and artists commanding the spotlight. Capturing those moments clearly from the middle of a crowd can be challenging, but the vivo V70 makes it easier with its powerful AI Stage Mode and 50MP ZEISS Super Telephoto Camera.

During the Lubao International Balloon and Music Festival 2026 in Pampanga, the V70 proved its capabilities in a real concert setting.

CLTV36 of RBC Media Group used the smartphone to capture performances from some of the Philippines’ biggest OPM acts, including Parokya ni Edgar, Bamboo, Rico Blanco, and Kamikazee. Even from the crowd, the device produced clear and vibrant images that brought performers closer to the lens.

From crowd view to center stage

Concert photography often involves difficult conditions. Performers appear distant, lighting constantly shifts, and fast movements can blur important moments. The vivo V70’s AI Stage Mode is designed to address these challenges by enhancing clarity, exposure, and detail when shooting performers from afar.

CLTV36 demonstrated this by photographing Jay Contreras, lead vocalist of Kamikazee. The first photo, captured at 23mm (1x), showed the scale of the stage and the sea of fans gathered for the performance.

A quick zoom to 243mm (10x) transformed the same scene into a crisp close-up. Jay’s facial expression and stage presence became clearly visible, creating an image that felt almost like it was taken from the front row.

The V70 also captured memorable moments from the performance of Parokya ni Edgar. Wide shots showcased the band performing under bright stage lights while the crowd sang along to their hits.

Using the same 10x zoom, the camera produced detailed close-ups of frontman Chito Miranda, highlighting facial expressions and stage details despite the challenging lighting conditions common in concerts.

The 50MP ZEISS Super Telephoto Camera enables the vivo V70 to maintain strong detail even at higher zoom levels. Combined with AI Stage Mode, the smartphone intelligently enhances lighting, sharpness, and color balance to overcome bright stage lights and darker surroundings.

This allows concertgoers to capture both sweeping stage shots and detailed close-ups without losing clarity, preserving the excitement and atmosphere of live performances.

From cheering crowds to glowing stage lights, the vivo V70 helps fans document the full concert experience. With AI Stage Mode and its 50MP ZEISS Super Telephoto Camera, every performance can be captured with clarity, even from a distance.

Starting at Php 31,999, it is now available for pre-order at vivo stores nationwide and on Shopee until March 13, with savings of up to Php 7,000.

Shopee pre-order bundles also include a limited-edition V70 x POP MART Zsiga phone strap and a vivo VIP Card, which comes with extended warranty and screen protection benefits.

Don’t just watch from afar, pre-order your vivo V70 and feel the concert energy closer than ever. Learn more about the vivo V70 on the vivo website.

City of Dreams Manila’s March dual concerts spark summer nostalgia: Gabby Concepcion at Centerplay, and “The Golden Sound of the Platters” at the Grand Ballroom

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A celebration of classic hits and unforgettable performances promise to stir fond memories and warm hearts this summer at City of Dreams Manila. Gabby Concepcion, the timeless heartthrob, takes center stage at the CenterPlay Concert Series on March 18 at 9:30 p.m., while the sentimental harmonies of “The Golden Sound of the Platters” fill the Grand Ballroom on March 27 and 28 at 8 pm.

Gabby Concepcion Live at CenterPlay

Concepcion is one of the country’s most enduring and beloved actors who has explored his musicality as a recording artist. He released two albums under Warner Philippines: a self-titled debut album in 2008 featuring interpretations of OPM favorites such as ”Iisa Pa Lamang” and “Nakapagtataka”, and Unforgettable in 2010, which showcased his renditions of classics like ”Moon River”, ”Can’t Take My Eyes Off You”, and ”Fly Me to the Moon”. Fans can expect the same warmth, charm, and nostalgia at CenterPlay, where he will serenade guests with well-loved songs in an intimate performance that highlights his signature charisma and star power.

Gabby Concepcion Live at CenterPlay, follows the successful concert of diamond soul siren Nina, and other OPM stars featured at CenterPlay’s Concert Series, which spotlights the country’s top performers to a full house each month. Concepcion’s much-awaited concert also highlights performances from bands Moranos, Highschool Playlist, and Le Chic who are set to perform alternately from 6 pm to 3 am.

