Lights, Camera, Panalo: Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival introduces finalist directors

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Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival, the much-awaited event that is set to hail a new generation of outstanding Filipino films, officially introduced the recipients of its coveted film grants during a press conference held at the Artson Events Place, Quezon City. 

The full-length filmmakers standing alongside Puregold senior marketing manager Ivy Hayagan-Piedad, festival director Chris Cahilig, representatives from festival partners Optima Digital and Mowelfund, and the Selection Committee.

Attended by representatives from Puregold, the film directors, their respective producers, and other key members of their teams, the press conference highlighted Puregold’s primary objectives: to provide a platform for both well-known and emerging filmmakers, and to showcase narratives—collectively called Kuwentong Panalo—that can touch the heart and remind us of the indomitable Filipino spirit.

From hundreds of CinePanalo applicants, only thirty-one of the very best were selected as finalists. They were formally presented during the event, which also marked the beginning of the final stage of the Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival.

Among the full-length film finalists named during the press conference were Kurt Soberano, a newcomer with his entry, "Under the Piaya Moon," and Eugene Torres with "One Day League: Dead Mother, Dead All". These earned the "Producer's Choice" title, expanding the initial five grant slots to six.

Accompanying them were renowned directors Sigrid Bernardo for "Pushcart Tales," Raynier Brizuela for "Boys at the Back," Joel Ferrer for "Road to Happy," and Carlo Obispo for "A Lab Story”.

Promising new student directors who were likewise introduced are as follows:

● Jenievive B. Adame - "Smokey Journey" (STI College Cubao)

● Ma. Rafaela Mae Abucejo - "Saan Ako Pinaglihi?" (Polytechnic University of the Philippines)

● Alexa Moneii Agaloos - "Ka Benjie" (Polytechnic University of the Philippines)

● Kent Michael Cadungog - "Text FIND DAD and Send to 2366" (University of the Philippines)

● John Pistol L. Carmen - "Repeater si Peter" (Bicol University)

● Chrisha Eseo Cataag - "Hallway Scholar" (Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng San Pablo)

● Patricia W. Dalluay - "Lola, Lola, Paano ba 'Yan?" (Polytechnic University of the Philippines)

● Joanah Pearl Demonteverde - "Kang Pagpuli Ko" (University of the Philippines – Visayas)

● Joshua Andrey A. Doce - "I Am Mutya And I Thank You!" (Bicol State College of Applied Science and Technology)

● Neil M. Espino - "Sa Hindi Paghahangad" (De La Salle Lipa)

● Terrence Gale Fernandez - "Kaibigan ko si Batman" (Polytechnic University of the Philippines)

● Daniel Gil - "Distansya" (Ateneo de Davao University)

● Alexandra Lapid - "Queng Apag" (Mapúa University)

● Reutsche Colle Rigurosa Lima - "Tiil ni Lola" (University of San Carlos)

● Dizelle C. Masilungan - "Kung Nag-aatubili" (University of Santo Tomas)

● Jose Mikyl Medina - "Lutong Bahay" (De La Salle University)

● Ronjay-C Mendiola - "Last Shift" (Polytechnic University of the Philippines)

● Mark Terence Molave - "Paano po gumawa ng collage college?" (Polytechnic University of the Philippines)

● Jhunel Ruth A. Monterde - "Si Mary May Crush Kay Tess" (De La Salle College of Saint Benilde)

● Doxford D. Perlas - "Naduea Eoman Si Brownie (Brownie's Lost Again!)" (University of the Philippines – Visayas)

● Andrea S. Ponce - "Layag sa Pangarap" (Polytechnic University of the Philippines - Sta. Mesa)

● Edz Haniel Teñido Purificacion - "Dzai Dzai Dzai Delilah" (Mapúa Malayan Colleges Laguna)

● John Wilbert Llever Sucaldito - "Tambal nga Sabaw" (Far Eastern University)

● Tyrone Lean J. Taotao - "Abandoned Lullabies" (Polytechnic University of the Philippines - Sta. Mesa)

● Marian Jayce R. Tiongzon - "May Kulay Rosas Ba Sa Bahaghari?" (University of the Philippines – Visayas)

The six full-length film directors received a substantial grant of Php 2,500,000 each, while 25 short film student directors were granted Php 100,000 each. On top of the film grants, all finalists also received complimentary color grading from Optima Digital for their respective films, as well as essential groceries from Puregold to further support them during the production phase.

