Entertainment

The Itchyworms, an award-winning Filipino pop-rock band, will make a special appearance at Live House Circus in Nagoya on October 5, 2025, as part of their “Akin Ka Na Lang” tour in Japan.

This is their first time performing in Nagoya, Japan’s fourth most populous city. The Itchyworms, who have long been praised for their catchy songs and contagious live performances, have performed in Tokyo and Saitama in early 2025. They also had a notable appearance at the Tokyo Beyond Festival in 2022 and the Kansai Music Festival in 2023.

“This will be our first time to travel to Nagoya (as tourists, and as performers),” says Jugs Jugueta, the lead vocalist and guitarist of The Itchyworms. “We heard that there is a huge Filipino community in Nagoya. We are so excited to play for them and to meet them all! We love Japan so much.”

Sharing the enthusiasm is drummer and co-lead vocalist Jazz Nicolas, who adds, “We’ve never been to Nagoya before so it’ll be a new experience for us. It’s always great to play for both Filipino and local audiences in Japan.”

Fans can expect some surprises and unique touches for this particular stop. “We try to feel the vibe of the audience, so that we can deliver the best show for them,” Jugs explains. “One thing for sure is that we will take them back to the Philippines, if only for a few hours.”

Joining the band on tour is their newest member Michael Vargas, who will showcase his versatility and chops on guitar, keyboards and violin. His addition adds another layer of energy to the group’s highly anticipated overseas shows.

The Nagoya stop serves as the fourth international show this year, following successful stints in Japan (Tokyo), the UK, and Indonesia (Bali).

“Everything about international touring is exciting,” says Jugs. “Food is a huge part of the ‘new’ experience. The challenging part is fitting all the pasalubongs in your suitcase without going over baggage!”

Tickets are currently on sale at https://akinkanalangjapannagoya.peatix.com for The Itchyworms: Akin Ka Na Lang – Nagoya Tour.

Diane Ventura’s acclaimed Filipino documentary expands its global footprint with upcoming theatrical screenings

Photos by Lawrence Del Rosario

Next month, ERASERHEADS: COMBO ON THE RUN will be screened at two major film festivals: the International Sound and Film Festival in Samobor, Croatia, and the 44th Annual Hawai’i International Film Festival in the United States.

The highly regarded documentary, which was directed and produced by Maria Diane Ventura, is included in the official lineup for Spotlight On The Philippines, a showcase of recent Filipino productions that are pushing the boundaries of narrative. It will be shown in Honolulu, Hawaii, on October 30, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at the Consolidated Theatres Kapolei 3.

Alongside ERASERHEADS: COMBO ON THE RUN, the special section also features Lav Diaz’s Magellan, which was handpicked as the Philippines’ entry to the 98th Academy Awards for Best International Feature Film, and Jerrold Tarog’s Quezon, an epic historical drama which stars Jericho Rosales on the titular role.

Adding to its accolades, ERASERHEADS: COMBO ON THE RUN is also nominated for Best International Film Documentary at the International Sound & Film Music Festival, widely regarded as one of the three largest and most important sound and film music festivals in the world. The event will take place on October 6, 2025.

“Sharing a story and music that are distinctly ours, yet resonate with a wider audience, is inspiring,” Diane Ventura said in a press statement. “Representing the Philippines on this stage is a privilege.”

Newly announced festival screenings are just one stop on the way. The dates for ERASERHEADS: COMBO ON THE RUN’s official international theatrical release will be announced over the course of the upcoming months. The Middle East will be the first, followed by Australia, the US, Canada, and the UK.

“We’re thrilled to be taking the film beyond the Philippines,” shares Ventura. “It’s exciting to see this story travel and connect with audiences around the world.”

Press Site HERE

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Hashtag: #GenV

On September 17, 2025, the highly anticipated second season of Prime Video’s popular series Gen V, the explosive spin-off from The Boys, premiered. The first three episodes will be released weekly after that.

Season 2, which is set in the ethically complex world of Godolkin University, begins while the university is still dealing with the aftermath of the devastating conclusion of Season 1. As Homelander’s hold on America becomes stronger, the students must contend with fresh dangers, an enigmatic new Dean, and a covert operation that has the potential to change everything.

