DONNY AND KYLE’S EPIC ACTION-PACKED DUEL UNFOLDS IN LAST 3 WEEKS OF “ROJA”

DONNY Pangilinan and Kyle Echarri combine their heroic acts one last time for their most epic duel in the midst of a long-standing hostage crisis in the action-packed last three weeks of ABS-CBN’s primetime teleserye “Roja.”

ABS-CBN recently dropped a heart-pounding “final escape” trailer that gives viewers a sneak peek of the intensified fight scenes and emotional turmoil that Liam and Olsen will have to overcome as their principles are put to the test.

Liam (Donny) and Olsen (Kyle) will face their biggest threat as the war against the hostage-takers, led by Emil (Joel Torre), turns personal. Liam will confront a painful dilemma, whether to protect his mother Greta (Lorna Tolentino) or allow justice to prevail, when he confirms that she is the true mastermind behind the La Playa Roja siege.

Olsen, on the other hand, will go head-to-head in an action-packed confrontation against his supposed father and hostage-taker Homer (Christian Vasquez). Meanwhile, Emil might be able to succeed in his long-awaited quest for revenge towards the Roja family when he casually shoots Liam during a heated exchange.

The high-stakes final standoff will also reach greater heights as Liam and Olsen put their lives on the line, with the help of the police force, to save the remaining hostages that are trapped in a tunnel surrounded with explosives.

Can Liam and Olsen prove that their brotherhood is strong enough despite the mounting challenges? Will they be able to get justice for every life taken during the siege? 

To watch the last three weeks of “Roja” on Kapamilya Channel sa ALLTV2, turn on your digital black box, press the scan button on the remote control, and look for ALLTV2.

Don’t miss the action-packed episodes of “Roja,” weeknights at 8:45 PM, on Kapamilya Channel sa ALLTV2, A2Z, and Kapamilya Online Live on YouTube and Facebook. The latest episodes of “Roja” are also available 72 hours ahead on Netflix and 48 hours ahead on iWant. Viewers outside of the Philippines can watch on The Filipino Channel (TFC) on cable and IPTV.

For the latest news on “Roja” visit roja.abs-cbn.com. For more updates, follow @abscbnpr on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, or visit corporate.abs-cbn.com/newsroom.

House Panel OKs TINGOG Bills to Solve Classroom Crisis and Reform Senior High

QUEZON CITY — The House Committee on Basic Education and Culture took a decisive step toward resolving the country’s education crisis on Monday by approving three landmark reform bills. 

Spearheaded by Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez and TINGOG Party-list Representatives Yedda Marie K. Romualdez, Andrew Julian K. Romualdez, and Jude A. Acidre, the measures target the nation's 165,000-classroom shortage and stagnant learning outcomes.

The legislative package focuses on speed and specialization. The Classroom-Building Acceleration Program (CAP) Act (HB 5577) and the Emergency Classroom Building Act (HB 5103) empower local governments and the private sector to bypass traditional bureaucratic delays, even granting the President emergency powers to fast-track construction for the 5.1 million "aisle learners" currently affected by the backlog. 

Simultaneously, the Education Pathways Act (HB 4248) aims to fix the Senior High School system by splitting it into two distinct tracks: a University Preparatory Pathway under DepEd and a Technical-Vocational Pathway under TESDA.

These reforms come at a critical time, as recent data shows 90% of Filipino 10-year-olds struggle with basic reading and the Philippines continues to rank at the bottom of international assessments in Math and Science. 

Representative Jude Acidre, who chairs the House Committee on Higher and Technical Education, emphasized that the time for debate has passed in favor of immediate action.

“We cannot expect better learning outcomes from a system that lacks the basic conditions for learning. Infrastructure, curriculum, and governance must move in coordination,” Acidre said. “The era of diagnosing the problem is over. The next phase is disciplined implementation: classrooms delivered, pathways clarified, and results sustained.”

The approved measures now head to the plenary for further consideration, marking a significant shift in the government's strategy to modernize the foundations of Filipino education.

NUSTAR Online Elevates the 26th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta with Premium Lifestyle Experiences

TRUE to its promise of delivering elevated, immersive lifestyle experiences, NUSTAR Online, the country’s luxury lifestyle gaming platform, took part in the 26th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta, bringing the brand’s signature blend of entertainment, culture, and exclusivity to one of the Philippines’ most iconic festivals held on February 13-15, 2026.

Held at New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac, the three-day celebration drew thousands of attendees who came together to witness world-class aeronautics exhibitions, giant and creatively shaped hot air balloons, and a full lineup of daytime activities and nighttime spectacles. From vibrant balloon ascensions to fireworks displays and live musical performances, the festival transformed New Clark City into a dynamic hub of celebration, creativity, and shared experiences.

