Anao's Jacob Kier Gomez wins Ginoong Kanlahi 2025

18-year-old Jacob Kier Gomez from the Municipality of Anao bested 15 other ginoo from the province of Tarlac to become the 9th Ginoong Kanlahi. 

The gentlemen from Tarlac went head-to-head at coronation night, battling in four segments that includes the Fauna Costume, Beach Wear, Formal Wear, and of course the Q&A segment. It was definitely a close battle in the first three categories, but Jacob was able to ace it in the question-and-answer portion where delivered his answer really well. 

The Top 5 candidates were asked with the same question that goes "What makes the Kanlahi Festival unique compared to other festivals?". 

For Jacob, Kanlahi Festival is unique compared to other festival because the Kanlahi celebrates its people, it's the warmth, hospitality, and kindess of every Tarlaqueno that is highlighted in the festival. 

Here's the full text of Jacob's answer in the Q&A round.

"I'm very grateful that (Governor) Susan Yap has implemented a Kanlahi Festival because in the Philippines, there are various festival like Ati atihan festival, the sinulog festival that celebrates various saints and various foods. But what makes Kanlahi Festival standout from different festivals is that the Kanlahi Festival celebrates it's people. The warmth, hospitality and kindness of every Tarlaqueño is what makes it standout from every festival. And that I believe that Kanlahi Festival is the true representation of beauty, of unity and diversity. Thank you!"

The race to Ginoong Kanlahi wasn't easy and coming in close to the crown is pageant veteran and Ginoong Paniqui's John Paul Gundayao, placing second runner up is Concepcion's Marc Christian Muan, Victoria's Bien Carlo Payumo went home as the third runner up, and wrapping up the top 5 is Abdulaziz Barakat of Camiling who finished as 4th runner up, 

Jacob Kier Gomez will be representing the province of Tarlac at the 4th Mister Pilipinas Worldwide next year.  

Carlo Aquino & Takehiro Hira Lead Suspense Drama Crosspoint, Premiering on Netflix Philippines This March 13, 2025

 

The gripping action drama Crosspoint, directed by Donie Ordiales, is set to premiere on Netflix Philippines on March 13, 2025, following its successful theatrical release in the country. A compelling collaboration between the Philippines and Japan, the film stars award-winning Filipino actor Carlo Aquino, known for Whispers in the Wind, and Emmy-nominated Japanese actor Takehiro Hira, recognized for his performance in Shogun.

A Story of Survival and Destiny

Desperation brings people to the most unexpected crossroads. Crosspoint follows Manuel Hidalgo, played by Carlo Aquino, a once-promising Filipino actor now living in the shadows of Tokyo, forced to perform illegally in Filipino pubs to survive. Struggling to escape his past and make ends meet, he crosses paths with Shigeru Yamaguchi, played by Takehiro Hira, a former construction manager drowning in debt and regret.

Both men are trapped—Manuel by his failures and the harsh reality of being an undocumented worker, and Shigeru by financial ruin and the weight of his past decisions. Desperate for a fresh start, they encounter an unexpected opportunity that could either change their lives or seal their fates forever. When they recognize a fugitive on the news, they see a chance to claim a massive reward. What begins as a desperate bid for survival soon turns into a perilous chase, forcing them to confront their deepest fears, test their morality, and determine how far they are willing to go to take control of their lives.

Director’s Vision: Inspired by Real-Life Struggles

Filmmaker Donie Ordiales, a Filipino director based in Japan, shares how Crosspoint was inspired by real people and events:

“The characters of Manuel Hidalgo and Shigeru Yamaguchi were inspired by real people I met in Japan. Initially, I planned to create separate stories for each of them—one targeting the Filipino audience and the other challenging myself to capture the Japanese market. But while contemplating which story to pursue, I saw a news report about a serial killer on the loose in Chiba. In that moment, I knew these two characters belonged in the same world, brought together by their struggles and a common goal: survival.”

