Philippine Concerts

Category: News

  • Shrek The Musical is swamped with all-Filipino lead stars!

    Shrek The Musical is swamped with all-Filipino lead stars!

    Get ready to laugh out loud as Shrek, Fiona, Donkey, and Lord Farquaad bring their swampy adventures to the Philippine stage adaptation of Shrek The Musical, the hit Broadway show that audiences around the world have loved. Newport World Resorts presents the upcoming ogre-sized production starring some of the finest Filipino theater stars. Expect big voices, bigger laughs, and a swamp-load of attitude that will turn this fairy-tale romp into the must-see show of the season coming this October 31, 2025, at the Newport Performing Arts Theater.

    Jamie Wilson as Shrek

    Jamie Wilson stars as Shrek, the gruff but soft-hearted ogre determined to protect his swamp. The veteran actor, who is celebrating 45 years on stage, brings a wealth of experience to the role. His career includes a Broadway World Asia Award-winning turn in Matilda The Musical, as well as an Aliw Award for Best Actor in Run For Your Wife. He portrayed Arturo Banlaoi in all three sold-out runs of Ang Huling El Bimbo and will appear in the upcoming Philippine staging of Into the Woods as Cinderella’s distant father and the anxious royal steward. Offstage, Wilson has directed major concerts like Ely Buendia: A Night at the Theater, demonstrating a career as layered as Shrek and onions.

    Krystal Kane as Princess Fiona

    Krystal Kane embraces her next transformation as the feisty, quick-witted Princess Fiona. She has started young onstage, beginning her career at just nine years old in Aspects of Love and The Sound of Music. Her love for performing led her to study musical theater in New York before returning to Manila, where she played Wendla in Spring Awakening and Jerry in Tabing Ilog: The Musical. After a four-year break to explore photography and styling, Kane came back strong in I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change and is set to star in Side Show.

    Topper Fabregas as Donkey

    Topper Fabregas steps into Donkey’s hooves with all the humor and loyalty audiences expect from Shrek’s sidekick. As a founding member of Red Turnip Theater, Fabregas has balanced directing and acting in acclaimed works such as Tribes, Rabbit Hole, and The Last Five Years. He has also delivered standout performances in Come From Away, Angels in America, and Ang Huling El Bimbo The Musical. His film work in Sila-Sila earned him Best Supporting Actor at the Cinema One Originals Awards, underscoring a career defined by versatility and standout performances.

    Alfredo Reyes as Lord Farquaad

    Alfredo Reyes, known to many as Bibo, takes on the role of Lord Farquaad, the ambitious ruler of Duloc. He spent many years working full-time as an actor, playing key roles in the premiere international musicals including In the Heights, The Bridges of Madison County, Waitress, and The Band’s Visit, all staged by Atlantis Theatrical. His work also took him across Asia in the touring productions of Saturday Night Fever and Avenue Q. He later starred as Young Hector in the 2018 run of Ang Huling El Bimbo The Musical. Reyes is a graduate of the Atlantic Acting School in New York City, where he earned the Practical Aesthetics Full Scholarship Award.

    Shrek The Musical is based on the DreamWorks Animation Motion Picture and the book by William Steig. It features book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire and music by Jeanine Tesori. The hit musical was originally produced on Broadway by DreamWorks Theatricals and Neal Street Productions. Shrek The Musical is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI), New York, NY, USA. All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com.

    Catch Shrek The Musical starting October 31, 2025 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater. Tickets are available at Ticketworld, Newport World Resorts Box Office, and Helixpay: PHP 4,500 (SVIP), PHP 4,000 (VIP), PHP 3,000 (GOLD), PHP 2,000 (SILVER), and PHP 1,500 (BRONZE). For inquiries, contact Customer Care at 7908-8888 or info@fhtcentertainment.com.

    For more information on Shrek The Musical, visit www.newportworldresorts.com/shrekthemusicalph  and follow @newportworldresorts and @nwr.musicals on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Join Newport World Resorts Viber Community at https://newportwr.com/nwrvibercommunity for exclusive updates. Every visit is made more rewarding with an Epic Rewards membership, download the Epic Rewards Mobile App for free at the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

    About Newport World Resorts:

    Discover Newport World Resorts.

    First established as the pioneer integrated resort in the Philippines in 2009, Newport World Resorts encompasses a newer and bigger world of extraordinary thrills within the bustling Newport City community. It is a one-stop, non-stop casino, hotels, and entertainment complex comprising two main wings, Newport Grand Wing and Newport Garden Wing that feature a wide array of gaming thrills and an innovative EPIC REWARDS program for members.

    Centrally located within a prime tourism spot, right across the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3, Newport World Resorts boasts of the highest hotel room key count in a single property with five international hotel brands, MARRIOTT Hotel Manila, SHERATON Manila Hotel, HOTEL OKURA Manila, HILTON Hotel Manila, and HOLIDAY INN Express Manila-Newport City. The sprawling property also features a wide range of Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) venues, including a three-story convention center that houses the country’s largest hotel ballroom, the Marriott Grand Ballroom.

    At Newport World Resorts, entertainment and lifestyle options abound. The award-winning Newport Performing Arts Theater seats over 1,700 audiences for live entertainment from plays and musicals to concerts and amazing performances. Likewise, the Newport Grand Wing’s The Grand Bar and Lounge and the Newport Garden Wing’s Bar 360 and El Calle Food and Music Hall provide nightly live entertainment for guests and patrons. The Newport Mall features international luxury brands and the state-of-the-art Newport Cinemas. Also within Newport City, are over 70 restaurants and dining outlets offering a diverse selection of local and international cuisine, prepared by top Filipino and international chefs.

  • HATSUNE MIKU EXPO 2025 ASIA – A Celebration of Future Pop Culture – 7 Cities in Asia!

    HATSUNE MIKU EXPO 2025 ASIA – A Celebration of Future Pop Culture – 7 Cities in Asia!

    Bangkok, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Manila, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul  

    The world’s most iconic virtual singer, Hatsune Miku, is set to electrify audiences once again with the return of HATSUNE MIKU EXPO, the global live concert tour and cultural phenomenon celebrating digital creativity and futuristic pop performance. MIKU EXPO will hit Manila for the first time ever on November 16 (Sunday) at The SM Mall of Asia Arena, bringing fans a spectacular audiovisual experience like no other. 

