Ben&Ben expresses the loneliness that comes in waves after being apart from your loved one for so long

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On their new single, “Autumn,” out today via Sony Music Entertainment, the nine-piece collective copes with the emotional complications that hit home, resulting in a song about “the distance that people often unintentionally create with their other half, because of the changes that life throws at us.”

According to the Paninidigan Kita hitmakers, the introspective track was written in Canada last year, right smack in the middle of their North American tour. The band’s lead vocalist and guitarist, Paolo Benjamin, felt an aching yearning to be with his significant other, as the long distance proved to be very challenging for both of them.

“A few months later, in early 2023, brother Miguel Benjamin completed the lyrics, also adding a bridge about being in different seasons, which really completed the message of the song,” the folk-pop collective adds. “It speaks about themes of loneliness, yearning, and ultimately, hoping against hope that a new season will come.”

Marking a new chapter for the band, “Autumn” embraces a new direction that reveals subtle details with each listen. Blending rich, acoustic arrangements with lush textures and otherworldly touches, the emotional ballad is meticulously crafted to capture the yearning that comes with being in a long-distance relationship with your other half.

The award-winning band explains in a collective statement, “Autumn is a song where we showcase how we’ve evolved and matured as a band. Writing-wise, we felt that the perspective was a more realistic and mature take on the subject. Arrangement and production-wise, we discovered a lot of new ways to express sounds that achieve the emotion we were going for.”

The song is included in a three-part release that Ben&Ben hopes to share in the coming weeks. Aside from “Autumn,” the acclaimed Filipino act will also be dropping the full-band version of their new track “Courage” in the following week, as well as a special collaboration with another artist, due December 8, 2023.

Ben&Ben’s “Autumn” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

First Santa Maria Music and Film Festival happening on December 2

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Experience a whole new level of outdoor Music and Movie Festival in one, a first ever outdoor event with Mother Nature on top of the Mountain sa Bayan ng Santa Maria, which is the Northernmost town of Laguna. The venue will take place on top of a 360-degree scenic view of Mount Banahaw, Mount Cristobal and Mount Sembrano overlooking Laguna de Bay and the windmills of Pililia, Rizal. It's really a breathtaking view with an ambiance like no other.

First Santa Maria Music and Film Festival happening on December 2

Let's start with the formal opening of the event by the Santa Maria Academy Dance Troupe, the town's pride. The high school teens will welcome all moviegoers, there will be local performers who will do the front act.

First Santa Maria Music and Film Festival happening on December 2

Acoustic guitarist and singers Miro Valera and Jeff Bolivar will be doing their sets in between the Film showing.

Santa Maria Music and Film Festival

The Santa Maria Music and Film Festival (SMMFF) which is set on December 2, will showcase 7 short films is a 3 hour event from 3pm to 6pm with different categories from freelance movie writers and directors.

First Santa Maria Music and Film Festival happening on December 2

There were about 20 short film entries that submitted online via FilmFreeway.com that came from various parts of the World, from different from walks of life namely students, directors, short film makers, commercials and creators for inspirational content.

From the 20 entries, there were about 13 that were selected based on the selection criteria. So what were the criteria for judging the entries and how did they make it into the shortlist?

Judging Guidelines:

● Viewing Window: October 5-20, 2023.

● Rating Criteria: As detailed below.

● Feedback: Encouraged for filmmakers' growth. (Not mandatory)

● Winners: Based on cumulative scores post-judging.

Platform Details:

We're utilizing FilmFreeway for this year's festival. Once confirmed, you'll gain exclusive access to the submitted films. Access to your Judge dashboard has been granted.

Assigned Films:

For multiple films in a category, please use the Rating Criteria. For single-entry categories, employ Merit-Based Evaluation.

Rating Criteria (Multiple Films):

● 10 stars for top choice.

● 9 stars for the next, descending accordingly.

Merit-Based Evaluation (Single Entries):

● Films will be judged on their merits against SMMFF's criteria.

● A score of 85 is required for award consideration.

● Score guide

While optional, we encourage providing constructive feedback to filmmakers.