Music enthusiasts can reserve a seat or a table starting at P4,000 per person, with consumables comprising of bar nosh, burgers, fries, and beverages. VIP couch seats for a party of eight, and smaller seatings are also available. Designed for the ultimate entertainment experience, CenterPlay is a cool snack and cocktail lounge that opens at 6 pm, offering light meals, signature cocktail concoctions, beers, wines, and other beverages, and is built around the circular stage at the center of the main gaming floor.

“The Golden Sounds of The Platters” at the Grand Ballroom

Music lovers of all ages are invited to relive the elegance and romance of the 1950s and 1960s in a two-night world-class concert entitled “The Golden Sounds of The Platters”. The premier five-man touring ensemble pays tribute to iconic harmonies and timeless love songs of The Platters.

The special tribute concert staged by Steve O’Neal Productions at the sophisticated setting of the Grand Ballroom celebrates the romantic music that defined generations, featuring heartfelt renditions of the group’s most cherished classics including “Only You,” “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes,” “The Great Pretender,” and “Twilight Time.” Each performance reimagines the signature sound that made The Platters one of the most influential vocal groups in music history.

Tickets are at P3,000, P5,000 and P7,000 for Classic, Golden and VIP, respectively, and available via TicketWorld: https://premier.ticketworld.com.ph/shows/show.aspx?sh=TGSOTP26 .

For inquiries and information, call 8800-8080 or e-mail guestservices@cod-manila.com, or visit the resort’s website: https://www.cityofdreamsmanila.com/en/whats-on/gabby-live or https://www.cityofdreamsmanila.com/en/whats-on/the-platters-live. Explore more of City of Dreams Manila’s promotional offers, rewards, or instantly check Melco Club points with the new Melco Club App, available for free download on iOS and Android.

Rap icon Gloc-9 is re-introducing himself as Aristotle Pollisco, poet.

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On March 12, 2026, at the Philippine Book Festival in SM Megamall, Gloc-9, going by his real name Aristotle Pollisco, will be launching seven poetry chapbooks under the omnibus title Makata Sa Pinas — a hashtag he has been using the past decade.

While Gloc-9 previously released the poetry book Akin Lang Naman in 2017 with ABS-CBN Publishing, this new project offers a different approach to presenting his work as poetry. This time, Gloc-9 envisioned a series of slimmer volumes—a concept that became the starting point of the project.

In collaboration with the small press Everything’s Fine, the idea grew into a deeper reexamination of his entire discography. By revisiting the recurring themes and subject matter that consistently surface throughout his music, seven chapbooks were developed, each shaped around these enduring ideas and reflections.

The first three chapbooks are personal. "Pagkatao" tracks his development as a poet, talking about his roots in Binangonan, Rizal, and how this formed him into the rapper that we now know as Gloc-9. "Pangarap" includes all the poems about his dreams of becoming a songwriter and a rapper, reaching those aspirations, and reassessing what that means to him. "Pursigi" talks about the kind of hard work and persistence that reaching one's ambitions demands, the clarity of one's goals, and the importance of holding on to one's values.

From the personal, the next two chapbooks slowly shift to Gloc-9's storytelling through poetry. "Pagibig" speaks of love — from the familial to the romantic, and to the ones that unravel and end painfully. "Komunidad" tells the stories of the people that exist in our local neighborhoods — the people we talk to, the ones we care for, the ones we rarely see.

The final two chapbooks turn to the more political dimensions of Gloc-9’s poetry. “Lipunan” reflects on the kind of society we have collectively—and often unconsciously—built, shaped by who we have become as people and by the hate and compassion we choose to nurture within it. "Bayan" is composed of the stories of our nation that few popular songwriters speak of, from the perspective of the struggling majority who suffer in the hands of the wealthy and powerful few.

In totality, the seven chapbooks of Makata Sa Pinas capture the 28 years of Aristotle Pollisco as the poet of the nation. It also reminds us of how much more he can continue to do, given where he comes from, who he has become, and the legacy he has continued to build.