The finished Puregold CinePanalo full-length and short films will be viewed at a premiere to be held at the Gateway Cinemas in Cubao from March 15 to 17, 2024, followed by potential regional screenings. Short films will also be available on Puregold's official social media channels on YouTube and TikTok.

The distinguished selection committee, comprising veteran film and television director Jeffrey Jethurian; film critic Tito Valiente; award-winning filmmaker Victor Villanueva; Puregold senior marketing manager Ivy Hayagan-Piedad; Lyle Gonzales of Republic Creative; and Puregold CinePanalo festival director Chris Cahilig, played a crucial role in shaping the festival's trajectory.

With the CinePanalo Film Festival, Puregold further strengthens its commitment to fostering local talent, bridging gaps, and bringing authentic Filipino stories to the forefront of the cinematic landscape. The Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival promises to be a celebration of creativity, diversity, and the vibrant spirit of the Filipino people.

Full-length film directors Kurt Soberano, Raynier Brizuela, Sigrid Bernardo, and Eugene Torres; producers VJ Mendoza, Mina Cruz, and Thirdy Rivera; and actor Elora Espano before the official press conference.

 Several of the lucky student directors together before the start of the event.

Some other student directors posing for a photo with festival director Chris Cahilig before the program started.

 Ivy Hayagan-Piedad, senior marketing manager of Puregold, shared inspirational opening remarks to begin the day.

25 student directors were selected from all over the Philippines to participate in the first-ever Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival.

Puregold CinePanalo’s student filmmakers along with Puregold senior marketing manager, Ivy Hayagan-Piedad; festival director Chris Cahilig; representatives from the festival’s partners Optima Digital and Mowelfund; and members of the festival’s Selection Committee.

Direk Sigrid Bernardo, whose feature length film “Pushcart Tales,” will be part of the Puregold CinePanalo.

Direk Raynier Brizuela will be joining the festival with his film “Boys at the Back.”

Producers Mina Cruz and VJ Mendoza came on behalf of Direk Joel Ferrer, whose film “Road to Happy” will feature at the Puregold CinePanalo.

 Direk Carlo Obispo secured a spot in the festival by pitching his film, “A Lab Story.”

Direk Kurt Soberano’s “Under a Piaya Moon” is part of the inaugural Puregold CinePanalo line up.

Direk Eugene Torres’ film “One Day League: Dead Mother, Dead All” was added to the line up as a Producer’s Choice selection.

Left to right: Raynier Brizuela, Carlo Obispo, Sigrid Bernardo, VJ Mendoza, Mina Cruz, Kurt Soberano, and Eugene Torres, representing the full-length productions participating in the Puregold CinePanalo.

 Left to right: Chris Cahilig, festival director; Ivy-Hayagan Piedad, senior marketing manager for Puregold; Direk Emmanuel Dela Cruz, Sir Tito Valiente, and Direk Victor Villanueva of the Selection Committee; Bianca Francisco and Ruel Yap of Optima Digital; and Direk Ricky Orellana of Mowelfund at the presentation of Puregold CinePanalo filmmakers.

Ivy Hayagan-Piedad alongside the student filmmakers who received financial grants from Puregold to fund their film projects.

Full-length directors Raynier Brizuela, Sigrid Bernardo, Carlo Obispo, Kurt Soberano, and producers VJ Mendoza and Mina Cruz, taking a selfie with Ivy Hayagan-Piedad, Chris Cahilig, Victor Villanueva, Emmanuel Dela Cruz, and Tito Valiente.

