Final Showdown: Mister Pilipinas Worldwide 2025 Set for April 28

The summer heat is officially on — and so is the excitement for the third edition of Mister Pilipinas Worldwide!

As the temperatures rise, so does the anticipation for one of the country’s most prestigious male pageants. The third edition of Mister Pilipinas Worldwide is set to take center stage on April 28 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater in Pasay City.

This year, 27 distinguished gentlemen from across the Philippines and various Filipino communities around the world are vying for the chance to represent the country in some of the top international male pageants—including Mister Global, Mister International (Thailand), Manhunt International, Mister Cosmopolitan, Man of the Year, and the highly coveted Mister Supranational title.

Who among these 27 contenders will earn the honor of carrying the Philippine flag on the global stage?

And finally — yes, finally! — the men of Mister Pilipinas Worldwide have turned up the heat even more with the release of their underwear and beach photo sets, shot against the breathtaking backdrop of Boracay. Could this be a sign that we’ll be seeing these gorgeous gents strut in swimwear and show off their physiques on finals night? We’re crossing our fingers!

In the meantime, don’t miss the latest photo set featuring our favorite Mister Pilipinas Worldwide candidates sizzling hot below.

New Kings Rise: 2025 King of the World Philippines Winners Crowned

 New Kings Crowned at the Second Edition of King of the World Philippines

The highly anticipated coronation of the second King of the World Philippines has officially taken place. Joeren King Finney of Negros Oriental succeeded last year's winner, Howell Adrian Pantolana, and was crowned the new King of the World Philippines.

True to his name, Joeren King Finney rose to the occasion, besting 36 other candidates to claim the coveted title.

The coronation night, held on Sunday, April 13, at La Sala Grande Events Place in Sta. Lucia, was a grand celebration of beauty, wit, and charisma.

In addition to Joeren Finney's victory, several other deserving titles were also awarded. Drei Arias of Malolos City was crowned KOTWPH Model Discovery, while Andy Mediamar of San Jose Del Monte City claimed the title of KOTWPH Face of the Year. Another Bulakenyo, Paul John Galang, took home the title of KOTWPH Supermodel, and rounding out the top 5 was Kent Magno from Pasig City, who was named KOTWPH Tourism.

A total of 10 winners were crowned during the event. In addition to the first five, Juma Matar Del Mundo of Rizal Province was named KOTWPH Charity, Miko Jardin of Quezon Province claimed the title of KOTWPH Culture, and Khane Timothy De Paz from Sta. Rosa City was crowned KOTWPH Heritage. Completing the top 10 winners were 1st runner-up Godwin Jay Hernandez of Candelaria, Quezon and 2nd runner-up Joseph Mangahas of Bustos, Bulacan.

Bea Ocampo and Dave Franco Reign Supreme at the Ginoo at Binibining Rizal 2025.

All Hail Rizal’s Newest Royal Pair! Bea Ocampo and Dave Franco Reign Supreme at the Ginoo at Binibining Rizal 2025. 

Dave Franco of Cainta and Bea Ocampo of Mayamot, Antipolo were officially crowned as the inaugural Ginoong Rizal and Binibining Rizal during the grand coronation night held at Loreland Farm Resort in Antipolo City. 

Joining them in the royal court are Kyle Lipata and Shereenia Mae Valerio, both representing San Mateo, who were crowned as Ginoo at Binibining Rizal Tourism. 

Completing the top titles are Sarah Al Khatri of Lower San Jose, Antipolo, who took home the crown for Binibining Rizal Charity, and Julius Irvin Lirio, who was awarded the title of Ginoong Rizal Charity.

These newly crowned ambassadors are set to represent the province of Rizal on the national stage as they compete in different national pageantslater this year.

David Licauco To Release Debut Single “I Think I Love You”

 

Kapuso actor David Licauco is ready to take his artistic journey to new heights with the release of his debut single "I Think I Love You." The track is set to drop on May 16, 2025, under Universal Records Philippines, marking an exciting new chapter in David’s colorful career.