Gloc-9 will be at the Makata Sa Pinas book launch on March 12, 2026, 5PM to 7PM, at the Philippine Book Festival 2026, Megatrade Hall, 5th Level, SM Megamall. Admission is free.

SB19 turns frustration into fire with era-defining anthem “VISA”

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The P-Pop trailblazers raise the stakes with a song that channels global ambition and systemic frustration into a rallying cry for change



 SB19 marks a watershed moment in P-Pop with the release of “VISA,” their first official single of 2026 and the bold follow-up to the Simula At Wakas era. Delivering a more confident and uncompromising approach in artistic direction, SB19’s “VISA” tackles socially relevant themes that stand as both a prologue and a promise: an assertion that the new musical era will not only entertain, but also dare to challenge, provoke, and shake up comfort for conviction.

[LISTEN TO “VISA” HERE]

Their brand-new song confronts the lived realities of Filipinos striving to shift culture and build a life of security and stability for their families. It channels the frustrations of overseas Filipino workers, athletes, creatives, and professionals, who dedicate their hard work and talent to representing the Philippines, only to be met with systemic barriers that hinder their goal and recognition. Through piercing lyricism that confronts as it wounds, the five-piece powerhouse “calls out the invisible cages that restrict opportunities” on their brand-new track, emphasizing the irony of a people celebrated for their resilience yet burdened by bureaucratic inequities.

“This release will really define SB19’s sound, personality, and the way we present ourselves,” Stell admits. “We have always been known for being vocal, but this time it is even stronger. We are addressing sensitive and current topics that people can relate to, even if not everyone agrees with us. We are ready to face any reaction. This release is very powerful and a strong way to start the year and introduce this new era."

Inspired in part by real-world events and ongoing conversations around visa denials affecting Filipino talents, SB19’s latest single also serves as a commentary on access and privilege, on the disparity between global contribution and mobility. By centering these themes with a more defined perspective, SB19 transforms personal and collective frustrations into an anthem of awareness, and, to an extent, resistance.

“We were very affected by visa applications during our tour,” Pablo reveals. “SB19 has been active for seven years, and we hope that songs like these can reach officials and encourage laws that make it easier for athletes, artists, and others working overseas to access visas. This could include creative acts, producing content, or receiving rebates for spending related to the arts. This is not just an attempt to produce music, but to push Filipino culture forward. There is little support from the government, so it is important that our work can make an impact not only personally but also on a national level."

Josh echoes the familiar frustration, sharing parallels with the struggles of athletes who train and work hard to compete abroad and make Filipinos proud. "I have always had this dream during our tour, as someone who represents the Philippines all over the world. I have also seen the struggles of athletes when they represent the country. They give so much for the Philippines, but it often feels like the country does not give back. There needs to be a change."

Justin chimes in on the ongoing issue while highlighting the intentional messaging of the track. "We are highly skilled and hardworking, and we’ve significantly contributed to raising the morale of Filipinos abroad, as well as impacting the economy in positive ways. But somehow, it often feels like we are at the end of the line.”

Musically, “VISA” mirrors its thematic tension with bold, unconventional production and brass sounds. Conceived from a melody Pablo imagined in one of their brand campaign shoots, the track fuses satire, personal experience, and commentary with sonic experimentation.

Ken explains, "This song is very unconventional and unorthodox. The instruments are not the usual ones, especially the melody. It is kind of unusual, but in a good way. The melody is impactful, and the instruments we used in the track are well chosen. The percussions, ad-libs, and other elements are perfectly placed, making it a very pleasing experience for the ears."

SB19’s “VISA” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Follow SB19 on their socials:

 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm4v7afBTnJKRm4SlfHJzyg

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SB19Official/

X: https://twitter.com/SB19Official

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialsb19

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@officialsb19

 

A fresh sound for 2026: Christian Bautista releases city pop-inspired anthem “Sa’yo Lamang”

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Celebrated as Asia’s Romantic Balladeer, Christian Bautista embraces his signature romantic charm while exploring a fresh sonic direction—pairing nostalgic pop glow with a stylish, contemporary edge.

