June 20, 2014

The Philippine TOYCON 2014

The Philippine TOYCON 2014 starts today June 20 and will be on June 21 - 22, 2014 at the SM Megatrade Halls 1, 2 and 3, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City.

Buy your tickets in advance via SM Tickets. 
visit: https://www.smtickets.com/event/details?event_id=2485 or buy tickets at the event gate (June 20-22)

For more information on schedule of activities and event details please visit:

This is co-presented by Collectibles Unlimited and the SM Megatrade Halls, and sponsored by Maxi Collector, Toy Kingdom, Toy Empire, Warner Brothers Pictures and Pacific Licensing. With special thanks to Big Boys Toy Store, Great Toys, Arigatoys, Authority Hoodie, Transfer It, Otaku Asia, War Gaming, Uplink, Level-Up, Cubizone, Canon, Level-Up, Cherry Credits, CIIT, Loctite, Walt Disney Studios, gaming Library and Resorts World Manila. With media partners, ABS-CBN, Flip Geeks, Reimaru Files, WheninManila.com, Chalk Magazine, UNO Magazine, Manila Bulletin, Inquirer.net and 99.5 PLAY FM. Also supported by Anime Alliance and World Cosplay Summit.


The Philippine Toys, Hobbies and Collectibles Convention, or TOYCON as it’s more widely-known, is Asia’s biggest and longest running convention for collectibles, toys, anime, comics, cosplay, gaming and anything and everything related to hobbies and collections. The convention has been ongoing since 2002 so it is now on its 13th year of thrilling fans and aficionados alike. It is, simply put, the biggest pop culture event in the country. 

This year’s TOYCON will highlight the 75th Anniversary of DC Comics’ caped Crusader, Batman with a huge Batman display area, a life size Batpod, a kids’ activity area, exciting new Batman merchandise, and a gallery of art and collectibles of the Dark Knight Detective. 

Also catch the Samurai X fever as Warner Brothers previews the Rurouni Kenshin live-action film trilogy Parts II and III with a display of original costumes from the sensational Japanese hit movie. 

Get ready to be blown into space with Marvel’s latest epic movie, The Guardians of the Galaxy, with awesome displays, sneak peeks at the movie’s trailers and behind-the-scenes, special fan activities, and the Marvel roster of superstar artists like Leinil Yu, Carlo Pagulayan, Stephen Segovia, Roy Allan Martinez and Kim Jacinto. 

The TOYCON also gives you the biggest gathering of toy collections with the following prominent toy exhibits – The G.I. Joe 50th Anniversary exhibit, Philippine Lego Users Group exhibit, the Coca-Cola Collectibles exhibit, One Sixth Republic and Pinoy Sixth Scale collectors exhibit and the awesome Toycon Gallery exhibit area which showcases the best of the local toy group community.

Fans of a galaxy far, far away unite with the 10th Anniversary of the Star Wars 501st Philippine Outpost. Enjoy a parade of your favorite Star Wars characters, Stormtroopers, Jedi Knights and droids and, of course, the Dark Lord of the Sith himself, Darth Vader as they invade the Philippine ToyCon stage. 

The TOYCON also features the biggest in Cosplay with the Philippine Finals of the World Cosplay Summit happening at the event and TOYCON’s own Cosplay Universe unleashes a barrage of individual and group cosplayers led by Asia’s Cosplay queen, Alodia Gosiengfiao. 

Gaming takes center stage also at the TOYCON with the biggest game companies, like Level-Up, War Gaming, Cherry Credits and Uplink releasing the latest versions of their top games. 

TOYCON would not be complete without the biggest exhibitor floor of all pop culture merchandise in terms of apparel, collectibles and memorabilia, graphic novels and comics, cosplay paraphernalia, and toys, toys, TOYS!

June 19, 2014

Pulitzer Prize winner, “Rabbit Hole” for the Red Turnip Theater's 2nd Season

Red Turnip Theater has made its mark in the Philippine theater scene in a span of one year.  The band of five actors that make up Red Turnip (Ana Abad Santos, Topper Fabregas, Jenny Jamora, Cris Villonco and Rem Zamora) wanted to come up with a maiden season that would re-introduce Philippine audiences to the straight play while putting their own stamp on the theatrical experience.

