Entertainment

The 7-track EP reflects SB19’s complex humanity and evolving artistry, while dealing with the constant pressures of fame, identity, and public opinion

In honor of a voyage filled with mutual experience, priceless insight, and creative development, SB19 makes a comeback with the release of their third EP, Simula at Wakas, which is available on all digital music platforms globally through Sony Music Entertainment. Their eagerly awaited body of work honors the past while daringly embracing the future, capturing the band’s development as both artists and people. .

“It’s our way of saying thank you and showing how much we’ve evolved,” the P-Pop kings share in an official statement. “Simula at Wakas encapsulates everything we’ve been through: the struggles, the growth, the milestones. We hope it speaks not only to those who’ve been with us from the start but also welcomes new listeners into our world.”

As the final installment in a trilogy that began with 2021’s pagsibol and 2023’s PAGTATAG!, Simula at Wakas chronicles the Filipino pop group’s artistic and personal transformation while signaling a bold, forward-looking direction. The EP explores the universal themes of closure and renewal, portraying the life of an artist as they navigate fame, pressure, and identity. The band further shared personal anecdotes and reflections on their journey to Simula at Wakas in the This is SB19 playlist on Spotify.

The P-Pop trailblazers explain, “It’s both a celebration of our journey so far and a declaration of what’s to come. We’re the same group as when we started. It’s just that we’ve matured, evolved, and grown into artists who are more confident in our voice and purpose.”

Simula at Wakas showcases the DAM hitmakers’ captivating and universally relatable sound, all while remaining true to their values as human beings. From emotionally resonant lyrics to innovative, genre-bending soundscapes, the EP offers a meaningful experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

The 7-track release is written and produced by SB19 with their trusted pool of international and local collaborators, including Xerxes Bakker, Alawn, August Rigo, Simon Servida, and Josue (RADKIDZ). The EP features the full creative involvement of all five members. SB19 admits that they took a hands-on approach in shaping every aspect of the project and were very deliberate in contributing not just musically but also creatively—from the narrative of each track to its visual interpretation, from the choreography to music videos.

“We held meetings almost every day to carefully discuss how each song would come together, from conceptualizing and message to planning how we could execute and promote the EP in ways we’ve never done before,” SB19 explains. “This is the first time after how many years that every member has been this hands-on. Everyone was involved in conceptualizing, producing, and writing the songs. But we also owe a lot to our collaborators who helped us push our ideas further and elevate the project on both the technical and creative sides.”

The envelope-pushing EP cements their position as one of the vital forces behind contemporary pop music in the Philippines and Southeast Asia for the last decade, providing a riveting insight into less explored paths and a thrilling outlook for future developments. Simula at Wakas contains 7 songs, including the now-viral single “DAM” and the focus tracks “DUNGKA!” and “Time.” The latter will be released with a music video at 12 noon.

The anthemic ballad “Time” essays the inevitability of time’s passing—an undeniable and unavoidable reality. As the lyrics go, “One day we’ll run out of time,” the song reveals a sobering reminder of life’s impermanence, yet one that inspires purpose and presence. “Hindi naman kami forever SB19,” acknowledges the five-piece act. “Nothing is permanent in this world, even from where we are at this point. Time will run out soon. All we can do is try our best and make the most out it.”

“DUNGKA!,” another focus track, vaults SB19 back to their experimental phase: evangelizing pop music in unrecognizably exciting form and embracing maximalist production with rave and hyper-pop elements. It’s easily one of the biggest surprises of the EP, standing its ground as both a sonic rebel and revelation.

To complement the EP’s release, SB19 introduces the DAM Tree, an immersive public art installation, now open to the public in Bonifacio Global City (BGC) until May 4, 2025. As part of the promotional campaign, fans can experience the world of Simula at Wakas through hanging parabolic sound domes where A’TIN first heard exclusive track previews from the EP. Beyond the immersive listening experience, visitors also get the chance to win exciting prizes, quickly becoming a hotspot for fan frenzy.

“A tree, by nature, reflects life’s different stages, starting from a seed, growing roots, eventually branching out and bearing,” the group explains. “That aligns with the message of DAM and the EP as a whole: acknowledging where we began, embracing how we’ve evolved, and looking ahead to what’s next. The DAM Tree is not just a design; it’s an experience. We wanted people to feel connected to the music in a more immersive way. It’s our way of turning the emotions behind Simula at Wakas into something you can actually see and feel.”