“What we can learn from Crosspoint is that nothing in life is stable. You can be at the top today, but everything can change in an instant. The greatest obstacle to progress is often ourselves, and unfortunately, the price of realizing this truth can be steep.”

Carlo Aquino on Portraying an Overseas Filipino Worker

Carlo Aquino delved deep into his personal experiences to authentically portray Manuel Hidalgo, reflecting the challenges faced by many Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). Drawing parallels between his own career fluctuations and Manuel's journey, Aquino remarked:

“From being very popular, he became a washed-up actor, and then he was looking for work… It also happened to me. From my teenage years, tapos biglang nawala (projects suddenly disappeared). Although with Manuel, he’s older, it happened to me through the years. So, kumbaga, parang pasok pa rin (it still felt fitting). Parang ako pa rin naman talaga si Manuel Hidalgo.”

Aquino hopes Crosspoint captures the struggles and sacrifices of Filipinos working abroad—the dreams they chase, the hardships they endure, and the lengths they go to for the people they love.

An Award-Winning Cast & Japan-Philippines Co-Production

The film boasts a powerhouse cast, including Sho Ikushima, Sarah Jane Abad, Dindo Arroyo, Kei Kurosawa, Ian De Leon, Aoi Okuyama, Ken Yamamura, Stefanie Arianne, Polo Ravales, Zeppi Borromeo, Misa Shimizu, and Rie Shibata. Crosspoint seamlessly blends the storytelling traditions of both the Philippines and Japan, presenting a raw and emotionally charged cinematic experience.

Takehiro Hira, recently Emmy-nominated for his performance in Shogun, delivers a compelling portrayal of a man on the brink, while Carlo Aquino, known for his award-winning role in Whispers in the Wind, brings depth and intensity to Manuel’s turbulent journey.

A Landmark Netflix Acquisition

Philippines-based Fire & Ice Media has successfully sold the Asia Pacific rights for Crosspoint to Netflix in a major deal secured during the Asian Contents & Film Market (ACFM) in Busan. This strategic move highlights the growing demand for high-quality Filipino cinema on international streaming platforms.

Crosspoint premieres on Netflix Philippines on March 13, 2025.

Black Eyed Peas Live in Manila 2025

 

Six-time GRAMMY® Award-winning trio and one of the best-selling groups of all time, BLACK EYED PEAS is finally coming to Manila on August 27, 2025 at the Mall of Asia Arena. Presented by Wilbros Live. Tickets go on-sale on Saturday, March 15, 12PM via SMTickets.com and SM Tickets outlets nationwide.

 

Over the past 30 years, the Los Angeles trio–will.i.am, Apl.de.Ap, and Taboo–have achieved sales of 35 million albums and 120 million singles across seminal releases such as Elephunk, The E.N.D., and more. One of the era’s biggest acts, they emerged as “the second best-selling artist/group of all-time for downloaded tracks” (Nielsen) and landed on Billboard’s “Hot 100 Artists of the Decade”. In 2011, they dazzled the world with a landmark performance at the Super Bowl XLV Halftime Show.

 

They have released several chart-topping hits, including “I Gotta Feeling”, “Where is the Love?”, “Pump It”, “Boom Boom Pow”, “My Humps”, “Meet Me Halfway”, “Let’s Get It Started”, “The Time (Dirty Bit)”, “Don’t Stop The Party”, and many more.

 