    HATSUNE MIKU EXPO 2025 combines high-energy performances, breathtaking visuals, and fan-favorite hits all in one show. Hatsune Miku is a singing synthesizer software developed by Crypton Future Media, INC., with an ever-growing global fanbase.  

    Promoted by AEG Presents Asia and Ovation Productions, tickets for HATSUNE MIKU EXPO 2025 in Manila will go on sale July 22 (Tuesday), 12PM. Tickets will be available via smtickets.com

    HATSUNE MIKU EXPO 2025 promises a mesmerizing evening that celebrates music, creativity, and global fandom in perfect harmony.  

    HATSUNE MIKU EXPO 2025 ASIA TOUR DATES

    November 5 Bangkok        UOB Live 
    November 8 Hong Kong AsiaWorld-Arena 
    November 12 Jakarta Tennis Indoor Senayan 
    November 16 Manila SM Mall of Asia Arena 
    November 19 Singapore The Star Theatre 
    November 22 Kuala Lumpur Idea Live KL 
    November 29 Seoul Hwajeong Gymnasium 

    ### 

    About Hatsune Miku
    Hatsune Miku is a music software developed by Crypton Future Media, INC., which enables anyone to make their computer sing by entering lyrics and melodies. As a massive number of users created music using the software and posted their works on the Internet, Hatsune Miku quickly evolved into a cultural phenomenon. Since then, Hatsune Miku has gained much attention as a character, involved in many fields such as merchandising and live performance as a virtual singer. Now her popularity has spread across the globe. 

    *Kagamine Rin, Kagamine Len, Megurine Luka, MEIKO and KAITO are also virtual singers developed by Crypton Future Media, INC. 

    Follow Hatsune Miku – Official Website | Instagram  
     

    About AEG Presents
    Combining the power of the live event with a focus on true artist development, AEG Presents is a world leader in the music and entertainment industries. Operating across four continents, the company has an unparalleled commitment to artistry, creativity, and community. Its tentpole festivals and multi-day music events — which include the iconic Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival and the legendary New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival alongside American Express Presents BST Hyde Park, Stagecoach, Hangout Festival, Electric Forest, and Firefly — continue to set the bar for the live music experience. AEG Presents promotes global tours for artists such as The Rolling Stones, Elton John, Taylor Swift, Celine Dion, Justin Bieber, Kenny Chesney, Paul McCartney, and Katy Perry, in addition to — through its network of clubs, theatres, arenas, stadiums and renowned partner brands such as Goldenvoice, Messina Touring Group, Concerts West, The Bowery Presents, PromoWest Productions, Marshall Arts, Madison House Presents, and Zero Mile Presents — creating and developing an unmatched infrastructure for artist development and audience reach. More information can be found at www.aegpresents.com.  

    Follow AEG – AEG Official Website | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok | X 

    About Ovation Productions

    Through the years, Ovation Productions has handled some of the biggest names in live entertainment. It has expanded the markets for international artists in the Philippines by pioneering in all major provincial cities in the country aside from Metro Manila and has been awarded the Trailblazer Award by Filscap. Ovation Productions has recently started ovationtickets.com in partnership with Singapore’s largest ticketing company, Sistic.com.sg and has established Ovation Singapore to expand its global operations. The company has also established BlastTV, an ad-supported streaming platform founded in 2023. With 20+ live channels covering sports and entertainment plus an extensive library of on-demand content including popular TV shows, blockbuster movies, news, and factual entertainment, Blast TV aims to revolutionize the way viewers consume live TV and on-demand programming. 

    For more information, visit ovation.ph. 

  • Darren celebrates 11th anniversary with new album “Ikaw Pa Rin!”

    Darren celebrates 11th anniversary with new album “Ikaw Pa Rin!”

    Asia’s Pop Heartthrob Darren Espanto has dropped a full-length album dubbed “Ikaw Pa Rin,” his first album under Star Music released in celebration of his 11th year in the industry.

    There are 13 tracks in the long play (LP) record, five of which was penned by the “It’s Showtime” and “ASAP” mainstay, including “Bibitaw Na,” “Hanggang Kailan,” “Ilang Beses,” “Iyo,” and “Paano Kung Tayo Na Lang?,” which he co-wrote with Angela Ken.

    The title track, “Ikaw Pa Rin,” is a collaboration between Darren and DJ M.O.D., exploring the familiar feeling of choosing your partner regardless of circumstances, with catchy melodies that blend the unique styles of the two artists.

    They also performed another track together in the album, “ANNAB,” with a music video featuring Ashley del Mundo now out on ABS-CBN Star Music YouTube channel.

    Darren also collaborated with Belle Mariano in the reimagined version of“Dati.” They first performed the song in Belle’s “BELOVED” concert.

    Another collaboration included in the LP is “Duyan,” which Darren performed with ABS-CBN Music creatives, content, and operations head Jonathan Manalo, who also co-wrote the track with Robert Calma.

    “PBB: Celebrity Collab Edition” eviction theme song, “Paalam Muna Sandali,” and the Chinese-Tagalog version of “Iyo,” first heard in “Can’t Buy Me Love,” are also part of the album.

    “Di Makaramdam” and “Miss” complete the new music of Darren, who rose to fame after emerging as first runner up in “The Voice Kids Philippines” season 1 in 2014.

    Check out Darren’s “Ikaw Pa Rin” album, out now on music streaming platforms. He will also release a physical album copy soon. For more details, follow Star Music on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

  • EXO’s CHEN Joins KOSTCON 2025 Line-Up!

    EXO’s CHEN Joins KOSTCON 2025 Line-Up!

    Exciting news for all K-pop fans, especially Filo EXOLs!

    Random Minds has just announced that another musical icon will be gracing the stage of KOSTCON 2025—none other than EXO’s CHEN! Catch him live at the MOA Arena on August 6, alongside an already stellar lineup of artists LYN, KIM BUM SOO, K.WILL, SOYOU, HEIZE, and LEE MUJIN!

