Jennylyn Mercado, Sam Milby celebrate CNY at Beautéderm HQ; Rhea Tan launches her newest venture, AUDREY

TWO of the country’s finest stars, Jennylyn Mercado and Sam Milby, attended the Beautéderm Corporation's Chinese New Year celebration, which was hosted by its founder Rhea Tan last Wednesday, January 29, in Angeles City.

Mercado and Milby were joined by other Beautéderm ambassadors, DJ Chacha, Kitkat, Alma Concepcion, Rochelle Barrameda, Jimwell Stevens, Anne Feo, Maricel Morales, Thou Reyes, Ervic Vijandre, Wency Lagumbay, Pepita Curtis, and AJ Morales, as well as local ambassadors, Marlon Tuazon, Joanna Ning Cordero, Atty. Nicolette Henson, Voltaire Zalamea, Mich Viray, Frederick Policarpio, Dr. Minnie Uy, and Mutya Ning Kapampangan Natalya Linsay.

Every year, the business mogul and her company observe the Chinese New Year to express appreciation, hope for prosperity, and spend time with celebrity endorsers.

During her speech, Tan stated that this year is about progress, transformation, and wealth.

“When you're in business, you have to constantly coming up with new ideas and exploring new possibilities, and each new year should bring about progress not only in business but also as a person,” Tan said.

She then thanked the Beautéderm endorsers for attending the event, stating that their presence made the celebration even more memorable.

Aside from the CNY celebration, the Beautéderm CEO launched her new business, AUDREY, a luxury house for genuine leather bags. The materials used include premium genuine cowhide and lambskin.

“The launch of our new venture, AUDREY, which sells genuine and premium leather bags, represents progress. This new endeavor aims to promote local craftsmanship while showcasing what a Philippine brand has to offer the world. And I am optimistic about 2025 and proud of this brand, built with style and brilliance,” she shared.

Tan’s passion for designer and luxury items inspired her to invest in A-List Avenue, a boutique that houses authentic, high-end designer pieces. The store offers limited- edition Hermes Birkin and Kelly bags, along with other prestigious brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Gucci. This is also where celebrities and well-known content creators often source their bags and watches. Now open for over two years, A-List Avenue, located in the same building, features luxurious interiors and an exclusive atmosphere that makes every client feel like a VIP.

Tan, despite her busy schedule, constantly makes time to meet her company's demands. She is optimistic about 2025 and wants to reach more local and international consumers. Her Beautéderm Corporation now has six sub-brands, including Beautéderm, BlancPro, Beauté Beanery, BeautéHaus, Belle Dolls, and AUDREY.

Visit their social media pages for more details.

@beautedermcorporation @blancproofficial @belle_dollsph @alistavenue @audreyluxury @shopaudreybags @beautehausclinic @beautebeanery

Nijel de Mesa’s Palanca Award-winning and long-running “Subtext” is now a musical!

MANY forget that the award-winning international film director-writer-producer, Direk Nijel de Mesa roots were in theater. 

One of his earliest works that gained him acclaim was his play “Subtext” that won the 1^st Prize in the Don Carlos Palanca Awards for Literature, then turned into a full-length movie—which has now been turned into a quaint and intimate musical. 

Premiere Cast of the Musical Version of 'Subtext'

The script is a propelled by a theme on the harrows of relationships and communication. Previous cast members boasts of a stellar list of alums such as Victor Neri, Soliman Cruz, Lou Veloso, Harlene Bautista, Paolo Contis, Ciara Sotto, Boboy Garovillo, Nova Villa etc.

Shane Santos & Ced Recalde 

However, this current iteration is a musical version of the beloved play—perfect for lovers and/or single people this love month of February! Featuring brand new original songs written by Direk Nijel de Mesa himself—and with musical arrangements by Jopper Ril, the touring musical is poised to go global. 

  Jiro Custodio & Cherry Morena, Karl Tiuseco & Gaye Angeles 

The premiere cast of the musical version includes Shane Santos, Cherry Morena, Ced Recalde, Karl Tiuseco, Gaye Angeles, and Jiro Custodio from NET25’s Star Kada. The musical is produced under the “One Acts Theater” division of NDMstudios.

