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Entertainment

MURI, a Filipino performer, will represent the Philippines at the Bangkok Music City festival this year

Ahead of her stints at SXSW and BMC, Muri will perform at her own send-off party this February 22, 2025 at Astbury Makati, along with Clara Benin, The Ransom

Photo credits: Franco Maigue

Indie pop/soul sensation MURI is scheduled to represent the Philippines at this year’s Bangkok Music City (BMC) after recently confirming that she will play at the 2025 South by Southwest (SXSW) Music Festival.

Alongside 58 Thai artists and over 18 international artists, MURI, the well-known singer-songwriter who is recognized for her distinctive fusion of R&B, jazz, soul, and indie pop, will perform on a worldwide scale.

“I believe there’s a wealth of untapped potential for artists to connect within ASEAN, and I’m thrilled to perform in Bangkok for the first time,” shares the rising Filipino act. “I’ve also heard so much about the Thai music scene and can’t wait to check out Thai and regional musicians while I’m there. And hopefully give them a little taste of what Filipino music is too.”

As she continues to captivate international and local audiences, MURI is also preparing to release a string of exciting new tracks, including collaborations with music producers from Japan, Malaysia, and her home country, the Philippines. “2025 has just been kicking off with a bang. I feel so grateful for all these opportunities, and I’m looking forward to performing and pushing out new music, including some collaborations and my own solo work.”

The good news doesn’t stop there: Apart from her stints at SXSW and Bangkok Music City, Muri will be throwing her own send-off party on March 22, 2025, at Sixty32 Cocktail Lounge in Rockwell, Makati City. Fans can expect a memorable evening, as MURI is joined by an incredible lineup: award-winning singer-songwriter Clara Benin, indie-folk band The Ransom Collective, and promising newcomer OZO. The intimate show is co-produced by GNN, in partnership with Locked Down Entertainment and NYOU. Tickets are available via https://www.bit.ly/murisendoff.

MURI’s debut EP, 11ème, which was published late last year, transports listeners to the artist’s experiences in many locations and cultures. Additionally, in September 2024, she performed at the AXEAN Music Festival in Bali, Indonesia.

Bangkok Music City, which will be held in Bangkok’s Charoenkrung Creative District on March 1 and 2, 2025, is billed as the “pioneer music conference and showcase festival in Thailand.” Live Nation Tero, Fungjai, and Nylon Thailand are leading the charge for its 2025 comeback.

Follow Muri:

Instagram / Facebook / YouTube / TikTok / Twitter 

Listen to the album here:

Album link

Entertainment

Prepare yourself for Space Arcade, the newest VR entertainment in the metro!

Space Arcade, situated adjacent to Space & Time Cube, an immersive museum with 18 themed attractions and activities for people of all ages, on the ground floor of S Maison at Conrad Hotel, Seaside Boulevard, Pasay City, is set to provide the Philippines with an exciting VR entertainment experience all in one location.

With nine attractions, Space Arcade gives you a heart-pounding experience that puts you right in the thick of everything. There is something for everyone, including exhilarating shooting games and two-wheeled and four-wheeled racing challenges! Some attractions even create powerful gusts, which heightens the experience and encourages you to play to the end. As you play together, bring your buddies to join a squad or turn into your enemies!

If you want to take a break and capture some memories, Space Arcade also offers a self photo booth. Choose from a variety of filters and layouts that you can mix and match according to your preferences.

This new VR arcade is sure to be enjoyed by everyone, whether you’re coming solo, looking for a unique date experience, or hanging out with friends.

The games are very reasonably priced! Start your journey by adding at least P200 to your card. The cost of the game varies from P48 to P120, depending on the degree of adventure you desire. Even more thrilling is the fact that Space Arcade gives out additional free credits after you add a specific amount to your card.

Prepare for the big reveal and get ready to explore a whole new world of fun with Space Arcade!

Entertainment

Peaceful Gemini’s new single, “Piece of Gem,” conveys a message of fortitude, heavenly insight, and advancement

With the new track, the Filipina rapper/songwriter continues to prove herself as one of the most promising new voices in modern hip-hop

The well-known Filipina rapper and songwriter Peaceful Gemini is back with her new track,  “Piece of Gem,” which is out now through Sony Music Entertainment. The multi-talented artist’s new song marks another milestone in her musical journey as she sheds deceptive energies that no longer serve her purpose and embraces the development, resilience, and clarity she’s acquired along the way.

