OPM Icon Ice Seguerra Embarks on First All-Original Album Titled “I AM ICE”

CELEBRATED Filipino singer-songwriter Ice Seguerra is set to release his first all-original album, “I AM ICE,” this June. 

This significant milestone follows his 2022 major concert, “BECOMING ICE,” which marked his return to the stage after a decade and celebrated his 35-year journey in the Philippine entertainment industry.

A Journey of Authenticity and Artistry

From his early days as a charming child star in “Eat Bulaga!” to becoming a respected musician, Seguerra’s career has been a testament to versatility and resilience. In 2014, he publicly embraced his identity as a transgender man, a courageous step that has profoundly influenced his artistic direction. Reflecting on this journey, Seguerra shared:

“It was my first time to use ICE SEGUERRA in a concert, and I admit it was a big risk because, for 35 years, my fans have known me as Aiza. While I’ve come to a point where I don’t mind being called Aiza, it feels good to fully embrace my identity as a transman and know that even as Ice, they’re still there for me. That’s why I gained the courage to work on my first all-original album. Imagine, I’ve been in the industry this long, and only now am I releasing all-original songs.”

From Becoming to Being: Liza Diño’s Perspective

Liza Diño, Ice’s wife and the CEO of Fire and Ice Music, shared her thoughts on Ice’s artistic journey and newfound confidence in songwriting: “From BECOMING into BEING. I am so proud to witness Ice really embracing who he is, not just as a person but as an artist, musician, and songwriter. He has always been insecure about his songwriting, but it’s such a big part of him. I’ve seen times when he proposed original songs for his albums, but labels were accustomed to him singing others’ songs because he brought new interpretations to them. It’s a gift to not only do justice to existing songs, at times even make them better. That’s Ice, and that’s been his signature. But in this era of singer-songwriters, where artists release all-original tracks and feature one or two covers, I believe the timing is perfect.”

The I AM ICE Album

The upcoming album includes 10 original tracks, mostly written by Ice, with collaborations from both emerging and seasoned songwriters. He also collaborated with multi-awarded producer Jonathan Manalo, known for his extensive work in the Filipino music industry, the project promises a fresh and authentic sound. Manalo, who was recently recognized as Spotify’s most-streamed Filipino producer with 1.4 billion streams in 2024 expressed his enthusiasm:

“It feels good to be working with Ice again and to be entrusted to co-produce this first all-original album. I’ve been lucky to witness Ice’s growth and maturity as an artist through the years, having worked with him on his earlier albums. Being part of this milestone and witnessing his evolution not just as a singer but as a songwriter is something I deeply treasure.”

Manalo’s involvement adds prestige to the album, given his track record of hits and his long history with Ice’s music. Their reunion in the studio after many years brings a sense of nostalgia and renewed creative energy to the project.

The album is produced by Fire and Ice Music, a production company under Fire and Ice Entertainment, founded by Seguerra and his wife, Liza Diño. The company has been instrumental in producing notable works such as “Wag Kang Aalis,” a collaboration between Seguerra and Diño, and “Oh Divine Diva” by the drag group Divine Divas — Precious Paula Nicole, Brigiding and Viñas Deluxe. 

A Collaborative and Personal Recording Process

During the first recording sessions for I AM ICE, Ice Seguerra felt a deep sense of maturity and collaboration with his band (often known as “The Pogi Boys”). He described the creative process with excitement, emphasizing how the music-making reflected his authentic self:

“Sobrang ramdam ko yung maturity namin as a band. Ang sarap ng hingahan namin. I’m not the kind of artist who records with a click track, so it’s important to me that they know my style when I sing. Ang saya kanina kasi, collaboration talaga. And the feeling that hindi lang lyrics but pati yung mismong music mismo reflects who I am in every song.” – Ice Seguerra

Ice’s studio approach was very organic. He recorded live with the band, allowing them to experiment with arrangements that would best suit each song. This required the band to be in sync with his unique singing style. As Ice describes, this resulted in a genuinely collaborative atmosphere in which the lyrics and music of each song resonated with his personality and experiences.

