Seo In Guk and Francine Diaz Expand the Story of Their Dreamy "My Love" Collaboration in Metro.Style

South Korean singer-actor Seo In Guk and Filipino young star Francine Diaz appear in Metro’s exclusive moving cover as they drop their music collaboration “My Love.”

In Metro.Style’s cover story featuring the two artists, they revealed details about how their music project came to fruition, even when it seemed unlikely to happen at first.

Francine shared, “Hindi ko masyado in-expect na mapu-push through itong collaboration kasi sabi ko, hindi kaya sobrang laking step for me? And as an actress na acting lang talaga ako, biglang papasok ng singing. But ’yun, ’yung sinabi nila sa akin na tuloy and he really wanted to do it with me, of course, nagulat ako and hanggang ngayon, I’m still on cloud nine.”

The song “My Love” was originally part of In Guk’s previously released album. The Hallyu star said, “This song is actually from my previously released album. It’s a solo song that features a rap portion. This time, as I worked with Francine, I had a great time during the process of turning it into a male-female duet song.”

Francine described the reimagined version as full of energy and love. “’Yung kanta na ito, nakaka-happy siya. Nakaka-boost ng energy and may love ka talagang mafi-feel ’pag narining mo siya,” she said.

They also talked about their recording experience in South Korea last December where Francine brought a lot of good vibes according to In Guk. “She always met me, welcomed me with this bright energy. That made me feel really great,” he recalled.

Read more about In Guk and Francine’s dreamy collaboration in Metro’s latest cover story and watch “Metro Talks with Seo In Guk and Francine Diaz” on Metro.Style YouTube channel. For more exclusive articles, follow @metrodotstyle on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok as well as Metro Magazine @metromagph on Instagram and Twitter and @Metro.Magazine on Facebook, or visit Metro.Style. 

Read more »

Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival Partners with MOWELFUND in Supporting its "Mga Kwentong Panalo ng Buhay" Movies

Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival proudly announces its partnership with Movie Workers Welfare Foundation, Inc. (MOWELFUND). This exciting collaboration aims to champion the Philippine film industry, particularly the young and emerging filmmakers, and narratives highlighting Filipino life and culture.

Founded in 1974, MOWELFUND is a non-stock, non-profit foundation focused on social welfare, education, and industry development, with a dedicated mission to support the diligent professionals within the Philippine movie landscape.

Boots Anson Roa-Rodrigo, Chairman of MOWELFUND, shares her gratitude. “Thank you, Puregold, for CinePanalo. [Through this initiative], Puregold offers assistance to filmmakers [in featuring] films that delve into wholesome family themes that define everyday Filipino slice of life.”

The multi-awarded movie and television personality says this is a “win-win” for both MOWELFUND and Puregold. “Panalo ang Puregold for instilling family values through the potent medium of film. Panalo ang MOWELFUND Film Institute for offering logistics to young and enterprising filmmakers. Panalo ang aspiring film students and enthusiasts [because] CinePanalo helps them bring to life their dream projects through the magic of film.”

Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival recently unveiled its list of grant recipients–six directors for the full-length films and 25 student filmmakers for the short films–carefully selected from over 200 pitches nationwide. Slated for a grand debut at the Gateway Cineplex 18, Araneta City, from March 15 to 17, the festival's selections embody the theme “Mga Kwentong Panalo ng Buhay,” weaving stories of kinship, perseverance, and the Filipino spirit.

In a gesture of gratitude, MOWELFUND acknowledges Puregold's support for their 50th-anniversary medical and dental mission, where grocery gift bags will be bestowed upon the deserving members of the film community.

As the Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival approaches its zenith, Puregold senior marketing manager Ivy Hayagan-Piedad articulates, "With heartfelt appreciation, we recognize MOWELFUND and all our partners for their integral role in not just showcasing these inspiring Filipino narratives but also in fortifying our collective contribution to the flourishing Philippine movie industry.”

Do you want FREE entertainment? Subscribe now to Puregold Channel on YouTube. For more updates, like @puregold.shopping on Facebook, follow @puregold_ph on Instagram and Twitter, and @puregoldph on TikTok.

