BINI Jhoanna plays a cameo role in Puregold’s heartwarming tribute 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.

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.

Facebook Video Link: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1254850073159331

YouTube Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VucWLfCPvIk

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.

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. 

FDCP LAUNCHES 'BEHIND THE REEL SEASON 2'

 

MANILA, PHILIPPINES – The Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) proudly launches Season 2 of Behind the Reel, its Roundtable Discussions series that brings Filipino audiences closer to the realities shaping the entertainment industry and Philippine cinema today.

 

Following the success of its first season, Behind the Reel Season 2 expands its scope with deeper dives into technique, film education, legacies, and industry practice. Through candid and insightful conversations with professionals from various sectors of the industry, the series aims to make often overlooked aspects of film and entertainment more accessible and visible to audiences.

 

Spanning ten (10) episodes, Behind the Reel Season 2 explores the cultural, creative, and technical forces that influence and drive Philippine cinema.

 

Behind the Reel Season 2 Episode Lineup: 

 

1. A Vision in Motion: One-on-One with Jerrold Tarog
   Interviewee: Jerrold Tarog
   Moderator: Noel Ferrer
   
   
   
   
   
   Filmmaker Jerrold Tarog reflects on his beginnings, creative process, and the making of  historical films that have left a lasting impact on the nation. 
    
2. Love Teams in Filipino Cinema: From Then Until Now
   Interviewees: Don Jaucian, Anne Frances Sangil, Gary DeVilles, Butch Francisco
   Moderator: Ricci Chan
   
   
   
   
   
   A look at the origins, evolution, and lasting cultural influence of love teams in Philippine cinema
    
3. Do I Really Need to Go to Film School?
   Interviewees: Yason Banal, David Corpuz, Ken Leviste, Gino Santos, Christina Ustaris
   Moderator: Whaqyn Olalia
   
   
   
   
   
   An honest discussion weighing formal film education against hands-on experience and alternative learning paths for aspiring filmmakers.
    
4. The Art of Becoming: Character Actors
   Interviewees: Shamaine Buencamino, Ina Feleo, Cherry Pie Picache, Chanda Romero, Carmi Martin
   Moderator: Patricia Daza
   
   
   
   
   
   A celebration of character actresses whose craft brings depth, realism, and emotional power to every story.
    
5. Anak Ka ng Showbiz: Talent Runs Deep
   Interviewees: Ara Davao, Inah De Belen, Kaila Estrada, Diego Gutierrez
   Moderator: MJ Felipe
   
   
   
   
   
   Ara Davao, Inah De Belen, Kaila Estrada, and Diego Gutierrez reflect on forging their own identities in showbiz beyond their family legacy.
    
6. Redefining Bold: The Women of VMX
   Interviewees: Robb Guinto, Chloe Jenna, Stephanie Raz
   Moderator: Patricia Daza
    
   
   
   
   Women of VMX share perspectives on agency, artistic choice, challenging conventions, and redefining boldness in entertainment.
    
7. Showbiz na Showbiz: The Role of Entertainment Journalism
   Interviewees: Marinel Cruz, Noel Ferrer, Gerry Olea, Nathalie Tomada
   Moderator: Ricci Chan
   
   
   
   
   
   A closer look at entertainment journalists and how journalists balance credibility, public perception, and storytelling. 
    
8. Between Takes: Life Beyond the Spotlight
   Interviewees: Hero Angeles, Jao Mapa,Niño Mulach
   Moderator: Gretchen Ho
   
   
   
   
   
   Hero Angeles, Jao Mapa, and Niño Mulach open up about life, purpose, and reinvention beyond fame.
    
9. Co-Productions: The New Business Model
   Interviewees: Bianca Balbuena, Achinette Villamor, Will Fredo Manalang
   Moderator: Perci Intalan
   
   
   
   
   
   Industry experts discuss how co-productions are reshaping Filipino filmmaking on the global stage.
    
10. In Her Own Light: One-on-One with Charo Santos-Concio (Behind the Reel Season 2 Finale) 
    Interviewee: Charo Santos-Concio
    Moderator: Patricia Daza
    
    
    
    
    
    An intimate conversation with Charo Santos-Concio on her journey as an actress, producer, and media icon.
    
