Monday, January 27, 2025
Celebrating Filipino artistry and championing advocacies, Sun Life Philippinesjoined FM radio station Wish 107.5 in mounting the 10th Wish Music Awards held recently at the Araneta Coliseum.
Sun Life served as the Charity Sponsor for four of the winning artists’ chosen cause, where each will receive a donation of PHP 100,000. The four awards and corresponding beneficiaries are:
• Wishclusive Pop Performance of the Year: BINI - "Karera" (Beneficiary: Philippine Foodbank Foundation, Inc.)
• Wishclusive Contemporary Folk Performance of the Year: Cup of Joe - "Ikaw Pa Rin Ang Pipiliin Ko" (Beneficiary: PGH Medical Foundation, Inc.)
• Wish Breakthrough Artist of the Year: Stell (Beneficiary: Center for Excellence in Special Education (Stepping Stone) Foundation, Inc.)
• Wish Group of the Year: BINI (Beneficiary: Enhancing Nurturing Disciplining Empowering Restoring Daycare Inc. (IT Tender))
“We are thrilled to be a part of this celebration of incredible talent within the Philippine music industry,” said Carla Gonzalez-Chong, Chief Client Experience and Marketing Officer of Sun Life Philippines. “These artists inspire us with their passion and dedication, and we are honored to support their chosen beneficiaries through this collaboration.”
To stay updated, follow @SunLifePH on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. To know more about Sun Life’s products and services, visit https://www.sunlife.com.ph
(L-R) Fuse Lending business development manager Melissa Mabutas, RCBC executive vice president and chief innovations and inclusion officer Lito Villanueva, Fuse Lending Inc. president and CEO Tony Isidro and RCBC vice president and loans business division head Mellrose Pesigan
Premier digital challenger bank Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) and number one finance super app GCash are joining forces to make loans more accessible and financially inclusive to Filipinos in low-income, rural, and remote areas. The two financial behemoths are collaborating to reach the highest number of Filipinos who cannot access fair lending terms due to traditional financial credit scoring methods.
RCBC will introduce Pasado Loans, a 24/7 loan product that requires zero collateral. It will also use the digital Pasado Loan Engine to measure the creditworthiness and profiles of potential applicants. In addition to the portal, Filipinos can also apply through partner merchants or digital channels found in digital marketing engagements.
GCash will enable people to apply for Pasado Loans through the GCash app, making the application more seamless and highly convenient for Filipinos who are always on the go yet face hurdles in applying for formal loans and credit in banks and other financial institutions.
Prospective loan applicants may borrow from Php 30,000 to Php 500,000. They must submit their credentials through the Pasado Loan portal or partner merchants to apply for a loan. The Pasado Decision Engine will evaluate these applications, delivering results within seconds. The applicant will receive the disbursed amount through their RCBC Diskartech account upon approval. Loan payments can also be facilitated through an auto-debit arrangement in RCBC Diskartech.
As it continues to be the undisputed leading finance app in the country, GCash champions financial inclusion by offering an unparalleled suite of services, including payments, savings, and loans. With its user-centric approach and commitment to enhancing financial well-being, GCash is helping pave the way for greater financial empowerment for every Filipino wherever they are.
“GCash is committed to transforming the financial landscape in the Philippines. By partnering with RCBC, we’re not just making loans accessible; we’re opening doors to opportunities for countless Filipinos. Together, we’re shaping a more inclusive future for all,” said Tony Isidro, CEO of Fuse Lending, the official lending arm of GCash.
RCBC executive vice president and chief innovations and inclusion officer Lito Villanueva lauded the partnership as a great example of how collaborations can empower more Filipinos. He added that Pasado Loan is set to change lives positively and open many doors to Filipinos.
“Our partnership with GCash is a great example of bayanihan in the fintech sector. By fusing our powers, we reach a larger group of Filipinos and serve them by helping them reach their goals and materialize their aspirations,” Villanueva said.
“Pasado Loans is set to transform lives. Our partnership with GCash will accelerate that positive change by opening financial options to more Filipinos.” Villanueva added.
Five lucky TNT subscribers welcomed the new year filled with unforgettable ‘saya’ moments through their special meet-and-greet session with TNT katropas Kathryn Bernardo and Joshua Garcia, one of the many special prizes of the TNT Paskong Panalo promo.
