Live the ‘One Piece’ adventure at your fave malls and beyond

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The Great Pirate Era isn’t just streaming – it’s landing in real life. In the Philippines, the journey begins at select PLDT stores, complete with an exclusive one month free broadband promo when you apply for Fiber Netflix 1599

GMA actor Vince Maristela (center) joins content creators Klen Cos, Awie De Guzman, Cholo Tolentino, and Prince De Guzman (left to right) set sail as the Straw Hat crew, bringing the world of One Piece to life at the PLDT Store 

With two successful seasons and a recently confirmed third one, One Piece on Netflix has transcended the screen. What started as a beloved manga and anime has become a global phenomenon, arriving just in time for summer, when the call to adventure feels impossible to ignore. The Great Pirate Era is here, and fans everywhere are answering it.

Across the world, One Piece has evolved into an “experience.” At the famed Netflix House Philadelphia, for instance, fans can step inside an escape room where teams of 6-12 race against time to uncover clues, solve puzzles, and find the hidden Devil Fruit through the show’s iconic locations.

If you’re dreaming of your own grand escape this summer – stepping onto the Going Merry or testing your mettle against the sea’s most notorious villains without having to fly to the States – you’re in luck. You can do all of that right in any of these real-life One Piece gimmicks and activations which are already making waves around the world.

For one, it’s no surprise that the birthplace of the series – Japan – offers the wildest experiences: from the towering life-sized statues in Kumamoto (the creator’s hometown) to the immersive Tokyo One Piece Tower (which long served as a pilgrimage site). Beyond these landmark installations, fans can also find themed cafes and pop-up events in Shibuya as if they’ve just walked into a panel of the manga.

Photo source: Klook

In Australia, the One Piece buzz has reached fever pitch with exclusive screenings and massive fan gatherings. Major cities have seen public installations that celebrate the show’s record-breaking viewership on Netflix. The One Plus Piece Cafe in Melbourne, for one, features a large-scale Tony Tony Chopper installation and series-themed memorabilia.

Photo source: One Plus Piece

But if all of that seems daunting – or downright expensive – you don’t need to cross the Red Line to join the adventure. Right here in the Philippines, home to one of the largest One Piece fandoms in the whole world, PLDT Home is transforming its physical stores into an immersive One Piece experience. It’s also the only telco in the country to bring this Netflix partnership to life.

Fans can head to select PLDT stores to see the world of the Grand Line come to life. For long-time readers of the manga and new fans of the Netflix live-action series alike, these store takeovers offer a chance to celebrate your fandom in real life.

And if you’re not yet a subscriber, you can also score a store and online exclusive deal! Apply for PLDT Fiber Netflix Plan 1599 (or Fiber Unli Plans 1699, 2099, and 2699) from March 15 to May 31, 2026, and set sail with ONE MONTH FREE BROADBAND (applied on your fourth month), a FREE Speed Boost, and FREE Installation with No Cash-Out to kick you off your journey the best way possible.

Visit the following locations for the experience:

●        SM North EDSA

●        SM Megamall

●        SM Southmall

●        SM Manila

●        Ayala Fairview Terraces

●        PLDT Jones

●        SM Lipa

●        SM Marilao

Stream One Piece: Into the Grand Line and enjoy more unli entertainment with PLDT Home Fiber Netflix Plan – your all-in-one subscription for fast internet and premium entertainment. Apply today in-store or online at pldthome.com/one-piece-1MF and start your journey to becoming the King of the Pirates

Samsung Announces Global Galaxy S26 Ultra Collaboration for the Release of The Devil Wears Prada 2 in Theatres

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Global marketing campaign launches with custom content featuring Helen J. Shen

Samsung brings the first ever Runway Cam #withGalaxy to The Devil Wears Prada 2 World Premiere showcasing the pro-grade camera on the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra

Samsung has launched a global collaboration to celebrate the upcoming theatrical release of 20th Century Studios’ The Devil Wears Prada 2 with a custom spot that features Helen J. Shen as her character ‘Jin’, flawlessly fixing a last-minute Miranda Priestly request using Circle to Search with Google on the new Galaxy S26 Ultra.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sd2_a2GZnYw

As part of the global team-up, the Galaxy S26 Ultra shone during its red-carpet moment at the global premiere for The Devil Wears Prada 2. In an activation that would leave even Miranda Priestly proud, Galaxy S26 Ultra was used to capture the stunning red carpet looks of attendees, making it the first-ever Runway Cam #withGalaxy that delivered jaw dropping professional-grade footage with a cinematic, social post-ready feel.