In “Sa’yo Lamang,” his new single under Sony Music Entertainment, Bautista embraces the romantic love song template with renewed confidence, pairing its feel-good energy with sophisticated production and city pop grooves. Imagine the neon glow of ‘80s Tokyo at twilight, yet the atmosphere feels distinctly Pinoy in its comforting glory. That’s how it sounds.

“Sa’yo Lamang captures exactly where I am musically and emotionally: fully committed, joyful, and ready to connect,” shares the award-winning OPM icon. “This year I’m all in. I want listeners to feel uplifted, have fun, and start the year with good energy.”

Produced by Ziv, the track benefits from its intentional marriage of global and local flavors, past and present sounds, and the insistence of not wanting to be easily defined or pinned down. From slick arrangements to meticulous production, Ziv’s instincts for groove—particularly in the drum pattern and basslines—anchor the track’s smooth, vintage edge while allowing Bautista’s vocals to shine and charm their way through the listeners.

Christian Bautista describes his collaboration with Ziv as a game-changing experience. “His attention to detail in sound design and vocal production elevated every element, while his clear vision and collaborative approach pushed us to take creative risks. The process was smooth and professional from start to finish, and his contributions shaped a final mix that truly exceeded our expectations.”

The vibrant personality of “Sa’yo Lamang” seamlessly translates into its upcoming music video, which incorporates smooth retro styling, warm neon tones, and playful choreography. Designed to be a joyful night out, the MV captures intimate singing moments, carefree dancing, and lilting city snapshots that somehow mirror the easygoing vibe of the track. “There’s also a small Easter egg hidden in the karaoke machine: make sure you look for that,” Bautista adds.

The music video is directed by Tristan Ortega and conceptualized in collaboration with the Sony Music Philippines team and Balcony Productions, with creative direction by Rico Blanco.

As Bautista steps into a new era, music fans can look forward to celebrating the moment live. He is set to share the stage with Mark Bautista for an exciting night of timeless hits and exciting new music. Dubbed “Bautista x Bautista,” the concert is set to take place on March 6, 2026, at the New Frontier Theater in Cubao, Quezon City. Tickets are available via ticketnet.com.ph.

Abi Marquez Featured in Netflix Documentary Series Being Gordon Ramsay

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Filipino food creator Abi Marquez, widely known as the Lumpia Queen and managed by NYMA Talent Management, is featured in Being Gordon Ramsay, the recently released Netflix documentary series following world-renowned chef Gordon Ramsay during a pivotal period of expansion in his career.

Abi Marquez and Gordon Ramsay

In Episode 4, Abi is seen being interviewed by the Netflix documentary team following her collaboration with Ramsay, offering insight into the experience and reflecting on the exchange between cultures, techniques, and perspectives in the kitchen. The segment provides a candid glimpse into the realities of working within a global culinary environment and the creative dialogue that emerges from such collaborations.

Abi Marquez and Gordon Ramsay

Being Gordon Ramsay documents Ramsay in the lead-up to the opening of five new restaurant concepts inside 22 Bishopsgate, one of London’s tallest buildings. Filmed over six months, the series offers an intimate look at Ramsay as he navigates the pressures of global expansion while balancing family life and the demands of running an international restaurant empire.

Abi’s inclusion reflects the evolving nature of today’s culinary landscape—one shaped not only by chefs and restaurants, but also by digital creators who serve as cultural bridges. With over 10 million followers across social media, Abi Marquez has emerged as one of Southeast Asia’s most recognizable food creators, championing Filipino cuisine through accessible storytelling that resonates with audiences worldwide.

Abi Marquez

Building on this global exposure, Abi is set to take part in the upcoming Melbourne Food & Wine Festival, where she will collaborate with Melbourne-based Filipino-Italian chef Morris Danzen Catanghal at Nine Yards, marking another milestone in her growing international presence and continued efforts to bring Filipino food into global culinary conversations.

Providing additional context to the moment shown in the series, Abi later shared a single behind-the-scenes, documentary-style video on her YouTube channel, offering a personal look at the experience from her perspective and underscoring the significance of the collaboration.

Gordon Ramsay doesn't like my Beef Wellington | BTS Vlog

FOLLOW ABI MARQUEZ AND HER FOOD ADVENTURES ON:

FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE | X

Nico Locco, Will Devaughn, Sheridan Mortlock in a new international film for NDM PLUS!

