Lifestyle

Bestselling Authors 4reuminct, Akosiibarra, Alluringli, and Cappuchienooo Connect With Fans At The ‘Signed With Love: PPC Book Signing Event’

Filipino readers once again proved that the love for books remains strong as Precious Pages Corporation (PPC) held its Signed with Love: PPC Book Signing Event on May 31 at Fully Booked Bonifacio Global City.

The event brought together some of today’s most beloved authors—4reuminct (Gwy Saludes), Akosiibarra, Alluringli, and Cappuchienooo—for an afternoon of book signings and fan interactions. Readers lined up to meet their favorite authors, have their books signed, and share memorable moments with the writers whose stories have touched their lives.

For PPC President Segundo Matias Jr., book signings have always been an essential part of the publishing experience.

“Ever since I became a publisher, I have always believed that book signings are important. Readers look forward to meeting the authors they admire, and I understand that feeling because I have been a fan myself. These events create a special connection between writers and readers,” he said.

“Books are tangible. They become even more meaningful when readers get the chance to meet the author and have their copy personally signed. It’s a memory they can keep for years.” 

The strong turnout at the event served as a positive reminder that despite the rise of digital entertainment, many Filipinos continue to embrace reading.

“Events like this show that there are still many people who love books and stories. We continue to see strong support from readers during book fairs and signing events,” Segundo shared.

At the same time, he emphasized the importance of encouraging reading among younger generations, particularly amid concerns about literacy and reading comprehension in the country.

“While it’s encouraging to see passionate readers gather at events like this, we must continue finding ways to encourage more young people to read, especially students. Reading plays a vital role in learning, and we hope to help nurture that habit among future generations.”

The event also highlighted the growing communities surrounding Filipino authors, with readers traveling from different areas to support their favorite writers and engage with fellow book lovers.

The participating authors expressed their gratitude to the readers who attended the event and made the occasion memorable.

“Big thanks to everyone who attended the event! I had fun chatting with you, signing books, and listening to what you love about my stories. I hope you all had a great time too! Continue supporting Filipino authors and stories. Looking forward to seeing you all again!” said Akosiibarra.

4reuminct (Gwy Saludes) also thanked readers for their continued support. “Thank you so much for coming to the book signing. We hope to see you guys again soon,” she shared.

For Alluringli, the event marked a special milestone. “This was my first book signing, and you made it so memorable and unforgettable. Thank you for your gifts, your warmth, and your presence. Every moment meant a lot to me,” she said.

Cappuchienooo likewise expressed appreciation for fans who traveled to attend the event. “Massive thank you to everyone who made an effort to see us despite the heat and distance. I appreciate your time, kind messages, and warm support. It’s always a pleasure to see you,” she shared.

Looking ahead, PPC promises more stories, more genres, and more opportunities for readers to connect with the authors they love.

“Readers can expect more exciting titles across different genres and more events where they can interact with our authors. We look forward to seeing them again at future gatherings, including major events such as the Manila International Book Fair,” Segundo said.

Follow Precious Pages and LIB Official on social media for updates.

Precious Pages

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PreciousPagesCorp

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preciouspagesbookstore/

LIB Official

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LIBOfficialPage

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/libofficial21/

Entertainment

Pick up the phone! Carousel Casualties just dropped their new single, “nananabik”

Filipino indie pop band Carousel Casualties has dropped a somber, dream pop track perfect for the drizzly season.

Inspired by the picturesque feeling of reaching out for the phone to call someone, “nananabik” longs for a person at the wee hours of the night, trying to evade any form of contact despite the heart telling otherwise.

Known for their slice-of-life indie pop songs that reflect the complexities of young adulthood, Carousel Casualties continues the tradition of writing sophisticated tunes that hold more emotional weight even in its most  subdued form. Their new track “nananabik” carries this familiar scenery with melodies that fizzle and gleam like lights lining the road: a well-crafted track like “Leona,” “season 1 episode 43” and the recent viral hit “hindi ko alam,” but more deceptively adventurous in a sonic sense.

Official artwork for “nananabik”

As Emmie Villegas, vocalist and main songwriter of the band, envisions it, “nananabik” is a song that is tethered to a specific narrative: “You pace around your apartment like a lunatic craving for answers, but then you go back to bed. You close your eyes and try to fall asleep…. You miserably fail, of course.” This continues as the subject internally debates his decision to finally reach out while the tune continues on and on–no resolve whatsoever.