Read more »

BAYAD and Pay&Go Seal Partnership with Carmona Cavite local Government, Bringing Accessible Bills Payment Services

As the Local Government of Carmona, Cavite celebrates its first cityhood anniversary last February 19, 2024, City Mayor Dr. Dahlia A. Loyola leads a week-long program celebration that champions its different programs including its advocacy on financial inclusion. In line with this, a joint partnership between the LGU, Bayad and Pay&Go was officially sealed on February 20, 2024.

Bayad is a subsidiary of Meralco and the pioneer and leader in the outsourced bills payment collection service in the Philippines while Pay&Go is a leading 24-hour self-service payment kiosk provider in the country.

Under the partnership, Bayad will continue to power the bills payment services of Pay&Go payment machines, which are now made accessible at LGU Carmona City Hall.

“Imagine the ease of being able to pay your electric, water, and internet bills, while being able to settle your government contributions, load your prepaid, RFID, and e-wallet accounts all at the same time. This is the kind of one-stop-shop convenience that Bayad stands for.” shares Bayad Business Development Manager Kathlyn Alarcon, as she also provided a picture of onboarding more local billers in the future to cater to the various needs of Carmona residents.

Pay & Go Senior Alliance Manager, Kenneth de Guzman also shared “We are happy that we share the same values with Bayad in providing convenient and accessible payment experience. We hope that in deploying our Pay&Go automated payment terminals, we enable thriving communities like Carmona City to strengthen financial inclusion.”

LGU Carmona Mayor Dahlia A. Loyola added “The local government of Carmona is proactively supporting the country’s adoption of fast and secured digital payment touchpoints. By harnessing our collective efforts with Bayad and Pay&Go, we can ensure that financial services reach more of our kababayans and empower them to make informed financial decisions.”

For banks, financial, and government institutions that are interested to be part of Bayad’s extensive channel network, you may send an email to partnerships@bayad.com. Bayad enables partners to attain nationwide presence and provides end-to-end support services for efficient payment and collection processing.

Read more »

'Sexy Babe' Cianne Dominguez Plays the Waiting Game in Debut Sone "Traffic"

“It’s Showtime” host Cianne Dominguez is taking on a new path as a recording artist with her first single “Traffic” released under StarPop.

The former “Sexy Babe” contestant explores ‘situationships’ or relationships without any label in the song and conveys the restlessness in waiting similar to the tedious feels of being stuck in traffic. It was written and produced by her “It’s Showtime” co-host and Rocksteddy lead vocalist Teddy Corpuz.

“Sa interpretation ko doon sa song nakikita ko yung situationship lalo na nauuso ito ngayon. Nasa isang situationship ka na walang usad, walang nangyayari. Naiinip na sa kakahintay ng label sa kung anong meron kayo,” Cianne said.

She also expressed her gratitude to Teddy who helped her in bringing out the emotions of the song.

“Sobrang smooth and chill ng jamming namin ni Kuya Teddy. Super happy rin ako kasi ako yung naisip niyang kumanta ng song niya and at the same time super thankful din kasi nabigyan ako ng ganitong opportunity,” Cianne shared.

As a kid, the up-and-coming artist dreamt of becoming a singer and even auditioned for “Tawag ng Tanghalan” and other singing competitions to hone her skills as an artist.

“Noong bata palang ako hilig ko na talaga sumali sa singing contests and lagi ako and yung family ko kumakanta sa church. Nag-try rin ako sumali sa ‘Tawag ng Tanghalan’ before kasi gusto ko talaga mag-pursue ng singing lalo na pangarap ko rin makasama sa mga play,” she said.

Aside from her singing talent, she has also showcased her dancing and comedy chops through other “It’s Showtime’s” popular segments “Girl On Fire” and “Isip Bata.” Some of her musical influences are Idina Menzel and Lea Salonga.

Check out Cianne’s debut single “Traffic” now available on various digital streaming platforms. For more details, follow StarPop on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, and TikTok.

Read more »

ABS-CBN Honored with 11 Awards at University of Perpetual Help JONELTA System’s 1st Perpetualites’ Choice Awards

ABS-CBN continues to receive love and support from the academic community as it earned 11 awards including Best Media Company from the University of Perpetual Help JONELTA System’s 1st Perpetualites’ Choice Awards on Friday (March 1).

“It’s Showtime” won as the Best Noontime Variety Show, while Anne Curtis and Vice Ganda were hailed as Best Female TV Personality and Best Noontime Variety Show Host.

