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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

Entertainment

“Asawa” by Carwajee Radiates a Familiar Cup of Joe-Like Charm

Carwajee RK

The story behind Carwajee’s members, Richter Kent “RK” Velasco and Kenlei Serwelas, is just as captivating as their music. Making their debut under Imperium Entertainment with the single “Asawa,” the Lipa, Batangas-based duo brings an authentic, street-performance spirit to the OPM landscape after being discovered by acclaimed filmmaker Daniel Palacio.

Their sound has naturally drawn comparisons to Cup of Joe, thanks to its melodic warmth and emotional sincerity. In a blind listening session organized by Imperium Entertainment, 8 of 11 music critics pointed out similarities between the two acts. Like the popular Baguio group, Carwajee embraces soulful acoustic elements and heartfelt narratives. Yet while Cup of Joe is known for its easygoing retro-pop charm, Carwajee carves out its own identity with a more cinematic folk-pop style, shaped by Palacio’s vision as the duo’s songwriter.

“We aren’t even on the same planet as Cup of Joe yet, so getting compared to them right out of the gate feels surreal,” Velasco said. “It just shows how powerful music is. Our focus now is just the work—honing our sound until our records and our live sets are nothing short of elite.”

For Serwelas, the comparison is a massive ego boost. He shared, “Getting a nod alongside Cup of Joe is huge. Their catalog is so solid, so it’s an honor to even be in that conversation. The goal now is to let our music do the talking.”

“Asawa” serves as Carwajee’s introduction to the national stage, blending high-stakes relatability with the gritty, evocative atmosphere of Palacio’s songwriting. The story of the duo is equally cinematic: two buskers who performed in the same city but never crossed paths until Palacio’s keen eye for talent brought them together.

Now, under the banner of Imperium Entertainment, Velasco and Serwelas transition from the sidewalks of Lipa to a professional studio production. Beyond the music, they are set to showcase their range as performers in the upcoming “Asawa” music video to be directed by Palacio.

Carwajee Kenlei

Transitioning effortlessly from filmmaking to music, Palacio is shaping Carwajee as a promising force in a new generation of OPM—one that blends vivid storytelling with emotional depth. As both producer and creative visionary, he crafts each release to reflect the duo’s genuine artistry and distinctive character.

Executive produced by Oliver Sy, “Asawa” was released through Imperium Entertainment on May 7, 2026, and is now streaming on all major digital music platforms.

Follow Carwajee:

 

 

Entertainment

RAMONA unpacks post-breakup trauma in new single “Laguna”

Her latest track embraces brash punk energy with confrontational lyrics and biting dark humor

Following the breakout success of her debut song “GAGA,” which garnered more than 300,000 TikTok creations and peaked at No. 60 on the Spotify Viral charts, RAMONA returns to the spotlight with the release of her new single, “Laguna,” out today via Sony Music Entertainment.

RAMONA’s latest track chronicles the messy aftermath of a breakup. Balancing humor, confrontation, and disbelief, the angsty pop-punk anthem taps into the hyper-online generation’s obsession with decoding modern relationships and post-breakup behavior. It also unpacks the strange limbo between heartbreak and amusement: the spiral of watching someone move on suspiciously fast.

Where many breakup songs dwell in defeat and tortured sadness, “Laguna” chooses to fight back. It is restless, unfiltered, and loud, reflecting a generation that processes intimacy through screens, timelines, and lingering notifications.

In the approved pitch for “Laguna,” the track is described as a straightforward reflection on a past emotional experience. It sits in that in-between space where something happened, it mattered at the time, and now it’s just part of her memory. She doesn’t assign it meaning beyond what it was, but she notices how those kinds of moments tend to stay with you anyway.

Produced by Tim and Sam Marquez of One Click Straight, “Laguna” integrates brash punk energy with Y2K emo sensibilities, allowing RAMONA’s conversational but darkly humorous lyrics to build up and explode against a backdrop of distorted guitars, menacing drums, and riot grrrl spunk. It’s Liz Phair-coded, but with Pinoy-style wit and sarcasm that gives listeners a taste of RAMONA’s acid-infused songwriter persona.

