BTS is Back! With New Feature-Length Documentary Titled "BTS THE COMEBACK LIVE!," New Album "ARIRANG," and

ATTENTION ARMY – BTS is back!

BTS members RM, Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V and Jung Kook reunite on the global stage for the first time via Netflix and HYBE's production that brings the pop royalty back to the stage for the unprecedented, historic worldwide comeback events. 

BTS THE COMEBACK LIVE

Streaming live exclusively on Netflix this coming March 21, 2026, 8PM KST (4 AM PST / 7 AM EST) from the historic Gwanghwamun in Seoul, this monumental performance celebrates the release of their highly anticipated new album, ARIRANG.

ARIRANG

BTS' 5th studio album, ARIRANG, is a deeply reflective body of work that explores their identity and roots. After the album release, the band will embark on a massive ARIRANG World Tour (2026–2027), which will span 34 regions and 82 shows across Asia, North and Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. 

BTS: THE RETURN

And, because we’re that obsessed, BTS: THE RETURN, a BTS documentary film showcasing the making of their newest comeback album, arrives on Netflix on March 27, 2026.

This feature-length documentary chronicles the long-awaited return of pop royalty, BTS. From acclaimed director Bao Nguyen (The Stringer, The Greatest Night in Pop) and renowned producers, This Machine (Martha, Karol G) and HYBE, the film offers unprecedented access, following BTS as they come back together to begin a reunion set to be etched in pop culture history, while reflecting on the journey that transformed seven Korean members into global icons. Since their debut in 2013, BTS built one of the most devoted fan communities in the world. After completing South Korea’s mandatory military service, the seven members reunite in Los Angeles to make music together, returning to a shared creative space shaped by time apart and personal change. As millions of fans await the comeback of the decade, BTS confronts quieter questions: how to begin again, how to honor the past without being bound by it, and how to move forward together. Through moments of doubt, laughter, and rediscovery, they create new music that reflects who they are now—culminating in what will become a landmark album of its time. Intimate, emotional, and often joyful, BTS: THE RETURN is a story only BTS can tell: a portrait of resilience, brotherhood, and reinvention.

BTS THE COMEBACK LIVE | ARIRANG marks an expansion of Netflix’s live programming, becoming the first-ever live event broadcast from Korea to be livestreamed globally. This latest addition follows a robust lineup of live events, including Skyscraper Live, Star Search, Jake vs Joshua, WWE Raw, NFL Christmas Gameday, Paul vs Tyson, Canelo vs Crawford, Six Kings Slam and much more. Looking ahead, Netflix's live slate includes MLB games, the FIFA Women’s World Cup, and The Actor Awards.

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Breaking News: HONOR X9d 5G Buyer Wins Brand-New Tesla Cybertruck

HONOR Philippines has officially revealed the winner of its nationwide “Win a Tesla Cybertruck” promo, held in celebration of the massive success of HONOR X9d 5G. After receiving thousands of entries, the official draw was conducted on February 3, 2026, and was overseen by a representative from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). The winner of the highly coveted Tesla Cybertruck is Lorelyn Felonia.

Felonia, who is from Quezon City, purchased 10 units of the HONOR X9d 5G. She was among the hopeful participants of the HONOR X9d 5G “Win a Tesla Cybertruck” promo, which was launched on January 9, 2026 to celebrate the arrival of #TheToughestPhone. Customers who purchased the HONOR X9d 5G during its pre-order period were automatically entered for a chance to win the grand prize.

“We were truly overwhelmed by the support and warm reception from our loyal HONOR fans nationwide,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng. “We extend our gratitude to Miss Felonia and to everyone who purchased and supported the HONOR X9d 5G. This campaign reflects our commitment to giving back the support we receive from our community.”

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Four-Time NBA Champion and Producer Stephen Curry Aims to Bring Animation to the Courtside in “GOAT”

Smalls can ball! GOAT is the newest animated film from Sony Pictures Animation, the studio that created the “Spider-Verse” films and “KPop Demon Hunters.” An underdog story in which a small goat named Will (Caleb McLaughlin) gets the opportunity of a lifetime to play professional roarball. In a sport dominated by the fiercest and largest animals in the world, Will is on an uphill battle to prove to himself and the world that anyone can be on the court.