Stars like Helen J. Shen, Simone Ashley, Justin Theroux, Lucy Liu, Heidi Klum, Paige DeSorbo, Hannah Berner, and Winnie Harlow posed for the Galaxy S26 Ultra photo-op to capture their memorable looks as seen below.

Galaxy S26 Ultra user and influencer Haley Kalil (@hayleebaylee) participated in the photo experience.

“I absolutely love The Devil Wears Prada and as a Team Galaxy member, I just love my Galaxy S26 Ultra,” said Haley. “Seeing those worlds collide here on the red carpet and sharing all my favourite Galaxy S26 Series features with a community who also loves this movie has just been the best experience.”

Haley also took to social media to showcase how she used her Galaxy S26 Ultra features such as Circle to Search with Google to get ready for the premiere.

 https://www.instagram.com/p/DXW92RFteob/ 

Circle to Search with Google on Galaxy S26 Ultra is Runway ready

Samsung and Google partnered on a series of creative spots set in The Devil Wears Prada 2 universe to shine a light on how technology – like with Google to Search on the Galaxy S26 Ultra – is the cheat code for staying calm in high-stakes situations.

Want to see if the Galaxy S26 Series is the right fit for you? Visit samsung.com and get ready for The Devil Wears Prada 2, in Philippine theatres 29 April.

About The Devil Wears Prada 2

Twenty years after making their iconic turns as Miranda, Andy, Emily and Nigel—Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci return to the fashionable streets of New York City and the sleek offices of Runway Magazine in 20th Century Studios’ “The Devil Wears Prada 2,” the eagerly awaited sequel to the 2006 phenomenon that defined a generation. The film is directed by David Frankel, written by Aline Brosh McKenna, produced by Wendy Finerman, and executive produced by Michael Bederman, Karen Rosenfelt and Aline Brosh McKenna.

Gloc-9 Showcases Remarkable Consistency with Monthly 2026 Releases Under Universal Records

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Known for his unmatched storytelling and lyrical depth, Filipino rap icon Gloc-9 continues to demonstrate his consistency and dedication to the craft with an ambitious rollout under Universal Records—releasing one song every month starting January 2026.

Opening the year on January 9, Gloc-9 released “Tagay” featuring A$tro, a nostalgic and emotionally grounded track that reflects on friendship, shared memories, and unspoken struggles.

On February 6, he followed it with “Dalaw” featuring Bishnu Paneru, a haunting and introspective piece that explores themes of guilt, distance, and unresolved emotions.

By March 6, Gloc-9 delivered “Lupit,” once again with Bishnu Paneru, offering a high-energy showcase of lyrical sharpness and artistic hunger.

Most recently, on April 10, he released “Ako Naman” featuring Oxsmugg—an introspective anthem centered on patience, growth, and recognizing one’s moment. The track reflects a grounded perspective on ambition, reinforcing values of perseverance and self-awareness.

Continuing the streak, Gloc-9 is set to release “Lunod” on May 15, featuring EC Orduna. The upcoming single explores themes of love and emotional vulnerability through vivid ocean imagery, with lines like “Hindi makahinga… dahil sa dagat mo ako’y hindi marunong lumangoy,” offering another deeply felt narrative that listeners can connect with.

Beyond Music: A Poet in Print

Expanding his artistry beyond music, Gloc-9—born Aristotle Pollisco—recently released a series of poetry chapbooks titled “Makata Sa Pinas: Mga Tula Ni Aristotle Pollisco.”

The collection was launched at the Philippine Book Festival 2026 held at SM Megamall, where readers and supporters gathered to experience his writing in a different format.