Sneak Peek: “Shelter of the Broken” 

One of the tracks on the album, “Shelter of the Broken,” has already been previewed to some fans. Ice performed this song during an exclusive segment of the Love, Sessionistas concert on February 8. That performance, although not part of the official release, gave the audience a taste of the heartfelt songwriting Ice has poured into this album.

The Love, Sessionistas concert — a reunion of Ice and fellow acoustic artists — was so well-received that a second night has been added for April 4. This encore show is building even more anticipation for I AM ICE. 

Upcoming Concert: I AM ICE: The Concert Experience

To complement the album release, Seguerra will headline “I AM ICE: The Concert Experience” in September 2025. This concert aims to provide fans with an immersive journey through his musical evolution, featuring live performances of the new tracks alongside his classic hits. The event is poised to be a celebration of authenticity, resilience, and artistic growth.

A New Era in Ice Seguerra’s Artistry

With a career spanning over thirty years, Ice Seguerra has continually reinvented himself—from a child star in the 1980s to a multi-platinum OPM singer in the 2000s and now a seasoned artist confident in his songwriting. I AM ICE signifies the start of a new era in his journey, in which he presents himself wholly and unapologetically as the artist he has become.

Industry insiders and fans alike are eagerly awaiting this album’s release. Given the personal significance of the project and the team behind it, I AM ICE is poised to be one of the defining works of Ice Seguerra’s career. It promises to deliver the familiar sincerity and soul in Ice’s music and a fresh, creative voice — Ice’s own voice — shining through every track. The countdown to June has begun, and OPM listeners are excited to finally experience the music that Ice Seguerra was always meant to make.

I AM ICE is slated for release in June 2025.

TNT lets you enjoy 8 hours of Mobile Legends for only P10

TNT, the value brand of Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) now lets subscribers you play eight hours of the popular mobile game Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) for as low as P10 with its TNT Panalo 10 offer. 

TNT Panalo 10 comes with 300 MB data for MLBB, which is more than enough for gamers considering that two hours of playing only consumes 5 MB, while practice sessions of esports players thay usually run up to eight hours, only consume 15 MB to 17 MB.

This means subscribers can  use the remaining data for browsing gaming forums, joining online communities, or watching livestreams of content creators for tips and strategies.

TNT Panalo 10 also comes with 60 minutes of calls and 60 texts to all networks, which lets subscribers to conveniently get in touch with their gaming squad. 

Subscribers can register to TNT Panalo 10 by logging into the Smart App or their go-to mobile wallets, or heading to the nearest convenience store  and accredited retailers nationwide. 

TNT Panalo 10 is just one of TNT's many value-packed offers in line with its thrust to bring saya to Filipinos through affordable services powered by its superior mobile network. 

Subscribers can watch out for more exciting offers and experiences as part of TNT's 25th anniversary celebration this year.

Khalil Ramos and Romnick Sarmenta to star in 'Olsen's Day'; an official entry to the 'CinePanalo 2025'

It is one thing to die. It is another to be forgotten.

Khalil Ramos and Romnick Sarmenta, together with child actor Xander Nuda, are teaming up for Olsen's Day, directed by JP Habac. 

 Romnick Sarmenta,  Xander Nuda & Khalil Ramos

One of the official entry in a full-length film category of this year's Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival with a theme, “Mga Kwentong Panalo ng Buhay,” will take place from March 14 to 25 at the Gateway Cineplex 18.

Also starring in the coming-of-age comedy-drama are Sherry Lara, Nour Hooshmand, Che Ramos, and Bodjie Pascua.

Romnick Sarmenta,  Xander Nuda & Khalil Ramos

Logline:

On the day of his birthday, a 30-year-old radio broadcast assistant embarks on a trip with a strange old man and his son who put his job at risk, but eventually lead him to discovering an important truth about his life.

Synopsis:

Olsen meets an old man, Tony, and his son, Tonton, who hitch a ride with him to a hospital in Manila. They spend the day and go on a weird “family” adventure together – with lots of stopovers, conversations, music, food trips, and arguments – until a misfortune about Olsen’s job happened that pisses him off. Tony feels that they are taking too much of Olsen’s time already so he asks Olsen to drop them off at the nearby hospital. When Olsen reaches the station unit in Manila, the package that he’s supposed to deliver have gone missing. He decides to go back to the hospital where he dropped off Tony and Tonton, hoping that the two might have brought the papers with them, until he discovers a truth about his life and the man to blame for it.