Their eighth studio album, TRANSLATION, achieved staggering international success after its release in 2020. Featuring major collaborations with artists such as J Balvin, Ozuna, Maluma, Shakira, Nicky Jam, and Tyga, the long-player garnered eight nominations at the Billboard Latin Music Awards, including ‘Crossover Artist of the Year” and “Hot Latin Song of the Year” for “RITMO” and a nomination at the 2021 Latin Music Awards for ‘“Favorite Artists - Crossover”. The album resulted in a series of chart-topping singles, including the massively successful “RITMO (Bad Boys For Life)” [feat. J Balvin] and “MAMACITA” [feat. Ozuna and J.Rey Soul], both of which achieved #1 status on three Billboard Charts each, numerous award nominations, and gold, platinum, and diamond certifications globally. The knockout album single from December 2020, “GIRL LIKE ME” [feat. Shakira] continued this streak, achieving success on Latin and Top 40 radio, sparking a viral TikTok challenge in late 2020, and scooping “Best Latin” award at the MTV VMAs, while 2021’s ‘HIT IT’ with Saweetie and Lele Pons racked up 5.8M global audio streams, 1.1M US audio streams and almost 10M YouTube views in its first week alone.

 

The success of TRANSLATION demonstrated Black Eyed Peas’ ability to reinvent themselves along with the changing times, a fact reconfirmed in 2022 when the band reunited with Shakira and David Guetta for DON’T YOU WORRY, the first single to drop from their ninth studio album ELEVATION. The hugely successful lead single was swiftly followed by the Anitta and El Alfa collaboration SIMPLY THE BEST. In 2023 true BEP fashion, harnessing the musical forces of the Americas, the next single BAILAR CONTIGO (with reggaeton superstar Daddy Yankee) followed by GUARANTEE (SUMMER MIX), has opened up yet another brilliant chapter in the continuing story of the Black Eyed Peas in nothing less than international chart-topping style.

Toto Live in Manila 2025

 

Toto is returning to perform live in Manila after 17 years. 

The multi award-winning band will be holding a concert on May 4, 2025, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, presented by Ovation Productions with Blast TV as the official media partner. Since the band’s last visit to the country was in 2008, this show will be the long-awaited reunion between Toto and their Filipino fans who have longed to hear again the band’s many hits performed live and they will surely not be disappointed. 

Toto has celebrated one accomplishment after the next throughout the past year. The song “Africa” has been certified DIAMOND for sales of TEN MILLION copies by the RIAA in The United States. Current cumulative sales now exceed 10.5M. Additionally, “Hold the Line” has been certified triple platinum for sales of three million copies, while “Rosanna” hit the milestone of double platinum with sales of two million copies. The song “Africa” has now been streamed TWO BILLION times on Spotify, while “Hold the Line” has reached the milestone of a BILLION streams. Cumulative Toto album sales now exceed 50 MILLION copies, while the band’s repertoire is played more than THREE MILLION times daily on Spotify alone by an audience that continues to get younger month to month. Consistently, over 50% of the band’s streams are from those 34 years or younger. Total streams now exceed 4 BILLION at Spotify, and 6 BILLION across all platforms. 

Aside from Africa, Hold The Line, and Rosanna, Toto’s other hits include I’ll Be Over You, 99, I Won’t Hold You Back, Lea, Georgy Porgy, With A Little Help From My Friends, among others. 

Individually and collectively the band’s family tree can be heard on countless Grammy Award winning albums across all genres. Toto are one of the few 70’s bands that have endured the changing trends and styles while continuing to remain relevant. Joining Steve Lukather (guitar / vocals) and Joseph Williams (vocals) are Greg Phillinganes (keyboards / vocals), Shannon Forrest (drums), John Pierce (bass), Warren Ham (horns / percussion / vocals), and Dennis Atlas (keyboards / vocals). 

One of the best guitarists of all time Eddie Van Halen once said that Toto was the band any musician would dream of being in and are probably the best musicians collectively in any band. 

Toto is in the middle of their current world tour with dates across Europe, then Australia and New Zealand heading into Asia which includes a stop in Manila before the start of their U.S. tour in July.

Gloc-9, Abaddon, Smugglaz, and Hero Release Powerful New Single "Halimaw"

 

Iconic Filipino rapper Gloc-9, alongside Abaddon, Smugglaz, and Hero, has just unveiled their latest collaboration, "Halimaw." This track not only showcases the lyrical depth and creativity of these artists but it also underscores Gloc-9's remarkable ability to remain relevant in the music industry after 28 years. Known for his poignant storytelling and social commentary, Gloc-9 continues to resonate with audiences, solidifying his status as a legend in the Filipino music industry.