Their first production, “Closer”, was a bruising and honest take on modern day relationships and their follow-up, “Cock”, was a biting comedy about sexual identity. Both productions went on to acclaim with critics and audiences alike. 
Red Turnip (Rem Zamora, Jenny Jamora, Topper Fabregas, Ana Abad Santos, Cris Villonco) 

The five are back with their second season and are excited to kickstart it with the 2007 Pulitzer Prize winner, “Rabbit Hole”. Written by David Lindsay-Abaire, “Rabbit Hole” was a Broadway hit that garnered several Tony nominations and a win for its lead actress, Cynthia Nixon. It was then adapted into a critically-acclaimed film with Nicole Kidman in 2010 and earned her an Oscar nomination for Best Actress. 

The story revolves around Becca and Howie, a couple who lose their four year old son to a car accident, and the grief that slowly threatens to tear them apart. Shifting between humour and heartbreak, “Rabbit Hole” explores the way people deal with loss and how this affects those closest to them; their families. Variety calls it “an intensely emotional examination of grief, laced with wit, insightfulness, compassion, and searing honesty”.
The Manila premier has film and television star Agot Isidro in the role of Becca, with theater veteran Michael Williams as her husband Howie. This production marks Agot’s return to theater after notable turns in Tanghalang Pilipino's "Zsa Zsa Zaturnnah", Atlantis Productions' "Baby" and Trumpets' "Honk!". Williams' long list of credits include starring roles in "Jekyll and Hyde", "Les Miserables" and "Man of La Mancha" for Repertory Philippines.

Agot Isidro returns to the stage after a seven year absence from the Philippine theater scene. She made her musical theater debut back in 2003 with "Honk!" for Trumpets and went on to notable turns in Atlantis Productions' "Baby", "Footloose" for Stages and "Zsazsa Zaturnnah" for Tanghalang Pilipino (originating the role of Queen Femina Suarestellar Baroux). Agot's long list of film and television work include roles in Tayong Dalawa, One More Try, Lobo, Ang Mumunting Lihim and Way Back Home. She most recently won Best Actress at the 2013 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) for her role as a schizophrenic mother in the film Mga Anino ng Kahapon. 

She makes her theatrical comeback with the Pulitzer-Prize winner "Rabbit Hole" for Red Turnip Theater. She headlines the play in the role Becca, a mother grappling with the loss of her son. “Rabbit Hole” was a Broadway hit that garnered several Tony nominations and a win for its lead actress, Cynthia Nixon. It was then adapted into a critically-acclaimed film with Nicole Kidman in 2010 and earned her an Oscar nomination for Best Actress. 
Agot Isidro

Agot Isidro: I'm a little nervous about going back to theater 'cause it has been seven years since my last production (Zsa Zsa Zaturnnah). But I am excited at the same time, because I know it will be a welcome and enriching break after years of TV work. I am especially on the edge about 'Rabbit Hole' because this is my first straight play. With musicals, there's a certain comfort in knowing that, at some parts, I burst into song. So a straight play is all new to me. But I am looking forward to the process.
Michael Williams

Michael Williams: I am very much looking forward to working with Red Turnip on their production of ‘Rabbit Hole’. It’s an amazing script and based on their previous productions, no doubt this one will also be handled with a high degree of sensitivity. 

Joining Isidro and Williams are Che Ramos-Cosio (Tatlong Maria, Dogeaters) as Becca’s sister Izzy and Sheila Francisco (South Pacific, August Osage County) as their mother Nat.  Dulaang UP's Ross Pesigan (Ang Nawalang Kapatid, Titus Andronicus) rounds off the eclectic cast as Jason, the young boy responsible for the tragic loss of their son. 

Topper Fabregas makes his directorial debut.

Apart from it being a brilliant script, we Turnips also chose ‘Rabbit Hole’ as our second season opener because were hungry to show a different side to us. ‘Closer’ and ‘Cock’ defined our first season as these fantastic, in-your-face experiences. ‘Rabbit Hole’ takes the (deceptively) gentler approach but will knock you out just the same. It’s also a great showcase for its cast, and you don’t get any better than these five actors. We are excited to have them on board. We are also very thrilled to be back at Whitespace!


"Rabbit Hole" opens on August 1, 2014 and runs all weekends of August.

Log on to https://www.facebook.com/RedTurnipTheater for complete show schedules.

Tickets are available through TicketWorld (891-9999 or www.ticketworld.com.ph) or Red Turnip Theater (redturniptheater@gmail.com or https://www.facebook.com/RedTurnipTheater)

"Rabbit Hole" with Direction: Topper Fabregas
Technical Direction & Lighting Design: John Batalla
Set Design: Faust Peneyra
Sound Design: Jethro Joaquin

Venue: Whitespace is located at 2314 Chino Roces Ave. Extension (formerly Pasong Tamo Extension), Makati.