Statement:

My father and I were not very close but we both knew in our hearts that a special bond existed between us. I lost him in January 2012. It was my first major heartache. I needed something to turn to. This was how Olsen’s Day happened. I needed to escape. I had to move on.

Olsen’s Day explores the magic of familial ties and the bond that never dies in this father and son story that takes us on a ride to the end and back to the start. It aims to share with us the importance of family, of spending time and enjoying moments, and remembering what is important in the clutter of everyday life.

This is a story about moving on and reaching for what others could no longer reach. This is about remembering your first encounter with love and loss. This is about discovering a new purpose to live.

Watch the trailer below: 

Sen. Bong Go and celebs captivates hearts in Japan: A rallying cry for OFWs

IN an electrifying gathering that united nearly 400 Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) volunteers, Senator Bong Go took center stage in Osaka, Japan, recently. 

This momentous occasion was bolstered by the presence of beloved Filipino celebrities, including the dynamic duo Moymoy Palaboy and Rodfil, who brought an undeniable energy to the event. 

The fervent support from the Overseas Filipino Workers for Senator Bong Go was palpable and powerful, culminating in the launch of the “Go Bong Go Global Filipinos” initiative on February 16, 2025.

This initiative embodies the collective spirit of OFW volunteer supporters rallying behind Senator Bong Go as he embarks on another journey to the Senate in the upcoming elections. The event drew an overwhelming crowd of Overseas Filipino Migrants and Workers, along with their families, who passionately demonstrated their unwavering support for Sen. Bong Go. Leaders from various groups in Japan also flocked to the event, adding to its monumental atmosphere.

“We are thrilled that Senator Bong Go has brought Filipinos together here in Osaka! We believe he is a true public servant, someone who delivers on his promises. When he says he will do something, you can bet he will make it happen,” expressed Ms. Libye Suzuki, a parallel group leader for GBG Global Japan, in a heartfelt testimonial.

“His service is exceptional; may he continue to provide this kind of compassionate care for our people,” added Ms. Myrla Nagallo, who traveled all the way from distant Fukuoka.

The stage was set ablaze by the performances of renowned Filipino artists, including the ever-popular Moymoy Palaboy and Rodfil, alongside the talented Ms. Shane Santos, star of the blockbuster hit “Mama, san?” in Japan. 

Other captivating acts featured Kazuo Nawa from Star Magic, Mika Lorie, a celebrated DJ and recording artist, Lady V, and Princess Lerio from the film “Otoko Oona,” not to mention the electrifying D’baddest dance crew and GMIK Filcom performers. The event was expertly hosted by Keiko Makikawa and Artist Orbista, who kept the energy soaring.

The resounding success of this gathering has ignited a call to action among OFW supporters, urging for similar events to be held in corners of the globe far and wide.

For updates and more information, visit http://www.facebook.com/GBGglobalFilipinos.

Successful three-day run of ‘Barako Fest 2025’ ends with a star-studded concert

STAR for All Seasons Vilma Santos-Recto who is running for governor gof Batangas, supported the opening of Barako Festival 2025 in Lipa City, together with her running mate Luis Manzano (as vice governor), Ryan Christian Recto (also running for congressman of 6th district), and daughter-in-law Jessy Mendiola.

Also spotted at the event, Lipa City Mayor Eric Africa, Lipa City Councilor Mikee Morada, Batangas city local officials, event sponsors and partners. The event started last Thursday, February 13 and will end today, February 15, located at the Manila-Batangas Bypass Road, Marawoy, Lipa City.

According to John Bryan Diamante, the producer of Mentorque Productions and managing director of the festival, "The third edition of the Barako Festival, which opened here Thursday, is not just a celebration of Batangas province's high-quality coffee variety.

"It also highlights the top products of each city and municipality and how they create jobs and boost the local economy.

“Hotels are fully booked.  Restaurants are always full.  It couldn't get any better than this."

The award-winning actress says, "If we had been with you earlier from ribbon cutting until we went around the stalls and all the activities that are included in our Barako fest, you saw earlier, maybe we're asking for your help and support so that we can have more fun, we can better introduce the Barako Fest of our province of Batangas here in the City of Lipa.  