Further solidifying this milestone, SB19 will kick off the ‘Simula at Wakas’ World Tour with two landmark concerts at the iconic Philippine Arena on May 31, 2025, and June 1, 2025, with the first one already sold out. The tour will span across major cities in Taiwan, the United States, Canada, Singapore, and the Middle East from June to October this year, with additional stops in Australia, Japan, and Hong Kong to be announced.

“We’ve been working on new arrangements for some of our songs, and we’re really excited for fans to hear them,” the group shares. “We’ll be performing tracks from our latest EP, Simula at Wakas, and we can’t wait to share the energy and emotion behind each song. Every performance has been thoughtfully prepared, and we’re really looking forward to seeing how our fans react to these new versions of our music. Each day will be a different experience!”

Listen to ‘Simula at Wakas’ Track list:

1. DAM
2. Time
3. 8TonBall
4. Quit
5. Shooting for the Stars
6. DUNGKA!
7. DAM (Extended Ver.)

Through Sony Music Entertainment, SB19’s EP, Simula at Wakas, is currently available on all digital music platforms globally. Keep an eye out for the “Time” music video, which will be published at 12 p.m.

SM tickets are still available for the Philippine Arena event on day two.

Keep an eye out for their next Spotify Listening Party, which will be announced shortly on SB19’s social media accounts.

Website: https://www.sonymusic.co.jp/artist/SB19

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm4v7afBTnJKRm4SlfHJzyg

X: https://twitter.com/SB19Official

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialsb19

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@officialsb19

Tickets are now available via Helixpay

This Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 123 Block in Mandala Park, Mandaluyong City, Indonesian singer Pamungkas and Thai alt-pop duo Scrubb will make a spectacular comeback to Manila, putting Southeast Asian music front and center.

Pamungkas, one of the most commercially successful singer-songwriters in Indonesia, recently published his fifth studio album, Hardcore Romance, which is a “important marker of his musical journey.” His hit song “To The Bone,” which peaked at No. 5 on the Spotify Philippines Top 50 chart, has made him famous throughout the world.

Scrubb, on the other hand, is a phenomenal music act whose music reached global popularity thanks to their enormous contributions to the official soundtrack of 2gether The Series, the biggest Boy’s Love hit ever released worldwide. The OST to the series includes 18 songs from SCRUBB, along with few notable ones from the main actors. A prolific music act composed of Thawatpon Wongboonsiri and Torpong Chantabubpha, SCRUBB has produced six studio albums throughout the course of their career, and has performed in sold-out shows across Asia, including Bangkok, Tokyo, Seoul, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Jakarta, Singapore, and Taipei.

Both artists are headlining #GNN10 Presents: Pamungkas and Scrubb Live in Manila, a one-day event that also doubles as a landmark celebration of regional talent, curated by GNN in honor of its tenth anniversary. In addition to its international headliners, the lineup includes Filipino acts The Ridleys and Shirebound.

Marking a decade of unforgettable music productions and concerts, GNN’s anniversary show is not just a milestone, but also a reaffirmation of the company’s mission to create inclusive, community-rooted experiences that amplify both local and international voices in the music industry.

Founded in 2015, GNN, most popularly known as Gabi Na Naman Productions, is a Filipino music events and multimedia company that brings memorable and one-of-a-kind experiences to a diverse spectrum of audiences. Its diverse portfolio spans from intimate showcases to large-scale concerts at venues such as the Philippine Arena, Circuit Makati, New Frontier Theatre, Solaire Theater, Newport Performing Arts Theater, and Music Museum—to name a few. Over the years, GNN has also brought international acts to the local shores: Indonesia’s Pamungkas and Reality Club, Thailand’s SCRUBB, Singapore’s Regina Song, Ysa Yaneza and Club Mild, Taiwan’s Elephant Gym, and Japan’s Hitsujibungaku.

#GNN10 Presents: Pamungkas and Scrubb Live in Manila is made possible by major sponsors Guevarra’s by Chef Laudico and Greenwich, Astroria Plaza (Official Home), and JB Music Philippines (Tech Partner). Neon Oven, Linya Linya, 123 Block, Mandala Park, and The Rest Is Noise PH are among the community partners supporting the event.

You can get tickets for #GNN10 Presents: Pamungkas and Scrubb Live in Manila at https://scrubbpamungkas.helixpay.ph.