Peaceful Gemini, who is well-known for her genuine storytelling style, grounds her success in hardship and tenacity in her most recent song, which examines her development as a person and an artist.

“It’s all about making moves—making a commitment to progression and growth,” shares the Warrior Princess herself. “This song allowed me to acknowledge the strength and resilience that was shaped by my origins, environment, and the challenges I’ve faced. It’s a reminder that wellness comes from a holistic perspective: tapping into ancestral guidance, trusting God’s divine timing, and embracing life’s natural cycle as we rise with the sun.”

The acclaimed Filipino emcee also reveals that fame and external validation don’t define her at all. With this song, she leans into the lightness and warmth of love, offering a rare, unfiltered glimpse into her artistry and philosophy.

What matters to me is sharing my message to listeners who can resonate with it or feel recognized or represented by the music,” she adds.

Peaceful Gemini is the writer of “Piece of Gem,” which was produced by Mesklun, whose music blends modern hip-hop components with the vigor of boombap. Mesklun’s production approach, which is distinguished by a distinct bounce and sophisticated taste, blends well with Peaceful Gemini’s easygoing flow to create a sound that feels both sultry and grounded.

“This track stands out because it diverges from the classic PG boom bap sound and flow,” says the acclaimed hip-hop artist. “It’s more refined, modern, and polished — an evolution of my artistry — and I absolutely love it.”

Piece of Gem by Peaceful Gemini is currently available on all digital music platforms globally through Sony Music Entertainment.

Entertainment

Zedd Returns to the &FRIENDS Festival in Manila

Get ready for a memorable pop culture and music festival when the world’s best musicians and creative come together in Parañaque for the first-ever &FRIENDS Festival in Manila from May 30 to June 1, 2025.

Zedd, a Grammy Award winner, is the first of its illustrious guest list. Fans in the Philippines will never forget Zedd’s eagerly awaited return to the archipelago, which is known for chart-topping tunes like “Clarity,” “Stay,” and “The Middle.”

On the evening of May 30, the event begins with &FRIENDS Music Night – Day 1, which features a night of live EDM performances with Zedd as the main act. The night after, on May 31, &FRIENDS Music Night-Day 2 will take place. It will feature a range of pop, rap, and EDM performers, with its own headlining artist to be announced shortly.

Throughout the daytime of May 31 and June 1, the spotlight shifts to fan favorite creators, packed with events such as meet-and-greets, exclusive stage activities, interactive panels, and pop-up merchandise booths. The complete festival lineup will be announced in the coming weeks, promising even more surprises leading up to the festival.

“&FRIENDS as a brand is a celebration of modern pop culture as a whole – gaming, music, lifestyle…  and the creators and communities surrounding them,” says Justin Banusing, CEO of Clout Kitchen, the organizers of &FRIENDS Festival. “The Philippines is one of the epicentres of fandom in the world, and it just made sense to kick-off the brand here in the country where we started.”

Early February 2025 marks the start of ticket sales. For news and updates, go to andfriends.live  

Entertainment

At the SM Mall of Asia Arena, more than 230,000 families take part in Disney On Ice

Over 230,000 families attended the successful run of Disney On Ice presents Find Your Hero from December 21 to January 5 at the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena. It was a feast of vibrant costumes, memorabilia, unadulterated enjoyment, and lifelong memories made.

The enchanting characters of Encanto bring magic to life during Disney On Ice presents Find Your Hero at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

The Tangled protagonists captivate the crowd with their charm.

A magical performance of Beauty and the Beast characters during Disney on Ice at SM Mall of Asia Arena, bringing the beloved tale to life on the ice

Celebrities spotted at Disney On Ice

A dozen well-known personalities, celebrities, and influencers showed their support for this beloved Filipino holiday tradition, including notable celebrity kids who joined the much-anticipated family event.

Anne Curtis (second from left), Erwan Heussaff, daughter Dahlia, and Solenn Heussaff

BINI members Maloi and Jhoanna

Toni Gonzaga (right) with husband Paul Soriano and children Seve (2nd from right) and Polly

Jennylyn Mercado (right) with her husband, Dennis Trillo, and their daughter, Dylan.

Luis Manzano, Jessy Mendiola, and daughter Rosie (left)

Iya Villania (left), Drew Arellano (right), and their kids

Carlos Yulo (right) and Chloe San Jose

Pauleen Luna-Sotto (center) with her daughters, Mochi and Tali.

Belle Mariano (second from right) and her family.