  Jiro Custodio, Cherry Morena, Karl Tiuseco,
Gaye Angeles, Ced Recalde & Shane Santos, 

Catch their remaining performances this February 1, 8, 15, 2025 7 p.m. at the Sikat Studios Main Hall at 305 Tomas Morato, Quezon City. 

For tickets text or call Ms. Junna Marie at 09062266750. 

Puregold CinePanalo 2025: Bigger Dreams, Bolder Visions

FILMMAKERS who are set to participate at the upcoming 2025 Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival were recently presented in a press conference held at the Artson Events Place in Quezon City. 

With a fresh group of contenders and their entries riding on the momentum of last year’s hugely successful festival, Puregold CinePanalo is fast turning out to be a hotly anticipated event in the local film industry’s calendar. 

Millions of pesos in production grants are a great part of the draw. In Puregold CinePanalo’s 2025 run, the bounty benefitted eight winning filmmakers who received P3,000,000 each, as well as twenty-four student filmmakers who received P150,000 each.

 

With Puregold CinePanalo once again raring to provide millions in production grants to select participants, aspiring new filmmakers were spurred to craft more uplifting stories with the theme, “Mga Kwentong Panalo ng Buhay”.

 

At the press conference, Puregold CinePanalo proudly presented these worthy participants to attendees that comprised festival organizers as well as representatives from the festival’s various partners such as the MTRCB, Gateway Cineplex 18, Mowelfund, Terminal Six, CMB Films, and MFP Rentals.

 

Ivy Hayagan-Piedad, senior marketing manager for Puregold, spoke enthusiastically about working with a fresh batch of filmmakers. “After an intensely competitive application period, these directors came out on top of the heap,” she said. “We know they will produce excellent, gripping work and we can’t wait to share these with the viewing public at the upcoming festival.”

 

The Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival will forthwith showcase directors and stars of varying experience and acclaim within the industry, with the star-studded 2025 edition highlighting the filmmaking domain’s rich reserves of talent.

Mes de Guzman directs Sepak Takraw, starring Enzo Osorio, Nicollo Castillo, Ruby Ruiz, and Acey Aguilar. JP Habac’s Olsen’s Day will feature Khalil Ramos, Romnick Sarmenta, and child actor Xander Nuda. 

Tara Illenberger helms the film Tigkiliwi starring Ruby Ruiz in her second Puregold CinePanalo feature, Gabby Padilla, and Julian Paul Larroder. Dynamic duo Christian Paolo Lat & Dominic Lat are directing Journeyman, starring JC Santos and Jasmine Curtis-Smith. 

TM Malones will be working on Salum with stars Allen Dizon and Christine Mary Dimaisip. Jill Singson Urdaneta’s Co-Love will showcase KD Estrada, Alexa Ilacad, Jameson Blake, and Kira Balinger.

 

Meanwhile, Baby Ruth Villarama’s Food Delivery: Fresh from the West Philippine Sea will mark the first-ever documentary to join the Puregold CinePanalo line up. Another historic first sees noted producer Catsi Catalan making her directorial debut with the film Fleeting, starring Janella Salvador and RK Bagatsing.

 

Also in attendance at the press event were twenty-four student filmmakers from universities across the country:

 

Adelbert Abrigonda (Polytechnic University of the Philippines) - “Dan, En Pointe”

Allan M. Balance Jr. (Polytechnic University of the Philippines) - “Cancer Din Ang Zodiac Sign Mo?”

Angel Allizon Cruz (University of Santo Tomas) - “Dito, Dati”

Roniño Dolim (University of Eastern Philippines) - “Sine-Sine"

Kenneth Flores (Far Eastern University) - “1... 2... Strike!!!”

Austine Rae R. Fresnido (FAITH Colleges) - “Sa Susunod Sisikat si Susan”

Clyde Cuizon Gamale (University of the Philippines) - “Champ Green”        

Bjorn M. Herrera (Central Philippine University) - “Nanay's Frankenstein”

Maria Eleanor P. Javier (University of the Philippines Visayas) - “Mother at Sixty”

Producer Ivan Gentolizo representing Mae Malaya (University of the Philippines) - “Sisenta!”