The lyrics of "Halimaw" reflect a raw and honest exploration of the challenges faced by artists in a rapidly changing industry, especially with lines like:"Ano ang dapat kong gawin / Upang ang aking munting tinig ay iyong mapansin" (What should I do to make my small voice heard?).

Gloc-9's verses are complemented by the fresh perspectives of Abaddon, Smugglaz, and Hero, who bring their own experiences and styles to the track, creating a rich tapestry of sound and meaning. Together, they address the struggles of aspiring artists, the quest for recognition, and the relentless pursuit of dreams.

Despite the evolution of the music landscape, Gloc-9 remains a formidable artist, continuously adapting while staying true to his roots. His ability to connect with both seasoned fans and a new generation of listeners speaks volumes about his artistry. The collaboration showcases how established artists can uplift emerging voices, creating a powerful synergy that enriches the music scene.

As Gloc-9 celebrates nearly three decades in the industry, he proves that true artistry knows no bounds. "Halimaw" is a powerful reminder that the voice of experience can still echo loudly in a world that often favors the new and trendy. The single is now available on all major streaming platforms, inviting listeners to join Gloc-9, Abaddon, Smugglaz, and Hero on a journey through the heart and soul of Filipino hip-hop.

Take a look at the 20 candidates who are vying for Ginoong Rizal 2025.

It's the gents from the province of Rizal's turn to show what they got as these 20 Ginoo are all set to battle on stage to become the inaugural Ginoong Rizal 2025. 

A total of 37 candidates from all over the province of Rizal will be competing this April to become the first ever Ginoo at Binibining Rizal. The official pageant activities are set to kick off this March 2 as the candidates will be officially introduced and will be sashed.  

Meanwhile, here are the 20 Ginoo vying for the title. 

1. Jonha Jhon Bullo / Angono

2. John Rex Alias / San Jose , Antipolo 3. John Jefferson Belwa/ San Jose, Antipolo 4. Bryan Salvador/ Inarawan, Antipolo 5. Christian Jacob Aguilos / Silangan San Mateo 6. Kyle Lipata / San Mateo 7. Hurry Soria / Taytay 8. Alvin Jan Diaz / San Juan , Cainta 9. Ram Julius Santos / San Isidro, Cainta 10. Maochie Gabinete / Sto. Domingo , Cainta 11. Ranjet Hussein / San Roque, Cainta 12. Dave Franco / Cainta 13. Emman Lapada / Dalig, Antipolo city 14. Julius Irving Lirio / Binangonan 15. John Patrick Cruz / Jala Jala 16. Christian Buenaventura / Baras 17. Henie Topaz / San Isidro , Angono 18. Primo Villaran / Cardona 19. Ron Xzquile Sarmiento / San Jose, Montalban 10. Calvin Rejie / Montalban

Meet the 17 Candidates for Binibining Rizal 2025

The Binibinis of Rizal are ready to take on the spotlight as they compete for the inaugural Binibining Rizal pageant happening this April. 

 

Seventeen lovely ladies from different parts of the province of Rizal are ready to slay the competition that will begin this March 2 for their official sashing ceremony and of course the grand coronation night happening on April 5. 

Here's the complete list of the 17 Binibining Rizal aspirants. 1. Kassandra Mae De Peralta / Sta. Ana, Taytay 2. Cassandra Jane Hernandez/ San Isidro, Taytay 3. Krishna Marie Sang- alan / San Jose, Antipolo

4. Sarah Ahmed ALKHATRI / San Jose, Antipolo 5. Jewel Masangkay / City of Antipolo 6. Beatriz Angela Ocampo/ Mayamot , Antipolo 7. Angelica Fae Betil / San Jose, Antipolo 8. Shereenia Mae Valerio / San Mateo