The inspirational track is released just in time for the Holy Week

Renowned pop-balladeer RJ Dela Fuente collaborated with Gary Valenciano, the man behind Mr. Pure Energy, to create a poignant and emotional cover of Laura Story’s“Blessings,” which was published during Holy Week.

Their stirring duet provides a new interpretation of the well-known Christian classic and serves as a poignant reminder of healing, hope, and unwavering faith in God in the face of adversity.

Known for bridging the worlds of pop and gospel music, both artists bring a depth of emotion and sincerity to the song that resonates deeply with listeners. “But more than our styles complementing each other, it’s our united stand, belief, and faith in Jesus that I believe has made it a perfect fit. Probably one of my favorite duet recordings in my lifetime,” shares Gary Valenciano.

The track was produced and arranged by Mon Faustino, Gary’s musical director for more than 35 years, in collaboration with recording consultant Mike Jamir. Considered by both as one of their favorite Christian songs, “Blessings” stands as a personal anthem for each of them: a source of comfort during Gary’s own medical battles and a guiding light for RJ during his journey through grief, healing, and spirituality.

Gary reflects, “Not every blessing comes in an ideal, joyful, happy, celebratory manner. Blessings can come hidden behind trials that come in various forms, and our prayer is that our listeners will know that not all disappointments are failures but surely sometimes delays that God allows to hone our character into becoming more like His before we are given that which we have asked of Him.  Big blessings may require heightened responsibilities on our part and God can use the trials to deepen our personal walks with Jesus and strengthen us for more battles and blessings we will surely face in the future.”

RJ Dela Fuente shares how the song’s message of unexpected grace resonates with his own story. “The original artist, Laura Story, talked about how her husband was faced with a brain tumor and health conditions, which was the story behind this song. She talked about how she had to find comfort and had to depend on God during that tough time. I myself also had to find peace and comfort in Him when my family and I were grieving the loss of my stepmom due to cancer. Tito Gary also had to face cancer and a heart problem and is a type 1 diabetic.”

Through the song’s message, RJ believes that God has a bigger plan for us and we can still find comfort and peace in Him. “He won’t ever leave us and will be alongside us if we allow him to be. We can still find His “blessings” through tough times.”

The two artists first performed the duet as a surprise during CBN Asia’s Beyond Measure concert, held at the Araneta Coliseum last year.

For Gary Valenciano and RJ Dela Fuente, who are working on different projects under Sony Music Entertainment and WATERWALK RECORDS, a label dedicated to introducing new Christian music to a new, streaming audience, the partnership also marks a significant turning point.

In contrast, RJ will be releasing an EP with the assistance and backing of Manila Genesis, WATERWALK RECORDS, and Sony Music Entertainment.

“Blessings” by RJ Dela Fuente and Gary Valenciano is currently available on all digital music platforms globally through WATERWALK RECORDS and Sony Music Entertainment.

At Eldar’s Easter Adventure on Sunday, April 20, Enchanted Kingdom, the Philippines’ first and only top-tier theme park, will add yet another enchanted twist to the age-old custom of egg hunting.

During the April and June season of The Enchanted Story of Eldar the Wizard, visitors will go on an amazing adventure with EK’s most cherished characters, Benny, T-Tops, Ogg, and Eldar the Wizard, as they look for unique egg stickers through thrilling park activities.

Aside from trying out rides, attractions and spectacular shows, kids and the young-at-heart can channel their wit and creativity through eduFUN, EK’s very own educational and fun activities.

Exciting prizes and surprises await the lucky participants who will be able to complete Eldar’s Easter Adventure. Those who stood out in their best on-theme attire will also receive special treats from the theme park’s jolly and wise wizard.

In order to unlock this whole magical experience, avail the Eldar’s Easter Adventure bundle, inclusive of Park access and event pass. Enjoy early bird rates when you book this limited-time offering at the EK Online Store on or before April 19, Saturday.

Early bird prices include Php 3,800 for the EKsperience the Magic Card (EKMC), Php 1,300 for the Regular Day Pass for children 48 inches and over, and Php 900 for the Junior Day Pass for children 32 to 47 inches. At a discounted price of Php 300, current EKMC members will also have access to this captivating event.

Depending on available slots, walk-in attendees can purchase the event bundle at the standard price.

