NDMstudios celebrates 25th year at the NDM Expo in Singapore

AFTER 25 years from its live events and theater production days, NDMstudios celebrated its 25th year in the industry by holding its annual NDM Expo in Funan, Golden Village, Singapore last October 24-26, 2025. 

Well attended, it launched turning points on how NDMstudios will be moving forward in 2026 through its touchstone projects. Perhaps the most remarkable of them all is NDMstudios own global streaming platform called NDM+ inaugurated by power couple, Direk Nijel and Ms. Jan Christine. 

Daiana Menezes, one of NDMstudios’ Board of Advisers talked in her presentation the sense of community of enthusiasts the platform wishes to create through their NDM+ experiences.

Will Devaughn also presented new company principles of creating MVPs or minimum viable product that make people want to live (instead of just creating products that people need to live). The NDM Expo also featured the launch of their commemorative figurine for “Direku” a popular NDM Animation Character. 

Prior to the trade launch day, the first day of NDM Expo was marked by a film forum with OFWs and Singapore residents for Direk Nijel’s new full-length films at NDMstudios’ new base in Singapore at the Hong Lim Complex, Chinatown. 

Vice President Inday Sara Duterte went during the tail end of the first day’s film forum to observe and give words of encouragement to the OFWs in attendance.

During the second day at Golden Village, Funan, Direk Nijel de Mesa also thanked Senator Bong Go, Chief Persida Acosta, Mr. Jing and Veron Turla, MTRCB Chairperson Lala Sotto, Dr. Paul Chua, Councilor Alfred Vargas, DILG Asec. Beth De Leon, and various government officials who have been in support of his creative endeavors. 

The end of the successful Expo was capped with an incentive tour of Singapore for the NDMstudios creatives and management team. From Japan, to Taiwan, and Singapore, NDMstudios has truly gone places with their “Fly-Film-Fun” way of filmmaking. 

Here’s to more creative and successful years to NDMstudios!

'Puregold CinePanalo' announces seven full-length official entries for its 2026 run, receives P5 million each

THERE was a hush at Cinema 12 of Gateway Cineplex 18 as the screen showed a woman reaching for cocktail cans during the big reveal of the seven official entries in the full-length category of Puregold CinePanalo 2026. 

The cinematic moment sparked drama and excitement among the gifted filmmakers whose dream projects were set to come to life.

The seven feature films are Joseph Abello’s Wantawsan; BC Amparado’s Mono No Aware; Thop Nazareno’s Apol of my Ai; Carl Joseph Papa and Ian Pangilinan’s Patay Gutom (Dead Hungry); Lawrence Fajardo’s Beast; Mikko Baldoza’s Stuck on You; Rodina Singh’s Multwoh (Patay na Patay Sa’yo).

As previously announced, each of the seven entries will receive a production grant of P5,000,000 and a chance to compete for the festival’s awards. The select feature films will be shown on screen alongside twenty short films made exclusively by student filmmakers.

In addition to the cinematic reveal videos, the event also showcased its retail roots by awarding each of the seven official entries with a giant stylized grocery receipt signifying their record-breaking production grant.

 

“The upcoming 2026 Puregold CinePanalo is going to be the festival’s biggest installment yet,” says Puregold Senior Marketing Manager Ivy Hayagan-Piedad. “It was only right that we revealed the Top 7 films with a splash of our own.”

Puregold CinePanalo organizers likewise affirm that each of the seven film entries will surely amaze audiences and live up to the lofty expectations set by the success of its past festivals.

 

“Puregold CinePanalo is giving its biggest grants to date, largesse that all seven participants truly deserve by showing us the passion, creativity, and ‘panalo sa husay’ spirit that only Filipino filmmakers can bring,” festival director Chris Cahilig says. 

“These films are going to make audiences laugh, cry, and everything in between. We can hardly wait for audiences to see what lies ahead at the festival.”

 

Now on its third year, the Puregold CinePanalo has served as a platform for intrepid Filipino filmmakers in crafting their dream projects, some of which were eventually selected to compete at international film festivals across Europe, Asia, and Africa. 

“Puregold has always believed in the power of supporting and nurturing Filipino artists,” says Hayagan-Piedad. 

“It is one of Puregold’s greatest prides that CinePanalo has grown to this level and given so many Filipino filmmakers the chance to produce world-class movies. We have no doubt that the seven films competing next year will be no exception.”

The 2026 Puregold CinePanalo will be held next year at the Gateway Cineplex 18 and Ayala Malls. The Festival is proudly supported by Canon Marketing Philippines, CMB Film Services, Terminal Six Post, IM Rentals, the Asia Pacific Film Institute, Stage Post Audio and Music Productions Inc., the Film Development Council of the Philippines, and the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board.