Disney On Ice returns with Magic in the Stars

The SM MOA Arena is excited to announce the arrival of Disney On Ice presents Magic in the Stars! This show will be packed with your favorite classic and modern Disney tales, so don’t miss it!

See the return of the iconic aerial maneuvers performed by Jasmine and Aladdin. Take a delightful adventure with Maui and Moana. Join the Madrigal family from Encanto in singing and dancing. See brand-new ice performances of Cars, The Princess and the Frog, and Frozen 2 for the first time in Manila!

This December 2025, you’re skating toward all of this and more! As the hunt for the stars’ magic begins at your premier location, stay tuned for further information. See a preview of the forthcoming performance!

Link:

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Entertainment

A story of doomed passion is reimagined in “Sampung Mga Daliri” by justin of SB19 and dwta

The duo recently performed the unreleased track at the 10th Wish Music Awards last January 19, 2025

The folk-pop lullaby “Sampung Mga Daliri,”  which was written by rising singer-songwriter dwta and SB19’s Justin, depicts the breakdown of a once powerful and promising love.

The song, which was released by Sony Music Entertainment, retells a traditional Filipino nursery rhyme in a moving story about a tragic romance that cannot be saved.

The devastating discovery that love is insufficient to keep two individuals together is the subject of “Sampung Mga Daliri.” The song skillfully illustrates how holding hands becomes meaningless when there is 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.

A series of live performances known as “dwta series: Magka-Ibigan” have also been released by Dwta, which connect to the story of “Sampung Mga Daliri” and provide fans a closer look at the song’s backstory prior to its official release. As they use music to examine the delicate balance of love and sorrow, this sincere partnership represents a new chapter for both artists.

Sony Music Entertainment has made Sampung Mga Daliri  available on all digital music platforms across the globe. At 8:00 p.m., view the music video on dwta’s official YouTube channel. Check out the dwta and Justin short-form serial on the former’s social media and YouTube accounts.

Entertainment

“Firefly”‘s sensory-friendly screening highlights inclusion

“Lights Up, Sounds Down” offers inclusive movie experience for autism community

On January 17, 2025, SM Cares, SM Cinema, Autism Society Philippines (ASP), and GMA Pictures collaborated to present a successful sensory-friendly screening of the award-winning movie “Firefly” in honor of National Autism Consciousness Week. Children on the autistic spectrum and their families were among the more than 2,000 attendees who took part in the touching and inclusive film experience spread over ten SM malls.

“Tuwing pumapasok kami sa mga SM malls, damang-dama namin acceptance, accomodation, and appreciation. It is the norm here,” said Autism Society Philippines (ASP) Chair Emerita Dang Uy Koe.

A child on the autism spectrum shares a smile with their loved one during the sensory-friendly screening of “Firefly” at SM Southmall.

SM Cares, SM Cinema, Autism Society Philippines, and GMA Pictures join forces to bring a sensory-friendly screening of “Firefly” to children on the autism spectrum and their families at SM North EDSA Cinema.

“Firefly” stars Alessandra De Rossi (right) and Euwenn Mikaell (left) grace the sensory-friendly screening at SM North EDSA Cinema.

Ongoing commitment

Positive feedback from families echoed the event’s success. Many expressed appreciation for the inclusive environment, highlighting the joy and comfort it provided. This powerful experience underscores the importance of catering to the autism community’s needs.

Autism Society Philippines (ASP) National Spokesperson Mona Magno-Veluz shares a message in a video celebrating National Autism Consciousness Week.

A heartwarming moment captured at the sensory-friendly screening of ‘Firefly’ at SM City Olongapo Central, where families enjoyed a welcoming and inclusive movie experience.

“At SM Supermalls, we firmly believe that creating spaces where every individual feels valued, respected, and included is a responsibility we hold dearly.  This is a way of life here,” said SM Cares Program Director for Disability Affairs Engr. Bien Mateo. 

The guests experience the magic of “Firefly” at the sensory-friendly screening in SM City Telabastagan, Pampanga.

An invited guest is captivated by the sensory-friendly screening at SM City Marikina.

A boy enjoys the special screening and shows respect and gratitude with a traditional ‘mano po’ at SM City Cebu.

SM Cares: Championing inclusion

Maintaining inclusion calls for constant work. In order to better help people on the autism spectrum and their families, SM invests in staff training programs. Furthermore, SM Cinema makes accessibility features a top priority in all theaters, making them welcoming to all visitors.

