Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival Year 2 Launches, Higher Production Grants for Seven Full-Length and 25 Student Filmmakers Up for Grabs

The journey to the second year of Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival is finally underway, with its introductory press conference held last July 23 at the Gateway Cineplex 18. A sequel to last year’s historic debut Puregold CinePanalo, this year’s iteration promises to give filmmakers across the country more opportunities to showcase their skill, creativity, and dedication to their craft.

Puregold is treating the success of the festival's inaugural run as a launching pad for something even bigger. This year’s version of the Puregold CinePanalo has up for grabs an increased funding pool for selected filmmakers, with seven full-length directors set to receive a production grant worth three million pesos (PHP3,000,000.00), while twenty-five selected student short film directors will receive a production grant worth one hundred and fifty thousand pesos (P150,000.00). Seven full-length film grants are to be given this time around, surpassing last year’s six.

Emphasized at the press conference was that, as in the previous year, this year’s Puregold CinePanalo seeks film entries that showcase the indomitable spirit of the Filipino through uplifting and inspiring “panalo stories.” The press conference also sent out reminders that those who believe they have what it takes have to submit a complete screenplay among other requirements by either July 30 for full-length films or August 15 for student shorts.

To encourage aspiring filmmakers to join the Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival, a slew of directors from last year’s event joined the press conference to share their experiences creating their selected features. Present at the launch was Always Panalo Film awardee Carlo Obispo. Best Picture winner Kurt Soberano, of the recently re- screened Under A Piaya Moon, also sent a special video message to encourage filmmakers to submit their panalo stories for submission.

In addition to the messages from the full-length directors, five student directors also offered messages at the event in order to demonstrate the kinds of experiences and opportunities Puregold CinePanalo can bring young aspiring filmmakers. In attendance were Always Panalo Film awardee Jenievive Adame, Best Director winner Dizelle Masilungan, and regional filmmakers Marian Jayce Tiongzon and Joanah Demonteverde.

The event was also opened by Puregold’s Senior Marketing Manager Ivy Piedad, who delivered an emphatic statement on the importance of rewarding Filipino artistry and celebrating the spirit of Kwentong Panalo ng Buhay. She also noted that Puregold CinePanalo’s mandate found it especially important to give opportunities to student filmmakers who may not have the same access to filmmaking resources as established directors do.

“When we first launched Puregold CinePanalo, we envisioned it to champion Filipino stories, advocate for student filmmakers by providing them with a platform for their dream short films, and elevate the local film scene,” said Piedad.

Piedad noted how the previous iteration of the Puregold CinePanalo was instrumental in bringing to light the talents of several young, aspiring filmmakers, some of whom have used the momentum from the competition to further fuel their artistic dreams.

“We saw the birth of promising talents, with several inspiring stories that came to life on the big screen. Fueled by last edition’s success, here we are once again!” continued Piedad, “Back and bigger than ever, ready to celebrate another year of incredible films and mark the second chapter of Puregold CinePnalo.”

All interested filmmakers are once again encouraged to read through all the mechanics of the 2025 Puregold CinePanalo Festival which are publicly available on Puregold’s official social media accounts. 

Upon perusing through the mechanics, aspiring contestants may then proceed to submit their official applications at https://forms.gle/wNUUQ62okYcyW5r37.

For those looking to learn more, inquiries may be sent to thesecretariat@cinepanalo.com.

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A Dream Holiday Turns in to an Inescapable Nightmare in James McAvoy's "Speak No Evil"

When an American family is invited by a charming British family they befriended on vacation to a weekend in their idyllic country estate, a dream holiday is planned. Soon it warps into a psychological nightmare as not everything is what it seems. An intense suspense thriller from Blumhouse, “Speak No Evil” stars James McAvoy, Mackenzie Davis, and Scoot McNairy.

Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/InvnbXX0VV8?si=jByoNRTk_JF_x0se

Watch the trailer on Facebook: https://t.ly/tdt5t

Follow Universal Pictures PH (FB), UniversalPicturesPH (IG) and UniversalPicsPH (TikTok) for the latest updates on “Speak No Evil.” Connect with the hashtag #SpeakNoEvilPH.

Speak No Evil haunts Philippine cinemas on September 11, from Universal Pictures International.

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Belle Mariano's Song “Bugambilya” Earns Over 1-Billion Views on Tiktok and 110-Million Streams on Spotify

New gen phenomenal star Belle Mariano has achieved more milestones in music as her single “Bugambilya” has accumulated over one billion views on TikTok while her discography has garnered a combined total of 110 million streams on Spotify.

“Bugambilya,” one of the tracks of her 2023 album “Somber,” became a viral hit on TikTok for its emotional and poignant lyrics, now with over 36,000 videos using the song. On Spotify, it reached the top 10 of Spotify Philippines Viral Songs Chart and also charted in the top 200 of Spotify Philippines Daily Top Songs with over 18 million streams.

Last July 13, Belle conquered the stage in her sold-out birthday concert “Believe” at The Theatre at Solaire, where she amazed the audience with her stellar solo musical performances as well as her special numbers with guests Donny Pangilinan, Moira Dela Torre, Denise Julia, and Martin Nievera.

“I never imagined that my dreams would come to life. What once was just a wish, came true. Thank you to everyone who believed in me and continues to, to my ABS-CBN family, the directors, production, and crew of ‘Believe’ concert, my family, friends, and those who support me. I wouldn’t be here without you all,” the StarPop artist wrote in her Instagram post.

Aside from her sold-out concert, the singer-actress also released her new EP “Believe,” which earned 300,000 streams on Spotify in just 10 days and peaked at no. 2 on iTunes Philippines Albums Chart. Meanwhile, its focus track “Biglaan” was featured on various editorial playlists such as Spotify’s OPM Rising and Tatak Pinoy.

Check out Belle’s new EP “Believe” overall produced by StarPop label head Roque “Rox” Santos and continue streaming “Bugambilya” on various streaming platforms. For more details, follow StarPop on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, and TikTok.

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You Can Get Strong, Cold Brew-Like Coffee for Just P20 with Great Taste Iced Coffee Dark Latte

The saying “Coffee is life” has become a mantra for many working professionals and college students. Some need their caffeine fix to stay energized and focused on their tasks, especially if they start their day super early. Coffee is also a must-have for night owls who stay up late to finish deadlines.

You can usually find these coffee lovers lining up at their favorite cafes. But did you know that there’s an affordable option to your go-to café drink? Great Taste recently released its newest Great Taste Iced Coffee flavor, Dark Latte, which offers a strong and creamy flavor. 

The best part? This delicious cold brew-inspired drink costs around Php 20.00 (SRP) a bottle.

Ready for your cold brew experience with this new drink? Here are other things that you need to know about Great Taste Iced Coffee Dark Latte:

Rich caffeine kick

Great Taste Iced Coffee Dark Latte is made with high-quality dark roasted robusta coffee and cream. This gives it that rich coffee flavor, and the cream adds a dash of sweetness and smooth texture. 

Its smooth blend of strong coffee and cream makes it a good pick-me-up drink when you need to recharge.

Easy to carry around

Just like other Great Taste Iced Coffee flavors (Chocolate Mocha, Caramel Macchiato and Vanilla Latte), Dark Latte comes in a sleek bottle that you can easily carry with you anytime, anywhere. 

This makes it easier to drink and seal even while you’re on the go. You don’t have to worry about balancing a cup of iced coffee from cafes while commuting.

Swak sa budget

Whether you’re working or studying, Great Taste Iced Coffee Dark Latte can be an affordable drink companion that you can enjoy anytime, anywhere. For only Php 20.00, you can get your daily coffee fix without breaking the bank.