Here are the Top 7 from the 13 pre-selected films:

1. The Vibe Operator (part 1) - is a student film by Michael Moore from USA. Mike presents "The Vibe Operator," a modern sci-fi rock opera about a disillusioned rockstar leaving Earth for deep space to live out his ego-driven dream.In a future where most have evolved into a collective hive, Android Andrew is inspired by ancient Earth music and rebels against The Collective's oppressive ways.Mike Moore wrote, directed, and performed in the prototype for his master's thesis at Berklee College of Music NYC in 2022, with an album set to release this year.

2. Bitter Brownies by James Carman from USA. In this dark comedy, a devious thief pilfers lunches from the company refrigerator. Staff employees are out for blood. Where will the food bandit strike next?!!!

3. Life Savers by Lukasz Wdowicz, Poland. This is a short commercial about a Granddaughter is up to no good to get out of a family gathering around an ill grandfather at the hospital.

4. Searching for Chunk by Samuel Haft, USA. It's a short documentary about two friends discover an old novelty record on youtube, and in trying to track down the story behind it, accidentally launch themselves into an increasingly surreal investigation.

5. Till the music stop by Emilie De Monsabert from France. A directorial about a witness at her best friend’s wedding, Pauline hopes to enjoy this extraordinary day and to get closer to the handsome Raphael. But it will be hard for her to take her eyes off her disabled daughter Emma, whom she could not bring herself to let keep.

6. Dream On - an inspiration short film by Dale Metz, Sarah - Lee Dobbs, United States. The story goes when Kylie dreams of a career in the performing arts. When her audition letter finally arrives, she struggles to find the confidence to make it happen

7. I Can Do Anything: A Letter to Burning Man - an inspirational film by Alba Roland Mejia, United States. This experimental short film is an intimate, character-focused exploration of the unique black experience at Burning Man. It was not my priority to capture Burning Man itself, but the energy exchange that it has with the present black bodies. My goal is this piece inspires curiosity.

For the attendees, there will be free wine from Barefoot Wine & Arbor Mist. It would be best if you can bring and use your tumbler for mineral water at refilling stations. There will also be samples to be given from Conzace, Nafarin, Immunpro.

First Santa Maria Music and Film Festival happening on December 2

The location

The event will take place at the summit of Sierra Madre. Please note that accessing the location may involve hiking or using designated transportation services. Be ready for the cold winds and possible rains although the place will have tent-like structure. The area is a private property owned by the Maliwanag family.

How to get there

Plan for an effortless journey by checking out the easiest ways to get to the Santa Maria Music & Film Festival, whether by commute or driving. Download the PDF guide from their website https://www.santamariafestival.com/planyourvisit to navigate directions and explore available accommodations, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable festival experience. Kilometer markers and signages are available in the final stretch!

Explore the Unseen: An Exclusive Music and Film Festival in the Heart of Sierra Madre. Tickets are Free, but Seats are Limited! Secure Your Spot at https://www.santamariafestival.com/events/santa-maria-music-film-festival-2

Safety Precautions

Your safety is our utmost priority. We will have trained staff and security personnel on-site to ensure a secure environment. Please follow their instructions and be aware of any safety guidelines provided. There is proper coordination from the local government and you may also ask for assistance for directions on how to get to the event proper.

Weather Considerations

The Sierra Madre region can experience varying weather conditions. It is essential to dress appropriately and come prepared for potential changes in temperature, wind, or precipitation. Bringing layers of clothing, hats, and waterproof gear is recommended.

Wildlife - animals, insects, plants and trees

Sierra Madre is home to diverse wildlife. There might be some animals that may roam around the area. Please give them ample space and we discourage feeding them. Let us respect and preserve life as we appreciate the beauty of nature. Please refrain from picking flowers and insects as they might be harmful to some people.

The whole province of Laguna has a "NO USE OF PLASTIC" ordinance

Please help us reduce plastic waste by refraining from bringing any plastic bottles to the event. Instead, we encourage you to bring your own reusable water bottles or containers.

