Automotive

New Toyota Dealership in Antipolo, Rizal Coming Soon!

The new facility offers added convenience and support for Toyota customers in Rizal, reinforcing Toyota’s commitment to accessible mobility nationwide

Photo shows from left: TMP Senior Vice President for Marketing Division Ryo Yokoyama, TMP Senior Vice President for Marketing Division Sherwin Chua-Lim, TMP Executive Vice President for Marketing Division Jose Maria Atienza, TMP President Masando Hashimoto, Antipolo City Mayor Hon. Casimiro “Jun” Ynares III, Toyota Antipolo, Rizal President Zellyn Lim Diaz, Toyota Antipolo, Rizal Vice Chairman Liberty Manuel, and Toyota Antipolo, Rizal Director Lesley Lim

Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP), in cooperation with Toyota Taytay, Rizal Inc., has recently commenced the development of a new dealership, marking a significant milestone in Toyota’s expansion to continue providing convenience and excellent quality service to its growing customers.

The soon-to-be built facility, located along L. Sumulong Memorial Circle in Barangay San Jose, is built to offer reliable, high-quality automotive services, supporting Toyota’s commitment of worry-free ownership and an enhanced guest experience.

Once completed, the Toyota Antipolo, Rizal Dealership will span a total floor area of 12,160 square meters across three floors and a mezzanine, with a complete range of services including Express Maintenance, Periodic Maintenance, Body & Paint Services, and General Repairs. Additionally, a modern showroom with space for 7 car displays and 37 well-equipped service bays is allocated to better serve customers in the province.

TMP President Masando Hashimoto

Expanding Access to Mobility

“I have always hoped that a Toyota dealership will be part of Antipolo,” shared TMP President Masando Hashimoto. “I can’t wait for the grand opening at the earliest possible timing, not just because Toyota Antipolo is set to strengthen our network, but because it helps us serve customers with greater convenience,” he expressed.

Toyota Antipolo, Rizal President Zellyn Lim Diaz

Looking forward to the future

“As we establish Toyota Antipolo, we are proud to contribute to the local economy,” shared Toyota Antipolo President Zellyn Lim Diaz. “This project will generate employment — from jobs during construction to long-term careers once operations begin. More importantly, it will provide opportunities for learning, development, and stability for many families. Because progress is most meaningful when it uplifts others,” she added.

Antipolo is a rapidly growing city whose economy is driven by retail, real estate development, tourism, and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), supported by its role as the capital of Rizal province and its proximity to Metro Manila. Commercial centers, housing projects, and tourism generate employment and steady local revenue. Its transportation sector is closely tied to Metro Manila, relying mainly on road networks such as Marcos Highway and Ortigas Avenue Extension, that carries commuters to and from the city daily.

Follow Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook, Instagram and X, and join the ToyotaPH community on Viber to get the latest updates on products, services, and promos. 

 

January 26, 2026 by
Automotive

Pit Señor! Coco Martin and Toyota Motor Philippines Celebrate Sinulog

Toyota Tamaraw Ambassador pays homage to Sinulog

Coco Martin brings the vibrant Sinulog spirit to life at his mall show in SM City Cebu

Coco Martin shines during his Sinulog Grand Parade appearance

By inviting Coco Martin to Cebu City for the festival weekend, Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) added even more excitement to this year’s Sinulog celebration. By doing this, TMP demonstrated its dedication to interacting with communities throughout the Philippines and its support for regional customs.

Seeing Coco Martin up close as he joined the celebrations and added energy and star power to the lively celebration gave festival attendees an unforgettable experience.

In addition to being a fiesta, Coco Martin sees the Sinulog as a chance for people to put aside their differences and come together in prayer.

“Ramdam mo dito yung tibay ng loob at pananampalataya ng mga Cebuano,” he said during his visit to Cebu City on Sinulog weekend. (You feel the Cebuanos’ inner strength and faith.)

TMP’s initiative not only amplified the spirit of Sinulog but also created meaningful connections with the people of Cebu.

Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) and Coco Martin timed his Next Generation Toyota Tamaraw Roadshow with the Sinulog celebration, held every third weekend of January in Cebu, to be one with the Cebuano devotees. He proudly carries his badge as the Tamaraw Next Generation ambassador, enthusiastically going from one city to another to engage with the Tamaraw customers and his fans.