Ira Corinne Esquerra Malit (University of Caloocan City) - “SamPie”

Naiah Nicole Mendoza (Polytechnic University of the Philippines) - “Taympers”

Vhan Marco B. Molacruz (Colegio de San Juan de Letran) - “Uwian”

Jadrien Morales (University of the Philippines) - “Let's Go Somewhere Else”

Regene Narciso (Dalubhasaan ng Lunsod ng San Pablo) - “Papunta Ka Pa Lang, Naka-Bounce Na Ako”

Alexie Nicole Pardo (Polytechnic University of the Philippines) – “Checkmate”

Kieth Earl B. Rebaño (University of the Philippines Visayas) - “Daeaura”

John Lester Rimorin (University of the Philippines) - “Japan Surplus”

Jose Andy Sales (University of San Carlos) - “G!”

Mark Joseph Sanchez (Polytechnic University of the Philippines) - “Our One and Only Bab(o)y”

Aubrey Soriano (Polytechnic University of the Philippines) -  “Si Nadia at ang Kanyang mga Kuro-Kuro”

Jasper Tan (Far Eastern University) - “Sa Pagbunga”

Johannes Tejero (University of San Carlos) - “Daog, Pildi”

Sean Rafael A. Verdejo (National University Laguna) - “Dela Cruz, Juan P.”

With such a diverse lineup of filmmakers, the 2025 Puregold CinePanalo is primed to be another can’t-miss event for Philippine cinema. The completed films will be screened at Gateway Cineplex 18 from March 14 to 25, 2025.

DigiPlus and BingoPlus Foundation premiere ‘Pusta de Peligro’ short films: A call for responsible gaming

DigiPlus Interactive and its social development arm, BingoPlus Foundation, have officially launched the Pusta de Peligro Responsible Gaming campaign with the premiere of three compelling short films. 

Held at Gateway Cinema, the event highlighted DigiPlus’ steadfast commitment to responsible gaming, advocating for prevention, education, and intervention to ensure that gaming remains a safe and enjoyable form of entertainment.

Atty. Rosalyn Batay, Teresita Cambe-Castillo, Celeste Jovenir, Eusebio Tanco, Angela Camins-Wieneke and Armand Bengco

At the heart of the campaign are three resonant short films, each designed to evoke self-reflection and inspire mindful gaming choices. The first video tells the story of a woman torn between breaking her piggy bank to place a bet, or keeping her hard-earned money. (watch the short films at 

https://www.facebook.com/reel/7815664968558464 )

The second video follows someone caught in a tough decision: to use his money to buy lunch, or risk it all for a bet. 

(watch the short films at 

https://www.facebook.com/reel/2531592333700869 )

The third video highlights the struggle of a woman with worn-out shoes, torn between buying a much-needed replacement, or taking a chance on a game. (watch the short films at 

https://www.facebook.com/reel/1305356390610682 )

Through these relatable, real-life scenarios, Pusta de Peligro challenges viewers to recognize the moments when gaming transitions from fun to risk, and encourages them to embrace the campaign’s call: “Pag Pusta de Peligro na, pause na muna, dahil ang gaming dapat fun-fun lang!” 

 

Introducing responsible gaming features in DigiPlus platforms

DigiPlus has raised the bar for responsible gaming by integrating self-exclusion features in its platforms. These provide players with tools that enable them to take control of their gaming habits, including options to set daily gaming durations, customize specific gaming schedules, and establish daily loss limits. For instance, players can confine their gaming to specific hours, such as evenings or lunch breaks, and set loss limits that ensure they never risk more than they are comfortable with.

These self-defined tools reflect DigiPlus’ proactive commitment to player welfare and align with global standards for responsible gaming. By integrating these features directly into its platforms, DigiPlus empowers players to enjoy gaming safely, without stress or financial strain. 