If you’re looking for a pick-me-up for your early morning or late-night sesh, grab Great Taste Iced Coffee Dark Latte, and experience the strong and creamy goodness of this cold brew-inspired coffee drink.

This new must-try drink is available at leading supermarkets and convenience stores nationwide. For more information, visit Great Taste’s official Facebook page.

Great Taste is a product of Universal Robina Corporation (URC), maker of well-loved Pinoy brands such as Jack ‘n Jill Piattos, Magic Crackers, Cloud 9, and C2 Cool and Clean. Learn more about URC’s delightful products by visiting www.urc.com.ph.

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Watsons Gathers SB19, Alamat, HORI7ON, G22, and Kaia Together in "Watsons Playlist: The P-Pop Power Concert" at the MOA Arena on August 18

The energy was electric as Watsons gathered the biggest names in the P-Pop scene for the presscon of the highly anticipated Watsons Playlist: The P-Pop Power Concert. Superstars SB19, Alamat, HORI7ON, G22, and Kaia thrilled fans with exclusive updates and teasers for the concert set to take place on August 18 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

The 2024 thrust of Watsons Playlist is all about supporting and empowering the P-Pop scene – bringing together P- Pop groups and fan communities for an epic celebration of music. “This 2024, we want to give the spotlight to the amazing P-Pop talents that we have – thriving in both the local scene and the global stage. It is our responsibility to support these talents as they banner Pinoy pride worldwide,” said Jared De Guzman, Customer Director of Watsons Philippines and Head of Watsons Playlist. “Through Watsons Playlist, we also get to reward our Watsons Club members with a free concert when they can look good, do good, and feel great with Watsons.”

During the press conference SB19's Josh shared his excitement: “Masaya po kami kasi noong nagsisimula pa lang ang P-Pop, hindi pa nagkakaroon ng mga ganito kalaking events. Ngayon, mayroon nang tulad ng Watsons Playlist na willing magbigay sa amin ng ganitong klaseng plataporma para ipamalas ang mga talents naming mga P-Pop artists.”

SB19’s Justin added, “Ngayon for P-Pop na talaga ang concert ng Watsons Playlist, nabibigyang pansin na ang mga P-Pop groups ngayon.” Ken echoed this sentiment, “ang ganitong platform ay sobrang laki ng tulong sa P-Pop community para mas makilala pa globally.”

A feel-great night to remember

The Watsons Playlist artists enjoyed reconnecting with each other and their fans, including A’Tin, Magiliws, Anchors, Bullets, and Zaias. It was an evening for the P-Pop community. SB19’s Stell said, “We’re very excited na makasama kayo kasi yung mga ganitong klase bihira ito mangyari. Sa mga ganitong klaseng event lang tayo nabibigyan ng pagkakataong magkasama-samang lahat.” Justin described it as a celebration and reunion.

HORI7ON’s Marcus expressed the group’s honor at participating, “This is actually our first time to attend something like this. Definitely an honor to do it alongside other P-Pop acts. We’re very honored, and definitely, we’ll do our best!”

Surprise look-good stages from the hottest P-Pop groups at the Watsons Playlist

The artists promised an unstoppable back-to-back performances for the Watsons Playlist concert to deliver a feel- great experience.

“We treated all of the concerts and performances that we’ve had before as a conditioning for the upcoming Watsons Playlist,” said Alamat’s Jao. “Trust us, may niluluto kaming bago! We’re preparing a lot of surprises for you.”

Kaia’s Angela added, “May prinepare kaming new choreography, and new arrangements of our songs. We’re also preparing for our upcoming EP kung saan ipapakita namin sa Watsons Playlist.”

G22’s AJ and Alfea teased, “We just finished our meeting the other day. We have production numbers na bonggabels. Since first time namin sa Watsons, we’re giving our very very best, the toppest of the best.”

One of the concert's highlights will be the collaborations among the artists – this year, Watsons Playlist will feature not one, but two major collaborations.