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Love. Distance. Destiny. And a choice that changes everything.

Acclaimed filmmaker Nijel de Mesa returns with his most emotionally explosive film yet: Nijel de Mesa’s Hearts In Transit — a full-English international romantic drama set against the breathtaking backdrop of Japan.

At the center of this heart-wrenching love triangle are three Americans far from home. Actor will Devaughn is Ravi — a disciplined logistics officer stationed in Japan, steady on the outside but quietly breaking within. Devaughn, who first rose to fame as a finalist on Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Edition 2, delivers what insiders are calling his most mature and layered performance yet.

Australian model and host Sheridan Mortlock portrays in her screen acting debut Gale — a sustainability research fellow pursuing work aligned with the UN’s SDGs. A real-life graduate in Global Sustainability and Politics, Sheridan brings striking authenticity to the role. A passionate advocate for circular fashion, she works with initiatives like SLOGUE and champions sustainable brands, making this character feel deeply personal — and powerfully real.

And Nico Locco gives life to Flynn — a magnetic, unpredictable soul still searching for himself. Known in the Philippine entertainment industry for taking on bold and unconventional roles, Locco injects humor, intensity and emotional danger into every scene.

What begins as a familiar love triangle quickly transforms into something deeper. This isn’t just about choosing between two men — it’s about choosing who you are brave enough to become.

Set for release in the second quarter of 2026, Hearts In Transit is a milestone project for NDM Studios and will stream exclusively on NDM PLUS — the global platform proudly called the “Home of Unique Storytelling.” The film was launched during NDM Plus’ “Not for Everyone Gala” at the Art Son Event Gala Hall in Quezon City, Philippines.

Director De Mesa said: “This is the romance that will spark debates, break hearts, and stay with you long after the credits roll. Don’t get left behind.”

Subscribe now at www.ndmplus.com and experience the love story everyone will be talking about.

Aurora Music Festival Turns 5: SB19, IV Of Spades, Sarah Geronimo, and Sexbomb lead Massive 2026 Clark Lineup

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You should plan your festival OOTDs as soon as possible! The Aurora Music Festival is back for its 5th anniversary, and the official artist lineup is finally here! It’s fast becoming a yearly habit for OPM lovers!

The Aurora Music Festival proudly announces its highly anticipated 5th Anniversary edition, returning to Clark Global City on May 2-3, 2026, with its biggest and boldest lineup yet!

For the first time ever, the two-day festival will feature DOUBLE HEADLINERS across both days: OPM powerhouses SB19 and IV OF SPADES will lead the charge, delivering electrifying performances that promise to make this milestone celebration unforgettable.

Now in its fifth consecutive year, Aurora remains the ultimate home for the best in OPM, showcasing top-tier local acts in an immersive weekend extravaganza of music, community, and magic. Following the massive success of its landmark touring editions in 2025—spanning Clark, Cebu, and Davao—the festival continues to solidify its status as the only local touring OPM music festival in the Philippines.

Get ready to be blown away by a super solid lineup for both days!

Day 1 lineup include: The reigning P-Pop kings SB19, incredibly talented and genre-bending OPM icons IV OF SPADES, fresh from their sold-out two-night comeback concerts at the Mall of Asia Arena in December 2025, the one and only Popstar Royalty Sarah Geronimo with numerous timeless hits and immense recognitions, multi-awarded folk-pop hitmakers Ben&Ben, known for heartfelt lyrics and orchestral magic, alternative rock band December Avenue, igniting crowds with anthemic tracks loved locally and internationally, and one of the most sought-after OPM singer-songwriters because of her lyrical brilliance and one-of-a kind voice, the ever talented Armi :.

Day 2 is just as hot and stellar! Alongside the double headliners SB19 and IV OF SPADES, expect live, festival-worthy performances from The iconic Sexbomb Girls, fresh off their wildly successful multiple reunion concerts starting at the MOA ARENA, rock titans and legends Parokya Ni Edgar and Kamikazee, both making their epic return to the Aurora stage, and beloved singer-songwriter Kitchie Nadal who’s ready to bring her anthemic songs to be enjoyed by tens of thousands of festival enjoyers! 