Watch the trailer: https://youtu.be/-8WZgnjORoo

Stephen Curry, legendary basketball player and producer for GOAT, feels a personal connection with the story of Will. “I relate to the entire story of ‘GOAT,’” he says. “My journey resembles Will’s—being overlooked, underrated—but finding your self-confidence through it all. It’s about the power of the team: No matter what walk of life, you can’t do anything great without the people around you. It’s cool to bring that into ‘GOAT,’ knowing how relatable it is—not just to my story, but to everybody.”

Curry wanted to showcase the culture of sport into animation, and bring his world off the court and into the big screen. “We included the accessories, the clothes, a dope soundtrack–the cultural references that everybody can laugh at and appreciate,” he says. “This is a timeless story–if you watch it 20 years from now, you’ll go back to a moment in time. We're super excited to have those relatable references throughout the entire movie.”

Will’s voice actor Caleb McLaughlin also has a soft spot for his character and story. “I think underdog stories hit people because we’ve all felt like underdogs at some point,” he says. “We all start from a low place and have to push through our own version of concrete. And when you finally reach a goal, you remember the moments you struggled, or wanted to give up, but didn’t. People doubt you along the way, and I think audiences relate to that. These stories usually find people right at the moment they feel like quitting, and watching an underdog win reminds them to keep going.”

The sport of roarball is entwined with nature and the biomes that animals call their home, ranging from tropical jungles and the frigid tundras. “They can make use of all of their animal attributes,” says producer Michelle Raimo Kouyate. “They run on two paws, four paws, use their tails, horns, snouts, wings, tongues—anything goes.”

That’s where the prejudice against smalls playing such a dangerous game comes into the picture. “In our world, there’s no difference between bigs and smalls as far as the culture is concerned,” says co-producer David Schulenburg. “But roarball is so dangerous—the pace, the terrains—the idea that a small goat would play the game is just unheard of.”

For co-director Adam Rosette, “GOAT” speaks to the universal desire of following your dreams, and seeing them realized. “It represents what it’s like to have a dream, not only what it’s like to play sports,” he says. “It’s about Will’s dream, which just happens to be becoming a pro roarball player. If you’ve ever had a dream—something that you aspire to be—this movie is for you. There’s heart, there’s hustle and humor.”

Get ready to play ball as “GOAT” arrives in Philippine cinemas on February 11.

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The 7th Village Pipol Choice Awards Returns, Celebrating the Year’s Most Influential PIPOL and Brands

The 7th Village Pipol Choice Awards (VPCA) is back, spotlighting the brightest stars, trailblazers, and influential forces that shaped 2025 across entertainment, media, lifestyle, business, technology, and more. Now in its seventh year, the VPCA continues to uphold its mission of honoring excellence driven by public admiration and industry merit.

The VP Choice Awards, presented by Village Pipol Magazine, in collaboration with PIPOL mgZn and produced by RED Entertainment, Inc., has grown into a defining celebration of what resonates with audiences nationwide, from captivating performances on screen and viral moments on social media to innovative brands and beloved public figures.

This year’s nominees represent an eclectic mix of established icons and rising talents who have made significant cultural impact over the past year. Categories span major sectors including television, film, music, digital content, social media, lifestyle, travel, technology, and business — each highlighting the people, shows, brands, and creators that captivated the public’s attention.

In entertainment, celebrated actors, hit series, and compelling news personalities earn recognition, while global music acts and standout viral sensations vie for top honors. The VPCA amplifies achievements in digital content creation and social influence, acknowledging the creators shaping the online landscape.

The Awards Show also honors excellence in consumer experiences, with categories that recognize top brands in travel, technology, and business sectors from mobile and camera manufacturers to airlines, apps, and financial institutions. These categories reflect the evolving interests and daily lives of audiences who engage with technology and lifestyle in meaningful ways.

What sets the VPCA apart is its balanced and transparent voting process. Winners will be determined through a combined system of public votes cast online and via the official VPCA app and expert evaluations from a distinguished panel of judges and the Village Pipo and PIPOL Editorial Team. This ensures that the awards honor both popular support and professional excellence.