“As a band, we really like making songs based on TV shows and films,” Villegas shares. “Just imagine that “nananabik” is one of those films that is open to interpretation.”

“nananabik” is now available for streaming on digital streaming platforms. Follow Carousel Casualties on their social media to catch them live!



Carousel Casualties Socials:

FB: https://www.facebook.com/carouselcasualtiesph

IG: https://www.instagram.com/carouselcasualties/

YT: https://www.youtube.com/@carouselcasualties

TT: https://twitter.com/carouselcslts

 

 

 

Lifestyle, News

Eastern Communications Joins Globe and InfiniVAN in PDSCN Mangrove Tree Planting for Sustainability Efforts

Eastern Communications, together with the Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network (PDSCN) consortium, took part in a mangrove tree-planting activity in Purok Calubay on May 22. The initiative, carried out in line with the consortium’s post-Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) commitments, reflects its ongoing dedication to sustainable development and climate action.

Organized by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) in collaboration with the Bago City LGU, CENRO Bago, and other partners, the activity underscored efforts to protect coastal communities and promote environmental conservation.

The activity opened with an orientation led by Bago City Environment and Management Office (CEMO) Representative Rex Magbanua, who emphasized the critical role mangroves play in protecting coastal communities from storm surges and coastal erosion. He cited the impact of Super Typhoon Odette in 2021, which heavily affected Bacolod and the rest of Negros Occidental, as a reminder of the importance of strengthening climate resilience initiatives.

Mangrove tree planting is a community-driven initiative that helps protect coastlines, support marine biodiversity, and strengthen climate resilience. Through initiatives like these, organizations contribute to environmental protection efforts while supporting vulnerable coastal communities and advancing meaningful Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs.

For communities such as Purok Calubay, mangroves serve as nature-based solutions that help mitigate flooding and soil erosion while supporting local livelihoods, including fisheries and other coastal resources.

“This initiative reflects our belief that creating meaningful impact goes beyond providing reliable and responsive connectivity,” said Jed Estanislao, Chief Marketing and Experience Officer of Eastern Communications. “By supporting sustainability-driven partnerships and community-centered programs, we aim to help strengthen environmental resilience, empower local communities, and contribute to long-term sustainable development.”

Through initiatives such as the mangrove tree-planting activity, Eastern Communications continues to advance programs that generate meaningful social and environmental impact. As it strengthens its footprint across the Philippines, the company remains dedicated to delivering future-ready connectivity solutions while supporting efforts that foster long-term value for communities and the environment.

To learn more about Eastern Communications and its upcoming partnerships, you may call 5300-7000 or visit www.eastern.com.ph.⁠

 

 

 

 

 

Entertainment

Offshore Music honors the legacy of the Eraserheads’ Fruitcake with Rob Cham merch collaboration

Rob Cham’s vibrant illustration invites fans old and new into the magical world of Fruitcake Heights

Filipino independent record label Offshore Music teams up with award-winning illustrator and comics creator Rob Cham for a special limited-edition merchandise to mark the 30th anniversary of the Eraserheads’ critically acclaimed fourth studio album, Fruitcake.

The limited-edition t-shirt features Cham’s modern take on the album’s whimsical world, giving listeners a fresh visual entry point into one of the most important works in Philippine music.

Known for his distinct visual storytelling, Cham approached the project as both a tribute and reinterpretation of the original Fruitcake universe.

“I wanted to do my take on the storybook while also keeping it something that people would see and be curious about what the album is about,” the acclaimed artist explains. “I wanted to make other fans of Fruitcake happy and tried to capture the energy that the album has. While working on this, I listened to the album nonstop, reread the book, and looked up all the old music videos to get in the headspace. There are so many crazy characters and visuals and pure imagination in the album and storybook, and I wanted to make people feel as excited as I was when I first learned about the album.”

As Fruitcake reaches its 30th anniversary, Cham hopes the merch encourages fans to revisit the album and discover it anew.

“I hope people give the album another listen and reconnect with their memories of Filipino Christmas,” he says. “For those discovering it for the first time, I hope they experience it from start to finish and piece together the story. I hope they find something new they hadn’t noticed before and wear this shirt with love for this album. More importantly, I hope it becomes a meaningful part of their collection.”