SB19’s Josh said, “Nakakatuwa po kasi may mga exciting collaborations po ahead, sa mga bagong areglo, mga bagong pinaghahandaan dito sa big stage ng Watsons Playlist,” revealing the a grand collaboration between SB19, Alamat, and HORI7ON.

A do-good treat for the P-Pop fans

Additional perks await concert attendees, with G22 mentioning, “Lahat feel great – the performance, the merchandise and giveaways, the soundcheck, the meet and greet.”

Watsons also unveiled its first collection of original Watsons Playlist merchandise, inspired by the vibrant music of this year’s artist line-up. Fans can look forward to exclusive Watsons Playlist tote bags and photo card holders, which will soon be available on Watsons Online.

Closing the evening, SB19’s Stell reminded everyone about the essence of P-Pop. “Gusto kong magpasalamat sa lahat ng P-Pop groups na walang sawang nagwo-work hard para maabot yung goals and dreams ng group nila. Dapat kayong kahangaan kasi hindi kayo sumusuko, and that is what P-Pop is all about.”

SB19’s Justin urged fans not to miss out on this unique concert and to grab their tickets while they last. “Wag niyong palampasin. May mga tickets pang natitira. Sobrang bihira na magkasama-sama kaming mga P-Pop groups. It’s your chance na mapanuod niyo yung collaborations and yung mga ganitong bondings. Lower Box and Upper Box tickets are still available so make sure you shop via Watsons Online.”

Watsons Playlist: The P-Pop Power Concert is happening on August 18, 2024 at SM Mall of Asia Concert Grounds. Grab your FREE tickets now via Watsons Online. Lower Box and Upper Box tickets are still up for grabs. For more information, check-out https://www.facebook.com/WatsonsPH.

Watsons Playlist: The P-Pop Power Concert would like to thank its sponsors: BYS, Bioten, BarenBliss, Deoproce, Durex, Fresh, Gavisco, Maybelline, Nivea, Quick FX, Silk Secret, Strepsils, Hana, and Bigen.

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(Trailer) "Gladiator 2" Starring Paul Mescal, Denzel Washington, Pedro Pascal, Connie Nielsen, Joseph Quinn and Fred Hechinger

From director Ridley Scott, watch the new official trailer for "Gladiator II" starring Paul Mescal, Denzel Washington, Pedro Pascal, Connie Nielsen, Joseph Quinn and Fred Hechinger.

Watch the trailer: https://youtu.be/aE3ktl1CNNY

"Gladiator II" opens in Philippine cinemas on November 20, 2024.

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Sky Cable Partners with Converge to Deliver Faster, Reliable, Superior Internet Service

Sky Cable Corporation will bring faster, superior, and more reliable internet service to new and existing Sky Fiber subscribers by utilizing the pure fiber network of Converge Information and Communications Technology Solutions, Inc.

Sky Cable Corp. has entered into a commercial arrangement with leading Philippine fiber broadband provider Converge Information and Communications Technology Solutions, Inc. that will enable Sky to upgrade its network and improve services to its subscribers.

Sky Chairman Mark Lopez said, “Converge has built a superior state of the art fiber network nationwide that Sky customers will soon experience."

Sky President and Chief Operations Officer Claudia Suarez said the initiative with Converge supports Sky’s transformation plan that is aimed at improving Sky’s products and services. “Through the arrangement with Converge, we expect Sky and its subscribers to benefit from the world-class fiber network that Converge has built over the last few years,” she said.

Converge President and Co-Founder Maria Grace Uy said that the arrangement will allow Converge to maximize its network and increase port utilization. “This will be a revenue boost for Converge consistent with similar arrangements with other players as we are able to continue to monetize further our excess network capacity,” she said.

Converge has the largest fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) network in the Philippines with over eight million ports and a fiber footprint extending over 700,000 kilometers that reaches 16 million Filipino homes nationwide. As of end-March 2024, Converge serves 2.3 million residential broadband subscribers across the country.