Just by registering to their favorite TNT promos, Benjie Carpio of Pasig, Gelica Gemina of Quezon City, and Ophelia Dantes of Tarlac racked up raffle entries that paved the way for them to finally meet Kathryn and have a free-flowing conversation with her over lunch – much like katropas catching up with one another.
‘Napaka-humble and napakabait niya’
“Di ako makapaniwala na nasa harap ko si Kathryn! Sobrang na-appreciate ko po itong experience,” said Gelica, 34, a BPO employee and TNT subscriber for 14 years.
“Cloud 9 po talaga ang feeling. Di ko rin inexpect na sobrang friendly at sobrang wise ni Kathryn. Worth it po talaga yung puyat ko,” said 29-year-old Ophelia, who traveled to the venue straight from her graveyard shift.
“Kinabahan po ako at di talaga makapaniwala,” said 34-year old Benjamin, who sat directly across Kathryn throughout the entire session. “Napaka-humble at napakabait niya at sana hindi siya magbago.”
As a TNT katropa, Kathryn gamely talked about her career and personal life, and even shared life advice with the lucky subscribers during the intimate gathering.
‘Say words of affirmation as much as possible’
“Di kami lumaking expressive. Pero ngayon na may pamangkin na ako, we’re trying our best to say words of affirmation as much as possible. We learned that it’s important to say ‘I love you, thank you, and I’m sorry’ to children,” Kathryn said.
“Also, please don’t forget to take good care of yourself. Wag niyong pabayaan ang sarili niyo dahil marami kayong iniintindi,” she reminded the three subscribers.
‘Hindi ko po ito malilimutan’
On the other hand, two other lucky subscribers – 37-year-old Najer Basser of Iloilo City and 30-year-old Roselyn Ricorte of Pagadian City – went on to meet and exchange life stories with Joshua.
“Akala ko po talaga ay scam lang to nung una, kaya sobrang saya ko po nung nakita ko si Joshua. Maraming salamat po sa TNT, hindi ko po ito malilimutan,” said Roselyn, who left her small sari-sari store for a day just to fly into Manila and meet Joshua.
“TNT lang po talaga ang load na binebenta ko sa may amin sa Pagadian kasi yun po ang malakas ang signal,” she said.
“Yung pamilya ko naman, gustong makipagpalit sa akin para ma-meet si Joshua! Nagpapasalamat ako sa TNT kasi ‘di ko inexpect na mangyayari ito,” shared Najer, who makes a living selling slippers and sandals at a public market.
‘Maging mabuti at magtrabaho nang marangal’
“I-video call natin sila para maniwala sila,” Joshua urged the Roselyn and Najer, and then chatted with their families, sending them into a frenzy.
“Maraming salamat po dahil bumyahe pa po kayo nang malayo just to spend time with me. I really appreciate your time,” said Joshua, who also shared about his experiences as a Batangueño being new to the city.
“Na-overwhelm ako noon sa mga building at sa dami ng pwedeng gawin dito. Pero ngayon, mas na-appreciate ko na yung katahimikan sa probinsiya,” he said.
Asked for life advice to share with the two subscribers, Joshua said: “Siguro pareho lang sa payo sa akin ng tito kong pari – maging mabuti at magtrabaho nang marangal at walang tinatapakang ibang tao.”
“Naniniwala rin po ako na darating ang success pag nagsusumikap at kumikilos tayo,” he added.
Watch out for more ‘saya’ moments from TNT
Aside from these unforgettable moments with Kathryn and Joshua, the recently concluded TNT Paskong Panalo promo also brought ‘saya’ to 5 lucky grand winners from North and Central Luzon, NCR, South Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, who each won a life-changing prize of P1 million cash.
Now gearing up for its 25th anniversary, TNT is set to bring more saya to katropas nationwide through more value-packed data offers, more exciting promos, and more unforgettable experiences – backed by its superior mobile network.
To know more, follow TNT’s official accounts on Facebook, X, and TikTok, or visit its official website at https://tntph.com.
Friday, January 24, 2025
Her highlighly anticipated album drops on February 21, 2025
Photo Credit: Beth Saravo)
Multi-platinum pop sensation Tate McRae is set to release her highly anticipated third album So Close To What on February 21st via RCA Records. Through unfiltered lyricism and raw emotions, So Close To What represents the journey of growing up when the road ahead feels infinite and the destination increasingly elusive. It’s an introspective exploration of self-discovery, love, and searching for balance in moments of uncertainty. Pre-save HERE.