Released in 1996, Fruitcake is widely regarded as the band’s Christmas concept album, cementing its place as a cult favorite among fans. Recorded entirely in English, the 22-track record follows the journey of a young girl through the fictional community of Fruitcake Heights.

The launch of the Rob Cham x Fruitcake 30th Anniversary merch line will be available at the Offshore Music Bazaar on June 26, 2026, at Thai Mookata, Makati City—same day and venue as the Fête de la Musique The Indie Stage.

 

 

 

Lifestyle, Travel

Vietjet Launches Mega Sale Through June 7 for Manila–Ho Chi Minh City Flights and Routes to Europe and Central Asia

Vietjet Unveils Mega Sale Until June 7 including Manila–Ho Chi Minh City

Vietjet is rolling out one of its largest promotions of the year for Filipino travelers, making 12 million discounted seats available, including flights on the Manila–Ho Chi Minh City route. Running until 7 June 2026, the sale covers the airline’s extensive network of domestic destinations in Vietnam as well as its international routes.

The airline is also marking its ongoing global expansion with the launch of two new international services linking Hanoi to Almaty, Kazakhstan, and Prague, Czech Republic. Both routes are set to begin operations on 10 October 2026.

The following promotional fares are available during the booking window:

  • Eco-class fares from USD0 (*)on all Vietjet domestic Vietnam and international routes, including flights from the Philippines to Vietnam. Enter promo code SALE66 when booking. Applicable for travel between 5 September 2026 and 31 March 2027 (**). This is an ideal option for Filipinos looking to visit family, explore Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, or connect onward to destinations across Asia.
  • 15% off Deluxe fares (*)on the new Hanoi–Prague and Hanoi–Almaty routes with the promo code HELLOVIETNAM. Applicable for travel between 10 October 2026 and 31 March 2027 (**). Filipinos travelling to Europe or Central Asia can connect through Hanoi, making Vietjet a competitive gateway for long-haul journeys.

For those planning summer travel, Vietjet’s Summer 2026 Sale covers travel between 1 June and 31 August 2026 (**), with the following discounts:

  • 30% off Deluxe fares (*)with the promo code SALE66DLX
  • 20% off SkyBoss and Business fares (*)with the promo code VJSALE20

Travellers who book Deluxe class enjoy up to 20kg of checked baggage allowance, leaving plenty of room for shopping and souvenirs along the way. Deluxe fares also include priority seat selection and free flight schedule changes, offering added flexibility and peace of mind.

Vietnam is a well-loved destination among Filipino travellers, offering short flight times, affordable living costs, and rich cultural experiences. From the street food of Ho Chi Minh City to the heritage town of Hoi An and the karst landscapes of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam continues to draw growing numbers of Filipinos each year. With Vietjet’s expanding network, Filipino passengers also gain access to seamless onward connections across Asia, and now to Europe and Central Asia via Hanoi.

Onboard, Vietjet delivers a contemporary travel experience, offering a selection of hot meals that feature both Vietnamese and international dishes, along with attentive in-flight service. Flights are operated using its modern, fuel-efficient aircraft fleet.

Tickets may be purchased through the Vietjet website at www.vietjetair.com, via the Vietjet Air mobile app, or through authorized ticketing offices and travel agents nationwide, including those in the Philippines.

(*) Excluding taxes and fees

(**) Travel periods vary by route. Blackout dates apply. Please refer to vietjetair.com for details.

 

 

Entertainment

Malcolm Todd releases new album Do That Again out now via Columbia Records

“Malcolm Todd is a rising star with a sweet, lilting voice and a knack for intimate popcraft.” – Rolling Stone

Malcolm Todd releases his new album Do That Again out today via Columbia Records. The album arrives to early critical praise from Rolling Stone, which awarded it four stars and called Malcolm “a rising star with a sweet, lilting voice and a knack for intimate popcraft.” Across the Do That Again, Malcolm steps into the promise of a fully formed pop star, threading classic pop songwriting through a modern R&B lens with humor, instinct, and meticulous detail holding it all together.

On the eve of the release, Malcolm made his debut on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, performing “I Saw Your Face” live for the first time along with his RIAA Platinum-certified single “Earrings,” which climbed to No. 26 on the Billboard Hot 100 and currently sits at No. 4 on Spotify’s Weekly US Songs chart.

Three years ago, Malcolm Todd had never played a show. Today, he’s moved 100,000 tickets across three continents in a single touring cycle. More recently, he sold out a deliberate underplay for his most devoted fans at The Fonda Theatre in seconds. His rise has been built in real rooms, one sold-out night at a time, with streaming momentum catching up to the live demand already surrounding him.