    This is definitely a can’t-miss event for every K-POP and K-Drama fan out there! Don’t miss this rare chance to see them all live in one epic night of music. Tickets are selling fast — grab yours now: https://smtickets.com/events/view/14793

  • Beauty Empire Star Choi Bo Min Is Endorser For BlueWater Day Spa & Skin

    Beauty Empire Star Choi Bo Min Is Endorser For BlueWater Day Spa & Skin

    On June 28, 2024, BlueWater Day Spa, one of the Philippines’ premier wellness destinations, proudly announced the signing of Korean actor Choi Bo Min as their latest brand endorser during a contract-signing event.

    From left to right: GLXY Talent Management President Kathleen Dy-Go, Korean actor Choi Bo Min, and Mary Simisim and Nancy Go of BlueWater Day Spa

    The ceremony was attended by GLXY Talent Management President Kathleen Dy-Go, alongside Mary Simisim and Nancy Go from BlueWater Day Spa. This partnership highlights Bo Min’s growing presence in the Philippines and his commitment to engaging with his Filipino fans.

    Filipino audiences can eagerly anticipate more of Bo Min both on and off the screen. He is currently enchanting viewers as Alex Jang, a key character in the Philippine drama series Beauty Empire. In addition to his acting, Bo Min is actively involved in various events. Notably, he attended GMA’s Beyond 75 event on June 29, 2025.

    This contract signing is just one of many exciting ventures Bo Min is pursuing, further solidifying his influence in the Filipino market. BlueWater Day Spa looks forward to a fruitful collaboration with him to promote health and wellness.

  • XG Named Global Ambassador For G-SHOCK!

    XG Named Global Ambassador For G-SHOCK!

    HIPHOP/R&B-inspired girl group XG has been appointed the new global ambassador for G-SHOCK, Casio’s iconic line of shock-resistant watches.

    Comprised of seven members – JURIN, CHISA, HINATA, HARVEY, JURIA, MAYA and COCONA – XG has carved a distinct path on the global stage since debuting in March 2022 with their first single “Tippy Toes”. The group quickly garnered international acclaim, becoming the first Japanese artist to top Billboard’s Hot Trending Songs Powered by Twitter, and the first Japanese girl group to appear on the cover of Billboard magazine.

    In 2025, XG made headlines with a landmark performance at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, becoming the first Japanese act to headline the Sahara Stage. The set received widespread praise from media outlets in Japan and around the world. Their first world tour, XG 1st WORLD TOUR “The first HOWL”, spanned 47 shows across 35 cities in 18 countries and regions, concluding with a sold-out finale at Tokyo Dome on 14th May that drew 50,000 fans.

    XG’s innovative approach, establishing their own genre X-POP, instead of being categorised within traditional J-POP or K-POP categories, mirrors G-SHOCK’s pioneering spirit. Built on principles of toughness, shock resistance and distinct design, the brand found synergy with XG’s fearless and boundary-defying artistry, leading to their selection as global ambassador.

    To commemorate the partnership, a special site has been launched featuring exclusive visuals and a promotional video. Centered on the slogan “No Destination”, the video presents a bold narrative of moving forward fearlessly into the unknown, symbolising a new journey for both XG and G-SHOCK. Creative direction was led by YAR, the team helmed by renowned Japanese artist YOSHIROTTEN, bringing a fresh and energetic vision to life.

    Upon being named global ambassadors, XG shared:

    “Whenever we see a G-SHOCK, it reminds us of the version of ourselves that chased our dreams and didn’t give up, even when things got tough. It gives us the courage to keep going!!! XG-SHOCK Let’s Go〜!”

    More visuals and exclusive content will be released in the coming weeks, as G-SHOCK and XG embark on this exciting new chapter together.

  • Fête de la Musique: Un Monde – Where Musical Worlds Converge!

    Fête de la Musique: Un Monde – Where Musical Worlds Converge!


    June 21, 2025  — Rain pelted down the late afternoon to the evening, but that didn’t stop the crowd drawing a record-breaking foot traffic of 14,527 for the Main Stage of Fête de la Musique: Un Monde at Ayala Triangle Gardens, Makati City. Now on its 31st Edition, it is known as the biggest and longest-running music festival in the Philippines, spanning over 100 pocket stages that feature a diverse set of local talents nationwide. 

    Naturally, Fête’s Main Stage was grander than ever this year. A curious blend of incredible artists from divergent genres – jazz, alternative, art pop, electronic, R&B, and more – joined forces in one stage for the sake of one thing alone: the love for music. From 4PM to a few minutes shy of midnight, Fête thrilled thousands and thousands of music fans in the city.

    Here are some of the highlights of the Main Stage, in photos.

    Setting the fiery tempo of the festival, the beats of the Filipino Afro-Brazilian percussion group Brigada welcomed the eager crowd.
    The rain started pouring when Janine took center stage, but her soulful vocals especially during “Sandig” drowned out the restlessness.
    The Ridleys fused saccharine ballads with alternative folk so seamlessly; it was easy to understand why a good number of the audience sang along fondly to their songs like “Love Is” and “Be With You”.

    Hailing from Japan, Ito Kashitaro came in like a whirlwind as he took the stage, bursting with tremendous energy. The singer-songwriter, known for contributing songs for anime soundtracks, performed a lively acoustic set with tracks like “Vita Philosophica”, “Pierrot” and “Magic Music”.

    A bit of chill, a lot of groove –  French trio Emile Londonien brought their sophisticated fusion of electronic and jazz to Fête. 
    Armi Millare’s set was a balm to a long night. Her soothing vocals, matched with the hugot lyrics, ran deep with the Fête crowd as she performed “Say It Again”, “Kapit”, “Oo” and “Tadhana”.

    Fête de la Musique also proved to be a brilliant avenue for astonishing artist collaborations. The set for soul duo Leanne & Naara and funk ensemble Brass Pas Pas Pas turned out to be one of the most energizing performances of the evening. 

    Tenacious art pop met experimental techno as Ena Mori and the electronic duo Tarsius performed together on stage — a vibrant auditory spectacle.

    Squeals echoed all over the venue as James Reid entered the stage. The actor and singer dished out his suave singing chops as he sang “Blessed”, “Randomatic” and “Pahinga”.