Here's a part of our interview and Abs-Cbn's) with Red Turnip 2nd Season presentation Rabbit Hole stars Agot Isidro and Michael Williams, held at the the 2nd's Bonifacio Global City, June 16. 2014.


June 18, 2014

The Original Diva KUH LEDESMA Returns With "Memories"

Miss Kuh Ledesma, the Original Diva and Pop Diva  returns with her latest album"Memories" as she lends her lush, crystal clear voice to beautifully-penned love songs that perfectly capture unforgettable romantic memories, unforgettable love songs.


This is her reunion project with Universal Records and famed composer Cecile Azarcon. “Memories” reunites Kuh with two industry partners. 

Inspired by the album's track "One More Try," and leaning more on the acoustic side, Kuh hopes that the songs in "Memories" make you fall in love over and over again. It’s simply a beautiful, beautiful love song, that’s why today’s generation was able to appreciate it, even if it was written in the ’80s. It’s a classic love song. It only shows that a good song will make it no matter what. One More Try was composed by Cecille Azarcon. Kuh is in "My Husband’s Lover," as the mom of a gay man, a role that she found challenging and which earned her kudos for her portrayal.


And now,  she gets to work again with famed composer Cecile Azarcon.

“Every Cecil Azarcon is destined to be a hit,” says Kuh. “I’ve always loved how she writes her words. They are her experiences of love, joy and pain.”

Kuh adds that she is pleased to have been given this chance to record seven of Cecil’s songs for “Memories.”

The Pop Diva also expresses gratitude to Cecil Azarcon for letting her record and re-record these amazing songs – “I Think I’m In Love,” “One More Try,” “So It’s You,” “Special Memory,” “Huwag Kang Mangako,” “How Did You Know” and “Hello.”

“So It’s You” is the theme of the upcoming movie of the same title with lead stars Tom Rodriguez and Carla Abellana.

Being in the music industry for 35 years, Miss Kuh shares that the secret for the longevity of her career is to "Work with the best, work hard and don't remain stagnant. Plan ahead. Never wait for people to do things for you and research. We continue to do God's work which is the giftings that he has given us."

She also revealed that after 15 years, "Music and Magic" reunion will be happening here in the Philippines this coming September and October and November for the US. 

Tracklist of "Memories"

1. I Think I'm In Love
2. One More Try
3. So It's You
4. Special Memory
5. Huwag Kang Mangako
6. How Did You Know
7. Hello

It also includes minus-one versions of the songs in the album.

Grab a copy now and sing along to these beautiful and timeless love songs.

Memories ALBUM PREVIEW: https://t.co/8fsv7TrT9V



MINI Philippines launches The New MINI.The New Original MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S

This is amazing, head-turner and eye-catcher! Introducing and explore The New MINI.The New Original : Epic driving fun better than before. 

MINI Asia and British United Automobiles, Inc. recently launched the new-generation MINI.

The New MINI.The New Original MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S 

Designed to be bigger, drives better and packed with more technological innovation than before, the new MINI continues to be the leading original of the premium small car segment.


The evolution of the new MINI’s design signals the more mature character of this new model, reflecting significant optimization in aspects such as space, safety, materials and finish quality as well as driving dynamics and ride comfort. It’s the original MINI, re-born, kept the original MINI’s iconic bulldog stance and “wheels-pushed-out” design.



Both 3-cylinder and 4-cylinder engines are introduced, all featuring MINI Twin Power Turbo Technology. The petrol engines include turbocharging, direct fuel injection and variable camshaft control on the intake and exhaust side (double VANOS).

In the engines of the MINI Cooper S and MINI Cooper models there is also fully variable valve control in the form of VALVETRONIC, as patented by the BMW Group. 

All model variants of the new MINI have improved engine and driving performance figures while their fuel consumption and emission levels have been reduced as compared to the predecessor models by as much as 27%.

The new MINI Cooper S is powered by a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine with a peak output of 192 hp which goes on stream between 4,700 and 6,000 rpm, delivering its maximum torque of 280 Nm from 1,250 to 4,750 rpm.

Torque can even briefly be increased to 300 Nm by means of an overboost function. As a result, acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes just 6.7 seconds, while the top speed is 233 km/h. The average fuel consumption of the new MINI Cooper S is 5.5 litres per 100 km, while its level of CO2 emissions 127 g/100km (per average EU test cycle).

