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Batang Lampara, Batang Kuwentista 2026 returns to inspire a new generation of Filipino storytellers

The nationwide storytelling competition opens its doors to Grades 1–6 students, championing reading, c

The spotlight is once again on young Filipino voices as Batang Lampara, Batang Kuwentista 2026 launches its nationwide search for the country’s next outstanding young storytellers.

Presented and organized by Lampara Books, the annual competition continues the tradition of promoting a love for reading, as well as encouraging the new generation of youth to discover the joy of storytelling through Filipino books. The contest is open to Filipino students in Grades 1 to 6 nationwide.

This year’s edition promises to be bigger and more inclusive than ever. According to Segundo D. Matias Jr., Founder and CEO of Lampara Books and Precious Pages Corporation, the student competition aims to reach aspiring storytellers from every corner of the Philippines through a virtual presentation format.

“We made sure that Batang Lampara, Batang Kuwentista 2026 would be accessible nationwide through virtual presentations, allowing interested children to participate regardless of location,” Matias shares. “This edition is particularly special because we have published many new titles over the past two years. At a time when the country is facing a reading crisis, we remain committed to ensuring that our advocacy reaches more children. Through creative storytelling, we want to make sure we provide a more enjoyable experience for everyone.”

Batang Lampara, Batang Kuwentista 2026 serves as a platform for nurturing literacy, imagination, and self-expression among Filipino children. Matias emphasized that storytelling is a vital skill that helps young readers develop a lasting appreciation for books, especially in an increasingly digital world reliant on algorithmic trends. “We want children to see reading not as a requirement but as an enjoyable and life-changing experience. Aside from showcasing talent, we want participants to discover that reading can be empowering.”

The program reflects Lampara Book’s long-standing commitment to promoting Filipino children’s literature and encouraging deeper engagement with stories. By inviting children to interpret and retell narratives in their voice, the competition helps them cultivate critical thinking, empathy, and confidence.

Matias adds, “Every human life is a story. Through books, children learn to see themselves, understand their experiences, and discover solutions to challenges they may face.”

Participation in Batang Lampara, Batang Kuwentista 2026 is free of charge, making it accessible to young storytellers across the Philippines who are eager to share their talent and passion for stories. Interested participants may register through: bit.ly/batangkuwentista2026

For inquiries and general information, interested students may send a message through Lampara Books’ official Facebook page or email: [email protected].

 

 

 

 

Entertainment

justin’s lunan exhibit officially sold out; fans still have a chance to attend through Sony Music Philippines giveaway

The immersive showcase will feature original artworks and a blind auction for charity

justin’s highly anticipated arts and music showcase, lunan, is officially sold out!

For those who missed it, don’t worry! Sony Music Philippines is currently running a promo giveaway for the fans who wish to experience the exhibit curated by SB19’s very own creative director. Interested participants may sign up through the following link: http://justin.lnk.to/lunangiveaway.

The promotional period runs until June 18, 2026 at 12 NN.

The event, which will take place at the Sari-Sari Space in Quezon City, on June 19, 2026, will bring together “justin’s visual journey, artworks from the creative minds behind dahon, and pieces from the fans who continue to inspire him.”

One of the event highlights include a blind auction, where attendees and fans can submit sealed, one-time bids for exclusive items. A portion of the revenue will be donated to select non-government organizations (NGOs) supporting environmental conservation and sustainability.

Other activities include a special performance art, plus more surprises.

On the same day, justin will drop his new single, “dahon,” which he describes as a “vow of timeless love amid an ever-changing world.” The pop ballad marks another collaboration with acclaimed OPM artist Maki, who penned the track.

[PRE-SAVE LINK]

As a solo artist, justin has proven himself as a visionary creative across multiple disciplines, driven by his commitment to an advocacy of meaningful existence. He is one of the most-streamed P-Pop soloists, racking up more than 45 million streams on Spotify alone with only four official songs released to date. Beyond his individual pursuits, the charismatic multi-hyphenate is also part of the iconic P-Pop powerhouse SB19, where he takes on multiple key roles, including serving as the creative director.

justin’s “dahon” will be available on all digital music platforms worldwide beginning June 19, 2026, via Sony Music Entertainment. Pre-save link: https://justin.sng.to/dahon

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Entertainment

Lola Amour, Shirebound, and Over October Lead the Inaugural Alt.chestra Concert

Three of the biggest names in modern OPM reimagine their biggest songs through sweeping orchestral arrangements and special collaborative numbers

Good things come in threes!