    For the grand finale, OPM legend Ely Buendia thrilled the crowd with the Method Adaptor experience, performing songs from the album which included “Kandarapa”, “Kontrabando”, “Tagpi-Tagping Piraso” and “Bulaklak sa Buwan”. 

    June 21 is a monumental day by nature, as it is the summer solstice, thereby making it the longest day of the year. It is also known as the World Music Day also known as Fête de la Musique. Undoubtedly, in 2025, we found out that the best way to remember such an important day was to be part of the festival, celebrating music freely. Cheers to 31 years of Fête! We’re already looking forward to the next one!

    The 2025 Edition of Fête de la Musique in the Philippines is presented by Alliance Française de Manille, co-presented by the Embassy of France to the Philippines, Funkybeat Entertainment, and Anam Kara.

    By Sandra Mae Laureano

  • Anisama World Live in Manila: Anime’s Biggest Music Festival Hits the Philippines!

    For the first time, anime music fans in the Philippines got to experience the spectacle that is Animelo Summer Live, better known as Anisama, right in our backyard. Held at the New Frontier Theater on June 7, the Manila leg marked a historic debut for the world’s biggest anisong festival. 

    For anime fans, Anisama is something of a holy grail. Born in 2005 and held annually in Saitama, it’s a gathering of some of the biggest artists behind the soundtracks that shaped entire generations of anime watchers. It’s a celebration of music, idol culture, video games, vocaloids, and the emotional worlds we attach to fictional characters.

    All Together Now
    The night opened and ended in ensemble fashion. Hiroshi Kitadani, voice actor and veteran anisong performer, led the full lineup in “We Are!”, the first One Piece opening theme and a sacred text for anime fans.

    Midway, the crowd was treated to two more all-hands-on-deck moments— one featuring nobodyknows+’s hip-hop classic “Kokoro Odoru” from SD Gundam Force, and another when FLOW ignited the room with “GO!!!”, the iconic Naruto opening that never fails to send a crowd into overdrive.

    Individual Highlights and Collabs That Surprised
    The beauty of Anisama lies in its diversity of sound. Each act brought its own flavor and fandom.



    Ave Mujica from the BanG Dream! Universe leaned into darkness and drama. They looked like anime come to life but meant business with their heavy riffs.


    Mayu Maeshima, formerly of MYTH & ROID, owned the stage with her voice and a rockstar swagger.




    Thai anisong darling MindaRyn radiated joy, professing her love for Jollibee, Chickenjoy, and adobo between songs. Alongside Kitadani, she surprised the audience with a rendition of the “Voltes V Theme,” a song deeply embedded into the Filipino anime psyche, prompting a singalong.


    Toshiya Miyata of idol group Kis-My-Ft2 began his set with a slick dance break before teaming up with FLOW  for their version of “Butterfly” from Digimon Adventure.


    Tokyo-based rockers ASH DA HERO  turned the dial up to eleven. Frontman ASH is a natural showman — handing fans the mic, even walking among the audience on the first floor. His call to stand up and jump wasn’t a suggestion—it was a command.


    One of the night’s most satisfying sets came from hip-hop veterans nobodyknows+. When they launched into the opening bars of “Hero’s Comeback” from Naruto Shippuden, the theater rose on instinct. There were no gimmicks, just tight flow, magnetic stage presence, and contagious cool.



    Kitadani and MindaRyn—who call themselves Team Blazer—joined forces for “Bokura no Spectra” from Ultraman Blazer, joined later by Maeshima for “Ahhh!” from One Piece. Kitadani’s voice reached the rafters, reminding everyone why he’s a pillar of the genre.


    FLOW Brings It Home


    No act loomed larger than FLOW. If Anisama had an unspoken headliner, it was them.
    Returning to the Philippines for the first time since Ozine Fest 2016, the band lit up the stage with back-to-back bangers: “Cha-La Head-Cha-La” from Dragon Ball Z, “Sign” from Naruto Shippuden, and “Colors” from Code Geass. By the end of their set, the air was thick with sweat and serotonin.


    Cameras Down, Hands Up
    True to Japanese concert tradition, photography and videography were strictly prohibited. It forced the audience to engage viscerally, to shout and sweat rather than scroll. You had to remember, because you couldn’t replay.

    Originally slated for the Araneta Coliseum, the event was moved to the more intimate New Frontier Theater. What it lacked in size, it made up for in soul. Every flick of a lightstick felt like a ritualistic transfer of energy. Some fans screamed, some sang, some jumped. Many did all three.

    Since its inception in 2005, Anisama has been a cornerstone of Japan’s anime music scene, only rarely venturing abroad. The festival has only touched down in Shanghai (2011, 2024) and Taiwan (2024). This stop in Manila felt like a recognition that Filipino fans aren’t just passive consumers, but passionate contributors to the culture. For one night, Manila didn’t just host Anisama—it became part of its story.

  • CRAVITY Second Full-Length Album Dare to Crave Out NowLead Track “SET NET G0?!” Unveils a Dreamy Summer Vibe!

    CRAVITY Second Full-Length Album Dare to Crave Out NowLead Track “SET NET G0?!” Unveils a Dreamy Summer Vibe!

    Credit: Starship Entertainment

    K-pop group CRAVITY, comprised of SERIM, ALLEN, JUNGMO, WOOBIN, WONJIN, MINHEE, HYEONGJUN, TAEYOUNG, and SEONGMIN, is back with their second full-length album, Dare to Crave, available on all major streaming platforms now. This release marks a bold new chapter in their ongoing exploration of youth and longing, as they dive deeper into the concept of yearning.

    Tracklisting
    On My Way
    SWISH
    SET NET G0?!
    Rendez-vous
    PARANOIA
    Straight Up To Heaven (performed by JUNGMO, WOOBIN, SEONGMIN)
    Stadium (performed by ALLEN, WONJIN, HYEONGJUN)
    Marionette (performed by SERIM, MINHEE, TAEYOUNG)
    Underdog
    Click, Flash, Pow
    11 Love Me Again
    Wish Upon A Star

    About CRAVITY

    Since debuting in 2020, CRAVITY has maintained relentless momentum, sweeping Rookie of the Year awards at various music ceremonies in Korea. Their debut album hit No. 1 on the U.S. iTunes Top K-Pop Albums chart, making them the first 2020 rookie group to achieve this feat. Shortly after, they made a splash with a No.12 debut on Billboard’s Social 50, becoming the fifth-fastest South Korean group to enter the rankings. Since then, their profile has risen, Variety named them an “Up-and-Coming Group to Know” in 2022, Forbes spotlighted them as “Ones to Watch”, and in 2024 they triumphed on Mnet’s Road to Kingdom: ACE OF ACE.