With output increased by 14 hp to 136 hp between 4,500 and 6,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 220 Nm (230 Nm with overboost), now available from 1,250 to 4,000rpm, the 1.5-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine in the new MINI Cooper also enables much sportier driving performance than the predecessor power unit. The new MINI Cooper sprints in 7.8 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h, with a top speed of 210 km/h. Its average fuel consumption has been reduced to 4.9litres per 100km and a CO2 emissions level of 115 g/100km (per average EU test cycle).

The six-speed automatic transmission which comes standard for both the Cooper and Cooper S offer improved efficiency, enhanced shift comfort and increased shift dynamics. These advancements have been achieved by means of such elements as a more efficient transmission control system, a more direct connection and optimised hydraulics. The new MINI also combines automatic transmission with the automatic engine start/stop function for the first time, preventing unnecessary fuel consumption caused by idling at junctions or in congested traffic.


The MINIMALISM technology which is a standard includes not only the automatic engine start/stop function but also extensive measures to optimize weight and aerodynamic drag in the new MINI. Other measures include brake energy recuperation and needs-oriented control of the fuel pump, coolant pump and other ancillary units. The electromechanical power steering is equally as energy-efficiency as the map-controlled oil pumps in all engines. 

Depending on the model variant, a significant optimisation of aerodynamic properties is achieved by such measures as active cooling air flaps, extensive underbody trim and air ducting elements in the upper section of the C columns. With a drag coefficient (Cd value) of 0.28 (MINI Cooper) or 0.31 (MINI Cooper S), the new MINI is the segment leader in terms of aerodynamics, too.

The completely redesigned front grille boasts big air intakes and a black honeycomb-patterned grid specific for the Cooper S. On the back, the air outlet housing two fog lights is wrapped around the double exhaust tailpipes. Proud red S badges on the front grille and back make a clear athletic statement.

Optimized suspension technology: Less weight, more go-kart feeling. 

The refinement of suspension technology in the new MINI keeps to the well-established design principle of the single-joint spring strut axle at front along with a multilink rear axle that is unique within the competitive environment, as well as featuring extensive optimization of all components in terms of material selection and geometry. All improvements are aimed at intensifying the experience of the agile MINI handling properties, commonly known as the go-kart feeling. The set-up of the wheel suspension, body mounting, vehicle suspension, damping, steering and brakes takes account of the increased level of engine power and the typical MINI concept consisting of front-wheel drive, transversely mounted engine at the front, low centre of gravity, short overhangs, wide track and a rigid, weight-optimized body structure. 
In order to reduce weight and increase component rigidity, the new front axle is fitted with aluminum swivel bearings as well as axle supports and wishbones made of high-strength steel. The modified front axle kinematics supports the agile turn-in response and precise steering sensation of the new MINI. The share of high-strength steel used in the rear axle has also been increased. Tube-shaped stabilizers at the front and rear axle likewise contribute to weight reduction. 

Intelligent lightweight construction means that weight reduction in the new MINI is combined with an increase in rigidity, thereby promoting both agility and occupant protection. In spite of its extended range of fittings, virtually all variants of the new MINI are lighter than their respective predecessor models. They also weigh less than their competitors in the segment.

The new MINI Driving Modes provide an excellent basis for fuel efficient or sporty motoring. A rotary switch at the base of the gear or selector lever is used to activate the standard MID mode, the SPORT or the GREEN mode.


In addition to the characteristic curve of the accelerator and steering and engine acoustics, the MINI Driving Modes also influence the ambient lighting, the displays in the LED centre instrument, the shift characteristics of the automatic transmission and the Dynamic Damper Control configuration (exclusive for MINI Cooper S).

The choice is between a setup of very sporty, comfortable and well-balanced, or geared towards fuel efficiency. 

In GREEN mode - supporting a relaxed and more fuel-efficient driving style - the energy used by electrically powered comfort functions such as air conditioning is reduced. In cars fitted with automatic transmission it is also possible to use the coasting function. The drivetrain is decoupled at speeds of between 50 and 160km/h as soon as the driver removes their foot from the accelerator pedal. The new MINI then rolls at idling engine speed at a minimum rate of fuel consumption.

The newly configured suspension and damping systems have been significantly reduced in weight. The dampers are decoupled at the front and rear axle by means of triple-path support bearings. Another new addition to the MINI equipment program is Dynamic Damper Control (standard in MINI Cooper S).

Two characteristic lines are available for damper set-up, allowing activation of either a more comfort-oriented response or a direct, sporty response. The compression and rebound stage are adjusted by means of electrical control of the EDC valves. 