At the center of the action was the NUSTAR Online booth, designed to reflect the brand’s premium yet accessible lifestyle positioning. Festivalgoers were invited to engage with the platform through an interactive booth experience, where they had the chance to win exclusive NUSTAR Online merchandise and free gaming credits. Guests also enjoyed on-site photo opportunities, taking home printed souvenirs as a tangible reminder of a weekend defined by excitement and elevated fun.

Beyond on-ground engagement, NUSTAR Online used the festival as a platform to champion Filipino talent and culture. During the performance nights, the brand, together with the organizers, spotlighted emerging local artists, reinforcing its commitment to supporting creative communities and providing meaningful platforms for discovery. The lineup featured Sound of Hera, KO Jones, Project March, ASA, Barabas, and fast-emerging P-pop girl group Pix!e—introducing fresh OPM sounds to a broader, festival-going audience.

“The 26th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta is exactly the kind of event that captures the spirit we want to be part of at NUSTAR Online. At its core, it's a celebration of Filipino culture and community, and that resonates deeply with what we bring to our audiences. For us at NUSTAR Online, moments and events such as the Hot Air Balloon Fiesta are an extension of what we offer — experiences worth coming back to, on and off the platform.” shared Krizia Cortez, Director of Public Relations of NUSTAR Online. 

The celebration extends beyond the festival grounds, as audiences can relive the highlights through NUSTAR Online: Exclusives, hosted by Anne De Mesa, featuring a special episode dedicated to the 26th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta.

More than just a weekend of fun, NUSTAR Online is amplifying the excitement through its newest campaign, giving players the chance to win two motorcycles and ₱1,000,000 in cash, a reflection of the brand’s commitment to rewarding its growing community. To visually experience premium events, lifestyle, and exclusive celebrations like this, follow NUSTAR Online at @nustaronline and be part of our growing community.

Globe, CANVAS bring online safety and AI education to families in celebration of Safer Internet Day 2026

  

IN celebration of Safer Internet Day 2026, Globe Telecom partnered with Center for Art, New Ventures and Sustainable Development (CANVAS) to host The Secret Digital Map: Exploring AI and Online Safety for Families, an interactive learning session held at the National Museum of Fine Arts. 

 

The event brought together children, parents, and educators for a morning of storytelling, guided discussions, and hands-on activities focused on data privacy, artificial intelligence, and responsible technology use. It forms part of Globe’s year-long collaboration with CANVAS at the National Museum, anchored on the children’s book Safe Space: A Kid’s Guide to Data Privacy.

CANVAS Founder and Executive Director Gigo Alampay presents a certificate of appreciation to NPC Commissioner Atty. Johann Carlos Barcena.

 

Designed to make complex digital topics easier to understand, the event used art and narrative to help families talk about online safety in ways that feel relevant and approachable. Through guided activities, participants explored how AI works in everyday life and what families can do to stay safe in digital spaces.

 

The event aligns with the Safer Internet Day’s global call to build a safer and more respectful online environment, particularly for children and young people. For Globe, it also reflects a long-term commitment to responsible digital citizenship that goes beyond access to include education, protection, and empowerment.

Atty. Irish Saladanan-Almeida, Chief Privacy Officer and Vice President for AI, Cybersecurity, and Data Privacy at Globe.

 

“Children are growing up in a digital-first world,” said Atty. Irish Saladanan-Almeida, Chief Privacy Officer and Vice President for AI, Cybersecurity, and Data Privacy at Globe. “As a company that champions responsible digital citizenship, Globe is here to help families navigate that world safely, starting with conversations like this. Our goal is to empower both kids and parents to make smart, informed choices online.”

 

“Technology creates new ways for children to learn and explore, but it also asks families to stay mindful of privacy, safety, and the choices young people make online,” Privacy Commissioner Atty. Johann Carlos S. Barcena of the National Privacy Commission (NPC) shared. “At the NPC, we work to protect personal data, especially for children who may not always realize the risks. Conversations like today help families build healthy habits and create safer digital environments at home.”

 

For CANVAS, the collaboration reinforces the role of art and storytelling in shaping social awareness among young audiences.

 

“We believe stories have the power to shape minds and inspire action. Collaborating with Globe on the Safe Space initiative allows us to use art and storytelling to address issues that affect children today,” said Annette Ferrer, Deputy Executive Director of CANVAS. “Grounding topics like AI and data privacy in visuals gives families confidence to continue the conversation at home.”