Lola Amour, Over October, and Shirebound will headline the first-ever edition of Alt.chestra, a concert series that gives selected songs a fresh interpretation through rich orchestral arrangements.

Set for August 8, 2026, at the Music Museum, Alt.chestra Vol. 1 marks the debut of an intimate live music experience that blends modern band performances with the elegance and emotional depth of a full orchestra under the direction of acclaimed musical director Ronald Tomas.

The event is presented by GNN, the production team behind celebrated, sold-out concerts DAMA (Johnoy Danao, Ebe Dancel, and Bullet Dumas), and Secrets (Aia de Leon, Barbie Almalbis, and Kitchie Nadal).

Outside of their individual sets, Lola Amour, Over October, and Shirebound will also share the stage for a special collaborative number, offering a rare and exclusive moment that promises to be one of the evening’s highlights.

The three biggest bands of this generation have built loyal fan communities through years of live performances, balancing independent credibility with commercial success. Together, they represent a generation of artists whose music continues to appeal simultaneously across audiences and platforms.

Together, the three supergroups have collectively surpassed one billion streams on Spotify, alongside receiving critical recognition, numerous awards, and headlining performances at major music festivals across the country.

Tickets are now on sale through bit.ly/altchestravol1, with the following packages available:

VIP: PHP 2,400 (includes soundcheck access, poster, and post card)

Orchestra: PHP 1,500 (reserved seating)

Balcony: PHP 999 (free seating)

 

 

 

 

 

Entertainment, Lifestyle

Enchanted Kingdom marks its 12th year of supporting Brigada Eskwela, reaffirming its commitment to education and sustainability

Enchanted Kingdom (EK), the Philippines’ first and only world-class theme park, strengthened its enduring collaboration with the Department of Education (DepEd) as it marked its 12th year of participation in Brigada Eskwela. As part of the initiative, EK formally turned over its 15th adopted kindergarten classroom to Sinalhan Elementary School in Santa Rosa, Laguna on June 5.

Brigada Eskwela is a yearly nationwide program that brings together various stakeholders to volunteer their time, skills, and resources to help public schools prepare for the start of the academic year. This year’s campaign theme, “Bayanihan Para sa Paaralan: Nagkakaisa Para sa Kaayusan at Kaalaman,” reflects EK’s own Education Program, which is dedicated to creating an engaging, secure, and inspiring learning atmosphere for students.

As part of this initiative, EK tapped its maintenance team to repair and upgrade the adopted classroom’s fixtures, while artists turned the walls into a vibrant mural featuring its Storyverse characters and the rich biodiversity of Philippines, including some of the endemic species highlighted in its award-winning attraction, AGILA The EKsperience: SARIBUHAY. The mural also highlighted EK’s five core values and ways to promote environmental responsibility among young learners.

In addition to this, the Santa Rosa-based theme park revitalized the school garden, Taniman Para sa Paaralan, where they cultivated a variety of vegetables and ornamental plants.

EK Chairman and President Cesar Mario O. Mamon expressed EK’s push to expand their reach in Brigada Eswela and deliver more enchanting and educational experiences through sustained partnerships and community engagement.

“As Enchanted Kingdom celebrates its 30th year, we continue to uphold our commitment to nurturing young minds as we extend our active participation in Brigada Eskwela in the years to come. We also look forward to further strengthening our partnership with DepEd and the City of Santa Rosa across their programs,” Mr. Mamon said.

The turnover ceremony was graced by Santa Rosa City Mayor Arlene Arcillas and Vice Mayor Arnold Arcillas, along with Schools Division Superintendent (SDS) for Santa Rosa, Hereberto Jose Miranda, CESO VI; Barangay Sinalhan Chairman Ladislao Alicbusan; Sinalhan Elementary School Principal II Benjamin Ongteco Jr.; teachers; parents; and students.

In addition to these initiatives, EK enhances the guest experience through hands-on educational activities under its Education Program. Visitors can take part in these learning opportunities while enjoying the park’s iconic rides and attractions during operating hours from 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM every Friday to Sunday. Beginning June 29, the park will extend its magical operating schedule, welcoming guests from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM on the same days.

To learn more about this and other upcoming events, promotions, and offerings, visit Enchanted Kingdom’s official website and follow its social media pages on Facebook and TikTok (@enchantedkingdom.ph) as well as Instagram (@ek_philippines).