With initiatives that uplift communities, encourage social inclusion, and protect the environment, SM Cares is SM Prime Holdings’ corporate social responsibility division. Programs for the Environment, Women and Breastfeeding Mothers, Children and Youth, Senior Citizens, and the SM Bike-friendly campaign are among its advocacy efforts in addition to the Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) program.

Go to www.smsupermalls.com/smcares to find out more.

Entertainment

Liwayway, Johnoy Danao’s debut solo performance, is the main event of Dapithapon

The upcoming major show marks his 25th anniversary in the local music scene

Posted design by Marco Gono Photo credit: JL Javier Download the poster here

The highly awaited maiden solo performance by renowned singer-songwriter Johnoy Danao, Liwayway at Dapithapon, is scheduled for March 14–15, 2025, at the esteemed Metropolitan Theater (MET) in Manila, and is expected to enthrall the Filipino audience.

The two-day musical event, which has poignant songs that appeal to all ages, represents a significant turning point in Danao’s remarkable 25-year career as an artist. Additionally, the event comes after Danao’s run of sold-out cafe shows in the Philippines, which were held in a number of small venues.

Produced by Johnoy Danao and minsan studio, Liwayway at Dapithapon promises to deliver an unforgettable event that chronicles the career of one of the country’s most beloved folk troubadours. The concert will not only revisit Danao’s familiar tunes but will also offer new renditions and never-before-heard tracks, demonstrating his growth as an artist over the years.

minsan studio head Jason Conanan, who has worked with Danao in bringing this vision to life, shares his excitement about the project. “Johnoy Danao has undergone so many phases in music, and we’re here to highlight the best of these moments,” Conanan explains. “It started with a simple idea—an email asking if the MET, now newly renovated, could host his long-overdue solo concert. Now, it’s becoming a reality, and we’re thrilled to present it in a venue that truly honors his work and legacy.”

A standout feature of the concert will be a special set accompanied by a 15-piece orchestra, masterfully arranged by Ria Villena-Osorio. “We want to offer the audience something different,” Conanan says. “Johnoy who usually plays as a solo act, will be supported by a full band, and some of his songs will be reimagined in a lush, orchestral setting that will enrich the experience and bring new dimension to his music. The minsan team is also helping with the creative direction of the show, so it’s a collaboration that we’re really looking forward to.”

For Danao, the concert represents not only a festive celebration of his past but also an exciting glimpse into his future. “Expect an experience that speaks to the soul,” says Danao. “We’ll cradle the tired hearts, minds, and bodies of our audience with the music I’ve written over the past 25 years: some old songs with new twists and fresh tracks that I’m excited to share with everyone for the first time. We also have special guests joining us in this special event.”

Photo credit: JL Javier Location credits: UP Diliman Office of the Vice Chancellor for Community Affairs

Liwayway at Dapithapon tickets are officially on sale. Don’t pass on this once-in-a-lifetime musical opportunity.

Visit www.ticketmelon.com/liwaywayatdapithapon to purchase your tickets. Prices for early bird tickets are only available for a short period of time.

Entertainment

JADE of Little Mix releases the eagerly awaited single “IT girl”

Pop sensation JADE’s much awaited song IT girl‘ marks the beginning of 2025.

“IT girl” is a bold, tongue-in-cheek, electro pop song with a lot of bass. The incisive lyrics, which were written by JADE with Cirkut and Lostboy (Charli XCX, Lady Gaga), capture her experiences in the music business and the frequently cruel and complicated nature of celebrity.

After being hinted at near the conclusion of the ‘Angel of My Dreams’ music video, fans have been eagerly awaiting the raucous song, with many calling for its complete release.

JADE says: “IT girl is the c**nty little sister to ‘Angel of My Dreams’. There’s still so much that people don’t know about me, so I was eager to surprise people and poke the bear a bit. I have to write about what my experiences are. I’m not going to sugarcoat it. This is my reality.”

Listen here: jade.me/itgirl

JADE finished 2024 by winning the Trailblazer Award at The Rolling Stone UK Awards and appearing on the cover of the magazine. She was also included on many of the end of year ‘Best Of’ lists. ‘Angel Of My Dreams’ was named the No.1 song of 2024 by DIY Magazine and a Top 10 song by The Guardian, DORK, Clash and NME. In addition Dazed named JADE video of the year.