Vice also proved that she is still ‘Unkabogable’ and well-loved by the youth as she scooped up three other awards including Best TV Personality, Best Game Show Host, and Most Service Oriented Media Personality.

Star Magic artists, Seth Fedelin and Francine Diaz, also emerged triumphant, winning Best Young Male and Female Media Personality, respectively. Meanwhile, Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla took home the award for Best Love Team.

"ASAP Natin 'To's" very own Moira dela Torre was also named Best Female Solo Artist.

The winners of the 1st Perpetualites’ Choice Awards were voted by Perpetualites from the various campuses of the University of Perpetual Help JONELTA System in Isabela, Pangasinan, Manila, GMA, Pueblo de Panay, and Laguna.

Read more »

Acer Philippines Supports Diversity and Inclusivity in Tech, Recognized as One of the World’s Top Companies for Women in 2023

Acer has been named one of the World’s Top Companies for Women in 2023, marking the second consecutive year of being recognized on the Forbes list. With this, Acer climbed from 291 to 259 and ranked 12th in the Semiconductors, Electronics, Electrical Engineering, Technology Hardware & Equipment category.

Forbes surveyed 70,000 women across 37 territories in partnership with Statista, and the evaluation criteria included workplace practices, gender pay equity, handling of discrimination, and equal opportunities.

The recognition reflects Acer's ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive work environment.

In the Philippines, Sue Ong-Lim is the managing director of Acer, leading a workforce of 139 employees.

She started in the company as a Sales Manager in 2009 until she was named Managing Director this year.

As a leader, Ong-Lim describes herself as business-driven, but she said she relates personally to Acer’s employers, partners, and customers.

“Acer has 34.7% and 39% market share of consumer and gaming notebooks in the Philippines, respectively. This means that more than a third of Filipino consumers who have a laptop own an Acer. The company has decades of building and strengthening brand equity through consistent sales, marketing, and customer service efforts. I see that as our edge over our competitors,” said Ong-Lim.

She attributes her success as a leader to her vision and thirst for learning. She has realized that even those at the top of their game should always continue having a learner's mindset.

Ong-Lim said her gender doesn’t hinder her being a leader in a male-dominated industry.

"I believe in equality and inclusivity and that people, regardless of gender, are what make an organization special and successful," she said.

For more information about Acer, follow Acer Philippines on its social media platforms: @AcerPH on Facebook, @acerph on Instagram, and @acerphils on Twitter, or go to www.acer.com.

Read more »

HONOR X7b with Massive 6000mAh Battery is Now Available Nationwide for Only Php 8,999

Global technology brand HONOR today announced the launch of the HONOR X7b for only Php8,999! 

Featuring a long-lasting 6,000mAh battery, a 108MP Superior Main Camera, 256GB storage, and an Ultra-Bright Display, the HONOR X7b provides extended battery life and impressive hardware that caters to a variety of needs throughout the day. With its well-rounded features and affordability, the new HONOR X Series smartphone offers users an exceptional, uninterrupted user experience.

Long-lasting Battery to Support All-day Use

Equipped with a 6,000mAh ultra-large battery, the HONOR X7b now holds the DXOMARK Battery Gold Label, which promises a battery usage of 3 days on a single charge. It delivers the best battery life among all HONOR X Series smartphones to date. On a single charge, the latest HONOR X7b can support up to 18 hours of video streaming, 24 hours of social media browsing or 69 hours (about 3 days) of music streaming, making it a reliable companion for users who are on the go.

The cell of the HONOR X7b comes with a higher energy density and a reduced thickness thanks to HONOR’s innovative battery technologies, which immensely contribute to the device’s long battery life and slim form factor, enabling users to stay connected without constant recharging. Additionally, the battery exhibits exceptional longevity, with the ability to maintain over 80% of its health even after three years of usage.

Superior Photography Capabilities for Crystal-sharp Visuals

The HONOR X7b boasts a 108MP Main Camera with a 1/1.67-inch sensor. Boosting light intake massively, the HONOR X7b supports 9-in-1 pixel binning to achieve a pixel size measuring 1.92µm, enabling the camera to capture bright and vivid shots even in challenging low-light conditions, ensuring that night colors are faithfully reproduced in the images. The HONOR X7b also features the Portrait Mode that supports 2X zoom, providing a diverse range of use that allows users to capture a wide variety of moments with versatility and flexibility.