Cebu City was his fourth stop after Cagayan de Oro City, Tacloban City, and Marilao, Batangas. He has more cities to visit in the months ahead.

He likens the strong and persevering faith of the people of Cebu to the durability and reliability of the Tamaraw Next Generation. A devout Catholic, the actor/filmmaker who is behind the TV hit series “FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano” and “FPJ’s Batang Quiapo”, has a strong devotion to the Black Nazarene.

 

Coco Martin meets with the customers of Toyota Mabolo and fields questions about the Tamaraw from the Cebu media.

Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) brought Coco Martin closer to Cebuano fans during the Sinulog weekend, starting with a meet-and-greet at the Toyota Mabolo showroom with Toyota Tamaraw customers. He then entertained mallgoers with lively performances, trivia games, and photo opportunities, even trying the steps of the traditional Sinulog dance. The weekend culminated with Coco joining the Grand Parade aboard a “Next Generation Toyota Tamaraw” float organized by Toyota Team Cebu, braving intermittent weather to experience the Sinulog beat and delight the street crowd.

Coco Martin aboard the float of Toyota Team Cebu joins the Grand Parade, to the delight of the street crowd.

The Next Generation Toyota Tamaraw utility van, launched in 2024, has quickly become a popular choice among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), start-ups, and those familiar with the early Tamaraw FX. With its design customizability, fuel efficiency, and affordability, the Tamaraw is now increasingly seen on roads nationwide, supporting nation-building by enabling better mobility and empowering MSMEs to grow their businesses.

Eric Ong (leftmost) and his family receive the ceremonial key to their Tamaraw FX from Tamaraw Ambassador Coco Martin (in brown jacket) at the Toyota Mabolo showroom on Sinulog weekend.

Cebu businessman Eric Ong has just bought his second Tamaraw, the 2.4 GL Utility Van DSL AT. He already has the Dropside DSL A/T variant that he uses for his construction business, Worldwide Builders.

He said he had waited for the 2.4 GL Utility Van DSL AT automatic transmission because it is more efficient to drive than a vehicle with manual transmission. Also, when he needs to load purchases of auto parts needed for his EGO Taxi fleet, the FX provides security for his cargo. And, he added, human passengers can safely ride in the Tamaraw FX.

Christine and Marc Lin (first and second from left) and their son (fourth from left) receive the ceremonial key to their Tamaraw FX from Tamaraw Ambassador Coco Martin (center) at the Toyota Mabolo showroom on Sinulog weekend. With them is their agent Jinggoy Olvido.

Marc and Christine Lin just bought a Tamaraw FX DSL A/T, intending it for their restaurant business especially for delivery. They said they find the Tamaraw “sturdy and reliable.”

The Ongs and the Lins received the ceremonial keys to their Tamaraw FX from Coco Martin at the Toyota Mabolo showroom on January 17.

The FX is the first and only utility van with automatic transmission across all brands in the Philippine market today, according to Toyota Mabolo.

Lester Alferez (left) bought a Tamaraw because he wanted a more efficient delivery of his coffee beans and other supplies for his business. With him is his agent Jay Naparate.

Lester Alferez, who is in the coffee industry, found the Tamaraw “a reliable vehicle that can handle daily work in the shop.”

“It’s strong, practical, and perfect for our coffee business needs,” he said.

Toyota has introduced two new colors for the Tamaraw utility van: super red for the Tamaraw Dropside DSL AT and greyish blue metallic for the Tamaraw FX DSL MT.

Visit https://www.toyota.com.ph/tamaraw or ask at your local Toyota dealership for additional information about the Next Generation Tamaraw.