When I watched the movie

The return of Gen V for Season 2 excites me because it goes beyond action and spectacle, diving into the morally complex world of Godolkin University where students must navigate identity, power, and survival amid corruption and hidden agendas. With Homelander’s influence tightening across America, the stakes feel even higher, showing how young people are forced to grow while caught in larger systems that test their values and choices. The introduction of a new Dean and a secret program adds to the sense of uncertainty, reminding me of how authority often conceals deeper motives. For me, this season feels like more than just entertainment—it reflects real struggles of questioning authority, facing pressure, and holding on to one’s beliefs even when the world seems against you.

Returning to her role as Marie Moreau, Jaz Sinclair shares her excitement. “We left off Season 1 having discovered a whole new level of Marie’s abilities, and I was thrilled to see where the writers were going to go from there with that. Everything felt a bit foreboding and grim, which gave me a lot to play with.”

Sinclair adds, “I like that Marie is just figuring it out as she goes, I definitely can relate to the moments of hers that are awkward and fumble-y. I like that she makes mistakes. But maybe, people also relate to feeling guilty or out of place and wanting to turn that into something good?”

Also returning is Lizze Broadway as Emma Meyer, whose transformation in Season 2 is both emotional and empowering. “Emma’s deep into her post-shrink-show, post-apocalypse era and I am so here for it. She’s still got that awkward charm, but now there’s grit, bite, and a growing refusal to be the emotional dumping ground for everyone else.”

Broadway reflects on the season’s deeper themes, “Grief changes people, trust me, it changed Emma, and it changed me too. Through all of that, Emma finds this fierce, unapologetic strength. She finally starts speaking up for herself and owning her space.”

In Season 2, Hamish Linklater plays Cipher, the mysterious new Dean of Godolkin University, whose entrance sets the stage for a riskier, darker semester.

Gen V Season 2 is expected to be even more insane, moving, and exciting than its debut thanks to its intense action, emotional depth, and scathing satire. Beginning on September 17, 2025, Gen V Season 2 will be available on Prime Video worldwide.

For more info visit https://www.primevideo.com/

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

On September 17, 2025, Prime Video’s popular series Gen V, the explosive spin-off from The Boys, will return for its eagerly awaited second season. The first three episodes will be released weekly after that.

Season 2, which is set in the ethically complex world of Godolkin University, begins while the university is still dealing with the aftermath of the devastating conclusion of Season 1. As Homelander’s hold on America becomes stronger, the students must contend with fresh dangers, an enigmatic new Dean, and an undercover mission that has the potential to alter everything.

Returning to her role as Marie Moreau, Jaz Sinclair shares her excitement. “We left off Season 1 having discovered a whole new level of Marie’s abilities, and I was thrilled to see where the writers were going to go from there with that. Everything felt a bit foreboding and grim, which gave me a lot to play with.”

Sinclair adds, “I like that Marie is just figuring it out as she goes, I definitely can relate to the moments of hers that are awkward and fumble-y. I like that she makes mistakes. But maybe, people also relate to feeling guilty or out of place and wanting to turn that into something good?”

Also returning is Lizze Broadway as Emma Meyer, whose transformation in Season 2 is both emotional and empowering. “Emma’s deep into her post-shrink-show, post-apocalypse era and I am so here for it. She’s still got that awkward charm, but now there’s grit, bite, and a growing refusal to be the emotional dumping ground for everyone else.”

Broadway reflects on the season’s deeper themes, “Grief changes people, trust me, it changed Emma, and it changed me too. Through all of that, Emma finds this fierce, unapologetic strength. She finally starts speaking up for herself and owning her space.”

In Season 2, Hamish Linklater plays Cipher, the mysterious new Dean of Godolkin University, who arrives and sets the stage for a more dangerous, darker semester.

Gen V Season 2 is expected to be even more insane, moving, and exciting than its debut thanks to its intense action, emotional depth, and sharp satire. Beginning on September 17, 2025, Gen V Season 2 will be available on Prime Video worldwide.

