The visuals capture the chaos, clarity, and catharsis of true friendship in motion

Photo by Nina Sandejas

The official music video for “Platonic,” a highlight song from Barbie Almalbis’s critically praised fifth studio album, Not That Girl, has been released. Almalbis is a Filipino alt-rock icon. The movie, which was directed by Nina Sandejas, an award-winning photographer and longtime creative partner, offers a raw look inside a night of sweat and music at Mow’s, an underground music club in Quezon City.

A documentary-style montage of mosh pits, dance breaks, and crowd surfing is shown in the video, which is set against the backdrop of Barbie’s most recent performance at the renowned gig space. It is driven by the intense delight of a shared, meaningful musical experience rather than by angst. Barbie exclaims, “I want to see a pit… lovingly,” before breaking into “Platonic,” a two-minute outburst of cathartic intensity.

“This song is about loving people fiercely, unconditionally, generously, vulnerably, in a non-romantic context,” shares Almalbis. “Platonic love has been so enriching in my life, and I’ve really felt much less alone because I have deep friendships to count on or because I can be a friend to someone. I think the world would be less lonely if more people would embrace its joys.”

The idea for the music video came to Sandejas after attending a series of metal shows and noticing the primal yet euphoric energy in the mosh pit. “When I saw Barbie was playing Mow’s, it hit me; we have to document this,” says Sandejas. “Barbie starting a riot? That’s exciting. But of course, it had to be done with love. That’s what makes this different.”

The end result is a raw, kinetic visual experience: a time capsule of the night where friendships collide in the most visceral way. “It was a rush,” adds Sandejas. “We stitched together this fast, chaotic blur of sweat and joy. My favorite moment? That loving pit Barbie asked for. She knew exactly how wild it would get and how to ground it in something beautiful.”

Produced by Nick Lazaro, “Platonic” is Barbie’s first foray into heavier territory. What began as a quiet acoustic sketch quickly transformed into a thunderous anthem, thanks to Lazaro’s instrumentation and contributions from Eclectic Kiss artists Faye Yu, Marika Laciste, Marj Roxas, and Pikoy on gang vocals. “I just said, Nick, I have something—can you make it metal?,” Barbie laughs. “He absolutely did.”

The idea behind “Platonic” comes from C.S. Lewis’s work, The Four Loves, particularly his discussion of friendship as a quick but essential kind of love. Barbie’s words in “Platonic” tackle this concept with candor and a dash of edge, driven into musical overdrive by an unexpected and thrilling metal shift.

Check out Barbie Almalbis’ “Platonic” music video  here.

Two of its main rides, the Space Shuttle and AGILA The EKsperience, will be temporarily closed from July 1 to September 30, 2025, as Enchanted Kingdom, the first and only world-class theme park in the Philippines, prepares to offer even more enchanted experiences to all Filipinos for its 30th anniversary.

The two attractions’ significant improvement and modernization are at the forefront of EK’s continuous park rejuvenation and dedication to giving all park visitors more spectacular experiences, according to EK President and Chairman Cesar Mario O. Mamon.

“Beyond our steadfast pursuit of introducing new enchanting experiences, we are also dedicated to reimagining and reengineering our existing attractions, ensuring that multi-generational guests will be forever enchanted this 2025 and the years to come,” he furthered.

Both attractions are expected to reopen as part of EK’s 30th anniversary celebration in October.

The iconic rollercoaster ride, Space Shuttle, is one of EK’s legacy rides which has been bringing thrill and excitement ever since the theme park opened its gates to the public in 1995. Aside from its signature twists and turns, the upgrade will feature a new loading and unloading experience, along with more efficient operation and monitoring of the ride.

AGILA The EKsperience, the first and only flying theater in the Philippines, has been the cornerstone of EK’s magical and educational entertainment, catering to over half a million students each year. Park goers experience a magical journey soaring on the wings of the Philippine eagle to witness the most iconic destinations in the country.

The reopening of AGILA will elevate learning and entertainment to new heights as it delves further into advancing awareness of environmental responsibility and sustainability.

In addition to these, EK is also working its magic to restore and enhance all of its other themed areas, attractions and facilities in preparation for its milestone celebration on October 18 and 19.

EKlipse, the theme park’s newest family thrill ride and the first of its kind in Southeast Asia, is among the more than 30 rides and attractions that are still open to visitors. Everyone can look forward to a variety of captivating events and offerings as EK maintains its position as the nation’s top theme park.