Malcolm’s rise has been unusual because it reflects the evolution of a real-time relationship with an audience. Fans have not just streamed the songs; they have carried them from bedrooms to packed rooms, turning his shows into communal sing-alongs before the traditional machinery fully caught up. That connection sits at the center of Do That Again, an album about being young, newly untethered, a little reckless, and suddenly aware that the private moments you write through might belong to thousands of people by the next tour.

Malcolm introduced himself with his 2024 mixtape Sweet Boy, and two years later the project has taken on a life of its own: the RIAA Platinum-certified “Earrings,” “Sweet Boy,” and “Roommates” have surged back into Spotify’s Top 100 simultaneously, driven entirely by organic fan rediscovery. He followed Sweet Boy with his self-titled debut Malcolm Todd, which has accumulated over 859 million global streams, propelled by the RIAA Platinum-certified “Chest Pain (I Love),” his first Billboard Hot 100 entry, now surpassing 433 million streams worldwide. The song’s reach extended further when Don Toliver prominently sampled it on his hit “E85,” which peaked at No. 15 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped the Hot Rap Songs chart.

In 2025, Malcolm completed his sold-out Wholesome Rockstar Tour, playing to packed rooms across three continents and sharpening the live presence that has become central to his rise. Festival sets at Camp Flog Gnaw, Pitchfork Paris, Lollapalooza, and Austin City Limits brought that energy to bigger stages, with crowds singing back the songs that first built his fanbase online and on the road.

Malcolm will be performing at Outside Lands and Osheaga this year, with more tour dates to be announced soon.

Do That Again is available now, including signed vinyl in red and white colorways and an exclusive burgundy vinyl via Urban Outfitters.

Photo credit: Aidan Cullen

Do That Again
Jean Skirt
Obsessica
Free.99
Breathe
I Saw Your Face
Difficult Love
Malcolm In The Middle
Ain’t That The Truth
Gun To My Head
X’s & O’s
Lonely Song
Good Bye
Do That Again

Connect with Malcolm Todd
Website | Instagram | TikTok | YouTube

Food, Lifestyle, News

Inside World Class — Raising the Standard for Filipino Bartending

For many Filipinos, bartending is often viewed as a profession centered on making drinks and serving guests. What many do not realize is that behind every great cocktail is a craft that demands precision, creativity, hospitality, storytelling, and years of discipline behind the bar.

For more than a decade, one global platform has helped raise the standards of the profession and develop some of the industry’s most respected talents: Diageo World Class.

Run under the Diageo Bar Academy, Diageo World Class is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious bartending competitions and education platforms in the world. The Diageo Bar Academy serves as Diageo’s global bartender education program, providing training, resources, and professional development opportunities to hospitality professionals across the globe.

Since its launch in 2009, Diageo World Class has helped develop bartenders through education, mentorship, and competition. At the center of the program is the annual World Class Bartending Competition, where national champions from more than 50 countries compete for one of the industry’s highest honors.

In the Philippines, that mission comes to life through World Class Philippines.

While World Class serves as the global platform, World Class Philippines focuses on discovering, developing, and elevating local talent. Through training opportunities, mentorship, and competition challenges, it gives Filipino bartenders access to international standards while preparing them to compete on the global stage.

Lester Ligon

For Lester Ligon, a bartender trainer and former World Class Philippines competitor who represented the country at the Diageo World Class Global Finals in Berlin in 2018, one of the program’s biggest contributions is helping Filipino bartenders develop the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry.

“Bartending was never just about making great cocktails. It’s about understanding people, creating experiences, and finding ways to stay relevant in a constantly changing industry,” Ligon said. “What I appreciate most about World Class is that it pushes bartenders to look beyond recipes and techniques. It encourages creativity, storytelling, a deeper understanding of spirits and flavor, and the ability to think critically about what we do behind the bar.”

Rian Asiddao

A World Class advocate since 2015 and a former participant himself, Rian Asiddao has witnessed firsthand how the platform has helped spotlight Filipino talent, strengthen the local bartending community, and create opportunities beyond Philippine shores.