The 7th VP Choice Awards Red Carpet and Awards Night is scheduled for April 29, 2026, where nominees, industry leaders, and influencers are expected to gather for an evening of celebration, recognition, and glamour.

For the complete list of nominees and further details, media are invited to refer to the official announcement here: https://villagepipol.com/the-7th-vp-choice-awards-complete-list-of-nominees/

About Village Pipol Magazine

Village Pipol Magazine is a leading Philippine lifestyle and culture platform that covers entertainment, media, business, travel, technology, and social influence. Known for its focus on people, brands, and stories shaping modern Filipino culture, Village Pipol serves as a trusted source for industry insights, features, and trend-driven content.

About the Village Pipol Choice Awards

The Village Pipol Choice Awards (VPCA) is an annual recognition platform that honors excellence across entertainment, media, digital content, lifestyle, technology, and business. Combining public voting and professional judging, the VPCA celebrates both popular influence and industry achievement, spotlighting individuals and brands that make a lasting impact on Filipino audiences.

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Josh Groban Announces Very Special Guests Regine Velasquez and Martin Nievera for His 'Gems World Tour' Manila

Tony, EMMY and five-time GRAMMY Award-nominated singer-songwriter Josh Groban brings his newest tour ‘GEMS WORLD TOUR’ to Manila and announces his very special guests ‘Asia’s Songbird’ Regine Velasquez and ‘Concert King’ Martin Nievera for a must-see Valentine’s week concert on February 18, 2026 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. Presented by Wilbros Live.

With over 35 million albums sold worldwide, Josh Groban’s career is defined by sweeping anthems such as “You Raise Me Up”, “To Where You Are”, “February Song” and “The Prayer”. This tour celebrates his legacy of blending classical power with pop accessibility, featuring cinematic hits like “Believe” and “Evermore”, alongside an orchestra and choir for a truly immersive sonic experience. Groban possesses one of the most outstanding and instantly recognizable voices in music. Moreover, he continues to captivate fans everywhere as both a powerhouse vocalist and dynamic renaissance man with sold out concerts around the world.

Regine Velasquez, one of the best-selling Filipino artists of all time, whose legendary vocal range and hits like “Dadalhin”, “Pangako” and “On The Wings of Love” have earned her unprecedented accolades. Martin Nievera, the prolific singer-songwriter and TV host behind iconic hits like “Be My Lady”, “Say That You Love Me” and “You Are My Song” previously interviewed Groban and expressed immense excitement to transition from interviewer to stage partner for this historic reunion. Together, these multi-award-winning legends promise to make the evening an unforgettable showcase of world-class talent.

Reflecting on his return to the Philippines after seven years, Groban expressed a profound emotional connection to his Filipino audience, noting that the country holds “a very special place in my heart”. He credited the local fan base for their unwavering support, stating “Outside of America, the Philippines is one that got to truly accept my music. Filipinos have understood me and my music for the entirety of my career.”

For Groban, the upcoming Manila concert is a celebration of a relationship that spans decades. “Every time I have the opportunity to perform for my fans in the Philippines, it is a night of many things – most of which is gratitude – gratitude that I feel from my fans there since album one, day one,” he shared. “So whenever I come to the Philippines, whenever I get to play a concert there, I celebrate your country’s love of music.”

Don’t miss this unforgettable night of vocal excellence and musical history! Tickets are on-sale and available at SMTickets.com and SM Ticket outlets nationwide. Limited VIP Soundcheck Experience and VIP Superfun Package with Josh Groban are also available.

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BINI Jhoanna Plays a Cameo Role in “The Witness,” Puregold’s Heartwarming Tribute Film to Sari-Sari Store Owners

Puregold carries on with its heartfelt tribute to Filipino sari-sari store owners or micro- entrepreneurs with its Sari-Sari Stories video series, the newest installment of which features a special cameo from BINI’s Jhoanna. “The Witness” is a short film that tells a tender, coming-of-age love story, one that unfolds across the years, shaped by change, constancy, and the quiet presence of a sari-sari store owner who sees it all.