Jackie Chan joins HONOR as the newest Year of the Dragon Ambassador

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Another big move in the New Year! HONOR officially announces Jackie Chan as the Dragon Year Ambassador in China

The No. 1 smartphone brand in China, HONOR, officially announced that Jackie Chan is the brand’s Year of the Dragon Ambassador during the HONOR Magic6 series and HONOR Porsche Design launch.

In order to connect technology to more consumers, HONOR has launched a series of New Year-themed activities, services, and benefits in the past. For this year, HONOR prepared a magical New Year's Eve light show that combines modern technology and traditional architecture at the Taiyuan LIFE store. It was a visual feast aimed to bridge technology and art, and the collision of classics and the future to accompany consumers in 2023. On New Year's Eve, HONOR also road-tested HONOR 100 series smartphones equipped with SLR-level photo cameras to help customers take breathtaking New Year's photos.

In light of the symbolism of Dragon being a high-raking status, HONOR introduces Jackie Chan as the brand’s Year of the Dragon Ambassador in China, not only because the award-winning actor live up to the stature of a Dragon but also has the heart that constantly pursues excellence.

In the coming months, HONOR will work with Year of the Dragon Ambassador Jackie Chan to bring a series of exciting activities for HONOR fans and tech enthusiasts alike in China.

For more exciting news and announcements, head on to HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms for exciting announcements: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

TPB hosts Pasasalamat 2024, an Exclusive Media and Influencers Appreciation Day

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The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines organized a one-of-a-kind Thanksgiving event for its media partners and content creators on 18 January 2024 at the BGC Immersive Exhibit in Taguig City, an event dedicated to expressing gratitude for their unwavering support of the tourism industry and their attendance and coverage of TPB events throughout the year.

Photo from Tourism Promotions Board Philippines

Guests witnessed an immersive experience of the country’s tourism campaign “Love the Philippines” from a tableau of cultural performances from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao to a visual-auditory 180-degree experience with the Philippine Virtual Tours. The main hall had a 360-degree immersive screen, showing a vibrant and interactive presentation of TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor-Nograles on the agency’s 2023 achievements and upcoming programs.

“The keys to any successful endeavor are strong partnerships and collaboration. We hope that we can continue to count on your support as we promote our beautiful country together. Thank you for being part of our 2023 journey and we look forward to sharing more of our country’s amazing stories so we can show the world all the reasons to see and love the Philippines,” said TPB COO Nograles.

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, in her keynote remarks, lauded Nograles’ exemplary leadership in tourism promotions towards the agency’s outstanding achievements in 2023. She also emphasized the crucial role of the media and social media in promoting the country’s tourism brand and recognized their power to disseminate positive news about the country. She underscored how influencers play a vital role in destination marketing, inspiring travelers worldwide to explore both renowned and lesser-known tourist destinations.

In attendance were esteemed guests including DOT Undersecretary Ferdinand Jumapao, media, influencers, content creators, and travel bloggers. The Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group also delivered a lively performance in the immersive halls.

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About TPB Philippines

An attached agency of the Department of Tourism, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) is dedicated to promoting the Philippines both domestically and internationally as a world-class tourism and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) destination. TPB collaborates closely with private and public stakeholders to provide an exceptional, high-value experience for visitors, contributing significantly to increased tourist arrivals, receipts, and investments in the country. For more information, please visit www.tpb.gov.ph.

Explore Love and Self-Discovery in 2024: Must-Visit Places from Your Favorite Filipino Movies

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As we step into the new year, it's the perfect time to map out your adventures for 2024. If 2023 was all about Revenge Travel to make up for lost time, 2024 is being hailed as the year for more personal travels. Booking.com's Travel Predictions for 2024 suggest a shift towards journeys motivated by a quest for deeper connections and self-discovery.

If you’re already planning your travels to find love or find yourself and need a little inspiration on where to go, here are some Filipino films that not only brought compelling stories of love but also highlighted how the destination itself (and the journey of getting there) is sometimes all that one needs to find what they’re looking for.

