Filipino artist MURI to perform at 2025 South by Southwest (SXSW) Music Festival

Monday, January 27, 2025


She is the only Philippine-homegrown artist confirmed at this year’s roster 

Filipino rising artist MURI is set to take the stage at the 2025 South by Southwest (SXSW) Music Festival in Austin, Texas, from March 10-15, 2025.

The AXEAN Festival alumna joins an impressive roster of international talents, showcasing her unique blend of soul, indie, and jazz-pop music to a global audience.

“I feel incredibly honored to have been chosen and to be representing the Philippines on such an international stage,” MURI shares in an official statement. “I’m excited because SXSW is one of the biggest festivals for artists to showcase in, and it’ll be my first time going. Aside from playing, I’m also pretty excited to be there as an attendee, watch other artists perform, and attend all the cool talks and presentations.”

As she prepares for this significant milestone, MURI hints at even bigger plans for her music in 2025, including collaborations, new music releases, and performances all around the world. “I’m working on a few collaborations and new music this year. I’m planning to do more shows and perform in more stages around the Philippines and Europe.”

As the resident violinist of Filipino indie-folk band The Ransom Collective, MURI has recently stepped into the spotlight as a solo artist with the release of her debut EP, 11ème. The project, which deals with themes of personal growth, loss, and discovery, takes listeners on a journey through the artist’s experiences across different cultures and cities. Blending soulful pop with intricate storytelling, 11ème serves as a deeply personal reflection of MURI’s travels and relationships. 

With her upcoming appearance at SXSW 2025, Muri is poised to introduce her music to a broader international audience, marking the beginning of what promises to be an exciting year of artistic growth. 
Read More

dwta and SB19’s justin reimagines “Sampung Mga Daliri” into a tale of doomed romance

10th Wish Music Awards

The duo recently performed the unreleased track at the 10th Wish Music Awards last January 19, 2025


Rising singer-songwriter dwta links up with SB19’s justin for a striking new collaboration, “Sampung Mga Daliri,” a folk-pop lullaby that captures the degradation of a love that was once formidable and promising. 

Released under Sony Music Entertainment, the track reimagines the classic Filipino nursery rhyme into a poignant tale of doomed romance, with no way to save it. 

“Sampung Mga Daliri” deals with the heartbreaking realization that love is no longer enough to make two people stay together. The song eloquently shows how the simple act of holding hands loses its meaning when there’s no one left to hold.

According to dwta, “Sampung Mga Daliri” was an unfinished track that she was working on in 2023. An opportunity to revisit the draft came in when she met justin in a gig at Cozy Cove last year, prompting the idea of pitching a collaboration with him. 

“I thought it was a long shot, but I asked my team if there was any chance we could work on something together,” says the award-winning Bicol-based act. “Even before it was confirmed, I was already looking through my notes, trying to find a song that would match both our voices or maybe even writing something new. That’s when I stumbled upon Sampung Mga Daliri. It felt like the song was calling me, so I picked up my guitar, rewrote it, and finally finished it. I actually gave them two other options, but Sampung Mga Daliri just felt right. It was the one.”

The collaboration came as a pleasant surprise to justin, who was immediately drawn to the song’s emotional depth. “Aside from being labelmates under Sony Music Philippines, when I heard Sampung Mga Daliri, it immediately felt like the right fit,” admits justin. “Out of all the songs sent to me, this one really stood out. It had something special.”

While their busy schedules prevented them from recording together in person, both dwta and justin worked closely throughout the creative process. The two attended online meetings, fine-tuned the song, and ensured that their connection came through in every note. 

“After everything, we finally got to bond in person during shoots and trips, and that’s when I really got to know him,” shares dwta. “You know how famous people can sometimes feel intimidating or hard to approach? justin’s the total opposite. It’s like working with a sibling from a different parent. We just clicked, both musically and personally.”

Produced by dwta and frequent collaborator Brian Lotho, “Sampung Mga Daliri” draws inspiration from the haunting arrangements of The Paper Kites’ “Bloom,” but with a distinct twist that reflects both artists’ unique sound. The result is a stunning, emotionally honest song that explores brooding vulnerability, something dwta and justin had yet to explore in previous releases. The track allows them to push beyond their comfort zones, creating something fresh, evocative, and deeply moving. 