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

100,000 Free Pandesal Given at "World Pandesal Day" with VP Sara Duterte

QUEZON CITY, PHILIPPINES – The annual “World Pandesal Day” celebration was held October 16, at the 86-year-old Kamuning Bakery Cafe in Barangay Kamuning, Quezon City. 

This beloved tradition celebrates the nation's favorite bread while highlighting the urgent need to address the age-old problem of hunger, aptly aligning with the United Nations' "World Food Day."

The event provided 100,000 pieces of free warm, fluffy pandesal and other foods like cheese, ham, juices, coffee, etc. free to the public, continuing its legacy of community spirit and charitable giving, primarily for urban poor families. Recipients included public school teachers and students, orphanages, etc. 

A Gathering for a Cause, also Donating Public Schools 

This year's civic and cultural event was honored to welcome Vice President Sara Duterte as its special guest. Kamuning Bakery Cafe has a tradition of hosting prominent leaders; last year's celebration featured Senators Imee Marcos and Ping Lacson, with past visitors including President Bongbong Marcos, former Vice President Leni Robredo, and Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno.

Kamuning Bakery Cafe owner Wilson Lee Flores shared that one of his inspirations for World Pandesal Day is the Biblical story of Jesus multiplying a boy's donation of five loaves and two fishes to feed thousands.

Wilson Lee Flores also announced that as part of Kamuning Bakery Cafe's commitment to donate a rural public school every year, they would pledge to donate a new public school in Davao region which was recently hit by earthquakes and they would ask for the office of Vice-President Sara Duterte to recommend which site. 

Extending the Legacy of Kindness with Free Medical Mission

The generosity of World Pandesal Day extends beyond a single event. As a second part of the celebration, Kamuning Bakery Cafe will hold its annual FREE Medical, Dental and Optical Mission on Sunday, October 26, from 8 AM to 12 Noon, in cooperation with the Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center.

This initiative is more than a celebration of bread; it is a sustained legacy of kindness. The community is encouraged to share this news and participate in these events.

Other civic projects led by bakery owner, realty businessman, and writer Wilson Lee Flores include the annual donation of rural public school buildings in past years, the non-partisan Pandesal Forum, and the annual "World Poetry Day" celebration on March 21.

Historical Biopic "Quezon" Starring Jericho Rosales and lain Glen Sets Worldwide Release

Manila, Philippines - TBA Studios has officially announced the global rollout of "Quezon, the highly anticipated Filipino historical biopic starring Jericho Rosales and "Game of Thrones" star lain Glen. 

The film will premiere in the Philippines on October 15, with international screenings to follow:

QUEZON Worldwide Screening Dates:

Philippines October 15

Australia & New Zealand - October 30

North America & Canada October 31

Middle East - November 20

Additional countries and screening dates to be announced soon.

Set against the backdrop of a nation on the brink of independence, "Quezon" follows Manuel L. Quezon's (Rosales) strategic rise to power, navigating intense rivalries and political alliances to win the 1935 presidential elections. The film explores his clashes with figures such as Leonard Wood (Glen), Sergio Osmeña, and Emilio Aguinaldo, painting a gripping portrait of a leader who reshaped Philippine history.

The star-studded cast includes Benjamin Alves as young Quezon, Mon Confiado as Aguinaldo, Arron Villafior and Cris Villanueva as Joven Hernando, Romnick Sarmenta as Sergio Osmeña, Karylle as Aurora Quezon, JC Santos, Jake Macapagal, Bodjie Pascua, Angeli Bayani, Jojit Lorenzo, Joross Gamboa, Therese Malvar, Ana Abad Santos, Ketchup Eusebio, and Nico Locco.

TBA Studios revealed that they had been approached by several international distributors, with ABS-CBN International securing the exclusive theatrical distribution rights for "Quezon" in key overseas territories.

"We're thrilled that 'Quezon' will finally be seen by Filipinos around the world-and not just by the Filipino community, but also by fans of historical and political cinema," said producer Daphne Chiu-Soon. "This is a world-class production made for the big screen, and we're proud to share this important story with a global audience."

Helmed by award-winning director Jerrold Tarog, "Quezon" marks the end of the film studio's cinematic "Bayaniverse trilogy, a series of films based on Philippine history that includes 2015's "Heneral Luna," the Philippines' highest-grossing historical movie of all time; and 2018's critically acclaimed "Goyo: The Young General."

"Quezon" is produced by TBA Studios, with support from the Film Development Council of the Philippines and CreatePHFilms.