“As everyone knows, the first business that I built on my own was in cable television and with the increasing availability of fiber technology in the early 2000s outside the Philippines, my wife Grace and I decided to enter the fixed broadband business. So, I’m really excited that we are able to help Sky, the leader in the cable business, in its own transformation program by providing them the latest optical fiber technology,” said Converge CEO and Co-Founder Dennis Anthony Uy.

Converge Chief Operations Officer Jesus Romero commented that: “We are confident that Sky subscribers will have a better experience with faster broadband speeds with fiber connectivity”.

Carlo Katigbak, president and CEO of ABS-CBN and concurrently a Sky director, expressed confidence that the initiative with Converge will bring positive benefits to Sky subscribers. “We believe that this is the best way to move forward and stay focused on delivering superior customer experience,” he said.

Aside from the network upgrade, the Sky transformation program also calls for increased operational efficiency, greater financial discipline, and organizational improvements.

“We hope to replicate this business model and encourage other players to do the same. This is really all part of the mission of Converge to bring world-class connectivity to all Filipinos and leave no one behind in this digital age,” Uy concluded.

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Black Cap Pictures Brings “The Roundup: Punishment” and “Real Life Fiction” Exclusively at SM Cinemas this August

Black Cap Pictures proudly announces its lineup of August films that will open exclusively at SM Cinemas, “The Roundup: Punishment” on August 14 and Real Life Fiction on August 28.

South Korea’s 2nd biggest 2024 film to-date, “The Roundup: Punishment” filmed partly in the Philippines, features Korean American actor Don Lee as Ma Seok Do aka monster cop as he continues to hunt vicious groups of criminals that have taken its operations outside Korea.

Known for his powerful punches that earned him the nickname ‘monster cop’, Seok Do and his ragtag crew dive deep into the world of digital crimes resulting in new alliances as he learns more about the worldwide dark web.

The hugely successful Roundup franchise is now on its fourth installment with “The Roundup: Punishment” that packs a load of Korea’s versatile and favorite actors. Lead star Don Lee’s breakout role in the global box-office hit “Train to Busan” gained him global recognition and has since then been a staple favorite within Korean films and series with his variety of scene-stealing performances. Don Lee’s credits include roles in Marvel’s Eternals, South Korea’s The Gangster, The Cop, The Devil; Unstoppable and Badland Hunters among others. Starring alongside Lee in the film are Korea’s most notable actors Kim Mu-yeol (Sweet Home), Lee Joo Bin (Queen of Tears), Park Ji-Hwan (Gyeongsong Creature) and Lee Dong-Hwi (Reply 1988).

For the other SM exclusive release, Piolo Pascual stars in the Philippine-produced English language film “Real Life Fiction” alongside Jasmine Curtis-Smith and Epy Quizon with the special participation of Lav Diaz. Directed and written by Paul Soriano, the film is an intense psychological drama on the life of a famous actor Paco (Pascual), who must come to terms with what’s real and not after years of being one of the highly celebrated actors of his time.

Filmed at the height of the pandemic, “Real Life Fiction” further tests the cast’s depth and resilience as they navigate through real life crises all while fulfilling their roles to give the audience a glimpse of what most actors experience on and off the camera. “This film is an observation and a personal look at how my imaginations come to life through the lives of actors who completely give me their trust and support. Sometimes, real life is the fiction we create in our mind,” shares director Soriano.

Distributed by Black Cap Pictures, “The Roundup: Punishment” opens August 14 and “Real Life Fiction” opens August 28 exclusively at SM Cinemas.

Follow Black Cap Pictures on FB @BlackCapPictures, IG @blackcappictures, YT @BlackCapPictures and on TikTok @blackcappicturesinc

Watch The Roundup: Punishment trailer links here: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Tiktok.