    
    Through Behind the Reel Season 2, the FDCP continues its commitment to fostering meaningful dialogue, celebrating Filipino talent, and deepening public engagement with Philippine cinema.
    
    
    Behind the Reel Season 2 streams on the FDCP YouTube channel, with episodes released throughout the season.
    
    
    For updates and more information, follow the FDCP on Facebook, X, Instagram, or access our website through the following link: fdcp.ph/. 
    
    

CRUNCHYROLL ANIME AWARDS RETURN TO TOKYO ON MAY 23 FOR THE GLOBAL CELEBRATION OF ANIME’S 10TH EDITION

MANILA, Philippines - After a breakout year for anime across streaming and on the big screen, Crunchyroll announced the 2026 Crunchyroll Anime Awards will return to Tokyo, Japan on May 23. 

The marquis tenth celebration will be punctuated by a global pre-show, star-studded orange carpet, and once-in-a-lifetime performances, all in support of honoring nominees across thirty two categories of anime.  

Popular voice actress and performer Sally Amaki and renowned entertainer Jon Kabira will return as co-hosts for the fourth straight year.

 

Crunchyroll also revealed a preliminary music lineup for the 2026 Crunchyroll Anime Awards. Japanese singer Yoko Takahashi will perform a 30th anniversary tribute to 1995’s seminal anime Neon Genesis Evangelion featuring the renowned theme “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis.” 

Symphonic suites conducted by Hirofumi Kurita, performed by the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra, and arranged by Kazunori Miyake will accent the ceremony. More to be announced soon!

Singer Yoko Takahashi 

“For the past decade, the Crunchyroll Anime Awards has been shaped by the fans who show up every year to celebrate the stories and creators they love,” said Rahul Purini, President of Crunchyroll. 

“What began with a few million votes in 2017 has grown into tens of millions of voices from around the world, reflecting how deeply anime has become part of people’s lives. Returning to Japan is about celebrating where these stories begin and the fans everywhere who make them live far beyond the screen.”

Nominees will be revealed on April 2 alongside the start of global fan voting. Fans are invited to mark their calendars and fight for the series, films, creators and performances they loved, helping determine winners across 32 categories that capture the medium's contributions to entertainment. The full list of categories can be found on the Crunchyroll Anime Awards Official Website.

Neon Genesis Evangelion ©カラー/ Project Eva. ©khara／Project Eva

 

The nominees in each category will be selected from eligible titles that premiered between January 1 and December 31 in 2025 by the passionate and independent 2026 Anime Awards judges who represent global creatives, tastemakers, experts, and influencers.

 

The global pre-show preceding the ceremony will once again be hosted by Crunchyroll’s Lauren Moore and Tim Lyu.

 

The Crunchyroll Anime Awards is the leading yearly awards program honoring the creators, musicians, and performances powering the global love of anime. Sony Music Solutions Inc., part of Sony Music Entertainment (Japan) Inc., and Dempsey Productions will support Crunchyroll in the execution of the event. The event will be livestreamed for global audiences.

 

More information can be found on the Crunchyroll Anime Awards Official Website and across X (Twitter), Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

foodpanda Logistics Champions Rider Appreciation Through Nationwide Community Initiatives

REINFORCING its commitment to its delivery partners, foodpanda Logistics continues to set the standard for fleet engagement through its robust series of rider-focused initiatives. 

In hosting large-scale community events, the company is dedicated to fostering a culture of appreciation and camaraderie among its nationwide network of Ka-panda riders. 

At the heart of these efforts were the multi-city Pau-tastic Party ng Taon, held in key cities in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, where over ₱1.5 million worth of prizes were given away to Ka-panda riders. Each stop combined crowd favorite interactive games, exciting raffle draws, and live entertainment. 

“Seeing Ka-panda riders come together across the different legs reminded us why we do this,” said Ron Sanders, Rider Experience Lead of foodpanda Logistics Philippines. 

“Our goal was to make rider appreciation more accessible, and we’re pleased to see that reflected in the strong turnout and engagement. We hope the celebration continues to inspire our partner riders in the years ahead.”

Hosted by Tanya Chinita and Terry Gian, alongside local hosts in select cities, the party featured high-energy performances by Maui Bordador, Bert Symoun, Dreycruz, and Lucas Garcia. Each leg closed on a nostalgic note with Salbakuta, whose performance strongly resonated with the crowd. Raffle giveaways included cash prizes, gadgets, riding gear, and brand-new motorcycles, with support from Immuni+, Motivo, and SeaOil. One of the key highlights was the Pera o Panda Bag, featured in every city.