For updates and international screening details, follow TBA Studios on social media or visit their official website https://www.tba.ph

Globe Champions Care for Pets with PAWS and Pettr

 

PETS are part of many Filipino homes and found families today, and their well-being has become just as important. Globe wants to make pet care essentials  accessible to every Filipino pet parent, strengthened by its partnership with Pettr, the country’s first all-in-one digital pet care platform.  

Globe is  integrating pet wellness into everyday connectivity. Through its Go+99 offers, subscribers receive a ₱100 discount voucher for teleconsultations with licensed veterinarians and other vital services, helping pet-parents access the services they need.

 

Recognizing the opportunity to authentically demonstrate its commitment to animal care and welfare, Globe, in partnership with the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), a non-profit, volunteer-based organization dedicated to sheltering rescued animals, preventing animal cruelty, and promoting the humane treatment of animals, is also launching a series of pet-care initiatives, beginning with employee engagement programs such as volunteer activities, donation drives, and awareness campaigns to support PAWS’ advocacies. 

 

The initiative kicked off with Volunteer Day last September 25, 2025, at the PAWS Shelter in Katipunan, Quezon City, where up to 50 Globe employees donated pet-care amenities and spent the day feeding, cleaning, and reading to the shelter’s cats and dogs. This hands-on experience reflects Globe’s belief that care begins within, living out the same values of compassion and community that the company advocates externally.

 

“This initiative is about showing our people and our partners that care is not just a campaign - it’s a culture,” said Roche Vandenberghe, Chief Marketing Officer at Globe. “We try to uplift Filipino lives everyday at Globe and with pets as part of people’s found families, we’re extending that culture of care into everyday life, making sure that even our customers’ companions receive the attention and support they deserve.”

 

With these efforts, Globe continues to evolve as more than a connectivity provider, fostering a culture of care within its own community.  By celebrating pets as part of Filipino homes, Globe affirms that compassion lives in everyday bonds that truly matter.

 

To learn more, please visit https://www.globe.com.ph/.

PENSHOPPE WELCOMES A NEW SEASON OF STYLE WITH “COZY DAYS AHEAD”

MANILA, Philippines — Following the adrenaline-fueled success of its Full Speed Ahead campaign, Philippine fashion leader PENSHOPPE invites everyone to slow down and savor life’s most meaningful moments with its newest campaign: “Cozy Days Ahead.” 

Launching this October with special events in Cagayan de Oro (October 4–5) and Davao (October 25–26), the campaign marks the next chapter in PENSHOPPE’s 2025 journey—one centered on comfort, connection, and timeless style. 

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From Full Speed Ahead to Cozy Days Ahead: A New Chapter in the Journey

The past year saw PENSHOPPE inspire its community to embrace boldness and momentum. With Brighter Days Ahead, the brand encouraged optimism and renewal. Full Speed Ahead built on that spirit by championing ambition and drive—pushing boundaries with confidence and great style.

Now, Cozy Days Ahead invites its audience to pause, breathe, and cherish the laid-back moments that matter most. It’s a celebration of comfort without compromise, proving that great style isn’t reserved only for the big, bold milestones—it’s also for the slow mornings, the coffee runs, the weekend strolls, and the laughter shared with friends.

“Cozy Days Ahead is about embracing a different kind of energy—the warmth that comes from slowing down and being present,” said Donnie Manaloto, Brand Communications Head of PENSHOPPE. “It’s a reminder that fashion isn’t just about making statements in the spotlight. It’s about how we feel, connect, and express ourselves every day.”

Brandon Liu, Vice President of PENSHOPPE, also reiterates the brand promise with the Cozy Days Ahead campaign. “Community has always been at the heart of what we do at PENSHOPPE,” shares Liu. 

“Our commitment goes beyond creating clothes—it’s about building genuine connections and nurturing a space where individuality is celebrated and everyone feels welcome. Campaigns like Cozy Days Ahead reflect that sincerity and consistency, showing that fashion can be a powerful way to bring people together while remaining accessible, inclusive, and real.”

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Cozy Days Ahead: Mall Tour Dates & Highlights

Staying true to the promise of experiencing Cozy Days Ahead, PENSHOPPE is hitting the road to bring the campaign to life through two exclusive, community-driven mall events designed to celebrate style, connection, and the power of slowing down together.

But this time, everyone can experience it all: access to the event is exclusive to members of the Club PENSHOPPE community. Fans simply need to download and sign up through the PENSHOPPE App to unlock entry to the experience — including special perks, on-site activities, and the rare chance to meet and mingle with Club PENSHOPPE ambassadors in person.

