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.

DONNY-KYLE JOIN FORCES IN EXPLOSIVE ACTION SCENES IN “ROJA’S” MID-SEASON TRAILER; SERIES REACHES ALL-TIME HIGH ONLINE VIEWS

ABS-CBN’s primetime series “Roja,” which is also now airing on Kapamilya Channel on ALLTV2, opens the new year with a bang with the release of an explosive mid-season trailer as Donny Pangilinan and Kyle Echarri take their fight scenes to greater heights. 

The series also reached a new all-time high online record with 541,446 peak concurrent viewers on Kapamilya Online Live for its Monday (January 5) episode. 

KYLE ECHARRI & DONNY PANGILINAN

Currently in the Top 10 list of TV shows in the Philippines on Netflix and iWant, “Roja” promises more high-stakes action and shocking plot twists as Liam (Donny) and Olsen (Kyle), along with Luna (Maymay Entrata), join forces with the police and fight tooth and nail in order to escape from the La Playa Roja resort that is heavily guarded by hostage-takers.

MAYMAY ENTRATA

Along with the ongoing siege, more thrilling revelations will also unfold among the victims as the feud between husband and wife, Magnus (Raymond Bagatsing) and Greta (Lorna Tolentino), intensifies when dark secrets from their past begin to surface - hinting at a possible love triangle involving Wendy (Janice De Belen), Greta’s good friend and Olsen’s mother. With this new development, suspicions will also arise regarding the true identity of Olsen’s father.

Mounting problems will also cause emotional turmoil for Greta, as her own son Liam questions her true motives when he catches her in a secret conversation over the phone with an unidentified individual.

On the other hand, the leader of the hostage-takers, Emil (Joel Torre), will have to confront problems of his own. For one, he will do everything in his power to get revenge on Magnus for dumping his daughter Ayen (Yassi Pressman) after their whirlwind affair. He will also have to come up with a solution when his own men attempt to surrender to authorities.

As the number of deaths continues to increase, can Liam and Olsen find a way to survive? How will they face the bombshell revelations that are about to unfold? 

Catch the action-packed episodes of “Roja” on weeknights at 8:45 PM on Kapamilya Channel on ALLTV2 and Kapamilya Channel on cable, and on 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 other updates, follow @abscbnpr on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, or visit corporate.abs-cbn.com/newsroom.

Wish Upon a NUSTAR: NUSTAR Online Makes Quiet Wishes Heard

THROUGHOUT the year, NUSTAR Online has championed Filipino excellence through strategic partnerships that reflect its position as a premium entertainment platform. 

From the Red Charity Gala, where glamour met purpose, to MNL Fashion Week, which elevated Filipino design to a global stage; from The New Nocturnals, celebrating artistry and self-expression, to The Most Stylish Party and the Rolling Stone Philippines Hall of Fame, honoring icons across industries—NUSTAR Online has consistently spotlighted stories of excellence and impact.

This holiday season, the brand shifts its focus beyond glamour and toward community. Staying true to its commitment to uplift lives, NUSTAR Online launched Wish Upon a NUSTAR, a holiday initiative designed to listen to and fulfill the quiet wishes of Filipinos across the country. 

The campaign was led alongside brand queens Andrea Brillantes and Bea Alonzo, reinforcing the platform’s mission to turn heartfelt wishes into real, meaningful outcomes during the season of giving.

“For us at NUSTAR Online, luxury is not only defined by elevated experience but also by purpose,” said Krizia Cortez, 

Director of Public Relations of NUSTAR Online. “We created this Holiday campaign to listen and respond to our audience —to the stories behind each of their wishes, to the realities they live with every day, and meeting them with dignity, action, and real impact."

Bea Alonzo and one of the wishers from NCR during the turnover of the bicycle

Wish Upon Your Brightest Stars

As part of the initiative, thousands of players submitted personal wishes, from which five were selected nationwide. Each wisher received a life-changing gift that supported daily needs, livelihoods, and mobility.

Two wishers from NCR, Valenzuela and Malabon, received a bicycle and an electric bicycle. In Quezon Province, a family received a new tricycle to support their livelihood. 

In Cebu, a father was given a carabao to help sustain farming needs. Meanwhile, a wisher from General Santos City received a bicycle to assist with her daily commute to work. Audiences can watch the stories of these wishers, how and why these wishes matter to them, on NUSTAR Online’s official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/nustaronline , where each story highlights the personal impact behind every fulfilled wish.

“What stood out to us was the sincerity behind each wish,” Cortez added. “They reflected real, everyday realities and thoughtful needs that truly mattered. Being able to respond in a way that honored those stories—and delivered genuine impact—made the campaign especially meaningful for us."

Bea Alonzo and one of the wishers from NCR during the turnover of the electric bicycle

Every Child Is a Star

In line with the campaign, NUSTAR Online partnered with Philippine Cerebral Palsy Incorporated (PCPI) for a Christmas Donation Drive aimed at supporting children with cerebral palsy and their families. The initiative provided Christmas baskets and hygiene kits to each family, while children received chairs and essential therapy equipment to aid their development. A monetary donation was also given to PCPI in recognition of its 70 years of dedicated service to the community.

Krizia Cortez, Director of Public Relations of NUSTAR Online and PCPI Executive Director Ruth Lachica during the turnover of the donations in PCPI Center

The Spark of a New Light

Wish Upon a NUSTAR marks the beginning of a broader commitment. Moving forward, NUSTAR Online will establish its Corporate Social Responsibility arm—expanding its efforts beyond seasonal initiatives to create sustained, community-driven impact nationwide.

Because every wish deserves to be heard.

Just Wish Upon a NUSTAR.