RAMONA’s “Laguna” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch out for the release of the lyric video via RAMONA’s official YouTube channel.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Entertainment

Aviators take retro pop to dreamier, more introspective place with new single “Come & Go”

Chamber rock duo Aviators are back in our daily rotation with new ‘rush-inducing’ track “Come & Go”—out today via Offshore Music.

What started as an Iloilo-based music project between two friends, John Roxas and Arvy Zafra, has evolved into a band with unique sonic imagery: retro-pop with lush and ornate arrangements and post-punk sensibilities, perfectly carried by their previous single, “Hollow,” which was released in October 2025.

Imbued with newfound range and character, their latest single “Come & Go” takes the familiar cinematic approach with a more manic sound. It’s intentionally made to feel as if the listener is chasing after each note as the song drives forward.

“I wanted a song that had an energetic, frenetic pace, something you would hear as a soundtrack to a James Bond-esque movie,” shares vocalist and guitarist John Roxas. “The lyrics are centered around things that come and go, and what better way to bring that to light than with a song that comes at you, then goes on forward.”

Official Artwork for Come & Go

In the same interview, Roxas mentioned that this song has been in the works way back 2016 when they were experimenting on orchestral soundscapes, making “Come & Go” technically a ten-year-old project.

A lyric video of “Come & Go”, created by Danille Yzjl Eligue, Renzky Avelino, and Jyzle Xylex Monzon, will also be available upon release day on the Offshore Music PH‘s official YouTube channel.

The final installment of Aviators’ cinematic and orchestral exploration is set to drop this July.

Listen to “Come & Go” on all streaming platforms here!

Aviators Socials:

SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/aviators
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/aviatorsmnl

FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/OfficialAviatorsMNL

TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@aviatorsmnl

 

 

Entertainment

VVINK makes a striking artistic debut in It Starts With A Wink — their first full album

Packed with infectious pop anthems and emotionally resonant tracks, It Starts With A Wink showcases the quintet’s versatility and ambition

P-Pop girl group VVINKpresents a strong and intentional artistic identity in It Starts With A Wink – The First Full Album,a 14-track release under FlipMusic. More than just a lineup of carefully crafted summer pop tracks, the album offers a unified sonic and emotional journey designed to be fully experienced from start to finish.

Centered around the phrase “It Starts With A Wink,” the group’s debut full-length album is inspired by the idea of a silent signal between people—an unspoken connection that instantly brings individuals together. In the same way, the album reflects the relatable emotions, humor, awkward moments, friendships, and vulnerabilities that shape young Filipino adulthood, creating a shared listening experience that feels authentically Filipino throughout.

In an era increasingly dominated by streaming and short-form virality, It Starts With A Wink – The First Full Album stands out for capturing youthful memories with uplifting effervescence: honed by carefree and playful sentiments but never lacking in tenderness and sophistication. Designed as a no-skips body of work that unfolds through recurring sonic ideas, transitions, interludes, emotional callbacks, and tonal shifts, the album plays like actual memories framed with intention rather than isolated algorithmic moments.

The album opens confidently with “I-N-T-R-O,” immediately introducing VVINK’s vocal identity before transitioning into the infectious energy of “Tulala” and the explosive hyperpop-meets-budots fusion of “Baduy,” featuring world-renowned producer DJ Love. As the record slowly unfurls its character, tracks like “Tatlong Hiling” showcase the group’s softer, more emotional side while “Tulog Pa Si Ganda” injects a trippy mosaic of Jersey beats, funky house, and Miami bass. Nica Del Rosario’s GL-inspired track “Kailan Ka Aamin,” adds another layer of emotional honesty, contemporary Filipino storytelling, and inclusivity to the album. Situated at the center of the record is “Pag-ibig Fun,” a bright, witty, and inescapable pop jam that perfectly welcomes the album’s carefree spirit and distinct edge.

The latter half of It Starts With A Wink – The First Full Album settles into heartfelt territory with the trifecta of “Ikaw Lang Ang Kulang,” “Oo,” and “Ikaw Ikaw,” elevating the group’s pop sensibilities with a smattering of charisma and indelible songwriting chops. The record closes with “It’s A Rap,” an explosive boom-bap-driven track that highlights VVINK’s versatility as performers, and “VVINK VVINK,” a brief but intentional teaser hinting at the group’s future sonic direction.