CAGAYAN DE ORO

As part of Cozy Days Ahead, PENSHOPPE is bringing the campaign to life through exclusive, community-driven mall events designed to celebrate style, connection, and the joy of slowing down together.

This year, access to the events will be exclusive to Club PENSHOPPE members. Fans simply need to download and sign up via the PENSHOPPE App to unlock entry to the event, enjoy special promos, and get a chance to meet and mingle with Club PENSHOPPE ambassadors live.

📍 SM CDO Downtown Premier

📅 October 4–5, 2025

👤 Featuring Club PENSHOPPE endorsers: Jeff Moses, Vince Maristela, and Dylan Menor

DAVAO

📍 The Annex at SM City Davao, Event Center- Ground Level

📅 October 25–26, 2025

👤 Featuring Club PENSHOPPE endorsers: BINI and Julia Barretto

At each stop, fans can expect:

• ✨ Exclusive collection previews
  📱 Club PENSHOPPE rewards and promos
• 📸 Interactive style booths and cozy lounges

• 🤝 Meet-and-greets with endorsers who embody the campaign’s spirit of inclusivity, authenticity, and connection

San Miguel Beer Rocks Okada with a 'Grand Oktoberfest Kick-off Party'

 

THERE is no party like a San Miguel Oktoberfest party. 

The most-anticipated beer festival kicked off at Okada Manila last September 20 to 21, 2025. As San Miguel Beer celebrates its 135^thyear of serving great beers around the world, San Miguel Brewery Inc. (SMB) brings back the fiesta vibe that made the event an iconic spectacle.

 

Over 8,000 revelers flocked Okada Manila’s Crystal Pavilion during the two-day event filled with an array of specially crafted beers paired with top-notch food offerings over pulse-pounding music from a powerhouse lineup of top local acts. 

 

The festivities were opened with a toast led by SMB President Carlos M. Berba, San Miguel Pale Pilsen Brand Ambassador Coco Martin, and Okada Manila Vice Chairperson Takako Okada. The event kicked off a series of San Miguel Oktoberfest Events which will happen at the Paseo de Santa Rosa in Santa Rosa, Laguna on October 18, 2025 and at the Queensland Manor in Cebu City on October 31.

San Miguel Pale Pilsen brand ambassador Coco Martin gets beer fresh from the tap during the kick-off party of the San Miguel Beer Oktoberfest at Okada Manila.

SMB lit up the famed integrated resort as guests were treated to complimentary beer samplers curated from San Miguel Beer’s global portfolio of brews as well as exciting new brews including India Pale Ale, Fruity Wheat Ale, Summer Ale and Specialty Lager.

 

Pop-ups lined the Crystal Pavilion’s signature winding walkway with gourmet restaurants Las Flores, Café Fleur by Chef Sau, Flipside Burgers, and Purefoods Deli setting up shop while SMB’s new Draft Beer Mobile Bar Truck added more to the overflowing beer at the venue. Party-goers also took home plenty of limited-edition San Miguel Beer merchandise to remember the epic event.

 

The San Miguel Oktoberfest party rocked to some of the country’s top acts including Rico Blanco, Lola Amour, December Avenue, Maki, Arthur Nery, Brownman Revival, The Dawn, Autotelic, The Juans, Over October, The Cohens, Paprika, DWATA, Carousel Casualties, It All Started in May, Magiliw Street, Sean Archer, Acapellago, DJ Chelsea, and DJ Rammy.

 

More good vibes went around when recently crowned PBA All-Filipino Cup Champions, the San Miguel Beermen, shot hoops with Oktoberfest party goers. Billiards legends Efren “Bata” Reyes and Francisco “Django” Bustamante also played an exhibition match and challenged revelers who dare to showcase their pool table skills.  

 

The night wasn’t just a celebration, it was a memory-making spree where every sip and souvenir captured the spirit of San Miguel Beer. 

 

San Miguel Oktoberfest remains to be the largest fiesta in the country recognized by the Department of Tourism since 2005. 

Get your tickets now at Ticket2Me.net for the San Miguel Oktoberfest at Paseo de Santa Rosa in Santa Rosa, Laguna on October 18, 2025 featuring Rocksteddy, Sunkissed Lola, Progeny, The Collars, and Parisukat and the San Miguel Oktoberfest at the Queensland Manor in Cebu City on October 31 with Urbandub, December Avenue, Missing Filemon, Nikolay, and Kuwako as featured acts.

 

For the complete schedule of events, latest promos, and updates, like and follow San Miguel Oktoberfest on Facebook (www.facebook.com/SanMiguelOktoberfest).