As dwta puts it, “Since our styles are pretty similar and we share the same vision for the song, it was easy for us to agree on every idea we pitched. The whole process came together so smoothly. I’m really happy with how it turned out in such a short time.”

To introduce their new collaboration, dwta and justin recently debuted the unreleased song live at the 10th Wish Music Awards last January 19, 2025. Ahead of the release, both artists teased the song’s arrival, sharing snippets of "Sampung Mga Daliri" chorus on their respective social media channels on January 16 and 18. The teaser included a compelling single cover, where from a window, justin tries to reach for dwta’s hands, only for her to be reluctantly disengaged—an image that perfectly captures the song’s theme of love slipping through your fingers.

In addition, dwta has been releasing a series of live performances called "dwta series: Magka-Ibigan" that tie into the narrative of “Sampung Mga Daliri,” offering fans a deeper look into the song’s story before its official release. This heartfelt collaboration marks a new chapter for both artists, as they explore the delicate balance of love and loss through music.

Sampung Mga Daliri” is now available on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the music video on dwta’s official YouTube channel at 8 pm. Stay tuned for the short-form miniseries featuring dwta and justin on the former’s YouTube and social media pages.
Read More

Lucky Picks for a Prosperous 2025 at SM Malls in the East


The Chinese New Year is just around the corner, and SM Malls in the East are brimming with lucky finds to help you welcome 2025 with abundance and prosperity. From delicious traditional treats to auspicious home décor and trendy red outfits, there’s something for everyone to celebrate the Year of the Snake. Here are your must-haves to attract good fortune this Lunar New Year, available at SM City Marikina, Masinag, San Mateo, East Ortigas, Taytay, SM Center Angono and Antipolo Downtown.

A Feast of Prosperity


Celebrate Chinese New Year with a sumptuous spread of traditional delights that symbolize wealth and happiness. Start your journey with dim sum from Hap Chan and The Chinese Kitchen and tasty dumplings from Wangfu, perfect for symbolizing unity and wealth. Indulge in authentic Chinese dishes from Vikings, or grab delicious noodle platters from King Bee for long life and prosperity.


Don’t forget to stock up on tikoy, a sticky rice cake that signifies strong family bonds and success. Share the joy of Chinese New Year with family and friends by serving an array of round fruits available at SM Supermarket, Hypermarket, and Savemore and Polland’s koi and golden bar-shaped versions available at SM Store. For a quick yet fulfilling bite, enjoy siomai and siopao from Chowking, ensuring your dining experience is both lucky and delicious.

Bring Home Good Fortune


Enhance the flow of positive energy in your home with potted lucky bamboo and money trees from SM Markets. These plants are believed to invite wealth and harmony into your space. 


Complement your décor with lucky charms and figures available from SM Store and local MSMEs, perfect for gifting or displaying in your home to usher in abundance.

Usher in Good Fortune Today!

From food to home décor, SM Malls in the East have everything you need to make your Chinese New Year celebration extra special. Visit SM City Marikina, Masinag, San Mateo, East Ortigas, Taytay, SM Center Angono and Antipolo Downtown for your lucky picks and festive finds. Don’t miss out on the exclusive deals and offerings that make this celebration even more auspicious. Here’s to a prosperous Year of the Snake filled with luck, love, and happiness!

Read More

Women Run the World in Globe-trotting Spy Action Flick ‘The 355’, premiering soon on Lionsgate Play


The stakes are high for a band of heroines trying to save the world in this thrilling espionage movie.


What happens when four powerhouse actresses team up in an action-packed spy movie? You get The 355 – a star-studded thriller that delivers high-stakes suspense and heart-pounding action. The film follows a group of international agents who must put aside their rivalries to keep a top-secret weapon from falling into the wrong hands and triggering World War III.