A Steady Output, A Lasting Voice

Releasing music on a monthly basis reflects Gloc-9’s discipline and enduring passion for storytelling. Each track contributes to a growing body of work that mirrors everyday realities—friendship, struggle, ambition, and love—told through his distinct voice.

With each release, Gloc-9 continues to reinforce his place as one of the Philippines’ most respected and consistent lyricists, delivering music that resonates across generations.

FOLLOW UNIVERSAL RECORDS ON SOCIAL MEDIA

YouTube - https://youtube.com/@universalrecph

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/universalrecordsph

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@universalrecph

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/universalrecordsph

X - https://x.com/universalrec_ph

FOLLOW GLOC-9 ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/glocdash9/

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@glocdash9

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/glocdash9

The Entertainment Arts & Media (TEAM), elects new officers

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The Entertainment Arts & Media (TEAM), an organization of showbiz editors, columnists, photographers, publicists, and talent managers, has elected a new set of officers for 2026-2028.

The new officers are: Noel Orsal (President), Edilberto "Obette" Serrano (Vice President), Audie "See" Ochagabia (Secretary), Sany Chua (Treasurer), Nimfa Chua (Asst. Treasurer), Nonie Nicasio (Auditor), Danny Vibas, and Adjes Carreon (PRO).

Orsal was the organization's assistant treasurer before his election as president. He finished Medical Technology though his heart's desire then was to be in showbiz, and, thus took classes in photography, singing, and Nippongo (the Japanese language), hoping any of those skills will lead into a showbiz break. In a few years, he made into entertainment media as a photographer. With encouragement from editors, he found out he could write and soon was submitting not only photos written mainly in Filipino. Showbiz opened other doors for him, such as PR and production management, acting in Filipino and international films, and the freedom to choose between being a freelancer and a regular employee.

The new vice president, Edilberto “Obette” Serrano, has dedicated 40 years to tri-media (print, television, and radio) information dissemination. Known as “Oohlala Obette,” he is an accountant by training who transitioned into showbiz journalism and later public service information.

He began his career writing for Kislap fan magazine before contributing to major publications like People’s Journal and People’s Tonight. In his tenth year in showbiz, he joined ABS-CBN as a radio-TV reporter for TV Patrol and Radyo Patrol on DZMM, while continuing his print work and eventually appearing on programs such as Bandila, Balitang K (now Rated Korina), and Alas Singko Y Media (now Umagang Kay Ganda).

It's Ochagabia's first time to be elected officer (Secretary) though he is a "veteran" entertainment media practitioner whose stints include directing concerts of teen idol Sheryl Cruz abroad, and being talent caster/coordinator in top-rating TV shows. Ochagabia studied at the Novaliches (Quezon City) Novitiate, a seminary, for two years and then moved on to the University of Sto. Tomas where he took up AB in Economics. He eventually joined the entertainment world as a writer in fan magazines and general interest tabloids. His familiarity with showbiz idols and their managers, Ochagabia decided to venture into talent casting and talent managing which is what he is largely engaged in to this day.

New treasurer Sany Chua is a photojournalist on the entertainment beat mainly identified with ABS-CBN for some decades now. He is a Mechanical Engineering graduate and joined TEAM a few years ago.

Like Ochagabia and Sany, it is Nimfa's first time to be mandated as a TEAM officer. Like them, too, her college education was not geared towards showbiz: Banking & Finance. A network of friendship led her to photography and a dynamic involvement with ABS-CBN as a professional photographer.

Nicasio, elected Auditor, was TEAM president for some years and also the organization's founder. He took up BS Marine Transportation but found himself drawn to journalism, particularly to sports reportage and public service. But then he discovered entertainment writing and found it similarly fulfilling.

Only the elected new TEAM PROs Carreon and Vibas earned college diplomas in Mass Communication (Carreon) and Journalism (Vibas). Both Carreon and Vibas are seasoned entertainment journos.

The officers of TEAM were formally inducted last week by Hon. Gov. Daniel Fernando and Hon. Vice-Gov. Alex Castro at their offices in the Bulacan Provincial Hall, marking the official start of their duties.