‘Tatak ng Tapang, Tatak Ginebra’ campaign honors the battle scars of real-life courage

GINEBRA San Miguel, the world’s largest-selling gin, once again raises the bar in brand storytelling with its newest campaign, “Tatak ng Tapang, Tatak Ginebra,” a powerful evolution of its long-standing celebration of Filipino courage. 

This time, the spotlight is on real people—four personalities whose strength is etched not in fiction, but in the very scars they carry on their bodies.

According to Sales and Marketing Manager Allan Mercado, the campaign, which was launched digitally on December 31 to usher in the new year, marks a meaningful shift. 

“This is different from the past. We are honoring actual people—ordinary individuals whose stories our consumers can truly relate to. Our hope is that they inspire others through their authenticity and relatability to pursue their dreams, no matter how big on ambiguous.   

From Conceptual Bayani to Real-Life Heroes

For years, Ginebra San Miguel has been synonymous with courage, resilience, and the “never-say-die” spirit. In 2025, our campaign celebrated the idea of the kabayani—teachers, jeepney drivers, nurses, and ordinary workers whose quiet heroism defined modern/ everyday bayanihan.

“The concept of the “bayani” was born during the pandemic, when heroism took on new meaning. Today, we move toward real-life heroes—people who have actual battle scars to show. These are everyday heroes in their own fields, whose grit and discipline prove what true tapang looks like,” says Marketing Manager Ron Molina.

These scars—visible on the hands, feet, and faces of mountaineer and Mt. Everest conqueror Miguel Mapalad, visual artist Auggie Fontanilla, PBA top draft pick Sonny Estil, and billiards champion Chezka Centeno—are not hidden. They are worn proudly, like badges of honor. For Ginebra San Miguel, these marks are the true “Tatak ng Tapang,” proof of battles fought, endured, overcome and won.  

‘Lahat Tayo May Tatak ng Tapang’

At the heart of the campaign is a universal truth: everyone faces battles in life. Each of us has our own struggles, our own challenges. Yet, within each of us lies courage—the courage to confront obstacles, fight for what matters, and pursue our dreams—for our families, for ourselves, and for our nation. 

“This is the kind of courage that never retreats and never gives up, no matter the challenge. It is the courage that pushes us to persevere until we achieve our goals,” says Ron. “Yan ang Tatak ng Tapang. Yan ang Tatak Ginebra.” 

Who else could personify the “tatak ng tapang” than Miguel Mapalad, as he conquered the cold, exhaustion, and dangers to reach the top of the world. His dream: to become one of the Filipinos to summit Mount Everest. Years of rigorous training across the globe tested his limits, but his courage never wavered. 

“Reaching the peak of the Philippines and other mountains in the world was not enough— Mount Everest was my ultimate goal. Every step, every pull, every push, even in the face of pain, left the mark of courage imprinted on me until I finally stood on top of the world,” says Miguel, as he proudly showed a photo of Ginebra San Miguel at the base camp, which he enjoyed to keep warm and shared with other mountaineers.   

For Auggie, his “tatak ng tapang” can be seen in the streets of Manila. Once working in the publishing industry, he chose to leave it behind to follow the passionate call of his art as a graffiti artist. By day, he hustled to make a living; by night, he painted the city’s walls. Earnings were small, but he never gave up. Over time, his works gained recognition, and today he is a lead artist at The Clothing and the Pilipinas Street Plan Collective. Auggie’s murals are more than art—they are statements of courage, painted day and night. 

Seeing PBA player Sonny Estil earn scores for the Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings, one will not imagine how he began: at the start, he was only lent shoes that didn’t fit; today, he is a first-round draft pick. 

Growing up in hardship, working as a farmer and a carpenter, Sonny played in local leagues with lent shoes that were tight and painful. Yet he endured the pain, training every day until he made the game-winning shot at the Draft Combine. Now, as a first-round pick for Barangay Ginebra, Sonny carries the mark of courage in every step he takes on the PBA court. 

Eye on the ball, eye on the prize. This is also the same “tatak ng tapang” with Chezka Centeno, world 10-Ball champion billiards player. Chezka learned to play billiards at a young age in modest bars and halls in Zamboanga, where she was the only female playing against the men. Despite numerous losses, she never lost hope. 

Through relentless practice and determination, she won one pool battle after another, rising to international competitions. In 2025, she was crowned the WPA Women’s World 10-Ball Champion, using billiards not only for her personal success but also to lift her family from poverty. Today, with “Tatak ng Tapang,” the ball is in her hand, and the world is her pool.

A Truly Filipino Brand

“We celebrate courage in its most authentic form—Miguel, Auggie, Sonny, and Chezka are not celebrities or from well-off families, but they have shown what Tatak ng Tapang is all about—that when they face life’s challenges head-on, persevere against all odds, and inspire others through their strength, grit, and never-say-die spirit, they become real-life heroes,” says Group Product Manager Paolo Jose Tupaz.   

Through “Tatak ng Tapang, Tatak Ginebra,” the brand continues its legacy of honoring courage—this time, through real faces, real scars, and real stories.   

GSMI is the producer of the world’s largest-selling gin, Ginebra San Miguel. Its other quality distilled spirits include GSM Blue Light Gin, GSM Blue Mojito, GSM Blue Margarita, GSM Blue Gin Pomelo, GSM Blue Lychee Martini, Ginebra San Miguel Premium Gin, 1834  Premium Distilled Gin, Archangel Reserve Premium Dry Gin, Antonov Vodka, Freedom Island Light Rum, Primera Light Brandy, and the Philippines’ no. 1 Chinese wine, Vino Kulafu.