 

Safer Internet Day calls on communities to create a kinder and more responsible online environment for citizens worldwide. Globe supports this through programs that help children and parents stay informed, from digital literacy efforts to initiatives focused on child online safety. The partnership with CANVAS builds on that commitment by giving families a space to learn together in ways that feel natural and accessible.

 

The event also featured short discussions on responsible AI use and data privacy led by Globe representatives Derick Ohmar Adil and Karen Panisales, highlighting simple, age-appropriate ways families can build safe and mindful digital habits together.

 

Safe Space: A Kid’s Guide to Data Privacy remains available in English and Filipino, ensuring more families can benefit from the lessons shared during the event. Globe aims to continue expanding efforts that help young Filipinos navigate digital spaces with confidence and care.

From entertainment to education: how the Puregold Channel is helping revitalize ‘last mile’ schools

IN a move that aims to revitalize the country’s ‘last mile’ schools, Puregold Price Club Inc. President Vincent Co is investing Puregold Channel’s total streaming revenue in his Pusong Panalo Program. 

 

A personal initiative of Vincent, himself, the Pusong Panalo Program seeks to aid underserved public schools nationwide through interventions that address both immediate needs and structural gaps: solar panels for schools with limited access to electricity; livelihood packages for teachers; grocery support for students; classroom renovations; and assorted learning equipment. The program aspires to reach at least 10,000 students in 30 public schools around the archipelago by 2028. 

A personal initiative of Vincent Co himself, the Pusong Panalo Program seeks to aid underserved public schools around the country.

The Puregold Channel on YouTube serves as the company’s hub for its “retailtainment” strategy, an integrated content ecosystem spanning free digital series, music collaborations with leading OPM artists, and original Filipino storytelling through the annual Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival. The channel has surpassed 300,000 subscribers, earning YouTube’s Silver Play Button and establishing itself as one of the most robust brand-owned media platforms in Philippine retail.

A personal initiative of Vincent Co himself, the Pusong Panalo Program seeks to aid underserved public schools around the country.

But the metric that matters most is not just Puregold Channel‘s subscriber growth. Vincent’s success with these retailtainment ventures has allowed him to direct more resources towards one of the company’s strongest advocacies. Every view on the channel translates into revenue, and every peso of that revenue is reinvested in public education. With this model, audience engagement is no longer a vanity metric; it is a funding mechanism. Performance drives purpose, scale enables service. 

Vincent Co’s Pusong Panalo Program aims to reach at least 10,000 students in 30 public schools nationwide by 2028.

For Vincent Co, the convergence of business growth and social investment is not a communications narrative but a leadership mandate. Retailtainment, in this context, is not merely a growth lever, but a means to mobilize capital toward outcomes that endure beyond quarterly performance.

 

Under Vincent Co’s stewardship, Puregold content with a social impact is not treated as a byproduct of success, but as one of its clearest indicators.

PhilWeb Corporation Propels HANN Casino into Digital Space with Launch of HANN Online

MANILA, Philippines — February 05, 2026 — PhilWeb Corporation (PSE: WEB), a leading provider of regulated gaming technology in the Philippines, is pleased to announce the official launch of HANN Online. 

This digital expansion marks a significant milestone in PhilWeb’s partnership with HANN Casino, one of the country’s premier integrated resort operators.

Driving Incremental Revenue through Digital Transformation

The launch of HANN Online creates a powerful new business stream for HANN Casino, providing a sophisticated digital channel that generates incremental revenue alongside its traditional land-based operations. By transitioning the premium onsite experience into the digital realm, PhilWeb is enabling HANN to capture a wider market share and ensure its brand remains accessible 24/7 in an increasingly competitive landscape. 

Brian Ng, President of PhilWeb Corporation

Agile Deployment and B2B Versatility

Demonstrating industry-leading technical agility, PhilWeb designed, integrated, and deployed the HANN Online platform within a rapid two-week development timeline. This achievement highlights PhilWeb’s capacity to deliver secure, PAGCOR-compliant infrastructure while meeting the specific operational requirements of its partners. As a dedicated B2B service provider, PhilWeb remains open to collaborating with all industry stakeholders, offering scalable and reliable systems to any party looking to modernize their gaming presence.

“This launch highlights our commitment to building the infrastructure that supports a stable, transparent, and responsible gaming industry,” said Mr. Brian Ng, President of PhilWeb Corporation. 

“While we are proud of our partnership with HANN Casino, this project also signals PhilWeb’s broader mission as a neutral B2B partner. We are fully equipped and ready to provide any gaming operator with the secure, compliant infrastructure necessary to thrive in the regulated ecosystem.”