Visit https://www.enchantedkingdom.ph for additional details and updates about Eldar’s Easter Adventure and EK’s other forthcoming events and promotions. You can also follow EK on social media at @ek_philippines on Instagram and @enchantedkingdom.ph on Facebook

Set against the backdrop of Manila’s buzzing festival scene, &FRIENDS Festival is a cultural moment where music and pop culture collide. Happening this May 30 – 31, 2025 at Okada Manila – from chanting the EDM anthems that shaped the generation, to meeting fan-favorite creators, there’s something for everyone at &FRIENDS.

Zedd Returns to Manila, bbno$ and ILLENIUM to make their Philippine Debut

Grammy-winning EDM legend Zedd, multi-platinum rapper bbno$, Billboard Music Top Dance/Electronic Album winner ILLENIUM, Dutch electronic duo €URO TRA$H, Singapore’s fastest-rising DJ Kiara, the inventor of melodic dubstep Seven  Lions, and more are all on the &FRIENDS Festival’s star-studded musical lineup.

These headliners are no strangers to thrilling large crowds, having recently performed on some of the biggest venues in the world, including Coachella, Ultra Music Festival, EDC Las Vegas, and Tomorrowland. After almost three years Zedd, the Grammy-winning musician behind hits like “Clarity” and “Stay the Night,” is triumphantly returning to Manila.

ILLENIUM, known for being the first electronic artist to sell out SoFi Stadium twice, will finally bring his euphoric sound with songs like Good Things Fall Apart and Takeaway to the Philippines. Meanwhile, bbno$, the genre-bending and viral rapper behind Lalala and edamame, is set to make his Manila debut, promising an unforgettable live performance.

Fans will be thrilled with electrifying performances from Dutch electronic duo €URO TRA$H, Singapore’s fast-rising star Kiara, and melodic dubstep innovator Seven Lions. Joining them are BOTCASH, Fairlane b2b Siangyoo, Hoang, KDH, Jeonghyeon, NGHTSHIFT, RayRay, and many more.

With two days of live performances and fun activities, fans can choose from a variety of ticket options to tailor their festival experience, all of which include access to the Creator Expo.

“We’ve seen how festivals like Coachella, EDC, and Tomorrowland unite music lovers from all over the world, and now it’s Manila’s turn,” says Justin Banusing, CEO of Clout Kitchen, organizers of the festival. “&FRIENDS is about bringing people together—whether you’re here for the biggest names in EDM, viral popstars, or the next breakout artist, this is the festival for fans who want it all.”

East Meets West on the Creator Stage After-Hours: K-Pop Rave and OPM Spotlight

While rooted in EDM, fans can experience a dynamic fusion of genres at &FRIENDS Festival, from hard-hitting beats and high-energy rap to soulful vocals.

The Creator Stage After-Hours is where East meets West for an unparalleled musical experience. The stage transforms into a K-Pop Rave on May 30, with legendary K-Pop DJs 2Spade and Hoaprox headlining the party.

The following night, May 31, will feature an OPM Spotlight with local stars, marking a homecoming performance by Filipino-Australian superstar Ylona Garcia, who has since been based in Los Angeles to further her music career. Also taking the stage are talented homegrown artists such as chart-topping indie singer Amiel Sol, lo-fi rapper Kiyo, and creative collective Planet Workshop.

As &FRIENDS establishes itself as the premier destination festival in Southeast Asia, it may serve as many attendees’ first introduction to OPM – &FRIENDS aims to not only bring EDM to Manila, but bridge Filipino culture to the entire region.

“Even though I moved to the USA, I still consider my music to be OPM. When the &FRIENDS team asked if I’d headline, I jumped at the opportunity to do so,” says Ylona Garcia. “I’m honored to be back in the country that I love and made me who I am today and I’m even more excited to be a part of a movement where we can all show that OPM can reach the world. Through thick and thin, I just hope to make the Philippines proud.”

Ironmouse, Shoto, Tuonto, Antony Chen, Charess, Jujumao: Bringing the Expo to Life

Throughout the daytime on May 30 and 31, the spotlight shifts to personalities at the expo, packed with immersive events with some of the world’s top content creators: record-breaking VTuber Ironmouse, indie VTuber Shoto, Tuonto, Antony Chen, and local creators Charess, Jujumao and more.

Fans can expect meet & greets, stage activities, and panels with their favorite creators. The Crystal Pavilion will also house various merchant booths selling clothes, accessories, collectibles, and prints from Filipino artists such as Sskait, Aeonix, Little Things PH, Yokify, Hunghang Flashbacks, Libreng Komiks and more.