  • Choi Bo Min Shines at the Beauty Empire Grand Media Con!

    Choi Bo Min Shines at the Beauty Empire Grand Media Con!

    The Beauty Empire Grand Media Con last June 17 was a star-studded affair. Apart from its stars Barbie Forteza, Kyline Alcantara, and Sam Concepcion, Korean star Choi Bo Min also attended the event.

    Dressed to impress, Bomin looked dashing in a suit designed by the renowned Filipino fashion designer, Francis Libiran. His stylish ensemble perfectly complemented his charismatic presence, capturing the attention of fans and media alike.

    Beauty Empire, which tells the story of the cutthroat beauty industry, is currently streaming on Viu and is set to premiere on GMA Prime on July 7. The series is getting a lot of attention, particularly after the release of its second episode, which showcased the undeniable chemistry of its stars. The on-screen interactions of Bo Min with Barbie and Kyline have been a focal point for viewers, drawing parallels to their playful TikTok collaborations that have taken social media by storm. One example of this is the viral TikTok of Bo Min and Barbie dancing “Me Jalo” inside a set that looks like a train, which has generated millions of views.

    For more kilig moments and undeniable chemistry, catch Bo Min, Barbie, and Kyline in Beauty Empire, now airing on Viu and premiering on GMA starting July 7.

  • Multile Grammy® award winning diamond-certified superstar ED SHEERAN enters the race with “DRIVE” from F1® THE ALBUM!

    Multile Grammy® award winning diamond-certified superstar ED SHEERAN enters the race with “DRIVE” from F1® THE ALBUM!

    OFFICIAL VIDEO DIRECTED BY CHRIS VILLA

    CO-PRODUCED BY GRAMMY® WINNERS BLAKE SLATKIN AND JOHN MAYER “DRIVE” FEATURES SHEERAN JOINED BY MAYER ON GUITAR AND DAVE GROHL ON DRUMS

    SUPERCHARGED COMPANION ALBUM TO APPLE ORIGINAL FILMS’ HIGH-OCTANE, ACTION-PACKED FILM F1® THE MOVIE FEATURES 17 MASSIVE NEW TRACKS FROM EXHILARATING LINEUP OF SUPERSTARS, INCLUDING DON TOLIVER, DOJA CAT, ROSÉ, DOM DOLLA, CHRIS STAPLETON, MYKE TOWERS, TATE MCRAE, TIËSTO, SEXYY RED, RODDY RICCH, RAYE, BURNA BOY, MADISON BEER, PEGGY GOU, AND MORE

    ALL-NEW SOUNDTRACK CURATED BY THE PRODUCERS OF THE OSCAR®, GRAMMY® AND GOLDEN GLOBE® AWARD-WINNING BARBIE THE ALBUM

    F1® THE MOVIE ONLY IN THEATERS AND IMAX® + F1® THE ALBUM EVERYWHERE ON FRIDAY, JUNE 27

    “One of the most high-profile soundtracks of 2025” – BILLBOARD

    “In F1’s soundtrack, Atlantic Records promises a high-rpm joyride for the ages, and they have yet to build a car that can get us to premiere day fast enough” – ROLLING STONE

    Atlantic Records’ upcoming  F1®THE ALBUM, the supercharged and star-studded musical companion to Apple Original Films’ high-octane, action-packed film F1® THE MOVIE, starring Brad Pitt and directed by Joseph Kosinski (Top Gun: Maverick), is speeding towards the finish line with today’s premiere of “Drive” by 4x GRAMMY® Award-winning, RIAA Diamond-certified global superstar Ed Sheeran, available everywhere now HERE. F1® THE ALBUM is available now for pre-order HERE and arrives in stores and at all online retailers on Friday, June 27th in conjunction with the theatrical release of the feature film, distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures.

    Produced by GRAMMY® Award-winner Blake Slatkin (Lil Nas X, Lizzo) and 7x GRAMMY® Award-winner John Mayer, “Drive” sees Sheeran backed by an all-star combo that includes Mayer on guitar alongside Foo Fighters’ Dave Grohl on drums, legendary bassist Pino Paladino (Eric Clapton, The Who), and keyboardist Rami Jaffee (Foo Fighters, The Wallflowers), with additional keyboards and drum programming by Slatkin. The dynamic new track is joined by an official music video, directed by filmmaker Chris Villa (Post Malone, Morgan Wallen, A$AP Rocky, Young Thug), premiering today on YouTube HERE.

    From the label that brought you the award-winning, blockbuster soundtracks Barbie The Album, Twisters: The Album, The Greatest Showman, Suicide Squad and more,F1® THE ALBUMwill feature massive new tracks from an unprecedented lineup of superstar artists, including Ed Sheeran, RAYE, Burna Boy, Madison Beer, Peggy Gou and more. See below for the full tracklisting.

    F1® THE ALBUM was produced and overseen by multi-GRAMMY® Award Winner, 7x GRAMMY®  Award nominee, and Atlantic Records West Coast President, Kevin Weaver (Soundtrack Album Producer of Barbie The Album, Twisters: The Album, The Greatest Showman, Suicide Squad, Daisy Jones & The Six, Birds Of Prey) along with Atlantic Records’ EVP and Co-Head of Pop/Rock A&R, Brandon Davis and Atlantic Records’ SVP A&R/Marketing, Joseph Khoury. Named by Rolling Stone as a “soundtrack guru,” Weaver has produced numerous multi-platinum soundtrack projects that have amassed tens of millions of albums sold worldwide. Additional key players involved in the project include Soundtrack Album Executive Producers Joseph Kosinski and Jerry Bruckheimer, and Music Supervisors David Taylor and Jake Voulgarides.