For more info visit https://www.primevideo.com/

SOCIAL MEDIA HANDLES:

Instagram: @genv

X: @genv

TikTok: @genv

Threads: @genv

Hashtag: #GenV

Christmas in the Philippines starts as soon as September arrives on the calendar, and this year, Asia’s Romantic Balladeer Christian Bautista is formally launching the season with something special. With Freddie Santos writing the lyrics and Jose Mari Chan composing the music, Christian released a sincere rendition of the well-known Jose Mari Chan song “Let Love Be the Gift,” on September 1. This time, the song was a duet with Abi Marquez, the “Lumpia Queen” of the Philippines.

Released with the approval of Jose Mari Chan and his label Signature Music Inc., the record was produced by Christian, had music arranged by the renowned Homer Flores, and was teased on social media with a cute picture of the three of them playingfully peeking out.

The collaboration came naturally—both Christian and Abi are artists under NYMA Talent Management, where Christian also serves as CEO. As he began mapping out his annual holiday project, he searched for the perfect duet partner who could match the magic of the season. Abi, a close friend of Christian’s, fit the bill perfectly.

Though best known as the Philippines’ Lumpia Queen, Abi has long held a quiet love for music, even taking voice lessons before her rise to internet fame. With her natural charm, engaging presence, and a sweet sincerity in her voice, she brought just the right touch of brightness. Paired with Christian’s timeless vocals, their duet blossomed into a heartfelt celebration of Christmas.

Christian personally guided Abi through the recording process, gently coaching her to bring out the best in her voice. The result? A holiday duet brimming with warmth, nostalgia, and the unmistakable magic of Christmas.

“Christmas has always been about love, family, and sharing joy. To sing this song again, this time with Abi, feels like a gift in itself. She’s proving herself to be a multidimensional talent, and I hope people will enjoy listening to this side of her.” – Christian Bautista

“I never imagined I’d get to record a song—much less a Christmas song with Christian! It was such a dream come true, and I hope people feel the joy we felt while making it.” – Abi Marquez

With the release of “Let Love Be the Gift,” Christian and Abi remind us that the true spirit of Christmas lies in togetherness, kindness, and, of course, music that brings us closer. From the kitchen to the stage, Abi, with her culinary charm, and Christian, with his timeless artistry, have blended their worlds into one magical duet.

And the celebration doesn’t stop here, fans can look forward to an exciting music video as the holidays draw nearer, along with other surprises that promise to spread even more Christmas cheer.

Turn on the Christmas lights, hang the parol outside your window, get a cup of hot tea, and hit play. Officially, the season of music, laughing, and love has arrived.🎄✨

Christian Bautista and Abi Marquez’s song “Let Love Be the Gift” is currently accessible on all streaming services.

FOLLOW CHRISTIAN BAUTISTA ON HIS SOCIALS:

FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE | X

FOLLOW ABI MARQUEZ AND HER FOOD ADVENTURES ON:

FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE |  X

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON CHRISTIAN BAUTISTA AND ABI MARQUEZ, PLEASE CONTACT:

Karen Tumbali | [email protected]

To learn more about NYMA, visit nyma.ph

The homecoming show aims to create space for reconnection through music

On September 21, 2025, Filipino-Norwegian singer-songwriter HILLARI will perform as the main act at her debut solo event in the Philippines at Makati City’s Sari-Sari bar.

On the strength of her recently released seven-track EP, New Beginnings—a “bold body of work that explores transformation, letting go, and stepping into one’s power”—the up-and-coming R&B phenomenon will be performing an intimate set.

HILLARI views the exhibition as her formal homecoming, reestablishing a close connection with her heritage. Sharing my music with my folks is especially meaningful to me. There are no words to describe my excitement about performing in Manila as the main act for the first time. to hear my family’s experiences and establish a personal connection with my audience.

Fans can expect a full-band performance of songs from New Beginnings, alongside the debut live performance of her upcoming single “I’m Still.” The laid-back, soul-infused track serves as a reminder for people to “take a breather, slow their pace, and find beauty in stillness.”

“It’s the New Beginnings Experience: a space to sing, dance, laugh, and even cry together,” HILLARI describes her upcoming solo show. “It’s all about connecting on a deeper level with my famHilly. Maybe a surprise choir will join us, maybe not. But most of all, I’m excited to hear my famHilly sing their hearts out, [because] as we all know, our people can really sing.”