“Diageo World Class Bartender of the Year is the biggest bartending competition in the world—it’s often called the Olympics of bartending. Since the Philippines joined in 2013, World Class has helped highlight the talent, skills, hospitality, and creativity of Filipino bartenders. Beyond the competition, it has given the industry opportunities to connect, learn from one another, and build networks both locally and globally,” Asiddao said.

Beyond Mixing Drinks

Participants are evaluated not only on creativity, presentation, hospitality, spirits knowledge, and technical execution, but also on their ability to create memorable experiences and tell compelling stories through their cocktails. By drawing inspiration from Filipino culture, local ingredients, and their own personal journeys, participants are helping shape a new generation of bartenders who serve as storytellers, innovators, and ambassadors of Filipino hospitality—fueling the rise of a Philippine cocktail scene that continues to earn recognition both at home and abroad.

Creating Opportunities for Filipino Talent

One of the most significant contributions of World Class Philippines is its ability to create opportunities for Filipino bartenders to compete at the highest level.

Alyssa Lorenzo

In 2023, Alyssa Lorenzo made history as the first female World Class Philippines Bartender of the Year, marking an important milestone for an industry that has traditionally been male-dominated.

“Joining wasn’t just about winning, it was about learning,” Lorenzo said. “World Class became a platform for me to explore creativity and technique on a deeper level. Each stage of the competition challenged me to create drinks that tell a story, represent who I am, and showcase Filipino culture. Representing the Philippines on an international stage, especially in São Paulo, Brazil, was one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life. Holding the trophy as the Tanqueray World Class Challenge winner felt surreal—it made me realize that all the hard work was worth it.”

Ralph Santos

More recently, reigning World Class Philippines Bartender of the Year Ralph Allen Santos of The Spirits Library captured the national title with ‘Kapwa’, a cocktail inspired by Filipino community values and the spirit of bayanihan. First inspired by the competition in 2016, Santos spent years honing his craft and returning to the World Class stage before finally claiming the title in 2025—a milestone that reflected years of perseverance, learning, and dedication.

“World Class has significantly influenced my growth both professionally and personally,” Santos said. “Professionally, it taught me to approach cocktail creation with more intention, focusing not only on flavor but also on storytelling, presentation, and guest experience. It challenged me to continuously improve and raise my standards.”

Winning the national title earned Santos the opportunity to represent the Philippines at the World Class global finals in Toronto, Canada, while the lessons and standards he developed through the program continue to guide him today as Bar and Restaurant Manager of MOGA in Singapore.

Stories like these show how World Class Philippines has become a pathway for bartenders to refine their craft, gain industry recognition, and showcase Filipino creativity on the global stage.

For aspiring bartenders, Santos believes the true value of World Class lies beyond the competition itself, “The real value of World Class is found in the preparation, the learning, and the growth that happens along the way,” he said. “Stay authentic. The strongest concepts are often rooted in your own story, culture, and experiences.”

The Road to the Finals

The next chapter unfolds on June 9, 2026, at Skybar in Solaire North, where the country’s top bartenders compete for the title of World Class Philippines Bartender of the Year. For the 15 finalists, the stakes extend far beyond a trophy. The winner will earn the opportunity to represent the Philippines at the World Class global finals in Scotland this September, joining national champions from more than 50 countries in one of the most prestigious bartending competitions in the world.

More than a competition, Diageo World Class has become a platform for developing talent, raising standards, and showcasing Filipino creativity on the global stage. As it continues to grow, so too does the reputation of Filipino bartenders, who are proving they can compete alongside the very best in the industry.

Lifestyle, News

Tangere Extends Free Fuel Assistance to Jeepney Drivers Through Its “Maka-Filipino” Initiative

Tangere is set to roll out the “Maka-Filipino” Free Gas Assistance Program in collaboration with Seaoil and other partner organizations to help Filipino jeepney drivers cope with increasing fuel prices. The initiative will benefit 200 drivers, offering fuel assistance and additional incentives aimed at helping reduce their everyday expenses. Through this program, Tangere seeks to acknowledge and celebrate the dedication of jeepney drivers who continue serving their communities despite persistent economic pressures.

Jeepney drivers continue to play a vital role in the country’s transportation network, enabling millions of Filipinos to commute and stay connected every day. Through the “Maka-Filipino” Free Gas Assistance Program, Tangere offers fuel assistance to help lessen the burden of increasing fuel prices on drivers’ daily operations and source of income.