To receive the most recent information on goods, services, and promotions, join the ToyotaPH community on Viber and follow Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook, Instagram and X.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

January 23, 2026 by
Entertainment

Ben&Ben releases the music video for “Duyan,” which features Gabbi Garcia and Khalil Ramos

The song completes the ‘Mahiwaga trilogy,’ which includes hit songs “Pagtingin” and “Araw-Araw”

In 2025, Ben&Ben maintained their position as one of OPM’s most significant voices. As the year came to an end, Ben&Ben’s music became entwined with national consciousness when “Kapangyarihan,” their collaboration with SB19, emerged as a modern anthem in protest spaces, echoing public anger amid allegations of corruption surrounding flood control and infrastructure projects. The band also won major awards at the 28th Awit Awards, including Album of the Year for their third studio album, The Traveller Across Dimensions, and Best Performance by a Group Recording Artist for “Triumph”.

With the release of their new single “Duyan”  which is currently available on all digital music platforms worldwide through Sony Music Entertainment, the multi-awarded nine-piece collective urges listeners to begin the year on a more personal yet hopeful note.

Written and composed by frontman Miguel Benjamin and produced by longtime collaborator Ziv alongside Ben&Ben, “Duyan” represents a profound, romantic bond that defies distance, time, and obstacles. The rousing pop-rock ballad encapsulates what true love really means: deep affection, unwavering loyalty, and the choice to remain committed even when faced with challenges and adversities.

According to Miguel, he wrote the song three days before his wedding, while sitting alone in his car. The song contains everything he wanted to tell his then-future wife.

“There are songs where artists write themselves in the music, and this is one of them,” Miguel explains. “That day, the idea of fully offering oneself to another person stayed with me. It’s a love inspired by lifelong commitment, shared journeys, and selflessness. More than anything, I realized that I was ready to make the promise before God. I felt it in the deepest part of my heart.”

Musically, the band worked closely with their good friend and constant collaborator Ziv to honor the song’s emotional core, while “maximizing the soul and expanse of the band’s instruments to take it to the fullest version it was meant to become.”

The song is part of the Mahiwaga Trilogy, Ben&Ben’s thematic arc on romantic relationships. The series began with “Pagtingin,” a groovy meditation on love at first spark and infatuation, and continued with “Araw-Araw,” a folk-pop ode to choosing your partner every single day. “Duyan” closes the chapter with finality, speaking of lifelong commitment and assurance.

“Two years after I wrote the song Duyan and kept it as a very personal part of my life, it made sense for it to be put out there,” shares Miguel. “It also made sense for it to be the conclusion of the trilogy of songs/videos Pagtingin and Araw-Araw.”

Music Video

The song will be accompanied by the release of a music video starring real-life couple and actors Gabbi Garcia and Khalil Ramos, who also appeared in the previous installments of the Mahiwaga Trilogy. For Khalil, returning to the project was a full-circle moment for both Gabbi and him.

“Thematically, it’s beautiful to see how the story progressed since Pagtingin,” shares the Filipino actor, singer, and filmmaker. “I vividly remember how we shot those two videos, and the film LSS. Gab and I grew alongside these songs. At every stage of the trilogy, we could deeply relate to it, because it reflected the different phases of our own relationships through the years.”

Miguel praised both actors in the music video for their enduring role in the band’s visual storytelling. “It was so good to be able to work with our longtime friends Gabbi and Khalil once more in this music video. You could say we’ve both grown so much in life and in our careers ever since the last project we did together. It was great catching up and telling stories of the past and making new memories.”

Directed by Lunchbox Studios under the helm of Daniel Aguilar, the wedding-themed music video brings the trilogy to a close through rosy, introspective visuals.

“We’ve been working with (Lunchbox Studios) for a while now, and for this video, we wanted to do a very intimate but expansive conclusion to the videos we’ve done before,” Ben&Ben stated, adding that fans can anticipate a fantastic fusion of magic and ordinary life in the music video. We worked together to develop an idea for a magical realism depiction of the stages of commitment.

Sony Music Entertainment has released Ben&Ben’s “Duyan” on all digital music platforms globally. Keep an eye out for the “Duyan” music video on Ben&Ben’s official official YouTube channel.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

January 22, 2026 by
Automotive

The Lynk & Co. 08 EM-P sets two Guinness World Records: 293 kilometers for pure electric range and 1,813 kilometers for hybrid range

Lynk & Co. has achieved a major worldwide milestone with the Lynk & Co. 08 EM-P, earning two Guinness World Records. The Lynk & Co. 08 EM-P is now the world’s first high-end plug-in hybrid car to hold Guinness World Records for both the longest pure electric driving range and the longest hybrid driving range, both of which were attained without the need for refueling or recharging.