    ABOUT ED SHEERAN:

    Ed Sheeran is an era-defining artist, responsible for some of the biggest songs of this decade, selling nearly 200 million records across the globe, and amassing over 100 billion streams worldwide. One of the most influential singer-songwriters of his generation, the 4x-GRAMMY award winner was also one of the first artists to earn three RIAA-Diamond certified singles, with “Thinking Out Loud,” “Shape of You,” and “Perfect” all achieving sales equivalents exceeding 10 million in the US alone. Widely regarded for his incredible live performances, Sheeran is currently in the midst of his record-breaking Mathematics Tour, smashing attendance records at stadiums all around the world.  Closing the chapter on his Mathematics series of albums – which began with his debut full length “+” (plus) in 2011 and includes “x” (multiply), “÷” (divide), “=” (equals), and “-” (subtract) – Sheeran is stepping boldly into a new phase in 2025 with his much anticipated album Play, set for release on September 12.

    ABOUT F1® THE MOVIE:

    From Apple Studios and the filmmakers of Top Gun: Maverick comes the high-octane, action-packed feature film F1® THE MOVIE, starring Brad Pitt and directed by Joseph Kosinski.  The film is produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, Kosinski, seven-time FORMULA 1®  world champion Lewis Hamilton, Pitt, Dede Gardner, Jeremy Kleiner, and Chad Oman.

    Dubbed “the greatest that never was,” Sonny Hayes (Brad Pitt) was FORMULA 1’s most promising phenom of the 1990s until an accident on the track nearly ended his career.  Thirty years later, he’s a nomadic racer-for-hire when he’s approached by his former teammate Ruben Cervantes (Javier Bardem), owner of a struggling FORMULA 1 team that is on the verge of collapse.  Ruben convinces Sonny to come back to FORMULA 1 for one last shot at saving the team and being the best in the world.  He’ll drive alongside Joshua Pearce (Damson Idris), the team’s hotshot rookie, intent on setting his own pace.  But as the engines roar, Sonny’s past catches up with him and he finds that in FORMULA 1, your teammate is your fiercest competition—and the road to redemption is not something you can travel alone.

    F1® THE MOVIE also stars Damson Idris, Kerry Condon, Tobias Menzies, Kim Bodnia, and Javier Bardem, and was shot during actual Grand Prix weekends as the team competes against the titans of the sport. Kosinski directs from a screenplay by Ehren Kruger, story by Kosinski & Kruger.  The film is executive produced by Daniel Lupi.  Collaborating with Kosinski behind the scenes are his creative team, including director of photography Claudio Miranda, production designers Mark Tildesley and Ben Munro, editor Stephen Mirrione, costume designer Julian Day, casting director Lucy Bevan, and composer Hans Zimmer.

    Apple Original Films Presents a Monolith Pictures / Jerry Bruckheimer / Plan B Entertainment / Dawn Apollo Films Production, A Film by Joseph Kosinski, F1® THE MOVIE, distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, in theaters and IMAX nationwide on June 27, 2025, and internationally beginning June 25, 2025.

    F1® THE ALBUM TRACKLIST
    Don Toliver – Lose My Mind (feat. Doja Cat)
    Dom Dolla – No Room for A Saint (feat. Nathan Nicholson)
    Ed Sheeran – Drive
    Tate McRae – Just Keep Watching
    ROSÉ – Messy
    Burna Boy – Don’t Let Me Drown
    Roddy Ricch – Underdog
    RAYE – Grandma Calls The Boy Bad News
    Chris Stapleton – Bad As I Used To Be
    Myke Towers – Baja California
    Tiësto & Sexyy Red – OMG!
    Madison Beer – All At Once
    Peggy Gou – D.A.N.C.E
    PAWSA – Double C
    Mr Eazi – Attention
    Darkoo – Give Me Love
    Obongjayar – Gasoline

  • Fujii Kaze makes surprise appearance in Bangkok for his debut single “Hachikō”

    Fujii Kaze makes surprise appearance in Bangkok for his debut single “Hachikō”

    Fujii Kaze absolutely rocked the crowd in Bangkok, Thailand at Paragon Parc last Friday (13 June). Thousands of fans eagerly awaited a chance to meet him up close, singing along to “Hachikō,” his first English song, followed by several minutes of dedicated fan service.

    Photo Credit: YOSUKE KAMIYAMA

    Bangkok came alive as Fujii Kaze, the renowned Japanese singer-songwriter and beloved artist among Thais, made a surprise appearance! He showed up at Paragon Parc on Friday, June 13th, to greet his Thai fans. Thousands of fans had been waiting since morning, undeterred by the rain, just to meet one of Japan’s most adored artists in Thailand right now and hear his first English song, “Hachikō.”

    Listen to Fujii Kaze’s song “Hachikō” here

    Beyond Fujii Kaze gracing the stage in the full, stunning outfit from his “Hachikō” music video, and surrounded by thousands of devoted fans who came just for him, with giant billboards at Paragon Park displaying his image throughout the event, fans also got to hear beloved favorites like “Shinunoga E-Wa,” “Matsuri,” and “Michi Teyu Ku (Overflowing).”

    They sang along with him, and the artist even received a surprise from Thai fans who collectively sang “Happy Birthday” to him one day in advance, making him beam. He delighted the crowd with cute Thai phrases such as “Sabai dee mai” (How are you?), “Sabai sabai” (Relaxed/Easy-going), “Kon Thai narak” (Thai people are cute), and “Kob khun krub” (Thank you). After the event, Fujii Kaze delivered generous and incredibly intimate fan service, taking photos, shaking hands, and signing autographs for several minutes—a truly special, free experience for all.

    In 2025, Fujii Kaze is set to perform at numerous concerts and music festivals worldwide, including the North Sea Jazz Festival in the Netherlands, Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland, Lollapalooza in Chicago, and Outside Lands in San Francisco, USA. His path to becoming a global superstar is well underway. Besides captivating the hearts of Thai fans, he is now moving forward to spread positive energy through beautiful music to fans around the globe with his new album, “Prema,” which everyone can listen to on September 5th.

  • Rising Japanese Boy Group ONE OR EIGHT Unveils New Single and Video “365”, Marks First Release With Atlantic Music Group!