“Traveling is all about personal experiences. Whether you're with friends or going solo, there's always something special you discover along the way, giving you unique moments and memories. As a regional insurtech, we at Igloo, are all about providing people-first insurance services and making sure everyone can have those amazing experiences without dealing with the hassles that can mess up trips. This is why we created Travel Master, because we want to provide our travelers a stress-free experience and let them enjoy the best adventures without any interruptions,” said Mario Berta, Igloo Philippines Country Manager.

Developed in collaboration with GCash and Malayan Insurance, Travel Master offers coverage for travelers, encompassing personal accidents, flight delays, lost luggage, emergency medical treatment, hospital cash allowance, travel inconvenience benefits, and protection against COVID-19.

To get Travel Master coverage, just go to the GInsure page in your GCash app. Choose Travel and select Travel Master. Fill out the form with your travel info, and it'll quickly show you the coverage benefits and the premium cost. Once that's done, you're good to go.

Whether you're heading out locally or internationally, Travel Master is there for you, making it a flexible and essential travel companion wherever your journey takes you.

Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte - Broken Hearts Trip (2023)

Maira-ira beach, Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte/ Source: Blue Lagoon Inn and Restaurant, Klook

One of the entries for this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), Broken Hearts Trip, is a story about five LGBTQ individuals who are given the chance to heal from their heartbreaks as they journey across the Philippines. One of the spots they explored is Pagudpud in Ilocos Norte, often referred to as the "Boracay of the North." Accessible via land and air, Pagudpud is famed for its stunning beaches, including Maira-ira (commonly known as Blue Lagoon), Saud, and Pansian. These beaches boast white sands and emerald waters, making them an ideal retreat for those seeking solitude with their thoughts or desiring more intimate moments with loved ones as unlike other Filipino beach destinations, Pagudpud tends to be less crowded, offering a tranquil escape.

Fujiyoshida City, Japan – When I Met You in Tokyo (2023)

Chureito Pagoda, Fujiyoshida City, Japan/ Source: Japan Guide

Another entry from this year’s MMFF brings us not only a tale of finding love at the most unexpected times but finding love in some of the most beautiful places in the world. In When I Met You in Tokyo, two old hearts–one battered and bruised and one lonely and seeking comfort–find each other in Tokyo. While much of the story took place in the Japanese capital, the film also took its audience to Fujiyoshida City and the famous Chureito Pagoda, basking in the majestic view of Mount Fuji. A 2-hour train ride from Tokyo, the city offers spectacular views of the mountain. The best time to visit is either during the cherry blossom season in mid-April or in the first half of November to experience the changing colors of autumn. Here, like the stars of When I Met You in Tokyo, you may be able to find healing from past hurts and discover new beginnings against the backdrop of one of the most beautiful sights in the world.

Sagada, Mountain Province - Write About Love (2019)

Sagada, Mountain Province/ Source: Gem Muzones, Guide to the Philippines

In Write About Love, an aspiring writer sought help from a veteran yet disillusioned indie film writer to complete an unfinished script for a love story. Their collaboration eventually led them to a pilgrimage to Sagada, where upon seeing the magnificent sunset and sea of clouds, allowed the two writers to reconcile their personal issues and figure out the ending for their own love stories. For travellers who want a little more adventure and don’t mind putting in the work just to experience breathtaking views, there’s Sagada. A small town in the mountains of Mountain Province, Sagada requires more than a half day’s ride from Manila and another couple of hours trekking to get to the top of Marlboro Hills, the highest point of the town and provides an unobstructed view of sunrise and a sea of clouds.