"I hope you can help us promote this because what the Barako Fest wants to convey is very good, it is an opportunity for the Filipino people to have a job and a bigger income." 

The Barako Fest was held at the Royal Estate with 20 hectares, 12 festivals in ONE Batangas to accommodate the art fest, tradefest, playfest, foodfest, drift fest, content creator meet and greet led by Boss Toyo, Whamos Cruz, Von Ordoña, Dane Grospe, Cherry White, Pio Balbuena, Toni Fowler, Ava Mendez, Sachzna Laparan, Ato and friends, Jayzar Recinto and Bisaya Squad.

There will also be E-sports fest, dirt fest, car fest, sports fest, rave party featuring DJ Vincent Jarina, DJ Jennifer Lee, DJ Ace Ramos, DJ Ron Poe, DJ BA De Guzman and DJ Tom Taus.

The highlight of the Barako Festival is the Music Fest that will feature Vice Ganda, Joshua Garcia, Alex Gonzaga, Jessy Mendiola, Hev Abi, JC Santos, TJ Monterde, KZ Tandingan, Eclypse, Jerome Ponce, Ron Angeles, Mike Swift, Good Boyz, and the new all female group Eleven 11 composed of Barbie, Audrey, Ivy, CJ, Swaggy and Jade. (new talents of House of Mentorque.) 

The Barako Fest 2025 will ends today, February 15.  There will be a main concert, barako games, battle of the legends, Angkeys to Win, Angkas Job Fair, Moto Gymkhana Slalom, last to take hands off, trade fest, food fest, dirt fest, basketball championship, celebrity game, play fest, drift fest, car & motorshow and content creator fest.

At the first day of the three-day event, we witnessed the ground breaking ceremony for The Bean at Barako Triangle, a park featuring a coffee bean-shaped structure, and the inauguration ceremony for the construction of the Manila Batangas Bypass Road Section 3.

The Barako Fest 2025 was organized by Mentorque Productions headed by John Bryan Diamante, in partnership with San Miguel Corporation and Angkas and supported by various local businesses and stakeholders.

“Team work — that is the magic word,” according to Ate Vi on the successful three-day run of Barako Fest 2025.

“We will continue to work as a team and as a family here in the province of Batangas. For the Barako Fest, this is our third year. We’re very proud of this Barako Fest because ito ngayon ang nilalatag namin dito sa Lipa, along with other cities in the province."

Bryan says Barako Fest 2025 is a celebration that goes beyond coffee, "while we take immense pride in our world-renowned Kapeng Barako, this festival is also about something greater: the spirit, resilience, and values of Batangueños.

“Barako Fest is a tribute to the strength, courage, and unity that define us as a people. Just like our bold and strong coffee, Batangueños stand firm, face challenges head-on and embrace progress while staying true to our roots.

"This festival is a testament to our shared vision of uplifting our culture, supporting our local industries, and ensuring a bright future for our province,” he added.

Congrats for the successful run of ‘Barako Fest 2025’, see next year!

Nathan Studios brings 'Buffalo Kids' to PH, a heartwarming journey of friendship and family

NATHAN Studios proudly makes history as the first Filipino family-owned production company to bring an animated feature to Philippine cinemas. 

Known for championing top-tier films across various genres — action, comedy, drama, and more — the studio takes a bold step into the world of animation with 'Buffalo Kids.' 

This aligns with the studio’s mission to take creative risks and explore new possibilities in cinema, especially when championing high-quality, family-friendly films.

Directed by Gabo Galdochi and produced by Pedro Solis, 'Buffalo Kids' is a heartwarming journey of friendship and family that won the hearts of audiences worldwide.

Showing its premiere at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival in June 2024 and it has also become a family favorite all over Europe and Asia.

Now, Filipino families will have the opportunity to experience this adventurous, heartwarming story as Nathan Studios brings 'Buffalo Kids' to local theaters starting February 12.

'BuffaloKids' features stellar performances from Alisha Weir, Conor MacNeill, Gemma Arterton, Sean Bean, and Stephen Graham. 