Aurora Music Festival 2026 is set to be the most epic celebration yet! 

Aurora Music Festival Clark 2026 is Presented by EPIC EVENTS.

Music is in everyone's fiber. Aurora Music Festival brings the #PowerOfX to Clark with #ConvergeFiberX.

 Tickets are expected to sell out quickly. Excited to get tickets? Visit this link: Visit our website for tickets 2026 Aurora Music Fest Clark or SM TICKETS!

2026 Aurora Music Fest Clark EP!C Events

For inquiries, please call 09495787920, 09561995944, send us an email at info@epiceventph.com, or message our Official Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/ClarkHotAirBalloonFest

#AuroraMusicFestival2026  #EPICEVENTS  #AMF2026  #AuroraClark  #AURORA5

Christian Bautista & Mark Bautista Set To Ignite New Frontier Theater In Bautista X Bautista Concert

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OPM icon Christian Bautista is set to take center stage in Bautista X Bautista, a special concert happening on March 6, 2026 at 8:00 PM at the New Frontier Theater, featuring fellow singer and longtime collaborator Mark Bautista.

The concert spotlights Christian’s continuing evolution as an artist, bringing together his timeless ballads, recent collaborations, and new music in one evening. Mark Bautista joins him onstage for select performances, adding depth and energy through their shared musical history and chemistry.

A key highlight of the concert is Christian’s latest single, Sa’yo Lamang, set for release on February 25, 2026. The heartfelt track marks a new chapter in his music, reflecting the romantic storytelling he is known for while offering a fresh, contemporary sound that resonates with both longtime fans and new listeners.

Bautista X Bautista underscores Christian’s commitment to collaboration and live performance, celebrating music, connection, and shared artistry. The concert also reinforces his enduring presence in the OPM scene, alongside a fellow artist who has grown with him through the years.

Christian Bautista is proudly managed by NYMA Talent Management.

Fans can expect a night of beloved OPM hits, powerful vocals, meaningful duets, and the live performance of Sa’yo Lamang.

Concert Details

📍 New Frontier Theater, Quezon City

📆 March 6, 2026 | 8:00 PM

🎟 Tickets via TicketNet:

https://www.ticketnet.com.ph/event-detail/BAUTISTA-X-BAUTISTA

 

You can download other photos here: Photo 1 | Photo 2

CONNECT WITH CHRISTIAN BAUTISTA:

FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE | X

FOLLOW NYMA FOR MORE UPDATES:

FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE | X | WEBSITE

 

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON CHRISTIAN BAUTISTA, PLEASE CONTACT:

Karen Tumbali | karen.tumbali@nyma.ph

 

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A legacy fulfilled: Lisa Macuja Elizalde marks 40th homecoming celebration with a season of curated performances and a landmark collaboration with The Dawn

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Exactly forty years ago, Lisa Macuja Elizalde made the defining choice to leave behind a flourishing career at the Kirov Ballet (now Mariinksy Ballet) in Moscow and return to the Philippines. That homecoming became the cornerstone of her mission to bring ballet to the people and people to ballet, a mission that has shaped generations of dancers and audiences.

(L-R) (first row) Ballet Manila principal dancer Joshua Enciso, company artist Shamira Drapete with principal dancers Jessica Pearl Dames, Abigail Oliveiro and Junmark Sumaylo;

(second row) The Dawn members Bim Yance, Rommel Sanchez, Jun Boy Leonor, Francis Reyes and Jett Pangan; Ballet Manila CEO and artistic director Lisa Macuja-Elizalde, associate artistic director and resident choreographer Gerardo Francisco Jr., and resident choreographer Martin Lawrence; The Manila Symphony Orchestra president Maan Hontiveros and music director Maestro Marlon Chen

Forty years later, Lisa marks her homecoming milestone through Ballet Manila’s PRIMA Performance Season, a curated program of classical works that highlight the company’s Vaganova roots and its commitment to sustaining excellence while making ballet accessible to Filipinos. The landmark year also features a special collaboration with The Dawn, staged at Aliw Theater on February 20 and 21 at 8:00 p.m. Both Lisa and The Dawn are icons of their generations, and this production links their parallel 40-year journeys through a fusion of ballet and rock music. The performance will showcase some of The Dawn’s most popular and iconic songs reimagined through dance, underscoring Ballet Manila’s continuing effort to make ballet relevant and accessible.