A Once in a Lifetime Lineup in the Philippines

With two days of live performances and fun activities, fans can choose from a variety of ticket options to tailor their festival experience, all of which include access to the Creator Expo.

2-Day Tickets that include entry to both days, are at Php 8,500 for General Admission and Php 15,000 for VIP.

Solo day tickets start at Php 6,000 for Day 1, with Zedd, €URO TRA$H, Kiara, Fairlane b2b Siangyoo and more EDM acts. Day 2 starts at Php 3,500, headlined by bbno$, ILLENIUM, and Seven Lions.

Fans can purchase five 2-day general admission tickets for Php 34,000 and save money by purchasing bundles with their friends till March 30.

VVIP Cabanas offers the best &FRIENDS experience, with prices starting at Php 54,000 for nine people on Day 2. Cabanas for the first day have already sold out.

Tickets and Meet & Greet passes are available at andfriends.live. Follow the &FRIENDS Festival official social media channels for updates on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X.

The barkada-themed track premiered this week on Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition

Following the popularity of their poignant song “Tomorrow With You,” Ben&Ben makes a triumphant comeback with “Saranggola,” a heartbreaking ode to the strength of friendship in the face of life’s inevitable changes.

The anthemic song acknowledges the inevitable process of growing apart while reflecting on treasured moments spent with friends. It explores themes of nostalgia, emotional connection, and change. However, the song underscores how love and respect endure despite changing seasons and distances.

“Saranggola is inspired by the ever-changing seasons amongst a group of friends,” Ben&Ben shares in a collective statement. “It is about the fleeting nature of youth and the reality that while we may not always be ready for change, we eventually learn to embrace it. What has passed becomes something worth appreciating, both in the present and in hindsight.”

The song made its debut this week in an episode of Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition and will be featured in the upcoming deluxe edition of The Traveller Across Dimensions, set for release in 2025.

Written by Paolo Benjamin and Miguel Benjamin, and arranged and produced by the whole band in collaboration with long-time friend and producer Ziv, “Saranggola” marks a graceful return to form: reminiscent of their earlier works, yet imbued with the artistic depth and growth that they’ve nurtured over the years.

The multi-awarded band takes a minimalist approach at the outset with just an acoustic guitar, a cajon, and all nine members singing in unison, before gradually building into a soaring, guitar-driven jam worthy of a barkada sing-along.

“Coming from just having recorded and worked on a whole album, the experience of working on this song came by fairly smoothly,” the band explains. “Everyone focused on their own experience of what this song means to them, while maintaining a balance between melancholy, nostalgia, energy, and grit.”

For Ben&Ben, the song has profound personal significance beyond just the music. The song represents their common experience of “listening to the winds of fate and grasping the present moment,” as they put it.

“It’s a reflection of the years we’ve spent together thus far and a reminder of the importance of occasionally going back to and rediscovering your roots,” the nine-piece group continues.

“Saranggola” by Ben&Ben is currently available on all digital music platforms across the globe through Sony Music Entertainment. The visualizer for the song will be available on the band’s official YouTube channel at 6 p.m.

Miley Cyrus releases “End of the World,” her new worldwide single, the follow-up to her much awaited album Something Beautiful, which will be released by Columbia Records on May 30.

Click  here to listen to “End of the World.”

“End of the World” introduces another powerful yet understated image that accentuates the project’s distinct style. Reminiscent of her 2024 Grammy performance, the official video features Miley in her element on stage, holding her microphone.

Miley is sporting a unique Mugler that was made by Casey Cadwallader. Every release is a completely realized artistic vision that creates a unique cinematic experience by fusing fashion, music, and film.

View the official “End of the World” music video here.

“End of the World” may be familiar to Miley’s fans from her special invite-only shows at the Chateau Marmont, where she frequently tried out new, unreleased songs for a select few.

Get Something Beautiful in advance here.

YARA reintroduces themselves as a fearless force in the local urban music scene

YARA’s new sound, which blends contemporary hip-hop and R&B flavor with Y2K nostalgia, heralds a brave new age. With a decidedly Pinoy flavor, the Filipino girl trio this time leans into urban music, as demonstrated by the song “Sabi Ko Na,” which was written by JRoa and produced by Yung Bawal.

With its luscious melodies, catchy beats, and atmospherics reminiscent of Darkchild, the song showcases YARA at its most assured, providing attitude and aural complexity in equal measure.