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TV5 Bakes Muhlach-filled Sundays with "Da Pers Family" Starring Aga Muhlach, Charlene Gonzales and Twins Andres and Atasha Muhlach

Philippine showbiz royalty, the Muhlach family, begin their journey as a household of Kapatids in their first-ever TV series together, Da Pers Family. This July 21, the new weekend series will premiere on TV5, starring Aga Muhlach and Charlene Gonzalez with their children Andres and Atasha Muhlach.

Da Pers Family follows the story of the Persival family and The Bake Haus of You, a struggling business owned by Aga and Charlene’s characters. Conflict starts brewing when Aga’s former BFF (portrayed by Roderick Paulate) tries to drive them out of business. This brings the Persivals closer together as they battle it out to save their bakery.

Viewers are in for a journey of laughter and touching moments as Da Pers Family presents the collective star power of the Muhlach family, as well as Aga and Charlene’s much-anticipated reunion with their ‘Oki Doki Dok’ co-stars, Bayani Agbayani and Roderick Paulate, along with ‘Oki Doki Dok’ director Danni Caparas.

Completing Da Pers Family’s star-studded cast are Ces Quesada, Heart Ryan, Chad Kinis, Kedebon Colim, Sam Coloso, and more.

Catch them on Da Pers Family every Sunday, starting this July 21, 7:15 PM on TV5, with catch-up airings on Sari-Sari Channel, Mondays at 7pm. 

For more updates, follow TV5’s social media accounts or visit www.tv5.com.ph.

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PUREGOLD "Nasa Atin ang Panalo" Thanksgiving Concert: A Showcase of Musical Powerhouses, OPM Extravaganza, and Celebration of PUREGOLD Milestones

Puregold’s Thanksgiving Concert proved to be the music event of the year, setting a tough act to follow. 

In a grand celebration of Original Pinoy Music (OPM), the remarkable Panalo stories behind wonderful talents, and Puregold’s many years of making victories happen, the retail giant recently hosted the spectacular Nasa Atin Ang Panalo concert at the Araneta Coliseum. Held on July 12, 2024, this musical extravaganza, which fans eagerly waited for in the past few months, showcased some of the finest and most loved artists of today’s OPM scene, working together to create beautiful music.

The star-studded event featured spectacular performances - and, to the fans’ delight and surprise, collaborations - from headliners SB19, BINI, Flow G, and SunKissed Lola. 

OPM enthusiasts and loyal Puregold customers were also treated to appearances by renowned artists Gloc-9 and Skusta Clee, adding even more excitement to the highly anticipated night.

The concert also featured a refreshing lineup of front acts, including Letters from June, Esay, and Kahel, who warmed up the stage and captivated the audience with their unique sounds and artistry.

The surprise collaborations between the artists served as the highlight of Puregold Nasa Atin Ang Panalo Thanksgiving Concert, with each headliner segment featuring a collaboration with another artist.

On the concert’s success, Puregold Price Club Inc. President Vincent Co expressed his pride and gratitude: "The Nasa Atin Ang Panalo Thanksgiving concert marks another significant milestone for Puregold. Celebrating 25 years of success and 500 stores, we have also forged a path for others to create their own Panalo stories. This event is our way of showing appreciation to our loyal shoppers and the community that helped us get here."

More than just a showcase of musical powerhouses, Nasa Atin Ang Panalo was a Thanksgiving event celebrating Puregold's milestone of reaching 500 stores in its 25th year. It was a night dedicated to the company’s beloved customers, hardworking employees, and supportive partners.

In the weeks leading up to the Nasa Atin Ang Panalo concert, Puregold teased and released original music created in collaboration with the concert headliners. This treat provided A’Tin, Blooms, Flow G followers, Dolores, and hip-hop and rap fans with exciting new music videos from their favorite artists.

Stay tuned in! Subscribe now to Puregold Channel on YouTube, like @puregold.shopping on Facebook, follow @puregold_ph on Instagram and Twitter, and @puregoldph on TikTok for more updates.

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