CIA operative Mace (Jessica Chastain) is tasked to retrieve a top-secret weapon – a flash drive that can hack into any computer with a few keystrokes – and recruits the help of her colleague, retired British MI6 operative Khadijah Adiyeme (Lupita Nyong’o). The mission gets messier when DNI agent and psychologist Graciela Rivera (Penelope Cruz) and rival German BND agent Marie Schmidt (Diane Kruger) join the hunt, each wanting to claim the program drive for their respective agencies. But a group of four head-strong heroines clashing heads isn’t the end of their problems, they must work together to make sure the weapon doesn’t fall into the hands of international crime entrepreneurs. 

The 355 is an original action thriller conceptualized by Jessica Chastain herself and written by Simon Kinberg and Theresa Rebeck. Featuring some of Hollywood’s biggest stars, The 355 is sure to be an exhilarating ride for fans of high-octane espionage. 

In an interview with Screenrant, Jessica Chastain, who plays Mace and is also one of the film’s producers, talks about what excited her most in creating the movie, “Well, I like the idea that the actresses are all the bosses of the film. They're the owners of the film. We raised the money on our own. We developed the script together, the characters together, we are the owners. It was made outside of a studio system, independently. We made it for a fraction of the cost of what a normal movie like this is made for. So, it's exciting to me that the artists are now the owners of the work, and especially women. It's exciting to me that the actresses are the ones in charge of the film.”

Director Simon Kinberg shared with CBR what drew him into directing the film, “I'm a huge James Bond fan and I love the spy genre in general. The first script I ever wrote was Mr. & Mrs. Smith. The 355 is a different kind of spy movie, but it is a love letter to spy movies. So, I was intrigued by the fact that it was a spy movie. I loved the idea of a female-ensemble spy movie. There are two things in there that are novel. One, there's not a lot of female spy movies. But two, there are even fewer ensemble spy movies.”

Buckle up for a thrilling ride when The 355 comes to Lionsgate Play on January 31, 2025.


Read More

Juan-Step Ahead: Be Financially Confident this 2025 with JuanHand

JuanHand

As the new year begins, many of us set resolutions, often watching them waver by February—but no judgment, we’ve all been there! While sticking to goals can be challenging, 2025 offers a fresh opportunity to take control, especially of our finances. Following the hectic holiday spending on gifts and celebrations, it’s clear how financial choices during this time affect Filipino households. To manage these expenses more effectively, borrowing for planned, purposeful needs can be a helpful strategy, but balancing it with mindful spending is key. JuanHand encourages Filipinos to reflect on their financial habits and take meaningful steps toward building a smarter, more secure financial future.

“Understanding where your money went in 2024 is the first step towards creating a stronger financial foundation in 2025,” said Francisco “Coco” Mauricio, President and CEO of JuanHand. “Financial planning and smart borrowing can help Filipinos make the most of their resources without falling into unnecessary debt,” he added.

JuanHand motivates everyone to start 2025 with clear, realistic financial resolutions. The first step is to Review and Reflect: Take time to analyze your 2024 spending habits and identify areas for improvement. For example, track your spending on daily expenses like dining out, entertainment, or shopping, and look for opportunities to cut back—whether it’s choosing more affordable options, reducing impulse purchases, or simplifying celebrations. Next, Set Realistic Goals: Focus on achievable objectives like starting small on savings or an investment plan. This could mean setting aside a portion of your monthly income for an emergency fund, or starting small with mutual funds or government-backed savings initiatives. Finally, Plan Ahead: Use tools like JuanHand’s lending services to budget for significant expenses, whether personal or business-related. When planning a big purchase or launching that small business you've been wanting to put up, JuanHand’s flexible loan options can help manage costs and prevent financial stress.

JuanHand highlights the value of using loans strategically to build financial stability. Whether it’s for handling unexpected emergencies, seizing a business opportunity, or preparing for important events, leveraging credit wisely can offer both a safety net and a growth opportunity. The key is in thoughtful planning, ensuring borrowed funds support long-term goals rather than just short-term fixes.

Financial literacy is key to achieving these goals. WAGI (Wealth Advice for Growth and Inclusion), an innovative financial literacy app powered by JuanHand, offers practical content tailored to everyday Filipino life, covering topics like basic budgeting and stock investing. WAGI also rewards users for learning with redeemable points for prizes from top partner brands. By combining tools like JuanHand’s lending services with the WAGI app’s financial education, Filipinos can confidently set and achieve their financial objectives, for themselves and their families.