DigiPlus Chairman Eusebio Tanco

“We hope this campaign will spark a national conversation about responsible gaming,” said DigiPlus Chairman Eusebio Tanco. “We want players to feel empowered to make wise choices, families to feel reassured, and communities to see gaming as a safe form of entertainment. The Pusta de Peligro campaign is a crucial step toward that vision.”

 

Conversations with experts

The Pusta de Peligro campaign represents a year-long journey of dedication and collaboration. DigiPlus has invested significantly in crafting an advocacy that goes beyond words – partnering with mental health professionals, financial coaches, and educators to create a campaign that speaks to the realities of Filipino players.

A highlight of the premiere was a thought-provoking discussion featuring Teresita Castillo of the International Gambling Counselors Certification Board and financial coach Armand Bengco. The panel explored the importance of education, early intervention, and expert collaboration in fostering a safe and responsible gaming culture.

Pusta de Peligro builds on DigiPlus and BingoPlus Foundation’s longstanding commitment to responsible gaming. Previous initiatives, such as the Tamang Laro, Tamang Panalo webinar series and financial coaching programs for jackpot winners, have paved the way for this latest campaign to engage players more deeply and meaningfully.

 

Looking ahead

DigiPlus and BingoPlus Foundation are taking the campaign to new heights, rolling out the videos across digital platforms and inviting communities to share the message of responsible gaming. In addition to digital advocacy, on-ground initiatives such as community workshops and live events are set to amplify the campaign’s reach, ensuring that more players are empowered to make balanced, mindful decisions.

“We’re just getting started,” Tanco said. “Responsible gaming is the foundation of a sustainable gaming industry. With Pusta de Peligro, we’re proving that advocacy and innovation can go hand in hand to create a safer, more enjoyable gaming environment for all.”

Watch Pusta de Peligro videos on DigiPlus’ TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

The Biggest K-Pop Stars Introduce the Next Idols in 'Be The Next: 9 Dreamers'

MANILA, Philippines – TV5 and MLD Entertainment PH unveiled Be the NEXT: 9 Dreamers during a star-studded media launch held on January 20 in Quezon City.

The event marked the start of the official countdown to the premiere of this highly anticipated K-pop survival show on February 8.

The show brings together 75 aspirants from the global auditions held in 2024, each vying for a coveted spot in a new 9-member boy group. These dreamers will go through an intense journey, guided by an esteemed panel of mentors and judges to achieve their dreams of becoming global idols.

Attendees at the media launch were treated to an exclusive glimpse of the program, hosted by K-pop icon 2NE1’s Sandara Park. She was joined by a talented line up of mentors, including AB6IX’s Park Woojin, Bang Ye-dam, HORI7ON’s Vinci, Hyebin (formerly of MOMOLAND), renowned choreographer Bae Wan Hee, and acclaimed producer Bullseye. 

One of the main highlights of the event was the Parade of Trainees, where the 75 contestants were revealed to the media for the first time. Each individual has a unique talent and story to tell as they compete for a spot in the final 9-member group.

Mark your calendars and witness the making of global pop idols in Be the NEXT: 9 Dreamers, starting February 8. The show airs Saturdays at 7:15 PM and Sundays at 8:15 PM, with weekday catch-ups every 11:30 PM.

For the latest updates on Be the NEXT: 9 Dreamers, follow @TV5manila on social media.

iWhite Korea launches four Supercharged Serums designed for every Filipinos

iWhite Korea, a pioneer in Korean skincare and one of the first brands to bring the very first customized Korean skincare to the Philippines, is upping the game with its latest innovation: the Supercharged Serums. 

These aren’t your ordinary serums—they’re designed with the specific needs of Filipino skin in mind, combining advanced Korean formulations with solutions for everyday skin concerns. If you’ve ever dreamed of that elusive Korean glow, iWK.lab by iWhite Korea’s Supercharged Serums are here to make it a reality.

The Supercharged Serums come in four unique variants, each with its own targeted benefits. For those dealing with dull skin or hyperpigmentation, the Super Glow Serum is your new go-to. Packed with a powerhouse blend of brightening ingredients, it works wonders on fine lines, uneven skin tone, and pores, leaving your skin visibly radiant. If you want a glass skin glow, the Super Bounce serum is your universal glass skin booster designed to suit any skin types and concerns, delivering a coveted, dewy finish without any greasy residue.