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

It serves as the lead single off ‘jgh’ deluxe EP, which also features live versions of “Your Boy,” “Hurt Me Too,” and “Pahinga”—to name a few

The new track “Pahinga,” which features pop hitmaker TJ Monterde, was formally released by multi-awarded singer, actor, and all-around creative dynamo James Reid.

The soul-stirring duet is the lead single from the jgh (Deluxe) EP, which was released today by Careless Music and Sony Music Entertainment.

“Pahinga,” which was co-written by both artists with Jason Marvin and TJ Monterde and produced by James Reid and Brian Lotho, provides a novel perspective on the subdued tenacity of love. The song also functions as a fiery ballad that illustrates how mature couples can be in trying times—not by fighting more, but by carefully pausing.

According to James, “Pahinga” doesn’t demand resolution through drama; it seeks solace in stillness. The song essays the quiet understanding between partners who, in the wake of emotional storms, choose to pause, breathe, and stay for love.

“It began with a real-life experience,” James recounts a previous encounter, which became the inspiration in writing the track. “I realized you need to quiet the mind so you can hear your heart. Pahinga is about patience and perseverance in relationships. The blend of country and R&B was something I’ve been wanting to try recently, and I think the genre really helped bring out the sincerity of what we were trying to say.”

From its tender, soothing melodies to its vulnerable lyrics (Pahingi nang isang minuto, mataas lang emosyon ko ngayon. But after all this, mahal pa rin kita), the track carries the weight of truth only lived-in love can bear. With Monterde’s signature warmth and Reid’s introspective sincerity, “Pahinga is a lullaby for grown-up hearts still learning how to rest in love.

But “Pahinga” is just one chapter of a larger story. It anchors the jgh (Deluxe) EP, a carefully expanded edition of James’ 2024 release of the same title. The deluxe version of the EP also contains live versions of all the songs in the previously released record, with the addition of “Your Boy,” “Pahinga” and “Hurt Me Too,” which further underscore the record’s intimate appeal.

“I’ve really enjoyed recording live versions of my songs, so I wanted to package them together with my new song, Pahinga, to wrap up the whole JGH journey back into OPM,” reveals the ‘Mirasol’ singer in a press statement.

Eschewing polish for authenticity, these renditions echo the warmth of a jam session shared among close friends. James and his team wanted the listeners to feel “like they were there in the room with him and the band,” while embracing the imperfection and intimacy that come with an unplugged recording. “I wanted the audience to feel like they’re there hanging out with me,” he adds.

First released in 2024, ‘jgh’ marked James’ pivotal return to making pop-leaning tracks with distinct OPM sensibilities. ‘jgh’ deluxe EP (short for “just got home”) gives an intimate glimpse into the celebrated multi-hyphenate’s past and present life, chronicling how he has matured all these years, both as an artist and as a person.

The EP, which combines pop, R&B, and OPM sensibilities, shows Reid at his most vulnerable. He rediscovers the sincere, grounded aspects of himself that he may have lost touch with and learns to embrace and forgive the imperfections that come with it. That homecoming feels even more complete now that the deluxe edition is available.

The ‘jgh’ deluxe EP, James Reid’s latest album, is currently available on all digital music platforms globally through Sony Music Entertainment and Careless Music. Keep an eye out for James Reid’s official YouTube channel to release the live performance video for “Pahinga.”

Longtime Beatles fans The Itchyworms gear up for a meaningful UK debut, championing nostalgia, rock music, and Pinoy Rock

Filipino rock icons The Itchyworms marks their long-awaited debut in the UK with the #AkinKaNaLangUK Tour.

With a three-city tour that includes Manchester, Liverpool, and London, the chart-topping group behind the hits “Beer,” “Love Team,” and “Di Na Muli” is expected to provide their unavoidable live presentations and anthemic sound.

The band, who have always been Beatles fans, is particularly excited to be seeing the same venues and areas that influenced their musical heroes.

“We’re HUGE Beatles fans, so I’m excited to go to Abbey Road with my bandmates, and of course Liverpool, and play at the Cavern Club where the Beatles first performed,” shared Vocalist/Drummer Jazz Nicolas. “England feels like our ultimate frontier.”

The UK leg of the tour follows the band’s well-received shows across Japan, Singapore, the US, Canada, and Taiwan. The response during their tour was met with overwhelming love from global fans—many of whom introduced the band’s music to friends and partners of all nationalities.