Platform Features and Institutional Security

HANN Online offers a seamless user experience backed by a library of over 3,000 casino games and PhilWeb’s robust backend architecture. The platform is fully Payment Gateway Ready, supporting popular local options such as GCash and QRPH to ensure frictionless transactions. To drive engagement, the system includes meticulously prepared promotional cycles ranging from registration rewards to first-deposit bonuses and cashback incentives.

Supported by 24/7 dedicated customer service teams, the platform is built around rigorous Know-Your-Customer (KYC) processes and full compliance with Philippine government regulations. These features ensure that player verification, data protection, and responsible gaming controls are embedded across all operational layers, providing a secure and institutionally governed environment for all users.

'Mr. and Ms. Chinatown Global' announces partnership with PGH's Sagip Buhay Medical Foundation

THE much-anticipated Mr. and Ms. Chinatown Global returns for its second year, bringing 23 candidates from 15 countries in a celebration of Chinese heritage, culture, leadership, and identity. 

The coronation night will be held on February 10 at the iconic Araneta Coliseum and will be aired on the Kapamilya Channel and All TV Channel 2, marking the first free-to-air broadcast of the event since the pandemic. Created to serve as a platform for individuals of Chinese descent worldwide, Mr. and Ms. Chinatown Global 2026 goes beyond beauty and talent. 

The pageant highlights personal stories, leadership, and cultural pride while honoring the shared heritage of the global Chinese community. What began as a community initiative in Binondo, the oldest Chinatown in the world, has grown into a global celebration, taking its vision from the historic streets of Manila to the international stage. 

Pageant Director Nicole Cordoves

“United by culture yet shaped by diverse global experiences, we show that Chinese identity continues to evolve across borders and generations,” shared Pageant Director Nicole Cordoves. 

“Through this platform, they do not simply compete… they transform, emerging not only as titleholders, but as global Chinese committed to creating meaningful good in the world.” 

The 23 candidates competing in this year are comprised of Mr. Chinatown Global candidates: Adriel Kam-Shung Yuan, Australia;  Yi Fang Gao, Canada; Karl Chung-Tan, French Polynesia; Zhang Yiwen, Hong Kong;  Ang Wei Yang, Malaysia; Yaw Kan Tong Adrien Sin On, Mauritius; Htoo Aung Wai, Myanmar; Aldrich Chen Kenneth Perez, Philippines; Oliver Liu Xu, Switzerland; and Nattakhun Thitithanon, Thailand.

Ms. Chinatown Global candidates: Kolianne Emilie Mailfait, Cambodia;  Tyra Rosnuk, Canada 3. Tang Keyuan, China; Haurani Elodie Jiying Chan, French Polynesia; Liu Chunyan, Macau; Belle Nanphasorn, Malaysia;  Maria Vanella Estelinna Ah-Hon, Mauritius; Sasha Viola, Myanmar; Monica Geronimo, Philippines;  Christina Cai, Singapore; Khaohom Passawalee Seearamroongruang, Thailand; Charlotte Yeung, United Kingdom; and Rochelle Kirsten Canlas, USA.

In a meaningful milestone, Mr. and Ms. Chinatown Global launches its advocacy partnership with Sagip Buhay Medical Foundation–PGH, supporting less-privileged stomach cancer patients. This advocacy, deeply personal to the organizers, turns the platform into one that brings hope and support to those in need. 

(photo by: BENJIE TIONGCO)

This year, audiences will also get an intimate look behind the scenes through a 60-minute documentary series, showcasing the candidates’ stories, their roots, and what it means to embrace Chinese identity in different parts of the world. Mr. and Ms. Chinatown Global 2026 is presented by CHiNOY TV and Oishi. 

This edition is also made possible thanks to the support of brand partners, sponsors, and community collaborators who share in the vision of Mr. and Ms. Chinatown Global, helping bring the second year of this celebration to life. 

About Mr. and Ms. Chinatown Global Mr. and Ms. Chinatown Global is the premier international pageant celebrating Chinese heritage, culture, and leadership across the globe. Founded in Binondo, Manila, it provides a platform for individuals of Chinese descent to showcase not only talent and beauty but also identity, community impact, and cultural pride.   

Fire and Ice Entertainment Expands into Full Creative Ecosystem, Announcing Concerts, Films, and Series for 2026

A day filled with music, storytelling, and major announcements marked the official launch of Fire and Ice Entertainment’s expanded creative ecosystem, bringing together concerts, new music releases, original films and series, and theatre productions set to roll out throughout 2026.