The first record, officially named “Longest Journey Attempted by a Plug-in Hybrid Powered Production SUV Without Refueling or Recharging,” was set in Hami, China on April 18–20, 2024, over challenging road conditions and harsh environmental conditions. In hybrid mode, the Lynk & Co EM-P achieved a total driving range of 1,813 kilometers, greatly surpassing its official maximum CLTC total range of 1,400 kilometers.

The second record, “Longest Journey Attempted by a Plug-in Hybrid Powered Production SUV on Electric Mode,” was achieved in Toluca, Mexico on December 22, 2025, demonstrating the vehicle’s ability to function as a true electric daily driver. In pure electric mode, it achieved a total driving range of 293 kilometers, surpassing its official maximum CLTC pure electric range of 245 kilometers, and covering far more than what most users need for everyday commutes and short trips.

These achievements are made possible by Lynk & Co EM-P’s “Super Hybrid” System, which is designed around intelligent energy use rather than simply relying on larger batteries or fuel tanks. The vehicle is also designed with CMO Evo architecture which adopts a seven-layer design, delivering a longer wheelbase, improved pure-electric performance, a stronger chassis, and smarter systems that enhance driving, safety, and connectivity.

While the records themselves are global milestones, their real significance lies in what they mean for everyday driving. These achievements show that long range is no longer reserved for test tracks or ideal conditions, but something drivers can rely on in real life, allowing them to depend more on electric driving during the week, while still having the flexibility to take longer trips when needed.

The Lynk & Co 08 EM-P makes energy replenishment voluntary rather than required, saving drivers from having to continuously schedule charging or refueling stops. This results in more freedom and fewer disruptions for longer drives. For everyday use, it means being able to drive without worrying about range all the time.

The Lynk & Co. 08 EM-P, which has two Guinness World Records in both hybrid and pure electric range, shows how smart hybrid technology can provide useful, real-world advantages by fusing performance, efficiency, and convenience in one car.

 

 

 

January 22, 2026 by
Lifestyle, News

As a Cisco Preferred Networking Partner under the Cisco 360 Partner Program Framework, Eastern Communications dominates the Philippine market

From L to R: Cisco PH Partner Account Manager Kate Apodaca Dayanghirang, Cisco PH Manager, Partner Operations Rommel Angeles, Cisco PH Managing Director Zaza Nicart, Eastern Communications (EC) Coordinator Aileen Regio, EC Coordinator Jaeson Evangelista, and EC Chief Revenue and Innovation Officer Edsel Paglinawan

Eastern Communications has been officially recognized by Cisco as a Cisco Preferred Networking Partner, placing the Philippines’ pioneer telecommunications and ICT solutions provider among the first in the Philippines to earn the designation ahead of the global rollout of the Cisco 360 Partner Program in January 2026. The designation is given to partners that demonstrate advanced technical capability, strong lifecycle practices, and deep customer engagement. This recognition marks a strategic milestone for Eastern Communications as it strengthens its role in the country’s rapidly evolving, AI-enabled digital economy.

The Cisco 360 Partner Program, considered the company’s most significant partner transformation in 25 years, introduces new specializations, incentives, and bonuses that place greater weight on value delivery and specialized expertise.

With the needs of customers evolving in the AI era, the program’s evolution connects partner success to how they meet customer needs and ambitions, rewarding partners for driving profitable growth through lifecycle value creation, managed services, software adoption, and renewals.  Cisco partners that have achieved advanced technical expertise, invested deeply in customer engagement, and built foundational practices are designated as Cisco Preferred Partners.

“On behalf of Eastern, we are incredibly proud of our entire team’s relentless drive for innovation. This recognition and new designation as Cisco’s Preferred Networking Partner signifies a validation of the quality and strategic relevance of our product roadmap, positioning us to deliver even more advanced, high-impact solutions to our customers,” said Edsel Paglinawan, Eastern Communications Chief Revenue and Innovation Officer.

By achieving this distinction ahead of the formal rollout, Eastern Communications signals that it is not only prepared for the next era of enterprise technology, it is already operating in it.