Water Station for Tumblers

We are happy to inform you that we will have a water station available for refilling your own tumblers or reusable water bottles. Stay hydrated throughout the event while reducing single- use plastic consumption. We also encourage you to bring your own drinking glass if possible.

Designated Smoking and Vaping Area

If you are a smoker or vaper, we have set up a designated area for you to smoke or vape. We request that you use this area before or after the event, rather than during the event. The designated area will be situated away from the cinema and other gathering areas to make sure that everyone can enjoy the event comfortably. Please make sure to extinguish your smoking or vaping materials properly and dispose of them in the ashtrays or containers provided

Medical Team

We have a medical team available at the event to ensure everyone's safety and well-being.If you need medical assistance, please inform a staff member who will quickly contact the medical team. Your health and safety are our top priorities, and we are dedicated to providing a secure environment for all attendees.

No Picnic

Please note that picnicking will not be allowed during the movie screening. We encourage you to enjoy your meals before or after the event at designated areas outside the cinema area.

No Overnight Stay

The event is scheduled for the movie screening only, and overnight stay on the mountain will not be permitted. We kindly ask that you plan your travel accordingly and make arrangements to leave the venue after the movie concludes.

Photography and Enjoyment

Capture the memories of this extraordinary experience through photography, but remember to be considerate of fellow attendees. Avoid obstructing views or causing distractions during the movie screening.

Art installations

Embark on an Art Odyssey: Discover the Hidden Narratives in Our 10 Captivating Installations!

Be on the lookout for the extraordinary as you explore our venue! SMMFF curated 10 thought-provoking art installations, each with a unique story to tell and a deeper meaning to uncover.

Santa Maria Music and Film Festival Art Installation

● See What Others Can't Neon Light: At Santa Maria Open Air Cinema, our mantra "See What Others Can't" merges music, film, and nature for a profound experience beyond typical cinema. Dive into deeper meanings and appreciate life's rich tapestry.

● Midnight Nostalgia Installation: showcasing an aged TV set, a radiant lamp, and an artfully designed chair. This exhibit beautifully captures the sentimentality of late-night movie watching, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a journey through the cinematic past.

● Reflecting the Unseen Mirror: Experience "Reflecting the Unseen" —a big mirror on the ground echoing our mantra. Look into the mirror to enter a world where perspectives shift, and hidden dimensions come to light. Step into the extraordinary with us!

● Orange Umbrella Tree - Life's Resilience: Amidst vibrant festival energy, behold the Orange Umbrella Tree—a dead tree adorned with orange umbrellas, symbolizing life's resilience. It embodies the festival's theme, urging us to 'See what others can't' and find vitality in unexpected places.

● Summit Bear - Festival Guardian: Meet Summit Bear, the festival guardian, sponsored by 'Stories We Tell.' This enchanting bear uses unique outfits to narrate captivating stories in alignment with our vibrant event themes.

● Hay Smiley - Grooving Festival Mascot: Hay Smiley, a vibrant mascot grooving to the festival's rhythm, pays homage to Santa Maria's agricultural heritage. Just as fields yield golden grains, our festival offers musical and cinematic treasures.

● Heritage of Cow and Horse Hangings: Uncover the legacy of cow and horse cloth hangings, bridging past and present at our festival. Sponsored by WearZitee Traveling Clothing Line, these hangings celebrate our rich history.

● Explore the Unseen: Unique Perspective Filters: Unlock your unique perspective at our festival. Explore the unseen with different eyes, using unique filters to capture the vibrant atmosphere in your way.

● Pompon Flower Art - Burst of Color and Creativity: In the dynamic atmosphere of the festival, 'Pompon Flower Art' bursts with color and creativity, mirroring our ethos of 'See what others can't.'

● Skeleton's Corner: A Thought-Provoking Space: Step into 'The Skeleton's Corner,' a designated space for reflection on vaping and smoking choices. Amidst a chilling ambiance, a coffin symbolizes the risks, urging us to prioritize well-being.