Immersive Audiovisual Experience with Hyper-Transmissive Display

Featuring a 6.8-inch HONOR FullView Display with a 91.3% screen-to-body ratio, the HONOR X7b supports an FHD+ resolution and a color depth of 16.7 million colors, delivering visuals with stunning clarity and vibrant hues. Delivering the brand’s commitment to human centric technology, the HONOR X7b comes with industry-leading eye comfort features including Circadian Night Display and Dynamic Dimming. Received the certification from TÜV Rheinland for its low blue light emissions, the HONOR X7b is suitable for extended usage without causing eye strain, perfect for today’s digital-savvy generation who spend long hours viewing content on their smartphones.

Furthermore, the HONOR X7b incorporates advanced audio capabilities, thanks to the sound field expansion algorithm and scene-based audio optimization, ensuring an immersive audio experience. Whether users are indulging in entertainment or focusing on work-related tasks, the HONOR X7b is well-equipped to meet the demands of various real-life scenarios, providing users with an enjoyable and captivating experience across different activities.

Uninterrupted Access and Ample Storage Capacity

Users who enjoy keeping their media always accessible at their fingertips can fully leverage the expansive 256GB storage drive, which can keep over 60,000 pictures, 24,000 songs or 950 HD videos locally. The HONOR X7b is also equipped with the HONOR RAM Turbo (8GB+8GB), an HONOR proprietary technology that moves a portion of flash memory to RAM, meaning 8GB RAM can be increased to 16GB, enabling users to carry on with their tasks seamlessly with ease.

Pricing and Availability

HONOR X7b is available starting March 9 for only Php 8,999! And until supplies last, you will get a FREE HONOR Gift Box worth Php 1,999 when you purchase from March 9 to 17, 2024! 

Head on now to your nearest HONOR Experience and Partner Stores or shop online via Shopee (https://bit.ly/Shop_X7b_PR), Lazada (https://bit.ly/Laz_X7b_PR) and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/TikTok_X7b_PR)!

To know the complete specs of HONOR X7b, head on to HONOR’s website: https://bit.ly/Web_X7b_PR. 

For more exciting announcements, you may visit HONOR's social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

Read more »

TV5 Jumpstarts Primetime with New Comedy Game Show "Barangay Singko Panalo" Starting March 11, 2024

TV5 has another exciting offering for its Kapatid Viewers as it introduces Barangay Singko Panalo, a new original game show and sitcom in one that is inspired by Pinoys’ daily lives and gives its players a chance to win up to P100,000 every day.

Hosted by the charming Kagawad Je (Jerald Napoles) and pretty SK Kayla (Kayla Rivera), along with Ej Gonzaga as Kap Al and other Barangay Singko members, Barangay Singko Panalo will prove to be a relatable and amusing evening habit for the whole community.

Barangay Singko Panalo presents unique episodes featuring different problems and situations faced by contestants from different barangays. Players are given unpredictable challenges to solve these as they play the games per round. From five, only one will make it to the jackpot round for a chance to win up to P100,000.

The new game show aims to engage all barangay communities across the country as they share in the fun, prizes, and surprises that can help make a difference in people’s lives. With the wacky mix of Barangay Singko Panalo characters led by Kagawad Je and SK Kyla, community life is given an amusing twist that will keep both studio players and home viewers entertained and wanting for more.

Join the daily excitement of Barangay Singko Panalo starting March 11, Monday to Friday at 5:30 PM on TV5’s TodoMax Primetime Singko block. 

For more information and updates, follow TV5 on its official social media pages on Facebook, Instagram, X app and YouTube or visit their website at www.tv5.com.ph.

Read more »

SMART Brings Fans Closer to ED SHEERAN Through Exclusive Ticket Redemption Promo to “Mathematics Tour” Live in Manila

Mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) has announced its exclusive ticket redemption promo to make it so much easier for Filipino fans to get hold of tickets to the much-anticipated “+-= ÷x Tour” or the “Mathematics Tour” of global music icon Ed Sheeran happening at the SMDC Festival Grounds on Saturday, March 9.

Sheeran, who has been rocking his tour since April 2022, is expected to perform songs from his latest album alongside his old chart-toppers like “Tides,” “I’m A Mess,” “Shivers,” “The A Team,” “Castle On The Hill,” “Perfect,” “Lego House,” “Shape Of You,” and “Thinking Out Loud,” among others.