Helmed by select powerhouse producers and composers from FlipMusic under the direction of Head Music Producer Julius James “Bojam” de Belen (BINI’s Talaarawan, Sarah Geronimo’s “Tala” and “Ikot-Ikot,” and the Diary ng Panget original soundtrack), alongside hitmakers Nica Del Rosario (Sarah Geronimo’s “Tala,” BINI’s “Na Na Na” and “Karera”), Myk Conchada (BINI’s “I Feel Good” and “Salamin, Salamin”), and VVINK’s very own Angelika (BINI’s “Pantropiko”), the album reflects years of experience in shaping modern Filipino pop culture through songwriting, arrangement, artist development, and sonic experimentation.

Even before releasing their official full-length album, VVINK had already gained recognition in the P-Pop scene through their pre-debut releases that highlighted storytelling, replay appeal, and emotional depth. Made up of members Angelika, Ayaka, Jean, Mariel, and Odri, the rising pop group showcases a fresh generation of artists driven by determination and authentic Filipino values.

VVINK’s It Starts With A Wink – The First Full Album is now available on all major digital streaming platforms worldwide through FlipMusic.

 

 

 

 

 

Automotive, Entertainment

Toyota Choice Ambassadors Ben&Ben to Perform at PIMS 2026

Toyota PH invites the public to see Ben&Ben perform at this year’s Toyota booth at PIMS

Toyota Choice Ambassadors, Ben&Ben, with the bZ4X BEV (left), Toyota Tamaraw GL Dropside (behind), and the RAV LTD HEV (right)

Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) is inviting the public to visit the Toyota booth at the 2026 Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS), happening from June 4 to 7, 2026, at the World Trade Center Metro Manila. Making the experience even more special, Toyota Choice ambassadors Ben&Ben will be performing live at the Toyota booth on June 5, from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

As Toyota Choice ambassadors, Ben&Ben help bring to life Toyota’s message of giving every customer the freedom to choose the ride that fits their lifestyle, needs, and journey. Their live performance at PIMS 2026 gives visitors another reason to drop by the Toyota booth and experience what Toyota has prepared for this year’s show.

“Toyota has been a core part of our story ever since the beginning of our band. Our first band car was a Toyota borrowed from the twins’ family, at pinagkasya namin kaming lahat doon kasama lahat ng mga gamit namin,“ shared Ben&Ben.

“A few years later, nagsimula ang partnership with Toyota at nagkaroon kami ng dalawang van! Nagkasya na kami nang hindi nagsisiksikan. Dumami na rin kasi ang mga gamit namin sa pagtugtog. Nine years of countless shows and travels later, we’re happy to still be choosing Toyota. Sa lahat ng biniyahe namin, at mga ala-alang nakapaloob rito, Toyota ang sakay namin.” added the nine-piece Filipino band. ”

“Toyota has been a core part of our story ever since the beginning of our band. Our first band car was a Toyota borrowed from the twins’ family, and we made everyone fit in there along with all our gear,” said Ben&Ben. A few years later, our partnership with Toyota began, and we got two vans! We could all fit without squeezing in. By then, we also had more gear for our performances. Nine years of countless shows and travels later, we’re happy to still be choosing Toyota. Through all the journeys we have taken and the memories that came with them, Toyota has been our ride.

Ben&Ben with the bZ4X BEV

Ben&Ben, the Voice of Toyota Choice

Toyota and Ben&Ben are a partnership that is brought together by their shared values of trust, connection, versatility, and innovation. Ben&Ben joining the Toyota Choice campaign adds a fresh and relatable figure that resonates with younger audiences, one that embodies the four pillars of Toyota Choice. This addition gives Toyota a voice to deliver the message of empowering Filipinos to make choices that matter when it comes to their mobility needs.

Toyota Choice reinforces Toyota as a trusted brand that people keep coming back to, the same way Ben&Ben has earned the loyalty of their listeners through their music. Toyota’s genuine customer support and its focus on extending its services beyond a customer’s initial purchase are also reflected through Ben&Ben’s dedication to creating meaningful engagements with their fans beyond their performances.