All Systems Go for Aurora Music Festival 2026: A Massive 5th Anniversary OPM Celebration Heads to Clark

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The countdown has officially begun.

With just weeks to go before tens of thousands of music fans gather once again in Pampanga, Aurora Music Festival 2026 is all systems go as it prepares to celebrate its 5th anniversary on May 2–3 at Clark Global City, promising one of the most exciting weekends for OPM lovers this year.

What began as a bold vision to spotlight Filipino music has evolved into one of the country’s most anticipated annual music festivals. Now in its fifth year, Aurora continues to bring together some of the biggest names in OPM, creating a rare live music experience where multiple generations of Filipino artists share one massive stage.

For its milestone edition, the festival is pulling out all the stops. Headlining the two-day celebration are SB19 and IV OF SPADES, two of the most influential acts shaping the modern Filipino music scene today. Their performances are expected to be among the biggest highlights of the festival weekend, drawing fans from across the country.

But Aurora has never been just about the headliners. The festival has built its reputation on curating a powerhouse lineup of Filipino artists that audiences rarely get to see together in one place, turning every edition into a celebration of the richness and diversity of OPM.

Over the past five years, Aurora Music Festival has steadily become an important platform for celebrating Filipino artistry. While international concerts often dominate the entertainment landscape, Aurora continues to prove that local talent can command the same level of excitement, energy, and massive crowd support.

By gathering iconic performers, chart-topping bands, and beloved singer-songwriters in one event, the festival has helped amplify the appreciation for Original Pilipino Music and highlight its continued evolution across genres.

The upcoming Clark edition features an impressive mix of legendary acts, contemporary chart-toppers, and fan-favorite performers.

Among them is global P-Pop sensation who just finished a very successful concert SB19, whose groundbreaking success has pushed Filipino pop music onto the world stage. Joining them is IV OF SPADES, the genre-bending band whose distinctive sound and electrifying stage presence continue to captivate audiences, especially following their highly anticipated comeback concerts at the Mall of Asia Arena late last year.

Also part of the lineup is Sarah Geronimo, the one and only Popstar Royalty, whose decades-long career has produced some of the most beloved hits in modern OPM.

Fans can also look forward to performances from award-winning folk-pop collective Ben&Ben, known for their emotionally resonant and relatable songs and sweeping musical arrangements, and alternative rock favorites December Avenue, whose anthemic tracks have become staples in “hugot” playlists.

Adding another dimension to the festival lineup is acclaimed singer-songwriter Armi Millare, whose distinctive artistry and lyrical depth have long made her one of the most respected musicians in the local music scene.

The celebration continues with appearances from beloved OPM acts that have shaped Filipino pop culture across generations. Among them are the iconic SexBomb Girls, whose recent reunion concerts reignited massive nostalgia among fans, as well as legendary rock bands Parokya Ni Edgar and Kamikazee, both known for their high-energy live performances that consistently ignite festival crowds.

Completing the lineup is singer-songwriter Kitchie Nadal, whose timeless anthems continue to resonate with listeners years after their release, making every performance an unforgettable sing-along moment.

Reaching its fifth year is a major milestone for the festival, and Aurora is marking the occasion with a lineup and experience designed to be its biggest yet.

From the moment the sun sets over Clark Global City to the final encore of the night, fans can expect a weekend filled with unforgettable performances, vibrant festival energy, and the shared excitement of celebrating Filipino music together.

As anticipation continues to grow, one thing is certain: Aurora Music Festival 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting OPM events of the year.

So start planning your festival outfits, gather your friends, and secure your tickets early, because this is one celebration of Filipino music you definitely don’t want to miss!

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. GameZone: Real Player, Real Game

Tickets are expected to sell out quickly. Excited to get tickets? Visit this link: Visit our website for tickets https://ticket.epiceventsph.com/ or SM TICKETS!

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

An Explosive Finale Week of TV5’s Action-Drama Totoy Bato!

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The stars of Carlo J. Caparas’ “Totoy Bato,” led by Kiko Estrada, gather for the action drama’s finale media con as it’s headed toward its explosive final week on.