 

 

 

 

 

Entertainment

Barbie’s Cradle reunites for a comeback concert and unveils plans for new music

The influential Filipino alternative rock outfit marks its comeback with original music and an intimate one-night-only concert this August 2026

One of the Philippines’ most celebrated alternative bands from the late 1990s and early 2000s, Barbie’s Cradle is making a much-awaited return this year.

Led by Barbie Almalbis on vocals and guitar, alongside drummer Wendell Garcia, bassist Rommel dela Cruz, and guitarist Kakoy Legaspi, the acclaimed band is set to release three new tracks before capping off their comeback with a one-night-only concert at the Music Museum on August 1, 2026.

“We’re excited to revisit the greatest hits and misses while also sharing new songs that reflect where we are now in our lives both as musicians and human beings,” shares Barbie Almalbis. “We’ve reached a point where we approach music-making with greater confidence and purpose. This new body of work is more collaborative and intentional than ever. We’ve poured months of hard work into these songs, and we can’t wait for everyone to hear what we’ve created.”

Known for award-winning albums such as Barbie’s Cradle, Music from the Buffet Table, and Playing in the Fields, the band has remained deeply influential in the local music scene, particularly for woman-fronted bands and singer-songwriters. Their evolving sound, introspective and inspirational songwriting and lyrical depth, shaped by the personal journey of vocalist Barbie Almalbis, continue to appeal to audiences across generations. Over the years, the group has earned multiple recognitions, including NU Rock Awards, Awit Awards, and KATHA Awards.

The concert, Barbie Almalbis: One Night Only, is produced by GNN, a Manila-based events and concert promotion company. For Milley Habito, one of the company’s lead producers, the highly anticipated reunion show is more than a nostalgic celebration for longtime supporters—it also marks a significant moment for today’s music scene.

“We’re thrilled to collaborate with Barbie’s Cradle on this special event,” Habito shared. “The idea for the show was first introduced during Barbie Almalbis’ 25th anniversary concert three years ago. This time, however, we’re elevating the experience with a fresh creative vision. Set in a theater environment, the production will feature a carefully developed concept and theme, supported by enhanced production elements aimed at delivering an unforgettable experience for both devoted fans and new audiences.”

Tickets are now available via:

https://www.ticketmelon.com/gnn-entertainment-productions/barbiescradlereunion

VIP – PHP 2,900

Includes photo op (6pax/batch), soundcheck access, signed poster

Orchestra – PHP 1,900

Balcony – PHP 1,300 (free seating)

 

 

 

 

Entertainment

ONE CLICK STRAIGHT signs global management with The Rest Is Noise, announces mini-Asian tour

The partnership marks a major step in the Filipino indie rock band’s international expansion, with festival appearances in Mongolia and Vietnam

Acclaimed Filipino indie rock quartet ONE CLICK STRAIGHT has officially signed to The Rest Is Noise (TRIN) for global management.

Under the agreement, TRIN will oversee the band’s international bookings and management activities outside the Philippines, including artist development, touring, brand partnerships, synchronization and licensing opportunities, and other commercial and professional ventures aimed at expanding ONE CLICK STRAIGHT’s presence in global markets. The partnership will be undertaken in collaboration with the band’s manager, Eezh Arcangel.

The official announcement arrives alongside a slate of major international festival appearances for the band, including performances at Playtime Festival in Mongolia and a forthcoming festival in Vietnam this July 2026.

The signing represents a progression for both parties, following a year of collaboration through regional showcase festivals, music export initiatives, and international industry networking programs spearheaded by TRIN, OCS, and their manager, Eezh.

“After facilitating numerous export initiatives for Filipino music artists to connect with not just audiences but also music industry professionals abroad since 2018, we have decided to take it one step further with working on artist development and management for global markets,” said MC Galang, co-founder of The Rest Is Noise PH. “We felt there’s still a huge gap between what we consider ‘export-ready’ artists—those who are ready for and have elicited interest from international markets—and these new audiences, which require a lot of investment, strategy, planning, and meaningful connections. Since the Philippines is still considered an ‘emerging’ market, we have to actively pursue, if not create, these opportunities.”

MC emphasized that ONE CLICK STRAIGHT meets all the criteria for being an export-ready artist—thanks to “their strong catalog, incredible stage presence, their ability to deliver a curated experience that can be translated not just for Filipino audiences but across various audiences, and an expansive creative and sonic arsenal.”

