Kuya Kim Takes On MOVE IT’s Rider Onboarding, Proves It’s No Easy Pass

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From background checks to backriding drills, veteran journalist and motorcycle enthusiast Kuya Kim Atienza experiences the full weight of MOVE IT’s gold-standard onboarding process

Kuya Kim recently visited MOVE IT’s onboarding center to personally undergo the platform’s rigorous rider certification process—from vehicle inspections to road safety and skills assessment

Homegrown motorcycle taxi platform MOVE IT, as part of its commitment to the high standards of road safety and industry-leading driver quality, teamed up with veteran journalist and motorcycle enthusiast Kuya Kim Atienza to have him personally experience the rigor of the platform’s driver assessment and onboarding process.

Known for his love of motorcycles and dedication to public service, Kuya Kim went through MOVE IT’s six-step rider onboarding program — proving firsthand that MOVE IT doesn’t hand out Ka-MOVE IT gear lightly.

In a recent vlog he posted on his Facebook page, Kuya Kim showed how he endured the six-part MOVE IT driver assessment process:

●     Document Screening: MOVE IT mandates 100% compliance for aspiring riders — including NBI, police, and CIBI clearance. All aspiring MOVE IT riders are required to undergo drug and health testing upon application and every six months thereafter.

●     Vehicle Inspection: All units must pass roadworthiness checks aligned with standards of the Motorcycle Taxi Pilot Study.

●     Skills Assessment: Kuya Kim took on real-world riding tests, including backriding drills, vehicle control, and road-readiness evaluations.

●     Training & Orientation: He sat in a classroom session that covered road safety protocols, passenger service, and app navigation. Riders are also required to undergo an annual mandatory retraining program.

●     Account Activation: Only after clearing all prior stages is a rider's account activated.

●     Gear Release: MOVE IT provides free, high-grade safety gear as part of its commitment to professionalizing moto-taxi riding.

The Verdict: Even a veteran like Kuya Kim had to earn his stripes.

Alongside the vlog, Kuya Kim also unveiled I-Sumbong Mo sa MOVE IT — a new, accessible feedback channel on Facebook Messenger that lets passengers report safety-related concerns and driver-focused experience. This complements existing tools like in-app ratings and the “Report an Issue” feature.

Clara Benin's "befriending my tears (and then some)" to be released on Vinyl by Backspacer Records

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Critically acclaimed sophomore album available on vinyl beginning August 17, 2025

Filipino singer-songwriter Clara Benin will be releasing her sophomore album, befriending my tears (and then some), on vinyl for the first time this August 17, 2025, in partnership with independent vinyl retailer Backspacer Records.

First released digitally in August 2023 under OFFMUTE (a pan-regional label under Sony Music Entertainment), befriending my tears received widespread acclaim for its emotionally resonant songwriting and intimate production. The release marked a significant milestone in Benin’s artistic evolution, highlighting her growth not only as a vocalist and songwriter but also as a producer and creative collaborator.

The album explores themes of vulnerability, self-acceptance, and emotional healing through minimalist yet immersive arrangements. With contributions from Gabba Santiago, Sam and Tim Marquez of One Click Straight, and Francis Lorenzo, the album presents a sonic palette that balances ethereal textures with Benin’s trademark subtlety and sincerity.

“This album holds some of my most personal work,” shares Benin. “It brings together songs written in different chapters of my life, from college to the pandemic, and pieces them into a cohesive story of learning to embrace all that I am.”

The vinyl edition features the expanded and then some version, including remixes, early demos, and live recordings. It also includes three bonus tracks exclusive to the physical format, full-color artwork, and detailed liner notes that further contextualize the project’s creative process.

Among the standout tracks is “blink,” which won Best Engineered Recording at the 2022 Awit Awards, alongside fan favorites such as “imposter syndrome” and “small town.”

This marks Clara Benin’s second studio album following her debut Human Eyes and several successful EPs. Over the years, Benin has cemented her reputation as one of the most respected voices in the Philippine music scene, with her work earning recognition across Southeast Asia.

Clara Benin’s befriending my tears (and then some) vinyl — featuring a new layout by Mia Claravall-Reyes — will be available exclusively at Backspacer Records (backspacerrecords.com) starting August 17, 2025.

BINI with ‘Shagidi’, new music video

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The Philippines’ hottest girl group BINI unleashes their fierce and charismatic side in the newly dropped music video for their latest single “Shagidi,” now streaming on their official YouTube channel.

The colorful and eye-catching video, which was conceptualized by YouMeUs MNL, shows the members Aiah, Colet, Maloi, Gwen, Stacey, Mikha, Jhoanna, and Sheena unleash their hip dance moves as they mimic the Filipino game “Shagidi Shagidi Shapopo” in a skate park.

“We want to find ways to reflect who we are and where we come from. For our Filipino fans, we hope it sparks pride and for our foreign audience, we want it to be a gateway for them to be curious about our country,” Jhoanna said.

“We want to explore new things and ‘Shagidi’ brought us a new BINI flavor and personality. It gave us a chance to explore a fiercer side of ourselves in this song and video,” Aiah added.