The film garnered widespread attention following its premiere at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival in June 2024 and it has also become a family favorite all over Europe and Asia.

As the production outfit teased on social media recently, “We’re going on a wild adventure! Heroes and villains! Buffalos in the middle of nowhere! And special friends along the way.” 

With such an exciting promise, families across the country will be counting down the days until the movie finally hits the big screen.

So get ready to dive into the wonderful world of 'Buffalo Kids.'

Vice Ganda joins Santé Barley to #LiveForMore, spearhead campaigns to educate Filipinos

 

SANTÉ International, a global leader in organic health and wellness products, proudly announces Vice Ganda as the newest face of Santé Barley.

 

Santé International has built its reputation as a trusted name in health and wellness, offering high-quality, barley-based products that have been certified organic by BioGro New Zealand. With a mission to help people live better lives, Santé provides natural health solutions that combine science and nature

. 

Santé International CEO Joey Marcelo and Vice Ganda

Its flagship product, Santé Barley, is cultivated in the fields of New Zealand’s Canterbury region, ensuring superior quality and nutrient density. The brand’s range of offerings includes Santé Pure Barley Juice, Santé Pure Barley Capsules, Santé Fusion Coffee,  and other beverages and wellness products catering to various lifestyles.

 

Because of its sterling reputation, it is only fitting that Santé International partners with someone like Vice Ganda to endorse Santé Barley. After all, from a multi-faceted, successful career that encompasses live concerts and comedy; film; music; television; and advocacy, Vice continues to thrive and inspire Filipinos by prioritizing his health and well-being — his secret to staying at the top of his game.

 

The Unkabogable Box-Office Superstar’s career has reached extraordinary heights, with recent accomplishments that reflect his unwavering drive and energy. In 2023, his game show “Everybody, Sing!” was named Best Asian Original Game Show at the Content Asia Awards, cementing its status as an innovative and groundbreaking program beloved by audiences across the region. 

 

In October 2024, Vice was recognized as the Bahaghari Champion at the Bahaghari Awards for his role as a model in the LGBTQIA+ community, highlighting his dedication to using his platform for representation and empowerment.

 

Proving his versatility as an actor, Vice took on his first dramatic role in the 2024 film “And the Breadwinner Is...,” which was directed by award-winning filmmaker Jun Lana. The film, a departure from his usual comedic repertoire, received glowing reviews from fans and industry insiders alike. Furthermore, it even earned Vice a Special Jury Citation at the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival in December 2024. 

The film’s success didn’t stop there as it grossed over P400 million in ticket sales by January 2025, further cementing Vice’s immense commercial viability in the box-office. These milestones are not just a testament to Vice’s talent but also to the physical and mental resilience that allows him to thrive in show business.

 

Through it all, Vice attributes much of his strength and vitality to taking care of himself, both inside and out. He has openly talked about his commitment to regular health check-ups, self-care, and maintaining a positive mindset, a foundation supported by his trust in Sante Barley. Packed with essential vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants, Santé Barley has become a key part of Vice’s daily routine, helping him stay energized and resilient despite his busy lifestyle.

 

“Vice Ganda represents what Santé Barley is all about: living life to the fullest while staying proactive about your health,” says Santé International CEO Joey Marcelo. 

“His ability to thrive in all aspects of his career while inspiring others at the same time makes him the perfect partner for our mission of helping Filipinos #LiveForMore.”

 

Vice himself shared his enthusiasm for the partnership: “I’ve always believed that health is the foundation of everything. I stay active and energized because I take care of my body, and Santé Barley has been a big part of that. I’m so excited to share with everyone how Santé Barley has helped me live for more — not just in my career but in all areas of my life.”

 

As Santé’s newest ambassador, Vice will spearhead campaigns to educate Filipinos on the transformative power of products like Santé Barley. From improving digestion to boosting immunity and overall vitality, Santé Barley offers a simple yet powerful way to enhance one’s daily health routine. With Vice at the forefront, Santé aims to inspire individuals to unlock their full potential and live a more vibrant, meaningful life.

 

For more information about Santé Barley and how you too can #LiveForMore, visit mysante.com or follow Santé on social media: @santeofficialph on Instagram and @OfficialSanteInternational on Facebook.