Tickets to HILLARI: Live in Manila are priced at PHP 800 and available exclusively at https://hillariliveinmanila.helixpay.ph.

This event is presented by AIRTIME and GNN.

About HILLARI

HILLARI is a rising global force in contemporary pop and R&B/Soul, known for her fearless artistry and deeply personal storytelling. She first captured attention with her breakout single “Desperate Soul” and her debut EP How Is Your Soul?, earning praise from outlets like Billboard US, CNN, and Complex Philippines. With a voice that resonates far beyond the studio, HILLARI has quickly established herself as a powerful live performer, playing shows across Norway, Sweden, France, Portugal, the U.S., Canada, and Southeast Asia.Her 2023 single “Loyal” climbed to #30 on the Philippines’ Top 200 Most Shazamed Songs and reached #10 on the Viral Top 50 chart. That same year, she was named NRK P3’s Urørt (Untouched artist of the year) artist and signed a global booking deal with United Talent Agency (UTA), further solidifying her place as one of the Nordics’ most exciting new exports.

Following her debut, HILLARI released her sophomore EP New Beginnings, a bold body of work that explores transformation, letting go, and stepping into one’s power. Described as a sonic journal, the seven-track EP showcased a more mature, self-assured artist and hinted at what’s to come.

Currently, HILLARI is working on her debut album, a carefully curated project featuring 8 to 10 tracks. She is collaborating closely with her main producer Morten Gillebo, alongside a trusted creative team that includes Yakob (6lack, Sza, Giveon), Etienne Edgar (Ella Mai, Janet Jackson), Reggie Becton, Terell Roper, and Ari PenSmith (Tyla, Beyonce, NAO). The album represents the next chapter in her evolution, more defined, more expansive, and unmistakably her. As she continues to build momentum, HILLARI has already earned nominations for Best New Artist and R&B/Soul at the Norwegian Grammys (Spellemann) and was nominated to 2024 Music Moves Europe Award. She has performed on major stages including a sold-out show at Oslo’s MUNCH Museum and has received airplay on BBC Radio (UK), NRK (NO), and Reprezent Radio (UK).

The 20-year-old Filipino-Norwegian singer-songwriter is changing the definition of what it means to be a Nordic worldwide performer. She immerses listeners in a universe that is unquestionably her own, brave, and vulnerable with every release. Not only can you hear HILLARI’s music, but you can also feel it.

Indie-folk favorites The Ridleys are officially joining Morissette’s 15th anniversary concert, Ember, as the opening act—bringing their heartfelt storytelling to the Smart Araneta Coliseum stage on October 28, 2025.

Known for their intimate and emotionally stirring performances, The Ridleys have built a loyal following in the local music scene, and their addition to the lineup makes Ember even more of a must-see event. Their presence offers fans of both The Ridleys and Morissette a rare opportunity to celebrate two generations of Filipino artistry on one historic night.

In response to overwhelming demand, organizers have also opened Patron A, offering premium reserved seating with risers near the stage. While this section was not part of the initial seat map, its release follows venue clearances and strong calls from fans to make more seats available. Organizers emphasize that this move was made “by popular demand,” ensuring more supporters can be part of the milestone concert.

Beyond expanded seating and an exciting opening act, Ember carries a deeper significance. In her recent interviews, Morissette has hinted that she carefully curated a full-circle setlist that spans her 15-year career—songs that may be performed together in one show for the first, and potentially, the last time in a major show, making Ember a legacy-defining moment.

Concert Details

• Date:October 28, 2025
• Time:8:00 PM
• Venue:Smart Araneta Coliseum
• Tickets:Available at ticketnet.com.ph and all Ticketnet outlets nationwide

Presented by Morissette, Underdog Music, co-produced by Gabi Na Naman (GNN) Productions.

With The Ridleys confirmed as the opening act, Patron A newly opened by popular demand, and Morissette preparing what could be her final all-encompassing setlist—Ember is shaping up to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for Filipino music fans.

Seats are limited. Secure your tickets early to be part of this historic night.