Strengthened capabilities, long-standing collaboration

Eastern Communications’ early elevation is an outcome of its continuous investment in its technical workforce, lifecycle service maturity, and innovation-led solutions across cybersecurity, cloud, networking, and managed connectivity. For customers, this means faster deployment, stronger security outcomes, and more consistent end-to-end service delivery supported by deeper access to Cisco expertise and AI-ready architectures. These efforts have also shaped its long-standing relationship with Cisco, which began in 2020 and has since yielded industry recognition such as Top Small Business Partner of the Year (2021) and Breakthrough Partner of the Year (2024).

Beyond commercial success, Eastern Communications, in its role as a Cisco Partner, has supported the local business community through Eastern Communications’ thought leadership program — Access Eastern — which equips organizations with insights to navigate digital transformation, AI integration, and security challenges.

Raising the bar as businesses adopt AI

As enterprises accelerate their shift toward AI-enabled operations, the Cisco 360 Partner Program emphasizes partners capable of delivering bundled, high-impact solutions that match emerging customer needs. Eastern Communications’ Preferred Networking Partner status affirms its ability to support organizations through these shifts, both with advanced technical skill and a service philosophy rooted in “High Tech” and “High Touch.”

The recognition directly supports Eastern Communications’ 2025 commitment to exceeding expectations, reinforcing its direction to offer secure, future-proof solutions while maintaining the personalized support that sets it apart in the industry.

With over 145 years of experience, the telecom provider keeps growing its position as a reliable technology partner for companies across the country by giving them the knowledge, resources, and direction they need to prosper in a rapidly evolving digital environment.

Visit www.eastern.com.ph or call 5300-7000 to find out more about Eastern Communications’ offerings.

 

 

 

 

 

 

January 22, 2026 by
Food, Lifestyle

Coca-Cola Philippines Promotes Water Stewardship at La Mesa Watershed Through Reforestation

Coca-Cola Philippines employees join tree-planting activity at La Mesa Watershed.

On December 17, 2025, Coca-Cola Philippines staff members participated in a tree-planting event at La Mesa Dam with the Million Trees Foundation, demonstrating the company’s dedication to sustainability through active involvement. The initiative demonstrated how community involvement and corporate involvement may contribute to the preservation of one of Metro Manila’s most vital water sources.

Employees of Coca-Cola Philippines gathered to plant native seedlings at the Million Trees Nursery and Eco Learning Center in Quezon City’s La Mesa Watershed. The program is a component of the broader Annual Million Trees Challenge (AMTC), a long-term watershed rehabilitation initiative that started under the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) and is currently being maintained by the Million Trees Foundation, Inc. (MTFI) with the objective of planting an additional 10 million trees by 2030.

Coca-Cola Philippines employee volunteers plant native seedlings as part of ongoing reforestation efforts.

La Mesa Dam is Metro Manila’s primary watershed and one of the remaining major forest reserves in the region. Its protection is essential to ensuring clean, stable water supply for the capital. Reforestation efforts—especially those that focus on tree-growing, not just tree-planting—contribute to soil conservation, improved groundwater recharge, and long-term ecological resilience.

“The strength of the Million Trees Initiative comes from collective effort. When partners like Coca-Cola Philippines show up on the ground, it accelerates our work to restore critical watersheds like La Mesa,” Mr. Melandrew T. Velasco, Million Trees Foundation Inc, President and Executive Director, “Each seedling planted today is part of a bigger commitment to protect the ecosystems that support millions of Filipinos.”

MTFI President and Executive Director Melandrew T. Velasco, together with Coca-Cola Philippines President Tony del Rosario and Public Affairs, Communications and Sustainability Senior Director Maria Christine Garcia, joined the tree-growing orientation before the tree-planting activity, where they learned proper tree-planting techniques and sustainable practices for watershed conservation.

For employee volunteers, the activity was a meaningful way to take part in environmental protection while gaining a deeper appreciation of watershed stewardship — a core focus of the company’s Sustainability Matters campaign.  “Today proved that sustainability is about action — and that small efforts become meaningful when we work as one.” said Maria Christine Garcia, Senior Director of Public Affairs, Communications and Sustainability of Coca-Cola Philippines.