● Unconventional Restroom Views: Even our restrooms at Santa Maria Music & Film Festival let you 'See What Others Can't.' Experience unforgettable views in every corner.

Leave only memories behind (Clean As You Go)

As responsible stewards of the environment, we kindly request that you adhere to the principles of "Leave No Trace." Please bring down all your trash, dispose of it properly in designated bins, and avoid any activities that may harm the natural surroundings.

Organized by Zero-In Concept & Production, Stories We Tell in cooperation with Trees for the Future, Tourism Department of Santa Maria Laguna, Turismo Marilag, the local government of Barangay Pao-o, the Philippine National Police of Santa Maria Laguna.

This event would not have been possible without the support of Wearzitee, have a sip of the soon-to-rise World Cup Cafe atop Sierra Madre.

Santa Maria Music and Film Festival organizing committee

Meet the crew of the organizing committee

Headed by Jennifer Maliwanag, who is a multi-awarded director and writer for short films, this is a passion project for her as a film student in Harvard University. Jennifer made it a point that this endeavor will push through with all her team's effort.

She wanted her small voice to be heard that is why the passion driven to see what others can't and a desire to provide a platform for discovering the unseen, exploring the unexplored, championing every voice, and celebrating every story. The first Santa Maria Music and Film Festival here in the Philippines, showcasing the talent of other short film makers is her burning passion to also help other voices be heard, and to inspire fellow Filipinos that perseverance and determination can bring you to International Markets. This is one out of four tracks and she wishes to have this SMMFF every year. Kudos and a salute to you Jen!

In her team, Rex Lopez, cinematic storyteller extraordinaire. Alexander Jude Gotinga, aural connoiseur. Jerico Maliwanag, cousin and a cinema visionary craftsman and Mohammed Abedi, Globetrotting Literary Maestro.

New Product Alert: Savor more than Rice with CHERRY Multi-function Rice Cooker

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Rice continues to be the preferred choice for a basic cuisine in the Philippines. Now, you can name other cravings as CHERRY has added a versatile kitchen must-have, the CHERRY Multi-function Rice Cooker.

The CHERRY Multi-function Rice Cooker is equipped with 9 working modes: Standard, Quick, Porridge, Soup, Slow, Yoghurt, Cake, Steam and Warm. It has a Japanese-style design that complements every kitchen top. Additionally, it comes with a 2L capacity, which is ideal for small to medium households.

Simply measure the rice and water using the measuring cup provided. Place them in the inner pot and select the cooking mode you want using the LED Touchscreen Display. It also features a programmable timer that allows you to set the cooking time according to your preference. Once the cooking is complete, the cooker will automatically switch to the 'keep warm' mode, keeping your food warm and ready to serve.

Save time and do more with the CHERRY Multi-function Rice Cooker for P2,499.

For more information, visit:

CHERRY Shop PH: www.cherryshop.com.ph

Shopee: https://bit.ly/CherryPhShopee

Lazada: https://bit.ly/CherryPhLazada

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Cosmic Technologies Incorporated is a Philippine-based company that carries the brand CHERRY which offers a comprehensive selection of products from Internet of Things (IoT), home, personal and wellness essentials, pet needs, travel necessities to mobile phones. Since 2009, CHERRY continues to build an equilibrium to create one ecosystem.

Drops their first single “Laruan” - Star Pop launches newest P-pop boy group 1621BC

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Kapamilya record label Star Pop has officially introduced its newly formed boy band in the P-pop scene, 1621BC, who dropped their debut single “Laruan” last Friday (Nov. 23).

1621BC is consist of members Pan, Win, Migz, DJ, JM, and JC. The number 1621 pertains to the angel number manifestation that one’s desires and goals are beginning to come true while BC stands for Beyond Complete, which means that the group always aims for perfection.

“Being a new boy band in the P-pop scene, we only have one goal and that is to introduce our songs and music that will make everyone cry, smile, celebrate, dance and sing like it used to be before,” the group said.

Their first single “Laruan,” which was composed and produced by ALAS, tackles the toxicity of a relationship and protecting oneself from dealing heartbreaks.