TV5’s hit primetime action-drama Totoy Bato is gearing up for its much-anticipated pasabog finale week, promising viewers an intense, action-packed showdown that will leave Kapatid audiences on the edge of their seats.

Kiko Estrada

Now nearing its conclusion on April 24, the series marks another successful primetime run for Kiko Estrada, who takes on the mantle as the titular hero Totoy, continuing the legacy of the iconic character originally created by Carlo J. Caparas and brought to life by the late Fernando Poe Jr.

As the show also marks nearly one year on air, Totoy Bato remains a consistent favorite among viewers, delivering gripping storytelling, high-stakes drama, and relentless action night after night.

Set in the now-chaotic Pook Paraiso, the story intensifies following the death of Don Silvio Castillo, with Dwayne Perez (Diego Loyzaga) rising to power and tightening his control over the Castillo empire. With tensions at an all-time high, the ultimate question remains: who will prevail in the explosive clash between Totoy and Dwayne?

Viewers can expect extreme action as the series unleashes even more twists, confrontations, and shocking revelations leading up to its grand finale.

Joining Kiko and Diego in this powerhouse cast are Eula Valdes as Ruby Perez, Claudine Barretto as Diamond Labrador, Cindy Miranda as Amber Castillo, Mon Confiado as Don Silvio Castillo, Mark Anthony Fernandez as Stanley Rocco, and Gold Aceron as Onyx, Billy Villeta as Dustin, Andrew Muhlach as Jett, Christine Bermas as Amethyst and Sapphire, and Angelica Hart as Pierra—each delivering compelling performances that elevate the series’ gripping narrative.

“The success of Totoy Bato is a testament to the incredible passion of the production team and the stellar performances of the entire cast. We thank everyone who poured their hearts out to bring this story to life. It was their dedication that turned every episode into a memorable journey that we all shared with the audience,” shared TV5 President Guido R. Zaballero.

Don’t miss the thrilling final stretch of this heart-stopping action saga that kept viewers on the edge of their seats night after night. Totoy Bato airs weeknights at 8:00 PM after Frontline Pilipinas on TV5’s TodoMax Primetime Singko, with simulcast on ONE PH. The series can also be streamed on-demand via the Cignal Play app, available for download for free on both Play Store and App Store.

Ben&Ben reclaims chart dominance with viral smash “Lifetime (Reimagined)”

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The song has reached No. 4 on Spotify Philippines Daily Top Songs Chart, and is expected to hit a new peak in the coming days

Award-winning Filipino folk-pop band Ben&Ben has surged back to the summit of the streaming cha

rts with “Lifetime (Reimagined)”—released under Sony Music Entertainment.

The new version of the hit ballad has reached a peak of No. 4 on Spotify Philippines Daily Top Songs Chart, while making a dent internationally with a No. 3 debut on the Spotify Top Songs Debut – Global.

Released on March 31, 2026, the updated version of “Lifetime” has found renewed success across digital platforms, buoyed by its virality on TikTok. The new version resonates with the general public through the recent wave of social media trends hinging on the new verse: “how do you grieve for a love that doesn’t even exist?” It has since then sparked interest, particularly the videos featuring an edit of characters from popular movies and TV shows, which have collectively amassed more than 100 million views.

[WATCH THE LYRIC VIDEO]

[STREAMING LINKS HERE]

With the song’s immediate climb to the top 5 of the Philippine streaming charts, Ben&Ben returns as the top OPM group on Spotify Philippines—their first time since December 23, 2024. In addition to its growing list of achievements, the track has also reached No. 1 on Genius Lyrics Charts.

“For this version of Lifetime, we felt that we could be there for someone in their pain, longing, and yearning through these new lyrics and melodies,” shares the nine-piece collective. “There’s a deep sense of gratefulness in our hearts for how people have received the song so far. We’re very humbled, and we promise to keep working hard in writing and performing music that connects deeply with Liwanag, our listeners.”