As the #1 fintech lending app in the Philippines, JuanHand has become a trusted financial partner for millions of Filipinos. With over Php40 billion in loans disbursed and more than 12 million registered users, it’s clear that JuanHand is the go-to solution for financial flexibility. Offering loans of up to PHP 50,000, affordable rates, minimal requirements, and a seamless application process, now is the best time to join this growing community. Download the app, submit a valid ID, and get approved in as fast as five minutes!

“At JuanHand, we are committed to providing responsible lending solutions that pave the way for Filipinos to achieve financial success,” said Mauricio. “With careful planning and the right approach, our services empower borrowers to navigate their financial journey with confidence. With millions already benefiting from our platform daily, there’s no better time to take control of your finances and experience the convenience JuanHand offers,” he concluded.

Looking ahead, JuanHand remains committed to equipping Filipinos with the tools and knowledge they need for smarter financial planning. By advocating mindful spending, strategic borrowing, and clear goal-setting, JuanHand is here to help every Filipino be “Juan-Step Ahead” towards a financially confident 2025, empowering them to take control of their financial future.

Download the WAGI Financial Literacy app on Google Play or visit www.wagi.com.ph to start learning and earning rewards. For more information, visit JuanHand’s website at www.juanhand.com or follow them on Facebook and TikTok.
Read More

Here’s Why Going Big with the Samsung Crystal UHD TV and Soundbar is the Smart Choice for your Home in 2025!

Friday, January 24, 2025

Samsung Crystal UHD TV

With the beginning of another year comes the opportunity to embrace change and spruce up your living space! A simple modification—whether repainting your walls or upgrading to a bigger television—can make a world of difference in the quality of time spent at home. When it comes to creating meaningful and thrilling experiences, Samsung's 65" Crystal UHD Smart 4K TV is sure to do the trick.

Upgrading your TV could be just what you need to make every day at home more enjoyable. When you consider the bigger picture, you'll see why people never go back once they go big.

Vibrant, Lifelike Picture on the Big Screen

Everything looks better when it's bigger! Samsung's 65" Crystal UHD TV creates an immersive experience on a large screen, delivering the excitement of live action and the magic of cinema. However, Samsung's big TVs are more than their size. From vivid colors to smooth motion, Samsung refines the big screen, bringing exceptional viewing experiences to your home.

With PurColor, the Crystal UHD TV expresses a wide range of vivid colors that add depth and dimension to a show or movie. In addition to its fine-tuned colors, the Crystal UHD upscales entertainment through 4K Upscaling, which boosts the picture quality to 4K resolution for the content you love.

Naturally, high-resolution and vibrant, high-definition colors are incomplete without seamless motion clarity. Motion Xcelerator produces ultra-smooth motion by predicting the movement between frames, immersing you in every action-filled scene without skipping a beat.

Beyond its exceptional picture quality, the TV features a boundless screen that immerses you deeply into every scene with more screen space and less bezel. With a minimalistic design, your TV will easily complement the interior of your home, effortlessly blending in with any decor.

Pairing the TV with Samsung’s sound devices elevates the viewing experience, delivering an excellent surround sound that feels like you’re in an actual theater. The Samsung HW-T420 Soundbar produces richer sound with powerful bass delivered by the 2.1ch soundbar and 6.5-inch subwoofer. Enabled by the Smart Sound feature, the soundbar automatically analyzes the sources of audio to optimize the track for a fuller range of sound fit for watching content or playing games.

Upgrade to a Big Screen, Enjoy Bigger Deals

There's no better time to go big than now! From January 1 to March 31, Samsung offers exclusive deals on its Crystal UHD line-up, including a Disney+ Annual Premium Plan* worth PHP 4,190, Globe GFiber Plan, which comes with Installation, Modem, and 1-Week unlimited Fiber internet, and up to 38% off on select models. Sound towers also come with Visit samsung.com/ph/offer/online/2025/samsung-big-tvs/ to learn more about Samsung's Super Big TV deals.