“Shagidi” was first released in June as a tour single for the group’s “BINIverse World Tour,” which has brought them to Dubai, London, and various cities across US and Canada. The song was born from a songwriting camp in Davao, Philippines with composers Marqueze Parker, Tommy Brown, Courtin Jabrae, JBach, and Angela Ken.

The new music video follows their recent wins in The New Hue Video Music Awards for Group Artist of the Year and Concert of the Year. BINI also brought home the OPM Artist of the Year and PPop Artist of the Year at the Monster RX 93.1’s Monster Music Awards 2024.

They also continue to receive international recognition as they notched five nominations at the Jupiter Music Awards 2025 including Female Group of the Year, Album of the Year for “BINIVerse,” Song of the Year, Collaboration of the Year, and Music Video of the Year for “Cherry On Top (BINIMo Remix feat. Agnez Mo).

Check out the “Shagidi” music video on BINI Official YouTube channel.

Black Mafia Family Season 4 Brings More of the Real-Life Drama of America's Biggest Drug Empire

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Discover how an ambitious dream of power and wealth built one of the most infamous crime empires in history.

You may have heard about hit shows inspired by real-life stories of crime and power, but the tale of the Black Mafia Family (BMF) is one you shouldn't miss—even if it's your first time learning about it.

The BMF story has captured headlines in the United States for decades, and now, the award-winning drama series based on their true events is streaming in the Philippines! Black Mafia Family Season 4 has landed on Lionsgate Play, with the finale arriving August 15.

So, why should Pinoys tune in? Let’s take a closer look.

Who Were the Black Mafia Family?

The Black Mafia Family was one of the most powerful drug empires in the United States during the late ‘80s to early 2000s. BMF was founded in Detroit, Michigan by two brothers, Demetrius “Big Meech” Flenory and Terry “Southwest T” Flenory. The brothers came from humble beginnings, and in their search for a better life, they entered the world of the illegal drug trade.

What began as small-scale dealing quickly grew into a highly organized network. At its peak, BMF was distributing massive amounts of cocaine throughout the United States, with operations stretching to cities like Los Angeles, Atlanta, and Miami. Police estimated that the organization had moved drugs worth millions of dollars and controlled a huge part of the illegal drug market.

But their activities weren’t just about crime. Unlike other crime groups, the Black Mafia Family gained an almost mythical status for maintaining a drug empire while having deep connections to the music industry. They launched BMF Entertainment, a legitimate record label, and mingled with top artists and celebrities, including Jay-Z, Diddy, and Young Jeezy.

However, beneath the glitz and glamor, tensions within the family began to rise. While Demetrius loved the spotlight, Terry was more discreet and wanted to focus on the logistics of their drug empire. This clash ultimately created cracks in their tight-knit operation.

BMF’s growing fame soon made them a target for police crackdowns, and eventually led to the arrests of Demetrius and Terry in 2005. Both were sentenced to 30 years in prison for drug trafficking and money laundering, bringing one of America’s largest criminal empires to an end.

Even after their downfall, the story of BMF lives on, serving as a cautionary tale about the price of power and the importance of family.

Season 4 on Lionsgate Play: Why Filipinos Should Watch

If you love action-packed dramas and true crime stories, it's time to tune in to Black Mafia Family. Produced by Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson, the series cinematically shows not just the glitz and danger, but also the emotional struggles of the Flenory brothers.

Now's the perfect time to jump in, because Season 4 is being hailed as the series' most mature and emotional chapter yet. Expect dramatic confrontations, shocking twists, and moments that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Tune in to Lionsgate Play find out why the rise and fall of the Black Mafia Family continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

Golden Haven to Launch New Memorial Park in Davao City

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Golden Haven, the country’s award-winning developer of the most beautiful memorial parks, is set to unveil its latest masterpiece in Purok New Visayas, Barangay Acacia, Buhangin District, Davao City.

Renowned as the pioneer in themed memorial developments, Golden Haven continues its legacy with a brand-new themed park in Davao—details of the theme remain a surprise, with an exciting reveal to come soon.

Golden Haven Memorial Park General Santos

“The upcoming launch of Golden Haven Davao is part of our mission to fulfill what it truly means to be the gold standard in memorial care,” said Emy Lustado, VisMin Operations Head of Golden Haven. “Our vision is to see a Golden Haven in every hometown—providing healing spaces for the living, a beautiful and dignified resting place for every Filipino, and new livelihood opportunities for Davaoeños. We also aim to help more families embrace the importance of pre-need planning, giving them peace of mind and preparedness for the future.”

Golden Haven Memorial Park Tagum

More than just a resting place, Golden Haven properties are smart investments. Known for their exceptional design, strategic locations, and high value appreciation, averaging 20% annually. The upcoming launch in Davao is expected to attract both investors and individuals planning ahead for future needs.

Pre-selling will begin soon, offering early buyers the advantage of introductory prices. Golden Haven advises those interested to monitor official announcements for updates and availability.

Golden Haven Memorial Park Cebu

For inquiries and updates, follow Golden Haven on social media, visit www.goldenhaven.com.ph, or contact them at 0917-828-4527.