Today, Tate releases her irresistible new song “Sports car” alongside the official music video. It’s written and produced with hitmakers Ryan Tedder (Taylor Swift, Beyoncé), Grant Boutin (Meghan Trainor, One Republic) and Julia Michaels (Selena Gomez, Dua Lipa).
The provocative video is directed by Bardia Zeinali (Sabrina Carpenter, Troye Sivan) and styled by Brett Alan Nelson (Doja Cat, Karol G). It follows Tate as a viewer into her own dynamic world intertwined with high fashion moments and different characters. In a society that is constantly watching and judging, Tate becomes the observer and takes back control. Through her perspective, we are immersed in a powerful interplay of style and identity, where fashion becomes more than just clothing— it’s the canvas for her evolving identity. Each look tells a story, reflecting a different persona she embodies. Check out Vogue’s exclusive first look of the video HERE.
“Sports car” follows “2 hands” and “It’s ok I’m ok” which hit #1 on Billboard’s Hot Dance/Pop Songs chart and earned the star her highest-debuting song of her career on the Billboard Hot 100.
In March, Tate will embark on her world ‘Miss Possessive Tour’ spanning South America, Europe, UK, and North America. Produced by Live Nation, the tour kicks off on March 18th in Mexico City at Pepsi Centre, with shows in São Paulo, London, Amsterdam, Prague, New York, Nashville, and many more before wrapping up in Los Angeles at the Kia Forum on September 26th. Benee will be joining as support on all Europe and UK dates while Zara Larsson will join Tate across all US and Canada dates.
‘Miss Possessive Tour’ 2025 Dates:
Tuesday, March 18 – Mexico City, Mexico – Pepsi Centre
Saturday, March 22 – Buenos Aires, Argentina – Lollapalooza Argentina*
Sunday, March 23 – Santiago, Chile – Lollapalooza Chile*
Tuesday, March 25 – Santiago, Chile – Teatro Coliseo
Thursday, March 27 – Bogota, Colombia – Estereo Picnic*
Saturday, March 29 РṢo Paulo, Brazil РLollapalooza Brazil*
Wednesday, May 7 – Lisbon, Portugal – MEO Arena
Friday, May 9 – Madrid, Spain – Palacio Vistalegre
Monday, May 13 – Stuttgart, Germany – Schleyer-Halle
Wednesday, May 14 – Antwerp, Belgium – Sportpaleis
Friday, May 16 – Dublin, Ireland – 3Arena
Saturday, May 17 – Dublin, Ireland – 3Arena
Monday, May 19 – Birmingham, UK – Utilita Arena
Tuesday, May 20 – London, UK – The O2
Friday, May 23 – Glasgow, UK – OVO Hydro
Saturday, May 24 – Manchester, UK – Co-op Live
Tuesday, May 27 – Paris, France – Accor Arena
Wednesday, May 28 – Amsterdam, Netherlands – Ziggo Dome
Friday, May 30 – Copenhagen, Denmark – Royal Arena
Sunday, June 1 – Stockholm, Sweden – Avicii Arena
Tuesday, June 3 – Hamburg, Germany – Barclays Arena
Wednesday, June 4 – Berlin, Germany – Uber Arena
Friday, June 6 – Lodz, Poland – Atlas Arena
Sunday, June 8 – Vienna, Austria – Wiener Stadthalle – Halle D
Tuesday, June 10 – Prague, Czech Republic – O2 Arena
Wednesday, June 11 – Munich, Germany – Olympiahalle
Friday, June 13 – Bologna, Italy – Unipol Arena
Monday, June 16 – Koln, Germany – Lanxess Arena
Wednesday, June 18 – Zurich, Switzerland – Hallenstadion
Monday, August 4 – Vancouver, BC – Rogers Arena
Tuesday, August 5 – Vancouver, BC – Rogers Arena
Thursday, August 7 – Edmonton, AB – Rogers Place
Saturday, August 9 – Winnipeg, MB – Canada Life Centre
Wednesday, August 13 – Saint Paul, MN – Xcel Energy Center
Friday, August 15 – Chicago, IL – United Center
Saturday, August 16 – Detroit, MI – Little Caesars Arena
Tuesday, August 19 – Toronto, ON – Scotiabank Arena
Wednesday, August 20 – Toronto, ON – Scotiabank Arena
Friday, August 22 – Ottawa, ON – Canadian Tire Centre
Sunday, August 24 – Montreal, QC – Bell Centre
Tuesday, August 26 – Boston, MA – TD Garden
Wednesday, August 27 – Boston, MA – TD Garden
Friday, August 29 – Cleveland, OH – Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse
Sunday, August 31 – Baltimore, MD – CFG Bank Arena
Wednesday, September 3 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden
Thursday, September 4 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden
Saturday, September 6 – Philadelphia, PA – Wells Fargo Center
Tuesday, September 9 – Atlanta, GA – State Farm Arena
Thursday, September 11 – Nashville, TN – Bridgestone Arena
Saturday, September 13 – Orlando, FL – Kia Center
Sunday, September 14 – Orlando, FL – Kia Center
Tuesday, September 16 – Austin, TX – Moody Center
Thursday, September 18 – Dallas, TX – American Airlines Center
Saturday, September 20 – Denver, CO – Ball Arena
Wednesday, September 24 – San Francisco, CA – Chase Center
Friday, September 26 – Los Angeles, CA – Kia Forum
Saturday, September 27 – Los Angeles, CA – Kia Forum
*Festival
Released under Sony Music Entertainment, the track reimagines the classic Filipino nursery rhyme into a poignant tale of doomed romance, with no way to save it.