Apart from being a TV and movie actor (his movie Samahan ng Mga Makasalanan is showing in cinemas nationwide starting April 19), David is also an in-demand brand endorser and model, who set the stage on fire at the recent Bench Body of Work show. Maintaining an active lifestyle that includes playing basketball and traveling with family and friends, he is also a successful entrepreneur who owns businesses like Sobra Cafe and Kuya Korea. His ability to juggle multiple passions is truly a testament to his exceptional time management skills and dedication to living life to the fullest.

Fans of David may already know that he sings, since he sang “Kailangan Kita” for the OST of his popular hit series Maria Clara at Ibarra. With "I Think I Love You," the Pambansang Ginoo is set to showcase his growth as a singer.

“I Think I Love You” combines David’s romantic heart with music. The track promises to be an upbeat, synth-pop, danceable song that will get the TikTok audience grooving. While fans know David as a cool, calm, and collected individual, this song offers a glimpse into a more thrilling, energetic side of him. While the track has yet to be released, anticipation is already building it.

As David embarks on this new artistic venture, fans can expect to hear and see a new side of the beloved artist. His captivating personality and stunning visuals are just the beginning — prepare yourselves for a showcase of his vocal talent through “I Think I Love You.”

Anisama World 2025: The World's Biggest Anime Music Festival Is Coming to Manila

ANISAMA WORLD 2025
WORLDS’S BIGGEST ANIME MUSIC FESTIVAL 

COMING TO MANILA

Good News Philippines – The World’s Biggest Japanese Anime Music Festival, ANISAMA, is finally coming to Manila for the first time on June 7, 2025 Saturday at the Araneta Coliseum. ANISAMA WORLD 2025 in MANILA will feature fan favorites and well-known anime music artists including FLOW, ASH DA HERO, Ave Mujica, nobodyknows+, HIROSHI KITADANI, TOSHIYA MIYATA, MindaRyn and Mayu Maeshima. Presented by Wilbros Live. Tickets go on-sale Saturday, April 12, 11AM via TicketNet.com.ph and TicketNet outlets nationwide.

 

Animelo Summer Live, also known as ANISAMA, is the biggest annual anime music festival in Japan. Animelo Summer Live has been held every summer since 2005 in Japan  and has featured the biggest and most-sought after names in the anime and gaming music world. Now in its 20th year, Animelo Summer Live has spread its wings globally as ANISAMA WORLD, bringing the celebration to the Philippines.

 

FLOW – Japanese rock band famous for their songs “GO!!!” (opening theme for NARUTO) and “COLORS” (opening theme for CODE GEASS Lelouch of Rebellion), solidifying their status in the anime music history.

 

ASH DA HERO – Japanese rock band behind the hits “Judgement” (opening theme for Blue Lock) and Beast Mode / Octave (from Blue Lock: Nagi).

 

Ave Mujica – Girl band from BanG Dream! series. Catch their much-awaited performance featuring heavy sounds unlike any other anime songs!

 

nobodyknows+ - Japanese hip-hop group best known for their breakthrough song “Hero’s Come Back!!” (opening theme for NARUTO: Shippuden) and “Kokoro Odoru” (from SD Gundam Force).

 

HIROSHI KITADANI – Renowned Japanese vocalist and JAM Project member, best known for his iconic anthem “We Are!” (the first opening theme for ONE PIECE).

 

TOSHIYA MIYATA – Japanese singer and actor, member of popular boy-group Kis-My-Ft2. Voice actor in “Cardfight!! Vanguard Divinez” and “Kinnikuman”, which were highly praised. He made his first solo appearance at ANISAMA 2024 and performed “Nemophila / Miyata Toshiya (Kis-My-Ft2) feat. Ichinose Tokiya (ST☆RISH) along with a splendid dance!

 

MindaRyn – Thai anisong singer, the voice behind the theme song “Like Flames” for That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime, “Blue Rose Notes” for By the Grace of the Gods and many more.