The assistance program will be held on June 5, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM at Seaoil Gas Station – Anabu I-E Gen, Imus, Cavite, where beneficiaries will receive assistance on-site.

“Ang inisyatibong ito ay aming paraan ng pagbabalik sa mga taong patuloy na nagseserbisyo sa ating komunidad araw-araw,” Martin Peñaflor said. “Naniniwala kami na ang pagsuporta sa mga jeepney drivers, ay pagsuporta sa bawat pamilyang Pilipino.”

The Maka-Filipino Free Gas Assistance Program highlights Tangere’s ongoing dedication to supporting community-focused initiatives that deliver meaningful and tangible benefits to Filipinos.

—————————-

Tangere is an award-winning technology application and innovation-driven market research company that aims to capture Filipino sentiments. Tangere is a proud member of the Marketing and Opinion Research Society of the Philippines (MORES), European Society for Opinion and Market Research (ESOMAR), and the Philippine Association of National Advertisers (PANA).

For the topline report and analytics for this non-commissioned study, please email Tangere at [email protected].

Automotive

Toyota PH Previews Three New Models ahead of PIMS 2026

Toyota Motor Philippines is set to debut three much anticipated new models at PIMS 2026

The all-new Land Cruiser FJ (right), LC300 HEV (bottom left), and Hilux BEV (upper left)

Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) has given a preview of the three new models that it will be displaying at the 10th Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS). From June 4 to 7, 2026, attendees will be able to see the all-new Land Cruiser FJ, Hilux BEV, and the Land Cruiser 300 HEV in the metal.

The Legend Continues

The All-New Land Cruiser FJ

The Land Cruiser line has a fresh new addition to its withstanding legacy with the Land Cruiser FJ. The LC FJ, which stands for Land Cruiser Freedom & Joy, highlights the nameplate’s adventurous and versatile nature. Bringing together the Land Cruiser’s 4×4 heritage in a more accessible and compact package, the LC FJ gives customers a new way to enjoy the Land Cruiser legacy in both the city and the trail.

The LC FJ features an Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) perfect for maximizing its 4×4 nature. It also features a Differential Lock, Auto Limited Slip Differential, 2nd Start Mode, and a Panoramic View Monitor, giving it a rugged yet urban-ready approach.

Invincible Spirit, Electrified

The All-New Hilux BEV

With its “invincible spirit” of durability and performance, the all-new Hilux is ready to make its debut in the country as a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV). The arrival of a 4×4 BEV is a new step toward the future for the Hilux nameplate, and one that caters to customers who look to take charge toward an electrified future. Guided by the Tough and Agile design philosophy, customers can expect the Hilux BEV to have a much more dynamic and sophisticated fascia in the form of a “Cyber-Sumo” aesthetic.

Aligned with Toyota’s efforts in improving their cars, the diesel variants of the Hilux have also adopted this design language, alongside the high-grade version of a 2.8-liter, turbo-diesel engine-reiterating Toyota’s mission of constantly improving their cars to better cater to the needs of their customers.

Toyota’s Heritage Driving Towards the Future

Thoughtfully crafted innovation meets heritage in the LC300 HEV. The all-new LC300 HEV is set to redefine its legendary status with the combination of the Land Cruiser 300’s proven durability, unmatched power and performance, and Toyota’s practical hybrid system added to its 3.5 V6 engine. Additionally, the LC300 HEV now includes electronic power steering, giving customers a much smoother driving experience.

The body kit of the LC300 has also gone through improvements with it now being an Aero body kit with Jet Black Garnish.

The LC300 HEV’s new powertrain offers Land Cruiser heritage with improved driving experience using practical HEV technology. With the addition of an HEV variant to the LC300 line, Toyota looks to further solidify its efforts in contributing to reducing carbon emissions through electrified vehicles.

All-New Cars Backed by Legacy

With the confirmation of these three new models, Toyota once again fully commits itself to empowering customers by giving them multiple mobility options to choose from. Backed by a legacy of proven quality, durability, and reliability, Toyota aims to continue providing customers with their perfect ride home that answers the different needs of each customer.

Starting June 4, customers can already reserve the Land Cruiser FJ through www.toyota.com.ph/reserveLCFJ.  While customers can reserve for the Hilux BEV & ICE through https://www.toyota.com.ph/reserveHilux. LC300 HEV reservation on the other hand, can be directly done through any authorized Toyota dealer nationwide, to view the list of Toyota dealerships, visit https://www.toyota.com.ph/dealer.