Acne-prone skin has finally met its match with the Super Clear Serum, a patented formulation designed to manage breakouts, oily skin, and clogged pores. It’s gentle yet highly effective, offering a clear, matte finish without compromising your skin’s natural balance. And for those looking to fight early signs of aging while addressing environmental stressors, the Super Plump Serum does it all. It brightens, firms, and strengthens the skin’s barrier, making it perfect for anyone dealing with dry or textured skin.

Each serum is suitable for all skin types and easy to incorporate into your routine—just a drop or two is enough to supercharge your skincare. Whether you're tackling multiple concerns or just want to level up your glow, the serums are customizable to meet your skin’s unique needs by mixing in the 2-3 serums together. It’s all about creating a mixture that works for you, without the fuss.

But iWhite Korea isn’t stopping at innovative products. With the launch of these serums comes the Supercharged Personality Search, a campaign that celebrates individuality and encourages everyone to embrace their unique glow. It’s more than just skincare—it’s about confidence, self-expression, and finding what makes you shine.

iWhite Korea has always been about bringing the best of Korean skincare to Filipinos, and these Supercharged Serums are a testament to that commitment. Whether you’re brightening, hydrating, clearing, or firming, these serums are the perfect addition to your beauty routine. It’s time to say goodbye to one size -fits-all solutions and hello to personalized, effective care that delivers results. With iWhite Korea, achieving the glow you’ve always wanted has never been this fun—or this easy.

For more information check out Watsons, @iwhitekoreaofficial TikTok, iWhite Korea on Lazada and iwhitekorea on Shopee.

GELA ATAYDE AND ROBI DOMINGO LEAD ABS-CBN’S NEW DANCE SURVIVAL REALITY SHOW “TIME TO DANCE”

WORLD-CLASS dancing and grooving will reign supreme every Saturday on “Time To Dance,” ABS-CBN and Nathan Studios’ newest dance survival reality show led by hosts Gela Atayde and Robi Domingo, which premieres on January 18 via Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live, and A2Z.

During the show’s mediacon last Thursday (January 16), New Gen Dance Champ Gela shared the reason why “Time To Dance” was made. 

“This is an advocacy project for me. It’s because being part of the dance community, I see the ins and outs of what really happens. ‘Yung mga kulang, yung mga sobra. Here in “Time To Dance,” I want to be able to help those who want to explore dance more and also inspire. Nabuo ang “Time To Dance” because of the heart and passion na nakita nila sakin,” she said.

 

Gela emphasized the show’s inclusivity because it features dancers of all ages, backgrounds, and physical abilities. She also revealed that celebrity performers AC Bonifacio and Darren Espanto and renowned dance coaches Chips Beltran, Lema Diaz, and Jobel Dayrit will make an appearance as guest judges and coaches on the show.

 

Meanwhile, Robi praised Gela’s hosting skills despite being a first-time host. 

 

“Kitang kita kay Gela yung gigil talaga na pag-ibayuhin pa ‘yung kanyang craft. Ang laki ng improvement niya since day one. In hosting, what you want is that connection, it’s not all about talking. Ramdam na ramdam namin yun sa kanya,” he expressed.

 

Director of World of Dance Philippines Vimi Rivera, who will serve as one of the show’s dance council, also highlighted the Time To Dance’s goal of showcasing the talents of the country’s local dance community and emphasized that the show is “more than just a competition.”

 

The first episode of “Time To Dance” will introduce 17 dance hopefuls, who will undergo intense training with the top coaches from the Philippines' dance community.  The contenders’ grit, skill, and passion will be tested in group dance evaluations and thrilling one-on-one dance combats, in the hopes of surviving intense weekly eliminations. 

    

Who will rise to the top and be the first grand winner of “Time To Dance”? Find out in the newest dance survival reality show “Time To Dance” every Saturday, 8:30 pm on A2Z, Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live, MYX, iWantTFC, and TFC. 

 

For updates, follow @abscbnpr on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok, or visit www.abs-cbn.com/newsroom.