YARA, who have re-established themselves as a major force in the Filipino R&B/hip-hop scene, substitute a more sensual, expressive sound for polished pop.

“This song was heavily inspired by 2000s R&B, expressing raw emotions as they are—no deep words, no hidden meanings, just pure feeling,” the group shares. “We also wanted to highlight the unpleasant emotions, as they, too, are a part of us and shape who we are.”

For this new sonic revamp, YARA enlisted the expertise of award-winning producer, songwriter, and recording artist JRoa, who crafted an effortlessly smooth, soul-infused anthem about love, deception, and the unnecessary baggage that comes with it. Although YARA wasn’t directly involved in the songwriting process, their synergy with JRoa was spot on. “One of the most memorable moments during recording was the pep talk he gave that day,” recalls the four-member act. ‘It really showed his passion and, of course, inspired us to keep pushing for what we love. Every time he demonstrated how to sing a line, we couldn’t help but be in awe. We were fangirling the entire time, but we had to snap back to reality and focus on channeling that energy into a performance.

The result is a captivating mix of past and present—a song that honors classic R&B elements while redefining YARA’s musical identity. With Yung Bawal’s moody, after-hours production setting the stage, “Sabi Ko Na” succeeds in reclaiming the Filipino girl group’s space where they can truly shine.

“It’s not always easy to admit to yourself that someone special has fooled you, so we hope this song serves as both a reminder and a source of comfort—because, let’s be real, it’s a canon event,” the charismatic quartet reflects. “Kidding aside, we just want to be part of someone’s moving-on journey, and hopefully, this song helps them heal in the end.”

Earlier this week, YARA sparked intrigue with a social media blackout, signaling a pivot in their influence style not just for this particular release, but also for their overall sound and artist positioning moving forward. This move set the stage for the launch of “Sabi Ko Na,” a track that reintroduces the group as the next movers and shakers in the local R&B/hip-hop scene. Taking creative direction into their own hands, YARA delivers a bold and infectious banger that is rife with so much promise. “You can definitely expect more of this sound,” the group explains. “We had the best time creating Sabi Ko Na, and we can’t wait for you to enjoy it as much as we did.”

Sony Music Entertainment has made YARA’s “Sabi Ko Na” available on digital music outlets all around the world. Keep an eye out for the song’s lyric video, which will be posted on their  official YouTube channel at 6 p.m. today.

Additionally, the music video will debut on the group’s official YouTube channel on April 11 at 6 p.m.

EK EKlipse Marquee Unveiling

On March 30, Enchanted Kingdom, the Philippines’ first and only top-tier theme park, formally opened its newest family thrill ride, EKlipse, with a captivating and immersive opening ceremony.

EKlipse, the first of its type in Southeast Asia, is an exciting new adventure for Filipinos and is one of EK’s first gifts for their 30th anniversary in 2025. With its unpredictable rotating movement and the visual illusion it produces each time its arms pass one another, guests will experience the heart-pounding thrill of this ride.

This newest attraction, which welcomes even pre-teens and teens, is guaranteed to encourage even more shared experiences and provide magical memories for EK’s multi-generational customers and their loved ones.

EKlipse Grand Launch

EK EKlipse SMS

The EKlipse Grand Launch featured spectacular performances from rising P-pop group GAT, The Clash Season 6 grand champion Naya Ambi, and up-and-coming Filipino boy group AJAA.

EK’s very own P-pop group, SMS, also captivated the audience with their newly released single, Meant 2 Shine, along with their latest music, the theme song of EKlipse. This song supplements the overall experience of the new ride, as it plays throughout its entire cycle.

The enchanting celebration was graced by Santa Rosa City Vice Mayor Arnold Arcillas who joined in the symbolic unveiling of the ride marquee, together with EK President and Chairman Cesar Mario Mamon; Chief Operating Officer Cynthia Mamon; Head of Integrated Marketing, and Organization Development and Corporate Planning Nico Mamon; Eldar the Wizard; and twin princesses Victoria and Madeline.

EK EKlipse Wide Shot

When the marquee was revealed, EKlipse suddenly came to life, setting off a dazzling display of dancing lights which highlighted the ride’s visual appeal, especially at night.

Adding a magical twist to EK’s classic tradition, the night was topped off by the Sky Wizardry Fireworks Display featuring the vibrant colors of EKlipse.