San Juan, La Union - I’m Drunk I Love You (2017)

San Juan Beach, La Union/ Source: La Union Tayo.com.ph

A beloved romantic drama film, I’m Drunk I Love You is all about taking the chance before it’s too late. The movie revolves around two college best friends who embarked on a final road trip to San Juan, La Union, aiming to determine if their bond will remain platonic or evolve into something more. While La Union, also known as Elyu, has earned its reputation as one of the Philippines' top surfing spots, "I'm Drunk I Love You" shines a spotlight on the town's laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere. Here, bars resonate with reggae beats, serve delectable food, and are adorned with eclectic decorations reflecting both local and foreign influences.

Beyond the shoreline (surprising as it may sound), you can explore more of La Union's natural beauty by trekking to the impressive 40-feet high Tangadan Falls. With its unique blend of attractions, it's no wonder La Union has become a go-to destination, providing a comforting retreat for many travelers.

Barcelona, Spain - Barcelona: A Love Untold (2016)

Park Güell, Barcelona/ Source: Getty Images, Conde Nast Traveler

Set within the romantic and vibrant city that is Barcelona, Barcelona: A Love Untold is about two people each carrying their own emotional baggage, viewing the city as either a distraction or a chance for a fresh start. Amid the colorful ambiance of the capital of Catalonia, it becomes the setting for two people seeking different things but irresistibly drawn to each other. With Barcelona’s vibrance, it's no wonder that so many people come to immerse themselves in its rich culture. From the stunning mosaics of Park Güell to the timeless art at the Picasso Museum, there's an abundance of beauty to explore and enjoy. Barcelona is not just a city to appreciate art and culture; it's also an ideal place to discover love or realize that, like Gaudi's Sagrada Familia, you're also a beautiful work-in-progress.

Learn more about Travel Master by visiting the GCash GInsure Marketplace and ensure that your trips to find love or find yourself are seamless and hassle-free.

CHERRY started the year with added security and peace of mind

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CHERRY brings a wave of innovation with each passing year, and 2024 is set to be a year of living smart. Whether for an early adopter or a tech enthusiast, these CHERRY smart security camera must-haves can assist homeowners in taking charge of their safety.

CHERRY Smart Flexi Camera. It brings the power of remote monitoring to your fingertips. Highlighting a 1080P Full HD Camera, you can see vivid and accurate videos. It also has two-way audio that allows you to communicate with anyone at home real-time. Get this for P1,499.

CHERRY Smart Outdoor Camera. With a 4MP camera and colorful night vision, it provides clear video playback and live streaming capabilities, day or night. Its intelligent auto-tracking feature can capture wide viewing angle of 360° pan and 100° tilt. Monitor your home the smart way for just P1,620.

CHERRY Smart Bullet S2 Camera. Keep an eye out for both indoor and outdoor. This device features 3MP video quality and a wide viewing angle with a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi wireless connection. Moreover, it supports two-way audio, 24/7 video recording, and Tuya cloud storage for motion-detected recordings. It is also flexible to install with wall screws. Cap this for P1,610.

CHERRY Smart Baby Camera. Parenting is a joyous journey, but it comes with its own set of challenges, especially for those leading busy lives. Luckily, the CHERRY Smart Baby Camera has a sharp and clear Full 1080P Full HD video quality. In addition, it offers two-way audio to help parents who are going back to work avoid the dreaded separation anxiety. Get this now for P1,405.

CHERRY Smart Swivel S4. Watch live security camera feeds and get warnings for any questionable activity with its Intelligent auto-tracking with wide view angle: Horizontal 355°, Vertical 85°. Additionally, you can choose from the colors gray for P1,649 and a limited-edition color yellow for P1,759.

CHERRY Smart Battery Camera. With a rechargeable 9,000mAh battery capacity, this camera can withstand even an extended power cut. It can take high-quality 1080p videos and capture sound using its built-in microphone. Moreover, it can recognize human movement with its AI human body detection feature. Get yours for P3,999.

All of these smart security cameras are easily controlled and monitored with your smartphone through the CHERRY IoT Solutions App, which you can download for free from the Google Play Store and the App Store.

Security is paramount in the fast-paced world we live in, choose from these vigilant guardians and protect what matters most.

For more information, visit:

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