Toyota, as a one-stop shop, showcases that the brand offers a wide range of mobility solutions to cater to the diverse needs of its customers. Ben&Ben embodies this through the numerous social topics and themes they tackle through their songs. With Toyota’s expert innovations, their cars continue to improve to give customers a smooth mobility experience, while Ben&Ben keeps growing their music to be able to tell relatable and socially relevant stories to their listeners.

Toyota and Ben&Ben’s similarities in their qualities allow the Toyota Choice campaign to have a relatable human feel that allows customers to further connect with the campaign’s messaging of choosing to have the feeling of peace of mind when they choose Toyota.

Make your choice, the Toyota CHOICE!

This year’s theme for the PIMS 2026 booth will be the brand’s Toyota Choice campaign. Guests can visit the booth to see not only the latest Toyota vehicles set for launch this year, but also see and learn about the trusted quality and experience Toyota offers for its customers. Toyota will also hold public test drives for customers to have the opportunity to experience fuel-efficient ICEs, practical HEVs, and future-ready BEV Toyota vehicles firsthand.

Building off the ease of mind Toyota offers with their vehicles, guests can also visit T-OPT, Toyota’s affordable and reliable quality auto parts brand, which will be present at PIMS 2026. Through T-OPT, visitors can learn more about Toyota-backed parts options designed to support customers beyond vehicle purchase and throughout their ownership journey. The Gazoo Racing (GR) booth will also be present at the event, where guests can get their hands on GR merchandise and see a modified GR Supra and GR Corolla on display

“The Philippine International Motor Show has always been a great platform for Toyota to showcase our latest and future offerings of Toyota. We invite everyone to come to Toyota’s PIMS 2026 booth to see our upcoming models up close, test drive our latest vehicle lineup, and enjoy with their families and friends while watching our Toyota Choice Ambassadors, Ben&Ben, perform their songs,” said TMP First Vice President of Vehicle Sales Operations Elijah Marcial.

“Toyota is dedicated to ensuring our customers’ choice leads to a smooth ownership experience, and one that gives them a dedicated peace of mind. We hope that with Toyota’s PIMS 2026 booth, guests will be able to have the power of choice to choose what is best for their mobility needs.” she adds.

With live music, exciting vehicle displays, test drive activities, Toyota-backed ownership solutions, and more experiences waiting at the booth, Toyota invites the public to come together and explore the many ways they can make the Toyota Choice.

Get 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.

Learn more about the latest news about Toyota at PIMS 2026  by following 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

Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan: Ghost War Now on Prime Video Following the New York World Premiere

Presents

New Film Stills HERE

Official Teaser HERE

Official Trailer HERE

Red Carpet Premiere Photos: HERE

Red Carpet Premiere FOOTAGE & INTERVIEWS: HERE

Courtesy: Amazon MGM Studios

Prime Video declassified TOM CLANCY’S JACK RYAN: GHOST WAR, directed by Andrew Bernstein, at the World Premiere. Bringing together informants and insiders, New York City’s Regal Times Square was a buzz with talent, filmmakers and attendees as they gathered for a night full of action.

Our operatives rendezvoused at Quality Bistro for a debrief that was no low-profile event. Film talent in attendance at the afterparty included stars John Krasinski, Sienna Miller, Michael Kelly, Max Beesley, Betty Gabriel, and JJ Feild; and Director Andrew Bernstein. All systems were a go as the attendees celebrated another successful mission!

Additional celebrity attendees included Emily Blunt, Matthew Rhys, Kevin Kane, Aimé Donna Kelly, Ramona Singer, Racquel Chevremont, Mia Alario and more.

Photo Credit: StarPix/Dave Allocca

Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan: Ghost War, starring John Krasinski returning as Jack Ryan alongside Wendell Pierce, Michael Kelly, and Sienna Miller, now premieres this week exclusively on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories worldwide.