She explains, “It was clear during their massively well-received performance at our annual showcase festival, AXEAN Festival, held in Bali last year, that they have impressed our delegates—important players in key international markets—which brought them to more festival appearances at Music Lane Festival in Japan and Bangkok Music City in Thailand; at All of the Noise here in Manila; in Singapore before that, through our partnership with Baybeats Festival; and two more festivals in July: Playtime Festival in Mongolia and a yet-to-be-announced appearance in Vietnam later next month. We look forward to helping ONE CLICK STRAIGHT reach these new opportunities as we continue our work platforming Filipino music artists around the world.”

With international shows on the horizon, ONE CLICK STRAIGHT’s Tim Marquez shared his excitement in bringing the band’s music to new audiences and connecting with diverse cultures around the world. He hopes their songs, stories, and live performances will continue to inspire listeners across borders. “I think it’s a humbling feeling to know the music you’ve created in such a small and personal space is resonating in different places. I firmly believe that Filipino music deserves to be heard, and I’m just grateful to the people who listen.”

Echoing Tim’s sentiments, ONE CLICK STRAIGHT’s Sam Marquez  expressed enthusiasm for the opportunities that lie ahead through the band’s growing international presence and partnership with The Rest Is Noise. “The Rest is Noise has been so helpful guiding and supporting us through our international journey. We’re always looking forward to learning new things with them. Their passion mirrors ours, and that’s the kind of collaboration we want with us on this journey.”

Over the past decade, ONE CLICK STRAIGHT has emerged as one of the country’s most respected independent acts. Composed of brothers Sam Marquez (vocals, guitar, songwriter), Toffer Marquez (vocals, guitar, songwriter), Toffer Marquez (vocals, bass), and Tim Marquez (drums, vocals, songwriter), alongside longtime collaborator and friend Joel Cartera (Jpapi) on guitar, the band has independently released two full-length albums and two EPs, collectively amassing more than 20 million streams on Spotify alone.

Their music and live performances have taken them across the Philippines and onto international stages, earning recognition from leading music publications and tastemakers from the Asian region.

ONE CLICK STRAIGHT’s Official social media channels
 • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ONECLICKSTRAIGHT
 • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oneclickstraight/
 • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ONECLICKSTRAIGHT
 • Twitter / X: https://x.com/ONECLKSTRAIGHT
 • Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@oneclickstraight

General inquiries: [email protected]

Website: www.therestisnoiseph.com

Twitter: twitter.com/therestisnoise_

Facebook: facebook.com/therestisnoiseph

Instagram: instagram.com/therestisnoiseph

 

 

 

 

Entertainment

SB19’s justin enlists Maki’s songwriting magic for upcoming new single “dahon”

The song marks another creative partnership between the two artists, following justin’s appearance in the “habangbuhay pansamantala” music video

P-Pop star justin teams up with acclaimed singer-songwriter Maki on his upcoming new single “dahon,” which he describes as a “vow of timeless love amid an ever-changing world.” The track is penned by Maki, a gifted singer-songwriter whose knack for heartwarming melodies and relatable sentimentality is prevalent in the material.

[PRE-SAVE LINK]

The collaboration marks another creative partnership between the two artists, following justin’s appearance in the sci-fi-inspired music video of Maki’s “habangbuhay pansamantala.”

According to justin, the upcoming new single captures romance in its purest form. “It’s a song about love that blossoms, thrives, and grows through time.”

Lyrically, “dahon” expresses the enduring power of real love, and as Justin puts it, “It stands like a firm tree that survives the biggest adversity and the only things that are constant in life: change and time.”

A multi-faceted performer known for his work as a performer, creative director, visual artist, and member of SB19, justin reveals that working with Maki has long been a personal aspiration, being a longtime fan of his work in music.

“His creativity and branding align closely with my vision and preferences. Working with him is not only a great opportunity for my career but also an incredible experience.”

As a solo artist, justin has proven himself as a visionary creative across multiple disciplines, driven by his commitment to an advocacy of meaningful existence. He is one of the most-streamed P-Pop soloists, racking up more than 45 million streams on Spotify alone with only four official songs released to date. Beyond his individual pursuits, the charismatic multi-hyphenate is also part of the iconic P-Pop powerhouse SB19, where he takes on multiple key roles, including serving as the creative director.

justin’s “dahon” will be available on all digital music platforms worldwide beginning June 19, 2026, via Sony Music Entertainment. Pre-save link: https://justin.sng.to/dahon

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

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.

 

 

 

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