    Rising Japanese Boy Group ONE OR EIGHT Unveils New Single and Video “365”, Marks First Release With Atlantic Music Group!

    Rising Japanese Boy Group ONE OR EIGHT Unveils New Single and Video “365”, Marks First Release With Atlantic Music Group!

    June 18th, 2025 – Manila, Philippines –ONE OR EIGHT have released their latest single, “365”, out now. This marks the first release from the eight-member boy group following their recent announcement of a partnership with major record label Atlantic Music Group. Fans across the world have taken to social media to express their excitement for the group’s growth, calling it a source of national pride that they’ve been recognized by a major international label in less than a year since debut.

    The new single “365” features acclaimed songwriter Nasri, known for his work with artists like Justin Bieber. Honest and emotional, the track blends a captivating melody with a distinctive, resonant beat as it expresses a heartfelt desire to be by a loved one’s side every day of the year. At its core, “365” is also a tribute to their fans, 1DERZ (fandom name) – a vow to maintain an unbreakable bond that will carry far into the future.

    “‘365’ is ONE OR EIGHT’s first love song, and we wanted to express how it feels when you’re thinking about a special someone. The title also represents the length of time of our auditions for WARPs DIG, which was the beginning of our journey to become ONE OR EIGHT. That’s why the number means so much to us. Through the lyrics, we want to express our immense gratitude and love for all of our fans, 1DERZ, who have been rooting for us over the past year and sharing many unforgettable moments with us.

    To the 1DERZ who have been supporting us from the very beginning, as well as those who have recently discovered us, I hope you’ll listen to ‘365’ with someone special!     “
    – REIA of ONE OR EIGHT

    “I was so happy to find out that ONE OR EIGHT chose our song 365 that I wrote with my good friend Noah. It’s the perfect song for them and I hope their fans love it as much as we do. I’ve spent some time in Japan with my band “Magic!” Playing shows over the years and now I have new friends in one of my favorite places in the world,” – Nasri, Writer of “365” 

    “From the moment Mosaic and I produced the instrumental, I knew we had something special. I shared the beat with Nasri, who masterfully brought it to life with the 365 concept. Then ONE OR EIGHT jumped in—an electrifying young group with serious style and swagger—and put their own spin on it, turning it into something truly undeniable. From our hearts to the world… I can’t wait for everyone to hear this banger! ” – Noah Barer, Producer of “365”

    ONE OR EIGHT – “365” (Official Music Video) 

    Accompanying the single release is the romantic music video for “365”, unfolding as a passionate and poignant recollection of every moment within 365 days spent thinking about a loved one and the feelings shared. Set against an emotional backdrop, the video weaves unforgettable memories of love and shared time into a cinematic narrative. The video was directed by Osrin, one of Japan’s leading creative talents and a founding member of the creative label PERIMETRON, who has worked with major artists including King Gnu, millennium parade, Mr. Children, and GLAY.

    “While working on the MV for 365, I saw these guys that are jagged, rough-around-the-edges, silly and playful, but sincerely real. I took all of my favorite parts and pieced them together. When I was finished, I had grown to love each of them,” Osrin (PERIMETRON) shares on directing the music video.

    Following the success of their sold-out SHŪKAI fan meeting tour across five cities in North and South America in April, ONE OR EIGHT is set for upcoming events in Asia in Bangkok (July 26) and Japan (August 24 and 26).

    With these events and more on the horizon, ONE OR EIGHT continue to blaze their own trail as a rising global force. Fans across Southeast Asia are invited to witness the SHŪKAI experience up close in Bangkok—the group’s first fan meeting event in the region. Tickets are available here.

    Stream “365” here 
    Watch the official music video here

    About ONE OR EIGHT

    ONE OR EIGHT is an eight-member Japanese boy group consisting of MIZUKI, NEO, REIA, RYOTA, SOUMA, TAKERU, TSUBASA, and YUGA. Their name is derived from the Japanese idiom “ichi ka bachi ka” (meaning “all or nothing”), and under the tagline “BET ON YOURSELF,” they boldly take on global challenges together in pursuit of their dreams. The group made their debut on August 16, 2024, with the single “Don’t Tell Nobody”, produced by Ryan Tedder of OneRepublic.

    This was followed by the release of “KAWASAKI (with Big Sean)” on December 6, 2024 — a collaboration with American rapper Big Sean, including a series of remixes for “KAWASAKI” featuring Felip (Ken of Filipino P-Pop boy band SB19), Vietnamese-American R&B sensation thủy, and Korean hip-hop leader pH-1, showcasing the band’s ability to push musical boundaries through multi-cross-border collaborations.

    In 2025, they were named one of Nikkei Entertainment!’s “100 Breakout Talents of 2025” and received the special award “Upcoming Dance & Vocal Group” at the MTV Video Music Awards Japan. On March 19, 2025, they released “DSTM”, which officially samples the iconic track “Don’t Stop The Music” by global superstar Rihanna — a historic first.

  • SM MOA Arena celebrates 13 iconic years!

    SM MOA Arena celebrates 13 iconic years!

    SM Mall of Asia Arena remains the Philippines’ premier venue, hosting diverse sports, concerts, corporate, and family events.

    The SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena has long been the premier home for international world-class acts, creating unforgettable fan experiences and leading entertainment in the Philippines. This June 2025, the iconic venue proudly celebrates its 13th anniversary—a reflection of its enduring legacy. As it celebrates this milestone, SM MOA Arena looks back on its most significant achievements while embracing its commitment to deliver world-class experiences.

    The top choice venue

    From its distinctive ‘eye-conic’ architecture to its versatile event bowl, expansive seating capacity, and prime location, the SM MOA Arena has been crafted to serve as a premier entertainment landmark. Over the years, it has seamlessly blended architectural innovation, world-class facilities, and customer excellence, hosting a diverse array of events that captivate audiences and set new standards in the entertainment industry.

    Korean boy band BTS member J-Hope’s adrenaline-fueled performances transform the SM Mall of Asia Arena into a dance party for ARMY (BTS fandom).
    Germany emerges as World Champions in their much-anticipated game against Serbia in the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) Basketball World Cup 2023 Group Phase.