 

Mayu Maeshima – Former lead vocalist of pop-rock band MYTH & ROID, the voice behind  the beautiful song Styx Helix for the anime Re:Zero – Starting Life in Another World and other songs featured on animes Full Dive, Overlord and Uncle from Another World.

    

Ticket Prices: P10,000 (VIP Standing) | P12,000 (VIP Seated A) | P10,000 (VIP Seated B) | P8,000 (Lower Box Premium) | P6,000 (Lower Box Regular) | P4,000 (Upper Box) | P2,000 (General Admission – Free Seating) – exclusive of ticketing charges. Fan Benefits include Special Encore (for all VIP ticketholders), Group Photo (by raffle), Signed Poster (by raffle), VIP ID & Lanyard (for all VIP ticketholders), and Exclusive Photocard (for ALL ticketholders).  

 

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Second Time's the Charm: Justine Pontejos Claims Mister Batangas 2025 Title

 

The second time was the charm for Justine Pontejos of Malvar, as he finally took home the coveted Mister Batangas 2025 title in his second attempt.

The 22-year-old barista and Air Force reservist overcame past setbacks, defeating 26 other candidates from across Batangas to earn the opportunity to represent his province on the national stage.

Justine’s second try was much sweeter, especially after the heartbreak of the previous year, when he went home empty-handed. Reflecting on that loss, Justine admits that he struggled with anxiety, questioning what went wrong and what was wrong with him. However, instead of allowing the defeat to discourage him, he used it as motivation to become the best version of himself.

He focused on improving his physical fitness and communication skills, which served as major confidence boosters. Justine’s hard work clearly paid off as he captivated the stage throughout the competition, earning several special awards and, of course, claiming nearly all of the major awards, including Best in Swimwear and Best in Formal Wear.

Now that he has won Mister Batangas, Justine is deeply grateful for everyone who supported him throughout his comeback journey—his family, friends, and all those who guided him along the way and celebrated this victory with him.

Next stop for Justine is the Mister International Philippines 2025 pageant happening this July. 

Deception, Ambition, and Guilt Haunt Jodi Sta Maria in 'Untold,' Coming to Cinemas April 30.

Do you sin? Do you lie? What if the dead comes after you to reveal it all? 

Vivian Vera (Jodi Sta Maria) is a driven journalist with one goal in mind: to make a name for herself in the competitive world of news. Ambitious and determined, she's willing to go to any lengths to succeed — even if it means distorting the truth to craft a sensational story. But what she doesn’t realize is that her manipulation of the facts will come at a heavy cost. As the stories she has twisted begin to unravel, the truth she distorted starts to haunt her, and she finds herself facing the consequences of her actions in ways she never expected.

Will the truth finally come to light, or will Vivian's dark secrets remain untold?

"Untold" is a psychological horror-thriller that stars Jodi Sta Maria in her first collaboration with Regal Entertainment Inc.. The film is also one of the last three projects personally approved by the Regal Matriarch, Mother Lily Monteverde, before her passing last year, adding a layer of significance to its release.

Directed by Derrick Cabrido, who previously worked with Jodi on the 2019 hit "Clarita", this film explores the chilling consequences of deceit, ambition, and guilt. Aside from Jodi, the movie also features Joem Bascon, Juan Karlos, Mylene Dizon, Kaori Oinuma, Sarah Edwards, Lianne Valentin, and Ms. Gloria Diaz.

"Untold" will be exclusively screening in cinemas this April 30!

Watch the trailer here: 

David Licauco leads "Samahan ng mga Makasalanan" in cinemas April 29

 

A young deacon, Sam (Licauco) was sent to Santo Cristo a beautiful town plague with sinners specially in the red district called "Kalye Makasalanan" where everything bad, from prostitution, scamming, gambling, theft, name it they have it.  

Sam was tasked to make these sinners repent, change their lives for the better and leave their wrong doings. upon realizing the extent of the problem, the young deacon decides to create a church group called "Samahan ng Makasalanan", a group of sinners that he will help change and will be given a second chance in life.