Tony del Rosario, President of Coca-Cola Philippines and Vice President for Franchise Operations East of Coca-Cola Far East Limited (CCFEL), underscored how employee volunteerism strengthens the company’s sustainability goals.

“Our sustainability journey is grounded in strong partnerships, long-term commitments, and the dedication of our people. Initiatives like this underscore the vital role each of us plays in safeguarding essential resources such as the La Mesa Watershed,” said Tony del Rosario, President of Coca-Cola Philippines and Vice President for Franchise Operations East of Coca-Cola Far East Limited. “This activity reflects our broader commitment to environmental stewardship and to collaborating with communities and partners to create lasting, meaningful impact.”

The public can visit www.coca-cola.com/ph/en/sustainable to find out more about Coca-Cola Philippines’ sustainability initiatives.

Learn more at www.coca-cola.com/ph/ and follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

 

January 19, 2026 by
Automotive

Kick Off the New Year in Style! Drive Home a New Toyota This January   

Toyota Motor Philippines chimes in on the new year with new deals and promos, bringing you closer than ever to your dream cars!

Pay Light and Save More When You Pay with Straight Cash!

Get the ATIV 1.5 HEV CVT 2T for a low monthly payment of PHP 10,741 under the Pay Light Option, which offers customers low monthly plans with a 50-percent downpayment and a 60-month amortization period.

Looking for a fun, Subcompact Crossover SUV to drive around the city? The YARIS CROSS 1.5 S HEV CVT 2T is also available for a monthly payment of PHP 15,504 under the Pay Light Option.

For those looking for a crossover SUV with Toyota’s Motorsports DNA, customers can enjoy a PHP 140,000 discount on the COROLLA CROSS 1.8 GR-S CVT 2T when they pay in cash.

Free 1-Year Insurance 

Toyota guests who have purchased selected variants of the Vios, Wigo, Avanza, Veloz, Innova, Fortuner and Hilux are also entitled to a free one-year comprehensive insurance provided by Toyota Insure when purchased during the promo period. The free one-year insurance covers 24/7 personal accident, passenger auto personal accident, three-year CPTL, own damage (OD), loss/theft, excess bodily injury (EBI), property damage (PD), acts of nature (AON), and includes emergency roadside assistance.

Free PMS for selected Toyota Models 

Toyota guests who have purchased the Toyota Raize, Avanza, and select models of the Toyota Vios, Fortuner, Hilux, Innova and Avanza, are eligible to a free periodic maintenance service, applicable to five periodic maintenance services from 1,000 KM to 20,000KM, within 48 months from the release date of the vehicle.

Tamaraw, Rush, Corolla Altis, and Wigo Service Discount voucher for PMS

All variants of the Tamaraw sold and released to Toyota Guests during the promo period are also eligible for a Service Discount Voucher worth PHP 1,200 (VAT inclusive), applicable to nine PMS intervals from the 1,000KM to 40,000KM check-ups. Customers may redeem the PHP 1,200 Service Discount Voucher within 48 months from the vehicle’s release date.

Owners of a brand-new Rush, Corolla Altis, and Wigo sold and released during the promo period are also entitled to the PHP 1,200 Service Discount Voucher. This voucher, which may be redeemed within 36 months from the vehicle’s release date, is applicable to seven PMS intervals from the 1,000KM to 30,000KM check-ups.

Toyota 5-Year Warranty

Toyota guests who have bought a brand-new Toyota Vehicle from any of our authorized dealers in the Philippines since January 1, 2025, are eligible for a Toyota 5-Year Warranty! This includes a 3-year Manufacturer Warranty, with a coverage of 3 years, or 100,000 KM whichever comes first, followed by a 2-year Service Loyalty Warranty that includes a coverage of up to 2 years, or 40,000 KM whichever comes first.

Promo runs from January 16 to 31, 2026 only. Check out the full mechanics, offers, and participating models here: https://toyota.com.ph/promos/KickstartTheYear

DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-246615 Series of 2026 

Follow Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook, Instagram and X, and join the ToyotaPH community on Viber to get the latest updates on products, services, and promos.  