For ticketing questions and official updates, please visit www.ticketnet.com.ph

Produced by Brian Lotho, the song tackles the hesitation of confessing one’s romantic feeling to someone

Yeng Constantino and the Filipino pop-rock quintet NOBITA collaborate on the new single “Gayuma,” which is released today by Sony Music Entertainment.

The song depicts a quiet kind of love that swells in secret, with the singer caught between wanting to disclose and being scared to take the first move.

“The lyrics capture the uncertainty—whether what you feel is genuine love or just something that seems magical, almost like a spell,” NOBITA shares in a press statement. “It reflects the theme of secret love because it’s about holding back, wondering if the other person feels the same way, and hoping the emotions are mutual.”

The track has an interesting history. According to NOBITA, the demo had been shelved for some time until they revisited it and realized something was missing. The band began considering a female collaborator who could bring balance and emotional nuance to the song.

“And there’s no one more perfect than Ms. Yeng—we’re just so lucky she agreed,” NOBITA explains. “Our first meeting was very productive. We exchanged ideas on what to add and change from the original track, which eventually shaped the final version of the song.”

For Yeng Constantino, it was love at first listen. She specifically requested that the melody of the demo’s first verse be preserved. “The whole session, I was tapping into the emotion of falling in love,” she reveals. “But once you immerse yourself in that space, you realize it’s hard to control your feelings. That energy guided our process, helping us refine the lyrics and capture the material’s vulnerability.”

The collaboration brings the best of both worlds: Yeng’s soulful but delicate singing, and the band’s heartfelt delivery. Together, their vocals stand out even in moments of fragility, exuding both power; and rawness against a simple, yet emotionally layered arrangement.

“Each artist contributed their own style and emotional depth, and rather than clashing, it blended beautifully,” NOBITA continues. Yeng’s talent and vocals enhanced the song’s authenticity.

The song’s warmth and immediacy were enhanced by producer Brian Lotho, who “made sure that the emotion in the lyrics came through in every beat and melody.”

The song “Gayuma” by NOBITA and Yeng Constantino is currently available on all digital music platforms globally through Sony Music Entertainment.

Featuring 45 acts across three stages, this year’s festival highlights collaboration with TuneCore and The Orchard in supporting Asian indie talents

The full roster for this year’s AXEAN Festival 2025 has been formally revealed.

On September 13 and 14, 2025, 43 musical acts will perform on three stages at Jimbaran Hub in Bali, Indonesia, marking the first intra-regional showcase festival in Asia.

Metal/hardcore quintet AVHATH, popular folk duo Banda Neira, rising indie act Gozal, alternative rock group Grizzly Cluive, genre-bending band Morbid Monke, indie rock powerhouse Sandstorm of Youth, melancholic indie group Sourmilk, multi-talented musician Xandega, and a special collaboration set between Bandung-based punk rock band Dongker and renowned singer-songwriter Jason Ranti round out the final round of performers.

The announcement also brings an exciting mix of Asian talents, such as trailblazing Malaysian R&B artist Alextbh, Laotian musician BIGPOM, Thai indie rock act LEMONY, Thai rock band Cvptain Morgans, Japanese singer-songwriter Kiwako Ashimine, J-indie artist Mettya Bizin (めっちゃ美人), Vietnamese indie/dream pop project Milkiwav, Vietnamese indie act Nghịch, and Filipino genre-fluid band Weejah.

These artists join an already diverse roster that includes Billyrrom., Blindfold, Capt’n Trips and the Kid, Confined White, DJ Love, DOOR PLANT, Fauxe, Feel Koplo x Toxicdev!, Jangar, Johnny Mafia, Kelompok Penerbang Roket, La Cima Cartel, L’Alphalpha, Lustbass, MANJA, Ministry Of, One Click Straight, Shanghai Quitian, Shye, SIMILE LAND, S.O.L.E., Su San, Terrer, Valentina Ploy, and XANDEGA.

TuneCore’s key role in curating the final batch of lineup

This year, TuneCore plays a pivotal role in shaping the final lineup, expanding its position as one of AXEAN Festival’s most important partners. Through a four-month, multi-stage submission and rigid selection process spanning five countries in Southeast Asia, TuneCore helped discover and elevate standout independent voices that have made a mark in their niche markets.