Will Sam be able to give hope and restore the faith of these sinners in Kalye Makasalanan? 

"Samahan ng mga Makasalanan" stars David Licauco as Reverend Sam, the movie is produced by GMA Pictures. directed by Benedict Mique, and will be shown in cinemas Black Saturday, April 19. 

The movie also stars Sanya Lopez, Soliman Cruz, Betong Sumaya, Buboy Villar, Chariz Solomon, Liezel Lopez, Jun Sabayton, Jay Ortega, Euwann Mikael, Chanty Videla, Jade Tecson, David Shouder, Shernan Gaite, Abdul and Marsy, Christian Singson, Yian Gabriel, Jerome Esguerra, and Joel Torre. 

Watch the trailer here: 

Mariah Carey: The Celebration of Mimi Live in Manila this October

MARIAH CAREY
THE CELEBRATION OF MIMI

LIVE IN MANILA 2025

The best-selling female artist of all time, MARIAH CAREY is bringing THE CELEBRATION OF MIMI tour to MANILA on October 14, 2025 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. Presented by Wilbros Live. Ticket details will be announced soon and will be available via SMTickets.com and SM Tickets outlets nationwide.

 

Mariah Carey is an author, entrepreneur, philanthropist, producer and multiple award-winning artist and songwriter. She has sold more than 200 million albums to-date and 19 Billboard Hot 100 #1 singles (18 of which are self-penned) - more than any solo artist in history. With her distinct five-octave vocal range, prolific songwriting, and producing talent, Carey is truly the template of the modern pop performance. Mariah is also an inductee to the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and has been recognized with multiple Grammy Awards, numerous American Music Awards, three Guinness World Record titles, both Billboard’s “Artist of the Decade” and “Icon" awards, the World Music Award for “World's Best Selling Female Artist of the Millennium,” the Ivor Novello Award for “PRS for Music Special International Award,” and BMI’s “Icon Award” for her outstanding achievements in songwriting, to name a few.                                                          

Carey’s cultural impact has transcended the music industry to leave an indelible imprint upon the world at large. In 2009, Carey was recognized with the Breakthrough Performance Award at the Palm Spring International Film Festival for her critically acclaimed role in Lee Daniels’ “Precious.” A Congressional Award recipient, Carey has selflessly donated her time and energy to a range of philanthropic causes near to her heart including Save the Music, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, World Hunger Relief, and the Elton John AIDS Foundation, among many others. A tremendous supporter of children’s charities, both domestic and international, Carey founded Camp Mariah in partnership with the Fresh Air Fund, a retreat for inner city children to explore career development. In 2020, Mariah’s riveting memoir The Meaning of Mariah Carey was recognized as a New York Times #1 bestseller upon release. 

 

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15 Scenes at the #BenchBodyOfWork Show

 

#BenchBodyOfWork finally happened last Friday at the Mall of Asia Arena and we are listing down some of the highlights from the biggest fashion event of 2025!  

From the biggest celebrities walking on the runway down to the raunchiest bum exposures and wild entrances, truly this Bench Fashion Show delivered us some unforgettable scenes. 

We are listing down 15 scenes that made the show "Work". 

15. Hidilyn Diaz gets lifted. 

The first ever Filipino Olympic Gold Medalist, Hidilyn Diaz was one of the stars in the Bench Active segment, coming in a blue cover up dress getting lifted by three men as she entered the runway, she lifted it up along with 6 tall and handsome men parading in their undies showing off their buff bodies. 

14. Tracy Maureen Perez's shoe went off. 

Prolly a booboo moment, Miss World Philippines 2021 Tracy Maureen Perez had a cute and funny moment on stage as one of her shoe went off the runway while she's about to walk, a true queen indeed she handled it with grace and finesse. 

13. Priscilla Meirelles defines SOBRANG LATINA.

The 41-year-old former Miss Earth 2004, Priscilla Meirelles wows the crowd as she flaunts her well toned body wearing a tropical themed swimwear, well she she is a Latina and she's slaying it. 