“Sampung Mga Daliri” deals with the heartbreaking realization that love is no longer enough to make two people stay together. The song eloquently shows how the simple act of holding hands loses its meaning when there’s no one left to hold.
According to dwta, “Sampung Mga Daliri” was an unfinished track that she was working on in 2023. An opportunity to revisit the draft came in when she met justin in a gig at Cozy Cove last year, prompting the idea of pitching a collaboration with him.
“I thought it was a long shot, but I asked my team if there was any chance we could work on something together,” says the award-winning Bicol-based act. “Even before it was confirmed, I was already looking through my notes, trying to find a song that would match both our voices or maybe even writing something new. That’s when I stumbled upon Sampung Mga Daliri. It felt like the song was calling me, so I picked up my guitar, rewrote it, and finally finished it. I actually gave them two other options, but Sampung Mga Daliri just felt right. It was the one.”
The collaboration came as a pleasant surprise to justin, who was immediately drawn to the song’s emotional depth. “Aside from being labelmates under Sony Music Philippines, when I heard Sampung Mga Daliri, it immediately felt like the right fit,” admits justin. “Out of all the songs sent to me, this one really stood out. It had something special.”
While their busy schedules prevented them from recording together in person, both dwta and justin worked closely throughout the creative process. The two attended online meetings, fine-tuned the song, and ensured that their connection came through in every note.
“After everything, we finally got to bond in person during shoots and trips, and that’s when I really got to know him,” shares dwta. “You know how famous people can sometimes feel intimidating or hard to approach? justin’s the total opposite. It’s like working with a sibling from a different parent. We just clicked, both musically and personally.”
Produced by dwta and frequent collaborator Brian Lotho, “Sampung Mga Daliri” draws inspiration from the haunting arrangements of The Paper Kites’ “Bloom,” but with a distinct twist that reflects both artists’ unique sound. The result is a stunning, emotionally honest song that explores brooding vulnerability, something dwta and justin had yet to explore in previous releases. The track allows them to push beyond their comfort zones, creating something fresh, evocative, and deeply moving.
As dwta puts it, “Since our styles are pretty similar and we share the same vision for the song, it was easy for us to agree on every idea we pitched. The whole process came together so smoothly. I’m really happy with how it turned out in such a short time.”
To introduce their new collaboration, dwta and justin recently debuted the unreleased song live at the 10th Wish Music Awards last January 19, 2025. Ahead of the release, both artists teased the song’s arrival, sharing snippets of "Sampung Mga Daliri" chorus on their respective social media channels on January 16 and 18. The teaser included a compelling single cover, where from a window, justin tries to reach for dwta’s hands, only for her to be reluctantly disengaged—an image that perfectly captures the song’s theme of love slipping through your fingers.
In addition, dwta has been releasing a series of live performances called "dwta series: Magka-Ibigan" that tie into the narrative of “Sampung Mga Daliri,” offering fans a deeper look into the song’s story before its official release. This heartfelt collaboration marks a new chapter for both artists, as they explore the delicate balance of love and loss through music.“Sampung Mga Daliri” is now available on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the music video on dwta’s official YouTube channel at 8 pm. Stay tuned for the short-form miniseries featuring dwta and justin on the former’s YouTube and social media pages.