Check Out New Sneak Peek Clip Below

Embed code:

And New Film Stills

Photo Credit: Amazon MGM Studios

Synopsis | In this new film, Jack Ryan is reluctantly thrust back into the world of espionage when an international covert mission unravels a deadly conspiracy, forcing him to confront a rogue black-ops unit, and the clock is ticking. Operating in real time with lives on the line and the threat escalating at every turn, Jack reunites with battle-tested CIA operative Mike November (Michael Kelly) and former CIA boss James Greer (Wendell Pierce), their combined experience the only edge they have against an enemy who knows their every move. Backed by an unlikely new partner – razor-sharp MI6 officer Emma Marlow (Sienna Miller) – Jack and the team navigate a treacherous web of betrayal, facing a past they thought was long put to rest – making this the most personal, high-stakes mission any of them have ever faced.

Directed by | Andrew Bernstein

Screenplay by | Aaron Rabin, John Krasinski

Story by | Noah Oppenheim and John Krasinski

Based on the characters created by | Tom Clancy

Produced by | Allyson Seeger, John Krasinski, Andrew Form

Executive Produced by | John J. Kelly, Alexa Ginsburg, Carlton Cuse, Tom Clancy

Starring | John Krasinski, Wendell Pierce, Michael Kelly, Max Beesley, JJ Feild, Douglas Hodge with Betty Gabriel and Sienna Miller

 

Rated R for “violence and language” | 105 Minutes

Amazon MGM Studios Press Site

@PrimeVideo @AmazonMGMStudios @PrimeMovies

@JackRyanPV

#GhostWarMovie

For more info visit www.amazon.com/primevideo.

For more information, visit Amazon.com/about and follow @AmazonNews.

 

 

 

Entertainment

ALYSON unveils sophomore album, AFTER OURS

Now available on all digital music platforms worldwide, the 8-track release unfolds like a single emotional journey: carefully sequenced, richly detailed, and impossible to skip.

Following the radiant appeal of their critically acclaimed debut DEFINITELY LOVE!, ALYSON makes a compelling return with AFTER OURS—a sonically daring sophomore album released under Offshore Music Philippines.

The band’s second full-length release dwells in the emotional aftermath of romance, navigating uncertainty after intimacy, the allure that challenges commitment, and the bittersweet truth that love survives not because it is flawless, but because it is chosen. Showcasing a more refined direction in songwriting and production, AFTER OURS embraces album listening as an immersive and almost sacred experience, with every track thoughtfully arranged and each detail crafted with clear intention.

In an era increasingly dominated by algorithmic design and standalone singles, ALYSON wants listeners to rediscover the beauty of experiencing albums as complete bodies of work that are meant to be lived through in sequence, with no skips. The record feels like one long night stretching into dawn.

Here’s a track-by-track description:

  1. IKAW LAGI

Opening the record with festive beats and magnetic arrangements, “IKAW LAGI” is described as a “summery, ‘80s Latin-disco anthem” where the feelings of attraction and love are amplified to the max by its inescapable energy. The dancefloor-ready track captures the excitement of attraction at the beginning of a night out: where possibility is endless and every glance feels electrifying.

  1. LANDI

A nighttime 80’s dancefloor track that takes listeners deeper into the long night, the song transports you to the set of the 1987 film, Dirty Dancing. It brings back the physicality and intimacy introduced in the previous album, showing two people unexpectedly synchronized to the beat amidst the chaos of the dance floor, getting closer, skin to skin, almost to a sensual breaking point.

  1. BIGHANI

Exploring the connection between city pop and Brazilian tropical rhythms, the track marks the emotional escalation of the album. Beneath its shimmering production lies an internal conflict: temptation can drive a person crazy after a wonderful night, leading them to question their outlook on loyalty and love.

  1. KUNG SAKALING TANAWIN

Delivering the record’s grandest emotional statements, the track gloriously channels the Manila Sound ballads from the ‘70s and ‘80s with sweeping orchestral arrangements ala Basil Valdez and Rey Valera. Drunk with nostalgia and yearning, the track meditates on the painful beauty of memory, asking whether love would still be chosen if one already knew how complicated and fragile everything would become.

  1. TALAGA

A playful synth-pop track inspired by both Pinoy and Japanese pop sensibilities circa 1986, the track chronicles a lover’s quarrel filled with teasing tension and undeniable chemistry.

The release of the song is accompanied by a music video that pays tribute to the late-night music television performances of the ’80s and ‘90s (e.g., Ryan Ryan Musikahan). It also features rising pop artist Paprikka, who is known for her charismatic singing and soulful delivery.