12. Michelle Dee is your REYNA! 

Michelle Dee is definitely still in her fight form, slaying it in the runway while singing her newest song Reyna, having that Blonde Asian look wearing black bench lingerie, she's DEEfinitely the QUEEN! 

11. EA Guzman's Bum. 

Edgar Allan Guzman made the crowd go wild as he opened their segment showing off his bum! The 35-year-old actor knows how to tease the crowd wearing a purple boxer briefs, he walked along with other hotties Royce Cabrera and Mark Rivera. 

10. Joshua Garcia in Bed. 

Literally, Joshua Garcia went on the runway on top of a Bed and although he didn’t show skin at this years’ show the Kapamilya Boy Next Door exudes charm wearing his white Bench polo and pants. 

9. Don't call em Tita, Ina Raymundo & Sunshine Cruz at it at Bench. 

They didn’t have the same segment, but these two hot mommas are always a regular fixture in every Bench fashion show for the past years. 

49-year-old Ina Raymundo went on stage wearing a white one piece swimsuit, while 47-year-old Sunshine Cruz went off the runway wearing a red lingerie and tangga. 

Definitely these two gave more than the younger stars, so don’t call them Tita. 

8. Teejay Marquez is our "Dukot" King. 

This year is Teejay Marquez’s year, headlining one of the segment in the show wearing a pair of see-through boxer briefs and well teasing us making dukot that thing inside his boxers, definitely Teejay was one of the scene stealer at this year’s show. 

7. Jameson Blake teases. 

Who would’ve thought we will be seeing boy-next-door and cutie, Jameson Blake wearing just a pair of boxer briefs and teasing everyone. Surely, this 27-year-old actor is ready to take on more mature roles just like in his last movie “Guilty Pleasure”. 

6. Kirk Bondad went raunchy 

Kirk Bondad is definitely the face of Bench Body and Active, entering the runway with so much adrenaline and energy, this reigning Mister World Philippines pulled off the show wearing just a pair of yellow-orange thong flaunting his jaw dropping physique. 

5. Ruru Madrid and Bianca Umali fresh off the fridge. 

Real-life couple Ruru Madrid and Bianca Umali literally went out of a make-shift refrigerator as they go on stage, Ruru showed off his well toned physique wearing his Bench Active jogging, while Bianca wore the same jogging pants paired with a neon pink bra. 

The two sealed off their walk with a kiss at the edge of the runway. Well, that’s the best way to make a highlight, right? 

4. Alden Richards' Show Opener 

Multimedia Star Alden Richards opens up the show with an electrifying walk on the runway, showing off a well-toned physique while wearing Bench Denim, well Alden is the perfect guy to start the show. 

3. Kathryn Bernardo's Body of Work. 

This I think is the first time that Kathryn Bernardo is walking the Bench show solo and she definitely did slay the runway and showed everyone she is a Queen.

Wearing a silver beaded bra paired with a white skirt, the Box Office Queen didn’t need a King to wrap up the show. 

2. Jake Cuenca's Work it Wild! 

A Bench Fashion show experience is not complete without a pasabog from Jake Cuenca! 

Entering the arena riding a big bike, wearing white coat and pants, Jake Cuenca made the crowd scream loud as he one by one took off everything to reveal his white thong. 

And well, he exited the stage riding the big bike in his tighty white undies, I guess no one else can do these stuff aside from Jake. 

1. SB 19's DAM Performance.

Speaking of crowd going wild, the Kings of P-Pop made the whole MOA Arena loud as they debut on stage their latest single “DAM”. 

I would say that this is prolly the top highlight of the show as Stell, Josh, Ken, Pablo, and Justin really did gave such powerful and electrifying performance to the delight of the crowd. 

Plus, Josh giving everyone a treat as they perform the song. 

SB19 did not disappoint, whether performing their song or walking on the runway. 

All photos courtesy to Bench/