Held at Noctos Music Bar, the grand media launch gathered artists, industry partners, members of the press, and cultural stakeholders as Fire and Ice Entertainment introduced five distinct yet interconnected brands: Fire and Ice LIVE!, Fire and Ice Music, Fire and Ice Studios, Fire and Ice Media, and Fire and Ice Consultancy. 

Together, these divisions form an integrated artist-led platforms spanning live events, music, theatre, film, series development, and cultural consultancy—marking a significant scale-up from project-based production into a fully integrated creative ecosystem.

More than a company launch, the evening positioned Fire and Ice Entertainment as a long-term creative home for artists—one that prioritizes sustainability, authorship, and collaboration over one-off projects.

“Fire and Ice Entertainment was built on the belief that artists and ideas deserve long-term support, —not just one-off projects.” said Liza Diño, Chief Executive Officer of Fire and Ice Entertainment. 

“By formally launching these five brands, we are putting structure behind a vision that allows creativity to thrive across live performance, music, screen, theatre, and cultural development while contributing meaningfully to the growth of the Philippine creative industry.”

Fire and Ice LIVE!: Expanding the Live Entertainment Landscape

Fire and Ice LIVE! revealed a robust lineup of major concerts and live productions for the year, underscoring its commitment to premium, artist-driven live experiences. 

Confirmed headline events include:

• Being Ice: Live! at the New Frontier – February 27, New Frontier Theater, headlined by Ice Seguerra
• Love, Sessionistas – April 18, Waterfront Cebu Hotel and Casino
• Sittiscape: The City of Bossa – May 17, Newport Performing Arts Theater, featuring Sitti
• Divine Divas: Divine Rules the World – May 31, Newport Performing Arts Theater, starring the Divine Divas 

In a significant international push, Fire and Ice LIVE! also confirmed overseas touring plans, with “Being Ice” set to tour Australia and Europe, signalling the company’s growing global ambitions.

Further strengthening its theatrical footprint, Fire and Ice LIVE! in collaboration with Fire and Ice Studios, announced upcoming  stage productions:

• Still Alice (September 27 – October 5)
• ’Night, Mother (November 26 – December 5) 

Fire and Ice Music: Building Artist-Centric Careers

Fire and Ice Music officially launched its artist roster, reinforcing the company’s commitment to music as both creative expression and career-building platform. The initial artist slate includes Ice Seguerra; Princess Velasco; Divine Divas (Precious Paula Nicole, Viñas DeLuxe, Brigiding); and Louise. 

The label also announced a slate of upcoming EP releases:

• Tamang Panahon – Ice Seguerra
• Always You – Louise
• Divine Rules The World – Divine Divas
• Still Here – Princess Vales

These releases form part of a broader strategy focused on original music, narrative-driven releases, and closer artist involvement in creative direction.

Fire and Ice Media: Original Stories for Screen and Sound

Fire and Ice Media outlined its growing pipeline of screen and audio projects, bringing together auteur-driven works by established and emerging filmmakers alongside original projects developed in-house by the Fire and Ice creative team, reinforcing the company’s commitment  to long-form storytelling across film, series, documentary, and audio. 

Feature Films:

• Aid directed by Brillante Mendoza
• Karaoke News directed by John Paul Su
• Becoming Ice documentary by Tey Clamor
• Funeral Flowers - an original Fire and Ice Media project by Liza Diño and Ice Seguerra
• Island Girl - an original Fire and Ice Media project by Ice Seguerra

Series In Development:

• Never The Bride - an original series  created by Liza Diño
• Behind The Line - an original series  created by Liza Diño

Key announcements include the return of Talk Sheets with Ice and Liza for its second podcast season.

Fire and Ice Consultancy: Creative Strategy and Cultural Development

Completing the ecosystem is Fire and Ice Consultancy, the company’s professional advisory arm focused on cultural, creative, and strategic consulting. Initial initiatives include consultancy support for UNESCO Creative City applications, as well as involvement in the development of QCinema Industry 2026, extending Fire and Ice Entertainment’s impact beyond production into policy and cultural planning.

Fire and Ice Entertainment As A Multi-Platform Creative Group

“At the heart of Fire and Ice is the artist. Everything we announced today—concerts, music releases, films, theatre productions—comes from a desire to create work that is honest, intentional, and deeply collaborative,” said Ice Seguerra, Fire and Ice Entertainment’s Chief Creative Officer. “This ecosystem allows artists to tell their stories across different platforms without losing their voice.”

With the official launch of its five brands, Fire and Ice Entertainment positions itself at the intersection of creativity, commerce, and culture, offering an integrated model that supports artists, develops original intellectual property, and contributes to the long-term growth of the Philippine creative industries.

Further project announcements, partnerships, and international developments are expected throughout the year.