  1. GOODBYE, SUMMER

Integrating big band jazz, Motown grooves, city pop, and crooner-style Manila Sound into one cohesive package, “GOODBYE, SUMMER” is considered one of the album’s technical highlights. The groovy tune captures the exhaustion of heartbreak while confronting the lingering pain that still shadows it.

  1. 24/7 LOVE & CARE

Handpicked as the album’s focus track, the song embodies the accessibility and warmth that define ALYSON in their sincerest form. Featuring a simpler arrangement centered largely around the band’s five core members, the track represents clarity after emotional turbulence: a realization that despite temptation, confusion, and imperfection, there remains comfort and peace in enduring love.

  1. ‘DI MAKAPANIWALA

Blending elements of Japanese City Pop and Manila Sound, “’DI MAKAPANIWALA” serves as a heartfelt closing track that wraps up the emotional complexities of the night it depicts. It carries a simple, hopeful message about a love that has the potential to last until morning, like credits rolling at the end of a film.

ALYSON’s AFTER OURS is now available worldwide on all digital streaming platforms as of May 22, 2026, via Offshore Music Philippines. Meanwhile, the music video for “TALAGA” premieres tonight at 9 PM on YouTube.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Entertainment

Offshore Music marks ten years of championing indie authenticity with the launch of an upcoming five-part documentary series

The series highlights the label’s commitment to creative freedom, collaboration, and nurturing groundbreaking talent

Offshore Music commemorates its 10th year in the industry with the release of a five-part documentary series that traces its rise as one of the leading Filipino labels in the indie and underground music scene. Scheduled to premiere on YouTube from May to September 2025, the Offshore Music PH 10th Anniversary Docuseries will showcase archival clips, honest interviews, artist stories, and behind-the-scenes moments highlighting the label, its management, its roster of artists, and the creative community it has built through the years.

Since its founding in 2016, Offshore Music has remained dedicated to its artist-centered vision, creative independence, and passion for nurturing music communities. The series reflects the label’s evolving impact and continued drive to innovate in music production, vinyl culture, branding, and artist development.

As Ely Buendia, Founder and CEO of Offshore Music, puts it, “Managing to last this long and being able to do what we want and being true to our principles definitely makes it sweeter.”

Pat Sarabia, A&R Director of Offshore Music, adds, “We like to push artists that introduce something new and interesting to the local music scene. We don’t use online following or stream count as criteria to sign an artist. We listen, determine the artist’s positioning in the landscape of the scene, and build from there. We encourage them to hone their craft by providing feedback, cultivate connections within and outside our network, and support their (sometimes) crazy ideas.”

The five-series documentary opens with Episode 1: One Vision, One Product, which will revisit the label’s humble beginnings through a roundtable discussion among board members. The first episode will explore the label’s founding vision and its bold decision to champion vinyl records at a time dominated by digital streaming, a move that would later become emblematic of the label’s commitment to authenticity and artistry.

Offshore Music General Manager Audry Dionisio reflects on the label’s ethos throughout the years. “We always put the artists’ creativity and music first before anything else. I think we’ve shown the industry that it’s possible to have fair contracts and collaboration that benefit both the label and the artist.”

Other highlights in the docuseries include Episode 2: Championing Artist Growth, which chronicles the label’s pioneering roster and the trust-building process, and Episode 3: Board Member Reflections, which takes viewers behind the curtains to discuss strategic decisions, financial risks, and emotional sacrifices involved in sustaining an independent label. Both episodes will arrive in June and July 2026.

Last but certainly not least, the legacy documentary will feature perspectives from Offshore Music artists and the label’s future plans through Episode 4: Artist Stories and Episode 5: The Epilogue, set to drop in August and September 2026.

Across the series, Offshore Music also confronts long-standing misconceptions about record labels while highlighting the importance of empathy, fairness, and collaboration in artist management.

“The reality is that it’s not a glamorous job,” Sarabia admits. “It involves a solid system, lots of communication, and interpersonal connections for it to work.”

Apart from the challenges and setbacks, the documentary also emphasizes the key milestones in the record label’s history, from pioneering vinyl releases to forming strategic partnerships with global companies, all while upholding their integrity. Some of the landmark achievements shown in the series include the first pressing of the Ultraelectromagneticpop! vinyl and building an internationally recognized roster with acclaimed recordings and releases.