 

January 19, 2026 by
Entertainment

A$AP Rocky’s anxiously awaited fourth studio album “DON’T BE DUMB” out now

Multi-hyphenated artist, entrepreneur, actor and fashion icon A$AP Rocky released his long-awaited fourth studio album DON’T BE DUMB via A$AP Worldwide/RCA Records. DON’T BE DUMB is Rocky’s first album in 8 years, driving unprecedented global demand from fans with the album reaching over 130k vinyls sold before release date and claiming the place of #1 pre-saved Hip-Hop album on Spotify with over 1 million saves.

DON’T BE DUMB features a stacked list of collaborators, including BossMan Dlow, Brent Faiyaz, Danny Elfman, Doechii, Gorillaz, Jon Batiste, Jessica Pratt, Slay Squad, Thundercat, Tyler, The Creator, Westside Gunn, and will.i.am. Danny Elfman and Thundercat also appeared in the music video for “Punk Rocky,” as band members alongside an ensemble of characters.

The two tracks preceding the album, “Punk Rocky” and “Helicopter,” built immense hype for DON’T BE DUMB. “Punk Rocky” was heralded by Variety as setting “a new standard in humor and surreality” for Rocky, with Rolling Stone stating that “the soon-to-be-released album is shaping up to be one of Rocky’s most creative yet.”

In collaboration with award-winning filmmaker Tim Burton, the cover art for DON’T BE DUMB features six of Rocky’s signature personas, brought to life in the visionary filmmaker’s unmistakable style. Each character from the six-man ensemble offers a window into unforgettable moments across the course of Rocky’s illustrious career. The alter-egos list includes GR1M, MR. MAYERS, RUGAHAND, BABUSHKA BOI, DUMMY, and SHIRTHEAD, setting the stage for the ever-evolving narrative universe of “DON’T BE DUMB.”

Rocky has partnered with both Quince and Bilt for exclusive DON’T BE DUMBvinyls, serving as extensions of the innovative partnerships Rocky has activated throughout the album’s rollout, adding even further hype around this release. More than just records, the collections stand as physical embodiments of the album’s universe, minimal, disruptive, and intentionally timeless, blurring the line between music, design, and cultural artifact.

This album comes on the heels of a massive year for Rocky, in which he served as co-chair of the 2025 Met Gala, starred in two A24-produced feature films — Highest 2 Lowest directed by Spike Lee, and the Golden-Globe-winning If I Had Legs I’d Kick You directed by Mary Bronstein, was announced as the creative director for Ray-Ban, and was appointed as Chanel’s new house ambassador.

DON’T BE DUMB Tracklist

DISC 1

  1. ORDER OF PROTECTION
  2. HELICOPTER
  3. INTERROGATION (SKIT)
  4. STOLE YA FLOW
  5. STAY HERE 4 LIFE
  6. PLAYA
  7. NO TRESPASSING
  8. STOP SNITCHING
  9. STFU
  10. PUNK ROCKY
  11. AIR FORCE (BLACK DEMARCO)
  12. WHISKEY (RELEASE ME)
  13. ROBBERY
  14. DON’T BE DUMB / TRIP BABY
  15. THE END

DISC 2

  1. SWAT TEAM
  2. FISH N STEAK (WHAT IT IS)

 

 

 

 

 

January 19, 2026 by
Entertainment

Filipino breakout band Fitterkarma announces “Aswang Sa Maynila” single launch this February

The band celebrates the release with an hour-long live set

After gaining prominence in 2025 with the viral success of “Pag-ibig Ay Kanibalismo II” and “Kalapastangan,” Filipino alt-rock band Fitterkarma starts the new year right with the launch of their upcoming new single, “Aswang Sa Maynila,” taking place at 123 Block, Mandaluyong City, on February 14, 2026.

Produced by Fitterkarma, in partnership with GNN and ONErpm, Bangungot: “Aswang Sa Maynila” Single Launch will feature an hour-long set from the band, alongside a carefully curated lineup of support acts.

“Fans can expect a very exciting lineup of artists supporting us,” frontman Joao de Leon shares in a press statement. “For our set, we’ll be playing more songs than usual, including some older tracks and unreleased material. We’re also preparing a few surprising covers, which we’re really excited to share.”