The collaboration is being presented as part of the Ballet & Ballads series and produced by Manila Broadcasting Company (MBC). A brainchild of Fred J. Elizalde in the early years of Ballet Manila, Ballet & Ballads has contributed immensely to the mission and vision of Macuja-Elizalde to make classical ballet more accessible to the general public by performing alongside mainstream artists and keeping ticket prices either free or minimal.

From Ballet & Ballads, the PRIMA Performance Season of Ballet Manila will unfold with a series of landmark productions. Sleeping Beauty will be staged on March 14 and 15, 2026 at Aliw Theater, accompanied by the Manila Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Maestro Alexander Vikulov. The season continues with Paquita on June 20 and 21, 2026, featuring a showcase of the company’s Vaganova heritage and classical precision. Finally, the season will culminate with La Bayadère on August 22 and 23, 2026, featuring the triumphant return of guest artists Renata Shakirova and Kimin Kim of the Mariinsky Ballet, who made their Philippine debut in 2025 with Don Quixote.

(L-R) Paquita Pas de Trois featuring Ballet Manila principal dancer Jessica Pearl Dames with company artists Rafael Perez and Nanami Hasegawa.

 (L-R) Ballet Manila company artist Shamira Drapete and principal dancer Joshua Enciso perform an excerpt from Sleeping Beauty.

Reflecting on the milestone, Lisa shared: “Forty years ago, I came home with a mission to make ballet part of Filipino life. To see that vision continue through Ballet Manila and the PRIMA performance season is deeply meaningful not just for me but for everyone in the company. It proves that ballet can endure, adapt, and belong to everyone.”

Other performances throughout the year include Ibong Adarna in Dumaguete in February and at Ateneo’s Areté in October, an international tour in Kuala Lumpur in September, and the Holiday Cheer Series in December.

These events frame 2026 not only as a year full of performances but as a cultural cycle completed, a legacy fulfilled, and a future opened by a ballerina who chose to come home even while at the cusp of international success.

Lisa Macuja Elizalde’s 40th homecoming year is more than a personal milestone. It is a testament to endurance, to the completeness of a vision, and to the fulfillment of a promise —that ballet also belongs to the Filipino people.

(L-R) Ballet Manila company artists Samantha Garay, Rodney Catubay, and Ana Graciela Andes; with principal dancers Abigail Oliveiro and Junmark Sumaylo; and company artists Ana Katharina Andes, Jos David Andes and Celine Astrologo in a scene from La Bayadère.

Keep up-to-date with Ballet Manila’s schedule of performances and celebration events by visiting Ballet Manila’s website www.balletmanila.com.ph or Ticketworld page www.ticketworld.com.ph

Boy Abunda Hosts PDAX Conversation Series on Money, Investing, and Financial Goals for 2026

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As Filipinos set sharper financial goals for the year ahead, the Philippine Digital Asset Exchange (PDAX) introduced “Tara, Bonding Tayo!”, a conversation video series hosted by the “Philippines’ King of Talk” Boy Abunda that makes money discussions timely and grounded in real-world experiences.

The series brings honest, relatable discussions about money, wealth, and everyday financial realities into the open, which is timely for this new season of reassessing financial goals. It centers on how Filipinos from different walks of life think about money, responsibility, and long-term security.

Instead of focusing on numbers, jargon, or financial products, the series centers on real-life stories where money decisions affect relationships, self-worth, and family dynamics. These are conversations many Filipinos recognize but rarely have out loud.

“Wealth can mean many things. For some, it’s peace of mind. For others, it’s time, freedom, or legacy. But one thing is for sure—everyone deserves a shot at creating their own definition of wealth. You could do it alone, but you don’t have to. This is where real journeys meet real lessons,” Abunda shared in his opening for the series.