After a decade of championing Filipino creativity, Offshore Music remains driven by the same passion that inspired its beginnings.

“We’re just avid fans of music and will continue to contribute to the betterment of OPM,” Buendia affirms.

Dionisio expressed optimism and enthusiasm for the future of Offshore Music, as hinted in the documentary trailer. “Audiences can expect more exciting releases, authentic content, and an expanding community of creatives who share the same vision.”

The first episode of the Offshore Music PH 10th Anniversary Docuseries is set to premiere later this month. More updates will be announced soon.

 

 

 

 

Entertainment, Lifestyle

Lampara Books marks National Heritage Month with the release of educational and culturally significant titles

The launch bridges tradition and modern education through stories that nurture literacy, creativity, and social awareness

As part of the celebration of National Heritage Month, Lampara Books introduces its newest lineup of literary and educational titles that pay tribute to the rich tradition of Filipino storytelling while promoting cultural appreciation and character development among young readers.

The collection features Filipino classics, contemporary retellings, and creative educational series that reflect the publishing house’s commitment to offering accessible, culturally relevant, and values-oriented literature for Filipino children and families.

Among the highlights of the launch are two of Philippine literature’s most enduring masterpieces: Ibong Adarna and Florante at Laura. Edited by acclaimed scholar and children’s literature advocate Eugene Y. Evasco, the new edition of Ibong Adarna offers an enriched reading experience through chapter summaries, vocabulary guides, and comprehension prompts designed to support students, teachers, parents, and independent readers alike. The volume features cover art by Arnaldo Mirasol and interior illustrations by Randy Valiente.

The new edition of Florante at Laura modernizes the classic text yet carefully preserves its historical and linguistic character. With annotations, glossaries, discussion guides, and illustrations by Rowin Agarao, the new version is both a literary resource and an important educational tool for contemporary learners.

Also given a special highlight is the newest collection of Mga Kuwento ni Lola Basyang, as masterfully retold by award-winning writer Christine S. Bellen-Ang, and brought vividly to life by an esteemed roster of Filipino illustrators. Inspired by the iconic stories of Severino Reyes, the collection reintroduces today’s young readers to narratives that have helmed generations through imagination, morality, wonder, and cultural memory.

“These stories have long occupied a cherished place in Filipino childhood,” shares Segundo D. Matias Jr., Founder of Lampara Books and Precious Pages Corporation. “Through these new editions, we hope to preserve their legacy while allowing a new generation of readers to discover the beauty, wisdom, and humanity found within Filipino storytelling traditions.”

In line with its mission to promote literacy and holistic learning, Lampara Books also launches several educational series that address current learning needs and social development of children. This includes the Decodable Comics for Fluency series in Filipino and English, which integrate Systematics Phonics and the Marungko Approach to reinforce foundational reading skills for beginners.

Written by Daisy Jane Calado, coordinated by Victor A. Villanueva, and illustrated by Rowin Agarao, the series combines engaging storytelling with workbook-based exercises that support comprehension and language development.

Also included in the launch is the Kids Have Rights! Series by Michellan Sarile-Alagao (illustrated by Kim Santiago), which introduces children to their fundamental rights through accessible language and relatable narratives. The Sari-Sari Books series by Genaro R. Gojo Cruz, illustrated by Domz Agsaway, celebrates diversity, inclusivity, and self-expression, empowering a new generation of readers to appreciate individuality and social understanding.

Lampara Books also expands its educational offerings with the inclusion of Disaster Ready-Kids Series by Zarah C. Gagatiga and illustrated by Juno Abreu, which introduces the concept of practical safety measures and disaster preparedness to children. Kaligtasan Para sa mga Bata by Mark Norman Boquiren (illustrated by Mark Norman Boquiren), on the other hand, promotes public safety awareness among young Filipinos.

With Lampara Books’ latest Heritage Month releases, reading becomes more than a way to preserve culture and tradition—it also serves as a vital foundation for education, creativity, and nation-building, helping shape the next generation into compassionate and responsible individuals.

For updates on the launch and featured titles, follow Lampara Books through its official social media platforms.