Many rider-partners also shared how meaningful it was to have the celebration held closer to their home cities, allowing more Ka-panda riders to take part. Beyond the main stops, foodpanda Logistics supported rider community-led celebrations in over 40 cities nationwide, extending the festive spirit to local Ka-panda communities.

“Celebrating together made us feel like one big family,” shared Jayson Base, a Ka-panda rider. “The Pau-tastic Party strengthened our sense of community and reminded us that we’re part of something bigger.”

Building on this momentum, foodpanda Logistics extended its rider appreciation through the Pau-tastic Holiday Raffle, a full-day celebration held at Vice Comedy Club and livestreamed nationwide. While the Pau-tastic Party focused on on-ground regional gatherings, the Pau-tastic Holiday Raffle broadened participation by allowing Ka-panda riders from Metro Manila, Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao to join through live draws, online games, and phone patches.

The Pau-tastic Holiday Raffle opened with interactive games and surprise draws, before moving into a main program that awarded multiple prize tiers and recognized top-performing rider teams through the PAUkada Biyahe Challenge. Ka-panda riders won cash prizes of up to ₱150,000, smart devices, and brand-new motorcycles, including Honda ADV units.

Together, the Pau-tastic Party ng Taon and Holiday Raffle 2026 reflect foodpanda Logistics’ ongoing commitment to supporting Ka-panda riders—not only through programs and incentives, but by creating moments that build connection, motivation, and a stronger sense of community nationwide.

Empoy Marquez stars in a heartwarming family flick 'Batang Paco', MiVida Productions’ opening salvo for 2026

THIS February, film buffs and fans are set to laugh, cry, and cheer as “Batang Paco,” a heartwarming family action-comedy starring Empoy Marquez, hits mainstream cinemas across the Philippines.

Produced by MiVida Productions, Inc., “Batang Paco” marks the company’s maiden project and serves as its opening salvo for 2026, introducing a new film outfit focused on bold, out-of-the-box storytelling. 

EMPOY MARQUEZ

Leading the charge is former actress turned businesswoman Ana Abiera Del Moral, whose vision centers on emotionally rich stories with broad audience appeal.

“This film defines what MiVida stands for — stories with heart, courage, and soul,” says Ana.

At its core, “Batang Paco” is a family drama about love in its many amazing forms — blending comedy, action, romance, and emotion into an experience designed for families, Pinoy movie buffs, and everyday moviegoers.

AIAI DELAS ALAS

The movie is centered on Paco — a gentle and cowardly tattoo artist, who is forced into a deadly mission when his young daughter is kidnapped by a powerful crime syndicate. 

Fueled by love, he must seek the courage to become the father his child believes he can be.

Empoy brings warmth, humor,  and vulnerability to one of his most relatable roles yet.

“Hindi perpekto si Paco — pero gagawin niya ang lahat para sa anak niya,” says Empoy. 

EMPOY MARQUEZ, QUENTIN MOLO & YNEZ VENERACION

Set against the vibrant and chaotic backdrop of Manila, “Batang Paco” delivers outrageous laugh-out-loud moments, thrilling action sequences, and deeply emotional storytelling, supported by a strong ensemble that includes AiAi Delas Alas, Mon Confiado, Ynez Veneracion, Chichi Rita, and Cassy Lavarias,  Richard Quan, Alma Concepcion, Lara Morena, Natasha Ledesma, Kookoo Gonzales, Gerard Acao, Josh Ivan Morales, Kim Rodriguez, Jovi Vargas, and Quentin Molo.  

 

CASSY LAVARIAS

Directed by Rechie del Carmen and written by Gina Marissa Tagasa, the film signals MiVida Productions’ commitment to fearless filmmaking and emotionally grounded entertainment.

“‘Batang Paco’ is just the beginning for MiVida,” Ana reveals.

With its mix of heart, humor, and heroism, “Batang Paco” is poised to connect with audiences of all ages.

Ultimately, “Batang Paco” is a testament that love — especially a parent’s love — can turn even the most unlikely person into a selfless hero.

“Batang Paco” hits cinemas nationwide starting Feb. 18.