The electromechanical power steering has also been subjected to extensive improvements. So-called torque steer compensation prevents self-steering tendencies caused by differing degrees of torque at the drive wheels. Steering precision has also been optimized for sudden avoidance swerves and when taking bends in very sporty style. Standard features also include the speed-related steering assistance system Servotronic. 

Exterior: Bigger proportions, better agility and ride comfort. 

The body of the new MINI Cooper is :
3,821mm long (+98mm vs predecessor)
1,727mm wide (+44mm vs predecessor)
1,414 mm high (+7mm vs predecessor).

The wheelbase is 2,495 mm (+28mm vs predecessor)
The track width has been enlarged to 1,501mm (+34mm vs predecessor)

The length of the MINI Cooper S, meanwhile, is at 3,850mm (+121mm vs predecessor)
Track width of 1,485mm (front +32mm and rear +24mm vs predecessor). 

Cornering agility and ride comfort benefit from these new dimensions as do the amount of space available to occupants and the luggage compartment volume. The extended adjustment range of the front seats, a seat surface lengthened by 23mm and a perceptible increase in shoulder room provide more foot space and freedom of movement as well as optimised entry comfort for rear passengers. Luggage compartment volume has been increased by 51 litres to 211 litres.

Innovative driver assistance systems: Increased convenience and safety.

Further evidence of the technological progress ushered in with the new edition of the MINI is to be found in the program of optional driver assistance systems - available for the first time in a model of the British brand. 

New Optional features include the MINI Head-Up-Display which shows information relevant to the driver on an extendible monitor in the upper section of the dashboard between the windscreen and steering wheel. The MINI Head-Up Display promotes concentration on the road by displaying information directly in the driver's line of sight. It can then be read quickly and conveniently without averting one's eyes from the road.


The information that can be shown in the MINI Head-Up Display includes speed in figures, navigation directions in the form of arrow graphics and junction sketches, visual signals for collision warning, display symbols generated by Speed Limit Info and No Passing Info, Check Control messages and entertainment program details such as radio channels and track titles. The graphics on the high-resolution screen are clearly visible in all light conditions.


Other innovations in the area of driver assistance systems for the new MINI include the Driving Assistant option. This comprises a camera-based cruise control and distance control function which automatically maintains a distance from the vehicle ahead, and the collision and pedestrian warning system with initial brake function. In critical situations, the driver is first provided with a visual signal in the form of a graphic symbol that appears in the instrument cluster; this is supplemented at the second warning level by an acoustic signal prompting the driver to react. 

In addition to this, an automatic brake manoeuvre is triggered in the case of an imminent collision with a pedestrian or if there is a risk of a rear-end collision in urban traffic. Here the new MINI is decelerated at medium brake force. Depending on the situation, this can either prevent an impact occurring altogether or else significantly reduce the severity of the accident. As the automatic deceleration is activated, the driver is also given an unmistakable prompt to intervene.

A rear view camera and parking assistant are also available for the new MINI. The video images supplied by the rear view camera underneath the tailgate handle are shown on the on-board computer in the central instrument as an aid when manoeuvring and reverse parking.


The new MINI is available for viewing at the MINI Global City and MINI Cebu.

37th Gawad Urian Awards winners announced

The Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino continues to honor and give credit to excellent Filipino film makers who dared to be non-traditional. Last night (June 17, 2014), at the 37th Gawad Urian Awards held at the Dolphy Theatre in ABS-CBN compound, the MPP revealed the names of 2013′s best films and performers.

Most of the awards were captured by noted indie films, with “On the Job” as the only commercially produced film to be recognized.

Here’s the complete list of winners for the 37th Gawad Urian Awards:

Best Picture: “Norte, Hangganan ng Kasaysayan”

Best Actress: Angeli Bayani – “Norte, Hangganan ng Kasaysayan”

Best Actor: Joel Torre –  "On The Job"

Best Director: Hannah Espia – “Transit”

Best Cinematography: Lauro Rene Manda – “Norte, Hangganan ng Kasaysayan”

Best Screenplay: Lav Diaz and Rody Vera – “Norte, Hangganan ng Kasaysayan”

Best Production Design: Adolfo Alix, Jr. – “Porno”

Best Music: Emerson Texon – “Sonata”

Best Editing: Chuck Gutierrez – “Riddles of My Homecoming”

Best Sound: Corinne de San Jose – “On the Job”

Best Documentary: “Nanay Mameng” – Adjani Arumpac

Best Short Film: “Missing” – Zig Dulay

Best Supporting Actor: Jun-Jun Quintana -”A Philippino Story”

Best Supporting Actress: Angel Aquino – “Ang Huling Cha-Cha ni Anita”

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