*Subscription required
Read More

Herbalife Philippines Celebrates 30 Years of Nutrition Excellence with New Family Health Campaign

Herbalife Healthier Together Campaign

Herbalife Philippines marked a historic milestone as it celebrated three decades of empowering Filipino families with nutrition and wellness solutions with the launch of its latest initiative, the “Healthier Together” campaign.

Speaking to members of the media, Allan Domingo, General Manager of Herbalife Philippines, underscored Herbalife’s unwavering commitment to improving the health and wellness of Filipino families.

Allan Domingo

“For three decades, Herbalife has worked tirelessly to support Filipino families in living healthier, more active lives. Our “Healthier Together” campaign reflects our understanding that the foundation of a healthy society begins with the habits and choices we cultivate within our homes,” emphasized Domingo.

The campaign underscores Herbalife’s mission to empower families by equipping them with the tools and education necessary to build lasting healthy habits. It features a series of programs such as wellness tours, educational workshops, and quarterly community events designed to inspire active and healthy living across the Philippines.

Also present at the campaign launch was Dr Rocio Media Badiano, Vice Chair and Member of the Herbalife Nutrition Advisory Board, an expert in clinical nutrition and obesity. Dr Badiano discussed the crucial role families play in fostering healthy habits at home, supported by the latest research on family nutrition. She also shared practical, actionable tips to help families incorporate balanced nutrition into their daily routines.

Dr Rocio Media Badiano

“Approximately one third (33.4%) of Filipino households struggle to afford a healthy diet . Busy schedules make it difficult for working parents to prepare healthy meals, forcing them to rely on processed foods to feed their families. This reliance on processed foods leads to higher rates of obesity. This is why it is important to promote balanced nutrition and healthier living in family units so we can create positive environments to support their health goals,” highlighted Dr. Badiano.

The “Healthier Together” campaign launch coincided with Herbalife Spectacular, the company’s annual kickoff event that offers high level training to all Members to learn and start the year off strong.

At the event, Herbalife also introduced celebrity couple Joyce Pring and Juancho Trivino as their newest brand ambassadors for the campaign. The couple is a prominent advocate for holistic lifestyles in their family. Their authenticity inspires thousands of Filipinos to foster family values and live balanced lives

“We are happy to welcome Joyce and Juancho to the Herbalife family. Their family embodies the importance of fostering family values, and the importance of incorporating healthy practices into their everyday lives. They embody the values of health, balance, and positivity, inspiring Filipinos to prioritize health and well-being in their everyday lives,” added Domingo.

The evening portion of Herbalife Spectacular welcomed a broader audience to the “Herbalife Experience”, featuring interactive wellness booths, inspiring user stories, and a vibrant concert. The event showcased Herbalife’s legacy of innovation and leadership in nutrition science.
Read More

REP unveils a full calendar of vibrant theater experiences for its 88th Season

Thursday, January 23, 2025


Catch all the shows at the REP Eastwood Theater in 2025

Get ready for a spectacular year from Repertory Philippines as it marks its entire 88th Season at its new home, the REP Eastwood Theater in Eastwood City Walk, Quezon City.

Building on its legacy as one of the Philippines’ foremost theater companies, REP offers enriching live theater experiences and champions Filipino artists and creatives in 2025. This commitment is reflected in its lineup of celebrated productions, acclaimed and familiar stories, and a program designed to hone the skills of local talent.

I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change

Starting off REP’s 88th Season is the hit romcom musical I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change, which received 13 Gawad Buhay Citations for 3rd Quarter in 2024 and two 2024 Aliw Awards nominations. It’s back by popular demand after its successful run featuring the same cast of four playing over 40 characters who will explore the highs and lows of modern love. With book and lyrics by award-winning Joe DiPietro and music by renowned composer Jimmy Brooks, the revue will be once again helmed by the First Lady of Philippine Musical Theater Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo for its rerun. Make sure to catch Gian Magdangal, Gabby Padilla, Krystal Kane, and Marvin Ong at their most hilarious during the show’s limited run from February 20 to March 9.