9. Laura Sophia Fernan / Morong 10. Frances Monique Alburo / Montalban 11. Avril Lincy Brown / Tandang Kutyo, Tanay 12. Oren Izhi - e F. Torio / Jala Jala 13. Ariane Abarides / Cardona 14. Gerryka De Guzman / Pililla 15. Jobelle Ilagan / Wawa, Tanay 16. Maria Melissa Russell / Tanay 17. Althea Jhamielle Paz / Teresa

From Crown to Core: Brent Mendoza’s Fitness Evolution

Picture a man with a rugged yet approachable vibe, a well-defined physique that speaks volumes about his dedication to self-love and fitness.

As we embrace the month of love, we also welcome a new face to guide us through a romantic adventure this season. Meet Brent Jonathan Mendoza, our guy for the month of February.

At 22 years old, Brent is not just a model but also a reigning pageant king, having claimed the title of Mister International Philippines - Tourism last year. Despite his current success, Brent admits that joining a pageant was never on his radar. In fact, when the opportunity first came knocking, he declined twice.

So, what made him change his mind? Brent reveals that he wanted to try something new. When offered the chance to represent his hometown of Tanauan City in the provincial pageant in Batangas, he couldn’t resist the opportunity to step out of his comfort zone.

"Unexpected" is how Brent describes his pageant journey. As a complete newcomer, winning a title on his first attempt was already an incredible achievement for this laid-back guy.

Standing at 6 feet tall, Brent quickly realized that joining pageants didn’t just open doors to new opportunities—it also changed his lifestyle. From a carefree attitude towards his body, he began to focus on fitness. He started working out and, over time, transformed from an awkward, stocky guy to a fit, hunky stud.

We took the opportunity to chat with Brent and dive deeper into his fitness routine that helps him stay in top shape, both mentally and physically.

1. How do you keep your body fit and healthy?

I go to the gym po mga siguro six times a week and wag po kakalimutan mag rest, sumunod lang po lagi sa diet and sa coach if ever na may coach.   

2. At what age did you start to work out?

“Twenty years old.” 

3. What are your favorite and least favorite work out?  

Favorite: “Legs po, Leg day haha” 

Least Favorite: “Back, sobrang tagal nya pong tamaan talaga tapos parang di po agad nararamdaman, yun po ang pinaka mahirap sa akin.” 

4. What keeps you motivated? 

“Siguro po yung araw araw akong ginigising ni Lord, yun po ang pinaka nagmomotivate sa akin. Ibig sabihin po kasi pag ginigising tayo ni Lord araw araw may plano po sya sa atin sa araw na yun.” 

5. How about diet? What’s for breakfast, lunch, and dinner?

“Yung meal ko po apat eh, so sa morning three eggs and oatmeal, then the rest po na three meal pare parehas na pong chicken, beef, or fish and rice.”   

 

6. What are the foods that you take and you avoid? 

“Sweets po talaga ang pinaka inaavoid ko, kasi kung sa ibang pagkain naman po wala tayong ipagalala, nasa pagkain din po kung sobra o hindi.” 

7. How much water do you drink to stay hydrated? 

“Mga siguro po sampung 37 ounces ng aquaflask hehehe.” 

8. You seem to have nice clear skin, do you have any skin care regimen to share? 

“Wala po, singko marias lang po hahahaha” 

9. What part of your body is your favorite and what part of your body do you think needs improvement?

“uhm siguro paborito ko po ngayon Ilong, tapos yung least, back.” 

 

10. Do you have any insecurities? What have you done so far to overcome it?

“Noon po ang insecurity ko talaga is katawan, then ngayon po parang naging lesson na din po siya sa akin yung mga panahon na naiinsecure ako sa katawan ko so kailangan lang po talagang tangapin natin yung sarili natin para maimprove yung sarili natin. 

Kasi nung natangap ko na ganto po yung katawan ko, so ano po yung dapat kong gawin, nagpapayat po ako.” 

Meet the Candidates for the 30th Edition of Ginoong Antipolo.