Jhoanna’s cameo adds an extra layer of warmth and relatability to the narrative, underscoring the film’s message of appreciation for small business owners across the country. Affirming the role sari-sari stores play in Filipinos’ everyday lives, Jhoanna shared, “Importante na hindi mawala ang sari-sari store. Bukod sa pagiging very Pinoy, ito pa rin ang pinaka-accessible sa maraming komunidad. Iba pa rin yung may mapupuntahan kang malapit sa’yo.”

The latest Sari-Sari Story follows the budding romance between two childhood sweethearts, their youthful ardor eventually evolving - through the years - into real enduring love. The video depicts the highs and lows of their relationship, all from the perspective of a humble sari-sari store owner who witnessed them all.

WATCH: "The Witness" - Puregold Sari-Sari Short Film

Puregold senior marketing manager Ivy Hayagan-Piedad echoed Jhoanna’s sentiments, saying, “Puregold has always been a proud ally of micro-entrepreneurs across the country. Through Sari-Sari Stories, we continue to uphold the role sari-sari store owners play in our everyday lives. In their communities, they bring people together by providing convenience and access to daily essentials.”

“The Witness” rides on the momentum of earlier Sari-Sari Stories installments such as “Ways” featuring SB19’s Stell, and “The Sign,” which included a cameo by Skusta Clee. The series has collectively sparked conversations online and resonated with netizens, Aling Puring members, and Puregold followers, reinforcing the remarkable part sari-sari stores play in everyday Filipino life.

As the series continues, audiences are spurred to watch for the next story, reflecting how sari-sari stores have - over time - integrated themselves into people’s lives and into the communities they serve.

Stay in the loop. Subscribe to the Puregold Channel on YouTube, like @puregold.shopping on Facebook, and follow @puregold_ph on Instagram and X, and @puregoldph on TikTok for updates and behind-the-scenes content.

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From “Nobody” to Something Extraordinary! China’s All-Time No. 1 2D Animated Film Makes Its Way to Philippine Cinemas Starting February 4

Who are they? Just Nobody…

Nobody knows? No! It’s NOBODY!

The all-time No.1 2D Animated film in China, NOBODY, comes to the Philippine cinema this February 4!

As of January 26, NOBODY holds a perfect 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes’ Popcornmeter, and it is celebrated for its humor and inspiring tale of these overlooked heroes. Its impressions signal an appreciation for 2D animation rooted in cultural heritage blending satire, folklore, and emotional realism.

Early critics and audiences have praised NOBODY for its hand-drawn animation and ink-wash-inspired art style, describing it as a feast for the eyes and a delight for its characters and creative world-building. They also commended how the film balances humor and heart, bringing charm to each little demon throughout their adventures.

Don’t let their appearance and size fool you, these four little demons pack a big punch of heart and fun. These four nameless little demons — a pig, a toad, a weasel, and a gorilla, set off on a wild, fun-filled journey, discovering courage, friendship, and the extraordinary power of being nobody. Their witty camaraderie and emotional impact redefine heroism, showing empathy, perseverance, and humility can exist without the need for recognition, yet extraordinary. Through their bumpy, eventful adventures, you won’t be just entertained, you will cheer and root for them at every twist and turn of their journey.

Watch the trailer: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

Official Synopsis:

On the remote Mount Langlang, four nameless little demons — a pig, a toad, a weasel, and a gorilla — live quiet, overlooked lives. Unnoticed by the world, they are neither powerful nor heroic. One day, they embark on a daring journey, mimicking the legendary Tang Monk’s pilgrimage to the West, hoping to gain strength, recognition, and a sense of purpose.

Along the way, they face dangers, encounter evil forces, and are tested in courage and wisdom. In the end, they defeat a formidable enemy, yet lose their magical abilities and return to ordinary animal forms.

Though they do not achieve legendary fame, they earn respect and gratitude from those they helped, proving that even a “nobody” can accomplish extraordinary deeds.

Nobody is too small to make a difference! Join the four nameless little demons in NOBODY and follow their journey in PH cinemas, February 4!