To learn more about these previewed vehicles and to see them in the metal, visit the Toyota Choice Booth at the 10th Philippine International Motor Show on June 4-7, at the World Trade Center Metro Manila.

Secure your tickets for the 10th Philippine International Motor Show by going to Philippine International Motor Show and learn more about the latest news about PIMS 2026 by following the official CAMPI Facebook page.

To know more about these new models making their debut at PIMS 2026, follow Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook, Instagram and X, and join the ToyotaPH community on Viber to get the latest updates on products, services, and promos. 

 

 

Entertainment

FIFTY FIFTY embrace imperfection and self-discovery in new EP ‘Imperfect-I’mperfect’

LISTEN TO THE EP HERE

WATCH ‘LIKE A BUBBLE’ MUSIC VIDEO HERE

K-pop sensation, FIFTY FIFTY, returns with their highly anticipated new EP, “Imperfect-I’mperfect,” now available on all digital streaming platforms via Arista Records. Marking a new chapter in the group’s musical journey, the six-track project doesn’t try to hide or fill in its flaws. Instead, it embraces the idea that our raw, unpolished selves can be the most unique, and even the most complete. The album fearlessly confronts the honest emotions that exist beyond simple positivity and bright smiles. It reminds us that we don’t always have to be perfectly happy. Beginning with the pre- release single, “STARSTRUCK,” the album immediately introduces a striking transformation in both image and sound for the group. Built around powerful electronic synths, distorted textures, vocal chops, and cyberpunk-inspired production, the track creates a retro-futuristic atmosphere that feels immersive, hypnotic, and emotionally charged. The experimental soundscape offers fans an early glimpse into the themes woven throughout the project while showcasing a bold new side of FIFTY FIFTY.

The album continues with focus track “Like a Bubble,” which embraces a brighter and more playful energy through dreamy production, buoyant melodies, warm harmonies, and atmospheric instrumentation layered over a boom bap-inspired rhythm. At its heart, the song is about loving yourself exactly as you are — flaws and all — while capturing the freeing feeling of emotional weightlessness. Together, “STARSTRUCK” and “Like a Bubble” embody FIFTY FIFTY’s unmistakable sense of liberation and artistic growth.

Additional tracks including “Took It Too Far” and “Genie Magic” bring a more energetic edge to the project while continuing to explore the emotional complexities woven throughout the album. “Took It Too Far” blends groovy, dreamlike textures with playful tension to portray a relationship that constantly clashes yet remains impossible to walk away from. Meanwhile, “Genie Magic” bursts with vibrant synths, infectious energy, and a bright sense of excitement, celebrating the magical moments love can unexpectedly bring.

On the more introspective side, tracks like “PERFECT” and “Carry On” lean into emotional vulnerability and cinematic storytelling. “PERFECT” combines dreamy R&B textures with subtle retro influences, capturing the excitement and nervousness of first love while delivering a bold confession through the group’s signature confidence. Closing the album, “Carry On” builds toward a soaring and emotional finale through expansive production, powerful chants, and dynamic vocal ad-libs that leave listeners with a lasting sense of comfort, healing, and hope.

Ahead of this release, the group further showcased their artistic versatility with a widely praised cover of Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd, earning attention from fans and critics alike for their heartfelt reinterpretation of the iconic classic. They also recently sat down with Variety to discuss the creative direction behind their evolving artistry and the emotional themes that inspired this current project.

(Credit: Sony Music Korea Entertainment)

FIFTY FIFTY has continued to establish themselves as one of K-pop’s fastest-rising groups since the breakout success of Cupid, which became the longest-charting K-pop song in Billboard Hot 100 history at 25 consecutive weeks and peaked at #17. The rapid global success of “Cupid” through TikTok trends and streaming platforms introduced the group to a massive international audience, and over the past year, FIFTY FIFTY has continued expanding their global reach while evolving artistically with each release.

From riveting dance-pop moments to softer introspective tracks, “Imperfect-I’mperfect” captures the complexities of youth, identity, emotional uncertainty, and personal growth while reinforcing FIFTY FIFTY’s place as one of the most exciting rising groups in global pop music.

Tracklist:

  1. STARSTRUCK
  2. Like a Bubble
  3. Took It Too Far
  4. PERFECT
  5. Genie Magic

FOLLOW FIFTY FIFTY

Instagram | Spotify | TikTok