In terms of business, “Angel Of My Dreams” has also been a big success. With more than 80 million plays to date, the song debuted at No. 7 on the UK Official Singles Chart, making it the third-highest new entry by a British artist this year. The accompanying video has received 10 million views and was the top trending video on YouTube for 10 days. For two months, the song was in the Top 20 on the Official UK Singles Chart. ‘Midnight Cowboy’ is one of two additional tunes that JADE has released since then. Slick disco-tinged ‘Fantasy’ and a seductive, subtle bass-heavy hit about embracing your sexuality, with a video directed by the legendary David LaChapelle.

Entertainment

Metro Manila’s newest entertainment destination, TheKoolPals Bar, combines live podcast recording with stand-up comedy

With the opening of their newest entertainment and live podcast center, The KoolPals are further promoting stand-up comedy. The KoolPals Bar, the go-to spot for comedy lovers seeking an exciting fusion of live performances, interactive podcasts, and top-notch food, has been formally introduced by the renowned comedy group.

For the folks behind The KoolPals, the concept of opening their own place has always been a dream. “Ever since we started our group, we have always dreamed of having our own bar,” admits James Caraan, one of the founding members of the group. “The podcast has played a huge role in promoting stand-up comedy, and it’s amazing to see how it has helped us achieve this dream. Now, we have a venue where we can expand our reach and share our humor with even more people.”

The evening was jam-packed with fun and laughter as we witnessed and listened with them. It was such an unforgettable night for me, just pure giggles, and I was truly entertained at how simply they presented themselves and cracked those witty lines. They are indeed true performers.

A Collective Vision

The KoolPals Bar isn’t just another comedy venue; it’s the realization of a collective vision by The KoolPals’ dedicated hosts and their loyal fans. Key to its creation was JJ Tan, the Managing Director of Century Park Hotel Manila, who helped provide the space to build this comedy sanctuary. Together with the five hosts of the acclaimed podcast, who have brought the comedy scene to new heights, the bar is set to become a place where both fans and comedians can truly connect.

“The fans who believed in us have been a major driving force in making this happen,” Caraan adds. The KoolPals Bar is a place to showcase our comedy, where everyone can enjoy a laugh and experience something unique in Manila’s entertainment scene.”

The KoolPals Bar sets itself apart from contemporaries as it is the only venue in the Philippines that offers both a live podcast studio and a comedy bar all in one place. Guests will not only get to watch live recordings of The KoolPals, the popular comedy podcast, but they will have the chance to enjoy the best of local Pinoy stand-up comedy, featuring the genre’s finest performers.

“This is a comedian’s playground,” says GB Labrador, one of the pioneering members. “It’s a space where good food, drinks, and comedy come together. It’s where people can relax, laugh, and make memories.”

Partnership with Century Park Hotel Manila

Collaborating with Century Park Hotel Manila ensures that The KoolPals Bar provides more than just laughter and entertainment. The food and service meet international standards, delivering an unforgettable dining experience to complement the show.

Although The KoolPals is known primarily for stand-up comedy, The KoolPals Bar is setting the stage for a diverse range of comedic experiences. The venue has already launched a new format with the Noontime Show, airing every Sunday at 4 PM, filled with fun games and unfiltered humor. This show is also broadcast live via Facebook and YouTube, allowing fans worldwide to tune in.

Big Plans for 2025

Looking ahead to 2025, The KoolPals is gearing up for an exciting year. A nationwide tour will bring their live shows to cities across the Philippines, including Pampanga, Baguio, Cebu, and more. The tour will culminate in the recording of their very first comedy special, which they hope to stream on global platforms in the near future. As for the podcast, they are working on securing top TV comedians as guests in response to fan requests.

Apart from the tour, The KoolPals has teamed up with Arcade Film Factory, one of the leading production teams in the Philippines, to help create their first-ever comedy special. Directed by the award-winning Marius Talampas, the special will showcase the best of Filipino humor that could rival even their foreign counterparts.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Arcade Film Factory for this project,” shares Labrador. “They believe in our comedy, and with their expertise, we’re confident that our special will be not only funny but also world-class. This is just the beginning of what we hope will be a groundbreaking year.”

The KoolPals celebrate their rise from modest beginnings as they look back on 2024. “We started recording in a small room with equipment we bought from Raon,” Caraan discloses. A dream come true, we now have our own bar and studio. Another significant accomplishment for us is that, after more than 750 episodes, we were named the Philippines’ Best Comedy Podcast on Spotify. We are eager to see where 2025 will lead us, and the community we have created has been amazing.

The adventure is only the beginning for the KoolPals crew. Labrador promises that every show at The KoolPals Bar, whether it’s a stand-up performance or a live podcast recording, will be funnier than the one before it.

For more information, visit www.thekoolpals.com.