Watch out for more at Encore Films Philippines on their Facebook and Instagram @encorefilmsph.

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Donny Pangilinan and Anne Curtis Take Over Cinema One's Special Valentine’s Movie Marathon

New gen phenomenal actor Donny Pangilinan leads Cinema One’s Blockbuster Sundays with a special airing of some of his notable films, just in time for the season of love this February.

Highlighting the “ROJA” star’s charm and range, the lineup features heartfelt stories and standout performances that deliver kilig, emotion, and feel-good moments every Sunday at 7pm.

1. As the boy-next-door named Dave seeking for forgiveness in “James & Pat & Dave”

“James & Pat & Dave” follows three young adults navigating love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. Pat (Loisa Andalio) is healing from Dave’s (Donny Pangilinan) betrayal when she meets James (Ronnie Alonte), the grandson of the resort owner where she works. Through chance encounters and shared experiences, their lives intertwine in unexpected ways, forcing each of them to confront their emotions this Feb. 1.

2. As a boutique plant owner and social activist named Manny in “An Inconvenient Love”

“An Inconvenient Love” follows Ayef (Belle Mariano), a convenience store worker with big dreams of becoming an international animator, and Manny (Donny), a boutique plant shop owner who secretly works as a social activist. When their busy lives and conflicting priorities make love seem inconvenient, they enter a contract relationship with a set expiration date, only to find their feelings growing deeper than expected. The film airs on Cinema One on Feb. 8.

3. As a teasing basketball captain named “Deib” in He’s Into Her: The Moviecut”

“He’s Into Her: The Moviecut” tells the story of Maxpein (Belle), a spirited provincial girl who moves to Manila to live with her estranged father and enrolls at an elite school, where she instantly clashes with basketball varsity captain Deib played by Donny. What begins as a cat-and‑dog relationship blossoms into a heartfelt romance filled with kilig and coming‑of‑age moments. Catch the first part on Feb. 15 and the second part on February 22.

Likewise, Cinema One puts the spotlight on Anne Curtis with a special movie lineup featuring some of her most beloved films. Watch the “It’s Showtime” host in “The Mall, The Merrier” on Feb. 7, “Babe, I Love You” on Feb. 14, “Buybust” on February 21, and “No Other Woman” on February 28, which airs every Saturday, 7pm.

Meanwhile, get ready for a Valentine’s Day full of kilig and fun as Cinema One presents a special movie marathon this February 14. From romantic comedies to heartfelt dramas, viewers can enjoy a day of love, laughter, and unforgettable on-screen moments with Claudine Barretto, Rico Yan, and Diether Ocampo’s “Dahil Mahal na Mahal Kita,” Jericho Rosales and Kristine Hermosa’s “Forevermore,” Judy Ann Santos and Piolo Pascual’s “Till There Was You,” John Lloyd Cruz and Bea Alonzo’s “One More Chance,” Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” Joshua Garcia and Julia Barretto’s “I Love You, Hater,” and other romance films.

Cinema One, the home of Filipino blockbuster movies, is available on SKYcable ch. 56, Cignal ch. 45, GSat Direct TV ch. 14, and other local cable service providers. For more details, follow Cinema One on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.

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Puregold CinePanalo Announces Top 20 Student Shorts Finalists for 2026 Festival Run

Puregold CinePanalo, currently on its third iteration, has unveiled the top 20 student short films culled from an impressive pool of 267 submissions nationwide. Chosen from an initial top 53 shortlist, the select entries were crafted by the Philippines’ most promising student filmmakers who are poised to shape the future of Philippine cinema.