As a special treat, Eldar the Wizard also extended the park’s operating hours on Sunday to give the guests more chance to try the family thrill ride as well as EK’s other attractions.

The introduction of EKlipse exemplifies the theme park’s continuous pursuit in bringing new world-class and enchanting experiences for all Filipinos.

The Inspirational Man Behind EK’s Magic

EK President and Chairman Cesar Mario O. Mamon

EK also announced that its president and chairman, Cesar Mario Mamon, won the highly-coveted Inspiration Award in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) Region, as revealed by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) last March 25.

He is notably the first Filipino to ever receive this recognition from the premier global attractions trade association.

Through this prestigious award, IAAPA honors the visionary individuals who championed innovation in the amusement parks and attractions industry in their respective areas.

Currently in his third decade in the integrated attractions industry, Mr. Mamon has made a long-lasting mark not only in the country but also in Asia.

In addition to being the creator of the top theme park in the Philippines, he was voted as the first Asian to hold the prestigious position of chairman of IAAPA in 2013. The Philippine Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (PhilAAPA) was later founded with him as its founding leader.

At the IAAPA Honors 2025, which will take place in Germany from April 28 to 30, Mr. Mamon is scheduled to receive the Inspiration Award.

Visit https://www.enchantedkingdom.ph and follow EK’s official social media pages @enchantedkingdom.ph on Facebook and Tiktok, and @ek_philippines on Instagram for more details and updates about these and other forthcoming events and promotions.

The Taipei-based soft-rock trio will be returning for the second time in Manila, joining Singapore’s San The Wordsmith, Philippines’ SOS and ena mori, Indonesia’s Logic Lost, and Thailand’s KIKI among the performers of the multi-format music event

This year’s All Of The Noise (AOTN), a two-day music and culture event held at Astbury Makati on April 4-5, 2025, will feature Taiwanese indie pop duo The Chairs as the main act.

The Taipei-based trio is making their second trip back to the Philippines, where they will play a special set for their Filipino fans. The fans have voiced their excitement about hearing The Chairs’ brand of psych pop with a nod to the 1960s and 1970s in a small live environment.

Known for their evocative songwriting that straddles between “somber love poems” and “joyful, laid-back summer anthems,” The Chairs have carved out a distinct space in the global indie music landscape, particularly in East and Southeast Asia. With four critically acclaimed albums to their name, the band’s artistry has been recognized with Best Group honors at the 30^th Golden Melody Awards, Taiwan’s most prestigious music accolade.

The Chairs will share co-headlining duties with an eclectic lineup of international acts, including Thai alt-pop band KIKI, Singaporean hip hop artist San The Wordsmith, and Indonesian experimental electronic act Logic Lost. Other performers spread across two days include Manila-based acts ena mori, SOS, Pedicab, Waiian, obese.dogma777, Cheeky Things, Pette Shabu, Pixie Labrador, SVATG, and Fashion Island; Cebu-based acts Mandaue Nights, IIICCCYYY, and Novocrane; as well as the debut performance of Paul Yap (UDD) and Mario Consunji (Musical O)’s collaborative music project Double Shy.

All Of The Noise 2025 is presented by The Rest Is Noise PH (TRIN), a music curation and events production outfit based in the Philippines. Known for its fearless commitment to music discovery, cross-cultural dialogue, and creative networking, TRIN is expanding AOTN’s programming in celebration of its 10th anniversary.

In addition to its outstanding live music roster, AOTN 2025 will feature a wide range of multi-format events, such as keynote addresses, panel discussions, and documentary screenings with a musical theme in the morning and afternoon, followed by an evening live music showcase. Karen De La Fuente, a well-known music photographer from Manila, will have a unique exhibit at the event called Welcome to the Static.

AXEAN Festival, SRM, Filla Killa, Coast2Coast, GNN, Nyou, Winery PH, Greenwich, Guevarra’s, Flying Lugaw, Ateneo Musicians’ Pool, and UP Music Circle are among the local and international community partners who sponsor All Of The Noise 2025.

Ticket Details

Tickets are available via https://bit.ly/aotn2025 with the following packages:

PHP 800 – Day 1 (access to April 4 program – Friday), inclusive of all programs

PHP 800 – Day 2 (access to April 5 program – Saturday), inclusive of all programs

PHP 1,400 – 2-Day tickets (access to Days 1 & 2), inclusive of all programs