    These efforts have truly paid off, as the world-class venue has received numerous accolades that highlight its dedication to delivering only the best. These include being named Sports Venue of the Year (2023), a Finalist for Event of the Year (2023), receiving the Gold Award for Sport & Recreation Facility (2015), and the Apolinario Mabini Awards (2013).

    Championing live entertainment

    Entering its 13th year, the SM MOA Arena reaffirms its commitment to customer service excellence, a core value embedded in its operations since its inception. Thanks to the undying dedication of hundreds of staff behind the scenes, the venue has become synonymous with convenience and exceptional entertainment.

    SM leaders, Autism Society of the Philippines (ASP) organizers, and volunteers come together at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, showcasing the strength of community behind the success of the ASP Angels Walk 2025.

    SM MOA Arena is committed to going the extra mile by further delivering the best fan experience through top customer service and by implementing cutting-edge security measures and interactive technologies. The world-class venue looks to further champion convenience, security, and the overall guest experience in line with today’s technological standards. This commitment is evident in its substantial upgrades, including the installation of advanced turnstiles, state-of-the-art giant Light Emitting Diode (LED) media mesh displays, and integrated 5G connectivity.

    The next step in evolution

    Celebrating its 13th anniversary, the SM MOA Arena recently unveiled its new state-of-the-art centerhung, officially known as the “SM Arena Cube”. This launch represents the venue’s continuous commitment to delivering only the best for its patrons and affiliated business partners, bringing more visuals to life.

    The new SM Arena Cube makes a resounding introduction during a sports event, promising a better viewing experience for fans.
    https://www.facebook.com/reel/998607422481952
    The launch of SM Arena Cube, as it is unveiled to the public, brings more visuals to life.

    Ahead, the venue looks to renovate its existing facilities such as seating, turnstile system, enhanced anti-fraud tickets, double authentication, and new sports flooring as part of its initiative to improve this timeless landmark.

    Promise to be the best

    Honoring its storied past and dynamic present, the SM MOA Arena is set to revolutionize the future of live entertainment locally and rival international event venues by enhancing its core strengths and embracing modern innovations.

    The venue aims to deliver an unforgettable year, featuring world-class performances like anticipated family shows such as the enchanting Disney On Ice, the largest sports events including the Fédération Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB), and global superstars like Park Bo-Gum, Super Junior, Babyface, Mariah Carey, and Jason Derulo. Boasting an unwavering dedication to live entertainment excellence, the SM MOA Arena is truly set to be a future-forward arena, continuing its reign as a home for the best live entertainment and world-class experience for years to come.

    The enchanting characters of Encanto bring magic to life in Disney On Ice presents Find Your Hero.

  •  “SM MOA Arena The Cube”: Bigger centerhung to bring better fan experience!

     “SM MOA Arena The Cube”: Bigger centerhung to bring better fan experience!

    SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena unveils the biggest centerhung in the country, officially dubbed as “SM MOA Arena The Cube,” on May 14, 2025. This beating heart of the arena is one among many steps in turning the venue into an event space with the finest fan experience, anywhere at the SM MOA Arena.

    The first glimpse of the SM Mall of Asia Arena The Cube during its press presentation.

    A bright future for SM Mall of Asia Arena

    The launch was hosted at the modern and luxurious Premiere Café of the SM MOA Arena to commemorate this added innovation, which is set to rival other international National Basketball Association (NBA)-class courts. Together with long-time corporate partners, local government, sports leagues, and media partners, the event served as a symbol of their fruitful partnership.

    https://www.facebook.com/reel/998607422481952

    The SM Mall of Asia Arena The Cube event launch video captures the highlights of the event with mind-blowing visuals.

    The venue not only beheld the centerhung with its own eyes but also heard its resounding voice as it introduced itself as the beating heart of the arena.

    Present at the SM Mall of Asia Arena The Cube’s launch are Richard Bachmann, Philippine Sports Commission Chair; Cignal TV, broadcast partner; and University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) officials.
    Region Manager Blair Robertson of Daktronics proudly announces the very same technology used in some of the world’s iconic venues in his message of partnership during the launch.

    “The Cube is more than a screen—it’s being able to engage fans through the visual capability and versatility in any event,” says Arnel Gonzales, the Senior Assistant Vice President and General Manager of the SM MOA Arena.

    True to the arena’s commitment to bringing the best fan experience, this breakthrough aims to give fans a more immersive, interactive, and versatile viewing experience.

    SM MOA Arena Cube shows versatility

    The SM MOA Arena The Cube was immediately seen in action during the University Athletic Association of the Philippine (UAAP) finals for Men’s and Women’s Volleyball, where numerous team and fan moments were captured through the massive Light-Emitting Diode (LED) screen.

    The SM Mall of Asia Arena The Cube makes its first appearance to the public during Season 87 of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Volleyball Championships.

    This was the first time the new centerhung has been revealed to the public, showcasing its split-screen capabilities and real-time data integration, where fans had an up-close look at the game while staying up to time with the live standings.

    The SM Mall of Asia Arena The Cube is introduced to the audience through an Audio-Visual Presentation before the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Championships. Photo from Immrsv Asia.

    Captured in 4k high resolution of the SM MOA Arena The Cube was the crowning moment of the UAAP Women’s Volleyball champions, the National University (NU) Lady Bulldogs, followed by De La Salle University’s (DLSU) Green Archers.

    The National University (NU) Lady Bulldogs’ winning shot is captured by the SM Mall of Asia Arena The Cube.

    Journey to a future-forward arena

    This milestone highlights the continuous development of the arena, following its addition of the Media Mesh in 2024, upgraded turnstiles in 2023, and 5G mobile and internet connectivity.

    As the SM MOA Arena celebrates its 13th anniversary this year, the venue continues to fulfill its promise to deliver top customer service through forefront innovation and world-class events.

    About SM Mall of Asia Arena

    SM Mall of Asia Arena is the preferred venue, offering world-class services and facilities, to provide the best in international and local live entertainment and thrilling sports event experiences. For more information, visit www.mallofasia-arena.com or follow @moaarena on social media. Tickets for upcoming events can be purchased online at www.smtickets.com or at any authorized SM Tickets outlet nationwide.