The following are the 20 Student Shorts selected for this year’s Puregold CinePanalo:

• “Starfish” by John Clite Apolinar, Polytechnic University of the Philippines
• “Alumahan” by Christian Melvin M. Arejola, Polytechnic University of the Philippines
• “A MILLION DREAM” by Ace Joven Balleta, University of Eastern Philippines
• “Kanibal” by Michael Baylon, University of the Philippines (Visayas)
• “Miss Intrams” by Henri Marie C. Belimac, University of the Philippines (Mindanao)
• “THE SOUND OF K” by Jay Gabriel A. Cañada, Visayas State University
• “TEKS BATTLE: SHOOT PATI PATO!” by John Russel Capule, University of Caloocan City
• “TINGI” by Rowan De Aro, Tanza National Comprehensive High School
• “Pulis Dunggab” by Maxine Dela Bajan, iACADEMY Cebu
• “Kapag Tapos na ang Umpukan” by Justine Lee Estinor, Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation
• “Ang Huling Banlaw ni Susan” by Hezekiah M. Estorque, University of the Philippines (Visayas)
• “Sa Mga Nagdaan at Lumipas” by Ezaldea Carla Fernandez, University of the Philippines (Open University)
• “12 Shots” by Minnesota Flores, University of the Philippines (Diliman)
• “No Mad is An Island” by Carl Geronimo, City of Malabon University
• “Nakabinbin” by Carlo M. Gula, Colegio de San Juan de Letran - Manila
• “When Heaven Inched Towards Earth” by Vinh Marco, University of the Philippines (Diliman)
• “Limlim” by Samantha Beatriz Acoja Palaje, St. Dominic College of Asia
• “Bumtak Sara ti Nuangen (The Carabao’s Horns Have Cracked)” by Lloyd Pereira, Polytechnic University of the Philippines
• “Kun Hain? Bisan Diin” by Jomarie Reyes, University of the Philippines (Diliman)
• “Nang Matakasan ang Tagay” by Giancarlo Santiago, University of the Philippines (Diliman)

The young filmmakers behind these top entries will benefit from this year’s more expansive Puregold CinePanalo, which offers a production grant of Php 200,000 and sponsorship of equipment packages to support the production of their films.

Furthermore, Puregold CinePanalo, in partnership with the Asia Pacific Film Institute (APFI), presents expanded educational incentives for the student filmmakers. Winners of the Best Film, Jury Prize, and Best Director categories will be eligible for full scholarships at APFI, alongside additional tuition benefits and career guidance programs.

Ms. Ivy Hayagan-Piedad, Senior Marketing Manager of Puregold, extends her congratulations to the top 20 finalists. “Reaching this stage was no easy task. We believe these young filmmakers carry some of the most important stories that need to be told today. We are proud to provide them with a platform to bring these stories to life, and we look forward to seeing how the Filipino audiences connect with and respond to these films created especially for them.”

Now a recognized platform in the Filipino film industry, Puregold CinePanalo is a festival dedicated to amplifying young Filipino voices and their craft. Since its launch, the festival has awarded hundreds of thousands of pesos in grants to student filmmakers, creating opportunities for their professional development and exposure.

The festival is scheduled for September 23 to October 4, 2026 at Araneta City’s Gateway Cineplex 18 and select Ayala Cinemas, where the 20 student shorts will screen alongside seven full-length feature films.

Films produced and launched through previous Puregold CinePanalo festivals have gone on to garner critical acclaim, with alumni works screening and earning awards at notable film festivals here and abroad.

For more information on the Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival, you may stay updated through the official festival Facebook page at facebook.com/puregoldcinepanalo.

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ABS-CBN Unveils New Series “Blood vs Duty” Starring Richard Gutierrez, Barbie Imperial, Bela Padilla, and Gerald Anderson

ABS-CBN is set to intensify primetime television further with the official launch of “Blood vs Duty,” an upcoming action-drama series starring Richard Gutierrez, Bela Padilla, and Gerald Anderson.

Excitement builds further with the addition of Barbie Imperial and Baron Geisler in the lead cast as confirmed in the project announcement held on Monday (January 19).

Last year, Baron starred in “Incognito” with Richard, while Barbie joined Gerald in “Sins of the Father” for its second season. Both Baron and Barbie were seen in the series “FPJ’s Batang Quiapo,” playing the roles of Rocky Boy and Tisay, respectively.

ABS-CBN’s JRB Creative Production unit, the creator behind “Ang Sa Iyo Ay Akin,” “Mars Ravelo’s Darna,” “Nag-Aapoy na Damdamin,” and “Sins of the Father,” will head the production of the series, which will be directed by FM Reyes.

“Blood vs Duty” is set to air on primetime soon.

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