The search is officially on for the next Ginoong Antipolo for the year 2025. 

Now on it's 30th edition, 18 men from all over the city of will vie for the title of Ginoong Antipolo 2025 this coming March 29, 6pm, at the Sumulong Park, Antipolo City. 

Here's the complete list of the 18 candidates for the 30th edition of Ginoong Antipolo. 

1. Aaron Culaban

2. Gerald Pavo

3. Jourdan Odina 

4. JC Palalay

5. Emman Lapada 

6. Emmanuel De Guzman 

7. Miel Revilla 

8. Christian Buenaventura

9. Joven Morong

10. Josh Furton 

11. Kirby Aviles 

12. Mharc Lumogoang

13. Justine Dela Cruz

14. Joshua Salibio 

15. Lawrence Donato

16. Matthew Gatdula 

17. Kaven Lopez

18. Kyle Villanueva

BINI Headlines Aurora Music Festival Clark 2025

BINI Makes History as the First Female Group to Headline Both Days of the Aurora Music Festival 2025!

 

The Aurora Music Festival is back for its fourth consecutive year, promising yet another unforgettable celebration of music, culture, and community. This year’s edition, happening on May 3 and 4, 2025, at the grounds of Clark Global City, is set to make history with a stellar lineup headlined by none other than the hottest worldwide P-pop sensation, BINI. To all certified Blooms out there, better not to miss this two-day spectacle!

For the first time, a female group will not only headline the country’s biggest music festival but also dominate both days of this highly anticipated event. It’s set to be the biggest Aurora Music Festival ever.

BINI’s trailblazing performance underscores their meteoric rise in the Philippine music scene and their significant impact as global P-pop icons. As the first artist to headline both days of the Aurora Music Festival, BINI has solidified their position as a force to be reckoned with in OPM, inspiring fans and future generations with their unmatched talent, dedication, and charm to a broad audience. 

Beyond the incredible music lineup, festival-goers will also be treated to a breathtaking display of more than 20 hot air balloons, painting the sky with vibrant colors and mesmerizing shapes. The Aurora Music Festival isn't just about music—it’s a full sensory experience, combining the thrill of live performances with the awe-inspiring beauty of soaring hot air balloons. Whether you're a music lover, an adventure seeker, or someone looking to capture stunning visuals, this festival promises a feast for the eyes and ears alike.

Along with the super popular girl group that gave us the hits “Pantropiko” and “Salamin, Salamin,” get ready to be blown away by an exceptional lineup of the hottest and most beloved OPM artists of today! Aurora Music Festival Day 1 on May 3, 2025 is set to captivate you with OPM hitmakers Moira, TJ Monterde, Arthur Nery, BGYO, and Rico Blanco. Meanwhile, May 4, 2025 Day 2 will feature chart-toppers Cup of Joe, Maki, Dionela, Flow G, and Over October.

With performances from a mix of seasoned legends and rising stars, the festival promises an electrifying atmosphere that will leave every music enthusiast craving for more.

Now in its fourth year, the Aurora Music Festival has solidified its reputation as the premier and largest touring music festival in the Philippines. Known for its massive success and vibrant celebration of OPM, this annual event continues to music fans all over the country. Truly, the festival’s evolution mirrors the growing recognition and love for Filipino talent.

Aurora Music Festival Clark 2025 is Presented by EPIC EVENTS, Grab Philippines, Eggstop, Mr. Macchiato and Pampanga Taxi. Co-presenters Fudgee Bar and Cebu Pacific. 

Tickets are expected to sell out quickly. Get a website exclusive Platinum to be sold in minutes. Tickets start at Php 500 only!

Excited to get tickets? Visit this link: Visit our website for tickets https://ticket.epiceventsph.com/ or SM TICKETS!

 

Buy your tickets now!

For inquiries, please call 09674911488, 09670960373 or message our Official Facebook Page at @ClarkHotAirBalloonFest or @ClarkAuroraFest

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