Cyrus Chen, Head of TuneCore Southeast Asia, recalls the selection process that they went through before picking the finest acts that show global potential. “It began with open biweekly submissions, attracting over 600 entries,” Cyrus explains. “Selected artists progressed to monthly live showcases at local venues, with each monthly winner advancing to country finals. Out of the 27 finalists, our local panels chose the six artists performing at AXEAN. The biggest surprise was probably the incredible depth of undiscovered talent. We found remarkable hidden gems across diverse and often genre-blending styles. What was particularly striking was how many of these artists hadn’t formally released music yet.”

When asked about the criteria in picking the artists who made it to TuneCore’s AXEAN stage, Cyrus emphasized the importance of authenticity and range, and how beyond raw talent, there’s a need to prioritize artists whose music authentically integrates local flair and cultural influences. “Showcasing a diverse spectrum of genres was also essential,” he adds.

For their part, the top global distribution and label services company, along with AXEAN Festival, promises to use their platform to foster real-world opportunities, apart from empowering artists digitally. “We actively nurture talent by providing platforms for exposure, facilitating live performance experience at scale (from local venues to major festivals), educational opportunities (workshops and masterclasses to upskill artists), and connecting artists directly with new audiences and industry stakeholders across borders. We go beyond distribution to open doors for market access and career growth that are often out of reach for independent artists.”

The Orchard-AXEAN Festival partnership

The Orchard, a prominent music distribution company operating in over 49 cities worldwide, has expressed its support for AXEAN Festival through a strategic partnership. Both music entities share a vision of empowering artists to broaden their horizons and access new music markets beyond their turfs. Together, both AXEAN and The Orchard are keen on dismantling barriers and enabling Southeast Asian creative communities to showcase their music on a global stage.

As Prahlad Prabhas, The Orchard’s Senior Director, Southeast Asia, explains it, “This [collaboration] aligns perfectly with The Orchard’s philosophy of helping artists grow outside their home markets. We’re thrilled to be part of that journey this year by sponsoring a stage. For us, it’s more than just about the music—it’s about celebrating the creativity and energy of this region and sharing it with the world.”

Tickets are now available via:

Indonesia: https://bit.ly/TicketAXEAN2025Indo

International: https://bit.ly/TicketAXEAN2025Inter

China: https://bit.ly/TicketAXEAN2025China

About AXEAN Festival

The AXEAN Festival is a prominent Southeast Asian music export platform, combining a music conference and showcase festival.

Launched in 2020 during the pandemic by music professionals across Southeast Asia, AXEAN Festival has successfully hosted both virtual (2020-2021) and in-person (2022-2024) events. Over five editions, it has featured 200 artists from 20 countries, attracted 240 delegates from 32 countries, and reached over 46,000 virtual viewers, along with close to 15,000 live attendees.

With its growing international reputation, AXEAN has firmly established itself as Southeast Asia’s leading music export platform. Its first venture into a new market beyond its original home base in Singapore and Bali garnered widespread acclaim among attendees, music industry professionals, and participating artists.

About TuneCore

TuneCore is the leading independent development partner for self-releasing artists to build audiences and careers – with technology and services across distribution, publishing administration, and a range of promotional services. TuneCore Music Distribution services help artists, labels, and managers get their music on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Deezer, TikTok, YouTube Music, and more than 150 download and streaming stores and platforms worldwide, while retaining 100% of their sales revenue and rights for a low annual flat fee. TuneCore Music Publishing Administration assists songwriters by collecting royalties stemming from the use of their compositions – including mechanical royalties from download and streaming services, performance royalties from radio, TV and live performances, and synchronization royalties from film, TV and advertising – in over 200 countries globally. TuneCore is based in Brooklyn, NY, and is owned by Paris-based Believe, one of the world’s leading digital music companies.

About The Orchard

THE ORCHARD: DELIVERING INDEPENDENT MUSIC SINCE 1997

Through a strategic relationship, The Orchard, a well-known music distribution firm with operations in more than 49 cities globally, has shown its support for the AXEAN Festival. The goal of both music organizations is to enable musicians to expand their horizons and reach new music markets outside of their home regions. AXEAN and The Orchard have a common goal of breaking down boundaries and giving Southeast Asian creative groups the opportunity to perform their music internationally.