“What I realised is they don’t care if they understand the words—they understand the feeling,” said Vocalist/Guitarist Jugs Jugueta, reflecting on the universal language of music.

Between shows, the band hopes to squeeze in some sightseeing and soak up the musical heritage of each city.

Jugs explains, “I’ve been to London three times already, but this is the first time I’m going there with my bandmates. We’ll be geeking out on all things Beatles!”

But touring isn’t without its challenges. With a lean crew that includes only a manager, sound engineer, and sometimes one tech, The Itchyworms emphasize flexibility and endurance on the road.

Kelvin Yu, the band’s bassist, shared some tips when it comes to touring the world as an artist from the Philippines. “Our tip to other bands: Start with Japan or Singapore. They’re close to the Philippines, cheaper, and have great gig opportunities with strong Filipino communities.”

Despite the logistical hurdles, the band remains energized by the global enthusiasm for OPM (Original Pilipino Music).

“OPM deserves to be heard and appreciated internationally—and we’re seeing that happen more and more,” the award-winning band shares in a press statement. “We love it!”

The tour has already yielded some unforgettable moments—from a fan in Osaka who tried to kiss two band members, to an enthusiastic senior in Chicago who attempted a surprise striptease mid-show.

As for what audiences can expect from their live performances, the band puts it simply:

“For more than two hours, we hope the music brings people back to the Philippines. We want them to forget their problems and just enjoy Filipino music with fellow Filipinos.”

And this is just the beginning of the voyage. The band teases further tours in Australia, New Zealand, a 2026 return to Canada, and perhaps some visits in Southeast Asia, even though the UK marks a significant milestone.

To their UK fans, the band has a heartfelt message: “We’re so excited to meet you all in Manchester, Liverpool, and London! If you see us on the streets, don’t be shy to say hello!”

Catch The Itchyworms on the #AkinKaNaLangUK Tour:

June 22 (Sun) – Night & Day Cafe (Manchester)

June 23 (Mon) – Cavern Club (Liverpool)

June 28 (Sat) – Dingwalls Camden (London)

Tickets available at: www.itchyworms.com

Follow The Itchyworms on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes moments:

Facebook: The Itchyworms Facebook Page

Instagram: @theitchyworms

X (formerly Twitter): @theitchyworms

Spotify: The Itchyworms on Spotify

TikTok: @theitchyworms

YouTube: The Itchyworms Official Channel

Now that the fire has returned, it is more radiant than before. On October 28, 2025, at 8:00 PM, Asia’s Phoenix, Morissette, will perform as the main act at her most anticipated solo show to date, Ember, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. This performance honors 15 years of music, achievements, and worldwide influence.

One of the most captivating voices of her time, Morissette began her career as a formidable young performer on The Voice of the Philippines and has since performed with such legendary artists as Michael Bolton and Alan Menken. She is now back on stage as a creative force propelling Original Pilipino Music to new heights, in addition to being a singer.

A Landmark Year for Asia’s Phoenix

2025 is shaping up to be a milestone year for Morissette. In addition to Ember, she stars in the highly anticipated musical film Song of the Fireflies, premiering on June 25, where she showcases both her dramatic range and signature vocal prowess. Her latest collaboration with acclaimed band December Avenue, titled “Ahon,” reveals a more intimate, acoustic side of her artistry—captivating longtime fans and drawing in new listeners alike.

Beyond the Philippines, Morissette continues to represent proudly on the world stage, performing in a series of TFC (The Filipino Channel) shows across the US and Europe. Her global presence reinforces her status not only as a local icon but as a worldwide ambassador for Filipino music and talent.

Ember: A Concert Like No Other

Ember marks Morissette’s return to the Araneta stage for her first major solo show since Morissette is Made in February 20, 2018. This performance is set to be a deeply personal and sonically spectacular journey through her past hits, current projects, and a glimpse into what’s next under her own label, Underdog Music and Gabi Na Naman Productions (GNN).

Expect soaring vocals, raw emotion, and unforgettable moments—Morissette is not just looking back on 15 brilliant years, she’s setting the tone for her next chapter.

Event Details

• Date: October 28, 2025
• Time: 8:00 PM
• Venue: Smart Araneta Coliseum
• Ticketing details and additional information will be released soon.

This is More Than a Concert—It’s a Cultural Moment

Morissette has a long way to go. Ember is the pinnacle of a legacy-in-the-making, spanning from movies to worldwide tours to musical development.

Save the date. Witness the passion. Feel the fire.