The episodes focus on a mix of familiar faces and practical perspectives. Sam YG, celebrity radio and TV host, shares how investing in government bonds became his go-to approach for steadier, more secure money moves that helped him sleep better at night. Randell Tiongson, Director and registered advisor of the Registered Financial Planner Institute (RFPI), breaks down simple steps Filipinos can start today and explains why small, consistent actions often matter more than chasing big returns. While Dianne Medina, a celebrity mom, opens up about the financial challenges she has faced and the habits that helped her rebuild stability for her family.

The conversations featured in the series are anchored on PDAX’s broader effort to make investing and wealth-building more accessible to Filipinos.

PDAX is a Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas–licensed virtual asset service provider that pioneered the tokenization of Philippine government bonds through Project Bayani, a landmark white paper estimating that the Philippines' tokenized-asset market could reach US$60 billion by 2030 across government bonds, mutual funds, equities, and other investment assets.

This initiative also digitized the Bureau of the Treasury’s Retail Treasury Bonds, making government-backed investments more accessible through digital platforms. These bonds are distributed by PDAX in partnership with its licensed bonds broker-dealer, PDAX Securities Inc. (formerly bonds.ph Inc.).

Today, PDAX provides access to a range of products, including government bonds requiring low investment amounts, allowing Filipinos to have more access to more stable, long-term investment options.

The digital asset exchange also offers products such as PDAX Gold, where users can trade gold digitally for as low as P500 through the PDAX app. It is also priced in grams, a unit used by Filipinos in jewelry or gold trading.

“Tara, Bonding Tayo!” reflects PDAX’s belief that financial understanding begins with conversation. It speaks to a generation balancing care, ambition, and responsibility, and reminds viewers that talking about money can also be an act of connection.

Episodes of “Tara, Bonding Tayo!” can be watched on PDAX’s official YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/@PDAXPH).

Abi Marquez Shines at the 1 Billion Followers Summit in Dubai, With Uncle Roger, Big Creator Moments, and Filipino Pride

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Dubai, UAE – Filipino creator and digital entrepreneur Abi Marquez, who is managed by NYMA Talent Management, represented the Philippines at the 1 Billion Followers Summit in Dubai, participating in multiple sessions across the three-day global creator economy gathering.

Ahead of the summit, Abi shared her excitement online, especially about seeing her billboard in Dubai, calling it a surreal “pinch me” moment and a proud milestone for Filipino creators on a global stage.

Abi’s billboard in Dubai

Abi joined Nigel Ng (Uncle Roger) onstage during the summit kickoff roast session, where she became part of one of the event’s funniest moments after Uncle Roger playfully joked that the Philippines only has “three influential Filipinos”: Abi, Manny Pacquiao, and Jollibee. The line drew big laughs from the crowd and quickly became an early summit highlight.

Abi with Nigel Ng (Uncle Roger) onstage / roast moment

She later served as the fireside chat moderator for Nigel Ng in Behind the Scenes of Uncle Roger: How Fried Rice Built a Global Brand, a session focused on creator storytelling, content strategy, and brand-building.

Abi hosting Uncle Roger’s fireside chat

Abi also joined Mini Keynote: The Playbook for Seven-Figure Partnerships, sharing the stage with Apple Crider and Erika Kullberg, where they discussed how creators scale partnerships through audience-first, story-driven collaborations.

Abi during her mini keynote with Apple Crider + Erika Kullberg

Outside the stage, Abi also met and connected with global personalities during the summit, including comedian Max Amini, viral creator Logan “the Cucumber Guy,” and creator economy leader Samir Chaudry, among others.

Abi’s summit participation adds to her growing list of international achievements. She is a Forbes 30 Under 30 honouree, Webby Award winner, James Beard Media Awards nominee, and recipient of WIBA’s Food Creator of the Year, with a global community of over 10 million followers.

“Dubai was unreal,” Abi shared. “It’s such a big moment to be in global spaces like this. I’m proud to represent Filipino creators, and even more grateful to show that our stories can travel anywhere.”

Abi’s presence at the 1 Billion Followers Summit wasn’t just another milestone. It was a statement: Filipino creators are not only showing up globally, they’re being celebrated on the world stage.

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