REP Bridge Project



REP’s Bridge Project is coming back in 2025 to further contribute to the local theater landscape. The renowned Bristol Old Vic Theatre in the United Kingdom, the longest running working theatre in the English-speaking world, is eagerly collaborating with REP on this initiative. The Bridge program serves as a skills exchange and knowledge sharing program between Manila-based artists and established theater professionals from the United Kingdom and the United States through integrated productions, workshops, and masterclasses happening in June and July at the Meridian International College (MINT).

Scheduled along with the Bridge Project is the Manila staging of ART, the Tony Award-winning play by French playwright and actor Yasmina Reza. The comedy explores the meaning of art and friendship among three long-time friends: Serge, Marc, and Yvan. Conflict ensues when one of them buys a large, expensive, completely white painting. The cast includes UK-based Filipino actors James Bradwell and Martin Sarreal, who were recently part of the hit Netflix series Bridgerton.

ART will be directed by Victor Lirio, who also initiated the Bridge Project in 2020 and directed the REP’s 2024 showcase of Betrayal by Nobel Prize-winning British playwright Harold Pinter. Other creatives joining the production are Assistant Director Uriel Villar, Scenic Designer Miguel Urbino, Lighting Designer Miriam Crowe, Sound Designer Fabian Obispo, and Voice Coach Zoe Littleton.

Alice in Wonderland

REP Theater for Young Audiences (RTYA) is taking everyone down the rabbit hole this August for a production of a classic, Alice in Wonderland with Music and Lyrics by Janet Yates Vogt and Mark Freidman. Based on Lewis Carroll’s beloved story, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, kids and families will surely enjoy this new RTYA offering as it features otherworldly characters such as the White Rabbit, the Mad Hatter, and the Queen of Hearts. Running until November, it will be co-directed by Joy Virata and Cara Barredo. Completing the creative team are Hershee Tantiado as Costume Designer, Stephen Viñas as Choreographer, John Batalla as Light Designer, and GA Fallarme as Projection Designer. Leading the production team are Patricia Gregorio as Production Manager and Ayam Eckstein as Company Manager.

“We are incredibly grateful for everyone’s support of REP’s 87th Season last year, given that it was our first full season since 2019 and our inaugural year at the REP Eastwood Theater,” says Mindy Perez-Rubio, President and CEO at REP. “To show our appreciation, we’re determined to make our 88th Season a landmark year, with a full lineup of theater experiences that we hope will contribute to a dynamic and thriving arts scene in the Philippines. Exciting discussions are currently in progress to wrap up the 88th Season, but in the meantime, we are looking forward to seeing you at the theater!”

For updates and show schedules, visit www.repertoryphilippines.ph, or like and follow repertoryphilippines on Facebook and Instagram.

For show buying and ticket inquiries, contact REP at 0966-905-4013 or 0962-691-8540, or send an email at promotions@repphil.org or sales@repphil.org.
Read More

Celebrate Life’s Special Moments at SM City Marikina

Party Venue in Marikina

Looking for the perfect place to host your next celebration? SM City Marikina has everything you need to make life’s cherished moments truly unforgettable. Whether it’s a birthday bash, an anniversary, or a milestone achievement, our diverse selection of restaurants offers exceptional venues, mouthwatering dishes, and vibrant atmospheres that guarantee a memorable experience.

Vikings Luxury Buffet: A Feast Fit for a King

Vikings Luxury Buffet SM City Marikina

For grand celebrations that call for indulgence, Vikings Luxury Buffet is your ultimate destination. Known for its expansive menu of international dishes, Vikings caters to all palates. Feast on premium selections such as fresh sushi, savory grilled meats, hearty pasta, and decadent desserts. The elegant and spacious interiors provide the perfect setting for hosting large gatherings, making every moment feel like a royal affair. Whether it’s a milestone birthday or a company event, Vikings delivers luxury dining like no other.

Peri Peri Charcoal Chicken: Add Some Spice to Your Party


For those who prefer a lively and flavorful celebration, Peri Peri Charcoal Chicken is the place to be. Famous for its flame-grilled chicken paired with a variety of signature sauces, this restaurant guarantees a feast that’s as exciting as your occasion. The vibrant interiors and warm hospitality create a fun and welcoming ambiance, perfect for intimate gatherings and casual get-togethers. With group meal packages designed to delight, Peri Peri ensures your guests leave with full hearts and satisfied appetites.