“Lifetime (Reimagined)” features a new arrangement with additional verses, an instrumental break, and a bridge, resulting in an extended duration of four minutes and thirty-seven seconds. The song was written by Miguel and Paolo Benjamin, with the latter serving as co-producer alongside Jean Paul Verona.

Ben&Ben’s “Lifetime (Reimagined)” is out now on all digital platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

JING: The Creator-First App Celebrities Arci Muñoz, Nijel de Mesa, Angeli Khang Are Already Calling ‘The Future of Social Media‘

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Something big just dropped—and no, it’s not just another social app.

Jing just made its global debut in Singapore, and let’s just say… it understood the assignment.

We’re talking a full-house launch at Golden Village Funan in Singapore, packed with creators, media, and industry insiders—all there to witness a platform that’s flipping the script on how social media works.

Co-Founder Chairman Jing Turla 

Co-Founder Jing Turla described it as a platform where creators aren’t just users—they’re the priority. A space where communities grow, opportunities are open, and your content actually works for you.

Translation: your scroll time might finally pay off.

Because here’s the real tea: most platforms let you post… but Jing lets you earn.

Like actually earn.

During the launch, CEO & Founder Glen John Labasug called it out—billions of people use social media, but only a tiny percentage make money from it. Jing is here to change that by building monetization straight into the experience. No extra hoops. No weird algorithms gatekeeping your bag.

And the vibe? Unreal.

Marion Muller

Hosted by Swiss creator Marion Muller, with appearances from Megan Foo and Kathy Wong, the whole event felt more like a concert than a corporate launch. Then add celebs like Arci Muñoz, Angeli Khang, and Nijel de Mesa into the mix… yeah, it was a moment.

But beyond the hype, Jing is pushing something bigger.

And the best part? It’s already live.

Jing is now available for free on Google Play and the App Store—so whether you’re a content creator, side hustler, or just someone tired of posting for free… this might be your sign.

The future of social media? It’s giving creator-first. Download Jing.

Join. Interact. Network. Grow.

Puregold Highlights Sari-Sari Stores’ Role in Driving Grassroots Commerce and MSME Growth

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In its final installment of the Sari-Sari Stories, Puregold releases “Pangalan,” a moving tribute to the sari-sari stores that continue to power daily life, grassroots enterprise, and community connection across the Philippines.

Following “Ways,” “The Sign,” and “The Witness,” Puregold broadens the conversation from nostalgia to economic relevance, highlighting how sari-sari stores continue to serve as accessible retail touchpoints, community anchors, and entry-level enterprises that support household livelihoods in the country.

Sari-sari stores go beyond informal neighborhood retail. They function as last-mile commerce points that respond to everyday consumer needs with proximity, familiarity, and flexible purchasing options. Their resilience has allowed them to remain relevant even as the retail landscape continues to evolve.

That economic role is matched by social relevance. At the heart of Pangalan is the idea that sari-sari stores are more than neighborhood shops: they are trusted spaces that people turn to not only for essentials, but for connection and reliability. The film captures this dual role in distinctly Filipino terms: the store as tanungan, tambayan, and takbuhan.

The narrative is reinforced by appearances of OPM artists Jhoanna Robles of BINI, Stell Ajero of SB19, and Skusta Clee, whose personal recollections reflect the deep familiarity of sari-sari stores in Filipino life. Their participation adds cultural relevance to a message ultimately anchored in enterprise, accessibility, and community-based retail.

Puregold’s focus on this segment remains rooted in mass-market demand and the practical realities of everyday consumption. By spotlighting community-based retail, the company reinforces its relevance at the grassroots level while drawing attention to the vital contribution of MSMEs to the domestic economy.

The timing is equally strategic, with MSMEs already looking ahead at the upcoming Puregold Tindahan Ni Aling Puring Sari-Sari Store Convention in May. The annual event has become a key platform for sari-sari store owners, entrepreneurs, and partner suppliers, underscoring Puregold’s enduring commitment to small business development and ecosystem growth.

Watch the full video here: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EAE7m6Ts2ew

Stay in the loop. Subscribe to the Puregold Channel on YouTube, like @puregold.shopping on Facebook, and follow @puregold_ph on Instagram and X, and @puregoldph on TikTok for updates and behind-the-scenes content.