As an added treat to fans, viral British singer Callum Scott and hit Filipino band Ben&Ben are set to front-act for the Grammy-winning artist.

How to redeem Ed Sheeran concert tickets from Smart

Smart Prepaid and Smart Postpaid subscribers who are excited to do the math may redeem their tickets by exchanging their points on the Smart App, which is downloadable on Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

A specific number of points is required to claim a ticket in different categories. Subscribers may also augment their points by topping up promos. The more points, the better the chances of redeeming higher category tickets.

To redeem tickets, subscribers may follow these steps:

1. Download the Smart App then sign-up or Log-in to your account.

2. Once in, go to Rewards, then Under Redeem Rewards, tap the Ed Sheeran ‘Mathematics Tour 2024’ in Manila ticket you want to redeem.

3. Click Redeem button on the pop-up screen to confirm redemption. Subscriber will receive a notification and text message for successful redemption and instructions on how to claim their tickets.

Get ready for a music and visual spectacle

This Manila leg is the 60th stop for “mathematics” and the 10th stop for Sheeran this 2024. Sheeran, who was last here for his “Divide” concert back in 2018, is known to switch up the visual spectacle during his live outings via larger-than-life LED setups and awesome firework displays timed perfectly with each song performance.

Subscribers can rely on the Smart network as they instantly post and share photos, videos, reels, and stories about their favorite moments in the concert with their friends and loved ones via their go-to apps.

Sheeran’s 2024 concert follows a string of world-class acts that Smart brought closer to subscribers, including the Asia Artist Awards 2023, TWICE 5th World Tour “Ready To Be,” and Harry Styles’ “Love on Tour.”

To stay updated about the latest exclusive perks and awesome experiences for Smart subscribers, follow Smart’s official accounts on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.

Read more »

Jollibee Makes Summer Extra Saya with New Pinoy Summer Specials Ube Cheese Pie and Buko Pandan Sundae

The summer season is off to a great start as Jollibee launches their new Pinoy Summer Specials - the returning favorite Ube Cheese Pie and the new Buko Pandan Sundae!

These are some of the well-loved Filipino dessert flavors with added extra sarap twists for an extra saya summer.

The Ube Cheese Pie is making a comeback with Jollibee's signature crispy crust filled with oozing ube halaya and creamy cheese filling. It's a returning favorite that’s guaranteed to bring saya with every bite.

The Buko Pandan Sundae, Jollibee’s modern and levelled-up take on the classic Filipino dessert, is their signature creamy vanilla soft-serve generously topped with chewy buko pandan jelly, buko strips, and a drizzle of pandan syrup.

An Extra Saya Summer with Jollibee

Jollibee Philippines Marketing Team

"Summer is a time to enjoy and create memories, and it’s always been Jollibee’s mission to serve joy and be part of the Pinoys’ celebrations," says Bea Tempongko, Senior Marketing Manager at Jollibee. "And this is why we’ve taken everyone’s Filipino dessert favorites and turned them into extra special offerings. Whether you're revisiting the comfort of our Ube Cheese Pie or exploring the fresh delight of our Buko Pandan Sundae, there's something special that can bring you extra saya this season."

Enjoy Extra-Sarap: Availability and Special Offers

The Ube Cheese Pie and Buko Pandan Sundae are available nationwide from March 5 until May 31, with prices starting at P47 for the Ube Cheese Pie and P59 for the Buko Pandan Sundae. In addition, customers order these as part of Special Mix & Match Combos for only P84!

Don't miss out on the chance to elevate your summer with Jollibee's Pinoy Summer Specials. Head to your nearest Jollibee branch and experience the extra-special Pinoy desserts that one can’t miss! Available for dine-in, takeout, or delivery via the Jollibee App, JollibeeDelivery.com, #87000, GrabFood, and Foodpanda.

Extra-Sarap, Extra-Saya Summer Awaits!

So what are you waiting for? Make your summer extra saya with the extra sarap Jollibee Pinoy Summer Specials: Ube Cheese Pie and Buko Pandan Sundae.

For the latest updates and promotions, like and follow Jollibee on Facebook, subscribe to Jollibee Philippines on YouTube, and follow @jollibee on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.

Read more »