Wangfu Authentic Singaporean Cuisine: A Taste of the Lion City

Wangfu Authentic Singaporean Cuisine

Take your celebration to the next level with Wangfu Authentic Singaporean Cuisine. Offering a menu packed with iconic dishes like savory Laksa, Hainanese Chicken Rice, and other Singaporean favorites, Wangfu invites you on a culinary journey. The cozy yet chic setting makes it an ideal choice for family celebrations and intimate parties. With specially curated set menus that take the stress out of planning, you can focus on creating beautiful memories with your loved ones.

Why Choose SM City Marikina for Your Celebrations?

At SM City Marikina, every celebration is unique. That’s why our dining establishments go the extra mile to offer customizable packages and exceptional service tailored to your needs. Whether you’re hosting a grand event or a simple gathering, our venues are designed to make your special day extraordinary.

Start Planning Your Memorable Event Today

Don’t settle for ordinary celebrations. Make them unforgettable at SM City Marikina. Visit us today to explore our wide range of dining options and start planning your next special event. From luxurious buffets to intimate family dinners, we’ve got the perfect setup for your party. Your celebration, your way — only at SM City Marikina!
Read More

Eraserheads documentary reveals official poster ahead of March 21, 2025 screening

Wednesday, January 22, 2025


Eraserheads: Combo On The Run also makes history as the first Philippine documentary in Dolby Atmos

DVent Pictures and Warner Bros. Philippines, in cooperation with WEU, have unveiled the official poster of Eraserheads: Combo On The Run, a documentary film about the iconic Pinoy rock band and the monumental staging of their Huling El Bimbo reunion concert in 2022.


The film’s poster was designed by Brandon Schaefer of Jumpcut NYC, a multimedia artist renowned for his work on some of the most acclaimed films in recent memory. His portfolio includes the poster for Drive My Car, winner of the 94th Academy Award for Best International Feature, as well as artwork for the Sundance and Cannes-winning documentary All That Breathes, and the 40th anniversary release of Martin Scorsese’s Taxi Driver.

Producer and filmmaker Maria Diane Ventura shared that Schaefer came up with multiple design concepts with minimal guidance, allowing him the freedom to explore different visual approaches.

“I had such a difficult time choosing just one,” said Ventura. “But in the end, it was a unanimous decision to go with the most commercially viable, one that includes all the vital elements. However, I wish I could release all of them, especially the more abstract and avant-garde designs which were really quite impressive and evocative.”

Apart from the poster reveal, Ventura disclosed that the Eraserheads: Combo On The Run will be the first Philippine documentary to be screened in Dolby Atmos, a cutting-edge audio technology known for its most immersive sound experience. Award-winning sound mixer and engineer Jason Abell, who has worked on music-themed documentary films such as Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé and Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour, was responsible for the film’s innovative sound design.

“After we finished sound design at the famed Funkhaus in Berlin, Hilarion Banks, our exceptionally talented Cinematographer and one of our associate producers recommended Jason whom he has worked with previously.” Ventura explained. “When I came across his body of work, I knew I wanted to not just collaborate but to learn from him as well. I immediately flew to LA to work at the same soundstage where they mixed Hans Zimmer’s Dune soundtrack, and both Beyoncé and Taylor Swift documentary, and he did not disappoint. He’s a consummate professional dedicated to giving justice to the band’s genius and that somehow aligned perfectly with our primary objective: if we’re making a film to honor the music, then it has to be heard in the best possible way, and Jason made that happen. I truly am incredibly lucky to be working with such amazing artists, both Filipino and international.”

Eraserheads: Combo On The Run provides an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the Huling El Bimbo reunion concert, held in 2022 against a backdrop of political division and post-pandemic uncertainty. Featuring rare footage and never-before-seen interviews that reveal intimate details about the band, the upcoming documentary feature is considered one of the most important films of 2025 by both film critics and pop culture pundits.

The film will screen nationwide only from March 21 to 23, 2025. Meanwhile, the official trailer, which garnered significant attention from the public, has amassed more than 2 million views across various platforms within its first 30 hours.

Read More
...