Thursday, January 23, 2025
Looking for fun activities to welcome the lunar year? MET Live Mall and Blue Bay Walk invite you to celebrate the Chinese New Year in style with a lineup of exciting events.
Ring in the Year of the Wooden Snake with our Chinese New Year activations, including a Fortune Zodiac Walk (January 20 to February 10) and special gift-with-purchase promotions (January 20-29). Plus, catch the Lion and Dragon Dance performances to start the year with good luck.
Join us at MET Live Mall and Blue Bay Walk this January for unforgettable experiences with your friends and loved ones.
Want to know more? Visit Met Live at https://www.facebook.com/MetLiveOfficial Blue Bay Walk at www.facebook.com/BlueBayWalkOfficial.
Celebrate the Chinese New Year with a gastronomic adventure at SM Supermalls from January 18 to January 31! Embark on a journey through flavors highlighting only the best Chinese restaurants and their must-try dishes to make your festivities even more special.
Not sure where to eat out? Here are some delectable spots to celebrate the festivities:
Paradise Dynasty
SM Aura, SM Podium, S Maison
Known for the world’s first 8-flavored Xiao Long Bao, Paradise Dynasty is a must-visit for dumpling lovers. Each soup dumpling has a unique flavor, from black truffle to ginseng, szechuan to crab roe, making every bite a delightful surprise. Don’t miss their signature La Mian noodles and the mouthwatering Charcoal Custard Lava Bun for dessert!
Sichu Malatang
SM Mall of Asia, SM Podium
Dive into the numbing and deliciously fiery world of authentic Malatang hotpot, a Chinese classic perfect for chilly weather. Sichu Malatang lets you customize your bowl with your favorite ingredients and spice level. Tatler recognized it as one of the best hotpot spots in Metro Manila, so it’s a must-try for hotpot enthusiasts.
Honolulu Café
SM Aura
Step into Hong Kong’s vibrant food scene at Honolulu Café. Their signature egg tart is a flaky, creamy masterpiece you won’t forget. Pair it with their BBQ pork buns, curry fish balls, or a comforting bowl of Hong Kong style noodle soup with fried egg.
Lugang Café
SM Mall of Asia, SM Aura, SM Megamall, SM City Davao
Lugang Café offers the finest in traditional Taiwanese cuisine. Indulge in their Three-Cup Chicken, Beef Noodle Soup, and a variety of dumplings that burst with authentic Taiwanese flavors. The classic taste of their Cantonese Iced Milk Tea is the perfect sweet ending to your meal.
Tong Yang
Multiple SM Locations
For those who love variety, Tong Yang’s unlimited hotpot and grill is the place to be. With an extensive selection of fresh meats, seafood, and vegetables, you can create endless combinations to satisfy your cravings. Pair it with a selection of dipping sauces for a truly customized experience.
Tim Ho Wan
SM Seaside City Cebu, SM Megamall, SM North EDSA, SM Mall of Asia
Treat yourself to Tim Ho Wan’s iconic Baked BBQ Pork Buns. These sweet-savory buns are a crowd favorite and a must-try for any foodie. Other notable dishes include their flavorful Pork Dumplings with Shrimp and their lightly fried Beancurd Skin Roll.
Modern Shang
S Maison, SM BF Parañaque, SM City Clark, SM Mall of Asia, SM City Santa Rosa, SM City Sta. Mesa
Modern Shang delivers elevated Chinese classics with a twist. Their Crispy Fried Noodles and Deep-Fried Squid with Spicy Salt and Pepper are showstoppers that will have you coming back for more. Don’t forget to try their savory Deep-Fried Chicken, which pairs perfectly with their signature fried rice.
Din Tai Fung
SM Mall of Asia, SM North EDSA, SM Megamall
Home to the world’s most famous Xiao Long Bao, Din Tai Fung is a must-visit destination for a Lucky Feast! Watch as these delicate soup dumplings are made fresh before your eyes and savor their signature pork Xiao Long Bao. Pair your meal with their Shrimp and Pork Wontons with House Special Spicy Sauce and Mango Sago with Pomelo for a complete dining experience.
Don’t miss this flavorful celebration of Chinese cuisine during the Year of the Snake festivities at SM Supermalls. Download the SM Malls Online app for dining deals galore! From Modern Shanghai to Hap Chan, SM Malls Online will ensure that you enjoy the best meals and deals this Chinese New Year.
To know more about the Lucky Feast discounts you can avail, download the SM Malls Online app or visit www.smsupermalls.com and follow @SMSupermalls on social media.
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