“Sa generation namin ngayon madami kasi na maling akala at taong paasa kaya no’ng narinig namin yung song, it has become a valid awareness of what is the reality of a relationship nowadays especially with our generation,” 1621BC shared.

As they release their debut single and mark the beginning of their journey as a boy band, the group felt mixed emotions looking back on how their efforts and hard work paid off.

“Sa totoo lang po kahit excited kami, tumatagos pa rin po talaga ang kaba. Yun po siguro talaga ang normal na mararamdaman kasi dugo at pawis po ang binigay po ng lahat, including the people who made this possible for us,” they said.

Feel the energy of 1621BC’s first single “Laruan” available on various streaming platforms. For updates, follow 1621BC on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.

For more details, follow Star Pop on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.

Unleash Your Personality and Style this Holiday Season with HONOR 90 5G!

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The incredible HONOR 90 5G extends its versatility with the introduction of new limited-edition Peacock Blue color. Now available in four colors, HONOR 90 5G reflects the consumer’s personality and needs – suitable for every style of the tech-savvy generation. Great news for HONOR Fans, the leading smart devices provider will also have exclusive deals this Black Friday Sale from November 24 to 26, 2023!

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For your every mood and style, there’s definitely an HONOR 90 5G for you! Get it and other HONOR gadgets at a discounted price this Black Friday Sale!

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“HONOR 90 5G has launched its limited-edition Peacock Blue, in addition to its current 3 stylish colors designed to cater to and match the preferences and personalities of each user. HONOR 90 5G is favored for its features and advanced technology, but it is also competitive in the aesthetic standards of the technology market,” said Stephen Cheng, HONOR Philippines Vice President.

Peacock Blue for those who are not afraid of Color

Peacock Blue is the perfect color for avant-garde enthusiasts. It is unique and sleek, making it a great option for those who channel an energy that stands out among the crowd. HONOR 90 5G Peacock Blue is a limited-edition with a FREE HONOR Gift Box worth Php 2,499 until supplies last.

Midnight Black for the Always-on-the-Go

For the athletic and on-the-go avid users, the longer battery life of HONOR 90 5G can match their energy for up to 2 days, styled with the sleek Midnight Black finish – a classic color for enthusiasts of minimalist taste.

Diamond Silver for the Chic and Classy

Diamond Silver, on the other hand, is a great choice for consumers looking for phones that can match their chic and sophisticated style, with HONOR 90 5G’s triple camera system featuring a 200MP Main Camera with a 1/1.4-inch sensor, a 12 MP ultra-wide and macro camera with a 112° field of view, and a 2MP Depth Camera.

Emerald Green for the Preppy and Earth-tone lovers

There’s also a color for the preppy and earth-tone lovers, the HONOR 90 5G in Emerald Green. As much as green is refreshing to the eyes, HONOR 90 5G is also TÜV Rheinland Certified, passing the low-blue light, flicker-free, refresh rate, color gamut, color accuracy, and ambient light management smart device industry standards.

HONOR Gadgets on Sale this Black Friday!

Consumers can get a whopping Php 9,000 discount on HONOR 70 that comes with a FREE Gift Box worth Php 2,499. While HONOR X6 gets a slash of Php 3,000 – from its original price of Php 6,990 down to just Php 3,990! Moreover, HONOR X9a 5G will be priced at Php 16,340 from Php 16,990 this Black Friday Sale and HONOR Pad X9 will also a great steal at Php 11,590 with a free Magic Keyboard worth Php 2,499.

Lastly, the crowd-favorite HONOR 90 5G will be available for only Php 23,990 from its original price of Php 24,990 with a FREE HONOR Gift Box worth Php 2,499.

Don’t miss out on these exciting deals this Black Friday Sale from November 24 to 26, 2023, available on Shopee (bit.ly/ShopeeHONORBlackFridaySale), Lazada (bit.ly/LazadaHONORBlackFridaySale), TikTok Shop (bit.ly/TikTokHONORBlackFridaySale), and HONOR stores nationwide.

For more announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorphilippines/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.