Ely Buendia unveils new “light and optimistic” single “Ate”

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Legendary frontman Ely Buendia is back on our playlists with new song “Ate” to be released March 26 under his own label, Offshore Music Philippines.

Photo by Law

After a year of the release of his tumultuous solo album “Method Adaptor” (2025), which garnered a string of praise from critics and fans alike, noted by Rolling Stone PH as “a sprawl of metaphors that thrive in paradoxes…”, and a continuously successful run of his intimate bar tour which shares the same name as the album, Buendia is far from taking a step back and is gearing up to expand his range and discography with solo single, “Ate”.

Official artwork for “Ate”

“I wanted to change the atmosphere a bit,” says Buendia in an interview about his upcoming single, noting the contrasting nature of his previous sonic masterproject and the new single, he pinpoints his intentions for shortly following up his grittier and more serious album, Method Adaptor, with a more “light and optimistic" new track. The song carries a softer tone in both instrumentation and lyricism, not novel to Buendia’s prowess but a stark difference to what the artist is currently known for. “The melody had such a nursery rhyme-feel which came directly from the harmonized lead guitar lines that go up the major scale,” Buendia discusses his rationality behind the inception of “Ate”. Saying as if the song itself embodies the mindset of seeing the positives in life’s ebbs and flows.

In addition with the idea of “Ate” being a break from the norm of the OPM icon’s current sound, the place where it was recorded was also something different for the “Bulaklak sa Buwan” singer, “I needed a change of pace. I love the weather there [Baguio],” citing a change in scenery was crucial in influencing the project. This overall chase for fresh air, perspectives, and sound were also present due to the inclusion of Shadiel Chan, music producer and label head of Nine Degrees North, where Buendia and his band recorded “Ate”. This marks the first collaboration between the Baguio producer and the singer. “Shad[niel] had a fresh take on everything. He works fast which I really like and had spot on instincts. I’m always up for working with new blood, there’s a lot you can learn from them.”

Speaking of young bloods, “Ate” was recorded by a slightly new set-up, with rising artists Dani Mendoza on keys and Jian Nisnisan on guitar, and alongside them were Chan on bass and Pat Sarabia on drums.

“Ate” by Ely Buendia is set to release on March 26 and will be available on all digital streaming platforms.

*************************************************

About Ely Buendia

More than the usual string of superlatives, Ely Buendia is a storyteller. Not just someone with above-average verbiage, or a propensity to weave hastily rhymed couplets. But the genuine article. And whether it’s with the massively popular Eraserheads, or with any of his latter-era pursuits (the genre-bending rock outfit Pupil, rockabilly meisters Oktaves, or the soul/funk collective Apartel), listeners are assured of both pop smarts and an indefatigable sense of invention. Buendia’s canon is a ride to be relished. From landmark Eraserheads classics (“Alapaap,” “Magasin,” “Ang Huling El Bimbo”) to smashers by Pupil in the mid-aughts (“Nasaan Ka?,” “Disconnection Notice,” “TNT,”), the tunes serve as balm to the weary soul. But the lesser-known items is where we are given a picture of Buendia’s creative breadth: the one-off release Wanted Bedspacer; In Love & War (made with rap legend Francis Magalona); collabs with the Itchyworms (“Pariwara,” “Lutang”); and, more recently with indie rockers Cheats (“Plunder My Heart”). Buendia is also committed to guiding a new generation of artists in the OPM scene. As co-founder and CEO of Offshore Music Philippines, he has shaped the future of Filipino music. Now releasing a new single, "Bulaklak sa Buwan" from the new album “Method Adaptor” under Offshore Music, Buendia offers a glimpse of his currency as a songwriter and musician. Music that is sure to inspire new and old fans alike.

Ely Buendia Socials

FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560884825570

IG: https://www.instagram.com/elybumbilya/

X: https://x.com/elybuendia9001

YT: https://www.youtube.com/@elybuendia9000

TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@theelybuendia

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.