About “Aswang Sa Maynila”

Set for a release a day before the launch, “Aswang Sa Maynila” explores themes of displacement and longing, reflecting “the feeling of not belonging in someone’s heart no matter what you do.”

“It captures the frustration of wanting to say so much to a person you care about but ultimately feeling powerless and unheard,” Joao adds.

The track was composed by Joao de Leon, with bandmates Soph, Ders, and Mikee contributing their respective parts. Production duties were handled by Xergio Ramos, who added elements to the arrangement and helped Fitterkarma balance all of their ideas. Drawing influence from J-Rock and heavier-leaning music styles, the song also features guest vocals from Kai Sevillano of Novocrane. “Having Kai as the voice of the track also marks our first collaboration with another artist, which makes this release especially exciting for us,” Joao reveals.

More details about the show

Apart from launching their new single on a live music platform, Bangungot: “Aswang Sa Maynila” Single Launch also serves as Fitterkarma’s gesture of gratitude to their growing fanbase. Attendees can look forward to booths, exclusive merch, and interactive activities throughout the event.

Additional supporting acts will be announced in the coming weeks. Tickets to the show are available via https://www.bit.ly/aswangsamnl.

Fitterkarma is a Filipino art rock band known for their gothic and folklore-inspired themes, dark, emotional songwriting, and genre-bending sounds. Last year, the Filipino indie outfit achieved both commercial and critical success—thanks to their massive hit “Pag-ibig Ay Kanibalismo II,” which reached No. 1 on Spotify Philippines Top 50 chart and the Billboard Philippines Hot 100 in December 2025. The song has maintained its position on top for multiple weeks and has landed on year-end, best-of lists on notable music publications such as Billboard Philippines, Rolling Stone Philippines, and Flying Lugaw. Their other smash single, “Kalapastangan,” has also performed exceptionally well on streaming, peaking at No. 2 and No. 5 on Spotify and Billboard Philippines charts, respectively.

 

 

 

January 16, 2026 by
Travel

In honor of its 80th anniversary, Ethiopian Airlines is offering special fares with discounts of up to 80%

On January 18, 2026, Ethiopian Airlines, the biggest airline in Africa, will formally begin its 80th anniversary celebration. The airline is launching an unprecedented 80-day campaign with fare savings of up to 80% for specific flights from Singapore to Africa and South America to commemorate eight decades of aviation leadership.

With 130 destinations across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Americas, and beyond, Ethiopian Airlines has expanded from a regional carrier to a worldwide powerhouse since its first trip to Cairo in 1946. On April 8, 2026, the airline will celebrate its 80th anniversary. This milestone emphasizes the airline’s crucial role in linking the Asia-Pacific region with Africa and beyond.

Throughout the campaign, travellers from Singapore will enjoy exclusive anniversary fares on selected routes via Addis Ababa. These promotional fares offer a unique opportunity to explore key destinations within Ethiopian Airlines’ vast network.

The 80th Anniversary campaign will run in four 20 day phases, with savings decreasing as the promotion progresses. Discounts will start from up to 80% in the first phase, with seats available on a first come, first served basis in each phase. Please also find the media video here.

Campaign Details:

Promotional Phases: 

  • 18 January – 6 February 2026: Up to 80% discount
  • 7 February – 26 February 2026: Up to 60% discount
  • 27 February – 18 March 2026: Up to 40% discount
  • 19 March – 8 April 2026 – Up to 20% discount
  1. Eligible Destinations: Johannesburg, Cape Town, Nairobi, Kilimanjaro, Victoria Falls, Seychelles, Antananarivo, São Paulo, Buenos Aires
  2. Booking Period: 18 January to 8 April 2026
  3. Travel Period:  1 February to 30 June 2026 (Monday and Wednesday flights only)
  4. Eligible Cabins: Available for Economy Class base fares only
  5. Booking Channels: Available on all Ethiopian Airlines booking channels, including the website, mobile app, and authorised travel agents

Visit www.ethiopianairlines.com or get in touch with your local Ethiopian Airlines office for additional details, to reserve your cheap flight, or to find out more about this special offer.

 

 

January 16, 2026 by